Modular intermodal container system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular intermodal container system in which each container comprising a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space; an access opening at each longitudinal end of the body; and a door assembly for closing the access opening at each end, each door assembly comprising a pair of doors. The door assembly at one end of the container is moveable between a closed configuration in which the doors each extend transversely to close the access opening and an outward open configuration in which the doors each project longitudinally away from the body. A door assembly at the other end of the container is moveable between a closed configuration in which the doors each extend transversely to close the access opening and an inward open configuration in which the doors each project longitudinally inwardly towards the body. The door assemblies in the outward open configuration and the inward open configuration have different opening widths such that a pair of containers may be nested end-to-end with adjacent door assemblies in the outward open and the inward open configuration.

Description

[0001] P2838GB00

[0002] Modular Intermodal Container System

[0003] Field of Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a modular intermodal container system, a hinge for an intermodal container and a door comprising a deployable seal.

[0005] Background

[0006] "Intermodal containers" may be referred to as "containers," "freight containers", "shipping containers", "cargo containers". Intermodal container or simply container will be used herein for consistency and conciseness, but it will be appreciated that this is intended to be broadly understood to refer to a generally large reusable container which is primarily purposed for shipping and / or storage.

[0007] Intermodal containers are designed to be used across a range of different modes of transport and are also commonly used or repurposed as semi-permanent storage units. Intermodal containers are subject to international standardisation and are generally made from steel with corrugated walls and roof. Intermodal containers are generally a standard cross-sectional size (typically up to 8 feet / up to 2.55m wide and either 8 feet 6 inches / 2.59m or 9feet 6 inches / 2.9m tall) and available is variety of lengths. Intermodal containers normally include a pair of lockable double doors at one end (although it is also known to provide tunnel containers with double doors at both ends for ease of access).

[0008] Embodiments of the invention seek to provide a modified intermodal container which may enable a plurality of containers to be used in a modular manner. This may for example, reduce the need to use or stock a range of different length containers. P2838GB00

[0009] Summary of Invention

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a modular intermodal container system. Each container comprises a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space. The base, walls and roof may each be rectangular. An access opening is provided at each longitudinal end of the body. A door assembly is provided for closing the access opening at each end. Each door assembly comprising a pair of doors. A door assembly at one end of the container is moveable (for example rotatable about a hinge) between a closed configuration in which the doors each extend transversely to close the access opening and an outward open configuration in which the doors each project longitudinally away from the body (for example in a direction which is generally parallel to the side walls of the container). A door assembly at the other end of the container is moveable (for example rotatable about a hinge) between a closed configuration in which the doors each extend transversely to close the access opening and an inward open configuration in which the doors each project longitudinally inwardly towards the body (and may for example extend parallel to the side walls of the container). The door assemblies in the outward open configuration and the inward open configuration have different opening widths. As such a pair of containers may be nested end-to-end with adjacent door assemblies in the outward open and the inward open configuration.

[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, a modular intermodal container system comprises at least two intermodal containers. Each container comprises a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space. An access opening is provided at each longitudinal end of the body. A door assembly is provided for closing the access opening at each end. The at least two containers are configured to be coupled in an end-to end configuration such that the access openings of adjacent containers provide a contiguous enclosed space. The system further comprises a bridging member which spans the access openings of adjacent coupled containers. The bridging member may block the door assembly or assemblies from being locked in a closed configuration. P2838GB00

[0012] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a hinge assembly for an intermodal container. The hinge comprises a first leaf for attaching to a frame and a second leaf for attaching to a door. A pair of pivots are provided each having parallel pivot axis and respectively disposed at the first leaf and second leaf. A hinge arm connects the pivots. The hinge arm extends perpendicular to the pivot axes. The hinge arm provides an offsetting between the pair of pivots. The hinge further comprises a linkage extending between a first end pivotally connected to the first leaf and a second end pivotally connected to the second leaf. The connections of the linkage are eccentric to the hinge pivots.

[0013] Another aspect of the invention comprises a door comprising a deployable seal. The deployable seal comprises deployable seals members on opposing sides of the door. The deployable seal further comprises an actuator mechanism (which may for example be mounted to the door) for moving the seals between a deployed and retracted configuration. An activator (for example on the door) is provided for controlling the actuator mechanism. Movement of the activator in a first direction causes the deployable seal members on opposing sides of the door to move outwardly relative to the door (for example the deployable seal members move in opposing directions outwardly from a periphery of the door). Movement of the activator in a second direction causes the seals on opposing sides to move inwardly relative to the door.

[0014] When in the inward open configuration the doors may be positioned internally within the enclosed space of the body. When in the outward open configuration the external width of the doors is less than the width of the access opening. The width of the doors in the outward open configuration may also have a width less than the inwardly open configuration doors. With one set of doors in an inward open configuration and the other set of doors in an outward open position the doors may be nested internally within the enclosed space of an adjacent container. P2838GB00

[0015] In some embodiments the door assembly at each end of the container may be selectively moved to either an inward or outward open configuration. It will be appreciated that this provides a high degree of flexibility in use of the modular container system. Alternatively, the container comprises one dedicated inward opening door assembly and one dedicated outward opening door assembly (in other words, the container may have dedicated inward doors at one end and dedicated outward doors at the at opposing end of the container). This arrangement may be preferred in some applications as the door assemblies may, for example, be simplified.

[0016] The, or each, door assembly may comprise a detent for aligning the, or each, door in an open position. For example, the door assembly may include a detent which holds the door in parallel alignment with the side walls (which may be in in either the outward or inward configuration). Alternatively the door may freely move through its full range of motion and may only be restrained by contact with another portion (such as the side wall) of the container.

