Abstract:
The present invention relates to improved methods and apparatus for loading goods into trailers ( 2 ). The invention provides apparatus ( 400 ) that facilitates loading of goods into the trailer ( 2 ), and optimise usage of storage space in the trailer ( 2 ).

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0001]    The present invention relates to trailers for lorries and the like. In particular, although not exclusively, the present invention relates to loading apparatus for trailers and a method of loading trailers comprising said loading apparatus.  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    Conventional trailers are arranged to provide an enclosable space in which goods can be loaded for carriage. The trailers are usually provided by substantially rectangular frames having one or more solid faces. Trailers are commonly mounted on a chassis comprising suitable running gear, to allow for connection of the trailer to a tractor unit for haulage purposes.  
           [0003]    Various legal requirements are set for the dimensions and maximum capacity of such trailers.  
           [0004]    Conventional loading procedures for trailers include the use of fork lift trucks operated with standard loading bays and dock levellers.  
           [0005]    In order to maximise the capacity of a particular size trailer, it is known to lower the base of the trailer between the rear axle and the front hitch of the trailer. Such a modification generally allows additional tiers of goods to be loaded one above the other.  
           [0006]    It is an aim of preferred embodiments of the present invention to provide apparatus to facilitate loading of a trailer.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0007]    The present invention provides a loading apparatus for a trailer comprising a platform, which platform, when mounted in a trailer can be moved relative to a floor of the trailer, in order to facilitate loading of goods into the trailer.  
           [0008]    The platform may comprise a unitary platform. Alternatively, the platform may comprise a plurality of sections independently moveable of one another.  
           [0009]    The loading apparatus may comprise a first platform and a second platform. Suitably, the first platform is situated above the second platform. Suitably, the first platform is spaced from the second platform.  
           [0010]    The first platform may be movable independently of the second platform. Alternatively, the first platform and the second platform may be movable as a unit whereby their position relative to one another remains unchanged.  
           [0011]    Suitably, movement of the second platform effects movement of the first platform.  
           [0012]    The spacing between the first platform and the second platform may remain constant during movement of the loading apparatus along a portion at least of the length of the first and second platforms. Suitably, the spacing between the first platform and the second platform remains constant along substantially the full length of the first and second platforms.  
           [0013]    Alternatively, the spacing between a portion at least of the first platform and the second platform may vary during movement of the loading apparatus. The spacing between substantially the full length of the first and second platforms may vary during movement of the loading apparatus.  
           [0014]    Suitably, the first platform and the second platform are substantially parallel to each other when said loading apparatus is in a loaded or unloaded condition. The first platform may be substantially parallel to the second platform during loading and unloading of the loading apparatus.  
           [0015]    Suitably, the first platform and/or the second platform comprises a supporting surface upon which goods are loaded. The supporting surface may comprise a sheet-like material, a grid-like material, a grill-like material or a combination thereof. Suitable materials for the support surface include metal, wood and plastic. The supporting surface of the first platform may be the same as or different from the supporting surface of the second surface.  
           [0016]    The first and/or second platform may comprise a plurality of sections independently moveable of one another.  
           [0017]    A proportion at least of the first platform may be provided by a conveyor. Suitably, substantially all of the first platform is provided by a conveyor. A proportion at least of the second platform may be provided by a conveyor. Suitably, substantially all of the second platform is provided by a conveyor. The plurality of sections may provide a single platform or plurality of separate platforms.  
           [0018]    A portion at least of the first platform may comprise an angle ledge, preferably, two or more angle ledges. Suitably, substantially all of the first platform is provided by an angle ledge, preferably by two or more angle ledges.  
           [0019]    Suitably, the angle ledges are supported above a second platform. Suitably the angle ledges are supported above the side edges of the second platform.  
           [0020]    The angle ledges may be supported on a support framework. The support framework may be connected to or independent of the second platform. Alternatively, the angle ledges may be mounted on side walls of a trailer in which the loading apparatus is located.  
           [0021]    Suitably, the angle ledges are arranged so as to extend substantially parallel to the floor of a trailer in which the loading apparatus is located. Suitably, the angle ledges are arranged to extend substantially parallel to the side walls of a trailer in which the loading apparatus is located.  
           [0022]    The first platform may comprise three or more angle ledges. In this case, one angle ledge is suitably arranged above each side edge of a second platform and the third angle ledge suitably extends therebetween.  
