System for transporting fragile objects

According to certain embodiments, a vibration-isolating system comprises a platform adapted to carry one or more loads and an adjustable load-positioning system. The platform is suspended within a support structure by a plurality of isolators. The isolators are tuned to impede vibrations in a pre-determined frequency range for a payload having a pre-determined mass. The adjustable load-positioning system is adapted to facilitate positioning the one or more loads such that the payload having the pre-determined mass is centered at the center of gravity of the platform.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system for transporting fragile objects.

BACKGROUND

Fragile objects may be at risk of becoming damaged when transported from one location to another. To minimize the risks, fragile objects are traditionally transported in wooden crates. The wooden crates are cushioned with foam intended to protect the fragile object in the event that the wooden crate is dropped. Unfortunately, traditional wooden crates may fail to adequately protect fragile objects from damage.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure may reduce the risk of a fragile object becoming damaged during transit. For example, disclosed herein is a vibration-isolating system.

According to certain embodiments, a vibration-isolating system comprises a platform adapted to carry one or more loads and an adjustable load-positioning system. The platform is suspended within a support structure by a plurality of isolators. The isolators are tuned to impede vibrations in a pre-determined frequency range for a payload having a pre-determined mass. The adjustable load-positioning system is adapted to facilitate positioning the one or more loads such that the payload having the pre-determined mass is centered at the center of gravity of the platform.

In some embodiments, the platform comprises a load-bearing surface having a rectangular shape and the plurality of isolators comprise first, second, third, and fourth wire rope isolators. The first wire rope isolator is positioned proximate a first corner of the load-bearing surface and the second wire rope isolator is positioned proximate a second corner of the load-bearing surface such that the second wire rope isolator diagonally opposes the first wire rope isolator. The third wire rope isolator is positioned proximate a third corner of the load-bearing surface and the fourth wire rope isolator is positioned proximate a fourth corner of the load-bearing surface such that the fourth wire rope isolator diagonally opposes the third wire rope isolator. In some embodiments, each of the first, second, third, and fourth wire rope isolators is a high energy rope mount (HERM) comprising a wire rope embedded in an elastomer.

In some embodiments, the first wire rope isolator comprises a plurality of loops. The loops are held in place by two brackets. Each bracket extends tangentially across the first wire rope isolator, and the two brackets are positioned on opposite sides of first wire rope isolator. The vibration-isolating system further comprises a mounting assembly that couples the first wire rope isolator to a rectangular frame that provides the support structure within which the platform is suspended. The mounting assembly comprises a first mount positioned in a corner of the rectangular frame such that the first mount couples diagonally between two sides of the rectangular frame. The first mount connects to one of the brackets of the first wire rope isolator. The mounting assembly comprises a second mount, which includes an angled portion that connects to the other bracket of the first wire rope isolator and a flat portion that couples to the platform proximate a corner of the platform. The first mount and the second mount hold the first wire rope isolator at an angle such that an axis through a diameter of the first wire rope isolator bisects the center of the load-bearing surface of the platform.

As discussed above, the isolators are tuned to impede vibrations in a pre-determined frequency range for a payload having a pre-determined mass. In some embodiments, the pre-determined frequency range encompasses 10-40 Hz and the pre-determined mass is in the range of 80-100 kilograms.

In some embodiments, the vibration-isolating system further comprises the one or more loads. The combined mass of the platform, the adjustable load-positioning system, and the one or more loads satisfies the pre-determined mass of the payload to which the plurality of isolators are tuned. In some embodiments, the one or more loads include at least one mass unit having a specified mass adapted to tune the combined mass of the platform, the adjustable load-positioning system, and the one or more loads to satisfy the pre-determined mass of the payload to which the plurality of isolators are tuned. In some embodiments, the mass unit comprises a thermal phase change material, an inelastic particulate material, or both.

In some embodiments, a first load of the one or more loads comprises a flexible panel (such as a painted canvas). In some embodiments, the first load further comprises a container assembly operable to protect the flexible panel. The container assembly comprises a back panel, a front panel, and a stiffener panel. The back panel is positioned behind the flexible panel and is offset by a first substantially airtight compartment. The front panel is positioned in front of the flexible panel and is offset by a second substantially airtight compartment. The stiffener panel is positioned in front of the front panel and is offset by a third substantially airtight compartment.

In some embodiments, the adjustable load-positioning system comprises one or more horizontal rails and one or more vertical rails. The horizontal rails facilitate moving a load along the length of the platform. The vertical rails facilitate moving the load along the height of the platform.

In some embodiments, the adjustable load-positioning system comprises a first shelf and a first set of brackets. The first shelf is adapted to support the bottom of a first load of the one or more loads. Each bracket of the first set of brackets has an L-shaped portion adapted to hold a respective corner of the first load. The adjustable load-positioning system facilitates sliding the first set of brackets to center the payload. The adjustable load-positioning system facilitates securing the first set of brackets in place once the payload has been centered.

In some embodiments, the vibration-isolating system comprises a case that either provides the support structure within which the platform is suspended or contains the support structure. The vibration-isolating system further comprises a second shelf and a second set of brackets. The second shelf is adapted to support the bottom of a second load of the one or more loads. Each bracket of the second set of brackets has an L-shaped portion adapted to hold a respective corner of the second load. The adjustable load-positioning system facilitates sliding the second set of brackets to center the payload. The adjustable-positioning system facilitates securing the second set of brackets in place once the payload has been centered. The first shelf and first set of brackets face the front of the case, and the second shelf and second set of brackets face the back of the case.

In some embodiments, the support structure within which the platform is suspended comprises a case. The case comprises a plurality of panels arranged to form walls of the case. The plurality of panels include a front panel that forms the front wall of the case and a back panel that forms the back wall of the case. The case further comprises a first set of locks that secure the front panel to the case and a second set of locks that secure the back panel to the case. The front panel is detachable when the first set of locks are unlocked, and the back panel is detachable when the second set of locks are unlocked. In some embodiments, the case further comprises a first set of guides adapted to align the front panel to the case and a second set of guides adapted to align the back panel to the case. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of panels comprises polypropylene honey comb panel in aluminum extrusion.

In some embodiments, the support structure within which the platform is suspended comprises a case, and the case includes an integrated base. The integrated base defines at least two apertures dimensioned to accommodate tynes of a fork lift. In some embodiments, the integrated base lowers the center of gravity of the case.

In some embodiments, the vibration-isolating system comprises a case that either provides the support structure within which the platform is suspended or contains the support structure. In some embodiments, one or more one or more shock-absorbing structures are positioned within the case. The shock-absorbing structures comprise polycarbonate, polypropylene, impact-endothermic open cell polyurethane foam, and/or expanded polystyrene (XPS). In some embodiments, one or more silica gel tiles and/or thermal phase change tiles are positioned within the case.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. Certain embodiments may protect a canvas painting, art, or other fragile object from vibration and/or shock that can occur during transit. As an example, certain embodiments may provide a vibration-isolating case that impedes and dampen vibrations and/or reduces transmitted shock experienced by the object in transit. The case can be configured to isolate damaging frequencies and/or to absorb shock in the event that the case is dropped. As another example, certain embodiments may raise the natural frequency of the object. For example, the object may be arranged within a panel system that raises the natural frequency of the object well above its fundamental damage frequency. Raising the natural frequency may prevent resonance that would otherwise amplify vibrations across the object (such as vibrations encountered in transit vehicles). Certain embodiments may tune or customize protection based on the particular object being transported, for example, depending on the fundamental damage frequency of the object. Certain embodiments may have all, some, or none of these advantages. Other advantages will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Fragile objects are traditionally transported in wooden crates cushioned with foam. The foam is intended to protect the fragile object in the event that the wooden crate is dropped or in a collision. Traditional wooden crates, however, may fail to adequately protect the fragile object from damage. For example, the fragile object may be subjected to significant vibrations when transported by a truck, aircraft, or other vehicle. As the encountered transit vibrations approach the resonant frequencies of the fragile object, those vibrations cause the fragile object to vibrate with increasing amplitude, stressing the materials and structures of the object which in cracks or other damage. As an example, the fragile object may be a painting on a canvas. When resonant vibrations occur, the canvas oscillates and the paints restrain the canvas movement through tension and compression thereby damping the kinetic energy of the canvas. If the stresses to the adhesion and cohesion bonds remaining in the aged paints exceed stress limits, the paint will crack and separate either at the point of adhesion of the paint to the canvas or between paint layers. The paint layers increasingly transform from a semi-continuous film to a series of fragmented sections. Every time a crack forms, that crack becomes the focal point of movement in that area. As more movement occurs, the canvas and paints become more and more damaged at the cracks. As the painting ages, it tends to become less flexible and more brittle. Thus older paintings are increasingly prone to damage as a result of travel vibrations.

