Folding container for vehicle transport

Abstract

A folding container for vehicle transport, comprising: a main floor frame whose dimension along the length direction corresponds to that of a standard container; an end frame connected to the end of the main floor frame in the length direction so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis between a folded position and an upright position, the first rotation axis running parallel to the width direction of the main floor frame, and the end frame, in the upright position, and the main floor frame forming an opening for the passage of the vehicle; an extension floor frame movably arranged on the main floor frame between a folded and an unfolded position; and a connecting element arranged between the extension floor frame and the main floor frame, wherein, when the extension floor frame is in the folded position,the extension floor frame does not protrude from the end of the main floor frame along the length direction and the connecting element does not protrude from the end of the main floor frame along the length direction, and when the extension floor frame is in the unfolded position, the free end of the extension floor frame protrudes from the end of the main floor frame and is higher than the underside of the main floor frame, wherein the connecting element protrudes at least partially from the end of the main floor frame and exerts at least one upward force on the extension floor frame so that the extension floor frame is held in the unfolded position, and wherein the extension floor frame, in the unfolded position, serves together with the main floor frame to support the vehicle.

Description

Folding containers for vehicle transport

[0001] manual Technical Field

[0002] The present application generally relates to the technical field of container structures, and more particularly to a foldable container for vehicle transportation. Background Art

[0003] In the related art, folding containers (abbreviated as folding containers) are used with the end frames erected for loading. When the empty container is returned, the end frames are folded to lower the height. Multiple folding containers are then folded and connected together for transportation as a single container, reducing return transportation costs. To facilitate the entry and exit of vehicles from the ends of the folding container, wallless folding containers are becoming increasingly popular, as shown in Figures 1 to 4. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, taking the commonly used 40-foot standard wallless folding container for loading vehicles with a body length of 5 meters as an example, the 40-foot standard folding container is too short when loaded with three vehicles and can only accommodate two vehicles. Furthermore, when loaded with two vehicles, the 40-foot standard folding container has excess space along the length, resulting in wasted space. To accommodate loading three vehicles, the folding container would need to be nearly 14 to 15 meters long, exceeding the length of the 40-foot standard folding container. Referring to Figures 3 and 4 , a wallless folding box suitable for loading three cars is typically constructed by extending the base frame of a standard 40-foot folding box outward at both ends. This causes the extended base frame to occupy a significant amount of space during transportation, and therefore, the transportation cost of an extra-long folding box that exceeds the standard length is much higher than that of a standard-length folding box.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a foldable container for vehicle transportation to at least partially solve the above problems.

[0005] Summary of the Invention

[0006] The Summary of the Invention introduces a series of simplified concepts that will be further described in the Detailed Description of the Invention. The Summary of the Invention of this application is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0007] To at least partially solve the above problems, the present application provides a foldable container for vehicle transportation, comprising:

[0008] A main chassis, wherein the main chassis has a length dimension equal to that of a standard container;

[0009] an end frame pivotally connected to an end portion of the main chassis in the length direction about a first pivot axis between a folded position and an upright position, the first pivot axis being parallel to a width direction of the main chassis, an opening for passage of the vehicle being formed between the end frame and the main chassis in the upright position;

[0010] an extension chassis movably disposed on the main chassis between a stowed position and a deployed position; and

[0011] a connecting member, the connecting member being provided between the extension chassis and the main chassis,

[0012] When the extended chassis is in the folded position, the extended chassis does not exceed the end of the main chassis along the length direction, and the connecting member does not exceed the end of the main chassis along the length direction; when the extended chassis is in the deployed position, the free end of the extended chassis exceeds the end of the main chassis and is higher than the lower surface of the main chassis, the connecting member at least partially exceeds the end of the main chassis and provides at least an upward force to the extended chassis, so that the extended chassis remains in the deployed position, and the extended chassis in the deployed position is used to cooperate with the main chassis to carry the vehicle.

[0013] Optionally, the connecting member is constructed as a support member, one end of which is movably connected to the end of the main frame, and when the extended frame is located in the expanded position and the other end of the support member exceeds the end of the main frame, the other end of the support member is used to support the extended frame.

[0014] Optionally, the extension chassis has a guide slot, one end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end portion of the main chassis, and the other end of the support member is slidably fitted into the guide slot along a guide path of the guide slot.

[0015] During the movement of the extended chassis relative to the main chassis, the support member pivots relative to the main chassis. When the extended chassis is located in the expanded position, the guide groove is located at the bottom of the extended chassis, and the other end of the support member exceeds the end of the main chassis to support the extended chassis.

[0016] Optionally, one end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end portion of the main chassis, and the other end of the support member is detachably connected to the bottom of the extension chassis in the deployed position to support the extension chassis.

[0017] Optionally, the extension chassis is movably arranged on the main chassis along the length direction.

[0018] Optionally, one end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end portion of the main chassis around a fourth pivot axis parallel to the height direction of the main chassis, and the other end of the support member is slidably fitted into the guide slot along the guide path of the guide slot, the first end of the guide slot is farther away from the middle portion of the main chassis than the second end of the guide slot in the length direction, and the first end of the guide slot is farther away from the fourth pivot axis than the second end of the guide slot in the width direction.

