Wall-to-wall Socket-entering Load Bearer Patents (Class 410/89)
  • Patent number: 11208028
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically and remotely adjusting the position of a captive beam is provided. The system includes a motor that moves a bracket along a vertical track, with the bracket supporting an end of the captive beam. The bracket rotatably supports a latch that engages an aperture in a track when aligned therewith to allow track to support the load of the captive beam and the load supported by the captive beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: Ancra International LLC
    Inventors: Joaquim Carlos da Rosa, Jerome T. Jones, Lawrence C. Bethel, Gregory A. Kauffman
  • Publication number: 20150110569
    Abstract: The present invention provides a reversible end assembly for use with cargo decking beams. The end assembly comprises a body formed from C-shaped plates coupled back-to-back that is slideably disposed within the end of a decking beam. Identical latch mechanisms at both ends of the body allow the end assembly to be reversibly mounted within the beam. Each latch mechanism includes an end tab formed from the plates that fits into openings (either A or E slots) in a mounting track. A retaining lip on the bottom engages the openings and a notch in the top provides room for the lip to be inserted and lifted out of the openings. An internal swivel latch fills the space left by the notch when in a closed position to prevent the retaining lip from lifting out of the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: B2B Casuals, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerrell P. Squyres
  • Publication number: 20150110570
    Abstract: The present invention provides vertical mounting posts that include a plurality of spaced openings (either A or E slots) and a slider track with obliquely angled guide channels. Decking beams are selectively adjustable in height along the posts by engaging the openings with end assemblies slideably disposed within the ends of the beams. The posts can accommodate alternative beam end configurations. One configuration includes a foot with angled guide edges slideably captured within the guide channels. An alternate configuration comprises coupled plates that fit directly into the openings and a swivel latched to provide a retaining force. By using industry standard A or E slots, the mounting posts are also compatible with off-the-shelf beams and straps configured for A and E slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: B2B Casuals, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerrell P. Squyres
  • Publication number: 20150110571
    Abstract: The present invention provides a wide-top decking beam configured for installation in a cargo container. The beam comprises an elongate, hollow body forming an approximately rectangular shape. Flanged edges extend laterally from both sides of the top surface along the length of the beam, wherein the top of the beam has a greater width than the bottom. Obliquely angled struts run along both sides of the beam connecting the sides of the beam body to the undersides of the flanged edges thereby forming triangular trusses along the length of the beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: B2B Casuals, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerrell P. Squyres
  • Publication number: 20150110568
    Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustable decking system for use within a cargo container. The system comprises vertical mounting posts that include a plurality of spaced openings and a slider track with obliquely angled guide channels. Decking beams are selectively adjustable in height along the posts by engaging the openings with end assemblies slidably disposed within the ends of the beams. The posts can accommodate alternative beam end configurations. One configuration includes a foot with angled guide edges slidably captured within the guide channels. An alternate configuration comprises coupled plates that fit directly into the openings and a swivel latched to provide a retaining force. This alternate configuration has an identical latch mechanism at both ends and is reversibly mountable within the decking beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: B2B Casuals, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerrell P. Squyres
  • 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: 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
  • 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: 8425166
    Abstract: A method of making a deck for storing cargo in a shipping vehicle comprising: securing two pairs of braces to opposed surfaces associated with the shipping vehicle by engaging opposed ends of first elongated supports with the pair of braces such that each first elongated support interconnects one of the pairs of braces and extends substantially parallel to a base associated with the shipping vehicle; engaging second elongated supports with each of the braces, each second elongated support interconnecting a respective brace and the base; and positioning a decking on the first elongated supports for supporting the cargo. A brace for making the cargo deck engageable with a horizontally-extending support and a vertically-extending support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Logistick, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kanczuzewski, John Townsend, John W. Doster, Dean Catanzarite
  • 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: 8192118
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a stowable storage net and a vehicle with a stowable storage net. The storage net comprises a storage area having a front, a back and two sides, the front and back being pivotally connected at one end. Elements are included for providing a predetermined amount of longitudinal elasticity to the storage area. The storage net comprises elements for removably attaching the storage area to a desired surface of the cargo area. The storage net further comprises a storage pouch forming the bottom of the storage net, the two sides of the storage net pivotally mounted proximally to the ends of the storage pouch and configured to fold into the storage pouch, allowing the associated net to fall easily and neatly into the pouch. The storage pouch can further comprise a zipper or other type of closure. Methods and vehicles are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Exco Automotive Solutions L.P.
