GB2610005A

GB2610005A - Interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system

Info

Publication number: GB2610005A
Application number: GB2200870.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Khamis Malas Charle
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-01-24
Filing date: 2022-01-24
Publication date: 2023-02-22
Anticipated expiration: 2042-01-24
Also published as: GB202200870D0; WO2023139387A1; GB2610005B

Abstract

An interchangeable system for elongate-article transportation trailers (fig 7) has a cast corner fitting (12, fig 2) comprising an adapter plate receiver 20 and a twist-lock aperture 28; an adapter plate 18 with a twist-lock 38 on an in-use outward side 34; and a second plate 18’,18” with an outward side different to the first adapter 14; the adapters being selectably interengagable by sliding into the adapter plate receiver 20 to modify a connection characteristic of the cast fitting 12. A cross-beam (94, fig 6) can attach to the corner fittings 12 to create a framework or reusable cradle. An adapter 18” may be a blanking plate or have a recessed breech socket 54.

Description

Interchangeable Trailer-Mountable Cast Fitting System The present invention relates to an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system particularly, but not necessarily exclusively for use with elongate-article transportation vehicles. The invention further relates to a vehicular trailer having the said interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system, to a method of using the said interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system and to method of using an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system to create a reusable cradle.

Elongate articles are articles that have a length/maximum width ratio greater than 5. Elongate articles come in a range of diameters and lengths. Typically, the lengths vary from 6 metres to 12 metres. There are many elongate articles used within society, largely in construction and for the transportation of fluids such as sewage, water, gas, oil. Pipes, rods and nuclear fuel pins are examples of elongate articles which are commonly transported. Elongate articles are often rigid and can be handled by their ends without the need for additional support in the middle.

Elongate articles are problematic to handle due to their mass and length. Elongate articles are also commonly transported in large quantities by sea. To do so, the elongate articles are commonly stacked in the hold of the ship either loose, bundled/stacked together or individually packed depending on the pipe handling requirements. These methods of storage, particularly the stacked arrangement, are potentially hazardous as if an elongate article were to fall or slip out of place, damage could be caused to the elongate articles themselves, or to people or the environment surrounding them.

Once a cargo ship has arrived at its destination, the elongate articles are often unloaded from the hold using the cargo ship's crane. To allow for the elongate articles to be unloaded, hooks are placed at the end of each elongate-article and tension is applied to hold the hooks in place. This approach requires the hooks to be placed correctly by a user every time else the elongate article can slip and fall. As elongate articles are commonly unloaded one by one, this provides a huge room for human error and an increased risk to safety. Equally, when bundles of elongate articles are used, there is the safety risk of elongate articles falling or slipping from the bundles, or the bundles collapsing whilst being transported.

Once removed from the cargo ship, the elongate articles are then transported by vehicular trailers to their intended destinations. It is common for this to involve multiple vehicular trailers. For example, the elongate articles may require Customs clearance and so the elongate articles will need to be unloaded for checking and reloaded again once clearance is given.

The numerous loading and unloading cycles create several potential issues such as the increased need for labour and time, the safety risk of elongate articles falling or slipping from the bundles, or hooks slipping from individual elongate articles. The cranes used also experience increased wear and tear as numerous manoeuvres to unload and load the elongate articles are needed.

The present invention seeks to provide an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting 10 system which obviates or overcomes the above-mentioned deficiencies.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system for use with elongate-item transportation vehicles, the system comprising: a cast fitting comprising an adapter plate receiver and a twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock for connection to a vehicular trailer, a first adapter having an adapter plate and a functional component on an in-use outward side of the adapter plate, the functional component comprising a twist-lock receivably engagable with a twist-lock aperture, and a second adapter having an adapter plate, an in-use outward side of the adapter plate being different to that of the first adapter, the first and second adapters being selectably interengagable with the adapter plate receiver of the cast fitting using the respective adapter plates to modify a connection characteristic of the cast fitting.

The present invention increases the ease with which bespoke reusable cradles and frameworks can be built, using cast fittings, sometimes referred to as corner or centre castings, for use with elongate-item transportation vehicles. Having selectably interengagable first and second adapters is advantageous as it allows for the functionality of the cast fittings to be changed on demand and with ease by the user.

In one embodiment, the cast fitting may comprise a plurality of adapter plate receivers.

More often than not, the system will require multiple adapter plates with distinct functions. The provision of a plurality of adapter plate receivers allows for multiple adapter plates to be utilised with one cast fitting. A plurality of adapter plate receivers may allow for a wider variety of structures to be built from the cast fittings. The cast fitting is therefore universally engagable.

The interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system may optionally comprise three or more adapter plates having different in-use outward sides.

The provision of three or more adapter plates having different in-use outward sides greatly improves the utility of the system as a whole. As above, to provide an adaptable 5 cast fitting system, more than one adapter plate is likely to be required.

The cast fitting may further comprise one or more stadium apertures and/or one or more shield apertures.

Stadium and shield apertures may act as connecting holes to allow the cast fittings to be attached to steel castings or metal frameworks. For example, stadium and shield apertures may be a simple means of ensuring that standardized cross-beams and upright elements can easily be fitted to the cast fitting using existing attachment mechanisms. It is preferred that the cast fitting has functions other than for receiving or providing twist-locks in order to assist with ease of assembly and building of frameworks. Therefore, the provision of stadium and shield apertures on the cast fitting diversifies the use of the cast fitting.

In one embodiment, the twist-lock aperture may be located through a face of the cast fitting which is perpendicular to one or more faces through which the one or more stadium apertures and/or the one or more shield apertures may be located Having the stadium and shield apertures on faces of the cast fitting perpendicular to a 20 twist-lock aperture may aid the building of reusable cradles and/or frameworks. The structural integrity of the cast fitting may also be preserved by having the apertures on different faces.

Optionally, the cast fitting may further comprise a cross-beam receiver for receiving an associated cross-beam. The twist-lock aperture may preferably be located on a face of 25 the cast fitting perpendicular to a face through which the cross-beam receiver is located.

The inclusion of a cross-beam receiver may increase the functionality of the cast fitting. The cross-beam receiver may allow for facile attachment of the cast fitting to associated cross-beams, which are commonly used for building reusable cradles and/or frameworks. Locating the twist-lock aperture perpendicular to a face through which the cross-beam receiver may allow for the creation of lateral struts from the cast fitting. Additionally, the structural integrity of the cast fitting may be maintained.

In one embodiment, a longitudinal extent of the cast fitting may be 178 mm and a lateral extent of the cast fitting may be 162 mm, thereby meeting the ISO 1161 requirements for ISO shipping containers.

The cast fitting conforming to ISO shipping container standards enables ISO 5 compatibility. It may also allow for the cast fitting to be easily incorporated into existing structures.

Alternatively, in a preferred embodiment, a longitudinal extent of the cast fitting may be greater than 178 mm, thereby the cast fitting may form an extended cast fitting with the extended portion forming a lateral support region.

The provision of an extended longitudinal extent can be a simple way of allowing for offset stacking of the cast fittings to occur. Offset stacking of the cast fitting may enable a variety of reusable cradles and/or frameworks to be built from the cast fitting.

Preferably, the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers may be mounted on the lateral support region offset from the 15 twist-lock aperture to allow for stacking offset thereto.