[0019] During the movement of the extension chassis from the folded position to the deployed position, the other end of the support member moves from the first end toward the second end of the guide slot.

[0020] Optionally, the guide groove includes a first groove section and a second groove section, the first groove section intersects with the length direction, the second groove section is parallel to the length direction, and the first groove section is farther away from the middle of the main chassis along the length direction than the second groove section.

[0021] Optionally, the extension chassis is rotatably connected to the end portion of the main chassis in the length direction about a second pivot axis parallel to the width direction.

[0022] Optionally, the guide groove is extended along an extension direction perpendicular to the second pivot axis.

[0023] One end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end of the main chassis around a fifth pivot axis parallel to the second pivot axis, and the other end of the support member is slidably engaged with the guide slot along the extension direction, and the first end of the guide slot is farther away from the second pivot axis than the second end of the guide slot.

[0024] During the movement of the extension chassis from the folded position to the deployed position, the other end of the support member moves from the second end to the first end of the guide slot.

[0025] Optionally, the fifth pivot axis is further away from the middle of the main chassis along the length direction than the second pivot axis.

[0026] Optionally, the extension chassis is movably provided on the main chassis along the length direction; or

[0027] The extension chassis is rotatably connected to the end portion of the main chassis in the length direction about a second pivot axis parallel to the width direction.

[0028] Optionally, the extended chassis in the deployed position is pivotable about a second pivot axis to a transition position, wherein the free end of the extended chassis in the transition position is below the second pivot axis to allow the vehicle to be transferred to the main chassis via the extended chassis.

[0029] Optionally, the foldable container for vehicle transport further comprises a transition frame pivotally connected to the free end of the extended chassis about a third pivot axis parallel to the width direction between a use position and a stowed position, wherein the third pivot axis is parallel to the first pivot axis.

[0030] When the transition frame is in the use position, the free end of the transition frame extends to the outside of the extended chassis along the length direction and is lower than the third pivot axis, so as to allow the vehicle to be transferred to the extended chassis and the main chassis in sequence via the transition frame; when the transition frame is in the stowed position, the free end of the transition frame does not exceed the free end of the extended chassis along the length direction.

[0031] Optionally, the end frame has two corner posts arranged opposite to each other along the width direction, the corner posts are pivotally connected to the main chassis around the first pivot axis, and the corner posts have first limiting members.

[0032] The extension chassis is pivotally connected to the corner post about a second pivot axis parallel to the first pivot axis, and the extension chassis has a second limiting member, which is arranged corresponding to the first limiting member.

[0033] When the extension chassis pivots about the second pivot axis toward the folded position, the second limiting member is configured to abut against the first limiting member to limit the extension chassis from pivoting toward the main chassis.

[0034] Optionally, the connecting member is constructed as a pull rod, one end of which is movably connected to one of the end frame and the extended chassis, and the other end of the pull rod is used to be detachably connected to the other of the end frame and the extended chassis. When the extended chassis is in the expanded position and the end frame is in the upright position, the other end of the pull rod can be connected to the other of the end frame and the extended chassis to keep the extended chassis in the expanded position.

[0035] According to the folding container for vehicle transportation of the present application, when the extended chassis is in the folded position, the extended chassis does not exceed the end of the main chassis along the length direction, and the connecting piece does not exceed the end of the main chassis along the length direction. At this time, the size of the folding container along the length direction is consistent with that of a standard container, which helps to flexibly select transportation tools and thus helps to reduce transportation costs; when the extended chassis is in the unfolded position, the free end of the extended chassis extends beyond the end of the main chassis and is higher than the lower surface of the main chassis, the connecting piece at least partially extends beyond the end of the main chassis and provides at least an upward force to the extended chassis, so that the extended chassis remains in the unfolded position, and the extended chassis in the unfolded position is used to cooperate with the main chassis to carry vehicles. At this time, the size of the folding container along the length direction is larger than that of a standard container, so that more vehicles can be loaded, which helps to improve the transportation capacity of the folding container. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The following drawings of the embodiments of the present application are hereby incorporated as part of the present application for understanding the present application. The drawings show the embodiments of the present application and their descriptions, and are used to explain the principles of the present application. In the drawings,

[0037] FIG1 is a side view of a foldable container for vehicle transportation according to an embodiment of the prior art when loaded with a vehicle;

[0038] FIG2 is a right side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG1 ;

[0039] FIG3 is a side view of a foldable container for vehicle transportation according to another embodiment of the prior art when loaded with a vehicle;

[0040] FIG4 is a right side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG3 ;

[0041] FIG5 is a side view of a foldable container for vehicle transportation according to a preferred embodiment of the present application, wherein the extended chassis is in a folded position;

[0042] FIG6 is a right side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG5 , wherein the extended chassis is in a retracted position;

[0043] FIG7 is another side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG5 , wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position;

[0044] FIG8 is a side view of a foldable container for vehicle transportation according to another preferred embodiment of the present application, wherein the extended chassis is in an unfolded position;

[0045] 9 is a side view of a foldable container for vehicle transportation according to another preferred embodiment of the present application, wherein the extended chassis is in an extended position and the transition frame is in a retracted position;

