Abstract:
Under one aspect of the invention, a reconfigurable, transportable container assembly is provided. Side panels are releasably interconnected with each other and combine with a base panel, and a top panel releasably mates with the side panels. The top panel is combined with the side panels and the base panel to form a transport configuration that defines a closed, transportable, collapsible container, and that is reconfigurable to a nontransport configuration that defines a substantially stationary structure different from the transport configuration. Embodiments can include deployable wheel assemblies and extendible jack assemblies connect to the base panel. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims (37 C.F.R. 1.72(b)).

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD  
       [0001]     The present invention relates to storage and delivery devices, and more particularly to reconfigurable mobile transport containers with multiple functionalities.  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0002]     Equipment, products, and other cargo are typically packed in a variety of containers and container systems for transportation via plane, ship, or land vehicle. Conventional transport container assemblies and systems are often specifically designed for certain transportation modes that have limitations when other transportation modes are needed. As an example, large, sturdy transport containers can be used for cargo transported via planes or ships, but such containers may not be effective for transportation by land vehicles or by manual transportation. Other container assemblies are too small for efficient transportation of large amounts of cargo. In addition, transport containers can efficiently transport cargo when fully loaded, but after the containers are empty and not in use, they require substantial storage space. Storage space may not be readily available, may be economically inefficient, or may even be cost-prohibitive.  
         [0003]     Many container assemblies are designed for very effective and efficient cargo transportation, but the containers have limited versatility beyond carrying cargo. As an example, the transport container assemblies and cargo systems used in military environments must meet specific weight and size characteristics suitable for transportation to selected destinations by plane, ship, or truck. These transport containers must also be extremely durable for use over time in various and potentially harsh environments. Once the containers have reached a destination via air or sea, the transport containers often must be further moved by vehicle or even manually over land to their final destination. Once the transport container reaches the final destination and the cargo is unloaded, the transport container must either be stored or, if possible, transported back to another location for further use or storage.  
         [0004]     It is highly desirable to use a minimum number of very versatile transport container assemblies for efficient use in a maximum number of situations. It is also highly desirable to use transport container assemblies that help maximize the efficient use of equipment, manpower, fuel, and storage space in connection with transportation of cargo to selected locations, and particularly to remote locations. Therefore, there is a need for transport container assemblies that allow for efficient transportation of cargo, while requiring minimum storage space, and that provide improved versatility for a variety of uses beyond carrying cargo.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0005]     The present invention overcomes limitations of the prior art and provides additional benefits. A brief summary of some embodiments and aspects of the invention is presented. Thereafter, a detailed description of the illustrated embodiments is presented, which will permit one skilled in the relevant art to make and use aspects of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art can obtain a full appreciation of aspects of the invention from the subsequent detailed description read together with the figures, and from the claims that follow the detailed description.  
         [0006]     Under one aspect of the invention, a reconfigurable, transportable container assembly is provided. The container assembly comprises a base panel, a plurality of side panels releasably attached to the base panel, and a top panel releasably attached to the side panels. The side panels are releasably interconnected with each other and combine with the base panel to define an internal volume when the side panels are in an upright, closed position. The side panels have first and second panel joinery, and the first panel joinery releasably mates with the joinery on the base panel. The top panel has integral top joinery that releasably mates with the second panel joinery. The top panel is combined with the side panels and the base panel to form a transport configuration that defines a closed, transportable, collapsible container, and that is reconfigurable to a nontransport configuration that defines a substantially stationary structure different from the transport configuration.  
         [0007]     The container assembly in one embodiment has wheel assemblies attached to the base panel. The wheel assemblies are movable between a stored position and a deployed position. The wheel assemblies are configured to rollably support the transportable container assembly when in the deployed position for towing by a tow vehicle. The container assembly in one embodiment has a retractable lift assembly attached to the base panel. The lift assembly is movable relative to the base panel between a retracted position and an extended position. The lift assembly supports the base panel above a support surface (such as the ground) when in the extended position to allow for movement of the wheel assemblies between the stored and deployed positions.  
         [0008]     Under another aspect of the invention, the side panels form a substantially fluid-tight seal with each other, with the base panel, and with the top panel when the side panels are in the upright, closed position, thereby forming a buoyant and collapsible container assembly. At least one of the side panels is movable upright, to a lowered, open position with a bottom edge of the side panel being in engagement with the base panel. The side panel in the lowered position forms a ramp for access into the internal volume of the container assembly. The container assembly also has a tow member removably attachable to the base panel. The tow member is configured to releasably attach to a tow vehicle for towing of the container assembly when the wheel assemblies are in the deployed position. The tow member is storable in at least one of the internal volume, the base panel, and the top panel.  
