WO2011071946A2 - Chariot de manutention de conteneur et système utilisant ledit chariot - Google Patents

Chariot de manutention de conteneur et système utilisant ledit chariot Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2011071946A2
WO2011071946A2 PCT/US2010/059330 US2010059330W WO2011071946A2 WO 2011071946 A2 WO2011071946 A2 WO 2011071946A2 US 2010059330 W US2010059330 W US 2010059330W WO 2011071946 A2 WO2011071946 A2 WO 2011071946A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
cart
support surface
handling
guide
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2010/059330
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2011071946A3 (fr
Inventor
Toru Takehara
Philip Tam
Tatsushi Takahara
Original Assignee
Paceco Corp.
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
Application filed by Paceco Corp. filed Critical Paceco Corp.
Publication of WO2011071946A2 publication Critical patent/WO2011071946A2/fr
Publication of WO2011071946A3 publication Critical patent/WO2011071946A3/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
    • B62B5/0083—Wheeled supports connected to the transported object
    • B62B5/0086—Wheeled supports connected to the transported object arranged independently on either side of the transported load
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
    • B62B5/0083—Wheeled supports connected to the transported object
    • B62B5/0093—Flat dollys without hand moving equipment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B2207/00—Joining hand-propelled vehicles or sledges together
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
    • B62B5/0026—Propulsion aids
    • B62B5/0063—Propulsion aids guiding, e.g. by a rail

