CA2951809A1 - Folding post for a vehicular load platform including biased positions - Google Patents
Folding post for a vehicular load platform including biased positions Download PDFInfo
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- CA2951809A1 CA2951809A1 CA2951809A CA2951809A CA2951809A1 CA 2951809 A1 CA2951809 A1 CA 2951809A1 CA 2951809 A CA2951809 A CA 2951809A CA 2951809 A CA2951809 A CA 2951809A CA 2951809 A1 CA2951809 A1 CA 2951809A1
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- post section
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P3/00—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
- B60P3/40—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load supporting elements
- B60P3/41—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load supporting elements for log transport
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- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
A post assembly for containing a load on a load platform includes a lower post section, an upper post section pivotal relative to the lower post section between a raised position in line with the lower post section and a folded position alongside the lower post section, and a biasing mechanism including a cam on the upper post section for varying a degree of compression of a spring anchored to the lower post section as the upper post section pivots. The lower end of each post is removably anchored within a respective pocket of the load platform by a wedge assembly comprising two wedge blocks drawn together by a horizontal clamping screw to wedge the post within the pocket.
Description
FOLDING POST FOR A VEHICULAR LOAD PLATFORM -INCLUDING
BIASED POSITIONS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to posts on a vehicle load platform for containing a load on the load platform, for example the posts on a bunk trailer or logging trailer. More particularly, the present invention relates to a folding post for a vehicle load platform ,including biasing for providing varying biasing through a range of folding movement of the post BACKGROUND
Various elongated cargo items, for example timbers, pipes, stock materials, and the like, are commonly transported using a truck having a loading bunk thereon, or a bunk trailer, also referred to as a logging trailer when particularly adapted for timbers. In each instance, the transport vehicle typically includes a main frame supported on wheels for rolling movement in a forward transport direction. A
load platform on the main frame typically comprises a plurality of loading bunks at spaced apart positions along a length of the main frame in which each loading bunk includes a load beam spanning across a width of the vehicle, and a pair of posts extending upwardly from opposing ends of the load beam.
The posts are typically provided with an upper post section which can be folded relative to a lower post section between a raised position extending above the lower post section for containing loads on the load platform, and a lowered position extending downwardly alongside the lower post section in a stored configuration.
Canadian Patent No. 2,791,314 by EXTE FABRIKS AB, discloses an example of a 'stake for a load platform having a lower stake member, an upper stake member pivotally coupled to the lower stake member pivotally between an unfolded
BIASED POSITIONS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to posts on a vehicle load platform for containing a load on the load platform, for example the posts on a bunk trailer or logging trailer. More particularly, the present invention relates to a folding post for a vehicle load platform ,including biasing for providing varying biasing through a range of folding movement of the post BACKGROUND
Various elongated cargo items, for example timbers, pipes, stock materials, and the like, are commonly transported using a truck having a loading bunk thereon, or a bunk trailer, also referred to as a logging trailer when particularly adapted for timbers. In each instance, the transport vehicle typically includes a main frame supported on wheels for rolling movement in a forward transport direction. A
load platform on the main frame typically comprises a plurality of loading bunks at spaced apart positions along a length of the main frame in which each loading bunk includes a load beam spanning across a width of the vehicle, and a pair of posts extending upwardly from opposing ends of the load beam.
The posts are typically provided with an upper post section which can be folded relative to a lower post section between a raised position extending above the lower post section for containing loads on the load platform, and a lowered position extending downwardly alongside the lower post section in a stored configuration.
Canadian Patent No. 2,791,314 by EXTE FABRIKS AB, discloses an example of a 'stake for a load platform having a lower stake member, an upper stake member pivotally coupled to the lower stake member pivotally between an unfolded
2 position and a folded position alongside the lower stake member, and a spring-loaded arresting mechanism engaging the upper stake member at an over-center position with respect to the pivot axis to apply a bias on the upper stake member towards both the unfolded and folded positions. The spring-loaded mechanism includes numerous components which can be subject to breakage. Furthermore, the range of motion where biasing is provided is limited due to the design of the linkage.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a post assembly for containing a load on a load platform of a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the post assembly comprising:
a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a post assembly for containing a load on a load platform of a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the post assembly comprising:
a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is
3 pivoted relative to the lower post, the biasing mechanism including:
a spring member supported on a first one of the upper and lower post sections and a cam member supported on a second one of the upper and lower post sections different from the spring member;
the cam member having a cam profile in engagement with the spring member which is shaped to vary an amount of deflection of the spring member as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post section through the range of the positions.
The use of a cam member and a spring member for producing the biasing allows the amount of biasing force, the direction of the biasing force, and the range of the biasing force to be readily controlled throughout the complete range of motion of the upper post section relative to the lower post section.
'Preferably the cam profile of the cam member is shaped so as to both bias the upper post section to remain in the raised position and bias the upper post section to remain in the folded position.
The cam profile of the cam member may include a first over-center lobe arranged to engage the spring member in a first over-center position of the upper post section in which the upper post section is sloped downward and inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to bias the upper post section downwardly towards the folded position from the first over-center position. Preferably the first over-center lobe is shaped to bias the upper post section upwardly from the first over-center position to the intermediate position.
The cam profile of the cam member may also include a second over-center lobe arranged to engage the spring member in a second over-center position of
a spring member supported on a first one of the upper and lower post sections and a cam member supported on a second one of the upper and lower post sections different from the spring member;
the cam member having a cam profile in engagement with the spring member which is shaped to vary an amount of deflection of the spring member as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post section through the range of the positions.
The use of a cam member and a spring member for producing the biasing allows the amount of biasing force, the direction of the biasing force, and the range of the biasing force to be readily controlled throughout the complete range of motion of the upper post section relative to the lower post section.
'Preferably the cam profile of the cam member is shaped so as to both bias the upper post section to remain in the raised position and bias the upper post section to remain in the folded position.
The cam profile of the cam member may include a first over-center lobe arranged to engage the spring member in a first over-center position of the upper post section in which the upper post section is sloped downward and inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to bias the upper post section downwardly towards the folded position from the first over-center position. Preferably the first over-center lobe is shaped to bias the upper post section upwardly from the first over-center position to the intermediate position.
The cam profile of the cam member may also include a second over-center lobe arranged to engage the spring member in a second over-center position of
4 the upper post section in which the upper post section is sloped upwardly and inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to bias the upper post section upwardly towards the raised position from the second over-center position.
The cam profile may also be shaped so as to be unbiased by the spring member towards either one of the folded position or the raised position in the intermediate position. More particularly, the cam profile is shaped such that the spring member is substantially undeflected in an unflexed state in the intermediate position.
In this instance, gravity provides the only biasing in the intermediate position.
Preferably the upper post section is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the lower post section in the intermediate position.