Advantageously, as a twist-lock is often located near the rear edge of a vehicular trailer, positioning an adapter plate receiver on the lateral support region may allow for a distance to be created between the rear edge of the vehicular trailer and a functional component on the cast fitting. For instance, the twist-lock aperture of the cast fitting could be engaged with the twist-lock of the vehicular trailer, and a functional component on an in-use outward side of the adapter plate may be engaged with an upright element to effectively shorten the vehicular trailer base. This may be advantageous when carrying elongate articles, as it effectively allows the user to adjust the length of the vehicular trailer base according to the length of the elongate articles. In the state of the art, it is only possible to build structures directly over the twist-lock provided on the vehicular trailer and so there is no adjustability for different elongate article lengths. Here, the problem of the twist-lock being too near to the rear of the vehicle is completely circumvented.

Preferably, the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of 30 adapter plate receivers may be positioned parallel to the twist-lock aperture to allow for stacking directly above the twist-lock aperture.

In some circumstances, it may be desirable to stack directly over a twist-lock aperture. Positioning an adapter plate receiver parallel to the twist-lock aperture may allow for this. Adapter plate receivers may be located both directly above the twist-lock aperture and on the lateral support region off set from the twist-lock aperture to increase the universal 5 function of the cast fitting. As detailed previously, with elongate article transportation, the elongate articles are often loaded and unloaded between different vehicular trailers. Having a cast fitting with adapter plate receivers located both directly above the twist-lock aperture and on the lateral support region may be useful for allowing flexibility when moving reusable cradles and/or metal frameworks between vehicular trailers of different 10 lengths. Indeed, constructed reusable cradles may conceivably be transplanted between different vehicular trailers whilst laden.

Optionally, the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers may be positioned on the same face of the cast fitting as the twist-lock aperture. Optionally, the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers may be positioned on a different face of the cast fitting to the twist-lock aperture.

In some uses, positioning an adapter plate receiver on the same face of the cast fitting as the twist-lock aperture may allow for increased functionality of the cast fitting. Alternatively, functionality of the cast fitting may be improved by locating the adapter plate receivers on a different face of the twist-lock aperture. It is advantageous for the user to have the ability to have an adapter plate on the same face as the twist-lock aperture and on a different face as the twist-lock aperture at the same time, as it reduces the need for multiple cast fittings. The adaptability of the cast fitting and the provision of options allows the cast fitting to be suited to a user's desired purpose.

In one embodiment, the adapter plate and the functional component are preferably integrally formed with one another.

Being integrally formed may increase ease of manufacture. It may also provide more stability and reduce the risk of the functional component detaching from the adapter plate.

Most preferably, the adapter plate and the functional component may be releasably 30 engageable with one another.

Having a functional component which is releasably engagable with the adapter plate may allow for the functional component to be changed with ease without the adapter plate needing to be fully removed. The adapter plate may have a universal adapter provided on it to allow for differing functional components to be attached with ease.

Optionally, the in-use outward side of the second adapter may be devoid of a functional component, which may permit use as a blanking plate.

A blanking plate improves the utility of the system as a whole and increases the user's control over the connection characteristics of the cast fitting. It allows for a functional component to not always be present on the cast fitting. The provision of a blanking plate may also act to maintain the integrity of the adapter plate receiver when a functional component is not needed.

Preferably, the adapter plate receiver is recessed relative to a surface face of the cast fitting. Preferably, the adapter plate may interengage with the adapter plate receiver such that an upper surface of the or each adapter plate is flush or substantially flush relative to a perimeter edge of the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers.

A recessed adapter plate receiver provides a simple means of securely engaging the adapter plate in position with respect to the cast fittings, simplifying the installation process. Additionally, the preferably recessed nature of the adapter plate receiver allows the plate to interengage with the adapter plate receiver to form a flush or substantially flush surface. The adapter plate therefore does not interfere with the engagement of the functional component of the cast fitting with an associated connecting member. If the adapter plate did not sit flush or substantially flush between the cast fitting and an associated connecting member, the connection may be compromised.

Optionally, one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers may be a dovetail socket.

Twist-locks are commonly provided on a dovetail base. Therefore, the use of a dovetail socket allows for compatibility with existing, commercial dovetail twist-locks. Additionally, other twist-locks, such as breech twist-locks are commonly engaged with a dovetail adapter plate. Therefore, use of a dovetail socket allows for universal use with existing infrastructure.

Optionally, the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system may further comprise one or more upright elements, each of the one or more upright elements comprising at least one twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock the reth ro ug h. The inclusion of one or more upright elements allows for reusable cradles and/or frameworks to be built from the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system. In use, tailored reusable cradles and frameworks can be built on site and the elongate articles can be loaded onto the reusable cradles and/or framework. The reusable cradles and/or frameworks can then be attached to an associated vehicular trailer, and the reusable cradles and/or framework can accompany the elongate articles to their intended destination with ease. When the elongate articles are required to change vehicular trailer, the whole reusable cradle and/or framework that is housing the elongate articles can be detached from one vehicular trailer and reattached to another vehicular trailer with ease. As previously detailed, elongate-article transportation often involves loading and unloaded the items at multiple destinations. In the current state of the art, the elongate articles are unloaded using mobile cranes or reach-stackers and reloaded onto a separate vehicle. This approach is labour and time intensive. Additionally, due to the unloaded and reloading there are more health and safety risks and chances of elongate articles getting damaged or falling off vehicular trailers. The current invention provides a way of circumventing the need to unload and reload all of the elongate articles.

The interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system may preferably further comprise a plurality of said cast fittings.

The concept of the present invention is to provide an adaptable cast fitting system that allows for the simple setup of frameworks and structures of different sizes and with 25 different functions. The inclusion of different cast fittings enhances the utility of the system as a whole.

The present invention is an adaptable, multifunctional, and interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system. It is a complete system, which allows reusable frameworks and cradles to be built to size and according to a user's requirements. The complete modular system allows the end user to select a desired configuration of cast fitting connections and types, with the adapter plates and functional component being dictated by the end user. Once the desired reusable framework and/or cradle has been built, the cast fittings can simply be placed onto a vehicular trailer twist-lock and locked in place.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there a vehicular trailer having an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system in accordance with the first aspect 5 of the invention, for the transportation of elongate-articles Advantageously, due to the functionality of the cast fittings, bespoke reusable cradles and frameworks can be built directly onto the back of a vehicular trailer to the demand of the user. When elongate articles of different lengths are to be transported, instead of having to replace the vehicular trailer to accommodate for the change in elongate-article length, the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system can be used to create a tailored reusable cradle and/or framework for housing the elongate articles. In the current state of the art, to safely accommodate and transport elongate articles of different lengths, vehicular trailers with different lengths need to be used. This approach requires the provision of multiple vehicular trailers. The current invention provides a way of circumventing the need for multiple vehicular trailers and allows the vehicular trailer to be adapted to correspond with the elongate articles.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is a method of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system in accordance with the first aspect of the invention. The method comprises the steps of: a] attaching the cast fitting to a vehicular trailer, b] selecting one of the first or second adapters; and c] slidably engaging the adapter plate of the selected first or second adapter into one of the adapter plate receivers.

Optionally, after step c] there may be the additional step d] of: engaging a twist-lock aperture of an upright element with the twist-lock of the selected first or second adapter 25 to secure the cast fitting to the upright element.