[0046] FIG10 is a side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG9 , wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position and the transition frame is in the use position;

[0047] FIG11 is a side view of the foldable container for transporting vehicles shown in any one of the embodiments of FIG5 to FIG10 when fully loaded with a vehicle, wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position;

[0048] FIG12 is a right side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG11 when fully loaded with a vehicle, wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position;

[0049] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the support member and the extension chassis shown in FIG11 and FIG12 , wherein the extension chassis is in a retracted position;

[0050] FIG14 is another schematic diagram of the connection structure between the support member and the extension chassis shown in FIG11 and FIG12 , wherein the extension chassis is located between the retracted position and the deployed position;

[0051] FIG15 is another schematic diagram of the connection structure between the support member and the extension chassis shown in FIG11 and FIG12 , wherein the extension chassis is in the deployed position;

[0052] FIG16 is another schematic diagram of the connection structure between the support member and the extension chassis shown in FIG11 and FIG12 , wherein the extension chassis is in the retracted position and the guide groove includes a first groove segment and a second groove segment;

[0053] FIG17 is a side view of a foldable container for vehicle transportation according to another preferred embodiment of the present application, wherein the extended chassis is in a folded position;

[0054] FIG18 is a right side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG17 , wherein the extended chassis is in a retracted position;

[0055] FIG19 is another side view of the foldable vehicle transport container shown in FIG17 , wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position;

[0056] FIG20 is a diagram of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG17 in use when about to load a vehicle, wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position;

[0057] FIG21 is another side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG17 , wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position and the transition frame is in the retracted position;

[0058] FIG22 is another side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG17 , wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position and the transition frame is in the use position;

[0059] FIG23 is a side view of the foldable container for vehicle transport shown in FIG17 to FIG22 when fully loaded with a vehicle, wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position;

[0060] FIG24 is a right side view of the foldable vehicle transport container shown in FIG23 when fully loaded with a vehicle, wherein the extended chassis is in the deployed position; and

[0061] FIG25 is a schematic diagram showing the position change of the connection structure between the support member and the extension chassis shown in FIG23 and FIG24 , wherein the extension chassis in the solid line portion is in the retracted position.

[0062] Description of reference numerals:

[0063] 1: Vehicle 2: Ground

[0064] 110: Main chassis 111: First guide member

[0065] 120: end frame 121: opening

[0066] 122: Corner post 130: Extended chassis

[0067] 131: Second guide member 132: Guide groove

[0068] 132a: first slot section 132b: second slot section

[0069] 140: Transition frame 150: Pull rod

[0070] 160: Support 210: Main chassis

[0071] 230: Extended chassis 232: Guide groove

[0072] 260: Support D1: Length direction

[0073] D2: width direction D3: height direction

[0074] AX1: first pivot axis AX2: second pivot axis

[0075] AX3: third pivot axis AX4: fourth pivot axis

[0076] AX5: fifth pivot axis DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] In the following description, a large number of specific details are provided to provide a more thorough understanding of the present application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present application embodiments can be implemented without one or more of these details. In other examples, some technical features well known in the art are not described to avoid confusion with the present application embodiments.

[0078] In order to fully understand the embodiments of the present application, a detailed structure will be presented in the following description. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of the present application is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0079] It should be understood that the purpose of the terms used herein is only to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present application. The singular forms "a", "an" and "said / the" are also intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When the terms "comprise" and / or "include" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the features, wholes, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components and / or combinations thereof. The terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right" and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and are not limiting.

[0080] Ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” cited in this application are merely identifiers and do not have any other meanings, such as a specific order, etc. Moreover, for example, the term “first component” itself does not imply the existence of a “second component”, and the term “second component” itself does not imply the existence of a “first component”.

[0081] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present application will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings illustrate representative embodiments of the present application and do not limit the present application.

[0082] First embodiment

[0083] The present application provides a foldable container for vehicle transportation. As shown in Figures 5 to 25, the foldable container according to the present application includes a main chassis 110, end frames 120, an extended chassis 130, and connectors. The dimensions of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1 are equivalent to those of a standard container. The end frames 120 are pivotally connected to the ends of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1 about a first pivot axis AX1 between a folded position and an upright position. The first pivot axis AX1 is parallel to the width direction D2 of the main chassis 110. An opening 121 for the passage of a vehicle 1 is formed between the end frames 120 in the upright position and the main chassis 110. The extended chassis 130 is movably mounted on the main chassis 110 between a folded position and an extended position. Connectors are provided between the extended chassis 130 and the main chassis 110.

[0084] When the extended chassis 130 is in the stowed position, the extended chassis 130 does not extend beyond the end of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1, and the connecting member does not extend beyond the end of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1. When the extended chassis 130 is in the deployed position, the free end of the extended chassis 130 extends beyond the end of the main chassis 110 and is higher than the bottom surface of the main chassis 110. The connecting member at least partially extends beyond the end of the main chassis 110 and provides at least an upward force to the extended chassis 130, thereby maintaining the extended chassis 130 in the deployed position. In the deployed position, the extended chassis 130 cooperates with the main chassis 110 to support the vehicle 1. The free end of the extended chassis 130 is higher than the bottom surface of the main chassis 110. This means that when the main chassis 110 is placed on the ground 2, the extended chassis 130 is spaced apart from the ground 2. For example, the free end of the extended chassis 130 in the deployed position may be flush with the top surface of the main chassis 110. The free end of the extension chassis 130 in the deployed position may also be slightly higher than the upper surface of the main chassis 110. The free end of the extension chassis 130 in the deployed position may also be slightly lower than the upper surface of the main chassis 110.

