Portable Positional Scanning Lane for Seaport Cargo
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transshipment seaports face challenges in efficiently scanning cargo containers due to limited space and the need for extensive equipment, with existing radiation detection systems being costly and impractical for large volumes and varying traffic patterns.
Innovation Solution
A portable positional scanning lane system using a frame structure with a scanning device and lifting mechanism, allowing for easy repositioning with existing seaport equipment, reducing personnel and maintenance costs, and utilizing small power sources for reduced operational expenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixed radiation detection systems are used, then scanning capability is provided, but the land area required is extremely large and equipment costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional fixed radiation detection system into a movable platform that can be dynamically repositioned. The scanning lane is mounted on a vehicle chassis with wheels, allowing it to be moved along the container terminal to different scanning locations, thereby reducing the permanent land area required while maintaining scanning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the scanning lane into modular components that can be independently assembled and disassembled. The scanning devices, support structures, and vehicle chassis are segmented into separate units that can be configured at different locations, enabling flexible deployment without requiring large fixed infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If self-propelled radiation detection platforms are used, then mobility is achieved, but procurement and operational costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standard vehicle chassis as an intermediary platform to carry the scanning lane equipment. Instead of building a custom self-propelled system, the scanning lane is mounted on existing vehicles (trucks, forklifts, or other material handling equipment), thereby achieving mobility while avoiding the high costs and complexity of designing and manufacturing a dedicated self-propelled platform.
3Productivity
If extensive equipment is deployed for high-volume scanning, then scanning throughput is improved, but operational and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning lane is designed to be mounted on various types of existing vehicles (trucks, forklifts, cranes, etc.), making it universally applicable to different material handling equipment. This multi-functionality allows a single scanning lane design to serve multiple purposes and locations, reducing the total number of separate equipment pieces needed while maintaining high scanning throughput capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A positional lane scanner and method therefor includes a positional lane cargo scanning structure having a first frame portion, a second frame portion, and a top frame portion connected to define a passage lane for a cargo vessel. The first and second frame portions are located on opposite sides and cargo vessels pass therebetween. The first and second frame portions, or both, include a first housing portion and a scanning device mounted within the first housing portion. A lifting member is provided on the top frame portion facing outward, or if the lifting means is on a transport vehicle, such as a reach spreader, a pair of lifting beams may be arranged on the transport vehicle. The lift member removably connects with a boom portion of the transport vehicle for positioning and relocating the scanning structure to be disposed adjacent a cargo vessel lane.