Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CONTAINERS WITH SLIDING AND ROLLING ROOFS
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure covers various types of containers,
including open top
containers for dry loads and liquids, and having a rolling roof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Rolling roofs are known that operate via a manual hand crank, see
for
example Canadian patent application no. 2,709,598.
SUMMARY
[0003] An apparatus is disclosed comprising: an open top container; a
track mounted
to the open top container between opposed side walls of the open top
container; and a roof
mounted by an axle to the track to permit the roof to, in use, slide along the
track from a
closed position to one of the opposed side walls of the open top container and
then be rotated
about the axle into an open position.
[0004] An apparatus is comprising: an open top container; a track
mounted to the
open top container between opposed side walls of the open top container; a
roof mounted by
an axle to the track to permit the roof to, in use, slide along the track from
a closed position
to one of the opposed side walls of the open top container and then be rotated
about the axle
into an open position; and an actuator connected to slide the roof along the
track and rotate
the roof into the open position.
[0005] An apparatus is disclosed comprising: an open top container; a
track mounted
to the open top container between opposed side walls of the open top
container; a roof
mounted by an axle to the track to permit the roof to, in use, slide along the
track from a
closed position to either side of the open top container and then be rotated
about the axle into
an open position, in which the axle is mounted to the roof by a compressible
part that permits
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Date Recue/Date Received 2023-01-18
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
the roof to move in a vertical direction relative to the axle; and a tensioner
for securing the
roof against the open top container when the roof is in the closed position.
[0006] An apparatus is disclosed comprising: an open top container; a
track mounted
to the open top container between opposed side walls of the open top
container; a roof
mounted by an axle that rolls along the track to permit the roof to, in use,
slide along the
track from a closed position to either side of the open top container and then
be rotated about
the axle into an open position; and a ratcheting handle connected to rotate
the axle relative
the track to slide the roof along the track.
[0007] An apparatus is disclosed comprising: an open top container; a
track assembly
mounted to the open top container between opposed side walls of the open top
container, the
track assembly forming a rack; and a roof mounted by a pinion assembly that
rolls along the
rack to permit the roof to, in use, slide along the rack from a closed
position to either side of
the open top container and then be rotated about the pinion assembly into an
open position;
and in which the track assembly comprises opposed tracks that are rigidly
connected at a
fixed distance relative to one another, at all positions between longitudinal
ends of the rack,
to retain the pinion in contact with the rack.
[0008] An apparatus is disclosed comprising: an open top container; a
track mounted
to the open top container between opposed side walls of the open top
container; a roof
mounted by an axle to the track to permit the roof to, in use, slide along the
track from a
closed position to either side of the open top container and then be rotated
about the axle into
an open position; and a bar mounted to the track to move into and out of an
axle blocking
position where the axle is prevented from sliding the roof out of the closed
position.
[0009] An apparatus is disclosed comprising: an open top container; a
plate mounted
to the open top container between opposed side walls of the open top
container, the plate
having a series of holes that are spaced along a longitudinal length of the
plate to form a
rack; and a roof mounted by a pinion that rolls along the rack to permit the
roof to, in use,
slide along the plate from a closed position to either side of the open top
container and then
be rotated about the pinion into an open position.
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[0010] In some embodiments of a rolling roof, a ratcheting handle may be
applied in
the operation as a lever to reduce applied manual force, and an equilibrium
system may be
involved to 'upend the entire roof in a vertical and reverse in horizontal
position, which also
reduces the applied manual force. Some embodiments of a rolling roof permit
convenient
manipulation of a broad range of lid sizes and weights for various container
types while
preserving safe operation.
[0011] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the rolling roof
comprises
two identical rolling mechanisms on each side of the roof that are connected
by a pipe and
coupler. The rolling mechanism may include a flange-mounted bearing assembly,
sprocket-
wheel, and V roller, which are connected concentric to the shaft. The flange-
mounted
bearing assembly may bear an axle load of the shaft and facilitate rotational
motion
concurrent with a sprocket-wheel and V roller. To impart longitudinal motion
to the entire
rolling roof, a manual turning of the ratcheting handle may be applied to
activate the rotary
motion of the sprocket-wheel along the structural tubing with holes,
concurrent with the V
roller that rotates along the L angle iron that is utilized as a guide lower
track. Structural
tubing with holes and L angle iron may be components of the track assembly
that maintain
the rolling roof alignment along the front and back end of the container. Also
described are
rolling mechanisms that may provide the entire rolling roof to slide to either
side of the
container and turn it to a vertical position to allow the use of the full
loading area of the open
top container.
[0012] Some embodiments of the disclosure provide an improved rolling roof
for
various types of open top containers. The rolling roof may be used to cover
open top
containers for any dry loads and a sealed rolling roof may be used to cover
containers with
dry or liquid loads. The rolling roof may be manually operated with a
ratcheting handle in
combination with two rolling mechanisms placed on each side of the roof. The
rolling roof
mechanism may operate by sliding the roof either to the left or to the right
side of the
container, and turning it from a horizontal to a vertical position along the
side wall. This
permits loading from either side of the container with access to the full area
of the opening.
This method may require minimum physical strength, eliminate the use of cable
or winch
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lifting systems, and hence may have a higher degree of safety that is
beneficial for various
types of open top containers.
[0013] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, a rolling roof
comprises
two identical rolling mechanisms on the front and back sides (ends) of the
roof that are
connected by a pipe and coupler.
[0014] According to some embodiments of the disclosure, the rolling roof
comprises
two identical rolling mechanisms on each side of the roof that connect by a
pipe and coupler.
The rolling mechanism includes a flange-mounted bearing assembly, sprocket-
wheel, and V
roller, which connected concentric to the shaft. The flange-mounted bearing
assembly bears
axle load of the shaft and has applied to it rotational motion concurrent with
sprocket-wheel
and V roller. To impart longitudinal motion to the entire rolling roof, a
manual turning of the
ratcheting handle applies rotary motion to linearly drive the sprocket-wheel
along the
structural tubing with holes, and concurrently the V roller rotates along an L
angle iron that
operates as a guide lower track. Structural tubing with holes and L angle iron
are -
components of the track assembly that maintain the rolling roof aligned along
the front and
back end of the container. Also described are rolling mechanisms that permit
the sliding of
the entire rolling roof to either side of the container and turning it in a
vertical position which
allows one to access and use a full loading area of the open top container.
[0015] Methods of operating a rolling roof apparatus are also disclosed.
[0016] In various embodiments, there may be included any one or more of
the
following features: An actuator connected to slide the roof along the track.
The actuator is
connected to rotate the roof into the open position. The actuator comprises a
motor. The
motor is connected to rotate the axle. The motor is positioned adjacent a
first longitudinal
side of the track, and mounted to the roof via a support arm that extends over
the track and
anchors to the roof adjacent a second longitudinal side of the track. The
support arm forms a
cantilever. A roof position sensor or sensors. The roof position sensor or
sensors comprise a
plurality of photoelectric proximity sensors. The roof position sensor or
sensors comprise
one or both of: a first roof position sensor mounted to the roof or open top
container for
detecting the open position; and a second roof position sensor mounted to the
roof or open
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top container for detecting the closed position. The roof position sensor or
sensors are
connected to reduce or shut off drive output from the motor when the roof
moves into the
open position. The roof position sensor or sensors are connected to reduce or
shut off drive
output from the motor when the roof moves into the closed position. A lock for
securing the
roof in the closed position. The lock comprises respective sets of latches
along the opposed
side walls. Each set of the respective sets of latches comprises: a common
latch actuator; a
plurality of pins; and a plurality of hooks that pivotally mount to the common
latch actuator
for engaging the plurality of pins. Each hook of the plurality of hooks is
pivotally mounted to
a respective one of the opposed side walls of the open top container, and each
pin of the
plurality of pins are mounted to the roof. Each set of the respective sets of
latches have: an
unlatched position where the plurality of hooks are positioned below a plane
defined by atop
perimeter rim of the open top container; and a latched position where the
plurality of hooks
engage respective pins of the plurality of pins. Each hook of the plurality of
hooks has a first
hook part pivotally mounted to the common latch actuator, and a second hook
part pivotally
mounted to the first hook part and defining a hook end for engaging a
respective pin of the
plurality of pins. Each common latch actuator comprises a drive bar mounted to
a linear
actuator. When in a latched position, the respective sets of latches are
structured to apply a
tension between the roof and open top container to draw the roof tightly
against the open top
container. A lock position sensor or sensors. The lock position sensor or
sensors comprise a
plurality of photoelectric proximity sensors. The lock position sensor or
sensors are
connected to reduce or prevent operation of the motor when the respective sets
of latches are
out of an unlatched position. The track forms a rack; and the axle comprises a
pinion that
rolls along and below the rack. The actuator comprises a drive shaft that
mounts to the axle
via a power transfer part that permits the drive shaft to move in a vertical
direction relative to
the axle. The power transfer part comprises a double universal joint. The
actuator comprises
a ratcheting handle connected to rotate the axle relative the track to slide
the roof along the
track. The ratcheting handle is adapted to ratchet in either direction. The
ratcheting handle
comprises a part that permits the ratcheting handle to be switched between a
first ratcheting
direction and a second ratcheting direction. The axle is mounted to the roof
by a
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
compressible part that permits the roof to move in a vertical direction
relative to the axle.