Definitions

  • This invention is related to systems for transporting cargo containers within container terminals and, more particularly, to a cargo container handling cart capable of supporting the ends of two or more adjacent cargo containers, a plurality of which carts may be used to form and transport a "train" of cargo containers within a container terminal or between separate terminals.
  • Multi-chassis refers to multiple individual chassis strung together all towed by a single truck. More automated terminals may use automated guided vehicles, rail cars and straddle carriers.
  • FIG. 1 shows three chassis of the same size carrying three containers of different lengths leaving unused capacity on the second and third chassis.
  • a cargo container handling system using cargo container handling carts overcomes the inefficiencies and disadvantages inherent in prior art terminal cargo container transportation systems.
  • a cargo container handling system according to the invention comprises a plurality of self-propelled handling carts each of which acts as a mobile platform capable of carrying one of the two ends of one or more containers on each end of the cart.
  • substantially shorter carts according to the invention can be used to support one or more containers by supporting only the ends of the containers rather than the entire length of each container.
  • At least two carts 10 are used to support a single container; one to support the rear end of a container C, and another cart to support the front end, as shown in
  • the cargo container handling system allows formation of a series of containers, generally referred to as a "container train.” See Figure 3.
  • Each cart can support the front end of one container, and the back end of another container, thus linking adjacent pairs of containers and effectively creating a container train.
  • train length There is no limit to the train length as long as carts are available.
  • the physical length of a container train formed using container handling carts is shorter than a conventional train because the container train is determined by the combined lengths of the containers in the train rather than the combined lengths of the rail cars or truck chassis used to form a conventional train.
  • the reduced weight of each cart causes less wear and tear on the terminal facility than a conventional train.
  • the smaller size and weight of the container handling cart also makes it more maneuverable, more flexible, and easier to handle than rail cars and truck chassis. Moreover, empty carts can move freely, occupy smaller spaces due to their smaller footprints, and can easily be shifted from one location to another by any cart handling machinery.
  • FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a prior art multi-chassis container transport system.
  • FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a container being supported on each end by a cargo container handling cart according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3 is an elevational view of a container train formed by using several container handling carts of the type shown in Fig. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is an upper perspective view of a container handling cart according to the invention.
  • Fig. 4A is an end elevational view of the cargo container handling cart shown in Fig. 4.
  • Fig. 4B is a side elevational view of the cargo container handling cart shown in Fig. 4.
  • Fig. 4C is a plan view of the cargo container handling cart shown in Fig. 4.
  • Fig. 4D is a plan view of another embodiment of a cargo container handling cart.
  • FIG. 5A is an elevational view of one end of the cargo container handling cart shown in Figs. 4A-4C showing the container guide and a cart pin on the top surface of the cart and a close-up partial sectional view of the corner casting hole of the corner fitting of a cargo container.
  • Fig. 5B is a view similar to Fig. 5A showing the corner fitting supported on the cart with the cart pin received in the corner casting hole.
  • Fig. 6 is a lower perspective view of the corner fitting of a cargo container, the corner fitting having downward and laterally facing corner casting holes.
  • Fig. 7A is a sectional view of the container guide of a cargo container handling cart and a twistlock of a crane spreader.
  • Fig. 7B is a sectional view similar to Fig. 7A showing the twistlock received in the container guide.
  • Fig. 7C is a sectional view similar to Fig. 7B showing the twistlock having been rotated in the container guide.
  • Fig. 7D is an elevational view showing a crane spreader above a cargo container handling cart.
  • Fig. 8 is an upper perspective view of a twistlock poised over the top opening of a container guide on a container handling cart.
  • FIG. 9A is an elevational view of an embodiment of a cargo container handling cart having frame members arranged in pivoting relation.
  • Fig. 9B is a plan view of the pivoting cargo container handling cart shown in
  • Fig. 9C is a plan view of the pivoting cargo container handling cart shown in
  • Fig. 9D is a plan view of another embodiment of a pivoting cargo container handling cart.
  • Fig. 9E is a plan view of yet another embodiment of a pivoting cargo container handling cart.
  • FIG. 10A is an enlarged upper perspective view of a corner guide of the pivoting cargo container handling cart shown in Figs. 9A-9C.
  • Fig. 10B is a plan view of the corner guide shown in Fig. 10A.
  • Fig. 1 1 is an enlarged upper perspective view of the corner guides and cart pins on the upper surface of the cargo container handling cart shown in Fig. 4D.
  • Fig. 12 is an enlarged upper perspective view of the side and inner end guide brackets and cart pins on the upper surface of the cargo container handling cart shown in Fig. 9E.
  • FIG. 13 is an upper perspective view of a "one end" cargo container handling cart.
  • FIG. 14 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of a cargo container handling cart having a stripped down frame.
  • FIG. 15 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of a cargo container handling cart having two lateral container guides having sloped inner and side guide surfaces, two container edge support structures, and cart pins.
  • Fig. 15A is a partial sectional view of a container end resting on a container edge support structure of the type shown in Fig. 15.
  • FIG. 16 is an upper perspective view of another embodiment of a cargo container handling cart having two separated container end support surfaces each having a generally C-shaped geometry and two container guides mounted directly on the frame.
  • FIG. 17 is an upper perspective view of a tandem embodiment of a cargo handling cart capable of carrying the ends of two containers on each end portion of the cart.
  • Fig. 17A is a plan view showing the ends of four cargo containers being supported on the container handling cart shown in Fig. 17.
  • FIGs. 18A and 18B are elevational end views of a container resting on a container handling cart, the container having corner fittings having side corner casting holes, and laterally extending cart pins shown in a retracted state in which the cart pins are free of the corner fittings (Fig. 18A) and in extended state in which the cart pins are inserted into the corner casting holes of the corner fittings (Fig. 18B).
  • FIGs. 19A and 19B are elevational views of a cargo container handling cart having a positioning pin shown in a retracted state in Fig. 19A and in an extended state in Fig. 19B in which the pin is inserted into a positioning hole in the ground.
  • Fig. 19C is a graphical representation of the distance between two cargo container handling carts as related to the distance between the two ends of a container.
  • Fig. 19D is an elevational view of a container train similar to Fig. 3 but showing carts equipped with a position fixing mechanism for a position tracking system.
  • a cargo container handling cart for a segmented cargo container handling system is depicted generally at 10 in Figs. 4, 4A, 4B and 4C.
  • Each cart comprises a structural frame 12, a cart drive system 14 including wheels 16, motor and braking systems 18, a power source (not shown), container guides 20, and lateral container guides 22.
  • Container guides are structures strategically positioned on the container handling cart 10 for contacting the edges or the corner fittings of a descending container end to guide it into place as discussed below in detail.
  • Container guides may be attached to the top surface 23, sides 30, or other structural components (see, e.g., Fig. 16) of the frame 12, and may include elongated transversely extending guides 20, lateral container guides 22, and corner guides 50 (Fig. 4D).
  • the top surface 23 of frame 12 is functionally separated into two end portions 24, the inner edges of which are marked by broken lines 25 in Fig. 4C, and between which are mounted one or more of the container guides 20.
  • Each support surface 26 is bounded lengthwise on its outer end by the cart's end edge 28 and on its inner end by container guides 20 and by broken lines 20A as shown in Figs. 4 and 4C, and widthwise between the side edges 30 of the cart.