         [0009]     Under another aspect of the invention, retractable lift assemblies are recessed in the base panel and are movable between a retracted position, a first extended position, and a second extended position. The lift assemblies are configured to support the base panel above a support surface when the lift assemblies are in the extended positions. The lift assemblies are also out of engagement with the support surface when in the retracted position. Each of the lift assemblies has a caster portion and a leg portion. The caster portion is positioned to movably engage the support surface when the lift assembly is extended. In one embodiment, when the lift assembly is in the second extended position, the caster portion is out of movable engagement with the support surface and the leg portion is in engagement with the support surface. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0010]      FIG. 1  is a top isometric view of a reconfigurable, collapsible container assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0011]      FIG. 2  is a bottom isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  with wheel assemblies deployed and a tow bar in a towing configuration.  
         [0012]      FIG. 3  is a bottom isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  with a pair of wheel assemblies in a stored position and a plurality of lift assemblies in a retracted position and the tow bar removed.  
         [0013]      FIG. 4  is an enlarged isometric view of the wheel assemblies of  FIG. 3  shown in a deployed position.  
         [0014]      FIG. 5  is a side elevation view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  with lift assemblies shown in a first extended position and the wheel assemblies in the stored position.  
         [0015]      FIG. 6  is a side elevation view of the container assembly of  FIG. 5  with the lift assemblies in a second extended position and the wheel assemblies in the deployed position.  
         [0016]      FIG. 7A  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  in a closed, sealed cargo configuration.  
         [0017]      FIG. 7B  is an isometric view of four container assemblies of  FIG. 7A  shown stacked and positioned on a conventional pallet.  
         [0018]      FIG. 8A  is an isometric view of a narrower model of the container assembly of  FIG. 7A .  
         [0019]      FIG. 8B  is an isometric view of multiple container assemblies of  FIGS. 1 and 8 A shown stacked and positioned on a conventional pallet.  
         [0020]      FIG. 9  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken substantially along line  9 - 9  of  FIG. 7A  showing representative joinery between a top panel and a side panel.  
         [0021]      FIG. 10  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken substantially along line  10 - 10  of  FIG. 7A  showing representative joinery between adjacent side panels.  
         [0022]      FIG. 11  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken substantially along line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 7A  showing representative joinery between a side panel and the base panel.  
         [0023]      FIG. 12  is a reduced isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 7A  showing the container assembly with all the side panels  14  in a lowered, open position.  
         [0024]      FIG. 13  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 7A  in a collapsed configuration with the side panels in a stacked position on the base panel, and the top panel not shown for purposes of illustration.  
         [0025]      FIG. 14  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 7A  shown in the collapsed configuration with the top panel attached directly to the base panel.  
         [0026]      FIG. 15  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  shown in a reconfigured condition to define a fluid transport vehicle that includes a fluid-tight bladder supported in an inverted top panel.  
         [0027]      FIG. 16  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  reconfigured in a stationary sleeping cot configuration.  
         [0028]      FIG. 17  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 7  with the top panel removed and one of the side panels removed showing the internal volume of the container assembly.  
         [0029]      FIG. 18  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  reconfigured into a personnel work station configuration.  
         [0030]      FIG. 19  is an isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 1  in a storage configuration with a side panel  14  having access doors and a plurality of shelves contained in the internal volume.  
         [0031]      FIG. 20  is an isometric view of a molded, stackable storage container sized to fit into the container assembly of  FIG. 1 .  
         [0032]      FIG. 21  is a partially exploded isometric view of the container assembly of  FIG. 7A  with a plurality of the storage containers of  FIG. 20  in the interior area. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0033]     A reconfigurable mobile transport container assembly and a corresponding method for reconfiguring the container assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention are described in detail herein. The following description sets forth numerous specific details, such as specific uses for the container assembly, specific materials usable for the assembly, and specific structures for use with the container assembly, to provide a thorough and enabling description for embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art, however, will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details. In other instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown, or are not described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.  
         [0034]      FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a reconfigurable transport container assembly  10  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The container assembly  10  is a multifunctional mobile storage and delivery system that provides dependable transport and storage of cargo, while also having features that provide multifunctionality when not in use in a cargo configuration. The container assembly  10  is a towable, wheeled assembly that can be connected to a vehicle and towed on highways, streets, or off-road areas to a selected destination. The container assembly  10  provides the multifunctional uses by converting or transforming the assembly into several end-use configurations for applications other than as a storage or transport box. The container assembly  10  is also collapsible to a fraction of its fully extended size to allow for efficient use of space when the container assembly is stored or otherwise not in use.  
