CONVERTIBLE CARGO HANDLING ASSEMBLY FOR MANAGING VARIED CARGO TYPES

Abstract

A cargo handling assembly for a transport container includes an adapter tray configured to fit within a gap between floor panels of the transport container, the adapter tray comprising a lower wall and side walls forming a recessed gutter. An anchor plate is attachable to the lower wall of the adapter tray. A roller tray is configured to nest within the recessed gutter of the adapter tray, the roller tray comprising an anchor block for attachment to the anchor plate. A tray cover is insertable into the recessed gutter when the roller tray is removed, the tray cover configured to span between the side walls of the adapter tray.

Claims

1. A cargo handling assembly for a transport container, the cargo handling assembly comprising: an adapter tray configured to fit within a gap between floor panels of the transport container, the adapter tray comprising a lower wall and side walls forming a recessed gutter; an anchor plate attachable to the lower wall of the adapter tray; a roller tray configured to nest within the recessed gutter of the adapter tray, the roller tray comprising an anchor block for attachment to the anchor plate; and a tray cover insertable into the recessed gutter when the roller tray is removed, the tray cover configured to span between the side walls of the adapter tray.

2. The cargo handling assembly of claim 1, wherein the adapter tray further comprises lateral flanges extending outward from lower edges of the side walls, the lateral flanges configured to extend at least partially underneath the floor panels.

3. The cargo handling assembly of claim 1, wherein the roller tray comprises a plurality of roller units for facilitating movement of cargo and optionally comprises an electrical raceway for routing electrical components associated with the plurality of roller units.

4. The cargo handling assembly of claim 1, wherein the tray cover comprises: a top wall configured to span between the side walls of the adapter tray; and side feet extending downward from edges of the top wall.

5. The cargo handling assembly of claim 4, wherein the tray cover further comprises a reinforcement rib positioned beneath the top wall.

6. The cargo handling assembly of claim 4, wherein the tray cover further comprises an anchor plate cutout formed through the top wall, the anchor plate cutout configured to receive at least a portion of the anchor plate when the tray cover is installed.

7. The cargo handling assembly of claim 4, wherein one or more of the side feet of the tray cover comprises a positive structure configured to frictionally engage a side wall of the adapter tray.

8. A method of converting a cargo transport container between a containerized cargo mode and a bulk cargo mode, the method comprising: installing an adapter tray within a gap between floor panels of the cargo transport container, the adapter tray comprising a lower wall and side walls forming a recessed gutter; securing an anchor plate to the lower wall of the adapter tray; and selectively attaching either a roller tray or a tray cover to the adapter tray, wherein the roller tray is configured to nest within the recessed gutter and attach to the anchor plate for the containerized cargo mode, and wherein the tray cover is configured to insert into the recessed gutter for the bulk cargo mode.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein installing the adapter tray comprises: positioning lateral flanges of the adapter tray at least partially underneath the floor panels; and securing the adapter tray to a sub-floor bracket of the cargo transport container.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein securing the anchor plate to the lower wall of the adapter tray comprises securing fasteners that extend through the anchor plate, the adapter tray, and into the sub-floor bracket.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein attaching the roller tray comprises: nesting a lower portion of the roller tray within the recessed gutter of the adapter tray; and connecting an anchor block of the roller tray to the anchor plate via a quick-connect fastener.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the connecting the anchor block to the anchor plate via the quick-connect fastener is toolless.

13. The method of claim 8, wherein attaching the tray cover comprises: inserting side feet of the tray cover between the side walls of the adapter tray; and at least one of: engaging a positive structure on one or more of the side feet with a corresponding side wall of the adapter tray or securing a fastener through a top wall of the tray cover and a mounting block affixed to the adapter tray.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the tray cover includes an anchor plate cutout, and attaching the tray cover further comprises aligning the anchor plate cutout with the anchor plate to maintain accessibility of the anchor plate for cargo securement in the bulk cargo mode.

15. A cargo transport system comprising: a cargo transport container having a floor with a longitudinal gap between floor panels; an adapter tray installed within the longitudinal gap, the adapter tray comprising a lower wall spanning the longitudinal gap and side walls extending upward from the lower wall to form a recessed gutter; an anchor plate secured to the lower wall of the adapter tray; and a roller tray for containerized cargo mode or a tray cover for bulk cargo mode, wherein the roller tray and tray cover are interchangeably attachable to the anchor plate.

16. The cargo transport system of claim 15, wherein the adapter tray further comprises lateral flanges extending outward from lower edges of the side walls, the lateral flanges configured to extend at least partially underneath the floor panels.

