Load Bearer Abutment Patents (Class 410/94)
  • Patent number: 11800029
    Abstract: A transport device includes: a container portion that accommodates a transportable member; a receiving portion disposed above or below the container portion to at least partially overlap the container portion in a plan view, to receive the transportable member; a transport path along which the transportable member accommodated in the container portion is transported to the receiving portion; a first enlargement portion disposed at the container portion, the first enlargement portion moving in a direction opposite to a transport direction in which the transportable member is transported from the container portion to the transport path to enlarge a container area in the container portion for receiving the transportable member; and a second enlargement portion disposed at the receiving portion, the second enlargement portion moving in the opposite direction in conjunction with a movement of the first enlargement portion in the opposite direction to enlarge a container area in the receiving portion for receiving
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp.
    Inventors: Miho Morita, Nobuyoshi Hattori, Tomonori Sato, Tsuyoshi Mabara, Isamu Adachi, Tomomi Ishida
  • Patent number: 11667385
    Abstract: A cargo loading system includes a drive unit extending along a length of a cargo area of an aircraft. The drive unit is configured to couple to a modular cargo structure via a handling member and to convey one or more cargo items coupled to the modular cargo structure. The cargo loading system further includes a rotation device and a driver. The rotation device is in contact with the drive unit. The driver is configured to apply torque to the rotation device to cause the drive unit to move the modular cargo structure within the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: James Philip Dobberfuhl, Max Urban Kismarton
  • Patent number: 11648867
    Abstract: A system to detect and avoid spilled cargo in an automobile vehicle, includes an automobile vehicle rear cargo area including a floor to temporarily receive a storage item in the cargo area. A lift gate is moved between a closed and latched position and a fully open position inclusive to allow loading and removal of the storage item. A vision system identifies the storage item when initially loaded in the cargo area and identifies if the storage item is initially positioned in a cargo spill position or subsequently moves to the cargo spill position. A cargo stop device is releasably connected to the lift gate. An operating system releasably stores the cargo stop device when the storage item is not in the cargo spill position and deploys the cargo stop device when the storage item is in the cargo spill position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: David R. Petrucci, Gregg R. Kittinger, Kausalya Singuru, Xiujie Gao, Mohannad Murad, Joseph J. Boeve, William P. Ciaramitaro
  • Patent number: 11584462
    Abstract: A panel includes a standoff formed from a wall extended in a height direction from an exterior surface of the panel. The wall is formed from a first wall section and a second wall section that is offset from the first wall section in a lateral direction of the panel along the exterior surface of the panel. A stopper hole is defined in the panel and extended in the height direction, in parallel with the first wall section and the second wall section, from the exterior surface of the panel. The stopper hole receives a stopper. The stopper hole is interposed between and separates the first wall section and the second wall section along the exterior surface of the panel, or is offset from the wall of the standoff in the lateral direction of the panel along the exterior surface of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Francis M. Madrid, Brian Large
  • Patent number: 11498754
    Abstract: A container floor assembly includes a floor unit, a blocking member and a limiting member, wherein the blocking member is supported on the floor unit, and the limiting member detachably connects the floor unit and the blocking member in a manner of restricting a relative lateral movement of the blocking member and the floor unit. Each of the blocking member and the floor unit is provided with a limiting structure, the limiting member is detachable and connected to the limiting structures in the blocking member and the floor unit simultaneously. The floor unit includes a floor body and a floor chassis, the floor body is mounted on the floor chassis, and the blocking member is supported on the floor body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: BEIJING HANDLER MULTIMODAL TRANSPORT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Lizhou Zhang, Shiwei Hu
  • Patent number: 11315207
    Abstract: A shipping container optimization and utilization system and method for identifying and utilizing otherwise unused, deadheading shipping containers. The systems and methods aggregate, compile, and index cargo capacity data into a searchable database so that users can identify and pair loads with unused shipping containers. The systems and methods improve efficiency in transportation and shipping routes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Inventor: Todd Ashby
  • Patent number: 10611288
