US20080083765A1 - Portable container for assembly at point of use - Google Patents

Portable container for assembly at point of use Download PDF

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Publication number
US20080083765A1
US20080083765A1 US11/973,137 US97313707A US2008083765A1 US 20080083765 A1 US20080083765 A1 US 20080083765A1 US 97313707 A US97313707 A US 97313707A US 2008083765 A1 US2008083765 A1 US 2008083765A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
kit
portable container
sized
base
apertures
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/973,137
Inventor
Robert Lee Landsinger
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US11/973,137 priority Critical patent/US20080083765A1/en
Priority to PCT/US2007/021413 priority patent/WO2008045334A2/en
Publication of US20080083765A1 publication Critical patent/US20080083765A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D19/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D19/02Rigid pallets with side walls, e.g. box pallets
    • B65D19/06Rigid pallets with side walls, e.g. box pallets with bodies formed by uniting or interconnecting two or more components
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00263Overall construction of the pallet
    • B65D2519/00268Overall construction of the pallet made of one piece
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00283Overall construction of the load supporting surface
    • B65D2519/00288Overall construction of the load supporting surface made of one piece
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00313Overall construction of the base surface
    • B65D2519/00328Overall construction of the base surface shape of the contact surface of the base
    • B65D2519/00343Overall construction of the base surface shape of the contact surface of the base contact surface being substantially in the form of a panel
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00492Overall construction of the side walls
    • B65D2519/00502Overall construction of the side walls whereby at least one side wall is made of two or more pieces
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00547Connections
    • B65D2519/00577Connections structures connecting side walls, including corner posts, to each other
    • B65D2519/00582Connections structures connecting side walls, including corner posts, to each other structures intended to be disassembled, i.e. collapsible or dismountable
    • B65D2519/00606Connections structures connecting side walls, including corner posts, to each other structures intended to be disassembled, i.e. collapsible or dismountable side walls connected via corner posts
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00547Connections
    • B65D2519/00636Connections structures connecting side walls to the pallet
    • B65D2519/00641Structures intended to be disassembled
    • B65D2519/00661Structures intended to be disassembled side walls maintained connected to pallet by means of auxiliary locking elements, e.g. spring loaded locking pins
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00547Connections
    • B65D2519/00671Connections structures connecting corner posts to the pallet
    • B65D2519/00676Structures intended to be disassembled
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00736Details
    • B65D2519/00805Means for facilitating the removal of the load
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2519/00Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00736Details
    • B65D2519/0098Dismountable elements
    • B65D2519/00995Dismountable elements detachable elements of the side wall, i.e. not the whole wall

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to portable containers. More particularly, the present invention relates to the portable container for assembly at point of use.
  • Portable containers are used to move and store goods. Compared to traditional storage centers, goods can be moved to a new location without requiring a user to repack since the goods are already stored within a portable container.
  • the portable container may be stored at the user's designated location or at a storage location.
  • prior art portable containers suffer from a number of shortcomings. For example, when the user requests a portable container, the portable container is shipped to the user assembled. Consequently, transportation cost for the assembled portable container is great. Due to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) regulations, the portable container may not be transportable overseas.
  • ISO International Organization for Standardization
  • the present invention addresses at least these limitations in the prior art.
  • An objective of the present invention is to provide a portable container that is capable of assembly at a point of use.
  • the portable container is delivered unassembled in a kit to a user.
  • a portable container assembly kit includes a plurality of components sized and adapted to assemble into a container at a point of use.
  • the container is suitable for at least one of storage and moving.
  • the plurality of components include a plurality of fasteners. Each of the plurality of fasteners is adapted to fasten inside the container, under the container or both.
  • the plurality of components include a base. The base has a plurality of apertures adapted to enable lifting the container. The container is configured to disassemble at the point of use.
  • a portable container assembly kit in another aspect, includes a platform for use as a base of a portable container.
  • the platform has a first set of apertures on a first side, a second set of apertures on a second side, a third set of apertures on a front side, a fourth set of apertures on back side, and a first plurality of sockets on a top side.
  • the kit also includes a plurality of posts, wherein bottom ends of the plurality of posts are sized and adapted to fit into the first plurality of sockets.
  • the kit includes a roof frame for use as a cover of the portable container.
  • a bottom side of the roof frame has a second plurality of sockets such that top ends of the plurality of posts are sized and adapted to fit into the second plurality of sockets.
  • the kit also includes a plurality of panels. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts.
  • the kit also includes a door sized and adapted to access an interior of the portable container.
  • the kit also includes a back frame configured to prevent wracking of the portable container. The portable container is configured to disassemble at a point of use.
  • the first set of apertures align vertically and horizontally with the second set of apertures
  • the third set of apertures align vertically and horizontally with the fourth set of apertures.
  • the platform also has a first beam and a second beam for use as reinforcements, wherein the first beam is parallel to and positioned apart from the second beam. The first beam and second beam are positioned inside the platform.
  • the first beam has a plurality of holes
  • the second beam has a plurality of holes.
  • the kit also includes a plurality of fasteners, each of the plurality of fasteners is sized and adapted to fasten inside the portable container, under the portable container or both.
  • a portable container assembly kit in yet another aspect, includes a base of a predetermined length, wherein the base includes a plurality of sockets. In some embodiments, the predetermined length is 15′8′′. In other embodiments, the predetermined length is 7′10′′.
  • the kit also includes a plurality of posts, each of the plurality of posts is adapted to fit into one of the plurality of sockets, a roof frame sized and adapted to maintain the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base, and a plurality of panels. Each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts.
  • the kit also includes a door sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts, means for enabling lifting the portable container, and a plurality of fasteners.
  • Each of the plurality of fasteners is sized and adapted to inside, under the portable container, or both.
  • the portable container is configured to disassemble at a point of use.
  • a portable container assembly kit is configured to allow ready assembly and disassembly of the portable container at a point of use.
  • the portable container includes a base for use as a bottom of the portable container.
  • the base has a raised inner portion of a top surface, an outer portion of the top surface, a first L-shaped socket at a first front corner, a second L-shaped socket at a second front corner, a first side socket on a first side towards a back of the base, and a second side socket on a second side of the base towards the back of the base.
  • the portable container kit also includes a plurality of posts.
  • the plurality of posts includes a first L-shaped post sized and adapted to insert in the first L-shaped socket, a second L-shaped post sized and adapted to insert in the second L-shaped socket, a first side post sized and adapted to insert in the first side socket, and a second side post sized and adapted to insert in the second side socket.