    Inventors: Christopher Zahorec, Brian Bateman
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8061943
    Abstract: A load leveler for different widths of open semi-trailers preferably includes a load support member, a plurality of vertical support members and two adjustable stakes. Each vertical support member is attached under the load support member. A stake receiver is preferably secured to each end of the load leveler with welding. The stake receiver is sized to receive an outer perimeter of the adjustable stake. The adjustable stake includes a receiver portion and a stake portion. The stake portion is sized to be received by a stake pocket in an open semi-trailer. The receiver portion is sized to be received by the stake receiver. At least one of the adjustable stake is fractionally rotated to accommodate different distances between stake pockets. A chain tie is preferably attached to a top of the stake receiver to retain a tie down chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Richard R. Beilstein
  • Patent number: 8016525
    Abstract: A dunnage holder for securing and positioning a freight bracing beam spanning across the width of a flatbed trailer has a vertically oriented stake member adapted for insertion into a stake hole of the flatbed of the trailer. A horizontally oriented arm is cooperative with the stake member for reciprocation along a direction that is transverse to the stake member. A corner pocket is fixedly attached to the arm for relative movement with the arm and has an opening sufficiently large to receive an end of a load bracing beam extending across the width of the flatbed trailer and transversely to the arm. An arm position locking pin is removably insertable through cooperating holes of the arm and the stake member, wherein the arm is locked in position relative to the stake member when the arm positioning locking pin is inserted through the cooperating holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy Comeau
  • Patent number: 7988392
    Abstract: A cargo support and storage system for use in a vehicle and method is provided and includes a first stabilizing element having a primary end and a secondary end. The primary end of the first stabilizing element is extendible from a first sidewall to a second sidewall of the vehicle. A second stabilizing element can include a primary end and a secondary end, the primary end of the second stabilizing element being extendible from the first sidewall to the second sidewall of the vehicle. The first and second stabilizing elements are spaced away from and substantially parallel to each other, and can be formed as belts. When in use, the first and second stabilizing elements can be maintained in tension, but can be removed or retracted when not in use so that they do not take up space in the cargo area of the vehicle. A storage box can be provided and tailored to include extension that mate with the stabilizing elements such that the box can be hung in the cargo area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Paul T. Aebker
  • Patent number: 7971919
    Abstract: Various enhancements to the capabilities of vehicles in general, and particularly light-duty utility vehicles, which can advantageously enhance the cargo-carrying capabilities of such vehicles. The present invention provides a cargo bed insert, as well as an insert system, for removable attachment to a vehicle's existing cargo box. Improvement to a light-duty utility vehicle, where the improvement is in the form of a cargo box for the vehicle which includes one or more features of the described cargo bed insert and/or system is disclosed. The invention contemplates methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capability of a light-duty utility vehicle. In particular, methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capacity of such a vehicle beyond a manufacturer's specified cargo weight capacity are provided. Lastly, the invention includes a mounting assembly for a removable attachment to a vehicle's frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Vertanen Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Vertanen
  • Patent number: 7918631
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a decking system may include one or more of the following features: (a) a plurality of deck panels operably coupled to and supported by rails extending parallel to the deck panels, (b) a plurality of rail legs coupled to the rails at one end of the rail leg and extending the rails up off of a base coupled to the rail leg at a second end of the rail leg, (c) a plurality of cross rails positioned perpendicular to the deck panels and rails, the cross rails coupled to the rails and supporting angle bars welded to the deck panels, (d) a plurality of angled support members coupled to the base and to the rail legs, (e) a floor coupler attached to the rail leg for providing attachment to the base, (f) a decking coupler attached to the rail leg for providing attachment to the rail, and (g) a ladder slat coupled to the rail having slots to receive cross rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: OverRide Decking Systems Limited Liability Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Harold L. Overbye
  • Patent number: 7785051