[0085] According to the foldable container for vehicle transportation of the present application, when the extended chassis 130 is in the folded position, the extended chassis 130 does not exceed the end of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1, and the connecting member does not exceed the end of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1. At this time, the size of the foldable container along the length direction D1 is consistent with that of a standard container, which helps to flexibly select transportation tools and thus helps to reduce transportation costs; when the extended chassis 130 is in the unfolded position, the free end of the extended chassis 130 extends beyond the end of the main chassis 110 and is higher than the lower surface of the main chassis 110, the connecting member at least partially extends beyond the end of the main chassis 110 and provides at least an upward force to the extended chassis 130, so that the extended chassis 130 remains in the unfolded position. The extended chassis 130 in the unfolded position is used to cooperate with the main chassis 110 to carry the vehicle 1. At this time, the size of the foldable container along the length direction D1 is larger than that of a standard container, so that more vehicles 1 can be loaded, which helps to improve the transportation capacity of the foldable container.

[0086] 5 to 16 , the extension chassis 130 can be movably disposed on the main chassis 110 along the longitudinal direction D1. For example, the main chassis 110 can have a first guide member 111. The extension chassis 130 can have a second guide member 131. The first guide member 111 and the second guide member 131 slidably engage with each other along the longitudinal direction D1, allowing the extension chassis 130 to slide relative to the main chassis 110 along the longitudinal direction D1.

[0087] For example, the first guide member 111 may be configured as a guide rail, and the second guide member 131 may be configured as a slider.

[0088] 6 to 16 , the connecting member can be configured as a support member 160. One end of the support member 160 is movably connected to the end of the main chassis 110. When the extension chassis 130 is in the deployed position and the other end of the support member 160 extends beyond the end of the main chassis 110, the other end of the support member 130 is used to support the extension chassis 130. The other end of the support member 160 can be movably connected to the extension chassis 130 so as to be able to move synchronously with the extension chassis 130. Alternatively, the other end of the support member 160 can be detachably connected to the extension chassis 130 in the deployed position, and does not follow the movement of the extension chassis 130 during the movement. Instead, after the extension chassis 130 moves to the deployed position, the posture of the support member 160 can be manually adjusted so that the other end of the support member 160 is in a position where it can provide support to the extension chassis 130.

[0089] When the extension chassis 130 is in the expanded position, the position where the other end of the support member 160 applies the supporting force to the extension chassis 130 may be the middle of the extension chassis 130 along the length direction, or any other position such as the edge.

[0090] Preferably, the position where the other end of the support member 160 applies the supporting force to the extension chassis 130 may be the middle portion of the extension chassis 130 along the length direction, which is conducive to uniform force on the extension chassis 130.

[0091] Furthermore, the support members 160 may be spaced apart along the width direction of the main chassis 110. In the illustrated embodiment, two support members 160 are provided at either end. The two support members 160 are disposed opposite to each other.

[0092] Continuing with Figures 6 to 16 , for example, the extension chassis 130 may have a guide slot 132 . One end of a support member 160 is pivotally connected to the end of the main chassis 110 . The other end of the support member 160 slides into the guide slot 132 along the guide path of the guide slot 132 . As the extension chassis 130 moves relative to the main chassis 110, the support member 160 pivots synchronously with the main chassis 110 , i.e., the support member 160 moves synchronously with the extension chassis 130 . When the extension chassis 130 is in the deployed position, the guide slot 132 is located at the bottom of the extension chassis 130 , and the other end of the support member 160 extends beyond the end of the main chassis 110 to support the extension chassis 130, thereby maintaining the extension chassis 130 in the deployed position. At this point, the guide slot 132 is located at the bottom of the extension chassis 130 . In other words, the extension chassis 130 is supported by the support member 160 and securely maintained in the deployed position, enabling loading and transportation of the vehicle 1 .

[0093] Referring again to Figures 6 to 16 , one end of the support member 160 is pivotally connected to the end of the main frame 110 about a fourth pivot axis AX4 parallel to the height direction D3 of the main frame 110. The other end of the support member 160 slides into the guide slot 132 along the guide path of the guide slot 132. The first end of the guide slot 132 is further from the center of the main frame 110 along the length direction D1 than the second end of the guide slot 132. The first end of the guide slot 132 is further from the fourth pivot axis AX4 along the width direction D2 than the second end of the guide slot 132. As the extension frame 130 moves from the stowed position to the deployed position, the other end of the support member 160 moves from the first end of the guide slot 132 toward the second end. In other words, the support member 160 can pivot synchronously about the fourth pivot axis AX4 during the movement of the extension frame 130, thereby improving the operational efficiency of the extension frame 130 during use.

