U.S. patent application number 11/558067 was filed with the patent office on 2007-12-06 for frame adapted to be fitted inside an outer container.
Invention is credited to Allan Grainger.
Application Number | 20070278169 11/558067 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38828440 |
Filed Date | 2007-12-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070278169 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Grainger; Allan |
December 6, 2007 |
FRAME ADAPTED TO BE FITTED INSIDE AN OUTER CONTAINER
Abstract
A removable frame (100) is adapted to be fitted inside an outer
container (800) and to support at least one inner container (600,
700). The frame includes a plurality of arrangements (116, 126,
138) configurable to contact an inner surface of the outer
container, such contact limiting movement of the frame relative to
the outer container.
Inventors: |
Grainger; Allan;
(Pen-y-Darren Park, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KING & SCHICKLI, PLLC
247 NORTH BROADWAY
LEXINGTON
KY
40507
US
|
Family ID: |
38828440 |
Appl. No.: |
11/558067 |
Filed: |
November 9, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60809719 |
May 31, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
211/186 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2519/00761
20130101; B65D 2519/00666 20130101; B65D 19/08 20130101; B65D
2519/00621 20130101; B65D 90/0073 20130101; B65D 2519/00024
20130101; B65D 2519/00298 20130101; B65D 2519/00532 20130101; B65D
2519/00059 20130101; B65D 2519/00164 20130101; B65D 2519/00338
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/186 |
International
Class: |
A47B 43/00 20060101
A47B043/00 |
Claims
1. A removable frame adapted to be fitted inside an outer container
and to support at least one inner container, the frame including a
plurality of arrangements configurable to contact an inner surface
of the outer container, such contact limiting movement of the frame
relative to the outer container.
2. A removable frame according to claim 1, wherein the frame is
fitted to the outer container without requiring permanent/invasive
modification of the outer container.
3. A removable frame according to claim 2, wherein frictional
contact limits the relative movement.
4. A removable frame according to claim 3, wherein the
movement-limiting arrangements also releaseably secure the frame
inside the outer container.
5. A removable frame according to claim 1, wherein a said movement
limiting arrangement includes a pad configured to contact an inner
surface of the outer container, the position of the pad relative to
the frame being adjustable.
6. A removable frame according to claim 6, wherein the pad has
increased frictional characteristics compared with other components
of the frame/outer container.
7. A removable frame according to claim 5, wherein the pad is at
least partially formed of compressible material such as rubber.
8. A removable frame according to claim 6, wherein the pad has an
adhesive applied to it.
9. A removable frame according to claim 5, wherein the position of
the pad may be adjusted by means of the pad being mounted on a
threaded member.
10. A removable frame according to claim 1, wherein the
movement-limiting arrangements are configured to contact an upper
and/or lower inner surface of the outer container and at least one
inner side surface of the outer container.
11. removable frame according to claim 1, wherein the frame is
assembled from a plurality of sub assemblies with at least some of
the sub assemblies including the movement-limiting
arrangements.
12. A removable frame according to claim 11, including a first said
sub assembly configured to extend partially between lower and upper
[[(]]floor and ceiling[[)]] surfaces of the outer container, the
first sub assembly including at least one said movement-limiting
arrangement configured to contact a lower or upper surface of the
outer container.
13. A removable frame according to claim 12, wherein the frame
includes an upper sub assembly configured to frt on top of the
first sub assembly, the upper sub assembly including at least one
said movement-limiting arrangement configured to contact an upper
portion of at least one inner side surface of the outer
container.
14. A removable frame according to claim 12, wherein the frame
includes a lower sub assembly configured to fit onto a lower end
the first sub assembly, the lower sub assembly including at least
one said movement-limiting arrangement configured to contact a
lower portion of at least one inner side surface of the outer
container.
15. A removable frame according to claim 11, wherein the sub
assemblies may be at least partially connected together by means of
at least one readily releasable device, such as a shot bolt, that
does not require routine use of a tool to lock/release it.
16. A removable frame according to claim 11, wherein a first said
sub assembly includes a plurality of uprights connected together by
a plurality of cross-beams, each said upright being configured to
be located adjacent a sidewall of the outer container, the
removable frame further including upper and/or lower said sub
assembly configured to connect a pair of said uprights together
across a width of the outer container.
17. A removable frame according to claim 14, wherein the lower sub
assembly includes at least one formation for receiving a
corresponding at least one formation of a said inner container.
18. A removable frame according to claim 1, including an
arrangement configured to-releaseably secure the at least one inner
container in the frame, a lockable gate.
19. A removable frame according to claim 1, further including a
shelving frame upon which a said inner container can be supported,
the shelving frame including at least one formation configured to
cooperate with at teast one corresponding formation on the inner
container, thereby assisting with securing the inner container
within the frame.
20. A removable frame according to claim 1, further including a
dividing member.
21. A storage system including at least one removable frame
according to claim 1, and: at least one said inner container,
and/or at least one said outer container.
