DANGEROUS GOODS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application number 62/712,610, filed July 31 , 2018, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] The present invention relates to transport containers, and more particularly to transport containers for intermediate bulk containers (IBC).

[003] Transport containers, or IBC lifting frames, that are currently on the market do not allow IBCs containing dangerous goods, including liquids and granular materials, to be handled and lifted or carried on open seas or waters and also meet DNV 2.7-1 lifting standards. These transport containers are also not fully enclosed and thus do not fully protect IBCs from damage to the sides or top of the transport container.

[004] Existing transport containers for IBCs do not meet the criteria specified by

DNV-GL for certification of offshore containers intended for the transport of IBCs containing dangerous goods in offshore applications. These configurations potentially allow for a puncture to the sides and top of the IBC contained within them. Similarly, they do not protect the top gasket of the IBC from damage or entanglement with, for example a frame sling set.

[005] As can be seen, there is a need for an improved transport container that enables customers to transport approved IBCs containing dangerous goods in an offshore environment, or to lift and transfer the IBCs, from an offshore service vessel to offshore locations in a manner which meets DNVGL-ST-E271 , EN 12079:2006, IMO Circular MSC / Circ. 860, and API 2CCU Standards.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[006] In one aspect of the present invention, a transport container for shipment of an intermediate bulk container (IBC) is disclosed. The transport container includes a lifting floor supporting an enclosed structure defining one or more bins within the transport container for containing the IBC. A left sidewall and a right sidewall are attached to the lifting floor. At least one movable wall is attached to one of the left sidewall and the right sidewall via a hinge for each of the one or more bins. The at least one movable wall is moveable between an open condition, permitting a lateral loading of the IBC within the one or more bins, and a closed condition, in which a side of the IBC is protected from a strike hazard when carried within the transport container. A plurality of clevis attachments are attached to a top end of the transport container. The plurality of clevis attachments are configured to carry the transport container in a suspended condition by a shipping sling. A moveable top lid is provided for each of the one or more bins defined within the transport frame. The top lid is movable between an open condition, permitting a top loading of the IBC within the one or more bins, and a closed condition in which a top end of the IBC is protected from a strike hazard within the transport container.

[007] In some embodiments, the transport container also includes a track extending along a top edge each of the left sidewall and the right sidewall. A stop is defined at an end of the track. A pin protrudes from an intermediate position of a left and a right lateral edge of the top lid. The pin is carried within the track, and the top lid is configured to pivot to the open condition about the pin when the pin is positioned proximal to the stop. [008] In some embodiments, a latch assembly is attached to the at least one moveable wall, the latch assembly configured to secure the movable wall in a closed condition.

[009] In other embodiments, a stabbing guide protrudes from an interior surface of the left sidewall, the right sidewall, the movable panel. The transport container may also include an alignment plate attached to an interior corner of each of the one or more bins. The alignment plate is configured to guide the IBC to a shipping position within the one or more bins.

[010] In other embodiments, an interior dividing wall extends between adjacent bins of the one or more bins. In certain embodiments, the transport container may also include a ladder attached to at least one of the left sidewall and the right sidewall. A forklift pocket may be defined in a side edge of the lifting floor.

[01 1] In other embodiments, a track extends along opposed lateral sides of the top end of the transport container. In this embodiment, the top lid includes a flexible panel that is carried within the track. A curved portion of the track is formed at the junction between the top end of the transport container and the sidewall of the transport container. The curved portion is configured to carry the flexible panel between the closed position and the open position. The track may have a length along the sidewall sufficient to carry the flexible panel.

[012] In yet other embodiments, a plurality of parallel tracks extend along opposed sides of the top of the transport container. At least one of the top lids is carried within at least one of the plurality of parallel tracks, the at least one of the top lids is moveable within the at least one of the plurality of tracks between the open position and the closed position. A first top lid is configured to laterally slide within a first track so that it is positioned in one of a covered or a covering position relative to a second top lid that is carried within a second track.

[013] In other aspects of the invention, a top closure for a transport container, is disclosed. The top closure includes a track defined along opposed lateral sides at a top end of the transport container. A top lid formed as a substantially flat plate that dimensioned to cover a bin opening at the top end of the transport container. A pin protrudes from a lateral edge of the top lid from an intermediate position of the lateral edge. The pin is received within the track and the top lid is movable along the track.

[014] A stop may be included at an outer end of the track. When the pin is

positioned proximal to the stop, the top lid is adapted to pivot about the pin to an open position. Preferably, the the pin is positioned proximal to a midpoint of the lateral edge.

[015] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[016] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a single bin embodiment of an IBC transport container with a top lid open.

[017] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the single bin embodiment of the IBC transport container with the top lid in an intermediate position while opening or closing.

[018] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the single bin embodiment of the IBC transport container with a partially open top lid and open front wall.

