US20090272666A1

US20090272666A1 - Tank tote

Info

Publication number: US20090272666A1
Application number: US12/114,116
Authority: US
Inventors: Eric P. Marcel
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2008-05-02
Filing date: 2008-05-02
Publication date: 2009-11-05

Abstract

Embodiments provide a tank tote including a base, a tank floor defined by the base, the tank floor being suitable to support a plurality of tanks, and a frame joined to the base, the frame including a plurality of sides extending up from the base, the plurality of sides including a first side spaced from a second side, the frame including a front divider, cooperation of the front divider with the first side defining a first front tank compartment suitable to receive a first tank, cooperation of the front divider with the second side defining a second front tank compartment suitable to receive a second tank, the first front tank compartment being accessible through a first front access portal, the second front tank compartment being accessible through a second front access portal, the frame including a front gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the front gate in the closed position preventing passage of the first tank through the first front access portal and preventing passage of the second tank through the second front access portal.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The disclosure relates to tank totes.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

A tank tote is used to transport a plurality of tanks containing fluid material. The tanks can be of any suitable shape. In one configuration, each tank has a generally square cross-sectional profile when viewed from above. A tank tote can also be used to transport a plurality of suitable cargo loads other than tanks. For example, a tank tote can be used to transport a plurality of suitable palletized cargo loads. In the specific context of offshore petroleum exploration, for example, the cargo loads can be suitable palletized containers of drilling mud transported by a supply boat to an offshore rig, and transferred from the supply boat to the offshore rig in a tank tote raised by a suitable hoist. Tanks or other suitable cargo loads can be loaded into the tank tote while in port, or while at sea. In one arrangement, at a port facility, the tanks or cargo loads are transferred to the tank tote from a fixed storage rack or the facility floor, and the loaded tank tote is transferred to the supply boat at the port using a suitable forklift or hoist.
For reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the present specification, there is a need in the art for improved tank totes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

The disclosure provides improved tank totes. Various shortcomings, disadvantages and problems of tank totes are addressed herein, which will be understood by reading and studying the following specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an elevated front perspective view of a tank tote according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a tank tote shown in FIG. 1 and supported by a hoist above a support surface.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a tank tote taken generally along 3-3 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an end view of a tank tote taken generally along 4-4 in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of a tank tote taken generally along 5-5 in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a tank tote taken generally along 6-6 in FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is an end view of a tank tote taken generally along 7-7 in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of a tank tote taken generally along 4-4 in FIG.1.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a tank tote shown generally in FIG. 3, showing an area of enlargement indicated by reference numeral 9 in FIG. 1 with a hinge and gate in a closed position.

FIG. 10 is a view of the area of enlargement shown in FIG. 9 with the hinge and gate in an open position.

FIG. 11 is a view of the area of enlargement shown in FIG. 9 with the hinge and gate in an open position and gate retention apparatus in an open condition.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a tank tote shown generally in FIG. 1 with drip pans removed.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a tank tote shown generally in FIG. 1 with front gate pivoted to an open position, rear gate pivoted to an open position, two tanks in phantom, and two tanks adjacent.

FIG. 14 is a top view of a tank tote shown generally in FIG. 13 with hinged lid removed, drip pans removed, and two tanks adjacent.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments which can be practiced. The embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, and it is to be understood that other embodiments can be utilized and that logical, mechanical and other changes can be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
FIG. 1 is an elevated front perspective view of a tank tote 100 according to an embodiment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that tank tote 100 can be configured differently without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and embodiments. Tank tote 100 includes frame 112 for supporting a plurality of tanks 108 (shown in FIG. 13). In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, each tank 108 has a recessed bottom 109. Recessed bottom 109 has therein an alignment recess 110. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that tank tote 100 can be used to transport a plurality of suitable cargo loads (not shown) other than tanks 108. For example, a tank tote 100 can be used to transport a plurality of suitable palletized cargo loads (not shown in FIG. 1). Tank tote 100 is configured to support four (4) tanks 108 arranged in a square or checkerboard pattern. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, two tanks 108 are shown in phantom lines and two tanks 108 are shown adjacent tank tote 100. It will be understood that a tank tote according to embodiments can be configured and sized to support any desired number of tanks 108.