[0094] In the embodiment shown in Figures 13 to 15, the guide groove 132 is configured as a first groove section 132a. The first groove section 132a may be a circular arc groove section.

[0095] In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the guide slot 132 can include a first slot section 132a and a second slot section 132b. The first slot section 132a intersects along the longitudinal direction D1. The second slot section 132b is parallel to the longitudinal direction D1. The first slot section 132a is located further away from the center of the main chassis 110 along the longitudinal direction D1 than the second slot section 132b. The provision of the first slot section 132a enables the support member 160 to pivot as the extension chassis 130 moves between the deployed and retracted positions. The provision of the second slot section 132b helps increase the length of the extension chassis 130 beyond the main chassis 110 along the longitudinal direction D1.

[0096] 5 to 16 , extension chassis 130 may be provided at both ends of the main chassis 110 , so that both ends of the main chassis 110 may be extended, thereby further increasing the overall length of the chassis and obtaining a higher transport capacity.

[0097] In other embodiments of the present application, an extension chassis 130 may be provided at one of the two ends of the main chassis 110 .

[0098] 7 , 9 and 10 , the deployed position may be an extreme position of the extension chassis 130 moving in a direction away from the main chassis 110 .

[0099] Referring to Figures 9 and 10 , in addition to the extended chassis 130 being in the deployed position, the foldable container for transporting vehicles 1 may further include a transition frame 140. The transition frame 140 is pivotally connected to the free end of the extended chassis 130 between a use position and a stowed position about a third pivot axis AX3 parallel to the width direction D2. The third pivot axis AX3 is parallel to the first pivot axis AX1. When the transition frame 140 is in the use position, the free end of the transition frame 140 extends outside the extended chassis 130 along the length direction D1 and below the third pivot axis AX3, allowing the vehicle 1 to be transferred from a position such as the ground 2 to the extended chassis 130 and then to the main chassis 110 via the transition frame 140. When the transition frame 140 is in the stowed position, the free end of the transition frame 140 does not extend beyond the free end of the extended chassis 130 along the length direction D1. For example, the transition frame 140 may abut against the upper portion of the extended chassis 130. The provision of the transition frame 140 facilitates the movement of the vehicle 1 toward the main chassis 110 and the extended chassis 130, reduces the need for lifting equipment, and thus helps reduce costs. The free end of the transition frame 140 is lower than the third pivot axis AX3. This means that, when in the use position, the free end of the transition frame 140 can be flush with or lower than the lower surface of the main chassis 110. Of course, in other embodiments, the free end of the transition frame 140 in the use position can be slightly higher than the lower surface of the main chassis 110.

[0100] In the case where the extension chassis 130 are respectively provided at both ends of the main chassis 110, the transition frame 140 can be provided only to the extension chassis 130 at one end, so that the vehicle 1 can be moved into the main chassis from one end. Of course, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the transition frame 140 can also be provided to the extension chassis 130 at both ends, so that the vehicle 1 can be moved into the main chassis 110 from either end or from both ends simultaneously.

[0101] Referring to Figure 8 , as a variation of this embodiment, the extended chassis 130 in the deployed position can also pivot about the second pivot axis AX2 to a transition position. In the transition position, the free end of the extended chassis 130 is lower than the second pivot axis AX2, allowing the vehicle 1 to be transferred from a position such as the ground 2 to the extended chassis 130. After the vehicle 1 has moved to the extended chassis 130 or to the main chassis 110 via the extended chassis 130, the extended chassis 130 can be rotated about the second pivot axis AX2 to the deployed position. In this variation, the connecting member can be connected to one of the extended chassis 130 and the main chassis 110, and can be detachably connected to the other of the extended chassis 130 and the main chassis 110 by hooking or other means. For example, the connecting member can also be configured as a support member 160. One end of the support member 160 is pivotally connected to the end of the main frame 110 along the longitudinal direction D1 about a fourth pivot axis AX4. The other end of the support member 160 abuts the bottom of the extension frame 130 in the deployed position. Furthermore, during the movement of the extension frame 130 from the stowed position to the deployed position, the support member 160 does not move synchronously with the movement of the extension frame 130, requiring manual rotation of the support member 160. Compared to the embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10, moving the extension frame 130 from the transition position to the deployed position may require lifting equipment such as a forklift. However, providing a separate transition frame 140 reduces labor intensity and facilitates direct manual operation, such as manual labor, to rotate the transition frame 140 from the use position to the stowed position. The free end of the extension frame 130 in the transition position is below the second pivot axis AX2. This means that the free end of the extension frame 130 can be flush with or below the lower surface of the main frame 110. Of course, in some other embodiments, the free end of the extension chassis 130 located at the transition position may be slightly higher than the lower surface of the main chassis 110 .

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the extension chassis 130 located at one of the ends of the main chassis 110 can be pivoted from the deployed position to the transition position.

[0103] In some other embodiments, the extension chassis 130 located at both ends of the main chassis 110 can be pivoted from the deployed position to the transition position.

