Freight Patents (Class 454/118)
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Patent number: 11648826Abstract: There is described a ventilation system for a boat. The windshield body comprises an air scoop in a bottom portion of the windshield body, facing a forward direction of the boat for air entry, the air scoop having an entry which is substantially horizontal and the air scoop extending upwardly within the windshield body to form a conduit having an upward component. The conduit end opens toward an inside of the boat, at a location higher than the entry of the air scoop. A hingeable vent can be installed on the opening inside the boat to be open or closed. The vent may also be sued with a direct opening with the outside. In this case, flaps can be installed in the opening. The flaps can be hingeable about their own respective hinge axis, and move together using a solid link. The flaps may be used without the vent.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2019Date of Patent: May 16, 2023Assignee: Veralex Inc.Inventor: Simon Dube
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Patent number: 11557937Abstract: An enclosure for a genset comprises a container defining an internal volume for housing the genset. The container comprises a container floor, a container roof, a pair of container sidewalls disposed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container, and a pair of container endwalls disposed at longitudinal ends of the container. A side cap is positioned parallel to each of the pair of container sidewalls along a longitudinal length of the container, each of the side caps sealed to edges of the corresponding container sidewall so as to define an acoustic cavity therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2019Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Assignee: Cummins Power Generation IP, Inc.Inventors: Shashikant Ramdas More, Nick Heimann, Chitragupt Kulkarni, Doc Weidknecht
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Patent number: 11305827Abstract: An fairing for a trailer is provided that has a transition zone with a corrugation receiving feature that defines a corrugation receiving void that increases in size forward to rearward in a longitudinal direction of the fairing. The corrugation receiving void receives a corrugation of the trailer. A main portion is also present and extends rearward from the transition zone in the longitudinal direction. The transition zone and the main portion define an aerodynamic surface of the fairing.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2018Date of Patent: April 19, 2022Assignee: COMPAGNIE GENERALE DES ETABLISSEMENTS MICHELINInventor: Parker Baxter
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Patent number: 11277943Abstract: A modular data center (MDC) has an air handling system that air cools a volumetric container and heat-generating equipment contained in externally attached equipment panels. Heat-generating information technology (IT) component(s) are positioned within the volumetric container with a cold aisle defined on one side and a hot aisle defined on another side of the IT component(s). The IT component(s) has air-cooling air passages that fluidly communicate between the cold and the hot aisles. A cooling unit pressurizes the cold aisle with supply air and draws return air from the hot aisle. The equipment panel(s) are externally attached to an exterior wall of the volumetric container. A supply air conduit directs supply air from the cold aisle into the equipment panel(s). A return air conduit directs air warmed by the heat-generating equipment inside the equipment panel into the hot aisle from the equipment panel(s) that receives the supply air.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2019Date of Patent: March 15, 2022Assignee: Dell Products, L.P.Inventors: Mark M. Bailey, Trey S. Wiederhold, Tyler B. Duncan, James S. Davis
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Patent number: 10442615Abstract: Embodiments pertain to a method and apparatus for protecting temperature sensitive products during air, ground, or sea transportation. Embodiments relate to a chamber built inside a trailer or sea container where temperature sensitive products are placed to have additional protection against the environmental conditions encountered during the transportation and distribution periods. The dimensions and modularity of the chamber can vary depending on the trailer or sea container the chamber is designed to be used with. This chamber can be preassembled and inserted into the desired trailer or sea container or can be assembled inside the trailer or sea container. The chamber system can include insulated and or non-insulated walls, conveyor system, ventilation system, temperature and asset (trailer or sea container) location tracking.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2009Date of Patent: October 15, 2019Assignee: BLUEYE, LLCInventors: Jean Vezina, Charles Khalil
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Patent number: 10143210Abstract: A control system for a controlled atmosphere room (“CA room”) for storing perishable commodities, such as fruits and vegetables. The control system includes an enclosure that can be placed within the CA room to store a representative sample of the commodities in the CA room. The control system includes an atmosphere valve selectively operable to provide atmospheric communication between the enclosure and the CA room or to isolate the enclosure from the CA room. The control system includes a sampling control system for determining a dynamic control value based on the isolated representative sample. The dynamic control value may be determined by monitoring the respiratory quotient in the enclosure while it is isolated. Once determined, the control system can use the dynamic control value to adjust the atmosphere of the CA room, thereby using tests on a representative sample to control the atmosphere for the full volume of commodities in the CA room.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2014Date of Patent: December 4, 2018Inventor: James C. Schaefer