    Abstract: A device securable to a corrugated surface of a shipping container by an elongated support for supporting cargo within the shipping container. The device comprising a receptacle defining a cavity for receiving an end of the elongated support, the receptacle having a bottom surface forming a plane for engaging the corrugated surface of the shipping container; and a pair of lateral flaps associated with and disposed about the receptacle for engaging the corrugated surface, each lateral flap having a bottom surface, the bottom surface of each lateral flap extending at an acute angle relative to the plane for engaging the corrugated surface of the shipping container. The device may further define a slot for receiving an end of an other elongated support. A method of making with the device a deck for supporting cargo in a shipping container having a pair of opposed corrugated surface and a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Logistick, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kanczuzewski, John Townsend, John W. Doster, Dean Catanzarite
  • Patent number: 7740430
    Abstract: A support assembly for use with truck bed comprises first mounting frame 5, second mounting frame 6, first horizontal arm portion 11, first vertical arm portion 12, first arm mounting holes 13, second horizontal arm portion 21, second vertical arm portion 22, first mounting end 24 of second vertical arm portion, distal, open end 25 of second horizontal arm portion, first support bracket 30, first vertical sleeve 40, second support bracket 50, second vertical sleeve 60, first brace 70, second brace 90, outer sleeve 100, first hitch pin assembly 110, and second hitch pin assembly 120.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Mchugh, Charles Thomas Poston, Benjamin McCandless
  • Patent number: 7713008
    Abstract: A method of making a deck for storing cargo in a shipping vehicle comprising: securing two pairs of braces to opposed surfaces associated with the shipping vehicle by engaging opposed ends of first elongated supports with the pair of braces such that each first elongated support interconnects one of the pairs of braces and extends substantially parallel to a base associated with the shipping vehicle; engaging second elongated supports with each of the braces, each second elongated support interconnecting a respective brace and the base; and positioning a decking on the first elongated supports for supporting the cargo. A brace for making the cargo deck engageable with a horizontally-extending support and a vertically-extending support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Logistick, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kanczuzewski, John Townsend, John W. Doster, Dean Catanzarite
  • Patent number: 7578644
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved decking beam end assembly for supporting a removable second deck in a cargo container, such as a truck trailer or a rail car. In one aspect, the improved end assembly is less likely to be damaged during use since the spring is well protected by being surrounded by other parts. In one aspect, the improved end assembly has no latch protrusions and can be more easily removed a slotted track due to the axial, non-pivoting spring loaded latch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: JPS Corporation
    Inventors: Jerrell P. Squyres, Kelly Lee Miller
  • Publication number: 20090169320
    Abstract: A cargo support and storage system for use in a vehicle and method is provided and includes a first stabilizing element having a primary end and a secondary end. The primary end of the first stabilizing element is extendible from a first sidewall to a second sidewall of the vehicle. A second stabilizing element can include a primary end and a secondary end, the primary end of the second stabilizing element being extendible from the first sidewall to the second sidewall of the vehicle. The first and second stabilizing elements are spaced away from and substantially parallel to each other, and can be formed as belts. When in use, the first and second stabilizing elements can be maintained in tension, but can be removed or retracted when not in use so that they do not take up space in the cargo area of the vehicle. A storage box can be provided and tailored to include extension that mate with the stabilizing elements such that the box can be hung in the cargo area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Paul T. Aebker
  • Publication number: 20090097938
    Abstract: A support assembly for use with truck bed comprises first mounting frame 5, second mounting frame 6, first horizontal arm portion 11, first vertical arm portion 12, first arm mounting holes 13, second horizontal arm portion 21, second vertical arm portion 22, first mounting end 24 of second vertical arm portion, distal, open end 25 of second horizontal arm portion, first support bracket 30, first vertical sleeve 40, second support bracket 50, second vertical sleeve 60, first brace 70, second brace 90, outer sleeve 100, first hitch pin assembly 110, and second hitch pin assembly 120.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Mchugh, Charles Thomas Poston, Benjamin McCandles
  • Patent number: 7513726
    Abstract: A tailgate protector (1) having a structural frame (3) combined with a plurality of spaced protrusions (2). The structural frame (3) is sized and shaped to mount to the upper edge of a closed vehicle tailgate, such that the protrusions (2) perpendicularly extend above the upper edge of the tailgate. Material being transported by the vehicle and supported by the tailgate upper edge is placed on the structural frame (3) within the spacings between the protrusions (2). The structural frame (3) acts to protect the surface of the tailgate edge, while the protrusions (2) restrict the side to side movement of the transported material. Thus, the tailgate protector (1) effectively provides a quick and convenient means for securing the transported material while protecting the tailgate edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Donald Vincent Comiskey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090074530
    Abstract: A method of making a deck for storing cargo in a shipping vehicle comprising: securing two pairs of braces to opposed surfaces associated with the shipping vehicle by engaging opposed ends of first elongated supports with the pair of braces such that each first elongated support interconnects one of the pairs of braces and extends substantially parallel to a base associated with the shipping vehicle; engaging second elongated supports with each of the braces, each second elongated support interconnecting a respective brace and the base; and positioning a decking on the first elongated supports for supporting the cargo. A brace for making the cargo deck engageable with a horizontally-extending support and a vertically-extending support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: LOGISTICK, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kanczuzewski, John Townsend, John W. Doster, Dean Catanzarite
  • Patent number: 7431549
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an improved trailer for use with a common tractor or truck, or like tow vehicle. The apparatus of the present invention features the use of a plurality of transversely positioned beams to keep secure a load, each having end portions with vertical sections that attach to receptacles provided on a bed portion of the tractor trailer. Fasteners are provided with each beam to secure a load that is to be carried by the trailer. Multiple of the beams can be attached at spaced apart positions for holding a load or load package therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventors: Derrick D. Prentice, Manuel Collins, Jamie Hoffpauir
  • Patent number: 6926482
    Abstract: A container is provided for transporting cargo on a flatbed vehicle. The container includes a top wall structure; a bottom wall structure opposing the top wall structure; a front wall structure; a rear wall structure opposing the front wall structure; and a pair of sidewall structures disposed in opposing relation. The top wall structure, the bottom wall structure, the front wall structure, the rear wall structure and the sidewall structures are coupled so as to form an enclosed interior space. The bottom wall structure has leg structures extending therefrom. The leg structures are spaced a sufficient length and are constructed and arranged to be received in recesses defined at opposing sides of a cargo carrying surface of the flatbed vehicle to mount the container with respect to the cargo carrying surface. Certain of the wall structures are constructed and arranged to be opened and closed to place and store cargo in the interior space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: William O. Gohlke
  • Patent number: 6854400
    Abstract: A hinge and support system for supporting cargo in a freight compartment is provided. The system includes a hinge member, associated with a deck panel, which has at least one flexible projection. The hinge member mates with a support member having a pocket for which the hinge member's flexible projections can be snapped into and retained within so as to allow pivotal movement of the hinge member with respect to the support member. The hinge member is also movably supported by the deck panel so that the hinge member can move relative to the deck panel when the deck panel is deployed. The support member includes one ledge which engages the deck panel when deployed and a second ledge which engages the panel when stowed upright so as to substantially isolate the hinge member from the weight of the deck panel and items placed on it. The hinge structure can be utilized in other contexts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: United Parcel Service of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin Sullivan
  • Patent number: 6843626
    Abstract: A load support assembly for a pick-up bed includes a plurality of elongate members each having a first end, a second end, a bottom surface, a top surface, and a pair of lateral sides. Each of the elongate members has a pair of holes extending therethrough. Each of the holes is positioned adjacent to one of the first and second ends and extending through the lateral sides. The bottom surfaces are selectively positioned on upper edges of side walls of a pick-up bed such that the elongate members traverse the pick-up bed. Each of a plurality of guides is attached to each of the top surfaces of the elongate members such that each of the elongate members has a pair of spaced guides attached thereto. Each of a plurality of fasteners is selectively extendably through aligned ones of the holes and into a toolbox positioned in the pick-up bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Frederick L. Falconer
  • Patent number: 6752574
    Abstract: A method for transporting a recreational vehicle, such as a motorcycle or snowmobile in the cargo box of a pickup truck in a fashion that enables the tail gate of the pickup truck to remain closed. A first step involves providing a pickup truck having a cargo box with an open end closed by a tail gate. A second step involves placing the recreational vehicle in the cargo box of the pickup truck with a rear portion of the recreational vehicle protruding past the open end. A third step involves positioning a support into the cargo box adjacent to the open end. A fourth step involves lifting the rear portion of the recreational vehicle onto the support until the rear portion is elevated sufficiently to provide clearance to enable the open end to be closed by the tail gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Mark Widdowson
  • 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: 6688820