           [0023]    Suitably, the third angle ledge is supported by two or more posts. Suitably, the third angle ledge is supported by a post at each end thereof.  
           [0024]    Suitably the angle ledges are at least as long as the second platform. The angle ledges maybe longer than the second platform.  
           [0025]    The first and/or second platform may comprise one or more support beams. The position of the support beams, in use, may be manually or mechanically adjustable.  
           [0026]    Suitably, the first and/or second platform comprises a plurality of support beams. The plurality of support beams may be separate from one another. Alternatively, two or more of the plurality of support beams may be joined together. If any of the support beams are joined together, they are suitably joined together at the ends thereof. Suitably, the support beams are joined together by supporting arms, which also serve to space the support beams transversely from one another.  
           [0027]    In use, the support beams may be fixedly positioned in a trailer. Alternatively, in use, the support beams may be moveable between a storage position and a load bearing position. Suitably, in use, the support beams are manually moveable between a storage position and a load bearing position.  
           [0028]    In use, the support beams are suitably arranged substantially parallel to one another. In use, the support beams are suitably arranged spaced apart from one another.  
           [0029]    The support beams may be supported on a supporting framework, in use. If the loading apparatus comprises a first and/or second platform comprising one or more angle ledges, the supporting framework of the support beams may be provided by the supporting framework of the angle ledges.  
           [0030]    Alternatively, in use, the support beams may be mounted on is side walls of a trailed in which the loading apparatus is located.  
           [0031]    In use, the supporting beams are suitably arranged to extend substantially parallel to the floor of a trailer in which the loading apparatus is located. Suitably, the supporting beams are arranged in use to extend substantially perpendicular of side walls of a trailer in which the loading apparatus is located.  
           [0032]    Suitably, attachment means connects the first platform and the second platform. Suitable attachment means includes a strut extending between the first and second platforms. The strut may be of fixed length. Alternatively, the length of the strut may be variable. Suitably, the attachment means comprises a plurality of struts.  
           [0033]    The first platform may be movable substantially perpendicular relative to a trailer floor. The second platform may be movable substantially perpendicular relative to a trailer floor.  
           [0034]    The first platform may be movable substantially parallel relative to a trailer floor. The second platform may be movable substantially parallel relative to a trailer floor.  
           [0035]    The first platform may be movable diagonally relative to a trailer floor. The second platform may be diagonally movable relative to a trailer floor.  
           [0036]    The first platform may be simultaneously movable perpendicular and parallel or perpendicular and diagonally or parallel and diagonally relative to a trailer floor. The second platform may be simultaneously movable perpendicular and parallel or perpendicular and diagonally or parallel and diagonally relative to a trailer floor.  
           [0037]    The first platform may be pivotally movable about a fulcrum. The fulcrum may be provided at one end of the first platform. The second platform may be pivotally movable about a fulcrum. The fulcrum may be provided at one end of the second platform.  
           [0038]    Movement of the second platform may cause the first platform to pivot about the fulcrum. Alternatively, the first platform may pivot independently of the movement of the second platform.  
           [0039]    Guide means may be provided to control the path of movement of the first platform. Guide means may be provided to control the path of movement of the second platform. Separate guide means may be provided for the first platform and for the second platform. Alternatively, unitary guide means may be provided for the first platform and the second platform.  
           [0040]    Suitably, the loading apparatus comprises actuation means. Suitably, the actuation means comprises a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may comprise a motor.  
           [0041]    The actuation means may further comprise lifting means to effect movement of the first and/or second platforms. The lifting means is suitably driven by the drive means. The lifting means may be hydraulic lifting means.  
           [0042]    The loading apparatus may further comprise a conveyor mountable on the floor of a trailer at the rear end of the trailer. Suitably, the conveyor is mountable substantially level with the floor of the trailer. Alternatively, the conveyor may be mountable spaced above the floor of the trailer.  
           [0043]    A conveyor mounted on the floor of a trailer at the rear end of the trailer advantageously aids loading of goods into the trailer.  
           [0044]    The present invention further provides a method of loading a trailer comprising a loading apparatus in accordance with the present invention, wherein when the platform is substantially level with the trailer floor, goods are loaded onto the platform, the platform is then moved downwards relative to the trailer floor and further goods are loaded into the trailer.  
           [0045]    The method may include loading the goods onto a second platform and then lowering the second platform relative to the floor of the trailer.  
           [0046]    The further goods may be loaded onto a first platform, first platform is spaced above a second platform when the second platform has been lowered relative to the floor of the trailer.  
