Group Of Articles Which Are, Predominantly, Regularly Contoured; I.e., Are Rodlike, Panel Shaped, Blocks, Or Analogous Forms Patents (Class 410/32)
  • Patent number: 11485269
    Abstract: A trailer for carrying plate glass has an elongated deck and an elongated rigid beam that extends above the deck. The beam supports plate glass transported by the trailer. The deck and the beam may be made from aluminum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Trail King Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Scot J. Vander Pol, John J. Job
  • Patent number: 11351906
    Abstract: A trailer for carrying plate glass has an elongated deck and an elongated rigid beam that extends above the deck. The beam supports plate glass transported by the trailer. The deck and the beam may be made from aluminum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: TRAIL KING INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Scot J. Vander Pol, John J. Job
  • Patent number: 10974637
    Abstract: A securing apparatus for a container being transported, with the container having four side walls and two end walls with the side walls and end walls meeting at edges that intersect at eight corners with each corner being the convergence of three edges. The apparatus having a container stabilizing base and a strap securing base. The container stabilizing base having a first L-shaped arm extending along a first edge of the container, a second L-shaped arm extending along a second edge of the container and a third L-shaped arm extending along a third edge of the container. The first, second and third L-shaped arms are interconnected such the container stabilizing base in positioned about and against one of the eight corners. The L-shaped arms having two legs which are configured to be positioned against two adjected container walls. The strap securing base is affixed to the container stabilizing base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Inventor: Dennis George Morken
  • Patent number: 10829159
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle body and a reinforcement assembly. The vehicle body has first inner and outer walls that define a cavity and second inner and outer curved walls that define another cavity. The reinforcement assembly includes a plurality of inserts. One insert of the plurality of inserts is at least partially disposed in the cavity defined by the first inner and outer walls and another insert of the plurality of inserts is at least partially disposed in the another cavity defined by the second inner and outer curved walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: FCA US LLC
    Inventors: Paul R Stibich, David M Biernat, Radhakrishnan Raman
  • Patent number: 10738766
    Abstract: A transport system for transporting a wind turbine blade on first and second railcars that serve as load cars. A root end fixture on the first railcar is connected to a root end portion of the wind turbine blade. A mid-frame fixture on the second railcar supports a reinforced midsection of the wind turbine blade using a pair of support saddles. A tip end fixture restrains a tip end portion of the wind turbine blade against lateral movement outside of a preselected range of movement in opposite lateral directions and causing bending of the blade about the mid-frame fixture when the restraint device imparts sufficient restraining force to the tip end portion of the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Martin Bencher USA, LLC
    Inventors: Scott R. Fletcher, John D. Glover
  • Patent number: 10669681
    Abstract: A safety trailer is shown including first and second platforms, at least one of said first and second platforms having an axle and wheels attached thereto; a plurality of interconnected wall sections positioned between and connected to the first and second platforms, the plurality of wall sections defining a protected work area on a side of the trailer; and wherein the trailer supports a ballast member, the ballast member being positioned near a first side of the trailer and the wall sections near a second, opposing side of the trailer, the ballast member offsetting, at least partially, a weight of the plurality of wall sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Concaten, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin K. Groeneweg, David Meyerink, Duane Meyerink, LeRoy Severson
  • Patent number: 10518688
    Abstract: A trailer for carrying plate glass has an elongated deck and an elongated rigid beam that extends above the deck. The beam supports plate glass transported by the trailer. The deck and the beam may be made from aluminum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Trail King Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Scot J. Vander Pol, John J. Job
  • Patent number: 9834229
    Abstract: Arranged on a rail loading train for transporting long-welded rails is a fixing device for anchoring the rails. The fixing device is composed of a number of clamping devices, each provided for anchoring a single rail. The clamping devices are configured to be adjustable relative to the rail loading train in a longitudinal direction of the wagon by a displacement drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Robel Bahnbaumaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Traintinger, Raimund Machatschek
  • Patent number: 9346392
