FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to trailers carrying large diameter steel coils from
one geographical location to another. More particularly, the present invention
relates to a collapsible canopy shaped device for positioning, load balancing and
protecting steel coils on modified trailer-bed for safe transportation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The platform or bed of commercial trailers is flat for loading goods, and having
shape and size corresponding to the cargo to be transported. Transportation of
steel coils, particularly the large sized coil drums through flat-decked trailers is
not secured / safe because the coils are normally secured to the top of the trailer
bed or floor by means of chains or tied to the lashing brackets or straps in
combination with appropriately-sized wooden blocks to prevent the coils from
rolling or sliding. The existing method of fastening the coils on the flat bed of the
trailer is not full proof as the coils are not perfectly rest. There remain chances
that the steel-coils might roll over or slipped over the trailer upon sudden
application of brakes. Further the loaded coils may fall sidewise while the trailer
takes an angular turn to negotiate a road-corner, as the load acts inward. The
coil drums when disposed over the trailer, is having a huge height over the
platform. Furthermore, to protect the cargo of steel coils from harsh atmospheric
conditions, a box or a canopy structure is required. The goods loaded frontal to
the canopy structure might damage each other during transportation if not
secured in fail-safe manner. Similarly, other moving vehicles or objects coming
may hit the canopy structure from outside while in motion.
US Patent 6905161 discloses a canopy structure which runs over the platform
having a width equal to the width of the platform. There are possibilities that
some of the goods on the platform which may hit make damage to the canopy
structure. Similarly there are chances that some of the objects moving sidewise
may hit or cause damages to the canopy cover as well as the canopy structure.
There is not space on bed for lashing of the cargo.
US Patent 5622116 entitled, "Coil transport trailer" discloses a trailer that
transports coils in a "trough" formed by at least one pair of longitudinally
extending spaced apart support members that extended upwardly away from
each other towards the bed plane of the trailer such that a peripheral portion of
the steel coils are engaged by support members below the bed plane. The trailer
preferably includes a containment structure between the support members and
coils, and further preferably includes a protective covering over the coils in the
form of a clam shell like section as well as bar members on opposite sides of
each coil that are operative to prevent the coil from telescoping. The problem in
such a transport trailer is that each steel coils is although protected from the
atmosphere by means of the calm structure but the whole bed of the trailer is
not covered or protected.
US 7344178 B entitled, "vehicle covering structure" discloses a cover system for
a trailer of a freight transport vehicle having a cargo space. The cover system
having a pair of track brackets, tracks, generally U shaped bow portion mounted
to the tracks so that there is displacement of the bow portions as each member
of the pair of track is displaced along the length of the members of the track and
a flexible Canopy supported by the bow members for covering or uncovering the
cargo space.
US Patent 4402544 entitled, "folding canopy for truck and trailer load" discloses
a canopy for truck and trailer loads in which a cover of a sheet of flexible water
resistance material is supported by a plurality of inverted U shaped member
pivoted on opposite side of the load by support members attached to the bed of
the truck, trailer or pallet. The U shaped members and the flexible sheet, fold
downwardly at one end of the load, thereby fully exposing the load, and unfold
over the load, with two end U shaped members in substantially horizontal
position extending oppositely from one another, wherein the remaining U shaped
members being spaced from the end members and from each other throughout
the distance between the two end members. A flexible strap interconnects most
of the U shaped members to assist in obtaining the desired spacing of the
members in the unfolded position. The lower edges of the cover are secured to
the bed or pallet when the canopy is in its unfolded position to hold the cover
firmly over the load while it is being hauled by the truck or trailer. The cover is
secured only to that U-Shaped member which is uppermost when the cover is
folded. Such type of folding canopy is needed only to cover goods being carried
and not the whole canopy structure.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the present invention to propose a collapsible canopy
shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely,
and protectively holding the steel coils, which eliminates the disadvantages the
prior art.
Another object of the present invention is to propose collapsible canopy shaped
device on a modified trailer bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely, and
protectively holding the steel coils, which is enabled to securely balance the
dynamic load of the coils while the trailer is on motion.