  • the portable container kit further includes a third side post and a fourth side post.
  • the third side post is sized and adapted to insert in a first middle socket positioned at a center of the first side.
  • the fourth side post is sized and adapted to insert in a second middle socket positioned at a center of the second side.
  • the third side post and the fourth side post have a plurality of slots.
  • the portable container kit also includes a back frame.
  • a bottom end of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to a back surface of the base
  • a first side of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to an edge of the first side post
  • a second side of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to an edge of the second side post.
  • a top of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to a back of a roof frame. As such, the back frame is prevents wracking of the portable container.
  • the portable container kit also includes a roof frame sized and adapted to secure the plurality of posts to thereby assist in maintaining the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base.
  • the back of the roof frame is sized and adapted to couple to the top of the back frame.
  • the portable container kit includes a plurality of panels.
  • each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to position between any two adjacent posts, rest against a portion of the raised inner top surface, and rest against an inner portion of the roof frame.
  • each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to couple to interior sides of the two adjacent posts. Accordingly, each of the plurality of panels is in a substantially vertical orientation upon assembly of the portable container.
  • the portable container kit also includes a door sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts.
  • the door is a rolling service door that rolls upward and is stored in a tight coil above an opening of the portable container.
  • the portable container kit also includes a plurality of fasteners.
  • each of the plurality of fasteners is adapted to fasten inside the portable container, under the portable container or both.
  • the base has a first side surface, a second side surface, a front surface, and a back surface. In some embodiments, the base has a first set of fork apertures on the first side surface and a second set of fork apertures on the second side surface. The first set of fork apertures and the second set of fork apertures align horizontally and vertically. The fork apertures are adapted to receive forks.
  • the base also has a first beam and a second beam for use as reinforcements, wherein the first beam is parallel to and positioned apart from the second beam, the first beam and the second beam positioned inside the base.
  • the first beam and the second beam have sets of apertures.
  • the base has a third set of fork apertures on the front surface and a fourth set of fork apertures on the back surface.
  • the third set of fork apertures and the fourth set of fork apertures align horizontally and vertically.
  • the base has an additional aperture with a pull bar vertically centered in the additional aperture and is attached to a top and a bottom of the additional aperture.
  • the portable container kit also is packed in a bag, a box, stretch wrap or other packaging.
  • FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1B-1E illustrate various perspectives of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 2B-2E illustrate various perspectives of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a base of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3C illustrates a transparent isometric back corner view of the base of the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates posts of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a base of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a back frame of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric front corner view of a roof frame of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a panel of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a skeleton of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9B illustrates an isometric back corner view of a skeleton of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a back view of another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a portable container that can be readily and quickly assembled from individual components at a point of use, such as at a user's home or a warehouse.
  • the individual components are delivered to the user in a kit.
  • the kit is packed in a bag, a box, stretch wrap or other packaging. Alternatively, same components of multiple units are shipped in a single packaging.
  • FIGS. 1A-1E illustrate various views of an assembled 7′10′′ long portable container 100 .
  • FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate various views of an assembled 15′8′′ long portable container 200 .
  • FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the assembled 7′10′′ long portable container 100
  • FIGS. 1B-1D illustrate a back perspective, a front perspective, a first side perspective, and a second side perspective of the assembled 7′10′′ long portable container 100 , respectively.
  • FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the assembled 7′10′′ long portable container 100
  • FIGS. 1B-1D illustrate a back perspective, a front perspective, a first side perspective, and a second side perspective of the assembled 7′10′′ long portable container 100 , respectively.
  • FIGS. 1B-1D illustrate a back perspective, a front perspective, a first side perspective, and a second side perspective of the assembled 15′8′′ long portable container 200 , respectively.
  • Assembly of the 7′10′′ long portable container 100 will be illustrated for purposes of discussion. Assembly of the 15′8′′ long portable container 200 involves additional steps and components relative to the assembly of the 7′10′′ long portable container 100 . These additional steps and components will be brought to attention in detail below. It is understood that the following discussion related to the portable containers of FIGS. 1A-1E and FIGS. 2A-2E can be applied to portable containers of alternative dimensions.
  • FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the base 300 .
  • FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base 300 .
  • the base 300 is a platform having a raised inner top surface 305 , an outer top surface 310 , a first side surface 315 , a second side surface 320 , a front surface 325 , and a back surface 330 .
  • the outer top surface 310 is a perimeter surrounding three sides of the raised inner top surface 305 .
  • the outer top surface 310 surrounds a first side, a front, and a second side of the raised inner top surface 305 . While the base 300 is used as a bottom foundation of the portable container 100 , the raised inner top surface 305 is a usable floor space of the portable container 100 . In some embodiments, the base 300 is hollow.
  • the outer top surface 310 of the portable container 100 has a first L-shaped socket 335 located at a first front corner, a second L-shaped socket 340 located at a second front corner, a first side socket 345 located on the first side towards the back, and a second side socket 350 on the second side located towards the back.
  • the first L-shaped socket 335 and the first side socket 345 are illustrated in FIG. 3A .
  • the second L-shaped socket 340 and the second side socket 350 are illustrated in FIG. 3B .
  • the first side surface 315 of the base 300 has a first set of fork apertures 370 as illustrated in FIG. 3A
  • the second side surface 320 has a second set of fork apertures 375 as illustrated in FIG. 3B
  • the first set and second set of fork apertures 370 , 375 are adapted to receive forks.
  • the first set of fork apertures 370 and the second set of fork apertures 375 align horizontally and vertically.
  • the first side surface 315 is a mirror image of the second side surface 320 .
  • supporting beams 380 , 385 are positioned inside the base 300 as re-enforcements.
  • Each of the supporting beams 380 , 385 is a hollowed support structure.
  • each of the supporting beams 380 , 385 comprises two vertical parallel plates welded inside the base 300 that creates a channel from one side of the base 300 to another side of the base 300 .
  • FIG. 3C illustrates a transparent isometric back corner view of the base 300 . As FIG. 3C illustrates, a first end of a first supporting beam 380 couples a first of the first set of fork apertures 370 , and a second end of the first supporting beam 380 couples a first of the second set of fork apertures 375 .
  • a first end of a second supporting beam 385 couples a second of the first set of the fork apertures 370
  • a second end of the second supporting beam 385 couples a second of the second set of fork apertures 375 .
