US20210300232A1 - Systems and methods for securing cargo on a flatbed carrier - Google Patents
Systems and methods for securing cargo on a flatbed carrier Download PDFInfo
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- US20210300232A1 US20210300232A1 US17/140,736 US202117140736A US2021300232A1 US 20210300232 A1 US20210300232 A1 US 20210300232A1 US 202117140736 A US202117140736 A US 202117140736A US 2021300232 A1 US2021300232 A1 US 2021300232A1
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- arm
- coil
- arms
- carrier
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P7/00—Securing or covering of load on vehicles
- B60P7/06—Securing of load
- B60P7/08—Securing to the vehicle floor or sides
- B60P7/12—Securing to the vehicle floor or sides the load being tree-trunks, beams, drums, tubes, or the like
Definitions
- FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional perspective view illustrating a flatbed carrier.
- FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a cargo system.
- FIG. 3 is a three-dimensional perspective view depicting a cargo system, such as is depicted by FIG. 2 , coupled to a flatbed carrier.
- FIG. 4 is a rear view illustrating a cargo system, such as is depicted by
- FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating a cargo system, such as is depicted by
- FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating an anchoring tab of a cargo system inserted into a slot of a flatbed carrier.
- FIG. 7 is a top view illustrating a tether anchoring bracket.
- FIG. 8 is a front view of a tether anchoring bracket.
- FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional perspective view of a tether anchoring bracket.
- the cargo system secures at least one steel coil for transport on a flatbed carrier.
- a base lies on the flatbed carrier and couples to the flatbed carrier so that the base does not move with respect to the flatbed carrier.
- Cargo supports e.g., chocks or wedges
- Adjustable arms coupled to the base pivot toward the coil, pressing against upper portions of the coil to brace the coil for transport.
- Tethers extend from distal ends of each of the arms and couple to the carrier, holding tension between the arms and the carrier, so that the arms press against the coil and secure the coil to the carrier.
- the system can secure steel coils for transport on a flatbed carrier and reduce the likelihood that a coil will break free from the carrier during transit.
- FIG. 1 depicts a flatbed carrier 5 .
- the carrier 5 shown in FIG. 1 is a conventional flatbed trailer 5 to be connected to and pulled by a vehicle, such as an 18 wheeler truck, but in other embodiments, other flatbed carriers 5 (such as flatbed rail cars for transport by train) are possible.
- the carrier 5 shown in FIG. 1 has a generally flat deck 7 , a stop rail 8 and parallel side rails 10 separated from the deck 7 by spaces that roughly form slots (not specifically shown in FIG. 1 ) between the side rails 10 and the deck 7 .
- the carrier 5 also has a mainframe 13 that provides support to its deck 7 and couples to a rear wheel and axle system 18 so that a tractor (not shown) can tow the carrier 5 .
- FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a cargo system 20 that can be mounted on a conventional flatbed carrier 5 for transporting cargo according to the techniques described herein.
- the system 20 comprises a base 21 that detachably couples to the carrier 5 and is capable of supporting cargo for transit on the carrier 5 .
- the base 21 has a plurality of anchoring beams 22 for coupling to a flatbed carrier 5 as described further below.
- the base 21 also has a plurality of support beams 27 that run between the anchoring beams 22 .
- FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a cargo system 20 that can be mounted on a conventional flatbed carrier 5 for transporting cargo according to the techniques described herein.
- the system 20 comprises a base 21 that detachably couples to the carrier 5 and is capable of supporting cargo for transit on the carrier 5 .
- the base 21 has a plurality of anchoring beams 22 for coupling to a flatbed carrier 5 as described further below.
- the base 21 also has a plurality of support beams 27 that
- each anchoring beam 22 sits on top of the deck 7 of a flatbed carrier 5 , oriented perpendicularly with respect to the side rails 10 the carrier 5 (i.e., crosswise on the carrier 5 ) as discussed further below.
- each anchoring beam 22 has a first end and a second end, and each end has at least one generally flat tab 28 that fits between the deck 7 and a side rail 10 ( FIG. 3 ) for securing the anchoring beam 22 to the carrier 5 , as described further below.
- the anchoring beams 22 are I-beams having an I-shaped cross section, but other shapes of the anchoring beams 22 are possible. In other embodiments, the anchoring beams 22 have a generally uniform square or rectangular cross section.
- two adjacent support beams 27 sit on the deck 7 between the anchoring beams 22 and generally parallel to the side rails 10 of the bed of the carrier 5 (i.e., lengthwise).
- Each support beam 27 has a first end attached to one anchoring beam 22 and a second end attached to another anchoring beam 22 .
- the support beams 27 have a generally uniform square or rectangular cross section, but other cross sections of the support beams 27 are possible in other embodiments.
- two support beams 27 couple perpendicularly relative to the anchoring beams 22 in a configuration for carrying one steel coil (not shown in FIG. 2 ) with its eye crosswise on the carrier 5 , as described in more detail hereafter.
- other shapes of the anchoring beams 22 are possible.
- the anchoring beams 22 have a plurality of adjacent support brackets 30 that couple the support beams 27 to the anchoring beams 22 .
- Each support bracket 30 holds an end of a support beam 27 .
- each support bracket 30 has at least two opposing plates 31 that contact an end of a support beam 27 , and a pin 33 is inserted through the plates 31 and the support beam 27 in order to secure the end of the support beam 27 to the bracket 30 and, hence, the anchoring beam 22 on which the bracket 30 is mounted.
- the support beam 27 can be removed and coupled detachably to any other support bracket 30 .
- Other techniques for coupling the support beams 27 to the anchoring beams 22 are possible in other embodiments.
- each support beam 27 can couple to the anchoring beams 22 via any of the support brackets 30 based on the size and number of coils (not shown in FIG. 1 ) the system 20 must secure.
- each end of each support beam 27 decouples from its respective support bracket 30 , and can couple interchangeably with any other support brackets 30 , if desired.
- a total of eight evenly-spaced support brackets 30 on the two anchoring beams 22 can couple up to four support beams 27 to the anchoring beams 22 .
- the ends of two support beams 27 detachably couple to the two anchoring beams 22 using the four inner-most support brackets 30 when the system 20 is arranged to carry one steel coil (not shown in FIG. 2 ) with its eye facing crosswise on the carrier 5 (i.e., the longitudinal axis of the eye is perpendicular to the side rails 10 of the carrier 5 ).
- the support beams 27 support the weight of the coil (not shown in FIG.
- support beams 27 detachably couple to the two anchoring beams 22 using all eight support brackets 30 of the anchoring beams 22 (i.e., two support beams 27 for each coil).
- other configurations of the cargo system 20 including other numbers of support beams 27 , anchoring beams 22 , and brackets 30 may be used.
