Modular container transport system

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods including a cargo transport system are disclosed. The cargo transport system includes a spine assembly, a container assembly, and an outer fairing. The spine assembly includes a rigid spine and a plurality of mounts arranged on the rigid spine in a plurality of mounting rows. The container assembly includes a plurality of containers secured to the spine assembly using at least a subset of the plurality of mounts. The outer fairing at least partially encloses the container assembly. Each container of the plurality of containers includes a plurality of fittings for securing the container to the spine assembly and / or another container of the container assembly. The container assembly is enclosed within a pressurized space for pressurizing the container assembly.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application Serial No. 15 / 877,309, filed January 22, 2018, entitled "MODULAR CONTAINER TRANSPORT SYSTEMS," which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application Serial No. 15 / 867,557, filed January 10, 2018, entitled "MODULAR CONTAINER TRANSPORT SYSTEMS," which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 445,193, filed January 11, 2017, entitled "MODULAR CARGO SYSTEMS AND METHODS," each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety as if fully set forth herein. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 452,139, filed January 30, 2017, entitled "MODULAR CARGO SYSTEMS AND METHODS INCLUDING SEMI-TRAILER SYSTEMS," which is incorporated by reference herein as if fully set forth herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present technology relates to the field of cargo transport systems. More specifically, the present technology relates to systems, devices, and methods for transporting modular containers, including intermodal containers. BACKGROUND

[0004] The basic unit for transporting goods is a truck. As a basic unit, trucks have imposed limitations on intermodal containers that can typically be transported by, for example, ships, trains, and trucks. Currently, the bulk of the most convenient commerce for intermodal containers is products that are large in volume and low in weight. As a result, volume (rather than weight) often creates a limiting factor in the design of intermodal containers.

[0005] The aforementioned intermodal containers have greatly facilitated and reduced the cost of freight transport. However, air freight (such as aircraft and helicopter cargo) is generally excluded from intermodal freight systems. Aircraft with the size to carry large volumes of cargo are typically designed primarily as passenger aircraft. The cylindrical fuselage and lack of large entry ports in such aircraft limit their use in true intermodal freight systems. Furthermore, the weight of intermodal freight systems typically reduces the effective load that an aircraft can carry. In such conventional systems, aircraft become the basic unit with oddly shaped and small-sized containers. Therefore, even for containerized cargo, trucks must often load multiple individual containers for efficient distribution of air freight. Military transport is also not particularly compatible with conventional intermodal systems because it is designed for oversized cargo, such as rolling equipment (e.g., tanks and trucks), and palletized, irregularly shaped cargo. Most aircraft designed specifically for the military are typically mission-oriented, and overall efficiency in competitive freight transport is not a primary concern.

[0006] The practical inability of aircraft to participate in intermodal containerized cargo systems has long been a disadvantage for international trade. Business principles such as just-in-time delivery and the ever-changing business environment (including rapid global internet communication) have created a demand for faster international transport compared to what can be provided by conventional shipping or land transport. However, air cargo systems remain both expensive and inconvenient for intermodal transport. Furthermore, even relative to land and water transport, size restrictions and other limitations imposed by conventional intermodal cargo systems severely restrict their ability to maximize the efficiency and interchangeability offered by such systems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure can be embodied in a cargo transport system comprising a ridge assembly, a container assembly, and an outer fairing. The ridge assembly includes a rigid ridge and a plurality of mounting members arranged in multiple mounting rows on the rigid ridge. The container assembly includes a plurality of containers, which are secured to the ridge assembly using at least a subset of the mounting members. The outer fairing at least partially encloses the container assembly. Each of the plurality of containers includes a plurality of fittings for securing the container to the ridge assembly and / or another container of the container assembly. The container assembly is enclosed within a pressurized space for pressurizing the container assembly.

[0008] In one embodiment, the outer fairing is configured to withstand a pressurized load used to pressurize the container assembly.

[0009] In one embodiment, the pressurized space is substantially defined by the outer fairing and the ridge assembly.

[0010] In one embodiment, the outer fairing is configured to withstand a pressurization load of at least 2.5 psi.

[0011] In one embodiment, the cargo transport system further comprises a pressure membrane disposed between the outer fairing and the container assembly. The pressurized space is at least partially defined by the pressure membrane.

[0012] In one embodiment, the pressure membrane is secured to the spine assembly and the pressurized space is substantially defined by the spine assembly and the pressure membrane.

[0013] In one embodiment, the pressure membrane is configured to withstand a pressurization load of at least 2.5 psi.

[0014] In one embodiment, the cargo transport system further comprises a pressure envelope disposed between the outer fairing and the container assembly. The pressurized space is at least partially defined by the pressure envelope.

[0015] In one embodiment, the pressure envelope comprises a central body and at least one end piece closing one end of the central body.

[0016] In one embodiment, the pressure envelope is secured to the spine assembly and the pressurized space is substantially defined by the spine assembly and the pressure envelope.

[0017] In one embodiment, the pressure envelope is configured to withstand a pressurization load of at least 2.5 psi.

[0018] The present disclosure can also be embodied in a ground transport drive container comprising an outer container having a cuboid shape, and a plurality of wheels secured to the outer container, the outer container comprising a fitting panel comprising a plurality of fittings for securing the outer container to another device, and the fitting panel is actuatable between a raised configuration and a lowered configuration.

[0019] In one embodiment, the ground transport drive container further comprises a propulsion system for powering the plurality of wheels.

[0020] In one embodiment, the propulsion system comprises one or more in-wheel electric motors.

[0021] In one embodiment, the plurality of fittings are positioned along a perimeter of the fitting panel.

[0022] In one embodiment, the fitting panel comprises a substantially rectangular face, and the fitting panel comprises a fitting at each corner of the rectangular fitting panel face.

[0023] The present disclosure can also be embodied in a method comprising positioning a drive-in container proximate a first end of the container, lowering the accessory panel to the lowered configuration, securing the container to the accessory panel, and raising the accessory panel to cause the container to be raised.

[0024] In one embodiment, the method further comprises positioning a second drive-in container proximate a second end of the container, lowering the second drive-in container accessory panel to the lowered configuration, securing the container to the second drive-in container accessory panel, and simultaneously raising the first drive-in container accessory panel and the second drive-in container accessory panel to cause the container to be raised.

[0025] It should be appreciated that many other features, applications, embodiments, and / or variations of the disclosed technology will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. Additional and / or alternative implementations of the structures, systems, non-transitory computer-readable media, and methods described herein can be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosed technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an exemplary cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary corner accessory and corresponding accessory connector for a cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary lower lengthwise intermediate accessory and corresponding accessory connector for a cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary heightwise intermediate accessory and corresponding accessory connector for a cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary upper widthwise intermediate accessory and corresponding accessory connector for a cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary upper lengthwise intermediate accessory and corresponding accessory connector for a cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 7 is a table comparing the external dimensions of an existing ISO container to a cargo container according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 8 A perspective view of a series of cargo containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0034] FIG. 9 Front, side, rear, and top plan views of two connected cargo containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. FIG. 8

[0035] FIG. 10 An exploded perspective view of two cargo containers being connected together in a front-to-back direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0036] FIG. 11 A perspective view of two cargo containers connected together in a front-to-back direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0037] FIG. 12 Front, side, rear, and top plan views of two connected cargo containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. FIG. 11

[0038] FIG. 13 An exploded perspective view of two cargo containers being connected together in a left-to-right direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0039] FIG. 14 A perspective view of two cargo containers connected together in a left-to-right direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0040] FIG. 15 Front, side, rear, and top plan views of two connected cargo containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. FIG. 14

[0041] FIG. 16 An exploded perspective view of two cargo containers being connected together in an up-to-down direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0042] FIG. 17 A perspective view of two cargo containers connected together in an up-to-down direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0043] FIG. 18 Front, side, rear, and top plan views of two connected cargo containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. FIG. 17

[0044] FIG. 19 An exploded perspective view of eight cargo containers being connected together in an up-to-down direction, a front-to-back direction, and a left-to-right direction according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0045] FIG. 20 A perspective view of eight connected cargo containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 19 ​​​​a perspective view of eight cargo containers.

[0046] FIG. 21 depicts FIG. 20 front, side, rear, and top plan views of eight connected cargo containers.

[0047] FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of a truss-type cargo container according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 23 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary scenario in which multiple truss-type cargo containers are combined together and modified to fit an irregularly shaped large payload according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 24 depicts side plan views of various configurations of a container family according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the dimensions and connections of which allow different sized containers in the family to connect to each other and to matching spines.

[0050] FIG. 25 depicts front, side, and bottom plan views of a single-width transport vehicle spine that matches the connection of a container in FIG. 24 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 26 depicts front, side, and bottom plan views of a double-width transport vehicle spine that connects to a container of FIG. 24 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of a container assembly being lifted by a winch assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 28 depicts a perspective view of a cargo container family with additional fittings according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 29 depicts side plan views of various configurations of a container family according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the containers of which connect to each other and to transport vehicle spines.

[0055] FIG. 30 depicts a perspective view of a cargo container family according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 31 depicts side plan views of various configurations of a container family according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the containers of which connect to each other and to transport vehicle spines.

[0057] FIG. 32A perspective view of an exemplary scenario is depicted, in which a single container wide spine assembly is connected to a container assembly.

[0058] FIG. 33 Side plan views of various configurations of a container assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted, which are connected to each other and to a transport vehicle spine.

[0059] FIG. 34A And FIG. 34B A perspective view of an exemplary scenario is depicted, in which a single container wide spine assembly is connected to a container assembly.

[0060] FIG. 35A And FIG. 35B A perspective view of an exemplary scenario is depicted, in which a single container wide spine assembly is connected to a container assembly.

[0061] FIG. 36A And FIG. 36B A perspective view of an exemplary scenario is depicted, in which a single container wide spine assembly is connected to a container assembly.

[0062] FIG. 37 A perspective view of an exemplary single container wide spine assembly is depicted, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 38 A front, side, and bottom profile view of a spine assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 37

[0064] FIG. 39 A close-up view of data transfer and / or power probes of a spine assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 37

[0065] A perspective view of an exemplary scenario is depicted, in which a single container wide spine assembly is connected to a container assembly. FIG. 40

[0066] And FIG. 41A A perspective, front, side, and back view of a 12 container assembly mated with a spine assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 41B

[0067] A perspective view of a container assembly secured to various aircraft spines according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 42A-42D

[0068] FIG. 43 ​​A perspective view of a drive container in a partially deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 44 A perspective view of a drive container in a partially deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 43 A perspective interior view of a drive container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 45 A perspective view of a drive container in a partially deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 43 A perspective view of a drive container in a partially deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 46 A side plan view of a drive container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 45 A side plan view of a drive container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 47A A front plan view of a drive container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 45 A front plan view of a drive container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 47B A front plan view of a drive container in a wide wheel configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 45 A front plan view of a drive container in a wide wheel configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 48 A perspective view of two drive containers moving to secure a container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 49 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly in a stowed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 50 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly in a fully deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 49 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly in a fully deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 51 A side plan view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 50 A side plan view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 52 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, with drive wheel assemblies turned. FIG. 50 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, with drive wheel assemblies turned.

[0079] FIG. 53 A top plan view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 52 A top plan view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] FIG. 54 A perspective view of two drive containers secured together is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] FIG. 55A perspective view of two driveable containers secured to a 40' container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIG. 56 A perspective view of a driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 57 A perspective view of a driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 56 A top perspective view of a driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] FIG. 58 A perspective view of two driveable containers moving into position to secure a container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] FIG. 59 A perspective view of two driveable containers and a container secured together is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 58 A perspective view of two driveable containers and a container secured together is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] FIG. 60 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly with a rotatable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] FIG. 61 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly with a rotatable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] FIG. 62 A perspective view of a configurable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] FIG. 63 An exploded perspective view of a configurable driveable container and attachable ballast is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] FIG. 64 A side plan view of a configurable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 62 A side plan view of a configurable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] FIG. 65 An exploded view of a configurable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 62 An exploded view of a configurable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] FIG. 66 A perspective view of a side deployable driveable container in a stowed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] FIG. 67 A perspective view of a side deployable driveable container in a deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 66 A perspective view of a side deployable driveable container in a deployed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] FIG. 68 A front plan view of a side deployable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 67 A front plan view of a side deployable driveable container is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] FIG. 69 depicts a side plan view of a laterally deployable driveable container. FIG. 67

[0096] FIG. 70 depicts a perspective view of a laterally deployable driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0097] FIG. 71 depicts a perspective view of a laterally deployable driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0098] FIG. 72 depicts a perspective view of a laterally deployable driveable container in a stowed configuration according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 71

[0099] FIG. 73 depicts a side plan view of a laterally deployable driveable container. FIG. 71

[0100] FIG. 74 depicts a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a laterally deployable driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0101] FIG. 75 depicts a side plan view of a cargo transport assembly. FIG. 74

[0102] FIG. 76 depicts a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a rotatable laterally deployable driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0103] FIG. 77 depicts a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a rotatable laterally deployable driveable container and a center driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0104] FIG. 78 depicts a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a laterally deployable driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0105] FIG. 79 depicts a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a rotatable laterally deployable driveable container according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0106] FIG. 80 depicts a perspective view of an aerodynamic cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0107] FIG. 81 depicts a perspective view of a semi-truck propulsion system in a stowed configuration according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0108] FIG. 82 ​​​​depicting an internal perspective view of a semi-truck propulsion system according to embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 81 depicting an internal perspective view of a semi-truck propulsion system according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0109] FIG. 83 depicting an internal perspective view of a semi-truck propulsion system according to embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 82 depicting an internal perspective view of a semi-truck propulsion system according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0110] FIG. 84 depicting a side plan view of a semi-truck propulsion system according to embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 83 depicting a side plan view of a semi-truck propulsion system according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0111] FIG. 85 depicting a perspective view of a front swivel axle module container according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a stowed configuration

[0112] FIG. 86 depicting a perspective view of a front swivel axle module container according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a deployed configuration FIG. 85 depicting a perspective view of a front swivel axle module container according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a deployed configuration

[0113] FIG. 87 depicting a side plan view of a front swivel axle module container according to embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 86 depicting a side plan view of a front swivel axle module container according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0114] FIG. 88 depicting a perspective view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0115] FIG. 89 depicting a side plan view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 88 depicting a side plan view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0116] FIG. 90 depicting a perspective view of a container dolly system stored within a container according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0117] FIG. 91 depicting a side plan view of a container dolly system and container according to embodiments of the present disclosure FIG. 90 depicting a side plan view of a container dolly system and container according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0118] FIG. 92 depicting a perspective view of a container dolly system removed from a container according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0119] FIG. 93 depicting a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure

[0120] FIG. 94 depicting a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a ready to deploy configuration FIG. 93 depicting a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a deployed configuration

[0121] FIG. 95 depicting a perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a deployed configurationFIG. 94 Perspective view of a cargo transport assembly.

