WO2007046735A1

WO2007046735A1 - Coupling device and method for securing such a coupling to a container

Info

Publication number: WO2007046735A1
Application number: PCT/SE2005/001584
Authority: WO
Inventors: Markus Nyman; Lars Nyberg
Original assignee: All Set Marine Lashing Ab
Priority date: 2005-10-21
Filing date: 2005-10-21
Publication date: 2007-04-26

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupling device (1) to be connected to at least a first corner fitting (6) of a container (7), said coupling device (1) comprises at least a first engaging part (2) and manoeuvring means (3). The first engaging part (2) is at least partially insertable into and releasable from an engagement opening (8) of said corner fitting (6). The first engaging part (2) is manoeuvrable, by means of said manoeuvring means (3), between at least two relative conditions, one open condition for insertion of said coupling device (1) into said corner fitting and one holding condition. The manoeuvring means (3) is at least partially insertable into said corner fitting (6), and said manoeuvring means (3) forms a one-way orientation means, thus only allowing manoeuvring of said engaging part (2) from said open condition to said holding condition when said coupling device (1) is inserted in a desired orientation in relation to said corner fitting (6). The present invention also relates to a method for securing a coupling device to a corner fitting of a container.

Description

COUPLING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SECURING SUCH A COUPLING TO A CONTAINER

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a coupling device to be connected to at least a first corner fitting of a 5 container, said coupling device comprising at least a first engaging part and manoeuvring means. Said first engaging part is at least partially insertable into and re- leasable from an engagement opening of said corner fitting, and said first engaging part is manoeuvrable, by

10 means of said manoeuvring means, between at least two relative conditions, one open condition for insertion of said coupling device into said corner fitting and one holding condition.

Further, the present invention also relates to a

15 method for inserting a coupling device into a corner fitting .

Background Art

When transporting goods, for instance, on cargo

20 ships, trains and trucks, part-load, freight and thermo- containers are used to a great extent. Such containers are easy to handle in loading and unloading due to standardized sizes and a robust construction that allows stacking of a plurality of containers on top of each

25 other. Stacking of containers also occurs in storing of goods in containers. This design of containers, which are often referred to as ISO containers, allows the transported goods to be well protected in transport and also in loading and unloading.

30 Containers of the type described above are usually rectangular with floor, roof, two side walls and two end walls. One end wall usually consists of a door portion which is often formed as a pair of doors, each door of the pair of doors being hinged to opposite edges of the end wall in question. Corner fittings are usually arranged at the corners of the container and allow connecting and lashing of containers.

To connect and lash two or more containers, use is made of equipment comprising a coupling which can be inserted into an opening arranged on a corner fitting of an ISO container. Such couplings usually have a locking mechanism to securely lock the coupling device in the corner fitting of the container. Several types of coupling devices exist. A first type of coupling devices are "fully automatic" coupling devices, which is a coupling device that is designed to be inserted into a first corner fitting and thereafter inserted and/or taken out of a second corner fitting of a container without the need for manual locking or unlocking. Different constructions of "fully automatic" coupling devices exist, for instance, where the containers have to be slightly turned, rotated, sheared or tilted when removed from each other in order to bring the "fully automatic" coupling device out of engagement with at least one of two containers stacked on top of each other.

A second type of coupling devices are "semi automatic" coupling devices which are coupling devices that can be inserted into a corner fitting without the need for manual locking. However, a "semi-automatic" coupling device requires manual unlocking of at least one of the engaging portions before it can be brought out of the corner fitting. The manoeuvring means for manual unlocking is usually positioned at a section between the two rotatable members. This section is, in use, often positioned between two stacked containers, and hence, creates a space between the two containers.

Lockable couplings, of the above-mentioned types, may for example be provided with one or two locking por- tions designed as spring-loaded helical cones, which are adapted to be moved and rotated into locking engagement with corner fittings of ISO containers. The two helical cones are often connected by means of a shaft portion that is rotatably mounted in a housing. This kind of coupling devices is usually referred to as "twist-locks" and may be either "fully automatic" or "semi automatic". An- other coupling device of the above-mentioned types is a coupling device where one or both of the engaging parts are non-rotational elements. The engaging part may then be shaped as an asymmetric projection, e.g. a nose or a catch, which is brought into the corner fitting and abuts against the inner side of the wall of the corner fitting. Also this kind of coupling devices may be either "fully automatic" or "semi automatic".

In today's transport systems, involving, for example, ships that can take several thousands of containers, the containers are stacked on top of each other in order to efficiently use the available space. For this method of loading to be safe in transport, each container is connected to at least one neighbouring container, or to the transport vehicle, by means of, for example, lockable couplings of the above type.

In order to obtain a safe and secure fastening of the containers to one another, it may be important that the coupling means is inserted into their respective corner fittings in the intended way with a desired orienta- tion.

A container is usually lashed with four coupling devices, one in each corner. When loading or unloading containers with no manual operation of one of the engagement portions, i.e. "fully automatic" coupling devices, it may be crucial with correct orientation. Because of the handling where the containers are sheared, tilted or rotated, the coupling devices must work in an intended direction. For some coupling device designs, it may be critical to load the containers onto one another if one or more of the coupling devices are incorrectly oriented. Even further, if a container with one or several wrongly oriented coupling devices have been able to be stacked on top of another container, it may become impossible or at least very troublesome to separate the containers when attempting to unload them. Furthermore, even if it is achievable to load the containers and separate them, wrongly oriented coupling devices may be damaged or incur damage on the corner fittings or the containers during the operation, which leads to unsafe operation and increased costs.

