Design of automated container spreader with independent Twist locking mechanism
J. Jana (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
C.S. Wijesinghe – Mentor (TU Delft - Transport Engineering and Logistics)
J. Jovanova – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Transport Engineering and Logistics)
W van den Bos – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Transport Engineering and Logistics)
Sebastian Paul Mulders – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Team Mulders)
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Abstract
The increasing global container trade has intensified demands on container handling technology. Automation has addressed many challenges, but limitations persist, particularly in spreader design. These attachments, equipped with rotating twist locks, rely on remote-controlled actuators and sensors. However, current designs exhibit frequent maintenance, multiple failure points, and limited sensing capabilities. Additionally, dependence on external power restricts mobility, limiting their use in smaller terminals and remote operations. This research employs an iterative design approach to develop a novel spreader that reduces maintenance frequency by 75 percent, minimizes failure points by 50 percent, and integrates an advanced control algorithm with built-in error detection. This reduces reliance on remote operators, enhancing safety by mitigating operator fatigue-induced errors. An internal power source enables 20 hours of continuous operation, while the independent control system reduces downtime by 1 hour, minimizing delays from operator breaks.