  • the first and second supporting beams 380 , 385 provide strength, durability, re-enforcement for the base 300 , and create fork channels for use with fork lifts and other lifting and transporting devices. It should be understood that the configuration of the supporting beams 380 , 385 is exemplary only and does not serve to limit the type, size, shape, or configuration of supporting beams.
  • the supporting beams 380 , 385 have a plurality of holes 383 on sides of the supporting beams 380 , 385 .
  • the plurality of holes 383 are used to lift, strap or tie down the portable container using chains, ropes, straps, belts or other securing devices.
  • the base 300 further has a third set of fork apertures 390 on the front surface 325 of the base 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3B , and a fourth set of fork apertures 395 on the back surface 330 of the base 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3A .
  • the third set and fourth set of fork apertures 390 , 395 are adapted to receive forks. Similar to the alignment of the first set and second set of fork apertures 370 , 375 , the third set of fork apertures 390 and the fourth set of fork apertures 395 align horizontally and vertically.
  • FIG. 3A Similar to the alignment of the first set and second set of fork apertures 370 , 375 , the third set of fork apertures 390 and the fourth set of fork apertures 395 align horizontally and vertically.
  • the first and second supporting beams 380 , 385 have sets of apertures which align horizontally and vertically with the third set and the fourth set of fork apertures 390 , 395 , such that forks of a fork lift or another lifting or transporting device can be introduced into the base 300 through the third set and the fourth apertures 390 , 395 and the apertures on the first and second supporting beams 380 , 385 .
  • the base 300 has additional apertures.
  • a middle aperture 396 can be centered between apertures of the third set of fork apertures 390 on the front surface 325 of the base 300 , as illustrated in FIG. 3B .
  • a front pull bar 397 is vertically centered in the middle aperture 396 and is attached to the front surface 325 on a top and a bottom of the middle aperture 396 .
  • the front pull bar 397 can be used to pull the assembled portable container 100 .
  • the base 300 has additional pull bars to pull the assembled portable container 100 .
  • a back pull bar 398 is attached between the fourth set of fork apertures 395 on the back surface 330 of the base 300 .
  • the back pull bar 398 is an eyelet.
  • a plurality of posts included in the kit are adapted to insert into the above-mentioned sockets 335 , 340 , 345 , 350 .
  • opposing ends of each of the plurality of posts have extension portions protracting therefrom.
  • the plurality of posts include a plurality of L-shaped posts 405 and a plurality of side posts 420 .
  • the plurality of L-shaped posts 405 include a first L-shaped post and a second L-shaped post.
  • the first L-shaped post is a mirror image of the second L-shaped post.
  • the plurality of side posts 420 include a first side post and a second side post.
  • the first side post is a mirror image of the second side post.
  • a bottom extension portion 410 of the first L-shaped post is adapted to insert into the first L-shaped socket 335 .
  • a bottom extension portion 410 of the second L-shaped post is adapted to insert into the second L-shaped socket 340 .
  • a bottom extension portion 425 of the first side post is adapted to insert into the first side socket 345 .
  • a bottom extension portion 425 of the second side post is adapted to insert into the second side socket 350 .
  • a side of each of the plurality of L-shaped posts 405 has a hole 430 located near the bottom extension portion 410 .
  • the hole 430 is for securing or lifting the assembled portable container 100 using ropes, chains, belts or other securing devices.
  • FIGS. 5A-5B a base of the 15′8′′ long portable container 200 is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B .
  • FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the base 500 .
  • FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base 500 .
  • a base 500 is similarly configured as the base 300 described above except that the base 500 has two additional sockets. The two additional sockets are located on the outer top surface 310 of the portable container 200 : a first middle socket 505 located at a center of the first side as illustrated in FIG. 5A , and a second middle socket 510 located at a center of the second side as illustrated in FIG. 5B .
  • two additional side posts 420 are included in the kit and are configured to insert into the two additional middle sockets 505 , 510 .
  • a bottom extension portion 425 of the third side post is adapted to insert into the first middle socket 505 .
  • a bottom extension portion 425 of the fourth side post is adapted to insert into the second middle socket 510 .
  • the first middle socket 505 and the second middle socket 510 are positioned between the first set of fork apertures 370 and the second set of fork apertures 375 , respectively.
  • the third and fourth side posts are adapted to be universal, e.g. interchangeable. In other embodiments, interior sides of the third and fourth side posts accommodate various securement mechanisms for shelving and cargo control.
  • a back frame 600 is provided in the kit.
  • Two fork apertures 605 and a third aperture 610 centered between the two fork apertures 605 are spatially positioned on a bottom 620 of the back frame 600 .
  • the bottom 620 of the back frame 600 attaches to the back surface 330 of the base 300 , such that the two fork apertures 605 align with the fourth set of fork apertures 395 on the back surface 330 of the base 300 .
  • the back pull bar 398 on the back surface 330 of the base 300 is vertically centered in the third aperture 610 , such that the back pull bar 398 can be used for pulling the assembled portable container.
  • a first side 625 of the back frame 600 couples to an edge of the first side post vertically positioned in the first side socket 345 .
  • a second side 630 of the back frame 600 couples to an edge of the second side post vertically positioned in the second side socket 350 .
  • a top 635 of the back frame 600 attaches to a back of a roof frame 700 . Accordingly, the back frame 600 is maintained in a substantially vertical orientation.
  • the back frame 600 also provides side to side integrity of the back of the portable container 100 , 200 and prevents wracking of the back of the portable container 100 , 200 .
  • the back frame 600 has a panel 615 attached to a bottom of the top 635 of the back frame 600 .
  • the panel 615 is adapted to hide a rolled up rolling service door.
  • the panel 615 also adapted to limit or prevent air from getting inside from a top of the assembled portable container 100 , 200 .
  • a roof frame 700 is preferably included in the kit.
  • a bottom of the roof frame 700 have sockets.
  • a bottom of a first side 705 of the roof frame 700 , a bottom of a second side 710 of the roof frame 700 , and a bottom of a front 715 of the roof frame 700 have corresponding sockets (not illustrated) for top extensions 415 , 430 of the vertically positioned posts to fit into.
  • the roof frame 700 is placed such that the top extensions 415 , 430 of the vertically positioned posts are configured within the corresponding sockets of the roof frame 700 .
  • a back 720 of the roof frame 700 couples to the top 635 of the back frame 600 .
