Including Shock-absorbing Means Patents (Class 108/57.12)
  • Patent number: 10173807
    Abstract: An anti-dumpling pallet structure includes a pallet body and at least one supporting module. At least one chamber is formed inside the pallet body. The at least one supporting module includes a first supporting member and a second supporting member. The first supporting member and the second supporting member are movably connected to the pallet body. The first supporting member and the second supporting member protrude from the pallet body to provide support for preventing the pallet body acted by an external force from falling over when the at least one supporting module is located at a first position relative to the pallet body, and the first supporting member and the second supporting member are received inside the at least one chamber when the at least one supporting module is located at a second position relative to the pallet body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Xiayan Liang, Yunqiang Huang
  • Patent number: 10093450
    Abstract: A height-adjustable shock pallet includes a lower deck and an upper deck. A central portion of the upper deck is sized to receive a rack-mounted information handling system (IHS) for shipping. Air bags attached between the lower and upper decks are selectively inflatable to protect the rack-mounted IHS during transport and deflatable to position the upper deck proximate to the lower deck for unloading. A controller can detect a tilt of the upper deck and differentially inflate or deflate respective subsets of the air bags to rebalance the upper deck. The controller maintains the rack-mounted IHS horizontal to prevent tipping during transport. Integral or attachable caster wheels can enable repositioning of the height-adjustable shock pallet with the air bags deflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: Dell Products, L.P.
    Inventors: Steven Embleton, Rene J. Salas
  • Patent number: 10059487
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a vibration isolation pallet, comprising a support platform and a vibration isolation component arranged on top. The vibration isolation component further comprises a top and a bottom supporting plate with a plurality of spherical dampers and support columns strategically disposed in between. The edges of the top and bottom supporting plates are reinforced together with rubber damping pieces at various locations. The vibration isolation component can be detached from the support platform and functions independently. The pallet as whole can be serviced and maintained for repeated use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Solee Science & Technology U.S.A
    Inventors: Lijun Sun, Qin Zhang
  • Patent number: 9950834
    Abstract: A device delivery system includes a base support member having vertical force dissipation member(s) that dissipate vertical forces, and a device support member that mounts to one or more devices. A horizontal movement subsystem couples the device support member to the base support member, and operates to allow the device support member to move relative to the base support member in a substantially horizontal plane during rack transport. Resilient member(s) extend between the base support member and the device support member, and operate to damp the movement of the device support member relative to the base support member in the substantially horizontal plane. A movement limiting subsystem may be provided on the base support member and the device support member, and may be activated to resist movement of the device support member relative to the base support member in the substantially horizontal plane during rack positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Eric Tunks, Steven Embleton
  • Patent number: 9423001
    Abstract: An isolation system for a transportation pallet, a transportation pallet, and a method of providing an isolation system are provided. The isolation system comprises a plunger assembly comprising a graduated surface area having a first end with a relatively smaller surface area than a second end having a relatively larger surface area. The isolation system further comprises a cushion pad coupled to the plunger assembly such that when a load is applied to the plunger assembly, the plunger assembly is pressed into the cushion pad to cause the cushion pad to bear the load over a surface area of the plunger assembly corresponding to the magnitude of the load. When the load is increased, a larger surface area of the plunger assembly and the cushion pad supports the load and as the load decreases, a smaller surface area of the plunger assembly and cushion pad supports the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Kenton C. Green, William J. Green, Michael D. O'Connell, Eric A. Stegner, Robert W. Stegner
  • Patent number: 9227757
    Abstract: A pallet comprised of a first deck, a second deck, a dampening device and a shield. The first deck includes an interior surface, an exterior surface and an edge. The second deck includes an interior surface. The dampening device located between the interior surface of the first deck and the interior surface of the second deck. The dampening device configured to contract to counteract a compression force when the first deck and the second deck are pressed together and further configured to deform to counteract an expansive force when the first deck and the second deck are pulled apart. The shield having a first planar member adjacent to the exterior surface of the first deck opposite the dampening device and a second planar member extending from the first planar member to the interior surface of the second deck and adjacent to the edge of the first deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Lenovo Enterprise Solutions (Singapore) PTE. LTD.