[0104] Referring to Figures 7 to 11 , in conjunction with Figures 19 to 22 , the connecting member can also be configured as a tie rod 150, for example. One end of the tie rod 150 is movably connected to one of the end frame 120 and the extension chassis 130. The other end of the tie rod 150 is configured to be detachably connected to the other of the end frame 120 and the extension chassis 130 by hooking or other means. When the extension chassis 130 is in the deployed position and the end frame 120 is in the upright position, the other end of the tie rod 150 can be connected to the other of the end frame 120 and the extension chassis 130 to maintain the extension chassis 130 in the deployed position. In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the tie rod 150 is connected to the end frame 120, and the other end of the tie rod 150 is detachably connected to the upper portion of the extension chassis 130 in the deployed position. In this case, the tie rod 150 is located on the upper side of the extension chassis 130.

[0105] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, as a modified embodiment, the connecting member may also include a connecting rod and a supporting member 160 .

[0106] For example, the extension chassis 130 of this embodiment may include a first extension chassis portion (not shown), a second extension chassis portion (not shown), and a first connecting portion (not shown). The first extension chassis portion and the second extension chassis portion correspond to the positions of the left and right wheels of the vehicle 1, respectively. The first extension chassis portion and the second extension chassis portion are spaced apart along the width direction D2. The first connecting portion is connected to the first extension chassis portion and the second extension chassis portion, respectively. In this way, by manipulating the partial movement of the extension chassis 130, the entire extension chassis 130 can be moved.

[0107] For another example, the transition frame 140 of this embodiment may include a first transition frame portion (not shown), a second transition frame portion (not shown), and a second connecting portion (not shown). The first transition frame portion 140 and the second transition frame portion 140 are spaced apart along the width direction D2. The second connecting portion is connected to the first transition frame portion and the second transition frame portion, respectively. By manipulating the partial movement of the transition frame 140, the entire transition frame 140 can be moved.

[0108] As a variation of this embodiment, the extension chassis 130 may include a first extension portion and a second extension portion. The first and second extension portions correspond to the positions of the left and right wheels of the vehicle 1, respectively. The first and second extension portions are spaced apart along the width direction D2. In other words, the extension chassis 130 may have a split structure. This facilitates more labor-saving operation of moving the extension chassis 130 between the deployed and stowed positions.

[0109] As a modified embodiment of this embodiment, the transition frame 140 may include a first transition frame portion and a second transition frame portion. The first transition frame portion and the second transition frame portion are spaced apart along the width direction D2. That is, the transition frame 140 may be a split structure.

[0110] The size of the above-mentioned standard container may be 40 feet.

[0111] According to the folding container of this embodiment, the extended chassis 130 is slidably or rollingly arranged at the end of the main chassis 110 along the length direction D1, and is a pull-out structure. When in use, the extended chassis 130 is extended to the outside of the main chassis 110 by pulling and moving. Among them, the extended chassis 130 can be arranged at intervals along the width direction D2 to form a split structure, or it can be an integral structure. The extended chassis 130 is located at the end of the main chassis 110 and can be installed on the upper part of the main chassis 110 through a guide rail, or hidden inside the main chassis 110. After the extended chassis 130 moves outward to the unfolded position, it can also be rotated downward and placed on the ground 2 through the hinge structure arranged at the end to serve as a ferry for vehicles 1 to get on and off the container. The extended chassis 130 can also be separately provided with a small rotating ferry as a transition frame 140 for vehicles 1 to get on and off the container. After the extension chassis 130 moves to the deployed position, it can be connected to the end frame 120 via a pull rod 150 to achieve positional restraint. A rotating lever can also be provided at the end to prevent the extension chassis 130 from hanging down. The lower portion of the extension chassis 130 or the end of the main chassis 110 can be equipped with a rotatable support member 160. The support member 160 can move synchronously with the extension chassis 130 or can be manually rotated after the extension chassis 130 is withdrawn to provide support for the extension chassis 130.

[0112] Second embodiment

[0113] The foldable container for vehicle transportation provided in the second embodiment is not described in detail with respect to the parts that are the same or similar to those in the first embodiment, and the differences are described as follows.

[0114] 17 to 25 , the extension chassis 230 according to this embodiment is rotatably connected to the end of the main chassis 210 in the length direction D1 about a second pivot axis AX2 parallel to the width direction D2.

[0115] Referring to Figures 18 to 25 , further, the guide slot 232 may extend perpendicularly to the second pivot axis AX2. One end of the support member 260 is pivotally connected to the end of the main chassis 210 about a fifth pivot axis AX5 parallel to the second pivot axis AX2. The other end of the support member 260 slidably engages the guide slot 232 along the extension direction. The first end of the guide slot 232 is further away from the second pivot axis AX2 than the second end of the guide slot 232. As the extension chassis 230 moves from the stowed position to the deployed position, the other end of the support member 260 moves from the second end of the guide slot 232 toward the first end. In this embodiment, the support member 260 can rotate about the fifth pivot axis AX5 simultaneously with the rotation of the extension chassis 230 about the second pivot axis AX2. That is, the support member 260 and the extension chassis 230 rotate synchronously. This helps improve operational efficiency.

[0116] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 25 , the fifth pivot axis AX5 is farther from the middle of the main chassis 210 along the length direction D1 than the second pivot axis AX2.