  • the roof frame 700 secures and maintains the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular relation with the base 300 .
  • FIG. 9A illustrates a skeleton 900 of the assembled portable container having a 7′10′′ length base.
  • FIG. 9B illustrates a skeleton 900 ′ of the assembled portable container having a 15′8′′ length base.
  • the base 300 , the plurality of posts 405 , 420 , the back frame 600 and the roof frame 700 form the skeleton 900 of the portable container 100 .
  • the base 500 , the plurality of posts 405 , 420 , the back frame 600 and a roof frame 700 ′ form the skeleton 900 ′ of the portable container 200 .
  • the roof frame 700 ′ is similarly configured as the roof frame 700 but has two additional sockets for the third side post and the fourth side post to fit into.
  • a plurality of panels included in the kit couple to the skeleton 900 , 900 ′ to form a front side, a first side, and a second side of the portable container 100 , 200 .
  • a panel is not coupled to a back side, thereby forming an opening to the assembled portable container 100 , 200 .
  • each of the plurality of panels is adapted to position between and rest against any two adjacent posts, rest against a portion of the raised inner top surface 305 , and rest against an inner portion of the roof frame 700 .
  • Each of the plurality of panels is in a substantially vertical orientation upon assembly of the portable container 100 , 200 .
  • the plurality of panels are universal, e.g. interchangeable.
  • FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a panel 800 .
  • FIG. 8A illustrates an exterior view of the panel 800
  • FIG. 8B illustrates an interior view of the panel 800
  • An interior side of each of the plurality of panels 800 is configured to accommodate various securement mechanisms for shelving and cargo control by using top hat stiffeners 805 , tie down rods 810 , and strap bucket slots 815 .
  • top hat stiffeners 805 are vertically and spatially positioned on each of the plurality of panels 800 .
  • Three tie down rods 810 are horizontally and spatially positioned through the three top hat stiffeners 805 .
  • the securement mechanisms are configured to maximize usable space inside the portable container without interfering with valuable floor space.
  • Other securement mechanisms on the interior side of each of the plurality of panels 800 are possible.
  • securement mechanisms are possible on a portion of an interior of the portable container 100 , 200 .
  • the plurality of panels are screw-on panels. In other embodiments, the plurality of panels are rivet-on panels.
  • a plurality of fasteners are included in the kit. The plurality of fasteners include bolts, nuts, screws, rivets and other means of securing one element to another. In some embodiments, the plurality of fasteners are inside the portable container 100 , 200 and can be under the portable container 100 , 200 for security purposes.
  • the portable container kit also includes a door.
  • the door covers the opening of the portable container 100 , 200 .
  • the door is positioned adjacent the back frame 600 .
  • the door is a rolling service door.
  • the rolling service door rolls upward and is stored in a tight coil above the opening of the portable container.
  • the door is a swinging door or a pair of swinging doors.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a back view 1000 of the portable container 100 , 200 with the pair of swinging doors 1005 .
  • the portable container can be used as an onsite storage, a portable storage, or transportation.
  • the assembled container is configured for quick disassembly.
  • the assembled portable container is also configured to be transportable via roll off trucks and trailers, flatbed trucks and trailers, and standard freight vans.
  • the assembled portable container is a subcontainer for long distance transportation, including cross country via rail containers or overseas via ISO high cube sea containers.
  • the assembled portable container works with roll offs, lift gates, shipping glides with bumpers, attachable wheels and attachable legs.
  • the assembled portable container preferably has a means for enabling lifting the assembled portable container As discussed above, the assembled portable container has fork apertures on all sides of the base. As such, forklifts and other lift devices can be used to lift the assembled portable container via the fork apertures.
  • Various other devices for lifting the assembled portable container include but are not limited to using slings and cranes.
  • the portable container is fabricated from steel.
  • the portable container's all steel design provides a durable long-lived unit that is weatherproof, pest-proof, tamper-proof, and easily cleaned.
  • a frame and post skeleton affords a three-high stackability.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Pallets (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)
  • Package Frames And Binding Bands (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Machine Parts And Wound Products (AREA)

Abstract

A kit for assembling a portable container at a point of use comprises a base of a predetermined length, a plurality of posts sized and adapted to fit into predetermined sockets located on the base, a back frame configured to prevent wracking of the portable container, a door sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts, a roof frame sized and adapted to maintain the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base, a plurality of panels sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts, means for enabling lifting the portable container, and a plurality of fasteners. Typically, each of the plurality of fasteners is sized and adapted to fasten at least one of inside the portable container and under the portable container.

Description

    CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
  • The application claims priority of U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/850,022, filed Oct. 5, 2006, and entitled “Portable Container for Assembly at Point of Use,” by this same inventor. This application incorporates U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/850,022, in its entirety by reference.
  • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to portable containers. More particularly, the present invention relates to the portable container for assembly at point of use.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • Portable containers are used to move and store goods. Compared to traditional storage centers, goods can be moved to a new location without requiring a user to repack since the goods are already stored within a portable container. The portable container may be stored at the user's designated location or at a storage location. However, prior art portable containers suffer from a number of shortcomings. For example, when the user requests a portable container, the portable container is shipped to the user assembled. Consequently, transportation cost for the assembled portable container is great. Due to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) regulations, the portable container may not be transportable overseas.
  • The present invention addresses at least these limitations in the prior art.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • An objective of the present invention is to provide a portable container that is capable of assembly at a point of use. The portable container is delivered unassembled in a kit to a user.
  • In one aspect, a portable container assembly kit includes a plurality of components sized and adapted to assemble into a container at a point of use. Preferably, the container is suitable for at least one of storage and moving. In some embodiments, the plurality of components include a plurality of fasteners. Each of the plurality of fasteners is adapted to fasten inside the container, under the container or both. In some embodiments, the plurality of components include a base. The base has a plurality of apertures adapted to enable lifting the container. The container is configured to disassemble at the point of use.
  • In another aspect, a portable container assembly kit includes a platform for use as a base of a portable container. The platform has a first set of apertures on a first side, a second set of apertures on a second side, a third set of apertures on a front side, a fourth set of apertures on back side, and a first plurality of sockets on a top side. The kit also includes a plurality of posts, wherein bottom ends of the plurality of posts are sized and adapted to fit into the first plurality of sockets. In addition, the kit includes a roof frame for use as a cover of the portable container. In some embodiments, a bottom side of the roof frame has a second plurality of sockets such that top ends of the plurality of posts are sized and adapted to fit into the second plurality of sockets. The kit also includes a plurality of panels. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts. The kit also includes a door sized and adapted to access an interior of the portable container. In addition, the kit also includes a back frame configured to prevent wracking of the portable container. The portable container is configured to disassemble at a point of use.
