US20020011489A1 - Adjustable length modular storage device - Google Patents
Adjustable length modular storage device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020011489A1 US20020011489A1 US09/953,815 US95381501A US2002011489A1 US 20020011489 A1 US20020011489 A1 US 20020011489A1 US 95381501 A US95381501 A US 95381501A US 2002011489 A1 US2002011489 A1 US 2002011489A1
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- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920000636 poly(norbornene) polymer Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 241000273930 Brevoortia tyrannus Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D88/00—Large containers
- B65D88/02—Large containers rigid
- B65D88/12—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport
- B65D88/122—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport with access from above
- B65D88/123—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport with access from above open top
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/08—Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/083—Containers of variable capacity by means of additional elements, e.g. modular
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D88/00—Large containers
- B65D88/005—Large containers of variable capacity, e.g. with movable or adjustable walls or wall parts, modular
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D88/00—Large containers
- B65D88/02—Large containers rigid
- B65D88/12—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport
- B65D88/122—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport with access from above
- B65D88/124—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport with access from above closable top
- B65D88/126—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport with access from above closable top by rigid element, e.g. lid
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D88/00—Large containers
- B65D88/52—Large containers collapsible, i.e. with walls hinged together or detachably connected
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D90/00—Component parts, details or accessories for large containers
- B65D90/02—Wall construction
- B65D90/023—Modular panels
Definitions
- This invention relates to an adjustable length, modular storage device. More particularly the invention relates to a storage device formed as a modular assembly that includes molded end and center members.
- Storage devices are well known in the art. Most if not all are designed to meet unique requirements. For example, storage or containing devices have been configured to hold ammunition (U.S. Pat. No. 4,733,773-LaBianca et al.), mail (U.S. Pat. No. 4,593,816- Langenbeck) and other random articles.
- the known containing devices do not teach, for example, an effective modular structure to transport heavy tubing or an efficient modular structure for use as a septic tank but, instead, teach of containing devices that allow objects to be transported in a secure manner, or objects to be transported in an organized manner. As a result, the known devices do not teach of a storage or containing device that is modular and includes a rib assembly, which device is adjustable in length and incorporates sections or portions formed from a molded polymer.
- an adjustable length, modular containing device is configured for use as a reusable shipping container and alternatively as an underground storage device or tank.
- a device includes a rib assembly to support extreme loads from, for example, heavy objects such as tubing.
- a most desirable device has an adjustable length to allow storage of discrete, precisely sized objects such as tubing of varying lengths for transport.
- such a device is modular and is formed for durability, light weight and structural strength.
- the adjustable length containing device When used as a reusable shipping container, the adjustable length containing device comprises end and center members that are modular and formed from a molded polymer such as Telene.
- the end and center members further include a rib assembly formed thereon.
- the rib assembly comprises a lateral and a supporting rib pattern.
- the lateral rib pattern has externally and internally protruding ribs formed on the lateral surfaces of the end and center members.
- the supporting rib pattern is formed on a base of the end and center members and further includes enclosed and open portions; the open portions have three sections formed by two dividers.
- the end and center members have strategically placed elevated stabilizers located on their respective substructures to add additional support to the shipping container.
- connection means may include protruding flanges and a bottom panel. Both the protruding flanges and bottom panels may also have a plurality of threaded bolt receiving elements formed therein. Bolts and nuts can be used to attach and secure the end and center members to each other.
- the adjustable length containing device may be used as a septic tank.
- the septic tank comprises molded bottom and top end members and further includes bottom and top center members.
- the top end and center members incorporate predetermined located openings for inlet, egress, and cleaning purposes.
- the septic tank incorporates connection flanges to connect adjacent members to one another. Threaded openings are formed within the connection flanges to allow bolts to be threaded within the members to attach the adjacent members to one another.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable length modular storage device embodying the principles of the present invention, the device is illustrated with a pair of end members attached to one another and a cover attached thereto;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 with the cover removed;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an end member of the storage device
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a center or intermediate member of the storage device
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a center cover member
- FIG. 6A is an front view of an internal attachment panel of a cover member
- FIG. 7 is an alternate embodiment of the adjustable container device illustrating use as a septic tank
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a bottom end member of the septic tank
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a top center member of the septic tank.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bottom center member of the septic tank.
- the adjustable length containing device 10 contains two end members 12 secured to one another.