The present invention is particularly suited to building customised reusable cradles and/or frameworks suitable for use with different vehicular trailers to circumvent the need for the elongate items to be unloaded and reloaded individually. It also circumvents the need for the vehicular trailer to be adapted for the purpose of transporting elongate articles. The cast fittings can be used with ease by a user to create a desired reusable cradle and/or framework.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is method of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system to create a reusable cradle, the method comprises the steps of: a] providing two cast fittings for connection to a vehicular trailer; b] selecting one or more of the first or second adapters for each of the two cast fittings; c] slidably engaging the adapter plate of the selected first or second adapters into one of the adapter plate receivers of each of the two cast fittings to form two separate twist-locks; d] engaging one upright element with each of said twist-locks to secure the cast fitting to the upright element; and e] attaching one or more bridging members between the upright elements to form a barrier.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system for use with elongate-item transportation vehicles, the system comprising: a cast fitting comprising a twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock for connection to a vehicular trailer.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided an interchangeable trailer-15 mountable cast fitting system for use with elongate-item transportation vehicles, the system comprising: a cast fitting comprising an adapter plate receiver and a twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock for connection to a vehicular trailer.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a cast fitting suitable for use as part of an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system, the cast fitting 20 comprising an adapter plate receiver and a twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock for connection to a vehicular trailer.

Advantageously, the present invention provides a method of creating a customised reusable cradle or framework. Reusable cradles and frameworks can be built on site to accommodate elongate articles of varying lengths, the elongate articles can then be loaded onto the reusable cradles and/or framework at one destination. The reusable cradles and/or frameworks housing the elongate articles can then be attached to an associated vehicular trailer, and the reusable cradles and/or framework can accompany the elongate articles to their next destination with ease. The reusable cradles and/or frameworks will commonly be attached to an associated vehicular trailer via a twist-lock mechanism located on the vehicular trailer. If for transportation reasons, such as crossing boarders, or the sea, the elongate articles need to be removed from the first vehicle trailer they were loaded onto, the whole reusable cradle and/or framework can be easily removed from the vehicular trailer. Therefore, the need to remove each elongate articles individually from the vehicular trailer is negated. The reusable cradle and/or framework housing can simply be removed from one vehicle and attached to another. Alternatively, the reusable cradle and/or framework can be built directly onto the vehicular trailer by attaching two cast fittings directly to a vehicular trailer and then followings steps b] to e] above. The reusable cradle and/or framework may still be removed and reattached as detailed above.

The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a front perspective representation of a first embodiment of an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 2 shows a side perspective representation of a cast fitting of Figure 1 and 15 a first embodiment of an adapter plate in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e and 3f show a schematic drawing of the corner cast fitting of Figure 2, in which Figure 3a shows a top of the corner cast fitting, Figure 3b shows a breech base adapter plate, Figure 3c shows a first side of the corner cast fitting having a stadium aperture, Figure 3d shows a second side of the corner cast fitting having a shield aperture, Figure 3e shows a third side of the corner cast fitting having secondary attachment means, and Figure 3f shows a bottom of the corner cast fitting; Figures 4a, 4b, 4c, and 4d show a front perspective view of the first embodiment of an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system of Figure 1 indicating the interchangeability of the plurality of adapter plates, in which Figure 4a shows a dovetail twist-lock and blanking plate engaged with the corner cast fitting, Figure 4b shows the dovetail twist-lock and blanking plate of Figure 4a being removed from the corner cast fitting, Figure 4c shows a breech base twist-lock replacing the dovetail twist-lock, and Figure 4d shows a blanking plate replacing the dovetail twist-lock; Figures 5a and 5b respectively show a front perspective view of a first embodiment and a second embodiment of a functional component in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 6 shows a side perspective view of the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner support system of Figure 1 in use to create part of a reusable cradle; Figure 7 shows a front perspective view of the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner support system of Figure 1 in use on an associated vehicular trailer, with the inset image showing an enlarged view of the corner cast fitting region; Figure 8 shows a front perspective representation of a left-hand version of the 10 first embodiment of a corner cast fitting and a second embodiment of a corner cast fitting in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 9 shows a front perspective representation of a third embodiment of a centre cast fitting in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, be and 10f show a schematic drawing of the centre cast fitting of Figure 9 in which Figure 10a shows a top of the centre cast fitting, Figure 10b shows a breech base adapter plate, Figure 10c shows a first side of the centre cast fitting, Figure 10d shows a second side of the centre cast fitting having a stadium aperture, Figure 10e shows a third side of a centre cast fitting having secondary attachment means, and Figure 10f shows a bottom of the centre cast fitting; Figure 11 shows a front perspective representation of a fourth embodiment of a corner cast fitting in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

Figure 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e and 12f show a schematic drawing of the corner cast fitting of Figure 11 in which Figure 12a shows a top of the corner cast fitting, Figure 12b shows a first side of the corner cast fitting, Figure 12c shows a second side of the corner cast fitting having a stadium aperture, Figure 12d shows a third side of the corner cast fitting having a shield aperture, Figure 12e shows a fourth side of a corner cast fitting having secondary attachment means, and Figure 12f shows a bottom of the corner cast fitting having a twist-lock aperture; Figure 13 shows a front perspective representation of a fifth embodiment of a 35 centre cast fitting in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d and 14e show a schematic drawing of the centre cast fitting of Figure 13 in which Figure 14a shows a top of the centre cast fitting, Figure 14b shows a first side of the centre cast fitting, Figure 14c shows a second side of the centre cast fitting having a stadium aperture, Figure 14d shows a third side of the centre cast fitting having a cross-beam receiver slot and Figure 14e shows a bottom of the centre cast fitting having a twist-lock aperture; Figure 15 shows a side perspective view of the interchangeable trailer-mountable 10 cast fitting system of Figure 1 and the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system of Figure 9 in use to create part of a reusable cradle; Figure 16 shows a top perspective view of a reusable lifting frame for use with the reusable cradles of both Figure 6 and Figure 15; and Figure 17 shows a side perspective view of the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system of Figure 1 and the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner support system of Figure 9 in use to create reusable cradles attached to the reusable lifting frame of Figure 16 in use with an associated trailer and crane.

Referring to Figure 1, there is indicated an interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system, referenced globally at 10. The system is suitable for use with elongate-article transportation vehicles using cast fittings, sometimes referred to as castings or supports.

The interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10 comprises a corner 25 cast fitting 12, a first adapter 14 and a second adapter 16. The first adapter 14 and second adapter 16 are formed as adapter plates 18 selectably interengagable with an adapter plate receiver 20.

As best shown in Figure 1, a first embodiment of a corner cast fitting 12 is formed having a rectangular or substantially rectangular footprint.

The corner cast fitting 12 has a hollow body with bottom and top sides which effectively form the first and second major opposed faces 22, 24 respectively. The corner cast fitting 12 also has four minor faces 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d forming side walls thereof. The faces 22, 24, 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d of the corner cast fitting 12 are flat or substantially flat surface and are preferably smooth. The corner cast fitting 12 is preferably formed from a durable material. For example, high grade steel or fibre-reinforced plastic composites could be used. However, any appropriately hard-wearing material, including low-alloyed carbon-manganese micro-alloyed steels, could be envisaged.

