COLLAPSIBLE DUNNAGE CONTAINERS AND RAIL ASSEMBLIES

Abstract

Containers adapted to store product therein during shipment of the container and rail assemblies for use with the containers. The containers including a base, a side, and the rail assembly which includes a track coupled with the side. The side of the container is movable relative to the base between a first position in which the side extends generally away from the base in a first direction and a second position in which the side extends away from the base in a second direction different from the first direction.

Claims

1. A container adapted to store product therein during shipment of the container, the container comprising: a base, a side that extends away from the base, and a track coupled with the side and configured to guide a dunnage support along a path relative to the side, the track including a first segment coupled with the side for movement with the side, and the first segment extends toward the base; wherein the side of the container is movable relative to the base between a first position in which the side extends generally away from the base in a first direction and a second position in which the side extends away from the base in a second direction different from the first direction.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the track includes a second segment coupled with the side for movement therewith and extending away from the first segment of the track to define a non-zero degree angle between the second segment and the first segment of the track.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the track includes at least one of a C-channel rail, a slot formed in the side of the container, a channel formed in the side of the container, or a rod.

4. The container of claim 3, further comprising the dunnage support assembly supported by the track and being movable along the track and the dunnage support assembly includes one or more of rods, hooks, tabs, hoops, and clips that extend into the track or engage with the track.

5. The container of claim 4, wherein the first segment extends generally vertically toward the base, the second segment extends generally horizontally, the track includes a curved turn interconnecting the first segment and the second segment, and the side is pivotably coupled with the base.

6. The container of claim 2, wherein the track further includes a third segment fixed in position relative to the base and extending away from the first segment of the track and wherein the track defines the path through the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment in response to the side being in the first position.

7. The container of claim 1, wherein the first segment includes a first portion that is coupled with the side for movement with the side between the first position and the second position and a second portion fixed in position relative to the base, the first portion of the first segment of the track is aligned with the second portion of the first segment in response to the side of the container being in the first position to provide the path for movement of the dunnage support between the first portion and the second portion, and the first portion of the first segment of the track is misaligned with the second portion of the first segment in response to the side of the container being in the second position.

8. The container of claim 7, wherein the track further includes an anchor tab coupled with one of the first portion and the second portion of the first segment and an anchor mount coupled with the other of the first portion and the second portion of the first segment, the anchor mount formed with a slot that receives the anchor tab therein in response to the side being in the first position to block movement of the second portion of the first segment away from the first portion of the first segment.

9. The container of claim 1, wherein the first segment extends between a first end and a second end thereof, the track includes a second segment coupled with the side and that extends away from the first end of the first segment, and the second end of the first segment of the track is open toward the base to provide unobstructed access into and out of the second end of the first segment of the track in response to the side being in the first position.

10. The container of claim 1, wherein the side of the container includes a first post coupled with the base, a second post coupled with the base, and side member extending between and interconnecting the first post and the second post, the first post includes a first member fixed with the base and a second member configured to at least one of slide and pivot relative to the first member of the first post to move the side between the first position and the second position.

11. The container of claim 1, wherein the side of the container includes a panel and the first segment of the track is at least one of operably coupled with the panel and integrally formed in the panel.

12. The container of claim 11, wherein the first segment of the track is defined by a slot formed in the panel.

13. The container of claim 11, wherein the panel includes a first panel member and a second panel member, at least a first portion of the first segment of the track is coupled with the first panel member, the first panel member is movable between the first position and the second position, and the second panel member is fixed with the base.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the first segment of the track includes the first portion coupled with the first panel member and a second portion coupled with the second panel member, and the first portion and the second portion are aligned in response to the first panel member being in the first position and misaligned in response to the first panel member being in the second position.

15. The container of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the side forms at least a portion of the track.

16. A method of using a container, the method comprising: providing the container having a base, a side, and a track coupled with the side, the track configured to support dunnage support assemblies thereon, and moving the side relative to the base from a first position in which the side extends in a first direction away from the base to a second position in which the side extends in a second direction different from the first direction relative to the base.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the method includes translating and rotating the side relative to the base to move the side between the first position and the second position.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the side includes a first member coupled with a first segment of the track and a second member fixed with the base, the first member is movable between the first position and the second position relative to the second member and the base.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first segment of the track includes a first portion coupled with the first side member and a second portion coupled with the second side member and the first portion is aligned with the second portion in response to the first side member being in the first position and the first portion is misaligned with the second portion in response to the first side member being in the second position.