In the illustrated embodiment, the cam member is supported on the upper post section so as to be pivotal together with the upper post section relative to the spring member on the lower post section; however, in alternative embodiments, the spring member may be mounted on the upper post section so as to be pivotal together with the upper post section relative to the cam member fixed on the lower post section.
Preferably the cam member is supported at the pivot axis of the upper post section relative to the lower post section such that the cam profile extends generally circumferentially about the pivot axis with a varying radial dimension from the pivot axis about the circumference thereof.
The spring member may comprise a leaf spring having a proximal end tangentially engaged with the cam profile of the cam member and a distal end opposite the proximal end which is fixed relative to said first one of the upper and lower post sections such that the leaf spring undergoes varying degrees of bending as the cam member is rotated relative to the leaf spring about said pivot axis.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a post assembly for containing a load on a load platform of a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the post assembly comprising:
'a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an
The cam profile may also be shaped so as to be unbiased by the spring member towards either one of the folded position or the raised position in the intermediate position. More particularly, the cam profile is shaped such that the spring member is substantially undeflected in an unflexed state in the intermediate position.
In this instance, gravity provides the only biasing in the intermediate position.
Preferably the upper post section is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the lower post section in the intermediate position.
In the illustrated embodiment, the cam member is supported on the upper post section so as to be pivotal together with the upper post section relative to the spring member on the lower post section; however, in alternative embodiments, the spring member may be mounted on the upper post section so as to be pivotal together with the upper post section relative to the cam member fixed on the lower post section.
Preferably the cam member is supported at the pivot axis of the upper post section relative to the lower post section such that the cam profile extends generally circumferentially about the pivot axis with a varying radial dimension from the pivot axis about the circumference thereof.
The spring member may comprise a leaf spring having a proximal end tangentially engaged with the cam profile of the cam member and a distal end opposite the proximal end which is fixed relative to said first one of the upper and lower post sections such that the leaf spring undergoes varying degrees of bending as the cam member is rotated relative to the leaf spring about said pivot axis.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a post assembly for containing a load on a load platform of a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the post assembly comprising:
'a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an
5 upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section;
a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post; the biasing mechanism including:
a first over-centre position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at a downwardly slope from the upper end of the upper post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the intermediate position above the first over-center position and downwardly towards the folded position below the first over-center position; and a second over-center position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at an upward slope from the upper end of the upper
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section;
a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post; the biasing mechanism including:
a first over-centre position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at a downwardly slope from the upper end of the upper post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the intermediate position above the first over-center position and downwardly towards the folded position below the first over-center position; and a second over-center position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at an upward slope from the upper end of the upper
6 post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the folded position above the second over-center position and downwardly towards the intermediate position below the second over-center position.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a load bunk for containing a load on a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the load bunk comprising:
a load beam for being supported on the main frame to extend longitudinally across a width of the main frame transversely to the forward transport direction;
two pockets formed at respective opposing ends of the load beam, each pocket having an open top end and extending in the longitudinal direction of the load beam between an inner wall and an outer wall of the pocket;
two posts selectively received at respective lower ends of the two posts within the two pockets respectively to extend upwardly from the load beam, each post =15 extending in the longitudinal direction of the load beam between opposed inner and outer surfaces of the post; and a wedge assembly associated with each post, the wedge assembly including at least one wedge block and at least one clamping fastener connected to said at least one wedge block to operatively wedge said at least one wedge block between the inner surface of the post and the inner wall of the pocket to frictionally clamp the outer surface of the post against the outer wall of the pocket;
each clamping fastener having a longitudinal axis oriented laterally in relation to the load beam and transversely to the respective post.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a load bunk for containing a load on a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the load bunk comprising:
a load beam for being supported on the main frame to extend longitudinally across a width of the main frame transversely to the forward transport direction;
two pockets formed at respective opposing ends of the load beam, each pocket having an open top end and extending in the longitudinal direction of the load beam between an inner wall and an outer wall of the pocket;
two posts selectively received at respective lower ends of the two posts within the two pockets respectively to extend upwardly from the load beam, each post =15 extending in the longitudinal direction of the load beam between opposed inner and outer surfaces of the post; and a wedge assembly associated with each post, the wedge assembly including at least one wedge block and at least one clamping fastener connected to said at least one wedge block to operatively wedge said at least one wedge block between the inner surface of the post and the inner wall of the pocket to frictionally clamp the outer surface of the post against the outer wall of the pocket;
each clamping fastener having a longitudinal axis oriented laterally in relation to the load beam and transversely to the respective post.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction
7 with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a bunk trailer being towed in a forward transport direction by a highway truck tractor in which the bunk trailer has a load platform and posts extending upwardly from the platform for containing a load on the load platform;
Figure 2 is a load bunk according to the present invention for containing a load on the bunk trailer according to Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a front perspective view of one of the pockets of the load bunk according to Figure 2, receiving the lower end of a respective post assembly therein;
Figure 4 is a front perspective view of the pocket according to Figure 3 in which a side wall portion of the pocket is shown removed for illustrative purposes;
Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the pocket according to Figure 3 in which a side wall portion of the pocket is shown removed for illustrative purposes;
Figure 6 is a top perspective view of the pocket according to Figure 3 in which the post assembly has been removed;
Figure 7 is a sectional view along the line 7-7 in Figure 3;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an inner side of the pivotal connection between the upper and lower post sections of the post assembly of the load bunk according to Figure 2;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of an outer side of the pivotal connection between the upper and lower post sections of the post assembly;
Figure 10 is a sectional view of the pivotal connection of the post assembly shown in the folded position;
Figure 11 is a sectional view of the pivotal connection of the post assembly shown just above the first over centre position;
Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a bunk trailer being towed in a forward transport direction by a highway truck tractor in which the bunk trailer has a load platform and posts extending upwardly from the platform for containing a load on the load platform;
Figure 2 is a load bunk according to the present invention for containing a load on the bunk trailer according to Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a front perspective view of one of the pockets of the load bunk according to Figure 2, receiving the lower end of a respective post assembly therein;
Figure 4 is a front perspective view of the pocket according to Figure 3 in which a side wall portion of the pocket is shown removed for illustrative purposes;
Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the pocket according to Figure 3 in which a side wall portion of the pocket is shown removed for illustrative purposes;
Figure 6 is a top perspective view of the pocket according to Figure 3 in which the post assembly has been removed;
Figure 7 is a sectional view along the line 7-7 in Figure 3;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an inner side of the pivotal connection between the upper and lower post sections of the post assembly of the load bunk according to Figure 2;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of an outer side of the pivotal connection between the upper and lower post sections of the post assembly;
Figure 10 is a sectional view of the pivotal connection of the post assembly shown in the folded position;
Figure 11 is a sectional view of the pivotal connection of the post assembly shown just above the first over centre position;
8 Figure 12 is a sectional view of the pivotal connection of the post assembly shown between the intermediate position and the second over centre position; and Figure 13 is a sectional view of the pivotal connection of the post assembly shown in the second over centre position.