The first major face 22, here illustrated as the lower face, of the corner cast fitting 12 has a twist-lock aperture 28 therethrough dimensioned to receive a twist-lock. The twist-lock aperture 28 is preferably positioned on the first major face 22 rather than the second major face 24 to ensure the corner cast fitting 12 can be secured to twist-lock connectors of associated trailers; the lower face is receivable onto a corresponding twist-lock connector of the trailer.

The twist-lock aperture 28 is oval or substantially oval in shape. The shape and dimensions of the twist-lock aperture 28 are complementary to the shape and dimensions of an associated twist-lock in a first condition. The twist-lock aperture 28 is dimensioned such that an associated twist-lock may be inserted when in the first or unlocked condition, but once the twist-lock is moved to a second or locked condition, the twist-lock cannot pass through the twist-lock aperture 28.

In the depicted embodiment, the twist-lock aperture 28 is shown as being positioned offset from the centre of the first major face 22. The positioning of the aperture is such that it conforms or substantially conforms with ISO 1611 requirements. However, it is envisaged that the twist-lock aperture 28 may be positioned centrally through the first major face 22. This is thought to be less beneficial however due to potential problems integrating with existing systems.

Secondary attachment means 30 may be provided on the first and/or second major faces 22, 24 or on the minor faces 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d of the corner cast fitting 12 to act as additional attachment means for associated upright elements or other connecting members. The openings are preferably countersunk such that in use attachment elements such as screw-threaded fasteners will sit flush with or below the first and/or second major faces 22, 24 or minor faces 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. It will be appreciated that other suitable secondary attachment means, such welding or adhesive, may be used.

Shield apertures 32 may be provided through a minor face 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d of the corner cast fitting 12 perpendicular to the first major face 22. The shield apertures 32 are truncated oval or substantially truncated oval in shape. The dimensions and positioning of the shield apertures 32 comply with ISO 1611 requirements. The length and width of the shield aperture 32 is less than the width and length of the twist-lock aperture 28, such that a twist-lock cannot engage with a shield aperture 32. Although it is useful to provide shield apertures 32, the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10 would be functional without.

In the depicted embodiment, the first and second major surfaces 22. 24 each have a recess forming an adapter plate receiver 20. The adapter plate receiver 20 is sized to be shape-matingly engageable with an associated adapter plate 18. The adapter plate receivers 20 are shown engaged with adapter plates 18 with different in-use outward sides 34. The adapter plate receiver 20 is sized to be shape-mafingly engageable with an associated adapter plate 18. The adapter plate 18 is dimensioned such that the thickness of the adapter plate 18 is equal to or more than depth of the adapter plate receiver 20 to ensure the engagement creates a flush or substantially flush surface. The adapter plates 18 and adapter plate receiver 20 are discussed in more detail in respect of Figures 2 and 3.

The in-use outward side 34 of the first adapter plate 18 shown in Figure 1 has a functional component 36 on the first major opposed face 22 which is formed as a twist-lock 38. The in-use outward side 34 of the second adapter 16 is devoid of a functional component 36 for use as a blanking plate.

As best depicted in Figure 2, the perimeter of the adapter plate receiver 20 is substantially enclosed within the depth of the second major surface 24 of the corner cast fitting 12. In the depicted embodiment, there is a break in the perimeter to form an access opening 40 such that an adapter plate 18 can engage with the adapter plate receiver 20.

The access opening 40 of the adapter plate receiver 20 is positioned on one edge of the corner cast fitting 12 to allow the adapter plate 18 to engage with ease. The positioning also allows for a user to easily access the access opening 40. The adapter plate receiver 20 defines a void 42 cut into the depth of the corner cast fitting second major surface 24 to create internal walls 44 that provide a back surface that acts as a stop for the adapter plate 18 to be abuttable against. The internal walls 44 and stop allow for reliable positional alignment of the functional component 36 in relation to the corner cast fitting 12.

The perimeter of the adapter plate receiver 20 has a retaining lip 46 created by the void 42. The retaining lip 46 projects from the base of the adapter plate receiver 20 at a 45 to 55 degree angle. The angle extends such that when viewed from the front, the access opening 40 has dovetail geometry. The use of a dovetail shape allows for use with standardized twist-locks.

The corner cast fitting 12 illustrated in Figure 2 has two main portions which are integrally formed with one another: a twist-lock engagement portion 48 which is dimensioned in accordance with ISO 1611 requirements, and which includes the twist-lock aperture 28; and a lateral support region 50 which is laterally offset relative to the twist-lock engagement portion 48, and which carries the adapter plate receiver 20.

As depicted in Figure 2, stadium apertures 52 may be provided through a face of the corner cast fitting 12 perpendicular to the first major face 22. The stadium apertures 52 are oval or substantially oval in shape. The dimensions and positioning of the stadium apertures 52 comply with ISO 1611 requirements. The width of the stadium aperture 52 is preferably less than the width of the twist-lock aperture 28. The length of the stadium aperture 52 is less than the width of the twist-lock aperture 28.

Figure 3a shows a plan view of the second major face 24 of the first embodiment of the corner cast fitting 12. Secondary attachment means 30 may be provided on the second major face 24 Figure 3b shows a plan view of an adapter plate 18 for slidably engaging with the adapter plate receiver 20. The top surface of the adapter plate 18 has a recessed breech socket 54 as a functional component 36 to allow for the attachment of a standardized breech twist-lock having a complementary base. The adapter plate receiver 20 is positioned on the lateral support region 50. The adapter plate 18 is dimensioned so as to provide an interference fit with the adapter plate receiver 20.

Figure 3c shows a view of one of the minor faces 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. A stadium aperture 52 is illustrated in said minor face 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. As shown in Figure 3d, a shield aperture 32 may be provided through an adjacent minor face 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. Figure 3d shows the two adapter place receivers 20, on opposed sides of the lateral support region 50. The adapter plate receiver 20 on the second major surface 24 is empty and the dovetail shape of the inwardly projecting retaining lip 46 is visible. The adapter plate receiver 20 on the first major surface 22 has an adapter plate 18 inserted therein; this is an adapter plate 18 with a breech socket 54 as shown in Figure 3b. In the depicted embodiment, the stadium aperture 52 is located on the same face as the access opening 40 to the adapter plate receivers 20.

Secondary attachment means 30 may also be provided on one of the minor faces 26a, 5 26b, 26c, 26d of the corner cast fitting 12, as depicted in Figure 3e; these are indicated as screw-threaded receivers. As shown in Figure 3f, the twist-lock aperture 28 of the first embodiment of the corner cast fitting 12 is not centrally positioned. The position of the twist-lock aperture 28 is compliant with ISO 1611 requirements. The size and dimensions of the twist-lock aperture 28 are also determined by the ISO 1611 requirements. An 10 adapter plate 18 with a breech socket 54 is shown engaged with the adapter plate receiver 20 in Figure 3f.

As depicted in Figure 4, the individual adapter plates 18 may be provided in different forms. For example, in Figures 4a and 4b there is shown a first adapter plate 18 which includes a functional component 36 such as dovetail twist-lock 56 on an upper surface thereof. The dovetail twist-lock 56 is preferably dimensioned so as to be engagable with a specific class of ISO 1611 corner cast fitting 12 and the corner cast fitting 12 described herein.

The adapter plates 18 may be made from a similar or substantially similar material to the corner cast fitting 12. For example, the adapter plates 18 may be made from high grade steel or fibre-reinforced plastic composites. The adapter plates 18 reversibly slide into an adapter plate receiver 20 on the corner cast fitting 12. The inwardly projecting retaining lip 46 engages with the complementary shaped edges of the adapter plates 18 to hold the adapter plates 18 in place.

