Cushioned Accommodation Patents (Class 410/87)
  • Patent number: 11827498
    Abstract: A positional lane scanner and method therefor includes a positional lane cargo scanning structure having a first frame portion, a second frame portion, and a top frame portion connected to define a passage lane for a cargo vessel. The first and second frame portions are located on opposite sides and cargo vessels pass therebetween. The first and second frame portions, or both, include a first housing portion and a scanning device mounted within the first housing portion. A lifting member is provided on the top frame portion facing outward, or if the lifting means is on a transport vehicle, such as a reach spreader, a pair of lifting beams may be arranged on the transport vehicle. The lift member removably connects with a boom portion of the transport vehicle for positioning and relocating the scanning structure to be disposed adjacent a cargo vessel lane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory C. Stihel, Samuel Leininger
  • Patent number: 9643666
    Abstract: The invention relates to a removable supporting cross-member (1) comprising: a built-in adjustable-height fifth wheel (18) for receiving the kingpin of semi-trailer, and front (26, 27) and rear (28) openings for the passage of the fork arms of a forklift truck or tractor. The invention can be used for moving a semi-trailer, positioning the semi-trailer horizontally on a carriage and securing same for transport, as well as for the corresponding operations during unloading, using only a forklift truck or tractor suitably dimensioned for the loads to be supplied. The invention is suitable for use by those involved in intermodal trail transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: LOHR INDUSTRIE
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Andre, Jacques Ober
  • Patent number: 8737072
    Abstract: A container data center includes a container. The container includes a top wall, two sidewalls, a first end wall, and a second end wall. Two elongated water troughs are arranged on the top of the container, near the sidewalls. The outer side plate of each water trough is lower than a top side of the corresponding inner side plate. A water receptacle is arranged near the first end plate. Pipes connect the water receptacle to the water troughs, to transfer the water in the water receptacle to the water troughs. When the water in the water troughs overflows, the water flows down the sidewalls of the container, to separate and thus protect the sidewalls from pollutants and humidity in the surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Feng-Chi Yang
  • Patent number: 8708145
    Abstract: The present invention provides a package cushioning structure for module, which includes a cushioning bottom board and a cushioning band extending through and interlaced with the cushioning bottom board. The cushioning bottom board forms a plurality of spaced hollow sections. A bar is arranged between every two of the hollow sections. The cushioning band includes a plurality of cushioning air columns mounted thereto at interval. The cushioning air columns are arranged alternately on the bars. To package, modules are each positioned on and born by each of the bars between two of the cushioning air columns. An alternate package cushioning structure includes a cushioning bottom board having a surface forming slots and a cushioning band arranged in the cushioning bottom board through a mounting channel extending through the bottom board from a side surface thereof. Air columns of the cushioning band are located in the slots to support modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Shenzhen China Star Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yicheng Kuo, Shihhsiang Chen, Gang Yu, Jiahe Cheng, Zhilin Zhao
  • Patent number: 8651782
    Abstract: A system to contain a wheeled mobility device in a vehicle, includes: a rearward opening to allow access by the wheeled mobility device by moving the wheeled mobility device forward relative to the orientation of the wheeled mobility device; a forward barrier positioned opposite the rearward opening and connected to the vehicle to limit forward motion of the wheeled mobility device, the forward barrier including at least one energy absorbing member, and at least a first lateral barrier to limit lateral motion of the wheeled mobility device to a first side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Linda Van Roosmalen, Michael Turkovich
  • Patent number: 8602701
    Abstract: A container data center includes a container, a number of cabinets arranged in the container. First and second shockproof devices mounted to a base prevent vibration and shocks being passed to the cabinets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sheng-Chung Hsiao
  • Patent number: 8579565
    Abstract: A transportation rack for construction equipment is provided. The transportation rack includes a pad for supporting a hard, smooth wheel of the concrete equipment. The pad absorbs dynamic loads on the construction equipment during transportation to avoid flat spots developing on the hard, smooth wheel. The transportation rack also includes a rigid guard to protect a precisely aligned element of the equipment, and a rigid bar extending across a portion of the construction equipment to hold it down or apply a containment load to hold the equipment against the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Marriott Construction, Inc.