The most damaging transit-related vibrations generally occur at frequencies similar to the object's natural frequency. At the object's natural frequency, resonance occurs that amplifies movement in the fragile object. The natural and resonant frequencies of a painting will generally be in the range of approximately 5-50 Hz and the natural frequency of a glass sculpture or ceramic will generally be in the range of approximately 150-1000 Hz. In developing the systems and methods disclosed herein, it was discovered that traditional wooden crates not only fail to reduce damaging vibrations, they transmit and actually amplify many vibrations through additive interference. For example, testing was performed on a traditional wooden crate configured with accelerometers and scanning laser vibrometers placed or focused on a painting, on the foam cushioning, on the wooden crate, and on the bed of the truck transporting the painting. The testing underscored the data suggested in US MIL-STD-810 for common commercial truck carriers that transit vibrations are greatest in the regions of 10-60 Hz and 100-160 Hz. Testing further demonstrated that traditional wood crates and foam crates have relatively low natural and resonant frequencies (approximately 20-100 Hz) and therefore amplify transit vibrations through additive interference in damaging low frequency ranges. At every configuration in which foam was used, vibration across the fragile payload increased. For example, the displacement energy experienced by a painting cushioned in foam was worse than if the painting had been placed directly on the bed of the truck. By amplifying the displacement energy, the foam increased the risk of damage to the painting.

The results obtained by testing the foam were unexpected because conventionally foam was thought to be beneficial for protecting fragile objects and because foam behaves differently when observed on its own as compared to when it is observed carrying a load. Both in product literature and in experimental tests on engineering shaker tables and actual road tests, cushioning foams made from open-cell polyurethane (PEU) and extruded, closed-cell polyethylene foams exhibit consistent natural frequencies between 3 Hz-100 Hz, depending upon the configurations used as container cushions and the payload compressions created. These are precisely the frequencies transmitted in all modes of motor, rail and air freight transportation. Because the input vibration frequencies approximate or replicate the natural frequencies of the foam cushions, both the cushions and the wood walls of the crate move into phase and amplify the transmitted excursions of the truck bed or wall. Embodiments of the current system seek to resolve this problem by creating components which can predictably raise the natural frequency of the payload without mechanical contact and by tuning the suspension system to affect critical damping of input vibration energies.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide solutions to this and other problems associated with traditional systems for transporting fragile objects. For example, certain embodiments may reduce exposure to vibration frequencies that would otherwise damage a fragile object in transit, such as vibrations in lower frequency ranges (e.g., vibrations less than approximately 150 Hz, vibrations less than approximately 100 Hz, or other frequencies depending on the natural frequency of the object being transported). Certain embodiments use a suspension system to provide tunable protection from vibration and shock. The suspension system includes a platform to carry the object. The platform connects to isolators that suspend the platform. The isolators may be tunable to impede vibrations occurring at the natural frequency and/or raise the natural frequency of the load to a frequency sufficiently above the fundamental damage frequency of the object. The tuning of the isolators can be improved by centering the load at the center of gravity of the suspension frame and using diagonally opposed isolators tuned to a specific mass. Disclosed herein is an adjustable load-positioning system that allows for centering the load at the center of gravity to improve the tuning of the isolators.

In certain embodiments, the suspension system may be packed inside a vibration-isolating case. In addition, if the fragile object is substantially flat, the fragile object may be packaged using a panel system, for example, prior to being loaded onto the platform of the suspension system and/or being packed inside the vibration-isolating case. The panel system provides protection during transit by controlling motion across the fragile object. In general, the panel system places the substantially flat object, such as a painting, between panels on the front and back sides of the object. Substantially airtight air gaps between the flat object and the panels increase stiffness that reduces vibration movement across the flat object. Additional panels may be used to increase stiffness.

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following description and the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals are used for like and corresponding parts of the various drawings.

FIG. 1illustrates an example of components of a suspension system for transporting and storing a load, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. The components may include a platform110configured to carry a load120. For purposes of explanation,FIG. 1illustrates the orientation of platform110relative to an x-axis extending in the direction of platform110's length (e.g., from left to right), a y-axis extending in the direction of platform110's height (e.g., from top to bottom), and a z-axis extending in the direction of platform110's width (e.g., from front to back). In the example illustrated inFIG. 1, platform110provides a flat, load-bearing surface to support load120in an x-y plane. As illustrated inFIG. 1, the load-bearing surface may have a rectangular shape (e.g., a generally four-sided surface in which the sides can all be the same length, such as a square, or different lengths, such as an oblong rectangle, and the corners can be perpendicular, rounded, or beveled). Platform110may comprise any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, wood, cardboard, etc. In certain preferred embodiments, platform110comprises rigid material having a high natural frequency, for example, platform110comprises one or more light-weight aluminum honeycomb panels.

Load120includes an object300, such as a painting, drawing, sculpture, artifact, museum specimen, or other fragile object. In some embodiments, the load may further include packaging. For example, object300may be packaged within a container assembly, such as the panel system described with respect toFIGS. 8-9below. Panel110, load120, and/or object300can optionally be enclosed within a box or other protective covering, such as a weatherproof (or rain proof) cover comprising stretch wrap, polyfilm, KEVLAR®, life raft material, vinyl, thermal blanket, and/or other suitable material.

Load120may be secured to platform110using one or more latches and/or other securing mechanisms. An example of an adjustable load-positioning system that may be used in securing load120to platform110is further discussed below with respect toFIG. 5. In certain embodiments, platform110may carry more than one load. As an example, multiple loads120could be carried on the same surface of platform110(not shown). As another example,FIG. 1illustrates a first load120aon a first surface of platform110and a second load120bon the opposite surface of platform110.

Platform110optionally includes a shelf115. In some embodiments, shelf115may be coupled directly to platform110or extruded from platform110, such as a flange that projects outward in the x-z plane to further support load120. In other embodiments, shelf115may be attached to an adjustable load-positioning system, such as an adjustable rail system that couples to platform. To carry loads on opposite surfaces, platform110may include a first shelf portion extending from the front side of the platform and a second shelf portion extending from the back side of the platform. The first and second shelf portions can be separate shelves, or they can be a single shelf that wraps around platform110or is bisected by platform110.

Platform110may be suspended within a support structure. In certain embodiments, isolators130suspend platform110such that platform110is in a vertical orientation when the support structure is upright. In some embodiments, the vibration-isolating system includes a case and the case itself provides the support structure that suspends platform110.FIG. 2A, discussed below, provides an example in which the case itself provides the support structure (e.g., top, bottom, left, and right walls202of case200provide a support structure for mounting the isolators130that suspend platform110). In other embodiments, the support structure may be a separate component, such as a structure that can be contained within a case during transit and can be removed from the case when loading or unloading platform110. In some embodiments, the support structure comprises a rectangular frame (e.g., a generally four-sided frame in which the sides can all be the same length, such as a square, or different lengths, such as an oblong rectangle, and the corners can be perpendicular, rounded, or beveled). Depending on the embodiment, the rectangular frame can either be defined by walls of the case (e.g., top, bottom, left, and right walls202of case200form a rectangular frame for suspending platform110), or the rectangular frame can be a separate, removable frame that can optionally be contained within the case.

FIG. 2aillustrates an embodiment of a case200within which platform110may be suspended. In certain embodiments, case200may comprise a plurality of walls202, one or more guides204, one or more locks206, and/or a base210. Case200may be any case suitable to contain platform110carrying one or more loads120. In certain embodiments, case200may be a custom case. The custom case may be built using parts listed on a parts list. In certain embodiments, the parts may be standard parts, which may help to ensure that the parts are reliable and readily available from various manufacturers. Standard parts refer to parts that are based on specifications defined by a standards group, such as the ASTM International, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or other standards groups. In certain embodiments, the parts list may include the materials and dimensions of panels to be used as walls202, the number and type of guides204, the number and type of locks206, the number and type of fasteners for coupling the components of case200together, and/or any other suitable parts.

