Technical field

The invention relates to the field of cargo logistics. More specifically, the invention relates to a storage unit for storing a plurality of shipping containers. The invention also concerns a use of said storage unit at a port and/or on a ship, a ship comprising said storage unit, as well as a system and a method of operating the system for handling and storing shipping containers.

Background

Transporting cargo from a point of origin to a point of destination requires logistics facilities with storage and transportation resources.

Cargo logistics for shipping containers includes transporting cargo from a point of origin by various vehicles, such as trains, planes, trucks or ships, to a logistics facility, such as a port or a warehouse, where a container is unloaded by use of cranes, special carriers or forklifts and placed into a storage space until it is time to be picked up from storage and loaded into or onto a vehicle for further transportation.

A common way of storing shipping containers is to stack them on top of each other. A known method of handling shipping containers uses gantry cranes such as rail mounted gantry cranes or rubber tire gantry cranes. Another known method of handling shipping containers uses straddle carriers. Forklifts are also known for handling shipping containers.

A problem associated with such known means of handling of shipping containers is that only a single container is being handled at a time.

A further problem associated with such known means of handling and storage of shipping containers is that in order to retrieve a specific container in a stack, other containers need to be first moved if the desired container is not at the top of the stack, thus increasing handling time as well as energy costs and the associated harmful emissions generated by the use of handling equipment.

Stacking of containers poses a further challenge due to the limited weight that a shipping container is built to withstand. Stacking many containers in a vertical stack requires detailed planning and constant reorganization of containers in order to keep the heaviest containers at the bottom of the stack, which further increases handling time, cost and energy wastage.

An additional problem with known container handling means such as gantry cranes and straddle carriers is that they often perform empty trips after having moved one container out of the way and thus moving to pick up a new one.

A further problem associated with known means of storage of shipping containers is an inefficient use of land space due to a limited number of containers that can be stacked both vertically as well as horizontally in order to allow access to them by the known means of handling containers, such as gantry cranes or straddle carriers.

An additional problem associated with the land use in known means of storage of shipping containers is the need of large areas of levelled land. Preparation of such land consumes significant amount of time, energy and cost as well as impacts the land area such that it is difficult to restore it to its original state in the event that port or logistics operations are ceased at some point in the future.

Moreover, known logistics systems for shipping containers are typically manual and require significant manpower to operate handling equipment and to plan the logistics of stacking and transportation routes. Known logistics systems are further typically hard to automate due to many vehicles required to operate within the operation area and complicated logistics.

Furthermore, known logistics systems are difficult to electrify and rely on fuel sources such as diesel generators, which produce high emissions and harmful particles. Summary

An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative, improved and more efficient storage unit for storing a plurality of shipping containers. The characterizing features of the storage unit according to the invention are given in claim 1 . Further objects of the invention are to provide a use of said improved storage unit at a port and/or on a ship, to provide an improved ship comprising said storage unit, as well as to provide an alternative and improved system and a method of operating the system for handling and storing shipping containers. The characterizing features of the use and the method according to the invention are given in the other independent claims.

The storage unit according to the invention for storing a plurality of shipping containers comprises:

- a frame comprising two vertical storage columns, where the columns are arranged adjacent to each other, and each column is configured to store a plurality of shipping containers,

- a drive unit, and

- force transmission means comprising at least one continuous transportation track configured to be driven by the drive unit, and a plurality of supporting means configured to connect the at least one continuous transportation track and a plurality of shipping containers, where the force transmission means is configured to move said shipping containers in a vertical loop between the two vertical storage columns of the frame.

The current invention further discloses the use of the storage unit defined above for storing a plurality of shipping containers at a port and/or on a ship.

The system according to the invention for handling and storing shipping containers comprises at least one storage unit defined above.

The current invention further discloses a ship comprising at least one storage unit defined above.

The method according to the invention of operating the system defined above for handling and storing shipping containers comprises: - a loading step, where a shipping container is transported into one of the at least one storage unit defined above,

- a storing step, where a plurality of shipping containers are stored in said storage unit, and

- an unloading step, where a shipping container is transported from said storage unit.

The storage unit, the system and the method of the invention improve the efficiency of shipping container logistics by increasing shipping container handling speed, reducing total land required for handling and storing containers, reducing need for manpower and reducing energy consumption and thus costs of operation.

The storage unit, the system and the method of the invention allow to store shipping containers in a paternoster type storage unit, thus avoiding traditional stacking of shipping containers. The paternoster type storage unit allows quick retrieval of any shipping container by the operation of the storage unit moving the shipping containers in the storage unit in a continuous loop. Such storage solution allows direct access to the required shipping container, without the use of cranes, special carriers or forklifts and thus reducing the need for manpower as well as increased handling speed and reduced energy consumption as shipping containers do not need to be unstacked and restacked again and no empty trips are performed by the cranes, carriers or forklifts. The storage unit, the system and the method of the invention are further easier to electrify and could be more easily powered by integrated renewable energy sources, thus reducing emissions of harmful gases and particles.

The storage unit, the system and the method of the invention further provide improved efficiency of land use. With the current invention, higher number of containers can be stacked vertically as well as packed more closely in the horizontal plane while still allowing efficient handling of shipping containers due to more efficient retrieval and loading of shipping containers from and/or to the storage unit and removing the limitations on height caused by existing crane dimensions and other handling equipment. Moreover, the storage unit, the system and the method of the invention can be more easily adapted to uneven ground without needing large areas of levelled land, thus reducing the time, energy and costs for installation of the storage unit and the system. The storage unit operating according to a paternoster principle further results in reduced energy consumption as work done by gravity is utilized during paternoster type storage unit operation. Since gravity acting on the shipping containers moving down in the storage unit is utilized to do work for lifting the shipping containers moving up in the storage unit, less energy needs to be supplied to the storage unit for its operation. A further advantage is reduced reliance on external power sources and thus increased self-sustainability.

The storage unit of the invention further enables easier automatization and integration of the storage unit into a logistics system for handling shipping containers.

