EP0832827B1 - Self-closing connection device for containers - Google Patents

Self-closing connection device for containers Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0832827B1
EP0832827B1 EP19970101562 EP97101562A EP0832827B1 EP 0832827 B1 EP0832827 B1 EP 0832827B1 EP 19970101562 EP19970101562 EP 19970101562 EP 97101562 A EP97101562 A EP 97101562A EP 0832827 B1 EP0832827 B1 EP 0832827B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
locking
connecting element
element according
head
container
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP19970101562
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0832827A3 (en
EP0832827A2 (en
Inventor
Jochen Wader
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
WILLI WADER GmbH
Original Assignee
WILLI WADER GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from DE29617029U external-priority patent/DE29617029U1/en
Application filed by WILLI WADER GmbH filed Critical WILLI WADER GmbH
Publication of EP0832827A2 publication Critical patent/EP0832827A2/en
Publication of EP0832827A3 publication Critical patent/EP0832827A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0832827B1 publication Critical patent/EP0832827B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D90/00—Component parts, details or accessories for large containers
    • B65D90/0006—Coupling devices between containers, e.g. ISO-containers
    • B65D90/0013—Twist lock
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B25/00—Load-accommodating arrangements, e.g. stowing, trimming; Vessels characterised thereby
    • B63B25/002—Load-accommodating arrangements, e.g. stowing, trimming; Vessels characterised thereby for goods other than bulk goods
    • B63B25/004—Load-accommodating arrangements, e.g. stowing, trimming; Vessels characterised thereby for goods other than bulk goods for containers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a self-locking connecting element for connecting two neighboring, in particular stacked containers above them in particular graspable in the corners Locking holes.
  • Semi automatic twistlocks of the type described above are, for example, by the German utility model DE-U- 94 09 664 and DE-U-93 17 501 known.
  • Subject of this both utility models are devices for the mutual Connecting containers over to them especially in the area Extendable locking openings from container corners.
  • the devices have two in facing opposite directions, over a common one Shaft connected locking heads designed in this way and rotatably mounted in a housing around the shaft axis are that each locking head in a release position in the respective locking opening insertable or from this is removable.
  • the locking heads are in one bolt position rotated relative to the release position Reaching behind the locking opening with respect to them axial projection in some areas outside the opening cross-section arranged the locking opening.
  • the mentioned devices are characterized by a special Design of the unlocking elements and have in proven in practice.
  • connection element which for connecting 20-foot containers on 40-foot parking spaces in the area of one adjacent containers from Semi Automatic Twistlocks can be used.
  • the connecting element has a essentially between the containers to be connected lying abutment and on opposite sides of the Abutment arranged coupling projections for engagement in one corner fitting each of the containers to be connected.
  • At least one coupling projection is designed such that it is due to a relative displacement in at least one Locking position to the corner fitting of the assigned Containers can be brought. This results in a Containers only in the vertical direction, i.e. only against Take off, secure connection. Moving the Containers in the horizontal direction and thus a release of the Connection must be through additional conventional twistlocks be avoided.
  • the connecting element described requires a very precise geometric coordination of the coupling projections to the opening in the container is just difficult to insert in the lower openings of the containers and difficult to use.
  • the invention has for its object a self-locking, easy-to-use connector for Connecting two neighboring containers via these in particular graspable in the corners To create locking openings that in corner areas of Containers can be used in which there is little There are more containers at a distance, and that's it connected container against both a vertical and also secures against a lateral relative movement against each other.
  • a self-locking Connection element for connecting two neighboring, in particular containers arranged one above the other these can be gripped behind, particularly in the area of the corners Locking openings, with two locking heads and a connecting body arranged between them reached, with an upper locking head such pivotable in a locking opening of a container can be held that the other, lower locking head in a pivoted position, one through both Locking heads running at an angle to an axis vertically through the locking opening of the other container is in this locking opening can be introduced or removed from it, however in a locking position with a lower section the locking body laterally protruding nose the locking opening engages behind, the lower section of the connecting body fills the locking opening in such a way that a lateral with respect to the locking opening Movement of the locking head only by an amount possible that is less than the length of the nose behind the area.
  • the connecting element according to the invention is reduced Manufacturing effort much easier to handle and safer to use than conventional fasteners. In terms of its concrete execution are different Variants possible. So it can be between the two locking heads arranged connector body, as below is described in detail, advantageously as a housing or also made in one piece with the locking heads become.
  • a first embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention which is used to connect two neighboring, in particular containers 1, 2 arranged one above the other (FIG. 6) by means of these, in particular in the area of the corners, interlocking locking openings 3, 4 serves owns, in particular, the different views of the first embodiment of the connecting element according to the invention 1 to 4 show one as one or more parts Housing made of steel or cast iron Connection body 5.
  • Housing made of steel or cast iron Connection body 5.
  • the shaft 6 faces both Ends two locking heads 7, 8 on their sides facing away from each other are conical and of which the one, upper locking head 7 flat and the other, lower locking head 8 high and pointed is.
  • the flat cone 7 has a profile, this as well as an upper housing section 9 (more general expressed: like an upper section 9 of the connecting body 5) So much smaller than the locking opening 3 (Fig. 5 to 7) is that the locking head 7 and upper housing section 9 into the locking opening 3 an ISO container corner can be used.
  • the upper flat locking head 7 with a Provided housing 5 laterally protruding nose 10.
  • the lower pointed locking head 8 and a lower section 11 of the connecting body 5, which in this first Execution of the lower housing section 11 have a slightly smaller profile than the profile of the locking opening 4 a container corner (Fig. 5 to 7).
  • the lower pointed locking head 8 also has a projecting Nose 12 on.
  • the tip 13 of the lower locking head 8 is off-center with respect to the longitudinal axis of the housing 5, which in the present case is identical to the axis X-X through the locking heads 7, 8, and the opening 4 of the container corner in the direction of the projecting Nose 12 shifted. This results in a steep slope 14 and a flat slope Slant 15.
  • the two locking heads 7, 8 have transverse to the direction the shaft 6 connecting them has an elongated shape (Fig. 2, 4); and the respective axes S-S, T-T of this Longitudes are opposite to each other by an angle of twist ⁇ preferably offset by approximately 30 ° (Fig. 4).
  • the housing is 5 also designed so that there are two wing-like on both sides Has approaches 17, on each of which contact surfaces 18, 19 of the corners of the upper container 1 and lower container 2 rest.
  • the approaches 17 act like this as a spacer between the containers 1, 2 (Fig. 7).
  • the underside surface 20 of both lugs 17 is continuous just.
  • a portion 21 of the top surface 21, 22 of both approaches 17, which is about 1/3 of the total Length of the lugs 17 extends is parallel to the underside Surface 20 directed.
  • the top surface 21, 22 extends towards the nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 opposite end inclined.
  • the different Sections 21, 22 are in the direction of the longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8 in a row arranged and by a transverse to the longitudinal axis T-T of lower locking head 8 running edge (tilting edge 23) differentiated from one another.
  • These, are also conceivable Longitudinally shortened wing-shaped parallel ones Spacer surfaces 20, 21, which are only as long as that in parallel area shown in the sketch the surfaces 20, 21 and end at the edge 23.
  • the self-locking connecting element according to the invention has the following mode of operation, shown in FIGS. 5 to 7:
  • the connecting element is picked up by hand and the lower locking head 8 rotated by approx. 30 ° (angle ⁇ ) that the upper locking head 7 with the housing 5th aligned (release position 7a).
  • the connecting element is so through a lower ISO locking opening 3 from below in a hanging container 1 used.
  • the lower locking head 8 is released and the upper locking head 7 jumps through the angle ⁇ of approx. 30 ° in the Starting position (locking position 7b).
  • the top locking head 7 then engages behind the sides of the locking opening 3 and secures the connecting element in the locking opening 3, the upper housing portion 9 the Locking hole 3 almost completely filled with play.
  • the nose 10 of the upper locking head 7 prevents here that the connecting element in a wrong Position can be used because the interior of the Containers are designed so that the front inner wall 24th has a greater distance from the locking opening 3 than the rear wall 25. With this arrangement, the Interior of the container corner towards the front enough space 26 to reach behind the nose 10. Because this Room 26 towards the rear wall 25 of the container corner missing, the connecting element can not be faulty Way, i.e. rotated by 180 °.
  • the upper container 1 with the in the container corners hanging fasteners lowered.
  • This Lowering movement is indicated by the directional arrows S in FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrates.
  • the upper container 1 is aligned here in the longitudinal and transverse directions with the one below Container 2.
  • the lowering movement of the upper Containers 1 occurs first before the Connection between the containers 1, 2 for contact between the steeply descending from the nose 12 to the tip 13 Slant 14 of the lower locking head 8 and one Container 1 facing upper edge 28 of the ISO locking opening 4 the upper corner of the lower container 2.
  • the upper locking head 7 is in the locking opening 3 of the container 1 pivotally supported that the lower locking head 8 in the pivoted position 8a can get into one through both locking heads 7, 8 axis X-X obliquely opposite one vertically through the locking opening 4 of the lower Containers 2 extending axis Y-Y stands, with the axes X-X, Y-Y include a tilt angle ⁇ .
  • this swiveled Position 8a is the locking head 8 in the Locking opening 4 can be inserted or removed from it, since its longitudinal extension along the axis T-T in this position 8a is aligned with the locking opening 4.
  • the inclined upper surfaces 22 of the side lugs 17 allow the tilting movement into the insertion position 8a, because the respective second sections 22, in which the top Surface 21, 22 inclined to the underside surface 20 runs in the direction of the nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 opposite end to the lower one Surface 20 of approaches 17 taper at an angle ⁇ , which is at least as large as the tilt angle ⁇ between the through both locking heads 7, 8 extending axis X-X and the one running vertically through the locking opening 4 Y-Y axis in the pivoted insertion position 8a of the lower locking head 8.
  • Figs. 8 and 9 are thus connected Container stack outside thanks to Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 and inside on a 3 inch joint 32 by the inventive Connecting elements that in Figs. 8 and 9 with designated by reference numeral 33 are held together.
  • a container 1 on board must be on the outside of the container stack located semi automatic Twistlocks 31 with an operating rod on their opening lever 34 can be unlocked.
  • the upper container 1 can so stand out, however, will only come from the unlocked semi Release Automatic Twistlocks 31, and first with the invention Connecting element 33 in the lower container 2 get stuck.
  • the upper container 1 comes in Inclined and can move in the longitudinal direction (arrow L), because he has the Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 in this Direction is not fixed.
  • the peculiarity compared to the first embodiment is that entire connecting element according to the invention, in particular the connecting body 5a, with the locking heads 7, 8 without additional separate housing together with the Approach 17 is made in one piece.
  • the preferred method of production is a drop forging made of steel, whereby the approach 17 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, too manufactured separately and welded to the connecting body 5a can be.
  • a one-piece design made of cast iron or cast steel is also possible.
  • Another difference between the second and the first Execution consists in a longer trained upper Nose 10 of the connecting element according to the invention, the approximately half in an opening 37 of the corner of the upper container 1 protrudes.
  • the space 26 to be gripped behind by the nose 10 is thus greater than the respective distance between the locking opening 3 from both the front wall 24 and also from the rear wall 25 in the corner area of the container 1, the connecting element according to the invention can nevertheless with its upper locking head 7 in the locking opening 3 of container 1, and only in one only position, namely that in which the invention Lock the lower locking head 8 with a container 2 is possible to be introduced.
  • approach 17 can be between the two containers 1, 2 as far in the direction of front wall 24 of the container 1 be extended that its front edge 38 to the front edge 39 of the container 1 stands out.
  • more preferred approach 17 results in a larger one Contact surface 20, 21 between the containers 1, 2 and thus better force transmission into the container corners.
  • top surfaces 21, 22 of the lugs 17 in each a section 21 parallel to the underside Surfaces 20 of the approaches 17 and in another Section 22 is inclined to the bottom surface 20 of the lugs 17 run as described in the first embodiment can, in unchanged form, also with the second Execution apply. But how the Fig. 11 and 13, the bevel is in a second area 22 but omitted here.
  • the approaches 17 each point a section 21 to the underside surface 20 of the Approaches 17 parallel top surface on the through the transverse to the longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8 extending tilting edge 23 is limited.
  • This Tilting edge 23 forms the edge of the shoulders 17 and comes similar to this also in Fig. 6 for the first embodiment is shown in the pivoted position 8a of the lower Locking head 8 on the side of the locking opening 3 at the bottom of the container 1 to the system.
  • the protrusion of the upper nose 10 into the front opening 37 whose width is only slightly larger than the width the nose 10, causes the upper locking head 7th no longer as described in the first embodiment, can be twisted to by twisting this connecting element according to the invention after insertion in to lock the corner of the upper container 1.
  • the securing element 40 can, as shown to be designed as a rotatable pawl.
  • a Nose 41 of the jack is thereby in by the tension Fig. 11 indicated torsion spring 42 in the presence of a locking position 7c of the upper locking head 7 in one Position held in the locking opening 3 the container corner reaches behind and the invention Connection element so against falling out secures the container 1.
  • the securing element 40 with a Operating lever 43 against the force of the spring 42 rotated so that the Nose 41 of the securing element 40 with the connecting body 5a is aligned and thus the entire upper locking head 7 reaches its release position 7a, in which it the upper section 9 of the connecting body 5a is aligned, so that the entire part from the locking opening 3 of the Containers 1 can be taken.
  • the second embodiment also has known connecting elements the advantage of being an automatic Locking containers 1, 2 placed on top of each other made possible by the connecting element according to the invention is tipped through the lower container and thus into the Can lever locking opening 3 of the upper container 1, without causing a shift in the longitudinal direction can.
  • the invention is not based on the described embodiment limited, but also includes all in the sense of Invention equivalent effects. Besides, that's it If necessary, a person skilled in the art is also possible on the described Connecting element further advantageous technical measures to be provided without leaving the scope of the invention becomes.
  • the upper locking head 7 of the connecting element according to the invention such as FIGS. 1, 2 11 and 13 show, from its connecting body 5, 5a facing side starting in the direction of its longitudinal axis S-S bevel 35 running towards his nose 10 have, whose inclination corresponds approximately to the tilt angle ⁇ . In this way, the connecting element gets in more easily the insertion position 8a of the lower locking head 8.
  • the lower locking head 8 of its Connecting body 5, 5a side facing one in Direction of its longitudinal axis T-T towards its nose 12 Have bevel 36.
  • This bevel 36 affects not its function in reaching behind the lower one Edge 30 of the locking opening 4, however, ensures a conveniently provided game of the connecting element inside the locking opening 4.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein selbstverriegelndes Verbindungselement zum Verbinden zweier benachbarter, insbesondere übereinander angeordneter Container über an diesen insbesondere im Bereich der Ecken befindliche, hintergreifbare Verriegelungsöffnungen.The invention relates to a self-locking connecting element for connecting two neighboring, in particular stacked containers above them in particular graspable in the corners Locking holes.