Returning to FIG. 1, tank tote 100 includes frame 112. One skilled in the art will appreciate that frame 112 can be of any configuration and dimensions suitable to support the plurality of tanks 108 (FIG. 13) when filled with fluid material. Referring to FIG. 1, one skilled in the art will appreciate that frame 112 can be constructed of any suitable material. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, frame 112 is constructed of carbon steel. One skilled in the art will appreciate that frame 112 is only one specific configuration, and a frame can have different configurations without departing from the scope of the embodiments. It will be appreciated that tank tote 100 and frame 112 can be constructed according to any accepted structural engineering standards. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, tank tote 100 is constructed in accordance with accepted structural design standards required for DNV Certification of Offshore Containers. More particularly, in the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, tank tote 100 is designed and constructed in accordance with DNV Certification Notes No. 2.7-1 for Offshore Containers (May 1995). It will be understood that tank totes according to embodiments (not shown) can comply with any other desired design standard. Tank tote 100 includes a plurality of weld seams (not shown) which comply with an accepted structural standard. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, weld seams (not shown) comply with standard ANSI/AWS D1.1. It will be understood that tank totes according to embodiments (not shown) can include weld seams which comply with any other desired structural standard.
As shown in FIG. 1, frame 112 includes base 116. Base 116 includes a plurality of intersecting base members 120 defining an open frame 124. Base members 120 include a pair of elongated side members 156 extending in spaced, parallel relationship. Base members 120 include a spaced pair of elongated end members 160 extending perpendicular to side members 156. The pair of end members 160 intersects and is joined in fixed relation to the pair of side members 156 at base corners 164. The end members 160 and side members 156 are joined in a suitable manner and, in the illustrated embodiment, are joined by respective welds at each base corner 164. Cooperation of the side members 156 and end members 160 thus defines a generally square periphery 162 of base 116. One skilled in the art will appreciate that side members 156 and end members 160 can be formed of any suitable material. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, side members 156 and end members 160 are formed of carbon steel having a rectangular tubular cross-section. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, side members 156 and end members 160 are formed of tubing having a rectangular cross-section, with dimensions of 8 inches by 4 inches, and a material thickness of 0.25 inches, in accordance with ASTM A-500 Gr.C. (R.O.P.S.).
Each side member 156 has therein a respective pair 168 of spaced fork slots 172. The fork slots 172 are dimensioned to receive a respective tine (not shown) of a forklift (not shown) for lifting base 116. Each fork slot 172 is aligned along a common axis 173 (see FIG. 8) and spaced apart from an opposite one of the fork slots 172 in the other side member 156. Base members 120 include a fork tube 188 originating at each fork slot 172. Each fork tube 188 extends in perpendicular relationship to the respective side member 156. In the illustrated embodiment, each fork tube 188 is integrally joined in fixed relation to respective side member 156 at fork slot 172 in a suitable manner, such as by welds. Each fork tube 188 intersects second intermediate base member 228. In the specific embodiment illustrated, each fork tube 188 is integrally joined in fixed relation to second intermediate base member 228 in a suitable manner, such as by welds. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, second intermediate base member 228 has therein a respective fork passage (not shown). The fork opening permits a respective forklift tine to be received therein. Each fork tube 188 is aligned along the common axis 173 with an opposite one 189 of the fork tubes 188, such that the forklift tine (not shown) received in the internal fork passage (not shown) of second intermediate base members 228 can extend into the opposite one 189 of the fork tubes 188. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, each fork tube 188 has a continuous outer wall 192. Outer wall 192 includes an upper surface 196 extending in a respective first horizontal plane 200. One skilled in the art will appreciate that fork tubes 188 can be formed of any suitable material. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, fork tubes 188 are carbon steel members having a rectangular tubular cross-section. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, fork tubes 188 are formed of tubing having a rectangular cross-section, with dimensions of 10 inches by 4 inches, and a material thickness of 0.25 inches, in accordance with ASTM A-500 Gr.C. (R.O.P.S.).