20. A rail assembly adapted for use with a container to support product in the container, the rail assembly comprising: a track for supporting and guiding one or more dunnage supports thereon, the track having a first segment that extends in a first direction and a second segment that extends in a second direction to define an angle between the first segment and the second segment, the second segment includes a first portion and a second portion, and the first portion being movable relative to the second portion, wherein the first segment and the first portion of the second segment of the track are configured to move together relative to the second portion of the second segment of the track between (i) a first position in which the first portion of the second segment and the second portion of the second segment are aligned in the second direction so that the track is continuous between the first portion and the second portion and (ii) a second position in which the first portion of the second segment of the track and the second portion of the second segment of the track are misaligned so that the track is discontinuous between the first portion an the second portion of the second segment.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which:

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container configured to hold product therein during shipment of the container, the container including a base, a first and second side coupled with the base, and rail assembly having a first and second track coupled with respective first and second sides, the sides being pivotably coupled with the base to extend upwardly away from the base in a first direction while the sides are both in a first position, as shown in FIG. 1, and to extend in a second direction (generally horizontal along the base) toward one another while the sides are both in a second position, as shown in FIG. 2;

[0042] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 after the sides are both pivoted to the second position to extend in the second direction along the base to decrease an area that the container occupies during shipment of the container after the product has been removed and suggesting that the rail assembly is adapted to be collapsed with the container sides;

[0043] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 showing the first track of the rail assembly coupled with the first side of the container and the first track and the first side in the expanded, use arrangement;

[0044] FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the container of FIG. 3 showing that the first track includes a plurality of segments that cooperate to form a continuous track or channel along which a dunnage support assembly may move;

[0045] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the container of FIG. 1 showing that the first post includes a first member fixed to the base and a second member coupled to the first member for movement relative thereto as the first side moves between the first position in FIG. 1 to the second position in FIG. 2;

[0046] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of portion of the container of FIG. 1 showing that, as the first side is being moved to the second position, the second member of the first post is lifted upwardly away from the first member of the first post;

[0047] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of the container of FIG. 1 showing that, after the first side is moved upwardly, the second member of the first post is pivoted relative to the first member of the first post so that the first side is moved collapsed toward the base;

[0048] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 showing that the first post further includes a pin that is coupled with the first member of the first post, and further showing that the pin extends into a slot formed in the second member to allow the second member to move upwardly away from the first member and to pivot relative to the first member;

[0049] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 showing that the second segment includes an anchor tab coupled with the second portion of the second segment and an anchor mount coupled with the first portion of the second segment to receive the anchor tab therein to align the segments of the track when the first side is moved to the first position;

[0050] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the container of FIG. 1 showing that, while the first side is being moved to the second position, the anchor tab is removed from the anchor mount so that the second portion of the second segment is free to move relative to the first portion of the second segment;

[0051] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 showing that the anchor tab is received within a slot of the anchor mount to block movement of the second portion of the second segment relative to the first portion of the second segment while the first side is in the first position;

[0052] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 suggesting that, to prepare for shipment, the first side is lifted upwardly relative to the base so that the second member of the first and second posts moves vertically away from the first member of the first and second posts and so that the second portion of the second segment of the first track moves vertically away from the first portion of the second segment;

[0053] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 suggesting that, in a second step, the first side is rotated or pivoted toward the base;

[0054] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 suggesting that, in a third step, the first side is positioned to lie along the base and to be supported by the base during shipment;

[0055] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 including a plurality of dunnage support assemblies adapted to support product within the container, the dunnage support assemblies extend into and are supported by the first and second tracks for movement relative to the first track and the second track;

[0056] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 15 in use showing that the dunnage support assemblies move along the first and second tracks to assist with removing the product from the container;

[0057] FIG. 17 is another embodiment of a track for use with the container of FIG. 1, the track including a first segment that extends between the first and second posts of the first side and a second segment that extends vertically downwardly away from the first segment along the first post;

[0058] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an another embodiment of a container in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 19 is a section and elevation view of a side of the container of FIG. 18;

[0060] FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of the container of FIG. 18;

[0061] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of the outside of the container of FIG. 18

[0062] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an another embodiment of a container in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 23 is a section and elevation view of a side of the container of FIG. 22;