    Abstract: A transport vehicle includes a first support surface and two opposite guiding surfaces that are oriented towards each other to guide a container that is placed onto the transport vehicle in the direction of the first support surface, with the first support surface located between the guiding surfaces, and with a lifting platform arranged between the guiding surfaces. An adapter that is movable between a standby and an operating position such that a container placed onto the vehicle is guided onto the first support surface when the adapter is in the standby position and the lifting platform is down in a transporting position, while the container is guided onto a second support surface formed by the lifting platform when the adapter is placed on the transport vehicle in the operating position of the adapter and when the lifting platform is placed on the transport vehicle via the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: Konecranes Global Corporation
    Inventors: Mike Hegewald, Jannis Moutsokapas
  • Patent number: 10435056
    Abstract: A dolly cart rail and lock system configured to secure one or more dolly carts within a vehicle is provided. The dolly cart rail and lock system includes a first upper rail connected to a platform of the vehicle. The first upper rail having a first end. A second upper rail opposes the first upper rail and is connected to the platform of the vehicle. The second upper rail has a first end. A bulkhead assembly connects the first end of the first upper rail and the first end of the second upper rail. A plurality of spaced apart pocket assemblies is attached to the first and second upper rails. At least one lock assembly is connected to the pocket assemblies and is configured to engage the dolly carts such as to limit movement of the dolly carts in a front-to-back direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: JDI Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Tolles, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9463731
    Abstract: An immobilizing device for limiting movement of a cargo container in a cargo area may include a tubular member configured to be inserted into an aperture of a cargo deck. The immobilizing device may further include a stop member extending at least partially across a hollow interior of the tubular member, wherein the stop member is configured such that extension of the tubular member into the aperture is limited by contact between the stop member and the portion of the cargo deck located in the aperture. The immobilizing device may also include an extension associated with the tubular member and configured to engage a lower edge of the cargo container, such that movement of the cargo container is limited upon receipt of the tubular member in the aperture and engagement between the extension and the lower edge of the cargo container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: FEDERAL EXPRESS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Abdelrazak Hindy
  • Patent number: 9315269
    Abstract: A cargo gate for holding at least one cargo item at a predetermined position within a cargo hold of an aircraft comprising at least one retaining element at least one fastening device having at least one articulation for articulatedly fastening the retaining element to a cargo hold floor such that the retaining element can be pivoted from an operative position for holding the at least one cargo item into an inoperative position, wherein the retaining element can be traversed by the at least one cargo item in the inoperative position. The retaining element may be provided with a stop which can be operatively connected to a pivotable locking lug of a locking device such that the locking lug holds the retaining element in the operative position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Telair International GmbH
    Inventors: Richard Holzner, Thomas Huber
  • Patent number: 8931986
    Abstract: An end stop device for restraining an ULD from movement across a cargo deck surface of an aircraft includes a main body; and a mounting interface connected to the main body which is configured and arranged to attach the end stop device to the cargo deck by means of a corresponding tie down ring. Each mounting interface includes a tongue-like support plate which is partially protruding below a bottom side of the main body, at least one recess arranged in an area above the support plate, wherein side walls of the recess form a frame-like structure. and a bolt portion extending from the support plate into the recess and partially surrounded by the frame-like structure. The bolt portion is configured to engage the tie down ring in an operation mode where the end stop device is fixed to a tie down ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Esser, André Koehler, Ali Lohmann, Joerg Pump, Soenke Hager, Edward Elliot-May
  • Publication number: 20140369781
    Abstract: An end stop device for restraining an ULD from movement across a cargo deck surface of an aircraft includes a main body; and a mounting interface connected to the main body which is configured and arranged to attach the end stop device to the cargo deck by means of a corresponding tie down ring. Each mounting interface includes a tongue-like support plate which is partially protruding below a bottom side of the main body, at least one recess arranged in an area above the support plate, wherein side walls of the recess form a frame-like structure. and a bolt portion extending from the support plate into the recess and partially surrounded by the frame-like structure. The bolt portion is configured to engage the tie down ring in an operation mode where the end stop device is fixed to a tie down ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Markus Esser, André Koehler, Ali Lohmann, Joerg Pump, Soenke Hager, Edward Elliot-May
  • Patent number: 8858137