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Patent number: 10039207Abstract: An information technology enclosure has a processing subsystem and infrastructure subsystem in separate shipping containers that cooperate to process information. The processing subsystem has increased information processing density by concentrating information handling systems in a first processing shipping container that is supported with infrastructure equipment in a second infrastructure shipping container. In one embodiment, the shipping containers are arranged in a stacked configuration so that cooled air and exhausted air are exchanged through aligned vents formed in the ceiling and floor of stacked shipping containers.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2012Date of Patent: July 31, 2018Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: Ty Schmitt, Robert Riegler
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Patent number: 9856883Abstract: A system and related method are disclosed for controlling condensation in a space. The system includes a fan and a sensor for sensing an environmental condition, such as temperature, humidity, or both. For instance, the sensors may sense an air temperature that is used to estimate or predict a surface temperature of an object within the room. The system also includes a controller capable of receiving controlling the fan based on the surface temperature. The system may additionally include a heater and/or a damper for transferring outside air into the space, either of which may be controlled by the controller based on the measurements.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2015Date of Patent: January 2, 2018Assignee: DELTA T CORPORATIONInventor: Jon Olsen
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Patent number: 9630472Abstract: A system for the transport of goods includes a ceiling, a floor, opposed side walls, and a front wall, defining a container with an open interior. At least one fan is at most coplanar with the front wall and extends away from the front wall exterior the container. The at least one fan is oriented to direct a flow of air out of the container through the front wall. A plurality of vents are spaced along each of the opposed side walls. Operation of the at least one fan draws air into the container through the plurality of vents. A method of transporting green pallets includes providing an enclosed container. Stacks of green pallets are provided within the enclosed container. At least one fan is operated to draw a flow of air out of the interior of the enclosed container to dry the stacks of green pallets.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 25, 2017Assignee: LSP Trucking, LLCInventor: James M. Francois
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Publication number: 20150024670Abstract: An air return bulkhead may be removably mounted to the front wall of a cargo container such that the air return bulkhead is releasable and securable without the use of handheld tools. Accordingly, in various embodiments the bulkhead may be quickly and easily uninstalled and reinstalled so as to permit system maintenance, such removal of debris from a filter screen.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2014Publication date: January 22, 2015Applicant: FG PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Chad NELSON, Stephen F. BENNETT
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Patent number: 8870638Abstract: An air return bulkhead may be removably mounted to the front wall of a cargo container such that the air return bulkhead is releasable and securable without the use of handheld tools. Accordingly, in various embodiments the bulkhead may be quickly and easily uninstalled and reinstalled so as to permit system maintenance, such removal of debris from a filter screen.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: FG Products, Inc.Inventors: Chad Nelson, Stephen F. Bennett
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Patent number: 8794187Abstract: A trailer for transporting living fowl is provided and includes an enclosure defined by a top, a front wall, a rear wall, a floor, and first and second side walls. The side walls are made of fabric so that the living fowl may be loaded and unloaded from the sides of the trailer. A main air supply duct extends a substantial portion of the length of the enclosure and receives conditioned air from an apparatus for generating conditioned air. A plurality of spaced apart vertical side ducts are connected to the main air supply duct and provide support for the top of the enclosure. A plurality of spaced apart floor ducts are connected to the vertical side ducts.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Smithway, Inc.Inventors: Rocky L. Smith, G. D. Smith
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Patent number: 8743543Abstract: A computer system may include a connecting hub having a plurality of docking regions and be configured to provide to each docking region electrical power, a data network interface, a cooling fluid supply and a cooling fluid return; and a plurality of shipping containers that each enclose a modular computing environment that incrementally adds computing power to the system. Each shipping container may include a) a plurality of processing units coupled to the data network interface, each of which include a microprocessor; b) a heat exchanger configured to remove heat generated by the plurality of processing units by circulating cooling fluid from the supply through the heat exchanger and discharging it into the return; and c) docking members configured to releaseably couple to the connecting hub at one of the docking regions to receive electrical power, connect to the data network interface, and receive and discharge cooling fluid.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2012Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Google Inc.Inventors: Jimmy Clidaras, William Whitted, William Hamburgen, Montgomery Sykora, Winnie Leung, Gerald Aigner, Donald L. Beaty
