WO2008050124A2

WO2008050124A2 - A stillage

Info

Publication number: WO2008050124A2
Application number: PCT/GB2007/004068
Authority: WO
Inventors: William Garrie Perkins; Christopher Roger Meredith
Original assignee: Aalco Metals Limited
Priority date: 2006-10-27
Filing date: 2007-10-25
Publication date: 2008-05-02
Also published as: WO2008050124A3; GB0621372D0

Abstract

The present invention provides a collapsible stillage. Preferably the stillage comprises a base frame (1) comprising two substantially parallel elongate base frame members (2) and comprising at least one fixed cross bar (3) extending between the base frame members (2), the or each fixed cross bar (3) being arranged as a first layer to support materials supported by the stillage; and at least one side member (8) and at least one removable cross bar (6) reversibly connected to the at least one side member (8), the or each removable cross bar (6) arranged as a second or further layer to support materials supported by the stillage. The or each side member (8) is pivotally connected to the base frame such that the or each side member is moveable between a first position in which the or each side member extends transverse to a plane of the base frame and a second position in which the or each side member extends substantially parallel to the plane of the base frame.

Description

A STILLAGE

The present invention relates to a stillage. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a collapsible stillage. Embodiments of the present invention relate to stackable collapsible stillages.

A stillage is a rack or a pallet suitable for holding stored goods off the ground. Stillages are also used for supporting and separating goods in transit.

Commonly, within the distribution industry, in particular for distribution of extruded materials such as extruded steel products, there is a requirement for delivering elongate materials. Such elongate materials may be relatively soft, or otherwise susceptible to damage. Steel manufacturers themselves are typically accustomed to the handling requirements for materials of this nature. However, customers of the steel manufacturers, or other parties involved in the distribution chain, may not be accustomed to handling such materials. Other types of elongate materials, such as plastic and timber items, can also be easily damaged, and therefore must be stored and transported with care.

There is also a recognised requirement for a ready means of transporting materials which range widely in dimensions, without incurring the risk of damage to the materials. Unloading materials which have been transported in a mixed range of sizes without being secured correctly can be difficult or dangerous for customers who are not used to handling such materials.

It is known to transport elongate steel materials within stillages. Stillages are typically unloaded from a delivery vehicle at a customer's premises with the materials still supported on the stillage. As such, the materials are protected from leaving the manufacturer's premises to arriving at a customer's premises. However, either the materials must be immediately unloaded from the stillage so that the stillage can be returned with the delivery vehicle, or the current location of all stillages must be tracked, and the stillages retrieved later. A disadvantage of leaving stillages at a customer's premises is that many more stillages are required than those currently in use for transporting materials. Furthermore, an extra trip by a delivery vehicle must be made to retrieve the stillages. A disadvantage of returning stillages directly with the vehicle delivering the goods is that this can prevent the delivery vehicle from collecting further goods for the return journey. It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more of the problems of the prior art, whether identified above or elsewhere.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a stillage comprising: a base frame comprising two substantially parallel elongate base frame members and comprising at least one fixed cross bar extending between the base frame members, the or each fixed cross bar being arranged as a first layer to support materials supported by the stillage; and at least one side member and at least one removable cross bar reversibly connected to the at least one side member, the or each removable cross bar arranged as a second or further layer to support materials supported by the stillage; wherein the or each side member is pivotally connected to the base frame such that the or each side member is moveable between a first position in which the or each side member extends transverse to a plane of the base frame and a second position in which the or each side member extends substantially parallel to the plane of the base frame.

An advantage of the present invention is that the stillage may be collapsed by moving the or each side member to the second position such that the stillage takes up less volume than when the side member is in the first position. This is advantageous because once a stillage has been used to deliver materials to a customer, the stillage may be collapsed thus taking up less room upon a delivery vehicle for a return journey. Such a stillage may be used for transporting a wide range of elongate materials such as extruded steel or extruded plastic products.

A still further advantage of the present invention is that when in a fully erected state the stillage can support at least two layers of materials extending along the long axis of the stillage: materials can be supported by the fixed cross bar(s), and materials can be supported by the layer(s) defined by the removeable cross bar(s). This is advantageous because the stillage provides for the transport of at least two layers of materials as part of a single journey.

Collapsible stillages are known in the art. For example, GB 1,299,219 describes a collapsible stillage for the storage and transportation of materials in which materials are supported on the base. GB 697,491 describes a collapsible stillage or pallet in which materials are supported by a floor. US 5,692,625 describes a folding rack for transporting, storing and dispensing rolled goods in which the rolled goods are supported on side support members. US 5,242,255 describes a device for the transport of rolled goods in which the rolled goods are supported by holding elements arranged at the end of a base frame. US 2,956,763 describes a collapsible pallet for the transport of goods in which the goods are supported on a floor within the pallet structure. It is important to point out that none of the prior art documents disclose a pallet having a second or further layer to support materials supported by the stillage. Moreover, there is no suggestion in the prior art to modify the stillages disclosed therein so as to provide a second or further layer.