In der Containerschiffahrt werden zur Verbindung von Containern untereinander bekanntermaßen in zunehmendem Umfang sogenannte Semi Automatic Twistlocks eingesetzt. Diese Semi Automatic Twistlocks werden an Land von unten in die vier Containerecken eines im Containerkran hängenden Containers eingesetzt. Wird der Container nun an Bord des Schiffes auf einen anderen Container aufgesetzt, verriegeln die beiden Container über die Twistlocks automatisch untereinander. Sollen die Container später wieder von Bord des Schiffes genommen werden, müssen die Twistlocks an einem besonders dafür vorgesehenen Hebel im unteren Container entriegelt werden, was mit eigens dafür vorgesehenen Betätigungsstangen geschieht. Der obere Container kann dann abgehoben und an Land gebracht werden.In container shipping are used to connect containers with each other as is known to an increasing extent so-called semi automatic twistlocks are used. This semi Automatic twistlocks are turned into four from the bottom Container corners of a container hanging in the container crane used. The container is now on board the ship put on another container, the two lock Containers automatically over each other via the twistlocks. Should the containers later be taken off the ship again must be taken, the twistlocks on one particular provided lever unlocked in the lower container be what with dedicated operating rods happens. The upper container can then be lifted off and be brought ashore.

Semi Automatic Twistlocks der vorstehend beschriebenen Art sind beispielsweise durch die deutschen Gebrauchsmuster DE-U- 94 09 664 und DE-U- 93 17 501 bekannt. Gegenstand dieser beiden Gebrauchsmuster sind Vorrichtungen zum gegenseitigen Verbinden von Containern über an diesen insbesondere im Bereich von Containerecken vorhandene, hintergreifbare Verriegelungsöffnungen. Die Vorrichtungen besitzen zwei in entgegengesetzte Richtungen weisende, über eine gemeinsame Welle verbunden Verriegelungsköpfe, die derart ausgebildet und in einem Gehäuse um die Wellenachse verdrehbar gelagert sind, daß jeder Verriegelungskopf in einer Lösestellung in die jeweilige Verriegelungsöffnung einführbar bzw. aus dieser entnehmbar ist. Die Verriegelungsköpfe sind in einer gegenüber der Lösestellung verdrehten Riegelstellung zum Hintergreifen der Verriegelungsöffnung bezüglich ihrer axialen Projektion bereichsweise außerhalb des Öffnungsquerschnittes der Verriegelungsöffnung angeordnet. Die genannten Vorrichtungen zeichnen sich durch eine spezielle Gestaltung der Entriegelungselemente aus und haben sich in der Praxis bewährt.Semi automatic twistlocks of the type described above are, for example, by the German utility model DE-U- 94 09 664 and DE-U-93 17 501 known. Subject of this both utility models are devices for the mutual Connecting containers over to them especially in the area Extendable locking openings from container corners. The devices have two in facing opposite directions, over a common one Shaft connected locking heads designed in this way and rotatably mounted in a housing around the shaft axis are that each locking head in a release position in the respective locking opening insertable or from this is removable. The locking heads are in one bolt position rotated relative to the release position Reaching behind the locking opening with respect to them axial projection in some areas outside the opening cross-section arranged the locking opening. The mentioned devices are characterized by a special Design of the unlocking elements and have in proven in practice.

