Manually adjustable decking assembly for a cargo compartment

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a decking assembly for a cargo container, and the decking assembly can include a decking panel that is supported atop one or more beams. In some examples, the decking panel is supported atop three beams. The beams can include feet that engage slotted vertical tracks in the cargo container. A main beam can include side brackets that extend laterally outward, and the side brackets can support the decking panel. In at least one example in which the decking assembly includes three beams, the decking panel can be fastened to only the main beam, and the decking panel can be supported atop each beam on either side of the main beam. In some examples, a particular sequence can be followed to raise and lower the decking system along the slotted vertical tracks to a desired position within the cargo container.

Description

MANUALLY ADJUSTABLE DECKING ASSEMBLY FOR A CARGO COMPARTMENT BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Containers (e.g., cargo or shipping containers, vans, trailers with enclosed cargo enclosures, etc.) of various types can be used for hauling cargo of various sizes. Often a container is permanently or temporarily secured to a vehicle or vessel for transportation. In some instances, it can be useful to construct a deck inside the container, such as a deck that can be positioned at varied heights for storage of cargo both below and above the deck.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0002] The present systems and methods for a decking assembly for cargo compartment are described in detail below with reference to these figures.

[0003] FIG. 1 depicts a cargo trailer and tractor combination and adjustable deck system, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0004] FIG. 2 depicts the cargo trailer and tractor combination of FIG. 1 showing a plurality of decking assemblies positioned at different cargo levels inside the cargo container, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0005] FIG. 3 depicts the cargo trailer and tractor combination of FIG. 2 showing a pl ural ity of decking assemblies positioned at different cargo levels inside the cargo container with cargo stored on top of the decking assemblies, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0006] FIG. 4 depicts an upper perspective view of a decking assembly showing a set of three beams, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 5 depicts a lower perspective view of the decking assembly of FIG. 4 showing lateral brackets attached to the set of three beams, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of longitudinal brackets, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 7A depicts end assemblies attached to each end of the set of three beams that releasably attach to vertical tracks, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of the end assemblies of FIG. 7A, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 8 depicts changing a position of the decking assembly of FIG. 4 in association with a method for lowering the decking assembly, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 9 depicts changing a position of the decking assembly of FIG. 4 in association with a method for raising the decking assembly, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 10 depicts manually changing unlatching the feet of FIGS. 7A and 7B, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] This detailed description is related to a decking assembly that can be used in a cargo container and that can be easily raised and lowered to customize a height. That is, the decking assembly can be moved to various positions inside the cargo container to provide an elevated cargo support deck or platform inside the cargo container. The decking assembly can be used in a method of organizing the cargo container storage space. In examples, the decking assembly includes one or more beams that support a decking panel. A beam can include a primary' beam (e.g., a main beam or central beam) with end assemblies (e.g., sliding feet and latches) that releasably attach to vertical tracks (e.g., posts), which can be affixed to the side walls of the cargo container, and the end assemblies can both slide up and down the tracks and releasably engage slots (e.g., holes) in the vertical tracks (e.g., releasably engage via the latches). In addition, the primary beam can include laterally extending brackets that extend outward from the primary beam and provide a larger support structure for the decking panel.

[0015] Some conventional cargo compartments or containers are used for storing and transporting a variety of objects such as goods, materials, equipment, vehicles, waste materials, and the like. In some examples, cargo can be stacked from a floor position of the cargo container to a full interior height of the cargo container. However, some cargo cannot be stacked on top of other cargo owing to uneven top surfaces of cargo items or owing to potential damage that can occur by stacking. For example, if a shipment of plastic-wrapped furniture is stacked on top of other such furniture, the furniture onto which other pieces of furniture are stacked can be severely damaged. Unfortunately, being able to store and transport a single layer of items on a floor surface of the cargo container leaves an abundant amount of unused storage space in the cargo container which is very inefficient and a costly use of the transport vehicle.

[0016] In some conventional systems, decking systems have been used in cargo containers to enable multiple layers of cargo to be carried in a single cargo load. In conventional systems, lift mechanisms can include chain drives and other motorized or powered solutions, which can be expensive, can take up valuable storage space (e.g., based on the additional components constructed into the walls, ceiling, etc.), and can require on-board power to operate. In addition, conventional solutions can be time consuming and cumbersome to sync when adjusting the deck height. Furthermore, some manual decking assemblies are laborious for cargo transport operators to maneuver and reorient to desired positions, because these manual decking assemblies can be bulky and heavy. As such, there is a need for decking assemblies that are easier for users (e.g., cargo transport operators) to utilize, allowing users to maximize the space within a cargo container when storing cargo therein.

[0017] In examples of the present disclosure, a decking system can include a decking panel that is supported atop one or more beams (e.g., one beam, two beams, three or more beams). In some examples, the decking panel is supported atop three beams. The beams can, in some cases, be spaced apart equidistant (e.g., a certain distance along the interior walls of a cargo container corresponding with spacing of vertical tracks or posts along the side walls). In at least some examples, each beam can include amain or primary beam (e.g., with feet that engage the slotted vertical posts or logistics tracks), and the main or primary beam can include side brackets that extend laterally outward. The side brackets can, among other things, support the decking panel, and in some cases, the side brackets can connect to one another for increased strength and rigidity. For example, the side brackets can be coupled to a longitudinal bracket (e.g., angle aluminum) extending parallel to each beam.