A second adapter plate 18' is shown in Figure 4c, in which the in-use outward side 34 of 25 the adapter plate 18' comprises a recessed breech socket 54 for engagement with a breech base twist-lock.

A third adapter plate 18" is shown in Figure 4d, in which the in-use outward side 34 of the adapter plate 18" may be devoid of a functional component 36 for use as a blanking plate. The adapter plates 18" are releasably interengagable with the adapter plate 30 receivers 20 as they are of complementary perimetric dimensions.

Although the adapter plates 18, 18', 18" have different in-use outward sides 34, the dimensions of the in-use inward sides and edges are similar, and complementary to the adapter plate receiver 20 to ensure the adapter plates 18, 18', 18" can be changed with ease and at will.

The front of the adapter plates 18, 18', 18" may have an extended winged portion 58 that aligns with the dovetail geometry of the adapter plate receivers 20. The extended winged portions 58 prevent over insertion of adapter plates 18, 18', 18" into the adapter plate receivers 20 and may therefore prevent wedging of the adapter plates 18, 18', 18" which might make removing the adapter plates 18, 18', 18" difficult.

Figures 5a and 5b depict first and second embodiments of a functional component 60, 62. For both, there is provided a twist-lock 38 comprising an upper engagement portion 64 and a lower base portion 66. The upper engagement portion 64 is selectively rotatable relative to the lower base portion 66. The twist-lock 38 further comprises a lever 68 that extends from the adapter plate 18 to control the rotation of the upper engagement portion 64. The twist-lock 38 is depicted in a first disengaged orientation where the upper engagement portion 64 is in line with the lower base portion 66. In a second engaged orientation, the upper engagement portion 64 is perpendicular to the lower base portion 66.

The upper engagement portion 64 is a complementary shape to the twist-lock aperture 28. The upper engagement portion 64 is a truncated rectangular-base pyramid in shape. The upper engagement portion 64 also has an alcove 70 on either side of the longitudinal extent of the truncated rectangular-base pyramidal shape. The width of the upper engagement portion 64 is less than the width of the twist-lock aperture 28. The length of the longitudinal extent of the upper engagement portion 64 is less than the length of the twist-lock aperture 28 but more than the width of the twist-lock aperture 28. The length of the longitudinal extent of the upper engagement portion 64 being more than the width of the twist-lock aperture 28 ensures that when the upper engagement portion 64 is rotated out of a first orientation into a second orientation that the upper engagement portion 64 engages with the inside surface of the twist-lock aperture 28 to form a secure hold. This configuration provides a locking engagement without needing any supplementary securing means.

In the depicted embodiment, the first embodiment 60 of the functional component 36 comprises a dovetail base 72 such that the adapter plate 18 and twist-lock 38 are integrally formed. The dovetail base 72 is dimensioned to engage directly with the dovetail shaped adapter plate receiver 20 of the corner cast fitting 12. The dovetail base 72 has a top major side 74 and a bottom major side 76. The dovetail base 72 also has four minor sides. The twist-lock 38 is centrally positioned on the outward facing top major 5 side 74 of the dovetail base 72. A lever 68 extends from a front minor side 78 of the dovetail base 72. The front minor side 78 of the dovetail base 72 has a curved portion 80. The turning point of the curved portion 80 does not extend past the edge of the corner cast fitting 12. The curvature allows for a wider range of movement for the lever 68. The lever 68 extends beyond the base of the adapter plate 18, and thus beyond the edge of 10 the corner cast fitting 12 to allow a user to use the lever 68 when the corner cast fitting 12 is in use.

The second embodiment 62 of the functional component 36 comprises a breech base 80. For a breech based 80 functional component 36 to releasably engage with the corner cast fitting 12, a recessed breech socket 54 as shown in Figures 3 and 4 is required. The breech base 80 has a top major side 82 and a bottom major side 84. The breech base 80, akin to the dovetail base 72, has a twist-lock 38 which is centrally positioned on the outward facing top major side 82 of the breech base 80. The bottom major side 84 is of a complementary shape to the breech socket 54 to allow for shape-mating engagement. The lever 68 to control the orientation of the twist-lock 38 extends from a front minor side of the breech base 80.

Figure 6 shows the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10 in use to create a reusable cradle 86. Figure 7 shows the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10 in use on an associated vehicular trailer 88.

The reusable cradles 86 described are modular and may be engaged with one another in a vertical direction. The reusable cradle 86 may be secured to an associated vehicular trailer 88, or another reusable cradle 86 using manual, semi-automatic or automatic standard container twist-locks. These twist-locks may be integral to an associated vehicular trailer 88 or installed on demand.

To use the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10, the user first selects a corner cast fitting 12 with the desired configuration of adapter plate receivers 20 and additional apertures. For example, as in the depicted embodiment, the user may select a corner cast fitting 12 with a lateral support region 50, such as the described first corner cast fitting 12 embodiments, as it allows for the first adapter plate 18 having a twist-lock 38 functional component 36 to be offset from the twist-lock aperture 28 of an associated vehicular trailer 88. The reusable cradle/framework 86 is therefore not necessarily aligned with the back of the associated vehicular trailer 88 and elongate articles of a length shorter than the associated vehicular trailer 88 may be transported.

After selection, the user may choose to either attach the corner cast fitting 12 directly to an associated vehicular trailer 88 as depicted in Figure 7 or build a free-standing reusable cradle 86 as shown in Figure 6. The free-standing reusable cradle 86 may then be secured to an associated vehicular trailer 88 via the corner cast fittings 12 as desired.

If a reusable cradle 86 if required, then the user selects two corner cast fittings 12 and selects one or more of the first or second adapters 14, 16 for each of the corner cast fittings 12. The user then slidably engages the adapter plates 18 of the selected first adapters 14 into one of the adapter plate receivers 20 of each of the two corner cast fittings 12 to form two separate twist-locks 38 on the corner cast fittings 12. The user can then engage a corner cast fitting 12 with an upright element 90. The upright elements 90 comprise of elongate struts with corner cast fittings 92 located at each end. Each corner cast fittings 92 has a twist-lock aperture through at least one face. The twist-lock apertures of the corner cast fittings 92 allow for a twist-lock associated with a separate corner cast fitting such as the described embodiment 12 to connect with the upright element 90. The user then slidably engages the adapter plate 18 of the selected second adapter 16 into a separate adapter plate receivers 20 of each of the two corner cast fittings 12, as illustrated in Figure 7, the in-use outward side 34 of the second adapter 16 may be devoid of a functional component 36 for use as a blanking plate.

To create a framework or reusable cradle 86, the user attaches the two corner cast fittings 12 together by attaching one or more bridging members and/or cross-beams 94 25 between the upright elements 90 to form a barrier.

Alternatively, the bridging member 94 may be connected via secondary attachment means 30 provided on the corner cast fitting 12 faces. To attach an associated crossbeam 94 via the secondary attachment means 30, after the twist-locks 38 have secured the corner cast fitting 12 to the corner cast fitting 12 of an upright element 90, one or more brackets may be attached to the associated cross-beam 94, the corner cast fitting 12 and the corner cast fitting 12 of an upright element 90.