- Each end member 12 has two upstanding elongated side walls 16 that are formed integral with a base 18 , and two ends walls 20 , 22 .
- One of the end walls is an external end wall 20
- the other end wall is an internal attachment wall 22 .
- the internal attachment wall 22 is configured to be joined or connected to a like internal attachment wall 22 of an adjacent end member 12 .
- the external end wall 20 is, of course, the outer portion of the storage device constituting the end of the device.
- the storage device can also include one or more center or intermediate sections 14 between and adjoining one another. As will be explained in more detail below, when used as a “standard” tube transport container, these sections permit secure transport of “standard” tubing lengths.
- the side 16 and external end walls 20 are formed at an outturned angle ⁇ relative to the base 18 .
- the angle ⁇ should be greater than 90 degrees and is preferably about 95 degrees.
- the angled configuration provides a number of advantages. First, it permits nested stacking of the containers 10 in that the containers will “fit” into a next below container. In addition, this angled configuration facilitates easy placement of tubes into and removal from the containers 10 . That is, because the tubes will naturally pack down due to gravity, the angled, outwardly sloping surface will provide more lateral space when placing and removing the tubing.
- the internal attachment walls 22 are formed perpendicular to the base 18 so that an internal attachment wall of another end or intermediate section can be joined thereto with the internal walls 22 being flush with one another.
- Both the end 12 and center members 14 are modular and can be formed from an injection molded polymer.
- the members are formed from a reaction molded polymer where the polymer is Telene®, which is commercially available from The Telene Products Division of B.F. Goodrich, 9911 Brecksville Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44141.
- the end members 12 and center member 14 have an rib assembly 24 formed therein that incorporates elevated stabilizers 26 .
- the rib assembly 24 and elevated stabilizers 26 can help the reusable shipping container 10 bear extreme loads that may be exerted on the container 10 by the heavy tubing.
- the rib assembly 24 includes a lateral rib pattern 28 and a supporting rib pattern 30 .
- the lateral rib pattern 28 is formed on the lateral surfaces 16 of the end 12 and center members 14 and includes both externally 32 and internally protruding ribs 34 .
- the supporting rib pattern 30 can be formed on the base 18 of the end 12 and center members 14 and can include alternating enclosed 36 and open portions 38 that are separated by horizontal dividers 40 .
- the open portions 38 define three separate sections 42 formed by two vertical dividers 44 placed within each open portion 38 .
- the enclosed portions 36 include upper walls 46 that extend between the horizontal dividers 40 .
- the end 12 and center members 14 also include elevated stabilizer elements 26 located below the base 18 of the members 12 , 14 .
- the stabilizer elements 26 provide additional stability to the reusable shipping container 10 and are located to ensure that the shipping container 10 can withstand the extreme loads that the heavy tubing may exert upon it.
- connection members are used to connect the end members 12 to each other or alternatively, to attach the end members 12 to at least one center member 14 .
- the connection members are located on the internal attachment walls 22 of the end 12 and center members 14 .
- the connection members include at least two laterally protruding connection flanges 48 and a bottom connecting panel 50 .
- the connection flanges 48 are formed at upper sections 52 of the internal walls 22 and the bottom panels 50 are formed at the base 18 of the internal walls 22 .
- a plurality of bolt receiving elements or openings 54 are formed within the flanges 48 and panels 50 so that the bolt receiving elements 54 align with one another when adjacent container members are connected. Fasteners, such as bolts 56 can then be inserted through the bolt receiving elements 54 and, for example, nuts 58 can be used to secure the bolts 56 and container members 12 , 14 in place.
- the adjustable length modular storage container includes a cover 59 formed from a plurality of modular, injection molded polymer cover members 60 , 62 .
- the cover 59 includes a plurality of modular, reaction molded polymer cover members 60 , 62 , has two cover end members 60 and can have a number of cover center members 62 .
- the cover end members 60 are formed from a top 64 integral with two depending side flaps 66 .
- the cover end members 60 also have an integrally formed exterior end slip 68 at a first end and an integrally formed attachment panel 70 at a second end.
- a cover center member 62 is shown in FIG. 6.
- the cover center members 62 have a top 64 integral with two depending side flaps 66 and also have two integrally formed attachment panels 70 at first and second ends.
