On Supporting On-and-off Base Patents (Class 410/46)
  • Patent number: 11873032
    Abstract: Angle-adjustable connectors and modular systems capable of securing angle-adjustable side rails to trailers and/or trucks are described. The angle-adjustable connectors comprise a first component capable of attaching to a universal bracket of a trailer and a second component capable of securing one or more rail at a position disposed at a desired angle relative to the first component and/or a bed of the trailer or truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Inventors: Ira Biggs, Steven Hartman
  • Patent number: 11242643
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a main body including a nut portion; a plurality of level-adjustable foots placed at a lower side of the main body, configured to support the main body, adjustable in height to level the main body, and including a bolt portion inserted in and screw-coupled to the nut portion; and an elastic member configured to elastically press one of the bolt portion and the main body toward the main body or the level-adjustable foot to make a first thread of the bolt portion and a second thread of the nut portion corresponding to the first thread be in contact with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Minhwan Oh, Jeonghoon Kang, Eunkyeong Kwak
  • Patent number: 11117645
    Abstract: A cargo hold component system for a cargo hold of an aircraft, the cargo hold component system including floor elements and fixing elements. The floor elements can at least partially be fixed releasably by the fixing elements to fixing sites provided on or in the hold floor, such that in a state fixed to the fixing sites, the floor elements support a loading of the hold with cargo containers, and that in a state in which a first group of the floor elements has been removed from the fixing sites by release of the fixing elements and a second group of the floor elements has been partially removed from the fixing sites by release of the fixing elements, the hold is sealed gas-tightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Sascha Nowarre, Sven Scherenberger, Stephan Kahle, Rasmus Behrens
  • Patent number: 11072424
    Abstract: An intelligent restraint system architecture for aircraft cargo is provided. The intelligent restraint system architecture includes restraints arrayed along a cargo deck and local restraint control panels (RCPs). Each restraint is configured to normally assume a retracted condition at which cargo movement proximate to the restraint is permitted and to selectively assume an erected condition at which cargo movement proximate to the restraint is inhibited by the restraint. The local RCPs are respectively coupled to proximal restraints. Each local RCP is receptive of a signal indicative of a cargo movement status and is configured to automatically control each of the proximal restraints to selectively assume the erected condition or to re-assume the retracted condition in accordance with the signal being received and content thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ravi Murthy, Thirunavukkarasu Ramalingam
  • Patent number: 10894653
    Abstract: A packing holder for an extractor hood includes a first receiving portion having a first groove configured to receive edges of first and second parts of a chimney cover, the first groove having a bottom surface that is a first distance from an outer surface of an outer side in a thickness direction; a second receiving portion having a second groove configured to receive edges of third and fourth parts of the chimney cover, the second groove having a bottom surface that is a second distance from the outer surface of the outer side in the thickness direction; and a central receiving portion located between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion along a longitudinal direction that is perpendicular to the thickness direction, and configured to receive a chimney frame, wherein the second distance is smaller than the first distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignees: BSH Home Appliances Corporation, BSH Hausgeräte GmbH
    Inventors: Richard Lambert, Michael Reule, Michael Rutherford, Derek Turner
  • Patent number: 10779649
    Abstract: The adjustable equipment leg comprises a housing assembly for mounting within a piece of equipment and a toe assembly mounted on the housing assembly for vertical adjustment for raising and lowering the piece of equipment. The piece of equipment is constructed with a floor and the housing assembly is disposed on the floor within the piece of equipment thereby being hidden from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: COMPONENT HARDWARE GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew Kamp, Brion Gompper
  • Patent number: 10494142
    Abstract: A pallet adapter, system and method for restraining air cargo during flight are disclosed. A pallet adapter shifts a shipping container in an inboard direction of an aircraft so that the container does not contact an interior structure of the aircraft. Rigid restraints restrain the container from moving in the vertical direction during flight. Corner fittings restrain the container from moving in the fore-and-aft direction and the side-to-side direction during flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: THE BOEING CO.
    Inventor: Darrin Michael Noe
  • Patent number: 10336356
    Abstract: A wheeled shipping/transport cart includes a cart frame that supports a plurality of wheels. The cart frame supports a plurality of stackable trays. The trays include a tray frame with opposed end members, a plurality of longitudinal support members disposed between the opposed end members, and a plurality of upright members nesting with upright members of an adjacent tray. A support structure is disposed between the opposed end members to form an arc corresponding to a curved surface of an article to be supported by the support structure. A pin is received through each of the upright members of the plurality of stackable trays to retain the stackable trays in a stacked configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Globe Composite Solutions, Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael Dyson
  • Patent number: 10040601
    Abstract: A pallet adapter, system and method for restraining air cargo during flight is disclosed. A pallet adapter shifts a shipping container in an inboard direction of an aircraft so that the container does not contact an interior structure of the aircraft. Rigid restraints restrain the container from moving in the vertical direction during flight. Corner fittings restrain the container from moving in the fore-and-aft direction and the side-to-side direction during flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Darrin Michael Noe
  • Patent number: 9637038
    Abstract: A transport system has a dedicated trailer for transporting a small transport reel (i.e., <18-ft in diameter) of continuous rod to the field. The trailer has a pedestal that can pivot the reel. A hub motor on the pedestal can turn the reel, and a transfer unit and rod bender on the trailer can curve or straighten the rod when being fed into or out of the reel. A power and hydraulic system operates the various hydraulic components on the trailer. In other aspects, the transport system includes stands that can hold the small transport reels on a trailer within a defined transport envelope. When empty, these stands can be stacked on top of one another on the trailer for return to a facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Hermann Basler, Jonathan Paul Penner
  • Patent number: 9340321
    Abstract: A method of transporting fluid containing tanks and of off loading the fluid contents of the tanks. Providing a frame having a base with a floor, a front, a rear, and upper and lower end portions, the frame including a plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the base and including at least left and right side walls. Mounting a plurality of gates to the frame, each spanning between two corner columns, each gate being movable between open and closed positions, the open position of each gate providing an open doorway, the gates enabling a fork lift to place a selected one of the tanks on the floor by moving the selected load module laterally through a the open doorway. The floor having a plurality of load holding positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Tom Gurtner
  • Patent number: 9156607
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal flat rack features a cargo deck with first and second arches pivotally mounted to the cargo deck. Each arch is provided with a crank mechanism including a gearbox having an input shaft and an output shaft. The output shaft is attached to the corresponding arch so that the arch may be moved between a storage position, where a top portion of the arch is located adjacent to the cargo deck, and a use position, where the top portion of the arch is elevated from the cargo deck, by actuation of the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: FONTAINE ENGINEERED PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: James Adams
  • Patent number: 9097443
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for securing, mounting, aligning, and grounding solar panels to a roof mounted rail. The device in combination with a t-bolt, a nut, and a solar panel end-clamp or mid-clamp, secure, mount, align, and ground the solar panels to the roof mounted rail. The device can be inserted into the top of the rail anywhere along its length. After the device and t-bolt are inserted in the rail, the t-bolt rotated so it inserts into a slot at the bottom of the rail thereby securing the device to the rail, assuring the proper orientation of the t-bolt, and preventing further rotation of the t-bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Sunmodo Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Liu, Clifford Schrock
  • Publication number: 20150125232
    Abstract: An attachment structure (2) for supporting and releasably attaching a container (1), cargo bed or the like to a transport vehicle (25, 32) and a mating support structure (31) configured to be provided on the transport vehicle (25, 32), the attachment structure being provided with releasable locking mechanisms (12) configured to provide a releasable locking of the attachment structure (2) to the support structure (31). The invention facilitates easy and flexible distribution of goods by means of environmental friendly vehicles for instance within the inner region of a city.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: CLEAN CITY CARGO CONCEPT APS
    Inventor: Per Lavmand
  • Patent number: 9019719
    Abstract: A module in the form of a pallet or a closed container includes a grouping together of the electrical devices in an avionics bay, in which the electrical devices are interconnected and attached so as to facilitate the mounting and thus limit the time it takes to mount the electrical devices in the avionics bay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventors: Marc Tomasi, Matthieu De Kergommeaux, Laurent Bertandeau, Christian Banis
  • Patent number: 9004832