    Abstract: A cargo bed structure of a truck has concave portions formed within an inside surface of each right and left side wall for detachably mounting long materials on a lower surface of the concave portion, respectively. The bed structure includes a rotational member, an end side of which is supported rotatably by a surface of the side wall formed over the concave portion. The rotational member regulates a movement of the long materials in a vertical direction with the other end of the rotational member when the rotational member rotates in one direction, and deregulates the movement of the long materials when the rotational member rotates in the other direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tomonori Ootsuka
  • Patent number: 6457764
    Abstract: A vehicle whose cargo compartment can be opened or enclosed. The cargo compartment has a retractable top cover which can engage an extended tail gate door. Raised sides of the cargo compartment are fitted with outside side doors leading to storage compartments, shelves and trays for small items. Within the main cargo compartment cleats are mounted to the side walls. These cleats may be used to tie down objects within the compartment or to engage side hooks on partitions to form multiple storage layers. The number and spacing of the cleats along the walls may vary as desired to form different configurations of partitions. The rear tail gate has an extended portion which fits telescopingly into the lower portion of the tail gate. When this extended portion is fully raised to engage the closed top cover, the main cargo compartment is fully enclosed. The top cover may slide on side rails and may be manually or powered to retract or extend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Donald J. Brannon
  • Patent number: 6364583
    Abstract: The invention relates to a telescopic load beam with an elongated profile element (24) and a telescopic element (26) which is displaceable at the end therein and axially relative thereto wherein provided for releasably fixing a relative position between the profile element (24) and the telescopic element (26) is a locking arrangement (30, 34) which has a retaining lever (34) pivotably arranged on one of the profile element and the telescopic element, and an engagement portion (30) which is formed for co-operation with a retaining groove (38) in the pivotal lever and which is fixed to the other of the profile element and the telescopic element, wherein the pivotal lever (34) is preferably of such a configuration that it can be automatically moved into a locking position by the profile element (24) and the telescopic element (26) being pulled apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Ancra Jungfalk GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Koller
  • Patent number: 6224307
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for securing loads in transportation shipping containers. The bracing mechanism of the present invention is particularly well suited for use in combination with loading platforms such as CROPs to secure the CROP against at least forward movement within shipping containers. The bracing mechanism of the present invention preferably includes a cam assembly that is sized and shaped to mate with the existing shoring slots defined in the interior walls of the shipping container, and an elongated traversing mechanism that provides infite adjustability over the length of the traversing mechanism. A method of bracing a loading platform such as a CROP within an ISO shipping container is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Summa Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles L. Johnson, Harold L. Smith, Robson Slater
  • Patent number: 6074143
    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 fingers extending therefrom which fit into a pair of adjacent track apertures. The 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 tab formed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Ancra International LLC
    Inventors: Frances J. Langston, Ward C. Burrows
  • 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: 5865579
    Abstract: An adaptor is provided for a vehicle load bed having stake pockets along lateral edges. The adaptor allows pallets having indented peripheries to roll over the bed and to be locked in place on the bed. The adaptor has a base lying on the bed and guides in the form of upright walls disposed along lateral edges of the base. The guides keep the pallet on the bed as the pallet rides along the bed. Stakes on the bottom of the base are locked into the pockets to retain the adaptor to the bed. Extending from the walls are lips disposed over the pallet so as to limit or eliminate the pallet's vertical travel. The pallets ride on elongate rollers journalled between roller supports. The supports are fixed on the base parallel to the walls. Apertures of the same shape are defined both in the lips and the base and are aligned with one another. To fix the pallets to the adaptor, locking members are passed through the lip apertures, fit with indents of the pallets and passed through the base apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James D. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5525026
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for storing in a cargo transport of irregular shape, such as vehicles. The cargo transport comprises an elongate hollow highway truck semi-trailer having a pair of longitudinally extending spaced apart upright-side walls defining an interior cargo space therebetween. The trailer has a rearward openable end through which vehicles may be conveyed, and longitudinally extending internal crane runway rails supported by the side walls. A rear portion of the runway is longitudinally extendable rearward of the open rear end of the trailer. A plurality of standardized, stackable vehicle supporting pallets are provided upon which vehicles are individually loaded at a trailer-exterior loading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Demonte Fab, Ltd.
