Fri, Mar 19, 2021 at 2:44 AM
David,
Here is another render of the cargo container layout.
The larger cargo containers have been moved outboard to make more room for a set of smaller containers that are inserted down the middle of the framework. This means we now have two standard size containers; a large and a small. How the shipping companies charge for volume in these containers is up to them.
That red portion just above the box hauler is indicating the locking socket column that extends from the bottom of the cargo container frame up through to through to the top. This column forms the backbone of the cargo frame to which all other members are attached.
The pads of the cargo hauler make contact with either (a) the surface of that locking socket column or else (b) with the basic framework (not shown).
With such a layout the only containers which would prove difficult to remove would be the ones on top and bottom just behind that inner column. Those would have to be locked in place prior to the box haulers linking up with the cargo frame, conversely the box haulers would have to unlink before those two (top & bottom) could be easily removed. I don't think this a great problem since these cargo frames would (hopefully) be assembled prior to the box haulers linking up.
Another possibility is that the depth of the central locking socket column be extended backwards, eliminating those 'difficult-to-remove' containers completely. I don't see any real waste in this scenario as in addition to the suggested uses of that locking column, I imagine that a great portion would be subdivided into tanks for transport of fluids, oils, etc.
And now to turn myself to some pressing matters around the house.
- Ignatz