The axle is mounted by bearings to a first frame that is nested within or has
nested within it a
second frame that mounts to the roof, with the compressible part connecting
the first frame
and the second frame. The first frame and the second frame are pivotally
connected to one
another. The first frame has a U-shaped portion that nests within a U-shaped
portion of the
second frame. The compressible part comprises springs. The springs are each
mounted on
respective shafts with respective nuts for adjusting spring tension. A
compressible seal
between the open top container and the roof when the roof is in the closed
position. The
compressible seal is mounted around a perimeter edge of the roof. A tensioner
for securing
the roof against the open top container when the roof is in the closed
position. The tensioner
comprises tie down straps mounted to the open top container. The track forms a
rack; and the
axle comprises a pinion that rolls along the rack. The pinion comprises a
sprocket. The track
comprises opposed tracks that are rigidly connected at a fixed distance
relative to one
another, at all positions between axial ends of the rack, to retain the pinion
in contact with
the rack. The track comprises a plate, the plate having a series of holes that
are spaced along
a longitudinal length of the plate to form the rack. The plate is formed by a
tube. A bar
mounted to the track to move into and out of an axle blocking position where
the axle is
prevented from sliding the roof out of the closed position. The bar is mounted
to swing into
and out of the axle blocking position. The bar comprises a pair of bars
located to the left and
right of the axle when the roof is in the closed position. A pair of stops
located to the-left and
right of each the pair of bars. Each bar hangs down across a path of the axle
when in a
respective axle blocking position of the bar, and each bar is mounted to swing
toward the
axle and up out of the path of the axle to move out of the respective axle
blocking position.
The track comprises a pair of parallel tracks adjacent opposed ends of the
open top container,
and the axle is mounted to roll along both of the pair of tracks. The roof is
horizontal or near
horizontal when in the closed position; the roof is horizontal or near
horizontal when in a
dangling position at either longitudinal end of the track; and the roof is
vertical or near
vertical when in the open position. A lock for securing the roof against an
adjacent side wall
of the open top container when the roof is in the open position. The lock
comprises a chain
6
and hook. The axle defines a central axis of the roof. A hinged door at a rear
end of the open
top container for dumping contents of the open top container; and a plurality
of interior
baffles within the open top container. An end-dump gravel box. The roof is
mounted to the
track to permit the roof to, in use: a) slide along the track from a closed
position to a first of
the opposed side walls of the open top container and then be rotated about the
axle into a
first open position; and b) slide along the track from a closed position to a
second of the
opposed side walls of the open top container and then be rotated about the
axle into a second
open position. Sliding the roof from the closed position to one of the opposed
side walls of
the open top container and then rotating the roof into the open position.
Securing the roof to
the one of the opposed side walls when the roof is in the open position.
Rotating the roof
from the open position into a horizontal dangling position and sliding the
roof into the closed
position. Securing the roof to the open top container in the closed position.
The rolling
mechanism includes a flange-mounted bearing assembly, sprocket-wheel, and V
roller with
integral ball bearing. The flange-mounted bearing assembly bears the axle load
of a shaft and
implements rotational motion. The sprocket-wheel fastens to the shaft which
allows their
concurrent rotation. The V roller is jointed to the shaft with integral ball
bearing which
allows it to rotate around the shaft. A structural tubing with holes in
combination with
sprocket is utilized as a rack-pinion mechanism that transmits a torque to
rolling roof
mechanism. To impart longitudinal motion to an entire rolling roof, a manual
turning of a
ratcheting handle applies which activates a rotary motion of the sprocket-
wheel along the
structural tubing with holes, concurrent the V roller rotates along L angle
iron that utilizes as
a guide lower track. The rotation of V rollers along L angle irons allows a
linear motion of
the rolling roof mechanisms on each roofs side that provides sliding the
entire rolling roof to
either side wall of the container and turning it in a vertical position.
[0017] These and other aspects of the device and method are set out in
the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
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Date Recue/Date Received 2023-01-18
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[0018] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the figures,
in which
like reference characters denote like elements, by way of example, and in
which:
[0019] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an open top container showing an
embodiment
of a rolling roof mechanism and related safety components.
[0020] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the open top container in Fig. 1
with the rolling
roof in the open position.
[0021] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the track assembly of the open top
container in
Fig. 1.
[0022] Fig. 3A is an enlarged detail perspective view of the track
assembly in Fig. 3
showing parts of the rolling roof mechanism.
[0023] Fig 4 is an alternate perspective view of the track assembly of
the open top
container in Fig. 1.
[0024] Fig. 4A is an enlarged detail perspective view of the track
assembly in Fig. 4.
[0025] Fig. 5 is a top plan view of the open top container in Fig. I.
[0026] Fig. 5A is an enlarged top plan view of the rolling roof assembly
in Fig. 5
[0027] Fig. 5B is a section view taken along section lines 5B in Fig. 5A.
[0028] Fig. 5C is a section view taken along section lines 5C in Fig. 5A.
[0029] Fig. 5D is a perspective view of the portion of the rolling roof
assembly in
Fig. 5C.
[0030] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing components of the
rolling
roof mechanism of Fig. 5 in order of assembly.
[0031] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the leak resistant bracket of an
embodiment of
the sealed rolling roof in Fig. I.
[0032] Fig. 7A enlarged detail perspective view of the bracket in Fig. 7.
[0033] Fig. 7B is a top plan view of the bracket in Fig. 7.
[0034] Fig. 7C is a side elevation view of metal bracket in Fig. 7.
[0035] Figs. 8A and 8B collectively form a top plan view of an embodiment
of an
open top container that forms a gravel box with a motorized rolling roof..
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[0036] Fig. 9 is an end elevation view of the open top container of Figs.
8A and 8B
showing the rolling roof in the closed position.
[0037] Fig. 10 is an end elevation view of the open top container of Figs.
8A and 8B
showing the rolling roof in a horizontal position dangling at one longitudinal
end of the
track.
[0038] Fig. Ills an end elevation view of the open top container of Figs.
8A and 8B
showing the rolling roof in the open position.
[0039] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the open top container of Figs. 8A
and 8B
with the roof in the closed position.
[0040] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the open top container of Figs. 8A
and 8B in -
the open position, displaying a system of interior baffles.
[0041] Fig. 13A is an enlarged detail perspective view of a corner of the
rolling roof
in Fig. 13 showing compressible seals and roof handle.
[0042] Fig. 13B is an enlarged detail perspective view of another corner
of the
rolling roof in Fig. 13 showing compressible seals and a roof hook.
[0043] Fig. 14 is a section perspective view taken along a vertical plane
to the right
of the electric motor and through the bearing holder of the open top container
in Figs. 8A
and 8B.
[0044] Fig. 15 is a section view taken along a central vertical plane
through the
electric motor and bearing holder of the open top container in Figs. 8A and
8B.
[0045] Figs. 16A and 16B collectively form a side elevation view of the
open top
container of Figs. 8A and 8B, displaying side latches and actuator in a
latched or locked
position.
[0046] Figs. 17A and 17B collectively form a side elevation view of the
open top
container of Figs. 8A and 8B, displaying the side latches and actuator in an
unlatched or
fully disengaged position.
[0047] Fig. 18A is a side elevation view of a side latch of the open top
container of
Figs. 8A and 8B in the fully disengaged position and in close proximity to a
photoelectric
latch position sensor.
9
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[0048] Fig. 18B is a perspective view of the open top container of Figs.
8A and 8B,
displaying a side latch and actuator in a partially disengaged or partially
unlatched position.
[0049] Fig. 18C is a side elevation view of a side latch of the open top
container of
Figs. 8A and 8B in the latched position.
[0050] Fig. 18D is an end elevation view of the photoelectric sensor in
Fig. 18A
illustrating that the actuator bar supporting the latch is in line and close
proximity with the
photoelectric latch position sensor.
[0051] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a compressible bearing holder and
axle of the
apparatus of Figs. 8A-B.
[0052] Fig. 19A is an exploded perspective view of the bearing holder of
Fig. 19.