    Abstract: An extendable, intermodal transport platform is disclosed. The invention comprises a standard ISO-length loading platform supported by main beams and crossmembers. The platform has ISO lifting and stacking fitments at its four corners. The platform has extendable supplemental platforms at each end, the extendable supplemental platforms fitting beneath the deck bed of the platform, or extendable to position stacking fitments at over-the-road trailer positions for North American fleet. Inner stacking fitments may laterally expand and retract so as to slide underneath the deck bed between the main beams. In some embodiments the platform includes posts that extend upward to position ISO lifting fitments at standard heights, such as under hydraulic power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Rick Jocson
  • Patent number: 8979448
    Abstract: A pallet system includes a pallet upon which cargo or other payloads may be carried. The pallet has a plurality of tie-down locations at which the pallet may be tied-down on a base, and at least one tie-down device for tying down the pallet on the base at any of the tie-down locations. The pallet further includes structure for mounting the tie-down device on the pallet at any of the tie-down locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark K. Tsakiris, Mark Alkire Brunton, Roger W. Lacy
  • Publication number: 20150069185
    Abstract: A cushioned platform system and an aerial delivery method employ at least one airbag module. The airbag modules are mounted at the underside of a platform which supports the payload. Parallel roller pads are disposed below the at least one airbag module when the module is in a non-deployed mode and facilitate rolling the platform and payload onto the aircraft. The platform and payload are extracted from the aircraft with an extraction parachute. A mechanism is automatically activated to release the airbag module to a deployed mode prior to impact. The deployed airbag module may be repacked to the non-deployed mode for subsequent usage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Stephen T. Parkinson, Charles R. Sandy
  • Patent number: 8967943
    Abstract: A load carrier includes a load changing frame that has first and second end portions. The load changing frame has two longitudinal frame beams, two transverse frame beams arranged at the end portions of the load changing frame, and a first, upwardly tapering lifting stand. The second end portion of the load changing frame includes a second lifting stand, which is shaped and arranged in accordance with the first lifting stand. The transverse frame beams are elongated to extend outward from the longitudinal frame beams for mounting of supports facing the support surface. A plurality of such load carriers are adapted to be stacked on top of each other, wherein each overlying load carrier with its lifting stands is adapted to straddle the lifting stands of the underlying load carrier vertically from above, wherein the length of the stack corresponds to the length of the load carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Green Wood Logistics AB
    Inventors: Maria Drott, Torbjörn Eriksson, Lennart Olving
  • Patent number: 8925470
    Abstract: A combination skid for supporting a plurality of skid-supported loads comprises a base having a longitudinal axis and a plurality of docking stations, each to receive a skid-supported load along a loading directional axis. The loading directional axis of the plurality of docking stations is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base. In a system aspect, a system for supporting one or more loads is provided. The system comprises a base having a longitudinal axis, at least one skid for supporting the one or more loads and at least one docking station to receive the at least one skid along a loading directional axis. The each of the loading directional axis is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Hart Oilfield Rentals Ltd.
    Inventor: Gordon Hart
  • Patent number: 8876448
    Abstract: A shipping fixture for a turbine lower casing includes a frame having a substantially rectangular shape including a pair of elongated, laterally-spaced side beams and a pair of transverse end beams. A first lateral support structure extends between the side beams at a first location corresponding to a first vertically-oriented joint between the turbine compressor casing section and the turbine combustor casing section; and a second lateral support structure includes support blocks mounted on the side beams at a second location corresponding to a second vertically-oriented joint between the turbine combustor casing section and the turbine stage casing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: John Raymond Hess, Netaji Haribhau Mane, Gregory Allan Crum, Jason Allen Seale, David William Hogg
  • Patent number: 8870501
    Abstract: A cargo rack for transferring loads between a marine vessel and an offshore marine platform provides a frame having a front, a rear, and upper and lower end portions. The lower end portion has a perimeter beam base, a raised floor and a pair of open-ended parallel fork tine tubes that communicate with the perimeter beam at the front and rear of the frame. Openings in the perimeter beam base align with the forklift tine tubes. The frame includes fixed side walls extending upwardly from the perimeter beam. A plurality of gates are movably mounted on the frame, each gate being movable between open and closed positions, the gates enabling a forklift to place fluid holding tanks on the floor by accessing either the front of the frame or the rear of the frame. A manifold arrangement with fittings enables transfer of fluid in any tank to a common outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Danny Ness
  • Patent number: 8858136
    Abstract: The current invention is directed to an improved storage unit for dunnage wherein the dunnage comprises load supporting plates and load locking bars, the load supporting plates being stored in a horizontal orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: David A. Flood
  • Patent number: 8764359