[0017] The, or each, door assembly having an outwardly open configuration comprises at least one hinge having a first open position in which the door is rotated through substantially 90 degrees from the closed position. The first open position may correspond to the outwardly projecting position. The hinge may further have a second open position in which the door is rotated through substantially 270 degrees from the closed position. The second open position may correspond to the door projecting rearwardly. The hinge could be biased to towards the first and / or second open position or may, alternatively, move freely between the positions. Optionally the door hinge may have a third open position in which the door is rotated through substantially 90 degrees from the closed position in a reverse direction (i.e. an inward open position). Such an arrangement can provide a highly flexible door configuration which could be selectively opened outwardly to a forward position (for example when nesting containers), inwardly to a rearward position adjacent the inside of the side wall or fully opened outwardly to a rearward position adjacent to the outside of the side wall. P2838GB00

[0018] The hinge may comprise a hinge assembly having a pair of pivots. Each pivot may have a parallel pivot axis. A hinge arm may connect the pivots. The hinge arm may extend perpendicular to the pivot axes. The hinge arm may offset the pair of pivots (the offset length being defined by the length of the arm). In embodiments the hinge arm has a H-shaped profile. The H-shaped profile may comprise an interconnecting central region and bifurcated end portions adjacent each pivot (the bifurcated ends may project lengthwise from the central portion to the respective pivot).

[0019] The hinge assembly may further comprise a link arm extending between ends proximal to each pivot. The link arm may have a central portion which curves over the interconnecting central region of the hinge arm. The link arm may restrict the degrees of freedom of the pair of pivots of the hinge assembly. Thus, the link arm may control the effective pivot of the hinge assembly during rotation.

[0020] The ends of the link arm may be independently pivotally connected to the hinge assembly adjacent to the hinge pivots. For example, the connections of the link arm may be eccentric pivots relative to the hinge pivots. In embodiments the hinge assembly may comprises a first leaf for attaching to a frame and a second leaf for attaching to a door. The pair of pivots of the hinge assembly may be respectively disposed adjacent to the first leaf and second leaf. The link arm may extend between a first end pivotally connected to the first leaf and a second end pivotally connected to the second leaf.

[0021] The hinge may comprise at least one removable securing plate for clamping the hinge pivot to the hinge assembly. The securing plate may extend over a portion of the hinge pivot and may be secured with at lease one fastener. The securing plate may further secure an end of the link arm.

[0022] The intermodal container of embodiments may further comprise a bridging member which spans the access openings of adjacent nested containers. The bridging member P2838GB00 may be configured to provide a substantially continuous floor surface when the containers are nested. The bridging member may comprise a plurality of parts for example a plurality of interconnecting members. For example, the bridging member may comprise individual sections which each cover a part width of the access opening.

[0023] The bridging member may be arranged such that it does not prevent or impede the closing of the doors. In embodiments, when the bridging member is in position between adjacent nested containers, the bridging member may be configured to block the door assembly from being locked in a closed configuration. For example, the bridging member may include at least one cover which blocks the or each bolthole of a bolt mechanism. Thus, in embodiments the bridging member may allow the intermediate doors of nested containers to be closed whilst ensuring they cannot be locked.

[0024] A door of the door assembly may comprise a retainer for storing at least a part of the bridging member when not in use. For example, the door may be provided with a member for resiliently clipping the bridging member (or part thereof) into position when not in use.

[0025] The door assembly may further comprise a deployable seal. The deployable seal may be arranged to be selectively extended outwardly from a periphery of the door assembly. Typically, the deployable seal may comprise a plurality of deployable seals on opposing sides of the door assembly. For example deployable seals may be provided at the top and bottom sides of the door assembly. The deployable seal may extend along substantially the full length of a side of each door or the door assembly.

[0026] The door assembly, and particularly the door, may comprise a recess within which the retractable seal is at least partially received (at least when in a non-deployed configuration). In some embodiments the retractable seal may be contained within the recess in a retracted configuration and project beyond the recess in the deployed configuration. The recess may comprise a channel extending lengthwise along a P2838GB00 peripheral edge of a door. The seal may, for example, comprises a compliant tubular seal member.

[0027] The deployable seal may comprise an actuator mechanism comprising a mechanism for moving the seal between a deployed and retracted configuration. The actuator mechanism may further comprise an activator for controlling the actuator mechanism. The activator may for example be a manually actuated lever (which may include without limitation a handle or knob). The actuating mechanism may comprise multiple actuator members activated from a common activator. A plurality of actuator members may for example act upon a single retractable seal at spaced apart locations. For example, the spaced apart locations may be along an edge of a of the door assembly (and may therefore ensure that the deployable seal is effective in forming a seal along the full length when actuated).

[0028] The actuation mechanism may be configured to provide simultaneous movement of a plurality of deployable seals. For example, a single actuation may implement simultaneous deployment of seals on opposing sides (for example top and bottom) of the door assembly.

[0029] The activator may comprise a crank rotatable via a manual lever. The actuation mechanism may comprise an opposed pair of connecting rods which extend or retract when the crank is rotated. In some embodiments the actuation mechanism may further comprise a second crank and connecting rod assembly coupled to the first crank such that rotation of the manual lever activates both cranks.

[0030] The deployable seal may be coupled to a latch mechanism for securing the door in a closed position. For example at least one bolt for closing the door may be coupled to the deployable seal. As such, the latch mechanism is moved into a locking position with the deployment of the seal. As such the actuation mechanism for the deployable seal may also be configured to deploy the latch or bolt. Advantageously, this may P2838GB00 enable the door to be both closed and sealed with a single movement of a common activator such as a manual lever.