  • In some embodiments, the first set of apertures align vertically and horizontally with the second set of apertures, and the third set of apertures align vertically and horizontally with the fourth set of apertures. In other embodiments, the platform also has a first beam and a second beam for use as reinforcements, wherein the first beam is parallel to and positioned apart from the second beam. The first beam and second beam are positioned inside the platform. In some embodiments, the first beam has a plurality of holes, and the second beam has a plurality of holes.
  • In some embodiments, the kit also includes a plurality of fasteners, each of the plurality of fasteners is sized and adapted to fasten inside the portable container, under the portable container or both.
  • In yet another aspect, a portable container assembly kit includes a base of a predetermined length, wherein the base includes a plurality of sockets. In some embodiments, the predetermined length is 15′8″. In other embodiments, the predetermined length is 7′10″. The kit also includes a plurality of posts, each of the plurality of posts is adapted to fit into one of the plurality of sockets, a roof frame sized and adapted to maintain the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base, and a plurality of panels. Each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts. The kit also includes a door sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts, means for enabling lifting the portable container, and a plurality of fasteners. Each of the plurality of fasteners is sized and adapted to inside, under the portable container, or both. In some embodiments, the portable container is configured to disassemble at a point of use.
  • In another aspect, a portable container assembly kit is configured to allow ready assembly and disassembly of the portable container at a point of use. The portable container includes a base for use as a bottom of the portable container. In some embodiments, the base has a raised inner portion of a top surface, an outer portion of the top surface, a first L-shaped socket at a first front corner, a second L-shaped socket at a second front corner, a first side socket on a first side towards a back of the base, and a second side socket on a second side of the base towards the back of the base.
  • The portable container kit also includes a plurality of posts. The plurality of posts includes a first L-shaped post sized and adapted to insert in the first L-shaped socket, a second L-shaped post sized and adapted to insert in the second L-shaped socket, a first side post sized and adapted to insert in the first side socket, and a second side post sized and adapted to insert in the second side socket.
  • In some embodiments, the portable container kit further includes a third side post and a fourth side post. The third side post is sized and adapted to insert in a first middle socket positioned at a center of the first side. The fourth side post is sized and adapted to insert in a second middle socket positioned at a center of the second side. In some embodiments, the third side post and the fourth side post have a plurality of slots.
  • The portable container kit also includes a back frame. In some embodiments, a bottom end of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to a back surface of the base, a first side of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to an edge of the first side post, and a second side of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to an edge of the second side post. In other embodiments, a top of the back frame is sized and adapted to couple to a back of a roof frame. As such, the back frame is prevents wracking of the portable container.
  • The portable container kit also includes a roof frame sized and adapted to secure the plurality of posts to thereby assist in maintaining the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base. Preferably, the back of the roof frame is sized and adapted to couple to the top of the back frame.
  • Preferably, the portable container kit includes a plurality of panels. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to position between any two adjacent posts, rest against a portion of the raised inner top surface, and rest against an inner portion of the roof frame. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to couple to interior sides of the two adjacent posts. Accordingly, each of the plurality of panels is in a substantially vertical orientation upon assembly of the portable container.
  • The portable container kit also includes a door sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts. In some embodiments, the door is a rolling service door that rolls upward and is stored in a tight coil above an opening of the portable container.
  • Furthermore, the portable container kit also includes a plurality of fasteners. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of fasteners is adapted to fasten inside the portable container, under the portable container or both.
  • In some embodiments, the base has a first side surface, a second side surface, a front surface, and a back surface. In some embodiments, the base has a first set of fork apertures on the first side surface and a second set of fork apertures on the second side surface. The first set of fork apertures and the second set of fork apertures align horizontally and vertically. The fork apertures are adapted to receive forks.
  • In some embodiments, the base also has a first beam and a second beam for use as reinforcements, wherein the first beam is parallel to and positioned apart from the second beam, the first beam and the second beam positioned inside the base. In some embodiments, the first beam and the second beam have sets of apertures.
  • In other embodiments, the base has a third set of fork apertures on the front surface and a fourth set of fork apertures on the back surface. The third set of fork apertures and the fourth set of fork apertures align horizontally and vertically. Yet, in other embodiments, the base has an additional aperture with a pull bar vertically centered in the additional aperture and is attached to a top and a bottom of the additional aperture.
  • In some embodiments, the portable container kit also is packed in a bag, a box, stretch wrap or other packaging.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1B-1E illustrate various perspectives of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 2B-2E illustrate various perspectives of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a base of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3C illustrates a transparent isometric back corner view of the base of the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates posts of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a base of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a back frame of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric front corner view of a roof frame of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a panel of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9A illustrates an isometric back corner view of a skeleton of the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9B illustrates an isometric back corner view of a skeleton of the second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a back view of another embodiment of the present invention.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • In the following description, numerous details are set forth for purposes of explanation. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the invention may be practiced without the use of these specific details. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.
  • Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a portable container that can be readily and quickly assembled from individual components at a point of use, such as at a user's home or a warehouse. The individual components are delivered to the user in a kit. The kit is packed in a bag, a box, stretch wrap or other packaging. Alternatively, same components of multiple units are shipped in a single packaging.
  • The portable container is available in various sizes. Two exemplary sizes include dimensions 15′8″ L×90″ W×96″ H and 7′10″ L×90″ W×96″ H. FIGS. 1A-1E illustrate various views of an assembled 7′10″ long portable container 100. FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate various views of an assembled 15′8″ long portable container 200. Specifically, FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the assembled 7′10″ long portable container 100, and FIGS. 1B-1D illustrate a back perspective, a front perspective, a first side perspective, and a second side perspective of the assembled 7′10″ long portable container 100, respectively. FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the assembled 15′8″ long portable container 200, and FIGS. 1B-1D illustrate a back perspective, a front perspective, a first side perspective, and a second side perspective of the assembled 15′8″ long portable container 200, respectively.
