Transverse Container Loading Mechanism with Retractable Lifters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container loading and unloading systems for transport devices are cumbersome, costly, and prone to failure due to complex hydraulic connections and the need for multiple movement functions, which complicates handling and increases operational expenses.
Innovation Solution
A system where the transport device handles both engaging and lifting functions, with a sliding carrier having its own drive for translational movement, allowing conventional containers to be used without modifications, and featuring a vertical lifting mechanism that retracts below the loading level for unobstructed transport, utilizing electric motors and rollers for improved stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a relocating device with its own drive is used to move containers transversely and perform vertical lifting, then container handling capability is improved, but device complexity and susceptibility to failure increase due to multiple movement functions
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate functional components: the transport device (truck or wagon) handles vertical lifting and container engagement, while the sliding carrier handles only transverse movement. This segmentation eliminates the need for the relocating device to perform multiple functions, reducing complexity and failure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical lifting function is extracted from the relocating device and assigned to the transport device's lifting mechanism. The sliding carrier is left with only the transverse movement function, simplifying its structure and reducing susceptibility to failure.
2Power
If hydraulic connecting lines are extensively connected to the transport device for power supply, then lifting and movement functions are enabled, but ease of moving the container decreases and operating costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented: the transport device provides hydraulic power for vertical lifting through hydraulic connecting lines, while the sliding carrier uses its own independent drive system (electric motor with gear) for transverse movement. This eliminates the need for extensive hydraulic connections to the sliding carrier, making container movement easier and more economical.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding carrier is equipped with its own drive system that operates independently of the transport device's hydraulic system. This self-service capability allows the sliding carrier to move containers transversely without requiring extensive hydraulic connections, reducing operational complexity and costs.
3Power
If the vertical lifting part remains extended during transport, then lifting capability is maintained, but it obstructs the transport path and complicates handling
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical lifting part is designed to be dynamically adjustable - it can be extended when lifting containers and completely retracted below the loading area level during transport. This dynamic adjustment eliminates obstruction during transport while maintaining lifting capability when needed, simplifying overall handling operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional containers are used without modifications, then adaptability is improved, but the loading and unloading system requires simpler structure to accommodate them
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding carrier is designed with universal applicability to work with conventional containers that have corner castings (CCs), without requiring container modifications. The transport device's vertical lifting mechanism also universally accommodates these containers. This universal design achieves high adaptability while keeping the system structure relatively simple.
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
This solution simplifies and cost-reduces container handling, enhances operational reliability, and allows for versatile use of containers and transport devices without altering existing handling techniques or infrastructure, while providing secure and efficient loading and unloading capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The drive has an electric motor and a gear, preferably worm gear, driven by this, which offers the advantage of a simpler connection and disconnection from the energy supply compared to the prior art with failure-prone hydraulic supply lines.
Implementation Method 2
The drive has an electric motor and a gear, preferably worm gear, driven by this
Data Source
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Figure 7~9
AI summary
The loading and unloading mechanism is used for loading and unloading filling mechanisms or containers (20) in respective transport equipments (30,40) via corner castings (CCs) (22). The CCs are provided at the bottom of the container on the loading areas (32,42) of the transport equipments. Vertical lifters with vertical drive units are provided to raise the containers over the CCs in transportation direction. The containers can be lowered in shifting direction (21), which is transverse to the transportation direction, by means of a drive unit after the transport operation of the containers.