Cargo container closure systems

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide systems and methods for improved securement of a cargo cover/flexible door to a cargo container. The systems generally provide securement using an integrated hook shape that is formed into the frame extrusions of the cargo container. This internal shape provides a construction that is less vulnerable to damage, can reduce the repair ratio, and the out of service time for the unit.

1 . A cargo container closure system, comprising:
 a cargo container frame having one or more frame portions comprising an internal profile with an internal hook shape; and   a cargo cover comprising a plurality of securement elements that correspond to and cooperate within the internal profile of the one or more frame portions.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of straps secured to the cargo cover, the plurality of straps comprising the plurality of securement elements. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein the plurality of straps are stitched to the cargo cover such that they remain as a single unit with the cover and are not removable therefrom in use. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein the plurality of straps comprise one or more sizing features for tightening the straps for securement of the cargo cover to the cargo container frame. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the one or more frame portions comprise separate straight frame portions that are secured to one another to create a cargo container cage frame. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the one or more frame portions comprise a single extruded cargo frame. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the internal profile comprises a flat frame surface, an inwardly curved surface, and a curved lip. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the securement element comprises a first arm and a second arm forming a c-shaped hook between the first and second arms. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the internal profile extends along an entire portion of the cargo container frame. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the internal profile is extruded. 
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the securement element further comprises a handle strap associated therewith. 
     
     
         12 . A method for securing a cargo container, comprising:
 providing a cargo container frame having one or more frame portions comprising an internal profile with an internal hook shape;   providing a cargo cover comprising a plurality of elements that correspond to and cooperate within the internal profile of the one or more frame portions;   inserting one of the elements into one of the internal profiles of the frame; and   continuing the inserting of elements into the internal profiles of the frame until the cargo cover is secured with respect to the cargo container frame.   
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 12 , wherein the cargo cover further comprises a plurality of straps secured to the cargo cover, the plurality of straps comprising the elements that correspond to and cooperate within the internal profile of the one or more frame portions, the plurality of straps further comprising one or more sizing features; the method comprising tightening the one or more sizing features to secure the cargo cover securely with respect to the cargo container frame.