CN107207154B

CN107207154B - Cargo container closure system

Info

Publication number: CN107207154B
Application number: CN201680010094.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: C·波特吉斯; R·克莱斯
Original assignee: Safran Cabin Netherlands NV
Current assignee: Saifeng Cabin Freight Equipment Co.,Ltd.
Priority date: 2015-02-13
Filing date: 2016-02-12
Publication date: 2020-10-27
Anticipated expiration: 2036-02-12
Also published as: NO20171468A1; TW201702153A; WO2016128944A1; TWI671249B; CN107207154A; US20180016093A1

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide systems and methods for improving the fastening of cargo covers/flexible doors to cargo containers. The system generally provides fastening using an integrated hook shape that is formed into a frame extrusion of the cargo container. The internal shape provides a configuration that is less susceptible to damage, and that can reduce maintenance rates and out-of-service times for the unit.

Description

Cargo container closure system

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application serial No.62/115,698 entitled "main deck and lower deck air cargo container" filed on 13/2/2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to cargo containers and closure systems for cargo containers.

Background

Cargo containers are used on transport vehicles for holding and moving cargo. An air cargo container may be used to transport cargo or luggage or other items on an aircraft. Such air cargo containers typically must be certified airworthiness and safe to use as transport containers within aircraft. The freight container can be used on a passenger aircraft, for example in a freight compartment below the main cabin. Cargo containers may also be used on cargo aircraft, which typically carry cargo on two levels (lower and main deck). Different cargo containers may have varying shapes and contours to their outer contour and door openings depending on whether they are designed for use on the lower deck or the main deck.

Cargo containers are typically closed using flexible hoods and door nets. As illustrated by fig. 10, the illustrated prior art cargo container C uses a flexible cover, such as tarpaulin, to secure the closure. The cover 1 protects the container contents from weather elements such as rain, wind and snow. The cover is fastened in place by means of a door net 2 fixed to the container frame 3. The door mesh 2 is typically positioned in front of the flexible enclosure to provide structural integrity to confine the contents within the container. The combination of the cover 1 and the net 2 also allows the container to pass the certification strength test. In order to fasten the cover 1 and the net 2 to the frame 3, the conventional cargo container C is provided with an external hook system illustrated by fig. 11A and 11B.

As shown by fig. 11A, the hook system generally comprises a hook 4 on the end of the door webbing and a bracket 5 secured to the cargo container. Once the cover 1 is in place over the cargo container opening, the loading crew fastens the hook 4 to the bracket 5. Fig. 11B illustrates a side view of the hook 4, the hook 4 having curved finger elements that can be hooked across the bracket 5 and fastened relative to the bracket 5. However, these hook fastening methods have problems. Therefore, improvements are desired.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide systems and methods for improving the fastening of cargo covers/flexible doors to cargo containers. The system generally provides fastening using an integrated hook shape that is formed into a frame extrusion of the cargo container. This internal shape provides a configuration that is less prone to damage, can reduce maintenance rates and out-of-service times for the unit. The internal shape also provides for easier handling and fastening of the cover to the cargo container. The described system has also been found to provide better protection of cargo containers from external elements such as rain, snow, wind, etc. The described system also reduces the number of components associated with conventional cargo container covers. The attachment method described may help limit movement of the flexible cover/door when secured/attached to the container frame.

In one example, there is provided a cargo container closure system comprising: a cargo container frame having one or more frame portions, the frame portions including an interior profile with an interior hook shape; and a cargo cover comprising a plurality of fastening elements corresponding to and cooperating within the interior contour of the one or more frame portions. A plurality of straps may be provided that are secured to the cargo cover. The plurality of straps may feature fastening elements attached at their ends, which may cooperate with the inner profile. In a particular example, a plurality of straps are sewn to the cargo cover such that they remain as a single unit with the cover and are not removable therefrom in use. The plurality of straps may also have one or more sizing features for tightening the straps for securing the cargo cover to the cargo container frame.