  • Each support surface 26 is arranged to support one end of a container rather than the full length of a container. Therefore, according to one aspect of the invention, the length of each cart 10 is substantially less than the length of a standard cargo container. In another aspect of the invention, the frame 12 of the cart 10 has a length substantially less than twenty feet.
  • the frame 12 has a length substantially less than twelve feet. In another embodiment, each support surface has a length less than six feet. For purposes of this application, length shall be understood to be that dimension parallel to the direction of the cart 10 as it is moved on its wheels 16.
  • Each support surface 26 has a width substantially the same as the width of a standard cargo container, but it will be understood that the width is not to be limited to only that of a standard cargo container. In the illustrated embodiment, each support surface 26 is rectangular. However those of skill in the art will appreciate that any support surface that acts functionally to support the end of a container may be regarded as a support surface. Thus, alternative support surfaces may be realized in many different shapes, can consist of a single integral surface, or may be comprised of two or more surfaces which together support a container end.
  • support should be understood to mean supporting any part of the container end, e.g., the corner fittings, the outer or side edges of the container, or the undersurface of the container.
  • a cart pin 32 is provided on each of the support surfaces 26 adjacent one of the container guides 20 and one of the sides 30 (see again Fig. 4C) of the cart.
  • the cart pins 32 are of a standard size for mating engagement with the lower corner casting hole 34 in each of the corner fittings 36 on the end 38 of a standard cargo container C.
  • the corner fittings 36 extend slightly outward of the sidewalls 39 of a cargo container as seen in Figs. 5A, 5B and 6.
  • Each cart pin 32 is spaced from the container guide 20 a distance to ensure that, when the cart pin 32 is received in the corner casting hole 34, the corner fitting 36 is held in closely abutting disposition against the container guide 20, thereby also holding the cargo container end 38 against or at least in very close proximity to the container guide 20 as seen in Fig. 5B.
  • the cart pins 32 thus hold the container end 38 against lateral and lengthwise movement on the support surface 26 and the container guides 20 hold the container end 38 against lengthwise movement on the support surface 26.
  • each container end 38 abuts and is spaced from the other container end 38 by container guide 20. See Fig. 3.
  • a container train can be formed in this manner in which the ends 38 of successive pairs of adjacent containers are supported on a handling cart 10.
  • the container pins 32 also allow the two carts supporting the front and back end of a container to maintain a fixed distance using the container's structural rigidity. While the container pins 32 in the illustrated embodiments are shown extending upwardly from the support surface 26, it should be understood that the pins 32 can be attached either directly to the support surface or to any other part of the cart. For example, one or more container pins could extend upwardly from part of the supporting framework underlying the support surface or from a laterally separated component of the cart distinct from the support surface.
  • container guides 20 have a top surface 40, opposite vertical side faces 42, and sloped or angled surfaces 44 extending upwardly from the vertical side faces 42 to the top surface 40.
  • the sloped surfaces 44 help guide the container end 38 of a container being lowered onto the cart from the position shown in Fig. 5A downward onto the support surface 26 to the position shown in Fig. 5B.
  • the container guides 20 can be in any shape which helps to direct a container end being lowered toward the platform onto the support surface 26. It will also be understood that container guides may be attached either to the top face of the platform or to another part of the cart such as the chassis, side frame members, or other supporting framework.
  • each cart has one or more lateral container guides 22 attached to the side walls 45 on each side of the cart adjacent support surfaces 26.
  • Each lateral container guide 22 extends upwardly from the side wall 45 and projects above the immediately adjacent support surface 26 for holding container ends 38 being supported on the support surface 26 against lateral slippage.
  • lateral container guides 22, like transverse container guides 20, have a sloped inwardly facing guide surface 46 to help direct containers being lowered onto the platform inwardly towards the support surface 26.
  • the degree of slope and shape of the guide surface 46 may vary considerably so long as the surface helps direct the container end towards the support surface.
  • the lateral container guides 22 have a vertical face 48 intermediate the sloped guide surface 46 and the support surface 26, the vertical face 48 is not strictly necessary and the sloped guide surface 46 could extend fully to the support surface 26.
  • FIG. 4D An alternative embodiment of the handling cart is shown in Fig. 4D in which the transversely extending container guides 20 and lateral container guides 22 shown in Figs. 4A-4C have been replaced with corner container guides 50 mounted on top surface 23.
  • Each corner container guide 50 has orthogonally intersecting outwardly angled side and inner guide surfaces 52, 54, respectively, extending upwardly from the support surface 26 for guiding the corner fittings of a container end being lowered onto the platform toward the support surface 26.
  • each support surface 26 is bounded lengthwise by inner guide surfaces 54, as indicated partially by broken lines 54A, and cart end edge 28, and widthwise by side guide surfaces 52.
  • the top surface 23 of the cart may have a width that is greater than the width of a standard cargo container, generally eight feet, to provide sufficient room for corner container guides 50 to be attached thereto and to allow a reasonable amount of clearance transversely between cooperating pairs of corner container guides 50 and lengthwise between corner container guides 50 and cart pins 32 to accommodate the lateral movements of a descending container end.
  • Fig. 4D illustrates an example of a handling cart according to the invention in which side and inner guide surfaces are provided which funnel a container end being lowered onto the platform towards the center of the support surface, and that the present invention should not be strictly limited to the side and inner guide surfaces or container guides depicted.
  • each cart is supported on wheels 16 (see, e.g., Figs. 4, 4A and 4B) which may be designed to run on rails in a terminal yard.
  • the cart may optionally be equipped with guide wheels.
  • the frame may be supported with tires to run on paved surfaces.
  • a tire-driven cart may have a steering system to prevent the cart from deviating laterally from a target path, and may be equipped with a guide roller device if dedicated cart-guide structures are installed along a terminal yard road.
  • Each cart is independently powered by a motor 18 and may have a braking system 19.
  • the motor may be electric, a combustion engine, or any other driving device.
  • a braking system may be integrated into the motor assembly, may be installed separately, or may consist of several different braking mechanisms.
  • a cart may have a parking braking and a separate stopping brake.
  • the cart drive system may include a traveling control system, sensors, motors, gear reducers, shafts, bearings, couplings, and/or wheels to provide adequate speed control, acceleration/deceleration and stopping capabilities depending on the performance required. All of the wheels may be powered, although the device may be designed to have idler wheels.
  • the traveling control system may output electric power to drive motors by a command signal transmitted from a cart control system. The movement of individual carts can be synchronized electronically to coordinate movements among the carts formed into a "train.”
  • the carts are each, at a minimum, designed to support the weight of two container ends and to withstand impact, acceleration, deceleration, and inertial forces acting on the carts during loading and unloading, traveling, stopping and other load conditions.
  • Each cart may be equipped with a suspension system 21 or with suitable shock absorbers, cushions or springs provided between the cart's frame and support surfaces.
  • FIG. 7A-7D and 8 a mechanism for lifting a container handling cart 10 via a standard twistlock is illustrated.
  • a crane spreader 60 is a large machine commonly supported on cables extending from a crane and is used to lift and move heavy objects such as cargo containers.
  • a crane spreader is capable of expanding to accommodate containers of varying lengths.
  • Crane spreaders are commonly equipped with twistlock mechanisms 62 for holding the corner fittings of containers.