    Inventor: Randall O. Fell
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130121784
    Abstract: A transportation rack for construction equipment is provided. The transportation rack includes a pad for supporting a hard, smooth wheel of the concrete equipment. The pad absorbs dynamic loads on the construction equipment during transportation to avoid flat spots developing on the hard, smooth wheel. The transportation rack also includes a rigid guard to protect a precisely aligned element of the equipment, and a rigid bar extending across a portion of the construction equipment to hold it down or apply a containment load to hold the equipment against the pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Randall O. Fell
  • Patent number: 8419328
    Abstract: A container data center includes a container, and a number of cabinets arranged in the container. A first shockproof device is mounted to the bottom of each of the cabinets, and a second shockproof device is mounted to the top of each of the cabinets. The second shockproof device includes a shockproof member and a connecting apparatus connected between the shockproof member and the container. A distance between the shockproof member and the top of the container is adjustable for keeping the shockproof member abutting the top wall of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sheng-Chung Hsiao
  • 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: 8348587
    Abstract: A motor vehicle having an assembly for loading sheet material includes a cargo area having a loading opening and a bulkhead located at an opposite end of the cargo area from the loading opening. Also included is a passenger compartment located at a forward region of the vehicle. Further included is at least one fixed end stop located proximate a rear area of the cargo area. Yet further included is at least one load assist strip, where a first end of the strip is mounted to the bulkhead, wherein the strip extends rearward to a second end of the strip that is mounted to the end stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Steve David Fleming, John K. Harding, Jonathan M. Fisher, Alicia Agius
  • 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: 8317441
    Abstract: A liner for a transverse trough of a coil-transport railway car for cushioning a coil and for preventing lateral creep of the load during transport. Each sloping wall of a transverse trough is lined with at least one liner to prevent lateral creep in both transverse directions. Each liner is comprised of a horizontal bottom base or support layer, from which upwardly project a plurality of spaced-apart, flexible fingers or ribs. The fingers or ribs of the liner of the invention may be oriented leftward or rightward in direction of cant, and oriented such as to face or incline toward the centerline of the transport vehicle, and behave or act as leaf springs. When the load of coil is placed onto the liner of the present invention, the fingers thereof serve as the load-bearing surface, and bend or deflect in accordance with the weight of the load, to thereby support the load of coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Kastalon, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Bruce DeMent
  • Patent number: 8308409
    Abstract: A transverse railroad coil car coil restraint apparatus or system which includes a plurality of coil restraints attachable to each trough in a transverse railroad coil car to reduce the sideways shifting of coils positioned in the troughs. In certain embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough and extend across the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough along the length of the trough. In certain embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the coil restraints and does not compress other of the coil restraints which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the compression members and does not compress other of the compression members which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Standard Car Truck Company
    Inventor: John D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8282324
    Abstract: A liner for a transverse trough of a coil-transport railway car for cushioning a coil and for preventing lateral creep of the load during transport. Each sloping wall of a transverse trough is lined with at least one liner to prevent lateral creep in both transverse directions. Each liner is comprised of a horizontal bottom base or support layer, from which upwardly project a plurality of spaced-apart, flexible fingers or ribs. The fingers or ribs of the liner of the invention may be oriented leftward or rightward in direction of cant, and oriented such as to face or incline toward the centerline of the transport vehicle, and behave or act as leaf springs. When the load of coil is placed onto the liner of the present invention, the fingers thereof serve as the load-bearing surface, and bend or deflect in accordance with the weight of the load, to thereby support the load of coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Kastalon, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Bruce DeMent
  • Patent number: 8277155
    Abstract: A transverse railroad coil car coil restraint apparatus or system which includes a plurality of coil restraints attachable to each trough in a transverse railroad coil car to reduce the sideways shifting of coils positioned in the troughs. In certain embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough and extend across the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough along the length of the trough. In certain embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the coil restraints and does not compress other of the coil restraints which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the compression members and does not compress other of the compression members which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Standard Car Truck Company