22. A method of fitting a removable frame to an outer container,
the removable frame being adapted to support at least one inner
container and the method including: placing the frame inside the
outer container, and adjusting a plurality of arrangements to
contact an inner surface of the outer container, such contact
limiting movement of the frame relative to the outer container.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/809,719, filed May 31, 2006.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a frame adapted to be
fitted inside an outer container.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Various types of heavy-duty storage containers are
available. Such containers need to be versatile and capable of
securely storing items, sometimes during transportation. A type of
storage container widely used in this way (especially by the US
military) is commonly known as a "Quadcon" container or box. This
is a heavy-duty container that is capable of withstanding use in
rough situations and can often be dropped from considerable heights
or moved violently during transportation over uneven terrain. Such
boxes are heavy and difficult to handle and need to be safely
secured to avoid accidental damage or injury. The contents of
Quadcon boxes are checked regularly, e.g. once every month, and
moving the boxes for access and then reloading them into the
container/rack is a tedious and time consuming process, and has the
associated risks mentioned above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Quadcon boxes commonly store several inner containers/boxes
that may themselves be heavy and difficult to handle. Obviously,
these inner containers also need to be secured inside the Quadcon
boxes to avoid damage and safety risks. Difficulties therefore
arise if the dimensions of the inner containers do not match those
of the Quadcon boxes. Further, although the Quadcon boxes are
intended to have standard dimensions, variations, particularly on
their inner surfaces, are not uncommon.
[0005] As Quadcon boxes have a standard configuration (governed by
an ISO standard), modifying them is undesirable and not generally
allowed. In particular, it is undesirable to drill holes through
surfaces of the boxes, or to weld restraining hooks or the like
onto them. Therefore, it can be difficult to secure smaller
containers of various sizes inside Quadcon boxes.
[0006] Embodiments of the present invention are intended to address
at least some of the problems addressed above.
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a removable frame adapted to be fitted inside an outer
container and to support at least one inner container, the frame
including a plurality of arrangements configurable to contact an
inner surface of the outer container, such contact limiting
movement of the frame relative to the outer container.
[0008] Thus, the frame can be fitted to the outer container without
requiring (permanent/invasive) modification of the outer container,
e.g. no part of the frame (or associated components) need penetrate
a surface of the outer container, nor is there any need for welding
or some other type of fixing that is intended to be
permanent/long-term. Frictional contact can limit the relative
movement. The movement-limiting arrangements may also releaseably
secure the frame inside the outer container. The movement-limiting
arrangements may be readily removable from the outer container. For
example, the movement-limiting arrangements may be removed by being
rotated (directly) by hand. A said movement-limiting arrangement
may include a pad configured to contact an inner surface of the
outer container, the position of the pad relative to the frame
being adjustable. The pad may have increased frictional
characteristics compared with other components of the frame/outer
container, e.g. it may be formed at least partially of rubber. The
pad may be at least partially formed of compressible material. The
pad may have an adhesive applied to it. Force exerted by the
movement-limiting arrangement may maintain the contact. The
position of the pad may be adjusted by means of the pad being
mounted on a threaded member.
[0009] The frame may be assembled from a plurality of sub
assemblies. At least some of the sub assemblies may include at
least some of the movement-limiting arrangements. The
movement-limiting arrangements may be configured to contact an
upper and/or lower inner surface of the outer container and at
least one side surface of the outer container.
[0010] The frame may include a first sub assembly configured to
extend between lower and upper surfaces (floor and ceiling) of the
outer container. The first sub assembly may include at least one
movement-limiting arrangement configured to contact a lower or
upper surface of the outer container. The frame may include an
upper sub assembly configured to fit on top of the first sub
assembly. The upper sub assembly may further include at least one
said movement-limiting arrangement configured to contact an upper
portion of at least one inner side surface of the outer
container.
[0011] The frame may further include a lower sub assembly
configured to fit onto a lower end the first sub assembly. The
lower sub assembly may further include at least one said
movement-limiting arrangement configured to contact a lower portion
of at least one inner side surface of the outer container.
[0012] The upper and/or lower sub assembly may be at least partly
fitted to the first sub assembly by means of at least one readily
releasable device, such as a shot bolt, that does not require
routine use of a tool to lock/release.
[0013] The first sub assembly may include a plurality of uprights
connected together by a plurality of cross-beams. There may be a
pair of such connected uprights, and each said upright can be
configured to be located adjacent a respective sidewall of the
outer container. The upper and/or lower sub assembly may be
configured to connect a said pair of connected uprights together
across a width of the outer container.
[0014] The lower sub assembly may include at least one formation
for receiving a corresponding at least one formation of another
said sub assembly. The formation of the lower sub assembly may
include a recess or aperture and the formation of the other said
sub assembly can include a projection. Sidewalls of the recess or
aperture may be sloped.
[0015] The frame may include an arrangement configured to
releaseably secure the at least one inner container in the frame,
e.g. a lockable (front) gate. The frame may further include a
shelving frame upon which a said inner container can be supported.
The shelving frame may include at least one formation (e.g. a slot
or aperture) configured to cooperate with at least one
corresponding formation on the inner container, thereby assisting
with securing the inner container within the frame. The frame can
further include a dividing member.
[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a storage system including at least one frame
substantially as described herein and at least one inner container.
The storage system may further include a said outer container.
[0017] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of fitting a frame to an outer container, the
frame being adapted to support at least one inner container and the
method including:
[0018] placing the frame inside the outer container, and
[0019] adjusting a plurality of arrangements to contact an inner
surface of the outer container, such contact limiting movement of
the frame relative to the outer container.