The dimensions of walls202may be specified to accommodate the size of the items to be contained within case200. In an embodiment, walls202may be dimensioned to accommodate a suspension system that can carry a painting up to 44×44 inches. As an example, to accommodate a suspension that can carry a painting of this size, walls202may be dimensioned such that the overall dimensions of case200are approximately 80 inches long, 80 inches tall, and 35 inches wide. By dimensioning case200with a relatively large width (such as a width greater than or equal to 35% of the height of case200), the risk of case200being tipped over is substantially reduced. Other embodiments may be dimensioned to accommodate a smaller or larger load. In certain embodiments, case200may be configured to weigh approximately 180 kilograms when loaded, which may be similar to the weight of a conventional wooden crate for carrying a painting of a similar size. In some embodiments, case200uses lighter materials at the top and heavier materials at the bottom to lower the center of gravity and improve stability compared to a conventional wooden crate.

In certain embodiments, walls202comprises any suitable rigid, high natural frequency, puncture-resistant material, such as metal, plastic, synthetic composite or honeycomb structure, and/or other suitable material. In certain embodiments, each wall202may be a panel that can couple to one or more of the other walls202using one or more types of fasteners, such as channels, screws, bolts, hinges, locking mechanisms (e.g., locks206), snaps, gaskets, adhesives, or other suitable fasteners. The material for the panels may be selected to impart certain properties, such as lightweight, sturdy, scalable in size, effective at reducing vibrations, puncture resistant, and/or able to provide protection from the elements (e.g., moisture, heat, dust, etc.). An example of such a material includes polypropylene honey comb in aluminum extrusion. Polypropylene honey comb in aluminum extrusion may reduce or eliminate vibrations, for example, certain panels made of this material have been shown to reduce or eliminate vibrations less than 500 Hz.

In some embodiments, the panel may include a Kevlar-like facing that reduces puncture risk. In addition, or in the alternative, in some embodiments, a skin may be applied to one or more surfaces of the panel. As an example, a replaceable skin made of vinyl or similar material may be applied to one or more outward-facing wall panels of case200. The skin may protect the panels from abrasion or dirt. In some embodiments, a skin may be removable so that it can be replaced if it begins to show signs of wear and tear (e.g., dirt, scratches, etc.). In certain embodiments, the skin may have a color or a design, such as a logo or a case number, which may help distinguish case200from other cases.

Although the previous example describes using a custom case, in other embodiments, case200may be a commercial case, such as a case manufactured by PELICAN™, STORM CASE™, FAWIC™, or some other manufacturer. Examples include a resilient, plastic-composite walled case that is weather-proof, water-proof, acoustically-sealed, resilient (e.g., able to retain its shape after an impact), shock-absorbing, and puncture-resistant, such as a polypropylene honeycomb sandwich panel-walled FAWIC™ case with aluminum extrusion corners and seams or a roto-molded polyethylene PELICAN™ case.

Case200may comprise front, back, left, right, top, and bottom sides. The bottom side of case200may be positioned to take the gravitational load during transit, and the top side of case200may be positioned opposite the bottom side. For purposes of explanation, the front and back sides of case200may extend along the length of the object being transported, as depicted by the x-axis inFIG. 1, and the left and right sides may extend along the width of the object being transported, as depicted by the z-axis inFIG. 1.

Case200may comprise one or more doors for accessing the interior of the case. A door may comprise any suitable mechanism for opening and closing the case, and the door may be positioned in any suitable location. In certain embodiments, the doors may be configured to allow case200to be loaded and unloaded while in the upright position, without having to lay case200on the ground (i.e., without having to move case200from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation). Loading in the upright position may allow for safer and more efficient handling of the load, including the option of loading case200from both the front and the back.

In certain embodiments, one or more walls202can operate as one or more doors. For example,FIG. 2billustrates an example in which the front wall202can be a removable panel that operates as a door.FIG. 2billustrates the front wall202in the closed/latched position. Front wall202can be unlatched/separated in order to load the front side of platform110(as shown inFIG. 2a). Similarly, back wall202can be a removable panel that can be unlatched/separated to load the back side of platform110. Although the previous example describes the front and/or back walls202as being removable, in other embodiments, the front and/or back walls202may be hinged to a portion of case200. In certain embodiments, the door may allow another portion of case200to be detached and reattached to case200. As an example, a top portion and bottom portion of case200could be latched together when case200is closed and unlatched/separated when case200is open. In certain embodiments, a door could be built into one of the sides of case200. Thus, an entire wall202and/or a portion of wall202can operate as a door depending on the embodiment.

For any of the types of doors discussed above, a gasket, such as a bead gasket, may go all the way around the seams of the opening to which each door attaches in order to provide a waterproof seal that prevents moisture and debris from getting into case200when the panel is secured to case202(i.e., when the doors are closed).

In certain embodiments, case200comprises one or more guides204.FIG. 2ashows an example in which the top, bottom, left, and right walls202of case200each include two guides204for aligning with the front wall202. Other embodiments may use more or fewer guides204, for example, depending on the size of case200or the type of door used for case200. In certain embodiments, guides204may comprise ball bearings. In certain embodiments, spring-loaded alignment snaps may be used as guides204. The snaps may comprise pairs of female and male connectors that snap together when the door is closed. Guides204may be made of any suitable material, such as metal or plastic. As an example, guides204may be made of stainless steel. Guides204allow for aligning removable doors, such as the removable wall panels discussed above. For example, when attaching a removable panel, guides204allow for positioning the panel in the correct alignment for securely closing case200and aligning locks206such that fewer technicians may be required to close case200. Once the guides204are engaged with the removable panel, guides204may hold the panel in place such that removing the panel would require a technician to apply pressure, for example, by pulling handles208shown inFIG. 2b. Thus, guides204may prevent the removable panel from unexpectedly detaching, which may prevent injury to the technician or damage to objects within case200.

Case200may further comprise one or more locks206. Locks206may hold doors in a closed position. In certain embodiments, locks206provide a waterproof and/or vapor proof seal at a specified pressure (such as 70-90 psi, e.g., 80 psi). In certain embodiments, camlocks or are used for locks206. In some embodiments, a lock206may include a push button for unlatching the lock. In certain embodiments, locks206include a keyed lock, a combination lock, a digital or radio frequency identification (RFID) lock, or other security mechanism to prevent an unauthorized person from obtaining access to the contents of case200.FIG. 2ashows an example in which the top, bottom, left, and right walls202of case200each include three locks206for locking with the front wall202. Other embodiments may use more or fewer locks206, for example, depending on the size of case200or the type of door used for case200.

In certain embodiments, case200may include one or more environmental buffers. Examples of environmental buffers include thermal buffers (such as insulation layers or thermal phase change tiles) and humidity buffers (such as conditioned silica gel tiles). For example, in certain embodiments, the interior-facing surface of one or more wall panels may be lined with thermal insulation. Certain environmental buffers may be implemented using one or more tiles positioned within case200. In certain embodiments, the tiles snap onto an interior surface of case200, such as the interior of a door. In addition, or in the alternative, certain embodiments position environmental buffers within case200by placing one or more environmental buffers on or within platform110. As an example, thermal phase change material may be encased within platform110. Encasing the thermal phase change material within platform110may protect the tiles from damage, shock, and leakage and may ensure that the tiles are sufficiently close to load120to buffer the temperature surrounding load120.

An example of encasing thermal phase change material within platform110includes placing one or more thermal phase change tiles between a first panel (e.g., a front-facing panel) and a second panel (e.g., a back-facing panel) of platform110. In other words, platform110may comprise thermal phase change material sandwiched between the first panel and the second panel. In certain embodiments, the first and second panels may comprise aluminum honeycomb panels that encase thermal phase change tiles within an epoxy adhesive matrix.