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a load device (1) for a vehicle, comprising at least one elongate guide rail (3) which is formed with a slide groove (5), said guide rail (3) being arranged to receive at least one load holding element (15) which is displaceable relative to the guide rail (3) along said slide groove (5) during positioning of said load holding element (15) in a desired position, said guide rail (3) having a first slide groove portion (7) with a first direction of extension and a second slide groove portion (9) with a second direction of extension deviating from the first, said slide groove portions (7, 9) continuously merging into each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Lasse Aro, Martin C. Widen
  • Patent number: 8821088
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base, and a guide head pivotally mounted to the base. The guide head is movable between a raised blocking position, and a lowered non-blocking position. A retraction pedal is pivotally mounted to the guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the guide head. The retraction pedal permits downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its second position, and blocks downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its it first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8690503
    Abstract: An adaptor for cargo control systems is provided that can adjust to accommodate length, width, and height variances between parallel tracks in a cargo control system. The adaptor includes a crossbar, first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms, and first and second width adjusting mechanisms. The first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms are affixed to first and second ends of the crossbar, and the first and second width adjusting mechanisms are affixed to the crossbar along the length of the crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Teffy R. Chamoun
  • Patent number: 8668416
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base having a first end and a second end. A first guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the first end, and a second guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the second end. The guide heads each are movable between a raised blocking position and a lowered non-blocking position. A blocking member is movably mounted to the base, and is disposed between the guide heads. The blocking member includes a first portion engaged with the first guide head, and a second portion engaged with the second guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position. The first and second portions prevent substantial downward movement of the guide heads when the guide heads are in their raised blocking positions and the blocking member is in its first position. The guide heads are restrained in their lowered non-blocking positions by the blocking member when the blocking member is in its second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8627971
    Abstract: The present invention is for an access shield for a shipping container, which container has a pair of doors and a plurality of supporting feet. An access shield for the shipping container is placed under the door end of the shipping container and is contained by the shipping container's weight with a pair of locking arms positioned behind the shipping container's feet to block access into a shipping container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: ABG Tag & Traq, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald R. Lancaster, Philip N. Chivers, Mark A. Chivers, Michael R. Custer
  • Patent number: 8628283
    Abstract: A seed transporter for transporting seeds in their seed boxes having a frame with an upper surface for supporting the seed box. The frame has upstanding members that extend upwardly from the frame and are adapted for contacting opposite sides of the seed box and for restraining movement of the seed box when the seed box is located between the upstanding members. The upstanding members include a draw bar that is slidingly retained within the upstanding members. The draw bar includes a catch affixed to the draw bar adapted for catching a retention surface on the seed box. The draw bar is movable between a first and second position. The first position locates the catch above the retention surface and the second position locates the catch beyond the retention surface on the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Par-Kan Company
    Inventor: James Erick Flinn
  • Patent number: 8585334
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide an attenuating cargo restraint device that mounts within the plan-view envelope of the cargo being restrained and that does not extend outboard beyond an allowable amount of attenuation. The device includes a sliding head assembly that can be movably disposed relative to a base. The head assembly includes a cavity covered by an upper housing with the upper housing extending inboard and below a point at which the cargo is restrained. The base includes a complimentary cavity extending inboard from a distal end to a proximal end of the base. These cavities collectively form a housing that incorporates and accommodates the elastic element of the device wholly within the innards of the device, below the point of engagement with cargo, and inboard from the point of engagement so as to locate the elastic element underneath and within the plan-view envelope of the cargo being restrained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Ancra International LLC
    Inventors: Edward Moradians, John F. Rowles
  • Patent number: 8540466