  • the container guides 20 of the cart may optionally be hollow or can be provided with one or more cavities or recesses 64 accessible through a top opening 66. It will be understood that such a cavity or recess may be provided by a multitude of means such as in a standalone box mounted on the cart. In the illustrated embodiment seen in Fig.
  • the top opening has an oblong shape and is sized to receive the twistlock 62. It will be noted that the top opening need only be an elongated opening appropriately sized to receive a twistlock.
  • the cavity 64 is large enough to permit the twistlock 62 to rotate once it is fully received therein as shown in Fig. 7B, such that the twistlock is secured in the cavity as shown in Fig. 7C. In this manner, a crane spreader having twistlocks 62 can be used to catch and lift a cart 10 to move it to a desired location. See Fig. 7D.
  • a receiving cavity can be provided elsewhere than in the container guide 20, such as in a box on top of the container guide or located off the sides of the support surfaces 26. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that there are other means to facilitate lifting and handling of carts, e.g., by equipping the carts with lugs, providing cutaways for forklifts, or incorporating jacking pads.
  • a pivoting embodiment 70 of a cargo container handling cart is shown in Figs. 9A-9C.
  • the pivoting embodiment like the embodiment discussed above, has two end portions 72 supported on wheels 73, each end portion having an inner edge 74.
  • a pivot arm 76 extends inwardly from each inner edge 74.
  • the pivot arms overlap and are pivotally joined about a pivot pin 78 which provides a vertical pivot axis about which the end portions 72 mutually pivot.
  • the ability of the end portions 72 to pivot permits the cart or a container train formed using multiple handling carts to run on curved tracks.
  • a pivot cart may be equipped with a steering control system and a pivot angle control system.
  • Each end portion 72 includes a support surface 80 having cart pins 82 for mating engagement with the corner casting holes of corner fittings as discussed above.
  • Corner guides 84 are provided at each inner corner 86 of each end portion 72.
  • each corner guide 84 is attached to the inner side 88 and lateral side 90 of the inner corner 86 of each end portion 72, and has orthogonally intersecting outwardly angled inner and side guide surfaces 92 and 94, respectively, extending upwardly above the support surface 80 for guiding the corner fittings 36 of a container end being lowered onto said end portion toward the support surface 80 and onto the cart pins 82.
  • FIG. 1 1 An enlarged view of container guides for the handling cart shown in Fig. 4D is illustrated in Fig. 1 1 .
  • Two spaced-apart corner container guides 50 are secured to the top surface 23 of the cart.
  • Each corner guide has orthogonally intersecting outwardly angled side and inner guide surfaces 52 and 54, respectively, for guiding the corner fittings of a container end being lowered onto said end portion toward one of the support surfaces 26 and onto the cart pins 32.
  • vertical faces 96 are provided as positive abutment surfaces for a container end being supported on one of the support surfaces 26.
  • FIG. 9D Alternate embodiments of a pivoting cart such as that shown in Figs. 9A-9C are seen in Figs. 9D and 9E.
  • the pivoting cart 96 shown in Fig. 9D includes transverse container guides 98 on each of the support surfaces 80 for guiding a container end onto the support surface 80.
  • the embodiment 100 shown in Fig. 9E includes inner edge container guides 102 extending upwardly from the inner edge 104 of each of the support surfaces 80. And each of the embodiments 96, 100 also includes upwardly extending lateral container guides 106, 108, for guiding a descending container end onto one of the support surfaces 80.
  • FIG. 12 A close-up view of the container guides for the pivoting embodiment of the handling cart shown in Fig. 9E is illustrated in Fig. 12.
  • Inner end and lateral container guides 102 and 108, respectively, are provided at the inner corners 1 10 of each frame member 1 12 of a pivoting container handling cart.
  • Each container guide 102, 108 has a sloped surface 1 14 for guiding container ends toward the support surfaces 80 and onto cart pins 82.
  • vertical faces 1 16 are provided as positive abutment surfaces for a container end that is resting on one of the support surfaces 80.
  • FIG. 13 An alternate embodiment of a cargo handling cart engineered to carry only one end of a container is generally indicated at 130 in Fig. 13.
  • Two such "one end" carts can be used to carry one cargo container, one cart supporting each end of the container.
  • Each cart 130 comprises a frame 132, wheels 134, and motor and braking systems 136 such as discussed above. Corners of containers rest on support surfaces 138, each support surface having a cart pin 140 for mating engagement with the corner casting holes of corner fittings as discussed above.
  • one or more outer container guides 142 abut and guide the leading or trailing edges of a descending container onto support surfaces 138 and lateral container guides 144 guide the sides of the container onto the support surfaces 138.
  • the cart may be provided with corner guides of the type discussed above.
  • FIG. 14 at 150 Another embodiment of a cargo container handling cart is shown in Fig. 14 at 150. This embodiment is similar to that shown in Figs. 4A-4C except in the arrangement of the frame 152 and support surfaces 154.
  • Each cart 150 comprises a frame 152, wheels 156, and motor and braking systems 158.
  • the frame 152 includes transverse frame members 160 extending across the width of the cart, each member 160 being support by one pair of wheels 156.
  • Bridge beams 162 on each side of the cart extend between and connect frame members 160.
  • the forward and rear top surfaces of each bridge beam 162 form support surfaces 154 for receiving and supporting the corners of a cargo container.
  • Each support surface 154 has a cart pin 164 for engaging the corner casting hole of the corner fitting of a container as discussed above.
  • Centrally disposed container guides 166 are provided on each bridge beam 162 and lateral container guides 168 extend upwards from the sides of the bridge beams 162 for guiding descending cargo containers onto support surfaces 154. It should be readily understood that the number and placement of cart pins and container guides may vary.
  • FIG. 15 A further embodiment of a cargo container handing cart, similar to that shown in Figs. 4A-4C, is shown in Fig. 15 at 180.
  • Each cart 180 comprises a frame 182, wheels 184, and motor and braking systems 186.
  • One or more edge support structures 188 are disposed on the frame 182 to support one or more edges of a cargo container.
  • Each edge support structure 188 includes an edge support surface 190 for holding a container edge and an optional vertical face 192 to limit lateral movement of the container C. See Fig. 15A.
  • Container guides 194 incorporate orthogonally intersecting outwardly sloped side and inner guide surfaces, 196 and 198 respectively, extending upwardly from the top surface 199 of the frame 182 for guiding the corner fittings of a descending container onto the top surface 199 and the edge of the container onto edge support surface 190 of the edge support structures 188.
  • Cart pins 200 extending upwardly from the frame 182 engage with the corner casting holes of the corner fittings of the container as discussed above.
  • the support surface of a cargo container handling cart may be shaped in any fashion that effectively supports the end of a cargo container.
  • An embodiment of a cargo container handling cart having shaped support surfaces is shown in Fig. 16 at 210 and comprises a frame 212, wheels 214, and drive, motor and braking systems 216.
  • the frame 212 comprises side beams 218 supported by wheels 214, and transverse members 220 extending between and joining side beams 218.
  • C-shaped support surfaces 222 are supported by the frame 212.
  • Each C-shaped support surface 222 provides a continuous support surface for the end and side edges of one end of a cargo container thereby providing additional stability for the supported container.
  • Transverse container guides 224 mounted to the side beams 218 of frame 212 and lateral container guides 226 extending upwardly from the side edges of support surface 222 guide descending containers onto support surfaces 222.
  • Cart pins 228 are provided on the support surfaces 222 for engaging the corner casting holes of the corner fittings of a container.
  • the support and guide components of a container handling cart e.g., the transverse container guides 224, lateral container guides 226, and cart pins 228, may be attached directly to the frame 212 or to another component of the cart. It will also be noted that by eliminating a portion of a table top style support surface, such as in the embodiment shown in Figs. 4 and 4A-4C, in favor of the smaller strategically placed support surfaces discussed in the last three embodiments above, the overall weight of the cart is lighter making the cart even easier to maneuver.