           [0047]    The method may include moving the second platform upwards relative to the floor of the trailer in order to bring the second platform substantially level with the floor of the trailer.  
           [0048]    Suitably, the second platform is raised to be level with the rear floor of the trailer when the loading apparatus is positioned for loading of the second platform. In this case, a rear edge of the second platform suitably abuts the rear floor of the trailer.  
           [0049]    The method may involve moving the first platform upwards when the second platform moves upward and moving the first platform downwards when the second platform is moved downwards.  
           [0050]    The method may include loading goods onto substantially the whole of the platform. The method may include loading substantially the whole of the second platform before lowering the second platform and then loading substantially the whole of the first platform.  
           [0051]    Alternatively, the method may involve loading a section of the platform and lowering that section of the platform before loading further goods into the trailer.  
           [0052]    The method may involve loading a section of the second platform, lowering that section of the second platform then loading a corresponding section of the first platform. In this case, this process may be repeated along the length of the first and second platform until substantially, the whole of the second and first platforms are loaded with goods.  
           [0053]    The method may include loading part or all of the second platform then manually positioning part or all of the first platform in the trailer before loading the first platform.  
           [0054]    Suitably, the method involves loading goods onto the rear end of the first and/or second platforms. Goods may be moved along the length of the platforms by displacement caused by loading of further goods onto the rear of the platform.  
           [0055]    Goods may be loaded onto the first platform such that when the platform is fully loaded, further goods are loaded onto the platform in order to displace goods onto the trailer floor in front of the first platform.  
           [0056]    Further goods may be loaded onto the rear floor of the trailer behind the first and second platform. Suitably, the rear floor of the trailer is not loaded with goods until the second platform, the first platform and, if appropriate, the trailer floor in front of the first platform are all fully loaded with goods.  
           [0057]    The method may involve loading a first part of a trailer using a first loading apparatus according to the present invention and loading a second part of the trailer using a second loading apparatus according to the present invention.  
           [0058]    The first loading apparatus and the second loading apparatus may be separate sets of apparatus. Alternatively, the first loading apparatus and the second loading apparatus may have elements in common.  
           [0059]    The present invention yet further provides a trailer comprising a loading apparatus in accordance with the present invention.  
           [0060]    Suitably, the trailer comprises a lowered floor in a section of the trailer, which provides a well. The trailer may comprise one or more wells in the floor thereof. Suitably, each of the one or more wells extends across the full width of the trailer floor. Suitably, each of the one or more wells has a substantially constant width along the full length thereof.  
           [0061]    The trailer may comprise a single well in a central section of the trailer extending from a rear axle towards the hitching end of the trailer. In this case, the well suitably stops short of the hitching end of the trailer.  
           [0062]    The trailer may comprise a single well in a rear section of the trailer extending from behind the rear axle towards the rear end of the trailer. The rear well may extend to the rear end of the trailer or the rear well may stop short of the rear end of the trailer.  
           [0063]    The trailer may comprise a first well in a central section and a second well in a rear section of the trailer.  
           [0064]    If the trailer comprises a plurality of wells, each well may be provided with a separate loading apparatus. Alternatively, one loading apparatus may be used to load a plurality of wells.  
           [0065]    If the loading apparatus comprises a first platform and a second platform, a single first platform may be provided for all of the plurality of wells, whilst separate second platforms are provided for each of the plurality of wells.  
           [0066]    The loading apparatus may comprise a unitary first platform and a second platform comprised of a plurality of sections independently moveable of one another, wherein different sections of the second platform are located in different wells of the trailer. In this case, the loading apparatus suitably comprises a single drive mechanism.  
           [0067]    If the trailer in which the loading apparatus is located comprises a well in the floor thereof and the first platform comprises three or more angle ledges, the third angle ledge is suitably supported by a post extending from the floor of the trailer, the posts being located at each end of the well. In this case, the posts may extend from within the well, but alternatively extend from the conventional floor level of the trailer.  
           [0068]    When the first platform of the loading apparatus comprises one or more angle ledges and the apparatus is located in a trailer, the angle ledges suitably extend from above the rear end of the second platform towards the front, or hitching, end of the trailer. Suitably, the angle ledges extend from above the rear end of the second platform to the front end of the trailer.  
           [0069]    If the trailer comprises a plurality of wells in the floor thereof, the angle ledges of the first platform may extend along substantially the full length of the trailer. Alternatively, the angle ledges may extend only along the length of one of the plurality of wells.  
