Track Mounted, For Slidable Adjustment Along The Car Wall Patents (Class 410/150)
  • Patent number: 11317702
    Abstract: A system for transferring an object from one user to another user that is useful to prevent unintentional dropping of the object is disclosed. A cam is rotatably connected to a structure that is configured to be attached to a first user. A central housing with two ports is configured to allow for the attachment of a tool by lanyard or other means. When the first cam is locked into the one of the housing ports, it cannot be released from the housing unless a second cam is inserted into the second housing port and captured. Once the second cam is captured the first cam is released, thus safely passing the tool from the first user to the second user while minimizing the chance of dropping the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: Tenacious Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: James B. Easley, Paul Michael Goudreau, Nathan Bohmbach
  • Patent number: 10793053
    Abstract: A load securing assembly for securing cargo in a trailer includes a trailer that has an outer wall. A plurality of channels is provided, each of the channels is coupled to the outer wall of the trailer and each of the channels is positioned within the trailer. A plurality of locking units is provided and each of the locking units is slidably positioned in a respective one of the channels. Each of the locking units releasably engages the respective channel to retain each of the locking units at a selected point along the respective channel. Each of the locking units is positioned to abut the cargo in the trailer thereby inhibiting the cargo from moving in the trailer. Additionally, each of the locking units is positionable in a home position for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Inventor: Dusty Smith
  • Patent number: 8979451
    Abstract: An improved captive beam decking system is disclosed for use in a cargo trailer. The system includes a beam assembly and a foot assembly that is selectively engagable to a vertical sliding track system. The sliding track system is attached to the sidewall of a trailer vertically. The beam can be easily moved at different heights that are selected based upon the configuration of the cargo trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Steven E. Downing
  • Patent number: 8950988
    Abstract: A system for optimizing storage in an enclosed transport trailer (6), having transverse bearing beams (2) for supporting a load such as loaded pallets (12, 13) at a mid height of the trailer such that two storage levels are available. The beams have a wheel (10) at each end that runs in a horizontal track (11) attached to each side wall of the trailer, the track enclosing the wheels to prevent them from disengaging from the track. Adjacent beams can be attached together at variable spacings using a spacer bar (15) to suit a particular pallet or load size. The track has a junction adjacent the open end (20) of the trailer that leads up to another track (18) immediately below the roof line where the beams can be moved to an out of the way storage position (19) when not required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Maxiloda Limited
    Inventors: Graham Bruce Rabarts, Mark John Holmes
  • Patent number: 8757944
    Abstract: An adjustable decking system for use in supporting freight is provided. The system includes a pair of tracks configured to be vertically mounted upon opposite walls of a freight container, configured with a plurality of evenly spaced recesses disposed along the length thereof. A bracket is slidably mounted upon the pair of tracks and a lock is pivotably mounted to the bracket and an end of the channel unit. The lock includes first, second, and third fingers extending therefrom which are normally received within three of the plurality of spaced recesses disposed along the track. The lock is being pivotably mounted to the bracket such that the first, second, and third fingers may be withdrawn from the three of the plurality of spaced recesses to allow the position of the channel unit to be vertically adjusted along the one of the pair of tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Ancra International, LLC
    Inventor: James N. Calico
  • Patent number: 8740526
    Abstract: An elongate beam assembly for supporting cargo is provided. The beam assembly includes an elongate beam extending between first and second ends, the beam comprising a bottom wall with a downward facing surface and extending across a bottom width. A top wall includes an upwardly facing surface and extends across a top width between right and left edges and opposite right and left side walls extend between the bottom and top walls. The bottom width is smaller than the top width. Each of the right and left edges of the top wall define respective right and left side surfaces. Right and left ribs extend from a bottom edge of each respective right and left side surface to the respective right and left side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Ancra International LLC
    Inventor: Howard T. Knox
  • Patent number: 8690503
    Abstract: An adaptor for cargo control systems is provided that can adjust to accommodate length, width, and height variances between parallel tracks in a cargo control system. The adaptor includes a crossbar, first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms, and first and second width adjusting mechanisms. The first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms are affixed to first and second ends of the crossbar, and the first and second width adjusting mechanisms are affixed to the crossbar along the length of the crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Teffy R. Chamoun
  • Publication number: 20130315687
    Abstract: An improved captive beam decking system is disclosed for use in a cargo trailer. The system includes a beam assembly and a foot assembly that is selectively engagable to a vertical sliding track system. The sliding track system is attached to the sidewall of a trailer vertically. The beam can be easily moved at different heights that are selected based upon the configuration of the cargo trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Steven E. Downing
  • Patent number: 8459916
    Abstract: A bracing system and method are provided to restrain cargo against longitudinal movement within a cargo container. The system uses U-channels in opposing side walls of the cargo container adjacent a rear opening of the cargo container. The system includes one or more bracing bars and an end cap at the first end and at the second end of each bracing bar. Each end cap has a channel section providing an extension to fit in the U-channels of the cargo container. The channel section is configured for a frictional fit in the U-channel to resist vertical displacement in the U-channel once a bracing bar with a pair of end caps is forced into a horizontal position across the opening of the cargo container, with the channel sections in the opposing U-channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Norseman Inc.