A still another object of the present invention, is to propose collapsible canopy
shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely,
and protectively holding the steel coils, which allows a complete protection of the
entire cargo from rain, dusts, theft by means of the collapsible vis-a-vis an
external, endurable canopy device.
A further object of the invention is to propose collapsible canopy shaped device
on a modified trailer bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely, and protectively
holding the steel coils, which can be commercially exploited by displaying on the
canopy commercial advertisement.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention, there is provided a collapsible canopy shaped device
on a modified trailer bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely, and protectively
holding the steel coils, comprising a flat bed platform of a trailer having a
modified part configured to a well structure or V bed secondary platform (01)
disposed below the central axis the trailer a plurality of well - shaped covering
plates (02) disposed and placed along the axis of the width of the track to cover
the open space of the 'V' bed secondary platform while not in use; a collapsible
canopy structure (03) with a tarpaulin cover movable over a guide rail in both
directions of the trailer platform, the tarpaulin cover being vertically and axially
extendable to cover the steel coils; a plurality of side boards (04) movably
mounted on the platform for side fencing and to safe-guard the canopy
structures; a plurality of side posts (05) rigidly fitted perpendicularly with the
trailer platform and disposed at predetermined intervals longitudinally on the
both sides of the platform; a front sided post (09) and a rear post (10) provided
at the front end and at the rear end of the canopy structure; a front board (07)
and a rear board (06) provided for fencing the front end and the rear end of the
trailer platform; and a steel chain for fastening the coil, the ends of the steel
chains being tied-up on a bracket and hook fixed on the trailer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
Figure 1 - shows a schematic diagram of a canopy structure with a well-shape
cover for sliding on the trailer bed, the structure is foldable in both
directions.
Figure 2 - shows a schematic diagram of a side panel assembly configured on
the trailer bed allowing the canopy structure to run over the side
panel.
Figure 3 - Shows a schematic upper diagram of loading of coil in a well-
shape, that is latched to ensure rigid placements of coil. In the
lower diagram the well is covered by a plate, whenever flat-
bottomed goods are to be carried.
Figure 4 - shows the collapsible canopy structure in an open condition, with
some of the side boards opened and the rear curtain in closed
condition.
Figure 5 - shows a schematic diagram of the canopy and side board in
completely closed condition & the tarpaulin tied with hooks on to
the side-board.
Figure 6 - shows a schematic diagram of the tarpaulin attachment with the
canopy structure by Velcro & Tarpaulin reinforcements.
Figure 7 - shows a schematic diagram of the front board with a rubber tube
arrangement for secure locking of canopy so as to bridge the gap &
placement provision for locating tubes of well shape.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified
trailer bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the
steel coils. The inventive device allows proper housing of the coils, equal
distribution of the dynamic load through the trailer, proper securing, and load
balancing while the trailer negotiating comers, less height of the coil from the
ground level with less possibility of being slipped away while application of
sudden brakes, a provision of half canopy structure or full canopy structure
provided to save the structure and tarpaulin harsh environment including
possibility of damage from outside moving vehicle or object. This innovation
reduces the might of the canopy structure device for easy operation and longer
life of the structure and leaving behind some space for lashing of the coil.
The commercial trailer, used to transport steel coils, is provided a well shape (V-
shaped) secondary platform disposed below the central axis of the trailer bed to
secure loading of the round steel coils. In the flat bed of the trailer of the earlier
practice, the round coils has one surface which touching the platform. But in
case of V-shape, the contact portion is doubled. This creates more sustainability
and there is less chance for the coils to run away from the V-bed during
application of sudden brakes.
Furthermore, during return time of the trailer after unloading there is provision
to use the trailer as flat bed type to carry the FMCG product or the food grains or
others. To protect the coils or the goods from the atmosphere dust or rain, coils
during movement of the trailer, a canopy structure is provided which runs over
the side panel longitudinally to the platform or bed. A plurality of side panels is
provided to protect the canopy from any outside objects or vehicles as well as
inside objects. The side wall is openable outward to allow loading of goods
through the forklift. Similarly a rear panel is provided. The total canopy structure
creates a closed boundary. The side panel is provided further to allow the canopy
structure to slide over the trailer bed. This makes the canopy structure of less
weight and easily operable. The height of the canopy structure is selected to be
lower to provide Increased strength and rigidity. The tarpaulin length decreases.