[0122] FIG. 96 Perspective view of a foldable kingpin support hardware is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0123] FIG. 97 Perspective view of a foldable container support hardware is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0124] FIG. 98 Perspective view of a container support hardware, kingpin hardware, container trolley system, and container is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0125] FIG. 99 Perspective view of a container trolley system is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0126] FIG. 100 Perspective view of a container support hardware, kingpin hardware, container trolley system, and container in an assembled state is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0127] FIG. 101 Perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0128] FIG. 102 Perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0129] FIG. 103 Perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 102

[0130] FIG. 104 Perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly with a control cab is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0131] FIG. 105 Perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly with a control cab is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0132] FIG. 106 Perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly with a removable energy storage system is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0133] FIG. 107 Perspective view of a cargo transport assembly with a control cab is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0134] FIG. 108 Perspective view of a cargo transport assembly with a control cab is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0135] ​FIG. 109 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a removable energy storage system is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] FIG. 110 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a removable energy storage system is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] FIG. 111 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a removable energy storage system is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] FIG. 112 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a removable energy storage system is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] FIG. 113 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly having a removable energy storage system is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] FIG. 114 An exploded perspective view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport system is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] FIG. 115 A perspective view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport system in a partially assembled state is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 114

[0142] FIG. 116 A perspective view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport system in an assembled state is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 114

[0143] FIG. 117 An exploded view of a containerized cargo transport assembly in an unpacked configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] FIG. 118 An exploded view of a containerized cargo transport assembly in a packed or stowed configuration is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 117

[0145] FIG. 119A Various plan and perspective views of a containerized cargo transport assembly are depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 118

[0146] An exploded view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 120

[0147] A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 121 FIG. 120 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] FIG. 122 ​​​​A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0149] FIG. 123 A partial exploded view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0150] FIG. 124 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 123

[0151] FIG. 125 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0152] FIG. 126 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0153] FIG. 127 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0154] FIG. 128 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0155] FIG. 129 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0156] FIG. 130 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0157] FIG. 131 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 130

[0158] FIG. 132 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0159] FIG. 133 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0160] FIG. 134 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0161] FIG. 135 A cross-sectional view of a spine-based aircraft having a pressurized outer fairing according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0162] FIG. 136 A cross-sectional view of a spine-based aircraft having a pressurized membrane within an outer fairing according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0163] FIG. 137 ​​A cross-sectional view of a spine-based aircraft with a pressurized outer fairing is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0164] FIG. 138 A cross-sectional view of a spine-based aircraft with a pressurized membrane within the outer fairing is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0165] FIG. 139 A perspective view of a spine-based aircraft with a pressurized envelope is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0166] FIG. 140 An exploded view of a spine-based aircraft is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 139

[0167] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding only, depict various embodiments of the disclosed technology and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosed technology. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to explain the same, similar, or equivalent components in various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0168] Specific non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these embodiments are merely examples of embodiments of the present disclosure and are intended to be illustrative only and do not exhaustively represent the full scope of embodiments within the present disclosure. Various modifications and changes can be made by persons of ordinary skill in the art to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as further defined by the appended claims.

[0169] In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides systems and methods that include various sizes of containers and sub-containers that fit together onto a matching spine system, and in certain embodiments, defines a spine and containers that are compliant with ISO 636 and / or ISO 668 intermodal equipment. Various embodiments of the present disclosure do not include hooks on the top fittings, where the system can standardize the upper corner fittings to be similar to the lower corner fittings.

[0170] In addition, various embodiments of the present disclosure include spines that can have additional fittings to allow the payload to be shifted (e.g., from front to back) and better match the center of gravity requirements of the aircraft system without having to shift the payload within the container. In certain embodiments, the spines can have sliding fittings to accommodate repositioning of the containers in order to match the center of gravity requirements. In various embodiments, the spines can include separate sliding fittings to account for thermal expansion differences and geometric tolerance differences between the spine and the separate containers. In other embodiments, the spines can have heaters and / or coolers so that it can reach a similar temperature as the attached containers. This can be useful, for example, when the containers are exposed to hot weather conditions.

[0171] ​Some embodiments of this disclosure also demonstrate how containers can be assembled into double-width and / or double-height carrying spaces to accommodate oversized cargo. In some embodiments, the assembled containers can still be fitted onto existing intermodal infrastructure and can be assembled before being loaded onto an aircraft.

[0172] FIG. 1A A perspective view of an exemplary cargo container 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. FIG. 1B A bottom-up perspective view of the cargo container 100 is provided. In various embodiments, the cargo container 100 can be used as a container in a spindle cargo transport system. Various embodiments of the spur cargo transport system are described in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 7,261,257, published August 28, 2007, entitled CARGO AIRCRAFT; U.S. Patent No. 7,699,267, published April 20, 2010, entitled CARGO AIRCRAFT; U.S. Patent No. 8,608,110, published December 17, 2013, entitled CARGO AIRCRAFT SYSTEM; U.S. Patent No. 8,708,282, published April 29, 2014, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UNLOADING CARGO ASSEMBLY ONTO AND FROM AN AIRCRAFT; and U.S. Patent No. 8,708,282, published November 15, 2016, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UNLOADING CARGO ASSEMBLY ONTO AND FROM AN AIRCRAFT. AIRCRAFT's U.S. Patent No. 9,493,227; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0217230, filed February 5, 2013, entitled DRONE CARGOHELICOPTER, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein. In the depicted embodiments, the cargo container 100 includes connection locations not present on standard ISO containers. The cargo container 100 includes eight corner fittings 101a-h. In various embodiments, each corner fitting on the container may be a mirror image of at least one other corner fitting on the container. For example, the lower left front corner fitting 101a is a mirror image of the lower right front corner fitting 101b and a relative mirror image of the lower left rear corner fitting 101g. In various embodiments, the lower left front corner fitting 101a is also a mirror image of the upper left front corner fitting 101d. In some embodiments, some or all of the corresponding lower and upper fittings may differ such that they are not mirror images of each other, as will be described in more detail herein. The bottom left rear corner accessory 101g is a mirror image of the bottom right rear corner accessory 101h. FIG. 1BAs shown), and is a relative mirror image of the lower left front corner accessory 101a. The upper left front corner accessory 101d is a mirror image of the upper right front corner accessory 101c, and is a mirror image of the lower left front corner accessory 101a in the opposite direction. The upper right rear corner accessory 101e is a mirror image of the upper left rear corner accessory 101f, and is a mirror image of the lower right rear corner accessory 101h in the opposite direction. FIG. 1B (As shown). In various embodiments, corner fittings 101a-h and additional fittings can be designed to transfer flight loads from one container to another and to the attached ridge system, as will be described in more detail herein.

[0173] Because aircraft loads can be large and additional fittings may be required to transfer the load, a cargo container 100 is shown, with additional connecting fittings on the front and rear of the cargo container 100 and along its length. According to the depicted embodiment, intermediate fittings are included in the width direction. The intermediate fitting 101i in the front upper width direction is a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101j in the front lower width direction, and in the opposite direction is a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101q in the rear upper width direction, which is the intermediate fitting 101r in the rear lower width direction (e.g., ...). FIG. 1B A mirror image of (shown). Intermediate fittings are also included in the height direction. The intermediate fitting 101l in the left front height direction is a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101k in the right front height direction, and is also a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101s in the left rear height direction, which in turn is a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101t (not shown) in the right rear height direction. Although not shown, in some embodiments, container corner fittings may also meet current ISO intermodal transport requirements, which may require additional types of connecting fittings.

[0174] Cargo container 100 has additional intermediate connecting fittings in the length direction, wherein the intermediate fitting 101n in the upper left length direction is a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101m in the upper right length direction. The intermediate fitting 101o in the lower left length direction is a mirror image of the intermediate fitting 101p in the lower right length direction. In some embodiments, fitting 101n may not be a mirror image of fitting 101o, and similarly, fitting 101m may not be a mirror image of fitting 101p. This design attempts to minimize the number of required structural connections and will be described and illustrated in more detail herein, for example, with reference to various connected cargo containers.

[0175] FIG. 2 Embodiments according to this disclosure are depicted. FIG. 1A An exemplary embodiment of the lower left front corner fitting 101a depicted herein. In one embodiment, the lower left front corner fitting 101a or a mirror image thereof can be used... FIG. 1A-1BAny corner fittings 101a-h. The lower left front corner fitting 101a is designed to be structurally connected to a corresponding fitting on another container via fitting connector 104 and a first opening 214 in the left-right direction (i.e., width direction), via fitting connector 103 and a second opening 213 in the front-back direction (i.e., length direction), and via fitting connector 105 and a third opening 215 (not shown) in the vertical direction (i.e., height direction). Fitting connector 103 includes a central body 203a and two rotating members 203b located at either end of the central body 203. The two rotating members 203b can rotate between an unlocked position and a locked position. When in the unlocked position, the two rotating members 203b are designed to insert into the corresponding fitting openings in the two cargo containers, and once inserted, they can be rotated to the locked position to secure the corresponding fittings to each other. Similarly, accessory connectors 104 and 105 also include central bodies 204a and 205a, respectively, and each accessory connector 104 and 105 further includes two rotating members 204b and 205b, which operate substantially similarly to rotating member 203b. Accessory 101a is designed such that all three accessory connectors 103, 104, and 105 can be attached simultaneously. In the depicted embodiment, accessory connectors 103, 104, and 105 are quarter-turn accessory connectors. In the unlocked position, these accessory connectors can be positioned to mate with their corresponding accessory openings and then rotated approximately 90 degrees into the locked position. FIG. 2 The accessory connectors 103, 104, and 105 shown can be configured to work with all corner fittings on a cargo container (e.g., FIG. 1A-1B The fittings 101a-h are mated. In some embodiments, the fitting connector can be configured to rotate individually so that the fitting connector can be locked onto one container and then onto a second container.

[0176] FIG. 3 Embodiments according to this disclosure are depicted. FIG. 1A-1B An exemplary embodiment of the middle accessory 101o in the lower left length direction. In one embodiment, the middle accessory 101o in the lower left length direction or its mirror image can be used for FIG. 1A-1B Intermediate fittings 101m, 101n, 101o, and 101p in any length direction. The intermediate fitting 101o in the lower left length direction is designed to be structurally connected to a corresponding fitting on another container via fitting connector 304 and a first opening 314 in the left-right direction (i.e., width direction), and via fitting connector 305 and a second opening 315 (not shown) in the up-down direction (i.e., height direction). It can be seen that fitting connector 304 can be connected to... FIG. 2 The accessory connector 104 is the same, and the accessory connector 305 can be used with... FIG. 2The accessory connectors 304, 305 are identical to the accessory connectors 105. Similar to the accessory connectors 104, 105, the accessory connectors 304, 305 have a central body 304a, 305a and two rotating members 304b, 305b that can rotate between an unlocked position and a locked position. The rotating members 304b, 305b of the accessory connectors 304, 305 are shown in the "locked" position, while FIG. 2 The rotating members 204b, 205b of the accessory connectors 104, 105 are shown in the "unlocked" position. The accessory 101o is designed in such a way that both accessory connectors 304 and 305 can be attached at the same time.

[0177] The left-to-right (i.e., in the width direction) accessory connectors 104, 304 can be configured to connect with the accessories 101o and 101p and the left-to-right corner accessories 101a-h. The up-to-down connected (i.e., in the height direction) accessory connectors 105, 305 can be configured to connect with the accessories 101o and 101p and the up-to-down corner accessories 101a-h.

[0178] FIG. 4 An exemplary embodiment of a left-front height-wise intermediate accessory 1011 of the FIG. 1A-1B In one embodiment, the left-front height-wise intermediate accessory 1011 or its mirror image can be used for any height-wise intermediate accessory 101k, 1011, 101s, 101t of the FIG. 1A-1B The left-front height-wise intermediate accessory 1011 is designed to be structurally connected to a corresponding accessory on another container in the front-to-back direction (i.e., the length direction) via the accessory connector 403 and the opening 413. The accessory connector 403 can be configured to correspond to additional accessories on the cargo container, such as the right-front height-wise intermediate accessory 101k, the right-rear height-wise intermediate accessory 101t, and the left-rear height-wise intermediate accessory 101s. In certain embodiments, the accessory connector 403 can have slightly different external dimensions than the accessory connector 103. In other embodiments, the accessory connectors 103, 403 can be made to the same dimensions to reduce the number of various accessory connectors. Similar to the accessory connector 103, the accessory connector 403 has a central body 403a and two rotating members 403b that can rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0179] FIG. 5 An exemplary embodiment of a left-front height-wise intermediate accessory 1011 of the FIG. 1A-1Ban exemplary embodiment of the front upper widthwise middle fitting 101i. In one embodiment, the front upper widthwise middle fitting 101i is a mirror image of the rear upper widthwise middle fitting 101q. The front upper widthwise middle fitting 101i is designed to be structurally connected to a corresponding fitting on another cargo container in the front-rear direction (i.e., lengthwise direction) via a fitting connector 503 and an opening 513. The fitting connector 503 can be configured to correspond to an additional fitting on a cargo container, such as the rear upper widthwise middle fitting 101q. In certain embodiments, the fitting connector 503 can have slightly different external dimensions than the fitting connectors 103 or 403. In other embodiments, each fitting connector 103, 403, 503 can be identical to one another in order to reduce the number of various fitting connectors. Similar to the fitting connector 103, the fitting connector 503 includes a central body 503a and two rotating members 503b that are rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0180] In certain embodiments and scenarios, cargo containers can be connected to one another in the front-rear direction (i.e., lengthwise direction) using only corner fittings (e.g., the fittings 101a, 101b, 101c, 101d and / or the fittings 101d, 101e, 101f, 101g that connect to corresponding corner fittings on another cargo container). The fittings 101k, 1011, 101i, 101j, 101q, 101r, 101s, and 101t can optionally be used in applications that can require additional connections in the front-rear direction.

[0181] FIG. 6 depicts FIG. 1A-1B an exemplary embodiment of the left upper lengthwise middle fitting 101n. In one embodiment, the left upper lengthwise middle fitting 101n is a mirror image of the right upper lengthwise middle fitting 101m. The left upper lengthwise middle fitting 101n is designed to be structurally connected to a corresponding fitting on another cargo container or ridge in the up-down direction (i.e., heightwise direction) via a fitting connector 605 and an opening 615. In certain embodiments, the fitting connector 605 can be identical to the fitting connector 105 and can be configured to mate with any other fitting on the cargo container 100 that is configured to be connected in the up-down direction. Similar to the fitting connector 105, the fitting connector 605 can include a central body 605a and two rotating members 605b that are rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0182] FIG. 7 is a table comparing the external dimensions of existing ISO containers to various embodiments of the presently disclosed cargo container. FIG. 7The dimensions shown are based on: front and rear accessory connectors 103, 403, and 503 having a connection thickness of about three inches between two connected cargo containers; left and right accessory connectors 104, 304 having a thickness of about three inches after mating two cargo containers; and the vertical dimension of accessory connectors 105, 305, 605 having a baseline thickness of about four inches when two cargo containers are connected. The thickness of accessory connectors 105, 305, 605 can be used to define the size and / or height of the outer aerodynamic fairing. The outer accessory connectors 103, 403, 503 can be defined by ISO standards, as they will fit the dimensions of two 20' containers connected in the same space as a 40' container. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of any accessory connector can be determined based on the access space needed to lock and / or unlock the accessory connector based on an automated or manual extension actuation system. It will be appreciated that the dimensions of any accessory connector can be modified as appropriate. In certain embodiments, based on the cargo container dimensions found in the middle and the number of accessories defined for this connection configuration, a cargo container series can be developed. It will be appreciated that while various exemplary dimensions and sizes are discussed herein, any appropriate dimensions can be used. For example, two containers that are ISO standard ½ width and / or ½ height can be combined to create a combined container that is a standard height and / or width. FIG. 7

[0183] FIG. 8 A cargo container series 800 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. FIG. 9 Front, side, and rear views of the cargo container series 800 of FIG. 8 are provided. The cargo container series 800 includes a 5' container 802, a 10' container 804, a 20' container 806, a 40' container 808, and a 50' container 810. In certain embodiments, the 50' container 810 can be designed to fit on a 40' truck chassis under some cargo weight loading restrictions.