[0064] FIG. 24 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of the container of FIG. 22;

[0065] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an another embodiment of a container in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 26 is a section and elevation view of a side of the container of FIG. 25;

[0067] FIG. 27 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of the container of FIG. 25;

[0068] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an another embodiment of a container in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 29 is a section and elevation view of a side of the container of FIG. 28;

[0070] FIG. 30 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of the container of FIG. 28;

[0071] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an another embodiment of a container in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0072] FIG. 32 is a section and elevation view of a side of the container of FIG. 31;

[0073] FIG. 33 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of the container of FIG. 31;

[0074] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an another embodiment of a container in accordance with the present disclosure; and

[0075] FIG. 35 is an enlarged perspective view of the container of FIG. 34.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] A container 10 in accordance with the present disclosure includes a base 12, a side 14, and rail assembly including a track 16, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The container 10 holds product in the base 12 thereof during shipment of the container 10. The side 14 is collapsible to decrease an area occupied by the container 10. For example, during shipment of the container 10 when no product is being stored therein, the side 14 is collapsed, as shown in FIG. 2, such that a plurality of containers 10 may be stacked on top of one another, thereby allowing more containers 10 to be shipped by a given vehicle. As a result, the cost of shipping emptied containers can be reduced as compared to shipping conventional non-collapsing containers.

[0077] The base 12 defines a product-receiving space 18 therein, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. During shipment, product or products are stored in the product-receiving space 18 of the base 12. The base 12 illustratively includes a first sidewall 20, a second sidewall 22 spaced apart from the first sidewall 20, a third sidewall 24 extending between and interconnecting the first and second sidewalls 20, 22, and a fourth sidewall 26 spaced apart from the third sidewall 24 and extending between and interconnecting the first and second sidewalls 20, 22. The sidewalls 20, 22, 24, 26 cooperate to the define the product-receiving space 18.

[0078] The base 12 further includes a bottom support 28 and, optionally, a plurality of bumpers 30, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The bottom support 28 supports the products within the base 12. The sidewalls 20, 22, 24, 26 extend upwardly from the bottom support 28. The plurality of bumpers 30 is coupled to a top side of the first sidewall 20 and a top side of the second side wall 22. In some embodiments, two bumpers 30 are coupled to the top side of the first sidewall 20, and two bumpers are coupled to the top side of the second sidewall 22. While the side 14 is collapsed, as shown in FIG. 2, at least two of the plurality of bumpers 30 engages the side 14 to support and minimize damage to the side 14.

[0079] The side 14 is coupled with the base 12 for movement therewith, as suggested in FIGS. 1 and 2. The side 14 is pivotably coupled with the base 12 to extend from a first position in which the side 14 extends in a first direction (illustratively, generally vertically) away from the base 12, as shown in FIG. 1, and a second position in which the side 14 extends in a second direction different than the first direction. Illustratively, the second direction is generally horizontally along the base 12, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0080] The side 14 may include a first post 32 and a second post 34 horizontally spaced apart from the first post 32, as shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the side includes one or more panels or other suitable alternative. The posts 32, 34 are coupled with the base 12. While the side 14 is in the first position, the first and second posts 32, 34 extend vertically upwardly from the base 12. While the side 14 is in the second position, the first post 32 extends along the first sidewall 20 and engages at least one bumper 30 coupled to the top side of the first sidewall 20, and the second post 34 extends along the second sidewall 22 and engages at least one bumper 30 coupled to the top side of the second sidewall 22. In some embodiments, a housing cover, panel, or sheet of material, etc. extends between the posts 32, 34 to block access into the product-receiving space 18. In embodiments of containers in accordance with the present disclosure, the posts may be omitted. For example, the panels in FIGS. 22-33 may be coupled directly with the base or other panel members without intervening posts.

[0081] The first post 32 includes a first member 36, a second member 38, and a pin 40, as shown in FIGS. 4-7. The first member 36 is fixed to the base 12, as shown in FIG. 7. The second member 38 extends upwardly away from the first member 36 while the side 14 is in the first position. While the side 14 is in the second position, the second member 38 extends away from the first member 36 along the first sidewall 20 of the base 12, as shown in FIG. 2. The pin 40 is coupled with the first member 36, and the second member 38 moves relative to the first member 36 and the pin 40. The pin 40 defines a pivot axis A for the side 14.