  • Assembly of the 7′10″ long portable container 100 will be illustrated for purposes of discussion. Assembly of the 15′8″ long portable container 200 involves additional steps and components relative to the assembly of the 7′10″ long portable container 100. These additional steps and components will be brought to attention in detail below. It is understood that the following discussion related to the portable containers of FIGS. 1A-1E and FIGS. 2A-2E can be applied to portable containers of alternative dimensions.
  • Assembly of the portable container 100 can begin by placing a base 300 directly on a floor or on attachable legs or attachable wheels such that the base 300 is off the floor during assembly. FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the base 300. FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base 300. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, the base 300 is a platform having a raised inner top surface 305, an outer top surface 310, a first side surface 315, a second side surface 320, a front surface 325, and a back surface 330. The outer top surface 310 is a perimeter surrounding three sides of the raised inner top surface 305. In some embodiments, the outer top surface 310 surrounds a first side, a front, and a second side of the raised inner top surface 305. While the base 300 is used as a bottom foundation of the portable container 100, the raised inner top surface 305 is a usable floor space of the portable container 100. In some embodiments, the base 300 is hollow.
  • Preferably, the outer top surface 310 of the portable container 100 has a first L-shaped socket 335 located at a first front corner, a second L-shaped socket 340 located at a second front corner, a first side socket 345 located on the first side towards the back, and a second side socket 350 on the second side located towards the back. The first L-shaped socket 335 and the first side socket 345 are illustrated in FIG. 3A. The second L-shaped socket 340 and the second side socket 350 are illustrated in FIG. 3B.
  • Preferably, the first side surface 315 of the base 300 has a first set of fork apertures 370 as illustrated in FIG. 3A, and the second side surface 320 has a second set of fork apertures 375 as illustrated in FIG. 3B. The first set and second set of fork apertures 370, 375 are adapted to receive forks. In some embodiments, the first set of fork apertures 370 and the second set of fork apertures 375 align horizontally and vertically. As such, the first side surface 315 is a mirror image of the second side surface 320.
  • In some embodiments, supporting beams 380, 385 are positioned inside the base 300 as re-enforcements. Each of the supporting beams 380, 385 is a hollowed support structure. In some embodiments, each of the supporting beams 380, 385 comprises two vertical parallel plates welded inside the base 300 that creates a channel from one side of the base 300 to another side of the base 300. FIG. 3C illustrates a transparent isometric back corner view of the base 300. As FIG. 3C illustrates, a first end of a first supporting beam 380 couples a first of the first set of fork apertures 370, and a second end of the first supporting beam 380 couples a first of the second set of fork apertures 375. A first end of a second supporting beam 385 couples a second of the first set of the fork apertures 370, and a second end of the second supporting beam 385 couples a second of the second set of fork apertures 375. The first and second supporting beams 380, 385 provide strength, durability, re-enforcement for the base 300, and create fork channels for use with fork lifts and other lifting and transporting devices. It should be understood that the configuration of the supporting beams 380, 385 is exemplary only and does not serve to limit the type, size, shape, or configuration of supporting beams.
  • In some embodiments, the supporting beams 380, 385 have a plurality of holes 383 on sides of the supporting beams 380, 385. The plurality of holes 383 are used to lift, strap or tie down the portable container using chains, ropes, straps, belts or other securing devices.
  • In some embodiments, the base 300 further has a third set of fork apertures 390 on the front surface 325 of the base 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3B, and a fourth set of fork apertures 395 on the back surface 330 of the base 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3A. The third set and fourth set of fork apertures 390, 395 are adapted to receive forks. Similar to the alignment of the first set and second set of fork apertures 370, 375, the third set of fork apertures 390 and the fourth set of fork apertures 395 align horizontally and vertically. In addition, referring to FIG. 3C, the first and second supporting beams 380, 385 have sets of apertures which align horizontally and vertically with the third set and the fourth set of fork apertures 390, 395, such that forks of a fork lift or another lifting or transporting device can be introduced into the base 300 through the third set and the fourth apertures 390, 395 and the apertures on the first and second supporting beams 380, 385.
  • In other embodiments, the base 300 has additional apertures. For example, a middle aperture 396 can be centered between apertures of the third set of fork apertures 390 on the front surface 325 of the base 300, as illustrated in FIG. 3B. A front pull bar 397 is vertically centered in the middle aperture 396 and is attached to the front surface 325 on a top and a bottom of the middle aperture 396. The front pull bar 397 can be used to pull the assembled portable container 100. Yet in other embodiments, the base 300 has additional pull bars to pull the assembled portable container 100. For example, a back pull bar 398 is attached between the fourth set of fork apertures 395 on the back surface 330 of the base 300. In some embodiments, the back pull bar 398 is an eyelet.
  • During assembly of the portable container 100, a plurality of posts included in the kit are adapted to insert into the above-mentioned sockets 335, 340, 345, 350. In some embodiments, opposing ends of each of the plurality of posts have extension portions protracting therefrom. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the plurality of posts include a plurality of L-shaped posts 405 and a plurality of side posts 420. The plurality of L-shaped posts 405 include a first L-shaped post and a second L-shaped post. The first L-shaped post is a mirror image of the second L-shaped post. The plurality of side posts 420 include a first side post and a second side post. The first side post is a mirror image of the second side post. A bottom extension portion 410 of the first L-shaped post is adapted to insert into the first L-shaped socket 335. Likewise, a bottom extension portion 410 of the second L-shaped post is adapted to insert into the second L-shaped socket 340. A bottom extension portion 425 of the first side post is adapted to insert into the first side socket 345. Likewise, a bottom extension portion 425 of the second side post is adapted to insert into the second side socket 350. In some embodiments, a side of each of the plurality of L-shaped posts 405 has a hole 430 located near the bottom extension portion 410. The hole 430 is for securing or lifting the assembled portable container 100 using ropes, chains, belts or other securing devices.
  • According to another embodiment of the invention, a base of the 15′8″ long portable container 200 is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B. FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric back corner view of the base 500. FIG. 5B illustrates an isometric front corner view of the base 500. A base 500 is similarly configured as the base 300 described above except that the base 500 has two additional sockets. The two additional sockets are located on the outer top surface 310 of the portable container 200: a first middle socket 505 located at a center of the first side as illustrated in FIG. 5A, and a second middle socket 510 located at a center of the second side as illustrated in FIG. 5B. As such, two additional side posts 420, a third side post and a fourth side post, are included in the kit and are configured to insert into the two additional middle sockets 505, 510. In some embodiments, a bottom extension portion 425 of the third side post is adapted to insert into the first middle socket 505. Likewise, a bottom extension portion 425 of the fourth side post is adapted to insert into the second middle socket 510. In other embodiments, the first middle socket 505 and the second middle socket 510 are positioned between the first set of fork apertures 370 and the second set of fork apertures 375, respectively. In some embodiments, the third and fourth side posts are adapted to be universal, e.g. interchangeable. In other embodiments, interior sides of the third and fourth side posts accommodate various securement mechanisms for shelving and cargo control.
