Abstract:
A reusable pallet container is disclosed. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a pallet container for holding vehicle windshields for storage, transportation or otherwise is disclosed. The pallet container includes a frame structure defining a base, and a periphery, wherein one or more side restraints are provided to be mounted on-board the pallet container to inhibit movement of windshields internally of the pallet container, wherein at least one of said one or more side restraints comprises a flexible fluid containing device.

Description:
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/790,432, filed on May 28, 2010, now abandoned; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/857,281, filed on Sep. 18, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,613; which is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/759,944, filed on Jan. 16, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,236; which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/442,719, filed on Jan. 27, 2003. Each application and patent mentioned above is fully incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present application relates to a container, particularly a re-usable pallet container such as a metal pallet that can be used for packing, storage and shipping of items, particularly fragile items such as vehicle windshields. 
     A collapsible, re-usable windshield pallet for packing, storage, and shipping of windshields of varying shapes and sizes is disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,236. It has been recognized that it is an advantage to be able to ship windshields of varying sizes in a single container and also to ensure that the container is collapsible to enable return transportation of the container in the collapsed form (when no windshields are being shipped), in order to minimize transport volume and potentially reduce shipping costs. The containers can also be stored in collapsed form in distribution centers and stockyards when not being used to contain windshields. U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,236 also identifies the need to use lateral restraints to prevent the windshields from moving in the longitudinal direction of the pallet. 
     Partially collapsible or foldable steel pallets are known for use in place of wood pallets in shipping heavy and awkward articles such as automobile windshields. Steel pallets are very durable, allowing for prolonged use. Moreover, partially collapsible pallets allow for reduced shipping volume, decreasing the cost of relocating empty pallets for reuse. Accordingly, it is known generally to use partially collapsible steel pallets to ship breakable goods, such as automobile windshields. 
     The shipment of breakable goods presents unique challenges in the design of reusable pallets. For example, if a pane of glass is not properly secured within the pallet, unacceptable levels of breakage occur in shipment. Accordingly, it is known to use dunnage when shipping windshields. “Dunnage” is simply packing material which is added to the pallet so as to make the shipped material more secure. Of course, the addition of dunnage to the pallet takes time, and increases the potential for breakage when improperly performed. Moreover, the need for dunnage increases the cost of shipping. All of these problems are exacerbated when a partial pallet (a pallet that is not completely filled) is to be shipped. 
     It is also known to design a pallet so as to provide support at a plurality of locations when shipping a pane of glass. U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,310 to Massey is an example of this type of pallet. In accordance with the &#39;310 patent, an end nestable stackable container is provided with a means to firmly contain material being shipped. Four points of contact are provided for the material to be shipped. The &#39;310 patent accomplishes this by providing hold down arms which can be pivoted over the top of the material being shipped, so as to provide contact along the top edge of the material. Contact on two sides of the material being shipped is provided by a side stabilizing mechanism. The fourth point of contact is along the bottom of the material. The device disclosed in the &#39;310 patent is useful when shipping empty pallets. However, because the pallet is only partially collapsible, which allows the empty pallets to be nested, the number of pallets which can be safely stacked before the stack starts to lean is limited. 
     The device disclosed in the &#39;310 patent is also useful when shipping a number of panes which are of a uniform shape and size. However, in certain applications it would be advantageous to ship glass of differing shapes and sizes within a single pallet. For example, the secondary windshield market provides replacement windshields for all makes and models of vehicles. It is impractical for retail stores to maintain a supply of every shape and size windshield for every make and model of vehicle. Thus, the secondary windshield market has evolved into a make-to-order market. In a make-to-order market, when a windshield of a particular size is needed, an order is placed to a manufacturing facility. The facility then manufactures a replacement windshield. The replacement windshield is next packaged, along with other windshields, and transported to a distribution center, for eventual shipment to the location which placed the initial order. 
     Obviously, a number of alternative distribution models exist. For example, certain sized windshields may be so commonly required as replacements that a certain level of inventory is desired at the distribution center. Alternatively, more or fewer distribution points may be included in a particular distribution model. Regardless of the model, however, it is advantageous to be able to place windshields of various sizes and shapes on a single pallet. The presence of windshields of non-uniform shape or size on a single pallet is called a “mixed pallet.” Use of a mixed pallet allows for optimization of the use of pallet volume when shipping windshields, so that fewer pallets are required. As the number of pallets is reduced for a given number of windshields, the overall required shipping volume and weight is reduced. When using steel pallets, the reduced weight can be significant. Of course, the reduced number of pallets also results in cost savings when returning the pallets to the manufacturing facility for reuse. 
     Typical variation in windshield shape and size is discussed with reference to  FIGS. 12-14 .  FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a windshield. As shown in  FIG. 12 , windshield  1200  is curved from corner  1202  to corner  1204 . Windshield  1200  is also curved between upper midpoint  1206  and lower midpoint  1208 . This is shown more clearly in  FIG. 14  which is discussed below. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , a front view of windshield  1200  is shown. Also shown in  FIG. 13  is a front view of windshield  1210 , which is located behind windshield  1200 . As is clear from  FIG. 13 , windshield  1200  is both longer and taller than windshield  1210 . 
       FIG. 14  is a side view of windshield  1200  and windshield  1210  in a substantially upright position. Front face  1212  (outside when installed in a vehicle) of windshield  1200  and front face  1214  of windshield  1210  are curved. Additionally, windshield  1200  and windshield  1210  are curved from end to end. This is shown in  FIG. 15 , which is a top plan view of windshield  1200  and windshield  1210 . 
     Thus, ear  1216  and ear  1218  of windshield  1210  are located behind the midpoint of the rear face of windshield  1210 , which is shown in  FIG. 14  as dashed line  1230 . Similarly, ear  1218  and ear  1220  of windshield  1200  are located behind the midpoint of the rear face of windshield  1200 , which is shown in  FIG. 14  as dashed line  1232 . As is apparent from  FIG. 14 , ear  1220  of windshield  1200  extends farther back from dashed line  1232  than ear  1216  of windshield  1210  extends back from dashed line  1230 . 