    Abstract: A mounting adapter for use with E-track modular cargo track comprises a face plate and a jaw member. The jaw member comprises a generally cuboid body with two steps in the front face near each end and a bevel in the back face at each end. The steps and bevel cooperate to enable the jaw member to be inserted through the rectangular opening of the E-track into the narrow confines between the web of the E-track and the side or floor of the cargo bed. Once inserted, the steps center the jaw member vertically within the rectangular opening so that the face plate can be attached without the jaw member dropping into the space behind the E-track. The raised portions of the jaws include female threads adapted to receive a threaded fastener for fastening an object to the E-track while simultaneously capturing the E-track between the jaw and the face plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Neal Technologies IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Kennieth Neal, Kenneth Kreuter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9022707
    Abstract: A cargo rack for transferring loads between a marine vessel and an offshore marine platform provides a frame having a front, a rear, and upper and lower end portions. The lower end of the frame has a perimeter beam base, a raised floor and a pair of open-ended parallel fork tine tubes that communicate with the perimeter beam at the front and rear of the frame. The frame includes a plurality of fixed side walls extending upwardly from the perimeter beam. A plurality of gates are movably mounted on the frame, each gate being movable between open and closed positions, the gates enabling a forklift to place loads on the floor. The frame has vertically extending positioning beams that segment the floor into a plurality of load-holding positions. Each load holding position has positioning beams that laterally hold a load module in position on the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Danny Ness
  • Patent number: 8858136
    Abstract: The current invention is directed to an improved storage unit for dunnage wherein the dunnage comprises load supporting plates and load locking bars, the load supporting plates being stored in a horizontal orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: David A. Flood
  • Publication number: 20140271093
    Abstract: A bale retention system for retaining bales of material on a trailer, the system including a trailer with a horizontal trailer bed having first and second ends, a bale retention wall extending upwardly from the trailer bed and extending between the first and second ends of the trailer bed, and a trailer roller system including a first arm pivotably attached at its first end to a first structure at a first end of the trailer, a second arm pivotably attached at its first end to a second structure at a second end of the trailer, and a roller extending between and rotatably attached to a second end of the first and second arms. The roller system is actuatable so that the roller is moveable along an arcuate path extending from a point adjacent to a top surface of the bale retention wall to a point adjacent to the trailer bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Adam R. Wirt
  • Patent number: 8794884
    Abstract: A clip for securing a part, having a body portion having a first wall surface and a supporting surface adjacent the first wall surface, a retaining arm connected to the body, the retaining arm comprising a second wall surface opposite the first wall surface, an engaging portion at the distal end of the retaining arm, and an engaging surface on the engaging portion generally opposite the supporting surface. The first and second wall surfaces cooperate to define a groove that is sized and shaped to receive a portion of the part therein. The retaining arm is moveable between an open position wherein the portion of the part may be received in the groove, and a locked position wherein the engaging surface at least partially overhangs the groove and the engaging surface and the supporting surface cooperate so as to retain the portion of the part when received within the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Gaudette
  • Patent number: 8764358
    Abstract: A rack for storing load bars against the side wall of the cargo area of a cargo truck equipped with E-track. The rack includes a generally U-shaped base having a rear side equipped with E-clips for mounting on the side wall, a closed end, a front side having two vertically-spaced horizontal cantilevered retainer arms substantially parallel to the side wall when the rack is mounted, and an open end. Load bars are inserted and removed from the rack in a plane parallel to the side wall the cargo area, in a vertical orientation, and are secured in place with a horizontal adjustable-length strap operable in the space between the front retainer arms to selectively close off the open end of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph M. Bose
  • Patent number: 8632286
    Abstract: A transportation system for a wind turbine rotor blade is provided. The transportation system includes a root fixture adapted to receive the root end of the wind turbine rotor blade, and a tip end fixture adapted to receive a tip end of the wind turbine rotor blade. The root fixture and the tip end fixture are provided as separate transportable units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas Wessel, Dirk-Jan Kootstra
  • Patent number: 8616814