    Inventors: Garry Alexander Widynowski, Bruce Alan Finley
  • Patent number: 8439612
    Abstract: An adaptor for cargo control systems is provided that can adjust to accommodate length, width, and height variances between parallel tracks in a cargo control system. The adaptor includes a crossbar, first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms, and first and second width adjusting mechanisms. The first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms are affixed to first and second ends of the crossbar, and the first and second width adjusting mechanisms are affixed to the crossbar along the length of the crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Teffy R. Chamoun
  • Patent number: 8388285
    Abstract: A support arrangement for supporting load in a transportation unit, includes a rod-like support member placed beside the load to support it and two parallel rails in the longitudinal direction of the transportation unit and at a distance from each other. The support member includes support ends for fastening to support points in the transportation unit so that the support member is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the transportation unit. Safe and easily implemented support for the load to be transported is achieved by arranging the support member to move along the inner walls of the rails and guided by the inner walls to set it against the load. The support arrangement includes an elongated flexible member and a tightening element for tightening the elongated flexible member against the load so that displacement of the load in relation to the rod-like member is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Oy Langh Ship Ab
    Inventor: Hans Langh
  • Patent number: 8388287
    Abstract: An adjustable cargo support system comprising: at least one pair of spaced apart tracks that are generally vertically oriented proximate at least one wall of a transport vehicle; at least one support cross member with two ends and an intermediate portion therebetween; and a means for adjusting a height of the support cross member, which includes one actuator device that is generally located between the support cross member ends, so that a user adjust the height of the support cross member at a central location, thereby allowing the support cross member to be moved generally vertically without the user alternatingly having to move one end of the support cross member and then the other end of the support cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Con-Way Transportation Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Arnold, Steven E. Downing
  • Patent number: 8297896
    Abstract: A motor vehicle is provided having at least one holding device, a holding device having a holding apparatus, and a holding apparatus for a guide device having two guides spaced apart from one another, in which the holding apparatus can be situated so it is movable, having one holding unit and one guide element per guide, which are coupled to the holding unit and using the holding unit can be coupled to the guides so it is movable, in order to move the holding unit along the guides, angle compensator or angle compensation means is provided that allows movement of one of the guide elements at least along the guide upon the adjustment of at least one of the other guide elements in relation to the guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Mike Draisbach
  • Patent number: 8172494
    Abstract: A beam assembly is formed from a hollow beam member which has a pair of slidable channel units installed therein and extend from the opposite ends thereof. The ends of the channel units have guide shoes forming latching assemblies pivotally supported thereon, each guide shoe having a spring loaded lock key mounted pivotally mounted thereon. A pair of tracks are spaced from each other in opposing relationship by a distance equal to the longitudinal extent of the beam member. The tracks have a plurality of aligned apertures and C-shaped runners running along their longitudinal extent. The lock keys of the beam member each has a pair of latching fingers extending therefrom which fit into a pair of adjacent track apertures. The latching fingers may be locked in place in the opposing track apertures by the spring action of their associated springs and may be withdrawn from the apertures by way of a hook shaped tab attached thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Ancra International, LLC
    Inventor: Howard T. Knox
  • Publication number: 20110318133
    Abstract: An adjustable cargo support system comprising: at least one pair of spaced apart tracks that are generally vertically oriented proximate at least one wall of a transport vehicle; at least one support cross member with two ends and an intermediate portion therebetween; and a means for adjusting a height of the support cross member, which includes one actuator device that is generally located between the support cross member ends, so that a user adjust the height of the support cross member at a central location, thereby allowing the support cross member to be moved generally vertically without the user alternatingly having to move one end of the support cross member and then the other end of the support cross member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: CON-WAY TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark E. Arnold, Steven E. Downing