[0184] As can be seen, each cargo container has an accessory at each of the eight corners of the cargo container, and on the front and rear ends of the cargo container, accessories in the center upper, center lower, center left, and center right, very similar to the exemplary cargo container 100 of FIG. 1A-1B The longer cargo containers (in this example, cargo containers that are 20' and longer) also have additional accessories at substantially regular intervals in the length direction. For example, in this exemplary cargo container series 800, the cargo containers have additional accessories about every 10 feet in the length direction. It can be appreciated that the cargo containers can have more additional accessories (e.g., every 5 feet), or fewer additional accessories (e.g., every 20 feet). ​

[0185] The following figures will show an example of how containers are connected to each other.

[0186] FIG. 10 This is an exploded perspective view according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating how two containers 1000a and 1000b can be structurally attached in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the longitudinal direction). FIG. 10 In the example shown, each cargo container 1000a, 1000b and FIG. 1A-1B 100 cargo containers and more FIG. 8 The 20' cargo container 806 is substantially the same. In this exemplary scenario, each fitting on the rear or rear surface of the first cargo container 1000a is connected to each fitting on the front surface of the second cargo container 1000b using a suitable fitting connector. In this exemplary scenario, it is assumed that the front and rear (i.e., in the length direction) fitting connectors 103, 403, and 503 are identical (i.e., each front and rear fitting connector is...). FIG. 2 (The front and rear accessory connectors 103). However, in other embodiments, different front and rear accessory connectors may have different sizes, so that different front and rear accessory connectors are required for different accessories.

[0187] Each accessory connector 103, when in the unlocked position, inserts into the openings of two corresponding accessories (one accessory in cargo container 1000a and one accessory in cargo container 1000b) on cargo containers 1000a and 1000b, and once inserted, the rotating member of the accessory connector 103 rotates to the locking position to secure the two corresponding accessories together. Although FIG. 10 The example shows eight fittings secured together, but it is anticipated that in some embodiments only corner fittings will be needed for connection, though more connections may be shown if structural requirements necessitate them.

[0188] FIG. 11 Two containers 1000a and 1000b connected in the front-to-back direction (i.e., the length direction) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0189] FIG. 12 Side views, top views, front views, and rear views of two containers 1000a, 1000b connected in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the length direction) according to embodiments of the present invention are provided, as well as the gaps created from the assembled system. In various embodiments, the two 20' cargo containers 1000a, 1000b are assembled with a 40' cargo container (e.g., ...). FIG. 8 The cargo container (808) is in the same space.

[0190] FIG. 13is an exploded perspective view showing how two containers 1300a, 1300b can be connected in the left-right direction (i.e., the width direction) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example shown, FIG. 13 Each cargo container 1300a, 1300b is substantially identical to the cargo container 100 of FIG. 1A-1B and also the 20' cargo container 806 of FIG. 8 In this example scenario, it is assumed that the left-right (i.e., width direction) fitment connectors 104, 304 are identical (i.e., each left-right fitment connector is the left-right fitment connector 104 of FIG. 2

[0191] In this particular configuration, there is no left-right connection at the top. This can be because, in certain embodiments, the top fitment on the containers 1300a, 1300b can connect to a spine (e.g., on an airplane used to transport the containers) or to a second container stack, either of which can take the upper left-right load of the container. This can help to minimize the number of connections required, and still have a functional, structurally sound system. However, it will be appreciated that additional connections can be made if desired.

[0192] FIG. 14 is shown is an exploded perspective view showing how two containers 1300a, 1300b can be connected in the left-right direction (i.e., the width direction) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example shown,

[0193] FIG. 15 is shown is an exploded perspective view showing how two containers 1300a, 1300b can be connected in the left-right direction (i.e., the width direction) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example shown,

[0194] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing how two containers 1600a, 1600b can be connected in the up-down direction (i.e., the height direction) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example shown, FIG. 16 Each cargo container 1600a, 1600b is substantially identical to the cargo container 100 of FIG. 1A-1B and also the 20' cargo container 806 of FIG. 8 In this example scenario, it is assumed that the up-down (i.e., height direction) fitment connectors 105, 305, 605 are identical (i.e., each up-down fitment connector is the up-down fitment connector 105 of FIG. 2

[0195] ​​In this particular configuration, no upper-to-lower connection is made using the front lower widthwise intermediate fittings and the rear lower widthwise intermediate fittings. This can be because, in some embodiments, the containers 1600a, 1600b are only 8' wide, and these fittings are not required to be connected in the upper-to-lower direction for structural integrity. This can help to minimize the number of connections required, and still have a functional, structurally sound system. However, it should be understood that additional connections can be made if desired, and the fittings can be modified as appropriate.

[0196] FIG. 17 Two containers 1600a, 1600b connected in the up-to-down direction (i.e., the height direction) are shown, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0197] FIG. 18 Side, top, front, and rear views of two containers 1600a, 1600b connected in the up-to-down direction (i.e., the height direction) are provided, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, along with the gap created due to the thickness of the fitting connectors 105.

[0198] FIG. 19 All previous combinations from FIG. 10-18 are combined to show how eight containers 1900a-h can be combined, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0199] FIG. 20 is the final assembled eight-container assembly, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0200] FIG. 21 Side, top, front, and rear views of the eight-container assembly are provided, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, and the gap of the assembled eight-container assembly is shown. As discussed, the gap in the assembly can be provided in order to allow for automatic or manual extension of the actuation system to lock and / or unlock each fitting connector 103, 104, 105.

[0201] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a cargo container 2200, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The cargo container 2200 represents an alternative embodiment of the cargo container 100 of FIG. 1A-1B . The cargo container 2200 is not a solid wall with a closed cargo container, but rather has support beams between a plurality of fittings 2201a-t. The plurality of fittings 2201a-t are similar to the plurality of fittings 101a-t of FIG. 1A-1BThe fittings 101a-t are substantially identical. As described with respect to the embodiments disclosed above, in certain embodiments, the spine-to-container connections and container-to-container connections can only occur at discrete connection locations (i.e., fittings 101a-t or 2201a-t). This means that the space between fittings can be anything in terms of geometry, structure, material, etc. so long as the load between the fitting and the fitting connector is adequately transferred. It should be understood that fittings, crossbeams, and / or support beams can be added as needed based on the container size and the cargo to be transported.

[0202] FIG. 23 An exemplary scenario is depicted in which twenty cargo containers are connected together in a double-wide double-high configuration in order to assemble a helicopter 2304. The support beams of the various fittings connecting the cargo containers have been arranged such that the twenty cargo containers define an internal cavity in which the helicopter can be assembled. FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 The flexibility of the system is shown, including double-wide and / or double-high container assemblies with one or more removable center walls or support structures (e.g., support beams). The container structure and geometry can be almost anything so long as the spine connection locations are met.

[0203] This is a beneficial concept because current aircraft do not have this capability. By separating the payload fuselage portion from the aircraft and transferring all loads via the and fitting connectors, it opens the ability to customize the structure according to the specific payload requirements without affecting the transport vehicle spine.

[0204] For example, consider a 120' long spine (such as FIG. 25An exemplary scenario of a transport system (e.g., cargo aircraft) with 13 rows of mounts (i.e., fittings, connections, connection points, etc.) and capable of carrying twelve 40' containers in a double-wide and double-high configuration. If the transport system has a payload capacity of 360,000 pounds, this means that each row of mounts can carry a payload of 27,682 pounds. A tank weighing 120,000 pounds would need to be connected to (120,000 / 17,681 = 4.33) 5 rows of spine mounts. Because, in our example design so far, 13 rows = 120', then 5 rows = 50'. So, our example spine would carry a tank that would need to spread its load of containers across 5 rows of mounts. And since a tank can be too wide for one container, it can require the use of double-wide container mounts / fittings / connections for an entire row. By separating the portion of the carrying fuselage load of the aircraft (or other transport vehicle), the present disclosure provides a system in which unlimited customization can be done at the container level. Companies no longer need to design an entire aircraft to handle a particular heavy or large load, but rather they can send containers to companies to be modified or even designed anew, as long as the connection locations can match the spine assembly locations and the load can be transferred from fitting to fitting on the new container design. Since the containers are designed to be transported by all land, sea, and air intermodal systems, it is easy to move the containers to be modified around. In all cases, aviation safety factors can be considered.

[0205] FIG. 24 depicts a side plan view of various configurations of a cargo container series 800 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, connected to each other and to a transport vehicle spine. FIG. 8 depicts a side plan view of various configurations of a cargo container series 800 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, connected to each other and to a transport vehicle spine. FIG. 24A series of containers of different lengths according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown how they can be connected to each other and to a transport vehicle spine. The depicted embodiment shows a 50' section of a spine with six rows of mounts (or fittings) located at 0", 109.75", 230.5", 351.25", 472", and 592.75". In other words, the spine mounts (or spine fittings or spine connectors) are about 10' apart. Each row of mounts can be configured to be secured to a corresponding fitting on a container assembly. It should be understood that the mount locations depicted in this embodiment, as well as all other embodiments disclosed herein, represent centerline locations with added tolerances (e.g., a tolerance of + / - 0.20" or a tolerance of + / - 0.50" or the like). Further, it should be understood that the mount locations depicted in the present disclosure are exemplary only, and in various embodiments, the mount locations can be modified without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, the spine can accommodate any container combination such as from 0' to 50', for example, a series of containers such as FIG. 8 the cargo container series 800 of FIG. 8. FIG. 24 the top row shows a 50' container 810 with six rows of fittings spaced 10' apart. FIG. 24 the second row shows a 40' container 808 connected to a 10' container 804 to form a container assembly having the same length as the 50' container 810. FIG. 24 the third row shows two 20' containers 806 connected to each other to form a container assembly having the same length as the 40' container 808. FIG. 24 the fourth row shows two 10' containers 804 connected to each other to form a container assembly having the same length as the 20' container 806. FIG. 24 the last row shows two 5' containers 802 connected to each other to form a container assembly having the same length as the 10' container 804. In the depicted exemplary scenario, when using 5' containers, it can be necessary to connect two of them to simulate a 10' container, as a single 5' container can only be connected to the spine on one side.

[0206] FIG. 25Front, side, and bottom plan views of a transport vehicle spine 2502 according to embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. In certain embodiments, the spine 2502 can be a 60' section of a longer spine. In various embodiments, the spine 2502, as well as any other spine, spine assembly, or spine section disclosed herein, can be incorporated into a transport vehicle, such as an airplane, boat, train, and / or truck, to secure and transport a container assembly comprising one or more containers. As noted above, various embodiments of a spine cargo transport system are described in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 7,261,257, issued August 28, 2007, and entitled CARGO AIRCRAFT; U.S. Patent No. 7,699,267, issued April 20, 2010, and entitled CARGO AIRCRAFT; U.S. Patent No. 8,608,110, issued December 17, 2013, and entitled CARGO AIRCRAFT SYSTEM; U.S. Patent No. 8,708,282, issued April 29, 2014, and entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UNLOADING CARGO ASSEMBLY ONTO AND FROM AN AIRCRAFT; U.S. Patent No. 9,493,227, issued November 15, 2016, and entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UNLOADING CARGO ASSEMBLY ONTO AND FROM AN AIRCRAFT; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0217230, filed February 5, 2013, and entitled DRONE CARGO HELICOPTER, each of which is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

[0207] The spine 2502 is 60' long and has seven rows of mounts 2504a-g spaced about 10' apart. The spine 2502 is configured to receive cargo containers in a single container wide configuration. In other words, each row of mounts 2504a-g has two mounts 89" apart from each other. Each mount is designed to align with a fitting on a top surface of a cargo container, such as the fittings 101d, 101c, 101n, 101m, 101e, 101f of the cargo container 100. FIG. 1A-1B In certain embodiments, each mount can be configured to receive a fitting connector, such as the fitting connector 102 of the cargo container 100. FIG. 2The mounting member (105) is used to secure a corresponding fitting to the top surface of the cargo container. In some embodiments, each mounting member may be substantially half-shaped similar to a fitting connector (such as vertical fitting connector 105), such that the mounting member itself can be directly inserted into a corresponding fitting on the top surface of the cargo connector. Some exemplary embodiments of the ridge mounting member connected to the cargo container can be found in U.S. Patent No. 8,608,110, published on December 17, 2013, entitled "Vertical Fitting Connector 105". FIG. 4 It was found in A-4B.

[0208] In some embodiments, the ridge may have additional rows, allowing the cargo containers to move forward or backward, for example, to meet center of gravity requirements. In this way, instead of adjusting the load within individual cargo containers, the entire cargo container can be moved forward or backward by several feet or even inches to adjust the center of gravity of the entire transport vehicle. Therefore, there is greater flexibility in adjusting the entire container assembly relative to the ridge. In some embodiments, the ridge may have numerous mounting members, and any unused mounting members can be retracted. Some embodiments may include ridge mounts on tracks that can be adjusted forward and / or backward to move the cargo containers relative to the ridge. Other embodiments may have symmetrically arranged ridge mounts, allowing the entire container assembly (potentially comprising multiple containers) to move forward or backward by a set amount along the ridge.

[0209] FIG. 26 A front, side, and bottom plan view of a transport vehicle spine 2602 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The spine 2602 is 120' long and has thirteen rows of mounting members 2604a-m spaced approximately 10' apart. The spine 2602 is configured to receive cargo containers in a double-width configuration. In other words, each row of mounting members 2604a-m has two pairs of mounting members (four mounting members per row). Each pair of mounting members is spaced 89'' apart from each other (to match the width of an ISO cargo container). There is a 10'' spacing between adjacent pairs of mounting members in a single row, based on the 3" thick left and right fitting connectors 104 and the container corner fitting attachment positions. This spine configuration can accommodate, for example, twelve 40' containers in a two-container-width × three-container-length stacked configuration (e.g., ...). FIG. 8 Container 808 in the middle.

[0210] Because there may be scenarios where there is no ground equipment. FIG. 27 This illustration shows how a set of winches, structurally connected to a center wing box structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, can raise or lower a container assembly. FIG. 27The winch system shown is shown as engaging two fittings on a container assembly, one on the bottom container and one on the upper container. However, in other embodiments, it can be the case that a single fitting can be engaged. Thus, a simple winch system can be used to lower and raise a container to a spine. For example, if a container assembly is attached to a spine, the winch system can be attached to the container assembly and then unlock the spine mounts that secure the container assembly to the spine. The winch system can then lower the container to the ground. The winch system can then be released from the container assembly and retracted, and the aircraft can roll away from the container assembly. In the case of a single container on the ground or on a truck, a spine-based aircraft can roll over the container, lower the winch system and attach it to the container. The winch can then raise the container and secure it to the spine of the aircraft. In certain embodiments, the spine can include side rails that can move the container assembly to the correct position on the spine before it is locked into place. In this scenario, the container-to-container fitting connectors can be on arms that extend from the spine and connect to the first container before a second container is loaded onto the vehicle. The winch position can vary depending on the landing gear configuration and additional ground extendable support structures.