    Inventor: John D. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20120037619
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for reducing latch loads during the process of loading and flying air cargo containers inside cargo holds of aircraft. The device exhibits a floor plate of a cargo unit of a transport means, an edge profile, a rail bumper as well as a first damping unit. The first damping unit is situated between the edge profile and the floor plate, or between the edge profile and the rail bumper of the cargo unit. The first damping unit is designed for damping a movement by the cargo unit in a direction of movement of the cargo unit so as to reduce the loads placed on the cargo unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Dietmar Glatz, Markus Kaulbars, Ulrich Meier-Noe, Achim Merklinger, Ludger Merz
  • Publication number: 20120025027
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for the airborne deployment and delivery of palletized cargo. The system includes a cargo pallet, one or more risers connected to the pallet, and an associated rigging. The risers are used in both stabilizing the cargo and in cushioning the impacts associated with transport and landing. The rigging is used to secure the pallet to one or more parachutes that are deployed as the pallet leaves the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: CONAX FLORIDA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tom Yandle, Michael E. Kelley, Elizabeth M. Rinehart
  • Patent number: 8033768
    Abstract: A transverse railroad coil car coil restraint apparatus or system which includes a plurality of coil restraints attachable to each trough in a transverse railroad coil car to reduce the sideways shifting of coils positioned in the troughs. In certain embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough and extend across the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough along the length of the trough. In certain embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the coil restraints and does not compress other of the coil restraints which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the compression members and does not compress other of the compression members which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Standard Car Truck Company
    Inventor: John D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8011865
    Abstract: A transverse railroad coil car coil restraint apparatus or system which includes a plurality of coil restraints attachable to each trough in a transverse railroad coil car to reduce the sideways shifting of coils positioned in the troughs. In certain embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough and extend across the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough along the length of the trough. In certain embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the coil restraints and does not compress other of the coil restraints which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the compression members and does not compress other of the compression members which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Standard Car Truck Company
    Inventor: John D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7975963
    Abstract: A safety system for reducing the impact energy of a container for an aircraft includes an aircraft cargo hold with at least one safety wall; an accommodation device; and at least one airbag. The accommodation device can be affixed to the safety wall, wherein the accommodation device is designed to accommodate the at least one airbag. In the case of a movement of the container, the at least one airbag can be activated so that air can be injected into the airbag so that some of the impact energy of the container can be absorbed by the at least one activated airbag, with the remaining forces then being distributed over an area of the at least one safety wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Ludger Merz, Roland Fuhrmann
  • Patent number: 7972098
    Abstract: A liner for a transverse trough of a coil-transport railway car for cushioning a coil and for preventing lateral creep of the load during transport. Each sloping wall of a transverse trough is lined with at least one liner to prevent lateral creep in both transverse directions. Each liner is comprised of a horizontal bottom base or support layer, from which upwardly project a plurality of spaced-apart, flexible fingers or ribs. The fingers or ribs of the liner of the invention may be oriented leftward or rightward in direction of cant, and oriented such as to face or incline toward the centerline of the transport vehicle, and behave or act as leaf springs. When the load of coil is placed onto the liner of the present invention, the fingers thereof serve as the load-bearing surface, and bend or deflect in accordance with the weight of the load, to thereby support the load of coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Kastalon, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Bruce DeMent
  • Patent number: 7918633
    Abstract: Support which absorbs the torsion to which blades are subjected during transport, comprising a set of pins (17) inserted in the floor (8) of the container (1) and to the sides of a hollow pipe (21), which connect by means of a clevis (18) to different rods (19) secured with fastening pins (20) that facilitate the lengthways and angular rotation of the unit. The first support is located at a distance “d” from the leading edge of the cradle (9), next to the platform (16) formed between the ribs (15) which run through the lower shell (14). The second support is located on the other side of the platform (16) also inserted between the aforementioned ribs (15). Both supports are inclined at an angle ? in relation to the floor (8), each forming articulated quadrilaterals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Gamesa Innovation & Technology, S.L.