  • Publication number: 20110142564
    Abstract: A securement device for storing a load lock on a wall of a trailer. The device comprises a track assembly having a mounting plate attached to the wall and having an upper member and a lower member attached to the mounting plate. The upper member and lower member are configured spaced from the mounting plate to form a channel between the upper and lower members and the mounting plate. A bracket member having a connector operatively connects to the channel. The bracket member further has a fastener rotatably connected to the connector and connected to an end of the load lock wherein the fastener is configured to rotatably move the load lock toward the wall of the trailer such that the connector secures the load lock near the wall of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Joshua Kaburick
  • Patent number: 7878743
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier system employing a pair of support rails adapted to be secured to the sidewalls of a bed of a pick-up truck. Attached to the sidewalls are a pair of tie-down assemblies that can be fixedly secured at various points along each of the support rails. A load bar assembly is also included that can be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the tie-down assemblies. When the load bar is not in use, the tie-down assemblies can be used in connection with external bungee cords, nylon straps or other fastening implements to help restrain articles within the bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Aftanas
  • Patent number: 7726921
    Abstract: A stanchion containment systems and method for securely storing and for safely accessing large and/or heavy items. The present stanchion containment system is particularly suited for use in dynamic locations. The stanchion assemblies includes a ceiling assembly releasably engaged with holes in the ceiling plate, and a deck assembly releasably engaged with holes in the deck plate. At least one linkage assembly connects the two or more of the stanchion assemblies. The linkage assembly substantially supports the stanchion assembly for translation from a first location to a second location, to provide access to the items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: McNally Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Paul J. Lombardi, Steven T. Dorsey
  • Patent number: 7648318
    Abstract: An arrangement of securing frame assemblies is provided within a shipping enclosure and engaging packages being handled. The frame assemblies are secured to side walls of the container and act in pairs to extend from respective sides and join together to form bracing barriers extending across the width of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Edmund Maresh, Eric Allen Stegner, Robert William Stegner
  • Patent number: 7530614
    Abstract: A pickup truck accessory comprising a first L-shaped assembly that can be removeably attached to a first side of a pickup truck bed, a first tubular member attached to the first L-shaped assembly, a second L-shaped assembly that can be removeably attached to a second side of the pickup truck bed, a second tubular member attached to the second L-shaped assembly, and a rack assembly slidably disposed along the first tubular member and along the second tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher B. Nichols
  • Patent number: 7387482
    Abstract: A cargo restraining system for use within a bed of a pickup truck. The system includes a first pair of rails disposed on sidewalls of the bed. A second pair of support rails are secured to the forward wall of the bed and to an interior surface of the rear liftgate of the bed. First and second independent cross bar assemblies have end supports that are coupled to the support walls so that the assemblies extend perpendicularly from one another. The cross bar assemblies can be adjustably positioned along their associated pair of support rails to engage cargo of widely varying sizes and shapes that is being carried within the bed of the vehicle. The end supports can be simultaneously locked and unlocked from one end of each cross bar assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Jac Products
    Inventors: Gerard J Kmita, Jeffrey M Aftanas
  • Patent number: 7350468
    Abstract: A box car includes end walls joined to opposing side walls that define the interior cargo area. Each end wall includes a corrugated side that faces the cargo area. The adjustable spacer is arranged within a cavity in the corrugated side in a stowed position so that it does not protrude into the cargo area. The side walls include tracks in which opposing guides that support the lateral beam are slideably received. The tracks do not protrude into the cargo area. The guides include multiple holes providing keyways that receive removable locks. Vertical side posts are arranged along the exterior of the side walls. Holes are arranged in the side walls in the area of the side posts. The locks are received in one of the holes in the guides and a hole in the side wall to lock the adjustable spacer in the desired position relative to the box car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: National Steel Car Ltd.
