PatrickShip container locking device

grabcad

Container locking systemThis system allows an auto lock between containers and consists of two top-right and two top-left locking devices. They are mounted on top of the container, one at each corner in diagonally equal pairs and they works together as a system. Each locking device consist of very few robust parts:• a lower part, • an upper part, • a shaft• an optional extra gravity activated locking arm• an optional handle. The lower part has two “fingers” that are easily pushed in the two corner holes in the top of the container without any use of tools. When another container is placed on top of the first container, a finger on the upper parts of the locker is automatically twisted/pushed in the corner holes in the bottom of the top container by its weight. This 4 corner system acts together as a system, and prevents the container from sliding or tilting. When the top container is lifted, the 4 locking fingers are pulled/twisted out automatically. If needed, the lockers can be equipped with an extra locking arm, which also can be used to indicate that the locker is secured properly.Due to the simplicity, the locking devices are very robust and light (about 3,5kg if made of aluminum), and very little maintenance is needed.Advantages:• Simple and robust construction• Easy mounting without any tool (twisted slightly and thereby fixed to the container)• Automatic handling• Self centering• Color coding making it easier to mount the locker correctly (green/right and red/left)• No need for tight tolerances (it will work even if worn)• Easy to check the locking from above (from a crane) due to the extra locking arm• Locking by gravity (no spring needed). The arms can be handled remotely.One of the attached video shows a small test with a 1:3 scale plastic prototype which proves the systems functionality. It might look a bit loose with only one locker, but with 4 lockers helping each other, the system will be firm.