In certain embodiments, each thermal phase change tile measures approximately 5½×5½×1 inches (14×14×2.5 centimeters) and weighs approximately 300 grams (10.4 ounces). Within the temperature range of 15 to 30 degrees Celsius, each tile contains 50 British Thermal Units (BTU) of reserve thermal mass. Assuming a rate of 200 BTU reserve per 1.5 cubic meter of enclosed space in order to add or subtract 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and an average enclosed space of 1.5 cubic meters for a medium sized case200, four tiles could be embedded within voids created between the front- and back-facing panels of platform110. Thermal phase change material may be obtained from Cryopak™ or other manufacturers.

Optionally, case200may be configured with one or more shock absorbing structures to absorb impact and prevent damage to the object in transit. For example, in certain embodiments, the shock absorbing structures may compress or collapse quickly in the event of a shock (such as a drop or collision) and expand slowly after the shock to reduce rebound movement of platform110. In addition, or in the alternative, certain shock absorbing structures compress quickly in the event of a shock (such as a drop or collision) but do not decompress. Using a material that does not decompress may avoid rebound movement. If the structure remains compressed, it can be used as an indicator to identify whether case200was handled improperly. This information can be used in making an insurance claim for mishandling in transit. Examples of shock absorbing structures include replaceable honeycomb, fluted, and/or corrugated shaped structures composed of paper, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene (e.g., closed cell expanded polystyrene (XPS) core), and/or any suitable combination of the preceding. The selection of shape(s) and material(s) of the shock absorbing structures depends upon the weight of the payload and the shock impulse to be absorbed. In certain embodiments, an inexpensive paper honeycomb material may be used as a first, easily replaced shock-absorbing structure, and the paper honeycomb material may be underlaid with a more expensive but greater-energy absorbing plastic honeycomb or polystyrene structure and impact-endothermic open cell polyurethane foam (smartfoam, Poron XRD, D30 and similar) to absorb shock from a catastrophic impact. Shock absorbing structures may be placed in any location that may be susceptible to shock, such as toward the bottom of case200. In certain embodiments, shock absorbing structures may be placed within isolators130. For example, wire rope isolators can include a plurality of loops132, and shock absorbing structures may optionally be placed within loops132to protect isolators130in the event of a shock.

In certain embodiments, case200and/or panel110may comprise one or more latches and one or more points-of-attachment for the latches (such as a latch channel). A latch may extend across load120to help secure load120onto platform110. Any suitable latch may be used, such as a metal bar or a fabric strap. In certain embodiments, a metal bar (such as an aluminum bar) may be preferable to a fabric strap because a fabric strap may tend to amplify vibrations in damaging frequency ranges. In certain embodiments, the adjustable load-positioning system described below with respect toFIG. 5may be used (with or without a fabric strap, metal bar, or other such latch) to secure load120onto platform110.

FIG. 2afurther illustrates that platform110couples to case200via one or more mounting assemblies. Each mounting assembly may include an isolator130, a first mount140athat couples isolator130to one or more walls202of case200, and a second mount140bthat couples isolator130to platform110suspended within case200. In general, isolators130reduce movement of platform110carrying load120. As an example, isolators130may reduce vibrations that can occur when transporting platform110by truck, aircraft, or other vehicle. As another example, isolators130may dampen the impact on platform110in the event that case200carrying platform110is dropped, such as in the event that case200experiences a 1 to 3 foot drop.

Any suitable isolators130may be used. Examples of isolators130include wire rope isolators, rubber air bladders, inflatables, smartfoam, or other structures operable to suspend platform110. In certain embodiments, high energy rope mounts (HERMs) may be used as isolators130. An example of a HERM is further discussed below with respect toFIG. 4. Various embodiments may comprise one type of isolator130(e.g., wire rope isolators only) or multiple types of isolators (e.g., wire rope isolators and smartfoam isolators). Isolators130are configured such that platform110is oriented in a substantially vertical direction relative to the ground when case200is oriented in an upright position. When case200is transported in the upright position, isolators130dampen vibrations effecting the load120carried by platform110suspended within case200.

FIG. 3illustrates a close-up view of a mounting assembly comprising an isolator130, a first mount140a, and a second mount140b. In the example, isolator130is illustrated as a wire rope isolator, such as a HERM.FIG. 3illustrates first mount140apositioned in a corner formed between a first wall202(e.g., left wall) and a second wall202(e.g., top wall) of case200such that first mount140acouples diagonally between the left wall and the top wall. First mount140agenerally connects tangentially to isolator130in order to hold isolator130at an angle relative to platform110. Second mount140bincludes a first portion that generally connects tangentially to isolator130, for example, at a location of isolator130opposite from first mount140a, and helps to hold isolator130at an angle relative to platform110. Second mount140bmay further comprise a second portion that couples to platform110. As can be seen with reference toFIG. 2a, the portion of second mount140bthat couples to platform110is generally positioned flush with platform110proximate a corner of platform110. In certain embodiments, first mount140aand second mount140bhold isolator130at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees relative to the x-axis) such that an axis through the diameter of isolator130in the xy-plane bisects the center of platform110.

FIG. 4illustrates an example of an isolator130, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular,FIG. 4illustrates a HERM, which is a type of wire rope isolator. Each HERM may comprise a coil-like structure having a plurality of loops132held together by one or more brackets134. In certain embodiments, loops132are made from wire rope. The diameter of loops132, the spacing between loops132, and the thickness of the wire may be tuned based on the frequencies to be isolated by the isolator. In certain embodiments, the HERM may include a first bracket134operable to attach to first mount140aand a second bracket134operable to attach to second mount140b. In the illustration, bracket134comprises a plurality of mounting holes136through which a bolt, screw, or other fastener may attach bracket134to mount140. The HERM further comprises an overmolded material, such as an elastomer (e.g., neoprene, natural rubber, etc.), which adds energy damping to the HERM. For purposes of illustration,FIG. 4shows a portion of the overmolded material as removed so that loops132are visible in the drawing. It should be understood that, in practice, the overmolded material would embed loops132. A HERM may act as a non-linear spring (i.e., the resistance of the HERM increases as the force upon it increases).

The HERM illustrated inFIG. 4may be manufactured to hold a specific mass and to have a known/specified natural frequency. As an example, a HERM with a natural frequency around 5 Hz may be effective at reducing vibrations between 8 and 40 Hz. At vibrations below 8 Hz, case200and platform110move as a rigid solid so that there is no stress on load120(e.g., a painting) due to frequencies below 8 Hz.

In certain embodiments, the suspended platform110may be made self-centering. For example, isolators130(such as the HERM illustrated inFIG. 4) can be configured to minimize the extent to which platform110carrying load120moves from its initial position in response to vibration and/or shock. The initial position can be referred to as point (0, 0, 0) relative to the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis. Return of platform110to the initial position (0, 0, 0) after an excursion relative to the exterior shell can be optimized by arranging isolators to oppose one another. For example, assume that a first wire rope isolator (“WRI-1”) opposes a second wire rope isolator (“WRI-2”). A movement that pushes WRI-1 would pull the opposing WRI-2 such that when WRI-1 undergoes compression, the opposing WRI-2 undergoes tension, and vice versa. Thus, opposing wire rope isolators130keep the net effect of the movement as close to neutral as possible.

In the example illustrated inFIG. 2a, returning platform110to its initial point is accomplished at least in part by configuring a wire rope isolator proximate to each corner of platform110. Wire rope isolator130aat the top left corner of platform110is in opposition to wire rope isolator130cat the bottom right of platform110, and wire rope isolator130bat the top right of platform110is in opposition to wire rope isolator130dat the bottom left of platform110. The opposing wire rope isolator(s)130may be aligned. For example, an axis through the diameter of isolator130ain the xy-plane may align with an axis through the diameter of isolator130cin the xy-plane to bisect the center of platform110. Similarly, an axis through the diameter of isolator130bin the xy-plane may align with an axis through the diameter of isolator130din the xy-plane to bisect the center of platform110.FIG. 5illustrates an example of aligning each axis to bisect the center (“CG”) of platform110.

In certain embodiments, the suspension system may be configured such that each wire rope isolator130is in a state of slight compression when platform110is in its initial position (0, 0, 0). Thus, the suspension system can respond to movements that cause one wire rope isolator130to undergo increased compression without immediately causing the opposing wire rope isolator130to undergo tension such that the net movement of platform110is gradual and kept to a minimum.

