Overhead Container Carrier With Adjustable End Beams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring intermodal shipping containers between transportation modes are time and energy intensive, require significant ground space, and contribute to port congestion and pollution, particularly when using traditional mechanical machines.
Innovation Solution
A container carrier system utilizing an overhead rail transportation system with a motorized trolley assembly, load wheels, and adjustable end beams to align with various container sizes, powered by electric motors and regenerative power systems, minimizing ground space requirements and reducing pollution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical machines (cranes, forklifts, straddle carriers) are used to transfer containers, then containers can be loaded and unloaded, but a large amount of ground space is required for maneuvering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions container transfer operations from ground level to overhead space by implementing a rail system that suspends containers above the ground. This dimensional shift eliminates the need for large ground maneuvering areas while maintaining container loading and unloading capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an overhead rail system as an intermediary mechanism between ships and storage areas. This rail-based intermediary enables container transfer without requiring traditional ground-based mechanical machines, thereby reducing ground space requirements.
2Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical machines are used for container transfer, then containers can be moved between transportation modes, but the process is time intensive and contributes to port congestion
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead rail system enables continuous container transfer operations by allowing multiple containers to be moved simultaneously along the rail. This eliminates the sequential, time-intensive nature of traditional ground-based transfers and reduces port congestion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional ground-based mechanical machines with an overhead electrically-powered rail system. This substitution eliminates the inefficiencies of conventional mechanical transfer methods and enables faster, more continuous container movement.
3Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical machines are used for container transfer, then containers can be loaded and unloaded, but fossil fuels are burned and pollution is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fossil fuel-powered mechanical machines with an electrically-powered overhead rail system. This substitution eliminates direct fossil fuel combustion and associated pollution while maintaining full container loading and unloading functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The overhead rail system is designed to be self-powered through electrical infrastructure, eliminating the need for external fossil fuel sources. The system serves itself by drawing power from the electrical grid rather than requiring separate fuel supplies.
4Device complexity
If fixed-length end beams are used on the carrier, then the structure is simple, but containers of various sizes cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable end beams that can dynamically change their spacing to accommodate different container lengths. This dynamic adjustment capability allows a single carrier design to handle various container sizes without sacrificing structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable end beam mechanism enables the carrier to universally accommodate multiple container size variations. This multi-functional capability allows the same carrier structure to serve different purposes based on container dimensions.
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
The system efficiently transfers containers of varying sizes with reduced energy consumption and pollution, alleviating port congestion and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
motorized trolley assembly
Implementation Method 2
regenerative power systems
Data Source
AI summary
A motorized container carrier can be configured to travel along a suspended railway. The motorized container carrier can include at least one motorized trolley configured to move the motorized container carrier along the suspended railway. The motorized container carrier can include a plurality of end beams with container engagement devices configured to interact with containers of various lengths. In some embodiments, the container engagement devices are twist locks. The motorized container carrier can include a system of bumpers and/or guide wheels.