     Since it is desirable to maintain all of the windshield within the protective box or envelope defined by the outer boundaries of the pallet to minimize breakage, and since windshields are typically shipped in a generally upright position, a pallet used to ship windshields of multiple heights must be high enough to enclose the tallest windshield to be shipped. Obviously, when shipping shorter windshields, this results in a pallet of unnecessary weight and volume, increasing shipping costs. 
     Moreover, in order to ensure the ears of the windshield (the outermost ends) are maintained within the envelope of the pallet, it is known to use a stop. A “stop”, as used herein, is an object that protrudes into the pallet envelope to maintain spacing between the windshield and the end of the pallet. The stop protrudes into the pallet and contacts the rear face of the windshield. Because windshields are of varying curvature and length, the distance the stop must protrude into the envelope of the pallet varies. Obviously, sizing the stops to ensure the windshields of greatest curvature and length are maintained within the envelope of the pallet results in wasted space when windshields of lesser curvature and length are shipped. This decrease in shipping density of the pallet, can result in more pallets being required to ship a given number of windshields. While some present art systems allow for adjustable stops, these systems include a number of moving parts, and take a significant amount of time to adjust. 
     Another problem caused by the curvature of windshields is that the center of gravity of the pallet will not be the volumetric center of the pallet. Therefore, when the windshields are secured within a pallet, a torque is created. This is typically not a problem when a single pallet is considered, or when the pallet is not collapsible. However, when stacking collapsible pallets wherein an upright post is inserted into a holder, the torque will tend to unseat the post from the holder. Thus, stacked pallets can develop a lean. 
     An additional problem is presented because of the varying lengths of present day windshields. Typically, a restraint is incorporated on each side of a pallet to maintain loaded windshields within the envelope of the pallet. A “restraint”, as used herein, is an object that maintains a windshield within the envelope of the pallet at the sides of the pallet. Positioning the restraints to allow for the shipment of the longest windshield expected to be shipped, results in an undesirably large lateral area within which a windshield is allowed to move before being laterally constrained. Although it is known to provide adjustable lateral restraints, these restraints include a number of parts which can be misplaced and/or are time consuming to adjust. 
     It is desirable, therefore, to provide a device which allows for shipment of vehicle replacement glass of non-uniform shape and/or size while minimizing breakage of the glass in shipping. It is further desired that the device minimize the required amount of dunnage, and be simple to use. Moreover, it is desired that the device be of simple, lightweight and inexpensive construction. It is desired that the pallet be stackable even when empty and collapsed. It is also desired to have a shipping pallet that is versatile enough to ship tall windshields without wasting weight and volume when shipping short windshields. It is further desirable to provide stops which use a minimum number of parts and which can be quickly and easily changed to the proper distance of protrusion into the pallet. Moreover, it is desired to have a collapsible pallet that will not lean when stacked. Additionally, it is desired to provide a restraint which is quickly and easily repositioned to a lateral position dictated by the longest windshield in the pallet being shipped. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a pallet container for holding vehicle windshields for storage, transportation or otherwise, the pallet container comprising a frame structure defining a base, and a periphery, wherein one or more side restraints are provided to be mounted on-board the pallet to inhibit movement of windshields internally of the pallet container, wherein a said side restraint comprises a flexible fluid containing device. It is preferred that respective flexible fluid containing side restraint devices are positioned at opposing ends of the pallet container. In one embodiment, the side restraint devices comprise air bags. The side restraint devices are preferably secured to the frame structure of the pallet container. 
     According to an alternative aspect, the present invention provides a pallet container for holding vehicle windshields for storage, transportation or otherwise, the pallet container comprising a frame structure defining a base, and a periphery, wherein the frame structure is expandable from a minimum dimension windshield containing configuration to a maximum dimension windshield containing configuration; wherein in the maximum dimension containing configuration the pallet container is extended in both height and in length when compared to the minimum dimension configuration. It is preferred that, in addition to being expandable from a minimum dimension windshield containing configuration to a maximum dimension windshield containing configuration; the pallet container is also collapsible from a windshield containing configuration to a stowed configuration not suitable for containing windshields but convenient for transportation or storage of pallet containers. In a preferred realization, the pallet container has opposing side frames arranged to be hinged or pivoted to fold down from an erect condition to a collapsed condition. Beneficially, in the collapsed condition the opposing side frames are positioned such that they are laying adjacent the base of the pallet container. 
     It is preferred that the pallet container has a connecting frame extending between the opposing side frames, the connecting frame arranged to be hinged or pivoted to fold down from an erect condition to a collapsed condition. In a preferred realization of the present invention, the pallet container has opposing side frames which are extendible in effective length to vary the height of the side frames. The side frames may comprise telescoping side frame elements permitting the height of the pallet container to be varied. 
     Beneficially, the pallet container frame structure includes connecting frame elements extending in a longitudinal direction of the pallet container to connect the opposing side frames, the connecting frame elements preferably being extendible in effective length to vary the length of the pallet container. It is preferred that the pallet includes stacking formations enabling like pallets to be stacked one on top of another. 
     According to an alternative aspect, the present invention provides a pallet container for holding vehicle windshields for storage, transportation or otherwise, the pallet container comprising a frame structure defining a base, and a periphery, wherein the pallet container is collapsible from a windshield containing configuration to a stowed configuration, and comprises opposing side frames arranged to be hinged or pivoted to fold down from an erect condition to a collapsed condition and a connecting frame extending between the opposing side frames, the connecting frame arranged to be hinged or pivoted to fold down from an erect condition to a collapsed condition. It is preferred that the connecting frame and opposing side frames have formations arranged to complementarily engage one another in the pallet container erected configuration and be releasable to disengage permitting re-orientation to the collapsed configuration. 
     According to an alternative aspect, the present invention provides a side restraint system for a pallet container for holding vehicle windshields for storage, transportation or otherwise, the side restraint system comprising one or more flexible fluid containing devices mounted on-board the pallet to inhibit movement of the windshields. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a reusable windshield pallet. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective fragmentary view showing a disassembled stub and post of the pallet of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective fragmentary view of the stub and post of  FIG. 2  in an assembled configuration. 
         FIG. 4A  is a side plan view of a side frame of the pallet of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4B  is an end cross-sectional view of the side frame of  FIG. 4A  taken along line B-B in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 5A  is a top plan view of a front support bar. 
         FIG. 5B  is a rear plan view of the front support bar of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  is a top plan view of a rear support bar. 