[0018] In at least one example in which the decking assembly includes three beams, the decking panel can be fastened to only the middle or central beam (e.g., via the side brackets of the middle beam and by fasteners that attach to the side brackets), and the decking panel is supported atop (but not attached to) each beam on either side of the middle beam. In some examples, a set of three beams (e.g., the center beam and the two side beams) in combination with a decking panel (e g., the middle beam attached to the decking panel) form a decking assembly (e.g., a deck section). Any number of decking assemblies can be deployed as a system along the interior of a cargo container.

[0019] In some examples, a tool can be used to raise and lower a beam (e.g., one of the beams in a set of three beams). For example, an end of the tool can be configured to engage alatch at the end of each beam. The tool is optional, and a user can otherwise manually raise or lower any beam (e.g., by using their hands). In some examples, a particular sequence can be followed to raise and lower a beam in a set of three beams to arrange the decking assembly in a desired position. In order to lower or raise a decking assembly to a desired position (e.g., a certain height within a cargo container), a user can use the tool or their hands to raise or lower one beam of the set of three beams incrementally (e.g., movement up or down a distance of about one to two feet, for example) along vertical tracks mounted on the interior walls of a cargo container.

[0020] In some cases, to raise the decking assembly, beam latches (e.g., included in the end assemblies and located at the ends of each of the three beams) are unlatched (e.g., manually) and the end assemblies are slid upward (e.g., via sliding feet up vertical tracks or posts), starting with the center beam. After the center beam has been raised, the two side beams can be raised (e.g., similarly by unlatching the latches and sliding the feet up the vertical posts). To lower the decking assembly, the two side beams can be lowered first, again by unlatching the latches and sliding the feet of the end assemblies, and then the center beam can be lowered to the same level as the two side beams. The decking assembly can be raised or lowered along the interior walls of a cargo container such that the decking panel is parallel or substantially parallel to the floor surface of the cargo container.

[0021] These and other aspects are described further below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are merely example implementations and should not be construed to limit the scope of the claims. For example, while the example vehicles are shown and described as being heavy-duty or medium-duty trucks, aspects described herein can be used with a variety of other vehicle sizes, classes, and types (e.g., light duty trucks and other passenger vehicles, buses, trams, carts, and the like).

[0022] As used herein, the terms “about”, “approximately” and “substantially” mean + / -10% of a given value, such as a dimensional value (e.g., height, width, etc.). In addition, with respect to an angle, or the terms parallel and perpendicular, the terms “about” and “substantially” mean within 10 degrees. If “about” or “substantially” are otherwise used, the terms can, where appropriate, include equivalents of the modified element.

[0023] Referring now to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 depicts a cargo container 110 (e.g., a cargo trailer) and tractor combination showing a cargo container with an adjustable decking system, inaccordance with examples of this disclosure. In FIG. 1. a trailer and tractor configuration is illustrated where the cargo container 110 is permanently or temporarily affixed to an underlying trailer that is towed by a tractor 105. The trailer and tractor configuration is for purposes of example only and is not limiting of other example configurations, such as where the cargo container 110 can be permanently or temporarily affixed to the chassis of a smaller form vehicle (e.g., for example, a truck with the tractor 105 and cargo container 110 affixed to a single underlying chassis), and / or such as when the cargo container 110 can be temporarily affixed to a cargo ship.

[0024] Referring still to FIG. 1, in examples of the present disclosure, a cargo container 110 or compartment for storing and transporting cargo includes a forward interior wall 112 of the cargo container 110, a rear end 116 of the cargo container, a first side wall 113 (e.g., not labeled), a second side wall 114. and a floor surface 119. In some examples, the plurality of decking assemblies 121 can extend longitudinally at least partially between the forward interior wall 112 of the cargo container and the rear end 116. According to one example, the plurality of decking assemblies 121 runs approximately the entire interior length of the cargo container 110. but as should be appreciated, the plurality of decking assemblies 121 can run any number of other lengths inside the cargo container 110 as required for one or more cargo situations. According to examples, cargo can be loaded and unloaded through an access point (e.g., door) at the rear end 116, or cargo can be loaded via access points along one or both sides of the cargo container 110. FIG. 1 depicts the adjustable deck system in a raised position and showing a plurality of decking assemblies 121 that are independently adjustable from one another. The plurality of decking assemblies 121 are configured to be raised or lowered along a plurality of vertical tracks 122, which can be mounted to the first side wall 113 and the second side wall 114 of the cargo container 110.

[0025] With reference now to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 depicts the cargo trailer and tractor combination of FIG. 1 showing a plurality of decking assemblies 121 positioned at different cargo levels inside the cargo container 110, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. As can be seen in FIG. 2, each decking assembly 121 can be positioned at any desired position (e.g., a certain height) within a cargo container along the plurality of vertical tracks 122. As such, the plurality of decking assemblies 121 can be raised or lowered individually and independently of each other (e.g.. using methods and devices discussed herein along with variations thereof), which allows the decking assemblies 121 to move up and down withoutnecessarily requiring movement of the other decking assemblies 121. As should be appreciated, enabling raising and lowering of individual decking assemblies 121 allows for loading and transporting cargo 129 of varying sizes, as can be seen in FIG. 3.