           [0070]    If the loading apparatus comprises angle ledges that extend to the front end of the trailer in which it is located, then goods can be loaded in an elevated position on the angle ledges at the front of the trailer. Thus providing an additional storage area between the front floor of the trailer and the angle ledges providing the first platform. Additional goods or equipment, such as refrigeration equipment, may advantageously be stored in this region.  
           [0071]    Suitably, the dimensions of the trailer are such that in the region of the one or more wells, standard pallets of 1000 mm×1200 mm×1650 mm may be stacked in at least two tiers.  
           [0072]    The trailer may comprise a fixed roof. The trailer may comprise one or more fixed side walls. Alternatively, the trailer may comprise a removable roof and/or one or more removable side walls.  
           [0073]    The trailer may comprise insulated walls. The trailer may comprise a refrigeration unit.  
           [0074]    The first platform may extend substantially to the front, or hitching, end of the trailer. Alternatively, the first platform may stop short of the front end of the trailer. Suitably, the first platform extends from the hitching end of the trailer to the rear axle of the trailer. The first platform may extend to the rear end of the trailer.  
           [0075]    Part or all of the first platform may be moveable between a storage position and a loading position. The first platform may be manually or mechanically moveable between a storage position and a loading position.  
           [0076]    Suitably, the second platform extends along the full length of the well in which it is located. If the trailer comprises a plurality of wells, the second platform located in each well may comprise a plurality of sections independently moveable of one another.  
           [0077]    Suitably, the first platform and/or the second platform extend across substantially the full width of the trailer.  
           [0078]    Suitably, the trailer comprises a drive mechanism to actuate the loading apparatus.  
           [0079]    Suitably, the area between the front end of the first platform and the floor of the trailer houses the drive mechanism for the loading apparatus.  
           [0080]    If the trailer comprises a refrigeration unit, the refrigeration unit is suitably located between the front end of the first platform and the floor of the trailer.  
           [0081]    The first and/or second platform may comprise a conveyor along a proportion at least of the length of the platform. In this case, the goods may be moved along the platform by means of the conveyor.  
           [0082]    If one both of the first and second platforms is provided by a plurality of sections independently moveable of one another, then each section may comprise a separate conveyor.  
           [0083]    Preferred embodiments of the present invention advantageously provide loading apparatus, which simplifies the loading procedure. Furthermore, the loading apparatus in accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention provide a means of more fully utilising the space within a trailer fitted with the loading apparatus. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0084]    The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which:  
         [0085]    [0085]FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a trailer comprising loading apparatus;  
         [0086]    [0086]FIG. 2 is the trailer of FIG. 1 having the loading apparatus in a different position;  
         [0087]    [0087]FIGS. 3 a - d  illustrate the trailer of FIGS. 1 and 2 at different stages of loading;  
         [0088]    [0088]FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a trailer comprising an alternative loading apparatus;  
         [0089]    [0089]FIG. 5 shows the trailer of FIG. 4 with the loading apparatus in a different position;  
         [0090]    [0090]FIGS. 6 a - b  show the trailer of FIGS. 4 and 5 in various stages of loading;  
         [0091]    [0091]FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a trailer comprising an alternative loading apparatus;  
         [0092]    [0092]FIG. 8 is the trailer of FIG. 7 showing the loading apparatus in a different position;  
         [0093]    [0093]FIGS. 9 a - d  show the trailer of FIGS. 7 and 8 at various stages of loading;  
         [0094]    [0094]FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a trailer comprising an alternative loading apparatus;  
         [0095]    [0095]FIG. 11 shows the trailer of FIG. 10 with the loading apparatus in a different position;  
         [0096]    [0096]FIGS. 12 a - d  show the trailer of FIGS. 10 and 11 at various stages of loading;  
         [0097]    [0097]FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of a trailer comprising an alternative loading apparatus;  
         [0098]    [0098]FIG. 14 shows the trailer of FIG. 13 with the loading apparatus in a different position;  
         [0099]    [0099]FIGS. 15 a  and  15   b  show a cross sectional view of the trailer of FIGS. 13 and 14 in different loading positions;  
         [0100]    [0100]FIGS. 16 a - d  show the trailer of FIGS. 13, 14,  15   a  and  15   b  at various stages of loading;  
         [0101]    [0101]FIGS. 17 a - c  show an alternative trailer comprising loading apparatus, in various positions,  
         [0102]    [0102]FIGS. 18 a - c  show another yet further alternative trailer comprising loading apparatus, in various positions and  
         [0103]    [0103]FIGS. 19 a - e  show a trailer comprising alternative loading apparatus in various positions. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0104]    The trailer  2  of FIGS. 1, 2 and  3   a - d  comprises loading cage  4 .  