Viele der modernen Containerschiffe werden heute so gebaut, daß auf dem Deck beziehungsweise den Lukendeckeln Containerstellplätze für 40-Fuß-Container vorgesehen sind, die in der Mitte jedoch weitere Containerfundamente besitzen, um auf den Stellplatz eines 40-Fuß-Containers alternativ zwei 20-Fuß-Container stellen zu können. Zwischen den beiden 20-Fuß-Containern bleibt dann in der Regel in der Mitte nur eine schmale Fuge von ca 7,6 cm (3 Zoll) Abstand. An der Innenseite der beiden 20-Fuß-Container können dann keine Semi Automatic Twistlocks verwendet werden, denn die Fuge zwischen den Containern ist zu schmal, um den Twistlock dort später öffnen zu können.Many of the modern container ships are built today that on the deck or hatch covers container parking spaces are intended for 40-foot containers that are in the middle, however, have other container foundations in order to alternatively two in the parking space of a 40-foot container To be able to place 20-foot containers. Between the two 20-foot containers usually only remains in the middle a narrow gap of about 7.6 cm (3 inches). On the inside the two 20-foot containers cannot then be semi Automatic twistlocks are used because the joint between the containers is too narrow to twistlock there to be able to open later.

In der europäischen Patentanmeldung EP 0 477 887 A1 ist ein Verbindungselement beschrieben, welches zur Verbindung von 20-Fuß-Containern auf 40-Fuß-Stellplätzen im Bereich eines daneben stehenden Containers von Semi Automatic Twistlocks eingesetzt werden kann. Das Verbindungselement besitzt ein im wesentlichen zwischen den zu verbindenden Containern liegendes Widerlager und an entgegengesetzten Seiten des Widerlagers angeordnete Kupplungsvorsprünge zum Eingriff in jeweils einen Eckbeschlag der zu verbindenden Container. Wenigstens ein Kupplungsvorsprung ist derart ausgebildet, daß er durch eine Relativverschiebung in mindestens eine Verriegelungsposition zum Eckbeschlag des ihm zugeordneten Containers gebracht werden kann. Dadurch erfolgt eine die Container nur in senkrechter Richtung, also nur gegen Abheben, sicher halternde Verbindung. Ein Verschieben der Container in horizontaler Richtung und damit ein Lösen der Verbindung muß durch zusätzliche herkömmliche Twistlocks vermieden werden. Das beschriebene Verbindungselement erfordert eine sehr genaue geometrische Abstimmung der Kupplungsvorsprünge auf die Öffnung im Container, ist nur schwer in die unteren Öffnungen der Container einzusetzen und schwierig in der Handhabung.In European patent application EP 0 477 887 A1 there is a Connection element described, which for connecting 20-foot containers on 40-foot parking spaces in the area of one adjacent containers from Semi Automatic Twistlocks can be used. The connecting element has a essentially between the containers to be connected lying abutment and on opposite sides of the Abutment arranged coupling projections for engagement in one corner fitting each of the containers to be connected. At least one coupling projection is designed such that it is due to a relative displacement in at least one Locking position to the corner fitting of the assigned Containers can be brought. This results in a Containers only in the vertical direction, i.e. only against Take off, secure connection. Moving the Containers in the horizontal direction and thus a release of the Connection must be through additional conventional twistlocks be avoided. The connecting element described requires a very precise geometric coordination of the coupling projections to the opening in the container is just difficult to insert in the lower openings of the containers and difficult to use.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein selbstverriegelndes, leicht handhabbares Verbindungselement zum Verbinden zweier benachbarter Container über an diesen insbesondere im Bereich der Ecken befindliche, hintergreifbare Verriegelungsöffnungen zu schaffen, das in Eckbereichen von Containern eingesetzt werden kann, in denen sich mit geringem Abstand weitere Container befinden, und das die damit verbundenen Container sowohl gegen eine vertikale als auch gegen eine laterale Relativbewegung gegeneinander sichert. The invention has for its object a self-locking, easy-to-use connector for Connecting two neighboring containers via these in particular graspable in the corners To create locking openings that in corner areas of Containers can be used in which there is little There are more containers at a distance, and that's it connected container against both a vertical and also secures against a lateral relative movement against each other.

Erfindungsgemäß wird dies durch ein selbstverriegelndes Verbindungselement zum Verbinden zweier benachbarter, insbesondere übereinander angeordneter Container über an diesen insbesondere im Bereich der Ecken befindliche, hintergreifbare Verriegelungsöffnungen, mit zwei Verriegelungsköpfen und einem dazwischen angeordneten Verbindungskörper erreicht, wobei ein oberer Verriegelungskopf derart in einer Verriegelungsöffnung des einen Containers schwenkbar halterbar ist, daß der andere, untere Verriegelungskopf in einer verschwenkten Position, in der eine durch beide Verriegelungsköpfe verlaufende Achse schräg gegenüber einer senkrecht durch die Verriegelungsöffnung des anderen Containers verlaufenden Achse steht, in diese Verriegelungsöffnung einführbar bzw. aus dieser entnehmbar ist, jedoch in einer Riegelstellung mit einer einen unteren Abschnitt des Verbindungskörpers seitlich überragenden Nase die Verriegelungsöffnung hintergreift, wobei der untere Abschnitt des Verbindungskörpers die Verriegelungsöffnung derart ausfüllt, daß eine in Bezug auf die Verriegelungsöffnung laterale Bewegung des Verriegelungskopfes nur um einen Betrag möglich ist, der kleiner ist als die Länge des von der Nase hintergriffenen Bereiches.According to the invention, this is done by a self-locking Connection element for connecting two neighboring, in particular containers arranged one above the other these can be gripped behind, particularly in the area of the corners Locking openings, with two locking heads and a connecting body arranged between them reached, with an upper locking head such pivotable in a locking opening of a container can be held that the other, lower locking head in a pivoted position, one through both Locking heads running at an angle to an axis vertically through the locking opening of the other container is in this locking opening can be introduced or removed from it, however in a locking position with a lower section the locking body laterally protruding nose the locking opening engages behind, the lower section of the connecting body fills the locking opening in such a way that a lateral with respect to the locking opening Movement of the locking head only by an amount possible that is less than the length of the nose behind the area.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement ist bei verringertem Fertigungsaufwand erheblich einfacher handzuhaben und sicherer anzuwenden als herkömmliche Verbindungselemente. Hinsichtlich seiner konkreten Ausführung sind verschiedene Varianten möglich. So kann der zwischen den zwei Verriegelungsköpfen angeordnete Verbindungskörper, wie nachstehend noch im Detail beschrieben ist, mit Vorteil als Gehäuse oder auch einstückig mit den Verriegelungsköpfen ausgeführt werden. The connecting element according to the invention is reduced Manufacturing effort much easier to handle and safer to use than conventional fasteners. In terms of its concrete execution are different Variants possible. So it can be between the two locking heads arranged connector body, as below is described in detail, advantageously as a housing or also made in one piece with the locking heads become.

Weitere vorteilhafte Ausführungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen und der nachfolgenden Beschreibung enthalten. Anhand zweier in den beiliegenden Zeichnungsfiguren dargestellter Ausführungsbeispiele wird die Erfindung näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine Vorderansicht einer ersten Ausführung eines erfindungsgemäßen selbstverriegelnden Verbindungselementes,
Fig. 2
eine Seitenansicht der ersten Ausführung des in Fig. 1 dargestellten erfindungsgemäßen selbstverriegelnden Verbindungselementes,
Fig. 3
einen Schnitt durch das Gehäuse der ersten Ausführung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes entlang der Linie III-III in Fig. 1,
Fig. 4
die Draufsicht auf die erste Ausführung des in den Fig. 1 bis 3 dargestellten erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes,
Fig. 5 bis Fig 7
in Fig. 2 entsprechenden Darstellungen verschiedene Phasen der Verbindung zweier Container mittels des erfindungsgemäßen selbstverriegelnden Verbindungselementes in seiner ersten Ausführungsform,
Fig. 8
einen Containerstapel mit durch erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselemente miteinander verbundenen Containern,
Fig. 9
in einer Fig. 8 entsprechenden Darstellung, einen Containerstapel beim Lösen einer durch ein erfindungsgemäßes Verbindungselement hergestellten Verbindung.
Fig. 10
eine Vorderansicht einer zweiten Ausführung eines erfindungsgemäßen selbstverriegelnden Verbindungselementes,
Fig. 11
eine Seitenansicht der zweiten Ausführung des in Fig. 10 dargestellten erfindungsgemäßen selbstverriegelnden Verbindungselementes,
Fig. 12
die Draufsicht auf die zweite Ausführung des in den Fig. 10 und 11 dargestellten erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes,
Fig. 13
in einer Fig. 7 entsprechenden Darstellung eine Phase der Verbindung zweier Container mittels des erfindungsgemäßen selbstverriegelnden Verbindungselementes in seiner zweiten Ausführungsform.
Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are contained in the subclaims and the description below. The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to two exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawing figures. Show it:
Fig. 1
2 shows a front view of a first embodiment of a self-locking connecting element according to the invention,
Fig. 2
2 shows a side view of the first embodiment of the self-locking connecting element according to the invention shown in FIG. 1,
Fig. 3
2 shows a section through the housing of the first embodiment of the connecting element according to the invention along the line III-III in FIG. 1,
Fig. 4
the top view of the first embodiment of the connecting element according to the invention shown in FIGS. 1 to 3,
5 to 7
2 corresponding representations different phases of the connection of two containers by means of the self-locking connecting element according to the invention in its first embodiment,
Fig. 8
a stack of containers with containers connected to one another by connecting elements according to the invention,
Fig. 9
in a representation corresponding to FIG. 8, a container stack when loosening a connection produced by a connecting element according to the invention.
Fig. 10
2 shows a front view of a second embodiment of a self-locking connecting element according to the invention,
Fig. 11
10 shows a side view of the second embodiment of the self-locking connecting element according to the invention shown in FIG. 10,
Fig. 12
the top view of the second embodiment of the connecting element according to the invention shown in FIGS. 10 and 11,
Fig. 13
in a representation corresponding to FIG. 7, a phase of connecting two containers by means of the self-locking connecting element according to the invention in its second embodiment.