    Inventors: Mario D. Gatto, Robert David Vial, Michael Hugh Nicholson, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080044250
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier system employing a pair of support rails adapted to be secured to the sidewalls of a bed of a pick-up truck. Attached to the sidewalls are a pair of tie-down assemblies that can be fixedly secured at various points along each of the support rails. A load bar assembly is also included that can be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the tie-down assemblies. When the load bar is not in use, the tie-down assemblies can be used in connection with external bungee cords, nylon straps or other fastening implements to help restrain articles within the bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Aftanas
  • Publication number: 20080038075
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier system employing a pair of support rails adapted to be secured to the sidewalls of a bed of a pick-up truck. Attached to the sidewalls are a pair of tie-down assemblies that can be fixedly secured at various points along each of the support rails. A load bar assembly is also included that can be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the tie-down assemblies. When the load bar is not in use, the tie-down assemblies can be used in connection with external bungee cords, nylon straps or other fastening implements to help restrain articles within the bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Aftanas
  • Publication number: 20070286697
    Abstract: A cargo management system for a motor vehicle. In one form the system includes a pair of side rails adapted to be secured in spaced apart relation to one another within a bed of a pickup truck. A cross bar assembly is supported at its opposite ends to the side rails so as to be suspended above a floor of the bed of the pickup truck. The cross bar assembly includes a cross bar component that has a plurality of parallel arranged channels extending along the length thereof. The channels can each be used to secure various forms of accessory attachments and/or tie down components to the cross bar assembly, thus significantly enhancing the utility of the cross bar assembly. In one form the cross bar component is rectangularly shaped when viewed in cross section, with a separate channel formed on each of the four distinct surfaces of the cross bar component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventors: Gerard J. Kmita, Noel V. Ranka, Brian E. Henderson
  • Patent number: 7234904
    Abstract: A coil car has a pair of deep side sills and a trough structure mounted to, and suspended between, the deep side sills for carrying coils. The side sills extend between the rail car trucks and act as a pair of deep side beams for carrying vertical loads. The deep side sills are arranged to extend above and below the center sill of the coil car to give vertical stiffness to the coil car. The top chord members of the side sills are outwardly splayed relative to the bottom chord members of the side sills. Cross-bearers extend outwardly and away from the center sill to attach to the side sills. The trough structure has three parallel, longitudinally extending troughs—a central trough lying between two laterally outboard outer troughs. Each trough is shaped to cradle steel coils, or other similar loads, between its inwardly and downwardly sloping shoulder plates. The shoulder plates are lined with cushioning to buffer coils during loading or travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: National Steel Car Limited
    Inventors: Mohammed Al-Kaabi, Ilario A. Coslovi
  • Patent number: 7134820
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel joint which includes an anchoring system between composite plate side walls of a trailer body. The anchoring system includes track members which are provided at multiple points on each side wall. Beams extend between the respective track members by attachments and are attached thereto. The beams can be moved up and down along the tracks and support cargo or a removable deck which supports the cargo. The track members can also be removed from the joints without dismantling the entire joint. Splicing members are attached at the joints on the outside of the trailer body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 7117801
    Abstract: A box car includes end walls joined to opposing side walls that define the interior cargo area. Each end wall includes a corrugated side that faces the cargo area. The adjustable spacer is arranged within a cavity in the corrugated side in a stowed position so that it does not protrude into the cargo area. The side walls include tracks in which opposing guides that support the lateral beam are slideably received. The tracks do not protrude into the cargo area. The guides include multiple holes providing keyways that receive removable locks. Vertical side posts are arranged along the exterior of the side walls. Holes are arranged in the side walls in the area of the side posts. The locks are received in one of the holes in the guides and a hole in the side wall to lock the adjustable spacer in the desired position relative to the box car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: National Steel Car Ltd.