Furthermore, by connecting more than one removable cross bars at varying positions on the or each side member, the stillage of the invention could provide more than two support layers. However, preferably the removable cross bar(s) are arranged on the side members(s) such that the stillage provides two support layers.

Also, as set out below, the or each removable cross bar can be connected at a variable position on the side member such that the position of the second layer within the stillage can be varied._Preferably, when in the first position the or each side member extends substantially at ninety degrees from the plane of the base frame.

Preferably, the base frame members are connected by at least one base frame cross member extending between the base frame members.

Preferably, the or each fixed cross bar is supported by a respective base frame cross member extending between the base frame members.

Preferably, the or each fixed cross bar is attached to the or each base frame cross member. The or each fixed cross bar may be formed from wood.

Preferably, the or each side member is pivotally connected to a base frame member. Preferably, the or each side member comprises an elongate arm member. Preferably, the base frame further comprises at least one side post connected to a base frame member, the or each side member being pivotally attached to a corresponding side post.

Preferably, the or each side member further comprises an elongate slot and the or each side post further comprises a pivot pin adapted to pass through the elongate slot such that the or each side member is pivotable about the pivot pin between the first position and the second position.

Preferably, the or each side member further comprises a fixed locating pin and the or each side post further comprises a notch arranged such that when a side member is in the first position the fixed locating pin is received within a corresponding notch such that the side member is retained in the first position.

The at least one removable cross bar reversibly connected to the at least one side member can be connected at a fixed position on the side member to provide the second supporting layer. However, preferably the removable cross bar can be connected at a variable position on the side member so that the position of the second layer within the stillage can be varied.

Preferably the removable cross bar is connected to, and extends between, a pair of side members. Preferably, comprising a pair of side members, a first side member being pivotally connected to a first side of the base frame and a second side member being pivotally connected to an opposite second side of the base frame.

Preferably, the stillage further comprises a plurality of pairs of side members arranged along the first and second sides of the base frame. Preferably, the or each pair of side members are offset from one another along the length of the base frame members such that when in the second position the side members extend substantially parallel to one another.

As set out above the at least one removable cross bar is reversibly connected to the at least one side member. Any mechanism can be used to allow the removable cross bar to be reversibly connected to the side member.

Preferably, each side member further comprises an adjustable cross bar bracket arranged to support an end of the removable cross bar extending between a pair of side members when the pair of side members are in the first position. The or each removable cross bar may be arranged to support materials supported on the stillage. The or each removable cross bar may be formed from wood.

Preferably, each adjustable cross bar bracket comprises a sliding collar arranged to be slidable along the length of the side member and a bracket portion extending from the sliding collar to support an end of the removable cross bar.

Preferably, the adjustable cross bar bracket further comprises locking means for locking the adjustable cross bar bracket at one of a plurality of positions along the length of the side member.

Preferably, the locking means comprises a pin arranged to engage a hole within the sliding collar and one of a plurality of corresponding holes spaced along the length of the side member, such that the removable cross bar is positionable at any one of a plurality of positions relative to the base frame.

Preferably, the base frame further comprises at least one engaging means arranged such that the stillage is stackable on top of a second stillage. Preferably, the or each engaging means is arranged such that when the or each side member of the second stillage is in the first position the or each engaging means engages a corresponding end of a side member on the second stillage.

Preferably, the or each engaging means is arranged such that when the or each side member of the second stillage is in the second position the or each engaging means engages a corresponding side post on the second stillage.

Preferably, the or each engaging means comprises a preformed cup, the engaging means being arranged to receive a corresponding side member or side post substantially preventing movement of the first stillage relative to the second stillage within the plane of the base frame of the first stillage. Preferably, the stillage further comprises one or more pairs of engaging means arranged to accommodate a pair of side members or side posts substantially preventing movement of the first stillage relative to the second stillage. The base frame and the side members may be formed from metal. The stillage may be arranged to support elongate materials. The stillage may be arranged to support elongate materials during transport of said materials. The stillage may be arranged to support two or more layers of elongate material during transport of said materials.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of transporting materials, comprising: providing a stillage comprising a base frame and at least one side member, the stillage having at least two layers to support materials supported by the stillage; and positioning said materials upon the support layers of the stillage; wherein the or each side member is pivotally connected to the base frame such that the or each side member is moveable between a first position in which the or each side member extends transverse to a plane of the base frame and a second position in which the or each side member extends substantially parallel to the base frame.

Preferably, the stillage is as described above. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle trailer for supporting a stillage as defined in the first aspect of the invention when the or each side member of said stillage is in the first position, said trailer further comprising a compartment arranged to store said stillage when the or each side member of said stillage is in the second position.

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Figure 1 schematically illustrates a partial plan view of a stillage in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention illustrating side members in a second position and cross bars located upon a base frame;

Figure 2 schematically illustrates a base frame forming part of the stillage of Figure 1 , with the side members and cross bars removed;

Figure 3 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of the base frame shown in Figure 2; Figure 4 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of a fixed cross bar shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of the fixed cross bar of Figure 4;

Figures 6 schematically illustrates part of a removable cross bar bracket forming part of the base frame of the stillage of Figure 1;

Figure 7 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of part of the stillage of Figure 1 when a pair of side members are in the first position;

Figure 8 schematically illustrates in a partial plan view the pair of side members of Figure 7; Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a side post forming part of the base frame of the stillage of Figure 1, in partial side view and partial cross section respectively;

Figure 11 schematically illustrates a partial cross sectional view of part of the base frame of Figure 2, illustrating in greater detail two engaging means; Figure 12 schematically illustrates a cross sectional view of the engaging means of Figure 10;

Figure 13 schematically illustrates a side member forming part of the stillage of Figure 1; Figure 14 schematically illustrates in cross section the side member of Figure 13;

Figures 15 to 17 schematically illustrate an adjustable cross bar bracket forming part of a side member of the stillage shown in Figure 7; Figure 18 schematically illustrates in partial plan view a first stillage stacked on top of a second similar stillage;

Figure 19 schematically illustrates in cross section a first stillage stacked on top of a second stillage when the side members of the stillages are in the second position; Figure 20 schematically illustrates in cross section a first stillage stacked on top of a second stillage when side members of the stillages are in the first position; and

Figure 21 schematically illustrates part of a delivery vehicle adapted to transport stillages in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a stillage suitable for supporting elongate materials, such as steel poles, extruded steel products, extruded plastic items, timber items or any other similar product. In order to avoid the problems of the prior art described above relating to empty stillages taking up a large amount of room on delivery vehicles, stillages in accordance with embodiments of the present invention are arranged to be collapsible, such that when not being used to carry materials they may be collapsed thus taking up a smaller volume of space on a delivery vehicle. In particular, such a stillage is preferably arranged to be collapsible without requiring significant disassembling of the stillage itself, allowing the collapsing process to be carried out speedily. In addition, the stillage of the present invention provides two or more support layers by which the materials are supported within the stillage.

Furthermore, stillages in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, are arranged to be stackable upon similar stillages both when either the top stillage or the bottom stillage is in an erected state (that is ready to carry materials, or actually carrying materials) and when either the top stillage or the bottom stillage is in a collapsed state.

Advantageously, stillages in accordance with embodiments of the present invention are arranged such that they may be stacked on top of other stillages not in accordance with the present invention (for instance fixed frame stillages). This provides users of stillages in accordance with the present invention the flexibility to use such stillages in combination with their existing stillages for storing and transporting products. In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a modified delivery vehicle comprising a flat bed trailer upon which a stillage, or a stack of similar stillages, may be carried, in order to transport materials, the trailer also provides a storage compartment within which collapsed stillages, or a stack of collapsed stillages may be transported. A single loaded stillage may alternatively be transported in the storage compartment in place of a stack of collapsed stillages. Advantageously, such a trailer is able to deliver stillages carrying materials, and then return with the collapsed stillages, or other collapsed stillages stored within the second compartment without impacting upon the ability of the delivery vehicle to transport other goods upon the return journey. Referring first to Figure 1, a stillage in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated in partial plan view. Certain portions of the stillage are omitted from Figure 1 , in order to more clearly illustrate the remaining features. The stillage comprises a base frame 1 formed from two elongate longitudinal base frame members 2. Each base frame member 2 comprises an elongate metal bar, which in cross section forms a right angle. The base frame members 2 are arranged such that the open side of each right angle bar faces upwards, and towards the other base frame member 2. The base frame members 2 are arranged to be parallel to one another and lie in the same plane, such that the base frame 1 is formed generally in a single plane. In use, the base frame 1 is arranged such that its plane is horizontally disposed allowing materials to be loaded onto the stillage. Base frame 1 comprises further components, some of which are not shown in Figure 1, which will be described in greater detail in connection with Figure 2.

The stillage shown in Figure 1 further comprises six fixed cross bars 3 extending between the base frame members 2. A fixed cross bar 3 is positioned at either end of the base frame members 2, with a further four fixed cross bars 3 spaced along the length of the base frame 1. Each fixed cross bar 3 is formed from a wooden joist attached at either end to a respective base frame member 2. The fixed cross bars are supported by base frame cross members 4 which extend between the base frame members 2 and are attached to the base frame cross members 2 at either end, for instance by welding. The base frame cross members 4 comprise rectangular cross section channels within which the fixed cross bars 3 are located. Base frame cross members 4 may be formed from a rolled channel formed from a metal sheet. The base frame cross members 4 are shown in greater detail in Figures 4 and 5.

In order to secure each fixed cross bar 3 in place between the base frame members 2 each base frame cross member 4 is provided with holes towards either end in the upwards extending sections of the channel, through which bolts extend through both sides of the base frame cross member 4 and the fixed cross bar 3. Alternatively, other similar securing means that are known in the art may be used to secure the fixed cross bars 3.