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a kind of built-in movable pallet for containers, including the rectangular chassis with several rollers at the bottom. Several guiding mechanisms are set at both sides and the corners of front edge of the above-mentioned chassis; guiding mechanisms are guide roller structures; outer peripheral surface of guiding rollers protrudes to side edge of the chassis; locking mechanisms are installed at the two corners at rear edge of the chassis. In this invention, guide rollers are installed at two sides and the corners of front edge, so that the sliding friction with high resistance is converted into rolling friction with low resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Jijun Ma
  • Patent number: 8757943
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Publication number: 20140161555
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal flat rack features a cargo deck with first and second arches pivotally mounted to the cargo deck. Each arch is provided with a crank mechanism including a gearbox having an input shaft and an output shaft. The output shaft is attached to the corresponding arch so that the arch may be moved between a storage position, where a top portion of the arch is located adjacent to the cargo deck, and a use position, where the top portion of the arch is elevated from the cargo deck, by actuation of the input shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Fontaine Engineering Products, Inc.
    Inventor: James Adams
  • Patent number: 8714895
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Patent number: 8710994
    Abstract: A flood protection apparatus includes an adjustable base, a first water level detector, and a controller. The adjustable base supports the container and is operable to adjust a height of the container. The first water level detector is mounted on the base. When the first water level detector detects water has reached the first level, the first water level detector outputs a first detection signal. The controller receives the first detection signal to activate the base to heighten the container, until the first detection signal ceases or the base is at a highest point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hung-Chou Chan
  • Patent number: 8678727
    Abstract: A stacking and lifting system for intermodal transport platforms is disclosed. Transport platforms can be converted between a storage or empty transport position and a haul or load position through rotation of support posts that provide structural support and locate fitments that align with adjoining fitments on standard intermodal containers. The support posts have fitments at their distal ends for use during lifting or stacking operations when the transport platform is loaded and in use. The support posts also have stacking blocks that provide flip-up fitments for use when the posts are in a lowered configuration for stacking transport platforms with other transport platforms or with standard intermodal containers. The stacking blocks may be lifted directly or may be locked in to adjoining fitment housings, such that the transport platform will cling to the adjoining platform or intermodal container above it that is being lifted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventor: Murray Crane
  • Patent number: 8651783
    Abstract: A support device (100) for carrying an inner load holder (50/60) in use within an outer transport and storage container (10). The device includes a base member (101, 102, 103, 105) for being secured or securable to a floor (16) of the outer container, having at least one formation (104) for restraining lateral movements of the inner load holder relative to the device in a plane generally parallel to the floor. The device further includes a mechanism (108) for releasably restraining said inner load holder in a direction perpendicular to said floor or base, wherein said mechanism includes at least one sliding bolt member (110) for selectively engaging with a complementary feature (62) of the inner load holder and when so engaged, providing said restraining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Allan Grainger
  • Patent number: 8632286
    Abstract: A transportation system for a wind turbine rotor blade is provided. The transportation system includes a root fixture adapted to receive the root end of the wind turbine rotor blade, and a tip end fixture adapted to receive a tip end of the wind turbine rotor blade. The root fixture and the tip end fixture are provided as separate transportable units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas Wessel, Dirk-Jan Kootstra
  • Patent number: 8608415
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises first braces that rotate about a mounting point on the frame that supports a cargo loading surface. The first braces are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The first braces may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Second braces attach to the first braces to assist in load distribution. The second braces may assist in translating the platform from one position to another by rotating along a wheel. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Patent number: 8545147
    Abstract: A method for stowage of cargo items (7, 18, 100). In a cargo container (12, 20, 103) wherein spaces around the cargo items and within the cargo container are at least partly filled with spacer elements (1, 19, 104-106, 109-112) so as to substantially prevent movement of the cargo items in the cargo container, characterized in that dynamic forces on the cargo items associated with motion of the cargo container and/or weight forces on the cargo items are transmitted to the container structure through the spacer elements, and wherein at least one spacer element transmitting such forces comprises a shaped block of expanded plastics foam material, preferably polystyrene. The invention is applicable to comparatively heavy loads such as those transported in shipping containers and in such land vehicles as rail cars and road transport vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Strang LPP Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Robert Andrew Scott Strang, Robert William Alistair Strang