To connect the corner cast fitting 12 to the trailer, the twist-lock aperture 28 on the first major surface 22 of corner cast fitting 12 must be engaged with the twist-lock of an associated vehicular trailer 88 to secure the corner cast fitting 12 to the associated vehicular trailer 88. To engage the twist-lock with the corner cast fitting 12, the twist-lock 5 aperture 28 of the corner cast fitting 12 is aligned and placed over the twist-lock of the associated vehicular trailer 88. Using the lever 68 of the twist-lock, the upper engagement portion 64 of the twist-lock is then rotated to be perpendicular in relation to the lower base portion 66. The upper engagement portion 64 of the twist-lock therefore engages with the back surface of the corner cast fitting 12 through which the twist-lock 10 aperture 28 is located. The corner cast fitting 12 can be attached by itself, or as part of a reusable cradle 86 and/or framework.

If the corner cast fitting 12 has been attached to an associated vehicular trailer 88 and the user wishes to build a reusable cradle 86 and/or framework directly onto the associated vehicular trailer 88, the user then selects one or more of the first or second adapters 14, 16 for each of the corner cast fittings 12 depending on the desired outcome. The user then slidably engages the adapter plate 18 of the selected first or second adapters 14, 16 into the adapter plate receivers 20 of the corner cast fitting 12 to form a functional corner cast fitting 12. The functional corner cast fitting 12 can then be connected to upright elements 90 or crossbeams.

The simple methodology of creating the reusable cradle 86 allows for a user to create a bespoke reusable cradle 86 with ease. As the user can choose the functionality of the functional component 36 on the in-use outward side 34 of the adapter plate 18, the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10 can be applied to various elongate-article transportation vehicles. The user can effectively design a bespoke corner cast fitting 12 for ease of use by selecting different adapters 14, 16, whilst using the same corner cast fitting 12. Any of the corner cast fitting embodiments described herein can be used in the above manner.

Figure 8 shows a left-hand version of the first embodiment of corner cast fitting 12 and a second embodiment of a corner cast fitting, referenced at 112. Identical or similar features of the later embodiments described hereafter will be referenced using identical or similar reference numerals, and further detailed description is omitted for brevity. Mirrored iterations of any of the embodiments of corner cast fittings described throughout the specification are envisaged as feasible. The second embodiment of a corner cast fitting 112 has a sole adapter plate receiver 120 positioned on a first major surface 122 of the corner cast fitting. This is preferable; however, the one adapter plate receiver 120 may be positioned on a second major surface 124, or one of the minor surfaces 126a, 126b, 126c, 126d of the corner cast fitting 112. The major surface 122, 124 without the adapter plate receiver 120 therefore forms a planar surface. In the depicted embodiment, the second major surface 124 is the continuous planar surface.

Figure 9 shows a third embodiment of a cast fitting 212. Although the footprint of the first embodiment of the cast fitting 12 is described as a corner cast fitting 12 with a rectangular or substantially rectangular footprint, the cast fitting may be a corner cast fitting where the footprint may be square, substantially square as depicted in the third embodiment. The shape and dimensions of the third embodiment of cast fitting 212 may comply with the International Standard ISO 1161. This advantageously enables compatibility with existing ISO systems.

As opposed to in the first 12 and second 112 corner cast fitting embodiments, as there 15 is no lateral support region, the adapter plate receiver 220 is positioned on the second major surface 224 directly above the twist-lock aperture 228 to allow for direct vertical stacking.

Figure 10a shows a top-down view of the second major face 224 of the third embodiment of the cast fitting 212. As depicted, secondary attachment means 230 may be provided on the second major face 224 and/or on the surface of the adapter plate receiver 220. Figure 10b shows a top-down view of an adapter plate 218 for slidably engaging with the adapter plate receiver 220. The adapter plate 218 is shaped and dimensioned so as to fit into the adapter plate receiver 20. The adapter plate 218 has a recessed breech socket 254 for attachment to a standardized breech twist-lock with a complementary base.

Figure 10c shows a view of one of the minor faces 226a, 226b, 226c, 226d. The minor face is a continuous planar surface. As shown in Figure 10d, a stadium aperture 252 may be provided through one of the minor faces 226a, 226b, 226c, 226d. In the depicted embodiment, the stadium aperture 252 is located on the same face as the entry to the adapter plate receiver 220. Secondary attachment means 230 may also be provided on one of the minor faces 226a, 226b, 226c, 226d of the centre cast fitting, as depicted in Figure 10e. As shown in Figure 10f, the twist-lock aperture 228 of the third embodiment of the cast fitting 212 is not centralised. The position of the twist-lock aperture 228 complies with ISO 1611 requirements. The size and dimensioned of the twist-lock aperture 228 are also determined by the ISO 1611 requirements.

The methods of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable corner cast fitting system 10 to create a reusable cradle 86 and/or framework independently directly on an associated vehicular trailer 88 applies to the third embodiment of the cast fitting 212. The user may want to build a reusable cradle/framework 86 that requires the centre cast fitting 212 to meet the ISO 1611 dimensional requirements and so a centre cast fitting 212 such as the third embodiment of the cast fitting 212 may be selected.

Figure 11 shows a fourth embodiment of a corner cast fitting 312. In addition to the features previously described for the of the first 12 and second 112 embodiments of the corner cast fitting, the corner cast fitting 312 has a recessed cross-beam receiver slot 396 for receiving an associated cross-beam 94. The cross-beam receiver slot 396 is positioned perpendicular to the adapter plate receiver 320. The cross-beam receiver slot 396 has a dovetail shaped cross-section. The cross-beam receiver slot 396 is dimensioned so as to be a complementary shape to a standardized cross-beam 94 such that an interference fit may be provided.

Figure 12a shows a plan view of the second major face of the fourth embodiment of the corner cast fitting 312. Secondary attachment means may be provided on the major faces. The adapter plate receiver 320 is positioned on the lateral support region. The adapter plate receiver 320 is dimensioned so as to provide an interference fit with an adapter plate. The dovetail shaped cross section of the recessed cross-beam receiver slot 396 for receiving an associated cross-beam 94 is visible.

Figure 12b shows a view of one of the minor faces of the fourth embodiment of the corner cast fitting 312. A front view of the recessed cross-beam receiver slot 396 for receiving an associated cross-beam 94 is shown. The recessed cross-beam receiver slot 396 is not centrally aligned with the adapter plate receiver 320. The recessed cross-beam receiver slot is positioned near the edge of one of the minor faces.

Figure 12c shows a view of one of the minor faces. A stadium aperture is illustrated in said minor face. As shown in Figure 12d, a shield aperture may be provided through one of the minor faces. Figure 12d shows two adapter place receivers 320, on opposed sides of the lateral support region. The dovetail shape of the adapter plate receivers 320 and the shape of the inwardly projecting retaining lip is visible. In the depicted embodiment, the stadium aperture is located on the same face as the access opening to the adapter plate receivers 320.

Secondary attachment means may also be provided on one of the minor faces of the corner cast fitting 312, as depicted in Figure 12e; these are indicated as screw-threaded receivers. As shown in Figure 12f, the twist-lock aperture of the fourth embodiment of the corner cast fitting 312 is not centrally positioned. The position of the twist-lock aperture is compliant with ISO 1611 requirements. The size and dimensions of the twist-lock aperture are also determined by the ISO 1611 requirements.