    Abstract: A trailer wall hook is provided as a single unit that includes a U-shaped hook with a rounded or square base. The U-shaped hook includes an open eye-loop and j-hook support brackets. The open eye-loop is attached to the top front of the U-shaped hook and two smaller j-hooks are attached upside down on the rear of the U-shaped hook. The j-hooks provide for mounting the trailer wall hook on a cargo control or tie-down system on the inside wall of a trailer. The trailer wall hook provides for loading and supporting linear shaped or irregular shaped freight onto the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Edward Martin, Carl Martin, Charles Martin
  • Patent number: 8545147
    Abstract: A method for stowage of cargo items (7, 18, 100). In a cargo container (12, 20, 103) wherein spaces around the cargo items and within the cargo container are at least partly filled with spacer elements (1, 19, 104-106, 109-112) so as to substantially prevent movement of the cargo items in the cargo container, characterized in that dynamic forces on the cargo items associated with motion of the cargo container and/or weight forces on the cargo items are transmitted to the container structure through the spacer elements, and wherein at least one spacer element transmitting such forces comprises a shaped block of expanded plastics foam material, preferably polystyrene. The invention is applicable to comparatively heavy loads such as those transported in shipping containers and in such land vehicles as rail cars and road transport vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Strang LPP Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Robert Andrew Scott Strang, Robert William Alistair Strang
  • Patent number: 8534968
    Abstract: A distribution system includes a railcar having a length defining an x-direction, and a payload disposed within the interior of the railcar. The payload includes assemblages of product, the product of each assemblage being disposed upon a pallet, the assemblages being arranged in sets of assemblages along the x-direction. The sets of assemblages are disposed in an alternating staggered arrangement in the x-direction such that a first plurality of the sets of assemblages are disposed substantially toward one side of the railcar, and a second plurality of the sets of assemblages are disposed substantially toward the other side of the railcar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP
    Inventors: Sean T. Van Uum, Robert P. Hieronymus
  • Patent number: 8534970
    Abstract: Shipping chocks for securing a transverse cylindrical-shaped object on top of at least two vertically oriented cylindrical-shaped objects are disclosed. Methods of loading cylindrical-shaped objects in both vertical and horizontal orientations, using the chocks, allows for more cylindrical-shaped objects to be shipped in a shipping container in a safe and effective manner that reduces shipping costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: RockTenn CP, LLC
    Inventor: Robert William Salo
  • Patent number: 8459911
    Abstract: Locking mechanisms and assemblies for securing cargo to a transportation platform without requiring the use of strapping or equivalent. Advantageously, the locking mechanism may be integrated into a container such that each container may be interlocked with an underlying and/or overlying container. Autolocking variations to the locking mechanism provide a more automated, secure and less labor intensive way to secure cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Robert M. Kim, Frank C. Chan, Robert J. Middleton, Robert M. Forrester, Bryan Anderson, Robert H. Holt
  • Publication number: 20130136556
    Abstract: A rack for storing load bars against the side wall of the cargo area of a cargo truck equipped with E-track. The rack includes a generally U-shaped base having a rear side equipped with E-clips for mounting on the side wall, a closed end, a front side having two vertically-spaced horizontal cantilevered retainer arms substantially parallel to the side wall when the rack is mounted, and an open end. Load bars are inserted and removed from the rack in a plane parallel to the side wall the cargo area, in a vertical orientation, and are secured in place with a horizontal adjustable-length strap operable in the space between the front retainer arms to selectively close off the open end of the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph M. Bose
  • Patent number: 8434978
    Abstract: An adapter kit for use with conventional tie-down straps or ropes includes an universal hook adapter having an adapter body with an opening formed at a first body end and sized to receive one of a J-hook, a split hook or an S-hook of a conventional tie-down strap or a rope, the adapter body defining a longitudinal axis plane, and an elongated end portion connected to the adapter body opposite the first body end through a bend that positions the elongated end portion to extend from and to continue in a longitudinal direction away from the adapter body and the first body end wherein the elongated end portion is parallel to and offset from the longitudinal axis plane of the adapter body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Lock N Load Systems LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Tardif, Douglas J. Lambert
  • Patent number: 8419327