For "semi automatic" coupling devices there is also a need for correct orientation of the coupling devices since e.g. a stevedore must be able to access the manoeuvring means for unlocking one of the engagement portions . If the manoeuvring means is not positioned towards the outside of the containers, it may be difficult to access them, and hence unloading of the containers may be very troublesome .

Attempts to solve the above-mentioned orientation problem have been presented, e.g. in an embodiment of US 5,560,088, where the coupling piece is provided with two anchoring lugs. These anchoring lugs are shaped such that they extend out through vertical long holes of the corner fitting. Hence, the coupling piece can only be locked in a corner fitting in a certain relative position. A major drawback with this solution is the anchoring lugs extend- ing through the vertical long holes and outside the outer perimeter of the container. This can give rise to conflicts with other objects, such as containers loaded next to one another or machinery at the loading zone. If a conflict arises and an object exerts force on the anchor- ing lugs, there is a risk that the coupling device may be forced out of the desired locking position and consequently the coupling device may no longer be holding the containers lashed together.

In DE 20 2004 013 463 Ul an alternative attempt to solve the orientation problem is presented, wherein a coupling projection of a coupling device, which is to be inserted in a corner fitting, is provided with a tap. This tap creates an asymmetry, which is intended to create the effect that the coupling projection can only be inserted into the corner fitting with one orientation. A drawback with this solution is that the dimensions and shape of all corner fittings are not identical. So even if the coupling projection is only insertable in one possible direction in some corner fittings, it may be insertable in several directions in other corner fittings. Furthermore, with this solution it is not possible to, once the coupling projection is inserted in the corner fitting, determine whether the coupling device is correctly or wrongfully inserted.

Hence, there is a need for a coupling device that is insertable into said corner fittings with a desired ori- entation.

Additionally, it is desirable to provide a coupling device that is not likely to create conflicts with other equipment in the loading area.

It is further desirable to provide lockable cou- plings of the type described above which are of a simple construction, comprises no unnecessary parts and hence is relatively inexpensive to manufacture.

Summary of the Invention It is an object of the present invention to provide a coupling device that addresses the above-mentioned issues and facilitates insertion into a corner fitting in an intended and desired orientation. It is a further object to provide a coupling device that does not create conflicts with other equipment at the loading area.

It is additionally an object to create a coupling device with indication means, which clearly signals whether the coupling device is correctly inserted and whether it is in a locked or unlocked condition in the corner fitting. It is also an object of the present invention to provide a method for inserting and engaging a coupling device in a corner fitting in a desired orientation.

It is a further object to present a coupling device that optionally may not require an intermediate space between the containers when stacked on one another.

These and other objects are achieved by a coupling device according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 21. Preferred embodiments are presented in the de- pendent claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a coupling device to be connected to at least a first corner fitting of a container, said coupling device comprising at least a first engaging part and ma- noeuvring means, wherein said first engaging part is at least partially insertable into and releasable from an engagement opening of said corner fitting, and wherein said first engaging part is manoeuvrable, by means of said manoeuvring means, between at least two relative conditions, one open condition for insertion of said coupling device into said corner fitting and one holding condition, wherein said manoeuvring means is at least partially insertable into said corner fitting, and wherein said manoeuvring means forms a one-way orienta- tion means, thus only allowing manoeuvring of said engaging part from said open condition to said holding condition when said coupling device is inserted in a desired orientation in relation to said corner fitting.

Advantages of the inventive concept is that, in or- der to securely hold or lock the first engaging part in the corner fitting, manoeuvring of said manoeuvring means has to be initiated and performed by an operator. In order for said manoeuvring means to be accessible for an operator, the coupling device may only be inserted in the corner fitting in one orientation. Hence, if the operator inserts the coupling device with an undesired orientation he or she may not be able to alter the condition of the first engaging part from open to holding and consequently the coupling device will most likely fall out of the corner fitting, giving the operator a clear signal that the coupling device was wrongly inserted. A second advantage with the present invention is that, since accessibility is the crucial factor in verifying a correct orientation, no tight tolerance fitting is required. Furthermore, the present invention does not have to rely on non-standardized features, such as the positions of the inner walls of the corner fittings, in order to obtain a desired orientation. A coupling device with a tight tolerance fitting may be costly to produce, and the tolerances may diminish during time because of e.g. wearing. Thus, it is an advantage to not have to rely on constructional features such as small tolerances and/or position of inner walls.

A further advantage is that no parts of the coupling device have to extend outside the perimeter of the container when the coupling device is positioned in the cor- ner fitting and located in its holding condition. Thus, the risk of conflict with other equipment at the loading area is low.

A still further advantage with the present invention is that since the manoeuvring means is utilised in order to achieve the correct and desired orientation, no extra orientation means has to be built into the product, hence reducing the material needed to build the coupling device .

