Automated Twist Lock Connector Handling System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for handling shipping container connectors require human intervention, are limited in quantity and size versatility, and lack automation for attachment and detachment, posing safety and efficiency concerns.
Innovation Solution
A fully automated shipping container management system with platforms, gantries, handlers, and robotic arms that securely manage and transfer twist lock connectors across various container sizes, enabling automated loading and unloading, and efficient storage and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If human intervention is used to place or remove connectors, then the system can handle connector attachment and detachment, but worker safety is compromised and the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service operations where the container management system automatically attaches and detaches connectors without human intervention. The automated connector attachment mechanism performs tasks that would otherwise require manual worker intervention, eliminating safety risks while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations by workers are replaced with an automated mechanical system. The connector attachment mechanism uses automated positioning and securing systems to replace human hands and tools, transforming a manual process into an automated one that improves both safety and efficiency.
2Quantity of substance
If existing connector handling solutions are used, then the system can manage a limited quantity of connectors, but the system lacks scalability for unlimited quantities
Solution Approach 1:
The connector management system is designed with universal capabilities to handle unlimited quantities of connectors. The system incorporates multiple storage locations, automated retrieval mechanisms, and scalable architecture that can accommodate varying quantities from small to large numbers of connectors, making it adaptable to different operational scales.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing connector handling solutions are used, then the system can manage connectors for specific container sizes, but the system cannot handle multiple container sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic adaptability to handle multiple container sizes. The connector attachment mechanism can adjust its positioning and operation parameters dynamically based on the container size being serviced. The system can switch between different container configurations, making it versatile across various sizes rather than being fixed to one dimension.
4Productivity
If automated systems are implemented, then operational efficiency increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated connector management system is segmented into distinct functional modules: storage locations for connectors, automated retrieval mechanisms, attachment mechanisms, and control systems. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance while maintaining high overall productivity through coordinated operation of the modular system.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for managing shipping containers and twist lock connectors is described. The system includes multiple stations. Each station includes a container platform and a pallet station. The container platform is able to accommodate various container sizes and/or multiple containers at one time. The container platform includes connector changers, handlers, and gantries that are able to automatically engage connectors with a container and disengage connectors from a container. The station includes a shuttle able to transfer connectors between the platform handlers and pallet station handlers and gantries. The pallet station includes a pallet with multiple receptacles for storing connectors. The pallet station and/or the container platform may include one or more magazines and/or one or more conveyors.