         [0035]     In the illustrated embodiment, the container assembly  10  includes a base panel  12 , a plurality of side panels  14  releasably connected to the base panel, and a top panel  16  removably connected to the side panels. The base panel  12 , side panels  14  and top panel  16  are made of a very durable, molded material that is thermally insulative, impact-resistant, fuel-resistant, UV-resistant, and also resistant to rust, mildew, and dry rot. In one embodiment, the base, side, and top panels  12 ,  14 , and  16  are made of Pro Wall material from Integrated Technologies, Inc. of Bothell, Wash., although other materials could be used. The base panel  12 , side panels  14 , and top panel  16  are illustrated in  FIG. 1  in a collapsible cargo configuration that defines a transport box. In this configuration, the container assembly  10  is approximately 48 inches high (4 feet), 52 inches deep (4 feet, 4 inches), and 96 inches long (8 feet), and provides an internal volume  18  with approximately 108 cubic feet of storage. The illustrated container assembly  10  can be reconfigured into a collapsed configuration having a height of only 16 inches. Accordingly, multiple collapsed container assemblies  10  can be stacked upon each other in the same volume as one container assembly in the cargo configuration. The dimensions and sizes of the transport container assembly  10  discussed above are for illustrative purposes, and alternate embodiments of the transport container assembly can have other dimensions, as discussed in greater detail below.  
         [0036]     As best seen in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the base panel  12  has a plurality of recesses  20  that contain two retractable wheel assemblies  22  and four retractable jack assemblies  24 . The wheel assemblies  22  are movable between a stored position shown in  FIG. 3  and a fully deployed position shown in  FIG. 2 . In the stored position, the wheel assemblies  22  are substantially fully contained in one of the recesses that defines an enlarged wheel well  28  formed in the middle portion of the base panel  12 . Accordingly, all of the components of the wheel assemblies  22  are contained above a bottom surface  36  of the base panel  12  so the bottom surface can rest directly on the ground or other support surface without interference by the wheel assemblies.  
         [0037]     In the illustrated embodiment, the wheel assemblies  22  are generally aligned with a center portion of the container assembly  10  to help provide a balanced assembly when loaded with cargo or when empty. The wheel assemblies  22  of the illustrated embodiment include wheels  30  suitable for use on roadways (including highways) and on off-road conditions. In one embodiment, the wheels  30  have pneumatic tires, and, in alternate embodiments, the wheels can have nonpneumatic tires sized and durable enough for travel on roadways up to selected speeds, e.g., up to 20 miles per hour.  
         [0038]     The wheels  30  are connected to wheel brackets  32  that pivotally connect to mounting brackets  34  fixed to the base panel  12 . When the wheel assemblies  22  are in the deployed position ( FIG. 2 ), the wheel brackets  32  and wheels  30  extend downwardly past the base panel&#39;s bottom surface  36  and are configured to roll along the ground or other support surface. As best seen in  FIG. 4 , the mounting bracket  34  has a pair of alignment rails  38  that slidably mate with channels  40  formed in the wheel brackets  32 . When the wheel assemblies  22  pivot from the stored position ( FIG. 3 ) toward the deployed position ( FIG. 4 ), the wheel brackets  32  pivot about an inner edge of the mounting bracket  34  until the channels  40  align with the alignment rails  38 . The wheel brackets  32  are then slid laterally outwardly along the alignment rails  38  to the fully deployed position.  
         [0039]     A locking mechanism  42  is mounted on the base panel  12  adjacent to each of the mounting brackets  34  and is positioned to releasably engage the wheel bracket  32  to lock the wheel assembly  22  in the fully stored position. The locking mechanism  42  is manually releasable so a person can release the locking mechanism and move the respective wheel assembly  22  to the deployed position without requiring tools. In one embodiment, the wheel assemblies  22  can be spring-loaded or otherwise biased toward either the stored configuration or the deployed configuration. In an alternate embodiment, a locking mechanism can be provided that retains the wheel assemblies  22  in the stored position and is releasable to deploy the wheel assemblies.  