    Abstract: An adjustable bulkhead for a railcar is provided. The adjustable bulkhead is releasably attachable to the railcar. The adjustable bulkhead is adjustable between a plurality of positions along the length of the railcar relative to the end of the railcar. The adjustable bulkhead includes a support structure, a reinforcement mechanism, and a stabilizing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: TTX Company
    Inventor: William R. Halliar
  • Patent number: 8491242
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base, and a guide head pivotally mounted to the base. The guide head is movable between a raised blocking position, and a lowered non-blocking position. A retraction pedal is pivotally mounted to the guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the guide head. The retraction pedal permits downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its second position, and blocks downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its it first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8491239
    Abstract: An assembly for locating and/or restraining a load carried on a tray of a truck or other vehicle. The assembly includes at least one line of openings such as keyholes in the tray at spaced intervals along at least a part of the length of a tray. The assembly also includes at least one chock for locating and/or restraining a load against forward or rearward movement on the tray, with the chock having a locking member that is adapted to be received in the openings so that the chock can be supported and retained in a selected position on the tray. The assembly also includes at least one bearer for locating and supporting a load, such as long products, on the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Ferrari Investments Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Peter Warren Ferrari
  • Patent number: 8439612
    Abstract: An adaptor for cargo control systems is provided that can adjust to accommodate length, width, and height variances between parallel tracks in a cargo control system. The adaptor includes a crossbar, first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms, and first and second width adjusting mechanisms. The first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms are affixed to first and second ends of the crossbar, and the first and second width adjusting mechanisms are affixed to the crossbar along the length of the crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Teffy R. Chamoun
  • Patent number: 8366362
    Abstract: A flexible system is provided for preventing freight damage during shipment. The system has adjustable and interlocking hinged panels that are attached to the side walls of a shipping enclosure, so that the system can be readily adapted to secure different types and sizes of loads. One embodiment of the invention, provided for use with a freight carrying enclosure that has an internal wall, includes first and second panel segments that each have an edge. A first mounting structure supports the first panel segment for rotation about a vertical axis, between a first position wherein the first panel segment is in perpendicular relationship with the wall, and a second position wherein the first panel segment is in abutting relationship with the wall. A second mounting structure joins the first and second panel segments together along their respective edges, and enables rotation of the second panel between vertical and horizontal orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mark E. Maresh, Eric A. Stegner, Robert W. Stegner
  • Patent number: 8333001
    Abstract: A method of shortening an end of a well car includes removing a plurality of parts that would inhibit the shortening process; cutting a shear plate and a set of side sill angles at a location on the well side of the end assembly; detaching the end assembly from a main body of the well car; on each side of the main body: cutting the top tube at a location above a monument plate that is just beyond a reinforcement plate attached to the monument plate; cutting through a weld between the monument and reinforcement plates and a side sheet; cutting through the side sheet generally at the attachment location of the monument and reinforcement plates; and cutting the shear plate of the main body with a contoured cut such that the remaining shear plate has a contoured pattern substantially matching the cut shear plate under the removed end assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: TTX Company
    Inventors: William R. Halliar, Frank F. Stec, Bruce E. Keating
  • Patent number: 8215688
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a vehicle floor console is provided that includes a support structure and a retaining feature pivotally biased toward the support structure. The retaining feature is configured to secure cargo between the support structure and the retaining feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Jason M. Hipshier, Jacob Maki, David J. McCarthy, Craig D. Flowerday, Zachary Lownds, Timothy Stoepker, Jonathan M. Stanley
  • Patent number: 8186279
    Abstract: A removable bulkhead for a railcar is provided, wherein the railcar includes a pair of spaced-apart side sills, at least one side stake pocket, and at least one end stake pocket. The removable bulkhead includes a support structure removably attachable to the railcar. The support structure of the removable bulkhead includes at least one bottom connecting mechanism, and the bottom connecting mechanism is receivable in a corresponding end stake pocket of the railcar. The removable bulkhead further includes at least one stabilizing mechanism operatively connecting the support structure to the railcar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: TTX Co.
