Patent Publication Number: US-2022219590-A1

Title: Cargo stacking devices and systems

Description:
STATEMENT OF CORRESPONDING APPLICATIONS 
     This application is based on the Provisional specification filed in relation to New Zealand Patent Application Number 752996, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to systems and devices for use in load stacking, more particular storage systems for use in the transportation of cargo in a vehicle. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Cargo vehicles, such as semi-trailers, box trucks, vans, train cars, etc. are often used to transport or temporarily store cargo. Depending on the shape, size, quantity, orientation or other characteristics of the cargo, it may be difficult to maximize efficient use of the cargo space of those vehicles. For example, certain cargo units, such as individual items or pallets of items, may be relatively short compared to the height of the semi-trailer, but the nature of the items may prevent them from being stacked on top of one another. As a result, there may be significant amounts of wasted space in the upper portions of the semi-trailer. 
     The present application is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems discussed above. 
     It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice. 
     All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country. 
     Throughout this specification, the word “comprise”, or variations thereof such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps. 
     Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to one aspect of the present technology there is provided a cargo storage system comprising:
         at least one pair of rails configured to extend along a length of the cargo storage area in a horizontal direction, the pair of rails comprising a first rail configured to extend along a first side of the cargo storage area, and a second rail configured to extend along a second side of the cargo storage area opposing the first rail; and   a plurality of support beams, each support beam configured to extend between, and be supported by, the first rail and the second rail.       