[0031] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gutter system for a modular intermodal container system, in which the gutter system comprises: a gutter portion configured in use to extend between a pair of adjacent containers and to define a channel for receiving water therein, in which the gutter portion comprises at least one first gutter attachment feature at or adjacent a first end thereof for engaging a first container, and at least one second gutter attachment feature at or adjacent a second opposed end thereof for engaging a second container, and in which at least one of the first and / or second gutter attachment features are configured to releasably engage a complementary container attachment feature provided by the corresponding container.

[0032] By ensuring that at least one of the first and / or second gutter attachment features are releasably engageable to the complementary container attachment feature, the gutter portion can be deployed and removed as and when required.

[0033] Preferably each of the first and second gutter attachment features are configured to releasably engage the complementary container attachment features of the corresponding containers.

[0034] Preferably, the gutter portion is composed of flexible, waterproof material.

[0035] The gutter portion is configured in use to provide cover, from the elements (for example rain), at or adjacent the corresponding access opening. The gutter portion is preferably configured in use to extend across the width of the access opening.

[0036] In one embodiment, at least one of the first and / or second gutter attachment features comprises a hook and loop fastener configured for engagement to a complementary P2838GB00 hook and loop fastener located on the corresponding container attachment feature of a corresponding container.

[0037] The first and / or second gutter attachment feature preferably extends along substantially the entire length of the corresponding first or second end of the gutter portion.

[0038] The gutter portion preferably comprises a first side portion and an opposed second side portion extending between the first and second ends thereof. The gutter portion is preferably configured in use to provide a flowpath extending between the first and second side portions thereof. In one embodiment, one of the first or second side portion is positioned at a height above the other side portion, thereby directing flow of water received within the channel towards the other side portion.

[0039] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a modular intermodal container system in which each container comprising: a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space; an access opening at one or more longitudinal end of the body; at least one door assembly for closing the or each access opening, each door assembly comprising a pair of doors; and at least one container attachment feature located at the one or more longitudinal ends of the body adjacent the or each access opening, in which the container attachment feature is configured in use to releasably engage a complementary gutter attachment feature of a gutter portion.

[0040] The container attachment feature preferably extends across substantially the entire width of the access opening. P2838GB00

[0041] The or each container attachment feature preferably comprises a first end engaged to a corresponding longitudinal end of the body of the container, and an opposed free end configured to engage a corresponding gutter attachment feature.

[0042] The or each longitudinal end of the body preferably comprises a fixation member. The fixation member preferably defines a channel extending substantially parallel to the plane defined by the longitudinal end and in a direction extending between the width of the access opening. The fixation member preferably further defines a slot providing access to the channel. Preferably, an elongate member is received within the channel. Preferably, the first end of the container attachment feature is engaged to the elongate member, and in which the container attachment feature extends outwardly through the slot to provide access to the second free end thereof.

[0043] Whilst the invention has been described above, it extends to any inventive combination of the features set out above or in the following description or drawings.

[0044] Description of the Drawings

[0045] Embodiments of the invention may be performed in various ways, and embodiments thereof will now be described by way of example only, reference being made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 shows a pair of intermodal containers in accordance with an embodiment;

[0047] Figure 2 shows the pair of intermodal containers of figure 1 in a nested configuration;

[0048] Figure 3 shows a side view and horizontal cross-section of the nested containers of figure 2; P2838GB00

[0049] Figure 4 shows an embodiment including a bridging member between the containers;

[0050] Figure 5A to 5C show a retainer for the bridging member of figure 4;

[0051] Figure 6A and 6B shows the steps of use of the retainer of figure 5;

[0052] Figure 7A to 7C a hinge assembly of an embodiment with the container door in a 0, 90 and 270 degree rotation position;

[0053] Figure 8A to 8C shows an isolated three-dimensional view of the hinge assembly of figure 7 in the same 0, 90 and 270 degree rotation configurations;

[0054] Figure 9A to 9C shows a top view of view of the hinge assembly of figure 7 in the same 0, 90 and 270 degree rotation position;

[0055] Figure 10 shows a partially disassembled view of the hinge assembly of figures 7 to 9;

[0056] Figure 11A and 11B shows a door assembly in accordance with an embodiment including a deployable seal;

[0057] Figure 12A to 12C shows the deployable seal and actuation mechanism of the door assembly in isolation;

[0058] Figure 13A to 13C shows detailed views of the deployable seal of figure 11 and 12; and

[0059] Figure 14 shows a side view of a gutter system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Detail Description of Embodiments

[0061] It may be noted that upper and lower are used herein to conveniently refer to the device in its typical in use orientation. Vertical and horizontal are used in their normal meanings but do not require strict interpretation as it will be appreciated that in practice directions or surfaces may deviate from a true vertical or horizontal (for example due to manufacturing tolerances or the orientation of a surface on which the P2838GB00 device is placed). Longitudinal and transverse are used to refer respectively to directions along the longest side of a respective part and a direction relatively across the part.

[0062] As shown in figures 1 to 3, embodiments of the invention provide a modular intermodal container system which comprises at least two intermodal containers 1A and IB. In figure 1 the modular containers 1A and IB are shown separately. Each container comprises a body 10 having a rectangular prism shape which comprises a rectangular base 12, a pair of spaced apart opposed rectangular side walls 14, 16, and a rectangular roof 18. The body defines an enclosed space 20. The container 1 of embodiments is not limited to any specific form of construction and may be manufactured in any convenient manner. Typically, the container 1 will have a standard intermodal container construction which includes walls 14, 16 and roof 18 formed from corrugated steel and a base 12 including a wooden floor. The container may include other standard features such as forklift cutouts in the base 12 and cut outs at the corners for securing containers in position.

