Abstract: A method and assembly provide for the quick and effective one step loading and unloading of an overseas transport container, which can be accomplished by one operator and a minimum of effort. First, second, third, and fourth identical fingers each about 20' long have a plurality of air bearings associated with them, the air bearings connected up to a source of air under pressure. Inflatable load bars are provided on the tops of the fingers. At the first ends of the first and second fingers they are connected to a structural cross-member which is integral with a manifold for supplying air under pressure to the fingers for inflating the air bearings, and also mounts air-supplying structure for inflating the load bars. The third and fourth fingers are continuations of the first and second, and are utilized when loading or unloading a 40' container.

Abstract: Fingers having air bearings along the bottom thereof are used to quickly load and unload overseas transport containers. Sheet material, such as ribbed plastic (nylon) sheeting, is automatically dispensed between the fingers and loading deck so that it provides a smooth surface as the finger traverses the dock. A frame is mounted to the front of the finger, with a shaft on which the sheet material is coiled mounted to the frame, and an air motor for applying a generally constant tension (e.g. about 10 lbs. per square inch) to the plastic sheet. A hook or magnet is mounted in a recess in the deck and engages the free, leading end of the sheet material to hold it stationary on the deck as the finger traverses the deck, and thereby provide for automatic dispensing and take up of the sheet material.

Abstract: Load-lifting apparatus includes a pair of elements moveable on air bearings laterally toward and away from one another. Each element carries an inflatable bladder for lifting a load. A rack is also provided for receiving various loads, for example, automotive vehicles. The elements have cutouts at longitudinally spaced positions such that, upon disposition of the elements below the rack, the elements can be moved laterally away from one another with the cutouts registering with the wheel wells. The bladders may be inflated to lift the rack and load carried thereby for movement into a container. The process may be reversed to remove the rack and load from the container.