- the tops 64 of the cover center and end members 60 , 62 respectively are ribbed with externally 32 and internally 34 protruding ribs.
- connection members for the purpose of connecting the cover members 60 , 62 to one another, the cover members 60 , 62 have connection members at the attachment panels.
- the connection members include at least two laterally protruding connection flanges 48 and an upper attachment segment 72 .
- the connection flanges are formed at lower portions of the attachment panels 70 and the upper attachment segments 72 are formed at the top 64 of the attachment panels 70 .
- a plurality of bolt receiving elements or openings 54 are formed within the flanges 48 and upper attachment segments 72 so that the bolt receiving elements 54 align with one another when adjacent cover members 60 , 62 are connected.
- Fasteners such as bolts 56 can then be inserted through the bolt receiving elements 54 and, for example, nuts 58 can be used to secure the bolts 56 and cover members 60 , 62 in place.
- nuts 58 can be used to secure the bolts 56 and cover members 60 , 62 in place.
- a steel or plastic strapping mechanism can be used to secure the cover 59 to the adjustable length container 10 .
- the modular adjustable length containing device can also be used as a septic tank 100 .
- the septic tank 100 includes top and bottom end members 102 , 104 , respectively and can also include top and bottom center members 106 , 108 , respectively.
- the members 102 , 104 , 106 , 108 are modular and are formed from an injection molded polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the members are formed from a reaction molded polymer where the polymer is the aforementioned Telene®.
- the members 102 , 104 , 106 , 108 unique modular and injection molded construction (or reaction molded construction in the case of the preferred embodiment), the members have light weight but high-strength walls which facilitate easy installation of the septic tank.
- the unique construction of the septic tank provides excellent corrosion resistance to water and acids and advantageously prevents seepage.
- known below ground septic systems include tanks that are formed from massive, single piece concrete “bunkers” or shells. Typically, these one piece tanks require a considerable amount of labor and machinery (e.g., crews) to put in place. Moreover, because of the inflexible nature of concrete, these tanks can be easily cracked or damaged if mishandled. As such, the tanks require a relatively high standard of care in handling and installing.
- the present invention provides untold advantages over the known concrete bunker tanks.
- the light weight, modular construction permits perhaps as few as two installers to, for example, move and install the tank without concerns of breakage or damage.
- the modular tank can be configured in a variety of sizes (e.g., volumes) with any number of arrangements of inlet and outlet connections and types (e.g. flanged, flare-fitted and the like).
- the top end members 102 , 104 each have two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with an end surface 112 and a top surface 114 .
- the end surfaces 112 of the top end members 102 have openings 116 formed therein to allow for ingress and egress of various liquids and solid refuse.
- a semi-circular opening 118 is formed on the top surface 114 of the top end members 102 .
- the semi-circular openings 118 are centrally located on an open side 120 of the top surfaces 114 of the top end members 102 so that the semi-circular openings 118 form complete circular openings when adjacent top members 102 , 106 are connected to one another.
- Bottom end members 104 include two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with an end surface 112 and a bottom surface 122 .
- Each top and bottom end member in the illustrated embodiment has six open sides 120 .
- the top center members 106 have two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with a top surface 114 .
- the top surfaces 114 of the top center members 106 likewise have semi-circular openings 118 formed at their open sides 120 so that the semi-circular openings 118 align with semi-circular openings 118 of adjacent top members 102 , 106 to form complete circular openings when the top center members 106 are connected to adjacent members 102 , 106 .
- Bottom center members 108 conversely, comprise two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with a bottom surface 122 , as shown in FIG. 10.
- Each top 106 and bottom 108 center member 106 , 108 in the illustrated embodiment has eight open sides 120 .
- Each member 102 , 104 , 106 , 108 further includes a plurality of connection flanges 124 on their respective open sides 120 , as depicted in FIGS. 7 - 10 .
- the connection flanges 124 are located so that they align with one another when adjacent members 102 , 104 , 106 , 108 are connected.
- the connection flanges 124 can be formed having internally threaded openings 126 , for example, to receive bolts 128 and to connect and secure adjacent members 102 , 104 , 106 , 108 to each other.
- an adhesive can be used to secure the members to each other to further ensure no seepage occurs.
