Container idea has legs

Every once in a while along comes an idea that leaves others thinking, 'Why didn't I think of that?' – like this clever shipping container design that sees the container load and unload itself onto or from the back of a truck.

Dubbed the SL Container by its creator, Canadian firm Excalibur Shelters, the concept is in essence remarkably simple – the container has four hydraulic legs that fold out and then raise or lower the container to a height that allows the truck to drive under or away from the container's body.

The legs are powered by a 9kW motor that operates a hydraulic system and which can be hooked up to other SL Containers as required. The legs, meanwhile, don't extend beyond the container's standard dimensions when recessed.

The system is said to be accurate to within 20mm and features a self-levelling function, while the legs – when extended – provide a generous clearance of 3.1m, allowing plenty of room for a reversing flat-bed truck.

The company says the system allows a container to be loaded or unloaded in under 15 minutes and that it costs just $1.50 per load. This represents significant savings compared to traditional means like heavy-duty fork lifts and container cranes, which carry major overheads and require operators with the necessary tickets and training.

The system also spells fast and easy loading or unloading at sites without the resources of your average major dock.

Check out the clip below to see the SL Container in action, or click here for more information.