The use of the storage unit of the invention at a port and on a ship simultaneously provides for further increased handling speed as well as allows for easier automatization of the whole logistics system. The ship of the invention comprising the storage unit allows for quick and efficient loading and unloading of the ship as well as integration with a port logistics system, which can result in easier automation and possible 24/7 operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the supporting means of the storage unit are attached to the at least one continuous transportation track. This provides a storage unit with integrated supporting means that are quick and easy to attach to a shipping container.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the supporting means of the storage unit are configured to be engaged with a plurality of lifting points of a shipping container so that the shipping container is transported in a hanging position. Since standardised shipping containers have lifting points at the eight corners of the shipping container, supporting means according to the embodiment allows utilization of the standard lifting points, enabling quick, reliable and standardised handling of shipping containers in the storage unit.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the supporting means are configured to support a shipping container from the bottom. Such support provides an alternative supporting means, which can easily accommodate any nonstandard shipping containers. According to an embodiment of the invention the drive unit of the storage unit is a hydraulic motor. A hydraulic motor is highly durable, reliable, compact and cost efficient actuator that is suitable even for applications requiring very high forces.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit is further configured to recover some of the kinetic energy of the storage unit during braking. Recovered energy could be used by the storage unit or transferred to power another element of a logistics system, such as, for example, another storage unit of a system comprising multiple storage units or any other element requiring power. Recovering and reusing some of the kinetic energy reduces energy consumption by the storage unit.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit further comprises means for storing some of the recovered energy. Energy storage allows reusing the recovered energy at a later time, optimising energy distribution and enabling self-sustainable operation of the storage unit.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the means for storing some of the recovered energy comprises a hydraulic motor used as a pump for pumping a hydraulic fluid into a pressure accumulator. The accumulator enables a hydraulic system to cope with extremes of demand using a less powerful pump and to respond more quickly to a temporary demand.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit is further configured as a modular unit, connectable to a plurality of storage units according to any of the preceding claims. Modularity of storage units leads to a more efficient use of land, where storage units can be put together adapting to the shape and size of an area of operation, such as a port, enabling the use of shared internal infrastructure within an overall system of multiple storage units.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit further comprises transferring means for transferring a shipping container from the storage unit to another storage unit adjacent to the storage unit with the transferring means. Transferring means in a storage unit enables establishing a continuous transferring track across a plurality of adjacent storage units, thus reducing the number of additional transportation means needed for transporting shipping containers to or from storage units.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit further comprises adjustable height legs. Adjustable height legs increase versatility of the storage unit and enable to level and align storage units for placement on uneven or varied height ground. A benefit of this embodiment is increased adaptability of the storage unit to the topography of an operation area. A further benefit of adjustable height legs is that the storage of shipping containers can be lifted significantly above ground, thus freeing the ground level for other uses and further increasing efficiency of land use. Additionally, no mining or ground levelling is needed, which significantly reduces the costs and time of construction of the system.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit comprises foundation piles. Similarly to adjustable height legs, foundation piles result in increased adaptability of the storage unit to the topography of an operation area as well as the benefits of freeing the ground level for other uses and reducing the costs and time of constructing the system. Additionally, foundation piles provide increased stability and can be installed into any ground.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit is further configured to be movable. An advantage of this is that the whole storage unit can be quickly moved to a different location, thus reducing the distance that each shipping container that is to be loaded or unloaded to or from the storage unit needs to travel in cases where a plurality of shipping containers are simultaneously loaded or unloaded to or from the same storage unit.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a plurality of storage units defined above.

According to an embodiment of the invention, at least some of the storage units of the system are connected to each other or positioned closely next to each other. Such close packing of the storage units results in a more efficient use of land and allow for adapting to the shape and size of an area of operation. According to an embodiment of the invention, the system further comprises transportation means for transporting a shipping container into a storage unit or from a storage unit.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means comprises a movable storage unit for transporting a shipping container into or from another storage unit of the system. Such embodiment reduces the need for other handling equipment.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means of the system is configured to move a shipping container along a fixed track arranged to pass, in a substantially horizontal plane, through at least one vertical storage column of a storage unit. The fixed track improves system stability, safety and enables easier automatization. The fixed track can also improve efficiency of the transportation means.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means of the system is configured to support and move a shipping container above or below the fixed track. Transportation means supporting a shipping container above the fixed track allow for simpler attachment or even no attachment points needed between the transportation means and shipping containers. Transportation means supporting a shipping container below the fixed track enable more flexible pick-up and drop-off of shipping containers.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the fixed track is a continuous loop track and the transportation means is configured to transport a shipping container in an endless loop. Continuous loop transportation of shipping containers increases system efficiency and handling speed, removing the need for back and forth driving and specifically removing the need for empty driving without cargo. Transportation along a continuous loop track is further easier to automate, enabling increased optimization of system speed and efficiency as well as enabling 24/7 container logistics.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is a conveyor. According to an embodiment of the invention, the conveyor is configured to receive and support a shipping container directly on the transport plane of the conveyor. This results in quick and easy transportation means where shipping containers do not need to be attached or locked to the transportation means and no additional compartments or trolleys need to be provided on the conveyors.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the conveyor is configured to be pivotable around a pivot located at an end of the conveyor closest to the storage unit allowing the conveyor to be tilted. An advantage of this embodiment is that a conveyor can be adjusted to be tilted at an angle allowing to move a shipping container to and/or from different heights. A further advantage of this embodiment is that the conveyor can be raised to a vertical position to make a compact system that is easier to move around.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the fixed track and/or the transportation means is configured to be moved around within an area of operation to be used with a plurality of storage units and/or external means of transportation. Movable fixed track and/or the transportation means reduces the number of needed fixed tracks and/or transportation means.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is further configured to transport a shipping container into or from an external means of transportation. This improves integrability of the system with any external means of transportation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is configured to transport a shipping container from an external means of transportation to a storage unit. An advantage of this embodiment is a system which is quicker, more reliable and easier to automate for unloading shipping containers from any external means of transportation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is configured to transport a shipping container from a storage unit to an external means of transportation. An advantage of this embodiment is a system which is quicker, more reliable and easier to automate for loading shipping containers to any external means of transportation. According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is configured to transport a shipping container between two storage units. This enables easier reorganisation of shipping containers within the storage units. Moreover, this embodiment increases system efficiency as a single transportation means can pass through a plurality of storage units and thus transport a plurality of shipping containers from a plurality of storage units, further reducing handling time, reducing energy consumption and reducing system and operating costs.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is configured to transport a shipping container from and/or to a height corresponding to the lowest level of a storage unit.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is further configured to transport a shipping container from and/or to a height that is higher than the lowest level of a storage unit. This improves versatility of the system as it enables easy transportation of a shipping container between two locations of different height. Transportation of shipping container at a height higher than the lowest level of a storage unit results in a system that can be easily adapted to the topography of an operation area, because the transportation means do not need to conform to the topography of the land and instead can operate at a height above ground. Transportation of shipping containers at a height that is higher than the lowest level of a storage unit or above the ground level further results in the advantage of freeing the ground level for other uses, thus further increasing efficiency of land use. Moreover, no mining or levelling of the ground is needed, which significantly reduces the cost and time for the construction of the system.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the transportation means is further configured to transport a shipping container to and/or from a height of shipping container storage space on an external means of transportation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the system further comprises a plurality of transportation means. The plurality of transportation means makes a network of transportation improving transportation efficiency and speed. According to an embodiment of the invention, the external means of transportation is a ship.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the external means of transportation comprises a storage unit defined above. A benefit of this is improved integration of the system, increasing shipping container handling speed and providing for easier automatization of the system.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the system further comprises a weighing station for determining the weight of a shipping container. Weighing of containers allows for optimized distribution and loading of shipping containers into storage units, resulting in reduced energy consumption due to balanced mass in a storage unit that operates according to a paternoster principle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the system further comprises an automated control unit for coordinating the transportation of shipping containers to and from storage units. The automated control unit increases system efficiency, reduces manpower needed and enables 24/7 operation of the system.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the automated control unit is configured to determine an optimal storage location of a shipping container.