The tarpaulin is tied with the side panel by the hooks. Side panels consist of a
plurality of post and side boards. These sideboards are coupled by hinges (bolt
and nut type). For the secure locking of the side panels to the post, spring locks
are provided. For front side protection, a front board and for rear side protection,
a rear curtain and a rear panel is provided.
Figure 1 shows a trailer truck platform having configured with a well shape or a
'V' bed (01) secondary platform disposed longitudinally below the central axis of
the canopy structure. The covered space of 'V' bed is closeable with a plurality of
covering plates (well shape covers) (02) disposed laterally along the width
direction of the deck. The cover plate (02) is provided with sufficient
reinforcement so as to carry the load. The trailer truck is provided with a canopy
structure (03) which is covered with a tarpaulin or water proof cloth to save
inner goods from the atmosphere dust and rain.
It creates a nontransparent boundary to save the inner goods from theft also.
The outer surface of the tarpaulin is printed type for advertisement. The trailer
truck is provided with a plurality of the side boards (04) for fencing the deck
disposed longitudinal direction on both side of the canopy structure and rear end
of the deck. The side boards (04) are (13) mounted by hinges with the deck for
opening outward only. The side boards (04) are installed to save the canopy
structure (03). The side boards (04) are made of steel tubes to reduce weight of
the structure, and to provide more strength. Corrugated sheets are also provided
on the sideboards (04) to strengthen the side boards. The side boards (04) are
provided with a plurality of hooks (15) to lock the tarpaulin. The trailer truck
deck is provided with a plurality of side post (05) disposed on both the sides of
the platform. These posts (05) are provided to lock (14) the side boards (04)
while in close condition. Each side post (05) is provided with locking means (14)
which are spring actuated for easy operation and reduces the chances of failure.
A guide rail (12) is mounted over it by means of bolts and nuts. The canopy
structure (03) runs on this guide rails. The guide rails (12) are made from steel
sheet by bending it to carry more loads, and are zinc plated (galvanized) to
maintain them rust free. The rear end of the trailer is covered with a rear board
(06) to save the trailer from external thrust from rear side and to protect the
rare curtain. A couple of pedals are placed on the rear board (06) for stepping up
to the trailer. The front end of the trailer platform is fenced with a front board
(07). The front board (07) saves the cargo from front side bashing or
environmental hazards. The front board (07) is made of steel sheets and tubes
to make it light weighted and to impart more strength; a rubber tube is mounted
on the front board (07) for close fitting of the canopy (03) with the front board.
The canopy structure (03) is locked to the front board (07) by toggle clamps
(17).
As shown in Figure 2, the trailer truck platform is covered with half canopy
structure (03,13) and side panel assembly and tarpaulin. The canopy structure is
provided with a plurality of Single posts (08) in the canopy structure (13). A
single post (08) comprises roller bracket, horizontal tube, vertical tube, bent
pipe. The single post is made of steel tubes for more strength and less weight.
These are zinc plated to make them free from rust. The roller bracket consists of
a plurality of rollers which slides over the guide rail (12). The single post (08)
comprises at least two auxiliary post assemblies (11) disposed one each on both
sides. These auxiliary post assemblies are further fitted to an inner side of the
front (09) and the rear post (10). These auxiliary assemblies (11) are so fitted
that it can swing in a limited angle. These auxiliary posts (11) are provided to
distribute the load on the tarpaulin and strengthen the canopy structure.
The front post (09) is disposed at the front end side of the trailer. It is combined
structure of two single post (08) joined together. A number of toggle clamps (17)
are fitted, that lock the front post to the front board (07). The rear post (10) is
disposed at the rear end side. A number of toggle camps (16) are fitted to the
rear post. The front end of the trailer truck is reserved for storing the well shape
cover plate (18) disposed laterally while not in use. A tarpaulin (19) is disposed
over the canopy structure to create a close boundary. The tarpaulin is non-
transparent type and printable for advertisement. The tarpaulin is tagged with
the canopy structure by a Velcro, and permanently riveted with the front (07)
and the rear (06) post. There is elastic rubber which locks the tarpaulin eyelets
(20) with the hooks (15) placed on the side board (04).