[0082] The first member 36 is formed to define an opening 42 sized to receive the second member 38 therein, as shown in FIGS. 6-8. Four sidewalls of the first member 36 cooperate to define the opening 42. The second member 38 is received in the opening 42 and is free to slide within the opening 42 relative to the first member 36 to move the side 14 from the first position to the second position, as suggested in FIGS. 5 and 6. Other embodiments of pivoting or movable posts and/panels are possible and examples are shown in FIGS. 18-35.

[0083] A first sidewall 41 of the first member 36 illustratively includes a cutout 44 that opens into the opening 42, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The cutout 44 extends downwardly into the first sidewall 41 toward the base 12 to align with the top side of the first sidewall 20. The cutout 44 allows the second member 38 to pivot relative to the first member 36 so that the second member 38 moves into and out of the cutout 44 while the side 14 is moved between the first position and the second position. The cutout 44 allows the second member 38 to lie on the top side of the first sidewall 20 while the side 14 is in the second position.

[0084] A second sidewall 46 of the first member 36 that extends away from the first sidewall 41 is formed to define a slot 48, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The slot 48 extends downwardly into the second sidewall 46 toward the base 12. In some embodiments, opposing sidewalls of the first member 36 both include a slot 48. The second member 38 is received within the opening 42 of the first member 36, as shown in FIGS. 5-7. The second member 38 is configured to slide within the opening 42 and pivot relative to the first member 36 so that the side 14 moves between the first position and the second position.

[0085] The second member 38 includes a tang 50 extending downwardly from a sidewall 52 of the second member 38, as shown in FIGS. 5-7. The tang 50 is received within the slot 48 formed in the second sidewall 46 of the first member 36 while the side 14 is in the first position. The engagement of the tang 50 and the slot 48 assists in aligning the members 36, 38 during movement from the second position to the first position and may limit rotation and pivoting of the second member 38 relative to the first member 36 such that the second member 38 extends substantially vertically upwardly from the first member 36. In some embodiments, opposing sidewalls of the second member 38 both include a tang 50. In some embodiments, the first member 36 is formed to include the tang(s) 50 and the second member 38 is formed to define the slot(s) 48.

[0086] The second member 38 is formed to include a slot 51, as shown in FIGS. 6-8. The slot 51 aligns with the slot 48 of the second sidewall 46 of the first member 36 as the second member 38 is lifted vertically upwardly away from the base 12.

[0087] While the side 14 is in the first position, the tang 50 of the second member 38 extends into the slot 48 of the first member 36, as shown in FIG. 5. The pin 40 extends through the slot 51 of the second member 38 and is located at an upper end of the slot 51, as shown in FIG. 8. To move the side 14 to the second position, the side 14 is lifted upwardly away from the base 12. In doing so, the second member 38 slides within the opening 42 of the first member 36 so that the tang 50 moves out of the slot 48 of the first member 36. The pin 40 is then located at a bottom end of the slot 51 of the second member 38 to limit additional upward movement of the second member 38 relative to the first member 36.

[0088] The second member 38 is then pivoted downwardly toward the base 12, as shown in FIG. 7. The second member 38 extends through the cutout 44 formed in the first member 36 and the second member 38 lies on the top side of the first sidewall 20. The second member engages at least one bumper 30 of the plurality of bumpers 30 in the illustrative embodiment.

[0089] The second post 34 is substantially similar to the first post 32 such that the description of the first post 32 applies to the second post 34. The side 14 further includes a strut 54 that extends between and interconnects the first and second posts 32, 34. Illustratively, the strut 54 extends between top ends of the first and second posts 32, 34.

[0090] Illustratively, the side 14 is a first side 14 of the container 10, as shown in FIG. 1. The container 10 further includes a second side 15 opposite the first side 14. The second side 15 is substantially similar to the first side 14 such that the description of the first side 14 applies to the second side 15. The sides 14, 15 are independently lifted and rotated relative to the base 12. The sides 14, 15 are both rotated relative to the base 12 to lie along the base 12 and to extend toward one another, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0091] The track 16 of the rail assembly is coupled with the first side 14, as shown in FIG. 1. The track 16 is configured to support the product, as shown in FIG. 15. The track 16 includes a second segment 56 and a first segment 58. The second segment 56 of the track 16 extends between the first and second posts 32, 34 of the side 14. The first segment 58 extends away from the second segment 56 toward the base 12. In some embodiments, the second segment 56 is omitted. The track 16 may be coupled with one or more of the posts, struts, panels, etc. of the side 14.