    Inventors: Walter P. DeMonte, Tim P. DeMonte
  • Patent number: 5452972
    Abstract: A deck structure for use in supporting cargo at an intermediate level above the floor or bed of a trailer van, or the like. A first embodiment includes a first deck section pivotally mounted on a side wall of a trailer van and movable to a horizontal load position, and back up to a vertical stored position against the side wall where it is releasably held by a spring slam bolt engaged with a height saving angle locking rail. In the first embodiment a second section of the deck is pivotally connected to the first section and it is also movable between a horizontal load position and a vertical stored position against the side wall, and when it is in the vertical stored position it is hanging from the first section and is configured such that it nests closely in the first deck section to provide a slender storing intermediate deck structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Thomas E. Adams
  • Patent number: 5387064
    Abstract: For the enclosed compartment space of a truck type of automotive vehicle rearward of the cab seating section, particularly herein with reference to a mail delivery truck, a movable shelf supported on rollers running on ledges formed by the internal wheel wells of the body of the truck, the shelf carrying mail baskets therein, both the shelf and baskets thereon being easily reachable by the operator seated in the cab section by use of a hook equipped rod whereby the operator can move forwardly the shelf and baskets thereon to be readily reachable for access thereto without the operator being required to step down to have access to the same by an approach through the rear of the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Cardinal Materials Flow, Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Cardinal
  • Patent number: 5375534
    Abstract: A deck structure for use in supporting cargo at an intermediate level above the floor or bed of a trailer van, or the like. A first embodiment includes a first deck section pivotally mounted on a side wall of a trailer van and movable to a horizontal load position, and back up to a vertical stored position against the side wall where it is releasably held by a spring slam bolt engaged with a height saving angle locking rail. In the first embodiment a second section of the deck is pivotally connected to the first section and it is also movable between a horizontal load position and a vertical stored position against the side wall, and when it is in the vertical stored position it is hanging from the first section and is configured such that it nests closely in the first deck section to provide a slender storing intermediate deck structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Inventor: Thomas F. Adams
  • Patent number: 5265993
    Abstract: A truck bed divider system for placement within the bed of a truck includes at least one primary divider and at least one secondary divider. The primary dividers include brackets at each end that provide a frictional fit against the interior side of the walls of the bed of the truck. By a slotted interrelationship, the primary dividers are situated within the bed at their preferred positions and are thereafter adjusted by extending the brackets outward relative to the divider body to their maximum extent whereby they are pressed against the side of the bed and held thereto by tension, thus eliminating the need for fasteners. The secondary dividers are provided with hooks at their ends and are interfittable between the primary dividers by being hooked into slots perpendicularly defined in the body of the primary dividers. Both primary and secondary dividers are preferably provided with shelf extensions for the placement of shelves thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventor: Mark Wayne
  • Patent number: 4943193
    Abstract: The description relates to a loading trailer which comprises a wheel bogie (4), a chassis (2) supported by the wheel bogie, and a gooseneck (3) for connection to a drive vehicle. The chassis is lowerable and raisable in relation to the wheel bogie for the purpose of being driven under a flat bed (5) and for lifting the flat bed with its load. In order to facilitate the aligning of the loading trailer (1) when driving it under the flat bed, at least the rear part of the chassis (2) is equipped with aligning guides (6) which work against the inner sides of the flat bed (5). The aligning guides (6) are preferably made up of arms which extend obliquely forwards and are adjustable by hydraulic cylinders and which have at their ends guide rolls which in the final position can be locked in depressions (9) in the flat bed. The front part of the chassis (2) also has preferably guides (7), which may be fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Assignee: Rautaruukki Oy
    Inventors: Matti Koskinen, Pekka Brostrom
  • Patent number: 4732505
    Abstract: The coupling piece for connecting two container corner fittings has a housing (10) with an upper and a lower middle piece (21/22), a locking bolt (15) and two crossbars (16 and 17) fastened to its free ends projecting from the housing (10). The lower middle piece (22) only partially matches the contour of an orifice in a container corner fitting, so that the lower crossbar (17) projects laterally beyond it. In the released position, the upper and lower crossbars (16 and 17) are rotated through an angle relative to one another, so that the lower crossbar (17) has to be introduced into the container corner fitting first and then the entire housing has to be rotated through this angle, before the upper crossbar (16) is correctly aligned opposite the orifice in the container corner fitting of the upper container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1988
    Assignee: Conver Ingenieur Technik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Jurgen Gloystein
  • Patent number: 4196673
    Abstract: A coupling device for detachably connecting of one container fitting to another or a container fitting to a ship's deck by way of a slot within the container fitting, employs a casing for abutment with the container fitting, a locking pin having at least at one end an integral hammerhead bolt with said casing including a longitudinal opening for rotatively carrying the bolt. The opening constitutes a continuous aperture, and the aperture is so disposed and has a cross-section relative to the bolt such that the bolt can be introduced therethrough to achieve assembly, rotated approximately 180.degree. and then subsequent rotation limited to permit the bolt to rotate between extreme operating positions which effectively lock the fitting to the device or release the fitting but prevent the bolt from passing through the casing aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1980
    Assignee: Conver Ingenieur-Technik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Arnold Looks