17. The cargo transport system of claim 15, wherein the roller tray comprises a plurality of roller units for facilitating movement of cargo and an electrical raceway for routing electrical components associated with the roller units.

18. The cargo transport system of claim 15, wherein the tray cover comprises: a top wall configured to span between the side walls of the adapter tray; and side feet extending downward from edges of the top wall.

19. The cargo transport system of claim 18, wherein the tray cover further comprises an anchor plate cutout formed through the top wall, the anchor plate cutout configured to receive at least a portion of the anchor plate when the tray cover is installed.

20. The cargo transport system of claim 19, wherein one or more of the side feet of the tray cover comprises a positive structure configured to frictionally engage a corresponding side wall of the adapter tray.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0009] The present systems and methods for an assembly switching between cargo and bulk modes are described in detail below with reference to these figures.

[0010] FIG. 1 depicts a cargo transport container, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 depicts a portion of a cargo transport container with floor panels, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 depicts an adapter tray and a roller tray, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 depicts the adapter tray with a mount, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 depicts the adapter tray with mount affixed to a frame bracket and with floor panels installed, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 depicts the roller tray coupled to the adapter tray, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 depicts a tray cover relative to the adapter tray, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 depicts the tray cover installed, in accordance with examples of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The present disclosure relates to cargo handling systems for transport containers, particularly those used in aircraft or motor vehicles. For instance, the disclosure describes an assembly that facilitates switching between a containerized cargo mode and a bulk cargo mode within a cargo transport container.

[0019] In some cases, cargo transport containers may require different configurations to accommodate various types of cargo. For example, containerized cargo often consists of standard-dimensioned boxes, while bulk cargo may be irregularly sized or shaped. Conventional cargo handling systems may not easily adapt to these different cargo types, potentially leading to inefficient loading and unloading processes.

[0020] The assembly described herein may address these challenges by providing a versatile solution that allows for quick and simple transitions between cargo modes. This convertible system may incorporate components that can be easily installed or removed to suit the specific cargo handling requirements. In some implementations, the assembly may include features that assist with loading and securing cargo in both containerized and bulk modes. For containerized cargo, the system may incorporate elements such as roller tracks to facilitate the movement of standardized containers. In bulk cargo mode, the assembly may provide a more open floor configuration while still offering attachment points for cargo securement equipment.

[0021] The convertible nature of this cargo handling system may offer several advantages. For instance, it may reduce the time and effort required to reconfigure a cargo area between different types of shipments. This flexibility may allow for more efficient use of cargo space and potentially increase the overall capacity and versatility of the transport container. Furthermore, the assembly may be designed to integrate with existing cargo container structures, potentially allowing for retrofitting of current cargo handling systems. This compatibility may provide a cost-effective solution for upgrading cargo handling capabilities without requiring extensive modifications to the transport container itself. By offering a system that can adapt to different cargo types, this assembly may enhance the operational efficiency of cargo transport across various industries and applications.

[0022] In at least some examples, a cargo transport container can include a floor (e.g., floor panels) secured atop a frame (e.g., aircraft frame associated with a lower deck), and in some instances, a gap or space can exist between the floor panels. Examples of the present disclosure are directed to an assembly of parts that can fit within that gap or space (between the floor panels) and that facilitate loading in both the cargo mode and the bulk mode.

[0023] In conventional approaches in which a gap exists between floor panels, a gutter can be provided to fill the gap. However, the conventional gutter is not equipped or configured to facilitate fast, easy, and simple transitioning between cargo mode and bulk mode.

[0024] In contrast to conventional approaches, the present solution includes a universal adapter tray that can be positioned in the gap between floor panels, can mount with existing structures, and can facilitate quick, simple, and easy (e.g., toolless) transition between bulk mode and cargo mode. In at least one example, the gap can extend longitudinally and near a centerline or midline of the cargo container (e.g., the lower deck of an aircraft). The adapter tray can include a lower wall that spans across the gap from a first panel on one side to the other panel on the other side, as well as vertical side walls (e.g., rails or webs) that protrude upward from the lower wall. Each vertical side wall can run along the inner edge of the respective panel on that side, and in combination with the lower wall, the vertical side walls form a recessed gutter below the top face of the panels. Furthermore, a lip or flange runs along each side of the adapter and can extend at least partially underneath a respective floor panel.