Wire rope isolators can be tuned to accommodate both the load120and the natural frequency of the load120, thus achieving critical damping of transportation-induced vibrations. Tuning can include selecting loop spacing, loop diameter, wire thickness, number of wires in a rope braid, number of loops, number of isolators130, angle of orientation of isolators130relative to platform110, position of isolators130relative to platform110, and so on. As an example, as the weight of load120increases, wire thickness137can be increased, loop diameter136can be decreased, and/or the number of loops can be increased. In certain embodiments, wire rope isolators130are tuned to yield a tuning ratio greater than or equal to 1.4. The tuning ratio is determined by dividing a natural frequency of an object that the vibration-isolating system protects by a natural frequency of the vibration-isolating system. In certain embodiments, wire rope isolators130can be tuned to isolate one or more frequencies in the range of approximately 8-50 Hz, depending on the object that the vibration-isolation system protects.

In certain embodiments, wire rope isolators130may be tuned separately depending on their position within the suspension system. Wire rope isolators130positioned proximate the bottom side of platform110(the gravitational load-bearing side of platform110) tend to experience heavier loading and may therefore be tuned to support more weight than wire rope isolators130positioned proximate the top side, right side, and/or left side of platform110. Thus, rope isolators130positioned proximate the bottom side of platform110can be tuned to support more weight. As an example, wire rope isolator(s)130positioned proximate the bottom side of platform110can have a different wire thickness, number of wires in a rope braid, number of loops in the wire rope isolator, and/or loop diameter than wire rope isolator(s)130positioned proximate the top side of platform110. As another example, wire rope isolators130aand130bat the top of platform110can be tuned to provide more flexibility and wire rope isolators130cand130dmay be tuned to provide more rigidity. This may allow platform110to provide an inverted-pendulum movement such that the gravitational load-bearing side at the bottom of platform110stays relatively steady relative to the top of platform110. In other embodiments, wire rope isolators130a,130b,130c, and130dmay all be the same type of isolator (e.g., the isolators may all be the same model of HERM with the same tuning properties, such as wire thickness, number of wires in a rope braid, number of loops in the wire rope isolator, and/or loop diameter).

In certain embodiments, a foam structure can be positioned through a space formed by loops132of wire rope isolator130(e.g., the foam structure can be placed through the space at the core of wire rope isolator130). The foam structure is operable to act as a safety stop to provide impact attenuation and prevent wire rope isolator130from crimping or creasing in the event of a drop or similar impact. For example,FIG. 4illustrates embodiments in which wire rope isolator (HERM)130includes two brackets134aand134b. The foam structure can be positioned between the first bracket134aand the second bracket134bto prevent the first bracket134afrom coming into contact with the second bracket134bin the event of a drop or similar impact. The foam structure may be made of material that is soft and cushy in low-impulse environments (e.g., impulses due to vibrations) and that stiffens in high-impulse environments (e.g., impulse due to dropping case200). For example, the foam structure may comprise an impact-responsive, variable stiffness foam such as smartfoam, urethane foam (for example PoronXRD urethane), or other material that can compress rapidly and form chemical crosslinks that stiffen and absorb energy in high-impulse environments. The foam structure may have any suitable shape, such as a block shape, a cylindrical shape, or, more generally, a mass of foam. In certain embodiments, the width/diameter of the foam structure is approximately half of loop diameter136. This may allow some air space for wire rope isolator130to flex in low-impulse environments without engaging the foam structure. In certain embodiments, each wire rope isolator (e.g., isolators130a-130d) can be configured with a foam structure as a safety stop.

FIG. 5illustrates an example of an adjustable load-positioning system for securing a load to a platform, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. The tuning of isolators130can be improved by centering load120at the center of gravity of suspended platform110and using diametrically opposed isolators tuned to a specific mass. An adjustable load-positioning system such as that shown inFIG. 5allows for centering load120at the center of gravity to improve the tuning of isolators130.

In the example embodiment shown inFIG. 5, the adjustable load-positioning system comprises a plurality of adjustable rails116that allow for moving load120in any suitable direction. In a preferred embodiment, rails116allow for moving load120in the up-and-down direction (e.g., in the direction of the y-axis of platform110) and in the left-and-right direction (e.g., in the direction of the x-axis of platform110). In certain embodiments, rails116may couple together with brackets that allow for sliding the rails116into position and locking rails116in place once the load is centered. In some embodiments, rails116may become rigid under tension such that rails116lock into place. Other locking mechanisms, such as a latch, may be used in addition or in alternative to the tension-based locking. Platform110may be considered centered when a level positioned along the x-axis of platform110becomes plum.

FIG. 5further illustrates that the adjustable load-positioning system may include one or more shelves115and/or one or more brackets118for holding load120in place. In the example shown inFIG. 5, shelf115ais configured to hold the bottom of a front-facing load120aand shelf115bis configured to hold the bottom of a back-facing load120b. In certain embodiments, shelf115has trough shape such that a front portion of shelf115may help to hold load120in place in the front-to-back direction. In other embodiments, shelf115is generally flat. In some embodiments, shelf115aand shelf115bcan each be configured to move up and down rails116to facilitate balancing the loads120a,120b. For example, the adjustable load-positioning system may allow for sliding shelf115aand/or shelf115bto center the payload and then securing shelf115aand/or shelf115bin place once the payload has been centered. In other embodiments, shelf115aand shelf115bmay each have a fixed location, which may be toward the bottom of platform110to lower the center of gravity of case200and allow headroom for a taller load120.

In the example shown inFIG. 5, brackets118comprise an L-shaped portion that allows for holding a corner of load120. For example, bracket118bis configured to hold a top left corner of front-facing load120aand bracket118cis configured to hold a top right corner of front-facing load120a. Similarly, brackets118aand118dare configured to hold the top corners of back-facing load120b. Brackets118can each be configured to move up, down, left, and right along rails116to facilitate balancing the loads120a,120b. Optionally, bracket118may comprise a rigid portion, such as a metal brace, to maintain the shape of bracket118under the pressure of load120.

Shelves115and brackets118may be added or removed depending on how many loads120are to be carried by platform110. Shelves115and/or brackets118may optionally comprises a padding material, such as soft foam, which may prevent damaging load120(e.g., when load120is being loaded/unloaded or is in transit). Additionally, or in the alternative, shelves115and/or brackets118may comprise a grip material that reduces sliding along the surface of shelves115and/or brackets118.

In certain embodiments, mass units117can be added to platform110to facilitate centering platform110at its center of gravity. For example, the exterior framework112of platform110may be made with mini-tech channel extruded aluminum so that mass units117can be bolted wherever more mass is needed to center platform110(e.g., mass units117can be added to the left, right, top, bottom, front, or back until a level positioned along the x-axis of platform110becomes plum). Additionally, the mass units117can be used to ensure that platform110carries the amount of mass to which isolators130have been tuned. Thus, the mass units117compensate for load120having too little mass (e.g., if paintings carried by platform110are lighter than the mass to which isolators130have been tuned). Each mass unit can have a standardized or specified mass to simplify calculating the mass added by the mass units117. In certain embodiments, space may be reserved between the exterior framework112of platform110and the exterior shell of case200(e.g., walls202) to allow room for adding mass units117. As an example, the space may be 8-14 inches deep. In certain embodiments, the mass units117are aluminum units containing phase change material to help maintain a stable temperature inside case200. In certain embodiments, the mass units117comprise inelastic particulate, such as lead shot, which may help dampen vibrations of platform110. In some embodiments, the inelastic particulate may be suspended in gel. Alternatively, the inelastic particulate may be surrounded by air.

If platform110is not centered or is not loaded with sufficient mass, platform110may experience sway up to several inches in any direction. To minimize sway, it is important that the payload matches the mass to which the isolators130are tuned and is positioned such that platform110is centered at its center of gravity. As an example, suppose isolators130are tuned to a fixed mass of 90 kilograms such that vibrations in the critical range (e.g., 8-40 Hz) are not transmitted to the platform or payload when the load is approximately 90 kilograms and centered. More generally, to effectively impede transmission of a specific range of vibrations, the payload should be matched with the isolators130(in other words, isolators130should be tuned to the payload).