Figure 1 further shows removable cross bar storage brackets 7 for removable cross bars 6. The purpose of the removable cross bars 6 will be described below in connection with Figures 7 and 8. Each removable cross bar storage bracket 7 comprises a pair of upwards extending metal plates fixed to a base frame member 2 to form an upwards facing slot arranged to receive an end of a removable cross bar 6. The removable cross bars 6 are formed from timber joists, similar to the fixed cross bars 3, except that they are not fixed in position in the removable cross bar storage brackets 7. Figure 1 further illustrates the stillage comprising six side members 8. The side members 8 comprise elongate arms which are each pivotally attached at one end to base frame 1. Specifically, each side member 8 is pivotally attached to a side post 9 connected to one or other base frame member 2. Each side post 9 forms an open slot within which an end of a side member 8 may be received, that end of the side member 8 further comprising an elongate slot through which a pivot pin 10 attached to a respective side post may be passed, allowing the side member to pivot about the pivot pin 10. Each side member 8 is able to move by pivoting about pivot pin 10 between a first position in which the side member 8 extends substantially at ninety degrees to the plane of the base frame 1 , and a second position in which the side member extends substantially parallel to the plane of the base frame 1, such as is shown in Figure 1. In the first position such that the side members 8 extend substantially at ninety degrees from the plane of the base frame 1, the stillage is in its erected state suitable for transporting materials. When the side members are in the second position extending substantially parallel to the plane of the base frame 1 , the stillage is in its collapsed state ready for being stored away or transported upon a delivery vehicle, once materials supported on the stillage have been delivered.

As shown in Figure 1 , side members 8 are arranged in pairs, each pair having one side member attached to a first base frame member 2, and a second side member 8 attached to the other base frame member 2. The pairs of side members 8 are arranged to be offset such that when the side members 8 are in the second position as shown in Figure 1 , the side members 8 lie parallel to one another, and do not overlap. The offsetting of the side members 8 is in order to ensure that when in the collapsed state shown in Figure 1 the stillage consumes as little space as possible. If the side members 8 were in line with one another, then when in the second position shown in Figure 1 they would interfere with one another and prevent both side members 8 from lying flat. Side members 8 are appropriately dimensioned such that when in the second position as shown in Figure 1 the end of the side member 8 remote from the pivot pin 10 extends across stillage base frame 1 and comes to rest upon the open portion of the opposite right angled base frame member 2.

Referring now to Figure 2, the stillage of Figure 1 is shown again in partial plan view, this time omitting fixed cross bars 3, removable cross bars 6 and side members 8 in order to illustrate further details of the base frame 1. Base frame members 2 are shown connected by two base plates 20 each of which comprises a substantially flat metal sheet extending between the base frame members 2 and attached, for instance by welding, to an underside of base frame members 2. The purpose of base plates 20 is to provide rigidity to the base frame 1 , by bracing base frame members 2 the correct distance apart. Base plates 20 are also arranged at an appropriate distance apart along the length of the base frame members 2 such that the stillage may be picked up by a forklift truck. A stillage may thus be lifted by a forklift truck, approaching the stillage from a long side of one of the base frame members 2 and inserting a fork under each base plate 20. Embodiments of the present invention which relate to stackable stillages are arranged such that stacked stillages may be un-stacked, for instance using a fork lift truck, by lifting one stillage or a stack of stillages vertically off the stillage below. This lifting procedure may readily be achieved by lifting up base plates 20. Figure 2 further illustrates in greater detail the base frame cross members 4 extending between the base frame members 2 with the fixed cross bars 3 removed. It can be seen that the base frame cross members 4 are spaced apart along the length of the base frame members 2 in order to join the base frame members 2 together at the correct spacing and provide a rigid frame. Each base frame cross member 4 comprises a length of rectangular cross section steel channel attached, for instance by welding, to the base frame members 2 and extending between the base frame members 2. The base frame cross members 4 are shaped at either end such that they overlap a respective base frame member 2, as is more clearly shown in Figures 4 and 5.

Figure 2 further illustrates the base frame 1 comprising six engaging means 21. Engaging means 21 comprise preformed feet. The engaging means 21 may be formed from pressed metal sheets. Engaging means 21 are attached, for instance by welding, to the underside of the base frame members 2 located underneath side posts 9. Engaging means 21 are arranged such that when a stillage is stacked on top of a second similar stillage the engaging means 21 receive the tops of the corresponding side members 8 of the second stillage (when the side members 8 are in the first, vertical position) or alternatively receive the side posts 9 of the second stillage (when the side members are in the second, horizontal position). The engaging means 21 comprise a square shaped cup having the open end pointing downwards, including sides that slope outwards towards the base of the engaging means 21. The outwards sloping sides are arranged to aid the stacking process by guiding the side posts 9 or side members 8 of the lower stillage into the correct location for the engaging means of the upper stillage. Advantageously, the engaging means 21 are suitably sized and positioned upon the base frame 1 to allow a stillage in accordance with embodiments of the present invention to be stacked on top of certain standard sized known stillages. The engaging means 21 are illustrated in greater detail in certain of the following figures, including Figures 11 and 12.

Referring now to Figure 3, this schematically illustrates in cross section part of the stillage shown in Figure 2 along the line 3:3 in the direction of the arrows. The cross sectional view illustrates base frame members 2 showing the right angled cross section of the base frame members 2, and a base plate 20. Base plate 20 comprises a substantially flat sheet of metal, which extends underneath and is attached to the base frame members 2.

Referring to Figure 4, this schematically illustrates in cross section part of the stillage of Figure 1, along the line 4:4 in the direction of the arrows. Figure 4 illustrates the base frame members 2 supporting a fixed cross bar 3. Fixed cross bar 3 may, for instance, be formed from a wooden joist extending between the base frame members 2, resting upon an upper portion of the base frame members 2 at either end. The fixed cross bar 3 is supported along its length by a base frame cross member 4, which extends between the pair of base frame members 2. As noted above, each base frame cross member 4 is shaped such that each end rests upon the open part of each base frame member 2. The base of the rectangular cross section channel is cut back at either end, where indicated at 25, such that the side parts of the channel rest upon the base frame members 2. Each base frame cross member 4 is attached, for instance by welding, at either end to a respective base frame member 2. Specifically, the side parts of the channel resting upon the base frame members 2 are welded in place. Welded above the sides of the channel at either end are square plates 26, which serve to extend the height of the channel. Holes 5 are located within the square plates for bolting the fixed cross bars 3 to the base frame cross members 4. Further holes 27 are located at either end of the side parts of the base frame cross members 4 for passing further bolts through the fixed cross member 3.

Referring to Figure 5, this illustrates in cross section the base frame member 4 of Figure 4 along the line 5:5 in the direction of the arrows. It can be seen that at either end of the base frame cross member 4 the plates 26 serve to extend the height of the channel of base frame cross member 4 in order to secure the fixed cross bar 3 using bolts (not shown) passing through the fixed cross bar 3 and holes 5 and 27.

Referring now to Figure 6, this shows in greater detail a plate forming part of a removable cross bar bracket 7. Plates 7 are welded in position along the base frame members 2 to form slots opposite one another across the base frame 1 for temporarily storing the removable cross bars 6. Referring to Figure 7, this schematically illustrates the stillage of Figure 1 in partial cross section along the line 7:7 in the direction of the arrows, with the exception that side members 8 are now shown in the first position extending substantially at ninety degrees from the plane of the base frame 1. It can be seen that side posts 9 extend above the plane of base frame 1 , and are attached to base frame members 2. Side posts 9 comprise an open slot within which pivot pin 10 is disposed. Pivot pin 10 extends through a first end of a corresponding side member 8, such that side member 8 can pivot within the side post between the first position shown in Figure 7 and the second position as shown in Figure 1, in which the side member extends between the two base frame members 2.

Pivot pin 10 extend through the side post 9 and passes through an elongate slot 30 within the side member 8. Elongate slot 30 allows the side member 8, when in the first position as shown in Figure 7, to move vertically upwards and downwards along the length of side member 8. Side member 8 further comprises a fixed locating pin 31, which, when the side member 8 is in the first position, rests upon a notch 32 at the upper end of side post 8 holding the side member 8 in position. To move the side member 8 to the second position extending substantially horizontally across the base frame 1, the side member 8 is first lifted vertically upwards within side post 9 such that the locating pin is freed from notch 32. While moving the side member 8 upwards pivot pin 10 travels from an upper end of slot 30 towards the lower end. Side member 8 can then pivot about pivot pin 10 towards the second position. Side post 9 and the connection to side member 8 will be described in greater detail in connection with Figures 9 and 10. Figure 7 further illustrates each side member 8 further comprising an adjustable cross bar bracket 33. Adjustable cross bar bracket 33 is arranged to slide along the length of side bar 8, and may be fixed in position at a plurality of positions along side bar 8 by passing a pin (not shown in Figure 7) through a hole 34 within adjustable cross bar bracket 33 and also through a corresponding hole 35 along side bar 8. A plurality of holes 35 are provided within side member 8 such that the adjustable cross bar bracket 33 can be positioned at a number of heights above the plane of the base frame 1 when the side member 8 is in the first position as shown in Figure 7. Adjustable cross bar bracket 33 is arranged to support a removable cross bar 6 shown in dashed outline form in Figure 7. Further elongate materials may thus be supported on three removable cross bars 6 extending between pairs of side members 8 along the length of the stillage. In this manner a stillage in its fully erected state can support two layers of materials extending along the long axis of the stillage: those resting on the fixed cross bars 3 and those resting higher up on the removable cross bars 6. As noted in Figure 1, pairs of side member 8 are provided along the length of base frame 1. The pairs of side members 8 are provided in an offset formation such that in order to support a removable cross bar 3 between a pair of side members 8 the adjustable cross bar brackets 33 extend from opposite sides of the side members 8 for the pair of side members.