         [0040]     Referring again to  FIG. 3 , the recesses  20  in the base panel  12  include four recessed corner areas  44  that contain the jack assemblies  24 . The jack assemblies  24  include a mounting bracket  48  fixed to the base panel  12 . A support leg  50  is pivotally connected at one end to the mounting bracket  48 , and a jackscrew  52  interconnects the support leg and the mounting bracket. A caster  56  is connected to the distal end  54  of the support leg  50 . The jack assemblies  24  are positionable in a retracted position so as to be fully contained in the respective recessed corner area  44 . As best seen in  FIG. 5 , each of the jack assemblies  24  are adjustable from the retracted position to a first extended position by rotating the jackscrew  52  in the mounting bracket  48 , thereby causing the support leg  50  to pivot relative to the mounting bracket. As the support leg  50  pivots, the support leg&#39;s distal end  54  and the caster  56  move past the bottom surface  36  of the base panel  12 . When the jack assembly  24  is in the first extended position, the caster  56  is positioned to rollably engage the support surface although the base panel  12  is not yet far enough off of the support surface to allow the wheel assemblies  22  to be fully deployed. The four casters  56  allow the container assembly  10  to be easily rolled along the support surface.  
         [0041]     As best seen in  FIG. 6 , when the jackscrews  52  are rotated further, the support legs  50  continue to pivot relative to the base panel  12 , and the jack assembly  24  move from the first extended position to a second extended position. In this second position, the base panel  12  is supported above the support surface  37  far enough so the wheel assemblies can be easily moved between the deployed and stored positions. In one embodiment, the casters  56  remain in rolling engagement with the support surface  37  when the jack assembly  24  is in the second extended position.  
         [0042]     In an alternate embodiment, the jack assembly  24  is configured so, as the support leg  50  is moved toward the second extended position, the caster  56  is tipped out of rolling engagement with the support surface  37 . The support leg  50  supports the base panel  12  in a stable, non-rolling position above the support surface  37 . Each of the casters  56  in this alternate embodiment are oriented on the support leg  50  to rollably engage the support surface  37  when the support leg is pivoted to a selected angle, as an example, approximately 15-18 degrees, relative to the bottom surface  36 . As the support leg  50  pivots from this first extended position toward the second extended position, the support leg  50  pivots past the 18 degree angle and the caster  56  is pivoted out of engagement with the support surface  37 . The distal end  54  of the support leg  50  moves into engagement with the support surface  37 . In alternate embodiments, the casters  56  can rollably engage the support surface  37  or be out of rolling engagement with the support surface when the support legs  50  are at a different range of angles relative to the base panel  12 .  
         [0043]     In the illustrated embodiment, the jack assemblies  24  are moved between the retracted and the first and second extended positions by turning the jackscrews  52  manually or with an automated device, such as a power drill or the like. In alternate embodiments, other lifting devices, such as scissor jack assemblies, pneumatic jack assemblies, or the like can be used. After the jack assemblies  24  are moved to the second extended position, and the wheel assemblies  22  have been deployed and locked in position, the jack assemblies  24  can then be returned to the stored position, so the wheel assemblies fully support the weight of the container assembly  10 .  
         [0044]     In one embodiment, the jack assemblies  24  include hydraulic jacks connected to a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system includes a pump that can be activated to move the jack assemblies  24  between the retracted position, the first extended position and the second extended position. The hydraulic system can be configured to move each of the jack assemblies  24  separately, or to move two or more jack assemblies simultaneously. Accordingly, the hydraulic system can be configured to move all of the jack assemblies  24  simultaneously, thereby smoothly lifting or lowering the container assembly  10  relative to the ground or other support surface. In another embodiment, the jack assemblies  24  are connected to an activation system having a series of cables or the like configured to move the jack assemblies between the retracted position, the first extended position and the second extended position. The activation system can be configured to move each jack assembly  24  separately, or to move two or more of the jack assemblies simultaneously. In one embodiment, the activation system is configured to move all of the jack assemblies simultaneously.  
         [0045]     As best seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a tow bar  26  can be removably attached at one end to the base panel  12 . The tow bar  26  includes an eyelet  60  at its free distal end  62  for removably connecting to a pintle hook or other connector on a tow vehicle. The tow bar  26  can also be connected to a handle mechanism or the like that allows the container assembly  10  to be manually rolled to a selected location. In the illustrated embodiment, the tow bar  26  is sized to be stored in the container assembly  10 . The tow bar  26  is stored in a receptacle molded into the top panel  16 . Other embodiments can be provided that have a base panel  12  with a molded receptacle sized to retain the tow bar  26  so the tow bar always remains with the base panel. In other embodiments, the tow bar  26  can be stowed in the internal volume  18  of the container assembly  10 . In one embodiment, the tow bar  26  is a telescoping tow bar, and storage areas are provided for the tow bar when in a collapsed position.  
         [0046]     In one embodiment, the tow bar  26  is positioned to extend from one end of the base panel  12 , and the other end of the base panel includes a trailering attachment. The trailering attachment works as a coupler to connect to the tow bar of another container assembly. Accordingly, multiple container assemblies  10  can be interconnected to form a mobile train of containers.  
