Container Lashing Base With Movable Arm for Single-Operator Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lashing systems for securing containers to ships are heavy, awkward to handle, require multiple operators, and pose safety risks due to their weight and complexity, leading to inefficiencies and increased injury rates, particularly in space-constrained environments like ship decks.
Innovation Solution
A securing assembly with a base frame and movable arms that allow for easy attachment and detachment to a structure, featuring a locking mechanism to secure the base and a stowable design to reduce handling effort and improve safety, enabling single-operator use and reducing clutter on the deck.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lashes are made heavy and robust to ensure secure attachment, then securing reliability is improved, but handling difficulty and operator safety worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The lash assembly is divided into separate components: a base with frame, an arm assembly, and a securing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the base provides structural reliability while the arm assembly can be maneuvered separately for easier handling and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm acts as an intermediary between the base and the securing mechanism. It transmits force and motion while providing a lever arm that mechanical advantage, reducing the effort needed to operate the heavy securing components while maintaining reliable attachment.
2Ease of operation
If multiple operators are used to handle lashes manually, then handling capacity is improved, but safety risks from worker interactions worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The securing assembly is designed to be operated by a single operator through self-contained mechanisms. The base provides stable positioning while the arm assembly incorporates built-in securing mechanisms that can be operated independently, eliminating the need for multiple workers and reducing safety risks from close proximity operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If lashes are made adjustable for different container heights, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The arm assembly incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the lash length and configuration to be dynamically changed. The base frame provides a stable foundation while the arm can be repositioned and reconfigured for different container heights and deck layouts, providing adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire assembly.
4Ease of operation
If lashing bars are positioned to allow turnbuckle rotation, then operational functionality is improved, but deck space utilization worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The securing mechanisms are designed to nest within or alongside the base frame structure. The turnbuckle and other operating components are positioned within the footprint of the base when not in use, allowing rotation and operation while minimizing the space required on the deck. The base frame acts as a containing structure that houses the operational components.
Data Source
AI summary
A base for a securing assembly having a lower end that secures objects to a structure, the base including, a base frame having a joining wall and at least two sidewalls extending from the joining wall to an opening for receiving the lower end in a cavity: a base pin extending between the sidewalls for attaching the base to the structure: an arm movable between an open position, wherein the arm is positioned such that the lower end is movable through the opening, and a securing position, wherein the arm inhibits movement of the lower end from the cavity.