Base members 120 of base 116 include intermediate base members 204. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, base 116 includes first intermediate base member 208. First intermediate base member 208 is an elongated rigid member having spaced ends 212 joined by elongate major portion 216. First intermediate base member 208 at major portion 216 has a first midpoint 220 intermediate the ends 212. First intermediate base member 208 extends between the pair of side members 156. First intermediate base member 208 intersects the pair of side members 156 at respective side member midpoints 224. First intermediate base member 208 is joined at ends 212 to the pair of side members 156 at respective side member midpoints 224 by respective welds (not shown).
In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, intermediate base members 204 of base 116 includes second intermediate base member 228. Second intermediate base member 228 is an elongated rigid member having spaced ends 232 joined by elongate major portion 236. Second intermediate base member 228 at major portion 236 has a second midpoint 240 intermediate the ends 232. Second intermediate base member 228 extends between the pair of end members 160 in perpendicular relation to first intermediate base member 208. Second intermediate base member 228 intersects the pair of end members 160 at respective end member midpoints 244. Second intermediate base member 228 is joined at ends 232 to the pair of end members 160 at respective end member midpoints 244 by respective welds (not shown). Second intermediate base member 228 intersects first intermediate base member 208 at midpoint 240. More particularly, second intermediate base member 228 at respective second midpoint 240 intersects first intermediate base member 208 at respective first midpoint 240. Second intermediate base member 228 and first intermediate base member 208 are joined in fixed, integral relationship in a suitable manner, such as by a plurality of welds (not shown). It will be appreciated that each fork tube 188 intersects second intermediate base member 228 at a respective fork passage (not shown). Second intermediate base member 228 is joined in integral fixed relation to each fork tube 188 in a suitable manner, such as by welds. One skilled in the art will appreciate that second intermediate base member 228 and first intermediate base member 208 can be formed of any suitable material. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, second intermediate base member 228 and first intermediate base member 208 are carbon steel members having a rectangular tubular cross-section. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, second intermediate base member 228 and first intermediate base member 208 are formed of tubing having a rectangular cross-section, with dimensions of 10 inches by 4 inches, and a material thickness of 0.25 inches, in accordance with ASTM A-500 Gr.C. (R.O.P.S.).
Base 116 includes a plurality of brace members 248. Base 116 can include any suitable number of brace members 248. In the specific embodiment illustrated, base 116 includes sixteen (16) brace members 248. Each brace member 248 extends in a horizontal direction between a respective pair of intersecting base members 120. Each brace member 248 intersects a respective pair of intersecting base members 120 to define a hypotenuse of a right triangle formed between the intersecting base members 120. Each of the brace members 248 thus provides structural bracing at respective intersections or joints formed between base members 120. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, brace members 246 are provided at intersections of: side members 156 and end members 160; side members 156 and first intermediate base member 208; end members 160 and second intermediate base member 228; and four brace members 248 between first intermediate base member 208 and second intermediate base member 228. Brace members 248 are each joined in integral fixed relation to the respective pair of intersecting base members 120. Brace members 248 can be joined to base members 120 in any suitable manner. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, brace members 248 are joined to base members 120 by respective weld seams (not shown). As shown in FIG. 14, each brace member 248 has a respective horizontal brace upper surface 256 opposite a brace lower surface (not shown). Brace upper surfaces 256 of the plurality of brace members 248 are aligned in a common second horizontal plane (not shown). It will be understood that brace members 248 can be formed of any suitable material. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, brace members 248 are carbon steel members having a rectangular tubular cross-section. More particularly, in the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, brace members 248 are formed of tubing having a rectangular cross-section, with dimensions of 8 inches by 4 inches, and a material thickness of 0.25 inches, in accordance with ASTM A-500 Gr.C. (R.O.P.S.).