According to an embodiment of the invention, at least some storage units of the system are located underground. Advantages of the system deployed underground are reduced overground land usage as well as protection from variable weather conditions.

According to an embodiment of the invention, at least some storage units are located on an off-shore platform. An advantage of an off-shore platform are easier docking for ships resulting in faster loading and unloading of the cargo from the ship.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the system further comprises at least one solar panel. The energy obtained from the solar panel can be used by, for example, storage units and transportation means of the system, thus reducing or eliminating the need for any external sources of energy, reducing carbon emissions and enabling self-sustainable operation of the system.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the method of operating the system defined above further comprises:

- acquiring information about a shipping container to be loaded to a storage unit,

- determining a storage unit and a target storage space within the storage unit, where said target storage space can be an empty space configured to receive a shipping container or a space comprising a shipping container to be removed before loading a new shipping container,

- driving the storage unit to align the target storage space with the transportation means,

- transporting the shipping container to the storage unit by the transportation means,

- supporting the received shipping container by the supporting means.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the loading step further comprises weighing of the shipping container.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the determination of a target storage space for the shipping container is based on the weight of the shipping container and balancing of weights in a storage unit for reduced energy consumption. An advantage of this embodiment is that energy consumption can be reduced due to utilization of work done by gravity.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the unloading step further comprises:

- acquiring information about a shipping container to be unloaded from a storage unit,

- driving the storage unit to a position in which the identified shipping container is aligned with the transportation means,

- transporting the shipping container from the storage unit by the transportation means.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the unloading step further comprises determining a target destination for the shipping container. According to an embodiment of the invention, the target destination is a ship and the shipping container is moved directly from a storage unit to the ship via an automated system.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the loading and/or unloading step comprises determining an optimal transportation route by an automated control unit based on the acquired information about the shipping container and known or acquired information about the system and any external means of transportation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the loading and/or unloading step further comprises recovering some of the kinetic energy of the storage unit when stopping the driving of the storage unit.

The previously presented considerations concerning the various embodiments and the benefits of the of the storage unit, the system, the use of the storage unit and the ship are also applicable, mutatis mutandis, to the method of operating the system defined above, and vice versa, as would be appreciated by a skilled person.

The novel features which are considered as characteristic of the invention are set forth in particular in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, both as to its construction and its method of operation will be best understood from the following description of specific example embodiments when read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

Fig. 1 shows a three dimensional schematic of a storage unit according to an embodiment of the invention, Fig. 2 shows four front view schematics of a storage unit according to multiple embodiments of the invention illustrating multiple examples of alternative supporting means,

Fig. 3 shows two front view schematics of a storage unit according to an embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 4 shows a three dimensional illustration (figure 4A) and a two dimensional top view (figure 4B) of a system for handling and storing shipping containers according to an embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 5 shows a system for handling and storing shipping containers according to another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 6 shows a system for handling and storing shipping containers according to another embodiment of the invention further illustrating transportation of a shipping container from a storage unit to an external means of transportation,

Fig. 7 illustrates a system according to another embodiment of the invention further illustrating a ship according to the invention,

Fig. 8 shows a schematic of a system according to another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 9 illustrates a schematic of a system according to an embodiment of the invention comprising an off-shore platform,

Fig. 10 illustrates a system according to an embodiment of the invention, said system adapted to the topography of an operation area,

Fig. 11 shows a flow chart of a method according to the invention,

Fig. 12 shows a flow chart of the loading step of the method according to an embodiment of the invention, and

Fig. 13 shows a flow chart of the unloading step of the method according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed

Figure 1 shows a three dimensional illustration of the storage unit 100 according to an embodiment of the invention for storing up to 18 shipping containers 101 . A shipping container 101 , for which the storage unit 100 according to the invention is configured, is an intermodal container designed and built for use across different modes of transport - for example, from ship to rail to truck - without unloading an reloading their cargo. The shipping container 101 according to the invention is also known as a freight container. The shipping container 101 can have external dimensions of 4-20 feet in height, 4-60 feet in length and 4-20 feet in width. The shipping container 101 can be an ISO container. The shipping container 101 can be of standardised dimensions. In particular, according to ISO standard 668:2020, the standard length of a container is 10, 20, 30, 40 or 45 feet, standard height is 8 feet, 8 feet 6 inches or 9 feet 6 inches and standard width is 8 feet. Shipping containers 101 with length of 48 feet, 53 feet and 60 feet are also known. Maximum gross weight of the shipping container 101 can be 200 kg - 601. The standardised shipping containers 101 are commonly referred to by their length, where a shipping container 8 feet 6 inch tall is referred to as standard, 9 feet 6 inch tall is referred to as high cube and the 8 feet tall ones do not contain height indicator in the common name. For example, a 20 feet standard shipping container 101 is typically defined to be 20 feet long. 8 feet wide and 8 feet 6 inch tall. The shipping containers 101 can have castings with openings for twistlock fasteners at each of the eight corners, to allow gripping the container from above, below or the side. The storage unit 100 is configured to store at least the standard 20 feet and/or 40 feet shipping containers 101. The storage unit 100 can be adapted to store shipping containers 101 that are 20 feet and/or 40 feet long and have a height of 8 feet and/or 8 feet 6 inches, and/or 9 feet 6 inches. The storage unit 100 can be adapted for storing shipping containers 101 of different sizes, for example, the storage unit 100 can be adapted for storing shipping containers 101 that have external dimensions of 4-20 feet in height, 4-60 feet in length and 4-20 feet in width. The storage unit 100 can be adapted for storing shipping containers 101 as defined by ISO standard 668:2020.

The storage unit 100, shown in figure 1 , comprises a frame 102 comprising two vertical storage columns 103a, 103b, where the columns 103a, 103b are arranged adjacent to each other and each column 103a, 103b is configured to store nine shipping containers 101. The storage unit 101 further comprises a drive unit 104 and force transmission means comprising three continuous transportation tracks 105 and a plurality of supporting means 106 (not shown in figure 1 , but described in more detailed later and illustrated in figures 2, 3, 5, and 6) connecting at least two continuous transportation tracks 105 with the illustrated 17 shipping containers 101 in the storage unit 100a, where the force transmission means is configured to move said shipping containers 101 in a vertical loop between the two vertical storage columns 103a, 103b of the frame 102. At least one of the continuous transportation tracks 105 is configured to be driven by the drive unit 104. The other continuous transportation tracks 105 can be passive and not directly connected to the drive unit 104. Passive transportation track 105 instead provides additional support for the shipping container 101 moved in a vertical loop by the drive unit 104 along the continuous transportation tracks 105. According to the invention, the storage unit 100 is of paternoster type and operates according to a paternoster principle.

The storage unit 100 can be configured to store at least 4 to 18 shipping containers 101. An example of a storage unit 100 configured to store 18 shipping containers 101 is shown in figure 1 . The storage unit 100 can be configured to store a larger number of shipping containers 101 . Another example of a storage unit 100 configured to store 6 shipping containers 101 is shown in figure 2.

The drive unit 104 can be any motor, such as a heat engine, an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, a pneumatic motor or a hybrid motor. Preferably, the drive unit 104 is an electric or hydraulic motor.

The force transmission means can comprise one, two, three or more continuous transportation tracks 105. The continuous transportation track 105 can be, for example, chain, belt, cable, rope, hoist line or rail. The force transmission means can further comprise a cogwheel, a gear or a pulley. At least one continuous transportation track 105 of the force transmission means is active, where said active continuous transportation track is configured to transfer force from a drive unit 104 to a plurality of supporting means 106 and a plurality of shipping containers 101 . Force transmission means can further comprise one or more passive continuous transportation track or rail 105 configured to guide and support a plurality of shipping containers 101 being moved in the storage unit 100.

The storage unit 100 according to the invention can be considered to comprise a plurality of storage spaces 110, each storage space 110 configured to store a shipping container 101 . A storage unit 100 can comprise a plurality of empty storage spaces 110a and a plurality of filled storage spaces 110b as illustrated in figures 1 and 2.

Figure 1 further shows a conveyor 202a as transportation means 202 of a system 200 according to an embodiment of the invention. Such transportation means 202 are not a necessary part of the embodiment shown in figure 1 as the shipping containers 101 could be transported to and/or from the storage unit by any other means, such as forklifts, trucks or cranes. Transportation means 202 will be discussed in more detail in connection to the system 200 of the invention.

Figure 2 shows four front view schematics of a storage unit 100 according to multiple embodiments of the invention illustrating multiple examples of alternative supporting means 106.

According to an embodiment of the invention, supporting means 106 are attached to the at least one continuous transportation track 105. In an alternative embodiment, supporting means 106 could be configured to be attached to a shipping container 101 first, before being attached to the at least one continuous transportation track 105. According to an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of supporting means 106 can be configured to connect to at least one of the one or more passive continuous transportation track or rail 105 or additional supporting means 106 can be provided to connect a plurality of shipping containers 101 to at least one of the one or more passive continuous transportation track or rail 105.

Figures 2A and 2B illustrate examples of supporting means 106a-106b configured to be engaged with a plurality of lifting points 107 of a shipping container 101 so that the shipping container 101 is transported in a hanging position. Number of lifting points could be 2, 3, 4, or more. Supporting means 106a- 106b could comprise, for example, a chain, cable, rope, hoist line, hooks, beams, or a spreader.

