Abstract: A cargo handling system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the cargo handling system includes a first rail defining an upward facing surface and a downward facing surface and a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction; a platform configured for rolling engagement with the first rail; and a first tug configured to propel the platform along the first rail in the longitudinal direction, the first tug comprising a power drive unit having a first drive wheel and a guide unit having a first guide wheel.

Abstract: A rail for a track-bound vehicle comprising a number of lateral flanges, which can cooperate with a substructure, the flanges extending in an outwards direction from an essentially vertically arranged web provided with a foot, and a portion of a runway rail forming part of a head of the rail and connected with the web. This makes possible a reduction of excavating and substructure work, when laying rails, and a simplified maintenance of the tracks, and in addition also reduces the required number of sleepers. The lateral flanges as seen in the transverse direction relative to the web project to a larger extend than the foot, so that the load operating on the rail will essentially be absorbed by the substructure cooperating with and substantially being located in the area of the lateral flanges.

Abstract: A concrete rail bed is provided with a pair of longitudinally extending laterally spaced rail-supporting pedestals with a connector between them, and each having a rail-receiving slot. The bed may be either precast or cast in place and may be reinforced as required. A rail has a head, a stem extending downwardly from the head, and flanges extending outwardly from the bottom region of the head. The rail is configured such that the stem fits into the slot of the concrete bed, with an elastomeric material inserted between the stem and the walls to substantially fill the slot.

Abstract: A cast concrete rail bed is provided which includes plural panels, each panel having a pair of longitudinally extending laterally spaced rail-supporting pedestals, with a connector between them, and each having a rail-receiving slot in its top. Each pedestal has a bottom support surface and inwardly sloping surfaces connected to the top and bottom surfaces. Reinforcement within each pedestal includes a horizontal support below the slot, and a supporting rod extending downwardly from the support and through the bed. A pair of longitudinally extending reinforcing members are supported on the horizontal support, one on each side of the slot, and extending upwardly above the bottom on the slot. A transverse spacer connects the reinforcing members above the horizontal support; tendon ducts are supported by the horizontal support, below the spacer.

Abstract: A joint bar for joining a first rail having a head and a depending terminal web, and a second rail having a head, a depending web and a transverse flange; the joint bar has a first U-shaped portion with a lower bight and upstanding legs, and a second portion comprising a pair of spaced longitudinally extending elements, each extending from a leg of the first portion. Each element has an upper bulbous head, a lower flange, and a connecting web.