[0025] In at least some examples, the adapter tray can be coupled to existing or already provided aircraft structures with the same hardware that attaches an anchor plate (e.g., for releasably attaching roller trays, straps, nets, etc.) to the aircraft. That is, the adapter tray can be secured directly between the anchor plate and a sub-floor mounting bracket, and the hardware (e.g., threaded fastener) can extend through both the mounting plate and the adapter tray when connected to the sub-floor mounting bracket.

[0026] With the anchor plate affixed atop the adapter tray, the anchor plate is universally available for both the cargo mode and the bulk mode. For instance, in at least some examples, the present disclosure includes roller trays, each of which supports (and provides a unifying framework for) a plurality of roller units, and the roller trays (and the roller unit) are usable in cargo mode to assist with loading and unloading cargo. In examples, the roller trays include a lower portion that nests into the recessed gutter and include anchor blocks for connecting to the anchor plates. Using a quick engage/release, toolless connector, the anchor blocks can be quickly connected to, or released from, the anchor plates. For example, a quick engage/release, toolless connector can be any connector described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,845,249, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In some cases, a plurality of roller trays can be serially connected, end-to-end, along the length of the adapter tray.

[0027] In at least some examples, the assembly of the present disclosure can include a tray cover that, in bulk mode, can cover the recessed gutter, while leaving the anchor plate exposed. As such, the recessed gutter is covered to provide surface that is more flush with the panels (more flush as compared with the cargo mode), and the anchor plate can still be accessed to attach to nets, cargo straps, and other cargo securement equipment.

[0028] Various examples are described below with reference to the drawings, and the structure, relationship, and/or functioning of examples can, in some instances, be better understood by reference to this detailed description. However, examples associated with the subject matter of this application are not limited to those illustrated in the drawings or explicitly described below. The drawings might not necessarily be to scale. In some instances, for clarity, brevity, and/or simplicity details might have been omitted, which does not preclude the inclusion of those details in association with examples of this disclosure.

[0029] The cargo transport container 110 may be configured to store and transport various types of cargo. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the cargo transport container 110 may include several main components that form its overall structure. In some cases, the cargo transport container 110 may comprise side walls 112 that extend along the length of the container. The side walls 112 may provide structural support and define the lateral boundaries of the cargo space.

[0030] A door opening 114 can include one or more various positions, such along a side wall and closer to one of the ends of the cargo transport container 110. The door opening 114 may allow access for loading and unloading cargo into and out of the container.

[0031] The cargo transport container 110 may include a frame structure composed of multiple frame members. In some implementations, lower frame members 116 may extend horizontally along the base of the container. The lower frame members 116 may provide support for the floor of the cargo transport container 110 and distribute the weight of the cargo.

[0032] Additionally, side frame members 118 may be incorporated into the structure of the cargo transport container 110. The side frame members 118 may extend along the upper portions of the container, potentially connecting to the side walls 112 and providing additional structural integrity to the overall assembly.

[0033] The arrangement of these componentsthe side walls 112, door opening 114, lower frame members 116, and side frame members 118may create a structurally stable enclosed space suitable for containing and transporting various types of cargo. The configuration of these elements may allow for securement of additional componentry for efficient loading, unloading, and securing of cargo within the cargo transport container 110.

[0034] The cargo transport container 110 may include a floor assembly that provides a surface for supporting cargo. FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of components that may form part of this floor assembly. In some cases, the floor assembly may include a first floor panel 120a and a second floor panel 120b. The first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b may be positioned above the lower frame members 116. The lower frame members 116 may provide structural support for the floor panels 120a and 120b (also possibly referred to as 120).

[0035] The first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b may be arranged in a spaced-apart configuration. This arrangement may create a gap between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b when installed. The gap may extend longitudinally along the cargo transport container 110.

[0036] In some implementations, a sub-floor bracket 122 may be positioned below the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. The sub-floor bracket 122 may connect to the lower frame members 116. The sub-floor bracket 122 may be located in a position that corresponds to the gap between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. In at least some examples, this positioning may allow the sub-floor bracket 122 to serve as a mounting point for additional components that may be installed within the gap.

[0037] The first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b may be designed to align with and attach to the lower frame members 116. This alignment and attachment may create a stable and secure floor surface within the cargo transport container 110. In some cases, the configuration of the first floor panel 120a, the second floor panel 120b, the lower frame members 116, and the sub-floor bracket 122 may allow for the integration of additional cargo handling components. These components may be installed within the gap between the floor panels or attached to the sub-floor bracket 122.

[0038] The cargo transport container 110 may include an assembly designed to facilitate switching between cargo and bulk modes. FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of this assembly, showing the relationship between multiple components that may be installed within a longitudinal gap 124 between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b.