    Inventor: Jose Ignacio Llorente Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7891922
    Abstract: A vibration isolator for container, and the like, and a method of using the same which are applicable to general containers, and allow the loaded articles to be protected against vibration at the time of transportation, and the like, with the cost being held to a minimum. It is a vibration isolator (10) for container (C), and the like, which provides vibration isolation for cargo protection, being interposed beneath a transport container (C), a merchandise transport pallet, or the like, wherein shock absorbing members (50) are interposed between a base frame (20) and a load carrying frame (30); and at least at the four corners of the base frame (20), a latch receiving structure (25) of a twist lock (40) is disposed, and in the corresponding place in the load carrying frame (30), a twist lock (40) is disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Mugen Corporation
    Inventor: Akio Fukuda
  • Patent number: 7815404
    Abstract: A liner for a transverse trough of a coil-transport railway car for cushioning a coil and for preventing lateral creep of the load during transport. Each sloping wall of a transverse trough is lined with at least one liner to prevent lateral creep in both transverse directions. Each liner is comprised of a horizontal bottom base or support layer, from which upwardly project a plurality of spaced-apart, flexible fingers or ribs. The fingers or ribs of the liner of the invention may be oriented leftward or rightward in direction of cant, and oriented such as to face or incline toward the centerline of the transport vehicle, and behave or act as leaf springs. When the load of coil is placed onto the liner of the present invention, the fingers thereof serve as the load-bearing surface, and bend or deflect in accordance with the weight of the load, to thereby support the load of coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Kastalon, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Bruce DeMent
  • Patent number: 7766588
    Abstract: A retaining member 16 is provided for use with a frame 10 for packaging elongate members, such as sections of tubular, for example casing, liner or drill pipe. The retaining member 16 comprises a pressure plate 18 on which is mounted a pair of pivoting hooks 20 for engaging with protrusions 36 formed on the frame 10. The hooks 20 are connected to threaded rods 28 received in a sleeve 30. A ratcheted handle 34 allows selective rotation of the sleeve 30 to draw the rods 28 therein, and so to pivot the hooks 20 to urge the pressure plate 18 against members received within the frame 10. A quick release mechanism is provided to allow easy release of the hooks 20 and the retaining member 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: RB Ross Steel Fabrications, Ltd.
    Inventor: Ralph Barclay Ross
  • Patent number: 7621705
    Abstract: Representative embodiments include a support apparatus that can be positioned between a load element and a support element to cushion the load element against vibration with respect to the support element. A receiving member and a base member are movably engaged along an axis of movement. An element engaging surface is defined on one of the members and is configured to releasably engage one of the elements. A vibration reduction device mounted between the members and configured to yieldably resist relative movement of the members toward one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Dee J. Hillberry, Mark C. Mortimore
  • Patent number: 7520706
    Abstract: A vehicle restraining system for restraining vehicles transported in a transport carrier is described. The system comprises at least one energy absorbing mechanism which is secured to the transport carrier. Adjustable connectors are displaceably secured to the energy absorbing mechanism. A connector strut is pivotally connected at one end to a respective one of the adjustable connectors. The connector strut has a vehicle engaging suction cup assembly at a free end thereof for securement at a predetermined location to a vehicle to be transported by the transport carrier, and preferably, but not exclusively, the front and rear windows of vehicles being transported. The connector strut functions to connect the vehicle to the energy absorbing mechanism and transmit forces between the two. The connector strut also has a vacuum pumping piston mechanism that is activated by vehicle displacement during transport to assure a continued vacuum in the suction cups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Winsor
  • Patent number: 7507062