    Inventors: William R. Halliar, Bruce E. Keating, Stuart F. Trout
  • Patent number: 8151714
    Abstract: A shipping container support mechanism for a rail freight wagon is adjustable between a retracted position in which a container can be supported in a well of the wagon between elevated end platforms which extend over wheels and bogies. In the deployed, extended position, the mechanism supports an end region of a container, the opposite end of which can be supported on another such mechanism or an end platform. The support mechanism is mountable in the side wall of the wagon and has a pivotal support arm which can move from a stowed position in the wagon frame to a horizontally extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Bradken Resources Pty Limited
    Inventors: Philip Edward Morris, Michael James Boyd
  • Publication number: 20120076607
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Patent number: 8109703
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base, and a guide head pivotally mounted to the base. The guide head is movable between a raised blocking position, and a lowered non-blocking position. A retraction pedal is pivotally mounted to the guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the guide head. The retraction pedal permits downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its second position, and blocks downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its it first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8057141
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cargo support device in a vehicle, which device is provided in a load floor of a load compartment. The cargo support device comprises a frame, which is foldable between a horizontal rest position, and an operative position, angled in relation to the load floor. The load floor is provided with a recess wherein the frame is arranged in the rest position. The frame is provided with an arm, foldable to an angled position in relation to the frame, in the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Car Corporation
    Inventors: Nils Bernhardsson, Johan Landén, Peter Flodin
  • Patent number: 7922431
    Abstract: A cargo loading system capable of retaining a pallet along a centerline of a cargo aircraft and outside the wingbox area of the aircraft includes a number of devices. Included among these are first and second centerline end restraints mounted on the centerline, at least one caster panel mounted on one side of the cargo hold and across the centerline from a side door of the aircraft, and a plurality of mechanical restraints mounted on a floor of the cargo hold on either side of the centerline and outside the wingbox area. The first and second centerline end restraints each have at least one retractable lockhead configured and dimensioned to engage an end of a pallet. The at least one caster panel includes at least one retractable guide formed at a first end thereof, and at least one retractable guide formed along a first side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory J. Schulze, Gregory A. Brekken, LaDell E. Papacek
  • Patent number: 7909552
    Abstract: A flexible system is provided for preventing freight damage during shipment. The system has adjustable and interlocking hinged panels that are attached to the side walls of a shipping enclosure, so that the system can be readily adapted to secure different types and sizes of loads. One embodiment of the invention, provided for use with a freight carrying enclosure that has an internal wall, includes first and second panel segments that each have an edge. A first mounting structure supports the first panel segment for rotation about a vertical axis, between a first position wherein the first panel segment is in perpendicular relationship with the wall, and a second position wherein the first panel segment is in abutting relationship with the wall. A second mounting structure joins the first and second panel segments together along their respective edges, and enables rotation of the second panel between vertical and horizontal orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Edmund Maresh, Eric Allen Stegner, Robert William Stegner
  • Publication number: 20110027033
    Abstract: A dunnage holder for securing and positioning a freight bracing beam spanning across the width of a flatbed trailer has a vertically oriented stake member adapted for insertion into a stake hole of the flatbed of the trailer. A horizontally oriented arm is cooperative with the stake member for reciprocation along a direction that is transverse to the stake member. A corner pocket is fixedly attached to the arm for relative movement with the arm and has an opening sufficiently large to receive an end of a load bracing beam extending across the width of the flatbed trailer and transversely to the arm. An arm position locking pin is removably insertable through cooperating holes of the arm and the stake member, wherein the arm is locked in position relative to the stake member when the arm positioning locking pin is inserted through the cooperating holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy Comeau
  • Patent number: 7866926
    Abstract: A retainer for a vehicle cargo area that is bounded in part by a floor and a door moveable between open and closed positions includes a retaining member spanning at least a portion of the cargo area, a pivot feature operably associated with the retaining member, and a retaining feature that yieldably retains the retaining member in its second position to facilitate retaining cargo within the cargo area. The retaining member pivots about the pivot feature relative to the cargo area between a first position and a second position wherein the retaining member is inclined relative to the floor of the cargo area. When the door is open the retainer is normally in its second position to facilitate retaining cargo within the cargo area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventor: Stephen T Lim
  • Publication number: 20110002752