         FIG. 6B  is a rear plan view of the rear support bar of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of a longitudinal member of the pallet of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7B  is a perspective view of an insert for the longitudinal member of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 7C  is a perspective view of the insert of  FIG. 7B  in the longitudinal member of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an extension. 
         FIG. 9  is a side plan view of a transverse member of the pallet of  FIG. 1  and a partial cutaway view of a side restraint. 
         FIG. 10  is a plan view of the side restraint of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the lower front stop of the pallet of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a windshield. 
         FIG. 13  is a front view of the windshield of  FIG. 12  and a second windshield. 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of the windshields of  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  is a top plan view of the windshields of  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a reusable windshield pallet loaded with windshields. 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a reusable windshield pallet in a folded compact configuration. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of three folded reusable windshield pallets stacked together. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view from the front of a pallet container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the upper rear cross frame connecting to the side frame of  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the connection to a side frame stub of the forward lower cross frame of  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view from an end of the pallet container of  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 23  is a plan view of the pallet container of  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 24  is a side view of the pallet container of  FIG. 19  showing the ability to vary the size of the pallet container in the erected condition. 
         FIG. 25  is an end view of the pallet container of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26  is an end view showing two collapsed pallet containers stacked one on top of another in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 27A to 27C  are end, plan, and side views, respectively, showing the seat attached to the boss for receiving the tube frames in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 28A and 28B  are plan and side views, respectively, of a tube frame in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view from the front of a pallet container in accordance with an alternative embodiment of pallet container in accordance with the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 30  is a side end view of the embodiment of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a detail view of the side end frame of  FIG. 30 . 
         FIG. 32  is perspective detailed view of a part of the container according to the alternative embodiment showing an adaptation for aiding loading of the pallet container. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a reusable windshield pallet is described. Pallet  100  comprises frame  102 . The front of pallet  100  is indicated by reference letter F. The rear of pallet  100  is indicated by reference letter R. Frame  102  comprises bars  101 ,  103 ,  105  and  107 , arranged in a substantially rectangular configuration. Stubs  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  are attached to frame  102  at the corners defined by bars  101 ,  103 ,  105  and  107 . In this embodiment, stub  104  is welded to bar  105  and bar  107 , stub  106  is welded to bar  103  and bar  105 , stub  108  is welded to bar  101  and bar  103 , and stub  110  is welded to bar  101  and bar  107 . 
     Side frame  112  comprises post  114  and post  116 . Post  114  and post  116  are engaged with stubs  104  and  110  respectively. Thus, post  114  and post  116  are the upper sections of rigid members extending from frame  102 , and stubs  104  and  110  are the lower sections of rigid members extending from frame  102 . Side frame  118  comprises posts  120  and  122 . Posts  120  and  122  are similarly engaged with stubs  106  and  108  respectively so as to provide rigid members extending from frame  102 . Rear support bar  124  is removably attached to post  116  and post  122 . Front support bar  126 , comprising front stop  128 , is removably attached to post  114  and post  120 . 
     Pallet  100  further comprises longitudinal members  130  and  132 , each of which are welded to bars  101  and  105 . Transverse members  134  and  136  are connected between longitudinal member  130  and  132 , respectively, and frame  102  of pallet  100 . Specifically, transverse member  134  is welded to bar  107  and longitudinal member  130 , and transverse member  136  is welded to bar  103  and longitudinal member  132 . Alternative longitudinal and transverse members are discussed more fully below. Locking bar  138  is located at the forward end of pallet  100  between longitudinal members  130  and  132 . Rack  140  is provided at the rear of pallet  100  and lower front stop  142  is located on the front of frame  102 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , the mechanism allowing side frame  112  and side frame  118  to be collapsed or folded is described.  FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing stub  104  and post  114  disassembled. Stub  104  comprises slot  200  and pin  202 . Flared end  206  of stub  104  allows for stacking of pallet  100  as it is sized to receive the upper end of a stub on a second pallet, the upper end of a post on a second pallet, and the upper end of an extension, as discussed below. Post  114  includes slot  208 . 
     When fully assembled, pin  202  is located within slot  208  and the portion of post  114  below slot  208  is located within stub  104 . Thus, when post  114  is fully inserted into stub  104 , pin  202  abuts the top of slot  208 . From the fully inserted position, post  114  may be raised such that pin  202  abuts the bottom of slot  208 . With post  114  so raised, post  114  may be rotated in the direction of arrow  211 , so as to lie substantially in the plane of frame  102 . Conversely, if post  114  is laying substantially in the plane of frame  102 , post  114  can be rotated in the direction opposite arrow  211  into an upright position. Once in an upright position, post  114  may be lowered straight down into stub  104  as slot  208  slides past pin  202 , until pin  202  abuts the top of slot  208 . A similar pin and slot arrangement is used for post  116  and stub  110 . Side frame  118  has a similar configuration. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , post  114  is shown fully inserted into stub  104 . Also shown in this figure is a means for maintaining post  114  in a fixed relationship with stub  104 . Latch  210  is pivotably connected to post  114  at pivot  212 . In this embodiment, pin  202  protrudes beyond the wall of stub  104 . Thus, when post  114  is inserted into stub  104 , latch  210  of post  114  engages the protruding portion of pin  202 . Thus, post  114  cannot be moved in an upward direction without first disengaging latch  210  from pin  202 . A similar arrangement is provided on stub  106  and post  120 . Thus, when windshields are loaded onto pallet  100 , any torque generated by the load will not cause post  114  or post  120  to rise within stubs  104  or  106  respectively. The posts and stubs are thus maintained in a fixed relationship until the latch and pin mechanism is disengaged. Of course, the latch may alternatively be mounted on the stubs. In this configuration, it may be desired to use a biasing means such as a spring to maintain the latch in a generally upright (engaged) position. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4A , an inside plan view of side frame  112  is shown. For purposes of discussion, side frame  112  is shown disassembled from stub  104  and stub  110 . From this view, slots  400 ,  402 ,  404 ,  406  and  408  of post  114  are visible. Also shown are slots  410 ,  412 ,  414 ,  416  and  418  of post  116 . Member  420  and member  422  connect post  114  and post  116 .  FIG. 4B  shows a plan view of post  114  looking from the rear of pallet  100 . 