[019] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of a dual bin embodiment of the IBC transport container with the top lid open and in a stowed position.

[020] Figure 4a is a detail view of the pivoting hinge assembly with the top lid in the open and stowed position.

[021] Figure 5 is a front perspective view of a dual bin embodiment of the IBC transport container with the top lid closed.

[022] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of the single bin embodiment of the IBC transport container with a sliding panel closure configuration. [023] Figure 7 is a front perspective view of a quad bin embodiment of the IBC transport container with a sliding top lid configuration.

[024] Figure 8 is a top plan view of a triple bin embodiment of the IBC transport container.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[025] The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention.

[026] Broadly, embodiments of the present invention provides a transport container

10 for IBCs that meets all criteria specified by DNV-GL for certification of offshore containers intended for transport of IBCs for dangerous goods and has been certified by DNV-GL as such. The transport container 10 also provides a full enclosure of the IBC, which provides protection for the IBC and the dangerous goods carried therein, on all sides, the top and the bottom during movements and shipping of the transport container 10.

[027] As seen in reference to the drawings of FIGS. 1 -4, a single bin embodiment of a transport container 10 according to aspects of the invention is shown. By way of non-limiting examples, the transport frame 10 for IBCs may be provided in various bin configurations: including a single bin, a dual bin, a triple bin, and a quad bin configuration. Each configuration, while sharing certain innovative features, numbered accordingly herein, is specifically designed and engineered to handle the load calculations for each design. Additionally the transport container 10 may be dimensioned to carry either a 550 gallon IBC or a 790 gallon IBC, with the transport container 10 specifications specifically engineered to each size IBC unit. [028] The transport container 10 has a lifting floor 12 with a built in skid or drip pan

14 to contain a limited quantity of leakage that may occur during loading or transport. The transport container 10 provides a fully enclosed structure with solid side walls 18, a movable front wall 20, a rear wall 22, and a top lid 24 for each IBC bin defined within the transport frame 10. The transport container 10 protects the IBCs 50 contained within the container 10 from side impacts and possible puncture. The full enclosure enables the transport container 10 to be certified to DNV 2.7-1 , EN 12079:2006, IMO 860, and API 2CCU Standards.

[029] Other aspects of the present include a top lid 24 configuration that provides an opening to a containment bin within the transport container 10. The opening to the containment bin allows top loading of the IBC 50 into the transport container 10, such as with an aerial crane, or other lifting device. In multi bin embodiments, the top lid 24 is provided for each of the plurality of bins in the transport container 10.

[030] The transport container 10 front 20 and rear wall 22 are coupled to the transport container 10 via a hinge 26, which permit one the front wall 20 and the rear wall 22 to operate as doors, which allow side loading of the transport container 10. In multi-bin embodiments, a door is provided for each bin in the transport container 10. Likewise, in multi-bin embodiments, an internal frame member or separator panel 25 is provided for structural support. In the case of a separator panel 25, the panel 25 provides for segregation of the IBCs 50 carried within each of the plurality of bins.

[031] Embodiments of the top lid 24 are designed to limit pinch hazards during opening and closing, and provide the operator positive control over the lid 24 positioning, and preclude inadvertent opening and closing of the lid due to wind gusts and the like. In a first embodiment of the top lid 24 shown in reference to FIGS. 1 -3, the top lid 24 is coupled to a top end of the transport container 10 via an offset hinge pin assembly 28 that is configured to permit the operator to laterally slide the tip lid 24 via a pivot pin 30 at a mid portion of the top lid 24 which is carried in a track 25 of the hinge pin assembly 28. When the pivot pin 30 reaches a pivot point 32 at an end of the track the top lid 24, the top lid 24 may then pivot about the pivot pin 30 to a vertical orientation. A retaining pin 34 can then be utilized to ensure the top lid 24 remains in the vertical, open position. This configuration provides the operator better control over the top lid 24 since the pivot point is carried at the mid portion of the top lid 24, rather than requiring the operator to pivot about an end of the lid. The top lid

24 may also incorporates locking mechanisms which provide retention in both open and closed positions.

[032] In multi-IBC container configurations, such as the dual bin embodiment shown in reference to Fig. 5, the offset pivoting top lid 24 may be provided for each of the plurality of interior bins of the IBC transport container 10. An internal frame structure

25 is provided for an internal support structure and to define each of the plurality of bins within the transport container 10.

[033] Embodiments of the transport frame 10 also include at least one hinged door

20, 22 providing lateral access to the interior compartment. The hinged doors and offset hinge pin assemblies 28, when used in combination permit an operator to load the one or more IBCs 50 with a fork lift. When opened, the top lid 24 provides a sufficient vertical clearance for the IBC 50 and the hinged door opening 20, 22 providing the lateral access. The hinged doors 20, 22 may be secured with a latch mechanism 36 to retain the door in a closed position. A retention pin 40 may also incorporated to secure the door 20, 22 when open, to ensure the door is not swung closed inadvertently.