[0211] FIG. 28 A perspective view of a cargo container series 2800 is provided in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The cargo container series 2800 includes a 5' container 2802, a 10' container 2804, a 20' container 2806, a 40' container 2808, and a 50' container 2810. As can be seen, the cargo container series 2800 is substantially similar to the cargo container series 800 of FIG. 8 , but each cargo container, except for the 5' container 2802, includes additional fitting locations along the length of the cargo container. This design can increase redundancy in the event of any fitting failure. The design also allows a single 5' container 2802 to be connected to a spine or other container on the front and back ends, among other related advantages.

[0212] FIG. 29 Side plan views of various configurations of the cargo container series 2800 of FIG. 28 , connected to each other and to a transport vehicle spine, are depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The depicted embodiments show a 50' spine, similar to FIG. 24 . However, FIG. 29 , the 50' spine in the 50' spine is not just six rows of mounts separated by 10', but has 20 rows of mounts. Again, this higher density configuration (1) increases redundancy in the event of any fitting failure, and (2) allows a single 5' container 2802 to be connected to a spine or other container on the front and back ends, among other related advantages.

[0213] FIG. 30 A perspective view of a series of cargo containers 3000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. The series of cargo containers 3000 includes 5-foot containers 3002, 10-foot containers 3004, 20-foot containers 3006, 40-foot containers 3008, and 50-foot containers 3010. It can be seen that the series of cargo containers 3000 is substantially similar to... FIG. 8 Cargo container series 800 and FIG. 28 The cargo container series 2800, but the cargo container series 3000 has a higher component density than the cargo container series 800 and a lower component density than the cargo container series 2800.

[0214] FIG. 31 Embodiments according to this disclosure are depicted. FIG. 30 Side plan views of various configurations of the 3000 series of cargo containers, which are connected to each other and attached to the ridge of the transport vehicle. Again, the depicted embodiment shows a 50' ridge, similar to... FIG. 24 and FIG. 28 .However, FIG. 31 The illustrated embodiment is not limited to six rows of 10' separate mounting brackets (such as...) FIG. 24 ) or 20 rows of mounting components (such as FIG. 28 Instead, it has 10 rows of mounting brackets. Similar to... FIG. 24 The embodiment shown still requires two 5' containers 3002 to be joined together to form an equivalent 10' container, but with increased redundancy compared to that equivalent. For example, this increases redundancy in the event of any component failure.

[0215] FIG. 32 and FIG. 33 Another container series 3200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, along with the corresponding fitting positions for a 50' ridge to facilitate container series 3202.

[0216] Various exemplary scenarios have now been demonstrated on how cargo containers can be joined together, some of which involve containers with removed walls that can be joined to provide a larger payload area, such as two containers in width and two containers in height. Containers of different lengths can be created to form a 60-foot combined container by attaching different types of containers, such as 40-foot long containers and 20-foot long containers. In some embodiments, the containers may have additional connections between them, as well as supports in their structure, to accommodate missing / removed walls.

[0217] FIG. 34A and FIG. 34BAn exemplary scenario including a specially configured container assembly 3400 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. The container assembly 3400 is configured by combining two 40' containers 3402a-b and two 20' containers 3404a-b. Each container 3402a-b, 3404a-b is 9'6" tall and 8' wide. All interior walls have been removed to create an interior cavity sized 60' x 16' x 9'6". A set of exterior walls have been removed in the figure in order to more clearly depict the contents of the container assembly 3400. In this case, an M1A1 Abram tank and a USMC LAV-R system are shown loaded and ready for transport.

[0218] FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B An exemplary scenario including a specially configured container assembly 3500 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. The container assembly 3500 includes four 40' containers 3502a-d and four 20' containers 3504a-d joined together. The container assembly 3500 is equivalent to two container assemblies 3400 of FIG. 34A-34B stacked on top of each other to form a double-high, double-wide, 60' long container. Again, all interior walls have been removed to create an interior cavity sized 60' x 16' x 19'. A set of exterior walls have been removed in the figure in order to more clearly depict the contents of the container assembly 3500. The container assembly 3500 houses a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, again demonstrating the flexibility of the system compared to existing aircraft technology.

[0219] FIG. 36A and FIG. 36B An exemplary scenario including a specially configured container assembly 3600 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. The container assembly 3600 includes four 40' containers 3602a-d and four 20' containers 3604a-d joined together. The container assembly 3600 is equivalent to the container assembly 3500 of FIG. 35A-35B Again, all interior walls have been removed to create an interior cavity sized 60' x 16' x 19'. The container assembly 3600 accommodates an F-22 jet fighter to demonstrate an oversized payload with wings extending outside of the container assembly 3600. Any oversized payload can be accommodated as long as the components extending outside of the fuselage do not interfere with transport (e.g., do not interfere with landing gear structures on the transport aircraft). In certain embodiments, any protruding portions of the payload extending outside of the container can be covered by an aerodynamic fairing or other covering. For example, in the case of the F-22 fighter shown in FIG. 36A and Figure 36B , the fairing can not only provide some covering and protection for the payload, but also prevent any lift added by the protruding wings.

[0220] In various embodiments, spines can be manufactured for fixed wing systems, rotary wing systems, and multirotor systems. In various embodiments, spines can also be manufactured for non-aircraft transportation, such as ships, trucks, and / or trains. Even containers can be developed into drone mother ships, or specialized truck bodies, or any other requirement.

[0221] As the disclosed containers are standardized to existing intermodal infrastructure, full logistics capabilities are available. Products can be shipped via any mode of transportation, including ground, sea, and air, including mid-way switching between any modes, essentially finding the cheapest cost and fastest delivery via a combination of all available intermodal capabilities.

[0222] For the civilian market, the presently disclosed technology opens up point-to-point rather than hub-and-spoke capabilities by allowing the use of cross-docking technology rather than requiring massive sorting and fulfillment centers. Whereas today, a letter from Los Angeles to Seattle can have to go to a sorting facility in Memphis, the presently disclosed technology will allow for multiple transfers between different modes of transportation, if needed, without the need to visit a sorting facility. Furthermore, the training of personnel with containers is greatly reduced, and as automation expands, the automated filling and emptying of standard containers will be significantly improved compared to conventional methods.

[0223] Various embodiments of the present disclosure also provide the ability to have electrical and data communication connections between various spine systems and container systems to expand the functionality of the modular containers. For example, using the power and / or data connections on the containers and / or spines, a container can become a radar system for an aircraft, and a separate container can become an air-to-air weapons system for an aircraft, or a container can be heated, cooled, or pressurized, etc. Thus, different environmental conditions can be had for different containers within a single container assembly and / or attached to the same spine assembly on the same aircraft.

[0224] In some embodiments, a ridge configured to connect to one or more containers can be configured to have the capability to connect to individual containers via one or more electrical and / or data probes. The figures discussed below illustrate an example of a single-width ridge design by adding separate electrical and data connection systems. In this case, electrical and data probes / connections from the ridge can be extended as needed into one or more connected containers. Therefore, containers that do not require any electrical or data connections do not need to have their associated probes extended from the ridge. Some containers may only require data connectivity, while others may only require electrical connectivity, and still others may require both. Examples of containers requiring only data connectivity may include temperature or pressure sensors or similar sensors that a customer requests to record during a specific voyage segment. Containers that may only require electrical connectivity may be dedicated units for which the company owning the container has not specified any other requirements. In some embodiments, the ridge can be configured to house fuel, electrical equipment, controls, and data distribution systems, etc.

[0225] Figure 37 A ridge 3700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The ridge 3700 is similar to... Figure 25 The ridge shown is essentially a container-wide ridge, 60' in length, and has seven rows of mounting members spaced approximately 10' apart. The ridge 3700 includes seven rows of mounting members, with each row comprising a pair of mounting members 3702. Each mounting member 3702 is configured to insert into a corresponding fitting on the top surface of the container and then rotate to a locking position to secure the container to the ridge 3700. In some embodiments, each mounting member 3702 can be rotated between a locked position and an unlocked position via electronic controls mounted in the ridge 3700 to secure and release the container.

[0226] The spine 3700 includes a data distribution system 3704, a plurality of data probes 3715, and data transmission lines 3705 for transmitting instructions between the data distribution system 3704 and the plurality of data probes 3715. The spine 3700 also includes a power distribution system 3706, a plurality of power probes 3716, and power transmission lines 3707 for transmitting power between the power distribution system 3706 and the plurality of power probes 3716. In certain embodiments, each data probe 3715 and power probe 3716 can be retractable and / or extendable such that only a selected subset of containers are connected to the data distribution system 3704 and / or the power distribution system 3706. The data and power distribution systems in the spine can be implemented using wires, optical fibers, or even integrated in the material of the spine or any other medium that can provide power and / or data distribution system functionality. In various embodiments, the spine can have a number of power probes and a number of data probes equal to the maximum number of containers that can be connected to the spine. For example, the spine 3700 has seven rows of mounts and can be connected to up to six containers. As such, the spine 3700 has six data probes 3715 and six power probes 3716.

[0227] In certain embodiments, once the container assembly is mated with the spine, data can be input, transmitted, and / or programmed into the flight or mission parameters of the aircraft, and the spine can extend the necessary probes into the containers of the container assembly. An automatic check can be performed to ensure that the correct connections are made and that the system is functioning properly.

[0228] Figure 38 A front, side, and bottom profile of the spine 3700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. Figure 38 The locations of the mounts 3702, data probes 3715, and power probes 3716 are depicted more clearly. In this exemplary embodiment, the data network runs on one side of the spine 3700 and the power network runs on the opposite side.

[0229] Figure 39 How the probes (power and data) can extend below and retract above the spine-container mating surface according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In certain embodiments, the probes can also be in line with the fitting connectors on the spine 3700 such that the probes mate with corresponding receptacles on the attached containers. In other embodiments, the probes can extend and connect on the side of the container to avoid having an upper surface that can tend to collect foreign matter.

[0230] In various embodiments, each container in a container assembly can be connected to at least one other container in the container assembly via data and / or electronic probes. Containers in a container assembly can also be daisy chained to each other such that data and / or power can be passed from one container to another and the containers can communicate with each other. Furthermore, in addition to the direct connections between containers, the containers can be connected through a spine such that data and power connections can be rerouted around any container or container connection that is damaged. For example, in the event of an in-flight damage scenario, data and power connections can be rerouted between container-to-container and / or container-to-spine.

[0231] Figure 40 An exemplary scenario in which a spine 3700 is connected to a container assembly 4000 is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The container assembly 4000 includes a first 5’ container 4002a, a second 5’ container 4002b, and a 10’ container 4004. A first data probe 3715 of the spine 3700 is connected to a data receptacle 4010 on the container 4002a. Similarly, a first power probe 3716 of the spine 3700 is connected to a power receptacle 4012 on the container 4002a. A second data probe 3715 of the spine 3700 is connected to a data receptacle 4020 on the container 4004. Similarly, a second power probe 3716 of the spine 3700 is connected to a power receptacle 4022 on the container 4004. The second 5’ container 4002b is not connected to any data or power probes on the spine 3700. In one embodiment, the container 4002b can receive data and / or power via the data and / or power connections with the container 4002a.

[0232] Figure 41A and Figure 41B A 12x40’ container assembly 4100 is shown mated with a spine assembly 4102 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The system can also replicate the data and power connections demonstrated and discussed above. Any containers that are directly connected to the spine assembly 4102 can receive power and / or data directly from the spine, while other containers can receive power and / or data through connections with other containers.

[0233] One advantage of the disclosed technology is the ability to allow containers to be connected to different sized spines. The disclosed technology also allows containers to be sent to a vendor for modification rather than sending an entire aircraft. Once a container is customized, it can fit many platforms. For example, a container fitted with a radar and missile platform can now fit on any spine system. The container is no longer just a container, but an actual weapon system. It can be configured without limit and made from almost unlimited material types as long as the container structure can carry the required fitment loads.

[0234] Figure 42A Weaponized wide-body cargo jet systems are shown, where the radar system 4200a and the missile launch system 4200b have been fixed to the spine of a wide-body cargo jet. In certain embodiments, the radar system 4200a and / or the missile launch system 4200b can be connected to data and / or power distribution systems implemented in the spine of a large cargo jet. Figures 42B-42D The same radar system 4200a and missile launch system 4200b are shown as a container fixed to the spine of various other aircraft systems. It should be understood that these are merely exemplary embodiments, and that weaponized systems (e.g., the radar system 4200a and missile launch system 4200b) can be attached as a container to any spine transport system, including spine transport systems implemented on a ship, a truck, a train, or any other transport vehicle. This can help military logistics transport protect themselves without having to be expensively escorted, for example.

[0235] Many modern large passenger aircraft, particularly those capable of crossing oceans, use turbofans that are more efficient at higher altitudes and higher speeds. Altitudes of about 30,000 feet or higher typically yield the best efficiency from the engines. However, this higher altitude typically requires the fuselage to be pressurized to lower altitudes for people and many cargo applications, adding additional weight and complexity. The fuselage of a conventional jet typically carries the pressurized load on top of the aircraft flight load.

[0236] Many disclosed embodiments use rectangular containers. It can be difficult to pressurize these individual containers with too much pressure, as this can require additional material and increase the weight of the container. Pressurized square and / or rectangular containers tend to want to be rounded, greatly increasing the stress in the corners.

[0237] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for higher speed aircraft with a spine and container system that carries the aircraft load and an aerodynamic fairing. The aerodynamic fairing can be designed to provide smooth airflow, as well as, in various embodiments, carry any desired pressurized load that is typically carried by a conventional aircraft fuselage. However, in certain embodiments, the aerodynamic fairing does not carry most of the aircraft flight load, which is carried by the spine and container system.

[0238] Figure 135A cross-sectional view of a spine-based aircraft 15800 is provided in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The aircraft 15800 includes a spine 15802 affixed to a container assembly 15804, which includes four containers 15806a-d. The aircraft 15800 also includes an aerodynamic fairing 15810 that at least partially encloses the container assembly 15804. The spine is connected to the aerodynamic fairing 15810 to substantially enclose the container assembly 15804 and provide a pressurized space.

[0239] In one embodiment, the aerodynamic fairing can include a composite material. The composite fairing can carry the pressurized loads as well as provide the aerodynamic profile for the aircraft. There are a number of flexible and semi-flexible materials that can handle the necessary pressurized loads and add a small amount of weight compared to a fully rigid structure. For example, Kevlar, carbon fiber, nylon, PET, and many other materials can be added in a matrix or web configuration to further strengthen the fairing and allow the fairing to be able to handle the expected pressurized loads.