[0053] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the bearing holder of Fig. 19
installed with a
ratchet actuator, and with the springs in a compressed neutral state.
[0054] Fig. 20A1 is a section view taken along a horizontal plane through
the bearing
holder of Fig. 20.
[0055] Fig. 20A2 is a perspective view of the portion of the portion of
the bearing
holder shown in Fig. 20A I.
[0056] Fig. 20B1 is a section view taken along a vertical plane through
the bearing
holder of Fig. 20.
[0057] Fig. 20B2 is a section view taken along a central vertical plane
through an
open top container that incorporates the bearing holder of Fig. 20.
[0058] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a rear end of the open top
container of Figs.
8A and 8B, displaying a plurality of inlet and outlet valves.
[0059] Fig. 22 is a rear end elevation view of the open top container of
Fig. 21.
[0060] Fig. 22A is a perspective view of a rear end of the open top
container of Figs.
8A and 8B with a rear dump door in an open position.
[0061] Fig. 22B is an enlarged detail perspective view of the rear dump
door of Fig.
22A, showing a compressible perimeter seal and vent box.
[0062] Fig. 23 is a side elevation view of the container 40 formed as an
end dump
unit.
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[0063] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an interior baffle of the open top
container of
Figs. 8A, 8B.
[0064] Fig. 25A is a section perspective view taken along a central plane
through the
open top container of Figs. 8A and 8B displaying an internal baffle.
[0065] Fig. 25B is a side elevation view of the portion in Fig. 25A.
[0066] Fig. 26 is a circuit diagram for operating various parts of the
apparatus of
Figs. 8A-B.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0067] Immaterial modifications may be made to the embodiments described
here
without departing from what is covered by the claims.
[0068] Tractor trailer, rail car, and tanker units are used to transport
fluids on a
transportation route. Tractor trailer units incorporate a towing vehicle,
commonly referred to
as a tractor or truck, and one or more semi-trailers for carrying cargo on the
road. A tanker
typically has a sealed cylindrical tank lying horizontally on a truck bed and
often includes an
integral pumping system for pumping material in and out of the tank. Tankers
may include
additional features such as insulation, pressurization, and/or
compartmentalization, .
depending on the cargoes being carried. Rail cars and tractor trailer units
may carry skid
mounted units, for example in the same or an analogous fashion as used to
carry intermodal
containers.
[0069] Tractor trailers, rail cars, and tankers are used to transport,
mixtures of liquids
and solids such as in the form of a sludge or slurry. Example sludges and
slurries include
drilling muds, invert, drill cuttings and cement from oil and gas well sites,
as well as sewage
and waste from cleaning streets, sewers, septic tanks and grease bins. A type
of tractor trailer
unit used for such fluids is a dump truck, also known as an end dump unit,
that allows a
sludge/slurry to be quickly and easily unloaded, as one end of the container
lifts up and a
gate opens on the opposite end to allow the sludge/slurry to flow out of the
container through
the gate. Such a unit may incorporate an open top container with a hinged
roof.
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[0070] Referring to Figs. 12 and 13, an apparatus 20 is illustrated having
an open top
container 40. In some cases a track 11 and a rolling roof I may be present.
The track 11 may
be mounted to the open top container 40 between opposed side walls 81 (shown
by 81' and
81") of the container 40. Side walls 81 may collectively form a perimeter wall
along with
axial end walls 79 (shown by 79' and 79"), although in some cases all walls 81
and 79 may
be considered to be side walls. The roof, such as rolling roof I, may be
mounted by an axle
19 to the track 11 to permit the roof Ito slide along the track 11. The roof I
may be mounted
to slide along the track 11 from a closed position to one or either side of
the open top
container 40 and then to be rotated about axle 19 into an open position.
[0071] Referring to Figs. 12 and 13, roof 1 may be configured to slide to
one side of
the track 11, or either sides of track 11. For example, roof I may be mounted
to the track 11
to permit the roof 1 to slide along the track 11 from a closed position to a
first of the opposed
side walls 81" of the open top container 40 and then be rotated about the axle
19 into a first
open position. Roof I may also slide along the track 11 from a closed position
to a second of
the opposed side walls 81' of the container 40 and then be rotated about the
axle 19 into a
second open position. In the case where the roof 1 is permitted to slide to
either side wall 81'
or 81", the user retains the flexibility to choose the most convenient way to
open the roof I.
For example, if an excavator or loader has access to only the left (passenger)
side wall 81' of
the container 40, then the user will likely roll the roof 1 to the right
(driver) side wall 81" of
the container 40, so that the open roof 1 does not obstruct access to the
interior of the
container 40 when opened.
[0072] Referring to Figs. 9 - 11, from the open position the roof I may be
returned to
the closed position. For example, roof 1 may be rotated from the open position
(Fig. 11) into
a horizontal dangling position (Fig. 10). The roof 1 may then be slid into the
closed position
(Fig. 9). Thus, the closing procedure may be the reverse of the steps of the
opening
procedure. Referring to Fig. 9, while in the closed position, the roof 1 may
be oriented in a
horizontal or near horizontal position. Referring to Fig. 10, the roof I may
be oriented
horizontal or near horizontal when in a dangling position at either
longitudinal end of the
track 11. Referring to Fig. 11, the roof I may achieve a vertical or near
vertical orientation,
12
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for example at an angle of 80 or 85 degrees from horizontal, when in the open
position. By
permitting the rolling roof 1 to open to a near vertical or vertical position,
the roof 1 permits
the opening of a full loading area of the container 40 from the side wall 81'
opposite to the
side wall 81" that the roof 1 lies against when in the open position.
[0073] Referring to Figs. 9 - 11 and 15, axle 19 may be positioned within
roof! at a
position that balances the mass of the roof 1 on either side of the axle 19.
For example, axle
19 may be located along, or otherwise defines, a central axis of the roof 1,
for example along
a vertical plane (not shown) that cuts the roof 1 along a plane of visual
and/or mass
symmetry between sides or side walls 81. Balancing the mass of roof 1 on
either side of the
axle 19 may allow for roof 1 to be smoothly tilted between horizontal and
vertical positions
at the end of the track 1 1 . In some embodiments, axle 19 may be positioned
at a suitable
location between the side edges of the roof 1 without cross the central axis.
[0074] Referring to Fig. 12 and 13, track 11 may comprise a pair of
parallel tracks
11' and 11". Parallel tracks 11' and 11" may be mounted adjacent respective
opposed axial
end walls 79" and 79', respectively, of the open top container 40. Parallel
opposing tracks
11 may permit a single axle 19 or respective axles (not shown) to be mounted
to roll along
both of the pair of tracks 11' and 11". The use of parallel tracks 11 on
either axial end of
the roof 1 prevents the roof 1 from binding due to non-uniform lateral motion
at the axial
ends of the roof. In some cases the axle 19 is rotationally locked between the
tracks 11 so
that motion on one axial end of the roof 1 is equally transmitted to the other
axial end, and
vice versa. The use of parallel tracks 11 effectively provides a frame that
defines a lateral
axis along which the roof I may slide from side to side over the top of the
container 40.
[0075] Referring to Fig. 14, axle 19 may engage track 11 via a suitable
mechanism,
such as a rack-and-pinion mechanism. For example, track 11 forms a rack, while
axle 19
comprises or connects to a pinion that rolls along the rack 11. The pinion may
comprise a
sprocket 8 as shown for meshing with the rack. In some cases the pinion may
take a suitable
form such as a roller, while the track 11 may take a suitable form such as a
rail. Plural
pinions and tracks may be used.
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[0076] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, the rack of track 11 may comprise a
plate lie
with a series of holes, such as sprocket holes 11 c, that are spaced along a
longitudinal length
of the plate lie to form the rack 11. The teeth 8a of the sprocket wheel 8 may
enter and
engage with the holes lie of the track 1110 permit the axle 19 to roll along
the track 11 to
either side wall 81 of the container 40 in use. In some embodiments, plate lie
is formed by a
tube 11a, such as a suitable beam for example a box beam as shown, or a C-
beam, 1-beam,
L-beam, or others. Other suitable forms of a rack may be provided, such as a
chain secured
to plate lie.
[0077] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, track I I may be formed by a pair of
adjacent
opposed tracks, such as top track or rack 11 and a bottom track (roller track
10) to retain the
axle 19 within contact with the track during operation. Top and bottom racks
may be used
(not shown). Both tracks may contact sprocket 8, or as shown one may contact
sprocket 8
and another contacts a second part such as a bushing surface or in this case
roller 9. Tracks
11 and 10 may be opposed and rigidly connected at a fixed distance relative to
one another,
for example at all positions between axial ends llf of the rack or track 11 to
retain the axle
19 / sprocket 8 in contact at all times with the rack 11. In other cases the
track I I may
include breaks or parts that move into or out of contact with the sprocket 8
during use.
