Separable Block Shipping Platform Yield Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Shipping platforms face durability issues due to harsh operating environments and are restricted by regulatory and standardization requirements, which existing bulk shipping methods fail to adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A shipping platform system comprising a top deck and bottom deck joined by interlocking surfaces with a joint that yields under a predetermined load, featuring male and female fittings, channels, retainers, and frangible members that are replaceable and designed to fail at specific thresholds, reducing damage during handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bulk shipping platforms are used, then shipping cost is reduced, but durability is poor due to harsh operating environment
Solution Approach 1:
The shipping platform is divided into separate blocks (top block, bottom block, intermediate blocks) that can function independently or in combination. Each block is designed to withstand harsh conditions individually, and the modular structure allows damaged blocks to be replaced without discarding the entire platform, thereby improving durability and reliability in harsh operating environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform incorporates yield joints with frangible members that can dynamically respond to load conditions. These joints are designed to yield or break at predetermined load thresholds, allowing the structure to adapt to extreme forces by controlled failure rather than catastrophic collapse, enhancing overall durability under harsh conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bulk shipping platforms are used, then shipping cost is reduced, but the platform is restricted by regulatory and standardization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The separable block platform is designed with standardized dimensions and interconnection mechanisms that allow the same basic blocks to be configured for different shipping applications and regulatory requirements. The modular design enables compliance with various standardization requirements while maintaining cost-effective bulk shipping capabilities.
3Reliability
If yield joints with frangible members are used, then damage during handling is reduced, but the joint complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frangible members are designed as inexpensive, replaceable components with built-in failure points that break at predetermined loads. These simple sacrificial elements protect the more valuable platform blocks from damage by failing first, reducing overall damage while adding minimal complexity through their straightforward design and replacement mechanism.
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 enhances durability while maintaining compliance with standardization requirements, allowing for reduced damage during handling and providing a retrofit option for existing platforms with minimal impact on overall system dimensions or weight.
Implementation Method 1
The frangible member may include a failure point
Implementation Method 2
The mated male fitting and the female fitting may produce an interference fit that yields at a selected threshold
Data Source
AI summary
A shipping platform system may include a top deck, and a top block joined to the top deck. The system may also include a bottom deck, and a bottom block joined to the bottom deck. The system may further include a joint that yields under a predetermined load that joins the top block to the bottom block.