         [0105]    The trailer  2  comprises a lowered floor area  6 , which area  6  extends between the rear axle  8  to the hitching point  10  of the tractor unit  12 .  
         [0106]    The loading cage  4  comprises an upper surface  14  and a lower surface  16 . The upper surface  14  extends from the front end of the trailer  2  to stop short of the rear end of the trailer  2 , substantially above the rear axle  8 .  
         [0107]    The lower surface  16  extends along substantially the full length of the lowered floor area  6 .  
         [0108]    The upper surface  14  and the lower surface  16  are attached to one another by means of a plurality of struts  18 . The struts  18  are of fixed length and orientation. Therefore, the spacing between the upper surface  14  and the lower surface  16  remains substantially constant during movement of the loading apparatus  4 .  
         [0109]    The loading apparatus  4  further comprises lifting means  20  provided by a plurality of hydraulic rams. The lifting means  20  is controlled by drive motor (not shown).  
         [0110]    The trailer further comprises refrigeration means  22  located between the upper surface  14  and the front floor of the trailer  24 .  
         [0111]    To load the trailer  2  of FIGS. 1,2 and  3   a - d , the loading cage  4  is raised upwards by means of the hydraulic rams  20 , until the lower surface  16  is substantially level with a rear floor of the trailer  26 .  
         [0112]    Pallets  28  (see FIG. 3 a ) are then loaded onto the lower surface  16  by means of a fork lift truck (not shown). When the lower surface  16  is full, the loading cage  4  is lowered until the lower surface  14  is substantially resting on the lowered floor area  6  of the trailer floor (FIG. 3 b ).  
         [0113]    Pallets are then loaded onto the upper surface  14 , again using a fork lift truck (not shown). Pallets are loaded on the front edge to the rear edge of the upper surface  14  (FIG. 3 c ). When the upper surface  14  is fully loaded, pallets are loaded onto the rear floor  26  of the trailer (FIG. 3 d ).  
         [0114]    Unloading of the trailer is the reverse of the above process.  
         [0115]    The upper surface  14  comprises a conveyor  30  to facilitate loading of pallets onto the surface  14 .  
         [0116]    [0116]FIGS. 4, 5 and  6 a-d show a trailer  2  attached to a tractor unit  12  as illustrated in the previous figures comprising an alternative loading apparatus  100  according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Like is reference numerals have been used to denote like features.  
         [0117]    The loading apparatus  100  comprises an upper platform  102  pivotable at the front end thereof about a fulcrum  106 , and a lower platform  104 . The lower platform  104  is attached to a support frame  108 , which support frame is connected to the side walls (not shown) of the trailer  2 .  
         [0118]    The lower platform  104  is attached to the support frame  108  by means of hydraulic rams  110 . The upper platform  102  is also connected to lifting means  112 , provided by another hydraulic ram. The hydraulic rams  110  and  112  are controlled by means of a drive motor (not shown).  
         [0119]    In use of the apparatus of FIGS. 4, 5 and  6   a - d , the hydraulic ram  112  is extended to raise the upper platform  102  at the same time as the hydraulic rams  110  are contracted to raise the lower platform  104  (FIGS.  5  and  6   a ). Pallets  114  are then loaded onto the lower platform  104  using a fork lift truck (not shown).  
         [0120]    When the lower platform  104  is fully loaded, the hydraulic rams  110  are extended to lower the lower platform  104  into the lowered floor area  6  of the trailer  2 . At the same time, the hydraulic ram  112  is contracted to lower the upper platform  102  to a substantially horizontal orientation (FIG. 6 b ).  
         [0121]    Pallets are loaded onto the upper platform  102  by means of a fork lift truck (not shown). The upper platform  102  is provided by a conveyor  116  to facilitate loading of the upper platform  102  to the front edge thereof.  
         [0122]    Once the upper platform  102  is fully loaded (FIG. 6 c ), the rear floor  26  of the trailer  2  is loaded with pallets (FIG. 6 d ).  