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Abstract
An adjustable length containing device comprises modular, molded polymer members. The containing device members are ribbed and attached to each other by connection flanges and bottom panels. The containing device is used to store and ship heavy, large objects and is used as an underground storage tank.
Description
- This invention relates to an adjustable length, modular storage device. More particularly the invention relates to a storage device formed as a modular assembly that includes molded end and center members.
- Storage devices are well known in the art. Most if not all are designed to meet unique requirements. For example, storage or containing devices have been configured to hold ammunition (U.S. Pat. No. 4,733,773-LaBianca et al.), mail (U.S. Pat. No. 4,593,816- Langenbeck) and other random articles. The known containing devices, however, do not teach, for example, an effective modular structure to transport heavy tubing or an efficient modular structure for use as a septic tank but, instead, teach of containing devices that allow objects to be transported in a secure manner, or objects to be transported in an organized manner. As a result, the known devices do not teach of a storage or containing device that is modular and includes a rib assembly, which device is adjustable in length and incorporates sections or portions formed from a molded polymer.
- Accordingly, there exists a need for an adjustable length, modular containing device. Desirably, such a configuration is configured for use as a reusable shipping container and alternatively as an underground storage device or tank. Most desirably, such a device includes a rib assembly to support extreme loads from, for example, heavy objects such as tubing. In addition, a most desirable device has an adjustable length to allow storage of discrete, precisely sized objects such as tubing of varying lengths for transport. Again, most desirably, such a device is modular and is formed for durability, light weight and structural strength.
- When used as a reusable shipping container, the adjustable length containing device comprises end and center members that are modular and formed from a molded polymer such as Telene. The end and center members further include a rib assembly formed thereon. The rib assembly comprises a lateral and a supporting rib pattern. The lateral rib pattern has externally and internally protruding ribs formed on the lateral surfaces of the end and center members. The supporting rib pattern, on the other hand, is formed on a base of the end and center members and further includes enclosed and open portions; the open portions have three sections formed by two dividers. In addition, the end and center members have strategically placed elevated stabilizers located on their respective substructures to add additional support to the shipping container.
- The end and center members may also be attached to each other by connection means. The connection means may include protruding flanges and a bottom panel. Both the protruding flanges and bottom panels may also have a plurality of threaded bolt receiving elements formed therein. Bolts and nuts can be used to attach and secure the end and center members to each other.
- In an alternate embodiment, the adjustable length containing device may be used as a septic tank. The septic tank comprises molded bottom and top end members and further includes bottom and top center members. The top end and center members incorporate predetermined located openings for inlet, egress, and cleaning purposes. In addition, the septic tank incorporates connection flanges to connect adjacent members to one another. Threaded openings are formed within the connection flanges to allow bolts to be threaded within the members to attach the adjacent members to one another.
- Further objects of the invention, taken together with additional features contributing thereto and advantages occurring therefrom, will be apparent from the following description of the invention when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable length modular storage device embodying the principles of the present invention, the device is illustrated with a pair of end members attached to one another and a cover attached thereto;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 with the cover removed;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an end member of the storage device;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a center or intermediate member of the storage device;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cover of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a center cover member;
- FIG. 6A is an front view of an internal attachment panel of a cover member;
- FIG. 7 is an alternate embodiment of the adjustable container device illustrating use as a septic tank;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a bottom end member of the septic tank;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a top center member of the septic tank; and
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bottom center member of the septic tank.
- While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described presently preferred embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment illustrated.