    Abstract: A rail freight train is configured for transporting long welded rails. The train has a device for anchoring the rails disposed on the end of the rail freight train and composed of a number of insertion devices, each provided for anchoring an individual rail. A first clamping jaw is securely connected to the device, while a second clamping jaw is adjustable by way of a clamping wedge displaceable in the longitudinal rail direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Robel Bahnbaumaschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Christoph Muehlbacher
  • Patent number: 8398343
    Abstract: The present invention is a cargo restraint system for protecting a barrel-contained cargo in a cargo vehicle space during transportation. In one example, the cargo vehicle may contain two sets of stacked barrels with each set having three vertical levels of barrels. In a first embodiment of the invention, the cargo restraint system includes at least one crush cushion placed at either a front end or a back end of the barrel-contained cargo. The crush cushion provides at least five contact points against each barrel and the contact points are arranged along three levels of crush zones. An end-wall system is placed adjacent to the crush cushion. At least one angle member with a plurality of strap separation slots is coupled to the end-wall system. Each strap is threaded through the strap separation slots and is anchored to the cargo vehicle to securely hold the barrel-contained cargo to the crush cushion and the end wall system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sunrise Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Henley, Lori Funk
  • Patent number: 8388285
    Abstract: A support arrangement for supporting load in a transportation unit, includes a rod-like support member placed beside the load to support it and two parallel rails in the longitudinal direction of the transportation unit and at a distance from each other. The support member includes support ends for fastening to support points in the transportation unit so that the support member is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the transportation unit. Safe and easily implemented support for the load to be transported is achieved by arranging the support member to move along the inner walls of the rails and guided by the inner walls to set it against the load. The support arrangement includes an elongated flexible member and a tightening element for tightening the elongated flexible member against the load so that displacement of the load in relation to the rod-like member is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Oy Langh Ship Ab
    Inventor: Hans Langh
  • Patent number: 8322956
    Abstract: A method for stowage of cargo items (7, 18, 100). In a cargo container (12, 20, 103) wherein spaces around the cargo items and within the cargo container are at least partly filled with spacer elements (1, 19, 104-106, 109-112) so as to substantially prevent movement of the cargo items in the cargo container, characterized in that dynamic forces on the cargo items associated with motion of the cargo container and/or weight forces on the cargo items are transmitted to the container structure through the spacer elements, and wherein at least one spacer element transmitting such forces comprises a shaped block of expanded plastics foam material, preferably polystyrene. The invention is applicable to comparatively heavy loads such as those transported in shipping containers and in such land vehicles as rail cars and road transport vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Strang LPP Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Robert Andrew Scott Strang, Robert William Alistair Strang
  • Patent number: 8308408
    Abstract: A clip for securing a part, having a body portion having a first wall surface and a supporting surface adjacent the first wall surface, a retaining arm connected to the body, the retaining arm comprising a second wall surface opposite the first wall surface, an engaging portion at the distal end of the retaining arm, and an engaging surface on the engaging portion generally opposite the supporting surface. The first and second wall surfaces cooperate to define a groove that is sized and shaped to receive a portion of the part therein. The retaining arm is moveable between an open position wherein the portion of the part may be received in the groove, and a locked position wherein the engaging surface at least partially overhangs the groove and the engaging surface and the supporting surface cooperate so as to retain the portion of the part when received within the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Gaudette
  • Publication number: 20120251259
    Abstract: A transportable storage installation (1) with a length of at least 6 m comprising a plurality of racks (2), each rack being intended to contain batteries (3), each rack comprising at least one face (5) for inserting the batteries, at least half of the racks being arranged so that at least one insertion face is arranged perpendicularly to the direction (4) defined by the length of the storage installation, said installation optionally comprising at least one electric energy conversion device and/or one battery management electronic device. This transportable storage installation may for example be a transport container or a prefabricated shelter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: SAFT
    Inventors: Alexandre NARBONNE, Julien BOBINET
  • Patent number: 8251622