[0240] In certain scenarios, the fairing can partially tear or have a low, persistent leak as it ages. To address such scenarios, supplemental pressurization can be provided to ensure a minimum pressure level. This can be accomplished, for example, using bleed air from the aircraft engines or via a dedicated pressure pump within the aircraft. To help reduce leakage, an inner membrane can be glued or attached to the interior of the fairing.

[0241] In certain embodiments, rather than the outer fairing handling the pressurized loads, an inner membrane can handle the pressurized loads, while the outer fairing provides the aerodynamic profile for the aircraft. Figure 136 A cross-sectional view of a spine-based aircraft 15900 is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The aircraft 15900 is very similar to the aircraft 15800, but includes a pressure membrane 15902 positioned between the container assembly 15804 and the outer aerodynamic fairing 15810. In one embodiment, the pressure membrane 15902 and / or the aerodynamic fairing 15810 can be made of a flexible material that expands to a substantially circular cross-section when the pressurized space is pressurized. Any of the features or characteristics of the fairing 15810 described above can also apply to the pressure membrane 15902. In this embodiment, because the pressure membrane 15902 bears all or substantially all of the pressurized loads, the outer aerodynamic fairing 15810 can include burst openings to account for the possibility of the pressure membrane 15902 bursting or failing and to avoid structural failure of the outer fairing 15810.

[0242] Figure 137 An embodiment similar to the aircraft 15800 is depicted, but with a wide configuration of single containers 15850 rather than a 2x2 container assembly. Similarly, Figure 135 an embodiment of the aircraft 15800 is depicted, but with a wide configuration of single containers 15850 rather than a 2x2 container assembly. Similarly, Figure 138Embodiments of an aircraft 15900 similar to Figure 136 are depicted, but with a single container 15850 wide configuration, rather than a 2x2 container assembly.

[0243] In another embodiment, rather than using a flexible pressure membrane, rigid or semi-rigid tubes can be utilized between the cargo assembly and the outer fairing to handle pressurized loads. Figure 139 A perspective view of a spine-based aircraft 16000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. The aircraft 16000 includes a spine 16002, and a tubular pressure envelope 16004 enclosing a container assembly secured to the spine 16002. Figure 139 The underside of the spine 16002 is shown, as well as the appearance of the pressure envelope 16004 with relatively rounded pressure bulkhead-style ends. The tubular pressure envelope 16004 includes a central envelope portion 16006 and two end envelope portions 16008. The tubular pressure envelope 16004 can handle pressurized loads. In certain embodiments, an outer fairing can surround the tubular pressure envelope 16004. Although Figure 137 the aerodynamic fairing of Figure 138 the pressure membrane can be substantially flexible, obtaining a generally circular cross-section under application of pressure, the pressure envelope 16004 can be at least somewhat rigid, such that it maintains a substantially circular cross-section even without application of pressure.

[0244] Figure 140 An exploded view of the aircraft 16000 is provided. The exploded view shows the container assembly 16502, as well as a support structure 16504.

[0245] In certain embodiments, the outer fairing, pressure membrane, and / or pressure tube can be configured to withstand at least about 2.5 psi of pressure. In other embodiments, they can be configured to withstand at least about 5 psi of pressure. In certain embodiments, the outer fairing, pressure membrane, and / or pressure tube, either by itself or in combination with the spine assembly, can substantially completely enclose the container.

[0246] The disclosed technology has demonstrated how the cargo fuselage portion of an aircraft system can be separated from the rest of the aircraft frame, while continuing to be compatible with existing ground and sea intermodal modular cargo systems. Furthermore, because the containers can be customized, rather than having to customize the entire aircraft or other transportation vehicle, and because the containers can be so easily sent over existing logistics infrastructure for modification, the cost of customizing for a particular application has been greatly reduced. The ability of the aircraft frame or other transportation vehicle to provide power and data capabilities greatly increases the applications of the technology.

[0247] Various aspects of the present disclosure have shown how a container assembly of one or more containers can become part of the load bearing structure of an aircraft. Further, it has shown how the fuselage can be separated from other parts of the aircraft. Thus, the container becomes a modular unit that connects ground, sea, and air systems. Various aspects of the present disclosure have shown how the same innovations applied to an aircraft can be applied to a truck or ground transportation system has made the container into a truck. Thus, various aspects of the present invention provided in the present disclosure show improved systems and methods that use modern technology to reduce weight and thereby reduce the fuel needed to transport a container or container assembly that can act as a structural component of a ground transportation system.

[0248] Various embodiments of the present disclosure view the container (or container assembly) as the load bearing structure, chassis, and / or propulsion system for powering (i.e., propelling) a truck. Figure 43 A 5' drive-in container 4300 that has been modified to be a ground transportation propulsion system is shown. The drive-in container 4300 includes an outer container 4301 that is generally a cuboid or box-like shape and a drive wheel assembly 4304 housed within the outer container 4301. The outer container 4301 can include a vertical sliding panel that can cover the drive wheel assembly 4304 and completely enclose the drive-in container 4300. Figure 43 The drive-in container 4300 is depicted in a stowed configuration, where the drive wheel assembly 4304 is completely contained within the outer container 4301. In the stowed configuration, the drive-in container 4300 functions as any other container described herein, such that it can be secured to other containers, to ridges on a transportation assembly, and / or transported, for example, via intermodal means.

[0249] The drive-in container 4300 has fittings 4302 along the outer container 4301 that allow the drive-in container 4300 to be attached to other containers as described herein. Further, in one embodiment, the drive-in container 4300 can also include a built-in fitting connector 4303 on the back of the drive-in container 4300. The built-in fitting connector 4303 can engage with a corresponding fitting on another container to secure the other container to the drive-in container 4300. In certain embodiments, the built-in fitting connector 4303 can be controlled by a controller built into the drive-in container 4300. In various embodiments, the built-in fitting connector 4303 can correspond to one or more of the various fitting connectors described herein in various combinations.

[0250] Figure 44An interior view of the drive container 4300 is provided to view the propulsion system stowed within the outer container 4301 of the drive container 4300. The drive container 4300 includes two drive wheel assemblies 4304. The drive wheel assemblies 4304 are currently shown in a retracted or stowed state. Each drive wheel assembly includes one or more wheels 4326 and a propulsion system for powering the one or more wheels (i.e., propelling). In the depicted embodiment, the propulsion system includes an in-wheel electric motor mounted within the one or more wheels 4326. A brake is also mounted within the wheel 4326. In other embodiments, other propulsion systems are possible. For example, a hydraulic system can drive the wheels, or a hingedly engaged drive shaft can be used to transfer power generated by a fuel and / or electric motor located within the drive container 4300.

[0251] The drive wheel assemblies 4304 are attached to pivot arms 4322 that are rotatably secured to the drive container 4300 (e.g., the outer container 4301) via pivot shafts 4324 for rotatably deploying and / or retracting the drive wheel assemblies 4304 between various configurations (e.g., a stowed configuration and one or more deployed configurations). The pivot arms 4322 can be secured to an actuation mechanism, such as a hydraulic pump or electric actuator, for rotating the pivot arms 4322 between the various configurations. In the depicted embodiment, the pivot arms 4322 are attached to a hydraulic pump (shown more clearly in FIG. 43) for actuating the pivot arms. It should be understood that while various embodiments of the present disclosure illustrate wheels and / or drive wheel assemblies that are rotatably deployed using pivot arms, any type of deployment mechanism can be used. For example, a vertical deployment (similar to the deployment of the casters 4320 described below), or a horizontal deployment mechanism, or any combination can be used. Furthermore, the wheels and / or drive wheel assemblies can be deployed in any direction, such as front, back, side, top, and / or bottom. Figure 45

[0252] The drive container 4300 also includes deployable and / or retractable casters 4320, and a double-acting hydraulic cylinder 4318 for deploying and / or retracting the casters 4320, the operation of which will be described in more detail below. The casters 4320 are shown in a retracted state in FIG. 42. The casters 4320 can be attached to any actuation mechanism for deploying and / or retracting the casters, such as a hydraulic cylinder or an electric actuator. In one embodiment, the rotation of the pivot arms 4322 (and thus the deployment and / or retraction of the drive wheel assemblies 4304) can also be performed by the hydraulic cylinder 4318 or in other embodiments can be performed by a separate actuation mechanism, such as a separate hydraulic cylinder, electric actuator, etc. In the depicted embodiment, the rotation of the pivot arms 4322 is performed by a separate hydraulic cylinder, which is shown more clearly in FIG. 43. Figure 44 Figure 45

[0253] ​​​In the depicted embodiment, the drive container 4300 also includes an energy system including a diesel engine 4306, a generator and controller 4308, a battery array 4310, a fuel tank 4312, and a radiator 4314. In the depicted embodiment, these components can be used to generate power for powering the in-wheel electric motors that propel the drive wheel assemblies 4304. However, it will be appreciated that alternative energy systems can be used, including for example electrical and / or hydrogen fuel cell systems. A container control CPU and communication system 4316 can receive data from various sensors such as cameras, proximity systems, lasers, additional containers, GPS, laser gyroscopes, etc. that can be used for autonomous navigation.

[0254] In one embodiment, the drive container 4300 can transition between three configurations: (1) a stowed configuration (as shown in Figure 43 and 44 ), (2) a short distance or partially deployed configuration (as shown in Figure 45 ), and (3) a long distance or fully deployed configuration (as shown in Figure 50 ). Figure 45 A perspective view of an embodiment of a drive container 4300 deployed in a short distance configuration (which can also be referred to herein as a partially deployed configuration) is depicted. In this example configuration, the pivoting arms 4322 of the drive wheel assemblies 4304 have been partially rotated about the pivot shafts 4324 using hydraulic pumps 4325 such that the drive wheel assemblies 4304 are partially deployed, while the casters 4320 are fully deployed. As described above, each drive wheel assembly 4304 includes one or more wheels 4326. In the depicted embodiment, each drive wheel assembly includes two wheels 4326. In each drive wheel assembly 4304, the wheels 4326 are supported by a central shaft 4502 and a rotary joint 4504 that allows the wheels 4326 to rotate and provide steering. In certain embodiments, the short distance configuration shown in Figure 45 may be used when the drive container 4300 is not attached to any additional containers. For example, the short distance or partially deployed configuration can be used when the drive container 4300 is driving independently or on flat roads, or when the drive container 4300 is en route to another container to be attached to the drive container 4300, as will be shown later.

[0255] In certain embodiments, the drive container 4300 can be configured for ground operations only and can not include additional fittings for mating with a spine (e.g., can only include corner fittings). Various configurations can mate with the presently disclosed container and standard ISO containers. If the drive container is to be secured to a standard ISO container, in various embodiments, corner connectors can be used.

[0256] Figure 46Provided with Figure 45 The diagram shows a side plan view of a driven container 4300 in a short-distance or partially deployed configuration. Casters 4320 are fully deployed and drive wheel assembly 4304 is partially deployed. In various embodiments, casters 4320 and drive wheel assembly 4304 can be actuated up and down as needed to engage with the container. This can be done, for example, by actuating hydraulic cylinder 4318 to lower or raise casters 4320 and / or actuating hydraulic pump 4325 to rotate pivot arm 4322 (thereby lowering or raising drive wheel assembly 4304).

[0257] Figure 47A Provided with Figure 45 The diagram shows a front view of a driven container 4300 deployed in a short-distance or partially deployed configuration. In some embodiments, the drive wheel assembly 4304 may be deployed in both narrow and wide configurations. Figure 47B A front plan view of a 4300 drive-type container in a wide configuration is depicted. Figure 47B In this configuration, the driven container 4300 is in a "fully deployed" configuration, resulting in greater ground clearance compared to a partially deployed configuration, as will be described in more detail below. In various embodiments, narrow and wide configurations can be used for any configuration of the drive wheel assembly, including retracted, short-range, and long-range configurations. The drive wheel assembly 430 can transition between narrow and wide configurations, for example, by moving the pivot arm 4322 along pivot 4324. For example, the wide configuration can provide greater stability when necessary.

[0258] Figure 48 Two driven containers 4300 are shown deployed and maneuvered in a short-range configuration to cooperate with container 4800. In one embodiment, container 4800 can be coupled with... Figure 1A -B container 100 is substantially similar to or identical to it. In various embodiments, the driven container 4300 can be remotely controlled by an operator or can be automatically controlled by a software program. In some embodiments where the driven container 4300 is configured to accommodate a driver, the driven container 4300 can be manually controlled by the driver. Many variations are possible. A built-in accessory connector 4303 located on the rear side of the driven container 4300 can mate with and secure to a corresponding accessory on the container 4800. Corner accessories can be used when mates with existing ISO type containers.

[0259] Figure 49A plan view of a cargo transport assembly 4900 is provided, with two drive-able containers 4300 secured to a container 4800. The drive-able containers 4300 actuate their built-in accessory connectors 4303 to structurally mate with the 20' container 4800. The two drive-able containers 4300 are now in a stowed configuration, with the casters 4320 and drive wheel assemblies 4304 retracted and stowed into the drive-able containers 4300. When mated with existing ISO or similar existing containers, corner accessories can be used. There also exists a situation where the drive-able containers 4800 go into a partially deployed configuration when mated with other containers, while retracting the casters 4320 to allow for a better aerodynamic configuration. In other words, this configuration would result in the drive wheel assemblies 4304 being partially deployed, while the casters 4320 remain retracted or stowed.

[0260] Figure 50 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 4900 is provided, with two drive-able containers 4300 secured to a container 4800. In Figure 50 , the two drive-able containers 4300 are now deployed in a long distance configuration (or fully deployed configuration). In this configuration, the pivot arms 4322 are rotated further outward than when in the short distance configuration. As such, in the long distance configuration, the attached container 4800 has a greater ground clearance than when the drive-able containers 4300 are in the short distance configuration. Further, in one embodiment, the casters 4320 remain retracted within the drive-able containers 4300 when the drive-able containers 4300 are deployed in the long distance configuration.

[0261] Figure 51 A side plan view of a cargo transport assembly 4900 is provided, with two drive-able containers 4300 deployed in a long distance configuration. In the depicted exemplary embodiment, deploying the two drive-able containers 4300 into the long distance configuration provides 24 inches of ground clearance for the container 4800. Of course, it should be appreciated that the amount of ground clearance can vary in other embodiments. As discussed, the long distance configuration provides a greater ground clearance than the short distance configuration, as well as the stowed configuration, which can provide zero ground clearance.

[0262] Figure 52 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 4900 is provided, with both drive wheel assemblies 4304 turned. Figure 53 A top view of Figure 52 is provided. In all cases, where wheel fenders and other coverings can be implemented, but are not shown in the figures.

[0263] Once the container is delivered, the drive-able container can transport itself to the next pick-up location or another location to await the next delivery. In Figure 54In this case, the two driveable containers 4300 have detached themselves from the container 4800 (e.g., have successfully delivered the container 4800). The two driveable containers 4300 are secured to each other and both deployed in the long distance configuration. In certain embodiments, if the two driveable containers 4300 have built-in accessory connectors on the rear surface, one set of accessory connectors can be removed and / or retracted so that the two driveable containers 4300 can be secured to each other. Further, in certain embodiments, one of the driveable containers 4300 can be de-energized (i.e., can forego use of its propulsion system) so that only one driveable container 4300 propels the container assembly.