       FIG. 5A  and  FIG. 5B  show views of front support bar  126 . Referring to  FIG. 5A , which is a bottom plan view of front support bar  126 , front stop  128  and pins  500  and  502  are shown. Shown on  FIG. 5B , which is a rear plan view of front support bar  126 , pins  504  and  506  are shown. Pins  500 ,  502 ,  504  and  506 , in conjunction with slots  400 ,  402 ,  404 ,  406  and  408 , and similar slots on post  120 , allow front support bar  126  to be positioned as a cross bar between post  120  and post  114  at a plurality of heights. For example, if it is desired to locate front support bar at a high position, pin  504  may be inserted into slot  400 , and pin  500  may be inserted into slot  402 . If a lower position is desired, pin  504  may be inserted into slot  404 , and pin  500  may be inserted into slot  406 . The insertion of two pins in each post provides for added stability. 
     Front support bar  126  is used when pallet  100  is fully loaded with windshields. The height is selected such that when pallet  100  is loaded and front support bar  126  is installed, front stop  128  is abutted against the convex side of the foremost windshield. 
       FIG. 6A  and  FIG. 6B  show views of rear support bar  124 . In this embodiment, rear support bar  124  comprises pins  602 ,  604 ,  606  and  608  which, in conjunction with slots  410 ,  412 ,  414 ,  416  and  418 , and similar slots on post  122 , allow rear support bar  124  to be positioned as a cross bar between post  122  and post  116  at a plurality of heights. 
     Rear support bar  124  further comprises stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  and  616 . Stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  and  616  are rotatably mounted to rear support bar  124  at hinge  618  and  620 .  FIG. 6A  shows stop  610  rotated over the top of rear support bar  124 . According to one embodiment, a detent pin is used to maintain a stop in position over the top of rear support bar  124 . 
     Each of stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  and  616  have a different radius as measured from where they are connected to hinges  618  and  620  to the point of stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  and  616  farthest from hinges  618  and  620 . Thus, when rotated above rear support bar  124 , each of stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  and  616  protrude into pallet  100  to different extents. 
     The stop to be used is determined based upon the curvature of the windshield. The purpose of the rear stops is to maintain the ears of the windshield within the box defined by the upright rigid members of pallet  100 . However, as the radius of the stop used increases, fewer windshields may be loaded on pallet  100  since the rearmost windshield is pushed farther forward by stops of greater radius. Thus, it is normally desired to use the stop with the smallest radius that still maintains the ears of the windshields within the box defined by the upright rigid members of pallet  100 . Accordingly, stop  610 , which has the smallest radius, is used with relatively straight windshields. As the curvature of the windshields to be loaded increases, stops of greater radius are used to ensure the ears of the windshields are still maintained within the box defined by the upright rigid members of pallet  100 . Rear support bar  124  and stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  and  616  thus provide means for adapting pallet  100  to secure a variety of windshields based upon windshields to be shipped when the windshields are of varying shapes and sizes. 
     Continuing with  FIGS. 6A and 6B , resilient pad  622  is attached to stop  610 . In this embodiment, a single resilient pad is removably connectable to the stops. Alternatively, each stop may be provided with a resilient pad. Rear support bar  124 , in this embodiment, further comprises telescoping member  624 . Telescoping member  624  comprises a plurality of holes  626 . Detent pin  628  protrudes through a hole in strap  630  into one of the plurality of hole  626  to maintain telescoping member  624  at a desired height. The upper section of telescoping member  624  includes rounded channel area  632  which is bounded by fins  634  and  636 . Fins  634  and  636  are used to maintain a strap (not shown) on rounded channel area  632  when telescoping member  624  is used with a partial pallet as is explained in more detail below. 
     Those of skill in the art will appreciate that a number of alternative embodiments are within the scope of the reusable windshield pallet. By way of example, but not of limitation, more or fewer stops may be provided. Additionally, while the embodiment of  FIGS. 6A and 6B  comprises a single resilient pad which is used interchangeably with any of stops  610 ,  612 ,  614  or  616 , it may be desired to provide resilient pads dedicated to a single stop or a group of stops. Moreover, the pad and/or mounting area of the stop may be curved to provide additional contact area between the selected stop and the rearmost windshield. Additionally, the stops may be connected to a fixed bar, and/or a horizontal member. These alternatives and others being within the scope of the present invention. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C , additional detail of longitudinal member  130  is shown. Longitudinal member  130  comprises channel  702 , hole  704  and tab  706 . With reference to  FIG. 7B , insert  710  comprises protuberance  712 , protuberance  714 , protuberance  720  (see  FIG. 7C ) and an additional protuberance (not shown) on the fourth side of insert  710 . Protuberance  712  and protuberance  714  comprise front side  716  and  718  respectively. As shown in  FIG. 7C , insert  710  fits within channel  702 . In  FIG. 7C , insert  710  has been rotated ninety degrees from the position of insert  710  in  FIG. 7B . Thus, protuberance  714  is on the bottom of insert  710  as channel  702  is sized to receive protuberance  714 , as well as protuberance  712  and  720 . Insert  710  is maintained in position within channel  702  by a cotter pin which is inserted through the hole in tab  706  and through a tab (not shown) provided on the end of insert  710  which protrudes through hole  704  of longitudinal member  130  when insert  710  is inserted into channel  702 . 
     Each protuberance rises above the plane of longitudinal member  130  when placed in an upright position. Thus, the concave side of a windshield loaded into pallet  100  will abut the front side of the protuberance rising above the plane of longitudinal member  130 . Because the protuberances each have a front side rising out of insert  710  at a different distance from the end of insert  710 , and because insert  710  may be rotated and placed within channel  702  such that any protuberance is in the upright position, it is possible to control the rearmost location of the bottom of a windshield loaded into pallet  100 . Insert  710  thus serves as a means for adapting pallet  100  to secure a variety of windshields based upon windshields to be shipped when the windshields are of varying shapes and sizes. Thus, in this embodiment, in combination with the selection of the rear stop as discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B , it is possible to maximize the loading of the pallet, while ensuring that the ears of the loaded windshields are maintained within the box defined by the upright rigid members of pallet  100 . 