As the manoeuvring means is at least partially in- sertable into the corner fitting, the present invention does not imply the need for manoeuvring means between the containers. Thus, the coupling devices must not create space between the containers and consequently the containers may be more closely stacked. Preferably, said coupling device comprises a geometrical one-way orientation means, thus only allowing insertion of said coupling device into said corner fitting in a desired orientation in relation to said corner fitting. Alternatively, said manoeuvring means may form a one-way orientation means, thus only allowing insertion of said coupling device into said corner fitting in a de- sired orientation in relation to said corner fitting.

It may be beneficial to strengthen the one-way orientation by a geometrical guidance of the coupling device when inserting it into a corner fitting. The one-way orientation means may be so designed that the coupling de- vice only fits in the corner fitting in the desired orientation. During such circumstances, an operator may only be able to insert the coupling device with the correct orientation, due to the geometrical guidance. The risk of an operator inserting the coupling device with an unde- sired orientation and thereafter having to remove it and alter the orientation before inserting it again, because the manoeuvring means was not accessible, is thereby reduced. This enables a quick and efficient stacking of containers. The manoeuvring means may be utilised as this one-way orientation means, thus reducing the number of components and material needed for manufacturing of the coupling device.

Preferably, said manoeuvring means, when inserted into said corner fitting, is visually accessible from outside said corner fitting for visual indication of actual condition of said first engaging part.

Except for being able to physically access the manoeuvring means, it is also beneficial if an operator may be able to visually see the manoeuvring means . With vis- ual accessibility the operator may be able to easily determine, depending on the state of the manoeuvring means, whether or not the first engaging part is in an open or holding condition. This increases the dependability and security of the system. Moreover, it is preferred that said manoeuvring means, when inserted into said corner fitting and at least when said first engaging part is in its open condi- tion, protrudes through a side opening of said corner fitting.

There are at least two advantages with designing the manoeuvring means such that they protrude outside the side opening of the corner fitting when the coupling device is at least partially inserted into the corner fitting, and the first engaging part is in its open condition. Firstly, it is an easy and simple solution for achieving access to the manoeuvring means, both physical and visual. Secondly, the elongate shape, which is favourable in order for the manoeuvring means to protrude outside a side opening, may hinder the possibility to insert the coupling device in any undesired orientation into the corner fitting. Preferably, said manoeuvring means is movably arranged in order to, at least temporarily, clear an entrance zone of the corner fitting adjacent a side opening, when said coupling device is located in said corner fitting. When the coupling device is inserted in the corner fitting there may exist a zone between the coupling device and the wall of the corner fitting, i.e. a zone inside the corner fitting. A side opening of the corner fitting may sometimes be utilised for insertion of equip- ment such as turnbuckles, lashing bars and the like into the corner fitting when a coupling device is positioned in the corner fitting. Normally, in this case the coupling device is in its holding condition. The turnbuckles, lashing bars and the like may after insertion through the side opening engage the sidewall of the corner fitting that surrounds the side opening. Hence, this zone may function both as an entrance zone and an engagement zone for the turnbuckles and lashing bars. In order to enable the insertion of equipment into the zone, there may exist a need of clearing this zone, such that no parts of the coupling device is positioned there, at least during certain periods of time. Consequently, this zone may be considered a restricted part of the corner fitting cavity.

After insertion of the coupling device into the corner fitting and manoeuvring of the first engaging part to its holding condition, the manoeuvring means may be positioned in different positions in relation to the entrance zone. For instance, the manoeuvring means may be positioned, at least partially, in the entrance zone. In this case it is desirable to be able to remove the manoeuvring means when for instance attempting to insert a lashing bar or a turnbuckle. This removing of the manoeuvring means may for instance be achieved by arranging the manoeuvring means resiliently or non-rigid. The manoeuvring means may then be, at least temporarily, cleared or re- moved, and a space or zone for the insertion of a lashing bar or a turnbuckle is thereby established adjacent a side opening of the corner fitting.

Additionally, the manoeuvring means may not be positioned in the engagement zone, i.e. the zone has already been cleared. This may for instance be the case if either the manoeuvring means does not protrude from the coupling device such that a conflict with the engagement zone arises, or if the manoeuvring means becomes positioned outside the entrance zone when the first engaging part is released from its open condition.

Advantageously, said engaging part must be manoeuvred to said holding condition when said coupling device is inserted in said corner fitting in order for said coupling device to retain inside said corner fitting. If the engaging part is not altered from its open to its holding condition, after it has been inserted into the corner fitting, it may fall out of the corner fitting. Since the manoeuvring means are not accessible if the coupling device has been inserted with an undesired orientation, no such alteration of condition may be undertaken and hence, this arrangement gives further security against insertion of the coupling device with an undesired orientation. Preferably, said coupling device comprises a housing connected to said first engaging part, wherein said housing is at least partially insertable into said corner fitting, and wherein said housing constitutes guiding means for guiding said coupling device into said corner fitting. A housing which functions partially as a guiding means is beneficial since it further assists an operator in how to correctly orient the coupling device when inserting it into a corner fitting. Furthermore, said manoeuvring means, at least when said first engaging part is in its open condition, may protrude outside said housing in order to form a geometrical one-way orientation means.

In a preferred embodiment, said manoeuvring means is in line with or inside the perimeter of said housing when said first engaging part is in its holding condition.