         [0047]     Referring again to  FIG. 3 , the base panel  12  includes a plurality of molded elongated channels  66  shaped and sized to receive the tines of a forklift or other lifting mechanism (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the base panel  12  has one pair of molded lateral channels  68  that allow the forklift tines to extend under the base panel  12  from the broad side of the container assembly  10 . The base panel  12  also has a pair of longitudinal channels  69  such that the forklift tines can extend under the base panel  12  from the end of the container assembly  10 . The jack assemblies  24  and the wheel assemblies  22  are positioned so they do not interfere with the insertion or retraction of the forklift tines. In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal channels  69  terminate adjacent to the wheel assemblies  22  when in the stored position. The wheel bracket  32  of each wheel assembly  22  includes a protective end wall  70  positioned at an end portion of the longitudinal channels  69 . The end walls  70  protect the wheels  30  and prevent the forklift tines from engaging and potentially damaging the tires.  
         [0048]      FIG. 7A  is an isometric view of the container assembly  10  shown in a closed, sealed cargo configuration.  FIG. 7B  is an isometric view of four container assemblies  10  shown stacked on a conventional pallet. The base panel  12  of each container assembly  10  has a plurality of recessed aligning areas  72  molded into the bottom surface  36 . The top panel  16  also has a plurality of alignment projections  74  aligned to nest with the recessed aligning areas  72  in the base panel of the top container assembly  10 . The alignment projections  74  and recessed aligning areas  72  align the stacked container assemblies  10  so that the corresponding side panels  14  are substantially vertically aligned for maximum strength in the stack. In one embodiment, the container assemblies  10  are constructed in a manner allowing them to be stacked at least three high when each container assembly contains up to approximately 2500 lbs. Other embodiments can have alignment projections  74  and recessed aligning areas  72  with different shapes and positions so as to facilitate and assist in properly aligning the container assemblies  10  when stacked.  
         [0049]     As best seen in  FIG. 8A , the container assembly  11  in an alternate embodiment can be provided with different dimensions. The container assembly  11  of this alternate embodiment is narrower model than the standard model of the container assembly  10  shown in  FIG. 7A . As best seen in  FIG. 8B , this narrower model of the container assembly  11  can be stacked together and/or with the standard model. When stacked, the top container assembly  10 / 11  of each model nests atop the corresponding lower container assembly. The two models of the container assemblies  10  and  11  are shaped and sized such that the container assemblies can be stacked and arranged in a cube-like configuration to fit on a standard military 463 L pallet used in standard cargo transportation in aircraft and the like. Alternate embodiments can have a plurality of only one model of the container assemblies  10  or  11  stacked together in a selected pattern, cube-like or otherwise, for selected storage until the container assemblies are to be moved, emptied, reconfigured, or the like.  
         [0050]     Under one aspect of the invention, the container assembly  10  forms a collapsible, yet fluid-tight and buoyant container when in the cargo configuration and in the collapsed configuration. In one embodiment, the container assembly  10  is buoyant enough to float while containing up to 1000 lbs. of cargo. As best seen in  FIG. 7A , the top panel  16  is sealably retained on the side panels  14  with a plurality of quick release latches  76  for easy and quick installation and removal of the top panel. The top panel  16  also includes a pressure release valve  78  in fluid communication with the internal volume  18  to allow for positive or negative pressure relief relative to the ambient pressure. In one embodiment, the pressure release valve  78  is configured to allow for a one PSI pressure differential, although other valves configured for larger or smaller pressure differentials can be used in alternate embodiments. The one PSI pressure differential is sufficient to allow for easy removal of the top panel  16  if the pressure inside the container assembly  10  is lower than the exterior pressure. The one PSI pressure differential is also small enough that if the pressure in the internal volume  18  is greater than the exterior pressure, the top panel  16  will not energetically remove itself from the side panels  14  when the latches  76  are released.  
         [0051]     The top panel  16  of the illustrated embodiment is a molded member having a plurality of molded hand-holds  79  positioned to allow a person to grasp the top panel and position it on or off the side panels  14 . The hand-holds  79  also allow a person to firmly grab the top panel  16  when moving or reconfiguring the container assembly  10 . The top panel  16  has a generally concave shape and a peripheral edge  80  that sealably mates with the top edge portion  82  of the side panels  14 . The concave shape allows for integral storage areas to be provided in the top panel  16 . In the illustrated embodiment, the joint between the peripheral edge  80  of the top panel  16  and the top edge portion  82  of the side panels  14  is a tongue-and-groove joint, although other joinery can be used.  FIG. 9  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken substantially along line  9 - 9  of  FIG. 7  showing the tongue-and-groove joinery  84  between the top panel  16  and one of the side panels  14 . The illustrated joinery  84  is illustrative of the joinery between the top panel  16  and all of the side panels  14 . The top edge portion  82  of the side panels  14  has a tongue portion  86  projecting upwardly that mates with an elongated groove portion  88  formed in the peripheral edge  80  of the top panel  16 .  