     Longitudinal member  130  in this embodiment comprises a wood base with a urethane overlay. This construction allows for reuse while minimizing expense. Moreover, construction from these materials has been found to reduce the amount of breakage as compared to other materials. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other alternative materials may be used. Moreover, although the embodiment of  FIG. 1  comprises two lower stops, one on each longitudinal member, more or fewer lower stops may be used. Additionally, the inserts and protuberances may be of various shapes, and more or fewer protuberances may be used. These variations and others are within the scope of the reusable windshield pallet. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , an extension is shown. Extension  800  comprises lower section  802  and upper section  804 . Lower section  802  includes opening  806 . Lower section  802  is connected to upper section  804  at shoulder  808 . In practice, four extensions are provided, one for use with each upwardly rigid member of a pallet as discussed below. 
     Opening  806  is sized so as to receive the upper end of post  114 . However, shoulder  808  has an inside diameter that is smaller than upper end of post  114 . Accordingly, when inserted onto post  114 , post  114  penetrates lower section  802  until post  114  abuts shoulder  808 . Upper section  804  is sized so as to be insertable into flared end  206  of stub  104 . Thus, when four extensions are inserted onto four posts of a pallet, a second pallet may be placed on top of the first pallet by inserting the flared ends of the stubs of the second pallet onto the upper sections of the four extensions. 
     By placing extensions on post  114 ,  116 ,  122  and  120 , the protective envelope of pallet  100  is extended to accommodate windshields of greater height. Extension  800  thus provides a means for adapting pallet  100  to secure a variety of windshields based upon windshields to be shipped when the windshields are of a height that would extend above posts  114 ,  116 ,  122  and  120 . 
     Those of skill in the art will appreciate that a number of alternative embodiments of extensions exist. By way of example, but not of limitation, it is possible to design the posts and extensions such that the posts are inserted into the lower section of the extensions. Additionally, the upper section of the extension may be solid, and/or a portion of the lower section of the extension may be solid. Moreover, a variety of shapes may be used in place of the generally rectangular embodiments discussed herein. These variations and others are within the scope of the present invention. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a side plan view of transverse member  134  of  FIG. 1  and a partial cutaway view of a side restraint are shown. Transverse member  134  comprises ratchet notches  900 . Ratchet notches  900 , in this embodiment, are located on both sides of transverse member  134 , although only one side is shown. Ratchet notches  900  are sized to receive pawl  902  of side restraint  904 . When pawl  902  is engaged with ratchet notches  900 , side restraint  904  is allowed to be moved toward the center of pallet  100  (to the right as shown in  FIG. 9 ), but pawl  902  does not allow movement away from the center of pallet  100 . 
     Pawl  902  includes hole  914  which is used to release pawl  902  from ratchet notches  900  to allow movement away from the center of pallet  100 . For example, a cable may be attached to pawl  902  at hole  914 . Pulling the cable then disengages pawl  902  from ratchet notches  900 . Pawl  902  is pivotably attached to housing  908  of side restraint  904  at rivet  906 . Side restraint  904  also includes arm  916 . In this embodiment, arm  916  is constructed of a solid material, and coated with a resilient material. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , housing  908  is hollow, and is sized to hold transverse member  134 , Side restraint  904  is attached to transverse member  134  by first removing bottom plate  910 . Side restraint  904  is then placed on transverse member  134 , with pawl  902  engaging ratchet notches  900  and pawl  912  engaging ratchet notches on the side of transverse member  134  opposite the side including ratchet notches  900 . Bottom plate  910  is then reattached, entrapping transverse member  134  within housing  908 . 
       FIG. 11  shows details of lower front stop  142 . Lower front stop  142  comprises resilient pad  1100 , stop  1102  and pivot  1104 . Lower front stop is pivotably attached to the front of frame  102 , such that when in an upright position as shown in  FIG. 11 , resilient pad  1100  is facing to the rear of pallet  100 . 
     With reference to the preceding description, loading and unloading of a pallet constructed in accordance with the above disclosure is now described. Of course, the descriptions of operations are provided to aid in understanding various embodiments, and do not limit the scope of the reusable windshield pallet in any way. Pallet  100  begins in a stowed configuration with side frames  112  and  118  lying on, or nearly on, frame  102 . Additionally, rear support bar  124 , front support bar  126 , and the side restraints are disconnected, and preferably stored in rack  140 . 
     Initially, side frames  112  and  118  are folded into an upright compact position as shown in  FIG. 17 . As side frames  112  and  118  are brought into an upright position, the slot on each of posts  114 ,  116 ,  118  and  120  are allowed to slide past pins, including pin  202 , located in stubs  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 , allowing posts  114 ,  116 ,  118  and  120  to slide into stubs  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 . As post  114  slides into stub  104 , latch  210  engages pin  202 , preventing side frame  112  from moving upwardly within stub  104  and stub  110 . A similar process occurs with respect to side frame  118 . 
     The next series of steps may vary, depending upon the type of pallet being loaded, full, partial, or mixed. For each type, however, the following series of steps will place the loaded windshields and dunnage in a compressed condition, fixing the windshields along the longitudinal axis of the pallet. 
     When loading a full pallet, loading may be commenced starting with the foremost windshield. The operator installs front support bar  128  at the desired height, and places lower front stop  142  in the upright position. The convex side of the windshield is placed against front stop  128  and lower front stop  142 . The lower edge of the windshield is rested on top of longitudinal members  130  and  132 . Dunnage is then placed along the concave side of the foremost windshield and the rest of the windshields are loaded with alternating layers of dunnage. When no additional windshields can be loaded while maintaining the ears of the rearmost windshield within the plane defined by post  116  and post  122 , the pallet is fully loaded. 
     Next, the operator determines the appropriate protuberance of insert  710  to be placed in the upright position. The appropriate protuberance is one that will place the windshields and dunnage into compression when insert  710  is placed into channel  702  of longitudinal member  130 . The insert for longitudinal member  132  is similarly positioned. At this time, the operator positions rear support bar  124  at the desired height, and rotates the desired stop, stop  610 ,  612 ,  614  or  616 , with resilient pad  622  attached thereto, into position. This places the upper portion of the loaded windshields and dunnage into compression. A fully loaded pallet is shown in  FIG. 16 . 