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Patent number: 8488311Abstract: A container data center includes a mobile container and a number of servers. The mobile container includes a main room receiving the servers, and an air shower room isolated from the main room. The air shower room includes an outer door, an inner door, a blower, and a dust absorber. The outer door connects the air shower room and is used to separate the air shower room from the outer environment. The inner door connects the air shower room and is used to separate the air shower room from the main room. The blower and the dust absorber are secured on two opposite walls of the air shower room respectively, the blower being configured for blowing air towards the dust absorber.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Shang Tsai
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Patent number: 8298056Abstract: An air return bulkhead for use within refrigerated cargo trailers comprises a pair of substantially coplanar panel members disposed within a vertically oriented plane. A first lower main panel member is fixedly connected to the front wall member of the cargo trailer, and the second upper secondary panel member, in addition to also being connected to the front wall member of the cargo trailer, is also removably connected to the first lower main panel member so as to provide repair or maintenance personnel with easy access to the lower region of the refrigeration unit when, for example, repair or maintenance procedures need to be performed upon the refrigeration unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Toby Clark
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Patent number: 8218322Abstract: A computer system may include a connecting hub having a plurality of docking regions and be configured to provide to each docking region electrical power, a data network interface, a cooling fluid supply and a cooling fluid return; and a plurality of shipping containers that each enclose a modular computing environment that incrementally adds computing power to the system. Each shipping container may include a) a plurality of processing units coupled to the data network interface, each of which include a microprocessor; b) a heat exchanger configured to remove heat generated by the plurality of processing units by circulating cooling fluid from the supply through the heat exchanger and discharging it into the return; and c) docking members configured to releaseably couple to the connecting hub at one of the docking regions to receive electrical power, connect to the data network interface, and receive and discharge cooling fluid.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Google Inc.Inventors: Jimmy Clidaras, William Whitted, William Hamburgen, Montgomery Sykora, Winnie Leung, Gerald Aigner, Donald L. Beaty
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Patent number: 8162730Abstract: A ventilator device for a freight container configured to prevent the ingress of water into the cargo tank interior. The ventilator device comprises a floatation-based valve configured to shuttle backwards and forwards in response to contact with water. The valve acts to open and close the air flow passageway through the device and is mounted over the air flow vents of the container. A manual override actuator may be provided to manually open and close the valves.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Duraloc LimitedInventor: Kenneth Reynard
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Patent number: 8047904Abstract: A method for controlling a plurality of fans operatively disposed in a shipping container. The fans are arranged in a plurality of banks within a closed fluid path. Each bank has a sub-set of the fans arranged in a plurality of horizontal layers. Two banks form an adjacent pair in the closed fluid path if a fluid exiting one of the two banks next enters the other of the two banks. The method includes determining a proposed fluid flow rate for each of the banks. The method also includes modifying each of the flow rates by a respective scaling factor such that the flow rates for each adjacent pair satisfy a continuity criteria. The method further includes controlling the fans based on the modified flow rates.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2006Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Oracle America, Inc.Inventors: Randall A. Yates, Bran Ferren, W. Daniel Hillis, Russel Howe, Ira M. Lichtman, Kenneth D. Salter
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Patent number: 7738251Abstract: A computer system may include a connecting hub having a plurality of docking regions and be configured to provide to each docking region electrical power, a data network interface, a cooling fluid supply and a cooling fluid return; and a plurality of shipping containers that each enclose a modular computing environment that incrementally adds computing power to the system. Each shipping container may include a) a plurality of processing units coupled to the data network interface, each of which include a microprocessor; b) a heat exchanger configured to remove heat generated by the plurality of processing units by circulating cooling fluid from the supply through the heat exchanger and discharging it into the return; and c) docking members configured to releaseably couple to the connecting hub at one of the docking regions to receive electrical power, connect to the data network interface, and receive and discharge cooling fluid.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Google Inc.Inventors: Jimmy Clidaras, William Whitted, William Hamburgen, Montgomery Sykora, Winnie Leung, Gerald Aigner, Donald L. Beaty
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Publication number: 20100075588Abstract: Fans and methods of making and using the fans are disclosed. The fans can include a propeller positioned with in a housing, an air straightener, and a housing which is narrower at the outlet than at the propeller.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventor: Ronald W. Haneline