In den verschiedenen Figuren der Zeichnung sind gleiche Teile stets mit denselben Bezugszeichen versehen, so daß sie in der Regel auch jeweils nur einmal beschrieben werden.The same in the different figures of the drawing Parts always have the same reference numerals so that they are usually only described once become.

Eine erste Ausführung eines erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes, welches zum Verbinden zweier benachbarter, insbesondere übereinander angeordneter Container 1, 2 (Fig. 6) über an diesen insbesondere im Bereich der Ecken befindliche, hintergreifbare Verriegelungsöffnungen 3, 4 dient, besitzt, wie insbesondere die verschiedenen Ansichten der ersten Ausführung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes in den Fig. 1 bis 4 zeigen, einen als ein- oder mehrteiliges Gehäuse aus Stahl oder Gußeisen ausgebildeten Verbindungskörper 5. In dem Gehäuse 5 befindet sich drehbar gelagert eine Welle 6 aus Stahl. Die Welle 6 weist an beiden Enden zwei Verriegelungsköpfe 7, 8 auf, die auf ihren einander abgewandten Seiten konusförmig ausgebildet sind und wovon der eine, obere Verriegelungskopf 7 flach und der andere, untere Verriegelungskopf 8 hoch und spitz gestaltet ist. Axial gesehen weist der flache Konus 7 ein Profil auf, das ebenso wie ein oberer Gehäuseabschnitt 9 (allgemeiner ausgedrückt: wie ein oberer Abschnitt 9 des Verbindungskörpers 5) um soviel kleiner als die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 (Fig. 5 bis 7) ist, daß der Verriegelungskopf 7 und der obere Gehäuseabschnitt 9 in die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 einer ISO-Containerecke eingesetzt werden können. Zusätzlich ist der obere flache Verriegelungskopf 7 mit einer das Gehäuse 5 seitlich überragenden Nase 10 versehen.A first embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention, which is used to connect two neighboring, in particular containers 1, 2 arranged one above the other (FIG. 6) by means of these, in particular in the area of the corners, interlocking locking openings 3, 4 serves owns, in particular, the different views of the first embodiment of the connecting element according to the invention 1 to 4 show one as one or more parts Housing made of steel or cast iron Connection body 5. In the housing 5 is rotatable mounted a shaft 6 made of steel. The shaft 6 faces both Ends two locking heads 7, 8 on their sides facing away from each other are conical and of which the one, upper locking head 7 flat and the other, lower locking head 8 high and pointed is. Seen axially, the flat cone 7 has a profile, this as well as an upper housing section 9 (more general expressed: like an upper section 9 of the connecting body 5) So much smaller than the locking opening 3 (Fig. 5 to 7) is that the locking head 7 and upper housing section 9 into the locking opening 3 an ISO container corner can be used. In addition is the upper flat locking head 7 with a Provided housing 5 laterally protruding nose 10.

Der untere spitze Verriegelungskopf 8 und ein unterer Abschnitt 11 des Verbindungskörpers 5, der in dieser ersten Ausführung der untere Gehäuseabschnitt 11 ist, weisen ein etwas kleineres Profil auf als das Profil der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 einer Containerecke (Fig. 5 bis 7). Der untere spitze Verriegelungskopf 8 weist ebenfalls eine vorspringende Nase 12 auf. Die Spitze 13 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 ist außermittig, mit Bezug auf die Längsachse des Gehäuses 5, welche im vorliegenden Fall identisch mit der Achse X-X durch die Verriegelungsköpfe 7, 8 ist, und die Öffnung 4 der Containerecke in Richtung auf die vorspringende Nase 12 hin verschoben. Hierdurch ergibt sich eine steil abfallende Schräge 14 und eine flach abfallende Schräge 15. The lower pointed locking head 8 and a lower section 11 of the connecting body 5, which in this first Execution of the lower housing section 11 have a slightly smaller profile than the profile of the locking opening 4 a container corner (Fig. 5 to 7). The lower pointed locking head 8 also has a projecting Nose 12 on. The tip 13 of the lower locking head 8 is off-center with respect to the longitudinal axis of the housing 5, which in the present case is identical to the axis X-X through the locking heads 7, 8, and the opening 4 of the container corner in the direction of the projecting Nose 12 shifted. This results in a steep slope 14 and a flat slope Slant 15.

Die beiden Verriegelungsköpfe 7, 8 besitzen quer zur Richtung der sie verbindenden Welle 6 eine längliche Gestalt (Fig. 2, 4); und die jeweiligen Achsen S-S, T-T dieser Längserstreckungen sind gegeneinander um einen Verdrehwinkel α von vorzugsweise ca. 30° versetzt angeordnet (Fig 4).The two locking heads 7, 8 have transverse to the direction the shaft 6 connecting them has an elongated shape (Fig. 2, 4); and the respective axes S-S, T-T of this Longitudes are opposite to each other by an angle of twist α preferably offset by approximately 30 ° (Fig. 4).

Wie Fig. 3 zeigt, wird durch ein Federsystem 16 zwischen dem Schaft der Welle 6 und dem Gehäuse 5 die Welle 6 so im Gehäuse 5 fixiert, daß der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 in Längsrichtung mit dem unteren Gehäuseabschnitt 11 und der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 der Containerecke fluchtet. Durch Verdrehen um den Verdrehwinkel α des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 im Gehäuse 5 von Hand gegen die Kraft der Feder 16 kann der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 zum Fluchten mit dem Gehäuse 5 und der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 in der Containerecke gebracht werden (Lösestellung 7a). In dieser Lösestellung 7a liegt die Längsachse S-S des oberen Verriegelungskopfes 7 in der ursprünglichen Richtung der Längsachse T-T des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8, während die Längsachse T-T des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 um den Winkel α aus ihrer ursprünglichen Lage verdreht ist. Nach dem Loslassen springt der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 automatisch in die Ursprungsposition (Riegelstellung 7b) zurück.3 shows, by a spring system 16 between the shaft of the shaft 6 and the housing 5, the shaft 6 in Housing 5 fixes that the lower locking head 8 in Longitudinal direction with the lower housing section 11 and Locking opening 4 of the container corner is aligned. By Rotate by the angle of rotation α of the lower locking head 8 in the housing 5 by hand against the force of Spring 16, the upper locking head 7 for alignment with the housing 5 and the locking opening 3 in the Container corner are brought (release position 7a). In this Release position 7a is the longitudinal axis S-S of the upper locking head 7 in the original direction of Longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8, while the longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8 around the Angle α is twisted out of its original position. To when released, the upper locking head 7 jumps automatically back to the original position (locking position 7b).

Wie insbesondere die Fig. 1, 2, 4 und 7 zeigen, ist das Gehäuse 5 zudem so gestaltet, daß es beidseitig zwei flügelartige Ansätze 17 aufweist, auf welchen jeweils Kontaktflächen 18, 19 der Ecken des oberen Containers 1 und des unteren Containers 2 aufliegen. Die Ansätze 17 wirken so als Distanzhalter zwischen den Containern 1, 2 (Fig. 7).1, 2, 4 and 7, the housing is 5 also designed so that there are two wing-like on both sides Has approaches 17, on each of which contact surfaces 18, 19 of the corners of the upper container 1 and lower container 2 rest. The approaches 17 act like this as a spacer between the containers 1, 2 (Fig. 7).

Die unterseitige Oberfläche 20 beider Ansätze 17 ist durchgehend eben. Ein Abschnitt 21 der oberseitigen Oberfläche 21, 22 beider Ansätze 17, der sich über ca. 1/3 der gesamten Länge der Ansätze 17 erstreckt, ist parallel zur unterseitigen Oberfläche 20 gerichtet. In einem zweiten Abschnitt 22, der sich über ca. 2/3 der Länge der Ansätze 17 erstreckt, verläuft die oberseitige Oberfläche 21, 22 in Richtung auf das der Nase 12 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 entgegengesetzten Ende hin geneigt. Die unterschiedlichen Abschnitte 21, 22 sind in Richtung der Längsachse T-T des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 hintereinander angeordnet und durch eine quer zur Längsachse T-T des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 verlaufende Kante (Kippkante 23) voneinander abgegrenzt. Denkbar sind auch insgesamt in Längsrichtung verkürzte flügelförmige parallel verlaufende Abstandsflächen 20, 21, die nur so lang sind, wie der in der Skizze dargestellte parallel verlaufende Bereich zwischen den Flächen 20, 21 und die an der Kante 23 enden.The underside surface 20 of both lugs 17 is continuous just. A portion 21 of the top surface 21, 22 of both approaches 17, which is about 1/3 of the total Length of the lugs 17 extends is parallel to the underside Surface 20 directed. In a second Section 22, which extends over approximately 2/3 of the length of the approaches 17 extends, the top surface 21, 22 extends towards the nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 opposite end inclined. The different Sections 21, 22 are in the direction of the longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8 in a row arranged and by a transverse to the longitudinal axis T-T of lower locking head 8 running edge (tilting edge 23) differentiated from one another. Overall, are also conceivable Longitudinally shortened wing-shaped parallel ones Spacer surfaces 20, 21, which are only as long as that in parallel area shown in the sketch the surfaces 20, 21 and end at the edge 23.