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying figures, there is illustrated a load bunk generally indicated by reference numeral 10.
The load bunk 10 is shown supported on a transport vehicle 12 of the type comprising a main frame 14 supported on wheels 16 for rolling movement in a forward transport direction. The vehicle may be a transport truck, or a trailer as illustrated in figure 1 being towed by a highway truck tractor 18. In either instance, the main frame 14 comprises one or more main beams extending generally in the forward transport direction along a length of the main frame which support a plurality of the load bunks 10 at spaced positions along the main beams.
Each load bunk 10 includes a load beam 20 extending in a longitudinal direction of the load beam across a full width of the vehicle so as to be oriented' horizontally and perpendicularly to the forward transport direction, and a pair of post assemblies 22 extending upward from opposing ends of the load beam. The upper surfaces of the load beams 20 of all of the load bunks 10 collectively define a load platform for supporting a load thereon for transport. In the instance of a logging trailer, elongate timbers are supported to extend generally in the forward transport direction of
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying figures, there is illustrated a load bunk generally indicated by reference numeral 10.
The load bunk 10 is shown supported on a transport vehicle 12 of the type comprising a main frame 14 supported on wheels 16 for rolling movement in a forward transport direction. The vehicle may be a transport truck, or a trailer as illustrated in figure 1 being towed by a highway truck tractor 18. In either instance, the main frame 14 comprises one or more main beams extending generally in the forward transport direction along a length of the main frame which support a plurality of the load bunks 10 at spaced positions along the main beams.
Each load bunk 10 includes a load beam 20 extending in a longitudinal direction of the load beam across a full width of the vehicle so as to be oriented' horizontally and perpendicularly to the forward transport direction, and a pair of post assemblies 22 extending upward from opposing ends of the load beam. The upper surfaces of the load beams 20 of all of the load bunks 10 collectively define a load platform for supporting a load thereon for transport. In the instance of a logging trailer, elongate timbers are supported to extend generally in the forward transport direction of
9 the main frame 14 such that each timber is supported across at least two load beams 20 of the load bunks 10.
In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of mounting flanges 24 protrude from each of the opposing front and rear sides of each load beam 20 in a common plane with a bottom side of the load beam. Each mounting flange 24 includes fastener apertures therein to enable the load beam of the load bunk 10 to be fastened with threaded fasteners in fixed relation to the main beams of the main frame of the vehicle.
In other instances, the load beams can be secured to any suitable deck or load platform of a transport vehicle.
Each post assembly 22 of each beam includes a lower post section 26 removably mounted at a lower end thereof within a respective pocket 28 at a respective end of the respective load beam 20, and an upper post section 30 which is pivotally connected at an inner end of the upper post section to an upper end of the lower post section. The upper post section of each post is pivotal relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section in the forward transport direction through a range of positions including a folded position, an extended position, and an intermediate position therebetween. In the folded position, the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section. In the intermediate position, the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to be generally horizontal and perpendicular to the lower post section. In the extended position, the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to be co-linear with the lower post section.
Both ends of the load beam 20 supports an inner plate thereon which forms an inner wall 32 of the respective pocket. The inner plate includes two side portions 34 which are mounted flat in parallel along opposing front and rear sides of the load beam respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more fastener slots are provided in each side portion 34 which are elongate in the longitudinal direction of the load beam so as to enable fastening of the inner plate at a plurality of different fixed 5 mounted positions relative to the load beam. The width in the longitudinal direction of the load beam between the two pockets at the opposing ends of the load beam can thus be adjusted by adjusting the longitudinal position of each inner plate relative to the load beam.
The inner plate further includes two inner wall portions 36 which extend
In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of mounting flanges 24 protrude from each of the opposing front and rear sides of each load beam 20 in a common plane with a bottom side of the load beam. Each mounting flange 24 includes fastener apertures therein to enable the load beam of the load bunk 10 to be fastened with threaded fasteners in fixed relation to the main beams of the main frame of the vehicle.
In other instances, the load beams can be secured to any suitable deck or load platform of a transport vehicle.
Each post assembly 22 of each beam includes a lower post section 26 removably mounted at a lower end thereof within a respective pocket 28 at a respective end of the respective load beam 20, and an upper post section 30 which is pivotally connected at an inner end of the upper post section to an upper end of the lower post section. The upper post section of each post is pivotal relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section in the forward transport direction through a range of positions including a folded position, an extended position, and an intermediate position therebetween. In the folded position, the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section. In the intermediate position, the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to be generally horizontal and perpendicular to the lower post section. In the extended position, the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to be co-linear with the lower post section.
Both ends of the load beam 20 supports an inner plate thereon which forms an inner wall 32 of the respective pocket. The inner plate includes two side portions 34 which are mounted flat in parallel along opposing front and rear sides of the load beam respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more fastener slots are provided in each side portion 34 which are elongate in the longitudinal direction of the load beam so as to enable fastening of the inner plate at a plurality of different fixed 5 mounted positions relative to the load beam. The width in the longitudinal direction of the load beam between the two pockets at the opposing ends of the load beam can thus be adjusted by adjusting the longitudinal position of each inner plate relative to the load beam.
The inner plate further includes two inner wall portions 36 which extend
10 from the outermost edges of the two side portions respectively. The two inner wall portions are generally vertically oriented while being transverse to the longitudinal direction of the beam and transverse to the forward transport direction. More particularly the two inner wall portions are sloped towards one another as they extend outward from the load beam so that the two inner wall portions intersect one another at an apex forming a vertically oriented ridge at a laterally centred location between the opposing front and rear sides of the load beam. Each inner wall portion thus defines a ramp surface for use in wedging a respective one of the posts within the respective pocket as described in further detail below.
Each pocket 28 is further defined by two side plates 38 defining a front wall and a rear wall at laterally opposing front and rear sides of the load beam. The two side plates 38 are parallel and spaced apart from one another at the opposing front and rear sides of the pocket. An innermost edge of each side plate is supported in fixed relation to the outermost edge of the respective one of the side plates 34 of the inner plate of the pocket. Each of the side plates is integrally connected to a respective end plate 40 such that the side plate and the respective end plate comprise a single plate
Each pocket 28 is further defined by two side plates 38 defining a front wall and a rear wall at laterally opposing front and rear sides of the load beam. The two side plates 38 are parallel and spaced apart from one another at the opposing front and rear sides of the pocket. An innermost edge of each side plate is supported in fixed relation to the outermost edge of the respective one of the side plates 34 of the inner plate of the pocket. Each of the side plates is integrally connected to a respective end plate 40 such that the side plate and the respective end plate comprise a single plate
11 of material which has been bent into a generally L shaped profile. The end plates 40 overlap one another to collectively define an outer wall of the pocket which is the outermost boundary of the pocket 28. The end wall is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the load beam.