- each arm 40 extends upward from the base 21 (e.g., upward from an anchoring beam 22 of the base 21 in front of the coil and an anchoring beam 22 of the base 21 behind it) and applies pressure to an upper portion of each coil (not shown in FIG. 2 ).
- each arm 40 has two adjacent lower segments 45 and two adjacent upper segments 47 .
- each lower segment 45 is pivotally coupled to an anchoring beam 22 by a respective arm mount 150 , and an opposite end of each lower segment 45 is coupled to hollow sleeve 48 into which a respective one of the upper segments 47 is inserted.
- a respective one of the upper segments 47 slides with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hollow sleeve 48 to adjust the length of the arm 40 in order to accommodate coils (not shown in FIG. 2 ) of various sizes.
- the length of an arm 40 decreases as its upper segment 47 is pushed further into the sleeve 48 such that the arm's cross member 149 moves toward the sleeve 48
- the length of the arm 40 increases as its upper segment 47 is pulled from the sleeve 48 such that the arm's cross member 149 moves away from the sleeve 48 .
- the hollow sleeves 48 coupled to adjacent lower segments 45 are also adjacent to one another.
- the cross-sectional shapes of the upper segments 47 correspond to the cross-sectional shapes of the hollow sleeves 48 , though other cross-sectional shapes of the upper segments 47 and hollow sleeves 48 are possible in other embodiments.
- the adjacent upper segments 47 slide within the hollow sleeves 48 to adjust (i.e., lengthen or shorten) the length (i.e., the height) of each arm 40 .
- Other techniques for adjusting the length of each of the plurality of arms 40 based on coil size are possible in other embodiments.
- a pin 33 secures each upper segment 47 its respective hollow sleeve 48 once the segment 47 has been moved to an appropriate position to achieve a desired arm length.
- each upper segment 47 has a plurality of holes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the segment 47 . At least one of the plurality of holes 50 on an upper segment 47 aligns with at least one of a plurality of holes 50 on the hollow sleeve 48 into which the upper segment 47 is inserted.
- At least one pin 33 passes through the sleeve 48 into at least one of the plurality of holes 50 in the upper segments 47 that is inserted into the sleeve 48 thereby securing the upper segment 47 to the sleeve 48 and, hence, the lower segment 45 on which the sleeve 48 is coupled. Inserting a pin 33 through the sleeve 48 and upper segment 47 as shown has the effect of locking the length of the arm 40 from a bottom end of the lower segment 45 to a top end of the upper segment 47 . When the pin 33 is removed, the upper segment 47 is free to move within the sleeve 48 and can be moved by hand into a new position within the sleeve 48 , thereby changing the overall length of the arm 40 .
- At least one of a plurality of cross members 149 couples a lower segment 45 to its respective adjacent lower segment 45
- at least one of a plurality of cross members 149 couples an upper segment 47 to its respective adjacent upper segment 47
- the plurality of cross members 149 generally enhances the rigidity and stability of each arm 40 and provides additional support to adjacent lower segments 45 and upper segments 47 by coupling them together.
- each of the plurality of cross members 149 is oriented with its longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each respective lower segment 45 or upper segment 47 .
- At least some of the plurality of cross members 149 may be oriented with their longitudinal axis at varying angles relative to each respective lower segment 45 or upper segment 47 , while others are oriented with their longitudinal axis oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each lower segment 45 or upper segment 47 . Note that it is not necessary for all of the plurality of cross members 149 to couple with their longitudinal axis at the same angle relative to the longitudinal axis of each respective lower support 45 or upper support 47 . In some embodiments, it is unnecessary for the arms 40 to include cross members 149 .
- each arm 40 may have only one lower segment 45 and one upper segment 47 , coupled via a pin 33 passing through at least one of a plurality of holes 50 in the upper segment 47 and a hollow sleeve 48 as described above.
- each upper segment 47 slides within the hollow sleeve 48 to lengthen or shorten the length of the arm 40 , according to the techniques described above or otherwise.
- Each anchoring beam 22 has at least one arm mount 150 for coupling a respective one of the arms 40 to the anchoring beam 22 .
- each anchoring beam 22 has four evenly-spaced adjacent arm mounts 150 fixed to an upper side of the anchoring beam 22 .
- Two adjacent arm mounts 150 couple the respective lower segments 45 of a respective arm 40 to a corresponding anchoring beam 22 (i.e., two adjacent mounts 150 per arm 40 ).
- the arm mounts 150 permit the arms 40 to pivot with respect to the arm mounts 150 (i.e., toward or away from a coil) so that the arms 40 can adjust to make contact with an upper portion of a coil (not shown in FIG. 2 ).
- a user may pivot the arms 40 about the arm mounts 150 by hand to make contact with a coil (not shown in FIG. 2 ) if desired.
- each arm 40 shown by FIG. 2 couples detachably to its respective arm mounts 150 so that it can be removed from one arm mount 150 and then coupled interchangeably with any other arm mounts 150 , if desired.
- the arms 40 can couple to the anchoring beams 22 via any adjacent pair of arm mounts 150 based on the size and number of coils a user desires to transport using the system 20 .
- Tethers extend from tethering tabs 160 to tethering brackets 165 that are mounted on the mainframe 13 (not shown in FIG. 2 ) of the carrier 5 , as discussed below.
- each of the plurality of arms 40 has at least one tethering tab 160 for coupling to a tether (not shown in FIG. 2 ).
- a tether passes through the tethering tab 160 and provides tension to the arm 40 when the tether (not shown in FIG. 2 ) experiences tension. In this regard, tension in each tether (not shown in FIG.
- each of the anchoring beams 22 of the system 20 has a bracing member 170 that passes through or beneath the mainframe 13 and deck 7 of the carrier 5 roughly parallel to each of the anchoring beams 22 .
- Threaded bolts 175 pass through each end of each of the anchoring beams 22 and holes 177 on ends of each of the bracing members 170 .
- Nuts 180 may be tightened onto each of the threaded bolts 175 to provide sufficient pressure against each bracing member 170 to secure each of the plurality of bracing members 170 to the carrier 5 .
- bracing member 170 may pass through or beneath the mainframe 13 and deck 7 of the carrier 5 in other embodiments, and threaded bolts 175 may be used to secure a plurality of bracing members 170 at each respective end of each anchoring beam 22 in other embodiments.
- FIG. 3 shows a three-dimensional perspective view of the cargo system 20 coupled to a flatbed carrier 5 .
- flat bottom sides of two anchoring beams 22 sit adjacent to the deck 7 of the carrier 5 .
- Flat bottom sides of two support beams 27 also sit on the deck 7 and run between two anchoring beams 22 .
- each of the generally flat tabs 28 located on the ends of each anchoring beam 22 extends downward and fits into one of a plurality of slots 229 on the flatbed carrier 5 .