[0063] An access opening 30 and 34 is provided at each opposing longitudinal end of the body 10. Each access opening 30, 34 is surrounded by a respective frame door frame 32, 36. A door assembly 100 is provided in each door frame 32, 36 for closing each access opening 30, 34. Each door assembly 100 comprises a pair of double doors which are pivotally connected to the vertical members of the respective door frame 32, 36 by hinges 200. In the illustrated embodiment each door is supported by four vertically spaced apart hinges 200. The door assembly 100 and hinge 200 is described in further detail below.

[0064] In figures 1 to 3 the door assemblies 100 are shown in open positions. It will be appreciated that the doors assemblies also have a closed position in which the pair of doors 101, 102 extend transversely across their respective opening 30, 34 such that the edges of the paired doors meet, and the opening 30, 34 is closed. In the closed configuration the doors will be lockable using bolts which engage boltholes 39 P2838GB00 provided in the door frame 32, 36 (and it will be appreciated that similar boltholes will also typically be provided in the upper frame member). It can be seen in the figures that the door assemblies 100 at opposing ends of each container 1A and IB are open but respectively in alternate outwardly and inwardly open configurations. The door assemblies 100 at one opening 30 have been pivoted inwardly into an open configuration in which the doors 100 each project longitudinally inwardly into the internal space 20 of the container body 10. The doors 100 at opening 30 each extend parallel to the side walls 14, 16 of the container 1 with one door lying against the inner surface of each respective wall 14, 16 adjacent to its hinges. The door assemblies 100 at the opposing opening 34 have been pivoted outwardly into an open configuration in which the doors 100 each project longitudinally outwardly and away from the container body 10. The doors 100 at opening 34 each extend away from the container in a direction which is generally parallel to the side walls 14, 16 of the container 1. Each door at this end extends generally in the longitudinal direction of the respective wall 14, 16 adjacent to its hinges.

[0065] Figures 2 and 3 show the pair of containers 1A and IB in a nested configuration. The containers are aligned end-to-end with the respective opening 30, 34 of the adjacent ends abutting. In such a configuration the internal spaces 20 of the containers 1A and IB are contiguous. The opposing ends of each container are unobstructed such that the door assembly 100 can be used to access the internal space 20 of the containers 1A, IB. In the nested position (and as best seen in the cross section of figure 3), it can be noted that the door assemblies 100 in the outward open configuration and the inward open configuration have different opening widths. The outwardly open doors have a narrower width and, as such, the doors may be positioned within the inwardly open doors which are opened against the internal surface of the side walls 16, 14. One or both sets of doors may be retained in this position by any suitable arrangement such as a catch or bolt.

[0066] In order to ensure that a substantially continuous floor is provided to the combined internal space 20 when a plurality of modular containers 1A and IB are nested P2838GB00 together, embodiments may include a bridging member 300 as shown in Figure 4. The bridging member 300 is a generally plate shaped element or elements which is configured to spans the access openings of adjacent coupled containers and have an upper surface which is substantially continuous and co-planar with the floors of each container. When the bridging member 300 is in situ across the opening 30, 34 of two nested containers it does not impede opening or closing of the doors 100 since it is flush with the floor of the containers. However, it is desirable to ensure that the intermediate doors 100 of nested containers are not unintentionally locked in their closed position without the bridging member having first been removed. As such, the bridging member includes a cover plate 310 which extends over and blocks the boltholes 39 in the frame 32 of the opening. In the illustrated embodiment the cover plate 310 is a discrete tab extending from the bridging member 300 which may for example enable the cover 310 to be specifically sized and shaped to fit over the boltholes. In other embodiments the cover plate 310 may be more integrated into the form of the bridging member 300.

[0067] To allow for convenient storage when not in use, the bridging member may be formed of two sections 301 and 302 each of which covers half of the width of the container opening 30, 34. Each section 301 is then provided with a dedicated storage location on the rear of the adjacent container door assembly 100. The storage arrangement is shown in detail in figures 5A to 5C. The storage arrangement comprises a retainer which consists of an alignment plate 324, a clip 322 and pocket 328 each of which are attached by suitable fasteners to the rear of the door. The pocket 328 is the lowermost element and defines a generally U-shaped recess which is sized and shaped to receive a corresponding complementary projection 305 provided at one end of the section 301 of the bridging member element (and generally on the reverse side of the bridging element such that it does not protrude from the floor in use). The clip 332 has a first section which is attached to the door and a cantilever arm 326 which is spaced apart from the door so as to define a transversely extending slot therebetween. The alignment plate 324 extends transversely across the door and has two sections of different heights with a step therebetween to define a shoulder 325. P2838GB00

[0068] As shown by the sequence of Figure 6A and 6B, the element 301 is placed into the retainer by first positioning the projection 305 in the pocket 328. This fixes the end of the element horizontally relative to the door and retainer. The upper end of the element 301 may then be slid and rotated into position in the direction of arrow A. As the element is rotated the upper end moves into engagement with the alignment plate 324 and a mid-section slides into the slot under the arm 326 of the clip 322. As the upper and lower ends of the element 301 are spaced away from the door by the projection 305 and pocket 328 and the alignment plate 324, the element 301 will need to resiliently flex to slid into the slot under the arm 326 (and the arm 326 may have a ramped underside face to assist). This ensures that there is a resilient engagement between the clip part 322 of the retainer and the element 301 of the bridging member.