[0020] According to another aspect of this invention there is
provided a device for assisting with holding an inner container
within an outer container, the device including:
[0021] a first engaging member for engaging a formation or portion
adjacent a first point of an upper surface of an inner
container;
[0022] a second engaging member for engaging a formation or portion
adjacent another point of the upper surface of the inner
container;
[0023] an arrangement for releasing the first and second engaging
members.
[0024] The first and second engaging members may be located
adjacent generally opposite ends of an elongate member. The
elongate member may be connected to a frame attached to the outer
container (or directly to the outer container). The elongate member
may be pivotally connected to the frame/outer container, with
pivoting movement of the elongate member resulting in disengagement
of the first engaging member. The device may include a device for
biasing the elongate member so that it causes the first and/or
second engaging members engage the upper surface. A pivot point of
the elongate member may be fitted within a slot that allows
longitudinal movement of the first and second members so that the
second engaging member can be slid out of contact with the upper
surface of the inner container.
[0025] Whilst the invention has been described above, it extends to
any inventive combination of the features set out above or in the
following description. Although illustrative embodiments of the
invention are described in detail herein with reference to the
accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is
not limited to those precise embodiments. As such, many
modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners
skilled in this art. Furthermore, it is contemplated that a
particular feature described either individually or as part of an
embodiment can be combined with other individually described
features, or parts of other embodiments, even if the other features
and embodiments make no mention of the particular feature. Thus,
the invention extends to such specific combinations not already
described.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
[0026] The invention may be performed in various ways, and, by way
of example: only, embodiments thereof will now be described,
reference being made to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of the frame;
[0028] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a lower sub-assembly of the
frame;
[0029] FIG. 3 is a front view of the lower sub-assembly;
[0030] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the frame of FIG. 1
fitted with an inner storage container;
[0031] FIG. 5 is a different perspective view of the frame and
container of FIG. 4;
[0032] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an inner storage container
that is fitted with a plurality of further inner containers;
[0033] FIG. 7 is a front view of the inner containers of FIG. 6
stored in an outer container using the frame;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a front view of another arrangement of inner
containers stored in the outer container using the frame;
[0035] FIG. 9 is a schematic front view of another type of outer
container including an example of a fastening device that holds an
inner container in position;
[0036] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of the containers of 9;
[0037] FIG. 11 details an alternative embodiment of the connecting
device, and FIGS. 12A to 12D illustrate diagrammatically an
unlocking operation of the fastening device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0038] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an example of a pair of
frames, with the viewpoint being located above and to the right of
the central axes of the frames. For brevity, only one of the frames
(100) will be described in detail, but both frames are
substantially identical. Certain features are only visible on one
of the frames in the Figure, although it will be understood that
they are present on both frames. In use, each of the frames can be
fitted inside an outer container (not shown in FIG. 1), in a
back-to-back arrangement, with one of the frames 100' being located
at what will be referred to, for ease of reference, as the front
end of the outer container and the other frame 100 being located at
the rear end of the container. However, it will be understood that
in some cases only one frame may be fitted inside an outer
container, or frames could be arranged in an alternative manner,
e.g. side-by-side.
[0039] The frame 100 comprises three main sub assemblies, namely a
first sub assembly 102 that is connected to an upper sub assembly
104 and a lower sub assembly 106. The first sub assembly 102
comprises a set of four uprights 110A-110D arranged to form a
4.times.4 square grid, but it will be understood that the spacing
of the uprights could be modified, e.g. to form a rectangular
subassembly. The pair of uprights 110A, 110D at the left-hand side
of the Figure will, in use, be fitted adjacent a left-hand inner
sidewall of the outer container. The pair of uprights 110B, 110C at
the right-hand side of the Figure will, in use, be fitted adjacent
a right-hand inner sidewall of the outer container. The height of
the uprights is normally chosen to be slightly less then the height
of the space inside the outer container.
[0040] The left-hand uprights 110A, 110D are connected together by
means of a pair of horizontal beams 112A, 112B, with a cross-beam
114 running diagonally between the two horizontal beams. The
right-hand uprights 110B, 110C are connected together by a similar
set of horizontal and cross-beams. As can be seen, each of the
uprights 100A-110D is of square U-shape cross-section, the side of
each upright that faces an adjacent side of the other upright in
its pair (e.g. 110A and 110D) being open. The ends of the
horizontal beams 112 fit into these open sides and so can be
connected to the inner surfaces of the uprights. The side surfaces
of the uprights have a plurality of evenly-spaced apertures
111.
[0041] Square shaped end panels 115 are fitted/formed at both ends
of each upright 110. Each lower end panel may have
friction-increasing properties, e.g. it may be formed or rubber or
another material that is partially rubberised, or the panels may
have (removable) adhesive applied to them. Each upper end panel has
fitted on its upper surface an adjustable device 116. Each device
116, in use, is adjusted to contact an inner surface of the outer
container when the first sub assembly 102 is fitted therein,
thereby limiting or preventing relative movement of the sub
assembly (and other components connected to it) and the outer
container. In the example, the device 116 is an adjustable jack
having a threaded member with a frusto-conical pad 116A fitted at
one end. The pad may have improved frictional properties, e.g. be
formed of rubber or similar material (and therefore may also be
compressible) and/or have a friction-increasing coating or adhesive
applied to it. In the example the pads are all formed of rubber.