  • Patent number: 8534969
    Abstract: A load equalizing pallet apparatus for transporting a concentrated load and for use with load binders comprises a load equalizing base and a plurality of shoes. The base is constructed substantially of wood, has a periphery and, in use, receives said load. The shoes are metal and, in use, are arranged about the periphery of the base and rigidly engaged thereto. Each shoe has a plurality of lugs, the lugs, in use, being engaged by said load binders to couple said load to said pallet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: CareGo Innovative Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Tony Guo, Robert A. Edwards
  • Patent number: 8534968
    Abstract: A distribution system includes a railcar having a length defining an x-direction, and a payload disposed within the interior of the railcar. The payload includes assemblages of product, the product of each assemblage being disposed upon a pallet, the assemblages being arranged in sets of assemblages along the x-direction. The sets of assemblages are disposed in an alternating staggered arrangement in the x-direction such that a first plurality of the sets of assemblages are disposed substantially toward one side of the railcar, and a second plurality of the sets of assemblages are disposed substantially toward the other side of the railcar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP
    Inventors: Sean T. Van Uum, Robert P. Hieronymus
  • Patent number: 8511950
    Abstract: A transportation container includes an upper section having a plurality of sidewalls defining a space dimensioned to receive oversized cargo for transport and a base section adapted to mate with a standardized interface of a transportation vehicle for supporting the upper section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: BNSF Railway Company
    Inventor: Warren J. Bell
  • Patent number: 8506219
    Abstract: A cargo rack for transferring loads between a marine vessel and an offshore marine platform provides a frame having a front, a rear, and upper and lower end portions. The lower end portion has a perimeter beam base, a raised floor and a pair of open-ended parallel fork tine tubes that communicate with the perimeter beam at the front and rear of the frame. Openings in the perimeter beam base align with the forklift tine tubes. The frame includes fixed side walls extending upwardly from the perimeter beam. A plurality of gates are movably mounted on the frame, each gate being movable between open and closed positions, the gates enabling a forklift to place fluid holding tanks on the floor by accessing either the front of the frame or the rear of the frame. A manifold arrangement with fittings enables transfer of fluid in any tank to a common outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Danny Ness
  • Patent number: 8459913
    Abstract: A method and system of securing cargo for preventing access to cargo during transportation is disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises a security net adapted for covering the cargo, the net comprising a panel with a periphery. The panel is made from a net with holes of sufficiently small size to prevent objects from readily being inserted therethrough without causing a tear thereto. The periphery contains a plurality of openings. The system also comprises a plurality of security locks adapted for locking onto a pallet beneath the cargo and coupling onto one of the plurality of openings. Each security lock has a first identifier for identifying whether the plurality of security locks belong to a predetermined set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Cathay Pacific Airways Limited
    Inventors: Hanson How Sin Chan, Sai Ho Simon Leung
  • Patent number: 8459911
    Abstract: Locking mechanisms and assemblies for securing cargo to a transportation platform without requiring the use of strapping or equivalent. Advantageously, the locking mechanism may be integrated into a container such that each container may be interlocked with an underlying and/or overlying container. Autolocking variations to the locking mechanism provide a more automated, secure and less labor intensive way to secure cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Robert M. Kim, Frank C. Chan, Robert J. Middleton, Robert M. Forrester, Bryan Anderson, Robert H. Holt
  • Patent number: 8425165
    Abstract: A pallet apparatus includes a pallet base including a caster unit and a mounting plate for mounting a product having a first fastening unit; a fixing member disposed between the product and the mounting plate of the pallet base; and a second fastening unit fixing the fixing member onto the mounting plate. The product can be fixed to or released from the fixing member by fastening or unfastening the first fastening unit. The fixing member includes a slit at a position corresponding to the first fastening unit, the slit allowing the fixing member to be inserted between or detached from the product and the mounting plate without contacting the first fastening unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Susumu Harada, Takashi Suzuki, Tsuyoshi Abe, Tomoaki Arai
  • Publication number: 20130089387
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises first braces that rotate about a mounting point on the frame that supports a cargo loading surface. The first braces are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The first braces may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Second braces attach to the first braces to assist in load distribution. The second braces may assist in translating the platform from one position to another by rotating along a wheel. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: RAILDECKS (2009), INC.