     When loading a partial pallet, the operator begins with the windshield that will be placed in the rearmost position. In consideration of the curvature of the windshield, the operator rotates the inserts in the longitudinal members, as described above with respect to insert  710  and longitudinal member  130 . Next, rear support bar  124  is installed by placing pins  602 ,  604 ,  606  and  608  in the desired slots of posts  116  and  122 . Then, the desired stop is rotated into place and secured with a detent pin. The rearmost windshield is then loaded into pallet  100 . 
     At this point, the rearmost windshield should be completely forward of the plane defined by post  116  and  122 , and in a nearly upright position. The operator then places additional windshields on the pallet with some amount of dunnage placed between the windshields. Next, telescoping member  624  is elevated to and secured at the lowest position possible while maintaining the top of rounded channel area  632  above the tallest windshield. Then, a strap is routed from frame  102  of pallet  100  over the top of rounded channel area  632  and over the top of the loaded windshields. The strap is then routed over a semi-rigid member, such as an oak plank, and protective dunnage that is placed adjacent the foremost windshield and connected to locking bar  138  at a point near the foremost windshield. A ratchet (not shown) may then be used to tighten the strap. 
     As the strap is tightened, the oak plank bends to conform to the shape of the foremost windshield, and the windshields in the pallet are sandwiched between the oak plank, resilient pad  622  attached to the selected stop on rear support bar  124 , and the upright protuberances of the inserts on longitudinal members  130  and  132 . Typically, sufficient pressure is placed on the semi-rigid member so that it substantially engages the foremost windshield along the height of the windshield. It has been discovered that white oak of about ¼ inch thickness provides adequate flexibility and strength to substantially conform to the windshield while providing adequate support. Of course, other materials may be used. 
     A mixed pallet is secured in much the same way as a partial pallet. The sole difference is that the strap is attached to lower front stop  142  for a mixed pallet rather than locking bar  138 . In both the mixed pallet and partial pallet application, telescoping member  624  and the strap serve as a means for adapting the pallet to secure a variety of windshields based upon the windshields to be shipped. 
     Once the windshields have been secured within the forward and rearward planes defined by the rigid upright members in accordance with one of the foregoing methods, then the windshields can be secured against lateral movement. This is accomplished by installing side restraints onto transverse members  134  and  136 . With the base plate removed, side restraints are placed on transverse members  134  and  136  as described above with reference to  FIGS. 9 and 10 . The side restraints are then pushed toward the center of pallet  100  until the arms contact the longest windshield(s). Fixing the longest windshield in this manner provides sufficient support to eliminate most lateral movement, even when smaller windshields do not contact the support arms as occurs when shipping a mixed pallet. Even if some movement occurs, however, the arms on the side restraints will ensure that all windshields in the pallet are maintained within the box defined by the upright rigid members of the pallet. Thus, each side restraint serves as a means for adapting the pallet to secure a variety of windshields based upon the windshields to be shipped. 
     The final step is to verify that the top of the highest windshield is lower than the top of side frames  112  and  118 . If needed, extensions such as the one shown in  FIG. 8  may be used to ensure the upper sides of the loaded windshields are within the box defined by the side frames and extensions if used. In either configuration, other pallets may be placed on top of pallet  100 , and pallet  100  may be placed on top of other loaded pallets because the flared ends of the stubs are sized to receive the upper end of both the extensions and the posts. 
     Unloading is accomplished, for the most part, by reversing the above steps. The main difference is that the side restraints are initially released by pulling a cable attached to hole  914  of pawl  902 . Once the windshields are unloaded, equipment removed from the pallet, such as the support bars, extensions, strap and side restraints, may be placed in the rack for storage. The side frames may then be collapsed onto frame  102 . In this configuration, other pallets may be placed on top of pallet  100 , and pallet  100  may be placed on top of other pallets because the flared ends of the stubs are sized to receive the upper end of the stubs. 
     Accordingly, the reusable windshield pallet provides a device which allows for shipment of vehicle replacement glass of non-uniform shape and/or size while minimizing breakage of the glass in shipping. The reusable windshield pallet further provides a device that minimizes the required amount of dunnage, and is simple to use. Moreover, the reusable windshield pallet is of simple, lightweight and inexpensive construction. The reusable windshield pallet also provides a device that is stackable even when empty and collapsed. For example,  FIG. 18  illustrates three pallets stacked on top of one another. This compact configuration allows pallets to be shipped back for refilling in a much smaller space. The reusable windshield pallet is versatile enough to ship tall windshields without wasting weight and volume when shipping short windshields. The reusable windshield pallet further provides stops which use a minimum number of parts and which can be quickly and easily changed to the proper distance of protrusion into the pallet. Moreover, the present invention provides a collapsible pallet that will not lean when stacked. Additionally, the reusable windshield pallet provides a restraint which is quickly and easily repositioned to the lateral position dictated by the longest windshield in the pallet being shipped. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 19 to 22 , there is shown an embodiment of the present invention comprising a steel frame pallet  1100 . The front of the pallet  100  is indicated by the letter F. The rear of the pallet  100  is indicated by the letter R. The frame comprises frame lengths  1101 ,  1103 ,  1105  and  1107  arranged in a substantially rectangular configuration and connecting with corner stubs  1104 ,  1106 ,  1108 ,  1110 . The forward frame length  1105  and the rear frame length  1101  are extendible and contractible in effective length by means of end lengths  1101   a , 1105   a  which are received in the main tubular frame length  1101 , 1105  telescopically. Quick release locking pins  1111  are provided to cooperate with aligning holes in the frame lengths to secure the frame lengths at the appropriate selected length. This is shown most clearly in  FIG. 24 . This configuration enables the overall length of the container pallet to be altered dependent upon specific requirements. 
     The corner stubs  1104 ,  1106 ,  1108 ,  1110  are provided with sockets  1120  for receiving either the end lengths  1101   a , 1105   a  or the ends of the side frame lengths  1103 , 1107 . Side frame  1112  comprises post  1114  and post  1116 . Post  1114  and post  1116  are engaged in upward facing sockets  1130  of the respective stubs  1104  and  1110 . Side frame  1118  comprises posts  1120  and  1122 . Posts  1120  and  1122  are similarly engaged in the sockets  1130  of respective stubs  1106  and  1108 . A rear upper frame length extends to connect posts  1116  and  1122  as will be described in detail later. 