Das erfindungsgemäße selbstverriegelnde Verbindungselement besitzt folgende, in den Fig. 5 bis 7 dargestellte Funktionsweise:The self-locking connecting element according to the invention has the following mode of operation, shown in FIGS. 5 to 7:

Das Verbindungselement wird von Hand aufgenommen und der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 um ca. 30° (Winkel α) so verdreht, daß der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 mit dem Gehäuse 5 fluchtet (Lösestellung 7a). Das Verbindungselement wird so durch eine untere ISO-Verriegelungsöffnung 3 von unten in einen hängenden Container 1 eingesetzt. Der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 wird losgelassen und der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 verspringt um den Winkel α von ca. 30° in die Ausgangsposition (Riegelstellung 7b). Der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 hintergreift dann die Seiten der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 und sichert das Verbindungselement in der Verriegelungsöffnung 3, wobei der obere Gehäuseabschnitt 9 die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 mit Spiel nahezu ganz ausfüllt.The connecting element is picked up by hand and the lower locking head 8 rotated by approx. 30 ° (angle α) that the upper locking head 7 with the housing 5th aligned (release position 7a). The connecting element is so through a lower ISO locking opening 3 from below in a hanging container 1 used. The lower locking head 8 is released and the upper locking head 7 jumps through the angle α of approx. 30 ° in the Starting position (locking position 7b). The top locking head 7 then engages behind the sides of the locking opening 3 and secures the connecting element in the locking opening 3, the upper housing portion 9 the Locking hole 3 almost completely filled with play.

Die Nase 10 des oberen Verriegelungskopfes 7 verhindert hierbei, daß das Verbindungselement in einer falschen Position eingesetzt werden kann, denn der Innenraum des Containers ist so gestaltet, daß die vordere Innenwand 24 einen größeren Abstand zur Verriegelungsöffnung 3 aufweist als die hintere Wand 25. Durch diese Anordnung bietet der Innenraum der Containerecke in Richtung auf die Vorderseite genügend Raum 26 zum Hintergreifen der Nase 10. Da dieser Raum 26 in Richtung auf die hintere Wand 25 der Containerecke hin fehlt, kann das Verbindungselement nicht in fehlerhafter Weise, d.h. um 180° verdreht, eingesetzt werden.The nose 10 of the upper locking head 7 prevents here that the connecting element in a wrong Position can be used because the interior of the Containers are designed so that the front inner wall 24th has a greater distance from the locking opening 3 than the rear wall 25. With this arrangement, the Interior of the container corner towards the front enough space 26 to reach behind the nose 10. Because this Room 26 towards the rear wall 25 of the container corner missing, the connecting element can not be faulty Way, i.e. rotated by 180 °.

Ist der an Land im Kran hängende Container 1 wie beschrieben an einer Seite, die auf dem Schiff in Nachbarschaft zu einem weiteren Container 27 zu stehen kommt, mit zwei der erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselemente bestückt, kann er an Bord gehoben werden, um dort auf einen Containerstapel aufgesetzt und mit dem bis dahin obersten Container 2 verriegelt zu werden. Diese Verriegelung geschieht selbsttätig.Is the container 1 hanging in the crane on land as described on one side that is in the neighborhood on the ship another container 27 comes to stand, with two of the equipped connecting elements according to the invention, he can To be lifted on board to be placed on a stack of containers and locked with the topmost container 2 to become. This locking happens automatically.

Dazu wird der obere Container 1 mit den in den Containerecken hängenden Verbindungselementen abgesenkt. Diese Senkbewegung wird durch die Richtungspfeile S in den Fig. 5 und 6 veranschaulicht. Der obere Container 1 fluchtet hierbei in Längs- und Querrichtung mit dem darunter befindlichen Container 2. Während der Absenkbewegung des oberen Containers 1 kommt es zunächst vor dem Zustandekommen der Verbindung zwischen den Containern 1, 2 zur Berührung zwischen der steil von der Nase 12 zur Spitze 13 abfallenden Schräge 14 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 und einer dem Container 1 zugewandten oberen Kante 28 der ISO-Verriegelungsöffnung 4 der oberen Ecke des unteren Containers 2. Senkt sich der obere Container 1 weiter, wird das Verbindungselement durch die Kante 28 über die steil abfallende Schräge 14, die dazu einen entsprechenden Anstieg aufweist, zur Seite gedrückt und hierbei durch eine Kippbewegung (im Sinne des Pfeiles K in Fig. 6) ein Stück in die untere Ecke des oberen Containers 1 hineingehoben. Die Nase 12 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 wird soweit zu Seite gedrückt, daß sie die obere Kante 28 der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 passieren kann. Der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 gelangt auf diese Weise in eine verschwenkte Position 8a. Während sich der Container 1 nun weiter senkt, rutscht die Nase 12 an der Innenfläche der ISO-Öffnung in der Containerecke nach unten.For this, the upper container 1 with the in the container corners hanging fasteners lowered. This Lowering movement is indicated by the directional arrows S in FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrates. The upper container 1 is aligned here in the longitudinal and transverse directions with the one below Container 2. During the lowering movement of the upper Containers 1 occurs first before the Connection between the containers 1, 2 for contact between the steeply descending from the nose 12 to the tip 13 Slant 14 of the lower locking head 8 and one Container 1 facing upper edge 28 of the ISO locking opening 4 the upper corner of the lower container 2. If the upper container 1 lowers further, the connecting element through the edge 28 over the steeply sloping Slope 14, which has a corresponding increase to this, pushed aside and thereby by a tilting movement (in the sense of arrow K in Fig. 6) a piece in the lower corner of the upper container 1. The nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 is so far to the side pressed that it the upper edge 28 of the locking opening 4 can happen. The lower locking head 8 in this way reaches a pivoted position 8a. As the container 1 lowers further, it slips Nose 12 on the inner surface of the ISO opening in the corner of the container downward.

Der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 ist derart in der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 des Containers 1 schwenkbar gehaltert, daß der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 in die verschwenkte Position 8a gelangen kann, in der eine durch beide Verriegelungsköpfe 7, 8 verlaufende Achse X-X schräg gegenüber einer senkrecht durch die Verriegelungsöffnung 4 des unteren Containers 2 verlaufende Achse Y-Y steht, wobei die Achsen X-X, Y-Y einen Kippwinkel β einschließen. In dieser verschwenkten Position 8a ist der Verriegelungskopf 8 in die Verriegelungsöffnung 4 einführbar bzw. aus dieser entnehmbar, da seine Längserstreckung entlang der Achse T-T in dieser Position 8a mit der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 fluchtet.The upper locking head 7 is in the locking opening 3 of the container 1 pivotally supported that the lower locking head 8 in the pivoted position 8a can get into one through both locking heads 7, 8 axis X-X obliquely opposite one vertically through the locking opening 4 of the lower Containers 2 extending axis Y-Y stands, with the axes X-X, Y-Y include a tilt angle β. In this swiveled Position 8a is the locking head 8 in the Locking opening 4 can be inserted or removed from it, since its longitudinal extension along the axis T-T in this position 8a is aligned with the locking opening 4.

Die geneigten oberen Flächen 22 der seitlichen Ansätze 17 erlauben die Kippbewegung in die Einführungsposition 8a, da die jeweils zweiten Abschnitte 22, in dem die oberseitige Oberfläche 21, 22 geneigt zur unterseitigen Oberfläche 20 verläuft, in Richtung des von der Nase 12 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 entgegengesetzten Endes auf die untere Oberfläche 20 der Ansätze 17 in einem Winkel γ zulaufen, der mindestens so groß wie der Kippwinkel β zwischen der durch beide Verriegelungsköpfe 7, 8 verlaufenden Achse X-X und der senkrecht durch die Verriegelungsöffnung 4 verlaufenden Achse Y-Y in der verschwenkten Einführungsposition 8a des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 ist.The inclined upper surfaces 22 of the side lugs 17 allow the tilting movement into the insertion position 8a, because the respective second sections 22, in which the top Surface 21, 22 inclined to the underside surface 20 runs in the direction of the nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 opposite end to the lower one Surface 20 of approaches 17 taper at an angle γ, which is at least as large as the tilt angle β between the through both locking heads 7, 8 extending axis X-X and the one running vertically through the locking opening 4 Y-Y axis in the pivoted insertion position 8a of the lower locking head 8.