  • Preferably, a back frame 600, as illustrated in FIG. 6, is provided in the kit. Two fork apertures 605 and a third aperture 610 centered between the two fork apertures 605 are spatially positioned on a bottom 620 of the back frame 600. The bottom 620 of the back frame 600 attaches to the back surface 330 of the base 300, such that the two fork apertures 605 align with the fourth set of fork apertures 395 on the back surface 330 of the base 300. The back pull bar 398 on the back surface 330 of the base 300 is vertically centered in the third aperture 610, such that the back pull bar 398 can be used for pulling the assembled portable container. A first side 625 of the back frame 600 couples to an edge of the first side post vertically positioned in the first side socket 345. A second side 630 of the back frame 600 couples to an edge of the second side post vertically positioned in the second side socket 350. A top 635 of the back frame 600 attaches to a back of a roof frame 700. Accordingly, the back frame 600 is maintained in a substantially vertical orientation. The back frame 600 also provides side to side integrity of the back of the portable container 100, 200 and prevents wracking of the back of the portable container 100, 200.
  • In some embodiments, the back frame 600 has a panel 615 attached to a bottom of the top 635 of the back frame 600. The panel 615 is adapted to hide a rolled up rolling service door. The panel 615 also adapted to limit or prevent air from getting inside from a top of the assembled portable container 100, 200.
  • A roof frame 700, as illustrated in FIG. 7, is preferably included in the kit. A bottom of the roof frame 700 have sockets. In some embodiments, a bottom of a first side 705 of the roof frame 700, a bottom of a second side 710 of the roof frame 700, and a bottom of a front 715 of the roof frame 700 have corresponding sockets (not illustrated) for top extensions 415, 430 of the vertically positioned posts to fit into. The roof frame 700 is placed such that the top extensions 415, 430 of the vertically positioned posts are configured within the corresponding sockets of the roof frame 700. In some embodiments, a back 720 of the roof frame 700 couples to the top 635 of the back frame 600. The roof frame 700 secures and maintains the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular relation with the base 300.
  • FIG. 9A illustrates a skeleton 900 of the assembled portable container having a 7′10″ length base. FIG. 9B illustrates a skeleton 900′ of the assembled portable container having a 15′8″ length base. Referring to FIG. 9A, the base 300, the plurality of posts 405, 420, the back frame 600 and the roof frame 700 form the skeleton 900 of the portable container 100. Referring to FIG. 9B, the base 500, the plurality of posts 405, 420, the back frame 600 and a roof frame 700′ form the skeleton 900′ of the portable container 200. The roof frame 700′ is similarly configured as the roof frame 700 but has two additional sockets for the third side post and the fourth side post to fit into.
  • A plurality of panels included in the kit couple to the skeleton 900, 900′ to form a front side, a first side, and a second side of the portable container 100, 200. A panel is not coupled to a back side, thereby forming an opening to the assembled portable container 100, 200. Preferably, each of the plurality of panels is adapted to position between and rest against any two adjacent posts, rest against a portion of the raised inner top surface 305, and rest against an inner portion of the roof frame 700. Each of the plurality of panels is in a substantially vertical orientation upon assembly of the portable container 100, 200. In some embodiments, the plurality of panels are universal, e.g. interchangeable.
  • FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a panel 800. Specifically, FIG. 8A illustrates an exterior view of the panel 800, and FIG. 8B illustrates an interior view of the panel 800. An interior side of each of the plurality of panels 800 is configured to accommodate various securement mechanisms for shelving and cargo control by using top hat stiffeners 805, tie down rods 810, and strap bucket slots 815. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8B, three top hat stiffeners 805 are vertically and spatially positioned on each of the plurality of panels 800. Three tie down rods 810 are horizontally and spatially positioned through the three top hat stiffeners 805. The securement mechanisms are configured to maximize usable space inside the portable container without interfering with valuable floor space. Other securement mechanisms on the interior side of each of the plurality of panels 800 are possible. Likewise, securement mechanisms are possible on a portion of an interior of the portable container 100, 200.
  • In some embodiments, the plurality of panels are screw-on panels. In other embodiments, the plurality of panels are rivet-on panels. A plurality of fasteners are included in the kit. The plurality of fasteners include bolts, nuts, screws, rivets and other means of securing one element to another. In some embodiments, the plurality of fasteners are inside the portable container 100, 200 and can be under the portable container 100, 200 for security purposes.
  • The portable container kit also includes a door. The door covers the opening of the portable container 100, 200. The door is positioned adjacent the back frame 600. Preferably, the door is a rolling service door. Typically, the rolling service door rolls upward and is stored in a tight coil above the opening of the portable container. Alternatively, the door is a swinging door or a pair of swinging doors. FIG. 10 illustrates a back view 1000 of the portable container 100, 200 with the pair of swinging doors 1005.
  • After assembly, the portable container can be used as an onsite storage, a portable storage, or transportation. In some embodiments, the assembled container is configured for quick disassembly. The assembled portable container is also configured to be transportable via roll off trucks and trailers, flatbed trucks and trailers, and standard freight vans. In some embodiments, the assembled portable container is a subcontainer for long distance transportation, including cross country via rail containers or overseas via ISO high cube sea containers.
  • The assembled portable container works with roll offs, lift gates, shipping glides with bumpers, attachable wheels and attachable legs. The assembled portable container preferably has a means for enabling lifting the assembled portable container As discussed above, the assembled portable container has fork apertures on all sides of the base. As such, forklifts and other lift devices can be used to lift the assembled portable container via the fork apertures. Various other devices for lifting the assembled portable container include but are not limited to using slings and cranes.
  • Preferably, the portable container is fabricated from steel. As such, the portable container's all steel design provides a durable long-lived unit that is weatherproof, pest-proof, tamper-proof, and easily cleaned. Furthermore, a frame and post skeleton affords a three-high stackability.