If the manoeuvring means protrude outside said housing when the first engaging part is in its open condition it is a clear signal to the operator that the first en- gaging part is in its open and unlocked condition. The signalling effect is even stronger if the manoeuvring means does not protrude outside the housing once the first engaging part is in its holding or locking condition. A further advantage with the manoeuvring means not protruding outside the housing when the coupling device is held in the corner fitting is that it lowers the risk of conflict with other equipment, such as other coupling devices or the like, which are to be inserted through any of the side holes of the corner fitting. Preferably, said first engaging part is positioned inside the perimeter of said housing when said first engaging part is in its open condition.

With the first engaging part positioned inside the perimeter of the housing during its open condition, the insertion of the coupling device into the corner fitting does only need to be guided by the housing and/or the manoeuvring means. This simplifies the insertion process. Further, the first engaging part is safely kept and less likely to be subject to wearing and potential damages when positioned inside the perimeter of the housing when the coupling device is not utilised. In one alternative embodiment the first engaging part may be positioned inside the housing. In order for the first engaging part to be able to hold the coupling device in the corner fitting, a groove or recess through which the first engaging part can protrude when positioned in its holding condi- tion is preferably arranged in the housing. A still further advantage with arranging the first engaging part such that at least portion of it is movable between the outside and the inside of the housing through a groove is that a cleaning effect may be achieved. Dirt or soil that might come into contact and adhere on the first engaging part may be scraped of against the wall of the housing when the first engaging part passes through the groove. This effect of keeping the first engaging part clean is likely to increase the operational time of the coupling device.

Advantageously, said first engaging part is a ro- tatably mounted element, wherein said manoeuvring means is operable to hold said rotatably mounted element in said open condition. This is an advantageous way to ar- range the manoeuvring means and the first engaging part in order to enable the manoeuvred movement between an open and a holding condition of the first engaging part. A further advantage in order to enable the manoeuvred movement between an open condition and a holding condition of the first engaging part is that said manoeuvring means is spring-loaded in a direction towards holding said engaging part in said open condition.

It is further preferred that said first engaging part is a spring-loaded rotatably mounted element, wherein said spring exerts force on said rotatable element in order to bring said engaging part towards said holding condition. This is an efficient way of construct- ing and designing the coupling device, which also reduces the number of components needed.

Advantageously, said coupling device further coin- prises a second engaging part, which is at least par- tially insertable into a second corner fitting at a second container. It is to be appreciated that the second engaging part may be designed in many alternative shapes and configurations. However, its main purpose is to be insertable into a corner fitting at a second container in order to lash two containers together.

In a preferred embodiment, said second engaging part of said coupling device, which is to be positioned at a second corner fitting at a second container, is a twist- lock, i.e. a "semi automatic" or a "fully automatic" twist-lock.

Twist-locks, both "fully automatic" and "semi automatic", are coupling devices that will gain additional benefits from the herein described coupling device. Preferably, said first and said second engaging parts are jointly rotatable around an axle extending between said first and second engaging parts. This is an efficient manner in how to construct a coupling device of the type described herein. As a consequence, the second engaging part will not be rotatable if the first engaging part is held in its open condition. Thereby, the risk of inserting the first engaging part wrong, and thereafter insert the second engaging part in a corner fitting at a second container, is reduced.

The axle preferably has a length dimension, extend- ing between the first and the second engaging part. The manoeuvring means does preferably extend substantially perpendicular in relation to the axle.

It is preferred that said second engaging part rotates within a predetermined angle when being inserted or brought out of said second corner fitting at said second container, which rotational angle is arranged such that said first engaging part remains in said holding condition during operation of said second engaging part.

The first engaging part may not be moved from its holding condition to its open condition during insertion and removal of said second engaging part from its corner fitting. Hence, the second engaging part may only rotate within a predetermined angle such that the first engaging part not becomes positioned in its open condition.

Advantageously, said first engaging part and said manoeuvring means comprise an interacting recess and projection engagement, wherein said projection fits into said recess, and wherein said first engaging part is held in its open condition when said projection is positioned in said recess. A coupling device provided in this manner is an efficient design in order to provide a coupling device with the desired features .

Advantageously, said first corner fitting is one of the lower corner fittings of an ISO-container.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for securing a coupling device to a corner fitting of a container, wherein said coupling device comprises at least a first engaging part which is manoeuvrable, by means of manoeuvring means, between at least two relative conditions, one open condition and one holding condition. Said method comprising the steps of:

- positioning said first engaging part in said open condition;

- moving said first engaging part and said manoeu- vring means into said corner fitting, such that said manoeuvring means is accessible from a side opening of said corner fitting;

- manoeuvring said engaging part from said open condition to said holding condition by manoeu- vring said manoeuvring means.

Insertion of a coupling device in accordance with the above-mentioned method gives as a result that the coupling device becomes inserted in the desired orientation, and with no parts protruding outside the perimeter of the corner fitting, once the coupling device is locked in the corner fitting. A method according to claim 21, further comprising an at least temporarily removing of said manoeuvring means from an entrance zone adjacent an opening of said corner fitting, in order of clearing said entrance zone. A method of inserting a coupling device into a cor- ner fitting that comprises an at least temporarily clearing of an entrance or engagement zone inside the corner fitting is beneficial in order to enable insertion of other equipment such as lashing bars and turnbuckles through a side opening of the corner fitting. Preferably, said manoeuvring means is protruding through said side opening of said corner fitting when said engaging part is positioned inside said corner fitting and in its open condition, wherein the step of manoeuvring said engaging part from said open condition to said holding condition includes manoeuvring of said manoeuvring means from protruding outside said corner fitting to be positioned inside said corner fitting.