[0117] According to the folding container of this embodiment, the extension chassis 230 is hingedly arranged at the end of the main chassis 210 and is a rotatable structure. When in use, the extension chassis 230 is extended from the main chassis 210 by rotating it. The extension chassis 230 can be constructed into two parts along the width direction D2, each part can be rotated separately, or the extension chassis 230 can be rotated as a whole structure. The rotation angle of the extension chassis 230 can be greater than 180 degrees, so that the free end of the rotated extension chassis 230 can be placed on the ground 2 to serve as a ferry for vehicles 1 to enter and exit the container. A separate rotating ferry can also be provided at the end of the extension chassis 230 as a transition frame 140. After the extension chassis 230 is rotated outward 180 degrees to reach the unfolded position, the separate rotating ferry rotates outward and opens and rests on the ground 2 to serve as an oblique ferry for vehicles 1 to enter and exit the container. After the extension chassis 230 rotates 180 degrees to the deployed position, it is secured and restrained by the tie rods 150 between the main chassis 210 and the corner posts 122. A rotation stop bar may also be provided between the end of the main chassis 210 and the extension chassis 230 to prevent the extension chassis 230 from hanging down. An auxiliary device may also be provided to assist the rotation of the extension chassis 230, such as a booster spring or a booster mechanism with a connecting rod. The booster mechanism with a connecting rod may be a hydraulic cylinder or an electric cylinder with a telescopic rod.

[0118] Third embodiment

[0119] The foldable container for vehicle transportation provided in the third embodiment is not described in detail with respect to the parts that are the same or similar to those in the second embodiment, and the differences are described as follows.

[0120] Referring to Figures 17 to 25 , in conjunction with Figures 5 to 12 , in this embodiment, the corner post 122 of the end frame 120 is pivotally connected to the main frame 210 about a first pivot axis AX1. The corner post 122 has a first position-limiting member (not shown). The extension frame 230 is pivotally connected to the corner post 122 about a second pivot axis AX2 parallel to the first pivot axis AX1. The extension frame 230 has a second position-limiting member (not shown), which is disposed correspondingly to the first position-limiting member. During pivoting of the extension frame 230 about the second pivot axis AX2 toward the stowed position, the second position-limiting member abuts against the first position-limiting member, thereby limiting pivoting of the extension frame 230 toward the main frame 210. In this way, when the end frame 120 rotates from the folded position to the upright position around the first pivot axis AX1, it can drive the extension base 230 to rotate a certain distance around the second pivot axis AX2 toward the unfolded position, thereby helping to adjust the extension base 230 to the unfolded position more conveniently and labor-savingly.

[0121] According to this embodiment, the extended chassis 230 can be mounted on the corner posts 122 of the foldable container. When the corner posts 122 are folded and opened to the upright position, the extended chassis 230 is rotated to the upright position. The bottom of the extended chassis 230 is connected to the corner posts 122 via a hinge structure. When the corner posts 122 are erected, the extended chassis 230 continues to independently rotate outward and extend outside the container. The extended chassis 230 can rotate outward by an angle greater than 90 degrees, allowing it to rest on the ground 2 after rotation, serving as a ramp for vehicles 1 to enter and exit the container. A separate rotating ramp can also be provided at the end of the extended chassis 230 as a transition frame 140. After the rotating ramp is rotated outward by 90 degrees, the separate end rotating ramp rotates outward and rests on the ground 2, serving as an inclined ramp for vehicles 1 to enter and exit the container. After rotation, the extended chassis 230 can be secured and limited by a tie rod 150 between the extended chassis 2 and the corner posts 122. A rotating stop lever can also be provided at the end to prevent the extended chassis 230 from hanging down.

[0122] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that more embodiments can be obtained by varying or arbitrarily combining the above embodiments, which are not listed here one by one.

[0123] The folding container of the present application comprises a main chassis, wallless end frames, and an extended chassis. The main chassis and end frames form a standard-length folding container. The extended chassis is movably mounted on the main chassis. The extended chassis is manipulated to extend longitudinally beyond the end of the main chassis, thereby cooperating with the main chassis to carry vehicles. By attaching a movable extended chassis to the main chassis of the wallless folding container, the extended chassis can be translated or rotated outward, increasing the chassis length, facilitating the loading of more vehicles and thereby improving transport capacity.

[0124] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field of this application. The terms used herein are only for describing specific implementation purposes and are not intended to limit this application. Terms such as "setting" appearing in this document can mean that one component is directly attached to another component, or that one component is attached to another component through an intermediate component. Features described in this document in one embodiment may be applied to another embodiment alone or in combination with other features, unless the feature is not applicable in the other embodiment or otherwise specified.