Figure 2A shows an example of supporting means 106a configured to connect to lifting points 107 at the corners of a shipping container 101. Supporting means 106a could be configured to connect to all four corners of the top of a shipping container 101. Supporting means 106a could be a spreader. A spreader is a device used for lifting shipping containers 101 and unitized cargo and placed between the shipping container 101 and a lifting device. The lifting device according to the current invention is the storage unit 100. The spreader used for shipping containers 101 has a locking mechanism at each corner that attaches to the four corners of the container 101 . The back-side of the storage unit 100 of figure 2A could be the same as the front side, thus the storage unit

100 could comprise a second continuous transportation track 105. The second continuous transportation track 105 could be active or passive. Figure 2B shows an example of supporting means 106b configured to connect to lifting points 107 located at opposite diagonal corners of the top surface of a shipping container 101. The storage unit 100 of figure 2B comprises two continuous transportation tracks 105, a first continuous transportation track configured to connect to a first corner of a shipping container 101 and a second continuous transportation track configured to connect to a second corner of the shipping container 101 where the first and the second corners of the shipping container

101 are located along a diagonal of the shipping container’s 101 top surface. Supporting means 106b could be of the type used in a traditional paternoster lift.

According to additional embodiments of the invention illustrated in figures 2C and 2D, supporting means 106c, 106d are configured to support a shipping container 101 from the bottom. In figure 2C, supporting means 106c are attached to lifting points 107 of the bottom of the shipping container 101. Supporting means 106c could comprise hooks. In figure 2D, supporting means 106d comprises a platform or beams to carry the shipping container 101. In figure 2D, the platform is attached to two continuous transportation tracks 105, one at the front of the storage unit 100 as seen in figure 2D and a second one at the back of the storage unit 100. Supporting means 106d could further comprise chains, cables, ropes, host lines or beams to support the platform in a hanging position. Supporting means 106d could further comprise means for assisting loading and unloading of a shipping container 101 onto the supporting means 106d. The assisting means could be a conveyor belt or a passively rotatable surface, such as rollers.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit 100 is further configured to recover some of the kinetic energy of the storage unit 100 during braking. The storage unit of the embodiment further comprises a regenerative braking unit 108 for recovering some of the energy when braking. Regenerative braking unit 108 could comprise the drive unit 104 configured to function as an electric generator when braking for recovering some of the energy. Alternatively, regenerative braking unit 108 could comprise a separate generator.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit 100 comprises means (not shown) for storing some of the recovered energy. Means of energy storage could be, for example, a battery, a bank of capacitors, a hydraulic accumulator, a pneumatic accumulator, or a hydropneumatic accumulator. Means of energy storage can be configured to store the energy recovered during braking. Means of energy storage can be configured to store energy generated by additional renewable energy sources, such as solar panels 209 illustrated in figures 3B, 5 and 8. Regenerative braking unit 108 could comprise a hydraulic motor used as a pump for pumping a hydraulic fluid into a pressure accumulator.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the storage unit 100 is configured as a modular unit, connectable to a plurality of storage units 100.

Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the invention where the storage unit 100 comprises transferring means 109 for transferring a shipping container 101 from the storage unit 100 to another storage unit 100 adjacent to the storage unit 100 with the transferring means 109. Transferring means 109 could be, e.g., a conveyor 109a as illustrated in figure 3A or a rail switch unit 109b as illustrated in figure 3B. Transferring means 109 could also be, e.g., a rail, which could be configured to support and transfer a shipping container 101 above or below the rail. An example of transferring means 109 being an overhead rail supporting a shipping container 101 below the rail can be seen in figure 5 where transferring means 109 partly coincide with the transportation means 202, which will be described in more detail later.

According to the invention, a storage unit 100 for storing a plurality of shipping containers 101 is used at a port and/or on a ship 300a.

Figures 3A and 3B further illustrate an embodiment of the invention where a storage unit 100 comprises legs 111 , 112. The legs 111 , 112 can be part of the frame 102 manufactured in one piece, or attachable to the frame 102 at a later time. The legs 111 , 112 can be adjustable height legs 111 or foundation piles 112. Foundation piles 112 can be of adjustable height or of fixed height.

The storage unit 100 of the invention may be powered by an external power source. The amount of storage energy needed is, however, reduced due to the storage unit 100 operating according to a paternoster principle. According to an embodiment of the invention, the amount of energy needed from the external power source can be further reduced by optimizing the weight distribution in the storage unit 100 that operates according to the paternoster principle. Reduced energy consumption can be achieved by utilizing the work done by gravity, which can be optimized by selecting the shipping containers in a storage unit to be of approximately equivalent weight or to be placed in a storage unit in such arrangement that the two vertical columns of a storage unit carry approximately equivalent weight when the storage unit is being driven by the drive unit. The amount of energy needed from the external power source can also be reduced by recovering some of the kinetic energy of the storage unit 100 during braking.

According to an embodiment of the invention, an external power source can be renewable energy power source. Additionally, the external power source can be integrated with the storage unit 100. Figure 3B further illustrates an embodiment of the invention, where a storage unit 100 further comprises a solar panel 209. As illustrated in figure 3B, the solar panel 209 could be located at the top of the storage unit 100. A storage unit 100 could comprise a plurality of solar panels 209.

Figure 3A further illustrates an embodiment of the invention, where a storage unit 100 is configured to be movable and comprises means 113 of moving the storage unit 100. In Figure 3A, the means 113 are attached to the legs 111. The means 113 of moving the storage unit 100 could be attached to the frame 102 also when it does not comprise legs 111. The means 113 of moving the storage unit 100 could be wheels or a rail system.

Figures 4A and 4B show a three dimensional and two dimensional top view respectively of the system 200 according to an embodiment of the invention for handling and storing shipping containers 101. The system 200 shown in figure 4 comprises 13 storage units 100. The system 200 can comprise any number of storage units 100, but the system 200 comprises at least one storage unit 100. The system 200 of figure 4 comprises four storage units 100 connected or positioned closely next to each other in a longitudinal direction 201 a forming a longitudinal row of storage units 100. In figures 4, three of such longitudinal rows are attached to each other in a transverse direction 201 b, forming four transverse rows of storage units 100, with an additional storage unit 100 separated from the other storage units 100 of the system 200 by a passageway.

A longitudinal direction 201 a is defined to be perpendicular to the vertical storage columns 103a, 103b and to pass through both vertical storage columns 103a, 103b of a storage unit 100. A transverse direction 201 b is defined to be perpendicular to the vertical storage columns 103a, 103b and to the longitudinal direction 201 a.