         [0123]    Unloading of the trailer  2  is the reverse of the above process. FIGS. 8, 9 and  10   a - d  show a trailer  2  attached to a tractor unit  12  as illustrated in the previous figures, comprising an alternative loading mechanism  200  according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Like numerals denote like features.  
         [0124]    The loading apparatus  200  of FIGS. 7, 8 and  9   a - d  comprises an upper platform  202  provided by a conveyor  204 . The upper platform  202  is pivotable about fulcrum  206 . The loading apparatus  200  further comprises a lower platform  208 , which is attached to a support framework  209  by means of hydraulic rams  210 . The upper platform  202  is attached to the support framework  209  by means of hydraulic ram  212 .  
         [0125]    The rear end  214  of the lower platform  208  is guided by channel  216  (indicated by dashed lines).  
         [0126]    The front end  218  of the lower platform  208  is pivotally attached to arm  220  of each arm  220  is pivotally attached to the support framework  209 .  
         [0127]    In loading of the trailer of FIGS. 7, 8 and  9   a - d , the hydraulic ram  212  is extended to cause the upper platform  202  to pivot about fulcrum  206 . The hydraulic rams  210  then contract to raise the lower platform  208 . The pivotably mounted arm  220  and the guide channel  216  cause the lower platform  208  to move simultaneously upwards and rearwards. The lower platform  208  is raised until the rear edge  214  thereof is level with and abutting the rear floor  26  of the trailer (FIG. 8).  
         [0128]    Pallets  222  are then loaded (FIG. 9 a ) onto the lower platform  208  using a fork lift truck (not shown). When the lower platform  208  is fully loaded, the hydraulic rams  210  are extended to lower the lower platform  208  into the lowered floor area  6  of the trailer  2 . The hydraulic ram  212  then contracts to lower the upper platform  202  (FIG. 9 b ).  
         [0129]    Pallets are then loaded onto the upper platform  202  and the conveyor  204  facilitates loading of the upper platform  202  to the front end thereof (FIG. 9 c ).  
         [0130]    When the upper platform  202  is fully loaded the rear floor  26  of the trailer is loaded (FIG. 9 d ).  
         [0131]    Unloading the trailer is the reverse of the above described process.  
         [0132]    [0132]FIGS. 10, 11 and  12   a - d  illustrate the trailer  2  attached to the tractor unit  12  illustrated in the previous figures, comprising an alternative loading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Like reference numerals are used to denote like features.  
         [0133]    The loading apparatus  300  of FIGS. 10, 11 and  12   a - d  comprises an upper platform  302  provided by a conveyor  304  and pivotally mounted about a fulcrum  306 .  
         [0134]    The loading apparatus  300  further comprises a lower platform  308  attached to a support framework  310 . The lower platform  308  is attached to the support framework  310  by means of hydraulic rams  312 . The upper platform  302  is attached to the support framework by means of hydraulic rams  314 .  
         [0135]    The front end  316  of the lower platform  308  is pivotally mounted of an arm  318 , which arm  318  is pivotally mounted of the support framework  310 .  
         [0136]    The loading apparatus  300  further comprises a floor conveyor  320  extending across substantially the full length of the rear floor  26  of the trailer  2 .  
         [0137]    When loading the trailer as shown in FIGS. 10, 11 and  12   a - d , the hydraulic rams  314  extend to cause the upper platform  302  to pivot about the fulcrum  306 .  
         [0138]    The hydraulic rams  310  contract to raise the lower platform  308  upwards until the rear edge  322  thereof is abutting and substantially in line with the conveyor  320  (FIG. 11).  
         [0139]    Pallets are then loaded onto the floor conveyor  320  and are conveyed onto the lower platform  308  (FIG. 12 a ). When the lower platform  308  is fully loaded, the rams  310  extend to lower the lower platform  308  into the lowered floor area  6  of the trailer and the rams  314  contract to lower the upper platform  302  (FIG. 12 b ).  
         [0140]    Pallets are then loaded onto the upper platform  302  and are conveyed to the front end thereof by means of the conveyor  304  (FIG. 12 c ). When the upper platform  302  is fully loaded the rear of the trailer  2  is loaded by loading pallets onto the floor conveyor  320  (FIG. 12 d ).  
         [0141]    Unloading the trailer is the reverse of the above procedure.  
         [0142]    [0142]FIGS. 13, 14,  15   a ,  15   b  and  16   a - d  illustrate the trailer  2  attached to the tractor unit  12  as illustrated in the previous figures, comprising an alternative loading apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Like reference numerals are used to denote like features.  