Figure 13 shows a fifth embodiment of a cast fitting 412. The cast fitting may be a centre cast fitting having a square or substantially square footprint as depicted in the fifth embodiment 412. The shape and dimensions of the fifth embodiment of cast fitting 412 may comply with the International Standard ISO 1161. This advantageously enables compatibility with existing ISO systems.

There is no lateral support region on the fifth embodiment of a cast fitting 412, and the adapter plate receiver 420 is positioned on the second major surface directly above the twist-lock aperture to allow for direct vertical stacking. The centre cast fitting 412 has a recessed cross-beam receiver slot 496 for receiving an associated cross-beam 94. The cross-beam receiver slot 496 is positioned perpendicular to the adapter plate receiver 420 and perpendicular to the twist-lock aperture.

Figure 14a shows a top-down view of the second major face of the fifth embodiment of the cast fitting 412. The adapter plate receiver 420 is positioned directly above the twist-lock aperture. The adapter plate receiver 420 is dimensioned so as to provide an interference fit with an adapter plate. The recessed cross-beam receiver slot 496 for receiving an associated cross-beam 94 is positioned perpendicular to the adapter plate receiver. A top-down view of the dovetail shaped cross section of the recessed crossbeam receiver slot 496 is shown.

Figure 14b a view of one of the minor faces. The minor face is a continuous planar surface. As shown in Figure 14c, a stadium aperture may be provided through one of the minor faces. In the depicted embodiment, the stadium aperture is located on the same face as the entry to the adapter plate receiver 420. In the depicted embodiment, only one adapter plate receiver 420 is shown. It is envisaged that more than one adapter plate receiver 420 is plausible. Figure 14d shows a front view of the recessed cross-beam receiver slot 496 for receiving an associated cross-beam 94. The recessed cross-beam receiver slot 496 is not centrally aligned with the adapter plate receiver 420. The recessed cross-beam receiver slot 496 is offset from the centre. As shown in Figure 14e, the twist-lock aperture of the centre cast fitting 412 is not centralised. The position of the twist-lock aperture complies with ISO 1611 requirements. The size and dimensioned of the twist-lock aperture are also determined by the ISO 1611 requirements.

The methods of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system 10 to create a reusable cradle 86 and/or framework independently or directly onto associated vehicular trailer 88, applies to the fourth and fifth embodiments of the cast fitting 312, 412. During the building of a reusable cradle 86 and/or frameworks, bridging members 94 may be connected through the use of a cross-beam receiver slot 396, 496 on the cast fitting 312, 412. To use the cross-beam receiver slot 396, 496 the user simply aligns the complementary shaped end of the associated cross-beam 94 with the cross-beam receiver slot 396, 496 and slides the associated cross-beam 94 into the cross-beam receiver slot 396, 496 to achieve shape mating engagement.

Figure 15 shows the corner cast fitting of Figure 1 and the centre cast fitting system of Figure 13 in use to create part of a reusable cradle 86. The reusable cradle 86 may be secured to an associated vehicular trailer 88, or another reusable cradle 86 using manual, semi-automatic or automatic standard container twist-locks. These twist-locks may be integral to an associated vehicular trailer 88 or installed on demand.

A reusable cradle 86 can be formed in the same manner as previously described for the first embodiment of the cast fitting 12. To use the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system 10, the user first selects a centre cast fitting 212with the desired 25 configuration of adapter plate receivers 220 and additional apertures.

After selection, the user may choose to either attach the centre cast fitting 212 directly to an associated vehicular trailer 88 or build a free-standing reusable cradle 86 as shown in Figure 15. The free-standing reusable cradle 86 may then be secured to an associated vehicular trailer 88 via the cast fittings as desired.

To build a reusable cradle 86, the user selects two centre cast fittings 212 and selects one or more of the first or second adapters for each of the centre cast fittings 212. The user then slidably engages the adapter plates of the selected first adapters into one of the adapter plate receivers 220 of each of the two centre cast fittings 212 to form two separate twist-locks on the centre cast fittings 212. The user can then engage the centre cast fitting 212 with an upright element 90. The upright elements 90 comprise of elongate struts with cast fittings 92 located at each end to allow for a twist-lock associated with a separate cast fitting such as the described embodiment 212 to connect with the upright element 90. The user then slidably engages the adapter plate of the selected second adapter into a separate adapter plate receivers 220 of each of the two centre cast fittings 212.

To create a framework or reusable cradle 86, the user attaches the two centre cast fittings 212 together by attaching one or more bridging members and/or cross-beams 94 10 between the upright elements 90 to form a barrier.

As illustrated in Figure 15, reusable cradles or frameworks 86 built using the cast fittings 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, may be connected together to build a larger framework 98 for holding elongate articles. The reusable cradles or frameworks 86 may be connected by telescopic and/or extendable braces 101, which act to prevent warping or bending of the framework 98 during lifting. The use of extendable braces 101 allows associated trailers 88 of varying sizes to be accommodated. The extendable braces 101 also allow for different numbers of reusable cradles or frameworks 86 to be connected to form the larger framework 98. One of more support struts may also be positioned between the uprights 90 for additional support.

A reusable lifting frame 103 as shown in Figure 16 may be utilised alongside the reusable cradles or frameworks 86 built using the cast fittings 12, 112, 212, 312, 412. The reusable lifting frame 103 has loading castings 105 at designated points along its longitudinal and lateral extent. The loading castings 105 are positioned so as to align with the upright elements 90 of the reusable cradles or frameworks 86. The reusable lifting frame 103 comprises one of more rectangular scaffold. Each scaffold having a diagonal support strut and at least one additional support strut. The detachable and reattachable lifting frame 103 shown is, of course, only one possible arrangement of frame which could be attached to the cradles 86, and is indicative only.

The reusable lifting frame 103 can be attached to the reusable cradles or frameworks 86 30 through the use of a cast fitting 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 attached to the top of an upright element 90. The cast fitting 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 allows attachment of the upright element 90 to the loading castings 105 of the reusable lifting frame 103. Alternatively, an upright element 90 may be configured to have a cast fitting 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 integrally formed to allow for ease of attachment to a reusable lifting frame 103.

Figure 17 shows a reusable cradle or framework 86 formed using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system 10 in use with a reusable lifting frame 103 and an 5 associated vehicular trailer 88.

Once a reusable cradle or framework 86 has been built from the desired cast fittings 12, 112, 212, 312, 412. Elongate articles can be loaded onto the frame. A reusable lifting frame 103 can be attached to the reusable cradle or framework 86 before or after the loading of elongate articles. As shown in Figure 17, an associated crane 107, for moving the elongate articles from one vehicular trailer 88 to another can attach to the top of the reusable lifting frame 103 through the loading castings 105 provided. The reusable cradle or framework 86, can then be detached from the associated vehicular trailer 88. Once detached from the associated vehicular trailer 88, and associated crane can move with ease the whole reusable cradle or framework 86 laden with elongate articles. This negates the need to remove each elongate-article from an associated vehicular trailer 88 and reload each elongate-article onto another vehicular trailer.

For ease of manufacture, it may be advantageous for the cast fitting to have adapter plate receivers on the majority of the cast fitting faces so they can be easily mass produced. However, this may be disadvantageous as the structural integrity of the cast 20 fitting may be compromised through the inclusion of multiple adapter plate receivers.

The corner cast fittings and centre cast fittings can be configured in different ways with the varying adapter plate receivers to build a desired casting. Therefore, the corner cast fittings and centre cast fittings can be covered by the generic term cast fittings.