Any longitudinal or transverse row of the system 200 can comprise any number of storage units 100. The number of storage units 100 in any longitudinal or transverse row can be determined based on the layout of the operation area.

Any two storage units 100 in the system 200 can be connected to each other, positioned close next to each other, or separated at a larger distance, for example, a distance equal to the width or length of a shipping container 101 , or a distance required by the topology or function of the operation area.

A part of the storage units 100 of a system 200 can be movable. A part of the storage units 100 of a system 200 can be stationary. The system 200 of figure 4 further comprises two conveyors 202a as transportation means 202 supporting shipping containers 101 directly on the transport plane(s) 204 of the two conveyors 202a for transporting a shipping container 101 into a storage unit 100 or from a storage unit 100. Transport plane 204 of a conveyor 202a can comprise the top surface of, e.g., a conveyor belt or rollers of the conveyor 202a. A shipping container 101 , thus, can be placed directly on the belt or rollers of the conveyor 202a. Transportation means 202 could be a vehicle or a transportation device configured to move a shipping container 101 along a fixed track. Transportation means 202 is configured to transport a shipping container 101 in a substantially horizontal plane through at least one vertical storage column 103a, 103b of a storage unit 100. Transportation means 202 could pass through a storage unit 100 in a transverse direction 201 b as illustrated in figure 4A or in the longitudinal direction 201a as illustrated in figure 5, but also other configurations might be possible, such as transportation means 202 changing direction and forming, e.g., a corner at the point of the storage unit 100. The vehicle could be, for example, a truck, train or crane. The transportation device could be configured to support and move a shipping container 101 above or below the fixed track. The fixed track could be an overhead track for transporting a shipping container 101 under the overhead track. The fixed track could be a one-way track or a continuous loop track. The transportation device could be further configured to transport a shipping container 101 in an endless loop. The transportation device could be, for example, a conveyor 202a, 202b or a rail system 202b, 202c. A conveyor comprises a belt or a continuous force transmission means. Transportation devices can be endless loop devices configured to transport containers in a continuous way. A conveyor 202a, 202b can be, for example, a floor conveyor 202a, or an overhead conveyor 202b. A floor conveyor 202a could be, e.g., a belt conveyor, a roller conveyor or a powered roller conveyor. Transportation means 202 of the system 200 can comprise any number of transportation vehicles and/or transportation devices. Transportation means 202 of the system 200 could further comprise a movable storage unit 100. A movable storage unit 100 could be configured to move shipping containers 101 into or from another storage unit 100 of the system 200. A movable storage unit 100 could be smaller than a stationary storage unit 100. According to the embodiment of the invention illustrated in figures 4A and 4B, transportation means 202 are configured to transport a shipping container 101 between two storage units 100.

Figure 5 shows a system 200 according to an embodiment of the invention comprising two storage units 100 and an overhead conveyor 202b or an overhead track 202c as transportation means 202 configured to transport a shipping container 101 under the overhead conveyor or track and into a storage unit 100 or from a storage unit 100. Transportation means 202 in figure 5 is further configured to carry out the function of transferring means 109 for transferring shipping containers 101 between the two adjacent storage units 100. Transported storage containers 101 could be attached to the overhead conveyor or track via supporting means 106 as described in connection to the storage unit 100. Different attachments, as common in conveyors and rail transportation means could be used. Transportation means 202 could be configured to transport a shipping container 101 into or from an external means of transportation 300. The external means of transportation 300 could be, for example, a truck (as shown in figure 6), a crane, a train, a plane or a ship (as shown in figure 7).

Figure 5 further illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the system 200 comprises a plurality of solar panels 209 attached to the frame 102 of a storage unit 100. The system can comprise any number of solar panels 209, which can be attached to any number of storage units 100.

Figure 6 shows a system 200 according to an embodiment of the invention comprising a single storage unit 100 and an overhead track 200c as transportation means 202, which is configured to transport a shipping container 101 into and/or from the storage unit 100 as well as to transport a shipping container 101 from the storage 100 unit to external means of transportation 300, such as a truck. Transportation means 202 could be configured to transport a shipping container 101 from an external means of transportation 300 to the storage unit 100.

Figure 7 shows a system 200 according to an embodiment of the invention comprising a plurality of storage units 100 on a ship 300a as well as at a port and transportation means 202 for transporting shipping containers 101 to the ship 300a. The ship 300a according to the invention could comprise one or more storage units 100, but it should comprise at least one storage unit 100. The ship 300a could comprise a system 200 according to the current invention. The system 200 could comprise storage units 100 according to the invention either just on a ship 300a or just at the port or both. The ship 300a could comprise a conventional storage arrangement instead of the storage units 100 of the invention. Transportation means 202 could be configured to transfer a shipping container 101 from a ground level 203a to a height 203c of the storage area on the ship 300a.

According to a further embodiment, a conveyor 202a, 202b of the system 200 could be further configured to be pivotable around a pivot located at an end of the conveyor 202a, 202b closest to the storage unit 100. The pivotable conveyor can be configured to be tilted at an angle allowing to move a shipping container 101 to and/or from different heights. Moreover, the pivotable conveyor can be configured to be raised to a substantially vertical position for achieving a compact system that is easier to move around. For example, the pivotable conveyor can be tilted from a horizontal position corresponding to 0 degrees to a vertical position corresponding to 90 degrees. The pivotable conveyor can be tilted to any angles between 0-90 degrees. The system 200 could comprise more than one such pivotable conveyor. In particular, the system 200 could comprise a movable storage unit 100 as described earlier with a first pivotable conveyor attached to one end of the movable storage unit 100 and a second pivotable conveyor attached to the other end of the movable storage unit 100 where the first and the second pivotable conveyors are configured to allow simultaneous loading and unloading.