[0069] When the element 301 is fully slid into position in the retainer (in the position shown in Fig 6B) the upper end of the plate has been moved into alignment with the reduced depth section of the alignment plate 324. In this stored position it can be noted that the shoulder 325 of the alignment plate 324 is beyond the edge of the element 301 such that it will abut and block reverse movement of the element 301. Thus the element will be retained in position until required when a user can flex the element over the shoulder and slide it in the reverse direction (counter to arrow A of Figure 6A).

[0070] Figures 7 to 10 show a hinge assembly for use in embodiments of the invention. The hinge assembly 200 of embodiments provides an arrangement which can pivot the door assembly 100 to open through a wide range of motion. As shown in figures 7 the hinge arrangement may advantageously provide a closed, or zero degree, position (Figure 7A), a first open position in which the door 100 of the container is rotated through 90 degrees and is extending outwardly in a direction substantially parallel to the side wall (figure 7B) and a 270 degree rotated position in which the door 100 of the container 1 is extending generally rearwardly along the outside of the wall 16 of P2838GB00 the container. It will be noted that the two open door configurations position the doors at different widths so could be used for coupling a pair of containers in the manner described above.

[0071] The hinge assembly 200 is shown in isolation in Figures 8A to 8C, showing three- dimensional perspective views, and Figure 9A to 9C, showing corresponding top views. In each figure the three positions corresponding to the door position shown in respective figures 7A to 7C. The hinge assembly comprises a first leaf 210, which may for example be attached to the door assembly 100, and a second leaf 220, which may be attached to the frame 32, 36 of the container 1. It will be appreciated that each leaf 210, 220 may be attached by any convenient means (for example welding or via fasteners) to the appropriate part of the container or door. The hinge assembly includes two separate pivots 230 and 240. The two pivots 230, 240 have parallel axis which extend vertically in use and are respectively at the first leaf 210 and second leaf 220.

[0072] A hinge arm 250 extends from a first end at the first pivot 230 to a second end at the second pivots 240. The hinge arm 250 extends lengthwise in a direction which is perpendicular to the axis of both pivots 230, 240. Thus, it will be appreciated that the hinge arm 250 defines an offset distance between the first 230 and second 240 pivots of the hinge assembly 200. The hinge arm has a H-shaped profile with a unitary central section 252 and bifurcated ends with respective upper 254, 256 and lower 253, 255 sections at each end which connect to the pivot.

[0073] The hinge assembly 200 also has a link arm 260 which extends lengthwise between ends 262 and 264 proximal to each pivot. The link arm 260 has a curved profile such that its central portion curves over the interconnecting central region 252 of the hinge arm 250. The ends of the link arm 262 and 264 are respectively pivotally connected to the first leaf 210 and second leaf 220 of the hinge assembly. The link arm pivot connections are adjacent to, but offset from, the pivots 230 and 240. As such the link arm 260 is rotatable about pivots which are eccentric relative to the pivots of the hinge P2838GB00 arm. The link arm 260 is arranged to restrict the degrees of freedom of the hinge assembly 200 (rather than allow the full range of motion that would be possible as a result of a hinge arm 250 being provided between a pair of pivots 230 and 240). Thus, the link arm 260 in combination with the hinge arm 250 controls the location of the effective pivot of the hinge assembly 200 during rotation.

[0074] To enable ease of installation, maintenance, and / or repair, the hinge assembly 200 may include a plurality of removable securing plates 225a and 225b. The securing plate is attached by fasteners to the leaf 220 of the hinge assembly 200. The internal side of the securing plater 225 includes recesses 226 and 1 which respectively define part of a bore which forms part of the pivot attachment for the hinge and link arm.

[0075] The door assembly 100 in embodiments may further comprise a deployable seal 120, 130 which will be described in detail with reference to figures 11 to 13. Figure 11A shows the door assembly 100 with the deployable seal in a non-deployed position (and it may be noted in this embodiment the seal is fully retracted and not visible in this position but that is not essential). Only a single door of the door assembly is illustrated but the skilled person would appreciate that the door may be used as a pair of doors which meet at their non-hinged side edges.

[0076] The door of the door assembly 100 is a rectangular panel (and may have a substantially hollow box section as will be appreciated from the following description) which has a periphery defined by opposing side edges 101 and 102 and opposing upper 103 and lower 104 edges. The door assembly 100 includes hinges 200 on one side edge 101 which may be of the type described above (or may be simple prior art hinges in other embodiments). The outer side edge 102 may be profiled to interface with a corresponding second door or a door frame and may for example carry a seal.

[0077] As best seen in figure 11B, in accordance with embodiments a deployable seal is provided along the upper 103 and lower 104 edges of the door periphery. The seal is P2838GB00 deployable via an actuation mechanism 140 (explained in detail below) which is activated by manual rotation of the lever 149 in the direction of arrow B. The upper seal 120 deploys upwardly away from the edge 103 of the door 100 in the direction shown by arrow D. The lower seal 130 deploys downwardly from the edge 104 in the direction shown by arrow C. The actuation mechanism 140 also causes deployment of upper 110 and lower 112 locking bolts. As such a single rotation of the lever 149 in embodiments is effective to both lock the door 100 in a closed position and to deploy the seals 120 and 130 outwardly to sealing engage against the upper and lower sides of a door frame.