    Abstract: Devices for restraining tubular segments and methods for storing and accessing tubular segments may include a frame arrangement that has a plurality of parallel cradles for holding tubular segments and movable restraining handles for securing the tubular segments. A spring retention assembly may also be provided that has a spring force to hold the restraining handles against the tubular segments. A vehicle can be equipped to have a device for storing and accessing tubular segments, wherein the device is movable between a storage position and an access position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph L. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8231315
    Abstract: Embodiments comprise a stackable vehicle which may be supported from, or serve as support to, another like vehicle. The vehicle includes a frame and a body supported from the frame. The body includes a weight bearing roof. Wheel assemblies are mounted for rotation on the frame. The body includes recesses from the roof of the body to accommodate location of wheel assemblies of a like vehicle supported on the roof. Support and mounting points are located on the roof and on the frame respectively to fix location of a vehicle to be carried on top of a supporting vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Steven F Burns
  • Patent number: 8182182
    Abstract: A tie-down strap system, an offset adapter for use with a tie-down strap or rope and kits therefor are disclosed. A tie-down strap system includes an adjustable tie down strap component having a first strap secured on one end to a strap adjusting mechanism and an anchor point connector on an opposite end and a second strap having a free end removably and operably connected to the strap adjusting mechanism and an anchor point connector on an opposite end, the anchor point connector includes an connector body with an opening formed at a first body end to which a strap end is secured, and an elongated end portion extending longitudinally away from the connector body for a predefined distance and offset from the plane of the connector body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Lock N Load Systems LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Tardif, Douglas J. Lambert
  • Patent number: 8177463
    Abstract: A system for locking and unlocking containers to transport modes and other containers comprises an actuating unit in an upper corner fitting of a container, a mechanical connecting mechanism connected to the actuating unit, and guides to route the connecting mechanism from the actuating unit to a rotatable locking leg housed in a lower corner fitting of the container. The twist lock of a lifting spreader engages the upper corner fitting of a container, urging the actuating unit. The connecting mechanism is in turn urged thereby causing the locking leg to rotate. The locking system, and apparatus to unlock a container twistlock, comprises in addition to an actuating unit, a locking mechanism in a lower corner fitting of the container, and a vertical coupler connecting the actuating unit with the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Peter J Walker
  • Patent number: 8157490
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of securing freight containers on a deck of a large ship, and a spring lashing bar, a space adjuster and a securing system used in the method. In the method of the present invention, a movable lift is installed on a rail provided on a lashing bridge so as to be movable in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction. Freight containers are aligned with each other using tensile force generated in a horizontal direction by a container aligning device provided on a work table provided on the movable lift. The freight containers are coupled to each other using twistlocks in a vertical direction. Subsequently, adjacent left and right containers are coupled to each other using couplers and variable type coupling devices such that the freight containers are integrated with each other along an entire width of the ship or some width thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Jae-Wook Park
  • Patent number: 8152425
    Abstract: A pair of pipe bunks are utilized on in combination with a flatbed truck, deck of a work boat, or other conveyance means for securing loads of long, heavy, structural members during transportation. The pipe bunks have particular utility for oilfield tubulars. Each pipe bunk comprises a horizontal base member which is attached cross-wise to the flatbed of the truck, or deck of the workboat. A horizontal beam is attached to the horizontal base member and a vertical member is affixed to each opposing outside end of the horizontal beam. Adjustable slide members are slidingly attached to the horizontal base member, where each adjustable slide member has a vertical member which is disposed in offset facing relation with a respective outside vertical member. The slide members are attached to the horizontal base member with guide members. The slide members are adjustable with respect to the distance of each from the respective outside vertical member to accommodate the width of the desired load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Hazen
  • Patent number: 8083448
    Abstract: Shipping and storage containers, racks, and pallets including interlocking mechanisms are provided. An embodiment of the pallet includes openings, interface fittings aligned with the openings, respectively, and sized to fit into openings of identical sizes and configurations as the first and second openings, respectively, locking components operatively connected to one another, and an actuator for moving concomitantly the locking components into and out of the openings, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Mark Anthony Heinrichs, Donald Edmund Fabula, Eric Robert Boyd