[0026] Turning now to FIG. 3, depicts the cargo trailer and tractor combination of FIG. 2 showing a plurality of decking assemblies 121 positioned at different cargo levels inside the cargo container 110 with cargo 129 stored on top of the decking assemblies 110, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the plurality of decking assemblies 121 can be raised inside the cargo container to provide a second layer or platform inside the cargo container for storing and / or transporting cargo 129. Accordingly, in some examples, while the plurality of decking assemblies 121 can be positioned at a height that allows certain cargo 129 to be stacked on top of each decking assembly 121, the plurality of decking assemblies 121 can also be positioned at a height that allows certain cargo 129 to be positioned beneath each decking assembly, on top of the floor surface 119 (e.g., such cargo not pictured for visual clarity). For example, an object that is too tall (e.g., a refrigerator, for example) can be loaded under a decking assembly 121 that can be raised to a high position in the cargo container 110 to provide room for the high profile object to be loaded. In another example, lower profile cargo can be loaded onto the floor surface 119 and additional cargo can be loaded onto one of the plurality of decking assemblies 121 to allow for two layers of cargo 129.

[0027] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, in some examples, the height adjustment mechanism for each of the decking assemblies 121 can operationally be the same. In some examples, each of the decking assemblies 121 can attach to the side walls via a mechanism that does not permit height adjustment. For example, any of the decking assemblies 121 can attach to the side walls at a fixed position or height. According to examples, any of the decking assemblies 121 can have systems and functionality operable to raise, lower and support the each of the decking assemblies 121, which are described in detail below. In addition, while each of the decking assemblies 121 are depicted as being the same or similar sizes, it should be appreciated that the sizes (e.g., fore-aft length) of individual decking assemblies 121 can be varied to accommodate different shapes and sizes of cargo that will be transported in a given version of the cargo container 110. For example, it can be advantageous to optimize the size of each of the decking assemblies 121 such that the dimensions of the each of the decking assemblies 121 are suitable for particular functions such as receiving uniquely shaped cargo (e.g.. musical instruments, factory equipment, art pieces, home decor, small vehicles, etc.).

[0028] Referring now to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 depicts an upper perspective view of one of the plurality of decking assemblies 121 showing a set of three beams, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. According to examples, each of the decking assemblies 121 include a decking panel 123, a first side beam 104, a center beam 106, and a second side beam 108. According to some examples, each beam of the set of three beams (e.g., the first side beam 104. the center beam 106. and the second side beam 108) can be spaced apart equidistant from each other. The distance between beams can vary, and in some instances, the distance between centers is based on industry standards related to spacing of vertical logistics tracks in cargo containers (e.g., 12” spacing, 18” spacing, 24” spacing, etc.). In examples, the set of three beams is releasably attachable to a plurality of vertical tracks 122 (e.g., spaced apart based on industry standards or based on customized solutions). In some examples, the set of three beams support the decking panel 123. The decking panel 123 is constructed out of a rigid or semirigid material that can support the weight of different types of cargo (e.g., from light cargo, such as artwork and glass, to heavy cargo, such as small vehicles). According to examples, the decking panel 123 can be constructed from any material strong enough to retain its shape or form under the weight cargo when the cargo is stored on top of any of the decking assemblies 121. For example, the decking panel 123 can be constructed from steel, aluminum, composite polymer, plastic, wood, and similar materials with a strong rigidity.

[0029] Turning now to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 depicts a lower perspective view of the decking assembly 121 of FIG. 4 showing lateral brackets attached to at least the center beam 106 of the set of three beams, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. According to examples, the center beam 106 can have one or more lateral brackets that extend laterally outward from the center beam 106. In some cases, the lateral brackets can include outer lateral brackets 130, which are relatively closer to the side walls (e.g., the first side wall 113 and the second side wall 114 of the cargo container 110), and inner lateral brackets 132, which are relatively closer to the center of the cargo container. According to some examples, the length of the one or more brackets is at least one third the distance between the center beam 106 and either of the side beams (e.g., first side beam 104 and second side beam 108).

[0030] In some examples, each beam of the set of three beams (e.g., the first side beam 104, the center beam 106, and the second side beam 108) can have one or more lateral brackets (e.g., outer lateral brackets 130 and inner lateral brackets 130) that extend laterally outward and away from each respective beam of the set of three beams (e g., as depicted in FIG. 5). Insome examples, the decking panel 123 is coupled to the one or more brackets via a plurality of decking holes 120 (e.g.. see FIG. 4). In some examples, the decking panel 123 can be fastened to the one or more brackets of the center beam 106. For example, the decking panel 123 can be fastened to the one or more brackets using screws, bolts, adhesives, nails, rivets, clamps, and any other means of fastening. According to some examples, the decking panel 123 is supported on and decoupled from the first side beam 104 and the second side beam 108. For example, the decking panel 123 can be free of attachment by a fastener to the lateral brackets of the first side beam 104 and the second side beam 108.

[0031] With reference now to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of longitudinal brackets 134, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. In examples, the one or more lateral brackets can be affixed by one or more longitudinal brackets 134. For example, the one or more longitudinal brackets 134 can be fastened (e.g., via any type of fastener) to the distal ends of the one or more lateral brackets. In the example depicted in FIG. 6, the distal end of the inner lateral bracket 132 is fastened via one or more fasteners 136 (e.g., bolts) to two longitudinal brackets 134. In this example, the inner lateral bracket 132 includes a plate 188 (e.g., L-bracket) at the proximal end of the inner lateral bracket 132 that attaches to the second side beam 108. For example, the plate 188 can attach via one or more mechanical fasteners, welding, adhesive, and the like to one or more faces of the beam (e.g., to the top and / or to the side). In examples, the plate 188 can include a width larger than the cross dimension of the lateral bracket 132, and the larger width can reduce the likelihood of twisting or other movement. In addition, the plate 188 can increase the rigidity of the inner lateral bracket 132, and any or all of the one or more lateral brackets can include the plate 188, which can attach to any of the set of three beams. The one or more longitudinal brackets 134 can extend parallel to any or all of the beams of the set of three beams. In some examples, the longitudinal brackets 134 can be composed of angle aluminum.

