GB1364838A - Transport systems - Google Patents

Abstract

1364838 Endless conveyers; loading floating containers TREBRON HOLDINGS Ltd 29 Sept 1971 [1 Oct 1970] 32808/70 Headings B8A and B8E [Also in Division B7] In a closed loop transport system, an articulated conveyer belt 1 is supported by pressurized air from apertures formed in a duct 3. In Fig. 1(b) (not shown), the belt moves in a vertical loop. Pumping stations (10) along the conveyer supply the pressurized air, Fig 2a (not shown). The air duct may comprise two parallel portions (8) and a belt (7) may have depending guide members (17) for coaction with pressurized air from inner side walls of the ducts (8). Linear induction motor means propel the belt (7) and the air space between the belt and ducts is sealed by a continuous V-section spring (21), Figs. 2c, 2d (not shown). An air duct (31) may include an outer ridge (37) for guiding a belt (30), Fig. 2g (not shown). In Fig. 3a modular passenger containers 40 are coupled by articulated couplings to form a closed loop system. Ducts 42 form a track supported on members 43 and variable speed conveyer 63 provides access to the containers 40 which are operated non- stop. In a freight and passenger carrying system, Figs. 4a, 4b, 5b (not shown) coupled platforms (60) support containers and run side by side in opposite directions. Pneumatic bags (67) support the ducts (42). Variable-speed access conveyers may be extensible and may have selfcleaning means, Figs. 6a-6f (not shown). There may be a series of access conveyers, Fig. 8 (not shown). Figs. 9-12 (not shown) illustrate further systems adapted for conveying passengers and vehicles. A system for unloading containers 40 from an aircraft includes a vehicle 130 which transfers the containers via a variable speed conveyer 134 to a constant speed loop conveyer 136, Fig. 16(c). In Fig. 17b, transfer between an urban transport loop 147 and express loops 144, 145 is provided for. A vertical loop type unit may be used for landing a chain of floating containers, Fig. 26a (not shown). Vehicles may be loaded/unloaded, Fig. 26b (not shown). In Fig. 22 a drive and support unit comprises an articulated tread 200 having webs 205 guided by channels 206 in a pressurized support 201. Air apertures are provided on the lower side only of the support 201. The unit, which may form part of a vehicle, is steerable and is powered by a wheel 213. Such a unit may be adapted for supporting and driving an amphibious vehicle, Figs. 27, 28 (not shown).