[0092] In some embodiments, the second segment 56 is a generally horizontal segment, as shown in FIG. 4. The second segment 56 is fixed to the strut 54 of the side 14. The second segment 56 is spaced apart vertically from the third sidewall 24 of the base 12 while the side 14 is in the first position. In other embodiments, the second segment 56 may be curvilinear or other shape, while providing a path for overall horizontal movement between the first post and the second post 36, 38.

[0093] In some embodiments, the first segment 58 is a generally vertical segment, as shown in FIG. 4. The second segment 56 and the first segment 58 of the track 16 define a L-shape in the illustrative embodiment. The first segment 58 extends downwardly from the second segment 56 adjacent the first post 32. The first segment 58 is located between the posts 32, 34. The first segment 58 extends at an angle greater than zero degrees below the horizontal toward the base 12. The first segment 58 may be curvilinear and provide an overall vertical movement for the dunnage support assemblies.

[0094] The first segment 58 extends between a first end 60 and a second end 62 thereof, as shown in FIG. 4. The second segment 56 is coupled to the first segment 58 at the first end 60 thereof. The second segment 56 and/or first segment 58 includes a turning portion interconnecting the segments 56, 58. The turning portion may form a curvilinear or angled part of the channel. A moveable portion 64 (i.e., a second portion) of the first segment 58 is moveable relative to the base 12, while a fixed portion 66 (i.e., a first portion) of the first segment 58 is fixed to the base 12, as shown in FIG. 10. The moveable portion 64 is fixed to the strut 54 and/or the second member 38 of the first post 32 to move with the side 14 relative to the base 12. The fixed portion 66 of the first segment 58 defines the second end 62 of the first segment 58 thereon, as shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the second segment 56 is supported by the side 14 and not coupled with the base 12.

[0095] In some embodiments, the track 16 further includes a third segment 68 coupled to the second end 62 of the first segment 58, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The third segment 68 illustratively includes an angled portion 70 or turning portion and a substantially horizontal portion 72. The angled portion 70 extends downwardly away from the second end 62 of the first segment 58 toward the base 12 and toward the second post 34. The substantially horizontal portion 72 extends horizontally away from the angled portion 70 toward the second post 34. An entirety of the third segment 68 is fixed to the base 12. It will be appreciated that the terms first, second, third, etc. in this disclosure are for illustrative purposes and are non-limiting on the number of segments or portions included in any given embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] While the side 14 is in the first position, the second segment 56, the first segment 58, and the third segment 68 cooperate to define a path through each of the segments. Illustratively, the segments 56, 58, 68 provide a channel 74 that opens into the product-receiving space 18 of the base 12 at a terminal end of the third segment 68, as shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the track is formed by a rod or other suitable alternative and provides the path. The second end 62 of the first segment 58 is open to provide unobstructed access into and out of the first segment 58. The moveable portion 64 of the first segment 58 and the fixed portion 66 of the first segment 58 are aligned with one another while the side 14 is in the first position.

[0097] In some embodiments, the rail assembly includes an anchor tab 76 and an anchor mount 78, as shown in FIG. 10. The anchor tab 76 is coupled with the moveable portion 64 of the first segment 58 to extend away from the second segment 56. In some embodiments, the anchor mount 78 is coupled with the fixed portion 66 of the first segment 58. The anchor mount 78 is shaped to receive the anchor tab 76 therein, as shown in FIG. 11. While the side 14 is in the first position, the anchor tab 76 extends downwardly into a slot 80 of the anchor mount 78 so that the moveable portion 64 and the fixed portion 66 of the first segment 58 align to form a portion of the continuous channel 74 or path. The anchor tab 76 being received in the anchor mount 78 blocks movement of the moveable portion 64 of the first segment 58 away from the fixed portion 66 of the first segment 58. In some embodiments, the anchor tab 76 is coupled with the fixed portion 66 and the anchor mount 78 is coupled with the moveable portion 64.

[0098] While the side 14 is being moved to the second position from the first position, the side 14 is lifted upwardly such that the anchor tab 76 exits the slot 80 of the anchor mount 78, as shown in FIG. 10. The side 14 is then free to pivot to reach the second position.