[0032] Referring briefly back to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 depicts an example of one of the plurality’ of decking assemblies 121 having the first side beam 104, the center beam 106, and the second side beam 108, each with three brackets attached to either side. That is, each beam can have a first side that can be oriented generally towards a first adjacently positioned beam and a second side that is opposite the first side and that can be oriented generally towards a second adjacently positioned beam. In the example of FIG. 5. the center beam 106 can include a first side that is generally oriented towards the beam 104 and a second side that is opposite the first side andthat is oriented generally towards the other beam 106. The first side can include a forward side or fore side that is oriented towards a front of the cargo container (e.g.. when the assembly is installed) and the second side can include a rearward side or aft side that is oriented towards a back of the cargo container. In such examples, when a beam of the set of three beams includes six brackets (e.g., three on either side of the beam), the beam can be thought to have the inner lateral brackets 132 and the outer lateral brackets 130. In these examples, four longitudinal brackets 134 can be used to affix the six lateral brackets. For example, two longitudinal brackets 134 can be used to affix the outer brackets 130 closest to the first side wall 113 to the inner brackets 132 (e.g., via fasteners), and two longitudinal brackets 134 can similarly be used to affix the outer brackets 130 closest to the second side wall 114 to the inner brackets 132 (e.g., again, via fasteners). As should be appreciated, any number of brackets can be attached to any beam of the present disclosure. For example, a beam of the set of three beams can be attached to four brackets (e.g., two on either side of the beam). In this example, two longitudinal brackets 134 can be used to affix the brackets on either side of the beam. In another example, a beam of the set of three beams can be attached to eight brackets (e.g.. four on either side of the beam). In this example, six longitudinal brackets 134 can be used to affix the brackets on either side of the beam.

[0033] Turning now to FIG. 7A, FIG. 7A depicts end assemblies 161 at the ends of each beam of the set of three beams, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. According to examples, the end assemblies 161 include sliding feet 162 (e.g., might also be referred to as carriages) that slidably attach to the plurality of vertical tracks 122 and that include latches 166 that can engage a plurality of openings or slots 1 4 in the vertical tracks 122. In examples, the sliding feet 162 can include two opposing plates on opposite sides of the latch 166, and the opposing plates can attach to one another and / or to other intervening structures via one or more fasteners.

[0034] In examples, each beam can include a central tubular structure that is at least partially hollow and that includes a first end and a second end. Each beam can also include end portions that are slidably coupled to each of the first end and the second end and that can telescopically extend and / or retract relative to the central tubular structure. The central tubular structure can be dimensionally larger than the end portion, and as such, the central tubular structure can be referred to as "‘outer7’ relative to the end portion, which can be referred to as "'inner” relative to the central tubular structure. This is just one example, and in other instances.a beam can include other forms of central beam structures that may or may not be tubular and that can reciprocally attach to end portions, which can reciprocally extend and retract.

[0035] In one example, FIG. 7A includes the first side beam 104 having a first inner beam 154 (e.g., end portion) reciprocally engaged to a central tubular structure. In addition, the center beam 106 can include a center inner beam 156 (e.g., end portion of the center beam) reciprocally engaged to a center tubular structure. The second side beam 108 can also include a second inner beam 158 (e.g., end portion of the second beam) reciprocally engaged to a center tubular structure (not shown). In some examples, the end assemblies 161 are attached to each respective inner beam or end portion of the set of three beams.

[0036] According to examples, each inner beam of the set of three beams can glide or slide or reciprocate relative to the central tubular structure in a telescoping manner, allowing each end to be moved up and down the plurality' of vertical tracks 122 (e.g., allow the set of three beams to be repositioned within the cargo container 110) independently of the opposing end. In some examples, each inner beam of the set of three beams can be attached to the end assemblies 161 (e.g., via an article of attachment, such as a screw or bolt 160) at either end of each inner beam. According to examples, the latches 166 are configured to releasably attach to the plurality of vertical tracks 122 by releasably engaging the plurality of slots 164 in the plurality of vertical tracks 122.

[0037] With reference now to FIG. 7B, FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of the end assemblies 161 and end portions of FIG. 7A, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. As can be seen in the example depicted in FIG. 7B, the second inner beam 158 (e.g., similar to all of the inner beams) is attached to the end assembly (e.g., the sliding feet 162 and the latches 166) via the bolt 160. The bolt 160 can be inserted through a hole 170 in both the sliding feet 162 (e.g., the hole extends through the two opposing plates of the sliding feet 162) and the latch 166, which attaches the second inner beam 158 to the end assembly 161.

[0038] According to examples, the latch 166 can releasably engage the plurality of slots 164 in the one of the plurality of vertical tracks 122. For example, a first latch protuberance 176 and a second latch protuberance 178 are configured to engage the plurality7of slots 164 such that the first latch protuberance 176 and the second latch protuberance 178 can be inserted into two adjacent slots of the plurality slots 164, which engages the latch 166 (e.g., locks the latch 166) into a position along one of the plurality of vertical tracks 122.