  • FIG. 17 The embodiment of a handling cart, indicated at 250 in Fig. 17, is similar to embodiment 10, shown in Fig. 4, but will support four container ends rather than just two container ends.
  • Each cart 250 in this embodiment comprises a structural frame 252 and a cart drive system 254 including wheels 256, motor and braking systems 258, a suspension system 260, and one or more power sources (not shown).
  • the top surface 262 is functionally separated into two end portions 264 between which are mounted transverse container guides 266, 268.
  • container guides consist of outer container guides 266 and inner container guide 268, but it is intended that the configuration or arrangement of the container guides disposed between the two end portions 264 not be so limited.
  • Each end portion 264 is functionally separated into first and second support surfaces 270, 272, each support surface having a width suitable for supporting a standard cargo container C.
  • Support surfaces 270, 272 on each end portion 264 are separated by medial container guides 274, disposed perpendicularly to the transverse container guides 266, 268.
  • the medial container guides 274 effectively define the interior boundary of the support surface.
  • the outer boundaries of support surfaces 270, 272 are defined by the side edges 276 of the cart and by lateral guides 278.
  • Two cart pins 280 are provided on each support surface, 270, 272 for engaging the corner casting holes of the lower corner fittings of a container end as discussed above.
  • the configuration of cart 250 will thus permit handling of the ends of two containers C in tandem on each end portion 264 as shown in Fig. 17A.
  • a container handling cart 234 includes laterally extending cart pins 236 for engaging with the side corner casting holes as shown in Figs. 18A and 18B.
  • Each pin 236 is disposed in a housing 238 and is moveable from a retracted position, as shown in Fig. 18A, to an extended position, shown in Fig. 18B, in which the container C is locked in place by the pins 236.
  • a cargo container handling system is supported and operated by a number of control systems.
  • a cart control system may consist of computer control systems having peripheral devices, sensors, data communication systems, monitoring systems, emergency systems, and power backup systems.
  • the cart control system may communicate with the traveling control system of a cart drive system, a cart communication system, a position identification system, an anti- collision system, and a power control system.
  • the cart control system may also communicate with the terminal operation system and the cart control system of other separate groups of carts by using the cart communication system.
  • All of the motions and functions of each cart may be controlled and monitored by the cart control system using devices and systems onboard the cart.
  • the electric source may come from an external connection via cabling, an electric rail, an inductor system, through use of an electric-generator set, onboard batteries, or any other type of power storage or delivery system.
  • the power control system may manage and monitor the electric power source used for the cart.
  • the power source may also consist of more than one power source.
  • a cart may have one or more features to allow other machinery to lift the carts.
  • the cart may have corner casting holes located on the structure to allow a crane to lift cart body with the crane's twistlock device to catch and lift the cart to shift it from one position to another.
  • An anti-collision system may be optionally provided to avoid collisions with other carts or objects.
  • Each cart may be equipped with sensors which may output data calling out the range to a nearby object or the presence of an object detected within a predetermined zone.
  • the anti-collision system may communicate with the cart control system.
  • Cart securing devices may be incorporated into the handling carts to secure their location at a determined position, e.g., on a terminal runway.
  • a cart securing device may consist of parking devices on the cart and sockets on the runway.
  • the parking device may consist of electric driven cylinders, push-rods, support frames, sensors, and control units.
  • the socket may be installed on the runway either on the ground or in a structure fixed to the ground.
  • a push rod can be activated by the cart control system to be insert into or released from the socket.
  • the cart may use a Position Tracking System (PTS) to determine the location of a cart within a predetermined area and assist with its automated operation and management.
  • PTS Position Tracking System
  • a position fixing mechanism incorporated on the cart works in cooperation with the PTS to enable the precise location of each cart to be sensed and to fix the cart in that location or to release a cart from that location.
  • a position fixing mechanism is shown in Figs. 19A and 19B in which a positioning pin 240 is located on the underside of cargo container cart 242 and positioning holes 244 are set in predetermined locations on the ground. The pin 240 is moveable from a retracted position shown in Fig. 19A to a descended position shown in Fig.
  • a distance DH between two holes 244 may correspond to the distance Dc between the container guides 246 of two adjoining carts 242.
  • Each hole 244 may be shaped with a sloped upper edge 248 to help guide pin 240 into the hole.
  • the container positioning pin 240 may be actuated by any means including by linear motor, electric motor, and hydraulic, pneumatic, and other linear actuators.
  • the pin itself may also be a simple spring loaded latch that is
  • the PTS may also consist of an onboard cart locating system and/or location sensor systems.
  • One possible PTS method is to use GPS systems.
  • the cart locating system incorporated with GPS sensor is designed to communicate with the onboard cart control system, and to output the cart location data captured by GPS while the cart is traveling.
  • markers as reference points along the cart runway and sensors on the cart for detecting the reference points to determine cart location.
  • Suitable markers could consist of magnetic markers, such as a magnetic strip or strips, electronic markers, such as lasers or other optical markers, or physical markers. Sensors would be appropriately selected to detect the markers.
  • One cart locating system which functions to read location data from markers by using the marker sensors, outputs cart location data while the cart is traveling.
  • Another PTS uses encoders on the wheels to detect wheel rotations. This design could also use the sensor and marker arrangement to reduce errors in the encoder readings. Any PTS can use a combination of technologies.
  • Any PTS may communicate cart location data to the cart control system while the cart is traveling.
  • TOS TOS and/or directly with the cart control system of other carts.
  • the master cart travels and stops according to instructions from the TOS, and other carts follow the master cart motion with the use of the synchronization system.
  • the synchronization system can operate by using laser, ultrasonic, or other forms of distance sensors.
  • Each cart determines the distance to the cart ahead of it, and maintains a fixed distance by adjusting its speed.
  • Wireless communications may optionally be used to coordinate the carts, or infrared markers may simply be used to identify the carts to each other and establish a movement order. The carts can be told to follow another, specific cart, identified by its infrared broadcast.
  • the synchronization system can either be centralized or decentralized.
  • the carts can operate independently and follow the cart ahead of it.
  • a central controller can communicate and coordinate the entire cart operation, forming trains to transport groups of containers, and breaking them down or reassigning them to other trains, and/or issuing movement instructions.
  • the spacing between the carts is determined by the size of the container to be handled. A pair of carts, which are waiting to receive a container from the crane, will position themselves with the appropriate spacing by command of the TOS.
  • the cargo container handling cart may consist of a main structure, wheels with a drive system, one or more container guides, cart handling lugs, container holding pins, cart positioning device, cart control system, power feeding and storage systems, cart communication system, position identification system, synchronization system, and/or anti-collision system.
  • Each cart is designed to load and hold two different container ends, one container end on each support surface of the cart deck.
  • Two carts are used to hold or carry a container, one cart holding the front end of a container on its rear deck or support surface and another cart holding the rear end of the container on its front deck or support surface at the same time.
  • more than three carts will hold and carry more than two containers as when forming a container "train.”
  • the cart may be constructed with a pivoting construction to facilitate traveling on curved runways. Empty carts occupy considerably less space than conventional container transporters, thereby reducing congestion. See Figs. 1 and 3.