[0099] In some embodiments, the track 16 includes a C-channel member or rail. It is understood that C-channel includes a variety of shapes and types, including, but not limited to, U-shaped channels, V-shaped channels, channels whereby the terminal edges extend away from a back wall of the channel, and channels whereby the terminal edges extend toward one another to partially close the opening into the channel (shown in FIGS. 1-17). In some embodiments, the track 16 includes a slot or channel formed in the side 14 of the container 10. In some embodiments, the track 16 includes a rod configured to support hooks, hoops, tabs, clips, or other suitable alternatives.

[0100] In illustrative embodiments, the track 16 is a first track 16, and the container 10 further includes a second track 82 coupled with the second side 15 of the container 10, as shown in FIGS. 1-3. The second track 82 is substantially similar to the first track 16 such that the description of the first track 16 applies to the second track 82.

[0101] As an example, the container 10 may support one or more dunnage support assemblies 84 therein, as shown in FIG. 15. Each dunnage support assembly 84 is supported by the first and second tracks 16, 82 and movable along the tracks 16, 82. In the illustrative embodiment, the dunnage support assembly 84 extends into the tracks 16, 82. In some embodiments, the dunnage support assembly 84 hangs from the tracks 16, 82. In some embodiments, the dunnage support assembly 84 slide and/or rolls along the tracks 16, 82.

[0102] The dunnage support assembly 84 illustratively includes a plurality of supports 86 extending between the first and second tracks 16, 82, as shown in FIG. 15. The plurality of supports 86 include a rod 88, a first head 90 coupled to a first end of the rod 88, and a second head 92 coupled to a second end of the rod 88. The heads 90, 92 are moveable along the first and second tracks 16, 82. Illustratively, the heads 90, 92 move along the second segment 56 of the first track 16, into the first segment 58 of the first track 16, into the third segment 68 of the first track 16, and into the product-receiving space 18 of the base 12.

[0103] Another embodiment of a track 216 is shown in FIG. 17. The track 216 is substantially similar to the track 16 shown in FIGS. 1-16 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 200 series indicate features that are common between the track 216 and the track 16. The description of the track 16 is incorporated by reference to apply to the track 216, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the track 216.

[0104] The track 216 is coupled with the first side 14 of a container 210, as shown in FIG. 17. The track 216 includes a first segment 258 and a second segment 256. The second segment 256 of the track 216 extends between the posts 32, 34 of the side 14. The first segment 258 extends away from the second segment 256 toward the base 12.

[0105] In some embodiments, the second segment 256 is a generally horizontal segment, as shown in FIG. 17. The second segment 256 is fixed to the strut 54 of the side 14. The second segment 256 is spaced apart vertically from the third sidewall 24 of the base 12 while the side 14 is in the first position.

[0106] In some embodiments, the first segment 258 is a generally vertical segment, as shown in FIG. 17. The second segment 256 and the first segment 258 of the track 216 define an L-shape. The first segment 258 extends downwardly from the second segment 256 adjacent the first post 32. The first segment 258 extends between a first end 260 and a second end 262 thereof. The second segment 256 is coupled to the first segment 258 at the first end 260 thereof. The first segment 258 is fixed to the side 14 to move with the side 14 relative to the base 12. The second end 262 of the first segment 258 is open to provide unobstructed access into and out of the first segment 258. In other embodiments, a gate selectively opens and closes the second end 262 to allow dunnage support assemblies to be added or removed from the track.

[0107] During use, dunnage support assemblies may be moved to the second end 262 and removed from the track 216. The dunnage support assemblies may be moved to the base or removed from the container 10. In other words, containers of the present disclosure can have varying track configurations. In some embodiments, the track may extend to or into the base and, in some embodiments, the track may terminate above the base.

[0108] In illustrative embodiments, the track 216 is a first track 216, and the container 10 further includes a second track coupled with the second side 15 of the container 10. The second track is substantially similar to the first track 216 such that the description of the first track 216 applies to the second track.

[0109] Another embodiment of a container 310 is shown in FIGS. 18-21. The container 310 is substantially similar to the container 10 shown in FIGS. 1-16 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 300 series indicate features that are common between the container 310 and the container 10. The description of the container 10 is incorporated by reference to apply to the container 310, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the container 310.