[0039] According to examples, to disengage the latch 166 from one of the plurality of vertical tracks 122. a latch head 168 can be manually rotated perpendicular relative to the vertical track 122 (e.g., away from the first or second side wall 113, 114). In examples, by rotating (e.g., pushing or pulling) the latch head 168 away from the first or second side wall 113, 114, a camming surface 182 and a knuckle 174 of the latch 166 engage a spring 180 that is housed between the two opposing plates of the sliding foot 162 (e.g., the latch 166 can be described as a “spring-biased latch’’). In some examples, rotating the latch 166 causes the latch to pivot between both plates of the sliding foot 162 about an axis located at the center of the hole 170. In examples, this rotation causes the camming surface 182 to push dow n on the spring 172 and along an inner foot surface 180, while the knuckle 174 similarly pushes the spring 180 down until the knuckle 174 hits the inner foot surface 180, which halts any further rotation of the latch 166. According to examples, when the knuckle 174 makes contact with the inner foot surface 180, the latch 166 reaches its furthest point of rotation, and the first latch protuberance 176 and the second latch protuberance 178 release from the plurality of slots 164.

[0040] In some examples, by releasing (e.g., disengaging) the first latch protuberance 176 and the second latch protuberance 178 from the plurality’ of slots 164. the end assemblies 161 of each beam of the set of three beams can slide along the plurality of vertical tracks 122 (e.g., via the sliding feet 162 and latches 166). Accordingly, in examples, the end assemblies 161 of each of the set of three beams are slidable up or dow n the plurality of vertical tracks 122 when the end assemblies are disengaged from a slot of the plurality of slots 164. As such, according to examples, the end assemblies of each of the set of three beams can engage a different slot of the plurality of slots 164.

[0041] According to examples, the inner beams or end portions (e.g., the first inner beam 154, the center inner beam 156, and the second inner beam 158) and the outer beams or central tubular structures (e.g., the first side beam 104, the center beam 106, and the second side beam 108) have a telescoping relationship that allows the inner beams at one end of the beam to increase in length as the beam is moved along the plurality of vertical tracks while the opposing end remains engaged in the vertical track on the opposing wall. That is, w ith one end of the beam engaged to the vertical track, the opposing end can be slid along the respective track by individually disengaging the latches 166 from one slot of the plurality of slots 164, individually sliding the latches 166 up or down along the vertical tracks 122 (e.g., via the sliding feet 162) while the end portions telescopically extend from the center structure, and individuallyengaging the latches 166 with a different slot of the plurality of slots 164. In at least some examples, the telescoping connection can allow the beams to adjust to side-wall deflections or other side-wall movement that can occur, such as when the trailer is traveling in motion and traverses over bumps or other uneven surfaces.

[0042] With reference now to FIG. 8, a flow diagram is depicted that includes operations or steps in accordance with a method 800 of the present disclosure, which describes lowering a position of the decking assembly 121 of FIG. 4, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. In addition, pictorials are provided in FIG. 8 in association with each of the operations or steps to help illustrate one or more examples related to this description, and the claims are not limited by the pictorials. In at least some examples, the method 800 can include, at step 802, lowering the deck assembly 121 by lowering a first beam end of a first side beam to a position along one of the vertical tracks and engaging a latch at the end of the first beam end with a slot in the vertical track. For example, starting at stage 808, the decking assembly 121 is in a raised position, then at stage 810, a first end of a first side beam (e.g., such as the first side beam 104) is lowered by disengaging a latch (e.g., such as the latch 166) at the first end from the plurality of slots 164 in one of the plurality of vertical tracks 122 and engaging the latch with lower slots of the plurality of slots 164 in the vertical track 122, locking the first end in a lower position.

[0043] In at least some examples, the method 800 can include, at step 804, lowering a second beam end of the first side beam in the same manner as the first beam end. Here, in this example, the second end of the first side beam is lowered until the first side beam is substantially parallel to the floor surface 119 and at a lower position than its original raised position (e.g., as depicted in stage 812). According to some examples, still at step 804, a second side beam (e.g., such as the second side beam 108) is lowered to the same vertical position along the plurality' of vertical tracks 122 in the same manner as the first side beam. Here, in this example, the first side beam and the second side beam are substantially parallel, as can be seen in stage 814.

[0044] In at least some examples, the method 800 can include, at step 806, lowering a center beam (e.g., such as the center beam 106), which is coupled to a decking panel (e.g., such as the decking panel 123), to the same vertical position along the plurality of tracks 122 as the first side beam and the second side beam. According to some examples, at step 806 the center beam is lowered in the same manner as the first side beam and the second side beam. Forexample, a first beam end of the center beam is lowered to the position along one of the vertical tracks as the first side beam and the second side beam by disengaging a latch at one end of the center beam from the plurality of slots 164 in one of the plurality of vertical tracks 122, lowering the first beam end, and engaging the latch with lower slots of the plurality of slots 164 in the vertical track 122 (e.g., slots that are substantially parallel to the slots in which the first side beam and the second side beam are engaged, as can be seen in stage 816). Continuing the example, a second beam end of the center beam is lowered in the same manner as the first beam end until the center beam is substantially parallel to the floor surface 119 (e.g., as depicted in stage 816). In some examples, the beam ends of the set of three beams (e.g., the first side beam, the center beam, and the second side beam) can be lowered incrementally along the plurality of tracks 122. According to at least some examples, the result of method 800 is that the decking assembly 121 is lowered from a higher position to a lower position along the plurality of vertical tracks 122.