    Abstract: A Container for the storage and transportation a radome displays a flat base on which the flat wall of said radome rests and a detachable lid that can be immobilized on the periphery of the base. The base consists of a plate of rectangular shape, two of whose diagonally opposite corners are truncated. The cover has a peripheral lower wall of vertical configuration whose outline conforms to the contour of the base and an upper wall curving inward near the top of the radome, the peripheral lower and upper walls being connected on each face corresponding to a side of the rectangle by at least one sloping side curving inward in the immediate proximity of the radome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Societe Air France
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Pasty
  • Patent number: 7458756
    Abstract: A method for loading tube bundles on a railcar includes placing the tube bundles lengthwise on the car and stacked above the bed of the car to form tube bundle packs. The packs are separated by panels. A spacing block is configured to go within the longitudinally extending remaining space left over after loading a finite number of packs. This spacing block include parallel plates which are rigidly displaced one from another by blocks. Padding is arranged on the outer side of the plates and the panels. Padding is arranged on the bulkheads as well. The panels and spacing block may be tied to the railcar through boards and dunnage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Western Tube & Conduit Corporation
    Inventors: Efren Ramirez, Stanley Curtis Whittemore
  • Patent number: 7458755
    Abstract: A method for loading tube bundles on a railcar includes placing the tube bundles lengthwise on the car and stacked above the bed of the car to form tube bundle packs. The packs are separated by panels. A spacing block is configured to go within the longitudinally extending remaining space left over after loading a finite number of packs. This spacing block include parallel plates which are rigidly displaced one from another by blocks. Padding is arranged on the outer side of the plates and the panels. Padding is arranged on the bulkheads as well. The panels and spacing block may be tied to the railcar through boards and dunnage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Western Tube & Conduit Corporation
    Inventors: Efren Ramirez, Stanley Curtis Whittemore
  • Patent number: 7381020
    Abstract: A method for loading tube bundles on a railcar includes placing the tube bundles lengthwise on the car and stacked above the bed of the car to form tube bundle packs. The packs are separated by panels. A spacing block is configured to go within the longitudinally extending remaining space left over after loading a finite number of packs. This spacing block include parallel plates which are rigidly displaced one from another by blocks. Padding is arranged on the outer side of the plates and the panels. Padding is arranged on the bulkheads as well. The panels and spacing block may be tied to the railcar through boards and dunnage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Western Tube & Conduit Corporation
    Inventors: Goro Terao, Efren Ramirez, Stanley Curtis Whittemore
  • Patent number: 7381021
    Abstract: A method for loading tube bundles on a railcar includes placing the tube bundles lengthwise on the car and stacked above the car to form packs. These packs are spaced longitudinally one from another on the car. Spacing blocks are configured to go within the longitudinally extending spaces. These spacing blocks include parallel plates which are rigidly displaced one from another by blocks. Padding is arranged on the outer side of the plates. One set of blocks extending between the parallel plates is arranged in juxtaposition with the bed of the railcar to receive strapping for retention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Western Tube & Conduit Corporation
    Inventors: Goro Terao, Efren Ramirez, Stanley Curtis Whittemore
  • Patent number: 7182559
    Abstract: A rack for transporting and storing glass panels. The rack is designed to protect the panels during shipment so that they do not become damaged. The rack includes a base associated with two sets of channels in which a plurality of glass panels can be placed. Each channel has at least one gripper member associated with it. The gripper member is pivotal between a first position in which panels are locked in place in the channels and a second unlocked position in which panels can be inserted into or removed from the channels. Two sets of such channels are provided such that the rack of the present invention can be used to hold one set of longer glass panels or two separate sets of shorter glass panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: C.G. Industrial Equipment Inc.