     In exemplary embodiments, each rail comprises a track, and each support beam comprises a first track guide at a first end and a second track guide at a second end, each track guide configured to be received by a respective track. In exemplary embodiments each track guide may comprise at least one load roller configured to bear against the associated track. For completeness it should be appreciated that alternative track guide movement mechanisms are contemplated, for example glides made of a plastics material such as nylon. In exemplary embodiments the support beam may be configured to receive a portion of the respective track guides at opposing ends of the support beam. In exemplary embodiments the tracks may be configured as enclosed tracks, retaining at least a portion of the track guides. 
     In exemplary embodiments the system comprises a braking or locking mechanism for selectively restricting movement of a support beam along the rails. In an exemplary embodiment each support beam comprises a locking pin configured to engage a select one of a plurality of locking pin locating features provided on at least one of the rails. 
     In exemplary embodiments neighboring support beams may be releasably secured relative to each other using one or more spacer beams. In exemplary embodiments each support beam may comprise at least one spacer beam pivotally attached thereto, configured to pivot from a stored position against the support beam and an in-use position extending from the support beam. In exemplary embodiments each support beam comprises a bracket to which a spacer beam extending from a neighboring support beam may be releasably secured. In an exemplary embodiment an upper surface of each spacer bar may be substantially level with the support surface. 
     In exemplary embodiments, a spacer beam bracket may be provided for use in securing spacer beams to support. The bracket may provide multiple functions: providing a pivotal connection to one end of the spacer beam, releasably connecting to the free end of the spacer beam while it is folded against the support beam in a stored position, and releasably connecting to a spacer beam of a neighboring support beam. In examples, the bracket may include a base. In examples the base may comprise two recessed fastener apertures. In examples a first wall and a second wall may extend from the base, having a space therebetween. Each wall may have an associated fastener aperture. Each wall may comprise a chamfered inner edge extending around a corner of the wall. The bracket may further comprise a first stop and a second stop extending towards each other along one side edge of the base from the first wall and the second wall respectively. In an exemplary embodiment the bracket may be manufactured as a monolithic structure, for example a one-piece casting. In an exemplary embodiment the cargo storage system comprises a first pair of rails and a second pair of rails, wherein the first pair of rails is provided above the second pair of rails within the cargo storage area. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the cargo storage system comprises a pair of transition rails between the first pair of rails and the second pair of rails. In an exemplary embodiment the transition rails follow a nonvertical path between the first pair of rails and the second pair of rails. In an exemplary embodiment each transition rail forms a junction with an associated horizontal rail of the second pair of rails, wherein the horizontal rail extends in both directions from the junction. 
     In an exemplary embodiment each transition rail comprises a safety station configured to present a tortuous section to a support beam passing along the transition rails, particularly to interrupt or at least slow unrestrained descent of the support beam from the first pair of rails to the second pair of rails. For example, the safety station may comprise a portion of the transition rail having a reverse curvature. Reference to a reverse curvature should be understood to mean a shape in which a curve transitions to another curve in the opposite direction—occasionally referred to as an “S” curve. 
     In exemplary embodiments in which each rail comprises an enclosed track, each rail may comprise a drop in beam opening on an upper side of the rail leading into the enclosed track. The drop in beam openings allow support beams to be introduced to, and retrieved from, the rails. The drop in beam openings may be provided on one or both of the first pair of rails and/or the second pair of rails. In exemplary embodiments the drop in beam openings may be provided between the junctions and the ends of the second pair of rails proximate a loading end of the cargo storage area. In exemplary embodiments each rail may include a horizontal lead-in section connecting to the drop in beam opening. 
     Each rail has a rail profile comprising a side section, an upper section extending from the side section, and a lower section extending from the side section and opposing the upper section. Surfaces of the side section, upper section, and lower section define an enclosed track cavity in which the track guide is received, and will herein be referred to as internal surfaces. In exemplary embodiments the side section extends below the lower section. In exemplary embodiments the lower section includes a recess configured to receive a roller of the track guide, wherein the recess faces the upper section. In exemplary embodiments the internal surface of the side section may comprise at least one recess extending along the length of the rail. In exemplary embodiments fastener apertures may be provided through the side section in the recess. In an exemplary embodiment, locking pin locating features may be provided in the internal surface of the side section. In exemplary embodiments the locking pin locating features may be provided at a location where the thickness of the side wall is greater than at the recess. In exemplary embodiments spacer features may be provided on a surface of the side wall facing away from the enclosed track cavity. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, one of the first pair of rails or the second pair of rails may comprise a first rail profile, and the other pair of rails may comprise a second rail profile. The first and second rail profiles may be configured to account for different use cases in order to reduce the overall weight of the system, and therefore tare weight of the cargo vehicle. More particularly, where a pair of rails are configured to support the support beams in an unloaded condition, the first rail profile may be lighter than the second rail profile. In an example the side section of the second rail profile may extend further below the lower section than in the first rail profile. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the support beam has a support surface, configured to face upwardly in use to support a load placed on the support beam. In an exemplary embodiment the support surface comprises a plurality of ridges. In exemplary embodiments the ridges may extend along the length of the support surface. In exemplary embodiments the ridges may be provided as castellations across the width of the support surface. In exemplary embodiments the ridges may be provided on the tops of base castellations. In exemplary embodiments the height of each ridge may be between about 1 mm to about 6 mm, for example about 1.5 mm. In exemplary embodiments the width of each ridge may be between about 1 mm to about 6 mm, for example about 2.5 mm. In exemplary embodiments the width of each ridge may be greater than the height of the ridge. In exemplary embodiments a grip pattern may be provided on the support surface. In examples, the grip pattern may be provided by knurling. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the support beam has a hollow structural section. In an exemplary embodiment the hollow structural section has an upper wall, a lower wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall defining an internal cavity. In an exemplary embodiment each side wall may comprise one or more internal recesses extending along the length of the cavity. In exemplary embodiments the internal recesses may be provided proximate the vertical centre of each side wall. In exemplary embodiments two internal recesses may be provided in each side wall, spaced apart to retain a thicker section between them. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the system comprises at least one platform member configured to extend between neighbouring support beams. In exemplary embodiments each platform member may be selectively secured to one or both of the beams. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the at least one platform member comprises a rigid sheet material. In an exemplary embodiment the platform member may comprise a sandwich panel (i.e. a core layer sandwiched between two skins). In an exemplary embodiment the sandwich panel may be a polycarbonate sandwich panel such as a Con-Pearl™ product, for example the Con-Pearl™ “Allround” product supplied by Con-Pearl North America Inc. In an alternative embodiment, the platform member may be an injection moulded plastic tray. 
     In an exemplary embodiment each support beam comprises at least one platform member locating feature configured to restrict lifting of the platform member from the support beams in an installed position. In an exemplary embodiment the platform member locating feature comprises a protrusion, and the platform member comprises a locating flange configured to be provided below the protrusion in the installed position. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the platform member comprises a flexible sheet material. In exemplary embodiments the flexible sheet material is a textile, for example an amarid based textile (more particularly a para-amarid fibre textile such as Kevlar™, supplied by DuPont), or a silicone rubber coated glass fabric. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the support beam comprises a winding shaft about which the flexible sheet is wound in a retracted condition. In an exemplary embodiment the flexible sheet is retractable into the support beam. In an exemplary embodiment the support beam comprises a storage cavity in which the winding shaft is provided. In an exemplary embodiment the support beam comprises a retraction mechanism configured to bias rotation of the winding shaft in a direction so as to retract the flexible sheet. In an exemplary embodiment the support beam comprises a manual tensioning mechanism for tensioning of the flexible sheet. In an exemplary embodiment the support beam comprises a sheet locking mechanism for locking off the flexible sheet at a desired length of extraction from the winding shaft. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the flexible sheet comprises a first sheet locating feature configured to interface with a second sheet locating feature of a neighbouring support beam. In an exemplary embodiment the first sheet locating feature is a bead on an edge of the sheet, and the second sheet locating feature is a hook or a keder rail. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the system is configured to avoid resonance in the platform member. In exemplary embodiments the natural frequency of the system may be tuned by adjusting the unsupported span of the platform member. In exemplary embodiments the natural frequency of the system may be tuned by adjusting the length of the spacer bars and/or the distance between adjacent spacer bars. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the cargo storage system comprises a first pair of rails and a second pair of rails, wherein the first pair of rails is provided above the second pair of rails within the cargo storage area. In an exemplary embodiment the cargo storage system comprises a pair of transition rails between first ends of the first pair of rails and first ends of the second pair of rails. In an exemplary embodiment the transition rails curve in an arc between the ends of the first pair of rails and the ends of the second pair of rails. In an exemplary embodiment the first pair of rails is provided in close proximity to the second pair of rails. In an exemplary embodiment the cargo storage system may be provided proximate the floor of the cargo storage area. In an exemplary embodiment the cargo storage system may be provided in an elevated position above the floor of the cargo storage area. 
     According to one aspect of the present technology there is provided a cargo storage system comprising a conveyor belt configured to extend along a length of the cargo storage area in a horizontal direction. In an exemplary embodiment the conveyor belt is configured to extend across a substantial portion of the width of the cargo storage area. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the belt of the conveyor belt may be made of a textile, for example an amarid based textile (more particularly a para-amarid fibre textile such as Kevlar™, supplied by DuPont), or a silicone rubber coated glass fabric. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the system may comprise internal lateral supports supporting the upper side of the belt. In exemplary embodiments the lateral supports may comprise beams. In exemplary embodiments the lateral supports may comprise rollers. In an exemplary embodiment the system is configured to avoid resonance in the belt. In exemplary embodiments the natural frequency of the system may be tuned by adjusting the unsupported span of the belt. In exemplary embodiments the natural frequency of the system may be tuned by adjusting the spacing between the lateral supports. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the conveyor belt may comprise an external support element. In an exemplary embodiment the support element may comprise a vertical flange extending from an outer surface of the conveyor belt. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the conveyor belt may be driven, for example by an electric motor. In an exemplary embodiment the conveyor belt may be manually moved, for example via a ratchet system, hand wheels, or direct pushing/pulling by an operator. 
     The above and other features will become apparent from the following description and the attached drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1-1  is a side view of an exemplary first cargo storage system installed in a cargo storage area of a cargo vehicle; 
         FIG. 1-2  is a perspective view of the first cargo storage system; 
         FIG. 2-1  is a side view of an exemplary second cargo storage system installed in a cargo storage area of a cargo vehicle; 
         FIG. 2-2  is a perspective view of the second cargo storage system; 
         FIG. 3-1  is a perspective view of an exemplary track guide assembly; 
         FIG. 3-2  is a perspective exploded view of the track guide assembly; 
         FIG. 4-1  is an end view of an exemplary load rail profile; 
         FIG. 4-2  is an end view of the track guide assembly supported by the exemplary load rail profile; 
         FIG. 4-3  is a perspective view of the track guide assembly supported by the exemplary load rail profile; 
         FIG. 5  is an end view of an exemplary support rail profile; 
         FIG. 6-1  is an end view of an exemplary support beam extrusion; 
         FIG. 6-2  is a perspective view of the support beam extrusion; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective exploded view of an exemplary support beam; 
         FIG. 8-1  is a first perspective view of a support platform comprising a plurality of the support beams; 
         FIG. 8-2  is a second perspective view of the support platform; 
         FIG. 9-1  is a perspective view of an exemplary rigid panel; 
         FIG. 9-2  is a perspective view of an exemplary support platform comprising two of the rigid panels connected between two support beams; 