[0045] Turning now to FIG. 9, a flow diagram is depicted that includes operations or steps in accordance with a method 900 of the present disclosure, which describes raising a position of the decking assembly 121 of FIG. 4. in accordance with examples of this disclosure. In addition, pictorials are provided in FIG. 9 in association with each of the operations or steps to help illustrate one or more examples related to this description, and the claims are not limited by the pictorials. In at least some examples, the method 900 can include, at step 902, raising the deck assembly 121 by raising a center beam (e.g., such as the center beam 106), which is coupled to a decking panel (e.g., such as the decking panel 123), by raising a first beam of the center beam to a position along one of the vertical tracks 122. For example, as can be seen at stage 908, the center beam starts in a lower position, but a first end of the center beam can be raised to a higher position (e.g., as can be seen at stage 910) by disengaging a latch (e.g., such as the latch 166) at the first end from the plurality of slots 164 in one of the plurality of vertical tracks 122 and engaging the latch with higher slots of the plurality of slots 164 in the vertical track 122. Here, in this example, and still according to step 902, the latch at the first end of the center beam engages slots of the plurality of slots 164 in the vertical track 122, locking the first end in a higher position.

[0046] In at least some examples, the method 900 can include, at step 904, raising a second beam end of the center beam in the same manner as the first beam end. Here, in this example, the second end of the center beam is raised until the center beam is substantially parallel to thefloor surface 119 and at a higher position than its original raised position (e.g., as depicted in stage 912). According to some examples, still at step 904. a first side beam (e.g., such as first side beam 104) is raised to the same vertical position along the plurality of vertical tracks 122 in the same manner as the center beam (e.g., as can been seen starting at stage 914 and ending at stage 916).

[0047] In at least some examples, the method 900 can include, at step 906, raising a second beam end of the first side beam in the same manner as the first beam end. Here, in this example, after raising both beam ends of the first side beam, the first side beam and the center beam are substantially parallel, as can been seen in stage 916. In at least some examples, still at step 906, a second side beam (e.g., such as second side beam 108) is raised to the same vertical position along the plurality of vertical tracks (e.g., the same position as the center beam and the first side beam), as can been seen in stage 918. The second side beam is raised in the same manner as the first side beam (e.g., and the center beam). In some examples, the beam ends of the set of three beams (e.g., the first side beam, the center beam, and the second side beam) can be raised incrementally along the plurality of tracks 122. According to at least some examples, the result of method 900 is that the decking assembly 121 is raised from a lower position to a higher position along the plurality of vertical tracks 122.

[0048] According to some examples, the decking assembly 121 can be lowered or raised along the plurality of vertical tracks 122 by using a tool, as can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9. For example, FIGS. 8 and 9 depict an operator raising or lowering the decking assembly 121 using a tool. However, with reference now to FIG. 10, the decking assembly 121 can be lowered or raised by manually operating the decking assembly 121. For example, an operator can manually disengage and / or engage the latches of the decking assembly 121 with the slots of the tracks (e.g., in accordance with the descriptions of FIGS. 7A and 7B) to move the decking assembly 121 to varying positions along the tracks within the cargo container. As such, an operator can manually raise or lower the decking assembly 121 or use a tool to help in lowering or raising the decking assembly 121.Example Clauses

[0049] A: An adjustable deck for a cargo container, the adjustable deck comprising: a set of three beams that support a decking panel, the set of three beams including a center beam, a first side beam, and a second side beam; and the center beam comprising one or more bracketsthat extend laterally outward and away from the center beam, wherein the decking panel is coupled to the one or more brackets, and wherein the decking panel is supported on. and decoupled from, the first side beam and the second side beam.

[0050] B. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clause A, wherein the one or more brackets comprise a first bracket and a second bracket that are affixed to one another by a longitudinal bracket extending parallel to each beam.

[0051] C. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A and B, wherein the first side beam is spaced a first distance from the center beam, and the second side beam is spaced a second distance from the center beam; and wherein the first distance is substantially equal to the second distance.

[0052] D. The adjustable deck of Clauses A-C, wherein each bracket of the one or more brackets comprises a length, and wherein the length is at least one third of the first distance.

[0053] E. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A-D, wherein the decking panel is fastened by one or more mechanical fasteners to the one or more brackets.

[0054] F. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A-E, wherein each of the one or more brackets includes a plate at a proximal end of each bracket that attaches to the central beam.

[0055] G. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A-F, wherein the first side beam is coupled to one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the first side beam, and wherein the decking panel is free from attachment by a mechanical fastener to the one or more brackets coupled to the first side beam.

[0056] H. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A-G, wherein the second side beam is coupled to one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the second side beam, and wherein the decking panel is free from attachment by a mechanical fastener to the one or more brackets coupled to the second side beam.

[0057] I. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A-H, wherein the center beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam each comprises a respective first side and a respective second side; and wherein the respective first side comprises two or more brackets and the respective second side comprises two or more brackets.

[0058] J. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A-L wherein the two or more brackets on each respective first side comprise a first inner lateral bracket and a first outer lateral bracket;and wherein the two or more brackets on each respective second side comprise a second inner lateral bracket and a second outer lateral bracket.