    Inventors: Charles E. Groth, Jeremy J. Raabolle, Michael E. Terry
  • Patent number: 7073835
    Abstract: An improved bale wagon having at least one bumper member to position the rolling rack at the proper distance from the end of the front load rack of the bale wagon, and to dampen the impact between the front wall of the load rack and the front end of the rolling rack of the bale wagon when the rolling rack returns to the front of the load rack after release of its spring bias.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Stephen W. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6890137
    Abstract: An ambulance stretcher support is described for an ambulance having a floor with a top floor surface. In one embodiment, each support includes a stretcher leg receiving member that is adapted to releasably receive an ambulance stretcher leg. A base, configured to be mounted to the ambulance floor, mounts the stretcher leg receiving member for movement between a position substantially coplanar with the top floor surface, and a position below the top floor surface. A vibration reduction device is mounted between the base and the stretcher leg receiving member such that the stretcher leg can be releasably supported on the stretcher leg receiving member and the vibration reduction device will reduce transfer of vibration from the ambulance floor to the stretcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventors: Dee J. Hillberry, Mark C. Mortimore
  • Patent number: 6860685
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cushioning system to be applied to the inside surface of the walls of conventional autorack railcars. More particularly, the present invention is directed toward the easy application of a foam protector of single or double tube configuration to the side portions of the metal screen walls that make up an autorack railcar. Improvements enable a multiple density foam tube, a “Logo” panel bar and an improved fastener. The tubes are designed to protect the edges of car doors by collapsing when hit by the car door and quickly bouncing back, regardless of temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Holland L.P.
    Inventors: Stuart H. Thomson, Mark Y. Zhan
  • Patent number: 6805523
    Abstract: The present invention reveals an auto rack sidewall panel bumper guard for auto rack railroad cars which eliminates contact between the vehicle door and the sidewall panel even in extreme heat. The bumper guard includes a pair of opposed mounting bases, a pair of extension arms connected to the mounting bases and a contact member connected to the arms opposite the mounting bases. The contact member has a lesser thickness than the arms to absorb the forces of the vehicle door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: ZefTec
    Inventors: Michael K. Burke, John D. Anderson, Walter J. Peach
  • Publication number: 20030235480
    Abstract: A product protection pad utilizes a lubricating plastic that moves across the face of an upright post of a center beam flat car in order to reduce or eliminate damage to product or product wrappers and in one a first embodiment uses a self centering flanged aperture to permit the movement as the car flexes, twists or wracks and in an alternative embodiment utilizes a strong, lubricating plastic, both embodiments being mounted to the car using recessed weldable washers. In a third embodiment the pad is in the form of a cap that wraps about the post. The cap provides a cargo engaging face, a post grasping section along one side edge and a securement leg which extends rewardly of the cargo face and is securable to the post by a welding side of the structure and a retaining structure to a side of the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: Stuart H. Thomson, Robert S. Trent
  • Publication number: 20030170089
    Abstract: The present invention reveals an auto rack sidewall panel bumper guard for auto rack railroad cars which eliminates contact between the vehicle door and the sidewall panel even in extreme heat. The bumper guard includes a pair of opposed mounting bases, a pair of extension arms connected to the mounting bases and a contact member connected to the arms opposite the mounting bases. The contact member has a lesser thickness than the arms to absorb the forces of the vehicle door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Michael K. Burke, John D. Anderson, Walter J. Peach
  • Patent number: 6561740
    Abstract: The present invention reveals an auto rack sidewall panel bumper guard for auto rack railroad cars which eliminates contact between the vehicle door and the sidewall panel even in extreme heat. The bumper guard includes a pair of opposed mounting bases, a pair of extension arms connected to the mounting bases and a contact member connected to the arms opposite the mounting bases. The contact member has a lesser thickness than the arms to absorb the forces of the vehicle door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: ZefTek, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael K. Burke, John D. Anderson, Walter J. Peach
  • Patent number: 6503037
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cushioning system to be applied to the inside surface of the walls of conventional autorack railcars. More particularly, the present invention is directed toward the easy application of a foam protector of single or double tube configuration to the side portions of the metal screen walls that make up an autorack railcar. Improvements enable a multiple density foam tube, a “Logo” panel bar and an improved fastener. The tubes are designed to protect the edges of car doors by collapsing when hit by the car door and quickly bouncing back, regardless of temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Holland Company