As an example, the vibration-isolating system may be adapted to carry one or more paintings (e.g., stretched canvas painted with artwork). In certain embodiments, isolators130may be tuned to impede vibrations in a pre-determined frequency range for a payload having a pre-determined mass. In certain embodiments, the predetermined frequency range is selected in order to lower the natural frequency down to a frequency at which the vibration isolating system vibrates as a rigid solid without stressing the canvas and without vibrating at the resonant frequency (e.g., first, second, or third drum) of the canvas. In certain embodiments, the predetermined frequency range to be dampened begins at approximately 8-10 Hz and ends at approximately 40-50 Hz, such as 8-40 Hz, 8-50 Hz, 10-40 Hz, or 10-50 Hz, among others. In certain embodiments, the pre-determined mass is between 80-100 kilograms, such as 90 kilograms.

Suppose the isolators130are tuned to impede vibrations in the pre-determined frequency range of 10-50 Hz for a payload having a pre-determined mass of 90 kilograms. The painting(s) (i.e., the one or more loads) in this example are considered to satisfy the pre-determined mass of the payload to which the plurality of isolators are tuned if they lower the natural frequency down to a frequency below 10 Hz. Suppose the platform with the adjustable load-positioning system weighs 50 kilograms. As a first example, suppose loading the painting(s) plus any optional mass units117adds 35 kilograms (such that the combined weight of the platform, adjustable load-positioning system, painting(s), and optional mass units117is 85 kilograms), which causes the natural frequency to be lowered to 9 Hz. As a second example, suppose loading the painting(s) plus any optional mass units117adds 40 kilograms (such that the combined weight of the platform, adjustable load-positioning system, painting(s), and optional mass units117is 90 kilograms), which causes the natural frequency to be lowered to 8 Hz. As a third example, suppose loading the painting(s) plus any optional mass units117adds 45 kilograms (such that the combined weight of the platform, adjustable load-positioning system, painting(s), and optional mass units117is 95 kilograms), which causes the natural frequency to be lowered to 7 Hz. Each of the three examples (85 kilogram, 90 kilogram, and 95 kilogram) is considered to satisfy the pre-determined mass to which the system is tuned because each of the three examples impedes frequencies in the pre-determined range of 10-50 Hz.

In other embodiments, different isolators130could be specified (e.g., wire thickness, number of loops, loop diameter, loop spacing, and/or number of wires in a rope braid could be adjusted) in order to tune the isolators to impede vibrations in the pre-determined frequency range of 10-50 Hz for a payload having a different pre-determined mass, such as 50 kilograms for a smaller case or 120 kilograms for a larger case, or other suitable value. Similarly, in other embodiments, different isolators130could be specified (e.g., wire thickness, number of loops, loop diameter, loop spacing, and/or number of wires in a rope braid could be adjusted) in order to tune the isolators to impede vibrations in a different pre-determined frequency range, depending on the resonant frequency of the load.

As discussed above, in certain embodiments, platform110is suspended by four wire rope isolators130(e.g., HERMs). Isolators130a,130b,130c, and130dare mounted in the corners of case200and are coupled proximate the corners of platform110such that isolator130ais diagonally opposed to isolator130cand isolator130bis diagonally opposed to isolator130d(see e.g.,FIG. 5). This configuration of isolators130(e.g., HERMs) together with an adjustable load-positioning system that allows for centering the payload around the center of gravity of platform110may be well-suited to impeding vibrations in the range of approximately 10-50 Hz. For example, this configuration of isolators130together with the adjustable load-positioning system may improve dampening of vibrations in the critical range as compared to previous solutions, such as those described in U.S. Patent Publication 2017/0037928. In the previous solution many isolators (e.g.,10isolators) were paired such that the pairs of isolators were opposed in the front-to-back, left-to-right, and top-to-bottom directions. However, the isolators in the previous solution were not diagonally opposed and the platform in the previous solution lacked a mechanism for centering the load at the center of gravity of platform110. Thus, although each isolator in the previous solution was self-centering vis-à-vis its respective paired isolator, all of the isolators as a group were creating harmonic additive interference that did not impede vibrations in all directions as effectively as the configuration of isolators130disclosed herein.

FIG. 6illustrates an example of a platform comprising an adjustable load-positioning system being mounted within the case ofFIG. 2a, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7illustrates an example of a base210for the case200ofFIG. 2a, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, base210is integrated with case200and lowers the center of gravity of case200. In certain embodiments, base210defines a plurality of apertures212. Apertures212are dimensioned to provide a space through which tynes of a fork lift or pallet jack may pick up the case. Base210may make it easier and safer to move case200by reducing the likelihood that a fork lift tips case200or penetrates case200. Base210may comprise any suitable material, such as molded polyethylene. In certain embodiments, base210may be coupled to bottom wall202of case200by one or more fasteners such as one or more nails, screws, bolts, adhesives, etc.

FIG. 8illustrates an example container assembly for a load120, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In general,FIG. 8illustrates load120arranged using a panel system that places a substantially flat object300, such as a painting, between panels on the front and back sides of the object. Substantially airtight air gaps (i.e., sealed air compartments) between object300and the panels increase stiffness and reduce vibration movement across object300. In the example illustrated inFIG. 8, a three-panel system comprises, in order, a back panel310, object300, front panel301, and stiffener panel302. Back panel310is positioned behind object300and offset by a first sealed air compartment, front panel301is positioned in front of object300and offset by a second sealed air compartment, and stiffener panel302is positioned in front of front panel301and offset by a third sealed air compartment. In an alternate embodiment, load120may be a two-panel system, comprised of, in order, back panel310, object300, and front panel301, without stiffener panel302.

Using panels that are relatively stiffer than object300and that are offset by sealed air compartments may control vibrations across object300. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 8, back panel310imparts its rigidity onto object300, stiffener panel302imparts its rigidity onto front panel301, and front panel301further imparts its rigidity onto object300. This result is based on principles of the Universal Gas Law applied to flat planes within a control volume system. The gas trapped in any sealed air compartment acts to resist motion of one panel due to the resistance in motion of the other panel and resulting compression of the trapped gas. The effect is to quiet the motion of a flexible panel with a more rigid panel and ultimately to reduce the load on the object during transit and handling. The size of the offset between the planes can be tuned in order to minimize the motion of the flexible panel while maintaining enough of an offset to prevent the planes from colliding during any remaining vibration. For example, in the ideal case of two perfectly flat planes, the stiffness of a 0.125 inch air gap is exceedingly high. For a displacement of 0.001 inches the restoring force between the two planes is approximately 17 pounds per square foot, assuming sea level air pressures, room temperature, and normal levels of humidity. For small gaps, the mechanical stiffness between two planes is higher than casual observation would seem to indicate.

In certain embodiments, the panel system may be tuned to raise the natural frequency of object300. As an example, assume the natural frequency of the canvas is 7 Hz. Back panel310can be configured to double the natural frequency of the canvas (from 7 Hz to 14 Hz in the example). Front panel301can be configured to increase the natural frequency of the canvas-and-back panel configuration by about one-third (from 14 Hz to 21 Hz in the example). Stiffener panel302can be configured to double the natural frequency of the canvas-back panel-and-front panel configuration (from 21 Hz to 42 Hz in the example). Other embodiments may tune the natural frequency to any suitable value. As an example, for an object300having a natural frequency in the range of 1 Hz to 20 Hz, the first sealed air compartment could be dimensioned so as to increase the natural frequency of object300by at least 20%, the second sealed air compartment could be dimensioned so as to increase the natural frequency of object300by at least 20%, and the third sealed air compartment could be dimensioned so as to increase the natural frequency of object300by at least 20%. Additionally, the combination of the first, second, and third sealed air compartments could be configured to increase the natural frequency of the object to at least 40 Hz. In certain embodiments, the panel system can prevent high displacement excursions, such as excursions greater than 350 microns. This may prevent movement or sagging that can occur when a stretched canvas is tipped, knocked over, or placed in a horizontal orientation.

The use of small-volume, static gas piston principals to impart the high natural frequency and low excursion properties of the rigid panels to the less rigid object300may allow for limiting undesirable excursions and raising the natural frequency of object300without direct mechanical contact between object300and the other panels. For example, in embodiments where object300comprises a painting, air pistons prevent front panel301, stiffener panel302, and back panel310from directly touching the face of the canvas.