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Publication number: 20090320514Abstract: A universal fluid flow transitional connector, for use in connection with refrigeration units disposed within refrigerated cargo trailers, has a corner configuration that is adapted to be mounted within the upper front corner region of the refrigerated cargo trailer as defined between the front wall member and the ceiling member of the trailer. In this manner, the connector can fluidically connect the cooled air outlet portion of the refrigeration unit to an air distribution chute member which is attached to and extends axially along the ceiling member of the trailer such that the cooled air, outputted from the refrigeration unit, can be distributed throughout the entire interior cargo space of the refrigerated trailer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Inventors: Toby Clark, Michael J. McMahon
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Publication number: 20090325476Abstract: An air return bulkhead for use within refrigerated cargo trailers comprises a pair of substantially coplanar panel members disposed within a vertically oriented plane. A first lower main panel member is fixedly connected to the front wall member of the cargo trailer, and the second upper secondary panel member, in addition to also being connected to the front wall member of the cargo trailer, is also removably connected to the first lower main panel member so as to provide repair or maintenance personnel with easy access to the lower region of the refrigeration unit when, for example, repair or maintenance procedures need to be performed upon the refrigeration unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Inventor: Toby Clark
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Publication number: 20090298409Abstract: The invention concerns a ventilation valve arrangement (1) with two valve openings (5, 6) in a valve plate (3), the opening degrees of said openings being controllable by means of a valve element, which is rotatable in relation to the valve plate (3). It is endeavoured to create a large range of control opportunities in a cost-efficient manner. For this purpose it is provided that in parallel to at least one valve opening (5, 6) a ventilation channel (9) is arranged, whose flow cross-section is adjustable by means of a motor controlled valve (10). The ventilation valve arrangement (1) can be dimensioned so that at the same time it serves as underpressure valve for a transport container.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicant: MAERSK CONTAINER INDUSTRI A/SInventors: Lars Lübker, Gert Joergensen
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Patent number: 7585208Abstract: A cargo container has a top, bottom, and sides. The cargo container includes a ventilation unit having an air outlet. The cargo container also includes a ventilated floor, which has an air channel, and a baffle plate assembly configured to direct air from the air outlet of the ventilation unit into the air channel of the ventilated floor. The baffle plate assembly includes a first plate, which is attached to the bottom of the cargo container to remain fixed, and a second plate, which is hinged to the first plate to move from an open position to a closed position. When the second plate is in the open position, a gap between the air outlet of the ventilation unit and the air channel of the ventilated floor is exposed. When the second plate is in the closed position, the gap between the air outlet of the ventilation unit and the air channel of the ventilated floor is covered.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Dole Food Company, Inc.Inventor: Jose Luis Rosales Vizueta
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Patent number: 7578534Abstract: The invention provides a structural panel with an integrated bulkhead structure for promoting airflow within a refrigerated container, such as a refrigerated trailer. More specifically, the invention provides a front wall portion for a refrigerated container defining an aperture through which a refrigeration device may extend to the interior of the container. The front wall portion includes a bulkhead structure integrally formed with the front wall via a connecting structure defining one or more air ducts for promoting air flow from a floor of the container and up through an inlet of the refrigeration device. The invention also provides a front wall structure that minimizes hot spots in the container front wall by integrally-forming the front wall, connection structure, and bulkhead structure in a single structural component so as to minimize the use of fastener devices.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.Inventor: Walter William Wuerfel, III
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Publication number: 20090127256Abstract: An improved storage unit of the type having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a floor, a pair of side walls, a front wall, a rear wall, and a roof. The roof is translucent, attaches without any puncturing thereto, and has overhanging eaves and bows with centers that are bowed thereat. A ventilation system allows the storage unit to benefit from storing in a climate controlled warehouse and provides airflow when the storage unit is stored outside. The rear wall has a roll-up door. The pair of side walls, the front wall, and the rear wall are attached from the exterior surface and the interior surface is smooth and non-abrasive. The floor is plastic undercoated plywood. Towing brackets front and rear provide a safe, strong, and secure method to attach a winch system of a transport system for maneuvering the storage unit on and off the transport system and to maneuver the storage unit with forklifts or pallet jacks in a yard or warehouse.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2008Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventor: William G. Norris, JR.