The frame portions forming the cargo container may be straight frame portions fastened to each other to create a cargo container cage frame. In some examples, the frame portion comprises a single extruded cargo frame.

There is also provided a method for securing a cargo container, comprising: providing a cargo container frame having one or more frame portions, the frame portions including an interior profile with an interior hook shape; providing a cargo cover comprising a plurality of elements corresponding to and cooperating within the interior contour of the one or more frame portions; inserting one of the elements into one of the internal profiles of the frame; and continuing to insert the element into the interior profile of the frame until the cargo cover is secured relative to the cargo container frame. If the cargo cover has the feature of a plurality of straps fastened to the cargo cover, the plurality of straps may have fastening elements at the ends of the straps that correspond to and cooperate within the internal profile of the one or more frame portions. The belt may have one or more sizing features; the method may further comprise tightening the one or more sizing features to securely fasten the cargo cover relative to the cargo container frame.

Drawings

Fig. 1 shows a cargo container having one example of a hood system described herein secured to a cargo container frame.

Fig. 2 shows a front perspective view of a cargo container with the cover removed, illustrating the rigid frame and panels forming the cargo container.

Fig. 3 shows a front plan view of the cargo container of fig. 2.

Fig. 4A shows a close-up view of the frame portion of the cargo container of fig. 3.

Fig. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the frame portion of fig. 4A.

Fig. 5 shows a top perspective view of the hook elements before being fastened relative to the frame part.

Fig. 6 shows a top perspective view of the hook-shaped element of fig. 5 fastened relative to the frame portion.

Fig. 7 shows a front plan view of a cargo container.

Fig. 8A shows a close-up view of the frame portion of the cargo container of fig. 7.

Fig. 8B shows a cross-sectional view of the frame portion of fig. 8A with elements secured relative to the frame portion and holding the cargo cover in place relative to the cargo container.

Fig. 9 shows a front perspective view of a cargo container with a cover positioned thereon.

Figure 10 shows a perspective view of one example of a prior art cargo container securing method.

Fig. 11A shows a side view of a prior art hook and bracket system.

FIG. 11B shows a side perspective view of the hook of FIG. 11A secured to a bracket.

Detailed Description

Referring now to the prior art fastening system illustrated by fig. 10-11, the hook 4 and bracket 5 are susceptible to impact during handling, at least in part because they protrude from the cargo container. For example, forklift movement or container positioning movement can cause deformation of the hooks and/or the brackets. Any component parts protruding from the container may be the target of damage. In fact, even a single impact can render the fastening system unusable. The hook 4 may be bent so as to prevent its correct cooperation with the holder. The bracket 5 may be compressed or otherwise deformed such that sufficient clearance is prevented for securing the hook 4 thereto. An unusable hook 4 would render the cargo container unusable because it may no longer be certified.

Another problem with the described hook system is that fastening can be time consuming. Each hook 4 must be positioned on the support 5. In cold climates, this can be difficult when the loading crew is wearing gloves. This can also be difficult when the container is positioned on the platform, making the hooks and brackets difficult to access. In addition, the cover 1 and the net 2 are provided as two separate parts. Because they are not attached to each other, the cover 1 has a tendency to slide towards the inside of the cargo container due to gravity and/or container movement. This may occur even when the net 2 is properly attached to the container frame 3. This sliding can create a gap between the cover 1 and the frame 3, undesirably exposing the container contents to elements. Additionally, in the event that the cover 1 is not properly positioned on the net 2, the cargo container contents may not be properly contained.

Accordingly, improvements to cargo container hood systems are described herein. The present disclosure provides a system 10 that allows cargo containers 12 to be covered and have their contents secured without these many potential damaging conditions and/or challenges. As shown by fig. 1, the system 10 provides a cargo cover 20 that may have an integral strap 22. If provided, the integrated band 22 may be sewn to (or otherwise secured to) the cover 20. In this manner, the cover 20 is provided as a single component such that the strap 22 remains secured thereto. There is no separate web required for fastening. The strap 22 may be provided with one or more sizing features 24 to allow the strap 22 to be expanded and tightened once positioned. In one example, the sizing feature 24 may be a cam buckle. (the cam buckles used may be industry standard buckles; they tension the strap 22 relative to the cargo container once the cargo cover 20 is positioned).