When rotated (by hand or using a tool), the device
extends/retracts, allowing the pad 116A to come into (or break)
contact with an adjacent surface. It will be understood that in
other embodiments, other types of adjustable devices could be used,
e.g. a slidable/telescopic mechanism that can be configured to be
set at a selected length, or a removable wedge or the like. In more
complex embodiments, a knob arrangement or the like may be provided
for adjusting more than one adjustable device at a time.
[0042] The upper sub assembly 104 includes a rectangular frame
comprising a pair of opposed end elongate members 120A, 120C and a
pair of opposed side elongate members 120D, 120B. In the example
the side elongate members 120 have a length sufficient to span from
one end of the frame 100 to the remote end of the other frame 100';
however, it will be understood that the dimensions of the upper sub
assembly could be modified so that it fits on only one of the
frames (i.e. be dimensioned to correspond with the square shaped
formed by the four corner uprights of the first sub assembly 102).
The elongate members 120 are of L-shaped cross-section. Cross
beams/bars 122 extend diagonally between the side members for
reinforcement. There is also a central beam 122 that extends
straight between the pair of side members 120B, 120D, at a point
that corresponds with the location of the uprights 110C, 110D. The
central beam 124 is of square U-shape cross-section and may include
a set of spaced-apart apertures 125.
[0043] At each corner of the upper sub assembly 104 there is a
depending corner piece. (Two of these corner pieces, labelled 126A
and 126B, can be partially seen in FIG. 1 on the (rear end) frame
100, located above its rear end uprights 110A, 110B). The corner
pieces are generally L-shaped brackets, with one portion of each
L-shape being in contact with and fixed to an upper portion of the
adjacent upright and the other portion of the L-shape extending
across towards the other side of the frame, e.g. the extending
portion of corner piece 126A located on the left-hand side of the
frame extends towards the corresponding right-hand side corner
piece 126B. Square shaped end panels can be fitted/formed at the
upper and lower ends of the corner pieces.
[0044] The fixed portion of each L-shape can be connected to the
upper portion of its corresponding upright by means of bolts or the
like (e.g. "Ny-loe" type (shake-proof) bolts) that fit through the
apertures 111 in the upright and similar apertures in the corner
piece (see the rear right-hand corner of the frame in FIG. 5).
Brackets for connecting the central beam 122 of the upper sub
assembly to the uprights 110C, 110D in a similar manner can also be
provided (one such bracket 127 is partially visible at left-hand
upright 110D in FIG. 1).
[0045] Projecting outwardly from the base of each corner piece
126A, 126B is a horizontal plate (such plates labelled 129A' and
129B' can be seen on the corner pieces at the front of frame 100').
Each horizontal plate 129 can include at least one aperture with
which at least one corresponding shot bolt located on a front gate
of the first sub assembly can engage. A left-hand front gate 119
(for front end frame 100') having upper 119A and lower 119B bolts
is partially shown in FIG. 1. It is connected to the front of the
front end upright 110D' by means of hinges 119C.
[0046] The vertical portion of the L-shaped cross sectioned side
members 120B, 120D include apertures through which adjusting
devices 126 can be fitted. In the example, an aperture is located
adjacent each portion of the side member that is adjacent an
upright 110, but it will be understood that the number and
positions of the apertures/adjusting devices can be varied. The
devices 126 can be adjustable jacks identical to the jacks 116
fitted on the uprights, or may be other types of adjustable
devices. The adjusting devices 126 of the upper sub assembly 104
extend outwardly sideways from the side members 120B, 120D.
[0047] The lower sub assembly 106 of the frame 100 comprises a
square shape formed by a pair of elongate end members 132A, 132B
and a pair of elongate side members 130A, 130B. The square shape is
dimensioned so that it generally fits within the perimeter of the
notional square shape formed by the four corner uprights of the
first sub assembly. FIGS. 2 and 3 show the lower sub assembly 106
in more detail.
[0048] Each side member 130 is a flat elongate bar (or track)
having a generally square-shaped recesses 134 located near both its
ends. The recesses 134 have sloping side walls and are dimensioned
to correspond with dimensions of foot portions of a pallet, as will
be described below. The recesses may be at least partially lined
with rubber or similar material, which helps keep the foot portion
in place and also reduce vibration during transportation of the
loaded frame. A stop 136 projects upwardly from the side member 130
adjacent one of its recesses. The stop is located opposite to the
end of side the member that will, in use, be used to load a
pallet/inner container. For instance, for rear end frame 100, the
stops 136 will be located near the ends of the side members 130
located under the central beam 124 of the upper sub assembly 104 to
allow pallets to be slid over the opposite end of the side members
into the frame in the direction of arrow L.
