Returnable dunnage for machined metal members

Abstract

A returnable dunnage assembly (25) for a machined metal member, such as a cylinder head (11) includes a relatively rigid plastic tray (27) and received therein, a relatively flexible, conformable plastic insert member (29). The insert member (29) has an internal profile (43) configured to be in engagement with a lower portion external profile (13) of the cylinder head (11) over at least a major portion thereof. The insert member (29) is removably disposed within the tray (27) and the fit of the insert member (29) within the tray (27) is such that the cylinder head (11) is accurately located relative to the tray, and can be inserted into, or removed from the tray by automated material handling means. The insert member (29) comprises a plastic material, such as a polyurethane, such that during movement of the dunnage assembly (25), the vibration will not cause the machined cylinder head to “shave” material from the insert member (29), which would then require a subsequent cleaning operation, prior to assembly of the cylinder head into the complete engine.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.