Referring to Figure 8, the pair of side members 8 shown in Figure 8 are shown in partial plan form in order to clarify the relative arrangement of the adjustable cross bar brackets 33 and the removable cross bar 6. Upper portions of the pair of side members 8 are shown in Figure 8, along with part of the corresponding pair of base frame members 2. Positioned around each side member 8, adjustable cross bar bracket 33 is formed from a piece of square cross section tubular material. Adjustable cross bar bracket 33 further comprises a bracket portion 36 extending from one side of the tube part of the bracket. As can be seen in Figure 5B, side members 8 are offset along the length of base frame members 2. In order to ensure that removable cross bar 6 extends between the side members 8 substantially at ninety degrees to the base frame members 2, bracket portions 36 are provided on opposite sides of adjustable cross bar bracket 33 for the side members 8. The construction of each adjustable cross bar bracket 33 will be described in greater detail in connection with Figures 15 to 17. Referring back to Figure 7, this further shows in cross section the engaging means 21 forming part of base frame 1. Engaging means 21 comprise preformed square cups arranged to fit over an upper end of either a side member 8 or a side post 9 of a stillage upon which a second stillage is stacked. Movement of the upper stillage relative to the lower stillage is prevented by the side walls of the cups, which also serve to prevent the upper stillage from slipping off the lower stillage. As noted above, the side members 8 and seat posts 9 for each pair of side members 8 are offset such that in order for the engaging means 21 to line up correctly with both of a pair of side members 8 or side posts 9, the engaging means 21 are also offset along the base frame members 2 to line up with the pair of side members 8. Referring to Figure 9, this schematically illustrates in side view a side post 9.

It can be seen that side post 9 comprises a plate of material 40 positioned extending upwards at ninety degrees to base frame member 2. A second similar plate of material 40 is provided spaced apart along the base frame member 2 in order to form a channel 42. Channel 42 is closed off by back plate 41. A front plate 43 is also provided, though as can be seen the front plate 43 is lower than side plates 40

Referring to Figure 10 this illustrates in partial cross section the side post 9 of Figure 9 along the line 10: 10 in the direction of the arrows. It can be seen that the two side plates 40, back plate 41 and the front plate 43 collectively form an open channel 42 within which a lower end of a side member 8 is received. It can be seen that the side post 9 is positioned upon the base frame member 2 such that back plate 41 is lined up with the upright portion of base frame member 2. Pivot pin 10 passes through plates 40 and side member 8 such that side member 8 can rotate about the pivot pin 10 between the first position shown in Figures 7 and 9 in which the side member 8 is substantially at ninety degrees to the plane of the base frame 1 , and the second position shown in Figure 1 in which the side member extends across the base frame 1. Pivot pin 10 passes through elongate slot 30 within the side member 8, which as noted above allows the pivot pin to slide along the elongate slot 30 when the side member 8 is lifted up and down. When side member 8 is in the first position, side member 8 comes to rest against back plate 41 within channel 42, and thus is prevented from rotating further about pivot pin 10. Front plate 43 also serves to stop the side member 8 from rotating further than the upright position shown in Figure 9.

When in the first position as shown in Figure 9 fixed locating pin 31, which extends through the side member 8, comes to rest within a notch 32 in the upper part of the side post 9 to hold the side member upright. In order to move the side member 8 from the first position shown in Figure 9 to the second position as shown in Figure 1 the side member 8 is first lifted upwards to free locating pin 31 from notch 32. Elongate slot 30 slides over the pivot pin 10 until the pivot pin 10 comes to rest against the lower end of the elongate slot 30. From that position the side member may be rotated about pivot pin 10 over the front plate 43 such that the upper end of the side member 8 comes to rest upon the other base frame member 2.

Referring to Figure 11, this shows in greater detail a pair of engaging means 21 attached to the base frame members 2. Figure 10 is a partial cross sectional view of Figure 2 along the line 11 :11 in the direction of the arrows. The engaging means 21 are attached to the underside of the base frame members 2, positioned below a respective side post 9 (not shown for clarity in Figure 11). Each engaging means comprises an open cup, which is square in horizontal cross section having sloping sides which slope outwards as they point downwards.

Figure 12 shows in cross section a single engaging means 21 within Figure 11 along the line 12:12 in the direction of the arrows. It can be seen that the engaging means are the same in cross section along either axis. The engaging means 21 are arranged to receive either top portions of a pair of side members for a second similar stillage upon which the stillage is to be stacked, or top portions of a pair of side posts 9 for the second similar stillage if the other stillage is in the collapsed state.

Referring to Figure 13, this shows in greater detail a side view of a side member 8. Side member 8 comprises a substantially square cross section elongate length of metal bar. Dispersed along the length of side member 8 are holes 35 arranged to receive a pin (not shown) attaching an adjustable cross bar bracket 33 to the side member 8. Side member 8 further comprises elongate slot 30 towards its lower end through which pivot pin 10 passes. Figure 13 further shows the side member 8 comprising fixed locating pin 31 which passes through the side member 8 and is arranged to fit into notch 32 in the side post 9 when the side member 8 is in the first position, as described above in connection with Figures 9 and 10.

Figure 14 shows the side member 8 of Figure 13 in cross section along the line 14:14 in the direction of the arrows. Figure 14 illustrates the fixed locating pin 31 protruding from both sides of the side member 8.