[0049] As can best be seen in FIG. 3, extending along the outer
side of the each side member 130A, 130B is a respective elongate
profiled side wall 133A, 133B. Each side wall comprises a sheet of
material that is formed to form a first slanted portion that has
one end connected to the upper surface of the side member 130
(adjacent is outer side edge). This first slanted portion leads
upwards and outwards at an angle of around 40.degree. to the tip of
a second portion of the side wall that is L-shaped in
cross-section. The upper, vertical portion of each side wall 133
includes apertures through which adjusting devices 138 can be
fitted. In the example, an aperture is located adjacent each
portion of the side wall that is fitted adjacent an upright 110,
but, again, it will be understood that the number and positions of
the apertures/adjusting devices can be varied. The devices 138 can
be adjustable jacks identical to the jacks 116 fitted on the
uprights, or may be different types of adjustable devices. The
adjusting devices of the lower sub assembly 106 extend outwardly
from the side walls 133.
[0050] The ends of the pair of side members 130A, 130B are
connected together by means of respective end members 132A, 132B,
which are strong elongate bars that can each include a set of
spaced apart apertures 135. At the end of the each side member 130
over which, in use, a pallet is slid/loaded (i.e. the end opposite
to that which the stops 136 are located) there is a foot component
139. Each foot 139 is generally square/rectangular in shape and is
formed of an upper surface having four depending sidewalls. The
sidewall that is located at the front of the sub assembly 106 is
angled and can act as a ramp for an article being slid over the
foot 139 into the frame.
[0051] There can be at least one aperture 140 in the upper surface
of the base panel that is, in use, positioned to receive at least
one corresponding shot bolt 119B located on one of the front gates
119 (similar to way in which the apertures in the horizontal plates
129 of the upper sub assembly 104 are used with upper shot bolt
119A). It will be understood that other arrangements (e.g. shot
bolts that directly fit into bores in the inner containers or
straps) can be used to secure the contents of the frame instead of
or in addition to the pair of front gates. In an alternative
embodiment, instead of a pair of the feet 139 there can be at least
one solid/continuous plate along the lower front end of the lower
sub assembly 106, which can function as a ramp if needed. Such a
ramp can have a set of spaced apart apertures that function in a
similar manner to the aperture 140.
[0052] In use, the first sub assembly 102 is positioned within an
outer container, with the pairs of lateral uprights, e.g. 110A and
110D, being positioned abutting/adjacent to inner sidewalls of the
outer container. Next, the upper sub assembly 104 is positioned on
the first sub assembly 102, with the corner pieces 126A, 126B of
the upper assembly being fixed to the upper portions of the
uprights 110 by means of bolts or the like. Next, the lower sub
assembly 106 is fitted inside the outer container.
[0053] The jacks 116 can then be adjusted to establish firm contact
between the upper inner surface of the outer container and the main
sub assembly 102, with the uprights 110 becoming "wedged" between
the floor and ceiling of the outer container. The jacks 126 can
also be adjusted so that the upper sub assembly 104 becomes wedged
between the sidewalls of the outer container. Similarly, the jacks
138 can be adjusted so that the lower sub assembly 106 becomes
wedged inside the sidewalls of the outer container. Thus, the frame
100 is releasably secured in position within the outer container so
that relative movement (in the horizontal (sideways and front/rear
directions) and vertical planes) of the frame and outer container
is limited/prevented. Adhesive, if used, will also help limit such
movement. The use of adjustable devices such as the jacks 116, 126,
138 (including the compressible pads) means that no permanent
modification of the outer container is required (e.g. no components
need to be welded or fixed in some other substantially permanent
manner to the outer container) and no part of the frame needs to
penetrate a surface of the outer container. Damage to the outer
container should not occur during normal use. Adjustable devices,
such as the jacks, can readily deal with variations in the
shape/dimensions of inner surfaces of individual outer containers
and can be easily and speedily removed when required.
[0054] After the frame 100 has been fitted inside the outer
container, it is ready to support at least one further container.
It will be appreciated that the steps of the assembly/use sequence
described above can be varied.
[0055] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate how the assembled frames 100, 100'
can be used to store at least one inner container. FIG. 4 is a
perspective view similar to that of FIG. 1, whilst the viewpoint of
the perspective view of FIG. 5 is located below and to the left of
the central axes of the frames. Thus, in FIG. 5, the (front end)
frame labelled 110' in FIGS. 1 and 4 is more prominent and the
(rear end) frame 100 is not shown storing a container in the
example.
[0056] A pallet 400 is shown located on top of the lower sub
assembly 106. The dimensions of the lower sub assembly will be
chosen to generally correspond with those of the pallet. The pallet
has a set of four feet (not visible) near its corners which fit
into the four recesses 136 in the side members 130 or to the lower
sub assembly 106. The pallet includes a pair of channels 402
running between its front and rear ends that can accommodate forks
of a fork lift truck. At least the front end of the pallet can be
fitted with a pair of L-shaped brackets 404. The upper surface of
each bracket 404 can include at least one aperture to engage with a
bolt of an inner container (e.g. shot bolt 601), thereby
releaseably fixing the inner container to the pallet.
[0057] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example of one type of
inner container 600 that can be used in conjunction with the frame
100. The container 600 is a box-shaped framework capable of storing
a plurality of further inner containers. The framework comprises
four corner uprights 602 that are connected together by a pair of
lower elongate members 604A (and/or a square base panel). Diagonal
cross-beams 605 may also be used to strengthen the structure. Upper
elongate members 604B (and/or a square panel) connect the upper
ends of the uprights. The uprights 602, and in some cases other
components of the inner container 600, may be formed of tubular
lengths of material (e.g. of square-shaped cross-section) that may
include a plurality of evenly-spaced apertures.