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Publication number: 20080194192Abstract: A cargo container has a top, bottom, and sides. The cargo container includes a ventilation unit having an air outlet. The cargo container also includes a ventilated floor, which has an air channel, and a baffle plate assembly configured to direct air from the air outlet of the ventilation unit into the air channel of the ventilated floor. The baffle plate assembly includes a first plate, which is attached to the bottom of the cargo container to remain fixed, and a second plate, which is hinged to the first plate to move from an open position to a closed position. When the second plate is in the open position, a gap between the air outlet of the ventilation unit and the air channel of the ventilated floor is exposed. When the second plate is in the closed position, the gap between the air outlet of the ventilation unit and the air channel of the ventilated floor is covered.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2007Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: DOLE FOOD COMPANY, INC.Inventor: Jose Luis Rosales Vizueta
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Publication number: 20080160897Abstract: An air return bulkhead may be removably mounted to the front wall of a cargo container such that the air return bulkhead is releasable and securable without the use of handheld tools. Accordingly, in various embodiments the bulkhead may be quickly and easily uninstalled and reinstalled so as to permit system maintenance, such removal of debris from a filter screen.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2008Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: FG PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Chad Nelson, Stephen F. Bennett
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Publication number: 20080146137Abstract: A multi-purpose cargo hold, carrier vessel, and shipping methods for circulating conditioned air through multiple levels and types of cargo situated therein. Disclosed are apparatus and methods for shipping and conditioning air surrounding cargo on a carrier vessel comprising the steps of loading cargo onto a loading means; forming a plurality of air gaps throughout the cargo in the cargo hold; placing supply and return air plenums in fluid communication with one another; and delivering and circulating conditioned air to cargo via an air conditioning means.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2007Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventor: Mark Anthony Mosunic
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Patent number: 7351136Abstract: An air return bulkhead may be removably mounted to the front wall of a cargo container such that the air return bulkhead is releasable and securable without the use of handheld tools. Accordingly, in various embodiments the bulkhead may be quickly and easily uninstalled and reinstalled so as to permit system maintenance, such removal of debris from a filter screen.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2004Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: FG Products, Inc.Inventors: Chad Nelson, Stephen F. Bennett
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Publication number: 20080064317Abstract: A method for controlling a plurality of fans operatively disposed in a shipping container. The fans are arranged in a plurality of banks within a closed fluid path. Each bank has a sub-set of the fans arranged in a plurality of horizontal layers. Two banks form an adjacent pair in the closed fluid path if a fluid exiting one of the two banks next enters the other of the two banks. The method includes determining a proposed fluid flow rate for each of the banks. The method also includes modifying each of the flow rates by a respective scaling factor such that the flow rates for each adjacent pair satisfy a continuity criteria. The method further includes controlling the fans based on the modified flow rates.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2006Publication date: March 13, 2008Applicant: Sun Microsystems, Inc.Inventors: Randall A. Yates, Bran Ferren, W. Daniel Hillis, Russel Howe, Ira M. Lichtman, Kenneth D. Salter
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Patent number: 7310969Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the environment of cargo through lateral ventilation. The method provides for a controlled fluid to be supplied into a cargo compartment having a lateral portion, the fluid being supplied through a vent in a supply-conduit adjacent the lateral portion. In practice, this result can be achieved by building a structure that encloses a cargo compartment having a lateral portion, running a supply-conduit adjacent the lateral portion, connecting the supply-conduit to receive a controlled fluid from outside the cargo compartment, and conducting the fluid into the cargo compartment through a vent in the supply-conduit. On mixing with the environment within the cargo compartment, the fluid will influence components of the environment, for example the humidity and the temperature.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Coldwall, Inc.Inventor: Robert Dale
