Modular Lashing System with Vertical Spacers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load securing methods for overseas containers lack mathematical proof of their effectiveness and are often one-way systems, leading to inadequate protection against dynamic forces during transport, resulting in high damage rates due to the inability to adapt to varying cargo geometries and forces.
Innovation Solution
A modular lashing system using slanted lashings fixed by vertical spacers made of fabric tape with regular openings, allowing flexible attachment at different heights and angles, which can be adapted to the specific geometry of the cargo and container, providing a mathematically reproducible method to distribute and absorb transport forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional load securing methods are used, then the container can be loaded with goods, but the goods are not adequately protected against dynamic forces during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The lashing system is divided into modular components: lashings (12), vertical spacers (20), and container eyes (10). These segmented elements can be independently positioned and configured to adapt to different cargo geometries while maintaining reliable load securing through their coordinated modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The lashing system employs diagonally arranged lashings that can be tensioned to dynamically respond to transport forces. The vertical spacers with regularly spaced openings allow the lashings to be attached at different heights and angles, creating a dynamic configuration that adapts to various cargo shapes while providing mathematically reproducible force distribution.
2Reliability
If disposable securing devices are used, then the load securing task can be fulfilled, but the return transport costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lashing system is designed to be reused across multiple transport operations. After securing a load, the lashings (12) and vertical spacers (20) can be detached and recovered for use in subsequent container loadings, eliminating the need for disposable securing devices and reducing return transport costs associated with empty container repatriation.
3Reliability
If mathematically reproducible force distribution is implemented, then load securing reliability improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical spacers (20) serve multiple functions: they maintain horizontal spacing between diagonally arranged lashings (12), provide regularly spaced openings for attachment at different heights, and ensure proper geometric configuration for mathematically reproducible force distribution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves mathematically reproducible force distribution by controlling the geometric parameters of the lashing configuration - specifically the diagonal arrangement and attachment angles. The vertical spacers with regularly spaced openings enable precise adjustment of these parameters to optimize force distribution across different cargo configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The system permits a load unit e.g. package of solid goods, to be connected to a container over diagonally clamped lashings, where the lashings are fixed by perpendicular spacers (20) and the system is modularly designed. An angle between a container base or a container roof and the lashings lies in a range between 1 to 20 degrees. The lashings and the spacers are made of a material selected from a group consisting of natural fiber, film, fiber reinforced film, fabric foil, plastic, hemp or steel ropes and steel strips. The spacers are formed from beams made of wood. An independent claim is also included for a method for securing of loads in closed containers.