[0058] The front pair of uprights include hinges to which a pair of
lockable front gates 606 are connected. A set of four upper
formations 607 are connected to/formed on the upper surfaces of the
inner container 600, each formation being located at/adjacent a
corner of the inner container. Each formation includes a
square-shaped base panel upstanding from which are two sloping
sidewalls. The upstanding sidewalls slope at an angle of around
40.degree. and are located at the corners of the base panel near a
notional central axis of the inner container (i.e. they can be
thought of as "pointing" towards the middle of the container). The
formations 607 can assist with securely stacking another (similar)
container on top of the container 600 when it is not located in the
frame 100, e.g. when stored in a warehouse.
[0059] The inner container 600 is shown holding a stack of further
inner containers 700, 702. These may be placed directly on top of
each other, or shelves/frames may be used, such as the shelving
frame 610 shown in FIG. 4. Two types of further inner containers
are shown in the stack of the example, a first (wider) heavy-duty
drawer 700 and second (narrower) heavy-duty drawer 702. The width
of the wider drawer can be around 330 mm (13'') and the width of
the narrower drawer can be around 685 mm (27''), but it will be
understood that these widths are exemplary only and the storage
system can be made to fit any combination of containers, e.g. ones
having widths anywhere between, for instance, 200 mm and 1150 mm.
The heights of containers such as the drawers can be anywhere from
around 101 mm (4'') upwards and the dimensions of the components of
the inner container 600 and frame 100 can be formed to accommodate
any desired height of containers, which may or may not be of
uniform dimensions. The drawers can have lids and the lids may
include formations that cooperate with corresponding formations on
lower surfaces of other drawers/containers so as to facilitate safe
stacking of the units.
[0060] Returning to FIGS. 4 and 5, it can be seen that the shelving
frame 610 is located above the upper surfaces of the drawers 700,
702. The shelving frame can be fitted to the uprights 602 of the
inner container 600, e.g. by means of bolts through the
evenly-spaced apertures 611. The shelving frame is formed of a set
of four elongate members, including a pair of parallel spaced-apart
side members 612A, 612B that are connected together by means of a
rear elongate member 614 and front elongate member 616. The
length/width of the shelving frame generally correspond to the
length/width of the drawer/container over which it is positioned.
Thus, the shelving frame 610 has a similar length/width to the
drawer 700 underneath it. There is also a similar second shelving
frame 610A whose length/width corresponds to the length/width of
the narrower drawer 702 located beneath it.
[0061] The side 612 and rear 614 elongate members of the shelving
frame are of L-shape cross-section, with the vertical portions of
the L-shapes acting as walls that limit movement of a
drawer/container that will be placed on top of the (horizontal
portions of the L-shapes of the) shelving frame. The front elongate
member 616 is flat to allow a drawer/container to be slid/loaded
over it into the shelving frame. To assist with stabilising the
drawer/container within the shelving frame, the front ends of the
side members 612 include slots 618 (see FIG. 5 in particular). Each
slot 618 is a V-shape rotated clockwise by 90.degree. so that its
wider portion is at the end of the side member, with the slot then
tapering inwards. Projections (not visible) on the outer sides of
the drawer are intended to fit into the corresponding slots of the
side members 612. Each slot can also include formation such as an
indentation (not visible) that is intended to cooperate with the
corresponding projection so that considerable force (in the
frontwards direction) needs to be applied to release the
projections, and thereby the drawer, from the shelving frame. The
rear elongate member 614 of the shelving frame can include at least
one formation, e.g. aperture 619, that is intended to cooperate
with a corresponding at least one formation, e.g. a projection, on
a rear surface of the drawer, thereby further assisting with
limiting relative movement of the drawer and shelving frame. It
will be appreciated that variations so the shelving frames are
possible, e.g. they could include a track/roller arrangement to
allow the container 700, 702 to be at least partially the extended
(and retracted) relative to the frame like a drawer.
[0062] It can be seen that the base of the inner frame-type
container 600 is placed on top of (and aligned with) the upper
surface of the pallet. This is normally done before the pallet 400
and container 600 are transported into the frame 100, with the
lockable gates 606 being closed for safety and to retain the
containers. Once the inner containers are fitted inside the frame
100, the front gates 119 of the frame can be shot-bolted shut to
secure the inner containers in position. In the example where the
pair of frames 100 and 100' are used, access can be gained to each
frame at opposite ends of the outer container. FIG. 7 shows the
frame 100 and inner containers fitted inside a Quadcon box 800,
although it will be understood that the frame 100 can be used to
support inner containers in other types of outer containers, e.g.
containers commonly called "Tricons"; full or half-width boxes;
boxes having solid walls or boxes having at least some walls in the
form of a mesh or frame.
