Automatic Twist Lock

grabcad

The concept of this design is to use the movement of the twist lock on the crane/spreader to actuate the twist lock on the bottom of the container, thus eliminating the need for human interaction. The twist lock on the crane would have to be slightly modified but there are absolutely no modifications needed on existing container corner fittings. The top corner fitting is equipped with a pump/actuator, when the crane/spreader is lowered into the container the twist lock on the crane enters the top corner fitting and the modified clamp on the twist lock couples with the arm of the pump. when the twist lock turns 90degrees to lock in on the container the arm of the pump also turns and hydraulic oil is pumped into the bottom twist lock. The hydraulic oil pushes a plunger in the bottom twist lock and the bottom twist lock is unhooked from the container below it. when the container is loaded back on the deck or a truck the bottom twist lock locks in again when the crane is withdrawn. The proportions and sizes of the hydraulic hose and fittings may be incorrect for the need, they are to be modified.This is a straightforward but complex design and I'm not even sure if it's practical, but I just wanted to put it out there.