[0264] It should be appreciated that the present disclosure can be applied to convert containers into different types of ground-based systems, such as trucks or forklifts. In certain embodiments, containers can be converted to provide additional wheels to support longer container assemblies in order to better distribute the load. For example, driveable containers can be connected to the middle portion of a container assembly. Unpowered passive wheel containers with passive wheels can also be included for moving non-driving positions on the container assembly. In certain embodiments, by deactivating and / or not utilizing the propulsion system on a driveable container, the driveable container can be used as a passive wheel container. Exemplary embodiments of certain of these configurations will be given in later figures.

[0265] Figure 55 Two 5' driveable containers 4300 are shown mated with a 40' container 5400. In certain embodiments, for heavier payloads, more tires and axle equivalents can be included, as will be shown in more detail below.

[0266] In various embodiments, a 10' container can be converted into a driveable container with more wheels than a 5' driveable container to handle more difficult terrain. Weaponization systems can also be added to the container assembly and provide defensive modular functionality for the military.

[0267] Figure 56is a perspective view looking up and illustrates a modified 10' drive container 5600 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. According to one embodiment, the modified 10' drive container 5600 uses components of the 5' drive container 4300 and adds additional wheels 5602 in the rear of the container depending on the orientation of the container in the assembly. These wheels can be free spinning (e.g., passive or unpowered), with or without brakes, or powered by, for example, an electric motor within the wheel. In certain embodiments, the additional wheels 5602 can also be configured to rotate to assist in turning. Similar to the casters 4320 discussed above, the additional wheels 5602 can be retracted and / or deployed vertically by an actuation mechanism to move between various configurations of the 10' drive container 5600 (e.g., stowed configuration, short distance configuration, long distance configuration). In certain embodiments, the additional wheels 5602 can replace the casters 4320, while in other embodiments, the 10' drive container 5600 can include both casters and additional wheels 5602. In certain embodiments, the additional wheels 5602 and / or casters 4320 described above can be deployed in a variety of "intermediate" configurations at different heights. In certain embodiments, the front drive wheels can be deployed from the bottom when the rear drive wheels are deployed. All of the wheels can be configured to be able to rotate to allow for turning. All of the wheels can also be configured to be deployed to different heights to, for example, mate with the container and / or provide a more aerodynamic profile, especially on smooth roads.

[0268] Figure 57 Another perspective view of the 10' drive container 5600 is provided.

[0269] Figure 58 A perspective view of two 10' drive containers 5600 is provided, moving into position to be secured to a 40' container 5800. In certain embodiments, the drive containers can work in forward and / or rearward travel directions. Each 10' drive container 5600 can adjust its ground clearance in order to be secured to the container. This can be accomplished, for example, by raising and / or lowering the drive wheel assemblies and additional wheels 5602.

[0270] Figure 59 A perspective view of two 10' drive containers 5600 secured to a 40' container 5800 is provided. In the depicted embodiment, the two 10' drive containers 5600 are deployed in a long distance configuration, with the drive wheel assemblies and additional wheels 5602 fully deployed.

[0271] For relatively flat roads, a system with minimal or no long axis articulation can be acceptable. However, once the terrain becomes more challenging, such as in off-road or muddy road scenarios, an articulating system can have advantages. In Figure 60In this example, the cargo transport assembly 6000 includes two rotatable 10' powered containers 6002 secured to a 40' shipping container 6004. Each rotatable powered container 6002 has one or more rotatable portions that are free to rotate relative to the shipping container 6004 and / or other portions of the powered container 6002. In certain embodiments, the rotatable portions can be free to rotate without a defined range of rotation. Each 10' powered container 6002 includes a rotatable end portion 6010, a rotatable center portion 6012, and a fixed portion 6014. The fixed portion 6014 is secured and fastened to the shipping container 6004. The rotatable center portion 6012 is rotatably secured to the fixed portion 6014 (e.g., by a pivot joint). The rotatable center portion 6012 is also rotatably secured to the rotatable end portion 6010 (e.g., by a second pivot joint). In this way, the rotatable end portion 6010 and the rotatable center portion 6012 are free to rotate relative to each other and relative to the fixed portion 6014 and the shipping container 6004 to accommodate terrain irregularities. Figure 60 Some of the rotatability of the rotatable end portion 6010 and the rotatable center portion 6012 is shown. In certain embodiments, the pivot joints used to secure the rotatable portions of the powered container 6002 can include tank turret rings or other similar systems that provide rotational capability under heavy load conditions.

[0272] In certain situations, it can be desirable to lock and / or limit the rotatability of the rotatable end portion 6010 and / or the rotatable center portion 6012. For example, when the powered container 6002 is in a stowed configuration and is only being used as a shipping container, it can be desirable to lock the three portions relative to each other so that they remain fixed into a cuboid box shape without rotating. In such embodiments, the rotation system can include manual, hydraulic, or electrically powered locking pins and / or latches to lock the two portions together so that, for example, the rotating components cannot rotate and will transfer any necessary flight loads during flight.

[0273] Figure 61 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 6100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided, including two 5' rotatable powered containers 6102 mated with a 20' shipping container 6104. The 5' rotatable powered containers 6102 each include a fixed portion 6110 that is secured and fastened to the shipping container 6104, and a rotatable end portion 6112 that is rotatably secured to the fixed portion 6110. It should be appreciated that powered containers of any length with any number of rotatable portions and / or fixed portions are possible.

[0274] Figure 62A perspective view of a configurable drive container 6200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. The configurable drive container 6200 includes a propulsion end 6202 and a fully configurable end 6204. The propulsion end includes a retractable / deployable drive wheel assembly 6206, similar to those described herein, and also includes a smaller wheel 6208. The smaller wheel 6208 can be coupled with casters or other wheels described herein. Figure 56 The additional wheels 5602 operate similarly. For example, in various embodiments, the smaller wheels 6208 can retract into the drive container 6200 and can be deployed to an unfolded state, such as... Figure 62 As shown. The smaller wheel 6208 can be passive (i.e., free-rotating) or it can be powered. In various embodiments, the configurable end 6204 may be customized or configured in a variety of ways. For example, the configurable end 6204 can be converted into a forklift for moving mobile equipment and containers around. In some scenarios, a heavier configuration can be achieved by adding ballast 6302 to the main drive wheel assembly 6206 to provide the ability to lift heavier items, such as... Figure 63 As shown, multiple ballasts can be added to provide additional weight. In other embodiments, a special container with an extension arm can be attached to the propulsion end 6202 to provide the required counterweight.

[0275] Figure 64 A side plan view of the configurable drive container 6200 is provided.

[0276] Figure 65 An exploded view of the configurable drive container 6200 is provided.

[0277] Some embodiments of this disclosure have been described, including a driven container having a drive wheel assembly that extends in a front-to-back direction (i.e., along the length direction). However, in some embodiments, it may be desirable for the drive wheel assembly to extend in a left-to-right direction or in a width direction. Figure 66 A perspective view of a 10' driven container 6600 having a side-deployable wheel assembly 6602 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Each wheel assembly is attached to a pivot arm 6604, which can be rotated by an actuation mechanism (e.g., a hydraulic pump) 6605. Each pivot arm 6604 can rotatably switch the wheel assembly 6602 between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration. A radiator 6606 is also shown. In one embodiment, the wheel assembly 6602 may be unpowered or passive. In another embodiment, the wheel assembly may be powered and include a propulsion system for powering the wheel assembly, such as an in-wheel electric motor, as previously described. In various embodiments, and as discussed above, each driven container 6600 may include a set of built-in fitting connectors 6608 on one surface (e.g., the rear surface) for securing the driven container 6600 to another container.

[0278] Figure 67 A powered container 6600 is shown in a deployed configuration, with wheel assemblies 6602 deployed via hydraulic cylinders 6610 rotating each pivot arm 6604. Each wheel assembly 6602 includes a central shaft 6702 and a swivel joint 6704 that secures a wheel 6710 to the pivot arm 6604. The central shaft 6702 and swivel joint 6704 also allow the wheel 6710 to rotate (e.g., for steering).

[0279] In certain embodiments, as shown, each wheel assembly 6602 can be stowed with the wheels 6710 pointing in a left-right or width direction. Upon deployment, the wheels 6710 can be rotated 90 degrees so that they deploy in a front-back or length direction, as shown. Figure 66 Figure 67 In other embodiments, the wheels 6710 can be stowed in a front-back or length direction so that no 90 degree rotation is needed upon deployment.

[0280] Figure 68 A front plan view of the powered container 6600 in a deployed configuration is provided. Wheel fenders and other fairings can be implemented, but are not shown.

[0281] Figure 69 A side plan view of the powered container 6600 in a deployed configuration is provided.

[0282] Figure 70 A perspective view of a modified 5' powered container 7000 with side-deployed wheel assemblies 7002 is shown, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The 5' powered container 7000 is substantially similar to the 10' powered container 6600, except that it is half the length and has half the wheel assemblies. In various embodiments, the side-deployed powered containers 6600, 7000 can be powered or unpowered (i.e., passive). For example, if the side-deployed powered container is used in the center of a cargo transport assembly, it can be unpowered in order to provide additional support for the container assembly being transported, as will be illustrated in later figures.

[0283] Figure 71 A perspective view of a modified 5' powered container 7100 similar to the powered container 7000 of Figure 70 except that the wheel assemblies deploy in a lateral direction of the 5' powered container 7100 (i.e., a front-back direction or in a length direction). In certain embodiments, the powered container 7000 can have a hitch or ball connection to tow a trailer, or it can have a left-right connection to connect to other small-width containers in order to access smaller-width areas that a wider container cannot access.

[0284] ​Figure 72 A perspective view of the 5' drive container 7100 in a stowed configuration is provided. The hook has been removed from the Figure 71 The hook can be removably secured to the 5' drive container 7100 using, for example, a threaded end to secure the hook to the 5' drive container 7100. The hook can also be deployable and retractable.

[0285] Figure 73 A side plan view of the 5' drive container 7100 is provided.

[0286] Figure 74 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 7400 is provided that includes two 10' drive containers 7402 connected with a 40' container 7404. In one embodiment, each drive container 7402 can be implemented using the drive container 6600 described above. Figures 66-67 In the depicted embodiment, at least one of the drive containers 7402 can be powered, and in certain embodiments, a subset of the drive containers 7402 can be passive or unpowered. It can be seen that containers of different lengths and drive configurations can be implemented as desired.

[0287] Figure 75 A side plan view of the cargo transport assembly 7400 is provided.

[0288] Figure 76 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 7600 is provided that includes two 10' rotatable drive containers 7602 connected with a 40' container 7604. The cargo transport assembly 7600 is very similar to the cargo transport assembly 7400. However, the slight modification is that each drive container 7602 is rotatable, and has a fixed end 7601 secured to the container 7604, and a rotatable end 7612 rotatably secured to the fixed end 7610 (e.g., via a center joint). Of course, it can be appreciated that in other embodiments, each drive container 7602 can include additional rotatable and / or fixed portions, as described and illustrated above.

[0289] Figure 77A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 7700 is provided, which includes a 5' rotatable powered container 7702, a 10' rotatable powered container 7704, two 20' containers 7706a, 7706b, and a central 5' powered container 7708. The cargo transport assembly 7700 is an example of the flexibility of using multiple components together. The 5' rotatable powered container 7702 includes a single rotatable portion 7712 rotatably fixed to a fixed portion 7714. The fixed portion 7714 is fixed to the container 7706a. Similarly, the 10' rotatable powered container 7704 includes a single rotatable portion 7722 rotatably fixed to a fixed portion 7724. The fixed portion 7724 is fixed to the container 7706b. Each container 7706a, 7706b is fixed to the central powered container 7708. In various embodiments, any combination of the three powered containers 7702, 7704, 7708 can be powered, and a subset of the powered containers 7702, 7704, 7708 can be passive / unpowered. If desired, the central powered container 7708 can also be implemented as a rotatable powered container, with one or more fixed fixed portions and one or more rotatable portions.

[0290] Figure 78 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 7800 is provided, which includes two 5' powered containers 7802 with dual side extendable wheels (similar to the 5' powered container 7000 of FIG. 7) carrying a 20' container 7804. Figure 70

[0291] Figure 79 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 7900 is provided, which includes two 5' rotatable powered containers 7902 carrying a 20' container 7904. The cargo transport assembly 7900 is very similar to the cargo transport assembly 7800, with the difference being that each powered container 7902 is rotatable by including a rotating portion and a fixed portion, as described above.

[0292] Figure 80 ​A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 8000 is provided in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The cargo transport assembly 8000 includes two 5' powered containers 8002 with side jettison wheel assemblies that carry 20' containers 8004. The cargo transport assembly 8000 includes various features that improve the aerodynamic performance of the cargo transport assembly in order to improve fuel consumption. For example, the cargo transport assembly 8000 has containers with smooth side walls. The cargo transport assembly 8000 also includes a rounded semi-cylindrical front fairing 8010 and a rounded semi-cylindrical rear fairing 8012. In certain embodiments, the front fairing 8010 and the rear fairing 8012 can be built into the powered containers 8002 such that they can be retracted and deployed as needed. In other embodiments, the fairings 8010, 8012 can be removably attached to the powered containers 8002. The cargo transport assembly 8000 also includes wheel covers 8020 that cover at least a portion of the wheels to further improve aerodynamic performance. It should be understood that any combination of these aerodynamic features can be applied to any of the containers (including powered containers), container assemblies, and / or cargo transport assemblies disclosed herein.

[0293] In various embodiments, the containers can communicate with each other via wireless and / or wired connections, as described above. In various embodiments, the containers can also transfer power to each other as necessary, also as described above. It should be understood that while various examples of powered containers are shown in 5' and 10' configurations, containers of any size can be modified to be powered containers with one or more wheel assemblies, and in certain cases, one or more propulsion systems as well. The powered containers can be power-driven containers with propulsion systems, or passive-driven containers with free-spinning wheels. Further, certain power-driven containers can be used as passive-driven containers by deactivating or not using the propulsion system. Further, vertical and lateral articulation systems can be developed to further expand the capabilities of these reconfigured container shapes.

[0294] Fueling systems can be implemented that will automatically refuel other automated systems. Forklift systems can be used to move containers around and assist in assembling container assemblies and / or cargo transport assemblies. Stacking systems can stack two high containers, and many other systems, including weaponization, defense and attack systems, jamming systems, radar systems, missile systems, tanker systems, laser systems, and many other configurations are possible.

[0295] Instead of treating the container as a necessary nuisance to deal with once the cargo and / or system is delivered, the present disclosure utilizes the container as the backbone structure that can be used to reduce the weight of all other systems while maintaining structural integrity. The fuselage can be converted into a spine container combination instead of a complete airplane fuselage. Instead of using a truck to carry the container as a fixed load, the container is converted into a major component of the truck structure.

[0296] As robotics and automation continue to emerge, and more standardization and modularity become available, automation becomes easier. As shown today in modern container ports, it is much easier to automate moving containers than moving an unlimited number of objects of various sizes.

[0297] Using containers as part of the airplane structure and / or as ground system structures helps to create a weight-reduced system that can translate into a reduction in fuel, a reduction in material usage in manufacturing, and a reduction in space requirements in the logistics chain.