The top end of each pocket remains substantially open for receiving the lower end of a respective post therein.
The bottom end of each pocket is enclosed by a bottom plate 42 which is bent to include an inner portion 44 mounted in fixed relation to the bottom side of the load beam at the outer end thereof. The inner portion 44 of the bottom plate 42 includes a fastener slot therein which is elongate in the longitudinal direction of the beam so as to enable threaded fasteners to be used to secure the bottom plate relative to the load beam at anyone of a plurality of different longitudinal positions of the bottom plate relative to the load beam. The bottom plate further includes an outer portion 46 which is parallel to the inner portion but located at a position which is upwardly and outward in the longitudinal direction of the load beam relative to the inner portion to fully span the bottom side of an outer portion of the pocket which receives the lower end of the post therein. An intermediate portion of the bottom plate spans between the outer edge of the inner portion 44 and the inner edge of the outer portion 46 at an upward and longitudinally outward slope therebetween. The outer portion 46 spans the full width of the outer portion of the pocket between the front wall and the rear wall thereof while terminating at an outermost edge at the outer wall of the pocket.
The lower end of the post has a generally rectangular cross-section with a dimension in the longitudinal direction of the load beam defined between an inner surface 48 and an outer surface 50 which is parallel to but spaced longitudinally outward from the inner surface. A dimension of the lower end of the post in the lateral direction I I
The top end of each pocket remains substantially open for receiving the lower end of a respective post therein.
The bottom end of each pocket is enclosed by a bottom plate 42 which is bent to include an inner portion 44 mounted in fixed relation to the bottom side of the load beam at the outer end thereof. The inner portion 44 of the bottom plate 42 includes a fastener slot therein which is elongate in the longitudinal direction of the beam so as to enable threaded fasteners to be used to secure the bottom plate relative to the load beam at anyone of a plurality of different longitudinal positions of the bottom plate relative to the load beam. The bottom plate further includes an outer portion 46 which is parallel to the inner portion but located at a position which is upwardly and outward in the longitudinal direction of the load beam relative to the inner portion to fully span the bottom side of an outer portion of the pocket which receives the lower end of the post therein. An intermediate portion of the bottom plate spans between the outer edge of the inner portion 44 and the inner edge of the outer portion 46 at an upward and longitudinally outward slope therebetween. The outer portion 46 spans the full width of the outer portion of the pocket between the front wall and the rear wall thereof while terminating at an outermost edge at the outer wall of the pocket.
The lower end of the post has a generally rectangular cross-section with a dimension in the longitudinal direction of the load beam defined between an inner surface 48 and an outer surface 50 which is parallel to but spaced longitudinally outward from the inner surface. A dimension of the lower end of the post in the lateral direction I I
12 of the load beam is defined between a front surface 52 and a rear surface 54 of the post.
In the mounted position, the post is received within the pocket such that the outer surface 50 is in close engagement along the inner surface of the outer wall formed by the end plates 40 of the pocket. The width in the lateral direction between the front wall 52 and rear wall 54 is slightly smaller than the corresponding dimension of the pocket between the front and rear walls thereof. Spacers 56 having a low coefficient of friction are mounted at vertically spaced positions along the front and rear sides of the lower end of the post to fill the gap between the front and rear sides of the post and the corresponding front and rear walls of the pocket. In the longitudinal direction of the load beam, the post occupies only the outer portion of the pocket such that a remaining inner portion of the pocket defines a longitudinal gap therein between the inner surface 48 of the post and the inner wall 32 formed by the inner plate of the pocket.
In order to fix each post frictionally within the respective pocket, a wedge assembly is provided within the inner portion of each pocket for being wedged between the inner wall 32 of the pocket and the inner surface 48 of the post such that the corresponding outer surface of the post is held frictionally clamped against the outer wall of the pocket.
Each pocket receives two pairs 58 of wedge blocks in which one pair is mounted above the other pair within the gap in the inner portion of the pocket. Each pair of wedge blocks 58 includes a front block 60 and a rear block 62 coupled by a common clamping bolt 64 which extends generally horizontally and perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the load beam so as to be oriented at laterally relative to the load beam and so as to be oriented generally in the forward transport direction of
In the mounted position, the post is received within the pocket such that the outer surface 50 is in close engagement along the inner surface of the outer wall formed by the end plates 40 of the pocket. The width in the lateral direction between the front wall 52 and rear wall 54 is slightly smaller than the corresponding dimension of the pocket between the front and rear walls thereof. Spacers 56 having a low coefficient of friction are mounted at vertically spaced positions along the front and rear sides of the lower end of the post to fill the gap between the front and rear sides of the post and the corresponding front and rear walls of the pocket. In the longitudinal direction of the load beam, the post occupies only the outer portion of the pocket such that a remaining inner portion of the pocket defines a longitudinal gap therein between the inner surface 48 of the post and the inner wall 32 formed by the inner plate of the pocket.
In order to fix each post frictionally within the respective pocket, a wedge assembly is provided within the inner portion of each pocket for being wedged between the inner wall 32 of the pocket and the inner surface 48 of the post such that the corresponding outer surface of the post is held frictionally clamped against the outer wall of the pocket.
Each pocket receives two pairs 58 of wedge blocks in which one pair is mounted above the other pair within the gap in the inner portion of the pocket. Each pair of wedge blocks 58 includes a front block 60 and a rear block 62 coupled by a common clamping bolt 64 which extends generally horizontally and perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the load beam so as to be oriented at laterally relative to the load beam and so as to be oriented generally in the forward transport direction of
13 the load bunk. The clamping bolt 64 is a threaded fastener having a bolt head operatively engaged on the front wedge block 60 and a nut 68 threadably connected to the threaded shaft of the clamping bolt which is operatively engaged on the rear wedge block 62. Tightening the clamping fastener draws the two wedge blocks of the respective pair 58 laterally inwardly towards one another to produce a wedging within the inner portion of the pocket which functions to urge the post outwardly into frictional engagement with the outer end wall of the pocket.
Each wedge block has a main body which includes an outer surface 70 which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the load beam so as to be parallel to the inner surface 48 of the respective post against which it is engaged.
The main body of each wedge block also includes an inner surface 72 forming a ramp surface in direct engagement for relative sliding with a respective one of the two inner wall portions 36 at the inner wall of the pocket. The inner surface 72 is parallel to the corresponding inner wall portion 36 so as to be oriented in a vertical plane which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the load beam and transverse to the forward transport direction.
The main body of each wedge block further includes a protruding portion 74 which is generally rectangular in shape to protrude in a lateral direction of the load beam away from the opposing wedge block. More particularly the protruding portion 74 on the front wedge block protrudes generally forwardly through a respective receiving aperture 76 in the front wall of the pocket while the protruding portion 74 of the rear block 72 protrudes rearwardly through a respective receiving aperture 76 in the rear wall of the pocket. In each instance the receiving aperture 76 is sized to closely receive the dimensions of the respective protruding portion therein.