  • Patent number: 8070402
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing the volumetric efficiency with which automotive vehicle frames are stacked on a carrier such as a railroad flat car. Frames are alternately reversed end-for-end and/or laterally offset from one another and may be longitudinally angled and internested between adjacent stacks. Twin sheet molded HDPE spacers are used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Shuert Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Lyle H. Shuert
  • Patent number: 8057138
    Abstract: Embodiments comprise a stackable vehicle which may be supported from, or serve as support to, another like vehicle. The vehicle includes a frame and a body supported from the frame. The body includes a weight bearing roof Wheel assemblies are mounted for rotation on the frame. The body includes recesses from the roof of the body to accommodate location of wheel assemblies of a like vehicle supported on the roof Support and mounting points are located on the roof and on the frame respectively to fix location of a vehicle to be carried on top of a supporting vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen F. Burns
  • Patent number: 7971919
    Abstract: Various enhancements to the capabilities of vehicles in general, and particularly light-duty utility vehicles, which can advantageously enhance the cargo-carrying capabilities of such vehicles. The present invention provides a cargo bed insert, as well as an insert system, for removable attachment to a vehicle's existing cargo box. Improvement to a light-duty utility vehicle, where the improvement is in the form of a cargo box for the vehicle which includes one or more features of the described cargo bed insert and/or system is disclosed. The invention contemplates methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capability of a light-duty utility vehicle. In particular, methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capacity of such a vehicle beyond a manufacturer's specified cargo weight capacity are provided. Lastly, the invention includes a mounting assembly for a removable attachment to a vehicle's frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Vertanen Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Vertanen
  • Patent number: 7922430
    Abstract: The current invention is directed to an improved storage unit for dunnage wherein the dunnage comprises load supporting plates and load locking bars, the load supporting plates being stored in a horizontal orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: David A. Flood
  • Patent number: 7874773
    Abstract: A semi-trailer chassis packing system capable of packing four stacked semi-trailer chassis in a secure bundle having dimensions of a standard forty foot intermodal shipping container. The chassis packing system includes a first frame assembly, a second frame assembly, and one or more spacers. The first frame assembly includes a pair of elongate first bolster receiving members, a first primary connecting member, and a first secondary connecting member. First bolster receiving members are joined by first detachable pivoting joints to opposite ends of the first primary connecting member. First bolster receiving members pivot to perpendicular orientation with respect to the first primary connecting member, receiving rear bolsters of two stacked trailers into cavities provided in the first bolster receiving members. Second bolster receiving members are joined by second detachable pivoting joints to opposite ends of the second primary connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Ayman H Awad
  • Patent number: 7862268
    Abstract: A cargo securing apparatus for holding cargo to the bed of a vehicle such as a pickup truck includes a one-piece body and straps. The body has a first horizontally extending portion, a second vertically extending portion and a third angled portion. The horizontal portion extends either under or over the cargo. The vertical panel extends along the end of the cargo. Straps are used to secure the body to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Ken Dibner
  • Patent number: 7862269
    Abstract: A vehicle cargo bed includes a cargo bed floor, a wall structure and an attachment member. The cargo bed floor has an approximately horizontal cargo bed surface. The wall structure at least partially surrounds the cargo bed surface. At least a portion of the wall structure has an upper end. The attachment member is secured to the upper end of the portion of the wall structure defining an approximately horizontal first surface disposed above the cargo bed surface. The first surface has a linearly extending scalar demarcations formed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventor: David Kovie
  • Patent number: 7854577