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un chariot de manutention de conteneur et un système comprenant plusieurs chariots de manutention de conteneur (10), chaque chariot comprenant un cadre (12) supporté sur des roues (16), le cadre présentant deux surfaces de support (26) et au moins un guide-conteneur (20) disposé au centre, chaque surface de support présentant deux broches de chariot (32), et un bord d'extrémité de chariot (28), la surface de support (26) étant délimitée par le guide-conteneur (20) et le bord d'extrémité de chariot (28) étant destiné à supporter l'extrémité d'un conteneur, la surface de support (26) présentant une largeur sensiblement équivalente à celle d'un conteneur standard, le guide-conteneur (20) s'appuyant contre une extrémité de conteneur reposant sur une des surfaces de support (26), et les broches de chariot (32) s'étendant vers le haut à partir de la surface de support (26) entre le guide-conteneur (20) et l'extrémité de bord de chariot (28) pour s'insérer dans les trous de scellement d'angle des garnitures d'angle de l'extrémité du conteneur pour maintenir l'extrémité du conteneur sur la surface de support (26) contre le guide-conteneur (20).
PCT/US2010/059330 2009-12-07 2010-12-07 Chariot de manutention de conteneur et système utilisant ledit chariot WO2011071946A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US26734709P 2009-12-07 2009-12-07
US61/267,347 2009-12-07
US29996910P 2010-01-30 2010-01-30
US61/299,969 2010-01-30
US12/831,207 US8616564B2 (en) 2009-12-07 2010-07-06 Cargo container handling cart and system using same
US12/831,207 2010-07-06

