Modular Sub-ISO Containers With Modified Corner Fittings

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Solution Overview

Problem

The high degree of standardization in ISO container size and fitting locations makes it difficult to use smaller containers with existing cargo container carriers, leading to inefficiencies in cargo handling, increased costs, and potential damage to cargo.

Innovation Solution

Modular sub-ISO containers with modified corner fittings that maintain compatibility with ISO standard connection equipment, allowing them to be easily combined into larger agglomerated containers that fit within standard ISO dimensions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If smaller containers are used to better fit various types of cargo, then cargo handling efficiency and cost are improved, but compatibility with existing ISO standard carriers is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecargo handling efficiencyVSAvoidcompatibility with ISO standard carriers

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides a standard ISO container into multiple smaller modular sub-containers (e.g., two 10-foot containers from a 20-foot container, or four 5-foot containers from a 20-foot container). Each sub-container can be independently handled and stacked, improving cargo handling efficiency while maintaining compatibility through standardized corner fittings that interface with existing ISO carriers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple smaller sub-containers are nested or stacked together to form an agglomerated container unit that fits within standard ISO dimensions. The sub-containers can be arranged in various configurations (e.g., two stacked vertically, four arranged in a 2x2 grid) to optimize cargo space while presenting a standardized external interface for carrier compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If smaller containers are used, then cargo space utilization is improved, but specialized handling equipment is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecargo space utilizationVSAvoidhandling equipment requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sub-containers are designed with universal corner fittings that serve multiple functions: they enable stacking and agglomeration of sub-containers, provide attachment points for standardized ISO carriers, and allow integration with existing container handling equipment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized handling equipment while improving cargo space utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If non-standard container sizes are used, then cargo fit is improved, but connection compatibility with standard carriers is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecargo fit flexibilityVSAvoidconnection compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

While the overall container size and shape can vary to better fit different cargo types, the corner fittings are standardized to ISO specifications. This local standardization ensures connection compatibility with existing carriers, while the flexible container body dimensions provide adaptability for various cargo configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP3838798B1Container, method of forming an agglomerated container

Publication Date: 2025.05.21 THE BOEING CO

Figure 1A~1B
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Figure 3

AI summary

Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide for modular containers with specialized corner fittings. In one example, a container, includes: six sides; and eight corner fittings, wherein each respective corner fitting of the eight corner fittings comprises: a first outward face on a first side of the six sides; a second outward face on a second side of the six sides; a third outward face on a third side of the six sides; and a corner fitting aperture in at least one of the first outward face, second outward face, or third outward face and centered approximately 8.582 centimeters (3.379 inches) from a first edge of the respective corner fitting and approximately 8.582 centimeters (3.379 inches) from a second edge of the respective corner fitting.