[0078] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, roller track 10 of track assembly 11
may be
provided to engage a roller 9. Roller track 10 may comprise an L angle iron
connected, for
example welded, to the frame of the container 40 that is utilized as a bottom
track for a V
roller 9. A V roller 9 may be located coaxial with sprocket 8 and may sit upon
roller track 10
to align the sprocket 8 with the track 11. Referring to Fig. 9, the track
assembly 11 may
comprise a pair of end plates 12 and a pair of brace plates 13 between the end
plates 12 to
form a solid frame structure that prevents misalignment between L angle iron
roller track 10
and track 11 during use. The plates 12 may sit beyond side walls 81 to permit
the axle to
pass a vertical plane defined by the side wall 81, and then to rotate into a
vertical or near-
vertical position. Referring to Figs. 9 - 11, after force is applied to rotate
the axle 19, the V
roller 9 may rotate along the L angle iron roller track 10, until it reaches
plate 12 at the axial
end point of track assembly 11 (Figs. 9-10). At such point, half of the
rolling roof 1 is
14
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
dangling free in a horizontal position and is enabled to tilt into a vertical
position (Fig. 11)
with minimal physical strength (because the axle crosses a center of gravity
of the roof),
where V rollers 9 are utilized as fulcrum for the entire system.
[0079] Referring to Figs. 12 and 13, an actuator may be connected to slide
the roof 1
along the track 11. A suitable actuator may be connected to shaft or axle 19
to rotate or roll
sprocket 8 and slide the roof 1 along the track 11. Referring to Figs. 4 and
14, two examples
of a suitable actuator include a ratcheting handle 4 (Fig. 4) and a motor 72
(Fig. 14), such as
a hydraulic or electric motor.
[0080] In some cases the actuator is connected to rotate the roof I into
the open
position. Referring to Figs. JO-I1, motor 72 provides one example of such an
actuator. Once
the roof is in the dangling horizontal position, actuator or motor 72 may also
rotate the roof 1
into the open position. In the example shown the motor 72 drives a pinion that
engages a top
rack or track II, with the pinion mounted below the rack or track 11.
Referring to Figs. 9-11,
in such a case, rotation of the motor 72 in one direction will slide the roof
1 to one side of the
container 40 (Fig. 9), and upon reaching one side of the container 40 (Fig.
10), the pinion or
sprocket 8 becomes rotationally locked with the track II, for example by
contacting the end
of the track 11, switching operation such that now the motor 72 turns itself
about the axle 19,
rotating the entire roof 1 toward the adjacent side wall 81". The use of a top
track 11 that
faces downward as shown permits the motor 72 to achieve the aforementioned
sliding and
roof rotation functions without changing direction or stopping.
[0081] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, motor 72 may be mounted to the
rolling roof 1
in a suitable fashion. Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, motor 72 may be
positioned on or
adjacent a 'first longitudinal side of the track I I, such as side Ilh. Motor
72 may be mounted
to the roof I via a support arm, such as provided by plates 74A-C and 118 of a
motor mount
frame 74, that extends over, for example crosses above, the track 11 and
anchors to the roof
1 on a second longitudinal side Ilg of the track 11. The frame 74 may extend
from the
rolling roof 1 and over the track assembly 1 I to rigidly connect the roof 1
and motor 72 to
ensure that the roof 1 and motor 72 move together during opening and closing
operation.
IS
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
=
[0082] The frame 74 may have a suitable structure, and may form a
cantilever for
example as shown. Frame 74 may comprise structural plates 74C that are secured
to an end
plate 11 7 of rolling roof 1 and that extend to connect with structural part
74B. Structural part
74B may comprise a beam or plate and extends over the track assembly 11 to
meet
additional structural plates 74D. Structural plates 74C, 74D may be braced
with additional
support members such as diagonal plates 74A. Plates 74A and 74D may support a
motor
mount plate 118 that secures electric motor 72. Motor 72 may be covered
entirely or in part
by a suitable housing such as motor cover 70. Motor cover 70 may shelter
sensitive
components of the motor 72 from damaging elements such as physical debris or
weather.
[0083] Referring to Figs. 10 - 11, apparatus 20 may comprise one or more
sensors,
such as roof position sensors 94, 97, or lock / latch position sensors 95.
Each sensor may
comprise a plurality of sensors or a plurality of sets of sensors. The sensors
disclosed in the
drawings are proximity sensors such as photoelectric sensors, although other
types of sensors
may be used such as infrared, inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic, limit switch,
or other sensors.
Photoelectric proximity sensors may detect the presence of metal, and may be
sensitivity
adjustable, for example by adjusting a threaded component (not shown), for
example to a
sensitivity of 0.1 inches. A suitable sensor includes the GRTE18S-P2312 made
by SICKTM.
Each sensor may be used to detect one or more predetermined conditions, and in
response,
.
the sensor itself, or a controller, may respond by triggering a respective
event. The type of
event initiated may depend on the condition. In general with the sensors
disclosed here, a
controller may be used to interpret and respond to sensor control signals, or
the sensor may
be set up to apply feedback in an appropriate fashion such as by closing or
opening a
connection in an electrical circuit. Any given sensor may be set up to operate
such that a first
event happens when one condition is met, and a second event happens when a
second
condition is met. The event may depend on other conditions being met, for
example
determined by signals from other sensors. Each sensor may track a portion or
entirety. of a
complete range of operational movement of the part being tracked.
[0084] Referring to Figs. 10-11, 14, and I 8A, a roof position sensor may
comprise
plural roof position sensors. For example, referring to Figs. 10-11 and 18A, a
first roof
16
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
position sensor 94 may be mounted to the roof or open top container 40 (the
latter is shown)
for detecting the open position. In the example given the sensors 94 may
trigger a signal to a
controller (not pictured) when rolling roof 1 crosses a line of sight 146
within a specific
range, such as <5 mm, indicative of the roof 1 having moved from out of to
into the open
position. In some embodiments, sensor 94 may trigger an event such as an alarm
once the
aforementioned predetermined condition is met.
[0085] Referring to Figs. 9-11 and 18A, in the example shown a pair of
sensors 94
are provided, one on each side wall 81' and 81", respectively. In the case of
sensors 94, a
condition may be met upon roof 1 rotating from the dangling position (Fig. 10)
to the open
position (Fig. 11), thus, crossing the line of sight 146 (Fig. 18A shows the
line of sight 146
but with the roof in the closed position). Upon the sensor 94 detecting the
proximity or
position of the roof 1, an action or event may be triggered, for example, the
roof position
sensor 94 may be connected to reduce or shut off drive output from the motor
72 to prevent
or restrict over rotation of the roof 1. The sensor 94 and associated control
logic may be set
up to avoid the roof 1 contacting the side wall 81". In some cases, power may
be restored
by overriding the reduction or shut off, or by reversing the direction of the
motor 72 to move
the roof 1 back into the dangling position. The motor 72 may lock the roof 1
in position on
shut off to prevent wind or external forces acting on the roof I to bump the
roof 1 up against
the side wall 81".
[0086] Referring to Figs. 9, 10, and 14-15, a roof position sensor.may
comprise a
second roof position sensor 97 mounted to the roof or open top container (the
former is
shown) for detecting the closed position. Track 11 may comprise a detectable
part such as a
plate 152 that protrudes from a plane defined by brace plates 13. Sensor 97
may be mounted
to motor mount frame 74, for example between arm plates 74A. When the roof 1
centers
itself in the closed position, the plate 152 crosses the line of sight 147
(Fig. 15) of sensor 97
and the predetermined condition is met. The roof position sensor 97 may be
connected to
reduce or shut off drive output from the motor 72 when the roof has moved into
the closed
position, thus indicating to the user that condition has occurred. Power to
the motor 72 may
be restored by overriding (using a bypass control) the reduction or shutoff,
or by stopping
17
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
and restarting the motor 72, or by waiting a predetermined interval of time.
In some cases a
warning may be issued upon achieving the condition, for example a light may go
on to
confirm that the closed position is reached. Other events may occur in the
closed position,
=for example power to the locking system discussed below may be established.
[0087] Referring to Figs. 12-13, 16A-B, I 7A-B, and 18A-D, apparatus 20
may
comprise a lock for securing the roof in the closed position. The lock may
comprise a
suitable lock such as a latch 60, for example a set of latches along, either
on or adjacent, one
or more edges, such as edges along end walls 79 or side walls 81 of the open
top container
40 or roof 1. In the example shown, the lock comprises respective sets of one
or more (in this
case six) latches 60 spaced along both of the opposed side walls 81', 81" of
the container 40.