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2011071946A2 true WO2011071946A2 (fr) 2011-06-16
WO2011071946A3 WO2011071946A3 (fr) 2012-07-19

Family

ID=44081251

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2010/059330 WO2011071946A2 (fr) 2009-12-07 2010-12-07 Chariot de manutention de conteneur et système utilisant ledit chariot

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (1) US8616564B2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2011071946A2 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8616564B2 (en) 2009-12-07 2013-12-31 Paceco Corp. Cargo container handling cart and system using same
CN112550397A (zh) * 2020-12-02 2021-03-26 安徽省佳业集成房屋科技发展有限公司 一种集装箱生产用节能移动装置

Families Citing this family (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2959661B1 (fr) * 2010-05-07 2013-04-12 Decide Life Internat Sa Chariot de soins medicalise
US8342545B2 (en) * 2011-03-09 2013-01-01 John Leighton Mayo Mobile cart for metal decking sheets
JP5848180B2 (ja) * 2012-03-30 2016-01-27 三井造船株式会社 コンテナターミナルと運搬台車の移載方法
JP5187605B1 (ja) * 2012-07-12 2013-04-24 光男 長谷川 重量物移動台車
US9102347B2 (en) * 2012-09-07 2015-08-11 Illinois Tool Works Inc. System and method for modular transportation of a welding system
USD742089S1 (en) * 2014-06-27 2015-10-27 Euro-Pro Operations LLC Caddy
DE102014012254A1 (de) * 2014-08-19 2016-02-25 Lisa-Marie Amminger Lager- und/oder Kommissioniersysteme
EP3391168B1 (fr) * 2015-12-18 2021-04-21 Sew-Eurodrive GmbH & Co. KG Système de transport et procédé de fonctionnement d'un système de transport
DE102016010948B4 (de) * 2016-09-09 2021-02-11 Audi Ag Transportfahrzeug
CN106428162A (zh) * 2016-10-27 2017-02-22 苏州市凯业金属制品有限公司 一种智能防撞提醒购物车
EP3355149B1 (fr) * 2017-01-31 2023-06-07 Toyota Material Handling Manufacturing Sweden AB Système de manipulation de marchandises
FR3062803B1 (fr) * 2017-02-13 2019-03-29 Coutier Industrie Moyens d'indexation d'une base roulante au sol
DE102018222099A1 (de) * 2018-12-18 2020-06-18 Hünnebeck GmbH Verfahren und Vorrichtung für die Errichtung von Bauwerken
US11136197B2 (en) * 2019-01-14 2021-10-05 Goodrich Corporation Carrier-based semi-automated cargo handling system
CN110104041A (zh) * 2019-05-14 2019-08-09 中国三冶集团有限公司 一种电机拖运装置及其使用方法
DE102021105390A1 (de) * 2021-03-05 2022-09-08 Ltw Intralogistics Gmbh Regalbediensystem, hochregallager, einlagerungsverfahren und auslagerungsverfahren
DE102021105391A1 (de) * 2021-03-05 2022-09-08 Ltw Intralogistics Gmbh Regalbediensystem

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3151880A (en) * 1961-06-29 1964-10-06 Pullman Inc Interconnecting unit for tandem hauling of semi-trailers
US5560663A (en) * 1991-12-09 1996-10-01 Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. Guide device for lifting and transporting a container
US5730063A (en) * 1996-04-30 1998-03-24 National Steel Car Ltd. High capacity container rail car for varying arrangements intermodal containers
US6095055A (en) * 1991-08-21 2000-08-01 Lohr Industrie Separable rail transport unit for carrying a load, particularly a road unit
US6220468B1 (en) * 2000-06-15 2001-04-24 Hyundai Precision America, Inc. Top and bottom corner lift fittings for a cargo container
US6860210B2 (en) * 1997-11-05 2005-03-01 Michael Baier Rail vehicle system
US20110133419A1 (en) * 2009-12-07 2011-06-09 Toru Takehara Cargo container handling cart and system using same

Family Cites Families (46)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1654814A (en) * 1925-08-21 1928-01-03 Jonkhoff Henri Wouter Common truck for two loading platforms
US2039489A (en) * 1933-03-15 1936-05-05 Kirwan Y Messick Transportation unit
US2966236A (en) * 1955-04-22 1960-12-27 Sanford Day Iron Works Inc Brake control cars
US3002470A (en) * 1957-02-21 1961-10-03 Flowers Henry Fort Axleless dump-car for articulated trains
US3154316A (en) * 1960-05-30 1964-10-27 Gohmann Karl Transport containers
US3144141A (en) * 1961-11-27 1964-08-11 Fruehauf Corp Alignment ramp
US3208768A (en) * 1963-03-12 1965-09-28 Smash Proof Company Inc Material handling apparatus
US3288481A (en) * 1964-08-21 1966-11-29 George J Meyers Swivel caster hand truck
US3317219A (en) * 1965-06-04 1967-05-02 Hindin Eugene Vehicle formed by coupleable containers with demountable adapter frames
US3404444A (en) * 1966-03-24 1968-10-08 Waldemar M. Isbrandtsen Adaptor ring and method of assembling the ring to the corner fitting of a cargo container
US3497026A (en) * 1967-12-26 1970-02-24 Union Carbide Corp Electrical power system
US3514001A (en) * 1968-08-20 1970-05-26 Jet Avion Corp Freight pallet carrier
US4416571A (en) * 1981-02-17 1983-11-22 Krause Robert A Truck and rail transportation system
CA1194363A (fr) * 1982-08-06 1985-10-01 Gloucester Railway Carriage And Wagon Co. Limited Suspensions pour vehicules ferroviaires
US4669391A (en) * 1983-02-24 1987-06-02 Railmaster System, Inc. Train of highway trailers
US4597337A (en) * 1983-12-23 1986-07-01 Elwood Willetts Low profile intermodal transport system
US4819566A (en) * 1985-08-13 1989-04-11 Urban Transportation Development Corp., Ltd. Stabilized steerable truck
US4665834A (en) * 1985-08-16 1987-05-19 Sea-Land Service Inc. Apparatus for intermodal transport of highway containers
FR2597807B1 (fr) * 1986-04-24 1990-11-02 Toutenkamion Dispositif et element de manutention-roulage pour conteneurs ou analogues
US4955144A (en) * 1988-01-22 1990-09-11 Strick Corporation Compatible intermodal road/rail transportation system
US4869177A (en) * 1988-03-28 1989-09-26 Ferrosud S.P.A. Rail-highway semitrailer
AU3151589A (en) * 1989-03-20 1990-09-20 Goldfields Engineering (Proprietary) Limited Bogie steering system
US5020445A (en) * 1990-01-08 1991-06-04 Adams Jr George W Truck-train system for transporting truck trailers along rails using railway dollies
NO915086D0 (no) * 1991-12-23 1991-12-23 Haegglunds Moelv As Loeftemakanisme for containere o.l.
US5431110A (en) * 1994-04-28 1995-07-11 Adams, Jr.; George W. Truck-train system with locking mechanism employing a moment arm
US5537931A (en) * 1995-04-21 1996-07-23 Wabash National Corporation Bogie adapter for intermodal trailer
JP3542197B2 (ja) * 1995-04-28 2004-07-14 本田技研工業株式会社 電動車両の制御装置
DE19703701C2 (de) * 1997-01-21 1998-12-10 Mannesmann Ag Zweiachsiges Fahrwerk für schienengebundene Transportsysteme
US6050197A (en) * 1998-02-04 2000-04-18 Railrunner Systems, Inc. Intermodal vehicle for forming a train of highway trailers
US6579053B1 (en) * 1999-03-15 2003-06-17 Abb Flexible Automation, Inc. Robotic containerization and palletizing system
US6273259B1 (en) * 2000-05-09 2001-08-14 Norseman Plastics Limited Container
US20020073878A1 (en) * 2000-07-24 2002-06-20 Teacherson George A. Articulated railcars
US6634658B2 (en) * 2001-10-16 2003-10-21 Johnny Larouche Cart moving system
US6979005B1 (en) * 2002-06-17 2005-12-27 Chriscott Supply, Inc. Stackable dollies and dolly systems
US6974140B2 (en) * 2004-01-12 2005-12-13 Timothy Neuman Modular multiple dolly moving system
US7275752B2 (en) * 2004-11-13 2007-10-02 James Donald Northcutt Boddy dollie
US7673889B2 (en) * 2005-10-18 2010-03-09 The Boeing Company Direct loading apparatus for pallet related systems
US20080054580A1 (en) * 2006-05-11 2008-03-06 Glaser Robert L Glaser equipment transporter
US7384051B1 (en) * 2006-05-26 2008-06-10 Haire Hilton L Fishing caddy apparatus kit
CN101563243B (zh) * 2006-12-20 2011-09-21 铁路赛跑者N.A.公司 两用集装箱底盘
PL3254922T3 (pl) * 2007-12-20 2020-01-31 Railrunner N.A., Inc. Intermodalny pojazd szynowy do formowania pociągu
US7857572B1 (en) * 2008-10-21 2010-12-28 Thompson David D Load moving system
US20110217150A1 (en) * 2009-12-07 2011-09-08 Toru Takehara Container storage yard transporation system
US8291592B2 (en) * 2010-03-17 2012-10-23 Gunderson Llc Method of lengthening a container well of a railcar
US8596613B2 (en) * 2010-06-04 2013-12-03 Mobex of North Florida, Inc. Swing support mobilization lift
MX344384B (es) * 2010-10-20 2016-12-14 Rehrig Pacific Co Carro rodante modular.