Referring to Figures 15 to 17, these schematically illustrate the adjustable cross bar bracket 33. Figure 15 illustrates the adjustable cross bar bracket 33 in cross section. The adjustable cross bar bracket 33 comprises a substantially square tube of material 50 located about side member 8. Holes 34 are positioned upon opposite sides of tube 50 to allow the passage of a pin (not shown) to pass through the adjustable cross bar bracket 33 and a corresponding hole 35 alongside member 8. Extending from the side of tube 50 is bracket portion 36. Bracket portion 36 comprises a flat portion 51 and an upright angled comer 52.

Figure 16 illustrates the adjustable cross bar bracket 33 of Figure 15 in a side view looking along arrow 16 illustrating the relative arrangement of tube 50 through which side member 8 passes, the flat portion 51 and the upright comer 52. Flat portion 51 is formed from a right angled section of metal attached, for instance by welding to tube 50. Comer 52 comprises an upright right angled section of metal attached on the upper surface of flat portion 51.

Figure 17 schematically illustrates an end view of the adjustable cross bar bracket 33, viewed from the left hand side of the side view of Figure 16 looking along arrow 17. The end view of Figure 17 illustrates the tube 50, which is attached to the right angled metal forming flat portion 51 which in turn supports corner part 52.

Referring to Figure 18, this schematically illustrates in partial plan view the relative alignment of a pair of side members 8 and a corresponding pair of engaging means 21 when a first stillage is stacked upon a second stillage. Each engaging means 21 is positioned attached to an underside of a base frame member 2 underneath a corresponding side post 9 and side member 8. The side members 8 of a second stillage are shown in the first position, that is upright extending at substantially ninety degrees from a plane of the base frame 1 formed by base frame members 2. The two stillages are arranged such that their base frame members 2 line up one above the other. When stacked, as shown in Figure 18, an upper part of a side member 8 of the lower stillage is received centrally within the each engaging means 21. Each engaging means 21 prevents the side member 8 or side post 9 over which it is seated from moving relative to the upper stillage.

Referring to Figure 19, this schematically illustrates in cross section a first stillage stacked on top of a second stillage. It can be seen that engaging means 21 of the upper stillage engage and surround upper ends of the side posts 9 of the lower stillage. Figure 19 represents a situation in which two stillages are stacked when at least the lower stillage is in its collapsed state, that is with side members 8 extending across the base frame 1 between base frame members 2. The weight of the two stacked stillages is supported by the engaging means 21 of the lower stillage. It will be appreciated that for a stillage such as shown in Figures 1 and 2, there are three similar pairs of engaging means 21 spaced along the length of the base frame 1, such that the stillage is supported equally along the whole of its length.

Referring to Figure 20, this illustrates two stillages stacked one on top of another along a similar view to that of Figure 19, however in the illustration of Figure 20 both stillages are in the erected state, that is side members 8 extend substantially at ninety degrees to the plane of the base frame 1. It can be seen that the arrangement of each stillage in cross section resembles that shown in Figure 7. Figure 20 represents a partial cross sectional view along the line 20:20 shown in Figure 18, in the direction of the arrows. Engaging means 21 of the upper stillage are supported by and surround upper ends of the side members 8 from the lower stillage.

Referring to Figure 21, this illustrates in cross section part of a trailer for delivery vehicles suitable for delivering materials supported by stillages in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Other details of the delivery vehicle and the remainder of the trailer may be entirely conventional, and as such are not illustrated in Figure 21. Figure 21 illustrates a cross section of such a trailer along the length of the trailer. Trailer 50 comprises a first portion 51 defined by a flat loading bed 52. One or more stillages, or a stack of stillages may be supported upon the loading bed 52. Figure 21 illustrates a stack of three stillages 53 stacked one on top of another in their erected state suitable for transporting materials 55. Stillages 53 are positioned on loading bed 52. Figure 21 further illustrates the trailer 50 comprising a further compartment 54, which may be used to transport one or more stacked stillages, when the stillages are stacked in their collapsed state. Alternatively compartment 54 may be used to transport a single erected stillage loaded with materials to be transported. Compartment 54 is illustrated carrying three stacked collapsed stillages 56. As discussed above, the delivery vehicle trailer 50 may be readily loaded and unloaded for instance by the use of a fork-lift truck to lift a stillage or a stack of stillages onto either the loading bed 52 or into the storage compartment 54.

While the above embodiments of the present invention have been primarily described in connection with storing and transporting elongate steel materials, it will be readily apparent that the present invention may be applied to transporting any materials by resting the materials upon the fixed cross bars or the removable cross bars such that the materials extend along the length of the stillage. In particular, embodiments of the present invention have particular utility for transporting extruded plastic items.

The above embodiments refer to stacking similar stillages. However, certain embodiments of the present invention are arranged such that they may be stacked on other known types of stillage, or that known types of stillages may be stacked on top of the stillages in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

Further modifications and applications will be readily apparent to the appropriately skilled person without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stillage comprising: a base frame comprising two substantially parallel elongate base frame members and comprising at least one fixed cross bar extending between the base frame members, the or each fixed cross bar being arranged as a first layer to support materials supported by the stillage; and at least one side member and at least one removable cross bar reversibly connected to the at least one side member, the or each removable cross bar arranged as a second or further layer to support materials supported by the stillage; wherein the or each side member is pivotally connected to the base frame such that the or each side member is moveable between a first position in which the or each side member extends transverse to a plane of the base frame and a second position in which the or each side member extends substantially parallel to the plane of the base frame.