    Abstract: The freight container is constructed with relatively thin sidewalls of relatively high-strength steel, permitting thinner corrugations. This results in a greater internal width for the container, while still having an external width not exceeding the nominal 102? or 2.6 meter national and international standards. By forming the sidewalls of sufficiently high strength materials, the sidewalls may be constructed to have a thickness not exceeding one inch each, thereby providing a nominal internal width of 100? for the container. This permits the placement of U.S. standard pallets having lengths and widths of 56Ă—44 inches in an alternating array, with each pallet group forming a square of 100? on a side. In this manner, a total of twenty-four pallets may be placed within the freight container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: Charles T. Green
  • Patent number: 7753615
    Abstract: Long load racking system for vehicles, adjustable runners horizontal and vertical with telescoping members—both single rail, double rail; and trombone shaped; multi-functional, split and corner couplings with accessible transverse to coupling base friction adjustments, ramping ground to bed and bed to elevated locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Donald G. Sprague
  • Patent number: 7740430
    Abstract: A support assembly for use with truck bed comprises first mounting frame 5, second mounting frame 6, first horizontal arm portion 11, first vertical arm portion 12, first arm mounting holes 13, second horizontal arm portion 21, second vertical arm portion 22, first mounting end 24 of second vertical arm portion, distal, open end 25 of second horizontal arm portion, first support bracket 30, first vertical sleeve 40, second support bracket 50, second vertical sleeve 60, first brace 70, second brace 90, outer sleeve 100, first hitch pin assembly 110, and second hitch pin assembly 120.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Mchugh, Charles Thomas Poston, Benjamin McCandless
  • Patent number: 7686550
    Abstract: A container is described herein which uses three different types of restraining mechanisms to help secure glass sheets therein so that the glass sheets can be safely transported from one facility (e.g., a manufacturing facility) to a second facility (e.g., a customer facility). The first type of restraining mechanism includes two collapsible retainer bar mechanisms which are connected to one another by a support bar that can be moved so as to secure the major surfaces of the glass sheets. The second type of restraining mechanism includes two side restraints which are used to help secure the two opposing sides of the glass sheets. The third type of restraining mechanism includes two secondary retainer mechanisms each of which has a stopper that is moved to help secure/support the bottom portion of the glass sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventor: Stephen William Mix
  • Patent number: 7607873
    Abstract: A trailer assembly for transporting one or more vertically-oriented panels includes a frame having front and rear sections, a first set of lower crossbeams extending laterally across the front section of the frame, and a second set of lower crossbeams extending laterally across the rear section of the frame. The crossbeams provide vertical support for the panel(s). A hitch extending from the front section of the frame is attachable to a towing vehicle. A set of front vertical members extend upwardly from either the hitch or the frame. A set of front crossbeams extend laterally between the front vertical members and a set of rear crossbeams extend laterally between the rear vertical members. The front and rear crossbeams impede longitudinal movement of the panel(s). A set of wheels axially mounted on struts extend laterally from oppositely facing sides of the rear section of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: 21st Century Structures, LLC
    Inventors: Richard F. Wehrli, Joseph Gallione
  • Patent number: 7513726
    Abstract: A tailgate protector (1) having a structural frame (3) combined with a plurality of spaced protrusions (2). The structural frame (3) is sized and shaped to mount to the upper edge of a closed vehicle tailgate, such that the protrusions (2) perpendicularly extend above the upper edge of the tailgate. Material being transported by the vehicle and supported by the tailgate upper edge is placed on the structural frame (3) within the spacings between the protrusions (2). The structural frame (3) acts to protect the surface of the tailgate edge, while the protrusions (2) restrict the side to side movement of the transported material. Thus, the tailgate protector (1) effectively provides a quick and convenient means for securing the transported material while protecting the tailgate edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Donald Vincent Comiskey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090047089
    Abstract: The current invention is directed to an improved storage unit for dunnage wherein the dunnage comprises load supporting plates and load locking bars, the load supporting plates being stored in a horizontal orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: David A. Flood
  • Patent number: 7491024
    Abstract: Shipping and storage containers, racks, and pallets including interlocking mechanisms are provided. An embodiment of the pallet includes openings, interface fittings aligned with the openings, respectively, and sized to fit into openings of identical sizes and configurations as the first and second openings, respectively, locking components operatively connected to one another, and an actuator for moving concomitantly the locking components into and out of the openings, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Mark Anthony Heinrichs, Donald Edmund Fabula, Eric Robert Boyd