- Referring now to FIGS.1-4, there is shown a first embodiment of the adjustable length modular storage device configured as a
reusable shipping container 10 used to transport heavy tubing. In this embodiment, the adjustablelength containing device 10 contains twoend members 12 secured to one another. Eachend member 12 has two upstandingelongated side walls 16 that are formed integral with abase 18, and twoends walls external end wall 20, while the other end wall is aninternal attachment wall 22. Theinternal attachment wall 22 is configured to be joined or connected to a likeinternal attachment wall 22 of anadjacent end member 12. Theexternal end wall 20 is, of course, the outer portion of the storage device constituting the end of the device. - The storage device can also include one or more center or
intermediate sections 14 between and adjoining one another. As will be explained in more detail below, when used as a “standard” tube transport container, these sections permit secure transport of “standard” tubing lengths. - In a most preferred embodiment, the
side 16 andexternal end walls 20 are formed at an outturned angle α relative to thebase 18. The angle α should be greater than 90 degrees and is preferably about 95 degrees. The angled configuration provides a number of advantages. First, it permits nested stacking of thecontainers 10 in that the containers will “fit” into a next below container. In addition, this angled configuration facilitates easy placement of tubes into and removal from thecontainers 10. That is, because the tubes will naturally pack down due to gravity, the angled, outwardly sloping surface will provide more lateral space when placing and removing the tubing. - As will also be recognized by those skilled in the art, the
internal attachment walls 22 are formed perpendicular to thebase 18 so that an internal attachment wall of another end or intermediate section can be joined thereto with theinternal walls 22 being flush with one another. - Both the
end 12 andcenter members 14 are modular and can be formed from an injection molded polymer. In a most preferred embodiment, the members are formed from a reaction molded polymer where the polymer is Telene®, which is commercially available from The Telene Products Division of B.F. Goodrich, 9911 Brecksville Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44141. - In a preferred embodiment, as show in FIGS.2-4, the
end members 12 andcenter member 14 have anrib assembly 24 formed therein that incorporateselevated stabilizers 26. Therib assembly 24 andelevated stabilizers 26 can help thereusable shipping container 10 bear extreme loads that may be exerted on thecontainer 10 by the heavy tubing. Therib assembly 24 includes alateral rib pattern 28 and a supportingrib pattern 30. In a preferred embodiment, thelateral rib pattern 28 is formed on the lateral surfaces 16 of theend 12 andcenter members 14 and includes both externally 32 and internally protrudingribs 34. The supportingrib pattern 30 can be formed on thebase 18 of theend 12 andcenter members 14 and can include alternating enclosed 36 andopen portions 38 that are separated byhorizontal dividers 40. Desirably, theopen portions 38 define threeseparate sections 42 formed by twovertical dividers 44 placed within eachopen portion 38. Theenclosed portions 36 includeupper walls 46 that extend between thehorizontal dividers 40. - As illustrated in FIGS.1-2, in a preferred embodiment, the
end 12 andcenter members 14 also includeelevated stabilizer elements 26 located below thebase 18 of themembers stabilizer elements 26 provide additional stability to thereusable shipping container 10 and are located to ensure that theshipping container 10 can withstand the extreme loads that the heavy tubing may exert upon it. - As depicted in FIGS.3-4, connection members are used to connect the
end members 12 to each other or alternatively, to attach theend members 12 to at least onecenter member 14. The connection members are located on theinternal attachment walls 22 of theend 12 andcenter members 14. In a preferred embodiment, the connection members include at least two laterally protrudingconnection flanges 48 and abottom connecting panel 50. Preferably, for increasing rigidity and strength, theconnection flanges 48 are formed atupper sections 52 of theinternal walls 22 and thebottom panels 50 are formed at thebase 18 of theinternal walls 22. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of bolt receiving elements oropenings 54 are formed within theflanges 48 andpanels 50 so that thebolt receiving elements 54 align with one another when adjacent container members are connected. Fasteners, such asbolts 56 can then be inserted through thebolt receiving elements 54 and, for example, nuts 58 can be used to secure thebolts 56 andcontainer members - As depicted in FIG. 5, the adjustable length modular storage container includes a
cover 59 formed from a plurality of modular, injection moldedpolymer cover members cover 59 includes a plurality of modular, reaction moldedpolymer cover members cover end members 60 and can have a number ofcover center members 62. Thecover end members 60 are formed from a top 64 integral with two depending side flaps 66. Thecover end members 60 also have an integrally formedexterior end slip 68 at a first end and an integrally formedattachment panel 70 at a second end. Acover center member 62 is shown in FIG. 6. Thecover center members 62 have a top 64 integral with two depending side flaps 66 and also have two integrally formedattachment panels 70 at first and second ends. In a preferred embodiment, the tops 64 of the cover center andend members - As depicted in FIG. 6A, for the purpose of connecting the
cover members cover members connection flanges 48 and anupper attachment segment 72. Desirably, for increasing rigidity and strength, the connection flanges are formed at lower portions of theattachment panels 70 and theupper attachment segments 72 are formed at the top 64 of theattachment panels 70. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of bolt receiving elements oropenings 54 are formed within theflanges 48 andupper attachment segments 72 so that thebolt receiving elements 54 align with one another whenadjacent cover members bolts 56 can then be inserted through thebolt receiving elements 54 and, for example, nuts 58 can be used to secure thebolts 56 andcover members cover 59 to theadjustable length container 10. - As shown in FIGS.7-8, the modular adjustable length containing device can also be used as a
septic tank 100. Theseptic tank 100 includes top andbottom end members members members - As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, known below ground septic systems include tanks that are formed from massive, single piece concrete “bunkers” or shells. Typically, these one piece tanks require a considerable amount of labor and machinery (e.g., crews) to put in place. Moreover, because of the inflexible nature of concrete, these tanks can be easily cracked or damaged if mishandled. As such, the tanks require a relatively high standard of care in handling and installing.