         [0052]     In one embodiment, a gasket  90  (shown in phantom lines) is provided in the groove portion  88  to sealably engage the tongue portion  86  when the top panel  16  is installed onto the side panels  14 . The gasket  90  provides a fluid-tight seal in the tongue-and-groove joinery  84  that prevents the passage of debris, dust, water, fuel, or other fluids into the internal volume  18  of the container assembly  10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the gasket  90  is made of a flexible, resilient 60 Durometer silicone material that can vent at 8 PSI if immediate venting is required that exceeds the capacity of the pressure release valve  78  ( FIG. 7A ) discussed above. While the illustrated embodiment utilizes the tongue-and-groove joinery  84 , other suitable joinery can be used in alternate embodiments to provide fluid-tight seals between the top panel  16  and side panels  14 .  
         [0053]     Referring again to  FIG. 7A , when the container assembly  10  is in the cargo configuration, the side panels  14  are in the upright, closed position and are connected along vertical mating edges  98 . In the illustrated embodiment, the side panels  14  include interchangeable left and right side panels  92  and  94  that mate with opposing, interchangeable end panels  96 . The left and right side panels  92  and  94  are substantially planar panels, and the end panels  96  have wrap-around corners  99  that align with the left and right side panels  92  and  94 .  FIG. 10  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken substantially along line  10 - 10  of  FIG. 7A  showing the joint between adjacent side panels  14 . The mating edges  98  of the left or right side panels  92  or  94  include a first joinery portion  100  that releasably and sealably mates with a mating joinery portion  102  of the end panel  96  to define fluid-tight side panel joint  104 . The side panel joinery  104  of the illustrated embodiment is a nested, butt-joint configuration, other joint configurations can be used in alternate embodiments.  
         [0054]     The end panels  96  releasably lock with the left and right side panels  92  and  94  with a quick-release fastener  124  integrally connected to the end panels  96 . The fasteners  124  are recessed below the external surface of the side panels  14 . The fasteners  124  releasably engage the left or right side panel  92  and  94 . The fasteners  124  allow for the fast and efficient engagement and disengagement of the side panels  14  without requiring extra tools to reconfigure the container assembly  10 . Although quick-release fasteners  124  are used in the illustrated embodiment, other suitable fasteners can be used in alternate embodiments.  
         [0055]     The side panel joinery  104  allows each of the side panels  14  to independently move between the upright, closed position as shown in  FIG. 7A  to a lowered, open position as shown in  FIG. 12 . When a side panel  14  is in the lowered, open position, the bottom edge of the side panel remains engaged with the base panel  12 , such that the lowered side panel defines a loading ramp into the internal volume  18 . If a side panel  14  is not needed to form the loading ramp, the side panel can be removed completely from the base panel  12 .  
         [0056]      FIG. 11  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken substantially along line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 7A  showing representative joinery between the side panels  14  and the base panel  12 . The side panels  14  mate along a bottom edge  106  with a peripheral edge  108  of the base panel  12  with tongue-and-groove joinery  109 . The bottom edge  106  of the side panel  14  includes an elongated groove portion  110  that releasably mates with a tongue portion  112  projecting from the peripheral edge  108  of the base panel  12 . In the illustrated embodiment, the groove portion  110  in the bottom of the side panel  14  has substantially the same shape and size as the groove portion  88  in the top panel ( FIG. 9 ). Similarly, the tongue portion  112  on the base panel&#39;s peripheral edge  108  is substantially the same shape and size as the tongue portion  86  on the top of a side panel  14  ( FIG. 9 ).  
         [0057]     The base panel  12  includes latches  120  that releasably engage receiving portions  122  integrally formed in the side panels  14  so as to releasably retain the side panels  14  in the upright, closed position. The latches  120  are released when the side panels  14  are moved to the lowered, open position or removed from the base panel  12 . The tongue-and-groove joinery  109  between the side panels  14  and the base panel  12  allows for the hinging action about which the side panels can pivot when they move between the upright, closed position and the lowered, open position.  