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Patent number: 6945865Abstract: An improved air return bulkhead for mounting on the wall of a refrigeration vehicle that carried a refrigeration unit, comprising a synthetic plastic unitary body including a generally rectangular vertical first wall having top, bottom and side edges to which are connected top, bottom and side walls that cooperate with the internal surface of the vehicle wall to define a plenum chamber. Air is drawn into the plenum chamber via apertures contained in the bottom wall for communication with the inlet of the refrigeration unit. The bottom wall of the air return bulkhead is arranged at an obtuse internal angle relative to the first wall, at least one support being provided on the interior surface of the bottom wall in downwardly spaced relation relative to the bottom edge of the first wall, the support being arranged to engage the interior surface of the vehicle wall, thereby to support the bottom wall of the air return bulkhead.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.Inventor: James R. Turek
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Patent number: 6827534Abstract: An air return bulkhead is disclosed which may be adapted to fit on differently-sized trailer walls around differently-sized trailer refrigeration units. The bulkhead includes an upper support panel with ridges or other discontinuities thereon. The discontinuities bound areas sized to accommodate standard refrigeration units, and a cutting tool may be easily guided along these discontinuities to form a space wherein the refrigerator may be fit when the bulkhead is mounted to the trailer wall. Also disclosed is a bulkhead which includes flutes and columns thereon wherein the ends of the flutes and columns may be removed by use of a cutting tool to allow the bulkhead installer to tailor the airflow into the refrigerator inlet as desired.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Ltd.Inventor: Gregory L. Onken
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Publication number: 20040072530Abstract: An air return bulkhead is disclosed which may be adapted to fit on differently-sized trailer walls around differently-sized trailer refrigeration units. The bulkhead includes an upper support panel with ridges or other discontinuities thereon. The discontinuities bound areas sized to accommodate standard refrigeration units, and a cutting tool may be easily guided along these discontinuities to form a space wherein the refrigerator may be fit when the bulkhead is mounted to the trailer wall. Also disclosed is a bulkhead which includes flutes and columns thereon wherein the ends of the flutes and columns may be removed by use of a cutting tool to allow the bulkhead installer to tailor the airflow into the refrigerator inlet as desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Ltd.Inventor: Gregory L. Onken
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Patent number: 6688967Abstract: A molded insert for attachment to material of a cover intended for outdoor use to cover an article has a front face, a back face, and a plurality of openings through its thickness. Each opening has a larger area in the front face than in the back face, and is formed so that the bottom-most extent of the smaller area in the back face is higher than the bottom-most extent of the larger area in the front face of the molded insert, when the molded insert is placed in a vertical orientation. There may be a first region in the molded insert where there are no openings formed. Typically, a peripheral margin is formed around the periphery, and an upstanding wall portion extends forwardly of the peripheral margin at least in the top region when the molded insert is placed in a vertical orientation.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventors: Masoud Mafi, Fabian Bortolotto
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Patent number: 6626753Abstract: An air return bulkhead is disclosed which may be adapted to fit on differently-sized trailer walls around differently-sized trailer refrigeration units. The bulkhead includes an upper support panel with ridges or other discontinuities thereon. The discontinuities bound areas sized to accommodate standard refrigeration units, and a cutting tool may be easily guided along these discontinuities to form a space wherein the refrigerator may be fit when the bulkhead is mounted to the trailer wall. Also disclosed is a bulkhead which includes flutes and columns thereon wherein the ends of the flutes and columns may be removed by use of a cutting tool to allow the bulkhead installer to tailor the airflow into the refrigerator inlet as desired.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Illinois Tool Works IncInventor: Gregory L. Onken