Figures 1 , 4, and 5-7 show transportation means 202 configured to transport a shipping container 101 from and/or to a height 203a corresponding to the ground level or the lowest level of a storage unit 100. Transportation means 202 could be instead or in addition configured to transport a shipping container 101 from and/or to a height 203b that is higher than the lowest level of a storage unit, as illustrated in figures 6, 7 and 10. In particular, transportation means 202 could be configured to transport shipping containers 101 substantially above ground, thus freeing the ground level for other uses or enabling easier adaptation to land topography as illustrated in figure 10A. Furthermore, transportation means 202 could be configured to transport a shipping container 101 to and/or from a height 203c of shipping container storage space on an external means of transportation as shown in figures 6, 7 and 10. Transportation means 202 could be configured to transport a shipping container from one height to a different height. In particular, transportation means 202 could be slanted or tilted. When transporting a shipping container 101 from one height to a different height, storage units 100 can be operated for vertical transportation in addition to the horizontal transportation by the transportation means 202. Alternatively, transportation means 202 could include a lift for transporting a shipping container 101 from one height to a different height.

Figure 8 shows a schematic illustration of the system 200 according to an embodiment of the invention. In addition to storage units 100 and transportation means 202 that are configured to transport shipping containers 101 to/from/be- tween storage units 100 and external means of transportation 300, the system 200 of figure 8 further comprises a weighing station 205 for weighing shipping containers 101 and an automated control unit 206 configured to determine an optimal storage location of a shipping container 101 . The weighing station 205 can be integrated with the transportation means 202. The weighing station 205 can be located close to incoming external means of transportation 300 from which a shipping container is being unloaded. The system 200 can comprise a plurality of weighing stations 205. The automated control unit 206 can be configured to determine an optimal storage location of a shipping container 101 based on acquired information. Determination of an optimal storage location of a shipping container 101 can be further based on the weight distribution optimization in a storage unit 100. Acquired information can comprise information about the shipping container 101 and/or information about the layout of the system 200 and any external means of transportation 300. Information about the shipping container 101 can comprise, for example, shipping container’s 101 known or measured weight, time and means of arrival, location, destination, time and means of departure.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the transportation means 202 and/or the fixed track can be configured to be movable around within an area of operation, such as a port, to be used with a plurality of storage units 100 and/or external means of transportation 300. For example, figure 8 shows central transportation means 202 from a pick-up location from an external means of transportation 300 to a drop-off location to an external means of transportation 300. In addition, figure 8 shows additional connection transportation means 202 connecting this central transportation means 202 and storage units 100 or connecting a plurality of storage units 100 to each other. Any of these transportation means 202 could be movable, however, preferably, the connection transportation means 202 are movable. Plurality of stationary transportation means 202 could be replaced by a smaller number of movable transportation means 202 configured to be moved between multiple locations on demand. Preferably, the number of movable transportation means 202 is based on logistic requirements and number of storage units 100 located on separate transportation means 202 tracks and unloaded simultaneously, such that shipping container 101 throughput and system 200 cost are both optimized.

Figure 8 further illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the system 200 comprises two solar panels 209. The system can comprise any number of solar panels 209. A solar panel 209 can be located on top or attached to the side of a storage unit 100 as illustrated in figures 3B, 5 and 8 or anywhere within the system 200 area as illustrated in figure 8. All or part of the energy obtained from the solar panels 209 can be used for operating the system 200. Energy can be distributed from solar panels 209 via a central transformer to power any component of the system 200. Furthermore, other renewable energy sources than solar panels 209 could be used. For example, wind power generators or tidal power generators could be used instead of the solar panels, where wind power generators could be located on-shore within the operation area of the system 200 or off-shore, whereas tidal power generators could be located off-shore.

Figure 9 shows a schematic illustration of the system 200 according to a further embodiment of the invention, where the system comprises an off-shore platform 207 in addition to an on-shore operation area 208. In addition, figure 9 shows a ship 300a docked near the off-shore platform 207 and another external means of transportation 300 in communication with the system 200 on the on-shore operation area 208 side. In figure 9, the off-shore platform 207 and the on-shore operation area 208 each comprise one storage unit 100, although each could also comprise a plurality of storage units 100. The system 200 of figure 9 comprises transportation means 202 between the off-shore platform 207 and the on-shore operation area 208 further connected to the storage units 100 as well as the external means of transportation 300, 300a. The transportation means 202 can be configured to transport shipping containers 101 all the way from an incoming external means of transportation 300 to a storage unit 100 in the on-shore operation area 208, a storage unit 100 on the off-shore platform 207 and an outgoing external means of transportation 300a. Transportation means 202 of figure 9 could be located in an underwater or underground tunnel. Some of the storage units 100 could be located underground.

Figure 10A illustrates a system 200 adapted to the topography of an operation area, such as a port. Storage units 100 according to the embodiment of figure 10 are constructed on foundation piles 112 drilled into ground, which can be uneven, as illustrated in figure 10A. Alternatively, storage units 100 can be constructed on adjustable height legs 111 , with the height of the legs adjusted to adapt to the topography of the land and thus to level and align the storage units 100 of the system 200. The system 200 further comprises transportation means 202 located above ground level. Transportation means 202 can further be configured to transport shipping containers 101 through a plurality of different heights. When transporting a shipping container 101 from one height to a different height, storage units 100 can be operated for vertical transportation in addition to the horizontal transportation by the transportation means 202. Alternatively, transportation means 202 could include a lift for transporting a shipping container 101 from one height to a different height.

Figure 10B is essentially as described in connection to figure 10A, but in figure 10B the storage units 100 are arranged substantially below water line.

A flowchart in figure 11 illustrates steps of the method of operating a system 200 for handling and storing shipping containers 101 according to the invention, comprising a loading step 401 , a storing step 402, and an unloading step 403. During the loading step 401 , a shipping container 101 is transported into one of the at least one storage unit 100 according to the invention. The loaded shipping container is then stored 402 in the storage unit 100 until the shipping container 101 needs to be unloaded 403 so that the shipping container 101 is transported from the storage unit 100.