         [0058]     As best seen in  FIG. 12 , the base panel  12  of the illustrated embodiment includes a floorboard  116  removably retained in a concave molded body portion  118 . The floorboard  116  provides a flat and stable surface on which cargo or other items can be supported. The molded concave body portion  118  allows for some storage therein, and the floorboard  116  provides a false floor over molded storage areas in the molded body portion. In one embodiment, the molded storage area under the floorboard is filled with a closed-cell foam or other buoyant material. This material under the floorboard  116  not only adds to the overall buoyancy of the container assembly  10 , it also provides support and stability to the floor board when under load.  
         [0059]     The floorboard  116  of the illustrated embodiment is a flat, rigid member sealably connected to the body portion  118  that can be easily removed and used for other purposes. The side panels  14  are also versatile structures suitable for uses other than as side panels of a container assembly. For example, in one embodiment the floorboard  116  or a side panel  14  can be used as a stretcher-type structure for use in field operations. The floorboard  116  and side panels  14  can also be radioluscent, such that x-rays can be taken through the structure of a patient when used as a stretcher-like structure. The floorboard  116  can also be nested together with other floorboards to form a hard floor structure removable from the container assembly  10 . The floorboards  116  are also interchangeable so that a floorboard can be easily and quickly replaced in the event it is damaged or otherwise not usable with a selected container assembly  10 .  
         [0060]     As best seen in  FIG. 13 , the side panels  14  are sized so that when removed from the base panel  12  as the container assembly  10  is reconfigured into the collapsed configuration they will fit on the floorboard  116  and fully within the peripheral edge  108  of the base panel. As best seen in  FIG. 14 , the top panel  16  can then be placed directly onto the base panel  12  with the side panels  14  fully contained between them. The configuration of the tongue-and-groove joinery between the side panels  14  and the top and base panels  16  and  12  discussed above is such that the top panel sealably mates directly with the base panel when the container assembly is in the collapsed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the volume of the container assembly  10  in the collapsed configuration is such that several collapsed container assemblies can be stacked within the same volume of a single container assembly when in the cargo configuration. This collapsed configuration allows for efficient use of space when the container assemblies  10  are not in use and are to be stored or transported in the collapsed position.  
         [0061]     The container assembly  10  of the illustrated embodiment is reconfigurable between the cargo configuration, the collapsed position, and a variety of other multifunctional configurations different than a cargo configuration. In one example, the container assembly  10  can be reconfigured into a water or fluid transport configuration, referred to as a water buffalo configuration.  FIG. 15  is an isometric view of the container assembly  10  in the water-buffalo configuration in which the top panel  16  is in an inverted position and placed on the base panel  12 . The inverted top panel  16  defines a generally concave area that retains a fluid-tight bladder  130 . In one embodiment, the bladder  130  can be integrally connected to the top panel  16  and retained in position when empty and when the container assembly  10  is in the cargo configuration. In an alternate embodiment, the bladder  130  can be removed from the top panel  16  and stored in the container assembly  10  or elsewhere as needed for subsequent use when the container assembly is in the water buffalo configuration. The bladder  130  is configured to hold a substantial amount of water or other selected fluid that is heavy and could be awkward to transport. The base panel  12  has the wheel assemblies  22  in the deployed position and the tow bar  26  attached to provide a towable structure for easy movement of the fluid-filled bladder  130 .  
         [0062]     The container assembly  10  can also be reconfigured into a substantially stationary personnel station. As best seen in  FIG. 16 , the container assembly  10  in one embodiment can be reconfigured into a sleep cot configuration. The sleeping cot configuration includes a plurality of telescoping supports  140  releasably attached to the corner areas of the base panel  12  and the top panel  16 . The telescoping supports  140  hold the top panel  16  above the top edges of the side panels  14 . A sleeping cot  142 , such as a lightweight mesh cot, is releasably attached to the upper edges of the side panels  14  so the sleeping cot spans between the side panels. The top panel  16  positioned over the sleeping cot  142  helps provide some shelter to a person supported by the sleeping cot  142 . In the illustrated sleeping cot configuration, one of the side panels  14  is positioned in the lowered, open position to allow for easy access into the sleeping cot  142  and to the area below the sleeping cot, which could be used for storage of selected items. The container assembly  10  can be quickly reconfigured from the sleeping cot configuration back into the cargo configuration without requiring tools by removing the sleeping cot  142  and the telescoping supports  140  and repositioning the side and top panels  14  and  16 . The components of the sleeping cot configuration can then be stored and transported with the entire container assembly  10  as a unit.  