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base having a first end and a second end. A first guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the first end, and a second guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the second end. The guide heads each are movable between a raised blocking position and a lowered non-blocking position. A blocking member is movably mounted to the base, and is disposed between the guide heads. The blocking member includes a first portion engaged with the first guide head, and a second portion engaged with the second guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position. The first and second portions prevent substantial downward movement of the guide heads when the guide heads are in their raised blocking positions and the blocking member is in its first position. The guide heads are restrained in their lowered non-blocking positions by the blocking member when the blocking member is in its second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • 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: 7854579
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base having a first end and a second end. A first guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the first end, and a second guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the second end. The guide heads each are movable between a raised blocking position and a lowered non-blocking position. A blocking member is movably mounted to the base, and is disposed between the guide heads. The blocking member includes a first portion engaged with the first guide head, and a second portion engaged with the second guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position. The first and second portions prevent substantial downward movement of the guide heads when the guide heads are in their raised blocking positions and the blocking member is in its first position. The guide heads are restrained in their lowered non-blocking positions by the blocking member when the blocking member is in its second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7785052
    Abstract: A method and device for restraining a cargo pallet disposed on the floor of a truck or other container comprising positioning adjacent the cargo pallet a plastic brace, engaging the plastic brace and the cargo pallet, and securing the plastic brace to the floor with a fastener. The plastic brace may have a monolithic construction and may be formed by injection molding. The plastic brace may comprise a first wall having a first side for engaging the floor defining a hole, and a second side; a second wall having a first side for engaging the cargo pallet, and a second side, the second wall extending at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the first wall; and a gusset interconnecting the second side of the first wall with the second side of the second wall. The plastic brace may further include a raised reinforcement extending from the second side of the first wall and disposed about the hole. The raised reinforcement may have a truncated conical configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Logistick, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kanczuzewski, John Townsend, John W. Doster
  • Patent number: 7780383
    Abstract: A locking system for locking a container to a vehicle includes a locking assembly mounted to a hoist frame and a striker assembly mounted to the vehicle chassis. The locking assembly has at least one hook for hooking over a frame member of the container. The hook has a center of mass that biases the hook to an unlocked position. The striker assembly strikes the hook at a location to move the hook against the bias of the hook's center of mass into a locked position in which the hook is hooked over the frame member of the container. As the hoist frame supporting the container is lowered, the striker assembly contacts the hook and rotates the hook against the bias of the hook's center of mass into the locked position. As the hoist frame is raised, the hook rises as well and loses contact with the striker assembly, thereby falling away from the hoist frame and unlocking the container. A positive or mechanical unlocking mechanism prevents the hooks from binding to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Wastequip Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Leonard Brescia
  • Patent number: 7766589
    Abstract: Fixing system adapted to be fixed in a removable manner on a penetrable surface, the fixing system comprising a housing base part and a pair of pin blocks mounted in the housing. Each pin block comprises a rigid body portion and a plurality of pins inclined obliquely in relation to said body portion. The pins of one pin block are oriented in a direction opposed to the direction of the pins of the other pin block, whereby an actuator mechanism moves the pin blocks apart or together, from a disengaged position to an engaged and stable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Stilock S.A.
    Inventors: Igor Lobl, Stephane Clerc
  • Patent number: 7736106
    Abstract: A locking system for locking a container to a vehicle includes a locking assembly mounted to a hoist frame and a striker assembly mounted to the vehicle chassis. The locking assembly has at least one hook for hooking over a frame member of the container. The hook has a center of mass that biases the hook to an unlocked position. The striker assembly strikes the hook at a location to move the hook against the bias of the hook's center of mass into a locked position in which the hook is hooked over the frame member of the container. As the hoist frame supporting the container is lowered, the striker assembly contacts the hook and rotates the hook against the bias of the hook's center of mass into the locked position. As the hoist frame is raised, the hook rises as well and loses contact with the striker assembly, thereby falling away from the hoist frame and unlocking the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Wastequip Manufacturing Company LLC
    Inventors: Robert A. Talbot, Edward N. Haddad, Jr., Greg L. Mosdell
  • Patent number: 7736105