         FIG. 9-3  is an end view of the support platform; 
         FIG. 9-4 to 9-8  are side views of the support platform in various stages of disassembly; 
         FIG. 10-1  is a perspective view of an exemplary support platform comprising a retractable sheet; 
         FIG. 10-2  is an end view of the support platform; 
         FIG. 10-3  is a perspective view of the support platform with the sheet retracted; 
         FIG. 11-1  is a perspective view of a third exemplary cargo storage system; 
         FIG. 11-2  is a perspective view of the third cargo storage system with retractable sheets deployed; 
         FIG. 11-3  is a side view of the third cargo system installed in a cargo van; 
         FIG. 12-1  is a perspective view of a fourth exemplary cargo storage system; 
         FIG. 12-2  is a perspective view of the fourth cargo storage system with a vertical flange moved from a forward position; 
         FIG. 12-3  is a side view of the fourth cargo system installed in a cargo van; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an exemplary spacer beam bracket. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1-1  illustrates a first cargo storage system  100  installed in a cargo storage area  102  of a cargo vehicle (not illustrated). The cargo storage area  102  is defined by side walls  104 , floor  106 , ceiling  108 , a forward end wall  110 , and a rearward end  112  which is shown in an open condition, but may be closed (for example by a door or doors). Referring to  FIG. 1-2 , the first cargo storage system  100  comprises a first pair  150  of rails, comprising first load rail  152 - 1  and second load rail  152 - 2  (referred to herein as load rails  152 ), each rail  152  having a first end  154  and a second end  156 . The load rails  152  have enclosed tracks to receive track guides of support beams, as will be described further below. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, entry into the enclosed track from the first end  154  and/or second end  156  of each load rail  152  is blocked (for example by end caps). Instead, each of the load rails  152  comprises a drop in beam opening  158  on an upper side of the load rail  152 , leading into the enclosed track in order to allow support beams to be introduced to, and retrieved from, the load rails  152 . In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the drop in beam openings  158  are provided proximate to, but offset from, the first ends  154  of the load rails  152 . This allows a user to stand on the floor  106  of the cargo storage area  102  between the load rails  152  while inserting the support beams into, or retrieving them from, the drop in beam openings  158  —while also maximizing the useful length of the load rails  152  in use, as will become more evident from the description below. 
       FIG. 2-1  illustrates a second cargo storage system  200  installed in a cargo storage area  102  substantially as described above with reference to  FIG. 1-2 . Referring to  FIG. 2-2 , the second cargo storage system  200  comprises a first pair  150  of rails comprising first load rail  152 - 1  and second load rail  152 - 2 , substantially as described above with reference to  FIG. 1-1  and  FIG. 1-2 . The second cargo storage system  200  further comprises a second pair  202  of rails, comprising first storage rail  204 - 1  and second storage rail  204 - 2  (referred to herein as storage rails  204 ), each storage rail  204  having a first end  206  and a second end  208 . Similar to the load rails  152 , the storage rails  204  have enclosed tracks to receive track guides of support beams, as will be described further below. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, entry into the enclosed track from the second end  208  of each storage rail  204  is blocked (for example by end caps). 
     The storage rails  204  are provided above the load rails  152 , at a height proximate the ceiling  108  of the cargo storage area  102 . The second cargo storage system  200  comprises a third pair  210  of rails, comprising first transition rail  212 - 1  and second transition rail  212 - 2  (referred to herein as transition rails  212 ). The transition rails  212  also have enclosed tracks to receive track guides of support beams, and facilitate the transfer of support beams between the load rails  152  and the storage rails  204 . In the embodiment illustrated, the transition rails  212  follow a nonvertical path between the first ends  206  of the storage rails  204  and points offset from the first ends  154  of the load rails  152  at which a junction is formed across which the support beams can be transferred. In the embodiment illustrated, the transition rails  212  enter the junctions at an acute angle relative to the portions of the load rails  152  extending from the junctions towards the second ends  156 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated, each transition rail  212  comprises a safety station  214  configured to present a tortuous section to a support beam passing through it, particularly to interrupt or at least slow unrestrained descent of a support beam from the storage rails  204  to the load rails  152 . In this embodiment, the enclosed track through the safety station  214  has a reverse curvature. 
     In exemplary embodiments, each of the load rails  152  may comprise a drop in beam opening  158  on an upper side of the load rail  152 . In exemplary embodiments the drop in beam openings  158  may be provided between the junctions and the first ends  154  of the load rails  152 —although it is expressly noted that alternative locations are contemplated, for example in the safety stations  214 . 
     In some use cases, it may be beneficial to permanently retain the support beams within the system  200 . However, the ability to easily remove beams from the system  200  on demand is envisaged as providing benefits in other cases. For example, the support beams may contribute a significant proportion of the total mass of the system  200 . Being able to remove the beams to increase the load capacity of the cargo vehicle may be valuable, especially if the vehicle is to be used in this configuration (i.e. without support beams, or with a lower number of beams) for an extended period of time. Further, the stored support beams may occupy volume, or limit the height, of the cargo storage area—removal of the support beams where otherwise not required may assist with recovering this space. The beams may be stored at a vehicle depot, or potentially used in another vehicle that has the system  200  fitted. For entities operating a number of cargo vehicles with the system  100  and/or system  200  fitted, this may allow for distribution of the support beams on a case by case basis—potentially reducing the total number of support beams required by that entity (with associated benefits in terms of costs and storage space required). 
       FIG. 3-1  and  FIG. 3-2  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a track guide assembly  300  for use with support beams of the present disclosure. The track guide assembly  300  comprises a beam insert portion  302 , comprising a side wall  304 , upper wall  306 , lower wall  308 , and central fin  310 , configured to be received within an internal cavity of the support beam. Replaceable load plates  312 - 1  and  312 - 2  are provided on the upper wall  306  and lower wall  308  respectively. 
     A roller mounting portion  314  is formed in a monolithic structure with the beam insert portion  302  (for example, as a casting). First load roller  316 - 1  and second load roller  316 - 2  are mounted to the roller mounting portion  314  to be in a vertical orientation in use, and first side roller  318 - 1  and second side roller  318 - 2  are mounted to the roller mounting portion  314  to be in a horizontal orientation in use. A retractable locking pin  320  extends through the roller mounting portion  314  between the first load roller  316 - 1  and second load roller  316 - 2 . 