         [0143]    The loading apparatus  400  of FIGS. 13, 14,  15   a ,  15   b  and  16   a - d  comprises a lower platform  402  and an upper platform  404 . The lower platform  402  is provided by a plurality of sections  402   a, b, c  and  d , which are independently moveable of one another.  
         [0144]    The upper platform  404  comprises three angle ledges  406   a, b  and  c  supported above the lower platform  402 . Angle ledges  406  and  406   c  are supported against opposing side walls  407 ,  409  of the trailer  2 . The angle ledges  406   a  and  406   c  are supported on a frame provided by legs  408 , which legs are attached to the bottom  410  of the well of the trailer  2 . The angle ledges  406   a  and  c  are arranged substantially against the side walls  407 ,  409  of the trailer  2 , so that only the base of the angle ledges  406   a ,  406   c  extend into the interior void of the trailer  2 .  
         [0145]    The middle angle ledge  406   b  extends substantially parallel to and substantially level with angle ledges  406   a  and  406   c . Angle ledge  406   b  extends substantially down the centre of the void within the trailer (FIGS. 15 a  and  15   b ). The middle angle ledge  406   b  is supported on legs  416  which extend from the floor of the trailer  2 . The legs  416  extend from the floor  410  of the well of the trailer. The legs  416  are supported by means of a girder  418  (FIGS. 15 a ,  15   b ), which girder is parallel to angel ledge  406   b  . The girder  418  is located at a level above the maximum level to which the second platform  402  will be raised during loading (FIG. 15 b ).  
         [0146]    The sections  402   a - d  of the lower platform  402  are attached to the underside of the angle ledges  406  by means of hydraulic rams  412 . Each section  402   a - d  is supported by two hydraulic rams  412  at each side thereof. Each set of hydraulic rams  412  is operable independently of each other set. Thus, allowing independent movement of each section  402   a - d  of the lower platform  402 .  
         [0147]    In use of the loading apparatus of FIGS. 13, 14,  15   a ,  15   b  and  16   a - d , all of the sections  402   a - d  of the lower platform  402  are raised, either independently or simultaneously, to be level with the rear floor  26  of the trailer (FIGS. 14 and 16 a ). The front end  414  of the trailer  2  is loaded. Access to the front end  414  is facilitated by the positioning of the lower platform  402 . The trailer  2  may be loaded using any appropriate method. If a fork lift truck is used, the fork lift may be driven over the lower platform  402  to allow loading of goods directly onto front end  414  of the trailer  2 .  
         [0148]    When the front end  414  of the trailer has been loaded, goods are loaded onto the front section  402   d  of the lower platform  402 . The front section  402   d  is then lowered (FIG. 15 b ) to allow goods to be loaded onto the front end of the angle ledges  406 . The second section  402   c  of the lower platform  402  is then loaded and lowered into the well  6  in the trailer floor. The next section of the angle ledges  406  is the loaded (FIG. 16 b ). This loading pattern is repeated until the lower platform  402  and the angle ledges  406  are fully loaded (FIG. 16 c ). Goods are then loaded onto the rear floor  26  of the trailer (FIG. 16 d ).  
         [0149]    Unloading is the reverse of the above described process.  
         [0150]    In an alternative embodiment the angle ledges  406   a, b  and  c  extend to the front end  420  of the trailer  2 . In this case goods may be loaded on the first platform right up to the front end  420  of the trailer  2 . The space between the front end floor  414  of the trailer  2  and the first platform  404  may be used to provide additional storage areas for goods or equipment such as refrigeration equipment.  
         [0151]    [0151]FIGS. 17 a - c  illustrate a trailer  500  attached to the tractor unit  12  comprising a loading apparatus  501 .  
         [0152]    The loading apparatus  501  comprises an upper platform  502  provided by a plurality of angle ledges, as per the embodiment of FIGS. 13, 14,  15   a ,  15   b  and  16   a - d . The loading apparatus  501  further comprises a lower platform provided by sections  504   a ,  504   b ,  504   c , and  504   d . Each section of the lower platforms  504   a ,  504   b ,  504   c  and  504   d  is independently moveable of the others.  
         [0153]    The angle ledges of the upper platform  502  are supported above the lower platform  504  by supporting legs  506 , which supporting legs extend from the trailer floor  508 .  
