Roll-off Container Locking System with Segmented Handle

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mechanical security systems for roll-off storage containers are complex, difficult to use, and limited in their applicability, failing to provide effective protection against unauthorized transport.

Innovation Solution

A universal locking system comprising a lock box and handle component with a simple, rugged design that engages a loading hook of the roll-off container, utilizing a minimal number of parts and a padlock to secure the container, along with an alternative locking sleeve to prevent engagement of a crossbar, ensuring secure and easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If prior art locking systems are used, then security protection is provided, but the systems become mechanically complex and difficult to use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity protectionVSAvoidmechanical complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking system is divided into separate functional components: a lock box that attaches to the container, a handle with holes for locking, and a padlock. This segmentation allows each component to be simple and easy to manufacture while collectively providing secure locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking system is designed to be universal and can be applied to various roll-off container designs. The handle can engage with different hook configurations, and the lock box can attach to different container types, making the system adaptable across multiple applications without requiring complex custom designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If prior art locking systems are used, then security protection is provided, but the systems are restricted to very particular designs of roll-off containers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity protectionVSAvoidapplicability to container designs
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The locking system uses a standardized handle design with multiple holes that can accommodate different padlock configurations. The lock box can attach to various hook types and container designs, making the system universally applicable across different roll-off container configurations without requiring design-specific customizations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If a simple locking system is used, then ease of operation is improved, but the security effectiveness may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoidsecurity effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the locking function into a lock box that provides structural attachment and a padlock that provides security. This separation allows the lock box to remain simple and easy to attach while the padlock provides effective security locking, achieving both ease of operation and security effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle acts as an intermediary component between the lock box and the container hook. It provides a simple mechanical interface that is easy to engage while simultaneously providing secure attachment points for the padlock, thus mediating between simplicity and security effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8888422B2Locking system for roll-off containers
Publication Date: 2014.11.18 MILLER NATHAN
  • US8888422B2 patent drawing
  • US8888422B2 patent drawing
  • US8888422B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A locking system including a lock box and a locking bar. The locking bar configured as an elongated member which engages a loading hook of a roll-off container. The locking bar including at least one hole defined therethrough and configured to engage a hasp of a lock. The lock box has an opening defined therethrough and is configured to receive a first portion of the length of the locking handle so that when the locking handle is engaged with the hook a second portion of the length of the locking handle projects from the lock box. This second portion includes at least one of the aforementioned holes and functions to receive a locking hasp. An alternative locking system including a locking sleeve preventing engagement of a bar of a roll-off storage container.