Base 116 has a bottom surface 268 suitable to rest on an external support 272. External support 272 can include, for example, a suitable floor, deck or rack. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, bottom surface 268 is an open lattice defined by cooperation of respective bottom surfaces of intersecting base members 120.
Frame 112 includes tank floor 276 suitable to support the plurality of tanks 108. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, tank floor 276 is an open frame 280 having a drip pan 281. It will be understood that tank floor 276 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in an embodiment (not shown in FIG. 1) tank floor 276 can include a continuous, uninterrupted, unitary surface. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, and best shown in FIG. 14, tank floor 276 is defined by base 116. More particularly, as shown in FIG. 14, tank floor 276 includes a plurality of discrete floor segments 280 each defined by base 116. The plurality of floor segments 280 includes a plurality of brace floor segments 284 each defined by a respective brace upper surface 256. More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of floor segments 280 includes sixteen (16) brace floor segments 284 each defined by a respective one of the sixteen (16) brace upper surfaces 256, each brace upper surface 256 being defined by a respective one of the sixteen (16) brace members 248. The plurality of floor segments 280 includes a plurality of fork tube floor segments 288 each defined by a respective fork tube upper surface 196. More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of floor segments 280 includes four (4) fork tube floor segments 288 each defined by a respective one of the four (4) fork tube upper surfaces 196 of the four (4) fork tubes 188. In the specific embodiment illustrated, it will be appreciated that sixteen (16) brace floor segments 284 are commonly located in the second horizontal plane 260 to engage and support the recessed bottoms 109 of the four (4) tanks 108 (see FIG. 13). More particularly, as can be seen in FIG. 14, four (4) brace floor segments 284 cooperate to engage and support the recessed bottom 109 of each tank 108. In the specific embodiment illustrated, it will also be appreciated that each fork tube floor segment 288 is located in the first horizontal plane to engage and support the respective alignment recess 110 defined in the recessed bottom 109 of each tank 108. The plurality of floor segments 280 of tank floor 276, including the brace floor segments 284 and fork tube floor segments 284, thus cooperate to engage and support the four (4) tanks 108 in fixed positions. The four (4) tanks 108 thus are engaged and supported in fixed positions by tank floor 276. Tank tote 100 includes four (4) drip pans 281 supported by tank floor 276. Each drip pan 281 is disposed between tank floor 276 and a respective tank 108. Drip pans 281 are removable for cleaning spilled material. Drip pans 281 are formed of suitable sheet material. In the illustrated embodiment, drip pans 281 are formed of suitable hydrocarbon material which is resistant to corrosion by spilled fluid. In one embodiment, drip pans 281 are formed of suitable polyethylene material.
Frame 112 includes a plurality of sides 300. The plurality of sides 300 cooperates with base 116 to define an open frame enclosure 304 about tank floor 276 and about the plurality of tanks 108 resting on tank floor 276. The plurality of sides 300 are supported in relation to base 116 in a suitable manner. In one configuration, the sides 300 extend up in a vertical direction from the periphery 162 of base 116. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the plurality of sides 300 defines a generally square periphery 305 of enclosure 304. Cooperation of the sides 300 and base 116 prevents the tanks 108 from falling or sliding off tank floor 276. Sides 300 prevent or reduce potentially damaging contact between tanks 108 (see FIG. 13) and external structural features (not shown). External structural features can include, for example, movable structure such as cargo, or lifting apparatus such as a forklift, which can be encountered when the movable structure is moved relative to tank tote 100. External structural features can also include, for example, fixed structure such as beams, rails or walls, which can be encountered when tank tote 100 is moved relative to the fixed structure.