Figure 3 shows the loading of the coils (22) on the wall structure or "V" bed
secondary platform rest on two 'z' beams (21) steel structure disposed parallel
on two sides longitudinally the central axis of trailer bed. The bottoms of the 'z'
beam steel structures are joined by a channel and beams (36) to strengthen the
vehicle. The inner open space (27) are so reinforced that a 'V' shape is made and
reinforcement are manufactured so as to carry load. A rubber pad (28) is
mounted on the 'V' walls to protect steels coils and the 'V' shape. The 'z' beam
structure is further strengthen by flitch plates and back strips (35). A number of
well shape plates (02, 26) covering the well are placed to use the trailer as fiat
bed. Rubber mats are folded inside to facilitate placing of the well shape cover.
The steel coils to be transported on the well shape or 'V' bed secondary platform
are fastened by means of a steel chain (23). The end of the steel chains are
fastened on lashing brackets including a D-hook (24) that are fixed to the
platform. A number of guide rails (12,25) are mounted over the side panels by
means of a bolt with 'L' brackets.
Figure 4 shows a collapsible canopy structure in open condition wherein a rear
curtain (29) is in rolled condition, and can be extended by a spring actuated
mechanism. The canopy structure is totally collapsible at the front board. The
side panel and rear panel are provided with a pedal (39) to step up the trailer.
Figure 5 shows the trailer while the collapsible canopy structure (3) and the side
panels (04) are in closed condition where a rubber rope (40) is used to tie the
tarpaulin eyelets with the side panels (04). The canopy is provided with a
number of handles (37) attached to the front and rear posts in order to grip the
canopy structure while operating it.
Figure 6 shows an attachment of the tarpaulin with the canopy structure to be
fixed by the Velcro (30) and the tarpaulin reinforcement provided to limit the
swing of the auxiliary post (08). A number of clamps (32) are provided to
connect the auxiliary post (08) with the single post (11). This limits maximum
angular movement of the auxiliary post (08).
Figure 7 shows the front board wherein a provision for placing a number of
locating posts (33) are provided to locate the coil in proper position and restrict
the lateral movement of the coils while moving or sudden application of brakes.
For this a plurality of brackets (34) are provided in the front board to place the
locating post (33) while not in use. A rubber tube (38) is provided to close the
gap between the canopy structure and the front board.
WE CLAIM
1. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils,
comprising:
- a flat bed platform of a trailer having a modified part configured to a well
structure or 'V' bed secondary platform (01) disposed below the central
axis the trailer.
- a number of cover plates (02) are placed along the axis of the well-
shaped track to cover the open space of the 'V' bed secondary platform
while not in use;
- a collapsible canopy structure (03) with a tarpaulin cover movable over
guide rails in both directions of the trailer platform, the tarpaulin cover
being vertically and axially extendable to cover the steel coils;
- a number of side boards (04) movably mounted on the platform for side
fencing and to safe-guard the canopy structures;
- a number of side posts (05) rigidly fitted perpendicularly with the trailer
platform and disposed at predetermined intervals longitudinally on the
both sides of the platform;
- a front sided post (09) and a rear post (10) provided at the front end and
at the rear end of the canopy structure;
- a front board (07) and a rear board (06) provided for fencing the front
end and the rear end of the trailer platform; and
- a provision for steel chain fastening the coil, the ends of the steel chains
being tied-up on a bracket and hook fixed on the trailer.
2. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1 wherein the well structure or 'V' bed secondary
platform on the trailer bed is constructed by a plurality of 'Z' beam steel
structure (21) placed longitudinally and parallelly, on two sides disposed
below the central axis of the trailer bed, wherein the bottom part of the Z
beams are supported by steel channels and beams (36) with the middle
parts strengthen by welding with flitch plates and back strips (35), and
wherein the inside spaces of the secondary platform is reinforced with
metal members to produce a 'V' shape wall including a radius formed
between the two inclined walls.
3. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1 wherein the covering plates are sufficiently reinforced
so as to carry the load, and wherein a storing arrangement (18) is
provided on the canopy structure while not in use.
4. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 3, wherein the canopy structure (3) compromises at least
two square posts, a plurality of single post and a plurality of auxiliary post
(8,9,10,11).
5. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 4, wherein in each canopy structure (8) comprises a roller
arrangement at least one each vertical tube, horizontal tub and belt tube.
6. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 3, wherein a half canopy structure (3) runs over the side
panel (4 and 5) to protect goods from atmosphere and rain.
7. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 3, wherein the canopy structure is manually operative.
8. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 3, wherein handles (37) are provided for easy operation
of the device.
9. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 3 wherein a tarpaulin is attached and fastened with the
canopy structure by Velcro's (30).
10,A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of auxiliary posts (11) are provided
to the canopy structure to share the load of tarpaulin, and wherein the
auxiliary posts (11) are swing able to a limited angular direction.
11.A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 10, wherein the auxiliary posts (11) are clamped to the
both sides of the single post and at an inner end of the square post.
12.A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 11, wherein to limit the angular movement of the
auxiliary post, reinforcement are provided (32).
13. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 10, wherein ail joints are bolted type to allow
replacement on damage.
14. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 10, wherein the structure is zinc plated to make it free
from the rest.
15.A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein dome head bolts and nylock nuts are used to
protect the tarpaulin and absorb the jerk.
16. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1 wherein the side panels comprises a plurality of side
boards and posts (4,5).
17. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein side board are hinged type which can be
opened outward on requirement (13).
18. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 17, wherein the side boards are made up of thinner
gauge steel tubes to reduce weight.
19.A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 18, wherein corrugated sheets are provided to strengthen
the side board.
20. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 10 and claim 16, wherein for manufacturing the posts
(5), steel channels are used for reducing the weight.
21. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 19, wherein a side pedal (39) is provided on the side
board to step-up the trailer from side.
22. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein the guide rails (12) are mounted by I-shaped
brackets and ribs disposed over the posts.
23.A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein locator post (33) with positioning brackets is
provided in the well shape part of the modified trailer bed for secured
location of the coils and restrict the lateral movement of the coil.
24. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils
asclaimed in claim 1, wherein a front board (7) is provided at front end for
protection.
25. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 24, wherein rubber tubes (38) are provided so as to
bridge the gaps between the canopy structure and the front board.
26. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 24, wherein the front board is removal type having
provisions for attachment through bolts and nuts.
27.A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 24, wherein means (34) for placement of the locating
posts are provided on the front board.
28. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein a rear curtain (29) is provided for rear side
protection.
29. A collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer bed for hauling
steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel coils as
claimed in claim 1, wherein the tarpaulin is tied with the hooks attached
to side boards to create a secure and closed boundary.

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a collapsible canopy shaped device on a modified trailer
bed for hauling steel coils securely, safely, and protectively holding the steel
coils, comprising a flat bed platform of a trailer having a modified part configured
to a well structure or 'V' bed secondary platform (01) disposed below the central
axis of the trailer a plurality of well covering plates (02) disposed and placed
along the axis of the width of the track to cover the open space of the 'V' bed
secondary platform while not in use; a collapsible canopy structure (03) with a
tarpaulin cover movable over a guide rail-in both directions (front to end & end
to front), the tarpaulin cover being vertically and axially extendable to cover the
steel coils; a plurality of side boards (04) movably mounted on the platform for
side fencing and to safe-guard the canopy structures; a plurality of side posts
(05) rigidly fitted perpendicularly with the trailer platform and disposed at
predetermined intervals longitudinally on the both sides of the platform; a front
sided post (09) and a rear post (10) provided at the front end and at the rear
end of the canopy structure; a front board (07) and a rear board (06) provided
for fencing the front end and the rear end of the trailer platform; and a steel
chain for fastening the coil, the ends of the steel chains being tied-up on a
bracket and hook fixed on the trailer.