The main body of each wedge block includes a bore extending therethrough in the forward transport direction to receive the respective clamping bolt
Each wedge block has a main body which includes an outer surface 70 which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the load beam so as to be parallel to the inner surface 48 of the respective post against which it is engaged.
The main body of each wedge block also includes an inner surface 72 forming a ramp surface in direct engagement for relative sliding with a respective one of the two inner wall portions 36 at the inner wall of the pocket. The inner surface 72 is parallel to the corresponding inner wall portion 36 so as to be oriented in a vertical plane which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the load beam and transverse to the forward transport direction.
The main body of each wedge block further includes a protruding portion 74 which is generally rectangular in shape to protrude in a lateral direction of the load beam away from the opposing wedge block. More particularly the protruding portion 74 on the front wedge block protrudes generally forwardly through a respective receiving aperture 76 in the front wall of the pocket while the protruding portion 74 of the rear block 72 protrudes rearwardly through a respective receiving aperture 76 in the rear wall of the pocket. In each instance the receiving aperture 76 is sized to closely receive the dimensions of the respective protruding portion therein.
The main body of each wedge block includes a bore extending therethrough in the forward transport direction to receive the respective clamping bolt
14 64 therethrough. The head 66 of the clamping bolt abuts the forwardmost face of the protruding portion 74. The rear face of the protruding portion of each rear wedge block 62 includes a channel or socket 76 recessed inwardly into the body of the wedge block which fits the respective nut 68 of the clamping fastener recessed therein in a mating and non-rotatable relationship. In this manner, each of the head and the nut of the clamping fastener are readily accessible through respective receiving apertures 76 at the front and rear sides of the pocket while being somewhat protected by the surrounding structure.
Each pocket also includes a cover member 78 in the form of a plate which is shaped to extend over the inner portion of the pocket receiving the wedge blocks therein. The cover member includes an inner end portion 80 which is fiat and mounted in parallel to the top side of the load beam. A fastener aperture which is elongate in the longitudinal direction of the beam is located within the inner end portion of the cover member to enable a fastener received therethrough to selectively fix the cover member at any one of numerous fixed positions adjusted in the longitudinal direction of the load beam relative, to one another. An outer end portion 82 of the cover member is sloped upwardly as it extends outwardly in the longitudinal direction of the load beam to extend over the inner portion of the pocket locating the wedge blocks therebelow. The outer end portion terminates at a free end which is located in close proximity to the inner surface of the post. The outer end portion 82 of the cover member span substantially the full width of the pocket between the front and rear walls thereof.
The wedge assemblies are operated to remove or insert posts by loosening the threads of the clamping bolts to enable the lower end of the post to be slidably inserted or removed through the open top end of the pocket. In the mounted position, the bottom end of the post abuts the bottom plate enclosing the bottom end of the outer portion of the pocket. A drainage aperture may be located in the bottom plate to drain precipitation from the outer portion of the pocket. Once the posts are located within respective pockets, the clamping fasteners are tightened which urge the front and rear wedge blocks of each pair laterally inwardly towards one another so that the 5 inner ramp surfaces of the wedge blocks ride along the ramp surfaces of the inner wall 32 of the pocket so that the wedge blocks are in turn urged outwardly in the longitudinal direction of the load beam for clamping the lower end of the posts between the outer surfaces of the wedge blocks and the outer end wall of the outer portion of the pocket respectively.
10 In the mounted position, the posts typically extend upwardly so as to be near vertical in orientation, or at a slight inward taper towards one another.
In this manner, when a load is placed on the load bunks which is contained between opposing posts on each load bunk, any outward pressure of the load tends to flex the posts outward to a vertical orientation rather than flexing the posts outwardly beyond a vertical
Each pocket also includes a cover member 78 in the form of a plate which is shaped to extend over the inner portion of the pocket receiving the wedge blocks therein. The cover member includes an inner end portion 80 which is fiat and mounted in parallel to the top side of the load beam. A fastener aperture which is elongate in the longitudinal direction of the beam is located within the inner end portion of the cover member to enable a fastener received therethrough to selectively fix the cover member at any one of numerous fixed positions adjusted in the longitudinal direction of the load beam relative, to one another. An outer end portion 82 of the cover member is sloped upwardly as it extends outwardly in the longitudinal direction of the load beam to extend over the inner portion of the pocket locating the wedge blocks therebelow. The outer end portion terminates at a free end which is located in close proximity to the inner surface of the post. The outer end portion 82 of the cover member span substantially the full width of the pocket between the front and rear walls thereof.
The wedge assemblies are operated to remove or insert posts by loosening the threads of the clamping bolts to enable the lower end of the post to be slidably inserted or removed through the open top end of the pocket. In the mounted position, the bottom end of the post abuts the bottom plate enclosing the bottom end of the outer portion of the pocket. A drainage aperture may be located in the bottom plate to drain precipitation from the outer portion of the pocket. Once the posts are located within respective pockets, the clamping fasteners are tightened which urge the front and rear wedge blocks of each pair laterally inwardly towards one another so that the 5 inner ramp surfaces of the wedge blocks ride along the ramp surfaces of the inner wall 32 of the pocket so that the wedge blocks are in turn urged outwardly in the longitudinal direction of the load beam for clamping the lower end of the posts between the outer surfaces of the wedge blocks and the outer end wall of the outer portion of the pocket respectively.
10 In the mounted position, the posts typically extend upwardly so as to be near vertical in orientation, or at a slight inward taper towards one another.
In this manner, when a load is placed on the load bunks which is contained between opposing posts on each load bunk, any outward pressure of the load tends to flex the posts outward to a vertical orientation rather than flexing the posts outwardly beyond a vertical
15 orientation if the posts are initially vertical in an unloaded state.
Turning now more particularly to figures 8 through 13, the pivotal connection between the upper post section and the lower post section of each post will now be described in further detail.
The lower post section 26 remains rectangular in cross-section along the full length thereof up to a top end 100 of the front wall, the rear wall, the inner wall and the outer wall thereof. A connecting member 102 is fixed to the top end 100 of the lower post section which defines the pivotal connection between the upper and lower post sections. The connecting member 102 comprises a rigid plate of material which is bent into a generally U-shaped configuration extending partway about the circumference of the lower post section. More particularly the connecting member 102 includes an outer
Turning now more particularly to figures 8 through 13, the pivotal connection between the upper post section and the lower post section of each post will now be described in further detail.