Nach weiterem Absenken wird nach Erreichen der unteren Kante 29 der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 das Verbindungselement durch sein Eigengewicht unter Wirkung der Schwerkraft in die Ausgangsposition (Riegelstellung 8b) zurückkippen. In dieser Position 8b setzen die Kontaktflächen 18, 19 der Ecken des oberen Containers 1 und des unteren Containers 2 jeweils auf die Flächen 21, 20 der Ansätze 17 des Verbindungselementes auf. Die Nase 12 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 hintergreift die untere Kante 29 der oberen Ecke des unteren Containers 2, wobei der untere Gehäuseabschnitt 11 die Verriegelungsöffnung 4 derart ausfüllt, daß eine in Bezug auf die Verriegelungsöffnung 4 laterale Bewegung des Verriegelungskopfes 8, insbesondere in Richtung der Längsachse T-T des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8, nur um einen Betrag möglich ist, der kleiner ist als die Länge des von der Nase 12 hintergriffenen Bereiches 30. So ist eine sichere Verbindung zwischen den Containern 1, 2 geschaffen, weil der verdreht hintergreifende flache obere Verriegelungskopf 7 und die hintergreifende Nase 12 des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 sowohl ein Abheben des oberen Containers 1 als auch eine Horizontalverschiebung verhindern.After further lowering, after reaching the lower one Edge 29 of the locking opening 4 the connecting element by its own weight under the influence of gravity tilt the starting position (locking position 8b) back. In this position 8b set the contact surfaces 18, 19 of the Corners of the upper container 1 and the lower container 2 each on the surfaces 21, 20 of the lugs 17 of the connecting element on. The nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 engages behind the lower edge 29 of the upper Corner of the lower container 2, with the lower housing section 11 fills the locking opening 4 in such a way that a lateral with respect to the locking opening 4 Movement of the locking head 8, in particular in the direction the longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8, is only possible by an amount smaller than that Length of the area 30 gripped by the nose 12. So is a secure connection between containers 1, 2 created because of the twisted gripping flat top Locking head 7 and the engaging nose 12 of the lower locking head 8 both lifting the upper Prevent containers 1 and horizontal displacement.

Wie die Fig. 8 und 9 veranschaulichen, werden so verbundene Containerstapel außen durch Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 und innen an einer 3-Zoll-Fuge 32 durch die erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselemente, die in den Fig. 8 und 9 mit dem Bezugszeichen 33 bezeichnet sind, zusammengehalten. Zum Abheben eines Containers 1 an Bord müssen die an den Außenseiten des Containerstapels befindlichen Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 mit einer Betätigungsstange an ihrem Öffnungshebel 34 entriegelt werden. Der obere Container 1 kann so abheben, wird sich jedoch nur aus den entriegelten Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 lösen, und zunächst mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselement 33 im unteren Container 2 hängen bleiben. Hierdurch kommt der obere Container 1 in Schräglage und kann sich in Längsrichtung (Pfeil L) bewegen, da er durch die Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 in dieser Richtung nicht fixiert ist. Durch diese Bewegung und gegenseitige Position der Container 1, 2 gelangt der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 in die in Fig. 6 dargestellte verschwenkte Position 8a, in der er aus der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 entnehmbar ist. Der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 rutscht mit seiner Nase 12 über die untere Kante 29 der Verriegelungsöffnung 4 aus der oberen Ecke des unteren Containers 2 heraus. Die Container 1, 2 sind so ohne manuellen Arbeitsaufwand voneinander gelöst. Die Verbindungselemente werden nun im oberen Container 1 hängend an Land gebracht und können dort entnommen werden. Zur Entnahme wird der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 um den Verdrehwinkel α gedreht, so daß der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 mit der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 fluchtet und das Verbindungselement durch die Öffnung 3 in der Containerecke aus dem Container 1 herausgezogen werden kann.As illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9, are thus connected Container stack outside thanks to Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 and inside on a 3 inch joint 32 by the inventive Connecting elements that in Figs. 8 and 9 with designated by reference numeral 33 are held together. To the Lifting a container 1 on board must be on the outside of the container stack located semi automatic Twistlocks 31 with an operating rod on their opening lever 34 can be unlocked. The upper container 1 can so stand out, however, will only come from the unlocked semi Release Automatic Twistlocks 31, and first with the invention Connecting element 33 in the lower container 2 get stuck. As a result, the upper container 1 comes in Inclined and can move in the longitudinal direction (arrow L), because he has the Semi Automatic Twistlocks 31 in this Direction is not fixed. Through this movement and mutual Position of the container 1, 2 reaches the lower one Locking head 8 in the pivoted shown in Fig. 6 Position 8a, in which it comes out of the locking opening 4 can be removed. The lower locking head 8 slides with his nose 12 over the lower edge 29 of the Locking hole 4 from the top corner of the bottom Containers 2 out. The containers 1, 2 are without manual workload resolved from each other. The fasteners are now hanging in the upper container 1 Land and can be removed there. For removal the lower locking head 8 by the angle of rotation α rotated so that the upper locking head 7 with the Locking opening 3 is aligned and the connecting element through the opening 3 in the corner of the container from the container 1 can be pulled out.

Die Fig. 10 bis 13 betreffen eine zweite Ausführung eines erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes. Die Besonderheit gegenüber der ersten Ausführungsform besteht darin, daß das gesamte erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement, insbesondere der Verbindungskörper 5a, mit den Verriegelungsköpfen 7, 8 ohne zusätzliches getrenntes Gehäuse gemeinsam mit dem Ansatz 17 einstückig gefertigt ist. Die bevorzugte Herstellungsweise ist ein Gesenkschmiedestück aus Stahl, wobei der Ansatz 17 wie aus den Fig. 11 und 13 ersichtlich, auch getrennt gefertigt und an den Verbindungskörper 5a angeschweißt werden kann. Eine einstückige Ausführung aus Gußeisen oder Stahlguß ist ebenfalls möglich.10 to 13 relate to a second embodiment of a connecting element according to the invention. The peculiarity compared to the first embodiment is that entire connecting element according to the invention, in particular the connecting body 5a, with the locking heads 7, 8 without additional separate housing together with the Approach 17 is made in one piece. The preferred method of production is a drop forging made of steel, whereby the approach 17 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, too manufactured separately and welded to the connecting body 5a can be. A one-piece design made of cast iron or cast steel is also possible.

Ein weiterer Unterschied der zweiten gegenüber der ersten Ausführung besteht in einer länger ausgebildeten oberen Nase 10 des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselements, die etwa zur Hälfte in eine Öffnung 37 der Ecke des oberen Containers 1 ragt. Der von der Nase 10 zu hintergreifende Raum 26 ist damit zwar größer als der jeweilige Abstand der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 sowohl von der vorderen Wand 24 als auch von der hinteren Wand 25 im Eckbereich des Containers 1, das erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement kann aber dennoch mit seinem oberen Verriegelungskopf 7 in die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 des Containers 1, und zwar nur in einer einzigen Position, nämlich der, in welcher die erfindungsgemäße Verriegelung des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 mit einem Container 2 möglich ist, eingeführt werden. Dabei entsteht vorteilhafterweise bei der im Verriegelungszustand der beiden Container 1, 2 auftretenden Zugbelastung zwischen der oberen Nase 10 und der unteren Nase 12 der beiden Verriegelungsköpfe 7, 8 ein günstiges, gegen Selbstlösung wirkendes Drehmoment.Another difference between the second and the first Execution consists in a longer trained upper Nose 10 of the connecting element according to the invention, the approximately half in an opening 37 of the corner of the upper container 1 protrudes. The space 26 to be gripped behind by the nose 10 is thus greater than the respective distance between the locking opening 3 from both the front wall 24 and also from the rear wall 25 in the corner area of the container 1, the connecting element according to the invention can nevertheless with its upper locking head 7 in the locking opening 3 of container 1, and only in one only position, namely that in which the invention Lock the lower locking head 8 with a container 2 is possible to be introduced. there advantageously arises in the locked state of the two containers 1, 2 occurring tensile load between the upper nose 10 and the lower nose 12 of the two Locking heads 7, 8 a cheap, against self-solution acting torque.

Zusätzlich kann zu dem gleichen Zweck der Ansatz 17 zwischen den beiden Containern 1, 2 so weit in Richtung der vorderen Wand 24 des Containers 1 verlängert sein, daß seine vordere Kante 38 bis an die Vorderkante 39 des Containers 1 vorsteht. Der damit im Vergleich zur ersten Ausführung weiter vorgezogene Ansatz 17 ergibt eine größere Auflagefläche 20, 21 zwischen den Containern 1, 2 und somit eine bessere Krafteinleitung in die Containerecken.In addition, for the same purpose, approach 17 can be between the two containers 1, 2 as far in the direction of front wall 24 of the container 1 be extended that its front edge 38 to the front edge 39 of the container 1 stands out. Compared to the first version more preferred approach 17 results in a larger one Contact surface 20, 21 between the containers 1, 2 and thus better force transmission into the container corners.

