Abstract: The multipurpose spreader attachment includes in a first preferred embodiment projections on an underside that define sockets to be engaged with complimentary bosses located on the upper surface of a cargo cage. A latching mechanism is provided to effect a locked arrangement between the spreader and the cargo cage to couple to the cargo cage reliably and securely. The cargo cage is adapted to accommodate both the heavy lifting equipment as well as the pallets of goods to be unloaded, such that the need to change riggings for moving the fork lift and moving the cargo is eliminated. Moreover, the multipurpose spreader is equipped with cables that preferably include actuable hooks that suspend from the spreader and can be opened and closed via an actuator on the spreader. The hooks are adapted to cooperate with connectors such as rings on the preslung pallets, allowing the crane and multipurpose spreader to lift the preslung pallets in addition to the cargo cages.

Abstract: The present invention is characterized by a multipurpose spreader attachment that cooperates with a cargo cage to perform each of the aforementioned loading operations without the need to change riggings. The multipurpose spreader attachment includes in a first preferred embodiment projections on an underside that define sockets to be engaged with complimentary bosses located on the upper surface of a cargo cage. A latching mechanism is provided to effect a locked arrangement between the spreader and the cargo cage to couple to the cargo cage reliably and securely. The cargo cage is adapted to accommodate both the heavy lifting equipment as well as the pallets of goods to be unloaded, such that the need to change riggings for moving the fork lift and moving the cargo is eliminated. Moreover, the multipurpose spreader is equipped with cables that preferably include actuable hooks that suspend from the spreader and can be opened and closed via an actuator on the spreader.

Abstract: A safety cage utilized in connection with a cargo container hoisting bridle crane including a safety mechanism for securing the safety cage to the cargo container bridle. A plurality of locking pins are rotatably mounted within the roof assembly of the safety cage. Connector beams adapted for receiving the locking pins are mounted on the bridle in such a manner that when the bridle is lowered onto the top of the safety cage the locking pins are positioned within the connector beams. An activation assembly is provided by means of which the locking pins can be rotated to a locked position within the connector beams thereby securely joining together the safety cage and bridle.

Abstract: A safety cage hoisted atop a stack of interlockable cargo containers provides safe access to the locks. The dimensions of the cage are substantially identical to the dimensions of the containers. Eyes in the upper corners of the cage frame are engaged by the container bridle hooks. Hinged deck plates in the corners of the cage open to provide access to the locks immediately below. A reeled tether hanging from a trolley which rolls along the athwartship extension arms of a roof boom hooks onto a worker's safety harness to enable him to leave the cage and reach remote locks in safety. The boom rotates between stowed and deployed positions and is held in place by quick release catches. A spring actuated pin engages a tapered hole to lock the extension arms in place. Baskets disposed along the perimeter of the cage are used for storing the locking cones.

Abstract: A load-retaining apparatus including a pallet floor having an upstanding cage mounted thereon for receipt within of a load carried on such pallet floor. A horizontally projecting retainer is provided for resting on such load to hold it captive and is carried from such cage by means of pivotable lifting arms coupled with a hoisting device in such a manner that hoisting of the cage causes such arms to rotate and automatically lower the retainer onto such load. When the pallet subsequently comes to rest on the ground and tension is taken off this hoisting device, the arms are biased to their retracted positions to raise the retainer off such load.