[0059] K. (Original) The adjustable deck of Clauses A- J, wherein each beam of the set of three beams comprises, at each end, an end assembly that comprises a sliding foot and a spring-biased latch.

[0060] L. (Original) An adjustable deck for a cargo container, the adjustable deck comprising: a beam that supports a decking panel, the beam comprising: one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the beam, wherein the decking panel is coupled to the one or more brackets; and a first end with a first latch configured to engage a first side of the cargo container and a second end with a second latch configured to engage a second side of the cargo container.

[0061] M. (Original) The adjustable deck for a cargo container of Clause L, wherein the one or more brackets comprise a first lateral bracket and a second lateral bracket that are affixed to one another by a longitudinal bracket extending parallel to the beam.

[0062] N. (Original) The adjustable deck for a cargo container of Clauses L and M, wherein the first lateral bracket comprises a first outer lateral bracket and the second lateral bracket comprises a first inner lateral bracket, and wherein the beam comprises a second outer lateral bracket that is attached to the first inner lateral bracket by a second longitudinal bracket.

[0063] O. (Original) The adjustable deck for a cargo container of Clauses L-N, wherein each of the first outer lateral bracket, the first inner lateral bracket, and the second outer lateral bracket comprises a proximal end that is closer to the beam and that is coupled to the beam via an L-bracket.

[0064] P. (Original) The adjustable deck for a cargo container of Clauses L-O, wherein the first end and the second end are telescopically coupled to a central beam structure, and wherein the first latch is a first spring-biased latch and the second latch is a second spring-biased latch.

[0065] Q. (Original) The adjustable deck for a cargo container of Clauses L-P, further comprising, a second beam comprising one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the second beam, wherein the decking panel is supported atop the second beam andis free of atachment via mechanical fastener to the second beam and to the one or more brackets.

[0066] R. (Original) A method of organizing a cargo container storage space, the method comprising changing a vertical position of the decking assembly of Clause 1 from a first position to a second position.

[0067] S. (Original) The method of Clause R, wherein the second position is higher than the first position, further comprising: disengaging a first latch at a first end of the center beam from a first slot in a first vertical track, engaging the first latch of the center beam with a second slot in the first vertical track that is higher than the first slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the center beam from a third slot in a second vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the center beam with a fourth slot in the second vertical track that is level with the second slot; disengaging a first latch at a first end of a first side beam from a fifth slot in a third vertical track, engaging the first latch of the first side beam with a sixth slot in the third vertical track that is higher than the fifth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the first side beam from a seventh slot in a fourth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the first side beam with an eighth slot in the fourth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the sixth slot; and disengaging a first latch at a first end of a second side beam from a ninth slot in a fifth vertical track, engaging the first latch of the second side beam with a tenth slot in the fifth vertical track that is higher than the ninth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the second side beam from an eleventh slot in a sixth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the second side beam with a twelfth slot in the sixth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the tenth slot.

[0068] T. (Original) The method of Clause R, wherein the second position is lower than the first position, further comprising: disengaging a first latch at a first end of a first side beam from a first slot in a first vertical track, engaging the first latch of the first side beam with a second slot in the first vertical track that is lower than the first slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the first side beam from a third slot in a second vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the first side beam with an fourth slot in the second vertical track that is level with the second slot; disengaging a first latch at a first end of a second side beam from a fifth slot in a third vertical track, engaging the first latch of the second side beam with a sixth slot in the third vertical track that is lower than the fifth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the second side beam from an seventh slot in a fourth vertical track, and engagingthe second latch of the second side beam with an eighth slot in the fourth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the sixth slot; and disengaging a first latch at a first end of the center beam from a ninth slot in a fifth vertical track, engaging the first latch of the center beam with a tenth slot in the fifth vertical track that is lower than the ninth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the center beam from an eleventh slot in a sixth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the center beam with a twelfth slot in the sixth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the tenth slot.

[0069] As used herein, a recitation of "and / or" with respect to two or more elements should be interpreted to mean only one element, or a combination of elements. For example, ‘'element A, element B, and / or element C” can include only element A, only element B, only element C, element A and element B, element A and element C, element B and element C, or elements A, B. and C. In addition, “at least one of element A or element B” can include at least one of element A, at least one of element B, or at least one of element A and at least one of element B. Further, “at least one of element A and element B” can include at least one of element A, at least one of element B, or at least one of element A and at least one of element B.

[0070] The present embodiments are described with reference to the drawings in which like elements are referred to by like numerals. The relationship and functioning of the various elements of this disclosure are better understood from the detailed description. However, the embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that in certain instances, details have been omitted which are not necessary for an understanding of the present disclosure, such as conventional fabrication and assembly.

[0071] This detailed description is provided in order to meet statutory requirements. However, this description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention described herein. Rather, the claimed subject matter can be embodied in different ways, to include different steps, different combinations of steps, different elements, and / or different combinations of elements, similar or equivalent to those described in this disclosure, and in conjunction with other present or future technologies. The examples herein are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive. In this sense, alternative examples or examples can become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present subject matter pertains without departing from the scope hereof.

[0072] While various embodiments of the invention have been described, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Moreover, the advantages described herein are not necessarily the only advantages of the invention and it is not necessarily expected that every embodiment of the invention will achieve all of the advantages described.

Claims

CLAIMSClaimed is:

1. An adjustable deck for a cargo container, the adjustable deck comprising: a set of three beams that support a decking panel, the set of three beams including a center beam, a first side beam, and a second side beam; and the center beam comprising one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the center beam, wherein the decking panel is coupled to the one or more brackets, and wherein the decking panel is supported on, and decoupled from, the first side beam and the second side beam.

