Patent ID: 9011055
Filing Date: 2015-04-21
Classification: B60P,B65D

Abstract:
1. An automatic lock for a cargo container, said container having an upper surface and a lower surface, said lower surface defining a plane P, said container further including at least one lower corner fitting located on said lower surface thereof, comprising: a corner fitting mechanism sized and configured for location within an opening formed in said lower corner fitting, said mechanism including a lower cone sized and located to releasably engage an adjacent corner fitting when said container is stacked upon another cargo container; a rack having first and second ends, said first end of said rack connected to said corner fitting mechanism whereby movement of said rack actuates said corner fitting mechanism to move said lower cone between a released unengaged position and a locked engaged position, said second end of said rack extending outward from said lower corner fitting; a first linkage having first and second ends, said first end of said first linkage pivotably connected to said second end of said rack; a foot, said second end of said first linkage pivotably connected to said foot; a second linkage having first and second ends, said first end of said second linkage pivotably connected to said foot, said second linkage being spring-loaded; a mounting point affixed to said lower surface of said container, said second end of said second linkage pivotably connected to said mounting point; and wherein said first and second linkages are sized and located such that said foot is suspended below plane P prior to the stacking of said cargo container on another cargo container whereby the contact of said foot with the upper surface of another cargo container causes upward movement of said foot and the resultant movement of said first linkage and of said rack thereby resulting in the actuation of said corner fitting mechanism.