[0039] In some cases, an adapter tray 310 may be configured to fit within the longitudinal gap 124. The adapter tray 310 may span across the longitudinal gap 124, providing a mounting surface between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. The adapter tray 310 may be designed to mount to the sub-floor bracket 122, which may serve as a base mounting point for the assembly. In FIG. 3, only a portion of a length of the adapter tray 310 is depicted, and in some cases, the adapter tray can extend from one end of the gap near the back or rear of the container to the other end of the gap near the front of the container.

[0040] An anchor plate 312 may be secured to the adapter tray 310. In some implementations, a fastener path 313 may indicate the connection point between the anchor plate 312, the adapter tray 310, and the sub-floor bracket 122. This arrangement may allow for secure attachment of the components while maintaining accessibility for cargo handling operations.

[0041] The assembly may also include a roller tray 314. In some cases, the roller tray 314 may be positioned above the adapter tray 310 and may be designed to be installed onto the adapter tray 310. The roller tray 314 may be secured via the anchor plate 312, allowing for a modular assembly that can be easily installed or removed as needed. That is, the roller tray 314 can be secured to the anchor plate 312 via a fastener, such as a quick-connect style fastener.

[0042] The components of this assembly may be arranged in a layered configuration. The sub-floor bracket 122 may serve as the base mounting point, with the adapter tray 310 spanning the longitudinal gap 124 between the floor panels. The anchor plate 312 may provide a connection point for the roller tray 314, which may be secured over the anchor plate 312 and the adapter tray 310.

[0043] In some implementations, this arrangement may allow for the assembly to be easily reconfigured between cargo and bulk modes. The modular nature of the components may facilitate quick installation or removal of the roller tray 314, depending on the specific cargo handling requirements. This flexibility may enhance the versatility of the cargo transport container 110, allowing it to accommodate various types of cargo efficiently.

[0044] The adapter tray 310 may include several structural components that contribute to its functionality within the cargo transport container 110, and in turn, the versatility of the system. FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the adapter tray 310, revealing its various elements.

[0045] In some cases, the adapter tray 310 may comprise a lower wall 316. The lower wall 316 may form the base structure of the adapter tray 310. Extending upward from the sides of the lower wall 316, the adapter tray 310 may include vertical side walls 318. The vertical side walls 318 may be oriented perpendicular to the lower wall 316, creating a channel or recessed area between them.

[0046] The adapter tray 310 may also feature lateral flanges 320. In some implementations, the lateral flanges 320 may extend outward from the lower edges of the vertical side walls 318. These lateral flanges 320 may provide additional structural support and may interface with other components of the cargo transport container 110.

[0047] In some cases, the adapter tray 310 may incorporate reinforcement ribs 322. The reinforcement ribs 322 may be positioned along the underside of the lower wall 316. These reinforcement ribs 322 may enhance the structural integrity of the adapter tray 310, potentially increasing its load-bearing capacity.

[0048] The reinforcement ribs 322 may extend along the length of the adapter tray 310. However, in some implementations, the reinforcement ribs 322 may be discontinuous along this length. This discontinuous arrangement may create spaces between sections of the reinforcement ribs 322. These spaces may allow the adapter tray 310 to accommodate other structural elements of the cargo transport container 110, such as the sub-floor bracket 122.

[0049] The fastener path 313 may pass through the lower wall 316 of the adapter tray 310. This configuration may allow for the secure attachment of the adapter tray 310 to other components, such as the sub-floor bracket 122 and the anchor plate 312.

[0050] The structure of the adapter tray 310 may be designed to fit within the longitudinal gap 124 between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. The vertical side walls 318 and lateral flanges 320 may interface with the edges of these floor panels, potentially creating a flush surface when installed.

[0051] FIG. 5 illustrates a section view of the adapter tray 310 installed between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b in the cargo transport container 110. This configuration demonstrates how the components of the adapter tray 310 integrate with the existing floor structure to create a functional assembly.

[0052] In some cases, the adapter tray 310 may be positioned within the longitudinal gap 124 between the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. The lower wall 316 of the adapter tray 310 may span across this gap, providing a continuous surface (e.g., recessed continuous surface) between the floor panels.

[0053] The adapter tray 310 may include a vertical side wall 318 extending upward from each side of the lower wall 316. In some implementations, the vertical side walls 318 may run along the inner edges of the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. This arrangement may create a close fit between the adapter tray 310 and the surrounding floor panels.