2. The adjustable deck of claim 1, wherein the one or more brackets comprise a first bracket and a second bracket that are affixed to one another by a longitudinal bracket extending parallel to each beam.

3. The adjustable deck of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first side beam is spaced a first distance from the center beam, and the second side beam is spaced a second distance from the center beam; and wherein the first distance is substantially equal to the second distance.

4. The adjustable deck of claim 3, wherein each bracket of the one or more brackets comprises a length, and wherein the length is at least one third of the first distance.

5. The adjustable deck of any of claims 1 through 4, wherein the decking panel is fastened by one or more mechanical fasteners to the one or more brackets.

6. The adjustable deck of any of claims 1 through 5, wherein each of the one or more brackets includes a plate at a proximal end of each bracket that attaches to the center beam.

7. The adjustable deck of any of claims 1 through 6, wherein the first side beam is coupled to one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the first side beam, and wherein the decking panel is free from attachment by a mechanical fastener to the one or more brackets coupled to the first side beam.

8. The adjustable deck of claim 7, wherein the second side beam is coupled to one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the second side beam, and wherein the decking panel is free from attachment by a mechanical fastener to the one or more brackets coupled to the second side beam.

9. The adjustable deck of claim 8, wherein the center beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam each comprises a respective first side and a respective second side; and wherein the respective first side comprises two or more brackets and the respective second side comprises two or more brackets.

10. The adjustable deck of claim 9, wherein the two or more brackets on each respective first side comprise a first inner lateral bracket and a first outer lateral bracket; and wherein the two or more brackets on each respective second side comprise a second inner lateral bracket and a second outer lateral bracket.

11. The adjustable deck of claim 10, wherein each beam of the set of three beams comprises, at each end, an end assembly that comprises a sliding foot and a spring-biased latch.

12. An adjustable deck for a cargo container, the adjustable deck comprising: a beam that supports a decking panel, the beam comprising: one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the beam, wherein the decking panel is coupled to the one or more brackets; and a first end with a first latch configured to engage a first side of the cargo container and a second end with a second latch configured to engage a second side of the cargo container.

13. The adjustable deck of claim 12, wherein the one or more brackets comprise a first lateral bracket and a second lateral bracket that are affixed to one another by a longitudinal bracket extending parallel to the beam.

14. The adjustable deck of claim 13, wherein the first lateral bracket comprises a first outer lateral bracket and the second lateral bracket comprises a first inner lateral bracket, and wherein the beam comprises a second outer lateral bracket that is attached to the first inner lateral bracket by a second longitudinal bracket.

15. The adjustable deck of claim 14, wherein each of the first outer lateral bracket, the first inner lateral bracket, and the second outer lateral bracket comprises a proximal end that is closer to the beam and that is coupled to the beam via an L-bracket.

16. The adjustable deck of any of claims 12 through 15, wherein the first end and the second end are telescopically coupled to a central beam structure, and wherein the first latch is a first spring-biased latch and the second latch is a second spring-biased latch.

17. The adjustable deck of any of claims 12 through 16 further comprising, a second beam comprising one or more brackets that extend laterally outward and away from the second beam, wherein the decking panel is supported atop the second beam and is free of attachment via mechanical fastener to the second beam and to the one or more brackets.

18. A method of organizing a cargo container storage space, the method comprising changing a vertical position of the decking panel of claim 1 from a first position to a second position.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second position is higher than the first position, further comprising: disengaging a first latch at a first end of the center beam from a first slot in a first vertical track, engaging the first latch of the center beam with a second slot in the first vertical track that is higher than the first slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the center beam from a third slot in a second vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the center beam with a fourth slot in the second vertical track that is level with the second slot; disengaging a first latch at a first end of a first side beam from a fifth slot in a third vertical track, engaging the first latch of the first side beam with a sixth slot in the third vertical track that is higher than the fifth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the first side beam from a seventh slot in a fourth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the first side beam with an eighth slot in the fourth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the sixth slot; and disengaging a first latch at a first end of a second side beam from a ninth slot in a fifth vertical track, engaging the first latch of the second side beam with a tenth slot in the fifth vertical track that is higher than the ninth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the second side beam from an eleventh slot in a sixth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the second side beam with a twelfth slot in the sixth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the tenth slot.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the second position is lower than the first position, further comprising: disengaging a first latch at a first end of a first side beam from a first slot in a first vertical track, engaging the first latch of the first side beam with a second slot in the first vertical track that is lower than the first slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the first side beam from a third slot in a second vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the first side beam with an fourth slot in the second vertical track that is level with the second slot; disengaging a first latch at a first end of a second side beam from a fifth slot in a third vertical track, engaging the first latch of the second side beam with a sixth slot in the third vertical track that is lower than the fifth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the second side beam from an seventh slot in a fourth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the second side beam with an eighth slot in the fourth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the sixth slot; and disengaging a first latch at a first end of the center beam from a ninth slot in a fifth vertical track, engaging the first latch of the center beam with a tenth slot in the fifth vertical track that is lower than the ninth slot, disengaging a second latch at a second end of the center beam from an eleventh slot in a sixth vertical track, and engaging the second latch of the center beam with a twelfth slot in the sixth vertical track that is level with both the second slot and the tenth slot.

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