The lower post section 26 remains rectangular in cross-section along the full length thereof up to a top end 100 of the front wall, the rear wall, the inner wall and the outer wall thereof. A connecting member 102 is fixed to the top end 100 of the lower post section which defines the pivotal connection between the upper and lower post sections. The connecting member 102 comprises a rigid plate of material which is bent into a generally U-shaped configuration extending partway about the circumference of the lower post section. More particularly the connecting member 102 includes an outer
16 portion 104 extending upwardly from the outer wall of the post, and two side portions 106 extending upwardly from the front wall and rear wall of the post. A pivot shaft 108 extends between the two side portions 106 to define the pivot axis of the post extending horizontally in the forward transport direction, perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the respective load beam. The pivot shaft is situated to be spaced above the top end of the inner wall.
An inner end 110 of the upper post section is pivotally supported on the pivot shaft for pivotal movement between the raised and folded positions as noted above. In the raised position, the outer side of the upper post section engages the outer portion 104 of the connecting member 102 at a location spaced above the pivot axis to act as a stop which prevents further outward displacement of the upper post section beyond the raised position.
The inner end 110 of the upper post section is pivotally supported at an innermost side of the upper post section in the raised position such that the upper section of the post is positioned substantially outward in the longitudinal direction of the load beam relative to the pivot shaft in the raised position. This provides suitable clearance such that when the upper post section is pivoted downwardly and inwardly from the raised position to the folded position, the upper post section can be located parallel to the lower post section along the inner side thereof due to the offset of the pivotal connection relative to the remainder of the upper post section.
The upper post section 30 similarly includes a front wall and a rear wall at opposing front and rear sides in the forward transport direction, as well as an inner wall and an outer Wall at opposed sides in the longitudinal direction of the beam in the raised position such that the upper section has a generally square cross-section.
An inner end 110 of the upper post section is pivotally supported on the pivot shaft for pivotal movement between the raised and folded positions as noted above. In the raised position, the outer side of the upper post section engages the outer portion 104 of the connecting member 102 at a location spaced above the pivot axis to act as a stop which prevents further outward displacement of the upper post section beyond the raised position.
The inner end 110 of the upper post section is pivotally supported at an innermost side of the upper post section in the raised position such that the upper section of the post is positioned substantially outward in the longitudinal direction of the load beam relative to the pivot shaft in the raised position. This provides suitable clearance such that when the upper post section is pivoted downwardly and inwardly from the raised position to the folded position, the upper post section can be located parallel to the lower post section along the inner side thereof due to the offset of the pivotal connection relative to the remainder of the upper post section.
The upper post section 30 similarly includes a front wall and a rear wall at opposing front and rear sides in the forward transport direction, as well as an inner wall and an outer Wall at opposed sides in the longitudinal direction of the beam in the raised position such that the upper section has a generally square cross-section.
17 Pivotal connection of the upper post section to the pivot shaft 108 is accomplished using two mounting plates 112 protruding downwardly from the laterally opposed front and rear sides of the upper post section in the raised position.
A sleeve 114 is connected laterally between the two mounting plates 112 so as to be fixed at the bottom end of the inner side of the upper post section in the raised position.
The sleeve 114 receives the pivot shaft 108 therein for relative rotation to define the pivotal movement between the upper post section and the lower post section. In the raised position, the two mounting plates protrude downwardly below the sleeve 114 to define a respective stop portions 116 of the mounting plates. In the raised position, the stop portions extend downwardly into the open top end of the lower post section for abutting an inner surface of the inner wall of the lower post section. The stop portions 116 thus assists the outer portion 104 of the connecting member in preventing further rotation of the upper post section outwardly beyond the raised position. The stop portions however do not interfere with any engagement with the inner surfaces of the lower posts section or the connecting member throughout the pivotal movement from the raised position to the folded position.
The sleeve 114 has an outer surface extending circumferentially about the pivot axis having a varying radius from the pivot axis so as to define a cam profile 118 engaged by a spring member 120 anchored on the lower post section. The sleeve is fixed to the upper post section and thus acts as a cam member rotatable with the upper post section relative to the spring member on the lower post section.
The spring member 120 comprises two plates of spring steel functioning as a leaf spring. A mounting plate 122 is mounted in fixed relation to the top end of the lower post section to span across the width of the lower post section between the front wall and rear wall thereof, and more particularly to span between the opposing side
A sleeve 114 is connected laterally between the two mounting plates 112 so as to be fixed at the bottom end of the inner side of the upper post section in the raised position.
The sleeve 114 receives the pivot shaft 108 therein for relative rotation to define the pivotal movement between the upper post section and the lower post section. In the raised position, the two mounting plates protrude downwardly below the sleeve 114 to define a respective stop portions 116 of the mounting plates. In the raised position, the stop portions extend downwardly into the open top end of the lower post section for abutting an inner surface of the inner wall of the lower post section. The stop portions 116 thus assists the outer portion 104 of the connecting member in preventing further rotation of the upper post section outwardly beyond the raised position. The stop portions however do not interfere with any engagement with the inner surfaces of the lower posts section or the connecting member throughout the pivotal movement from the raised position to the folded position.
The sleeve 114 has an outer surface extending circumferentially about the pivot axis having a varying radius from the pivot axis so as to define a cam profile 118 engaged by a spring member 120 anchored on the lower post section. The sleeve is fixed to the upper post section and thus acts as a cam member rotatable with the upper post section relative to the spring member on the lower post section.
The spring member 120 comprises two plates of spring steel functioning as a leaf spring. A mounting plate 122 is mounted in fixed relation to the top end of the lower post section to span across the width of the lower post section between the front wall and rear wall thereof, and more particularly to span between the opposing side
18 portions 106 of the connecting member. The mounting plate 122 is parallel to the upright orientation of the lower post section while being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the load beam. The leaf spring includes a distal end 124 relative to the cam member 114 which is bolted in fixed relation, flat against the mounting plate 122 such that the proximal end 126 of the leaf spring is a free end lying tangentially to the cam profile 118 of the sleeve 114. As the sleeve 114 is rotated together with the upper post section relative to the lower post section, the varying radial dimension of the cam profile relative to the pivot axis varies the degree of deflection of the proximal end 126 of the leaf spring.
Although in the illustrated embodiments of figures 10 through 13, the leaf spring is shown to remain planar, with the distal bottom end of the leaf spring being adjusted and orientation relative to the mounting plate, in actuality the distal end 124 of the spring member remains fixed and parallel to the mounting plate and the proximal end 126 of the spring member undergoes varying degrees of bending along the length of the spring member relative to the distal end 124 as the cam member defined by the sleeve 114 is rotated.
