Reusable modular containment device for protecting cargo during shipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a novel robust, reusable, modular shipping container for protecting large, fragile, odd-shaped, or high-value cargo (e.g., telecommunications cabinets, appliances and furniture) from damage during shipment. The shipping container minimizes the possibility of shipping damage due to improper handling, tip-overs, lateral collisions, or vibration. The shipping container comprises: a pallet base, a lower frame section, an upper frame section, and a top cover.

Description

CLAIM OF BENEFIT[0001]This application claims benefit to Joseph David Cline, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 904,180 filed 14 Nov. 2013 for a Protective Device for High Value Cargo During Shipment, which is fully incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to a modular, reusable, containment device for protecting cargo during shipment. The device is suitable for shipping large, fragile, or high-value items such as telecommunications cabinets, appliances, and furniture.BACKGROUND[0003]Telecommunications cabinets handle voice and data communications. The cabinets can range in size from approximately a 4′×4′×4′ cube to a commonly-sized 4′×4′×8′ tall cabinet. Housed within are all the routers, switchgear, and other electronics necessary to connect office buildings with the outside world. The electronic components housed within telecommunications cabinets are very expensive, and require a great degree of skill to assembl...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention provides a strong, reusable, and modular container for protecting large, delicate, or valuable items during shipment. This container can minimize damage caused by poor handling, tilting, collisions, or vibration. It consists of a pallet base, lower frame section, upper frame section, and top cover.

Problems solved by technology

The electronic components housed within telecommunications cabinets are very expensive, and require a great degree of skill to assemble and correctly wire into place.

Assembling telecommunications cabinets in the field would be difficult, time-consuming, and lacking in quality control.

There is, however, a significant drawback to assembling the cabinets at a central location and then shipping them to a another destination for use: the assembled telecommunications cabinets are highly susceptible damage in transit.

In the process, the palletized telecommunications cabinet can be handled many times, and at each point it is susceptible to damage.

Material-handling equipment, such as forklifts, can cause damage to telecommunications boxes.

For example, if a forklift operator inadvertently misaligns the forks, he could accidently damage the telecommunications cabinet on the pallet being moved, or the telecommunications cabinet on an adjacent pallet.

In addition, the risk of tip over is prevalent with top-heavy, palletized telecommunications cabinets, particularly when being moved up and down ramps.

Finally, vibration and the effects of lateral impacts on the palletized telecommunications cabinets in transit can damage the internal electronics.

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