- the plurality of slots 229 is defined by the space between the side rails 10 and the deck 7 of the flatbed carrier 5 , and that the plurality of slots 229 generally corresponds to the sizes of the tabs 26 .
- the plurality of side rails 10 brace the tabs 28 against lateral or horizontal movement with respect to the deck 7 of the carrier 5 .
- the tabs 28 help to hold the anchor beams 22 in place on the carrier 5 when inserted into the plurality of slots 229 .
- the tabs 28 essentially couple the anchoring beams 22 to the carrier 5 by snugly fitting into each of the respective plurality of slots 229 without the necessity of pins 33 or other coupling devices. In other embodiments, other devices or techniques for holding or otherwise coupling the anchoring beams 22 to the carrier 5 are possible.
- FIG. 4 shows a rear view of the system 20 . Note that the system 20 shown by FIG. 4 is not loaded (i.e., there is no coil shown).
- a plurality of cross members 149 connects each of the respective upper segments 47 and respective lower segments 45 of the arm 40 .
- the cross members 49 of the arm 40 essentially couple each of the upper segments 47 and lower segments 45 of each arm 40 together.
- the system 20 is configured to carry one steel coil (not shown in FIG. 4 ), with the eye of the coil (not shown in FIG. 4 ) facing crosswise, as described above.
- An arm 40 is coupled to the two innermost arm mounts 150 on the anchoring beam 22 .
- the arm 40 also can be coupled to any other pair of arm mounts 150 on the anchoring beam 22 .
- the coils may sit side-by-side on the carrier 5 , such that the eyes of each coil (not shown in FIG. 4 ) face crosswise.
- each arm 40 couples to the left-most arm mounts 150 , while the two lower segments 45 of another arm 40 couple to the right-most arm mounts 150 .
- the lower segments 45 of each respective arm 40 can couple interchangeably with any other pair of arm mounts 150 coupled to the anchoring beam 22 .
- FIG. 4 further shows adjacent tie down brackets 230 fixed to the anchoring beam 22 .
- FIG. 4 depicts the system 20 configured to secure one steel coil (not shown in FIG. 4 ).
- the system 20 has additional adjacent tie down brackets 230 in other embodiments.
- a plurality of tethers (such as straps, ropes, rods, chains, cords, or belts) passes, loops through or otherwise couples to each tie down bracket 230 fixed to the top of each anchoring beam 22 .
- the plurality of tethers passes over the top of the coil (not shown in FIG.
- each of the plurality of tethers may be adjusted to create sufficient tension in the tether (not shown), such that it holds the coil (not shown in FIG. 4 ) securely to carrier 5 .
- FIG. 5 shows a side view of the system 20 .
- a coil 310 sits on a plurality of cargo supports 315 coupled to a support beam 27 .
- two cargo supports 315 sit on the same support beam 27 in opposing orientations.
- each cargo support 315 has at least one top surface that makes contact with a coil 310 sitting on the cargo support.
- the shape of the top surface of each cargo support 315 that makes contact with the coil 310 generally corresponds to the shape of the coil 310 , although other shapes, types and numbers of cargo supports 315 are possible in other embodiments.
- the top surface may have a substantially similar radius of curvature as the coil 310 such that the outer surface of the coil 310 is flush with the top surface of the cargo support 315 .
- two support beams 27 coupled to adjacent support brackets 30 can support one coil 310 situated with its eye crosswise for transport. That is, four cargo supports 315 coupled to two adjacent support beams 27 support the coil 310 by forming a cradle that will generally brace the coil 310 against movement. Similarly, four support beams 27 and their associated cargo supports 315 can support two coils 310 .
- cargo supports 315 are detachably coupled to the support beams 27 so that the cargo supports 315 can be moved with respect to the support beams 27 and spaced at a distance corresponding to the size of the coil 310 to provide support.
- each of the cargo supports 315 fits over its respective support beam 27 and slides with respect to the support beam 27 to accommodate coils 310 of various sizes.
- the cargo support 315 is secured to its support element 27 so that it can support a coil 310 that is positioned on the cargo support 315 .
- at least one of a plurality of holes 50 on each of the cargo supports 315 aligns with at least one of a plurality of holes 50 on each of the support beams 27 .
- At least one pin 33 may be inserted through at least one of the aligned holes 50 , thereby securing the cargo support 315 to its respective support beam 27 .
- the cargo support 315 is free to move with respect to the support beam 27 and can be slid by hand or otherwise to a new position on the support beam 27 .
- Each cargo support 315 can be detachably coupled to its respective support beam 27 by other techniques in other embodiments.
- two arms 40 extend upward from the anchoring beams 22 to brace the coil 310 from a front side of the coil 310 and a rear side of the coil 310 , respectively.
- the arms 40 can be pivoted and adjusted to accommodate the size of the coil 310 .
- upper segments 47 of two arms 40 extend from their respective hollow sleeves 48 and contact an upper portion of the coil 310 to secure it, as described further below.
- a plurality of tethers 318 provides tension to each of the arms 40 .
- at least one tether 318 provides sufficient tension to causes its respective arm 40 to press against the coil 310 with sufficient pressure to secure it, as described further below.
- the tethers 318 are conventional steel chains, but other types of tethers 318 are possible in other embodiments.
- at least one tether 318 is flexible or elastic in nature and may be adjusted to an appropriate length using conventional techniques or otherwise to provide a desired force against the coil for holding it in place.
- at least one tether 318 is a rigid tether 318 and that may be adjusted to an appropriate length, such as a telescoped rod.
- each of the tethers 318 is under sufficient tension to direct pressure against the upper surface of the coil 310 from each arm 40 to secure the coil 310 during transit.
- the tension of each tether 318 may be adjusted as desired using conventional techniques.
- tethering tabs 160 on distal ends of each on arm 40 couple each tether 318 to each arm 40 .
- Each tether 318 couples to a tethering bracket 165 on the frame of the carrier 25 , according to conventional techniques (for example, via a shackle or carabiner). As shown by FIG. 5 , the upper ends of arms 40 are forced against the coil 310 at a point above the center of mass of the coil 310 .
- each of the arms 40 may be pivoted by a motor in order to press the upper end of the arm 40 against an upper surface of the coil 310 .
- FIG. 6 shows a side view of an anchoring tab 28 inserted into a slot 229 of a flatbed carrier 5 .
- the tab 28 is fitted into one of the plurality of slots 229 between a side rail 10 and the deck 7 of the carrier 5 .
- the tab 28 extends below a bottom end of the side rail 10 to provide additional lateral and horizontal support.
- Nuts 180 are threaded onto the threaded bolts 175 and tightened against the bracing member 170 such that the nuts 180 and threaded bolts 175 hold the bracing member 170 against the mainframe 13 of the carrier 5 and the anchoring beam 22 against the deck 7 of the carrier 5 .