    Inventors: Kenton C. Green, William J. Green, Robert W. Stegner
  • Patent number: 8991780
    Abstract: A load carrier device is provided with a support structure and means arranged for connection to a lifting means. The support structure comprises one or more shock absorbers provided with a telescoping element which in an initial position projects downwards from an underside of the support structure and is arranged for damped compressive telescoping at the contact of the load carrier with a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Offshore Technology Partner AS
    Inventors: Tarald Tveit Pedersen, Kjell Morten Kaldestad
  • Patent number: 8887914
    Abstract: A bulk material shipping container in one embodiment including a pallet, a bottom compartment mounted on the pallet, a top compartment mounted on the bottom compartment and movable from a retracted position relative to the bottom compartment to an expanded position relative to the bottom compartment, a plurality of top compartment supporting assemblies configured to support the top compartment in the expanded position relative to the bottom compartment, and configured to release the top compartment from the expanded position to enable the top compartment to move downwardly into the retracted position, a material unloading assembly, a material loading assembly, and an extension assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Arrows Up, Inc.
    Inventors: C. John Allegretti, Anthony M. Raso, Lyndon Just
  • Patent number: 8833723
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting equipment and a method for the manufacture of the apparatus are disclosed. A damping assembly configured to dampen movement of a first item relative to a second item may include an arm and a shock absorber. The arm may be configured to be located between the first item and the second item and may be configured to pivotally couple to the first item and configured to slidably couple to the second item. The shock absorber may be configured to couple between the first item and the arm, such that the shock absorber dampens rotation of the arm to dampen movement of the first item relative to the second item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Toppan Photomasks, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8833722
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting equipment and a method for the manufacture of the apparatus are disclosed. A method of manufacture may include providing a first platform having a substantially planar first surface. The method may also include providing a second platform having a substantially planar second surface substantially parallel to the first surface. The method may further include mechanically coupling the second surface to the first surface via a plurality of compression springs allowing movement of the second platform relative to the first platform. Additionally, the method may include mechanically coupling a bearing assembly configured to maintain registration of the second platform relative to the first platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Toppan Photomasks, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8720350
    Abstract: A pallet for transportation and handling of goods includes a base and a deck above the base for supporting goods. The pallet includes at least one location element that is provided between the deck and the base arranged to substantially limit lateral motion of the deck relative to the base. At least one isolator is provided between the deck and the base arranged to provide shock and vibration isolation to the deck from the base. In another aspect, the pallet includes at least one isolator between the deck and the base arranged to provide shock and vibration isolation to the deck from the base, the isolator including a resilient hollow shell that is open to the atmosphere in at least one place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Xyratex Technology Limited
    Inventor: Bryan Bush
  • Publication number: 20140090581
    Abstract: A method and system for reducing the effects of vibration and shock during transfer of an item on a pallet is provided. The system includes sleeves having recesses therein. The recesses are used to house dampening members, which reduce the vertical movement of the item on the pallet during transport of the item. Blocks may be positioned on the sleeves and may include apertures therethrough to house feet of the item being shipped to aid in providing lateral stability for the item during transfer. In addition, a transition member may be positioned between the feet of the item and the dampening member to increase the surface area on the dampening member to further aid in stabilizing the vertical movement of the item during transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Michael Schultz
  • Publication number: 20140086718
    Abstract: A pallet for transportation and handling of goods includes a base and a deck above the base for supporting goods. The pallet includes at least one location element that is provided between the deck and the base arranged to substantially limit lateral motion of the deck relative to the base. At least one isolator is provided between the deck and the base arranged to provide shock and vibration isolation to the deck from the base. In another aspect, the pallet includes at least one isolator between the deck and the base arranged to provide shock and vibration isolation to the deck from the base, the isolator including a resilient hollow shell that is open to the atmosphere in at least one place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Xyratex Technology Limited
    Inventor: Bryan BUSH
  • Patent number: 8505467
    Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides a protection system for cargo on a portable platform. The protection system includes a corner protection member and/or a side protection member, wherein at least one opening is on the corner protection member and at least one opening is on the side protection member. The corner protection member contacts a corner of a portable platform and the side protection member contacts a side of a portable platform. A strap can lace into at least one of the opening on the corner protection member and/or the side protection member to bear force from such strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Ronald Bruce Roberts, Christopher Shaun Roberts
  • Patent number: 8397929
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flat rack container, and more particularly, to an integral buffering apparatus disposed between end walls and a base and for automatically controlling a flow rate of oil that flows in a cylinder housing through channels formed in a slider when the end walls are folded, to control a falling speed of the end walls, thereby absorbing an impact of the end walls, preventing damage of the end walls and the base, and ensuring safety of workers. The integral buffering apparatus includes a cylinder housing including a space for accommodating oil; a slider disposed in the space to be movable in a length direction of the cylinder housing and to divide the space into a first space and a second space; first oil channels and a second oil channel for connecting the first space and the second space to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Vanplus Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Du-Min Choi
  • Patent number: 8347793
    Abstract: A method of manufacture may include providing a first platform having a substantially planar first surface and a second platform having a substantially planar second surface substantially parallel to the first surface. The method may further include mechanically coupling the second surface and first surface via a plurality of compression springs allowing movement of the second platform relative to the first platform. Additionally, the method may include mechanically coupling at least one weight sensor to the second platform configured to measure a portion of weight of a load upon the apparatus. Moreover, the method may include communicatively coupling a compression spring control module to at least one compression spring of the plurality of compression springs and the at least one weight sensor configured to tune the at least one compression spring based at least on the portion of weight of the load measured by the at least one weight sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Toppan Photomasks, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8336466
    Abstract: Enhanced pallets including a plurality of hollow blocks and a plurality of hollow cross members are provided. The pallets may be aluminum extruded pallets. The blocks and cross members are welded together to form a pallet. The blocks and cross members may have internal wall structures which, form one or more crush cells or crush zones. The crush cells or crush zones deform in a controlled manner on impact to reduce impact damage to the pallets. The pallets have a high load strength supporting capability and allow the pallets to withstand repeated or severe impacts while remaining functional.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Ayyakannu Mani
  • Publication number: 20120160137
    Abstract: A pallet having a three dimensional body exhibiting a generally planar upper surface and a plurality of depth extending underside portions defining a plurality of spaced apart forklift receiving apertures. A plurality of impact absorbing members are positioned at spaced locations about a perimeter of the body. A structural defining inner grid includes pluralities of spaced apart and crosswise extending ribs for supporting inner extending reinforcing members seating within pockets defined in said ribs and including at least one of lengthwise and diagonal extending members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: ORIA COLLAPSIBLES, LLC
    Inventor: Miguel A. Linares
  • Patent number: 8172194
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting equipment and a method for the manufacture of the apparatus are disclosed. A damping assembly configured to dampen movement of a first item relative to a second item may include an arm and a shock absorber. The arm may be configured to be located between the first item and the second item and may be configured to pivotally couple to the first item and configured to slidably couple to the second item. The shock absorber may be configured to couple between the first item and the arm, such that the shock absorber dampens rotation of the arm to dampen movement of the first item relative to the second item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Toppan Photomasks, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8056891
    Abstract: A device for use on palletized loads of containers for maintaining tension in vertical strapping comprises a rectangle (20) having outer dimensions commensurate with the dimensions of a pallet or dolly on which. containers are to be stacked in layers, each side of the rectangle comprising upper and lower leaves (21L, 22L) diverging from hinge means at the inner edge of the side, the lower leaves (22L) of all four sides being disposed in a common plane, and spring means (23) urging the outer edges of the upper and lower leaves apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Loadhog Limited
    Inventors: Hugh David Facey, Derek Boaler, John Makin, Neil Clarke
  • Patent number: 7910841