  • The present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments incorporating details to facilitate the understanding of principles of construction and operation of the invention. Such reference herein to specific embodiments and details thereof is not intended to limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. A person skilled in the art would appreciate that various modifications and revisions to the portable container for assembly at point of use will occur. Consequently, the claims should be broadly construed, consistent with the spirit and scope of the invention, and should not be limited to their exact, literal meaning.

Claims (25)

1. A ready to assemble portable container kit comprising a plurality of components sized and adapted to assemble into a container at a point of use, the container is suitable for at least one of storage and moving.
2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the plurality of components include a plurality of fasteners, each of the plurality of fasteners adapted to fasten at least one of inside the container and under the container.
3. The kit of claim 1, wherein the plurality of components include a base, wherein the base comprises a plurality of apertures.
4. The kit of claim 3, wherein the plurality of apertures are adapted to enable lifting of the container.
5. The kit of claim 1, wherein the container is configured to disassemble at the point of use.
6. A ready to assemble portable container kit, comprising:
a. a platform for use as a base of a portable container, the platform having a first set of apertures on a first side, a second set of apertures on a second side, a third set of apertures on a front side, a fourth set of apertures on back side, and a first plurality of sockets on a top side;
b. a plurality of posts, wherein bottom ends of the plurality of posts are sized and adapted to fit into the first plurality of sockets;
c. a roof frame for use as a cover of the portable container, a bottom side of the roof frame having a second plurality of sockets, wherein top ends of the plurality of posts are sized and adapted to fit into the second plurality of sockets;
d. a plurality of panels, each of the plurality of panels is sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts; and
e. a door sized and adapted to access an interior of the portable container.
7. The kit of claim 6, wherein the first set of apertures align vertically and horizontally with the second set of apertures, and the third set of apertures align vertically and horizontally with the fourth set of apertures.
8. The kit of claim 7, further comprising a first beam and a second beam for use as reinforcements, wherein the first beam is parallel to and positioned apart from the second beam, the first beam and second beam positioned inside the platform.
9. The kit of claim 8, wherein the first beam and the second beam comprise a plurality of holes.
10. The kit of claim 6, further comprising a back frame configured to prevent wracking of the portable container.
11. The kit of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of fasteners, each of the plurality of fasteners is sized and adapted to fasten at least one of inside the container and under the container.
12. A kit for assembling a portable container at a point of use, comprising:
a. a base of a predetermined length, wherein the base includes a plurality of sockets;
b. a plurality of posts, each of the plurality of posts sized and adapted to fit into one of the plurality of sockets;
c. a roof frame sized and adapted to maintain the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base;
d. a plurality of panels, each of the plurality of panels sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts;
e. a door sized and adapted to fit upright between two adjacent posts;
f. a plurality of fasteners, each of the plurality of fasteners sized and adapted to fasten at least one of inside the portable container and under the portable container; and
g. means for enabling lifting the portable container,
wherein the portable container is configured to disassemble at the point of use.
13. The kit of claim 12, wherein the predetermined length is 15′8″.
14. The kit of claim 12, wherein the predetermined length is 7′10″.
15. A kit for a portable container, the kit configured to allow ready assembly and disassembly of the portable container at a point of use, comprising:
a. a base for use as a bottom of the portable container, the base comprising a raised inner portion of a top surface, an outer portion of the top surface, a first L-shaped socket at a first front corner, a second L-shaped socket at a second front corner, a first side socket on a first side towards a back of the base, and a second side socket on a second side of the base towards the back of the base;
b. a plurality of posts comprising:
i. a first L-shaped post sized and adapted to insert in the first L-shaped socket;
ii. a second L-shaped post sized and adapted to insert in the second L-shaped socket;
iii. a first side post sized and adapted to insert in the first side socket; and
iv. a second side post sized and adapted to insert in the second side socket;
c. a back frame, a bottom end of the back frame sized and adapted to couple to a back surface of the base, a first side of the back frame sized and adapted to couple to an edge of the first side post, and a second side of the back frame sized and adapted to couple to an edge of the second side post, thereby preventing wracking of the portable container;
d. a roof frame sized and adapted to secure the plurality of posts to thereby assist in maintaining the plurality of posts in a substantially perpendicular position relative to the base;
e. a plurality of panels, each of the plurality of panels sized and adapted to position between any two adjacent posts, rest against a portion of the raised inner top surface, and rest against an inner portion of the roof frame, thereby maintaining each of the plurality of panels in a substantially vertical orientation upon assembly of the portable container;
f. a door sized and adapted to fit between two adjacent posts; and
g. a plurality of fasteners, each of the plurality of fasteners adapted to fasten at least one of inside the portable container and under the portable container.
16. The kit of claim 15, wherein the plurality of posts further comprising:
a. a third side post sized and adapted to insert in a first middle socket, the first middle socket positioned at a center of the first side; and
b. a fourth side post sized and adapted to insert in a second middle socket, the second middle socket positioned at a center of the second side.
17. The kit of claim 19, wherein the third side post and the fourth side post comprise a plurality of slots.
18. The kit of claim 15, wherein the door is a rolling service door, the rolling service door rolls upward and is stored in a tight coil above an opening of the portable container.
19. The kit of claim 15, wherein the base further comprising a first side surface, a second side surface, a front surface, and a back surface.
20. The kit of claim 19, further comprising a first set of fork apertures on the first side surface and a second set of fork apertures on the second side surface, wherein the first set of fork apertures and the second set of fork apertures align horizontally and vertically.
21. The kit of claim 20, further comprising a first beam and a second beam for use as reinforcements, wherein the first beam is parallel to and positioned apart from the second beam, the first beam and second beam positioned inside the base.
22. The kit of claim 21, wherein the first beam and the second beam comprise sets of apertures.
23. The kit of claim 19, further comprising a third set of fork apertures on the front surface and a fourth set of fork apertures on the back surface, wherein the third set of fork apertures and the fourth set of fork apertures align horizontally and vertically.
24. The kit of claim 19, further comprising an additional aperture with a pull bar vertically centered in the additional aperture and is attached to a top and a bottom of the additional aperture.
25. The kit of claim 15, wherein the kit is packed in a bag, a box, stretch wrap, or other packaging.
US11/973,137 2006-10-05 2007-10-04 Portable container for assembly at point of use Abandoned US20080083765A1 (en)

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WO2008045334A3 (en) 2008-11-27

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