Abstract: An elastically averaging self-retaining alignment system includes a first component and a second component. The first component includes a first alignment member and an elastically deformable alignment element fixedly disposed with respect to the first alignment member, the alignment element having a hollow tube. The second component includes a second alignment member and an alignment feature fixedly disposed with respect to the second alignment member, the alignment feature having an aperture with a plurality of inwardly extending tabs. The elastically deformable alignment element is configured and disposed to interferingly, deformably and matingly engage the alignment feature. Portions of the elastically deformable alignment element when inserted into the alignment feature elastically deform to an elastically averaged final configuration that aligns and retains the first component relative to the second component in at least two of four planar orthogonal directions.

Abstract: A system for engagement and disengagement of carts to form a train of multiple carts. Each cart has a spring-loaded hitch that is held in a storage position when the carts are disengaged. A lever coupled to the hitch is operated to position the hitch for insertion into a receiver pocket of the next cart. A leading edge of the hitch deflects a spring-loaded lockpin. An angled guide member positions the hitch vertically within the pocket so that the lockpin comes into alignment with an aperture in the hitch. When aligned, the lockpin snaps into place and engages the aperture to lock the carts together. The close tolerance of the hitch within the pocket prevents transverse articulation of adjacent carts. Structures within the hitch and the pocket allow slight rotation in a longitudinal articulation axis about the lockpin and torsional articulation of the hitch within the pocket.

Abstract: A connecting mechanism for connecting a functional part of a mobile unit to a basic unit. The mobile unit consists of a mobile bottom part provided with compression springs on which the functional part rests. The functional part is provided with connecting elements which can cooperate with connecting elements on the basic unit with the compression springs compressed. The connecting elements are formed by a hook and a roller which form an arcuate contact interface at a lower portion of the units, and by confronting vertical contact surfaces at the top of the units.

Abstract: A rail car is adjustable in length to accommodate the mounting thereon of cargo containers of various lengths and widths, such as the presently employed 20 foot, 40 foot, 45 foot and 48 foot lengths and 96 and 102 inch widths. Length adjustment is effected either by forming the rail car frame in two telescopic end sections, or by providing an extensible coupling tongue on one or both ends of the rail car frame. The rail car also may incorporate a collapsible fifth wheel connector for the king pin of a cargo container trailer chassis to accommodate transport of a trailer-mounted cargo container. The rail car also includes structure by which it may be manipulated by external lifting equipment to stack a plurality of the rail cars one atop another, either for stationary storage in a rail yard or for transport in a train to another location.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for connecting the bow of a boat to the staff of a boat-trailer. A horizontal bar is connected at one end of a staff and extends toward the rear of the trailer. This bar has a notch near the rear end. A swinging lock arm is pivotally attached to the horizontal bar and in the free position extends above and below the bar. A holding bar frame is attached to the bow of the boat and is substantially U-shaped with the open at the bottom. A round holding bar extends across the open end of the frame. A rolling bar is carried by a stop and release bar assembly which is guided up and down vertically by slots in the side members of the frame. When docking, the horizontal bar and swinging lock arm goes through the space between the round holding bar and the movable rolling bar. As soon as the horizontal bar passes through this space the swinging arms drop down and form a locking T-shape.

Abstract: A coupling device for railway motor cars includes a pole or tongue on the motor car with a cam member pivoted on the distal end thereof. A coupling box with converging side walls is secured to the end of the trailing car and has a coupling pin extending from top to bottom. When the pivoted cam enters the box it is cammed by first, a sidewall, and then the back wall to pivot and hook around the coupling pin. During the course of this movement, a spring-biased locking pin rides on the flat, top surface of the cam to drop behind it when the coupling is complete, thus preventing reverse pivotal movement. A chain, is secured from the locking pin to an arm extending radially from a long shaft extending laterally to the side of motor car and terminating in an operating arm which, when raised, lifts the locking pin to release the pivoted cam for uncoupling.

Abstract: In a monorail system in which a carriage is displaceable along a track and is adapted to be connected to or released from load carriers or the like, a coupling device is provided which comprises a hook swingably mounted on the axis of one of the supporting rollers of a carriage or carrier and adapted to engage a portion of the roller dolly of the other vehicle above the rail.