A method of inserting the coupling device into the corner fitting wherein the manoeuvring means protrude outside the corner fitting when the first engaging part is in its open condition and wherein the manoeuvring means is positioned inside the corner fitting when said first engaging part is in its holding condition, gives an easy understandable visual indication of the state of the first engaging part. Furthermore, it helps in giving easy physical access to the manoeuvring means in order for an operator to manoeuvre the first engaging part from its open to its holding condition. Brief Description of the Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will in the following be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying exemplary drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows an exploded view of a coupling device according to one embodiment of the invention in perspective;

Figs. 2a to 2e show in sequence lashing of two containers with a coupling device according to Fig. 1;

Fig. 2a shows the coupling device in a perspective view with the housing in cross section, in an open condi- tion;

Fig. 2b shows the coupling device in a perspective view with the housing in cross section, in an open condition when inserted into a first corner fitting;

Fig. 2c shows the coupling device in a perspective view with the housing in cross section, when being manoeuvred from an open condition to a holding condition when inserted into a first corner fitting;

Fig. 2d shows the coupling device in a perspective view with the housing in cross section, in a holding condition;

Fig. 2e shows the coupling device in a perspective view with the housing in cross section, in a holding condition and being inserted into a second corner fitting;

Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the cou- pling device according to the present invention; Fig. 4 shows another alternative embodiment of the coupling device according to the present invention; and

Fig. 5- shows a further alternative embodiment of the coupling device according to the present invention.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments ,

The invention will now for the purpose of exemplification be described in more detail by means of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

A first embodiment of a coupling device 1 according to the invention to be connected to existing corner fittings of an ISO container, said coupling device being shown in Fig. 1, comprises a first engaging part 2, ma- noeuvring means 3, a housing A₁ and a second engaging part 5. The first engaging part 2, the housing 4 and the manoeuvring means 3 is at least partially insertable into a first corner fitting 6 of a first container 7 (shown in Figs. 2a - 2e) . The second engaging part 5 is at least partially insertable into a second corner fitting 11 of a second ISO container 12 (shown in Fig. 2e) . The first and second engaging parts 2,5 are connected by, and are jointly rotatable around, a common axle 13. The coupling device 1 further comprises a spring 10, which exerts force on the first engaging part 2, in order to position the first engaging part 2 in a holding condition when released from its open condition. In the holding condition the first engaging part 2 extends through openings 16 of the housing 4, whereby at least edge portions of the first engaging part 2 extend outside the perimeter of the housing 4. The first engaging part 2 further comprises a portion with a recess 14. The recess 14 is adapted to fit a projection 15 of the manoeuvring means 3 for holding the first engaging part 2 in the open condition when the projection 15 and the recess 14 are in engagement. In this embodiment the recess 14 is formed as a cut-out in a circular portion of the first engaging part 2. When lashing two containers together, normally four coupling devices 1 are utilised, one in each corner of the containers 7,12. As will be apparent from the following description, it is crucial that the coupling devices 1 are correctly oriented in order to function as desired, i.e. being able to be connected to both containers 7,12, and also in order to be releasable from the containers 7,12.

The coupling device 1 will now be described in fur- ther detail during operation of lashing two containers

7,12 together. In Fig. 2a the coupling device 1 is shown in an open condition and neither engaging part 2,5 is inserted into a corner fitting 6, 11 of an ISO-container 7,12. The projection 15 of the manoeuvring means 3 is in cooperative engagement with the recess 14 of the first engaging part 2, thereby preventing the first engaging part 2 from rotation, and hence maintaining it in its open condition. The manoeuvring means 3 is spring-loaded in order to hold this position. Hence, the first engaging part 2 is positioned inside the housing 4 as long as no external force manoeuvres the manoeuvring means 3. The manoeuvring means 3 is extending outside the perimeter of the housing 4, thus creating a geometrical guide portion protruding from the upper part of the coupling device 1. The housing 4 have a size that fits into an engagement opening 8 of a corner fitting 6, hence the housing 4 can be at least partially inserted in the corner fitting 6 when the engaging part 2 is in the open condition as shown in Fig. 2b. The housing 4, in this manner, consti- tutes a guide in relation to the elongate hole 8. The housing 4 is thus only insertable into the corner fitting with two alternative orientations, one desired and one where the housing 4 has been turned 180°. Since the manoeuvring arm 3 extends outside the housing 4, the cou- pling device 1 cannot be inserted into the corner fitting by simply raising the coupling device 1 into the corner fitting 6. Instead the coupling device 1 and its manoeu-

-lilf'C: -10-20 i.::4(i vring arm 3 have to be guided into the corner fitting 6 by e.g. an operator.

In Fig. 2b the coupling device 1 has been inserted into the corner fitting 6 and is still in its open condi- tion. As can be seen, the manoeuvring means 3 is protruding through a side opening 9 of the corner fitting 6. In this open condition, if no external force, such as a stevedore, holds the coupling device 1, it will most likely fall out of the corner fitting β, or become loosely hang- ing in the manoeuvring means 3 on the edge of the side opening 9. Furthermore, in this open condition, since the first and second engaging parts 2,5 are jointly rotatable around a common axle, the second engaging part 5 is prevented from rotation while the first engaging part 2 is held in its open condition.