     The frame further comprises transverse bracing steel members  1132  extending transversely at the base of the structure welded to and connecting the forward and rear frame lengths  1105 , 1101 . A support plate  1140  is also provided, extending transversely at the base of the structure welded to and connecting the forward and rear frame lengths  1105 , 1101 . Furthermore, a pair of slider bars  1145 ,  1155  are welded to and connect the forward and rear frame lengths  1105 , 1101  extending transversely across the base. These have respective upper surfaces raised above the level of the plate  1140  and bracing members  1132 . In use, the windshields loaded onto the pallet container  1100  rest with their lower edges supported on the slider bars  1145 , 1155 . The slider bars, as the name suggests, facilitate sliding of the windshields into or out of the loaded position. 
     The forward and rear frame lengths  1105 , 1101  are provided with aligned brackets  1165 , 1175  to receive the tines of a respective fork-lift truck. Both opposing side frame members  1103 , 1107  are also provided with brackets  1185 , 1195  for receiving the tines of a respective fork-lift truck. The pallet can therefore be lifted by a fork-lift truck approaching or positioned at any side of the container pallet. 
     In addition to being adjustable in length, the pallet container is also adjustable in height. The upright posts  1114 , 1116 , 1122  and  1120  of the side frames  1112 , 1118  comprise inner frame tubes received telescopically internally of the outer posts  1114 , 1116 , 1122 , 1120 . In the configuration shown in  FIGS. 19 to 22 , the container is shown in its ‘least height’ configuration in which the inner frame tubes are completely retracted into the outer posts  1114 , 1116 , 1122 , 1120 . The inner tubes are inserted into the open upper ends of the corner posts  1114 , 1116 , 1122 , 1120 , and connected to end bosses  1180 . The side frame  1118  is provided with an upper side frame member  1211  welded at opposing ends to the bosses  1180  of the inner tube members inserted into posts  1120 , 1122 . The side frame  1112  is provided with an upper side frame member  1219  welded at opposing ends to the bosses  1180  of the inner tube members inserted into posts  1116 , 1114 . In order to increase the height of the pallet container  1100 , the respective upper side frame member  1211 , 1219  is raised such that the respective inner tube member is simultaneously drawn out of the respective post  1114 , 1116 , 1122 , 1120 . The telescopically extended inner tube frame members are then secured relative to the respective post  1114 , 1116 , 1122 , 1120  by means of a locking pin  1127  passing through co-aligned holes in the inner tube frame members and the posts  1114 , 1116 , 1122 , 1120 . 
     In addition to being adjustable in length and height, the pallet container is also configured to be stackable, and more than this, stackable in different length and height configurations. In order to achieve this receiving sockets  1182  are secured to the bosses  1180  shaped and configured to snugly receive foot stops  1184  provided on the underside of the corner stubs  1104 , 1106 , 1108 , 1110 , when one container is stacked on top of another. 
     The pallet container is, in addition to the end frames  1112 , 1118 , also provided with a rear frame  1290  comprising a pair of posts  1270 , 1280  within which are telescopically received frame struts  1271 , 1281  welded connected to a tubular frame cross member  1300 . The cross member  1300  is thus height adjustable with the rest of the pallet container  1100  as the frame struts  1271 , 1281  move telescopically in the posts  1270 , 1280 . The effective length of the cross member  1300  is also adjustable as inner frame tubes  1310 , 1320  are telescopically received in the opposing ends of the cross member  1300 . The inner frame tube  1320  is shown in detail in  FIGS. 28A and 28B . The upper surface of the inner frame tubes  1310 , 1320  is provided with a series of spaced apertures  1321  which are arranged to line up with one of respective locking apertures provided at opposing ends of the cross member  1300  to be secured with a respective locking pin  1315 . This fixes the cross member  1300  effective length to the required extent. As shown most clearly in  FIG. 28B , the end of the inner frame tubes  1310 , 1320  are provided with a downwardly extending securing pin  1317 . The securing pin  1317  locates in an aperture  1430  provided in a receiving seat  1420  welded to the bosses  1180  of the inner tube members inserted into posts  1116  and  1122 . The receiving seat  1420  welded to the bosses  1180  of the inner tube members is shown in detail in  FIGS. 27 a   - 27   c.    
     The posts  1270 , 1280  of the rear frame  1290  are pivotally mounted at their lower ends to the frame member  1101 . Pivotal mounting brackets  1450  are provided for this purpose. In use, the rear frame member is held in the upright position at the desired height and length extension, by means of engagement of the securing pins  1317  in the apertures  1430 , with the ends of the inner frame tubes  1310 , 1320  seated in the seats  1420 . This is the configuration shown in  FIGS. 19, 20, 22, 24, and 25 . In order to stow the pallet container  1100  when empty (for example for storage or transportation when not loaded with windshields), the rear frame can be pivoted to a stowed orientation in which the posts  1270 , 1280  are pivoted about the pivot mounting brackets  1450  through ninety degrees such that the posts  1270 , 1280  lie flat across the base of the container pallet  1100  between the rear and front frame lengths  1101 , 1105 . In order to do this the securing pins  1317  are lifted out of engagement of the apertures  1430 , as the ends of the inner frame tubes  1310 , 1320  are lifted from being seated in the seats  1420 . The cross member  1300  is then lowered such that the struts  1271 , 1281  move telescopically to be received completely back into the posts  1270 , 1280 . The rear frame can then be pivoted to the lowered/collapsed position such that the cross member  1300  lies contiguous against the forward frame length  1105 . 
     The opposing side frames  1112  and  1118  are also pivotally mounted to be collapsible from their upright orientation to lie flat adjacent the base of the pallet container. This is achieved in a similar manner to the arrangement described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,236. The lower ends of posts  1114 , 1116 , 1120 , 1122  are received in the stubs  1104 , 1110 , 1108 , 1106 . The operation will be described in respect of the post  1120  received in the stub  1106  and shown most clearly in  FIG. 21 . The other posts of the end frames are received and operate in the same manner. The post  1120  in the upright orientation is seated to rest in the post such that a lug  1510  is seated in a recess  1520  formed on the upper edge of the stub  1106 . The lower end of the post  1120  extends down below the lip  1530  defined at the bottom of an open channel  1540  defined in the stub  1106 . The lower end of the post  1120  is provided with a respective longitudinal slot  1550  provided in opposing sides, a pivot bolt  1560  extends through the stub from one side to the other passing through the slots  1550  in the opposing sides of the post  1120 . 