[0078] Figure 12 shows the actuation mechanism 140 with the door omitted for clarity. It will be appreciated that most of the actuation mechanism 140 may be enclosed by spaced apart faces of the door 100. Each seal 120, 130 comprises a resilient seal member 121, 131 and a seal carrier 122, 132. Both the seal member 121, 131 and the seal carrier 122, 132 extend substantially along the full width of the edge of the door to provide a full seal.

[0079] The actuation mechanism 140 includes an activator in the form of the manually actuated lever 149. The lever 149 is coupled to a first crank 142. The first crank 142 is coupled via a horizontal connecting rod 146 to a second crank 144 at a transversely spaced apart location on the door 100. The connecting rod 146 ensures that a rotation of the crank 142 via the handle 149 results in a simultaneous rotation of the second crank 144. As shown by the arrows in figure 12B a rotation of the handle (and therefore a corotation of first crank 142) in direction B results in the horizontal connecting rod 146 moving in the direction of arrow E. This causes the second crank 144 to rotate in unison with the first crank as shown by arrow B'.

[0080] Each of the first 142 and second 144 cranks are coupled to a pair of opposed, vertically extending, connecting rods 147a, 147b and 148a, 148b. The upper connecting rods 147a, 147b are coupled at their upper end (the end distal to the cranks) to the seal carrier 121 of the upper seal 120, and therefore act as actuator members for the seal P2838GB00

[0081] 120. The lower connecting rods 148a, 148b are coupled at their lower end (the end distal to the cranks) to the seal carrier 131 of the lower seal 130, and therefore act as actuator members for the seal 130. As the connecting rods 147, 148 are connected to the seals 120, 130 at spaced apart transverse locations the actuation mechanism can provide a more distributed application of force along the length of the seal (and therefore a more reliable sealing effect). As shown in figure 12B the rotation of the cranks 142, 144 (in the direction of arrows B) results in opposing outwardly directed movements of the connecting rods. The upper rods 147a and 147b move upwardly in the direction of arrows D. The lower rods 148a, 148b move downwardly in the direction of arrows C. As a result of this a single manual actuation of the lever 149 results in both the upper 120 and lower 130 seal being extended outwardly. A counter-rotation of the lever 149 will result in the reverse movement of the actuation mechanism 140 and the inward retraction of both the upper 120 and lower 130 seal.

[0082] Figure 13A to C illustrates a cross section of the upper seal 120 and adjoining upper edge 103 of the door assembly. It will be appreciated that a corresponding, inverted, arrangement may typically be provided for the lower seal 130 and bottom edge 104 of the door assembly. The edge 103 of the door is provided with a recess in the form of a U-shaped channel 105 running along the width of the door. The seal carrier 121 is sized and shaped to be slidably received in the channel 105. The seal member 121 is a resilient member which is formed as a tube of compliant material. In the nondeployed (or retracted) position, as shown in figure 13A, the seal carrier 122 is at the bottom of the channel 105. Abutment between the base of the channel 105 and the rear surface of the carrier 122 may provide a stop position to the movement of the seal 120. The seal member 121 sits within the channel and may be compressed by the sides of the channel 105 to conform to the width of the channel. The upper connecting rod 147 is connected to the seal carrier 122 and via a downwardly extending tab 123 which may pass through a suitably sized aperture in the channel 105 (but it will be appreciated that the tab 123 could be omitted and the rod 147 directly connected to the carrier 122). P2838GB00

[0083] When the seal 120 is deployed using the actuation mechanism 140 the seal is moved to the configuration shown in figure 13B. In this position the connecting rod 147 has been displaced upwardly and acted upon the tab 123 to push the seal carrier to a position in which it is proximal to the upper, open, end of the channel 105. As such the seal member 121 is extended outwardly and upwardly beyond the top edge 103 of the door 100. The seal member is pushed into sealing engagement with the adjacent surface of the frame 32 surrounding the door assembly 100. As the seal member 121 is a hollow tubular compliant member it deforms against the surface and provides a good sealing engagement.

[0084] As the seal 120, 130 is intended to be deployed when the door 100 is closed and latched in position it is useful for the seal deployment to be linked to the deployment of the locking bolts 110, 112 (which are respectively at the top 103 and bottom 104 of the door assembly 100). This can both simplify operation of the door assembly since a single action may achieve locking / latching and sealing. Additionally this arrangement may help protect the seal from damage in use since the bolts 110 112 will block the door from being closed with the seal in a deployed configuration (and it will be appreciated that the bolts are more durable than a compliant seal). As such, in embodiments the bolts 110 are coupled to the actuation mechanism 140 of the deployable seal via a pin 115 as shown in figure 13C. The pin 115 connects the bolt to the seal carrier 122 and extends through a slot 107 provided in the side wall of the channel 105. As a result of the pin 115 coupling the seal carrier 122 and bolt 110 together the bolt will automatically move to its extended position (as shown in figures 11B, 12B, 12C, 13B and 13C) when the seal 120 is deployed and to its retracted position (as shown in figures 11A, 12A and 13A) when the seal 120 is retracted. In the extended position the end of the bolt is received into a bolthole 39 adjacent to the frame 32. It will be appreciated that an equivalent pin would also be provided coupling the lower bolt member 112 with the lower seal 130. P2838GB00

[0085] With reference to Figure 14, the gutter system 400 comprises a gutter portion 402 configured in use to extend between a pair of adjacent containers 404, 404' and to define a channel 406 for receiving water therein.

[0086] The gutter portion 402 comprises a first gutter attachment feature 408 at or adjacent a first end 410 thereof for engaging a first container 404. The gutter portion 402 comprises a second gutter attachment feature 412 at or adjacent a second opposed end 414 thereof for engaging a second container 404'.

[0087] Each of the first and second gutter attachment features 408, 412 are configured to releasably engage a complementary container attachment feature 416, 418 provided by the corresponding container 404. 404'.

[0088] The gutter portion 402 is composed of flexible, waterproof material. For example, an upper portion of the gutter portion 402 may be coated with a waterproof coating.

[0089] The gutter portion 402 is configured in use to provide cover, from the elements (for example rain), at or adjacent the corresponding access opening. The gutter portion 402 is configured in use to extend across the width of the access opening.

[0090] The first and second gutter attachment features 408, 412 each comprise a hook and loop fastener configured for engagement to a complementary hook and loop fastener located on the corresponding container attachment feature 416, 418 of a corresponding container 404, 404'.

[0091] The first and second gutter attachment features 408, 412 each extend along substantially the entire length of the corresponding first or second end 410, 414 of the gutter portion 402. P2838GB00

[0092] The gutter portion 402 comprises a first side portion 420 and an opposed second side portion 422 extending between the first and second ends 410, 414 thereof.

[0093] The container attachment features 416, 418 each extend across substantially the entire width of the access opening.

[0094] The or each container attachment feature 416, 418 comprises a first end 424 engaged to a corresponding longitudinal end of the body of the container 404, and an opposed second free end 426 configured to engage a corresponding gutter attachment feature 408, 412.

[0095] The or each longitudinal end of the body of the container comprises a fixation member 430. The fixation member 430 defines a channel 432 extending substantially parallel to the plane defined by the longitudinal end and in a direction extending between the width of the access opening. The fixation member 430 further defines a slot 434 providing access to the channel 432. An elongate member 436, for example rope, is received within the channel 432. The first end 424 of the container attachment feature 416, 418 is engaged to the elongate member 436, and in which the container attachment feature 416, 418 extends outwardly through the slot 434 to provide access to the second free end thereof 426.

[0096] In use, the gripping portion 402 is positioned between a pair of adjacent containers 404, 404' adjacent the roof thereof. Each gutter attachment feature 408, 412 is engaged with corresponding container attachment features 416, 418 to provide shelter adjacent the access openings of the pair of adjacent containers. The use of a flexible gripping portion 402 ensures that the gripping portion can be used to provide cover across a variable gap between adjacent pairs of containers. P2838GB00

[0097] Although the invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the deployable seal of the invention is not limited to use with a container door and may be used with other types of doors (and may further not be limited to hinged doors but could for example be useful on sliding doors). It will also be appreciated that whilst in the example the deployable seal is for the upper and lower edges of a door and deploys vertically in other embodiments it could alternatively or additionally include side seals and, for example, deploy horizontally.

Claims

P2838GB00Claims1. A modular intermodal container system in which each container comprising a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space; an access opening at each longitudinal end of the body; and a door assembly for closing the access opening at each end, each door assembly comprising a pair of doors; wherein a door assembly at one end of the container is moveable between a closed configuration in which the doors each extend transversely to close the access opening and an outward open configuration in which the doors each project longitudinally away from the body; a door assembly at the other end of the container is moveable between a closed configuration in which the doors each extend transversely to close the access opening and an inward open configuration in which the doors each project longitudinally inwardly towards the body; and wherein the door assemblies in the outward open configuration and the inward open configuration have different opening widths such that a pair of containers may be nested end-to-end with adjacent door assemblies in the outward open and the inward open configuration.

2. The intermodal container of claim 1, wherein in the inward open configuration the doors are positioned internally within the enclosed space of the body.

3. The intermodal container of claim 1 or 2, wherein in the outward open configuration the external width of the doors is less than the width of theP2838GB00 access opening such that the doors may be nested internally within the enclosed space of an adjacent container.

4. The intermodal container of any preceding claim, wherein the door assembly at each end of the container may be selectively moved to either an inward or outward open configuration.

5. The intermodal container of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container comprises one dedicated inward opening door assembly and one dedicated outward opening door assembly.

6. The intermodal container of any preceding claim, wherein the, or each, door assembly having a outwardly open configuration comprises at least one hinge having a first open position in which the door is rotated through substantially 90 degrees from the closed position and a second open position in which the door is rotated through substantially 270 degrees from the closed position.

7. The intermodal container of claim 6, wherein the hinge is a hinge assembly comprising a pair of pivots each having parallel pivot axis and a hinge arm connecting the pivots, the hinge arm extending perpendicular to the pivot axes, and offsetting the pair of pivots.

8. The intermodal container of claims 7, wherein the hinge arm has a H-shaped profile comprising an interconnecting central region and bifurcated end portions adjacent each pivot.

9. The intermodal container of any of claims 6 to 8, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises a link arm extending between ends proximal to each pivot and having a central portion which curves over the interconnecting central region of the hinge arm.P2838GB0010. The intermodal container of claim 9, wherein the ends of the link arm are independently pivotally connected to the hinge assembly adjacent to the hinge pivots.

11. The intermodal container of any of claims 6 to 10, wherein the hinge comprises at least one removable securing plate for clamping the hinge pivot to the hinge assembly.

12. The intermodal container of any preceding claim, further comprising a bridging member which spans the access openings of adjacent nested containers.

13. The intermodal container of any preceding claim, wherein the bridging member comprises a plurality of interconnecting members.

14. The intermodal container of claim 12 or 13, wherein when the bridging member is in position between adjacent nested containers, the bridging member blocks the door assembly from being locked in a closed configuration.

15. An intermodal container as claimed in any of claims 12 to 14, wherein a door of the door assembly comprises a retainer for storing at least a part of the bridging member when not in use.