    Abstract: A foot assembly for a weighing scale comprises a base, a ring arranged in coaxial spaced relation to the base; and a plurality of deformable compensation beams projecting outwardly from a portion of the base so as to support the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Measurement Ltd
    Inventor: Damon Germanton
  • Publication number: 20100294174
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting equipment and a method for the manufacture of the apparatus are disclosed. A damping assembly configured to dampen movement of a first item relative to a second item may include an arm and a shock absorber. The arm may be configured to be located between the first item and the second item and may be configured to pivotally couple to the first item and configured to slidably couple to the second item. The shock absorber may be configured to couple between the first item and the arm, such that the shock absorber dampens rotation of the arm to dampen movement of the first item relative to the second item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100294176
    Abstract: A method of manufacture may include providing a first platform having a substantially planar first surface and a second platform having a substantially planar second surface substantially parallel to the first surface. The method may further include mechanically coupling the second surface and first surface via a plurality of compression springs allowing movement of the second platform relative to the first platform. Additionally, the method may include mechanically coupling at least one weight sensor to the second platform configured to measure a portion of weight of a load upon the apparatus. Moreover, the method may include communicatively coupling a compression spring control module to at least one compression spring of the plurality of compression springs and the at least one weight sensor configured to tune the at least one compression spring based at least on the portion of weight of the load measured by the at least one weight sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100294175
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting equipment and a method for the manufacture of the apparatus are disclosed. A method of manufacture may include providing a first platform having a substantially planar first surface. The method may also include providing a second platform having a substantially planar second surface substantially parallel to the first surface. The method may further include mechanically coupling the second surface to the first surface via a plurality of compression springs allowing movement of the second platform relative to the first platform. Additionally, the method may include mechanically coupling a bearing assembly configured to maintain registration of the second platform relative to the first platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: David S. Cummins, Curt A. Jackson, James N. Cook, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100229764
    Abstract: A pallet having an upper deck and a lower deck secured by supporting block members. The upper deck may include a plurality of board members and may be provided with at least one lead board operable to serve as an energy attenuator. The lead board may comprise a composite material and may be formed using pultrusion techniques. The lead board may be separated or spaced from an adjacent board member by a gap or scallop type area and may be operable to flex inwardly or otherwise upon impact to absorb energy. The gap or scallop type area may be suitable to operate in combination with the lead board as a handle mechanism for grabbing or lifting the pallet. The lead board may also be used to attach shipping straps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: FITZPATRICK TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventor: Terry L. Ingham
  • Publication number: 20100000163
    Abstract: A raised floor structure includes a vibration-damping platform and a support structure. The vibration-damping platform includes a bottom plate having a supporting face; a top plate located at a predetermined height position above the bottom plate to thereby define a vibration-buffering space therebetween; and a damping pad disposed in the vibration-buffering space between the top plate and the bottom plate. The support structure includes a plurality of supporting members connected to the supporting face of the bottom plate and located between the supporting face of the bottom plate and a foundation structure for supporting the vibration-damping platform thereon. Meanwhile, a raised space is formed between the bottom plate of the vibration-damping platform and the foundation structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventors: Hong-I Tsai, Yann-Shuoh Sun
  • Patent number: 7637219
    Abstract: A pallet for receiving and transporting loads, having an upper platform for receiving the loads and block-like or strip-like support elements which are attached to or can be attached to its underside by connecting sections. At least the support elements are made of plastic with fiber material embedded therein. Advantageous shock absorbing properties, along with an advantageous structure, are achieved because the fiber material consists of natural fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Rittal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Marc Andreas Hartel, Thomas Speck, Tina Steinbrecher, Deane Harder
  • Publication number: 20090205540
    Abstract: A metal pallet includes a first deck subassembly, first and second bumpers, and a plurality of risers. The first deck subassembly includes a plurality of deck boards. The first bumper connects to at least one of the deck boards along a first peripheral edge of the first deck subassembly. The second bumper connects to at least one of the deck boards along a second peripheral edge of the first deck subassembly. The first peripheral edge is oriented approximately normal to the second peripheral edge. The plurality of risers connects to the first deck subassembly for spacing the first deck subassembly above an associated surface upon which the pallet rests. A second deck subassembly can also be employed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Worthington Steelpac Systems