       FIG. 4-1  shows an exemplary load rail profile  400 , for use in load rails  152  of the first cargo storage system  100  or the second cargo storage system  200 . The load rail profile  400  comprises a side section  402  having a wall facing surface  404  with a plurality of spacer features  406 . On the opposing side of the side section  402  is a track cavity side surface  408  comprising an upper side recess  410  and a lower side recess  412 , with a thicker portion  414  therebetween. A lower section  416  protrudes from the side section  402  below the lower side recess  412 . A roller recess  418  is provided in an upward facing surface of the lower section  416 , forming an outer lip  420 . An outer guide surface  422  is provided on the lower section  416 . An upper section  424  protrudes from the side section  402  above the upper side recess  410 . The track cavity side surface  408 , downward facing surface of the upper section  424 , and roller recess  418  of the lower section  416  define an enclosed track cavity. The side section  402  extends below the lower section  416  in a side section extension  426 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4-2 , the load rollers  316  are received within the enclosed track cavity, such that the rims of the load rollers  316  rest on the roller recess  418 . The overhanging upper section  424  restricts lifting of the load rollers  316  out of the roller recess  418 . The side rollers  318  bear against outer guide surface  422 , limiting lateral forces which might otherwise cause damage to the track guide assembly  300 . The overhanging upper section  424  has more of a thin wall construction than the lower section  416 , as loading in use is primarily born by the lower section  416 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4-3 , the load rail profile  400  comprises locking pin features in the form of blind holes  428  along the thicker portion  414  of the side section  402 . The locking pin  320  may be selectively engaged with one of the blind holes  428  to maintain the position of the track guide assembly  300  (and therefore support beam) on the load rail  152 . 
     During installation of the load rails  152 , an adhesive may be applied between the wall facing surface  404  and side wall  104 . The spacer features  406  assist with ensuring a predetermined thickness of adhesive is maintained, while the side section extension  426  provides an increased surface area of the wall facing surface  404 , to provide sufficient load bearing strength when adhered to a side wall  104 . In exemplary embodiments, upper fastener holes  430 - 1  may be provided in the upper side recess  410 , and lower fastener holes  430 - 2  provided in the side section extension  426 . Fasteners, for example rivets, may be passed through the fastener holes  430  into the side wall  104  and/or support framework of the side wall  104 . Heads of fasteners through the upper fastener holes  430 - 1  sit within the upper side recess  410  to prevent interference with the load wheels  316 . 
       FIG. 5  shows an exemplary storage rail profile  500 , for use in storage rails  204  of the second cargo storage system  200 . The storage rail profile  500  is configured in a similar manner to load rail profile  400 , comprising a side section  502  having a wall facing surface  504  with a plurality of spacer features  506 . On the opposing side of the side section  502  is a track cavity side surface  508  comprising an upper side recess  510  and a lower side recess  512 , with a thicker portion  514  therebetween. A lower section  516  protrudes from the side section  502  below the lower side recess  512 . A roller recess  518  is provided in an upward facing surface of the lower section  516 , forming an outer lip  520 . An outer guide surface  522  is provided on the lower section  516 . An upper section  524  protrudes from the side section  502  above the upper side recess  510 . The track cavity side surface  508 , downward facing surface of the upper section  524 , and roller recess  518  of the lower section  516  define an enclosed track cavity. The side section  502  extends below the lower section  516  in a side section extension  526 . 
     In comparison with the load rail profile  400 , the storage rail profile  500  is exposed to significantly lower loading forces (from both the load rollers  316  and the side rollers  318 ). As such, it is envisaged that the thickness of the lower section  516  may be less than that of the lower section  416 , and the surface area of outer guide surface  522  may also be less than that of outer guide surface  422 . Further, the length of the side section extension  526  may be less than side section extension  426 . 
       FIG. 6-1  and  FIG. 6-2  show an exemplary support beam extrusion  600 . The extrusion  600  has a hollow structural section comprising an upper wall  602 , a lower wall  604 , a first side wall  606 - 1 , and a second side wall  606 - 2  defining an internal cavity  608 . Each side wall  606  comprises an upper internal recess  610  and a lower internal recess  612 , having a thicker section  614  between them. In use, the internal cavity  608  receives the beam insert portion  302  of the track guide assembly  300 . The side wall  304  of the track guide assembly  300  bears against the raised surfaces of the first side wall  606 - 1  of the extrusion  600 . Similarly, the sides of the upper wall  306 , lower wall  308 , and central fin  310  of the track guide assembly  300  respectively bear against the second side wall  606 - 2  above, below, and between the upper internal recess  610 - 2  and a lower internal recess  612 - 2 . The thicker sections  614  of each side wall also allow for tapped fastener holes (not illustrated) to be provided, and used to secure brackets (for example, mounting bracket  704 , stowing bracket  706 , and receiving brackets  708  discussed below) to the extrusion  600  using a threaded fastener. 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown, the upward facing surface of the upper wall  602  of the beam extrusion  600  comprises a plurality of ridges in the form of castellations  616  across its width. In this example the height of each castellation  616  is about 1.5 mm, and the width of each ridge is about 2.5 mm. The castellations assist with reducing the likelihood of ice formation on the loading surface (for example, due to condensation freezing within a refrigerated cargo stage area, or when operated in freezing conditions) presenting a slick surface to cargo placed on it. The castellations may function to provide a volume away from the support surface for ice to form, and/or to assist with breaking up the ice against cargo loaded onto the support beams. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary support beam  700  (in an exploded view), comprising a length of the beam extrusion  600 , with a first track guide assembly  300 - 1  inserted at a first end, and a second track guide assembly  300 - 2  inserted at a second end distal from the first end. 
     The support beam  700  comprises spacer beams  702 , each being pivotally secured to a side wall of the beam extrusion  600  using a mounting bracket  704 , and selectively held against the beam extrusion using a stowing bracket  706 . On the opposing side wall of the beam extrusion  600 , receiving brackets  708  are provided to receive ends of spacer beams  702  from neighboring support beams  700 .  FIG. 8-1  illustrates a plurality of support beams  700  mounted on load rails  152 , secured relative to each other using the spacer beams  702  to provide a support platform  800  onto which cargo may be loaded (whether directly, or via pallets loaded onto the support platform  800 ).  FIG. 8-2  illustrates one of the support beams  700  released from the neighboring support beam  700  and the remaining support platform  800 , allowing for independent movement along the load rails  152 . 