To position the cargo cover 20 relative to the container 12, the cargo container 12 is provided with a frame 14. This is generally illustrated by fig. 2 and 3. As shown by fig. 4A-4B, the frame 14 has straight frame portions, each of which may be formed with an interior profile 16 along one or more of its edges. The internal profile may be an extruded profile produced when the frame portion is formed. The plurality of frame portions are then fastened to form a cargo container cage. The panel is then secured relative to the frame portion.

The inner contour 16 is generally shaped to correspond to a corresponding element 18. The cooperation between the inner contour 16 and the elements is illustrated by fig. 5 and 6. The corresponding element 18 may be a C-shaped hook, clip or lip. The corresponding element 18 may be a curved, concave or hollow section. The corresponding element 18 is shaped to cooperate with and be fastened with respect to the inner profile 16 of the frame 14. The element 18 may interlock with the frame extrusion. One or more elements 18 are secured at the ends of one or more straps 22, as shown by FIG. 1. The tension straps 22 may then be tightened to secure the cover 20 to the main frame structure.

Referring now more particularly to the described aspects, the frame 14 of the cargo container 12 may be formed from a plurality of straight portions 30. In one example, there is a vertical lower straight portion 32, one or more inwardly angled straight portions 34, and a horizontal upper straight portion 36. Providing a straight portion 30 rather than a curved door frame profile or contour may allow for the manufacture of a frame edge 14 having a desired interior profile. The straight portion 30 may be extruded into the inner profile 16 of the integrated hook. The straight portions 30 may be fastened to each other in any suitable manner. For example, they may be fastened together via gussets and rivets using conventional methods. The frame 14 may also be constructed from a single extruded part having the desired angle between the frame portions. For example, the frame may be formed from a material that can be extruded and bent into the appropriate shape of the cargo frame. The inner profile 16 may be extruded along the entirety of the frame 14. In another example, the internal profiles 16 may be provided on only some of the entirety of the frame. It is believed, however, that if the inner profile 16 extends along a substantial portion of the frame, the best prescription option is provided.

Referring now to fig. 4B, the inner profile 16 may be shaped as an inner hook. The interior hook may have a flat frame surface 40 that is generally parallel to at least a portion of the cargo-container wall 42. The flat frame surface 40 is curved inwardly to provide an inwardly curved surface 44. The surface 44 may be shaped like a J-hook, a C-hook, or any other internal notch. The inwardly curved surface 44 may then transition to a curved lip 46. The curved lip 46 provides a support portion to which the element 18 can be secured and gripped relative to.

Fig. 8B illustrates the element 18 being fastened relative to the inner contour 16. As shown, the element 18 has a C-shaped profile. The innermost portion of the profile of the element 18 receives the curved lip 46 of the inner profile 16. The first arm 54 of the element 18 reaches into the inwardly curved surface 44. The second arm 56 of the element supports the element 18 relative to the cargo-container wall 42. Also as illustrated, the band 22 may be secured to the element 18 and extend from the element 18.

Fig. 1 illustrates a plurality of straps 22 disposed on the cargo cover 20. In use, a person mounting the hood over a cargo container frame can loosen the strap 22 at the sizing feature 24 (which may be a hasp or any other fastening system). Once the element 18 is secured relative to and along the inner profile 16 of the frame 14, the sizing features 24 may be tightened. This tightening causes the shroud 20 to be securely and securely engaged against the cargo container.

One option that may also assist in securing and tightening the cover 20 may be a handling strap 60. The steering strap 60 may be attached to the element 18. Examples are shown by fig. 6, 8B and 9. The handling strap 60 may be used to allow the installer to obtain a firm grip on the element 18 during installation. In one example, the manipulation strap 60 is secured to a flange 62 of the element 18. The flange 62 may have an opening 64 and the steering band 60 may be looped through the opening 64 and secured in place. For example, the manipulation strap 60 may be looped through the flange opening 64 and sewn back onto itself. This provides an additional grip for manipulating the flexible covering door 20.