    Inventor: Larry Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20090000526
    Abstract: A cargo container assembly includes a cargo container for transporting goods. A plurality of support assemblies are connected to a bottom of a base of the cargo container. Each support assembly includes a foot or support pad connected to the bottom of the base by one or more compressible, or otherwise shock-absorbing, leg mechanisms. One or more of the leg mechanisms optionally include a compression spring for providing shock absorption under loading conditions. The bottom surface of each support pad is preferably flat, or substantially flat, for resting on the ground or on other relatively even surfaces, and for facilitating movement of the support pad along roller-ball conveyors, roller-mats, and other conveyor systems. Because the support assemblies position the container base above the ground, the container assembly can readily be lifted by the arms of a pallet jack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Looker
  • Publication number: 20080250987
    Abstract: A pallet for receiving and transporting loads, having an upper platform for receiving the loads, and a substructure, which supports the upper platform and is constructed of an upper part and a lower part and several support members inserted between them. A good shock absorption, along with a rugged construction, is achieved because the support members each is of a held-together bundle of spike-like individual elements, which extend between the upper part and the lower part, can be laterally deflected with respect to each other and have damping properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Marc Andreas Hartel, Deane Harder, Markus Milwich, Henrique Monnerat, Thomas Speck
  • Publication number: 20070283858
    Abstract: A shipping unit includes a rack cabinet, computerized devices and a pallet. The computerized devices are mounted within the rack cabinet. The rack cabinet is mounted on the pallet. The pallet includes layers of sheets of structural material and a layer of blocks of vibration dampening padding between first and second ones of the layers of sheets of structural material. Each block of vibration dampening padding includes a lower rectangular portion and an upper tapered portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Lance R. Ballard
  • Patent number: 7096798
    Abstract: A pod (10) arranged to support a load (14) and absorb shock experienced by the load includes a body (18) and a face (16) spaced from the body and oriented to be mounted to the underside of a load placed on the face. At least one spring assembly (20) is disposed around the periphery of the body and extends between the body and the face to absorb shock experienced by the load. The face and the at least one spring assembly form a cavity configured to receive a body of a like pod disposed thereabove when arranged in a stacked orientation. The pod may also be incorporated into a pallet assembly (90, 110).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Robert V. Gruber
  • Patent number: 6976435
    Abstract: A pallet system for supporting a load of packages is disclosed. The pallet system is comprised of a plurality of pallet units. Each pallet unit may have a load support portion, a plurality of side portions attached thereto, and a flange portion attached to the side portions. The load support portion is adapted to be placed directly adjacent to the bottom surface of the load. The side portions have openings sufficiently sized to receive forks of a forklift. The flange portion is flexible and extends continuously around the periphery of the pallet unit. A method for supporting a load of packages utilizing a plurality of pallet units is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Coors Global Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip J. Lucas, William P. Apps, Jon P. Hassell
  • Patent number: 6966535
    Abstract: A table assembly that includes a snubber coupled to both a table and a vibration isolator. The snubber limits relative movement between the table and vibration isolator so that the isolator can more quickly damp movement by the table. The snubber reduces the settling time of the table when subjected to shock and/or vibration loads. The snubber may include one or more rollers coupled to an elastomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Newport Corporation
    Inventors: Vyacheslav M. Ryaboy, Worthington B. Houghton, Jr., Herman B. Keil
  • Patent number: 6941877
    Abstract: A loading member with a substantially L-shaped cross section and which jointly with a corresponding loading member may be arranged at the bottom of a box, each member being provided at one of two respective parallel lower edges of the box. The loading members are retained in close abutment with the box by means of circumferential straps or packaging film, whereby the members form feet for the box. A first web of the L-section is provided with at least two pressed hollow projections on the surface intended to face a supporting surface of the loading member. Two of these projections have an interspacing of at least half the length of the member. The width of the projections is less than or equal to half the width of the first web. The projections substantially abut an edge at which the webs of the L-section converge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Inter Ikea Systems B.V.
