Self-gripping rack for cantilevered tanks

Abstract

A flexible system for holding articles such as propane tanks. Straps are arranged around and over three tanks in order to support the outer tanks in a cantilevered fashion over another row of tanks which only has two tanks. Spacers may be inserted between the three tanks to adjust the necessary dimensions for truck. The straps may take a number of configurations and may be held by different locking devices for holding the straps. The straps may also include hooks for attachment to eyes on the tanks.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO PROVISIONAL APPLICATION[0001]This Non-Provisional Application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) on Provisional Application No. 60 / 837,625 filed on Aug. 15, 2006, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to a self-gripping flexible rack for stacking articles such as propane tanks and more particularly to a self-gripping flexible rack using straps and spacers between the tanks.[0004]2. Description of the Background Art[0005]Various types of racks are known for stacking and transporting articles such as propane tanks. With their round configuration, it is difficult to transport a large number of tanks due to legal limitations on the size of the truck. In addition, the racks may be heavy and bulky, thus taking up additional space and adding an extra load to the truck, leading to increased fuel usage. It is also often necessary to use a crane or...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]The present invention also provides a rack on which articles can be shipped without damage.

[0011]The present invention further provides a lightweight rack which is easily installed manually.

[0012]The present invention further provides a system which is easily assembled by unskilled labor at a low cost.

Problems solved by technology

With their round configuration, it is difficult to transport a large number of tanks due to legal limitations on the size of the truck.

In addition, the racks may be heavy and bulky, thus taking up additional space and adding an extra load to the truck, leading to increased fuel usage.

It is also often necessary to use a crane or multiple people to place the rack on the truck, leading to increased costs.

While this system was a major improvement over prior art devices, the placing of the pads requires considerable time, using skilled labor and laboratory conditions to install.

As a result, the metal parts must be relatively thick so that multiple sandings do not reduce the strength of the holder.

The loop formed by sewing the end of the strap is weaker than the other parts of the system and accordingly limits the amount of weight the system can hold.

Also, the operations of sewing a strap and inserting a bolt require a certain amount of time and cost. FIG. 1 shows such a prior art arrangement where a vehicle 10, such as a truck is used to carry a plurality of cylindrical objects, such as propane tanks 72.

Images