- any combination of nuts 180 and bolts 175 can be used to secure a bracing member 170 and anchoring member 22 to the carrier 5 .
- other devices such as a clamp or vise may be used to secure each anchoring beam 22 to the carrier 5 .
- FIG. 7 shows a top view of a tethering bracket 165 .
- the tethering bracket 165 is generally flat with a hooked end, has a generally uniform thickness, and has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from the above, although other shapes are possible.
- the bracket 165 has rounded corners on an upper end of the bracket 165 opposite the hooked end.
- a hole 350 provides a location for receiving or coupling to a tether 318 .
- a tether 318 passes through the hole 350 in order to loop through or otherwise couple to the tethering bracket 165 .
- the tether 318 may couple to the tethering bracket 165 independently of the hole 350 , or may pass through or otherwise couple to the hole 350 via other coupling devices.
- FIG. 8 shows a rear view of a tethering bracket 165 .
- a slot 355 on the hooked end of the anchoring bracket 165 opposite the end where the hole 350 is located fits over a portion of the mainframe 13 of the flatbed carrier 5 .
- the tethering bracket 165 braces against the mainframe 13 of the carrier 5 when the tether 318 is under tension.
- a bolt 360 located on the tethering bracket 165 tightens to generate sufficient pressure between the tethering bracket 165 and the mainframe 13 of the carrier 5 to couple the anchoring bracket 165 securely to the mainframe 13 when the slot 355 is fitted over a portion of the mainframe 13 .
- the tethering bracket 165 may be coupled to the mainframe 13 of the carrier 5 via other means.
- FIG. 9 shows a three-dimensional perspective view of a tethering bracket 165 .
- the tethering bracket 165 fits over a portion of the mainframe 13 of a carrier 5 having a thickness roughly corresponding to the thickness of the slot 355 .
- the bracket 165 may adjust to accommodate a mainframe 13 or other component of a carrier 5 having varying thicknesses, or inconsistent thicknesses.
- the bracket 165 may be reinforced via increased thickness in areas of the bracket 165 experiencing high levels of stress or strain during loading.
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Abstract
The cargo system secures at least one steel coil for transport on a flatbed carrier. Each coil sits on movable cargo supports coupled on top of a base with support beams. Support brackets couple the support beams to anchoring beams that are coupled to the flatbed carrier. Once a coil is loaded, arms with adjacent upper and lower segments connected by cross members pivot on arm mounts to make contact with the coil. The arms adjust by lengthening or shortening based on the size of the coil. Tethers pass through anchor brackets and over the coil to hold the coil to the base. The arms apply pressure to the coil based on the tension of tethers that extend from the ends of the arms and couple to tethering brackets coupled to the frame of the carrier.
Description
- This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/176,613 entitled “Systems and Methods for Securing Cargo on a Flatbed Carrier” and filed on Oct. 31, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference. U.S. application Ser. No. 16/176,613 is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 10,144,336, entitled “Systems and Methods for Securing Cargo on a Flatbed Carrier” and filed on Jul. 24, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- Conventional cargo securement systems prepare steel coils for transport on a flatbed carrier using a combination of parts such as wedges, timbers, chocks or bunks adjacent to the deck of the carrier to brace the cargo (i.e., prevent shifting, rolling or sliding), and tie downs such as straps, ropes or chains to physically anchor the cargo to the carrier. However, even when a combination of wooden timbers, coil bunks and chains is used as specified in the applicable regulations for securing large cylindrical metal coils, such device combinations and configurations are sometimes inadequate to secure various cargo during transit, such as heavy, difficult to secure steel coils. For example, it has been observed that in emergency situations, the coils may break free and shift, roll or slide and fall from the carrier. As a result, severe damage, injury or death may occur.
- The disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Furthermore, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.
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FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional perspective view illustrating a flatbed carrier. -
FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a cargo system. -
FIG. 3 is a three-dimensional perspective view depicting a cargo system, such as is depicted byFIG. 2 , coupled to a flatbed carrier. -
FIG. 4 is a rear view illustrating a cargo system, such as is depicted by -
FIG. 2 . -
FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating a cargo system, such as is depicted by -
FIG. 2 . -
FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating an anchoring tab of a cargo system inserted into a slot of a flatbed carrier. -
FIG. 7 is a top view illustrating a tether anchoring bracket. -
FIG. 8 is a front view of a tether anchoring bracket. -
FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional perspective view of a tether anchoring bracket. - The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for securing cargo on a flatbed carrier. In one exemplary embodiment, the cargo system secures at least one steel coil for transport on a flatbed carrier. A base lies on the flatbed carrier and couples to the flatbed carrier so that the base does not move with respect to the flatbed carrier. Cargo supports (e.g., chocks or wedges) on the base lock into a position that will support a steel coil and brace it against movement during transport. Adjustable arms coupled to the base pivot toward the coil, pressing against upper portions of the coil to brace the coil for transport. Tethers extend from distal ends of each of the arms and couple to the carrier, holding tension between the arms and the carrier, so that the arms press against the coil and secure the coil to the carrier. Using such techniques, the system can secure steel coils for transport on a flatbed carrier and reduce the likelihood that a coil will break free from the carrier during transit.