Flowchart in figure 12 illustrates substeps of the loading step 401 according to an embodiment of the invention. According to figure 12, the loading step 401 comprises acquiring information 401 a about a shipping container 101 to be loaded to a storage unit 100, determining 401 b a storage unit 100 and a target storage space 110 within the storage unit, driving 401 c the storage unit 100 to align the target storage space 110 with the transportation means 202, transporting 401 d the shipping container 101 to the storage unit 100 by the transportation means and supporting 401 e the received shipping container 101 by the supporting means 106.

The information acquired during the acquiring information substep 401a can comprise, for example, information about the shipping container’s 101 known or measured weight, time and means of arrival, location, destination, time and means of departure. The weight of a shipping container 101 could be known from externally provided information or it could be acquired during the information acquiring substep 401a by weighing the shipping container 101 on a weighing station 205 of the system 200. The weighing of the shipping container 101 is preferably performed when the shipping container 101 comes into the system 200. The acquired information could be stored in a database to be used for the unloading step 403 and/or by the automated control unit 206.

The target space 110 determined in the loading step 401 can be an empty space 110a configured to receive a shipping container 101 or a space 110b comprising a shipping container 101 to be removed before loading a new shipping container 101 .

The substep of determining 401 b a storage unit 100 and a target storage location 110 can be based on the information acquired during the information acquiring substep 401a. In particular, determining 401 b can be based on the weight of the shipping container 101 and balancing of weights in a storage unit 100 for reduced energy consumption. Preferably, the storage unit 100 and the target storage location 110 are selected such that the two vertical columns 103a, 103b of the storage unit 100 carry approximately equivalent weight after the shipping container 101 is loaded into the target storage location 110. Furthermore, the storage unit 100 and the target storage location 110 can be selected such that the weight of the shipping containers 101 in the storage unit are all of approximately equivalent weight. In case the weights are not balanced as described above, required additional energy can be provided by an external power source. The driving 401 c of the storage unit 100 is done by operating the drive unit 104 of the storage unit 100. Method of driving the storage unit 100 is based on the paternoster operation principle.

The transporting 401 d of the shipping container 101 to the storage unit 100 can be from an external transportation means 300, such as a truck, crane, ship 300a, train or plane. Further, transporting 401 d of the shipping container 101 to the storage unit 100 can be from another storage unit 100 of the system 200. Transporting 401d can further comprise determining an optimal transportation route by an automated control unit 206. The optimal transportation route determination can be based on the acquired information about the shipping container 101 and known or acquired information about the system 200 and any external means of transportation 300. The information about the system 200 could comprise the layout of the system, number, size and location of the storage units 100 in the system 200, information about the shipping containers 101 stored in the storage units 100, number and location of the transportation means 202, any empty areas, loading and unloading zones.

The supporting 401 e of the shipping container 101 by the supporting means 106 could be performed by attaching the supporting means 106 to the lifting points 107 of the shipping container 101. Other supporting means 106 could be used as described earlier. Supporting means 106 could be integrated with the storage unit 100, or it could be provided separately and attached to the shipping container 101 before attaching the supporting means 106 to the storage unit 100.

Flowchart in figure 13 illustrates substeps of the unloading step 403 according to an embodiment of the invention. According to figure 13, the unloading step 403 comprises acquiring information 403a about a shipping container to be unloaded from a storage unit 100, driving 403b the storage unit 100 to a position in which the identified shipping container 100 is aligned with the transportation means 202 and transporting 403c the shipping container 101 from the storage unit 100 by the transportation means 202. Acquiring information 403 during the unloading step 403 can comprise retrieving the information from a database, where the database comprises information acquired during the loading step 401 .

The driving 403b of the storage unit 100 is done by operating the drive unit 104 of the storage unit 100. A driven storage unit 100 moves a shipping container 101 stored in the storage unit 100 in a continuous vertical loop between the two vertical storage columns 103a, 103b of the storage unit 100. Method of driving the storage unit 100 is based on the paternoster operation principle.

The transporting 403c of the shipping container 101 can further comprise determining a target destination for the shipping container 101 . Determining target destination could comprise retrieving the information from the database, which comprises information acquired during the loading step 401 or added to the database at a later time. The target destination could be in an external means of transportation 300. External means of transportation 300 could be a truck, crane, ship 300a, train or plane. The target destination could further be a target storage space 110 within another storage unit 100 of the system 200.

The transporting substep 403c can further comprise transporting the shipping container 101 from the storage unit 100 directly to the target destination, such as a ship by use of the automated control unit 206 of the system 200.

Transporting 403c can further comprise determining an optimal transportation route by the automated control unit 206. The optimal transportation route determination can be based on the acquired information about the shipping container 101 and known or acquired information about the system 200 and any external means of transportation 300. The information about the system 200 could comprise the layout of the system, number, size and location of the storage units 100 in the system 200, information about the shipping containers 101 stored in the storage units 100, number and location of the transportation means 202, any empty areas, loading and unloading zones.

The loading 401 and/or unloading 403 steps of the method 400 according to an embodiment of the invention further comprises recovering some of the kinetic energy of the storage unit when stopping the driving of the storage unit 100. When the storage unit 100 is driven during loading 401 and/or unloading 403 steps, input energy is needed to drive the storage unit 100. When brakes are applied, the kinetic energy of the shipping containers 101 is converted into heat if friction brakes are used. Part of the kinetic energy during braking can be recovered by a regenerative braking unit 108 installed in the storage unit 100. The regenerative braking unit 108 can comprise the drive unit 104 configured to function as a generator when braking. Alternatively, regenerative braking unit 108 could comprise a separate generator.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the recovered energy is reused for operating the storage unit 100 or any other element of the system 200. According to a further embodiment, the recovered energy is stored for later use. The recovered energy can be stored in a battery, a bank of capacitors, a hydraulic accumulator, a pneumatic accumulator, or a hydropneumatic accumulator.

According to an embodiment of the invention, an external power source can be used to provide energy to operate the system 200. The amount of energy needed from the external power source can be reduced by recovering some of the kinetic energy of the storage unit 100 during braking. The amount of energy needed from the external power source can be further reduced by optimizing the weight distribution in the storage unit 100 that operates according to the paternoster principle.

It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but may vary within the scope of the appended claims.