Daß die oberseitigen Oberflächen 21, 22 der Ansätze 17 in jeweils einem Abschnitt 21 parallel zu den unterseitigen Oberflächen 20 der Ansätze 17 und in jeweils einem anderen Abschnitt 22 geneigt zur unteren Oberfläche 20 der Ansätze 17 verlaufen, wie dies bei der ersten Ausführung beschriebenen ist, kann in unveränderter Form auch bei der zweiten Ausführung zur Anwendung kommen. Wie aber die Fig. 11 und 13 zeigen, ist die Abschrägung in einem zweiten Bereich 22 aber hier entfallen. Die Ansätze 17 weisen jeweils nur einen Abschnitt 21 mit zur unterseitigen Oberfläche 20 der Ansätze 17 paralleler oberseitiger Oberfläche auf, der durch die quer zur Längsachse T-T des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 verlaufende Kippkante 23 begrenzt ist. Diese Kippkante 23 bildet die Randkante der Ansätze 17 und kommt, ähnlich wie dies auch in Fig. 6 für die erste Ausführung dargestellt ist, in der verschwenkten Position 8a des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8 seitlich der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 am Boden des Containers 1 zur Anlage.That the top surfaces 21, 22 of the lugs 17 in each a section 21 parallel to the underside Surfaces 20 of the approaches 17 and in another Section 22 is inclined to the bottom surface 20 of the lugs 17 run as described in the first embodiment can, in unchanged form, also with the second Execution apply. But how the Fig. 11 and 13, the bevel is in a second area 22 but omitted here. The approaches 17 each point a section 21 to the underside surface 20 of the Approaches 17 parallel top surface on the through the transverse to the longitudinal axis T-T of the lower locking head 8 extending tilting edge 23 is limited. This Tilting edge 23 forms the edge of the shoulders 17 and comes similar to this also in Fig. 6 for the first embodiment is shown in the pivoted position 8a of the lower Locking head 8 on the side of the locking opening 3 at the bottom of the container 1 to the system.

Das Hineinragen der oberen Nase 10 in die vordere Öffnung 37, deren Breite nur geringfügig größer ist als die Breite der Nase 10, bewirkt, daß der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 nicht mehr, wie beim ersten Ausführungsbeispiel beschrieben, verdreht werden kann, um durch dieses Verdrehen das erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement nach dem Einsetzen in die Ecke des oberen Containers 1 zu verriegeln. The protrusion of the upper nose 10 into the front opening 37, whose width is only slightly larger than the width the nose 10, causes the upper locking head 7th no longer as described in the first embodiment, can be twisted to by twisting this connecting element according to the invention after insertion in to lock the corner of the upper container 1.

Da der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 fest mit dem Verbindungskörper 5a verbunden und nicht in einem Gehäuse drehbar ist, ist zur Sicherung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes im oberen Container 1 ein zusätzliches Sicherungselement 40 vorgesehen. Das Sicherungselement 40 kann, wie dargestellt, als eine drehbare Klinke ausgeführt sein. Eine Nase 41 der Klinke wird dabei durch die Spannung einer in Fig. 11 angedeuteten Drehfeder 42 bei Vorliegen einer Riegelstellung 7c des oberen Verriegelungskopfes 7 in einer Position gehalten, in der sie die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 der Containerecke seitlich hintergreift und das erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement so gegen Herausfallen aus dem Container 1 sichert.Since the upper locking head 7 is fixed to the connecting body 5a connected and not rotatable in a housing, is for securing the connecting element according to the invention an additional securing element in the upper container 1 40 provided. The securing element 40 can, as shown to be designed as a rotatable pawl. A Nose 41 of the jack is thereby in by the tension Fig. 11 indicated torsion spring 42 in the presence of a locking position 7c of the upper locking head 7 in one Position held in the locking opening 3 the container corner reaches behind and the invention Connection element so against falling out secures the container 1.

Zum Herausnehmen des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselements aus dem Container 1 wird das Sicherungselement 40 mit einem Betätigungshebel 43 gegen die Kraft der Feder 42 (im Sinne des Richtungspfeiles O in Fig. 12) verdreht, so daß die Nase 41 des Sicherungselementes 40 mit dem Verbindungskörper 5a fluchtet und damit der gesamte obere Verriegelungskopf 7 in seine Lösestellung 7a gelangt, in der er mit dem oberen Abschnitt 9 des Verbindungskörpers 5a fluchtet, so daß das gesamte Teil aus der Verriegelungsöffnung 3 des Containers 1 genommen werden kann.To remove the connecting element according to the invention from the container 1, the securing element 40 with a Operating lever 43 against the force of the spring 42 (in the sense the direction arrow O in Fig. 12) rotated so that the Nose 41 of the securing element 40 with the connecting body 5a is aligned and thus the entire upper locking head 7 reaches its release position 7a, in which it the upper section 9 of the connecting body 5a is aligned, so that the entire part from the locking opening 3 of the Containers 1 can be taken.

Alternativ sind auch andere Formen von Sperrklinken oder Sperrvorrichtungen denkbar, die am hinteren Ende des oberen Verriegelungskopfes 7 des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselements angebracht sind und die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 im Containerinneren im Eckbereich des oberen Containers 1 hintergreifen, um das Verbindungselement gegen Herausfallen zu sichern. Alternatively, other forms of pawls or Locking devices conceivable at the rear end of the upper Locking head 7 of the connecting element according to the invention are attached and the locking opening 3 in Inside the container in the corner area of the upper container 1 reach behind to prevent the connecting element from falling out to secure.

Auch die zweite Ausführung weist gegenüber bekannten Verbindungselementen den Vorteil auf, daß sie ein selbsttätiges Verriegeln aufeinander aufsetzender Container 1, 2 ermöglicht, indem das erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement durch den unteren Container gekippt wird und sich so in die Verriegelungsöffnung 3 des oberen Containers 1 hebeln kann, ohne daß es zu einer Verschiebung in Längsrichtung kommen kann.The second embodiment also has known connecting elements the advantage of being an automatic Locking containers 1, 2 placed on top of each other made possible by the connecting element according to the invention is tipped through the lower container and thus into the Can lever locking opening 3 of the upper container 1, without causing a shift in the longitudinal direction can.

Die Erfindung ist nicht auf die beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiel beschränkt, sondern umfaßt auch alle im Sinne der Erfindung gleichwirkenden Ausführungen. Außerdem ist es dem Fachmann bedarfsweise auch möglich, an dem beschriebenen Verbindungselement weitere vorteilhafte technische Maßnahmen vorzusehen, ohne daß der Rahmen der Erfindung verlassen wird. Beispielsweise kann der obere Verriegelungskopf 7 des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselementes, wie die Fig. 1, 2 11 und 13 zeigen, von seiner dem Verbindungskörper 5, 5a zugewandten Seite ausgehend eine in Richtung seiner Längsachse S-S auf seine Nase 10 zulaufende Abschrägung 35 aufweisen, deren Neigung etwa dem Kippwinkel β entspricht. Auf diese Weise gelangt das Verbindungselement leichter in die Einführungsposition 8a des unteren Verriegelungskopfes 8. Auch kann der untere Verriegelungskopf 8 von seiner dem Verbindungskörper 5, 5a zugewandten Seite ausgehend eine in Richtung seiner Längsachse T-T auf seine Nase 12 zulaufende Abschrägung 36 aufweisen. Diese Abschrägung 36 beeinträchtigt nicht seine Funktion beim Hintergreifen der unteren Kante 30 der Verriegelungsöffnung 4, gewährleistet jedoch ein günstigerweise vorzusehendes Spiel des Verbindungselementes innerhalb der Verriegelungsöffnung 4.The invention is not based on the described embodiment limited, but also includes all in the sense of Invention equivalent effects. Besides, that's it If necessary, a person skilled in the art is also possible on the described Connecting element further advantageous technical measures to be provided without leaving the scope of the invention becomes. For example, the upper locking head 7 of the connecting element according to the invention, such as FIGS. 1, 2 11 and 13 show, from its connecting body 5, 5a facing side starting in the direction of its longitudinal axis S-S bevel 35 running towards his nose 10 have, whose inclination corresponds approximately to the tilt angle β. In this way, the connecting element gets in more easily the insertion position 8a of the lower locking head 8. Also, the lower locking head 8 of its Connecting body 5, 5a side facing one in Direction of its longitudinal axis T-T towards its nose 12 Have bevel 36. This bevel 36 affects not its function in reaching behind the lower one Edge 30 of the locking opening 4, however, ensures a conveniently provided game of the connecting element inside the locking opening 4.