     In order to pivot the post  1120  from its upright orientation, the post is first lifted upwardly such that the lug  1510  is lifted out of the recess  1520  and the bottom of the post is clear of the lip  1530 . The post is then pivoted about the pivot bolt  1560  in the direction of arrow A in  FIG. 21 , in order to extend through the open channel  1540  in the stub  1106 . The respective side frames  1112 , 1118  pivot to collapse flat against the already collapsed rear frame  1290 . In the collapsed configuration the collapsed pallet containers can be sacked one on top of another. This is shown in  FIG. 26 , in which two collapsed pallets are shown one stacked on top of the other. The feet  1164  of the upper pallet container engage in the seats formed by the upper open ends of the stubs  1104 , 1106 , 1108 , 1110  of the lower pallet container. 
     Therefore, in addition to being adjustable in length and height, and stackable in its upright configuration, the pallet container is also collapsible from its ‘in use’ condition, to a collapsed condition in which collapsed containers can also be stacked one on top of another. 
     The posts  1270 , 1280  of the rear frame  1290  are provided with respective rests  1620  which are mounted to the posts  1270 , 1280 . The purpose of the rests  1620  is to support the windshield array when secured in the container. In the embodiment shown the rests  1620  are movable by rotating about the axis of the posts  1270 , 1280  between an ‘in use’ position shown in  FIG. 22  (projecting into the container) and a stowed position swung to a position permitting collapsing and stacking. As a less preferred alternative the rests  1620  could be removable from the posts  1270 , 1280 . 
     In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the front of the container is open and there is no front restraint. In such an embodiment the windshield array contained in the container is secured by means of a straps or tethers secured to the rear frame  1290  at the cross member  1300 , passing over the windshield array and secured to the bottom front frame length  1105 . 
     Side restraints can be provided to prevent the windshields from shifting in the longitudinal direction of the container during transit. In U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,236 this is achieved by means of pivoting bar side restraints. Conveniently and beneficially according to preferred aspects of the present invention, and as shown in  FIG. 24 , the side restraints comprise flexible fluid containing devices such as inflatable air bags  1700 . The bags can be secured to the frame by means of attachment to straps (not shown), which are then attached to the frame. The bags can be inflated prior to being forced into position to pack the windshield array  1800 . Alternatively the bags can be inflated subsequently to being positioned adjacent the windshield array  1800 . By using side restraints comprising flexible fluid containing devices such as inflatable air bags  1700 , the extra weight and bulk associated side restraints such as the pivoting bar side restraints of U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,236 can be avoided. This can reduce shipping and storage costs. Configuring the pallet containers for use is also less time consuming as a result of using side restraints comprising flexible fluid containing devices such as inflatable air bags  1700 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 24 , the pallet container  1100  is extremely versatile in that it can be expanded lengthwise from a minimum length to extended lengths W,X,Y, and also in terms of its height from a minimum height to extended heights E,F,G. The pallet container can also be collapsed to an extremely compact configuration in which the back frame  1290  remains integrally connected in the collapsed configuration such that collapsing and erection of the unit is conveniently achieved. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 29-32 , there is shown an alternative embodiment of a pallet container which is generally similar in construction to the pallet container embodiments described above, but in which adaptations have been made to facilitate ease of loading in certain situations. 
     The embodiments of the pallet container described above are primarily designed to be loaded from the front open side F. In certain situations it may be desirable to load from one of the opposed side ends of the container. Accordingly, the embodiment of  FIGS. 29-32  is designed to achieve this effect by making the upper side frame member  1211  of the side frame  1118  effectively detachable or displaceable in order to permit access though the side frame  1118 . 
     The upper side frame member  1211  is attached at one end to the upright post  1120  by means of a hinge structure  1150 . The other end of the upper side frame member  1211  is provided with a location pin  1160  provided on the underside of the upper side frame member  1211 . The locator pin is positioned in a locating aperture provided in the base of a locator bracket  1170 . The locator bracket has U shaped sidewalls extending upwardly from the base to provide a secure location seat for the end of the upper side frame member  1211 . In order to displace the upper side frame member  1211  from its bracing position, the upper side frame member  1211  is pivoted upwardly on the hinge structure  1150  enabling the opposed end to be lifted clear of the locator bracket  1170 . The upper side frame member  1211  is then lowered pivotally about the hinge to rest in the position shown in  FIG. 30 . There is sufficient play in the hinge structure  1150  to ensure that the free end of the upper side frame member  1211  can be displaced sideways to clear the locator bracket as the upper side frame member  1211  is lowered. In the displaced or lowered position (as shown in  FIG. 30 ) the upper side frame member  1211  may be secured to the upright  1120 . For example the locator pin may engage in a securing formation provided on the upright post  1120 . 
     The embodiment of  FIGS. 29-32  includes a further modification when compared to the embodiments described previously. In this embodiment, poles  2180  can be positioned in an upright orientation in the interior of the pallet container. The poles enable the interior of the pallet container to be divided up into sections and windshields positioned in the different sections supported and divided by the poles  2180 . The poles  2180  are push fit inserted into respective ones of a series of spaced receiving sockets  2185  positioned along respective tracks  1187  which extend at the base of the pallet container from the front frame length  1105  toward the rear of the container, and spaced outwardly of a respective slider bar  1145 , 1155 . 
     The location of the ends of the poles  2180  in the location sockets  2185  is sufficient to ensure that the poles are secured with sufficient robustness, however when the pallet container has been loaded it is possible to remove the poles  2180  from the receiving sockets by simply pulling upwardly to free the ends from the receiving sockets  2185 . The poles  2180  locating in the sockets  2185  effectively provide a temporary or removable dividing structure for dividing up the interior of the pallet into loading zones. 
     While the present invention has been described in detail with reference to certain exemplary embodiments thereof, such are offered by way of non-limiting example of the invention, as other versions are possible. Moreover, a number of design choices exist within the scope of the present invention, some of which have been discussed above. It is anticipated that a variety of other modifications and changes will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art and that such modifications and changes are intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.