    Inventor: RAILDECKS (2009), INC.
  • Patent number: 8414235
    Abstract: A single point release system provides a single point for efficiently, concurrently releasing multiple cargo retaining latches of an aerial delivery system. A release module is mounted to the platform and connects via a cable and is actuable to a release mode to concurrently release each of the latches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Capewell Components Company, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen T. Parkinson
  • Patent number: 8353647
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Patent number: 8342784
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Patent number: 8337126
    Abstract: The method makes use of four top corner plates (3), four bottom corner plates (4) and five center plates (5). Each plate (3, 4 and 5) has a number of holes (2) that accept and retain swivel connectors (1) and adjustable connector straps (8) that mechanically connect the corner plates (3) and (4) and center plates (5) and in this manner allow for the even restraining of the goods (7) packed on the pallet (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Clarke Technologies (Pty) Ltd.
    Inventor: Richard Clarke
  • Patent number: 8328478
    Abstract: The gantry pallet and allweather cover described includes, in its preferred embodiment, many improvements over the currently applied methods of storing, transporting and shipping the U.S. Navy's steam tube Gantry Cranes and accompanying appurtenances. Further included are lifting plates for safely lifting and/or handling and/or safely transporting the gantry pallet and allweather cover by a variety of methods. Another improvement is a provision for ridged, moisture barrier, non-corrosive cover that attaches to and seals against the gantry pallet frame. Another improvement involves a provision for on and off loading that allows substantial improvement in the speed of set-up and the safety in which, but not limited to, the U.S. Navy steam tube Gantry Cranes and accompanying appurtenances is applied to an aircraft carrier's catapult steam tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Charles Lloyd Hawkins
  • Patent number: 8322955
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (“RFID”) apparatus includes a housing configured to mate with a channel of an extruded metal mounting system and a flange extending radially outwardly from the housing. The flange is configured to bear upon a lower portion of a channel lip to retain the housing within the channel. In addition, a seat is disposed within the housing to retain an RFID tag and a lock secures the housing at a particular location along the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Nordisk Aviation Products AS
    Inventors: Christian Arnesen, Nils Martin Teien
  • Patent number: 8322956
    Abstract: A method for stowage of cargo items (7, 18, 100). In a cargo container (12, 20, 103) wherein spaces around the cargo items and within the cargo container are at least partly filled with spacer elements (1, 19, 104-106, 109-112) so as to substantially prevent movement of the cargo items in the cargo container, characterized in that dynamic forces on the cargo items associated with motion of the cargo container and/or weight forces on the cargo items are transmitted to the container structure through the spacer elements, and wherein at least one spacer element transmitting such forces comprises a shaped block of expanded plastics foam material, preferably polystyrene. The invention is applicable to comparatively heavy loads such as those transported in shipping containers and in such land vehicles as rail cars and road transport vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Strang LPP Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Robert Andrew Scott Strang, Robert William Alistair Strang
  • Patent number: 8262328
    Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Raildecks (2009), Inc.
    Inventors: Murray Crane, Simon Hann, Ben Van Liere
  • Patent number: 8231316
    Abstract: A cargo rack for transferring loads between a marine vessel and an offshore marine platform (for example, oil and gas well drilling or production platform) provides a frame having a front, a rear, and upper and lower end portions. The lower end of the frame has a perimeter beam base, a raised floor and a pair of open-ended parallel fork tine tubes or sockets that communicate with the perimeter beam at the front and rear of the frame, preferably being structurally connected (e.g., welded) thereto. Openings in the perimeter beam base align with the forklift tine tubes or sockets. The frame includes a plurality of fixed side walls extending upwardly from the perimeter beam that include at least left and right side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: Danny Ness