[0110] The container 310 includes a base 312, a side 314, and rail assembly that includes a track 316. The side 314 includes a post 332 having a first member 336, a second member 338, and a member 339 extending therebetween. The member 339 may be a strut, panel, etc. The first member 336 of the side 314 is movable between the first position and the second position. Illustratively, a user may pull on straps 341 to unlock the first member 336 for movement. The post 332 illustrates how the rail assembly of the present disclosure may be used with a variety of collapsible and/or pivotable container sides.

[0111] The track 316 is coupled with the side 314 of a container 310. The track 316 includes a first segment 356 and a second segment 358. The first segment 358 of the track 316 extends toward the base 312 and the second segment 356 extends between the posts. The second segment 356 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the first segment 358. The second segment 356 may be omitted in some embodiments. The first segment 358 and/or the second segment 356 may be curvilinear in some embodiments.

[0112] The first segment 358 includes a first portion 364 coupled with the movable portion (member 336) of the side 314 for movement therewith and a second portion 366 that is fixed relative to the base 312. The second portion 366 is coupled with a fixed portion of the side 314 (member 338). The first portion 364 is aligned with the second portion 366 of the track 316 in response to the side 314 being in the first position so that the dunnage support assembly moves freely between the first portion 364 and the second portion 366 of the track. The first portion 364 has a terminal end that is opened for access into the first portion 364 in response to the side 314 being in the second position.

[0113] Another embodiment of a container 410 is shown in FIGS. 22-24. The container 410 is substantially similar to the container 10 shown in FIGS. 1-16 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 400 series indicate features that are common between the container 410 and the container 10. The description of the container 10 is incorporated by reference to apply to the container 410, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the container 410.

[0114] The container 410 includes a base 412, a side 414, and rail assembly that includes a track 416. The side 414 includes a post 432 and a panel 445. The panel 445 includes a first panel member 436, a second panel member 438. The first panel member 436 of the side 414 is movable between the first position and the second position. The second panel member 438 is fixed relative to the base 412. Illustratively, a user may lift and rotate the first panel member 436 to unlock the first panel member 436 for movement.

[0115] The track 416 is coupled with the side 414 of a container 410. The track 416 includes a second segment 456 and a first segment 458. The first segment 458 of the track 416 extends toward the base 412 and the second segment 456 extends generally horizontally. The first segment 458 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the second segment 456. The second segment 456 may be omitted in some embodiments. The first segment 458 and/or the second segment 456 may be curvilinear in some embodiments.

[0116] The first segment 458 includes a first portion 464 coupled with the movable portion (member 436) of the side 414 for movement therewith and a second portion 466 that is fixed relative to the base 312. The second portion 466 is coupled with a fixed portion of the side 414 (member 438). The first portion 464 is aligned with the second portion 466 of the track 416 in response to the side 414 being in the first position so that the dunnage support assembly moves freely between the first portion 464 and the second portion 466 of the track. The first portion 464 has a terminal end that is opened for access into the first portion 464 in response to the side 414 being in the second position (collapsed position) due to the misalignment of the first portion 464 and the second portion 466 in the second position.

[0117] Another embodiment of a container 510 is shown in FIGS. 25-27. The container 510 is substantially similar to the container 410. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 500 series indicate features that are common between the container 510 and the container 410 and container 10. The description of the container 10 and 410 are incorporated by reference to apply to the container 510, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the container 510.

[0118] The container 510 includes a base 512, a side 514, and rail assembly that includes a track 516. The side 514 includes a post 532 and a panel 545. The panel 545 includes a single panel member. The panel member 545 of the side 514 is movable between the first position and the second position. Illustratively, a user may lift and rotate the panel 545 to unlock the panel 545 for movement.

[0119] The track 516 is coupled with the side 514 of a container 510. The track 516 includes a second segment 556 and a first segment 558. The first segment 558 of the track 516 extends toward the base 512 and the second segment 556 extends generally horizontally. The first segment 558 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the second segment 556. The second segment 556 may be omitted in some embodiments. The first segment 558 and/or the second segment 556 may be curvilinear in some embodiments. The first segment 558 has a terminal end 562 that is opened with an opening 573 for access into the first segment 558 in response to the side 514 being in the first position (expanded use position). The dunnage support assemblies may be removed or inserted into the track via the opened end of the first segment 558 or via an opening 575 in the second segment 556.