Claims (22)

  1. Self-locking connecting element for connecting two containers (1, 2), which are adjacent, in particular arranged one above the other, via rear-engagement locking openings (3, 4) which are located in said containers, in particular in the region of the corners, having two locking heads (7, 8) and a connecting body (5, 5a) arranged therebetween, it being the case that a top locking head (7) can be secured in a pivotable manner in a locking opening (3) of one container (1) such that the other, bottom locking head (8) can be introduced into the locking opening (4) of the other container (2), and removed therefrom, in a pivoted position (8a), in which an axis (X-X) running through the two locking heads (7, 8) is located obliquely (tilting angle β) in relation to an axis (Y-Y) running vertically through said locking opening (4), but, in a locking position (8b), engages behind the locking opening (4) by way of a nose (12) which projects laterally beyond a bottom section (11) of the connecting body (5, 5a), the bottom section (11) of the connecting body (5, 5a) preferably filling the locking opening (4) such that the locking head (8) can only be moved laterally in relation to the locking opening (4) by a distance which is smaller than the length of the region (30) for the rear engagement of the nose (12).
  2. Connecting element according to Claim 1,
    characterized in that the locking heads (7, 8) are of elongate configuration along axes (S-S, T-T) which extend transversely to the direction of the axis (X-X) running through the two locking heads (7, 8).
  3. Connecting element according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the locking heads (7, 8) are of conical design on their sides which are directed away from one another.
  4. Connecting element according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the bottom locking head (8) has a tip (13) which is arranged, in the direction of the locking-head nose (12), eccentrically in relation to the axis (X-X) running through the two locking heads (7, 8) and has a slope (14), which runs steeply towards the tip (13) from the nose (12), and a slope (15), which runs in a shallow manner towards the tip (13).
  5. Connecting element according to Claim 4,
    characterized in that the slope (14), which runs steeply towards the tip (13), has such an incline that, when the slope (14) interacts with a top edge (28) of the locking opening (4) of a container (2), the bottom locking head (8) passes into the pivoted position (8a), in which it can be introduced into the locking opening (4).
  6. Connecting element according to one of Claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, starting from its side which is directed towards the connecting body (5, 5a), the bottom locking head (8) has a bevel (36) which runs, in the direction of the longitudinal axis (T-T) of the locking head, towards the locking-head nose (12).
  7. Connecting element according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the top locking head (7) has a nose (10) which projects laterally beyond the top section (9) of the connecting body (5, 5a), and a space (26) in the container (1) for the rear engagement of said nose (10) is greater than the distance of the locking opening (3) from a front wall (24) and/or a rear wall (25) in the corner region of the container (1), such that the top locking head (7) can be introduced into the locking opening (3) only in one position.
  8. Connecting element according to Claim 7,
    characterized in that the space (26) for the rear engagement of the nose (10) is greater than the respective distance of the locking opening (3) from each of the two walls (24, 25) in the corner region of the container (1), the front wall (24) having an opening (37) in which the nose (10) can engage.
  9. Connecting element according to Claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, starting from its side which is directed towards the connecting body (5, 5a), the top locking head (7) has a bevel (35) which runs, in the direction of the longitudinal axis (S-S) of the locking head, towards the locking-head nose (10) and of which the inclination corresponds approximately to the tilting angle (β).
  10. Connecting element according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the top locking head (7) is designed such that it can be introduced into a locking opening (3), and removed therefrom, in a release position (7a), in which it is aligned with a top section (9) of the connecting body (5, 5a), and engages behind the locking opening (3) in a locking position (7b, 7c), the top section (9) of the connecting body (5, 5a) more or less completely filling the locking opening (3) with play.
  11. Connecting element according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the connecting body (5, 5a) has, on both sides, wing-like extensions (17) with planar surfaces (20, 21, 22), on which contact surfaces (18, 19) of the containers (1, 2) rest and which act as spacers between the containers (1, 2).
  12. Connecting element according to Claim 11,
    characterized in that the top surfaces (21, 22) of the extensions (17), in one section (21) in each case, run parallel to the bottom surfaces (20) of the extensions (17) and, in another section (22) in each case, run in an inclined manner in relation to the bottom surface (20) of the extensions (17), it being the case that these different sections (21, 22) are arranged one behind the other in the direction of the longitudinal axis (T-T) of the bottom locking head (8) and are separated off from one another by a tilting edge (23) which runs transversely to the longitudinal axis (T-T) of the bottom locking head (8), it being the case that the tilting edge (23) comes into abutment against the container (1) to the side of the locking opening (3) in the pivoted position (8a), and it being the case that the extensions (17), in the respectively second section (22), run, in the direction of the end opposite to the nose (12) of the bottom locking head (8), towards the bottom surface (20) of the extensions (17) at an angle (γ) which is at least equal to the tilting angle (β), between the axis (X-X) running through the two locking heads (7, 8) and the axis (Y-Y) running vertically through the locking opening (4), in the pivoted introduction position (8a) of the bottom locking head (8).
  13. Connecting element according to Claim 12,
    characterized in that the ratio of the length of the section (21), with the top surface parallel to the bottom surface (20) of the extensions (17), to the length of the section (22), with the top surface running in an inclined manner in relation to the bottom surface (20) of the extensions (17), is approximately 1:2.
  14. Connecting element according to Claim 11,
    characterized in that the extensions (17) each have a section (21), with the top surface parallel to the bottom surface (20) of the extensions (17), which is bounded by a tilting edge (23) which runs transversely to the longitudinal axis (T-T) of the bottom locking head (8), the tilting edge (23) forming the border edge of the extensions (17) and coming into abutment against the container (1) to the side of the locking opening (3) in the pivoted position (8a).
  15. Connecting element according to one of Claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the connecting body (5, 5a) is designed as a housing (5) in which the locking heads (7, 8) are connected via a common, rotatably mounted shaft (6).
  16. Connecting element according to Claim 15,
    characterized by a locking position (7b) of the top locking head (7) which is brought about by the locking head (7) being rotated about the shaft (6) from the release position (7a).
  17. Connecting element according to one of Claims 2 to 16, characterized in that the axes (S-S, T-T) of the longitudinal extents of the locking heads (7, 8) are offset in relation to one another by an angle (α), preferably of 30°.
  18. Connecting element according to Claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the top locking head (7) is secured, by the force of a spring (16), against being rotated from the locking position (7b) into the release position (7a).
  19. Connecting element according to one of Claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the connecting body (5, 5a) is formed integrally with the locking heads (7, 8).
  20. Connecting element according to Claim 19,
    characterized by a locking position (7c) of the top locking head (7), in which a securing element (40) located on the locking head (7) engages behind the locking opening (3).
  21. Connecting element according to Claim 20,
    characterized in that the securing element (40) is a rotatable catch which is subjected to the stressing of a torsion spring (42), it being the case that, in the locking position (7c) of the top locking head (7), a nose (41) located on the securing element (40) is retained, by the stressing of the torsion spring (42), in a position in which the nose (41) engages laterally behind the locking opening (3) of the container (1).
  22. Connecting element according to Claim 21,
    characterized in that the securing element (40) has an actuating lever (43) by means of which the securing element (40) can be rotated counter to the stressing of the torsion spring (42) such that the top locking head (7) passes into its release position (7a), in which it is fully aligned with the top section (9) o'f the connecting body (5, 5a).
EP19970101562 1996-09-30 1997-01-31 Self-closing connection device for containers Expired - Lifetime EP0832827B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE29617029U 1996-09-30
DE29617029U DE29617029U1 (en) 1996-09-30 1996-09-30 Self-locking connector for containers
DE29621266U 1996-12-06
DE29621266U DE29621266U1 (en) 1996-09-30 1996-12-06 Self-locking connector for containers

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0832827A2 EP0832827A2 (en) 1998-04-01
EP0832827A3 EP0832827A3 (en) 1999-11-10
EP0832827B1 true EP0832827B1 (en) 2001-12-19

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ID=26059474

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19970101562 Expired - Lifetime EP0832827B1 (en) 1996-09-30 1997-01-31 Self-closing connection device for containers

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EP (1) EP0832827B1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10238895C5 (en) * 2002-08-24 2009-04-30 Sec Ship's Equipment Centre Bremen Gmbh Coupling piece for connecting two stacked containers, arrangement of stacked containers and method for connecting stacked containers with such dome pieces
CN101027233B (en) * 2004-08-26 2012-09-05 不来梅赛柯船舶设备中心有限责任公司 Coupling part for connecting two containers stacked on top of one another

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102004012838A1 (en) * 2003-10-27 2005-10-06 Horst Neufingerl Automatic locking and releasing connection assembly
DE19937860A1 (en) * 1999-08-13 2001-02-15 German Lashing Robert Boeck Gm Device for locking containers together comprises housing containing rotating shaft with locking components and with guide sections fitting into slots in containers, lower guide section being shorter to assist mounting of upper container
DE10226432A1 (en) * 2002-06-13 2003-12-24 Macgregor Conver Gmbh Method for stowing containers in cell structures on board ships
EP1810938B1 (en) * 2004-11-09 2010-12-15 Taiyo Seiki Iron Works Co., Ltd. Container connection device
CN100548834C (en) * 2004-11-09 2009-10-14 大洋制器工业株式会社 Container connection device
JP4781786B2 (en) * 2005-11-09 2011-09-28 大洋製器工業株式会社 Container connector
JP2007045523A (en) * 2005-11-09 2007-02-22 Taiyo Seiki Kogyo Kk Container connector
CN201031058Y (en) * 2007-01-18 2008-03-05 上海海航集装箱配件有限公司 Container lock head
DE102018105532B3 (en) * 2018-03-09 2019-07-11 German Lashing Robert Böck GmbH Locking device for connecting containers

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DE4042710C2 (en) * 1990-09-25 2002-11-28 Macgregor Conver Gmbh Coupling piece for connecting containers
DE9317501U1 (en) 1993-11-16 1994-02-10 Wader Willi Gmbh Device for interconnecting containers
DE9409664U1 (en) 1994-06-15 1994-11-24 Wader Willi Gmbh Device for interconnecting containers

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10238895C5 (en) * 2002-08-24 2009-04-30 Sec Ship's Equipment Centre Bremen Gmbh Coupling piece for connecting two stacked containers, arrangement of stacked containers and method for connecting stacked containers with such dome pieces
CN101027233B (en) * 2004-08-26 2012-09-05 不来梅赛柯船舶设备中心有限责任公司 Coupling part for connecting two containers stacked on top of one another

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0832827A3 (en) 1999-11-10
EP0832827A2 (en) 1998-04-01

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