[0125] The present application has been described through the above embodiments, but it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative and illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present application to the described embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many more variations and modifications may be made based on the teachings of this application, and all of these variations and modifications fall within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A foldable container for vehicle transportation, characterized in that: The foldable container for vehicle transportation comprises: A main chassis, wherein the main chassis has a length dimension equal to that of a standard container; an end frame pivotally connected to an end portion of the main chassis in the length direction about a first pivot axis between a folded position and an upright position, the first pivot axis being parallel to a width direction of the main chassis, an opening for passage of the vehicle being formed between the end frame and the main chassis in the upright position; an extension chassis movably disposed on the main chassis between a stowed position and a deployed position; and a connecting member, the connecting member being provided between the extension chassis and the main chassis, When the extended chassis is in the folded position, the extended chassis does not exceed the end of the main chassis along the length direction, and the connecting member does not exceed the end of the main chassis along the length direction; when the extended chassis is in the deployed position, the free end of the extended chassis exceeds the end of the main chassis and is higher than the lower surface of the main chassis, the connecting member at least partially exceeds the end of the main chassis and provides at least an upward force to the extended chassis, so that the extended chassis remains in the deployed position, and the extended chassis in the deployed position is used to cooperate with the main chassis to carry the vehicle.

2. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting member is configured as a support member, one end of which is movably connected to the end portion of the main chassis. When the extended chassis is located in the deployed position and the other end of the support member exceeds the end portion of the main chassis, the other end of the support member is used to support the extended chassis.

3. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 2, characterized in that: The extension chassis has a guide slot, one end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end portion of the main chassis, and the other end of the support member is slidably fitted into the guide slot along a guide path of the guide slot. During the movement of the extension chassis relative to the main chassis, the support member pivots relative to the main chassis, and when the extension chassis is located at the deployed position, the guide slot is located at The other end of the support member extends beyond the end of the main chassis at the bottom of the extended chassis to support the extended chassis.

4. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 2, characterized in that: One end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end portion of the main chassis, and the other end of the support member is detachably connected to the bottom of the extension chassis in the deployed position to support the extension chassis.

5. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 3, characterized in that: The extension chassis is movably disposed on the main chassis along the length direction.

6. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 5, characterized in that: One end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end of the main chassis around a fourth pivot axis parallel to the height direction of the main chassis, and the other end of the support member is slidably fitted into the guide slot along the guide path of the guide slot, the first end of the guide slot is farther away from the middle of the main chassis than the second end of the guide slot in the length direction, and the first end of the guide slot is farther away from the fourth pivot axis than the second end of the guide slot in the width direction. During the movement of the extension chassis from the folded position to the deployed position, the other end of the support member moves from the first end toward the second end of the guide slot.

7. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 6, characterized in that: The guide groove includes a first groove section and a second groove section, the first groove section intersects the length direction, the second groove section is parallel to the length direction, and the first groove section is farther away from the middle of the main chassis along the length direction than the second groove section.

8. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to any one of claims 3, 5 to 7, characterized in that: The extension chassis is rotatably connected to the end portion of the main chassis in the length direction about a second pivot axis parallel to the width direction.

9. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 8, characterized in that: The guide groove is extended along an extension direction perpendicular to the second pivot axis. One end of the support member is pivotally connected to the end of the main chassis around a fifth pivot axis parallel to the second pivot axis, and the other end of the support member is slidably engaged with the guide slot along the extension direction, and the first end of the guide slot is farther away from the second pivot axis than the second end of the guide slot. During the movement of the extension chassis from the folded position to the deployed position, the other end of the support member moves from the second end to the first end of the guide slot.

10. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to claim 9, characterized in that: The fifth pivot axis is further from the middle of the main chassis along the length direction than the second pivot axis.

11. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that: The extension chassis is movably provided on the main chassis along the length direction; or The extension chassis is rotatably connected to the end portion of the main chassis in the length direction about a second pivot axis parallel to the width direction.

12. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The extended chassis in the deployed position is pivotable about a second pivot axis to a transition position in which a free end of the extended chassis is below the second pivot axis to allow a vehicle to be transferred to the main chassis via the extended chassis.

13. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The foldable container for vehicle transport further includes a transition frame pivotally connected to the free end of the extended chassis about a third pivot axis parallel to the width direction between a use position and a stowed position, the third pivot axis being parallel to the first pivot axis. When the transition frame is located in the use position, the free end of the transition frame extends to the outside of the extended chassis along the length direction and is lower than the third pivot axis, so as to allow the vehicle to be transferred to the extended chassis and the main chassis in sequence via the transition frame; when the transition frame is located in the stowed position, the free end of the transition frame does not exceed the free end of the extended chassis along the length direction.

14. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to any one of claims 2 to 11, characterized in that: The end frame has two corner posts arranged opposite to each other along the width direction, the corner posts are pivotally connected to the main chassis around the first pivot axis, and the corner posts have first limiting members. The extension chassis is pivotally connected to the corner post about a second pivot axis parallel to the first pivot axis, and the extension chassis has a second limiting member, which is arranged corresponding to the first limiting member. During the pivoting of the extension chassis about the second pivot axis toward the folded position, the The second limiting member is used to abut against the first limiting member to limit the extension chassis from pivoting toward the main chassis.

15. The foldable container for vehicle transportation according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that: The connecting member is constructed as a pull rod, one end of which is movably connected to one of the end frame and the extended chassis, and the other end of the pull rod is used to be detachably connected to the other of the end frame and the extended chassis. When the extended chassis is in the expanded position and the end frame is in the upright position, the other end of the pull rod can be connected to the other of the end frame and the extended chassis to keep the extended chassis in the expanded position.

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