[0298] The previous section of the present disclosure has shown how containers can be the modular unit that connects ground, sea, and air systems. In the next section, various embodiments show how the truck system itself can be containerized, making it easier to move, but still compatible with today's semi-trailer tow system. Various embodiments also show how a robotic truck system can be made from modular containers and thus itself become a container when in a stowed or retracted state.

[0299] Figure 81 A perspective view of a semi-truck type transport system 8100 in a stowed (or containerized) configuration according to embodiments of the present disclosure is presented. The system 8100 includes two modified 5' containers 8102, 8104 secured together using a fitment connector 8105. The depicted embodiment includes a first container 8102 that houses a retractable / deployable semi-truck type chassis system, as will be described in greater detail below. The second container 8104 is used to cover the components of the chassis system when in a retracted state. When the chassis system is extended / deployed, the cover container 8104 can be removed and attached to the opposite side of the container 8102, as shown in the following figures. In the depicted retracted state, the semi-truck type transport system is the same size as two 5' intermodal containers connected together (as described herein) in one embodiment, and includes the same fitments of two connected 5' intermodal containers.

[0300] Figure 82An internal view of the semi-truck type transport system 8100 is shown. As described above, the container 8102 houses the chassis system. The container 8102 has an accessory attached to the container 8104 via an accessory connector (various embodiments of which have been described herein). The container 8104 serves as a cover / container for the portion of the chassis system implemented in and housed within the container 8102. Together, the container 8102 and the container 8104 enclose the chassis system. The container 8104 also includes a cavity 8204 to store container support hardware 8206, such as kingpin hardware and container support legs, which will be described in more detail below.

[0301] The container 8102 houses the chassis system, which includes dual-acting hydraulic cylinders 8222 for raising and lowering a drive chassis 8224, as well as drive wheel assemblies 8226. In various embodiments, the hydraulic cylinders 8222 can be implemented using any actuation mechanism, such as electrically driven actuators. In various embodiments, the drive wheel assemblies 8226 can include in-wheel electric motors for powering the drive wheel assemblies 8226 and / or brakes. The container 8102 also includes an energy system for, e.g., generating power for the in-wheel electric motors. In the depicted embodiment, the energy system includes a diesel engine 8210, a generator and controller 8212, a battery array 8214, a fuel tank 8216, a radiator 8218. Of course, it should be understood that other energy systems can be implemented. The container 8102 also includes a container control CPU system and communication system 8220, which can be configured to receive data from various sensors (not shown), such as cameras, proximity systems, lasers, other containers, etc., that can be used for autonomous navigation.

[0302] Figure 83 A perspective internal view of the system 8100 in a deployed configuration is provided in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In Figure 83 In the depicted embodiment, the drive chassis 8224 is deployed in an extended position by extending the hydraulic cylinders 8222. The kingpin interface plate 8302 on the drive chassis 8224 is now clearly shown. The kingpin interface plate 8302 can be configured to interface with a kingpin and / or kingpin hardware to secure the container assembly to the drive chassis 8224. It should be noted that the container 8104 is now rotated and attached to the front of the container 8102. In the depicted deployed configuration, the container 8104 has been removed to allow the drive chassis 8224 to deploy to the extended position, and the container 8104 has been moved from the back of the container 8102 to the front of the container 8102.

[0303] Figure 84 A side plan view of the deployed system 8100 is provided.

[0304] Figure 85A perspective view of a front rotating shaft module container 8500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. The container 8500 includes a front tire 8502, which... Figure 85 The container 8500 is shown in the retracted position. In one embodiment, the container 8500 may optionally include an engine, generator and controller, and / or a radiator. For example, these components may be used to power an in-wheel electric motor implemented within the front tire 8502. In another embodiment, these components may be used to mechanically drive the front tire 8502.

[0305] Figure 86 A perspective view of container 8500 is provided, in which front tire 8502 is shown in an extended (or unfolded) position.

[0306] Figure 87 A side view of container 8500 is provided, in which the front tire 8502 is shown in an extended position.

[0307] Figure 88 A perspective view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly 8800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The cargo transport assembly 8800 includes components fixed to... Figure 83 System 8100 Figures 85-87 Container 8500. In some embodiments, container 8104 can be removed from the rear of container 8102 and then, before extending all wheels, as... Figure 88 Configure the components as shown. Once container 8500 is connected to containers 8104 and 8102, the wheels can be extended.

[0308] Figure 89 A side plan view of a semi-trailer cargo transport assembly 8800 is provided. In various embodiments, depending on power requirements, the cargo transport assembly 8800 may include a propulsion system (e.g., powering an in-wheel motor in a wheel motor and energy system) in either or only one of the containers 8102 and 8500.

[0309] In some cases, the system can be brought to areas where intermodal containers exist but no trailers are available. In such cases, a trolley system can be used. Figure 90 A perspective view of a container trolley system 9000 housed within a container 9002 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0310] Figure 91 A side view of container 9002, which holds the container trolley system 9000, is depicted.

[0311] Figure 92 The container trolley system 9000, which was removed from container 9002, is depicted.

[0312] The next several figures illustrate how a complete semi-truck system including trailer supports can be transported in a total of four 5' shipping containers or equivalent 20' shipping containers, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 93 A perspective view of a shipping container assembly 9300 including four 5' shipping containers 9302, 9304, 9306, 9308 is provided. The first shipping container 9302 can be implemented as the shipping container 9002 of Figure 90 and houses a trailer container system. The second shipping container 9304 can be implemented as the front swivel axle module shipping container 8500 of Figure 86 The third shipping container 9306 can be implemented as the semi-truck chassis system shipping container 8102 of Figures 81-84 and the fourth shipping container 9308 can be implemented as the shipping container 8104 of Figures 81-84

[0313] Figure 94 One embodiment is depicted in which the shipping containers 9302, 9304, 9306, and 9308 have been arranged into a ready-to-deploy configuration. The trailer supports 9404 and kingpin hardware 9402 have been removed from the shipping container 9308. The trailer container system 9406 has been removed from the shipping container 9302. In addition, the shipping container 9308 has been removed from the rear of the shipping container 9306, thereby exposing the chassis system housed within the shipping container 9306, and the shipping container 9308 has been moved to the front of the shipping container 9306.

[0314] Figure 95 The shipping containers 9302, 9304, 9306, 9308 in a deployed configuration are shown, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The front wheels 9504 have been deployed from the shipping container 9304, and the chassis system including the chassis 9502 and drive wheel assembly 9508 has been rotatably deployed from the shipping container 9306. The chassis 9502 includes a kingpin interface plate 9506 for interfacing with the kingpin hardware to secure the shipping container to the chassis 9502. In certain embodiments, the trailer container 9302 can include one or more sensors, data relays, and a computer that can also and / or otherwise be found on the shipping container 9304. In one embodiment, any combination of the shipping containers can have data and / or electrical connections to one another, as previously described herein.

[0315] In certain embodiments, one or both of the trailer supports 9404 and kingpin hardware 9402 can be stored in a retracted configuration, and then extended to an expanded configuration prior to use. Figure 96 The kingpin hardware 9402 is shown in a retracted or stored configuration (top) and then in an expanded configuration (bottom). The kingpin hardware 9402 secures the shipping container to the kingpin interface plate 9506 on the chassis 9502 (not shown) and includes a kingpin 9406 and a kingpin housing 9408. The kingpin 9406 is a cylindrical pin that is inserted into the kingpin interface plate 9506 on the chassis 9502. The kingpin housing 9408 is a cylindrical housing that is inserted into the kingpin interface plate 9506 on the chassis 9502. The kingpin housing 9408 is secured to the kingpin 9406 by a kingpin pin 9410. Figure 95 ​The kingpin hardware includes a center beam 9602 and two arms 9604. The center beam 9602 includes an outer portion 9610 and an inner portion 9612. In the retracted configuration, the inner portion 9612 is pushed into the outer portion 9610 such that the outer portion 9610 completely and / or substantially surrounds the inner portion 9612, while in the extended configuration, the inner portion 9612 extends out of the outer portion 9610. Similarly, each arm 9604 includes an outer portion 9620 and one or more inner portions 9622. In the retracted configuration, the one or more inner portions 9622 are pushed into the outer portion 9620 such that the outer portion 9620 completely and / or substantially surrounds the one or more inner portions 9622, while in the extended configuration, the one or more inner portions 9622 extend out of the outer portion 9620. Each arm has a fitting connector 9625 at either end of the arm for securing the kingpin hardware 9402 to one or more containers.

[0316] Figure 97 A container support 9404 is shown in a retracted or stored configuration (top) and then in an extended configuration (bottom). The container support 9404 has one or more legs 9702. Each leg 9702 is extendable such that in the retracted configuration, each leg is collapsed to the shortest length possible, and in the extended configuration, each leg is extended. The container support 9404 can be used to support a container when the container is not connected to a truck, as will be described in more detail in later figures.

[0317] Figure 98 A perspective view of a container support 9404, kingpin hardware 9402, and container dolly system 9406 ready to mate with a container 9800 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. As can be seen, the container support 9404 and kingpin hardware 9402 have been connected together to support the front of the container 9800. In one embodiment, the container support 9404 can be removably connected to the kingpin hardware 9402. In another embodiment, the container support 9404 can be permanently attached to the kingpin hardware 9402 by a folding mechanism to allow the container support 9404 to be folded relative to the kingpin hardware 9402 in a retracted or compact configuration. In the depicted embodiment, the kingpin hardware 9402 is secured to a bottom front corner fitting and another fitting station of the container 9800, while the container dolly system 9406 is attached to two rear corner fittings and one additional fitting station.

[0318] Figure 99A container dolly system 9406 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. The job of the container dolly 287 is to support the rear end of the container and in some embodiments to provide braking force. The depicted embodiment attaches to the container by attaching to four connectors from the bottom via the fittings connectors 9902. The container dolly system 9406 can receive power for the brakes from the attached container, which can receive power from the attached propulsion portion (e.g., the container housing the engine / chassis). Alternatively, the container dolly system 9406 can have its own power generation system and energy storage capability by way of a generator turned by the wheels and a local battery system. In another embodiment, the container dolly system 9406 can connect to the air lines from the truck / engine chassis portion.

[0319] Figure 100 A container 9800 assembled to all support hardware according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. In some embodiments, the configuration shown will work as-is for 40' and longer containers. In some embodiments, for 20' containers, the front hardware (i.e., kingpin hardware 9402 and container supports 9404) can connect to the rear container dolly system 9406 instead of a second fittings station. In some embodiments, for containers shorter than 20', multiple containers can be assembled to make a 20' or longer container. For example, two 10' containers will have enough lower fittings to connect to the support hardware.

[0320] Figure 101 A perspective view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport assembly 10100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. The cargo transport assembly 10100 includes Figure 95 a propulsion container assembly 9500 including containers 9302, 9304, 9306, and 9308 in an expanded configuration secured to Figure 100 an assembly including a container 9800 supported by container supports 9404, kingpin hardware 9402, and a container dolly system 9406. The container supports 9404 have been retracted to a retracted configuration to provide sufficient ground clearance for transport. The kingpin hardware 9402 has been secured to a kingpin 9504 (see Figure 95 ) on a chassis 9502 to secure the container 9800 to the propulsion container assembly 9500.

[0321] Figure 102 A perspective view of a semi-trailer type cargo transport assembly 10100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided, but with the hardware storage container 9302 removed. Figure 101

[0322] Figure 103 A container 9800 making a turn according to embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. Figure 102 ​a perspective view of the cargo transport assembly 10100.

[0323] The following disclosure provides various hybrid configurations in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure in which a cab for a human can be added.

[0324] Figure 104 A control cab 10400 is shown added to the cargo transport assembly 10100 of Figure 101 However, it should be understood that the control cab 1040 can be added to any of the configurations described herein. The control cab can house personnel who can monitor and take over or fully control the truck system. The control cab configuration can vary and in various embodiments can take the shape of a container. While various embodiments of the control cab will be depicted and described herein as generally rectangular and / or box-like shapes, it should be understood that many variations are possible. For example, the control cab can have a rounded and / or semi-cylindrical front or include a rounded and / or semi-cylindrical front fairing (similar to various aerodynamic container configurations described herein) to improve aerodynamic performance.

[0325] Figure 105 A control cab 10500 is shown added to the cargo transport assembly of Figure 102 The shape of the control cab 10500 is similar to a container section. This configuration will facilitate fitting the control cab 10500 to any of the previously disclosed configurations and will allow for ease of transport. If fitted with a conventional ISO type container, corner fittings can be used.

[0326] As renewable energy and other forms of energy can require more storage space than diesel and gasoline systems, the containers can be used to develop this additional space.

[0327] Figure 106A conversion of a container 10600 into a storage such truck configuration for a mobile storage system 10620 is shown. In certain embodiments, the mobile storage system 10620 can be an energy source for an energy system (such as a battery or hydrogen storage container) that can be used, for example, with a fuel cell. In other examples, the mobile storage system 10620 can also be used to store compressed natural gas or other fuel source for use with an energy system having its appropriate power conversion system. For example, the energy system can be used to power in-wheel motors to power propel the wheel assemblies. In this way, the current state of batteries that sometimes require long charging times can be mitigated by having a replaceable system (such as the mobile storage system 10620, which can replace a depleted system with a fully charged system). The connections between the containers can be used for data and power transfer, as previously described herein. In some cases, hydrogen and other fuel systems with reduced refilling times can remain on them when refilled.

[0328] As it can be advantageous for the truck system to use containers with only corner attachment points, the truck system can be designed to be strong enough to only connect to the corners of a standard ISO intermodal container.

[0329] Figure 107 A configuration containing a 20' container 10700 and two end drive containers 10720 is shown. In addition, a control cab 10740 is added to the system for manual control and / or monitoring of the system. Different control cab configurations can be used as needed.

[0330] Figure 108 A different embodiment of a container control cab 1080 is shown, which is attached to a 20' container 10700 with two drive containers 10720.

[0331] Figure 109 An additional energy storage container 10900 is shown, which can contain a mobile storage system 10920 or just be an additional fuel tank for diesel and gasoline engines or compressed gas systems. Although the mobile storage system is shown removed from the side, it can also be removed from the bottom or from the top.

[0332] Figure 110 A 10' wide container 11000 is shown that can hold two storage systems 11100.

[0333] Figure 111 A 10' wide container 11120 is shown that can hold a single storage system 11130.

[0334] Figure 112A configuration is shown that contains a 20' wide container 11140 that can hold four standard storage systems 11150, allowing for longer distance systems.

[0335] As shown in the previous configuration, there can be larger storage systems.

[0336] Figure 113 A modified 10' container 11160 is shown that can hold a single large storage system 11170.

[0337] While most of the systems discussed herein have utilized in-wheel electric motors, there can be configurations that use mechanical linkages to transfer power from an engine to the wheels. In certain embodiments, electric motors can be preferred as they can be more easily implemented in a wheel assembly that transitions between retracted and deployed configurations. In other embodiments, hydraulic lines can transfer power to the wheels instead of mechanical linkages.

[0338] Figure 114 A transport system 14500 including an aerodynamic design for an AI truck is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The transport system 14500 includes an aerodynamic front fairing 14502 and containers with smooth sides to provide greater aerodynamic performance. If the system is run on electricity, the system 14500 can house removable battery packs, or if it uses fuel cells, it can house hydrogen gas bottles.