       FIG. 9-1  shows a platform member in the form of a rigid panel  900  according to one form of the present disclosure. The panel  900  comprises a main body  902 , for example made of a polycarbonate sandwich panel such as the Con-Pearl™ “Allround” product. This material has a very high specific stiffness and specific strength, while being light in weight and having a hard-wearing surface. Also, the material can be fitted with a range of standardised fasteners for attaching straps, ropes and other fixings to. The main body  902  is edged by an extrusion  904  (secured, for example, using an adhesive), and has a hand hole  906 —in this example disposed towards one end of the main body  902 . Referring to  FIG. 9-2 , first panel  900 - 1  and second panel  900 - 2  are positioned to span between neighbouring support beams  700 . In use, cargo may be loaded onto the panels  900  (rather than directly onto the support beams or onto pallets loaded on the support beams). 
     In order to allow the system to be configured, and/or move support beams  700  when not in use, it is desirable that the panels  900  may be readily removeable. As shown in  FIG. 9-3 , the support beams  700  comprise panel locating features in the form of locating protrusions  908  on the sides of the support beams  700 . The extrusion  904  of the panel  900  comprises a locating flange  910  configured to extend below and underneath the locating protrusions  908  in the installed position. 
       FIGS. 9-4 to 9-8  illustrates removal of one of the panels  900 . In  FIG. 9-4 , the first panel  900 - 1  is in an installed position, with two spaced apart locating protrusions  908 - 1  and  908 - 2  within the locating flange  910  to restrict lifting of the panel  900 - 1  from the support beams  700 . In  FIG. 9-5 , the first panel  900 - 1  has been slid away from the second panel  900 - 2  such that the second locating protrusion  908 - 2  is no longer within the locating flange  910 , allowing for lifting of the first panel  900 - 1  at that end, as shown in  FIG. 9-6 . The first panel  900 - 1  may then be slid in the reverse direction such that the first locating protrusion  908 - 1  is no longer within the locating flange  910  (as shown in  FIG. 9-7 ), and then lifted clear of the support beams  700  (as shown in  FIG. 9-8 ). 
       FIG. 10-1  to  FIG. 10-3  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure for providing a support surface between neighbouring support beams. A retractable sheet system  1000  comprises a first support beam  700 - 1  and second support beam  700 - 2  spaced apart and secured by spacer beams  702 . Each support beam  700  has a retractable sheet extrusion  1002  attached to one side, the combination of which may be referred to collectively as a support beam. The retractable sheet extrusion  1002  has an internal cavity  1004  in which at least one winding shaft  1006  is received. 
     Flexible sheets  1008  are secured to the winding shaft  1006 . In embodiments the flexible sheet material is a textile, for example an amarid based textile (more particularly a para-amarid fibre textile such as Kevlar™, supplied by DuPont), or a silicone rubber coated glass fabric. A material such as Kevlar is considered well suited to the present application, having a stiffness sufficient to reduce the likelihood of the tensioned sheet behaving like a trampoline for cargo due to undamped spring behaviour. Abrasion resistance is also important as the sheet will have significant wear on the top and bottom surfaces as cargo is moved around. Impact resistance is also important, as there will be objects dropped or otherwise impacted on the surface of the sheets in the course of use. 
     A free end of each sheet  1008  has a bead  1010  along its edge, and hand holes  1012  at select locations against the bead  1010 . The retractable sheet extrusion  1002  further comprises a plurality of hooks  1014 , such that in use the flexible sheet  1008  may be pulled from the internal cavity  1004  of one support beam (for example second support beam  700 - 2 ), and the bead  1010  of the sheet  1008  secured to the hooks  1014  of a neighbouring support beam (for example, first support beam  700 - 1 ) to hold it in place. The inner rims  1016 - 1  and  1016 - 2  of the retractable sheet extrusion  1002  are rounded with a relatively large radii to assist with reducing wear on the sheet  1008 . The retractable sheet extrusion  1002  further comprises a seat recess  1018  for locating the bead  1010  of the sheet  1008  when retracted into the internal cavity. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the winding shaft  1006  may be biased to retract the sheet  1008  when released. However, it is anticipated that achieving a desired level of tension in the sheet  1008  using such bias alone may be difficult while also allowing the sheets  1008  to be manually extended by a user relatively easily. It is anticipated that a user may pull approximately 100 N ( ˜ 10 kg force) horizontally relatively easily, however it is anticipated that the required tension to support a mass of packages which may be experienced in some applications is greater than 1,000 N ( ˜ 100 kg force). As such, it is envisaged that a manual tensioning mechanism for tensioning of the sheets  1008  may be provided (for example, a ratchet mechanism). In an exemplary embodiment, a sheet locking mechanism may be provided for locking off the sheets  1008  at a desired length. 
     In system  1000 , the spacer beams  702  are located such that their upper support surface is substantially adjacent to the sheet  1008  when connected between the support beams  700 . It is envisaged that this may assist with supporting the sheet  1008  to control deflection of the sheet  1008  and distribute the loading forces. 
     Mass sitting on a tensioned sheet results in undamped sprung motion. It is anticipated that matching of the frequency of this motion with a fundamental frequency of a cargo vehicle in motion may result in resonance, imparting significantly more loading on the overall system, and increasing the risk of cargo moving and potentially collapsing if stacked. As such, it is desirable to avoid this scenario. The resonant frequency of the system will be influenced by overall tension, overall mass and unsupported span. In the system of the present disclosure, mass is highly variable due to changes in the cargo being carried at any one time. Further, there are practical limitations to the extent to which tension may be adjusted. As such, it is envisaged that tuning in order to avoid matching of the frequencies may be achieved by adjusting the unsupported span. The unsupported span in the case of system  1000  is the product of the longitudinal span between neighbouring support beams  700  (i.e. the length of the spacer beams  702 ), and the lateral span between neighbouring spacer beams  702 . It is envisaged that the lateral span may be the most easily adjusted—for example by uneven spacing or increasing the number of spacer beams  702 . 