Each set of latches may have a common latch actuator, such as a linear
actuator 66, for
example which operates all latches 60 in a set at once using a drive bar 58.
Referring to Figs.
18A-C, each set of latches 60 may comprise a plurality of pins 62 and a
plurality of hooks
60A. Each hook 60A may engage and disengage a corresponding pin 62, one of
which is
located on the container 40 (in this case hooks 60A), and the other of which
is located on the
roof 1 (in this case pins 62A). Referring to Figs. 16A-B, the hooks 60A may be
pivotally
mounted to the linear actuator 66 for engaging the plurality of pins 62 in a
latched position.
The latches 60 may collectively operate to apply tension between the roof I
and container 40
at sufficient locations around the perimeter edge of the roof 1 such that the
roof 1 may be
held in the closed position, and in further cases such that the roof I may be
squeezed against
the container 40 to seal the container 40, for example by compressing seals 41
(Fig. 13A).
[0088] Referring to Figs. 18A-C each latch 60 may have a suitable
structure. Each
side latch 60 may have a first hook part, such as a hinge or arm, or pair of
arms 60B as
shown, and a second hook part such as hook 60A. Each arm 60B may be pivotally
mounted
to the common latch actuator, for example drive bar 58, for example via a ring
or hub 60E
that is connected, for example rigidly connected such as by welding, to bar
58, and that
pivotally mounts arm 60B via a pin 60F. In the example shown, as the bar 58
moves, the hub
60E moves with the bar 58 causing arm 60B to pivot about pin 60F.
18
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
[0089] Referring to Figs. 18A-C, the hook part 60A and hinge arm 60B may
connect
to one another and the container 40 in a suitable fashion and may have a
suitable structure.
Hinge arms 60B may be secured to side wall 81 by a pivotal connection through
pin 60D.
Hinge arms 60B may be connected to latch hook 60A via pin 60G. Referring to
Fig. 18B,
latch hook 60A may define a hook end 60A I and a lever end 60A2. The lever end
60A2 may
be secured to arms 60B via a biasing device such as spring 60C. Referring to
Figs. 18A-C,
spring 60C permits the hook 60A to rotate with the arm 60B until resistance is
encountered
in the form of the pin 62, after which further rotation of arms 60B creates
tension between
hook 60A, arm 60B, and pin 62 that acts to pull the pin 62 and roof I in a
downward'
direction with sufficient force to lock the roof I. In cases where a
compressible seal 41 lines
the perimeter edge of the roof 1 or open top container 40 or both, the tension
from the latches
60 acts to draw the roof tightly against the container 40 to compress the seal
41 and seal the
interior of the container 40, which may be advantageous for hauling liquid or
solid liquid
mixtures. Pin 62 may have a protective housing or retainer frame, such as pin
cover 64,
which retains the hook part 60A on the pin 62 when latched.
[0090] Referring to Figs. 12-13, 16A-B, 17A-B, and 18A-D the latches 60,
support
or drive bar 58, and actuator 66 may cooperate together to operate in a
suitable fashion. Each
side latch support or drive bar 58 may be provided for operating and
supporting a respective
set of side latches 60. In some embodiments, side latch 60 is a plurality of
side latches
spaced along bar 58 for example to provide uniform pressure around roof!.
Referring to
Figs. 16A-B, 17A-B and I8B, the linear actuator 66 may be connected to drive
the support
bar 58 via a suitable mechanism such as a base bar 116 pivotally connected to
an extension
and retraction member such as screw shaft 66C. Referring to Fig. 18B the
actuator 66 may
be pivotally mounted to the side wall 81' via hinge pin 66E, and upon
extension and
retraction of shaft 66C may cause the bars 116 and 58 to translate and latch /
unlatch the
latches 60. Linear actuator 66 may drive the support bar 58 and affect the
opening and
closing of each latch 60. Referring to Figs. 16A-B, 17A-B, and 18B, linear
actuator 66 may
drive support bar toward front end wall 79" of container 40 and in an upward
direction to
move the latch into the unlatched position (Figs. 17A-B) or toward end wall
79' and in a
19
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
downward direction 144 to close the latch into the latched position (Figs. 16A-
B). Once
latched (Figs. 16A-B), further extension by the actuator 66 may increase
tension in the
spring 60C to apply a force on the roof 1 in a downward direction 144 to seal
the roof 1
against the container 40.
[0091] Referring to Fig. 18B, actuator 66 may be a suitable actuator with
suitable
components. For example, linear actuator 66 comprises an electric motor 66A,
although
other drive mechanisms may be used such as hydraulic, pneumatic, magnetic,
crank, manual,
automatic, rack and pinion, chain and sprocket, or other mechanisms, as is the
case for all
actuators in this document. Each latch 60 may have its own actuator, or
latches 60 may be
grouped in groups that have a common actuator. Electric motor 66A may be
connected to
drive screw shaft 66C into and out of a cylindrical housing 66B. Screw shaft
66C may be
driven via a threaded mechanism, such as a worm gear transmission, in housing
66B to drive
base bar 116. The shaft 66C may be pivotally connected to bar 116 via a pin
66D. By driving
the screw shaft 66C in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion, the motor 66A
may push or
pull bar 116 and therefore extend and lower or retract and raise support bar
58.
[0092] Referring to Figs. 16A-B and 17A-B, the latches 60 may be oriented
and
structured to cooperate with the operation of the rolling roof 1. Referring to
Figs. 17A-B, in
an unlatched position the plurality of hooks 60A may be positioned below a
plane defined by
a top perimeter rim 154 of the container 40. Spring 60C may assist in ensuring
that hook
60A returns to a position below the plane when unlatched as shown. Referring
to Figs. 16A-
B, when in a latched position the plurality of hooks 60A may engage respective
pins 62 and
may extend above the plane defined by rim 154. In some cases the latches 60
achieve about
or equal to ninety degrees or more of rotation between the latched and
unlatched position,
defined about pin 60D.
[0093] Referring to Figs. 12-13, 16A-B, 17A-B, and 18A-D, a lock position
Sensor or
sensors 95 may be present, for example to track the position of the latches
60. Sensor 95 may
comprise a plurality of sensors 95 located on the side walls 81', 81" of the
apparatus 20, for
example one or more sensors 95 on each respective side wall 81. In the example
shown, the
proximity sensor 95 is positioned to track the movement of the bar 58, for
example to detect
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
the position of the bar 58 in the fully unlatched position. Referring to Fig.
18A, in some
embodiments, support bar 58 may comprise a part, such as an end cap 148, that
extends
across a line of sight 151 of the sensor 95. Referring to Figs. 18A and I8D,
end cap 148 may
cross the line of sight 151 of sensor 95 in close proximity with sensor 95
when entering the
fully unlatched position where the latches 60 are fully below the plane of the
underside of
the roof 1. Referring to Fig. 18C, end cap 148 by contrast may be out of the
line of sight 151
of sensor 95, or may be out of sensing range from sensor 95, when in the
latched position.
Referring to Fig. 18D, end cap 148 may have a suitable shape such as an L-
shape to reach
into the line of sight 151 when in range. Sensor 95 may send a signal to a
controller (not
pictured) to indicate that the side latches are in the unlatched position. The
lock position
sensor or sensors 95 may be connected to reduce or prevent operation of the
motor 72 when
the respective sets of latches 60 are out of an unlatched position, or are in
the latched
position. Thus, the motor 72 may be prevented from running and potentially
damaging the
roof 1 when the latches 60 are obstructing the path of the roof 1. Other
sensors 95 may be
used to track other parts of the latch cycle, for example to track and confirm
that the sensors
95 are locked. In one case of the latter, a force sensor may be present
between hook 60A and
arm 60B to detect a tension between the two indicative of the hook 60A
engaging the pin 62.
[0094] Referring to Fig. 28 an example circuit diagram for controlling
operation of
the roof 1 is illustrated. A suitable power source may be provided, such as a
battery 162, for
example a 12 Volt battery mounted on the apparatus 20 or on an associated unit
such as a
trailer or a tractor unit. In some cases the battery 162 is a battery that
mounts to a trailer that
carries the apparatus 20, for example for operating tail lights on the
trailer. A suitable
connection (not shown) such as a quick connector may be used to connect the
battery 162 to
the circuit as needed. Passenger and driver side latch sensors 95', 95"
communicate with
control terminal 160 (for example a programmable logic controller or other
controller), and
power terminals 164 and 165, through relays 170, 172, 174, 176, 178, 180, and
182. Both of
the driver side and passenger side motor controls 194, 196 communicate with
control
terminal 160, and passenger and driver side sensors 94' and 94", through
relays 168 and
166. Driver side latch controls 186 (open), 188 (close), and passenger side
latch controls 190
21
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
(open) and 192 (close), communicate with control terminal 160, and power
terminals 164
and 165. Various fuses 200, 202, 204, and 206 may be used as desired. Controls
may be
accessed on a suitable medium, such as a control board in a box (not shown),
for example
located in a housing or box, for example in a compartment defined on a front
end of the
container.
