GB1353585A - Movement of loads on cushions - Google Patents

Abstract

1353585 Moving loads on gaseous cushions HOVERWELL Ltd 19 April 1971 [12 March 1970] 12015/70 Heading B7K Apparatus for use in transporting containerized or palletized freight loads comprises a wheeled trolley, Fig. 1, at least one blower 14 or fan together with a driving engine or motor therefor mounted on the trolley, an air cushion retaining flexible skirt 16 adapted to extend around the periphery of the pallet or container base 17, Fig. 2, together with fastening means whereby the skirt can be readily attached to and detached from such pallet or container base 17, and an air supply connection joining the skirt 16 to the air delivery duct 10 of the blower 14 or fan whereby, when the skirt is in place around such container base, the fan can deliver air to create a lifting air cushion beneath the pallet or container base 17, and wherein the truck or trolley includes rigid bars 11 adapted to be detachably secured to the pallet or container base 17 so that the truck or trolley and container or pallet together form a towable vehicle. The truck or trolley also has a handle 13, wheels 12 and a bin 15 for storing the uninflated and folded skirt 16. The skirt may be in two sections 16A and 16B joined at 18 by a quick release lever locked bayonet fastening, Figs. 6 to 9 (not shown), when inflated and attached to the base 17 and the wheels are then retracted, Fig. 3 (not shown).