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Patent number: 6595847Abstract: A container for transporting a load in conditioned space air, where the container includes a number of walls defining a closed conditioned space with an ambient air intake opening and a conditioned space air exhaust opening provided on one of the container walls; a temperature control system for controlling the temperature of the conditioned space air; an ambient air exchange so system having a door movable relative to the exhaust and intake openings to thereby change the rate that conditioned space air is exchanged with ambient air, and a motor for repositioning the ambient air exchange door. The container also including a container controller in signal transmitting relation with the air exchange door repositioning motor. The controller sends signals to the repositioning motor to move the ambient air exchange door to a position which produces the required ambient air exchange rate to preserve the load.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventors: Mark Freese, Neil D. Tamppari, Randy S. Burnham
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Patent number: 6585582Abstract: An externally threaded nipple (24) fits through a circular opening (38) in a flexible wall (14). The nipple (24) is carried by a first ring member (18). An internally threaded second ring member (20) is screwed onto the nipple (24). The first and second ring member (18, 20) become connected together and the portion of the flexible wall (14) that immediately surrounds the opening (38) is trapped by and between two inner side surfaces (30, 36) of the two ring members (18, 20). Projecting portions (50) on one of the inner side surfaces are urged against the wall (14) to inhibit rotation of the attachment (16). One of the ring members (18, 20) has louvered fins (42) interconnected by strengthening ribs (44).Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2002Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Inventor: Peter W. Ziegler
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Patent number: 6543827Abstract: A truck with a heating/cooling climate control system that is effectively integrated into a trailer or straight truck body, even as an after-market/field installation, which provides a uniform temperature distribution throughout the truck. An air flow which is sufficient to maintain the proper temperature environment throughout the entire beverage storage areas of the trailer or straight truck body is achieved without ducting of the supply air flow.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Webasto Thermosystems, Inc.Inventor: Gerard V. Miller
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Patent number: 6478669Abstract: A method for shipping cargo in an enclosed elongated cargo container van comprising the steps of: (a) loading the cargo in the boxes, (b) stacking the boxes within the container van, (c) disposing a baffle sheet horizontally across vertical channels disposed between the cargo boxes, (d) providing baffle sheet openings within the baffle sheet in a configuration calculated to provide a predetermined pressure gradient across the cargo load, and (e) commencing the circulation of a ventilating gas through the cargo load from the bottom of the cargo load to the top of the cargo load.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Inventor: Jerry E. Van
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Patent number: 6470692Abstract: An air return bulkhead having a filter for filtering dust, dirt and debris out of an airflow prior to its entry into an evaporator or heat exchanger. The apparatus is particularly designed for use within a climate-controlled space such as a trailer or truck interior. Air pulled into the refrigeration system first enters the air return bulkhead where particles and debris are filtered. The air then travels through the refrigeration system and back into the climate-controlled space.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2001Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventors: David B. Ziegler, Verlin Wirth, Phillip R. Boudewyns, Ta Yang
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Patent number: 6468149Abstract: A two-piece hardtop for sport utility vehicles. An air vent is provided that allows air to flow out from the interior of the vehicle without letting water enter the vehicle through it.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2001Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Assignee: Bestop, Inc.Inventors: Richard C. Essig, John P. Vanderhoef
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Patent number: 6450133Abstract: The container or trailer is separated into three inner compartments: a rear compartment in which the motor of the power generator is located, a front compartment in which the radiators for cooling the motor are located, with the radiators being operatively linked to the motor in a conventional fashion with cooling fluid pipes, and an intermediate compartment between the front and rear compartments. Air channels link the front compartment with the intermediate compartment, and the rear compartment with the intermediate compartment. A first fresh air intake port is provided in the trailer side wall in the rear compartment, for cooling the flywheel of the motor, and a second fresh air intake port is provided in the trailer side wall in the front compartment, for cooling the radiators. A warm air outlet port is provided in the trailer ceiling in the intermediate compartment.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Solutions Jupiter Inc.Inventors: Pierre Bernard, François Gélinas, Stéphane Gagnon