[0095] Referring to Fig. 28 operation of the roof 1 will now be described
for a
procedure that involves sliding the roof Ito the driver side wall 81" of the
apparatus 20,
opening the roof 1, and closing. However, it should be understood that the
same or
analogous logic and circuitry may apply to the same procedure undertaken on
the passenger
side wall 81' of the apparatus. A user may arrive at a job site with the
latches in the latched
position and the roof 1 in the closed position. At the job site, the user may
attempt to operate
the motor 72 using the driver side motor control 196, but to no avail as the
latches 60 are still
engaged in the latched position. As long as one set of the latches 60 is
engaged or out of a
fully open position, the motor 72 cannot be activated, and in some cases an
indicator such as
an LED light 198 is on to alert the user to the latched condition.
[0096] Thus, the user then activates the driver and passenger side latch
controls,
specifically controls 186 and 190 to open the latches 60. Once fully open,
sensors 95' and
95" send control signals to remove the block of motor 72 activation from the
latches:
However, because the roof 1 is in the closed position, sensor 97 is still
detecting the presence
of plate 152, and motor 72 cannot be activated. Thus, the user hits the bypass
control 184
and the driver side roof control 196, causing the motor 72 to activate as
there are no further
restraints on motor 72 operation. The roof 1 slides to the driver side
wal1.81" of the
apparatus and rotates into the open position. When in the open position, the
sensor 94"
detects the open position and cuts off power to the motor 72, preventing
further rotation of
the roof 1. The user may then manually or automatically secure the roof in the
open position,
and begins work filling the container 40.
[0097] When the work is complete, the user releases any lock on the roof 1
in the
open position, activate the bypass control 184, and activate the motor 72 by
activating the
passenger side motor control 194 to cause the roof 1 to rotate back to
horizontal, and slide
22
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
toward center. As long as the roof 1 is open and sensor 94" detects the open
position, the
motor 72 cannot be activated without the bypass control 184, although this is
not required
and in some cases driving the motor 72 in the opposition position when in the
open position
is not prohibited. The bypass control 184 may not permit further advancement
of the roof in
the driver side direction or passenger side direction when the roof is open on
the driver side
or passenger side, respectively. Once the roof 1 enters the closed position,
sensor 97
activates the applicable circuit components and motor 72 is deactivated.
[0098] Referring to Fig. 28, from closed the user may then lock or latch
the roof 1 to
secure the roof I in the closed position. To latch the unit the user initiates
passenger and
driver side latch controls 188 and 192 to close the latches 60. If the sensor
97 does not detect
the closed position, the passenger and driver side latch actuators 66' and 66"
are prevented
from operating. However, if the sensor 97 detects the closed position the
latch actuators 66'
and 66" are permitted to operate. The latches 60 begin to close, and as soon
as the latches 60
are out of the unlatched position the sensors 95' and 95" send control signals
to obstruct
further operation of the motor 72 until the latches 60 are fully open again.
Since the roof 1 is
now closed, the user is free to move the apparatus off site, for example to a
disposal site.
[0099] Referring to Figs. 14-15, 19 and 19A, axle 19 may be mounted to the
roof by
a compressible part and suitable associated structure. The compressible part
may permit the
roof 1 to move in a vertical direction relative to the axle 19, for example a
direction that has
a vertical component as well as a horizontal component, or a direction that is
absolute
vertical or vertical relative to the horizontal plane of the track 11. The
axle 19 may be
mounted by a bearing, such as bearings 23, to a first frame that is nested
within or has nested
within it a second frame that mounts to the roof. The compressible part or
spring 32 may
connect the first frame and the second frame. In the example the second frame
is formed by
an outer bracket 50 within which is nested the first frame formed by an inner
bracket 52.
Outer bracket 50 may comprise a pair of side plates 50A separated by a base
plate 50B. Base
plate 50B may be secured to rolling roof 1 via a bearing support frame or
bracket 53 (Fig.
20B2). The first frame and the second frame may be pivotally connected to one
another, for
example inner bracket 52 may be connected to outer bracket 50 via an axle 54.
Inner bracket
23
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
52 may comprise a pair of side plates 52A separated by a base plate 52B. In
the example
shown both frames are U-shaped, although other shapes may be used.
[00100] Referring to Figs. 19 and 19A, the compressible part may comprise a
spring,
such as a pair of springs 32. Springs 32 may each be mounted on respective
shafts, such as
pins 32A, with respective nuts 32D for adjusting spring tension. Springs 32
may be secured
to the outer and inner brackets 50, 52 via spring pins 32A. Pin 32A may pass
through the
outer bracket 50 and through inner bracket 52, compressing springs 32 between
inner bracket
52 and a nut 32D. One or more other components such as washers 32B and 32C may
be
present on pins 32A. Axle 19 may pass through bearings 32 to permit rotation
of axle 19
relative to brackets 50 and 52. Axle 19 may extend through one or more shaft
slot 117B
defined by plate 117 to enter the bearing holder. Bearings 32 may be mounted
in a suitable
frame such as within a bearing cylinder 56. Inner bracket 52 may mount bearing
cylinder 56.
The loading of spring 32 in the neutral state may be manually tuned by turning
nuts 32D,
compressing or relaxing the springs 32 (compare Figs. 19 and 20 for example).
Other
configurations may be Used, for example if pins 32A mount to bracket 52 but
not 50 with the
top end of the springs 32 mounting to the roof 1, for example to an underside
of the roof I .
[00101] Referring to Figs. 19 and 19A, roof 1 and outer bracket 50 may move
downward relative to axle 19 when the latches 60 or other tensioning members
press the roof
1 to lock the roof 1 in place, compressing springs 32. When the latches 60 and
tensioning
members are released springs 32 relax and lift the outer bracket 50. The use
of a
compressible part permits the sprocket 8 to permanently engage the track 11
despite the axle
19 being able to translate up and down as the roof 1 is moved to seal and
unseal the container
40. The compressible part also permits the axle 19 to assume a neutral
floating position from
which the axle 19 can move up or down without contacting and wear against the
roof I. The
configuration shown limits erosion by rusting and wear between components as
contact
points are reduced between moving parts.
[00102] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, the actuator, such as motor 72, may
be mounted
to permit the actuator or part of the actuator to move in a vertical direction
relative to the
axle 19. For example, the motor 72 may comprise a drive shaft 120 that mounts
to the axle
24
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
19 via a power transfer part that permits such motion. An example of such a
part is a double
universal joint 121, also known as a Cardan joint. More than two universal
joints may be
used, for example four in series for smoother operation. A double-universal
joint 121 permits
bending at four points in the shaft, permitting axle 19 and shaft 120 to move
relative to one
another while remaining in a parallel or near parallel orientation. In such ,a
configuration,
sprocket 8 is permitted to remain fixed to track 11.
[00103] Referring to Figs. 13, 13A, and 13B, a compressible seal 41, such
as a rubber
P-seal, may be placed between the open top container 40 and the roof 1 in the
closed
position. In some embodiments, the compressible seal 41 is fixed or mounted
along a
perimeter edge IA of the roof 1. Compressible seal 41 may be mounted such that
the seal is
squeezed or compressed when the roof 1 is lowered into a locking or latched
position, or
upon tensioning with tensioning devices. The compression of seal 41 may act to
improve
leak resistance relative to a metal to metal seal.
[00]04] Referring to Fig. 13, the apparatus may form a gravel box. A gravel
box may
be adapted to receive gravel and debris from an excavator, or to haul invert
or drill cuttings
produced in an oil and gas drilling operation or SAGD operation. Container 40
may
comprise suitable structural members for reinforcement, such as base beams 123
to provide
additional ground support for container 40. In some embodiments, container 40
comprises
roof panels 76 at each axial end of the roof 1. Roof panels 76, which may be
fixed, permit
the roof 1 length to be limited without sacrificing the length of the
container 40. A roof I that
spans for example more than ten feet, for example thirty feet or more may
require greater
structural support with greater length, making a longer roof 1 less economical
to
manufacture than a shorter roof I. Roof 1 may have structural support members
such as
cross beams 153, axial beams 155, and in the example shown a truss 114. Axle
19 may be
mounted in a supportive and in some cases protective housing, such as a box
beam (not
shown). Referring to Fig. 21, one or more ladders 112 on external surfaces of
the walls of the
container 40 may be provided.