Whilst for the first, second and fourth embodiments of the cast fitting, the adapter plate receiver has been described as positioned on the lateral support region, other embodiments of the cast fitting are foreseen. For example, the adapter plate receiver may be positioned on the twist-lock engagement portion directly above the twist-lock aperture to allow for direct vertical stacking. Alternatively, there may be an adapter plate receiver positioned on both the lateral support region and the twist-lock engagement portion.

While the adapter plate receiver has been described as slidingly engageable with adapter plates, and the inwardly projecting retaining lip has been described as engaging the adapter plates, the adapter plates may be held in place by any suitable securing means such as detent engagement could be considered. Additionally, it is envisaged that the adapter plate receiver may further comprise a locking mechanism to ensure the adapter plate does not move in an unwanted fashion once engaged with the adapter plate receiver.

Whilst the adapter plate receiver has been described as having a dovetail shape, it is envisaged that other shaped sockets that allow for shape-mating engagement of the 10 adapter plate and adapter plate receiver are plausible.

Although adapter plates have been described, the cast fitting is not limited to be used with the adapter plates described. As the adapter plate receiver is dimensioned to receive standard dovetail fittings, any adapter plate with a dovetail fitting is envisaged to work with the present invention. For example, the adapter plate may have a universal adapter provided on it to allow for differing functional components to be attached with ease.

Although the length of the longitudinal extent of the upper engagement portion has been described as less than the length of the twist-lock aperture but more than the width of the twist-lock aperture, it is foreseeable for the upper engagement portion to have a length less than the width of the twist-lock aperture; however this is thought to be disadvantageous as when the upper engagement portion rotates, the upper engagement portion would not engage with the inside surface of an associated twist-lock aperture to form a hold.

Although a first and second condition are described it is envisaged that the upper engagement portion of the twist-lock can rotate into multiple conditions. The other conditions may not be as beneficial however due to the force distribution and load placed on the first engagement portion. The first engagement portion may be more likely to disengage from the twist-lock aperture.

Although the second adapter has been described as devoid of a functional component, 30 the second adapter plate may comprise a functional component. Additionally, although the use of a second adapter for use as a blanking plate when functional components are not required has been described, it is envisaged that the adapter plate receivers could be left empty rather than filled with a blanking plate. This is imagined to be less beneficial as the inwardly projecting retaining lip for engaging the adapter plates in place may get damaged. If the inwardly projecting retaining lip is damaged, then the shape-mating interference fit of the adapter plate receiver and adapter plate may be compromised.

Although the access opening of the adapter plate receiver has been described herein as positioned on one edge of the cast fitting, it is envisaged that the adapter plate receiver could extend across the lateral extent of the cast fitting. However, this is imagined to be less beneficial as the adapter plate is more likely to be over or under inserted into the adapter plate receiver which may result in misalignment of the functional component and associated upright elements. Misalignment is likely to affect the structural integrity of any reusable cradles and/or frameworks.

Although the adapter plates have been described as being made from a similar or substantially similar material to the cast fitting, it is appreciated that any appropriately 15 durable material could be used.

The present invention increases the ease with which customised reusable cradles and frameworks can be built, using cast fittings, for use with elongate-item transportation vehicles. The provision of selectably interengagable first and second adapters is advantageous as it allows for the functionality of the cast fittings to be changed on demand and with ease by the user. Having cast fittings of different dimensions with different apertures, be that for adapter plates or cross-beams, increases the overall utility of the cast fittings. The interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system allows for reusable cradles and/or frameworks to be built as standalone structures or as part of a vehicular trailer. The present invention allows elongate articles to be transported in a more efficient and safe manner.

The words 'comprises/comprising' and the words 'having/including' when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from 5 the scope of the invention as defined herein.

Claims

Claims 1. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system for use with elongate-article transportation vehicles, the system comprising: a cast fitting comprising an adapter plate receiver and a twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock for connection to a vehicular trailer; a first adapter having an adapter plate and a functional component on an in-use outward side of the adapter plate, the functional component comprising a twist-lock receivably engagable with a twist-lock aperture; and a second adapter having an adapter plate, an in-use outward side of the adapter plate being different to that of the first adapter; the first and second adapters being selectably interengagable with the adapter plate receiver of the cast fitting using the respective adapter plates to modify a connection characteristic of the cast fitting.
2. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cast fitting comprises a plurality of adapter plate receivers.
3 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the system comprises three or more adapter plates having different in-use outward sides.
4 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cast fitting further comprises one or more stadium apertures and/or one or more shield apertures.
An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the twist-lock aperture is located through a face of the cast fitting which is perpendicular to one or more faces through which the one or more stadium apertures and/or the one or more shield apertures are located.
6 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cast fitting further comprises a cross-beam receiver for receiving an associated cross-beam.
7 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the twist-lock aperture is located on a face of the cast fitting perpendicular to a face through which the cross-beam receiver is located.
8 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein a longitudinal extent of the cast fitting is 178 mm and a lateral extent of the cast fitting is 162 mm, thereby meeting the ISO 1161 requirements for ISO shipping containers.
9 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in claims 1 to 7, wherein a longitudinal extent of the cast fitting is greater than 178 mm, thereby the cast fitting is an extended cast fitting with the extended portion forming a lateral support region.
10. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers is mounted on the lateral support region off set from the twist-lock aperture to allow for stacking off-set the twist-lock aperture.
11. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers is positioned parallel to the twist-lock aperture to allow for stacking directly above the twist-lock aperture.
12. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers is positioned on the same face of the cast fitting as the twist-lock aperture.
13. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers is positioned on a different face of the cast fitting to the twist-lock aperture.
14. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate and the functional component are integrally formed.
15. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate and the functional component are releasably engageable.
16. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the in-use outward side of the second adapter plate is devoid of a functional component for use as a blanking plate.
17. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter plate receiver is recessed relative to a surface face of the cast fitting.
18 An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in 17, wherein the adapter plate interengages with the adapter plate receiver such that an upper surface of the or each adapter plate is flush or substantially flush relative to a perimeter edge of the adapter plate receiver or one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers.
19. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein one adapter plate receiver of the plurality of adapter plate receivers is a dovetail socket.
20. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more upright elements, each of the one or more upright elements comprising at least one twist-lock aperture dimensioned to receive a twist-lock therethrough.
21. An interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of said cast fittings.
22. A vehicular trailer having an interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system, as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, for the transportation of elongate-articles.
23 A method of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, the method comprising steps of: a. attaching the cast fitting to a vehicular trailer; b. selecting one of the first or second adapters; and c. slidably engaging the adapter plate of the selected first or second adapter into one of the adapter plate receivers.
24. A method of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in claim 23, wherein after step c] there is the additional step d] of: engaging a twist-lock aperture of an upright element with the twist-lock of the selected first or second adapter to secure the cast fitting to the upright element.
25 A method of using the interchangeable trailer-mountable cast fitting system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, to create a reusable cradle, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing two cast fittings suitable for connection to a vehicular trailer; b. selecting one or more of the first or second adapters for each of the two cast fittings; c. slidably engaging the adapter plate of the selected first or second adapters into one of the adapter plate receivers of each of the two cast fittings to form two separate twist-locks; d. engaging one upright element with each of said twist-locks to secure the cast fitting to the upright element; and e. attaching one or more bridging members between the upright elements to form a barrier.