[0054] The combination of the lower wall 316 and the vertical side walls 318 may form a recessed channel or gutter structure. This recessed area may be positioned below the top surface level of the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b. The depth of this recess may be determined by the height of the vertical side walls 318.

[0055] In some cases, the recessed channel formed by the adapter tray 310 may serve multiple purposes. The channel may provide a space for installing additional components, such as the roller tray 314 or other cargo handling equipment. Additionally, the recessed structure may allow for a smooth transition between different operational modes of the cargo transport container 110.

[0056] The adapter tray 310 may be secured to the sub-floor bracket 122 using fasteners that pass through the fastener path 313. This attachment may ensure that the adapter tray 310 remains stable and properly aligned within the longitudinal gap 124.

[0057] The configuration of the installed adapter tray 310 may allow for the anchor plate 312 to be securely mounted within the recessed channel. In some implementations, the anchor plate 312 may be positioned flush with or slightly below the top surface of the first floor panel 120a and the second floor panel 120b, maintaining a relatively smooth floor surface when additional components are not installed. This integrated assembly of the adapter tray 310 with the floor panels may create a versatile structure within the cargo transport container 110. The recessed channel may provide flexibility for various cargo handling configurations while maintaining the overall integrity of the floor surface.

[0058] The roller tray 314 may be configured to integrate with the adapter tray 310 within the cargo transport container 110. FIG. 6 illustrates a section view of the roller tray 314 assembly and its relationship to other components of the cargo handling system.

[0059] In some cases, the roller tray 314 may include side walls 324 that extend along the length of the roller tray 314. The side walls 324 may provide structural support for the roller tray 314 and may help contain roller components within the assembly.

[0060] The roller tray 314 may comprise a lower portion 326. In some implementations, the lower portion 326 may be configured to nest within the recessed gutter structure formed by the adapter tray 310. This nesting arrangement may allow the roller tray 314 to sit securely within the adapter tray 310 while maintaining a low profile relative to the surrounding floor panels.

[0061] An anchor block 328 may be incorporated into the roller tray 314 assembly. The anchor block 328 may be designed to connect to the anchor plate 312, which may be affixed to the adapter tray 310. This connection between the anchor block 328 and the anchor plate 312 may secure the roller tray 314 in position within the adapter tray 310.

[0062] In some cases, the roller tray 314 may include an electrical raceway 325. The electrical raceway 325 may be integrated into the structure of the roller tray 314. This electrical raceway 325 may provide a channel for routing electrical components associated with the cargo handling system. The integration of the electrical raceway 325 into the roller tray 314 may allow for the incorporation of powered roller units or other electrically-operated cargo handling equipment.

[0063] The configuration of the roller tray 314, with its side walls 324, lower portion 326, anchor block 328, and electrical raceway 325, may create an integrated unit that can be installed into and removed from the adapter tray 310. This modular design may facilitate quick transitions between different cargo handling configurations within the cargo transport container 110. That is, many or most of the componentry that is useful handle containerized cargo can be (e.g., in cargo mode) can be packaged into the roller tray 314, which can be easily attached or detached from the adapter tray 310 via the quick-connect fastener 329 (e.g., toolless quick-connect fastener).

[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of a tray cover assembly that may be used in the cargo transport container 110. The tray cover assembly may include a tray cover 710 that may be configured to cover the recessed gutter formed by the adapter tray 310. In some cases, the tray cover 710 may comprise a top wall 712. The top wall 712 may extend horizontally and may be sized to span the distance between the vertical side walls 318 of the adapter tray 310.

[0065] The tray cover 710 may include side feet 714 that project downward from the edges of the top wall 712. In some implementations, the side feet 714 may be configured to fit within the vertical side walls 318 of the adapter tray 310. This arrangement may allow the tray cover 710 to be supported atop the lower wall 316 of the adapter tray 310 and between the vertical side walls 318.

[0066] One or more reinforcement ribs 716 may be positioned beneath the top wall 712 of the tray cover 710. In some cases, the reinforcement rib 716 may extend downward from the top wall 712. The reinforcement rib 716 may provide additional support to the tray cover 710 and may help distribute loads placed on the top wall 712.

[0067] The tray cover 710 may include an anchor plate cutout 718 that may be formed through the top wall 712. In some implementations, the anchor plate cutout 718 may be sized and positioned to receive at least a portion of the anchor plate 312 when the tray cover 710 is installed over the adapter tray 310. This configuration may allow the anchor plate 312 to remain accessible for attaching cargo securement components even when the tray cover 710 is in place.