Figure 9 illustrates a front perspective view of a cargo container closed with a canvas 20. The complete belt is not shown in this figure. They may be provided, but need not be. In this example, only the handling tape 60 is provided. If the canvas itself is made of a material strong enough to withstand the authenticating forces and a strap (such as a handling strap) can be attached to the canvas so that the attachment can withstand the authenticating forces, then the entire set of straps 22 need not extend all the way across the canvas. It should be understood that the present disclosure may also be practiced without the use of a belt at all.

The upper portion of the cargo cover 20 may be provided with a horizontal top portion 70. The horizontal top portion 70 may be a sewn bar surrounded by an upper flange or inset region or portion of the door canvas. The top portion 70 may be secured into one of the interior profiles 16 along the upper portion of the frame 14 to secure the cover 20 in place over the container top frame. Additionally or alternatively, other fastening options are possible. For example, one or more rivets may be positioned at the edge of the cover for fastening.

While an exemplary internal profile is shown and described, it should be understood that alternative internal profile shapes may be provided. For example, the inner contour may be square, rectangular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. The inner profile should generally have a lip or other feature that can secure in place an element secured to the cover. The internal profile shown and described has been tested and found to withstand the high forces required by federal regulations. In general, the described cargo container can withstand a force of 10 tons while maintaining the contents inside the container. It is believed that snaps or magnets or other types of conventional fastening systems do not meet the stringent requirements required. They may also be easily damaged or deformed by pressure, may be difficult to install in cold climates when workers wear gloves, and may also be frozen or otherwise damaged. Rather, the described examples have been found to overcome these and other challenges.

Changes and modifications, additions and deletions may be made to the structures and methods recited above and shown in the drawings without departing from the scope or spirit of this disclosure or the following claims.

Claims

1. A cargo container closure system comprising:

a cargo container frame having one or more frame portions, the frame portions including an interior profile having an interior hook shape; and

a cargo cover comprising a plurality of fastening elements corresponding to and cooperating within the interior contour of the one or more frame portions and comprising first and second arms,

wherein the inner profile comprises a flat frame surface, an inwardly curved surface and a curved lip, and an innermost portion of the profile of the fastening element receives the curved lip, the first arm projects into the inwardly curved surface, the second arm supports the fastening element relative to an outer edge of the one or more frame portions, and the thickness of the inner profile is substantially uniform.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of straps secured to the cargo cover, the plurality of straps including the plurality of securing elements.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of straps are stitched to the cargo cover such that the plurality of straps remain as a single unit with the cover and are not removable from the cover in use.

4. The system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the plurality of straps include one or more sizing features for tightening the straps to secure the cargo cover to the cargo container.

5. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more frame portions comprise separate straight frame portions fastened to one another to create a cargo container cage frame.

6. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more frame portions comprise a single extruded cargo frame.

7. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the first and second arms form a c-shaped hook between the first and second arms.

8. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the interior profile extends along an entire portion of the cargo container frame.

9. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the internal profile is extruded.

10. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the fastening element further comprises an operating strap associated therewith.

11. A method for securing a cargo container, comprising:

providing a cargo container frame having one or more frame portions including an interior profile having an interior hook shape;

providing a cargo cover comprising a plurality of elements corresponding to and cooperating within the interior profile of the one or more frame portions, and the fastening elements comprising first and second arms;

inserting one of said elements into one of said internal profiles of said frame; and

continuing to insert elements into the interior profile of the frame until the cargo cover is secured relative to the cargo container frame,

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the cargo cover further comprises a plurality of straps secured to the cargo cover, the plurality of straps comprising the elements corresponding to and cooperating within the internal profile of the one or more frame portions, the plurality of straps further comprising one or more sizing features; the method includes tightening the one or more sizing features to securely fasten the cargo cover relative to the cargo container frame.