    Inventors: Mario D. Gatto, Robert David Vial, Michael Hugh Nicholson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7037055
    Abstract: A restraining device that is mountable on a track, has an elongated member and an attachment mechanism connected to an end of the elongated member, to mount the member on a track. The elongated member has a tubular core with an upper end and a lower end and a tubular sleeve having an upper-end opening and a lower-end opening. The core is received within the sleeve such that the sleeve is axially movable relative to the core, and the upper end of the core is connected to the attachment mechanism through the upper-end opening of the sleeve. A spring provides spring-loading for the sleeve such that the upper end of the sleeve is urged against the track to resist motion of the elongated member on the track. The attachment mechanism has a mount for slidably mounting the elongated member on the track, and a pivoting joint connected between the elongated member and the mount, such that the pivoting joint allows the elongated member to be pivoted relative to the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Hannibal Material Handling, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen James Rogers, Vadim Chernobilsky, Gregory Rudin, Senad Dzaferovic, Gregor Dermendzhyan
  • Patent number: 7014401
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing loaded goods on the loading area of a vehicle or similar device in the form of a beam-like profile having at least one insertion profile (30) that is mounted at one end on the latter, a pivoting head (40) of grooved cross section and a latching pin (60) that is mounted such that it can move relative thereto are articulated on the insertion profile by an axle pin (42) as a connection member for countermembers on the loading area or on a box body associated therewith. The latching pin (60) projects out of the grooved cross section of the pivoting head (40) from the latching body (50) towards the ridge plate of the pivoting head (40), and the latching body (50) is passed through by the axle pin (42) of the pivoting head (40) and in addition is assigned an energy accumulator. In the vicinity of the latching pin (60), the latching body (50) is provided with an eye (58) as coupling element for an actuating or tension bar (70).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: allsafe Jungfalk GmbH & Co.KG
    Inventor: Thomas Fugel
  • Patent number: 6997657
    Abstract: A stanchion for an article carrier system comprises a main body member having a cavity extending inwardly of the main body member from a plate. A floor of said cavity includes a first plurality of circumferentially spaced ramps. The stanchion further includes an arm having an end sized to rotate within the cavity. The cavity includes a bottom edge that includes a second plurality of circumferentially spaced ramps. A post is also included in the stanchion and has a first end positioned within the cavity and secured to the arm. The post also has a second end that includes a cleat. The first plurality of ramps and the second plurality of ramps are configured to cooperate to raise and lower the cleat in relation to the main body member when the arm is rotated about the main body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: SportRack LLC
    Inventor: Ronald G. Saward
  • Patent number: 6840725
    Abstract: A load restraint for use in a container is disclosed. The road restraint comprises a support to locate and extend generally vertically within a first locating formation (such as a corrugation in a wall) within a container. A transverse member extends from the support member across the container to engage with a second locating formation (such as another corrugation). A load engaging member is secured to the transverse member to extend from the transverse member to engage a load within the container. The load engaging member is adjustable in position with respect to the transverse member whereby it can contact a load spaced from the transverse member over a range of distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Anthony Moore
  • Patent number: 6824341
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel joint which includes an anchoring system between composite plate side walls of a trailer body. The anchoring system includes track members which are provided at multiple points on each side wall. Beams extend between the respective track members by attachments and are attached thereto. The beams can be moved up and down along the tracks and support cargo or a removable deck which supports the cargo. The track members can also be removed from the joints without dismantling the entire joint. Splicing members are attached at the joints on the outside of the trailer body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 6789987
    Abstract: A cargo freight container has four walls (1a to 1d), a top (2) and a bottom (3), which form an interior having an inner ceiling (4) and an inner bottom (5). Between the inner ceiling (4) and the inner bottom (5) there is at least one load support (6), which is movable against goods (7) to be loaded in the container such that the goods (7) can be supported against the load support (6) at least in one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Oy Langh Ship AB
    Inventor: Hans Langh
  • Patent number: 6749381
    Abstract: A coil car has a pair of deep side beams and a trough structure mounted to, and suspended between, the deep side beams for carrying coils. The trough structure may have three parallel, longitudinally extending troughs—a central trough lying between two laterally outboard outer troughs. Each trough is shaped to cradle steel coils, or other similar loads, between its inwardly and downwardly sloping shoulder plates. The car has movable coil stops to discourage longitudinal shifting of loaded coils. Retractable rollers or sliders mounted to a movable coil stop facilitate the repositioning of the coil stop during loading, and the coil stop has a mid-span step and hand grabs to facilitate climbing over the coil stop by personnel walking along the trough structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: National Steel Car Limited
    Inventors: Ilario A. Coslovi, Mohammed Al-Kaabi
  • Patent number: 6749383
    Abstract: Stanchion and clamp assemblies which are moveable along a track system in a cargo storage area and which are pivotally and/or extendably adjustable relative to cargo or dunnage after being initially secured to the track system to thereby permit positive engagement of the stanchion and clamp assemblies with the cargo or dunnage and thus prohibit cargo or dunnage shifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Benedict Engineering Co.