[00105] Referring to Figs. 21 and 22, apparatus 20 may have various
components
suitable for industrial uses, such as hauling sewage or invert from an oil or
gas operation.
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
Referring to Figs. 22A-B and 29 apparatus 20 may be configured for end-
dumping.
Referring to Figs. 22A-B a hinged tailgate or door 85 may be present at a rear
end wall 79'
of the open top container 40 for such a purpose. Door 85 may comprise door
hinge 85A that
connects to open top container 40, and hinge 85A may be horizontal, vertical
or have another
suitable configuration, such as a pair of doors mounted on each side wall 81
to swing
laterally outwards to expose open axial end 79'. Door 85 may comprise a
plurality of valves
83 spaced at different vertical levels for selectively drawing off liquids
from a liquid-solid
mixture in some cases prior to dumping the solids. Valves 83 may also be used
for input of
fluids or free flowing solids. In other cases valves 83 may be located at
other suitable
locations around container 40. Apparatus 20 may comprise vent boxes 85B, which
may
connect to piping for equalizing pressures within and outside the container 40
to avoid roof
collapse when opening the door 85. A base, such as beams 123, of container 40
may be
structured to be skid, trailer, or rail car mounted, or may be mounted in a
larger container,
and in some cases includes wheels or other ground engaging elements. Referring
to Fig. 29,
the container 40 may be used with a hydraulic lift (shown as part of a tractor-
trailer 252
unit), a container tilter, or other suitable tilting mechanisms for end-
dumping. Referring to
Figs. 13A-B, handles 39 and hooks 43 may be provided on various parts of roof
1, for
example for manually opening and closing and sliding the roof 1 and for
connecting same to
tensioners, respectively.
[00106] Referring to Figs. 24 and 25A-B, open top container 40 may comprise
one or
more interior baffles, such as baffle plates 96. Sludge and slurry may slosh
around in the
container 40, making it difficult for the driver to handle the truck under
various driving
conditions, particularly when driving up or down a hill. Baffle plates 96 may
restrict the flow
of contents within the container 40 =for more consistent weight distribution
in container 40
and hence smoother and safer transportation. Plate 96 may define holes 96A to
permit
limited equalization flow of fluids through the plate 96.
[00107] Plate 96 may be pivotally mounted to container 40, for example via
baffle
hinge axles 130 for connecting to the inner side wall 81A of container 40.
Baffle hinge axle
130 may connect to a hub 106 mounted on inner wall 81A. Hub 106 may be mounted
by
26
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
bracket 104 for example below a rim bar 110. Bracket 104 may be one of a
plurality of
brackets spaced along the length of the container 40 to permit a variety of
numbers and
locations of baffle plates 96 to be used within container 40. Baffle plate 96
may comprise a
lifting lug such as a ring 102 for handling and moving baffle plate 96 by a
suitable
mechanism such as a crane (not pictured). Baffle plate 96 may comprise
reinforcing
members such as a cross bar 100. Cross bar 100 may extend across baffle plate
96 and may
engage with stoppers 98, or other parts of plate 96 may engage stoppers, for
example to
prevent over rotation. When the apparatus 20 is dumped, the baffle plates 96
may be
permitted to swing toward the rear end wall 79' of the apparatus to permit
dumping of the
contents of the container 40. Referring to Fig. 25B when in a horizontal
neutral position as
shown the baffle plate 96 may rest a non-zero distance above a surface of
floor 132 of the
container 40, to permit fluid transfer across vertical plates 96.
[00108] Referring to Fig. 25B, container 40 may be suitably insulated, for
example by
insulation 191. Insulation 191, such as ceramic wool blanket insulation, may
be located
beneath the floor 132 of the container 40, for example between floor 132 and a
subfloor 189,
both of which may be formed in a base of the container 40. Insulation, for
example in the
form an insulating gasket between floor 132 and the exterior of the container
40, adds bulk
and weight but may reduce heat loss to the ambient environment, particularly
during winter
transport. The floor 132 may form a smooth uninterrupted surface and may form
a liquid
barrier seal between a fluid -receiving interior of the container 40 defined
above the floor
132, and the space between the floor 132 and the sub floor 189. Referring to
Fig. 22A, end
cap plates 193 may seal and cover the axial ends of the space between the sub
floor and
floor.
[00109] Additional embodiments of an apparatus 20 will now be described.
Features
of one embodiment disclosed in this document may be combined with features of
another
embodiment, without restriction unless context dictates otherwise.
[00110] Referring to Fig. 1, an open top container 40 may comprise parts
for securing
the roof 1 against the container 40 when the roof is open or closed, or both.
Referring to Fig.
1, a tensioner such as tie-down straps 7 may be provided for securing the roof
1 against the
27
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
container 40 when the roof 1 is in the closed position (Fig. 1). Some examples
of tensioners
include tie-down straps 7 such as a winch as shown, which may connect to a
hook 6. In some
embodiments, the tensioner is mounted on the side walls 81. Referring to Fig.
2, open top
container 40 may comprise a lock, such as chain 2 and hook 43, for securing
the roof 1
against side wall 81 of container 40 when roof 1 is in the open position. When
in the vertical
open position, the roof 1 may contact a stopper 3 located on an adjacent side
wall 81 of the
open top container 40. Block stopper 3 may act to prevent any pinch points
between the
adjacent sidewall 81 and tilted roof I.
[001 1 I ] Referring to Figs. 1,2, 3, 3A, 5 and 5A-C, movement of the
rolling roof Ito
one or either of opposed side walls may be accomplished by an actuator such as
ratcheting
handle 4. Ratcheting handle 4 may be connected to rotate the axle 19 relative
the track 11 to
slide the roof 1 along track 11. A ratcheting handle requires up to twice the
amount of
motion as a fixed crank to rotate the axle, yet permits the user to stand
directly under the axle
19 and reciprocate the handle 4 to advance the roof 1 without having to swing
the handle 4
awkwardly above a horizontal plane defined by the axle 19. Referring to Figs.
20A1 and
20B1 ratcheting handle 4 may be connected to axle 19 by a suitable connection
such as a
threaded connection 49. Axle 19 may connect to ratchet cog 48 and slotted nut
28 via
threaded connection 49. Other types of connections, such as non-threaded
connections may
be used.
[00112] Referring to Figs. 5C and 5D, ratcheting handle 4 may be adapted to
ratchet
in either direction. Ratcheting handle 4 may comprise a part, such as a lever
or switch bar 44,
that permits the ratcheting handle to be switched between a first ratcheting
direction and a
second ratcheting direction. Referring to Figs. 5C and 5D, in order to switch
between
ratcheting directions, handle 4 may comprise a suitable mechanism such as a
locking pin 46.
The user may set the locking pin 46 by turning the bar 44 to one side or the
other. Turning
the handle 4 may turn the pin 46A about a pivotal pin mount connection 46B.
The pin 46A
may slide along a slot 44D in bar 44, and a bulbed end 46D of the pin 46 may
engage the
lower end of a pair of axial ends of the slot 44D. The bulbed end 46D may push
down
against bar 44, via the action of spring 46C, to force one of a pair of teeth
44A of bar 44 into
28
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
ratcheting contact with cog 48 to permit advancement of the cog relative to
the bar 44 in one
direction, and to bind the cog 48 and bar 44 on rotation in the other
direction.
[00113] Referring to Figs. 4 and 4A, a stopper 14 may be used to prevent
displacement of the V roller 9 from track 10. Stopper 14 may be made of two
parts (two
bend plates with backing support), one part 14a connected for example welded
to the
container 40 and the second part 14b connected for example welded to the
rolling rodfl. As
the rolling roof 1 moves along the container 40, stopper plates (not shown)
placed parallel to
each other in a longitudinal direction with an acceptable gap in between, may
prevent
displacement of the V roller 9 from its track.
[00114] Referring to Figs. 1, 2, 3, 3A, and 5C, a bar, such as safety bar
or bars 5, may
be mounted to the container 40, for example to the track 11 to prevent or
restrict axle 19
from sliding the roof 1 out of the closed position. Bar 5 may be mounted to
move, for
example swing, into and out of an axle blocking position. Referring to Fig.
5C, while in the
axle blocking position shown, safety bar 5 may prevent axle 19 from sliding
the roof 1 out of
the closed position. One example of an axle blocking position is where safety
bar 5 hangs
down across the path of the axle 19 along the track II. The bar may indirectly
block the axle
19, for example as shown where the bar 5 blocks the sprocket 8 or more
precisely the hub 21
of the sprocket 8.
[00115] Referring to Figs. 3 and 5C, the bar 5 may comprise a pair of bars
5', 5"
located to the left and right of the axle 19 when the roof I is in the closed
position. Each of
the safety bars 5', 5" may hang down across a path of the axle 19 toward the
left or right
side wall 81', 81", respectively, of the container 40 when in a respective
axle blocking
position of the bar 5. Referring to Figs. 3 and 3A, each bar 5', 5" may be
mounted to swing
toward the axle 19 and up out of the path of the axle 19 to move out of the
respective axle
blocking position, see for example bar 5' in Fig. 3A. Referring to Fig. 5C,
each bar 5 may
swing inward, about a respective pivot pin 5A, toward the axle 19. Such may
place bar 5 up
out of the path of the axle 19 to move out of the respective axle blocking
position. The safety
bars 5 may be built into the track assembly 11 and may be used for safety
reasons such as
preventing any motion of the rolling roof 1 out of the closed position.
29
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
[00116] Bars 5', 5" operate as a safety device that prevents the roof 1
from
inadvertently sliding out of the closed position at a time where the roof 1 is
neither strapped
nor otherwise locked to the container. Such a structure may be of advantage
when the
container 40 is oriented out of horizontal, for example on the slope of a
hill, as the bars 5
prevent the roof 1 from undesirable sliding by gravity after disengagement of
any tie-down
straps or other locking devices between the roof 1 and container 40. Referring
to Figs. 1 and
2, an example of the safety bar 5 in use is depicted. The right bar 5" hangs
down in an axle
blocking position where the axle (not shown) is prevented from sliding to the
right out of the
closed position. By contrast, the left bar 5' is swung upward, for example by
a manual
movement of the user, to open the path of the axle 19 toward the left side.
Referring to Fig.
5C, apparatus 20 may comprise a pair of stops 42', 42" located to the left and
right of each
the pair of bars 5', 5". Stops 42 may prevent the bars from swinging outward
away from the
axle 19 and out of a blocking position.
[00117] Referring to Figs. 5, and 5A, the rolling roof may include two
identical
assemblies (parallel tracks 11', 11", adjacent opposed ends of the container
40), one on each
side of the roof 1, that are connected by axle 19, for example pipe 19B, and
coupler 19A, to
transmit rotation from one assembly to another. To activate the roof's
longitudinal motion,
only one ratcheting handle 4 may be used, for example on the front ends of the
container, or
ratcheting handles or other actuators may be present on both ends. Two mounted-
bearings 18
may be bolted to rectangle bracket 17 which may comprise four metal plates.
The bracket 17
may be used to bear axle load of the axle 19 and transmit longitudinal motion
to the entire
roof 1 by connection brackets 17 to structural tubing 25, 26. Since the axle
19 is fixed to
brackets by flange-mounted bearings 18, the rotational motion of the unit
sprocket-wheel 8
and a hub 21 may be converted to linear motion along the track 11, based on
the principle of
a rack and pinion gear. The V Roller 9 with inserted radial bearing 22, may
also rotate with
axle 19, and supports the longitudinal rolling motion of entire roof 1 by
using L angle iron
roller track 10 as a structural base for V roller 9.
[00118] Referring to Figs. 5, 5A and 5B, and 6, the components of the axle
and
bearings are shown in section views that explore the mechanical structure of
the rolling
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
mechanism components. The ratcheting handle 4 may be tightened to the axle 19
against a
hub 21 and fixed with a slotted nut 28. The sprocket-wheel 8 may sit tightly
on hub 2 I and
the two may be welded together. The V roller 9 may be inserted with radial
bearings 22
attached on the axle 19. Spacer pipes 29 may be mounted to the shaft between
these
components to prevent misalignment from roller track 10. The axle 19 may be
connected to
the coupler 19A with bolts and nuts, which may allow reassembling the rolling
mechanism
parts in case of necessary repairs. The coupler 19A may be connected for
example welded to
pipe 19B that joins the second rolling roof track assembly 11' on the other
roof end. The
pipe 19B may be passed inside tubing 26, that together with four brace tubings
25, two
outside tubings 30, and two end caps, are used as a frame for the entire roof
assembly.
[00119] Referring to Fig. 6, an exploded view is shown of various parts
that
accomplish motion of the rolling roof assembly, according to the order of
assembly. As
illustrated in Fig. 6, pipe 19B may be welded with a coupler 19A, whereby a
rigid coupling
occurs to transmit the rotation motion to the identical rolling roof assembly
on other side of
the roof. The coupler may be bolted together to the shaft or axle 19, and
attached to
ratcheting handle 4 by which this rotation is accomplished. The following
parts may be
mounted on the shaft or axle 19 in the order they are assembled: i) two flange-
mounted
bearings 18 bolted to the metal bracket 17 that comprises four plates; ii) the
axle 19 slides
through these bearings and attached to the coupler 19A; iii) the V roller 9
with inserted radial
bearing 22; iv) the sprocket-wheel 8 with a hub 21; and v) ratcheting handle 4
with slotted
nut 28.
[00120] Referring to Figs. 5 and 5A, the rolling roof mechanism may include
a metal
bracket 17 with two flange-mounted bearings 18 connected to bracket 17.
Bracket 17 may
secure axle 19 to roof I. Bearings, such as flange-mounted bearings 18, may
permit for
rotation of axle 19 during movement of roof 1. The bearings may connect to
plates 17B to
form the rigid frame of metal bracket 17.
[00121] Referring to Figs. 7 and 7A-C, another embodiment of bracket 17
that
mounts the axle 19 to the roof Ito permit vertical movement between the roof 1
and axle 19
is depicted. In such embodiment, bracket 17 is used with seals 41 to seal The
rolling roof for
31
=
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
containers with hazardous liquid waste. Bracket 17 may mount a compressible
part, such as a
pneumatic system, leaf spring, or coiled spring 32, that mounts the axle 19 to
roof I. =
Compressible spring 32 may permit the roof 1 to move in a vertical direction
relative to the
axle 19. Bracket 17 may comprise various plates that form one of two frames
that move
relative to one another. Plates 33A, flange mounted bearings 18, plates 33B,
plates 38, and
rings 31A form a rigid first frame. Cap plates 27, 36, L-angle plates 35,
spacer bars 37, rings
31B, and plates 33 form a rigid second frame. The first and second frames may
be mounted
to slide vertically relative to one another. A suitable range of movement may
be permitted,
such as around 1/2 - I inch, or other suitable ranges of motion, which may
allow for
compressing the seal 41 of the rolling roof by a suitable tensioner such as
latches (not
shown) or tie-down straps 7, and may make the steel container hermetically
sealed.
[00122] Springs 32 (an example of a compressible part) may be aligned in
position
between rings 31a and 31b). The top part of the spring 32 may be connected for
example
welded to the ring 31b and the bottom part to the ring 31a accordingly. Since
the unit of ring
31b, plates 33, flange-mounted bearings 18, axle 19, and V roller 9 are
installed on the
vertically rigid L angle iron, another unit of ring 3 I a, plate 34, plate 35,
and end cap plate 27
permits the rolling roof to have the ability to move in a vertical direction
relative to the axle.
That allows retaining the entire bracket 17 assembly in an immovable position,
until the tie-
down force is applied to seal the rolling roof 1 to the frame of the open top
container 40.
[00123] Words such as vertical, horizontal, up, down, above, below, top,
base and
others are understood to be relative and not defined relative to the flow of
gravitational lines
on the Earth unless context dictates otherwise. In some cases the motor 72 may
be mounted
to roof 1 to permit vertical movement between the motor 72 and roof I, for
example if a
spring connection is between the two. The axle 19 may incorporate an actuator,
such as a
drive or motor, on the second longitudinal side 1 I g of the track 11. For
example, a belt or
chain drive may engage a drive sprocket on the axle 19 in such a case. In some
cases the axle
19 is mounted to move in a vertical direction relative to the sprocket 8. A
pair of actuators,
such as one motor 72 for each end of axle 19 and each track 11', 11", may be
used.
32
CA 02942949 2016-09-23
[00124] The ratchet 4 or other actuator may be used to rotate the roof 1 in
some cases,
for example if a manual or automatic angular lock is provided between the axle
and roof I.
Side walls include front and rear walls. Motor frame 74 may extend under the
track 11. In
some cases features may be described by a reference numeral in the
description, but then
shown in the drawings with a modified reference numeral that has an `, ",
alphabetical, or
other suffix, and in such cases the passage in the description refers to the
part identified by
the modified reference numeral.
[00125] In the claims, the word "comprising" is used in its inclusive sense
and does
not exclude other elements being present. The indefinite articles "a" and "an"
before a claim
feature do not exclude more than one of the feature being present. Each one of
the individual
features described here may be used in one or more embodiments and is not, by
virtue only
of being described here, to be construed as essential to all embodiments as
defined by the
claims.
33
