Abstract: An intermodal bulk container includes a rigid outer frame having end frames interconnected by two upper trusses and two lower trusses. The lower trusses each form a respective sill. A container vessel is mounted within the outer frame and includes a cylindrical shell that forms lower openings. Hoppers are mounted in the shell to extend out of the lower openings, and these hoppers are joined to an interior surface of the shell above the openings. First and second domed end portions are secured to the shell to close respective ends of the shell. Lower support plates are secured to an exterior surface of the shell, and these lower support plates are secured to the sills to secure the vessel within the frame. The outer frame is fabricated as upper and lower frame portions that are completed prior to assembly with the vessel. The upper and lower frame portions are then separated and the vessel is installed in the lower frame portion.

Abstract: In "C" dolly systems, it is conventional to provide a resistance to steer of approximately 0.3 G in order to improve the steering thereof particularly in an evasive action and to decrease the tendency of high speed off tracking. The higher this resistance to steer, the better the high speed off tracking characteristics are. However, high resistance although relatively satisfactory at high speeds, at relatively low speeds below approximately 30 miles an hour, results in the creation of severe and undue stresses and forces in the dolly and hitch structures particularly during relatively tight turning maneuvers. The present invention comprises a two phase control system. The speed of the vehicle is sensed continuously and when the speed is below approximately 30 mph (approximately 50 kph) the steering axle of the dolly is free to steer under the control of the axle steering dampening system but above 30 mph (50 kph), the axle is locked thus giving the maximum resistance to steer.