[0063] It will be appreciated that the combination of inner
containers shown in use in the Figures is exemplary only and that
various other types of inner containers could be stored in
conjunction with the frame 100 and outer container. For example,
the inner frame-type container 600 need not be used in cases where
inner containers such as drawers 700 have dimensions that
correspond with those of the frame 100. Further, the pallet 400
need not be used, with an inner container being placed directly on
the lower sub assembly 106. Also, the further inner containers do
not need to be directly stacked on top of each other within the
inner frame-type container 600. For example, drawer-like mechanisms
that allow the further inner containers to be (partially or
substantially completely) extended individually for access could be
installed within the frame 100 or frame-type container 600. The
frame-type container 600 can be a storage rack that includes an
array of formations intended to engage with corresponding
formations on the further inner containers, e.g.
projections/apertures arrangements.
[0064] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of two frames 100 and 100''
being fitted side-by-side in a Quadcon box 800. The left hand-frame
100 is narrower than the right-hand frame 100''. A support column
(or "pylon") 850, which can comprise at least one elongate member
or a plate, is also fitted inside the Quadcon box, abutting the
right-hand side of frame 100 and the left-hand side of frame 100''.
The support column 850 can be fitted within the Quadcon box using
bolts or the like to connect the column to parts of the frame 100,
e.g. into apertures 135 in the lower sub assembly 106 and apertures
125 in the upper sub assembly 104. Having a plurality of such
apertures 135, 125 means that the location of the column 850 within
the frame 100/Quadcon box can be set to suit the dimensions of the
containers to be stored within. The column 850 effectively divides
the interior of the outer container so that sets of inner
containers having different widths can be stored. In some
embodiments, the column 850 can be fitted with at least one front
gate, similar to gate 606 or 119.
[0065] It will be understood that the dimensions, number and
arrangement of the components shown in the Figures is exemplary
only and variations are possible. For instance, more than four
upright struts could be used in the first sub assembly 102; the
frame 100 can comprise few or more than three sub assemblies (which
need not be central, lower and upper sub assemblies and not all of
which need necessarily include adjusting devices), or can be formed
as an integral piece; adjusting devices could be provided on both
upper and lower surfaces of the frame; instead of vertical struts,
diagonal cross-bars could be used in the first sub assembly; solid
panels could be used to connect the lower and upper frame members
in addition to or instead of some of the uprights; the side
members/struts need not be of square U-shape or L-shaped
cross-section; devices other than shot bolts (e.g. a pivoting hook
or catch arrangement) could be used.
[0066] In the example, a rigid metal such as steel is used for the
components of the frame 100 and other containers, but it will be
understood that other strong materials (or a combination of
materials) could be used instead. The dimensions of the framework
will usually be chosen to correspond with the dimensions of one or
more containers that it is intended to support. For instance, the
framework could be dimensioned to accommodate a container anywhere
between 380 mm-1012 mm (15''-40'') wide, around 42'' (1066 mm) long
and 101 mm-508 mm (4''-20'') high, but it will be understood that
these ranges are exemplary only. The components of the framework
can be connected together using any suitable means, e.g. welding or
nuts/bolts, or the framework can be formed at least partially in
another manner, e.g. using a moulding process.
[0067] FIG. 9 shows an outer container 100.2 that is configured to
accommodate a plurality of inner containers, one of which is
labelled 200.2. The outer container could be a frame similar to
frame 100 described above which will, in turn, be fitted inside a
further outer container such as Quadcon box. The inner container
may be similar to container 600 described above or a frame similar
to frame 100 described above could be used in the case where the
outer container 100.2 is a Quadcon box or the like. In the example,
the outer container 100.2 generally comprises a framework including
a base 102.2, which can be a solid plate or a pallet type base. An
upstanding strut 104.2 extends vertically from each of the four
corners of the base. There is also an upper frame/plate 105.2 that
assists with holding the four vertical struts 104.2 in position. It
will be appreciated that there are several possible variations to
the outer container e.g., it can include crossbeams to further
reinforce the vertical struts, or it could include solid wall or
upper plate rather than an open framework. The base 101.2 of the
outer container may be fitted with a tracked base 100.1
substantially as described above when the outer container is to
accommodate one or more smaller storage devices that have an
arrangement of foot portions. At least one end of the outer
container 100.2 may be fitted with one (or a pair) of hinged gates
106.2 or similar arrangements for assisting with preventing outward
movement of a container that is stored within it.
[0068] Within the outer container there is fitted an inner frame
107.2 that includes a fastening device, generally indicated at
111.2, for holding a smaller container in position within the outer
container. The inner frame may be removable from the outer
container so that it can free up space when not in use.
Alternatively, the components described herein as forming part of
the inner frame may be built into the outer container.
[0069] The inner frame 107.2 includes a base portion that may
comprise the tracked base 100.1. Upstanding from each of the four
corners of the base is a vertical strut. The pair of vertical
struts at the front end of the inner frame is labelled 109A.2,
109B.2, whilst the pair of vertical struts at the rear end (not
visible in FIG. 9) are labelled 109A'.2, 109B'.2. Again, it will be
understood that several variations of the inner frame are possible,
e.g. one or more of its base, side or upper surfaces may be a solid
plate rather than an open framework type design.
