Patent ID: 8567834
Filing Date: 2013-10-29
Classification: B66C

Abstract:
1. A spreader comprising: outer locks, each configured to be connectable to a corner casting of a single container or an outer corner casting of one of two containers connectable in twin relation to the spreader, the outer locks carried in pairs at respective ends of one or more extendable beams telescopically supported in a main beam, and inner locks, each configured to be connectable to an inner corner casting of one of two containers connectable in twin relation to the spreader, the inner locks movable in pairs on a main beam exterior, wherein, in each set of associated pairs of the inner and outer locks, the pair of inner locks is operable for displacement through a second drive which is separate from a first drive that is operative for displacement of the outer locks through one or more of the following: extension and retraction of the one or more extendable beams, characterized in that the first and second drives are individually powered and separately operated through a control system that is configured to synchronize concurrent displacements of the outer and inner locks without a mechanical connection being arranged between associated pairs of outer and inner locks in one or more of the following: extension movements and retraction movements.