The cam profile 118 is shaped to define two radially protruding lobes identified as a first over centre lobe 128 and a second over centre lobe 130 which engage the leaf spring at a corresponding first over centre position shown approximately in figure 11 and in a second over centre position shown approximately in figure 13 respectively. An intermediate portion of the cam profile between the first lobe and the second lobe is arranged to engage the leaf spring in the intermediate position of the upper post section relative to the lower post section where the radius of the cam profile is such that the leaf spring is substantially undefiected and unfiexed in
Although in the illustrated embodiments of figures 10 through 13, the leaf spring is shown to remain planar, with the distal bottom end of the leaf spring being adjusted and orientation relative to the mounting plate, in actuality the distal end 124 of the spring member remains fixed and parallel to the mounting plate and the proximal end 126 of the spring member undergoes varying degrees of bending along the length of the spring member relative to the distal end 124 as the cam member defined by the sleeve 114 is rotated.
The cam profile 118 is shaped to define two radially protruding lobes identified as a first over centre lobe 128 and a second over centre lobe 130 which engage the leaf spring at a corresponding first over centre position shown approximately in figure 11 and in a second over centre position shown approximately in figure 13 respectively. An intermediate portion of the cam profile between the first lobe and the second lobe is arranged to engage the leaf spring in the intermediate position of the upper post section relative to the lower post section where the radius of the cam profile is such that the leaf spring is substantially undefiected and unfiexed in
19 a relaxed state so that the spring member provides no biasing to the movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section.
The varying radial dimension of the cam profile which causes varying degrees of deflection of the spring member throughout the pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section which in turn produces varying degrees of upward or downward biasing to the pivotal movement of the upper post section is described in further detail in the following.
The first over centre lobe 128 and the adjacent portions of the cam profile 118 are shaped such that a large degree of deflection of the spring member occurs in the first over centre position of figure 11. This corresponds to the upper post section being oriented to extend at a downward and inward slope having an interior angle of approximately 45 relative to the lower post section, at a location between the folded and intermediate positions. Any downward movement from the first over centre position to the folded position results in gradually less deflection of the spring member so as to produce downward biasing towards the folded position throughout the full range of motion between the first over centre position and the folded position to effectively bias the upper post section to remain in the folded position. Similarly, any upward movement from the first over centre position towards the intermediate position also results in gradually less deflection of the spring member so as to produce upward biasing from the spring member towards the intermediate position through the full range of motion between the first over centre position and the intermediate position.
In the intermediate position, no deflection of the spring member occurs such that the spring member provides no biasing to the movement either upward or downward immediately from the intermediate position. The lack of any deflection of the spring member also provides for ease of installation of the upper post section onto the lower post section as initially installing the upper post section in the intermediate position does not require any effort to work against the biasing of the spring member during installation.
The second over centre lobe and the adjacent portions of the cam profile 5 are shaped such that a large degree of deflection of the spring member occurs also in the second over centre position of figure 13. This corresponds to the upper post section being oriented to extend upward at an inward slope having an interior angle of approximately 165 to 170 relative to the lower post section, at a location between the intermediate position and the raised position. Any downward movement from the 10 second over centre position to the intermediate position results in gradually less deflection of the spring member so as to produce downward biasing towards the intermediate position throughout the full range of motion between the second over centre position towards the intermediate position. Similarly, any upward movement from the second over centre position towards the raised position also results in gradually 15 less deflection of the spring member so as to produce upward biasing from the spring member towards the raised position through the full range of motion between the second over centre position and the raised position.
The arrangement of the biasing provided by the cam member and the spring member is such that any initial lifting of the upper post section from the folded
The varying radial dimension of the cam profile which causes varying degrees of deflection of the spring member throughout the pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section which in turn produces varying degrees of upward or downward biasing to the pivotal movement of the upper post section is described in further detail in the following.
The first over centre lobe 128 and the adjacent portions of the cam profile 118 are shaped such that a large degree of deflection of the spring member occurs in the first over centre position of figure 11. This corresponds to the upper post section being oriented to extend at a downward and inward slope having an interior angle of approximately 45 relative to the lower post section, at a location between the folded and intermediate positions. Any downward movement from the first over centre position to the folded position results in gradually less deflection of the spring member so as to produce downward biasing towards the folded position throughout the full range of motion between the first over centre position and the folded position to effectively bias the upper post section to remain in the folded position. Similarly, any upward movement from the first over centre position towards the intermediate position also results in gradually less deflection of the spring member so as to produce upward biasing from the spring member towards the intermediate position through the full range of motion between the first over centre position and the intermediate position.
In the intermediate position, no deflection of the spring member occurs such that the spring member provides no biasing to the movement either upward or downward immediately from the intermediate position. The lack of any deflection of the spring member also provides for ease of installation of the upper post section onto the lower post section as initially installing the upper post section in the intermediate position does not require any effort to work against the biasing of the spring member during installation.
The second over centre lobe and the adjacent portions of the cam profile 5 are shaped such that a large degree of deflection of the spring member occurs also in the second over centre position of figure 13. This corresponds to the upper post section being oriented to extend upward at an inward slope having an interior angle of approximately 165 to 170 relative to the lower post section, at a location between the intermediate position and the raised position. Any downward movement from the 10 second over centre position to the intermediate position results in gradually less deflection of the spring member so as to produce downward biasing towards the intermediate position throughout the full range of motion between the second over centre position towards the intermediate position. Similarly, any upward movement from the second over centre position towards the raised position also results in gradually 15 less deflection of the spring member so as to produce upward biasing from the spring member towards the raised position through the full range of motion between the second over centre position and the raised position.
The arrangement of the biasing provided by the cam member and the spring member is such that any initial lifting of the upper post section from the folded
20 position involves only a small degree of movement working against gravity such that the biasing can be readily overcome by an operator displacing the upper post section towards the first over centre position. Continued lifting from the first over centre position to the intermediate position involves greater resistance by gravity but the biasing in this instance assists in displacing the upper post section against gravity to ease the lifting from the first over centre position to the intermediate position.
21 Continued lifting from the intermediate position to the second over centre position will involve overcoming some resistance to gravity in addition to overcoming some biasing resistance, however, once the upper post section is already generally horizontally oriented in the intermediate position, it is generally easier for an operator to continue pushing the upper post section upward from a standing position on the ground on either side of the vehicle frame. This is particularly true when an operator is pushing the upper post section upward using a pole from a standing position on the ground at the opposite side of the trailer.
Once in the second over centre position, continued upward pivotal movement is then assisted by the biasing provided by the second over centre lobe throughout the range of motion from the second over centre position to the raised position. The biasing of the second over centre lobe therefore also assists in retaining the upper post section in the raised position.
As best shown in figure 8, the upper post section also includes a pair of resilient bumpers 132 in the form of two lugs of resilient material secured to the inner side of the upper post section near the lower end thereof at a location spaced slightly above the pivot axis. The two lugs are shielded within the perimeter shape of the connecting member 102 so as to be protected from damage by cargo being loaded into the load bunk, however, the lugs are suitably positioned to act as a skip engaged between the upper post section and the lower post section as the upper post section approaches the folded position.