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Patent number: 6439991Abstract: A vent enabling passage of air through a flexible cover such as those used to cover a boat, automobile, truck payload, stored materials at industrial sites, retail outlet outlets and the like. More specifically, the vent is of one piece unitary construction and includes an annular base secured to the flexible cover by adhesive or other conventional securing structure with the base including a central opening aligned with an opening in the flexible cover. The vent further includes a dome shaped louvered cover hingedly connected to the base and oriented in overlying relation to the base with the louvers enabling air passage through the cover and base for circulation of air in relation to the space covered by the flexible cover on which the vent is mounted. A retaining wall extends inwardly and upwardly from the base around the central opening to prevent water from entering the opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2001Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Airlette Mfg. CorporationInventor: Frank R. Jarnot
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Patent number: 6405644Abstract: The present invention describes an apparatus useful for maintaining perishable products in a controlled environment as a modular unit. This modular unit, or self-contained apparatus, encompasses all the equipment necessary for installation while offering temperature stability, simplified maintenance requirements, and ultimately, precise control of ripening. Designed for efficiency, typical labor and equipment costs and energy consumption of a ripening room are reduced with the palletized ripening cabinet. The present invention may also be easily adapted for the combination of units or for various temperature requirements and otherwise from pre-cooler to freezer.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2001Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Inventor: Robert J. Windecker
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Patent number: 6364388Abstract: An air return bulkhead comprising a first bulkhead portion and a second bulkhead portion joined by a convoluted hinge member. The hinge permits the bulkhead portions to be moved relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventors: David B. Ziegler, Verlin Wirth, Jerry Kiesner
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Patent number: 6296561Abstract: An air return bulkhead comprising a base; a return air duct extending outward from the base, the base and air duct defining a bulkhead return air chamber, the duct comprising a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, and a fifth wall joining the other walls; at least one return air inlet notch formed in the air duct fourth and fifth walls; and means for producing turbulent return air flow through the return air chamber, said means located downstream from the at least one inlet notch. The bulkhead further includes air dam positioning means on the first and second walls. Individual air dam members are slid in the positioning means to be removably mounted along the bulkhead.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventors: David B. Ziegler, Robert L. Sirotek, Jr., Pat Hotch, Gregg George, Kevin W. Kiefer, Randal Gast
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Patent number: 6203419Abstract: An air return bulkhead is disclosed which may be adapted to fit on differently-sized trailer walls around differently-sized trailer refrigeration units. The bulkhead includes an upper support panel with ridges or other discontinuities thereon. The discontinuities bound areas sized to accommodate standard refrigeration units, and a cutting tool may be easily guided along these discontinuities to form a space wherein the refrigerator may be fit when the bulkhead is mounted to the trailer wall. Also disclosed is a bulkhead which includes flutes and columns thereon wherein the ends of the flutes and columns may be removed by use of a cutting tool to allow the bulkhead installer to tailor the airflow into the refrigerator inlet as desired.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: John Donovan Enterprises-Florida, Inc.Inventor: Gregory L. Onken
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Patent number: RE43429Abstract: A container for transporting a load in conditioned space air, where the container includes a number of walls defining a closed conditioned space with an ambient air intake opening and a conditioned space air exhaust opening provided on one of the container walls; a temperature control system for controlling the temperature of the conditioned space air; an ambient air exchange so system having a door movable relative to the exhaust and intake openings to thereby change the rate that conditioned space air is exchanged with ambient air, and a motor for repositioning the ambient air exchange door. The container also including a container controller in signal transmitting relation with the air exchange door repositioning motor. The controller sends signals to the repositioning motor to move the ambient air exchange door to a position which produces the required ambient air exchange rate to preserve the load.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventors: Mark Freese, Neil D. Tamppari, Randy S. Burnham