       FIGS. 11-1 to 11-3  shows a third exemplary cargo storage system  1100  primarily intended for use with relatively light weight and/or lower capacity vehicles (for example, a van rather than a truck)—although it should be appreciated that wider application is contemplated. The system  1100  comprises a pair  1102  of rail sets  1104 - 1  and  1104 - 2 . Each rail set  1104  comprises an upper rail  1106 , a lower rail  1108  provided below the upper rail  1106 , and a transition rail portion  1110  therebetween. In this exemplary embodiment the upper rail  1106  is provided in close proximity to the lower rail  1108 , and the transition rail portion  1110  curves in a relatively tight arc between the end of the upper rail  1106  and the end of the lower rail  1108 . Support beams  1112  span between the first rail set  1104 - 1  and the second rail set  1104 - 2 , and may be slid along the rails and locked in place in a fashion similar to that described above. Similarly, spacer beams may be used to join neighboring support beams  1112 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 11-2 , it is envisaged that removeable platforms may be provided between neighboring support beams  1112 , for example a retractable sheet  1114  using a similar configuration to that described above with reference to  FIG. 10-1  to  FIG. 10-3 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 11-3 , in one embodiment the system  1104  may be installed in a cargo storage space of a cargo vehicle (in this example a van  1116 ) between the ceiling  1118  and floor  1120  of the storage space. It is envisaged that the support beams  1112  may be stored on the lower rail  1108  towards the driver cab  1122 , and pulled towards the rear  1124  when shelving is required. For example, two support beams  1112  may be brought to the rear, assembled to form a trolley, loaded with cargo, and pushed back towards the driver cab  1122  on the upper rail  1106 . This allows forklift accessible double stacking across the full depth of the van  1116 . It should be appreciated that which  FIG. 11-3  is illustrated with the system provided at a mid-point between the ceiling  1118  and floor  1120 , is expressly contemplated that the system  1104  may be provided at different heights according to individual needs—for example, proximate the floor  1120  to provide a rolling floor. 
     It is envisaged that stacking cargo on rolling platforms, such as provided by system  1100 , may assist with implementing first-in-last-out (FILO) stacking and/or first-in-first-out (FIFO) stacking for improved logistical efficiencies. 
     It is envisaged that the upper rail  1106  may be provided in much closer proximity to the lower rail  1108  (for example, in comparison with the configuration of system  200 ) due to the nature of the cargo typically carried in smaller vehicles. A truck can have very large cargo items in it on a regular basis, with people walking around inside the cargo storage area, making it desirable to move the support beams away from the floor (as may be seen in system  200 ). A courier van is typically used to transport a large number of smaller cargo items, that can still be packed underneath the support beams  1112  when stored in the position illustrated. 
       FIG. 12-1  to  FIG. 12-3  illustrates an exemplary cargo storage conveyor belt system  1200  comprising a continuous conveyor belt  1202  mounted on rollers (not illustrated) at a first end  1204 - 1  and second end  1204 - 2  of the conveyor belt  1202 . In the example illustrated internal lateral supports are provided in the form of lateral beams  1206 . In an exemplary embodiment the belt of the conveyor belt may be made of a textile, for example an amarid based textile (more particularly a para-amarid fibre textile such as Kevlar™, supplied by DuPont), or a silicone rubber coated glass fabric. 
     In an exemplary embodiment the conveyor belt  1202  may be driven, for example by an electric motor, although it is also contemplated that the conveyor belt  1202  may be manually moved, for example via a ratchet system, hand wheels, or direct pushing/pulling by a user. 
     In the exemplary embodiment illustrated the conveyor belt system  1200  comprises a vertical flange  1208  provided to the conveyor belt  1202 . In use, it is envisaged that cargo may be stacked against the vertical flange  1208 , providing stability to the stack as the conveyor belt  1202  is subsequently moved. 
     It is envisaged that the conveyor belt system  1200  may be used with relatively light weight and/or lower capacity vehicles (for example, a van rather than a truck). The conveyor belt system  1200  may assist with allow loading/unloading of the cargo in a defined order, for example to allow a courier company to stack packages in the same order as the drop-off route. It is envisaged that this may be in accordance with either first-in-last-out (FILO) or first-in-first-out (FIFO) principles, depending on the configuration of the vehicle and whether it allows for access through the rear door, or rear door and side doors. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a spacer beam bracket  1300  for use in securing spacer beams to support beams in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The bracket  1300  is intended to provide multiple functions: providing a pivotal connection to one end of the spacer beam, releasably connecting to the free end of the spacer beam while it is folded against the support beam in a stored position, and releasably connecting to a spacer beam of a neighboring support beam. The bracket  1300  includes a base  1302 , in this embodiment comprising two recessed fastener apertures  1304 - 1  and  1304 - 2 . A first wall  1306 - 1  and a second wall  1306 - 2  extend from the base  1302 , each wall  1306  having an associated fastener aperture  1308 . Each wall  1306  comprises a chamfered inner edge  1310  extending around a corner of the wall  1306 . The bracket  1300  further comprises stops  1312 - 1  and  1312 - 2  extending towards each other along one side of the base  1302  from the walls  1306 - 1  and  1306 - 2  respectively. In an exemplary embodiment it is envisaged that the bracket  1300  may be manufactured as a monolithic structure, for example a one-piece casting. 
     In use, the bracket  1300  may provide a pivotal connection to a spacer beam by passing a pin through fastener apertures  1308 . The spacer beam may pivot between a first position in which it lies against the base  1302  (i.e. in a stored position), and a second position in which it lies against the stops  1312 . The bracket  1300  may provide a releasable connection to the free end of the spacer beam while it is folded against the support beam (i.e. in a stored position) such that the spacer beam lies against the base  1302 , by passing a pin though the fastener apertures  1308 . The bracket  1300  may provide a releasable connection to the free end of a spacer beam extended from a neighboring support beam and received by the bracket  1300  such that it lies against stops  1312 , by passing a pin though the fastener apertures  1308 . 
     The various steps or acts in a method or process described in connection with the present disclosure may be performed in the order shown, or may be performed in another order. Additionally, one or more process or method steps may be omitted or one or more process or method steps may be added to the methods and processes. An additional step, block, or action may be added in the beginning, end, or intervening existing elements of the methods and processes. 
     Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” (or the like) means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” or the like in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. 
     Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in at least one embodiment. In the foregoing description, numerous specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art may well recognize, however, that embodiments of the disclosure can be practiced without at least one of the specific details thereof, or can be practiced with other methods, components, materials, et cetera. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention. 
     The illustrated embodiments of the disclosure will be best understood by reference to the figures. The foregoing description is intended only by way of example and simply illustrates certain selected exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. 
     Throughout this specification, the word “comprise” or “include”, or variations thereof such as “comprises”, “includes”, “comprising” or “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”. 
     REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 100 
                 First cargo storage system 
               