With the shape of the housing 4 and the manoeuvring means 3 protruding outside the housing 4 with such an extent, it is impossible or at least difficult to guide the coupling device 1 into the corner fitting 6 in any other orientation than the one shown in Fig. 2b. If someone attempts to insert the coupling device 1 turned 180° from the desired orientation, the manoeuvring means 3 will in this position normally be hindered by an inner sidewall of the corner fitting, hence making it impossible to in- sert the coupling device 1 with this orientation. Furthermore, if it somehow would be possible to insert the coupling device 1 in an undesired orientation, e.g. if the corner fitting 6 has no inner walls or if the inner sidewalls not are positioned in the expected position, e.g. located far from the insertion hole 8 for the coupling device 1, it would not be possible to reach the manoeuvring means 3 and alter the condition from open to holding of the first engaging part 2 and, consequently, the coupling device 1 would fall out of the corner fit- ting 6. As mentioned above, neither will the second engaging part 5 be able to function as desired if the manoeuvring means 3 holds the first engaging part 2 in its open condition and hence, it is crucial that the manoeuvring means 3 is accessible for an operator in order to alter the first engaging part from the open to the holding condition before the first container 7 may be lashed to a second container 12.

Fig. 2c shows the coupling device 1 in the corner fitting 6 when the first engaging part 2 is manoeuvred from an open to a holding condition. As can be seen in the figure, the manoeuvring means 3 is forced, e.g. by an operator, towards the housing 4 to such an extent that the manoeuvring means 3 no longer extends outside the perimeter of the corner fitting 6. Alternatively, the manoeuvring means 3 may be arranged so that it does not even protrude outside the perimeter of the housing 4 when the first engaging part 2 is in its holding condition. As a result of this movement the cooperative engagement of the projection 15 and the recess 14 is disengaged. Here, the spring 10, which exerts force on the axle 13 and thereby on the first engaging part 2, begins to rotate the first engaging part 2 around the axle 13 such that the outer edges of the first engaging part 2 protrudes outside the housing 4 through the openings 16. The manoeuvring means 3 is spring-loaded in a direction out from the housing and the projection 15 will therefore, when the operator no longer applies force on the manoeuvring means 3, rest against the perimeter of the circular portion of the first engaging part 2, which surrounds the recess 14.

In Fig. 2d the spring 10 has rotated the first en- gaging part 2 even further than in Fig. 2c. As can be seen in Fig. 2d, compared to Fig. 2c, the recess 14 is positioned further away from the projection 15 in this position. The position of the first engaging part 2 is now such that the outer portions of the first engaging part 2 protrudes through the openings 16 of the housing

4, i.e. the first engaging part 2 is located in the holding condition. Since the first engaging part 2 in this position engages the bottom area around the engagement opening 8 of the first corner fitting β, no external force is needed in order to retain the coupling device 1 inside the corner fitting 6. Hence, when the first engag- ing part 2 has been released from its open condition and is positioned in its holding condition, it will maintain in the corner fitting 6 until it is brought back into its open condition by an operator.

The first engaging part 2 is in its holding condi- tion rotatable between several different positions. In this embodiment, the recess 14 constitutes an angle of approximately 90°, resulting in that the first engaging part 2 may rotate freely within an arc of approximately 270° in its holding condition, without being positioned in its open condition. The first engaging part 2 is, in its holding condition and with no external forces exerted upon it, preferably positioned such that it can rotate approximately 135° in either direction without being positioned in its open condition, thereby enabling engaging and release of the second engaging part 5 with the corner fitting 11 of a second container 12.

Once the first engaging part 2 of the coupling device 1 is secured in its corner fitting 6, the second engaging part 5 may be secured in a second corner fitting 11 of a second container 12, which is shown in Fig. 2e. The lashing of containers usually occurs in the manner that the first engaging parts 2 of four coupling devices 1 are secured to the lower corner fittings 6 of a first container 7. This container 7 is thereafter lowered with a prescribed movement downwardly against a second container 12 by means of e.g. a crane.

In the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 2e, the second engaging part 5 is a "fully automatic twist-lock", wherein the second engaging part 5 rotates both during engaging and release of the coupling device with the corner fitting 11 of a second container 7. The second engaging part 5 rotates in an opposite direction when being released as compared to being inserted into the corner fitting 11. In order for the second engaging parts 5 of the four coupling devices 1 to be insertable into the corner fittings 11 of a second container, all coupling devices 1 must be oriented correctly, as the rotational movement of each second engaging part 5 must cooperate with the others. Otherwise, the rotational movement that is required for insertion will not be able to take place in all four coupling devices 1. However, the coupling de- vice 1 is designed such that the second engaging part 5, and thereby the axle 13 and the first engaging part 2 can rotate sufficiently to engage and release the second engaging part 5 with a corner fitting 11, without forcing the first engaging part 2 back to its open condition. This means that the rotation, when inserting or releasing the second engaging part 5, is less than approximately 135°. Since the housing 4 is designed to fit the engagement opening 8 of the first corner fitting 6, not much of the first engaging part 2 must protrude outside the housing 4 in order to maintain the coupling device 1 in the first corner fitting 6.