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3151880A (en) * 1961-06-29 1964-10-06 Pullman Inc Interconnecting unit for tandem hauling of semi-trailers
US6095055A (en) * 1991-08-21 2000-08-01 Lohr Industrie Separable rail transport unit for carrying a load, particularly a road unit
US5560663A (en) * 1991-12-09 1996-10-01 Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. Guide device for lifting and transporting a container
US5730063A (en) * 1996-04-30 1998-03-24 National Steel Car Ltd. High capacity container rail car for varying arrangements intermodal containers
US6860210B2 (en) * 1997-11-05 2005-03-01 Michael Baier Rail vehicle system
US6220468B1 (en) * 2000-06-15 2001-04-24 Hyundai Precision America, Inc. Top and bottom corner lift fittings for a cargo container
US20110133419A1 (en) * 2009-12-07 2011-06-09 Toru Takehara Cargo container handling cart and system using same

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8616564B2 (en) 2009-12-07 2013-12-31 Paceco Corp. Cargo container handling cart and system using same
CN112550397A (zh) * 2020-12-02 2021-03-26 安徽省佳业集成房屋科技发展有限公司 一种集装箱生产用节能移动装置

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US8616564B2 (en) 2013-12-31
US20110133419A1 (en) 2011-06-09
WO2011071946A3 (fr) 2012-07-19

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US8616564B2 (en) Cargo container handling cart and system using same
CN109689545B (zh) 自动货物处理系统和方法
US8875826B2 (en) System for replacing a battery of a ground transportation vehicle, particularly of an unmanned heavy-duty transportation vehicle for ISO containers
CA2757417C (fr) Vehicule de transport de charges lourdes de type vehicule de manutention, en particulier vehicule de transport de charges lourdes sans chauffeur destine a des conteneurs iso
RU2374107C2 (ru) Способ перегрузки грузов и соответствующая транспортная система
KR101107745B1 (ko) 두 개의 병립형 스프레더를 갖는 갠트리형 적재기
US20170182923A1 (en) Heavy-duty transport vehicle for containers, in particular iso containers, and method for loading same
JP6554489B2 (ja) パレットを把持、移動および配置するためのグリッパ
JP2013544729A (ja) コンテナ輸送システム
KR20110110129A (ko) 철도와 도로 사이에서 표준 화물 홀더 특히 국제표준 컨테이너와 교환형 화물함을 이동시키기 위한 방법 및 시스템
EP0964809B1 (fr) Terminal de transfert de conteneurs et wagon porte-conteneurs
AU2017348144B2 (en) Multimodal transport interworking system
JP6909217B2 (ja) コンテナ用輸送車両
JP2021535863A (ja) 積載システムおよび車輪付き鉄道運搬車
CN210792956U (zh) 一种辅助清洗机器人用的高架车托运装置
EP3428092B1 (fr) Système d'interconnexion de transport multimodal de type à enfourcher
JP3050678U (ja) フォーク移動式荷役装置
JP7002906B2 (ja) 自走式多軸ドーリ
JP6909215B2 (ja) コンテナ用輸送車両
CN116767065A (zh) 一种两箱体组合式物流运输车
JP2004323200A (ja) 搬送台車システム及び搬送台車
ITTO20120676A1 (it) Veicolo gommato per il trasporto di macchine operatrici

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 10836570

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 10836570

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2