               
                 102 
                 Cargo storage area 
               
               
                 104 
                 Side walls 
               
               
                 106 
                 Floor 
               
               
                 108 
                 Ceiling 
               
               
                 110 
                 Forward end wall 
               
               
                 112 
                 Rearward end 
               
               
                 150 
                 First pair of rails 
               
               
                   152-1 
                 First load rail 
               
               
                   152-2 
                 Second load rail 
               
               
                 154 
                 First end of load rail 
               
               
                 156 
                 Second end of load rail 
               
               
                 158 
                 Drop in beam opening 
               
               
                 200 
                 Second cargo storage system 
               
               
                 202 
                 Second pair of rails 
               
               
                   204-1 
                 First storage rail 
               
               
                   204-2 
                 Second storage rail 
               
               
                 206 
                 First end of storage rail 
               
               
                 208 
                 Second end of storage rail 
               
               
                 210 
                 Third pair of rails 
               
               
                   212-1 
                 First transition rail 
               
               
                   212-2 
                 Second transition rail 
               
               
                 214 
                 Safety station 
               
               
                 300 
                 Track guide assembly 
               
               
                 302 
                 Beam insert portion 
               
               
                 304 
                 Side wall 
               
               
                 306 
                 Upper wall 
               
               
                 308 
                 Lower wall 
               
               
                 310 
                 Central fin 
               
               
                   312-1 
                 First replaceable load plate 
               
               
                   312-2 
                 Second replaceable load plate 
               
               
                 314 
                 Roller mounting portion 
               
               
                   316-1 
                 First load roller 
               
               
                   316-2 
                 Second load roller 
               
               
                   318-1 
                 First side roller 
               
               
                   318-2 
                 Second side roller 
               
               
                 320 
                 Retractable locking pin 
               
               
                 400 
                 Load rail profile 
               
               
                 402 
                 Side section 
               
               
                 404 
                 Wall facing surface 
               
               
                 406 
                 Spacer feature 
               
               
                 408 
                 Track cavity side surface 
               
               
                 410 
                 Upper side recess 
               
               
                 412 
                 Lower side recess 
               
               
                 414 
                 Thicker section of side wall 
               
               
                 416 
                 Lower section 
               
               
                 418 
                 Roller recess 
               
               
                 420 
                 Outer lip 
               
               
                 422 
                 Outer guide surface 
               
               
                 424 
                 Upper section 
               
               
                 426 
                 Side section extension 
               
               
                 500 
                 Storage rail profile 
               
               
                 502 
                 Side section 
               
               
                 504 
                 Wall facing surface 
               
               
                 506 
                 Spacer feature 
               
               
                 508 
                 Track cavity side surface 
               
               
                 510 
                 Upper side recess 
               
               
                 512 
                 Lower side recess 
               
               
                 514 
                 Thicker section of side wall 
               
               
                 516 
                 Lower section 
               
               
                 518 
                 Roller recess 
               
               
                 520 
                 Outer lip 
               
               
                 522 
                 Outer guide surface 
               
               
                 524 
                 Upper section 
               
               
                 526 
                 Side section extension 
               
               
                 600 
                 Support beam extrusion 
               
               
                 602 
                 Upper wall 
               
               
                 604 
                 Lower wall 
               
               
                   606-1 
                 First side wall 
               
               
                   606-2 
                 Second side wall 
               
               
                 608 
                 Internal cavity 
               
               
                 610 
                 Upper internal recess 
               
               
                 612 
                 Lower internal recess 
               
               
                 614 
                 Thicker section of side wall 
               
               
                 616 
                 Castellation 
               
               
                 700 
                 Support beam 
               
               
                 702 
                 Spacer beam 
               
               
                 704 
                 Mounting bracket 
               
               
                 706 
                 Stowing bracket 
               
               
                 708 
                 Receiving bracket 
               
               
                 800 
                 Support platform 
               
               
                   900-1 
                 First panel 
               
               
                   900-2 
                 Second panel 
               
               
                 902 
                 Main body 
               
               
                 904 
                 Panel edge extrusion 
               
               
                 906 
                 Hand hole 
               
               
                   908-1 
                 First locating protrusion 
               
               
                   908-2 
                 Second locating protrusion 
               
               
                 910 
                 Locating flange 
               
               
                 1000  
                 Retractable sheet system 
               
               
                 1002  
                 Retractable sheet extrusion 
               
               
                 1004  
                 Internal cavity 
               
               
                 1006  
                 Winding shaft 
               
               
                 1008  
                 Flexible sheet 
               
               
                 1010  
                 Bead 
               
               
                 1012  
                 Hand hole 
               
               
                 1014  
                 Hook 
               
               
                 1016  
                 Inner rim 
               
               
                 1018  
                 Seat recess 
               
               
                 1100  
                 Third cargo storage system 
               
               
                 1102  
                 Pair of rail sets 
               
               
                  1104-1 
                 First rail set 
               
               
                  1104-2 
                 Second rail set 
               
               
                 1106  
                 Upper rail 
               
               
                 1108  
                 Lower rail 
               
               
                 1110  
                 Transition rail portion 
               
               
                 1112  
                 Support beam 
               
               
                 1114  
                 Retractable sheet 
               
               
                 1116  
                 Cargo van 
               
               
                 1118  
                 Ceiling 
               
               
                 1120  
                 Floor 
               
               
                 1122  
                 Driver cab 
               
               
                 1124  
                 Rear of cargo space 
               
               
                 1200  
                 Conveyor belt system 
               
               
                 1202  
                 Conveyor belt 
               
               
                  1204-1 
                 First end of conveyor belt 
               
               
                  1204-2 
                 Second end of conveyor belt 
               
               
                 1206  
                 Lateral beam 
               
               
                 1208  
                 Vertical flange 
               
               
                 1300  
                 Spacer beam bracket 
               
               
                 1302  
                 Base 
               
               
                  1304-1 
                 First recessed fastener aperture 
               
               
                  1304-2 
                 Second recessed fastener aperture 
               
               
                  1306-1 
                 First wall 
               
               
                  1306-2 
                 Second wall 
               
               
                 1308  
                 Fastener aperture 
               
               
                 1310  
                 Chamfered inner edge 
               
               
                  1312-1 
                 First stop 
               
               
                  1312-2 
                 Second stop