2. A stillage according to claim 1, wherein when in the first position the or each side member extends substantially at ninety degrees from the plane of the base frame.

3. A stillage according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the base frame members are connected by at least one base frame cross member extending between the base frame members.

4. A stillage according to any of the previous claims wherein the or each fixed cross bar is supported by a respective base frame cross member extending between the base frame members.

5. A stillage according to claim 4, wherein the or each fixed cross bar is attached to the or each base frame cross member.

6. A stillage according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the or each fixed cross bar is formed from wood.

7. A stillage according to any one of the previous claims wherein the or each side member is pivotally connected to a base frame member.

8. A stillage according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or each side member comprises an elongate arm member.

9. A stillage according to any of the previous claims, wherein the base frame further comprises at least one side post connected to a base frame member, the or each side member being pivotally attached to a corresponding side post.

10. A stillage according to claim 9, wherein the or each side member further comprises an elongate slot and the or each side post further comprises a pivot pin adapted to pass through the elongate slot such that the or each side member is pivotable about the pivot pin between the first position and the second position.

11. A stillage according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the or each side member further comprises a fixed locating pin and the or each side post further comprises a notch arranged such that when a side member is in the first position the fixed locating pin is received within a corresponding notch such that the side member is retained in the first position.

12. A stillage according to any of the previous claims wherein the at least one removable cross bar reversibly connected to the at least one side member can be connected at a variable position on the side member so that the position of the second layer within the stillage can be varied.

13. A stillage according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a pair of side members, a first side member being pivotally connected to a first side of the base frame and a second side member being pivotally connected to an opposite second side of the base frame.

14. A stillage according to claim 13, further comprising a plurality of pairs of side members arranged along the first and second sides of the base frame.

15. A stillage according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the or each pair of side members are offset from one another along the length of the base frame members such that when in the second position the side members extend substantially parallel to one another.

16. A stillage according to any of claims 13 to 15 wherein the at least one removable cross bar is reversibly connected to, and extends between, a pair of side members.

17. A stillage according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein each side member further comprises an adjustable cross bar bracket arranged to support an end of the removable cross bar extending between a pair of side members when the pair of side members are in the first position.

18. A stillage according to any of the previous claims, wherein the or each removable cross bar is formed from wood

19. A stillage according to any one of claims 17 to 18, wherein each adjustable cross bar bracket comprises a sliding collar arranged to be slidable along the length of the side member and a bracket portion extending from the sliding collar to support an end of the removable cross bar.

20. A stillage according to claim 19, wherein the adjustable cross bar bracket further comprises locking means for locking the adjustable cross bar bracket at one of a plurality of positions along the length of the side member.

21. A stillage according to claim 20, wherein the locking means comprises a pin arranged to engage a hole within the sliding collar and one of a plurality of corresponding holes spaced along the length of the side member, such that the removable cross bar is positionable at any one of a plurality of positions relative to the base frame.

22. A stillage according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base frame further comprises at least one engaging means arranged such that the stillage is stackable on top of a second stillage.

23. A stillage according to claim 22, wherein the or each engaging means is arranged such that when the or each side member of the second stillage is in the first position the or each engaging means engages a corresponding end of a side member on the second stillage.

24. A stillage according to claim 22 or 23 when dependent upon claim 9, wherein the or each engaging means is arranged such that when the or each side member of the second stillage is in the second position the or each engaging means engages a corresponding side post on the second stillage.

25. A stillage according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the or each engaging means comprises a preformed cup, the engaging means being arranged to receive a corresponding side member or side post substantially preventing movement of the first stillage relative to the second stillage within the plane of the base frame of the first stillage.

26. A stillage according to claim 25, when dependent upon 15, further comprising one or more pairs of engaging means arranged to accommodate a pair of side members or side posts substantially preventing movement of the first stillage relative to the second stillage.

27. A stillage according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base frame and the side members are formed from metal.

28. A stillage according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stillage is arranged to support elongate materials.

29. A stillage according to claim 28, wherein the stillage is arranged to support elongate materials during transport of said materials.

30. A method of transporting materials, comprising: providing a stillage comprising a base frame and at least one side member, the stillage having at least two layers to support materials supported by the stillage; and, positioning said materials upon the support layers of the stillage; wherein the or each side member is pivotally connected to the base frame such that the or each side member is moveable between a first position in which the or each side member extends transverse to a plane of the base frame and a second position in which the or each side member extends substantially parallel to the base frame.

31. A method according to claim 30, wherein the stillage is in accordance with any one claims 1 to 29.

32. A vehicle trailer for supporting a stillage according to any one of claims 1 to 29 when the or each side member of said stillage is in the first position, said trailer further comprising a compartment arranged to store said stillage when the or each side member of said stillage is in the second position.

33. A stillage, substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

34. A method of transporting materials, substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

35. A vehicle trailer, substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to the accompanying drawings.