[0120] Another embodiment of a container 610 is shown in FIGS. 28-30. The container 610 is substantially similar to the container 10 and container 410. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 600 series indicate features that are common between the container 610 and the container 10 and 410. The description of the container 10 and 410 is incorporated by reference to apply to the container 610, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the container 610.

[0121] The container 610 includes a base 612, a side 614, and rail assembly that includes a track 616. The side 614 includes a post 632 and a panel 645. The panel 645 includes a first panel member 636 and a second panel member 638. The first panel member 636 of the side 614 is movable between the first position and the second position. The second panel member 638 is fixed relative to the base 612. Illustratively, a user may lift and rotate the first panel member 636 to unlock the first panel member 636 for movement.

[0122] At least a portion of the track 616 is formed in the side 614 of the container 610. The track 616 is illustratively formed as a channel in the first panel member 636. The at least a portion of the track 616 formed in the side 616 provide a single, unitary, component with the track 616 integrally formed with the side 616. The track 616 includes a second segment 656 and a first segment 658. The first segment 658 of the track 616 extends toward the base 612 and the second segment 656 extends generally horizontally. The first segment 658 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the second segment 656. The second segment 656 may be omitted in some embodiments. The first segment 658 and/or the second segment 656 may be curvilinear in some embodiments. At least a portion of the side 614 forms at least a portion of the track 616.

[0123] The first segment 658 has a terminal end 662 that is opened with an opening 673 for access into the first segment 658 in response to the side 614 being in the first position (expanded use position). The dunnage support assemblies 684 may be removed or inserted into the track 616 via the opened end of the first segment 658. The second panel member 638 is formed to define a slot 661 that aligns with the end 662 of the first segment 658 in response to the first panel member 636 being in the first position. The slot 661 is configured to receive the dunnage support assemblies 684. In some embodiments, the slot 661 is replaced with a portion of track integrally formed with the second panel member 638.

[0124] Another embodiment of a container 710 is shown in FIGS. 31-33. The container 710 is substantially similar to the container 10 and container 610. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 700 series indicate features that are common between the container 710 and the container 10 and 610. The description of the container 10 and 610 is incorporated by reference to apply to the container 710, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the container 710.

[0125] The container 710 includes a base 712, a side 714, and rail assembly that includes a track 716. The side 714 includes a post 732 and a panel 745. The panel 745 of the side 714 is movable between the first position and the second position. Illustratively, a user may lift and rotate the panel 745 to unlock the panel 745 for movement.

[0126] At least a portion of the track 716 is formed in the side 714 of the container 710. The track 716 is illustratively formed as a slot in the panel 745. The at least a portion of the track 716 formed in the side 716 provides a single, unitary, component wherein the track 716 is integrally formed with the side 716. The track 716 includes a second segment 756 and a first segment 758. The first segment 758 of the track 716 extends toward the base 712 and the second segment 756 extends generally horizontally. The first segment 758 extends at a non-zero angle relative to the second segment 756. The second segment 756 may be omitted in some embodiments. The first segment 758 and/or the second segment 756 may be curvilinear in some embodiments. The dunnage support assemblies 784 extend into the track 716 and are movable along a path between the first segment 758 and the second segment 756.

[0127] Another embodiment of a container 810 is shown in FIGS. 34 and 35. The container 810 is similar to the container 10. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 800 series indicate features that are common between the container 810 and the container 10. The description of the container 10 is incorporated by reference to apply to the container 810, expect in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the container 810.

[0128] The container 810 includes a base 812 and a rail assembly that includes a track 816. The container 810 may include a side 814. The side 814 includes a post 832 and a portion of the track 816, though, in other embodiments, the track 816 may form the side 816 and the post 832 would be omitted. The track 816 is movable between the first position and the second position. Illustratively, a user may lift and/or rotate the track 816 to unlock the track 816 for movement. In some embodiments, the track 816 is coupled with a panel or strut as shown in other embodiments herein. The track 816 provides a portion of the side 814 or, oppositely, at least a portion of the side 814 may form at least a portion of the track 816.

[0129] The track 816 includes a second segment 856 and a first segment 858. The first segment 858 of the track 816 extends toward the base 812 and the second segment 856 extends generally horizontally. The track 816 includes one or more rods to form a path. A plurality of dunnage support assemblies 884 having hooks or rings are supported on the rods of the track 816.

[0130] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the foregoing drawings and description, the same is to be considered as exemplary and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only illustrative embodiments thereof have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be protected.