A multi-curtain assembly includes: first and second curtain segments, each having a leading edge and side edge; an edge fastener having first and second fastener portions proximate the side edge of the first and second curtain segments, respectively, the first fastener portion of the first curtain segment being connectable to the second fastener portion of the second curtain segment to produce a seam as the curtain segments are moved to their closed positions; a motor driving one or more of the barrel assemblies; a synchronizing mechanism synchronizing the barrel assemblies. An overlap fastener, arranged proximate edges of the curtain segments in an overlap region, has aligning portions that align as the side edges are brought into alignment by the edge fastener, to mask at least one side of the fastener seam as the fastener portions are connected to each other.

A storage system is described where goods are stored in containers and the containers are stored in stacks. Above the stacks runs a grid network of tracks on which load handling devices run. The load handling devices take containers from the stacks and deposit then at alternative locations in the stacks or deposit then at stations where goods may be picked out. The framework may be provided with one or more of the following services: power, power control, heating, lighting, cooling, sensing, and data logging. A method of partitioning the storage system prevents the spread of fire or prevent damage caused by sprinkler activation.

A modular building system or storage system can include a number of stacks of container, each stack being positioned within a frame structure having uprights and a horizontal grid disposed above the stacks. The grid can include substantially perpendicular rails on which load handling devices can run. Containers having functions associated with a number of residential or commercial uses are moved in to and out of the stacks by the robotic handling devices running on the grid. The containers disposed in the stacks are selected by function on demand by a user, the building being reconfigurable to take into account required uses.

A system and method for handling shipping containers is described. The container handling system comprises a crane, the crane comprising crane load handling devices. The container handling system further comprises conveyance means, the conveyance means further comprising transversal load handling devices. The system further comprises storage and sortation means for storing the containers in a series of stacks disposed beneath a grid, the grid comprising a series of load handling devices operable thereon. The crane load handling device removes a container from a ship, transports it to transversal load handling means operable on a conveyor. The container is moved on the conveyor to a transfer point where it is collected by a robotic load handling device for transport to the storage and sortation area.

A door operator with high-speed operation and fire escape functions comprises a motor, a high-speed centrifugal brake module, a centrifugal reduction module, a central shaft locking module and a first and second clutch module. In the stationary state, the high-speed centrifugal brake module, centrifugal reduction module and central shaft locking module are connected to each other, and the drive shaft of the motor is locked by the central shaft locking module. In the normal operation, the first clutch module disengages the high-speed centrifugal brake module from the centrifugal reduction module, and the drive shaft is rotatable at high speed. In the event of fire escape, the second clutch module disengages centrifugal reduction module from central shaft locking module, and the drive shaft rotates at a lower speed. The device will provide high-speed rotation under normal operation, and automatically close the door panel at a gradually lowered speed in the event of fire escape.

A storage system is described where goods are stored in containers and the containers are stored in stacks. Above the stacks runs a grid network of tracks on which load handling devices run. The load handling devices take containers from the stacks and deposit then at alternative locations in the stacks or deposit then at stations where goods may be picked out. The framework may be provided with one or more of the following services: power, power control, heating, lighting, cooling, sensing, and data logging. A method of partitioning the storage system prevents the spread of fire or prevent damage caused by sprinkler activation.

A ventilation closure system includes a damper, a shape memory alloy actuator, and a heating device. The shape memory alloy actuator is coupled to the damper. The shape memory alloy actuator has a first state in which the damper is positioned to permit airflow in the duct and has a second state in which the damper is positioned to obstruct the airflow in the duct. The shape memory alloy actuator is configured to change from the first state to the second state responsive to the shape memory alloy actuator attaining a first temperature responsive to heat released by an exothermic reaction in a compartment associated with the duct. The heating device is configured to heat the shape memory alloy actuator to maintain the damper in a position that obstructs the airflow in the duct.

There is provided a casing assembly for a gas turbine engine comprising: a casing and electrically conductive intumescent material extending around the casing. The intumescent material is being activatable in response to electrical current to expand. The casing assembly comprises an electrical activation line extending around the casing to activate the intumescent material. The activation line extends in a pattern such that an activation area which circumscribes the activation line has an axial extent of at least 50% of the casing and a circumferential extent of at least 50%, to thereby activate the intumescent material at multiple locations over a corresponding area of the casing.

A system and method for handling shipping containers is described. The container handling system comprises a crane, the crane comprising crane load handling devices. The container handling system further comprises conveyance means, the conveyance means further comprising transversal load handling devices. The system further comprises storage and sortation means for storing the containers in a series of stacks disposed beneath a grid, the grid comprising a series of load handling devices operable thereon. The crane load handling device removes a container from a ship, transports it to transversal load handling means operable on a conveyor. The container is moved on the conveyor to a transfer point where it is collected by a robotic load handling device for transport to the storage and sortation area.

An exemplary robotic parking device of the present disclosure includes a number of stacks of containers. The stacks being positioned within a frame structure including uprights and a horizontal grid disposed above the stacks. The grid having substantially perpendicular rails on which load handling devices can run. Cars or vehicles are positioned in containers and are moved into and out of the stacks by the robotic handling devices running on the grid. The cars are put into the grid at entry points that may be positioned at points under the stacks.