Returning to FIG. 3, the plurality of sides 300 of frame 112 includes a plurality of vertical side posts 308. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of side posts 308 includes four (4) corner posts 312. Each corner post 312 extends upward in a vertical direction from base 116 at a respective one of the base corners 164. The corner posts 312 are integrally joined in fixed relationship with base 116 in a suitable manner, such as by weld seams (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of side posts 308 includes four (4) intermediate side posts 316. Each intermediate side post 316 extends upward in a vertical direction from base 116 at a respective midpoint of a base member 120. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, two of the intermediate side posts 316 each extend upward in a vertical direction from base 116 at a respective midpoint of a respective side member 156. Also in the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, two of the intermediate side posts 316 each extend upward in a vertical direction from base 116 at a respective midpoint of a respective end member 160. The intermediate side posts 316 are integrally joined in fixed relationship with base 116 in a suitable manner, such as by welds (not shown). A lower vertical corner brace 352 is joined in fixed integral relationship between each intermediate side post 316 and base 116. More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, a lower vertical corner brace 352 is joined between each intermediate side post 316 and a respective one of the first intermediate base member 208 and the second intermediate base member 228.
The plurality of sides 300 of frame 112 includes a plurality of horizontal members 320. In the illustrated embodiment, frame 112 includes eight (8) horizontal members 320. Each horizontal member 320 is an elongate member extending in a horizontal direction between a respective corner post 312 and an adjacent intermediate side post 316. Each horizontal member 320 is spaced above a respective one of the end members 160 of base 116 in parallel relation thereto. More particularly, an upper one 328 of the horizontal members 320 is spaced above a lower one 332 of the horizontal members 320 in spaced relation to a respective end member 160. The upper one 328 of the horizontal members 320 and the lower one 332 of the horizontal members 320 cooperate with a respective corner post 312 and a respective intermediate side post 316 to define an open frame section 336. Two adjacent open frame sections 336 are joined in fixed integral relationship and cooperate to define a respective side 300. Horizontal members 320 are joined in integral fixed relationship to respective of the side posts 308 in a suitable manner, such as by welds (not shown).
Frame 112 includes a vertical center post 340. Center post 340 extends up from base 116 in a vertical direction along a respective central axis 344. Central axis 344 extends up from base 116 in a vertical direction at a center 348 of base 116. In the specific embodiment illustrated, center 348 coincides with midpoints of first intermediate base member 208 and second intermediate base member 228. Center post 340 is integrally joined to base 116 at central joint 351 in a suitable manner, such as by weld seams. Center post 340 defines a right angle with respect to base 116 at central joint 351. Lower vertical corner braces 352 are joined in fixed integral relationship between center post 340 and base 116. More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, four (4) lower vertical corner braces 352 are joined between center post 340 and base 116. Two (2) of the lower vertical corner braces 352 are joined between center post 340 and first intermediate base member 208. Two (2) of the lower vertical corner braces 352 are joined between center post 340 and second intermediate base member 228.
Frame 112 includes dividers 356 suitable to subdivide the enclosure 304 into tank compartments 360. Each tank compartment 360 is sized to accommodate a single tank 108 in a desired orientation such as, for example, an upright orientation. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, frame 112 includes four (4) dividers 356 subdividing enclosure 304 into four (4) tank compartments 360. Dividers 356 can be of any suitable construction. In the illustrated embodiment, each divider 356 includes an elongate upper dividing member 362 extending in a horizontal direction between center post 340 and a respective one of the intermediate side posts 316. Each upper dividing member 362 has a pair of spaced ends 364 joined by an elongated major section 368 intermediate ends 364. Each upper dividing member 362 is joined in fixed, integral relationship to center post 340 and the respective intermediate side post 316 at ends 364. Each upper dividing member 362 intersects center post 340 at a respective upper end portion 372 thereof. Each upper dividing member 362 intersects the respective intermediate side post 316 at a respective upper end portion 376 thereof. It will be appreciated that upper dividing member 362 is spaced above tank floor 276 at a height which prevents undesired contact between adjacent tanks 108. In the illustrated embodiment, each divider 356 includes a respective pair of upper vertical corner braces 380 associated with the respective upper dividing member 362. Each pair of upper vertical corner braces 380 is joined in fixed integral relationship between respective upper dividing member 362 and one of center post 340 and a respective one of the intermediate side posts 316. In the illustrated embodiment, each divider 356 includes a respective pair of lower vertical corner braces 352 aligned in a common vertical plane with the respective upper dividing member 362. In the illustrated embodiment, each divider 356 thus includes a respective upper dividing member 362, a respective pair of upper vertical corner braces 380, and a respective pair of lower vertical corner braces 352 aligned in a common vertical plane 384. Each divider 356 thus is defined to prevent undesired contact between adjacent tanks 108. Each tank compartment 360 thus is defined between a respective pair of adjacent dividers 356 extending in perpendicular relationship to each other. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, each of four tank compartments 360 is defined between a respective pair of adjacent dividers 356. As shown in FIG. 13, a tank 108 can be received in each tank compartment 360. Returning to FIG. 1, frame 112 includes a hinged lid 361 which folds relative to a lid axis 363. Hinged lid 361 includes two lid panels 365. In the illustrated embodiment, lid axis 363 extends in a horizontal direction, such that lid panels 365 pivot in a vertical direction to permit access to tanks 108 and tank compartment 360 from above.