- The present invention, on the other hand, provides untold advantages over the known concrete bunker tanks. The light weight, modular construction permits perhaps as few as two installers to, for example, move and install the tank without concerns of breakage or damage. In addition, as will be readily recognized, the modular tank can be configured in a variety of sizes (e.g., volumes) with any number of arrangements of inlet and outlet connections and types (e.g. flanged, flare-fitted and the like).
- As shown in FIGS.7-8, the
top end members end surface 112 and atop surface 114. The end surfaces 112 of thetop end members 102 haveopenings 116 formed therein to allow for ingress and egress of various liquids and solid refuse. In addition, asemi-circular opening 118 is formed on thetop surface 114 of thetop end members 102. Thesemi-circular openings 118 are centrally located on anopen side 120 of thetop surfaces 114 of thetop end members 102 so that thesemi-circular openings 118 form complete circular openings when adjacenttop members 102, 106 are connected to one another. The circular opening can also be used as an inspection/clean out opening on the top side of the septic tank.Bottom end members 104, on the other hand, include two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with anend surface 112 and abottom surface 122. Each top and bottom end member in the illustrated embodiment has sixopen sides 120. - As shown in FIG. 9, the top center members106 have two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with a
top surface 114. The top surfaces 114 of the top center members 106 likewise havesemi-circular openings 118 formed at theiropen sides 120 so that thesemi-circular openings 118 align withsemi-circular openings 118 of adjacenttop members 102, 106 to form complete circular openings when the top center members 106 are connected toadjacent members 102, 106. Bottom center members 108, conversely, comprise two parallel lateral surfaces 110 perpendicular and integral with abottom surface 122, as shown in FIG. 10. Each top 106 and bottom 108 center member 106, 108 in the illustrated embodiment has eightopen sides 120. - Each
member connection flanges 124 on their respectiveopen sides 120, as depicted in FIGS. 7-10. The connection flanges 124 are located so that they align with one another whenadjacent members openings 126, for example, to receivebolts 128 and to connect and secureadjacent members - From the foregoing it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effectuated without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the present invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments illustrated is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.
Claims (19)
1. An adjustable length modular storage container comprising:
a storage section formed from a plurality of container members including at least two end members, the end members being modular and formed from a molded polymer, each end member including two elongated side walls upstanding from and integral with a base, the end members including an integrally formed external end wall at a first end and an integrally formed internal attachment wall at a second end, wherein the container members further include connection members at the attachment panels for attaching the container members to one another; and
a cover formed from a plurality of cover members including at least two cover end members, the cover end members being modular and formed from a molded polymer, each cover end member including a top integral with two depending side flaps, the cover members including an integrally formed exterior end slip at a first end and an integrally formed attachment panel formed at a second end, wherein the cover end members further include connection members at the attachment panels for attaching the cover members to one another.
2. The adjustable container as defined in claim 1 , wherein the container members have a rib assembly formed therein.
3. The adjustable container as defined in claim 2 , wherein the rib assembly includes
a lateral rib pattern formed on the side walls, the lateral rib pattern including internally protruding ribs and further including externally protruding ribs; and
a supporting rib pattern formed on the base, the supporting rib pattern including alternating open and enclosed portions separated by horizontal dividers, wherein the open portions include at least two vertical dividers forming at least three open sections and the enclosed portions include upper walls extending between the horizontal dividers.
4. The adjustable container as defined in claim 1 , wherein the storage section is formed from two container end members connected to one another.
