Abstract: A load retainer for use in the void of a cargo container to resist shifting of the cargo in transit has a symmetrical load bearing surface to evenly distribute the force delivered by the cargo. In a first presently preferred embodiment, the load retainer comprises a pair of panels which are coupled together to form an H-shaped device. The panels remain parallel to each other in an expanded load retaining configuration, a collapsed storage configuration and all positions therebetween. A second presently preferred embodiment has a symmetric rectilinear network shaped configuration and includes locking tabs to releasably secure the device in that configuration and resist lateral forces in either direction.

Abstract: A cargo air bag inflation valve and inflator combination comprising a tubular plastic valve body having a central passageway for the flow of compressed air to permit the inflating of an air bag. Valve closure means is reciprocal in the passageway and is biased to a normal valve closed position. A quick connect/disconnect fitting carries detent balls operative to engage a circumferential edge on the valve body and to snap onto a detent ball receiving surface of diameter less than the circumferential edge to thereby draw the valve body into the fitting. An annular shoulder in the fitting engages the valve plug separating the valve seat carried by the valve body from the valve plug permitting inflation of the air bag through the fitting and central passageway.

Abstract: An inflation nozzle for inflating cargo air bags having a main body through which compressed air flows to an outlet in a nozzle tip and a handle pivoted to the main body carrying at its end adjacent the nozzle tip a spring-loaded closure for closing off the outlet when the inflation nozzle is out of engagement with the cargo air bag valve. The body and handle are spring loaded whereby the handle can be squeezed and slid into engagement with the air bag valve; and, on release, the nozzle tip protrudes into the air valve opening it and completing locking of the nozzle to the valve.

Abstract: A load spacer is disclosed having an improved suspension system for suspending the load spacer between containers or articles in a railway boxcar or other freight shipping vehicle or container to prevent shifting of the load. The load spacer is a collapsible honeycomb structure and includes spaced, elongated, rigid suspension members which are woven through the upper two layers of the structure. The ends of the suspension members project laterally past the planar sides of the structure and are adapted to rest on the tops of articles of freight on opposite sides of the space filled by the load spacer. The suspension members support the spacer from above over a relatively wide area and are held in position by a relatively high frictional force to provide a strong, reliable suspension system.

Abstract: A load spacer is disclosed having an improved support system allowing the spacer to stand between containers or articles of freight in a railway boxcar or other freight shipping vehicle or container and between the load and the walls of the shipping vehicle to prevent shifting of the load. The load spacer is an expandable-collapsible honeycomb structure and includes spaced elongated, rigid supporting members which extend through the structure from top to bottom. The ends of the rigid supporting members bear against the top and bottom strips of the structure to support the structure in an expanded condition and to prevent its collapse in a vertical direction when in place. The load spacer is particularly adapted for use at the ends and along the sides of the shipping vehicle.