In further embodiments, the cam member may be fixed relative to the lower post section, and the spring member may instead be anchored on the upper post section for pivotal movement of the spring member together with the upper post section about the cam member which remains fixed on the lower post section. The lobes in this
Once in the second over centre position, continued upward pivotal movement is then assisted by the biasing provided by the second over centre lobe throughout the range of motion from the second over centre position to the raised position. The biasing of the second over centre lobe therefore also assists in retaining the upper post section in the raised position.
As best shown in figure 8, the upper post section also includes a pair of resilient bumpers 132 in the form of two lugs of resilient material secured to the inner side of the upper post section near the lower end thereof at a location spaced slightly above the pivot axis. The two lugs are shielded within the perimeter shape of the connecting member 102 so as to be protected from damage by cargo being loaded into the load bunk, however, the lugs are suitably positioned to act as a skip engaged between the upper post section and the lower post section as the upper post section approaches the folded position.
In further embodiments, the cam member may be fixed relative to the lower post section, and the spring member may instead be anchored on the upper post section for pivotal movement of the spring member together with the upper post section about the cam member which remains fixed on the lower post section. The lobes in this
22 instance would remain substantially as described above for providing a similar varying deflection of the spring member two in turn provide varying biasing to the pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section throughout the range of movement between the folded position and the raised position as described above.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above described, it is intended that all matter contained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above described, it is intended that all matter contained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
Claims (13)
1. A post assembly for containing a load on a load platform of a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the post assembly comprising:
a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post, the biasing mechanism including:
a spring member supported on a first one of the upper and lower post sections; and a cam member supported on a second one of the upper and lower post sections different from the spring member;
the cam member having a cam profile in engagement with the spring member which is shaped to vary an amount of deflection of the spring member as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post section through the range of the positions.
a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post, the biasing mechanism including:
a spring member supported on a first one of the upper and lower post sections; and a cam member supported on a second one of the upper and lower post sections different from the spring member;
the cam member having a cam profile in engagement with the spring member which is shaped to vary an amount of deflection of the spring member as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post section through the range of the positions.
2. The post assembly according to claim 1 wherein the cam profile of the cam member is shaped so as to bias the upper post section to remain in the raised position.
3. The post assembly according to either one of claims 1 or 2 wherein the cam profile of the cam member is shaped so as to bias the upper post section to remain in the folded position.
4. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 3 wherein the cam profile of the cam member includes a first over-center lobe arranged to engage the spring member in a first over-center position of the upper post section in which the upper post section is sloped downward and inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to bias the upper post section downwardly towards the folded position from the first over-center position.
5. The post assembly according to claim 4 wherein the first over-center lobe is shaped to bias the upper post section upwardly from the first over-center position to the intermediate position.
6. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 5 wherein the cam profile of the cam member includes a second over-center lobe arranged to engage the spring member in a second over-center position of the upper post section in which the upper post section is sloped upwardly and inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section so as to bias the upper post section upwardly towards the raised position from the second over-center position.
7. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 6 wherein the cam profile is shaped so as to be unbiased by the spring member towards either one of the folded position or the raised position in the intermediate position.
8. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 6 wherein the cam profile is shaped such that the spring member is substantially undeflected in an unflexed state in the intermediate position.
9. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 8 wherein the upper post section is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the lower post section in the intermediate position.
10. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 9 wherein the cam member is supported on the upper post section so as to be pivotal together with the upper post section relative to the spring member on the lower post section.
11. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 10 wherein the cam member is supported at the pivot axis of the upper post section relative to the lower post section such that the cam profile extends generally circumferentially about the pivot axis with a varying radial dimension from the pivot axis about the circumference thereof.
12. The post assembly according to any one of claims 1 through 11 wherein the spring member comprises a leaf spring having a proximal end tangentially engaged with the cam profile of the cam member and a distal end opposite the proximal end which is fixed relative to said first one of the upper and lower post sections such that the leaf spring undergoes varying degrees of bending as the cam member is rotated relative to the leaf spring about said pivot axis.
13. A post assembly for containing a load on a load platform of a transport vehicle having a main frame supported on wheels for rolling in a forward transport direction, the post assembly comprising:
a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section;
a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post; the biasing mechanism including:
a first over-centre position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at a downwardly slope from the upper end of the upper post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the intermediate position above the first over-center position and downwardly towards the folded position below the first over-center position; and a second over-center position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at an upward slope from the upper end of the upper post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the folded position above the second over-center position and downwardly towards the intermediate position below the second over-center position.
a lower post section having a lower end adapted for mounting in an upright orientation relative to the load platform;
an upper post section coupled to an upper end of the lower post section for pivotal movement of the upper post section relative to the lower post section about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicularly to the lower post section through a range of positions including:
a folded position in which the upper post section extends downwardly from the upper end of the lower post section alongside an inner side of the lower post section;
an intermediate position in which the upper post section extends laterally inwardly from the upper end of the lower post section; and an extended position in which the upper post section extends upwardly from the upper end of the lower post section;
a biasing mechanism to provide biasing as the upper post section is pivoted relative to the lower post; the biasing mechanism including:
a first over-centre position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at a downwardly slope from the upper end of the upper post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the intermediate position above the first over-center position and downwardly towards the folded position below the first over-center position; and a second over-center position corresponding to the upper post section extending laterally inwardly at an upward slope from the upper end of the upper post section in which the biasing mechanism biases the upper post section upwardly towards the folded position above the second over-center position and downwardly towards the intermediate position below the second over-center position.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2951809A CA2951809A1 (en) | 2016-12-15 | 2016-12-15 | Folding post for a vehicular load platform including biased positions |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2951809A CA2951809A1 (en) | 2016-12-15 | 2016-12-15 | Folding post for a vehicular load platform including biased positions |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2951809A1 true CA2951809A1 (en) | 2018-06-15 |
Family
ID=62556092
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2951809A Pending CA2951809A1 (en) | 2016-12-15 | 2016-12-15 | Folding post for a vehicular load platform including biased positions |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2951809A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NL2022325B1 (en) * | 2018-12-28 | 2020-07-23 | Koninklijke Nooteboom Group B V | Device for mounting a fastener to a chassis of a vehicle |
| SE2150514A1 (en) * | 2021-04-23 | 2022-10-24 | Timbtech Int Ab | A vertical stake arrangement for rigidly connecting a lower end of a verticla stake to a horizontal cross-beam |
-
2016
- 2016-12-15 CA CA2951809A patent/CA2951809A1/en active Pending
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NL2022325B1 (en) * | 2018-12-28 | 2020-07-23 | Koninklijke Nooteboom Group B V | Device for mounting a fastener to a chassis of a vehicle |
| SE2150514A1 (en) * | 2021-04-23 | 2022-10-24 | Timbtech Int Ab | A vertical stake arrangement for rigidly connecting a lower end of a verticla stake to a horizontal cross-beam |
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