[0339] The system also includes a support pole 14510. In certain embodiments, the support pole 14510 can be a telescoping pole. The support pole 14510 connects the container dolly system 14520 to the kingpin hardware 14522. The support pole 14510 allows the container dolly system 14520 and the kingpin hardware 14522 to be connected to containers that have fittings only at the corners, such as 40' containers 14524 and other conventional ISO-type containers. Any external fitting connectors on the container dolly system 14520 and / or the kingpin hardware 14522 can be retracted, swiveled down, removed, etc.

[0340] In Figure 115 , the container 14524 is secured to the kingpin hardware 14522 and the container dolly system 14520. The truck is ready to back up and couple to the kingpin hardware 14522.

[0341] In Figure 116 , the truck is coupled to the kingpin hardware 14522 and the container support legs are retracted.

[0342] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have shown drive wheel assemblies with two wheels attached to a central axle, it should be understood that variations can be made. For example, a single wider wheel can be used instead of two wheels.

[0343] Figure 117 Different embodiments are depicted in which the drive system is not built in a substantially fixed manner in the container, with deployable drive or idler assemblies (e.g., rotatably or vertically deployable). Figure 117 Two containerized systems 15000 are shown. Each containerized system 15000 includes a drive portion 15010 and a housing portion 15020. The drive portion 15010 includes a housing that houses a plurality of wheels 15012. One or more of the wheels 15012 can be powered drive wheels (e.g., using in-wheel electric motors). In various embodiments, the wheels can be connected to one another using axles, or can be separate. Further, in various embodiments, certain wheels can be powered while others can be unpowered, certain wheels can have braking power while others can not, and certain wheels can be steerable while others can not. The housing portion 15020 can be secured to the housing of the drive portion 15010 using a fitment connector 15022. In the depicted embodiment, when the housing portion 15020 is secured to the drive portion 15010, the plurality of wheels 15012 are substantially enclosed within the containerized system 15000. Figure 117 A "unpacked" configuration is depicted in which the plurality of wheels 15012 are not enclosed, while later figures will depict a "stowed" or "packed" configuration in which the housing portion 15020 is secured to the drive portion 15010 to substantially enclose the wheels 15012. As noted above, in this embodiment, the wheels 15012 do not "deploy" between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, as in some embodiments above. Rather, the wheels 15012 are covered or uncovered by securing the housing portion 15020 to the drive portion 15010 or removing the drive portion from the housing portion.

[0344] Figure 118 A containerized system 15000 in a stowed configuration is depicted. In the depicted embodiment, when in the stowed configuration, the containerized system 15000 has the form factor of a 5' container. As shown, the containerized system 15000 can be connected together or to any other container using fitment connectors, as described above. Figure 118 As shown, the containerized systems 15000 can be connected together or to any other container using fitment connectors, as described above.

[0345] Figure 119A Side, front, and rear plan views of two containerized systems 15000 in a stowed configuration and secured to one another are depicted. Figure 119B A perspective view of a containerized system is depicted. Figure 119A

[0346] Figure 120 ​An exploded view of a containerization system 15000 in an unpackaged configuration is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, and the containerization system is engaged with a container to form a container transport assembly 15100. The drive portion 15010 of the containerization system 15000 will be affixed to the container 15102. In the horizontal direction, the drive portion 15010 is affixed to a power storage container 15104, which can provide additional power for powering the drive systems and / or AI systems in the drive portion 15010 (e.g., in-wheel electric motors). The drive portion 15010 (idler portion) is affixed to the container 15102 in the vertical direction. In certain embodiments, the corner fittings of the container 15102 can be affixed to the corner fittings on the drive portion 15010. However, in the depicted embodiment, a fitting extension 15106 can be provided to give additional support and structural integrity. As can be seen from the figure, each drive portion 15010 has certain fittings that do not have a corresponding fitting on the container 15102. The fitting extension 15106 can be used so that a single corner fitting on the container 15102 can be affixed to two fittings on the drive portion 15010. The drive portion 15010 can contain a single drive row wheel or two drive row wheels or even one drive row wheel and one idler row wheel. The drive portion 15010 can also be a dedicated idler wheel, where they can only apply braking and / or can also turn.

[0347] Figure 121 A perspective view of the container transport assembly 15100 in a fully assembled state is depicted, with the container 15102 shown attached at only its four lower corner fittings.

[0348] Figure 122 An alternative embodiment is depicted, in which each drive portion 15010 has only two wheels instead of four. The additional space created by removing two wheels can be used for additional storage (e.g., additional energy storage). This configuration can be used, for example, with lighter containers.

[0349] Figure 123A container transport assembly 15100 with additional components is depicted in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As speed increases, aerodynamic factors become more critical. The depicted additional components include an aerodynamic front fairing 15202 and an aerodynamic lower unit 15204. The lower unit 15204 can serve various functions, such as serving as a front bumper, as additional energy storage, to house one or more sensors for autonomous driving and navigation, etc. The aerodynamic front fairing 15202 can also be configured to house additional energy storage, one or more sensors, etc. In certain embodiments, the front fairing 15202 can be implemented as a control cab for a manual operator or driver to sit in. In the depicted embodiment, the lower unit 15204 is fixed to the first drive portion in the horizontal direction, and the aerodynamic front fairing 15202 is fixed to the lower unit 15204 in the vertical direction. There is no connection between the aerodynamic front fairing 15202 and the container 15102. However, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the front fairing 15202 can be fixed to the container 15102 using appropriate fittings connectors and fittings. In other embodiments, the lower unit 15204 and the aerodynamic fairing 15202 can be combined into one unit. The aerodynamic fairing 15202 can also be deployed and retracted into the lower unit 15204.

[0350] Figure 124 A cargo transport assembly in a fully assembled state is depicted. Figure 123 In certain embodiments, any gaps formed in the assembled cargo transport assembly can be filled with foam or other material or inlays to improve the aerodynamic performance of the cargo transport assembly. This can include closures for fitting openings.

[0351] Figure 125 A perspective view of a cargo transport assembly 15300 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. The cargo transport assembly 15300 is very similar to the cargo transport assembly of Figure 123 However, Figure 125 A 40' container 15304 is depicted being transported, rather than a 20' container being transported. To account for the additional length, additional center containers 15302 are added. These center containers 15302 can be configured to serve any number of functions, such as additional energy storage, space for chains or spare parts and other items to be stored, to house various sensors, etc. In some embodiments, one or more of the center containers 15302 can include wheels and / or a drive system to provide additional support and / or propulsion to the cargo transport assembly 15300. Such an embodiment is shown in Figure 126

[0352] Figure 125 ​The depicted embodiment shown illustrates the use of only four lower corner fittings of the container 15304 to connect to the drive portion 15010. As such, the depicted embodiment can be used with conventional intermodal containers that only have corner fittings. In other embodiments, additional fittings on the container 15304 can be secured to fittings on the drive portion 15010 or the center container 15302, 15104. In cases where additional fittings are used, but the fittings on the container 15304 are not perfectly aligned with the fittings on the drive portion 15010 or the center container 15302, 15104, a fitting extension similar to the fitting extension 15106 of Figure 120 FIG. 7 can be used. It should be understood that while the examples shown in the figures only show a single container being transported, the container can be a container assembly that includes multiple containers secured to one another.

[0353] In certain embodiments, rather than using a center container 15302, 15104 to connect the drive portions 15010, a connecting beam can be used in order to reduce the weight of the cargo transport assembly. Or to further reduce weight, it can not be necessary to have any components that connect the drive portions 15010 to one another that are separate from the containers or container assemblies being transported. Figure 127 A perspective view of an embodiment in which a beam 15402 is used to secure two drive portions 15010 and a center container 15302 to one another is depicted. A removable fairing 15404 can be added to improve aerodynamic performance. Figure 128 Another embodiment in which the drive portions 15010 are connected only by the containers 15304 is depicted. Again, an aerodynamic fairing 15406 can be added to improve aerodynamic performance.

[0354] As discussed above, certain embodiments of the present disclosure include wheel assemblies that can be vertically deployed. In this way, the height of the driveable container can be adjusted in order to connect the container to the driveable container. Figures 129-134 An alternate embodiment is depicted in which the drive wheel assemblies housed in the driveable containers are substantially fixed, and each driveable container includes a lift assembly for securing, lifting, and lowering the container.

[0355] In Figure 129In this embodiment, four 5' drive containers 15702a-d are secured to one another. A front fairing 15704 and a rear fairing 15706 are also secured to the front and rear drive containers. Each drive container 15702 includes a drive assembly that includes two wheels. In this embodiment, the drive assembly is substantially fixed such that the drive assembly does not actuate between a deployed configuration and a stowed configuration. As will be shown in greater detail in the following figures, each drive container 15702 includes at least one accessory panel that includes a plurality of accessories. The accessory panel can be actuated (e.g., raised and lowered) between a raised configuration and a lowered configuration by an actuation mechanism (e.g., one or more electric motors). The accessory panel can be lowered so as to secure the container to the ground, and then raised once the container is secured. In the depicted embodiment, each drive container 15702 includes only one accessory panel that can be raised or lowered. However, in other embodiments, the drive container can have multiple accessory panels that can be actuated between a raised configuration and a lowered configuration. In a single row wheel drive system, it will be appreciated that a balancing mechanism, whether similar to a Segway unit or physically smaller wheels, extends to provide proper balance until the drive containers 15704a-d can be connected to the container. In the case where there are two rows of drive containers 15702a and 15702b, such as in Figure 130 In this embodiment, two drive containers provide sufficient balance prior to being connected to the container 15720.

[0356] Figure 130 Two front drive containers 15702a-b are shown separated from two rear drive containers 15702c-d. Drive container 15702b has an accessory panel 15710 lowered to the ground, as does drive container 15702c, so as to secure the container 15720 to drive containers 15702b, 15702c. In Figure 131 In this embodiment, the container 15720 has been secured to drive containers 15702b, 15702c. In Figure 132 In this embodiment, the accessory panel 15710 has been raised to its raised configuration, and the container 15720 secured to the accessory panel 15710 has also been raised from the ground. The drive containers 15702a-d can now transport the container 15720. In another embodiment, instead of the entire accessory panel 15710 moving up and down to connect with the container, a partial forklift-like extension can extend and lift the container so as to mate with the securing accessory panel.

[0357] Figure 133 Another example scenario is depicted in which only two drive containers 15702e-f are secured to a smaller container 15730. Figure 134An example scenario is depicted in which two powered containers 15702e-f are secured to one another and can transport themselves, for example, to another container to be lifted. In scenarios involving a container 15730 on each end, additional balancing wheels or other systems can be implemented to provide proper balance prior to the powered containers 15702e-f engaging the container 15730.

[0358] For explanatory purposes, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the disclosure can be practiced without these specific details. Reference in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "other embodiments," "a number of embodiments," "some embodiments," "various embodiments," and the like, means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or property described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. For example, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" as appearing in various locations throughout the specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment nor are they necessarily all directed to the same embodiment, or are necessarily mutually exclusive or alternative embodiments to any other of the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, various features are described which can be one or more preferred or required embodiments, but in other embodiments can be different. Similarly, features are described which can be a preference or requirement in some embodiments but not others.

[0359] The language used herein has been chosen for readability and instructional purposes and can not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosure is intended to be limited only by the claims as set forth below. Therefore, the disclosure of embodiments is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the disclosure, which is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A ground transport driven container, comprising: An outer container having a cuboid shape, wherein the outer container includes a plurality of walls forming an outer shell containing a propulsion system; Multiple wheels fixed to the outer container; as well as A fitting panel is fixed to the first wall of the plurality of walls, wherein The accessory panel includes multiple accessories for securing the ground transport drive container to the container, and The accessory panel can be actuated independently of the plurality of walls between raised and lowered configurations, so that the container can be raised and lowered while keeping the plurality of walls fixed.

2. The ground transport driven container of claim 1, wherein the propulsion system is configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of wheels.

3. The ground transport driven container according to claim 2, wherein the propulsion system comprises one or more in-wheel electric motors.

4. The ground transport driven container of claim 1, wherein the plurality of accessories are positioned along the periphery of the accessory panel.

5. The ground transport driven container according to claim 4, wherein the accessory panel comprises: Basically a rectangular face; and Accessories at each corner of the essentially rectangular face.

6. The ground transport driven container of claim 1, wherein the accessory panel is fixed to the first wall of the plurality of walls only on one side of the accessory panel.

7. The ground transport driven container of claim 1, further comprising an actuation mechanism for actuating the accessory panel independently of the plurality of walls between the raised configuration and the lowered configuration; and The accessory panel described therein has a left edge and a right edge.

8. The ground transport driven container according to claim 7, wherein: The first wall of the plurality of walls has one or more vertically extending slots; and The actuation mechanism has a portion extending through the one or more vertically extendable slots to connect with the accessory panel.

9. The ground transport driven container according to claim 4, wherein: The accessory panel includes a second plurality of accessories for securing the ground transport driven container to another device; and The second plurality of accessories are positioned outward from the periphery of the accessory panel.

10. The ground transport driven container of claim 5, wherein the fitting panel further comprises fittings along each side of the substantially rectangular face.

11. A method comprising: Positioning a driven container near the first end of a container, the driven container comprising: An outer container having a cuboid shape, wherein the outer container includes a plurality of walls forming an outer shell containing a propulsion system; Multiple wheels fixed to the outer container; and A fitting panel is fixed to the first wall of the plurality of walls, wherein The accessory panel includes multiple accessories for securing the drive container to the container, and The accessory panel can be actuated independently of the plurality of walls between raised and lowered configurations; Lower the accessory panel to the lowered configuration while keeping the plurality of walls fixed; Secure the container to the accessory panel; and Raise the accessory panel so that the container is raised while keeping the plurality of walls fixed.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Positioning a second driven container near the second end of the container, the second driven container comprising: A second outer container having a cuboid shape; wherein the second outer container includes a second plurality of walls forming a second outer shell. The second plurality of wheels fixed to the second outer container, and A second fitting panel is fixed to at least one of the second plurality of walls, wherein The second accessory panel includes a second plurality of accessories for securing the second driven container to another device, and The second accessory panel can be actuated independently of the second plurality of walls between raised and lowered configurations; Lower the second accessory panel to the lowered configuration while keeping the second plurality of walls fixed; and Secure the container to the second accessory panel, wherein Raising the accessory panel includes simultaneously raising the second accessory panel to raise the container.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of accessories are positioned along the periphery of the accessory panel.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the accessory panel comprises: Basically a rectangular face; and Accessories at each corner of the essentially rectangular face.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the accessory panel is fixed to the first wall of the plurality of walls only on one side of the accessory panel.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein the driven container further comprises an actuation mechanism for actuating the accessory panel independently of the plurality of walls between the raised configuration and the lowered configuration; The accessory panel described therein has a left edge and a right edge; and The actuation mechanism is offset horizontally from both the left and right edges of the accessory panel.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein: The first wall of the plurality of walls has one or more vertically extending slots; and The actuation mechanism has a portion extending through the one or more vertically extendable slots to connect with the accessory panel.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein: The accessory panel includes a second plurality of accessories for securing the drive container to another device; and The second plurality of accessories are positioned outward from the periphery of the accessory panel.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein the accessory panel further comprises accessories along each side of the substantially rectangular face.

Images