    Inventors: Stuart H. Thomson, Mark Y. Zhan
  • Publication number: 20020127078
    Abstract: A door edge protection assembly for installation on a railcar. The railcar has a side wall, a roof rail running substantially horizontally along the top of the side wall, a roof extending upwardly and inwardly from the roof rail, and a plurality of decks for supporting vehicles thereon. The door edge protection assembly includes a door edge protection member for cushioning impacts between a vehicle door edge and at least one of the side wall, the roof rail, and the roof. In the preferred embodiment, the door edge protection assembly also includes a clip for supporting the deformable door edge protection member in the interior of the railcar. The clip lockingly engages the roof to provide positional stability of the deformable door edge protection member relative to the roof rail and roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Applicant: Thrall Car Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Ralph H. Schorr, James M. Simpson, Larry O'Keefe
  • Publication number: 20020067970
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cushioning system to be applied to the inside surface of the walls of conventional autorack railcars. More particularly, the present invention is directed toward the easy application of a foam protector of single or double tube configuration to the side portions of the metal screen walls that make up an autorack railcar. Improvements enable a multiple density foam tube, a “Logo” panel bar and an improved fastener. The tubes are designed to protect the edges of car doors by collapsing when hit by the car door and quickly bouncing back, regardless of temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Stuart H. Thomson, Mark Y. Zhan
  • Patent number: 6360166
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing logs from a forestry site. The apparatus and method includes a primary mobile machine having means attached to a rearward portion thereof for holding a first end of a first log cluster. The apparatus and method also includes a first secondary mobile machine with a first end having means for holding a second end of the first log cluster, and a second end having means for holding a first end of a second log cluster. The primary mobile machine and the first secondary mobile machine are interconnected by the first log cluster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Caterpillar lnc.
    Inventor: L. Gregory Alster
  • Patent number: 6334746
    Abstract: A trailer mounts a turbine and a generator for transport to a power generation site. The mount for the turbine includes a sub-base mounted for pivotal movement adjacent a rear end thereof proximate the forward end of the generator. The forward end of the sub-base is secured to the trailer by an isolator mount. The two mounts constitute a 3-point mounting system for the sub-base and turbine carried thereby whereby during transport, the sub-base and turbine are enabled for limited angular deflection of the turbine axis relative to the generator rotor axis. The pivotal mounting adjacent the interconnection between the turbine and generator rotors lies along discrete opposite sides of the trailer. Torque is transmitted from the turbine to the generator base through the pivotal mountings. At the power generation site, the sub-base is locked down and minimal adjustment is required to align the turbine and generator rotors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Tho Vankhanh Nguyen, Robert Allen Baten
  • Patent number: 6280127
    Abstract: A shock absorber for an end of a steel or cast-iron container for the transport of spent-fuel elements is in the form of a casing with a recess receiving the end of the container and having, in turn, a stepped-pyramid element which decreases in wall thickness from the region surrounding the container end of a free end of the stepped pyramid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: GNB Gesellschaft fur Nuklearbehalter mbH
    Inventors: Harry Spilker, Bill Jones
  • Patent number: 6059497
    Abstract: An air suspension apparatus for protecting a vehicle suspension and/or chassis during transport or storage is described comprising an inflatable bladder including an air valve for selectably inflating and deflating the bladder; a rigid top plate coupled to a top portion of the bladder, a rigid bottom plate coupled to the bottom portion of the bladder; a pliable, shock-absorbing top pad coupled over the top plate for engaging the vehicle thereon; and a pliable, shock-absorbing bottom pad coupled under the bottom plate for resting upon a mounting surface on which the vehicle will be transported or stored. The bottom pad will be comprised of a sufficient thickness and include an elongated slot sufficiently wide to house a hose which can be coupled to an air supply source and an air bleeder valve to efficiently inflate and deflate the rubber bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Pasquale A. Iannone
  • Patent number: 6017175
    Abstract: A cargo load dividing apparatus utilizing a pivotal gate which pivots from the side of the vehicle to extend generally transversely into a cargo area. The gate is lockable into the transverse position by engaging a gate locking assembly with the floor of the vehicle. Embodiments include those having metallic, cushioned and airbag surfaces adjacent the cargo. Systems in using plurality of gates on a single vehicle can use one or more gates extending partially along with width of the vehicle. Gates may be pivoted into a locked transversed position or be pivoted into a position adjacent the side wall of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Kasgro Rail Corp.
    Inventors: Gabe M. Kassab, Howard Chabassol