    Inventor: Allan Dickner
  • Patent number: 6857377
    Abstract: A shipping pallet that has a load bearing deck with a plurality of domes that provide high strength, stiffness, and rigidity to the deck, and an undercarriage for supporting the deck and for receiving a forklift, palletjack, hand truck, or other automated machinery. Each dome is defined by an apex located proximate to the upper surface of the deck and a plurality of legs extending from the apex and ending at the lower surface of the deck. The domes are arranged adjacent to each other and define an array such that a load applied to the upper surface of the deck, substantially on the apex of the domes, will cause the applied forces from the load to be transmitted substantially laterally along the legs of the arches thereby producing intersecting compressive forces between adjacent domes that enable the load bearing deck to have high strength, stiffness, and rigidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventors: Conrad C. Herring, Richard A. Halavais
  • Patent number: 6849677
    Abstract: Polyolefin-based pallets capable of passing standard pallet flammability tests are prepared by molding the pallet or one or more subassemblies thereof, of a polyolefin molding resin containing a flame retardant package containing a halogenated organic flame retardant, alumina trihydrate, and antimony trioxide. The flame retardants are advantageously supplied as a master batch at a concentration higher than that desired in the pallet or subassembly, in a polyolefin-compatible polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Trenton M. Overholt
  • Patent number: 6739153
    Abstract: An optical workstation comprising an optical breadboard supported by a frame, the frame comprising a plurality of upstanding legs interconnected by laterally extending cross-beams, the cross-beams defining a space into which the optical breadboard is received and laterally enclosed. By laterally enclosing the optical breadboard with the cross-beam frame elements, side protection for the optical breadboard is provided, thus protecting it from lateral impacts against which conventional damping mounts are not effective. In addition, since the cross-beams are part of the frame structure, they provide a stable and rigid platform for mounting optical and other components at the very edge of the workstation outside the optical breadboard area. Anchor points in the cross-beams are provided for this purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Melles Griot Limited
    Inventors: Philip Andrew Davies, Anil M Patel, Malcolm Sargeant, Brian Watson, Tony Wills
  • Patent number: 6708628
    Abstract: A shipping pallet offers significant advantage over the prior art, in that it is stronger, lighter, stiffer and more rigid, more economical, and ecologically sound. The pallet for shipping materials includes a deck that has a plurality of arch elements situated adjacent to each other and wherein each of the arch elements is situated such that a load applied to the deck will transmit forces through each of the arch elements and towards adjacent arch elements, such that forces from adjacent arch elements intersect each other at an intersection point. One advantage of this structural design is that the intersecting forces create a countervailing compressive stress to fully or partially offset the forces from the applied load by laterally redirecting the stress inducing forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Richard A. Halavais
  • Patent number: 6644218
    Abstract: A pod for absorbing shock placed on a load includes a rigid body, a rigid face, and a spring assembly. The face is positioned above the body for attachment to the underside of a load placed on the face. The spring assembly connects the body to the face. The spring assembly absorbs shock placed on the load during momentum changes felt by the load during transit or while being placed on a support surface. The pod may also be incorporated into a pallet assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Rehrig Pacific Company
    Inventor: Robert V. Gruber
  • Patent number: 6637351
    Abstract: A shipping pallet comprises a rectangular planar base member having two opposing ends and two opposing sides. Pivotally connected to one of the ends of the base member is a handle member that is adapted to be pivoted from a stored position, wherein the handle member is folded on top of the base member, to an operative position, wherein the handle member extends upwardly from the base member. The under surface of the base member includes a pair of elongated spaced apart pockets that extend the length of the base member on either side of the center line thereof. An elongated rail is associated with each of the pockets. Hydraulic rams or other power devices move the rails between a first position wherein they are within the pockets so that the planar base member of the pallet rests directly on a support surface and a second position Where the rails extend downwardly to support the pallet thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Lock Nest, L.L.C.
    Inventors: James F. Brennan, Jr., Martin Clive-Smith
  • Patent number: 6634613
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a product carrier, pallet or skid formed of substantially homogeneous molded polymeric/copolymeric synthetic plastic material of a one-piece construction. The carrier includes an upper surface above which projects one or more elongated shock-absorbing fins, ribs or equivalent structure for absorbing impact-forces through deformation upon the carrier and a relatively heavy product carried thereby being dropped or mishandled. One or more fasteners snugly secure the product against the shock-absorbing fins of the carrier and are also in freely sliding relationship thereto to accommodate product movement relative to the carrier upon deformation of the shock-absorbing fins/structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: EMH Systems
    Inventors: Lloyd A. Kaper, Robert T. Schaftenaar
  • Patent number: 6609467
    Abstract: A pallet for use in loading, storage and transportation of shock sensitive equipment with the pallet including an upper member supported in a spaced condition from a lower member to form pockets for fork lifts or the like with the upper member isolated from the lower member by a set of elastomer mounts that react to external compressive forces thereon by internal shearing resistance rather than compression resistance with the edge of support member spaced laterally from the edges the lower member to inhibit the upper members from contacting each other when one pallets are positioned adjacent to each other and are subject to shock or vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corp.