-
FIG. 1 depicts aflatbed carrier 5. Thecarrier 5 shown inFIG. 1 is aconventional flatbed trailer 5 to be connected to and pulled by a vehicle, such as an 18 wheeler truck, but in other embodiments, other flatbed carriers 5 (such as flatbed rail cars for transport by train) are possible. Thecarrier 5 shown inFIG. 1 has a generallyflat deck 7, a stop rail 8 andparallel side rails 10 separated from thedeck 7 by spaces that roughly form slots (not specifically shown inFIG. 1 ) between theside rails 10 and thedeck 7. Thecarrier 5 also has amainframe 13 that provides support to itsdeck 7 and couples to a rear wheel andaxle system 18 so that a tractor (not shown) can tow thecarrier 5. -
FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of acargo system 20 that can be mounted on aconventional flatbed carrier 5 for transporting cargo according to the techniques described herein. As shown byFIG. 2 , thesystem 20 comprises abase 21 that detachably couples to thecarrier 5 and is capable of supporting cargo for transit on thecarrier 5. Thebase 21 has a plurality ofanchoring beams 22 for coupling to aflatbed carrier 5 as described further below. Thebase 21 also has a plurality ofsupport beams 27 that run between theanchoring beams 22. In the exemplary embodiment shown byFIG. 2 , twoanchoring beams 22 sit on top of thedeck 7 of aflatbed carrier 5, oriented perpendicularly with respect to theside rails 10 the carrier 5 (i.e., crosswise on the carrier 5) as discussed further below. In the instant embodiment, eachanchoring beam 22 has a first end and a second end, and each end has at least one generallyflat tab 28 that fits between thedeck 7 and a side rail 10 (FIG. 3 ) for securing theanchoring beam 22 to thecarrier 5, as described further below. In one embodiment, theanchoring beams 22 are I-beams having an I-shaped cross section, but other shapes of theanchoring beams 22 are possible. In other embodiments, theanchoring beams 22 have a generally uniform square or rectangular cross section. - As further shown by
FIG. 2 , twoadjacent support beams 27 sit on thedeck 7 between theanchoring beams 22 and generally parallel to theside rails 10 of the bed of the carrier 5 (i.e., lengthwise). Eachsupport beam 27 has a first end attached to oneanchoring beam 22 and a second end attached to anotheranchoring beam 22. In one embodiment, thesupport beams 27 have a generally uniform square or rectangular cross section, but other cross sections of thesupport beams 27 are possible in other embodiments. Note that in the exemplary embodiment shown byFIG. 1 , twosupport beams 27 couple perpendicularly relative to theanchoring beams 22 in a configuration for carrying one steel coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ) with its eye crosswise on thecarrier 5, as described in more detail hereafter. In other embodiments, other shapes of theanchoring beams 22 are possible. - The
anchoring beams 22 have a plurality ofadjacent support brackets 30 that couple thesupport beams 27 to theanchoring beams 22. Eachsupport bracket 30 holds an end of asupport beam 27. In this regard, eachsupport bracket 30 has at least twoopposing plates 31 that contact an end of asupport beam 27, and apin 33 is inserted through theplates 31 and thesupport beam 27 in order to secure the end of thesupport beam 27 to thebracket 30 and, hence, theanchoring beam 22 on which thebracket 30 is mounted. By removing thepin 33 from theplates 31 and thesupport beam 27, thesupport beam 27 can be removed and coupled detachably to anyother support bracket 30. Other techniques for coupling thesupport beams 27 to theanchoring beams 22 are possible in other embodiments. - Note that each
support beam 27 can couple to theanchoring beams 22 via any of thesupport brackets 30 based on the size and number of coils (not shown inFIG. 1 ) thesystem 20 must secure. In this regard, each end of eachsupport beam 27 decouples from itsrespective support bracket 30, and can couple interchangeably with anyother support brackets 30, if desired. - In the exemplary embodiment depicted by
FIG. 2 , a total of eight evenly-spaced support brackets 30 on the twoanchoring beams 22 can couple up to foursupport beams 27 to theanchoring beams 22. In one embodiment, the ends of twosupport beams 27 detachably couple to the twoanchoring beams 22 using the fourinner-most support brackets 30 when thesystem 20 is arranged to carry one steel coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ) with its eye facing crosswise on the carrier 5 (i.e., the longitudinal axis of the eye is perpendicular to theside rails 10 of the carrier 5). In this regard, thesupport beams 27 support the weight of the coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ) generally over the center of thedeck 7 of theflatbed carrier 5, promoting stability during transport. When thesystem 20 is configured to secure two steel coils (not shown inFIG. 2 ) sitting side-by-side with eyes facing crosswise, foursupport beams 27 detachably couple to the twoanchoring beams 22 using all eightsupport brackets 30 of the anchoring beams 22 (i.e., twosupport beams 27 for each coil). In other embodiments, other configurations of thecargo system 20, including other numbers ofsupport beams 27,anchoring beams 22, andbrackets 30 may be used. - As noted above, a plurality of
adjustable arms 40 extends upward from the base 21 (e.g., upward from ananchoring beam 22 of thebase 21 in front of the coil and ananchoring beam 22 of thebase 21 behind it) and applies pressure to an upper portion of each coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ). In an exemplary embodiment, eacharm 40 has two adjacentlower segments 45 and two adjacentupper segments 47. As will be described in more detail below, eachlower segment 45 is pivotally coupled to ananchoring beam 22 by arespective arm mount 150, and an opposite end of eachlower segment 45 is coupled tohollow sleeve 48 into which a respective one of theupper segments 47 is inserted. In this regard, for eachhollow sleeve 48, a respective one of theupper segments 47 slides with respect to the longitudinal axis of thehollow sleeve 48 to adjust the length of thearm 40 in order to accommodate coils (not shown inFIG. 2 ) of various sizes. Specifically, the length of an arm 40 (from the end that is coupled to the base 21 to the end that contacts the coil) decreases as itsupper segment 47 is pushed further into thesleeve 48 such that the arm'scross member 149 moves toward thesleeve 48, and the length of thearm 40 increases as itsupper segment 47 is pulled from thesleeve 48 such that the arm'scross member 149 moves away from thesleeve 48. - Note that the
hollow sleeves 48 coupled to adjacentlower segments 45 are also adjacent to one another. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shapes of theupper segments 47 correspond to the cross-sectional shapes of thehollow sleeves 48, though other cross-sectional shapes of theupper segments 47 andhollow sleeves 48 are possible in other embodiments. In this regard, the adjacentupper segments 47 slide within thehollow sleeves 48 to adjust (i.e., lengthen or shorten) the length (i.e., the height) of eacharm 40. Other techniques for adjusting the length of each of the plurality ofarms 40 based on coil size are possible in other embodiments. - In an exemplary embodiment, a
pin 33 secures eachupper segment 47 its respectivehollow sleeve 48 once thesegment 47 has been moved to an appropriate position to achieve a desired arm length. In this regard, eachupper segment 47 has a plurality of holes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thesegment 47. At least one of the plurality ofholes 50 on anupper segment 47 aligns with at least one of a plurality ofholes 50 on thehollow sleeve 48 into which theupper segment 47 is inserted. For each of thesleeves 48, at least onepin 33 passes through thesleeve 48 into at least one of the plurality ofholes 50 in theupper segments 47 that is inserted into thesleeve 48 thereby securing theupper segment 47 to thesleeve 48 and, hence, thelower segment 45 on which thesleeve 48 is coupled. Inserting apin 33 through thesleeve 48 andupper segment 47 as shown has the effect of locking the length of thearm 40 from a bottom end of thelower segment 45 to a top end of theupper segment 47. When thepin 33 is removed, theupper segment 47 is free to move within thesleeve 48 and can be moved by hand into a new position within thesleeve 48, thereby changing the overall length of thearm 40. - In the instant embodiment, at least one of a plurality of