    Inventors: Charles E. Benedict, William P. Thompson, Stephen R. Corbett, James R. Dobbs, Scott K. Bladen
  • Patent number: 6739811
    Abstract: There is provided an improved decking assembly including a deck beam and support rail for use in supporting items such as freight in containers, particularly for the purpose of shipping as for example in a highway van trailer. The assembly comprises a pair of elongated tracks, a decking support carriage for each track, and locking means secured to the carriage. The pair of elongated tracks is vertically oriented in opposing relationship to one another. The tracks each have a top surface and a bottom surface, and the top surface has a pair of spaced, inverted, V-shaped grooves with constricted openings, running longitudinally. Each decking support carriage has an outer surface and an inner surface, and spaced, opposing pairs of legs outwardly extending from the inner surface. The pairs of legs form complementary, inverted V-shapes to matingly engage within the grooves on the tracks for secure, guided, sliding movement within the tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Aero-Kit Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Brian W. Petelka
  • Patent number: 6722829
    Abstract: A freight gate assembly (10) for retaining freight in a trailer (11) or van includes: (a) a track system (12) including at least two matching tracks (18), each of the tracks being affixable to opposite, longitudinal side walls (19) of the trailer, each of the tracks (18) including a longitudinally oriented channel (24) and a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially same-sized notches (25), the notches (25) being accessible from the channel (24); and (b) a freight gate restraining system (13) including at least one adjustable gate rail (32), each gate rail (32) having a first end including a latching mechanism (33) for detachably latching the first end of the gate rail (32) to a first one of the tracks (18) by means of the notches, and an opposite, second end including a joint mechanism (34) that is slidably movable along the second track by means of the notches (25) in the second track (18); wherein the adjustable gate rail (32) is substantially perpendicular to the tracks (18) when it is in a closed posit
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: David Locke Williams
  • Patent number: 6705812
    Abstract: Stanchion and clamp assemblies which are moveable along a track system in a cargo storage area and which are extendably adjustable relative to cargo or dunnage after being fixedly secured to the track system to thereby permit positive engagement of the stanchion and clamp assemblies with the cargo or dunnage and thus prohibit cargo dunnage shifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventors: Charles E. Benedict, William P. Thompson, Stephen R. Corbett, James R. Dobbs, Scott K. Bladen
  • Patent number: 6632055
    Abstract: This invention provides a convenient, inexpensive device for securing objects in place in the load bed of a transporting vehicle, comprising an elongate frame, clamping members arranged for movably mounting opposite ends of the frame to variable positions along opposing rails on the sidewalls of the load bed, and a load securing member arranged for movably mounting to variable positions along the frame to enable direct pressure engagement of an object located a variable positions within the load bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Adam Kania
  • Patent number: 6062780
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an improved adjustable and vertically lockable decking system for use in supporting freight in a cargo vessel wherein the vessel has opposing side walls. The system includes at least one pair of elongated strips, each of the pair adapted to be mounted vertically on each of the opposing walls. Each of the strips comprises a plurality of vertically spaced apertures. There is also provided a horizontally oriented support assembly being horizontally adjustable in length so as to span a width of the vessel between the opposing side walls. The assembly is pivotally connected at opposing ends thereof to a latching assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Brian W. Petelka
  • Patent number: 5688087
    Abstract: A pick-up bed rail assembly for a truck box includes a pair of elongate rails which are mounted to the sides of a truck box. A telescoping cross member is received in each elongate rail and moves along the rails by means of a plurality of rollers positioned between the cross member and the rails. A locking mechanism is provided for securing the cross bar to the rails in order to prevent cargo theft. The locking mechanism includes a knob which is freely rotatable when the mechanism is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Advanced Accessory Systems LLC
    Inventors: Craig A. Stapleton, Stephen Peter Siivola
  • Patent number: 5524803
    Abstract: A load carrier for vehicles has two longitudinal load supports adapted to be fixed to a roof of a vehicle and transverse load supports which are movably disposed between the longitudinal supports. One end of a transverse load support is pivotally connected to a movable joint provided in each of the longitudinal load supports and a movable locking member is provided in the opposing longitudinal support. The transverse load supports may be folded into the longitudinal load supports when not in use, and pivoted to a load carrying position extending between longitudinal supports and secured by the locking member. The load carrying position of the transverse load supports along the longitudinal supports may be changed by moving the joint and locking members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Jan-Ivar Arvidsson
  • Patent number: 5509764
    Abstract: A cargo securing system is provided wherein the system comprises a crossbar member attached to a beam member with ends adapted to concurrently cooperate in a slidable manner with opposing channels defined by a pair of U-shaped channel tracks. The channel tracks are mounted to the bed walls of a pick-up truck. The system is constructed of heavy duty metal to secure cargo in the bed of the truck between the crossbar member and the bed walls of the truck. The system is easily adjustable by one person with retractable locking pins, and provides padded support to protect against damage to secured cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventor: Mark E. Shives