FIG. 9illustrates an example container assembly for a load120, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG. 9illustrates load120as including an object300configured within a panel system. Object300may be a painting, canvas, or other thin-membrane artifact susceptible to vibration. Object300may be mounted on stretcher303. Stretcher303may provide a support structure, such as a wooden frame, and the edges of object300(e.g., the canvas) wrap around the sides of stretcher303. In certain embodiments, object300may be affixed to stretcher303using nails. Stretcher303may also incorporate cross members for added rigidity. Object300(stretched on stretcher303) may be mounted in a frame304, such as a gallery frame or other art frame. Frame304may include a recessed edge or rabbet within which object300may be mounted.

As further described below, load120includes a plurality of gaskets306to seal components of load120in place. Any suitable gaskets306may be used, such as closed cell polyethylene gaskets. In certain embodiments, a gasket306may form an air gap between components sealed by the gasket306. As an example, a gasket306may be used to form an air gap between two panels. As another example, a gasket306(gasket306b) may be used to seal and/or form an air gap between object300and frame304. In certain embodiments, gaskets306may be selected to provide an air gap with a depth in the range of 3-5 millimeters. Load120may be pressure fit to compress the various gaskets.

FIG. 9illustrates an embodiment in which the panel system includes a front panel301, an optional stiffener panel302, and back panel310. In certain embodiments, front panel301comprises a transparent glazing such as acrylic or glass that is relatively stiffer than object300. In certain embodiments, the front panel has a thickness in the range of approximately 3-5 millimeters. Gasket306acreates a sealed air compartment between object300and front panel301. In certain embodiments, gasket306ais a 3-5 millimeter closed cell polyethylene gasket positioned between object300and front panel301. A spacer307may be used to increase the depth of the air gap between object300and front panel301. The spacer307in combination with gasket306akeep the front panel in close proximity to the face of the object to increase stiffness, but sufficiently offset to ensure there are not collisions between front panel301and object300during transit and handling. As an example, spacer307may comprise a polycarbonate material and may have a height in the range of approximately 1-5 millimeters, such as 3 millimeters. Thus, in certain embodiments, gasket306atogether with spacer307form an air gap between the surface of object300and front panel301having a depth in the range of approximately 4-10 millimeters, such as 6-8 millimeters. Front panel301may be sealed within the rabbet portion of frame304by another gasket (gasket306d).

Stiffener panel302is an optional panel that can be used to provide additional rigidity to load120. Stiffener panel302comprises any suitable material, such as paper honeycomb board or an aluminum honeycomb panel. To impart more stiffness to object300, stiffener panel302may be more rigid than front panel301(which as discussed above may be an acrylic glazing in certain embodiments). Stiffener panel302seals to front panel301using gasket306e. In certain embodiments, the gas gap between stiffener panel302and front panel301is smaller in depth than the gas gap between front panel301and object300. Making the stiffener panel302-to-front panel301gas gap smaller that the front panel301-to-object300gas gap makes the stiffener panel302-to-front panel301gas gap significantly more rigid in compression. Thus, stiffener panel302meaningfully reduces the vibration of the entire system by reducing deflection under load of front panel301, thereby relieving the strain on object300. In certain embodiments, gasket306ecomprises a 3-5 millimeter closed cell polyethylene gasket operable to produce a substantially airtight seal between stiffener panel302and front panel301. In certain embodiments, stiffener panel302is held in place by a clamp, tape, straps, or a box surrounding the complete assembly of load120.

Back panel310may be coupled to the reverse side of stretcher303and may form a continuous seal along the reverse side of stretcher303. For example, back panel310may comprise a backing frame311that couples to frame304via gasket306c, wherein gasket306cis operable to provide a substantially airtight seal. In certain embodiments, gasket306cis a 3-5 millimeter closed cell polyethylene gasket. One or more fasteners305may be used to secure backing frame311to frame304. Examples of fasteners305include a screw, nail, bolt, adhesive, etc. Note that gasket306cprovides a gap between frame304and the backing frame311portion of back panel310. The gap between back panel310and object300may be relatively large, for example approximately three-quarters of an inch, depending on the depth of stretcher303and/or the thickness of back panel310.

In certain embodiments, back panel310further comprises a decontamination layer312, a humidity control layer313, and a back board314. Decontamination layer312may be positioned behind stretcher303and may be operable to scavenge volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as acid or aldehyde, or other contaminants emitted by object300. As an example, a paper board comprising clay and/or activated charcoal (e.g., zeolite clay and activated charcoal embedded paper boards) may be used in decontamination layer312.

Humidity control layer313may be operable to stabilize humidity. In certain embodiments, humidity control layer313comprises a polypropylene felt containing a silica gel. The silica gel is conditioned to maintain acceptable humidity within frame304. A dust cover may be positioned between humidity control layer313and object300to prevent silica dust from getting on object300.

Back board314provides stiffness to back panel310such that back panel is relatively stiffer than object300. Back board314may comprise a substantially rigid foam board. In certain embodiments, back board314comprises a foam core polystyrene board or other material which may provide thermal insulation to prevent rapid temperature fluctuations. In certain embodiments, back board314may further comprise an aluminum layer (e.g., a layer on or within the foam board) operable to stabilize humidity. As an example, back board may comprise a commercial product such as MARVELSEAL®, an aluminized polyethylene film for vapor proofing and humidity control.

Thus, back panel310may provide microclimate control by configuring one or more environmental buffers (e.g., humidity control layer313and/or back board314) to provide humidity and/or thermal protection. Microclimate control may refer to environmental buffers within back panel310or within the sealed compartment formed between back panel310and object300. Certain embodiments may also provide macroclimate control by configuring additional environmental buffers within case200. Examples of environmental buffers for macroclimate control include thermal phase change tiles and/or silica gel tiles that can attach to an interior-facing wall or door of case200and/or can attach on or within platform110.

An alternative embodiment of load120reduces the corner volume on stiffener panel302, which increases stiffness still further, by reducing the amount of compressible gas in the third sealed air compartment without increasing the likelihood of a collision between front panel301and stiffener panel301during heavy shock loading of the whole system, such as might occur if load120was dropped. That is, reducing the corner volume of stiffener panel302in turn reduces the corner volume of the third sealed air compartment between stiffener panel302and front panel301, resulting in a lower volume of compressible gas in the third sealed air compartment that enhances the stiffening effect imparted on front panel301from stiffener panel302. This enhanced stiffening occurs where the volume of trapped air is reduced while still maintaining the same surface area on the face of front panel301. This may be achieved through methods such as producing a concave geometry on the surface of stiffener panel302that extends into the third sealed air compartment to occupy space and/or producing a stiffener panel302having a non-uniform thickness. This geometry may be possible through using additive techniques such as three-dimensional printing. This may further be achieved by using a non-rectangular geometry for gasket306e, such as an oval shape, that would eliminate the corners where the displacement of a vibrating panel would be minimal.

AlthoughFIG. 9illustrates one example arrangement of gaskets306, other embodiments may use different arrangements of gaskets306. As an example, with larger air gaps between backing panel310and object300or between front panel301and stiffener panel302on a relatively large canvas (e.g., 2 meter×4 meter) the gas piston space may be broken into several smaller gas piston spaces by using gasketing to divide one large space into several smaller spaces, thus adding the rigidity of a smaller panel.

The various components described with respect toFIGS. 1-9may be combined to form a vibration isolation system. The vibration isolation system may use any suitable combination of components, such as isolators130, panels (e.g., front panel301, back panel310, and optionally stiffener panel302), and/or other components. Examples of other components include one or more sensors that may optionally be mounted in or on case200, load120, and/or object300. Sensors may monitor and record vibrations and shocks occurring during transit, pressurization conditions, environmental conditions, GPS coordinates, surveillance cameras, and/or other suitable information. Additional examples of other components include humidity buffers, thermal controls (e.g., insulation materials, heating and cooling units, etc.), or other components selected to maintain optimal environmental conditions within case200.

The combination of components may be selected and tuned based on the object that the vibration isolation system protects. As an example, a system for protecting a stretched canvas or similar object may include a panel system tuned to increase the natural frequency of the canvas to at least 40 Hz and isolators130tuned to yield a tuning ratio greater than or equal to 1.4.