cross members 149 couples alower segment 45 to its respective adjacentlower segment 45, and at least one of a plurality ofcross members 149 couples anupper segment 47 to its respective adjacentupper segment 47. In this regard, the plurality ofcross members 149 generally enhances the rigidity and stability of eacharm 40 and provides additional support to adjacentlower segments 45 andupper segments 47 by coupling them together. In some embodiments, each of the plurality ofcross members 149 is oriented with its longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each respectivelower segment 45 orupper segment 47. - In yet other embodiments, at least some of the plurality of
cross members 149 may be oriented with their longitudinal axis at varying angles relative to each respectivelower segment 45 orupper segment 47, while others are oriented with their longitudinal axis oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of eachlower segment 45 orupper segment 47. Note that it is not necessary for all of the plurality ofcross members 149 to couple with their longitudinal axis at the same angle relative to the longitudinal axis of each respectivelower support 45 orupper support 47. In some embodiments, it is unnecessary for thearms 40 to includecross members 149. As an example, in such embodiments in which thearms 40 do not include any of the plurality ofcross members 149, eacharm 40 may have only onelower segment 45 and oneupper segment 47, coupled via apin 33 passing through at least one of a plurality ofholes 50 in theupper segment 47 and ahollow sleeve 48 as described above. In this regard, eachupper segment 47 slides within thehollow sleeve 48 to lengthen or shorten the length of thearm 40, according to the techniques described above or otherwise. - Each
anchoring beam 22 has at least onearm mount 150 for coupling a respective one of thearms 40 to theanchoring beam 22. In the exemplary embodiment shown byFIG. 2 , each anchoringbeam 22 has four evenly-spaced adjacent arm mounts 150 fixed to an upper side of theanchoring beam 22. Two adjacent arm mounts 150 couple the respectivelower segments 45 of arespective arm 40 to a corresponding anchoring beam 22 (i.e., twoadjacent mounts 150 per arm 40). The arm mounts 150 permit thearms 40 to pivot with respect to the arm mounts 150 (i.e., toward or away from a coil) so that thearms 40 can adjust to make contact with an upper portion of a coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ). A user may pivot thearms 40 about the arm mounts 150 by hand to make contact with a coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ) if desired. Note that eacharm 40 shown byFIG. 2 couples detachably to its respective arm mounts 150 so that it can be removed from onearm mount 150 and then coupled interchangeably with any other arm mounts 150, if desired. In this regard, thearms 40 can couple to the anchoring beams 22 via any adjacent pair of arm mounts 150 based on the size and number of coils a user desires to transport using thesystem 20. - Tethers (not shown in
FIG. 2 ) extend from tetheringtabs 160 totethering brackets 165 that are mounted on the mainframe 13 (not shown inFIG. 2 ) of thecarrier 5, as discussed below. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality ofarms 40 has at least onetethering tab 160 for coupling to a tether (not shown inFIG. 2 ). In one embodiment, a tether (not shown inFIG. 2 ) passes through thetethering tab 160 and provides tension to thearm 40 when the tether (not shown inFIG. 2 ) experiences tension. In this regard, tension in each tether (not shown inFIG. 2 ) transferred by itscorresponding tethering tab 160 to an arm presses thearm 40 against a coil (not shown inFIG. 2 ) that is loaded into thesystem 20, as described in further detail hereafter. The force exerted byarm 40 holds the coil in place during transport. - In some embodiments, additional devices may be used to couple the
system 20 to acarrier 5. In the exemplary embodiment shown byFIG. 2 , each of the anchoring beams 22 of thesystem 20 has a bracingmember 170 that passes through or beneath themainframe 13 anddeck 7 of thecarrier 5 roughly parallel to each of the anchoring beams 22. Threadedbolts 175 pass through each end of each of the anchoring beams 22 and holes 177 on ends of each of the bracingmembers 170.Nuts 180 may be tightened onto each of the threadedbolts 175 to provide sufficient pressure against each bracingmember 170 to secure each of the plurality of bracingmembers 170 to thecarrier 5. Note that it is not necessary for the bracingmember 170 to pass through or beneath themainframe 13 anddeck 7 of thecarrier 5 in other embodiments, and threadedbolts 175 may be used to secure a plurality of bracingmembers 170 at each respective end of eachanchoring beam 22 in other embodiments. -
FIG. 3 shows a three-dimensional perspective view of thecargo system 20 coupled to aflatbed carrier 5. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3 , flat bottom sides of two anchoringbeams 22 sit adjacent to thedeck 7 of thecarrier 5. Flat bottom sides of twosupport beams 27 also sit on thedeck 7 and run between two anchoringbeams 22. In one embodiment, each of the generallyflat tabs 28 located on the ends of eachanchoring beam 22 extends downward and fits into one of a plurality ofslots 229 on theflatbed carrier 5. - Note that the plurality of
slots 229 is defined by the space between the side rails 10 and thedeck 7 of theflatbed carrier 5, and that the plurality ofslots 229 generally corresponds to the sizes of the tabs 26. Thus, the plurality of side rails 10 brace thetabs 28 against lateral or horizontal movement with respect to thedeck 7 of thecarrier 5. In this regard, thetabs 28 help to hold the anchor beams 22 in place on thecarrier 5 when inserted into the plurality ofslots 229. Note that, in the instant embodiment, thetabs 28 essentially couple the anchoring beams 22 to thecarrier 5 by snugly fitting into each of the respective plurality ofslots 229 without the necessity ofpins 33 or other coupling devices. In other embodiments, other devices or techniques for holding or otherwise coupling the anchoring beams 22 to thecarrier 5 are possible. -
FIG. 4 shows a rear view of thesystem 20. Note that thesystem 20 shown byFIG. 4 is not loaded (i.e., there is no coil shown). In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 4 , a plurality ofcross members 149 connects each of the respectiveupper segments 47 and respectivelower segments 45 of thearm 40. In this regard, the cross members 49 of thearm 40 essentially couple each of theupper segments 47 andlower segments 45 of eacharm 40 together. - In the exemplary embodiment depicted by
FIG. 4 , thesystem 20 is configured to carry one steel coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ), with the eye of the coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ) facing crosswise, as described above. Anarm 40 is coupled to the two innermost arm mounts 150 on theanchoring beam 22. Note that thearm 40 also can be coupled to any other pair of arm mounts 150 on theanchoring beam 22. Note that when thesystem 20 is configured to carry two steel coils (not shown inFIG. 4 ), the coils (not shown inFIG. 4 ) may sit side-by-side on thecarrier 5, such that the eyes of each coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ) face crosswise. The twolower segments 45 of eacharm 40 couple to the left-most arm mounts 150, while the twolower segments 45 of anotherarm 40 couple to the right-most arm mounts 150. As noted above, thelower segments 45 of eachrespective arm 40 can couple interchangeably with any other pair of arm mounts 150 coupled to theanchoring beam 22. - The exemplary embodiment of
FIG. 4 further shows adjacent tie downbrackets 230 fixed to theanchoring beam 22. As noted above,FIG. 4 depicts thesystem 20 configured to secure one steel coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ). In this regard, only two tie downbrackets 230 are shown, but thesystem 20 has additional adjacent tie downbrackets 230 in other embodiments. A plurality of tethers (such as straps, ropes, rods, chains, cords, or belts) passes, loops through or otherwise couples to each tie downbracket 230 fixed to the top of eachanchoring beam 22. The plurality of tethers (not shown) passes over the top of the coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ) and passes, loops through or otherwise couples to a corresponding tie downbracket 230 on another side of the coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ). Note that, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of tethers (not shown) may be adjusted to create sufficient tension in the tether (not shown), such that it holds the coil (not shown inFIG. 4 ) securely tocarrier 5. -