[034] A top end of the transport container 10 also incorporates a plurality of pad eyes, or a clevis mounts, 42 that may be coupled with a sling set of a crane. Likewise, the base 12 of the transport container 10 is configured with a plurality of forklift pockets 44, which allows the transport container 10 to be moved by a forklift.

[035] The transport container 10 may also include a plurality of stabbing guides 46 and alignment plates 52 in an interior of the transport container 10. The stabbing guides 46 and alignment plates 52 center the IBC 50 when it is loaded within a designated bin. The exterior sidewalls 18 may also incorporate a built in ladder 48 to allow easy access to the top of the transport container to attach a sling set to the clevis 42 or to facilitate inspection of the IBC 50. A drip pan/well and a drain holel in communication with the drip pan may be provided near fork lift access plates.

[036] The IBC transport container 10 is fully enclosed with solid sides, top and bottom. The transport container 10 is able to be both top and side loaded, yet remains classified as fully enclosed, enabling the transport container 10 to carry approved IBCs 50 containing dangerous goods, including liquids, in offshore applications. The transport container 10 also incorporates stabbing guides and alignment plates to ease loading and built in ladders to improve access.

[037] The transport container 10 according to embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to top load and side load, and still maintain full enclosure integrity to meet dangerous goods certification in open waters. The various innovative features gives this transport container 10 unmatched capabilities from others currently available in the marketplace.

[038] A best seen in reference to FIG. 8, when loading from above, the incorporated stabbing guides 46 and plates 52 are sloped at an angle which insures that the IBC 50 being loaded is centered properly in the corresponding bin of the transport carrier 10. The base alignment plates ensure that the base of the IBC 50 sits properly and is centered on the floor 12 of the transport carrier 10. The IBC sling set may then be hung on an internal sling hanger to provide additional stability and ease of access to the IBC carried within the transport container 10. Once the top lid 24 is closed, full containment of the IBC 50 within the transport container 10 is achieved.

[039] In use, the user would place a certified IBC 50 into the transport container 10 either by top loading with a crane via the top opening 24 or side loading through the opening door 20, 22 via a forklift. After loading the IBC 50, the IBC sling set would be hung from the sling set hanger for future ease of access. The door 20, 22 and / or top lid 24 would then be securely closed via the closing mechanism. The operator would then ensure that all applicable IMDG requirements for the transportation of dangerous goods (such as paperwork or labeling) are complied with. The user then could use the clevis 42 attachment points with sling set to move the fully enclosed IBC 50 within the transport container 10 to lift, transfer or carry the IBC containing dangerous goods (including liquids) in an open sea environment and be in lifting compliance in accordance with DNV 2.7-1.

[040] In a first alternative embodiment of the top opening, shown in reference to

FIG. 6, the transport container 10 includes a fully enclosed structure with solid side walls 18, a movable front wall 20, a rear wall 22, and provides for a top opening for each IBC bin defined within the transport frame 10. In this embodiment, the lid 64 includes a flexible panel that is carried within a track 62 extending along opposed lateral sides of the top end of the transport container 10. A handle 66 may extend from one or more of a first end or a second end of the flexible panel 64. The track 62 includes a curved portion at the junction between the top end of the transport container 10 and the sidewall of the transport container 10. The track 62 has a length along the sidewall sufficient to carry the flexible panel 64 so that the top opening of the transport container 10 may receive the IBC 50.

[041] In a second alternative embodiment of the top opening, shown in reference to FIG. 7, the transport container 10 also includes provides a fully enclosed structure with solid side walls 18, a movable front wall 20, a rear wall 22, and provides for a top opening for each IBC bin defined within the transport frame 10. In this embodiment, the top lid 74 for each containment bin is carried in two parallel tracks 62 extending along opposed sides of the top of the transport container 10. In this embodiment, a first top lid 74 may slide laterally within a first track 62 so that it is positioned above, or below, a second top lid 74’ that is carried within the second track 62’.

[042] With the first top lid 74 in the open position, the IBC 50 may then be top loaded within the corresponding interior bin of the transport container 10. Once loaded, the first top lid 74 may be repositioned to cover the loaded IBC 50. The second top lid 74’ may then be slid within the second track 62’ so that it is subjacent or superjacent the first top lid 74. The second bin may then be loaded with the IBC 50 within the corresponding interior bin of the transport container 10. Once the IBC 50 is loaded the second top lid 74’ may be positioned above the corresponding IBC 50. Each of the first top lid 74 or the second top lid 74’ may be secured in a closed position above an underlying IBC 50.

[043] It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.