Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically loading a cargo compartment of a vehicle is disclosed that maximizes the utilization of available space within the vehicle by determining an optimum load configuration based on various parameters of the vehicle and the containers to be loaded. A self-propelled robot loader is used to load the cargo compartment based on the determined optimum load configuration. The robot loader automatically withdraws from the cargo compartment as the loading is completed.

Abstract: An overhead plural conductor trolley rail and flying pickup for supplying electrical power to a vehicle includes a plastic extrusion fastened to an overhead structure housing parallel flat conductors, the exposed underside of each of the conductors being engaged by shoes carried on vehicle supported trolley units. At one end of the rail a guide structure for the trolley includes a central, side skirted or inverted channel shaped portion, flanked at either end by oppositely extending side-skirted ramps each inclined upwardly from the central portion. The approach ramp also diverges horizontally outwardly of the rail support. To accurately engage the trolley carried shoes with the rails, the operator need only insure that the trolley enters the divergent portion of the guide at its widest open end.