Modular Automated Rack for Vehicle Container Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport frame systems for vehicles are either too heavy and difficult to remove, or they lack the necessary adjustability and stability to securely hold vehicles during transport, especially when handling different types of vehicles and maximizing container space.
Innovation Solution
A modular, automated rack system with lift stations and crossbeam systems that can be removably fitted into shipping containers, featuring winches, pulleys, and a control unit for precise positioning and secure holding of vehicles, allowing for adjustable angles and maximum space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a removable frame system is made heavy and sturdy, then it can support vehicle weight and maintain stability, but it becomes difficult to pull the frames from the container
Solution Approach 1:
The frame system is divided into multiple independent lift stations (front and rear) that can be separately installed and removed. Each lift station operates independently, allowing for easier handling and removal compared to a single heavy frame structure. The segmentation enables the frame to be reconfigured or removed without moving the entire container.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system incorporates adjustable and movable components including winches, cables, and crossbeam systems that can be dynamically positioned. The lift stations can be raised and lowered to different heights, and the crossbeam systems can be adjusted to accommodate different vehicle types, making the system adaptable rather than static and heavy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame system is made adjustable for different vehicle types, then it increases versatility, but it increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The lift stations and crossbeam systems are designed as universal components that can handle multiple vehicle types including cars, motorcycles, and ATVs. The same basic lift station structure can be configured for different vehicles by adjusting cable lengths, winch positions, and crossbeam arrangements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized frame systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system uses adjustable crossbeam systems with movable connections that can be reconfigured for different vehicle wheelbases and heights. The winches and cables can be extended or repositioned to accommodate various vehicle dimensions, providing dynamic adaptability without requiring completely different frame structures for each vehicle type.
3Measurement precision
If the frame system uses crane-like mechanisms and electric motors for positioning, then it improves positioning precision, but it increases device complexity and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The winch system automatically winds and unwinds cables to raise and lower the crossbeam systems and position vehicles. The electric motors in the winches self-regulate the lifting process, providing precise positioning without requiring external crane mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the cable tension and winch control to achieve accurate vehicle placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical crane-like positioning mechanisms with an electrically-controlled winch system. Instead of using complex mechanical linkages, gears, and hydraulic systems found in cranes, the invention uses electric motors driving winches to control cable tension and achieve precise vehicle positioning through electrical control rather than mechanical complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, secure, and space-maximizing transportation of vehicles by providing a lightweight, easily installable, and adjustable frame system that securely holds vehicles at various angles, optimizing container space and simplifying the loading process.
Implementation Method 1
a first front winch attached to the first front lift station... a first front winch cable operably connected to the first front winch and to the first front cross member... to raise and lower the front crossbeam system
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an automated removable frame system for transporting vehicles in a container. The frame system is be assembled in the container, the vehicles are loaded on the frame system, the container is shipped to the location, the vehicles are unloaded from the frame system, and the frame system is disassembled and returned to the manufacture or stored for later use.