Automated connector

grabcad

The proposed corner lock system for container automation utilizes a linkage technique that engages the bottom of the container and physically locks it in place. An alternative solution suggests a preliminary coupler design, which, though not robust, focuses on key features such as engaging corner locks when containers are placed on one another. These locks can be manually or electronically disengaged and rely on a meshed wireless network for communication between the attached base units of the containers. The system employs small, self-contained computer modules powered by energy harvesting techniques to ensure long-lasting power. The proposed method for communication includes either infrared line-of-sight communication or direct metal electronic communications, both designed to work around the metal environment. The four base couplers are expected to be less expensive and more robust than the linkage setup proposed by Voibar. The automated process involves manually attaching corner locks to the container base, activating the internal network for handshaking with other locks, engaging when placed on another container (weight-activated), and releasing containers only through electronic or manual disengagement upon crane communication. The developer acknowledges that R&D would be necessary for a successful implementation of this scale.