FIG. 5 shows a side view of thesystem 20. Acoil 310 sits on a plurality of cargo supports 315 coupled to asupport beam 27. In the exemplary embodiment shown byFIG. 5 , two cargo supports 315 sit on thesame support beam 27 in opposing orientations. Note that eachcargo support 315 has at least one top surface that makes contact with acoil 310 sitting on the cargo support. In one embodiment, the shape of the top surface of eachcargo support 315 that makes contact with thecoil 310 generally corresponds to the shape of thecoil 310, although other shapes, types and numbers of cargo supports 315 are possible in other embodiments. As an example, the top surface may have a substantially similar radius of curvature as thecoil 310 such that the outer surface of thecoil 310 is flush with the top surface of thecargo support 315. Note that twosupport beams 27 coupled toadjacent support brackets 30, as depicted byFIG. 2 above, can support onecoil 310 situated with its eye crosswise for transport. That is, four cargo supports 315 coupled to two adjacent support beams 27 support thecoil 310 by forming a cradle that will generally brace thecoil 310 against movement. Similarly, foursupport beams 27 and their associated cargo supports 315 can support twocoils 310. - In an exemplary embodiment, cargo supports 315 are detachably coupled to the support beams 27 so that the cargo supports 315 can be moved with respect to the support beams 27 and spaced at a distance corresponding to the size of the
coil 310 to provide support. As noted above, each of the cargo supports 315 fits over itsrespective support beam 27 and slides with respect to thesupport beam 27 to accommodatecoils 310 of various sizes. Once thecargo support 315 is positioned as may be desired, it is secured to itssupport element 27 so that it can support acoil 310 that is positioned on thecargo support 315. In one embodiment, at least one of a plurality ofholes 50 on each of the cargo supports 315 aligns with at least one of a plurality ofholes 50 on each of the support beams 27. When therespective holes 50 of acargo support 315 are aligned with theholes 50 of thesupport beam 27, at least one pin 33 (not shown inFIG. 5 ) may be inserted through at least one of the alignedholes 50, thereby securing thecargo support 315 to itsrespective support beam 27. By removing thepin 33 from thesupport beam 27 and thecargo support 315, thecargo support 315 is free to move with respect to thesupport beam 27 and can be slid by hand or otherwise to a new position on thesupport beam 27. Eachcargo support 315 can be detachably coupled to itsrespective support beam 27 by other techniques in other embodiments. - In the exemplary embodiment shown by
FIG. 5 , twoarms 40 extend upward from the anchoring beams 22 to brace thecoil 310 from a front side of thecoil 310 and a rear side of thecoil 310, respectively. As noted above, thearms 40 can be pivoted and adjusted to accommodate the size of thecoil 310. InFIG. 5 ,upper segments 47 of twoarms 40 extend from their respectivehollow sleeves 48 and contact an upper portion of thecoil 310 to secure it, as described further below. - As further shown by
FIG. 5 , a plurality oftethers 318 provides tension to each of thearms 40. In an exemplary embodiment, at least onetether 318 provides sufficient tension to causes itsrespective arm 40 to press against thecoil 310 with sufficient pressure to secure it, as described further below. In the embodiment depicted byFIG. 5 , thetethers 318 are conventional steel chains, but other types oftethers 318 are possible in other embodiments. In some embodiments, at least onetether 318 is flexible or elastic in nature and may be adjusted to an appropriate length using conventional techniques or otherwise to provide a desired force against the coil for holding it in place. In other embodiments, at least onetether 318 is arigid tether 318 and that may be adjusted to an appropriate length, such as a telescoped rod. - In an exemplary embodiment, each of the
tethers 318 is under sufficient tension to direct pressure against the upper surface of thecoil 310 from eacharm 40 to secure thecoil 310 during transit. In this regard, the tension of eachtether 318 may be adjusted as desired using conventional techniques. Note thattethering tabs 160 on distal ends of each onarm 40 couple eachtether 318 to eacharm 40. Eachtether 318 couples to atethering bracket 165 on the frame of the carrier 25, according to conventional techniques (for example, via a shackle or carabiner). As shown byFIG. 5 , the upper ends ofarms 40 are forced against thecoil 310 at a point above the center of mass of thecoil 310. In other embodiments, it is unnecessary to usetethers 318 to direct pressure against an upper portion of acoil 310 from eacharm 40, and other techniques are possible to ensure that thearms 40 apply sufficient pressure against an upper portion of acoil 310 to secure it during transit. As an example, each of thearms 40 may be pivoted by a motor in order to press the upper end of thearm 40 against an upper surface of thecoil 310. -
FIG. 6 shows a side view of ananchoring tab 28 inserted into aslot 229 of aflatbed carrier 5. As described above, thetab 28 is fitted into one of the plurality ofslots 229 between aside rail 10 and thedeck 7 of thecarrier 5. Note that thetab 28 extends below a bottom end of theside rail 10 to provide additional lateral and horizontal support.Nuts 180 are threaded onto the threadedbolts 175 and tightened against the bracingmember 170 such that thenuts 180 and threadedbolts 175 hold the bracingmember 170 against themainframe 13 of thecarrier 5 and theanchoring beam 22 against thedeck 7 of thecarrier 5. Note that, in other embodiments, any combination ofnuts 180 andbolts 175 can be used to secure a bracingmember 170 and anchoringmember 22 to thecarrier 5. In some embodiments, other devices such as a clamp or vise may be used to secure eachanchoring beam 22 to thecarrier 5. -
FIG. 7 shows a top view of atethering bracket 165. Thetethering bracket 165 is generally flat with a hooked end, has a generally uniform thickness, and has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from the above, although other shapes are possible. In one embodiment, thebracket 165 has rounded corners on an upper end of thebracket 165 opposite the hooked end. Ahole 350 provides a location for receiving or coupling to atether 318. In an exemplary embodiment, atether 318 passes through thehole 350 in order to loop through or otherwise couple to thetethering bracket 165. In other embodiments, for example, when using a shackle or carabiner to attach thetether 318 to thetethering bracket 165, thetether 318 may couple to thetethering bracket 165 independently of thehole 350, or may pass through or otherwise couple to thehole 350 via other coupling devices. -
FIG. 8 shows a rear view of atethering bracket 165. In an exemplary embodiment, aslot 355 on the hooked end of theanchoring bracket 165 opposite the end where thehole 350 is located fits over a portion of themainframe 13 of theflatbed carrier 5. In this regard, thetethering bracket 165 braces against themainframe 13 of thecarrier 5 when thetether 318 is under tension. Abolt 360 located on thetethering bracket 165 tightens to generate sufficient pressure between thetethering bracket 165 and themainframe 13 of thecarrier 5 to couple theanchoring bracket 165 securely to themainframe 13 when theslot 355 is fitted over a portion of themainframe 13. In other embodiments thetethering bracket 165 may be coupled to themainframe 13 of thecarrier 5 via other means. -
FIG. 9 shows a three-dimensional perspective view of atethering bracket 165. Note that in the instant embodiment, thetethering bracket 165 fits over a portion of themainframe 13 of acarrier 5 having a thickness roughly corresponding to the thickness of theslot 355. In other embodiments, thebracket 165 may adjust to accommodate amainframe 13 or other component of acarrier 5 having varying thicknesses, or inconsistent thicknesses. In yet other embodiments, thebracket 165 may be reinforced via increased thickness in areas of thebracket 165 experiencing high levels of stress or strain during loading.