         [0154]    The trailer floor  508  comprises two lowered sections providing a first well  510  and a second well  512 ,  
         [0155]    The lower platform sections  504   a - d  are attached to the underside of the angle ledges of the upper platform  502  by means of hydraulic rams (not shown). The hydraulic rams are situated in channels in the support legs  506  (not shown) which channels provide guide means for the lower platform sections  504   a - d.    
         [0156]    In use, all of the lower platform sections  504   a - d  are moved upwards by means of the hydraulic rams to be level with the trailer floor  508  (as shown in FIG. 17 b ). Goods may then be loaded onto the upper platform  502  at the hitching end  514  of the trailer  2 . When the upper platform  502  has been loaded up to the region of the first well  510 , the lower platform sections  504   a  and  504   b  in the first well  510  are loaded. The lower platform sections  504   a  and  504   b  are lowered once fully loaded to the bottom of the first well  510  and loading of the upper platform  502  continues.  
         [0157]    When the upper platform  502  is loaded up to the second well  512  sections  504   c  and  504   d  of the lower platform are is loaded. These sections are lowered to the bottom of the second well  512  when fully loaded and loading of the upper platform  502  continues.  
         [0158]    [0158]FIG. 17 c  shows the trailer  2  when fully loaded.  
         [0159]    [0159]FIGS. 18 a, b  and  c  show an alternative trailer design. The design of FIGS. 18 a, b  and  c  is essentially the same as FIGS. 17 a, b  and  c  except the second well  600  of FIGS. 18 a, b  and  c  is smaller than the second well  512  of FIGS. 17 a, b  and  c.    
         [0160]    [0160]FIG. 18 a  shows the loading apparatus with the lower platforms  602   a, b  and  c  lowered. FIG. 18 b  shows the loading apparatus with the lower platforms  602   a, b  and  c  raised for loading. FIG. 18 c , shows the trailer fully loaded.  
         [0161]    [0161]FIGS. 19 a - e  show a further embodiment of the present invention, in which a truck  12  is hitched to a trailer  700  comprising first loading apparatus  702  and second loading apparatus  704 .  
         [0162]    The trailer  700  has a first lowered floor section  706  providing a first well  708  and a second lowered floor section  710  providing a second well  712 .  
         [0163]    The first loading apparatus  702  comprises a first platform provided by manually adjustable support beams  716  and a plurality of second platform sections  714   a - c . The support beams  716  can be removed to a storage position during loading of the front section  718  of the trailer. The storage position (see FIGS. 19 a  and  19   b ) is towards the rear of the trailer at an elevation above the floor  720  of the trailer  700  higher than that required by a fork lift truck for loading the trailer  700 .  
         [0164]    The second loading apparatus comprises a first platform provided by support beams  722 , which can also be moved to a storage position during loading of the trailer, and a second platform  723 .  
         [0165]    To load the trailer  700  (FIG. 19 b ), the second platform sections  712   a - c  and  723  are raised to be substantially level with the floor sections  718  and  720  of the trailer  700 . Pallets  724  are then loaded, by means of a fork lift truck (not shown) onto the front floor section  718  of the trailer and the adjacent section  714   c  of the second platform of the first loading apparatus  702 .  
         [0166]    The loaded section  714   c  of the second platform of the first loading apparatus  702  is then lowered onto the floor  706  of the well  708 . Two support beams  716  are then manually moved from the storage position (see FIGS. 19 a  and  19   b ) to a loading position above the loaded section of the second platform  714   c . A pallet is then loaded onto the portion of the first platform of the first loading apparatus  702  provided by the support beams  716 .  
         [0167]    A pallet is then loaded onto the adjacent section  714   b  of the second platform of the first loading apparatus  702  and this platform section  714   b  is then lowered to the floor  706  of the well  708 . This process is repeated until all of the second  716  and first platform  714   a - c  of the first loading apparatus  702  has been loaded with pallets (as shown in FIG. 19 d ).  
         [0168]    The floor area  720  of the trailer  700  is then loaded with pallets and the adjacent second platform  723  of the second loading apparatus  704  is also loaded (as shown in FIG. 19 e ).  
         [0169]    The Once the second platform  723  of the second loading apparatus  706  has been lowered to the floor  710  of the well  712 , the support beams  722  are manually moved from the storage position to a loading position to provide a first platform. A pallet is then loaded onto the second platform to complete loading of the trailer  700 .  
         [0170]    The reader&#39;s attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.  
         [0171]    All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.  
         [0172]    Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.  
         [0173]    The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extend to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.