Cargo shipping container spreader and method
US7722101B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 17, 2007 |
| Grant date | May 25, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 8, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65D88/524
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for lifting and collapsing a collapsible cargo container includes a frame, and vertical guides for aligning the spreader with the cargo container. First and second pusher assemblies engage the end walls of the container to pivot the end walls against the ceiling of the container, where uplocks retain the end walls in a stowed away position. Foldable side walls are then buckled by the weight of the ceiling with assistance from the spreader, until the side walls occupy a predominantly horizontal position between the ceiling/end wall combination and a floor of the cargo container, resulting in a compact configuration. The spreader unfolds the container using steps discussed above in a reverse order.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.