16. An intermodal container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the door assembly further comprises a deployable seal17. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 16, wherein the deployable seal is arranged to be selectively extended outwardly from a periphery of the door assembly.P2838GB0018. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 16 or 17, wherein the deployable seal comprises a plurality of deployable seals on opposing sides of the door assembly.

19. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 18, wherein the deployable seal comprises an actuator mechanism comprising a mechanism for moving the seal between a deployed and retracted configuration and an activator for controlling the actuator mechanism.

20. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 19, wherein the actuating mechanism comprises multiple actuator members activated from a common activator.

21. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 20, wherein a plurality of actuator members act upon a single retractable seal at spaced apart locations.

22. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 20 or 21, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to provide simultaneous movement of a plurality of deployable seals.

23. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 22, wherein the activator comprises a crank rotatable via a manual lever and the actuation mechanism comprises an opposed pair of connecting rods which extend or retract when the crank is rotated.

24. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 23, wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises a second crank and connecting rod assembly coupled to the first crank such that rotation of the manual lever activates both cranks.P2838GB0025. An intermodal container as claimed in any of claims 16 to 24 wherein the door assembly comprise a recess in which the retractable seal is at least partially received when in a non-deployed configuration.

26. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 25, wherein the recess comprises a channel extending lengthwise along a peripheral edge of a door.

27. An intermodal container as claimed in any of claims 16 to 26, wherein the seal comprises a compliant tubular seal member.

28. An intermodal container as claimed in any of claims 16 to T1 , wherein the deployable seal is coupled to a latch mechanism for securing the door in a closed position.

29. An intermodal container as claimed in claim 28, wherein the latch mechanism is moved into a locking position with the deployment of the seal.

30. A modular intermodal container system comprising at least two intermodal containers, each container comprising a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space; an access opening at each longitudinal end of the body; and a door assembly for closing the access opening at each end; and wherein the containers are configured to be coupled in an end-to end configuration such that the access openings of adjacent containers provide a contiguous enclosed space; and the system further comprises a bridging member which spans the access openings of adjacent coupled containers and wherein the bridging member blocks the door assembly or assemblies from being locked in a closed configuration.P2838GB0031. A hinge assembly for an intermodal container, the hinge comprising: a first leaf for attaching to a frame; a second leaf for attaching to a door; a pair of pivots each having parallel pivot axis and respectively disposed at the first leaf and second leaf; a hinge arm connecting the pivots, the hinge arm extending perpendicular to the pivot axes, and providing an offsetting between the pair of pivots; and a linkage extending between a first end pivotally connected to the first leaf and a second end pivotally connected to the second leaf, the linkage connections being eccentric to the hinge pivots.

32. A door comprising a deployable seal, the deployable seal member comprising: deployable seals members on opposing sides of the door; an actuator mechanism for moving the seals between a deployed and retracted configuration; wherein an activator for controlling the actuator mechanism, wherein movement of the activator in a first direction causes the seals on opposing sides of the door deployable seals to move outwardly relative to the door and movement of the activator in a second direction causes the seals on opposing sides to move inwardly relative to the door.

33. A gutter system for a modular intermodal container system, in which the gutter system comprises: a gutter portion configured in use to extend between a pair of adjacent containers and to define a channel for receiving water therein, in which the gutter portion comprises at least one first gutter attachment feature at or adjacent a first end thereof for engaging a first container, and at least one second gutter attachment feature at or adjacent a second opposed end thereof for engaging a second container, and in which at least one of the first and / or second gutter attachment features are configured to releasably engageP2838GB00 a complementary container attachment feature provided by the corresponding container.

34. The gutter system as claimed in claim 33, in which the gutter portion is composed of flexible, waterproof material.

35. The gutter system as claimed in either of claims 33 and 34, in which at least one of the first and / or second gutter attachment features comprises a hook and loop fastener configured for engagement to a complementary hook and loop fastener located on the corresponding container attachment feature of a corresponding container.

36. The gutter system as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 35, in which the first and / or second gutter attachment feature extends along substantially the entire length of the corresponding first or second end of the gutter portion.

37. The gutter system as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 36, in which the gutter portion comprises a first side portion and an opposed second side portion extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the gutter portion is configured in use to provide a flowpath extending between the first and second side portions thereof.

38. A modular intermodal container system in which each container comprising: a body comprising a base, a pair of spaced apart opposed side walls, and a roof such that the body defines an enclosed space; an access opening at one or more longitudinal end of the body; at least one door assembly for closing the or each access opening, each door assembly comprising a pair of doors; and at least one container attachment feature located at the one or more longitudinal ends of the body adjacent the or each access opening, in which the container attachment feature is configured in use to releasably engage a complementary gutter attachment feature of a gutter portion.P2838GB0039. The modular intermodal container system as claimed in claim 38, in which the container attachment feature extends across substantially the entire width of the access opening.

40. The modular intermodal container as claimed in either of claims 38 or 39, in which the or each container attachment feature comprises a first end engaged to a corresponding longitudinal end of the body of the container, and an opposed free end configured to engage a corresponding gutter attachment feature.

41. The modular intermodal container as claimed in claim 40, in which the or each longitudinal end of the body comprises a fixation member, the fixation member defines a channel extending substantially parallel to the plane defined by the longitudinal end and in a direction extending between the width of the access opening, the fixation member further defines a slot providing access to the channel, and in which an elongate member is received within the channel, and in which the first end of the container attachment feature is engaged to the elongate member, and in which the container attachment feature extends outwardly through the slot to provide access to the second free end thereof.

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