Claims (18)
1. A system for transporting a coil, comprising:
a flatbed carrier;
a plurality of anchoring beams mounted on the flatbed carrier;
a plurality of support beams coupled to the anchoring beams;
a plurality of cargo supports coupled to the support beams, wherein the coil is situated on the cargo supports;
a plurality of arms extending from the anchoring beams and pressed against the coil for securing the coil to the flatbed carrier, the plurality of arms including a first arm pressed against a first side of the coil, a second arm pressed against the first side of the coil, a third arm pressed against a second side of the coil, and a fourth arm pressed against the second side of the coil, wherein a first cross member couples the first am to the second arm, and wherein a second cross member couples the third arm to the fourth arm; and
a plurality of tethers coupled to the arms for holding each of the arms against an outer surface of the coil.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the anchoring beams comprises at least one tab for securing the at least one anchoring beam to the flatbed carrier.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of anchoring beams comprises a plurality of support brackets for holding the support beams.
4. The system of claim 3 , wherein a pin couples one of the support beams to one of the support brackets.
5. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one cargo support mounted on the support beams for holding the coil.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of anchoring beams comprises a plurality of arm mounts.
7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the first arm is coupled to at least one of the plurality of arm mounts.
8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the first arm is configured to pivot about the at least one of the plurality of arm mounts to contact an upper portion of the coil.
9-16. (canceled)
17. A method for securing a coil to a flatbed carrier, comprising:
mounting a base on the flatbed carrier;
rotating a plurality of arms coupled to the base such that each of the arms engages the coil, wherein the plurality of arms includes a first arm, a second arm, a third arm, and a fourth arm, wherein a first cross member couples the first arm to the second arm, wherein a second cross member couples the third arm to the fourth arm, and wherein the rotating comprises:
rotating the first arm such that the first arm engages a first side of the coil;
rotating the second arm such that the second arm engages the first side of the coil;
rotating the third arm such that the third arm engages a second side of the coil; and
rotating the fourth arm such that the fourth arm engages the second side of the coil;
holding each of the plurality of arms against an outer surface of the coil via a plurality of tethers coupled to the plurality of arms; and
coupling each of the plurality of tethers to the flatbed carrier.
18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising adjusting a length of the first arm thereby accommodating a size of the coil.
19. The method of claim 18 , wherein the adjusting comprises moving a first segment of the first arm relative to a second segment of the first arm.
20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the moving comprises sliding the second segment within a sleeve that is coupled to the first segment.
21. The method of claim 17 , wherein the plurality of tethers comprises a first tether, a second tether, a third tether, and a fourth tether, and wherein the method further comprises:
coupling the first tether to the first arm;
coupling the second tether to the second arm;
coupling the third tether to the third arm; and
coupling the fourth tether to the fourth arm.
22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the coupling each of the plurality of the tethers to the flatbed carrier comprises coupling the first tether to a bracket mounted on an underside of the flatbed carrier.
23. The method of claim 21 , wherein the first tether comprises a chain.
24. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first arm comprises a first segment and a second segment that is movable relative to the first segment for adjusting a length of the first arm in order to accommodate a size of the coil.
25. The system of claim 24 , wherein the first arm comprises a sleeve coupled to the first segment, wherein the second segment is inserted into the sleeve
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US17/140,736 US20210300232A1 (en) | 2015-07-24 | 2021-01-04 | Systems and methods for securing cargo on a flatbed carrier |
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DE102005028525A1 (en) * | 2005-06-17 | 2006-12-28 | Fahrzeugwerk Bernard Krone Gmbh | Device for securing a charge |
US8272819B1 (en) * | 2009-06-23 | 2012-09-25 | Fontaine Trailer Company, Inc. | Restraining strap securement system |
US7503738B1 (en) * | 2008-04-03 | 2009-03-17 | Doyle Gregory T | Dunnage holder |
US8152425B2 (en) * | 2009-06-30 | 2012-04-10 | Michael Hazen | Apparatus for securing heavy columnar construction members, including oilfield tubulars, to a transporting conveyance and method of using the same |
US8016525B2 (en) * | 2009-07-28 | 2011-09-13 | Timothy Comeau | Dunnage holder |
US20120128441A1 (en) | 2010-11-18 | 2012-05-24 | Mcdaniel David M | Cargo restraint device |
US9637043B2 (en) * | 2014-12-15 | 2017-05-02 | Bruce Edward Nelson | Bale strapping apparatus |
US10144336B1 (en) * | 2015-07-24 | 2018-12-04 | Coilkeeper, LLC | Systems and methods for securing cargo on a flatbed carrier |
EA202091764A1 (en) * | 2018-02-01 | 2020-12-01 | Тринити Бэй Эквипмент Холдингс, Ллк | PALLET WITH SIDE GUIDES DESIGNED FOR COIL OF PIPES AND APPLICATION |
-
2015
- 2015-07-24 US US14/808,516 patent/US10144336B1/en active Active
-
2018
- 2018-10-31 US US16/176,613 patent/US10882441B2/en active Active
-
2021
- 2021-01-04 US US17/140,736 patent/US20210300232A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US1014846A (en) * | 1910-12-30 | 1912-01-16 | American Car & Foundry Co | Anchor for tank-bands. |
US20130320172A1 (en) * | 2012-05-30 | 2013-12-05 | Jerry Skorupa | Coil retainer and method of use |
CN113771732A (en) * | 2021-09-06 | 2021-12-10 | 东风柳州汽车有限公司 | Automatic stop device is transported to frame |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20190232857A1 (en) | 2019-08-01 |
US10144336B1 (en) | 2018-12-04 |
US10882441B2 (en) | 2021-01-05 |
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