    Inventors: Robert James Monson, Trevor J. McCollough
  • Patent number: 6598545
    Abstract: A table that includes a damper attached to a first faceplate and a second faceplate. The damper can dampen flexural loads introduced to the table by either shock or vibration. The damper may include a damping layer that is attached to a first plate and a second plate. The first plate may be cantilevered from the first faceplate. The second plate may be cantilevered from the second faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Newport Corporation
    Inventors: Vyacheslav M. Ryaboy, Worthington B. Houghton, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030047121
    Abstract: A pod for absorbing shock placed on a load includes a rigid body, a rigid face, and a spring assembly. The face is positioned above the body for attachment to the underside of a load placed on the face. The spring assembly connects the body to the face. The spring assembly absorbs shock placed on the load during momentum changes felt by the load during transit or while being placed on a support surface. The pod may also be incorporated into a pallet assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Applicant: REHRIG PACIFIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Robert V. Gruber
  • Publication number: 20030037710
    Abstract: A pallet for use in loading, storage and transportation of shock sensitive equipment with the pallet including an upper member supported in a spaced condition from a lower member to form pockets for fork lifts or the like with the upper member isolated from the lower member by a set of elastomer mounts that react to external compressive forces thereon by internal shearing resistance rather than compression resistance with the edge of support member spaced laterally from the edges the lower member to inhibit the upper members from contacting each other when one pallets are positioned adjacent to each other and are subject to shock or vibration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Robert James Monson, Trevor J. McCollough
  • Patent number: 6503585
    Abstract: A hollow-chamber lightweight component is described which at least comprises a shell-shaped housing part (1) made of high-strength material. a ribbed supporting structure (2) made of plastic, in particular of thermoplastic material, and at least one cover plate (4) or covering shell (20) made of a high-strength material which is, in particular. different from plastic and a method of producing the lightweight component is described. The supporting structure (2) is up against the inside of the housing part (1) and is joined, in particular. to the housing part (1). The cover plate (4) or covering shell (20) largely covers the space formed from housing part (1) and supporting structure (2) and is joined in its peripheral region at least with one part of the boundary (10) of the housing part (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Bayer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joachim Wagenblast, Boris Koch, Hubert Goldbach
  • Patent number: 6431088
    Abstract: A load depositing platform for damping impact forces exerted on a load during a parachute drop has an upper plate that is connected with at least one parachute and a lower plate. The upper plate and the lower plate are connected with one another by means of a scissor-type linkage, and by at least one damper element having a woven-fabric shell which defines an interior air space therein, so that relative motion of the two plates toward each other causes a compression of air space. The damper element has a passage ring, which has at least one air passage hole therein which permits a regulated flow of air into and out of the interior air space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Norbert Mahnken
  • Patent number: 6418862
    Abstract: A pallet comprising a base and a plurality of support members attached to the base. Each support member comprises an upper housing, a lower housing and shock absorbing material located within the two housings. When a force or vibration is exerted on the pallet the upper housing and lower housing move to a compressed configuration thereby reducing the amount of shock transferred to the upper face of the pallet. When the force on the pallet is removed, the upper housing and lower housing return to an expanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Burnham Service Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Julius F. Heil
  • Publication number: 20010050035
    Abstract: A load depositing platform for damping impact forces exerted on a load during a parachute drop has an upper plate that is connected with at least one parachute and a lower plate. The upper plate and the lower plate are connected with one another by means of a scissor-type linkage, and by at least one damper element having a woven-fabric shell which defines an interior air space therein, so that relative motion of the two plates toward each other causes a compression of air space. The damper element has a passage ring, which has at least one air passage hole therein which permits a regulated flow of air into and out of the interior air space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Norbert Mahnken