5. The adjustable container as defined in claim 1 , wherein the connection members include:
connection flanges formed at upper sections of the attachment walls of the container members and at lower portions of the attachment panels of the cover members, each connection flange defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so the connection flanges and the receiving elements of adjacent container and cover members align with one another;
a bottom connecting panel formed at the base of the internal attachment walls of the container members, the connecting panels defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the connecting panels and receiving elements of adjacent container members align with one another;
an upper attachment segment formed at the top of the internal attachment panel of the cover members, the upper segment defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the upper segments and receiving elements of adjacent cover members align with one with another; and
a plurality of fasteners for fastening the container and cover members to one another.
6. The adjustable container as defined in claim 3 , wherein the connection members include:
connection flanges formed at upper sections of the attachment walls of the container members and at lower portions of the attachment panels of the cover members, each connection flange defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so the connection flanges and the receiving elements of adjacent container and cover members align with one another;
a bottom connecting panel formed at the base of the internal attachment walls of the container members, the connecting panels defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the connecting panels and receiving elements of adjacent container members align with one another; and
an upper attachment segment formed at the top of the internal attachment panel of the cover members, the upper segment defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the upper segments and receiving elements of adjacent cover members align with one another.
7. The adjustable container as defined in claim 1 , wherein the container further includes a plurality of elevated stabilizers integral with and underneath the base of the members.
8. The adjustable container as defined in claim 6 , wherein the container further includes a plurality of elevated stabilizers attached underneath the base of the members and wherein the tops of the cover members include externally and internally protruding ribs.
9. An adjustable length modular storage container comprising:
a storage section formed from a plurality of container members including at least two end members, the end members being modular and formed from a molded polymer, each end member including two elongated side walls upstanding from and integral with a base, the end members including an integrally formed external end wall at a first end and an integrally formed internal attachment wall at a second end, wherein the end members further include connection members at the attachment walls;
the storage section further including at least one center container member, the center member being modular and formed from a molded polymer, each center member including two elongated side walls upstanding from and integral with a base, the center members including integrally formed internal attachment walls at first and second ends of the center members and connection members at the attachment walls, wherein the connection members of the container members facilitate attaching the container members to one another; and
a cover formed from a plurality of cover members including at least two cover end members and at least one cover center member, the cover members being modular and formed from a molded polymer, each cover end member including a top integral with two depending side flaps, the cover end members having an integrally formed exterior end slip at a first end and an integrally formed internal attachment panel at a second end, each cover center member including a top integral with two depending side flaps, the cover center members having integrally formed attachment panels formed at first and second ends of the cover center members, wherein the cover end and center members further include connection members at the attachment panels for connecting adjacent cover members to one another.
10. The adjustable container as defined in claim 9 , wherein the members have a rib assembly formed therein.
11. The adjustable container as defined in claim 10 , wherein the rib assembly includes:
lateral rib pattern formed on the side walls, the lateral rib pattern including internally protruding ribs and further including externally protruding ribs; and
a supporting rib pattern formed on the base, the supporting rib pattern including alternating open and enclosed portions separated by horizontal dividers, wherein the open portions include at least two vertical dividers forming at least three open sections and the enclosed portions include upper walls extending between the horizontal dividers.
12. The adjustable container as defined in claim 9 , wherein the storage section is formed from two container end members and one container center member connected to one another.
13. The adjustable container as defined in claim 9 , wherein the connection members comprise:
connection flanges formed at upper sections of the attachment walls of the container members and at lower portions of the attachment panels of the cover members, each connection flange defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so the connection flanges and the receiving elements of adjacent container and cover members align with one another;
a bottom connecting panel formed at the base of the internal attachment walls of the container members, the connecting panels defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the connecting panels and receiving elements of adjacent container members align with one another; and
an upper attachment segment formed at the top of the internal attachment panel of the cover members, the upper segment defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the upper segments and receiving elements of adjacent cover members align with one another.
14. The adjustable container as defined in claim 11 , wherein the connection members include:
connection flanges formed at upper sections of the attachment walls of the container members and at lower portions of the attachment panels of the cover members, each connection flange defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so the connection flanges and the receiving elements of adjacent container and cover members align with one another;
a bottom connecting panel formed at the base of the internal attachment walls of the container members, the connecting panels defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the connecting panels and receiving elements of adjacent container members align with one another;
an upper attachment segment formed at the top of the internal attachment panel of the cover members, the upper segment defining at least one receiving element therein and positioned so that the upper segments and receiving elements of adjacent cover members align with one another.