    Abstract: A pickup truck cab, rear window, and bed protector, referred to herein as a “cab and bed protector,” particularly suitable when transporting four wheelers or all terrain vehicles (ATVs) in the bed of a pickup truck. In a presently preferred embodiment, the cab and bed protector can be mounted in the bed of a variety of pickup truck models and is easily removable. The present invention serves as a shield to arrest the forward movement of the ATV during sudden stops, to prevent damage to the truck bed, cab, and/or rear window, and protect the passengers from harm. The preferred embodiment incorporates a plate fixed to a frame to transfer forces imposed on the plate by the ATV to the front wall of the truck bed, preventing damage to either the truck or the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Chad James Landry
  • Patent number: 7581908
    Abstract: A cargo securing system for securing cargo in a cargo area of a vehicle from sliding in the cargo area includes a plate member configured to be positioned on a floor of the cargo area. A top surface of the plate member is configured to receive the cargo to support the cargo above the floor of the cargo area. A plurality of lateral securing assemblies are coupled to the plate member and configured to engage the cargo to inhibit sliding of the cargo on the plate member. At least one rotational securing assembly is coupled to the plate member and configured to engage the cargo to inhibit sliding of the cargo on the plate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Jacques M. Hamel
  • Patent number: 7530774
    Abstract: A cargo rollout stop includes a base, and a guide head pivotally mounted to the base. The guide head is movable between a raised blocking position, and a lowered non-blocking position. A retraction pedal is pivotally mounted to the guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the guide head. The retraction pedal permits downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its second position, and blocks downward rotation of the guide head from its raised blocking position to its lowered non-blocking position when the retraction pedal is in its it first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron J. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20090080993
    Abstract: An apparatus to minimize movement of cargo disposed in a pre-selected container during movement of a vehicle. The apparatus has a base member having a first portion thereof positionable under such pre-selected container and a second portion of the base member extends outwardly from an outer edge of such pre-selected container. There is an upstanding member disposed at a juncture of such first portion and such second portion of the base member. Such upstanding member engages along one edge thereof with an upper surface of such base member and adjacent a first surface thereof with an outer surface of such pre-selected container to provide resistance to movement of such pre-selected container during such movement of such vehicle. An at least one gusset member engages the upper surface of such base member and a second radially opposed surface of the upstanding member for providing rigidity to such upstanding member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Victor Lloyd Burgess
  • Patent number: 7494309
    Abstract: A well car for carrying shipping containers has a pair of end structures supported by rail car trucks, a pair of first and second spaced apart side beams extending between the end structures and a well defined therebetween. A container support cross member is mounted between the side beams in a position to support an end of a shipping container load carried within the well. The container support cross member includes a monolithic beam member with a attachment fitting formed at an end thereof. The attachment fitting is connected to a side beam at a moment connection. The remaining end of the cross member is similarly configured and connected to the second side beam. Each end of the cross member has load bearing surface portions which may be used for supporting a corner of a shipping container. The moment connections permit a bending moment to be carried by the cross member between the first and second side beams. A retractable container stop is mounted to each end of the central container support cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: National Steel Car Limited
    Inventors: Mohammed A. Khattab, James W. Forbes, Ilario A. Coslovi, Tomasz Bis
  • Patent number: 7478985
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for locking at least two safety retainers together. Each safety retainer has a pallet-attached base and a ramp-attached mating bracket. Each safety retainer includes a base and a bracket. Each bracket is coupled to a ramp that is can be removably attached to a pallet. Each base includes a retaining arm for locking the base to the bracket when the ramp is coupled to the pallet. A locking mechanism is capable of being temporarily coupled to a first retaining arm in a first safety retainer and a second retaining arm in a second safety retainer for locking the retaining arms together. The first and second retaining arms must operate as a single unit, and cannot be moved independently, when the locking mechanism is coupled to the first and second retaining arms. The first and second retaining arms operate independently as separate units when the locking mechanism is not coupled to the first and second retaining arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Duane Johnson, Ivan Neil Liverman, Eric Allen Stegner, Robert William Stegner
  • Publication number: 20080298923
    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: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.
    Inventor: David Kovie
  • Patent number: 7441995
    Abstract: A cam-actuated locking system for the inboard barrier of a wheelchair lift is provided. The lift includes a linkage system having a push arm and a slide block. The push arm includes a sliding member with a first keyhole, and a fixed member with a second keyhole. A lock mechanism is pivotally coupled to the sliding member, and includes a keyhole insert. The second keyhole of the fixed member cooperates with the first keyhole and the lock mechanism so that when the keyhole insert of the lock mechanism inserts into the aligned keyholes of the fixed and sliding members, the inboard barrier is locked in a barrier position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: Elizabeth Sobota, Kenneth Thornburg