         [0063]     As best seen in  FIG. 17 , the side panels  14  have a plurality of threaded receptacles  148  integrally connected to support ribs  152 . The receptacles  148  are vertically distributed along each support rib  152  and configured to releasably receive mating threaded fasteners. In one embodiment, the mating fasteners are thumbscrew bolts or other bolts that can be finger tightened in the selected receptacle  148 . Alternate embodiments can use other fasteners, including quick release fasteners that fit into corresponding receptacles in the side panels  14 . These mating fasteners can be provided on a wide variety of components used in other configurations of the container assembly  10 , so that no tools are required to reconfigure the container assembly. The fastener receptacles  148  can also be used with cargo tie-downs to securely retain cargo in place within the container assembly  10  when it is in the cargo configuration.  
         [0064]     As best seen in  FIG. 18 , the container assembly  10  can also be reconfigured into a personnel workstation configuration. In this personnel workstation configuration, the plurality of telescoping supports  140  support the top panel  16  above the side panels  14 , and a desk insert  146  is releasably fastened to the side panels  14 . The desk insert  146  can be a single unit that includes a plurality of storage compartments  150  and an elongated desktop  152 . In an alternate embodiment, the plurality of storage compartments  150  can be separate units installed and releasably secured to the side panels  14 , and the desktop  152  can be mounted on top of the storage compartments so as to define a personnel workstation.  
         [0065]     In the illustrated embodiment, one of the side panels  14  is positioned in the lowered, open position to provide easy access into the container assembly  10 . The floorboard  116  provides a support area for a chair or the like that a person can use when sitting and working at the workstation. The raised top panel  16  provides some shelter over the desktop  152 . The components of the personnel workstation configuration can be removed and fully contained as cargo in the container assembly  10  when reconfigured back into the cargo configuration. Although the illustrated embodiment provides a specific desk insert and storage area insert, other configurations can be used in alternate embodiments to form a personnel workstation with components that releasably attach to the side panels  14 , base panel  12 , and/or floorboard  116  and can be fully contained in the container assembly  10  when reconfigured into the cargo configuration.  
         [0066]     As best seen in  FIG. 19 , the container assembly  10  can be configured into a storage configuration that includes a drawer assembly  160  removably contained within the internal volume  18 . The drawer assembly  160  of the illustrated embodiment includes a frame  162  and a plurality of drawers  164  that can be inserted and removed from the internal volume  18 . In the illustrated embodiment, the container assembly  10  has a side panel  14  with integral access doors  166  that provide access into the container&#39;s internal volume  18  when in an open position. The access doors  166  can be closed and locked so as to securely retain the drawers  164  in place. In one embodiment, the side panel  14  and/or the access doors  166  can be provided with gaskets around the access doors to provide fluid-tight seals around the doorways when the access doors are in the closed position so as to maintain a fluid-tight container assembly  10 . In an alternate embodiment, the side panel  14  can be a unitary side panel as discussed above and illustrated in the previous figures such that access to the shelving can be provided by moving one of the side panels to the lowered, open position and exposing the internal volume  18 .  
         [0067]     In an alternate embodiment, the container assembly  10  can include a plurality of dividers that connect to the side panels  14  or the base panel  16 . The dividers act to separate the internal volume  18  into a plurality of sections for selected storage. Alternate embodiments can include a plurality of horizontal or vertical dividers spanning between the sidewalls.  
         [0068]      FIG. 20  is an isometric view of a molded, stackable storage container  200  having a top  202  that removably fits onto a base  204 . The storage container  200  has nesting features on the top  202  and base  204  that allow the storage containers to be stacked upon each other. As best seen in  FIG. 21 , the storage containers  200  are shaped and sized to stack within the internal volume  18  of the container assembly  10  ( FIG. 1 ) when in the cargo configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the storage container is shaped and sized so that twelve storage containers can stack within and substantially occupy the entire internal volume  18  of the container assembly  10  ( FIG. 1 ). The ends and sides of the storage containers  200  have a plurality of recessed alignment portions  210  sized and positioned to receive the support ribs  152  in the container&#39;s side panels  14  and the top panel  16 . The alignment portions  210  mate with the support ribs  152  to hold the storage containers in a selected position in the container assemblies interior area to prevent excess movement of the storage containers  200  during transportation. Alternate embodiments of the storage containers  200  can have different dimensions while still being stackable within the container assembly&#39;s internal volume  18  when in the cargo configuration.  
         [0069]     Although several configurations of the container assembly  10  are described above and shown in the Figures, multiple other configurations different than the cargo configuration can be provided with integral structures and devices that can be contained within the container assembly  10  for selected uses. The container assembly  10 , as an example, can be configured into a shower configuration or a personnel decontamination configuration. Therefore, the reconfigurable container assembly  10  provides a very versatile assembly that can be reconfigured into multiple multifunctional configurations for different uses in addition to the cargo configuration.  
         [0070]     From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited except as by the appended claims.