US 8,262,328 B2 · Collapsible intermodal transport platform

Abstract

A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.

Claims29

Dependent claims

A transport platform comprising:

a frame having a plurality of deck beams, each deck beam having a slightly convex upper surface;
a deck bed having an upper loading surface with an arcuate profile and a slightly concave lower surface joined to the slightly convex upper surface of at least two of the plurality of deck beams;
and
a plurality of first braces, each first brace having a first end attached to the frame and a second end extending from and rotatable about the first end, each first brace rotatable between a stowed position at which the second end is proximate to the upper loading surface, and a lift position at which the second end is elevated from the upper loading surface;
wherein the arcuate profile of the upper loading surface results in a lower profile of the transport platform when each first brace is in the stowed position.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Collapsible intermodal transport platform

Life of this patent

Collapsible intermodal transport platform

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims29