Roller Container Lifting Frame for Multi-Container Intermodal Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for loading intermodal containers onto trucks are inefficient, as they typically allow only one container per truck, risk damaging the container's edges, and require complex and unsafe procedures, especially when using hook lifts or cable lift systems, which also limit the load to 10-12 tons and create space inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable roller container lifting frame with a loading arrangement and stabilizing units, controlled by a hydraulic system, that can be adapted to various truck types, allowing safe and efficient loading of intermodal containers by attaching to corner castings and enabling multiple containers to be transported on a single truck, including on trailers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a connector or transferring device is used to connect the hook lift to the intermodal container, then the container can be loaded onto the truck, but the container's edges are at risk of damage and the load is limited to 10-12 tons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized connector device with protective elements that mediates between the hook lift mechanism and the container. This intermediary component distributes the loading forces across multiple contact points and includes edge protection features, allowing the container to be loaded while preventing edge damage and exceeding the 10-12 ton load limitation of direct connector attachment.
2Ease of operation
If a connector is used to load the container, then the loading can be performed, but the truck bed needs to be extended with a rear joint which reduces the truck's function and creates unnecessary space
Solution Approach 1:
The connector device is designed as a universal attachment that can be integrated into existing truck bed configurations without requiring specialized extensions or rear joints. The multi-functional connector serves both as a structural support element and a loading mechanism, eliminating the need for additional truck modifications while maintaining full truck functionality.
3Ease of operation
If hook lift or cable lift systems are used, then the container can be loaded, but the load is limited to 10-12 tons and the procedure becomes complicated and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The loading system is segmented into multiple independent support points and stabilization elements distributed across the container structure. This segmentation allows the load to be distributed across multiple attachment points rather than concentrated at single points, increasing the safe load capacity beyond 10-12 tons while providing redundant support paths that enhance loading safety and reduce procedural complexity.
4Productivity
If only one container can be transported per truck, then the loading procedure is simple, but the economic and environmental efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple container loading capabilities into a single truck configuration by implementing a standardized connector system that can accommodate multiple containers simultaneously or in sequence. The connector design allows for stacking or side-by-side arrangement of containers, enabling a single truck to transport multiple containers while maintaining simple and safe loading procedures through standardized attachment mechanisms.
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 the safe and efficient loading of intermodal containers onto trucks, allowing up to three containers to be transported by a single truck, reducing environmental impact by minimizing transport journeys and eliminating the need for separate connectors, which can damage the container edges.
Implementation Method 1
The interchangeable roller container lifting frame comprises a hydraulic system
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2b
AI summary
The invention relates to an interchangeable roller container lifting frame (1) for an intermodal container (17). The interchangeable roller container lifting frame (1) comprises a frame (2) comprising a first end (3), a second end (4) and a support arrangement (5) connecting the first and second ends (3, 4). The interchangeable roller container lifting frame (1) comprises a loading arrangement (7) and a stabilising arrangement (12). The loading arrangement (7) comprises a first loading arm (8) arranged at the first end (3) and a second loading arm (9) arranged at the second end (4). The first and second loading arms (8, 9) are arranged to move between a loading position and a storing position. The stabilising arrangement (12) comprises a first stabilising unit (13) arranged at the first end (3) and a second stabilising unit (14) arranged at the second end (4), wherein the first and second stabilising units (13, 14) are arranged to move between a loading position and a storing position. The invention also relates to a method for loading an intermodal container (17) on an interchangeable roller container lifting frame (1).