With both engaging parts 2,5 secured in a respective corner fitting 6,11, the first and second containers 7,12 are now lashed together. When releasing the containers 7,12 the second engaging part 5 will rotate in an opposite direction compared to when it was inserted. However, neither will this rotation force the first engaging part 2 back into its open condition. In alternative embodiments the first and sec- ond engaging parts 2,5 are not jointly rotatable around a common axle, and the first engaging part 2 may then not be affected of the eventual movement of the second engaging part 5.

Also for separation, if the first and second engag- ing parts 2,5 are jointly rotatable around a common axle 13, it is crucial that the coupling devices 1 are correctly oriented in order to enable the cooperative rota- tion of the second engaging parts 5. If not, the rotational movements of the second engaging parts 5 working in different directions will hinder the separation of the first and second container 7,12. When the containers 7,12 are separated from each other, the first engaging part 2 will still be inserted into the first corner fitting 6 and positioned in its holding condition. In order to remove the coupling device 1 from the first corner fitting 6, an operator has to first rotate the axle 13 and the first engaging part 2 such that the first engaging part 2 once again becomes positioned in its open condition and thereafter guide the coupling device 1 out through the engagement opening 8.

Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the inven- tion. The first engaging part 2, the manoeuvring means 3, the housing 4, the axle 13 and the spring 10 are similar as in the embodiment described above, both regarding design and functionality. However, the second engaging part 5 is in this embodiment a "semi automatic twist-lock''. A "semi automatic twist-lock" may be engaged in a corner fitting 11 without the need of manual locking. However, it needs to be unlocked manually by means of releasing means 17. The releasing means 17 are often positioned between the first and second container 7,12 when the con- tainers 7,12 are lashed together. It is also for this embodiment important that the coupling device 1 is positioned in a desired orientation in the corner fittings 6,11. It is desired that the releasing means 17 points away from the containers 7,12 since an operator may have to be able to access the releasing means 17 in order to release the second engaging part 5 from a corner fitting 11. If the releasing means 17 are positioned such that they are located between two containers 7,12 stacked on each other, it may be difficult for an operator to ac- cess the releasing means 17, and hence, the separation of the containers may become more troublesome. Fig. 4 shows yet another embodiment, wherein the second engaging part 5 is a non-rotational engaging portion. The non-rotational engaging portion may for example be a fixed nose or a spring-loaded catch. This non- rotational engaging portion may function similar to either a "fully" or "semi automatic twist-lock". Typically, a fixed nose functions similar to a "fully automatic twist-lock" and a spring-loaded catch functions similar to a "semi automatic twist-lock". Also in this case are the first engaging part 2, the manoeuvring means 3 and the housing 4 similar to what has been described in the embodiments above. When inserting the second engaging part 5 of this embodiment into a corner fitting 11 no rotational movement takes place. Hence, the first engaging part 2 does only rotate during its own movement between an open condition and a holding condition. The second engaging part 5, if it is arranged as a fixed nose, i.e. with similar functionality as a "fully automatic twist- lock" including no manual unlocking, is brought into and moved out of the corner fitting 11 by a prescribed relative movement of the containers 7,12. The shape of the nose is such that when lashing the containers, the upper container 7 is lowered onto the lower container 12 in an inclined movement. Further, the nose is designed such that if the containers tilt in relation to each other, e.g. if a ship is rolling due to wind and waves at sea, the coupling device 1 will not be released from the corner fittings. In order to separate the containers 7,12 they have to be lifted, all four corners at the same time, along a predetermined path, e.g. with a concurrent raising and parallel displacement movement. This prescribed movement is well known for someone skilled in the art and will not need to be further elaborated herein. Fig. 5 describes another further embodiment. The first engaging part 2, the housing 4, the spring 10, the recess 14 and the projection 15 are all similar to what has been described in the embodiment according to Figs. 1 - 2e. The second engaging part 5 is in the drawing depicted as a "fully automatic twist-lock", but may also be a "semi automatic twist-lock" or a non-rotational engaging portion. In Fig. 5, the first engaging part 2 is held in its open condition by the manoeuvring means 3. In this embodiment, the manoeuvring means 3 does not extend outside the perimeter of the housing 4 when the first engaging part 2 is in its open condition. The one-way orientation effect of the coupling device 1 is in this embodiment not achieved by a geometrical orientation manoeuvring means, but by the necessary accessibility of the manoeuvring means 3 when inserted into the corner fitting 6. As described above, the manoeuvring means must be accessible in order to lock the first engagement part 2 in the corner fitting 6, and this accessibility is only possible if the manoeuvring means is accessible from a side opening 9. Hence, even if the manoeuvring means 3 does not protrude through the side opening 9, it must still be possible for an operator to access it and alter the condition of the first engaging part 2 from an open to a holding condition.