  • Patent number: 5494327
    Abstract: A sliding connection especially suited for releasably and adjustably attaching an overhead rack or the like to side walls of a pickup truck includes a track mountable on the side wall of the pickup truck, and a sliding lock assembly releasably attachable to the rail member. The track includes an elongate tubular body having a bottom surface engagable with the side wall of the pickup truck and a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a plurality of rail members integrally formed with the tubular body and extendable along the length of the body. The sliding lock assembly includes, in one embodiment, a sliding lock member slidably mounted on the rail member of the track and movable along the length of the rail member, and a thumb turn for locking the sliding lock member at a desired position along the length of the rail member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: TracRac, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas E. Derecktor
  • Patent number: 5427487
    Abstract: A stabilizer kit for installation in a pickup truck to secure loads within the cargo area of the truck. The kit includes a pair of elongated side rails for securement to the side walls of the pickup; a plurality of crossbars extending transversely of the truck at longitudinally spaced locations within the cargo area and each mounted at its opposite ends for sliding longitudinal adjusting movement on the respective side rails; and an accessory bar extending downwardly from one of the crossbars and mounted at its upper end for sliding transverse adjusting movement on the crossbar. A pin assembly is provided for locking each crossbar in selected positions of longitudinal adjustment on the side rails and for locking the accessory bar in selected positions of transverse adjustment on the crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: Frederic G. Brosfske
  • Patent number: 5415505
    Abstract: An exemplary frame for carrying two or more tiers of vehicles within a standard cargo-carrying container includes frame-supporting wheels rotatably supported in interposed relation between the sides of the lower rail of the frame for streamlined operation. Installing structure included on the upper and lower rail of the frame, such as an upper and lower plate each having a toothed edge, enable selective coupling of a vertical tension member to the upper and lower rails either in a first suspended position in which longitudinal movement along the respective rails is possible or in a second suspended position locked against such movement. The exemplary frame also includes a storage mechanism where each vehicle-supporting wheel cradle is pivotable about a load-bearing hanger for securement in a storage position extending parallel to the sides of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: G & G Intellectual Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence Halpin, Donald Kiive
  • Patent number: 5338137
    Abstract: A pair of tracks having spaced cutouts formed along the longitudinal extent thereof are mounted vertically on opposite walls of a compartment such as the interior of a truck or other transportation vehicle. A beam assembly is formed by a pair of channel members and a beam member in which the channel members are slidably supported in telescoping relationship, the channel members having limited longitudinal movement relative to the beam member. One end of each of the channel members protrudes from the beam member and has a spring actuated latching device attached thereto. The effective length of the assembly can be adjusted by slidably positioning the channel members relative to the beam member to bring the latching devices into contact with the opposing tracks with such latching devices being selectively fitted onto flanged portions of the track and into a pair of opposing track openings so that they latch onto the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventor: Richard H. Jensen
  • Patent number: 5230485
    Abstract: A connector device is constructed for fixing and holding of structural components to each other, more specifically of secondary components to a primary support component. The primary support component may, for example, be a support rail with a clamping gap and the secondary components may be cross beams for carrying floor panels and the like, for example, in an aircraft. The connector device has a base plate and a carrier body extending from the base plate as well as connector flanges secured to the carrier body and preferably also to the base plate. A central bore passing through the carrier body and through the base plate receives a clamping bolt that grips with its head under rail edges forming a gap. A nut on the clamping bolt rests against a shoulder in or on the carrier body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Assignee: Deutsche Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Guenter Vogg, Juergen Wieck
  • Patent number: 5228823
    Abstract: A mobile racking system for installation in a trailer van which is fitted on the inside sidewalls with a number of load retaining strips at different elevations to define different elevation loads. A number of clamping bracket assemblies are releasably attached to the retaining strips, each assembly being provided with a releasable engagement device for accepting a C-shaped track member to provide a pathway for accepting and supporting a carriage in the form of a roller pallet. The releasable engagement device has a cam member for securing the C-shaped track member to the load retaining strip. The roller pallet extends substantially across the width of the trailer van, the roller pallet having at least on one side, a pair of rollers which are rigidly secured to axles which are adapted to move laterally on the pallet to accommodate differences in the spacing between the two side walls of the trailer. The clamping bracket assembly has a "["-shaped body having upper and lower arms joined by a bight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Inventor: Thomas J. Crook