[0068] In some examples, a mounting block 332 may be positioned below the tray cover assembly. In some cases, the mounting block 332 may be affixed to the lower wall 316 of the adapter tray 310. The mounting block 332 may provide a secure attachment point for the tray cover 710 when installed.

[0069] The arrangement of these componentsthe top wall 712, side feet 714, reinforcement rib 716, and anchor plate cutout 718may allow the tray cover 710 to provide a more flush surface with the surrounding floor panels when installed, while still maintaining access to the anchor plate 312 for cargo securement purposes. That is, the top surface of the tray cover 710 may be positioned to be approximately flush with the surrounding floor panels, creating a smooth transition between the covered area and the adjacent floor surfaces. The flush alignment between the top surface of the tray cover and the surrounding floor panels may create a continuous and level surface across the cargo area. This configuration may facilitate the movement of cargo and equipment across the floor without interruption.

[0070] The tray cover 710 can include one or more other attachment mechanisms for engaging the adapter tray 310. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the outer side of the side feet may include a positive structure, such as a rib or protuberance. This positive structure may frictionally engage a corresponding recess on the side wall of the adapter tray 310. The frictional engagement between the positive structure and the recess may help secure the tray cover in position and maintain proper alignment with the surrounding floor panels.

[0071] The subject matter of this disclosure includes a functional floor system that can transition between different operational modes. That is, the cargo handling system (e.g., the adapter tray 310, anchor plate 312, roller tray 314, and tray cover 710) may provide a versatile solution for switching between containerized cargo mode and bulk cargo mode within a cargo transport container. This system may allow for efficient reconfiguration of the cargo space to accommodate different types of cargo.

[0072] In some cases, the system may operate in a containerized cargo mode. In this configuration, the adapter tray 310 may be installed within the longitudinal gap between floor panels. The roller tray 314 may be nested within the recessed gutter of the adapter tray 310 and secured via a fastener (e.g., toolless quick-connect fastener) to the anchor plate 312. The roller tray may include roller units that facilitate the movement of standardized cargo containers.

[0073] When transitioning to bulk cargo mode, the roller tray 314 may be removed from the adapter tray 310. This removal process may be accomplished without the use of tools, potentially reducing the time and effort required for reconfiguration. The tray cover 710 may then be installed over the recessed gutter of the adapter tray 310. The tray cover 710 may provide a more flush surface with the surrounding floor panels, creating a continuous floor suitable for bulk cargo.

[0074] In some implementations, the anchor plate 312 may remain accessible through the cutout in the tray cover 710. This accessibility may allow for the attachment of cargo securement equipment, such as straps or nets, even when the system is configured for bulk cargo mode.

[0075] The modular nature of the components may allow for partial reconfiguration of the cargo space. For example, roller trays may be installed in some sections of the cargo container while tray covers are used in others. This flexibility may accommodate mixed cargo loads or optimize the use of available space.

[0076] In some cases, the electrical raceway integrated into the roller tray may allow for the incorporation of powered roller units or other electrically-operated cargo handling equipment. When the roller tray is removed, the electrical components may be disconnected and removed along with the tray, simplifying the transition to bulk cargo mode.

[0077] The system may be designed to integrate with existing cargo container structures. This compatibility may allow for retrofitting of current cargo handling systems without requiring extensive modifications to the transport container itself.

[0078] By providing a method for quick reconfiguration between cargo modes, the system may reduce turnaround time between different types of shipments. This efficiency may potentially increase the overall capacity and versatility of the cargo transport container.

[0079] The design of the components may allow for secure attachment while maintaining a low profile. This low-profile configuration may maximize the available cargo space in both containerized and bulk cargo modes.

[0080] In some implementations, the system may be scalable to accommodate different sizes of cargo transport containers. Multiple adapter trays and corresponding roller trays or tray covers may be installed in series along the length of the container, providing consistent functionality throughout the cargo space.

[0081] The versatility of the system may extend to various types of cargo transport containers, including those used in aircraft, ships, trains, or trucks. The modular nature of the components may allow for adaptation to different container configurations while maintaining consistent functionality.

[0082] This detailed description is provided in order to meet statutory requirements. However, this description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention described herein. Rather, the claimed subject matter may be embodied in different ways, to include different steps, different combinations of steps, different elements, and/or different combinations of elements, similar or equivalent to those described in this disclosure, and in conjunction with other present or future technologies. The examples herein are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive. In this sense, alternative examples or implementations can become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present subject matter pertains without departing from the scope hereof.