Although the present invention has been described in connection with some particular embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that various modifications, altera- tions and adaptations may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A coupling device (1) to be connected to at least a first corner fitting (6) of a container (7), said coupling device (1) comprising at least a first engaging part (2) and manoeuvring means (3), wherein said first engaging part (2) is at least partially insertable into and releasable from an engagement opening (8) of said corner fitting (6), and wherein said first engaging part (2) is manoeuvrable, by means of said manoeuvring means (3) , between at least two relative conditions, one open condition for insertion of said coupling device (1) into said corner fitting and one holding condition c h a r - a c t e r i z e d i n that said manoeuvring means (3) is at least partially insertable into said corner fitting (6), and wherein said manoeuvring means (3) forms a one-way orientation means, thus only allowing manoeuvring of said engaging part (2) from said open condition to said holding condition when said coupling device (1) is inserted in a desired orientation in relation to said corner fitting (6) .

2. A coupling device according to claim 1, wherein said coupling device (1) comprises a geometrical one-way orientation means, thus only allowing insertion of said coupling device (1) into said corner fitting (6) in a desired orientation in relation to said corner fitting (6) .

3. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein said manoeuvring means (3) forms a one-way orientation means, thus only allow- ing insertion of said coupling device (1) into said corner fitting (6) in a desired orientation in relation to said corner fitting (6) .

4. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said manoeuvring means

(3), when inserted into said corner fitting (6), is visually accessible from outside said corner fitting (6) for visual indication of actual condition of said first engaging part (2) .

5. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said manoeuvring means

(3), when inserted into said corner fitting (6) and at least when said first engaging part (2) is in its open condition, protrudes through a side opening (9) of said corner fitting (6) .

6. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said manoeuvring means (3) is movably arranged in order to, at least temporarily, clear an entrance zone of the corner fitting (6) adjacent a side opening (9), when said coupling device (1) is located in said corner fitting (6) .

7. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said engaging part (2) must be manoeuvred to said holding condition when said coupling device (1) is inserted in said corner fitting (6) in order for said coupling device (1) to retain inside said corner fitting (6) .

8. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said coupling device (6) comprises a housing (4) connected to said first engaging part (2), wherein said housing is at least partially insertable into said corner fitting (6), and wherein said housing (4) constitutes guiding means for guiding said coupling device (1) into said corner fitting (6) .

9. A coupling device according to claim 8, wherein said manoeuvring means (3) , at least when said first engaging part (2) is in its open condition, pro- trudes outside said housing (4) in order to form a geometrical one-way orientation means.

10. A coupling device according to any one of claims 8 or 9, wherein said manoeuvring means (3) is in line with or inside the perimeter of said housing (4) when said first engaging part (2) is in its holding condition.

11. A coupling device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein said first engaging part (2) is positioned inside the perimeter of said housing (4) when said first engaging part (2) is in its open condition.

12. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first engaging part (2) is a rotatably mounted element, wherein said manoeuvring means (3) is operable to hold said rotatably mounted element in said open condition.

13. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said manoeuvring means (3) is spring-loaded in a direction towards holding said engaging part (2) in said open condition.

14. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first engaging part

(2) is a spring-loaded rotatably mounted element, wherein said spring (10) exerts force on said ro- tatable element in order to bring said engaging part (2) towards said holding condition.

15. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said coupling device (1) further comprises a second engaging part (5) , which is at least partially insertable into a second cor- ner fitting (11) at a second container (12) .

16. A coupling device according to claim 15, wherein said second engaging part (5) of said coupling device (1), which is to be positioned at a second corner fitting (11) at a second container (12), is a twist-lock.

17. A coupling device according to any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein said first and said second engaging parts (2,5) are jointly rotatable around an axle (13) extending between said first and second engaging parts (2,5) .

18. A coupling device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein said second engaging part (5) rotates within a predetermined angle when being inserted or brought out of said second corner fitting (11) at said second container (12) , which rotational angle is arranged such that said first engag- ing part (2) remains in said holding condition during operation of said second engaging part (5).

19. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first engaging part (2) and said manoeuvring means (3) comprise an interacting recess (14) and projection (15) engagement, wherein said projection fits (15) into said recess (14), and wherein said first engaging part (2) is held in its open condition when said projec- tion (15) is positioned in said recess (14) .

20. A coupling device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first corner fitting (6) is one of the lower corner fittings of an ISO- container (7 ) .

21. A method for securing a coupling device (1) to a corner fitting (β) of a container, wherein said coupling device (1) comprises at least a first engaging part (2) which is manoeuvrable, by means of manoeuvring means (3), between at least two relative conditions, one open condition and one holding condition comprising:

- positioning said first engaging part (2) in said open condition;

- moving said first engaging part (2) and said manoeuvring means (3) into said corner fitting

(6), such that said manoeuvring means (3) is accessible from a side opening (9) of said cor- ner fitting (6) ;

- manoeuvring said engaging part (2) from said open condition to said holding condition by manoeuvring said manoeuvring means (3) .

22. A method according to claim 21, further comprising an at least temporarily removing of said manoeuvring means (3) from an entrance zone adjacent an opening (9) of said corner fitting (6), in order of clearing said entrance zone.

23. A method according to any one of claims 21 to

22. wherein said manoeuvring means (3) is protruding through said side opening (9) of said corner fitting (6) when said engaging part (2) is positioned inside said corner fitting (6) and in its open condition, wherein the step of manoeuvring said engaging part (2) from said open condition to said holding condi- tion includes manoeuvring of said manoeuvring means (3) from protruding outside said corner fitting (6) to be positioned inside said corner fitting (6) .