[0070] A substantially horizontal bar 112.2 extends between points
adjacent the upper ends of the front pair of vertical struts
109A.2, 109B.2. Fitted adjacent the two ends of the horizontal bar
112.2 are handle devices 114.2 that operate the fastening device
111.2. The fastening device in the example includes an engaging
member 110.2 that is connected below the horizontal bar 112.2 by
means of one or more vertical connecting bars 113.2. The front
engaging member 110.2 is intended to engage with a portion of the
smaller inner container 200.2.
[0071] In the example, the inner container includes a base
frame/plate 202.2, upstanding from which are four vertical corner
posts 204.2. Extending between points adjacent the upper ends of
the pair of the posts at the front end of the inner container is a
horizontal rod 206.2. A plurality (e.g. stack) of storage
boxes/drawers 207.2 can be fitted within the framework of the inner
container. It will be understood that the inner container shown in
the drawings is only one example of the type of storage device that
can be held within the outer container 100.2. In the example, the
connecting device 111.2 of the inner frame/outer container engages
with the horizontal bar 206.2 of the inner container, as well as a
similar bar that extends between the rear pair of vertical posts
204.2. These components can be seen in FIG. 10.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 10, the outer container 100.2 in the
example is arranged to accommodate a first inner container 200.2,
located adjacent its front end, and a second inner container
200'.2, located near the rear end of the outer container. However,
it will be understood that the outer container can be configured to
accommodate different numbers/arrangements of inner containers. The
outer container may include gate arrangements at its front and rear
ends to allow either of the inner containers to be accessed without
requiring the other to be moved.
[0073] Extending between the front horizontal bar 112.2 and the
rear horizontal bar 112'2 of the inner frame is a pair of spaced
apart parallel moveable beams 116.2. Only one of these (which would
be adjacent the right hand side of FIG. 9) is visible in FIG. 10
and for brevity only operation of one moveable beam will be
described, but it will be understood that one or more further
corresponding moveable beams can be provided and operate in a
similar manner. The rear end of the moveable beam 116.2 is
pivotably and slideably connected to the rear vertical post of the
inner frame 107.2 by means of a connecting mechanism 118.2, which
will be described below in more detail.
[0074] FIG. 11 details part of an alternative example of the
connecting device 111.2. In the example of this Figure, instead of
a single engaging member 110.2, there are a pair of shorter
engaging members 110C.2, 110C'.2, each located adjacent opposite
ends of the horizontal bar 112.2.
[0075] Turning to FIGS. 12A to 12B, there is shown a sequence of
operations involving components of the connecting device 111.2 that
allow the inner container 200.2 to be released (it should be noted
that the "rear" end of the is at the left hand side of these
figures, whereas in FIG. 10 the "rear" end is at the right hand
side). The mechanism 118.2 that connects the rear end of the
moveable beam 116.2 to the rear vertical post of the inner frame
107.2 comprises a rectangular plate 122.2 having a longitudinal
slot 124.2. A member 120.2 (e.g. pin, bolt or like) located near
the rear end of the moveable beam 116.2 is slideably fitted within
the horizontal slot 124.2. The rear engaging member 110'.2
comprises an elongate member having a generally `C-shaped` curved
cross-section that is suitable for engaging with the rear
cylindrical horizontal bar 206'.2. However, it will be understood
that the design of the rear (and front) engaging member can be
varied to engage with any suitable portion/formation of the inner
container that is to be fastened.
[0076] The handle portion 114.2 is connected adjacent the front end
of the moveable beam 116.2 by means of a pivot pin 130.2 that
passes through an aperture near the front end of the moveable beam
116.2 and an aperture about 75% along the length of the handle
portion. The end of the handle portion 114.2 remote from the end
held by a user is pivotally connected to one end of a second handle
portion 134.2. A biasing device, e.g. spring 132.2, can be provided
to help keep the handle portion in its "locked" position so that
human force is required to move it. Additionally or alternatively,
an end of the handle member 114.2 may contact a portion of the
outer frame so that the hand is held in position. The other end of
the second handle portion 134.2 is pivotally connected to one end
of a third plate 136.2, the other end of which is connected to the
front engaging member 110.2. Again, the engaging member 110.2 is
generally C-shaped in cross-section so that it can engage with the
cylindrical front horizontal bar 206.2.
[0077] When the handle arrangement is in the position shown in FIG.
12A both the rear 110'.2 and front 110.2 engaging members press
down onto the rear horizontal bar 206'.2 and front horizontal bar
206.2, respectively, thereby limiting movement of the inner
container 200.2.
[0078] When it is desired to release the inner container 200.2 a
first step taken by a user is to pivot the end of the handle
mechanism 114.2 upwards to the position show in FIG. 12B. This
releases the front end of the moveable beam 116.2 so that it is
free to pivot around rear pivot point 120.2, as shown in FIG. 12C.
Thus, the front engaging member 110.2 can break contact with the
front horizontal bar 206.2.
[0079] The user can then push back the handle 114.2 so that the
moveable beam 116.2 slides within the slot 124.2 towards the rear
end of the inner frame. This breaks contact between the rear
engaging member 110'.2 and the rear horizontal bar 206'.2, thus
allowing the inner container 200.2 to be moved longitudinally out
of the outer container 100.2. Thus, the fastening device described
assists with securing the inner container, but does so by means of
contact with the upper surface of the inner container and does not
require modification of the container itself.
* * * * *