The tuning ratio is determined by dividing a natural frequency of object300that the vibration-isolating system protects by a natural frequency of the vibration-isolating system. For an isolation system to work, the natural frequency of the thing to be isolated (e.g., object300within load120) must be higher than the natural frequency of the isolation system. Over most of the spectrum, the number at which amplification starts to change to isolation is a ratio of 1.4, which is the square root of 2 approximated to the nearest one-tenth. If the natural frequency of the thing to be isolated divided by the natural frequency of the isolation system is less than 1.4, then amplification will occur. Thus, the tuning ratio for achieving true, critical damping over most of the spectrum may be expressed according to the following formula:
(FP÷FI)≥1.4

In the formula, the tuning ratio is expressed as (FP÷FI), where FPrefers to the natural frequency of the payload being protected by the vibration-isolating system (e.g., object300), and FIrefers to the natural frequency of the vibration-isolating system. As an example, applying the formula to a scenario in which the natural frequency of the payload being protected (Fp) equals 14 Hz, the natural frequency of the vibration-isolating system (FI) would be less than or equal to 10 Hz in order to yield a tuning ratio greater than or equal to 1.4.

As an example, a vibration isolation system may be tuned to protect a painting on a canvas. A canvas tends to have the lowest natural frequency and is the most flexible as compared to other art media, such as glass, marble, or ceramic sculptures and artifacts. Thus, the vibration-isolating system can be built to be able to isolate the lowest frequencies (the frequencies associated with canvases) and can then be tuned according to the natural frequency of the object being isolated (e.g., canvas, glass, marble, or ceramic, and so on).

For purposes of the example, assume the natural frequency of the canvas is 7 Hz. To achieve a tuning ratio greater than 1.4 for the canvas, wire rope isolators130would be tuned to a natural frequency less than or equal to 5 Hz (i.e., 7 Hz divided by 1.4). However, configuring a wire thickness, number of loops, loop diameter, loop spacing, number of wires in a rope braid, number of wire rope isolators130, angle of orientation of wire rope isolators130relative to platform110, and/or position of wire rope isolators130relative to the platform110to achieve a natural frequency of 5 Hz may be impractical. For example, tuning wire rope isolators130to a frequency as low as 5 Hz may require a relatively large wire thickness that can be difficult to form into a small loop and may thus have a large loop diameter. Wire rope isolators130with a wire thickness and loop diameter large enough to isolate low frequencies may take up too much space within case200. To address this problem, the panel system described with respect toFIGS. 8-9can be used to increase the natural frequency of the canvas, which in turn increases the natural frequency to which wire rope isolators130would be tuned.

Continuing with the example, back panel310can be configured to double the natural frequency of the canvas (from 7 Hz to 14 Hz in the example). To achieve a tuning ratio greater than 1.4 for the canvas-and-back panel310configuration, wire rope isolators130would be tuned to a natural frequency less than or equal to 10 Hz (i.e., 14 Hz divided by 1.4). The natural frequency of the canvas can be further increased with the addition of front panel301. Front panel301can be configured to increase the natural frequency of the canvas-and-back panel301configuration by about one-third (from 14 Hz to 21 Hz in the example). To achieve a tuning ratio greater than 1.4 for the canvas-and-back panel310-and-front panel301configuration, wire rope isolators130would be tuned to a natural frequency less than or equal to 15 Hz (i.e., 21 Hz divided by 1.4). The natural frequency of the canvas can be further increased with the addition of stiffener panel302. Stiffener panel302can be configured to double the natural frequency of the canvas-and-back panel301-and-front panel302configuration (from 21 Hz to 42 Hz in the example). To achieve a tuning ratio greater than 1.4 for the configuration that includes the canvas, back panel310, front panel301, and stiffener panel302, wire rope isolators130would be tuned to a natural frequency less than or equal to 30 Hz (i.e., 42 Hz divided by 1.4). In certain embodiments, the panel system may be tuned to achieve a natural frequency in the range of approximately 40-70 Hz for object300, and wire rope isolators may be tuned to a natural frequency less than or equal to 50 Hz (i.e., 70 Hz divided by 1.4), such as a natural frequency less than or equal to approximately 28.6 Hz (i.e., 40 Hz divided by 1.4).

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. Certain embodiments may protect an object from damage due to vibrations, displacement, impact, temperature, and/or humidity. As discussed above, any suitable combination of the components described herein can be used to provide the desired protections.

Vibration protection can be provided by a combination of a suspension system comprising isolators130and/or the panel system. In certain embodiments, a panel system can be tuned to increase the natural frequency of the canvas to at least 40 Hz, and isolators130can be tuned to yield a tuning ratio greater than or equal to 1.4.

Excursion protection can be provided by the panel system. The panel system can impart stiffness to the canvas that protects against excursions. In certain embodiments, the panel system limits excursions at the most flexible point (the middle of the canvas) to a value that does not affect the adhesion or cohesion of the paint to the canvas. For example, panel system can be configured to limit excursions greater than 350 microns. In certain embodiments, the stiffness imparted by the panel system can prevent sagging of the canvas in the event that the panel system is tilted and can reduce the likelihood of the canvas coming into contact with its glazing, for example, in the event that a person inadvertently presses on the stiffener panel.

Impact protection can be provided by the suspension system (e.g., wire rope isolators130), shock absorbing structures, and/or case200(e.g., a case comprising plastic, polycarbonate honeycomb, polypropylene honeycomb, honeycomb composite, or other material that deforms on impact and absorbs some of the energy of the impact). In certain embodiments, impact protection components are configured to limit the total G force in an impact resulting from a drop of up to one meter. For example, impact protection components can be configured to reduce the total impact shock to below 20 G. As discussed above, a foam structure, such as a mass of smartfoam, can be positioned within a wire rope isolator130to act as a safety stop that prevents wire rope isolator130from crimping or creasing in the event of an impact.

Temperature protection can be provided by macroclimate controls within case200and/or microclimate controls within back panel310of the panel system. As an example, the macroclimate control may use thermal phase change materials (e.g., tiles encased within platform110and/or tiles that snap in and out of case200) to maintain an internal temperature within case200. For example, the temperature may be maintained at 22° C., plus or minus 4° C., given an exterior fluctuation of 22° C., plus or minus 10° C. In other words, for exterior temperatures in the range of 12° C. to 32° C., the temperature within case200may be maintained in the range of 18° C. to 26° C.

Humidity protection can be provided by macroclimate controls within case200and/or microclimate controls within back panel310of the panel system. As an example, the macroclimate control may use silica gel felt within case200to maintain humidity within the range of 40% to 60% humidity given an internal temperature in the range of 18° C. to 26° C.

As a more specific example of combining the various components disclosed herein, an embodiment for transporting a stretched canvas or similar object comprises a case200configured with thermal phase change material, humidity control material, wire rope isolators130, and a panel system comprising front panel301, stiffener panel302, and back panel310, wherein the back panel310is configured to provide microclimate control. The thermal phase change material provides lightweight insulation that absorbs and releases thermal energy in order to avoid significant temperature fluctuations within case200. In certain embodiments, the thermal phase change material is implemented using tiles (e.g., tiles encased within platform110and/or tiles that snap in and out of case200). The humidity control material can be implemented using silica gel tiles that can attach inside the doors of case200. Wire rope isolators130, such as those discussed with respect toFIGS. 2-6, isolate platform110and load120from damaging vibration frequencies. For example, wire rope isolators can be tuned to yield a tuning ratio greater than or equal to 1.4, the tuning ratio determined by dividing a natural frequency of an object that the vibration-isolating system protects by a natural frequency of the vibration-isolating system. Case200can be configured with shock absorbing structures, such as XPS core, polypropylene honeycomb structures, or other shock absorbing structures to absorb the impact from shock in the event case200is dropped. The panel system stabilizes the canvas against high displacement excursions, such as excursions greater than 350 microns. For example, as discussed with respect toFIGS. 8-9, a stiffener panel302in combination with front panel301and back panel310provides rigidity to load120. The back panel310is further configured to provide microclimate control. For example, back panel310comprises back board314(e.g., insulating foam core board that can include a vapor barrier, such as an aluminized polyethylene film) and/or humidity control layer313(e.g., silica gel felt).

Certain embodiments may have all, some, or none of the above-identified advantages. Other advantages will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems and apparatuses described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses may be performed by more, fewer, or other components. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The methods may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order.