15. The adjustable container as defined in claim 9 , wherein the container further includes a plurality of elevated stabilizers integral with and underneath the base of the members.
16. The adjustable container as defined in claim 14 , wherein the container further includes a plurality of elevated stabilizers integral with and underneath the base of the members and wherein the tops of the cover members include externally and internally protruding ribs.
17. A molded, polymeric septic tank comprising:
two top end members, each top end member including two parallel lateral surfaces perpendicular and integral with an end surface and a top surface, the end surface defining a circular opening therein and the top surface defining a semi-circular opening formed at an open side of the top surface so that the semi-circular openings on the top surfaces of adjacent top members align with one another to form a circular opening when adjacent top end members are attached to one another, wherein each top end member further includes six open sides, each open side including integrally formed connection members; and
two bottom end members, each bottom end member including two parallel lateral surfaces perpendicular and integral with an end surface and a bottom surface, wherein each bottom end member further includes six open sides, each open side including integrally formed connection members so that each top and bottom member is attached to an adjacent member at its open sides by the connection members.
18. The septic tank as defined by claim 17 , wherein the septic tank further includes at least one top center member, each top center member including two parallel lateral surfaces perpendicular and integral with a top surface, the top surface defining a semi-circular opening at each open side so that the semi-circular openings on the top surfaces of adjacent top members align with one another to form a circular opening when adjacent top members are attached to one another, wherein the top center member further includes eight open sides, each open side including integrally formed connection members; and
at least one bottom center member, each bottom center member including two parallel lateral surfaces perpendicular and integral with a bottom surface, wherein the bottom center member further includes eight open sides, each open side including integrally formed connection members so that each member is attached to an adjacent member at its open sides by the connection members.
19. The septic tank as defined by claim 18 , wherein the connection members include connection flanges, each connection flange forming at least one threaded hole therein and positioned so that connection flanges of adjacent members align with one another.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/953,815 US6386381B2 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2001-09-17 | Adjustable length modular storage device |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/557,141 US6311858B1 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2000-04-25 | Adjustable length, modular storage device |
US09/953,815 US6386381B2 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2001-09-17 | Adjustable length modular storage device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US09/557,141 Continuation US6311858B1 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2000-04-25 | Adjustable length, modular storage device |
Publications (2)
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US20020011489A1 true US20020011489A1 (en) | 2002-01-31 |
US6386381B2 US6386381B2 (en) | 2002-05-14 |
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US09/557,141 Expired - Fee Related US6311858B1 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2000-04-25 | Adjustable length, modular storage device |
US09/953,815 Expired - Fee Related US6386381B2 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2001-09-17 | Adjustable length modular storage device |
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US09/557,141 Expired - Fee Related US6311858B1 (en) | 2000-04-25 | 2000-04-25 | Adjustable length, modular storage device |
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US (2) | US6311858B1 (en) |
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US20050051561A1 (en) * | 2003-09-04 | 2005-03-10 | Bashuk Gerald D. | Adjustable storage tray |
US8137544B1 (en) * | 2011-04-14 | 2012-03-20 | Graves Gregory D | Waste water treatment system |
US10849425B2 (en) | 2017-10-06 | 2020-12-01 | The Intellectual Property Network, Inc. | Motorized modular smart shelving and storage unit |
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US6311858B1 (en) * | 2000-04-25 | 2001-11-06 | Joe Csiszar | Adjustable length, modular storage device |
US20080149188A1 (en) * | 2002-08-30 | 2008-06-26 | Charles River Watershed Association | Modular blocks for rainwater recovery system |
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US20050051561A1 (en) * | 2003-09-04 | 2005-03-10 | Bashuk Gerald D. | Adjustable storage tray |
US7367467B2 (en) * | 2003-09-04 | 2008-05-06 | Bashuk Gerald D | Adjustable storage tray |
US8137544B1 (en) * | 2011-04-14 | 2012-03-20 | Graves Gregory D | Waste water treatment system |
US10849425B2 (en) | 2017-10-06 | 2020-12-01 | The Intellectual Property Network, Inc. | Motorized modular smart shelving and storage unit |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6311858B1 (en) | 2001-11-06 |
US6386381B2 (en) | 2002-05-14 |
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