Frame 112 includes hoist engagement structure 400. One skilled in the art will appreciate that, in embodiments, hoist engagement structure 400 can include any structure suitable to be engaged by a hoist 404 for hoisting tank tote 100. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, hoist engagement structure 400 includes a plurality of eyes 408. Each eye 408 defines a respective opening suitable to receive a respective wire rope sling 412 of hoist rigging 416. Each eye 408 is formed in a respective support member 420. Each support member 420 is integrally joined to frame 112 in a manner sufficient to bear a load when hoist 404 is operated to raise and move frame 112. In the illustrated embodiment, each support member 420 is an ear shaped member 424 integrally joined to a respective one of the upper dividing members 362 adjacent a respective one of the intermediate side posts 316. Ear shaped member 424 is joined in fixed, integral relation to upper dividing member 362 in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, ear shaped member 424 is integrally joined to upper dividing member 362 by weld seams (not shown). It will be appreciated that hoist engagement structure 400 can be joined with other members of frame 112 in any manner suitable to bear a desired load when hoisted. Each eye 408 receives a respective wire rope sling 412 of hoist rigging 416 of hoist 404. It will be appreciated that hoist engagement structure 400 including eyes 408 can be positioned on frame 112 in any arrangement and positions suitable to permit tank tote 100 to be hoisted.
Frame 112 includes rigging protective structure 500. One skilled in the art will appreciate that, in embodiments, rigging protective structure 500 can include any structure suitable to prevent undesired contact between hoist rigging 416, tanks 108 and external structural features (not shown). In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, rigging protective structure 500 includes a plurality of protective crowns 504. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, rigging protective structure 500 includes four (4) protective crowns 504 each supported above a respective one of the corner posts 312. Protective crowns 504 cooperate with corner posts 312 to prevent undesired contact between hoist rigging 416, tanks 108 and external structural features (not shown).
Frame 112 includes a pair of adjacent front access portals 520. More particularly, the pair of front access portals 520 includes a first front access portal 524 permitting access to a respective first front tank compartment 526. First front access portal 524 is an opening defined between a front intermediate side post 528 and an adjacent first front corner post 532. The pair of front access portals 520 includes a second front access portal 536 permitting access to a respective second front tank compartment 540. Second front access portal 536 is an opening defined between the front intermediate side post 528 and an adjacent second front corner post 544. The pair of front access portals 520 thus includes first front access portal 524 and second front access portal 536 adjacent thereto. The pair of front access portals 520 are commonly located above a respective front one 548 of the side members 156. It will be understood that first front tank compartment 526 and second front tank compartment 540 abut and are defined on opposite sides of a common front divider 552 respectively associated with front intermediate side post 528 and center post 340. Likewise, it will be understood that the pair of front access portals 520, including the first front access portal 524 and adjacent second front access portal 536, commonly adjoin front intermediate side post 528.
Frame 112 includes front gate 560. Front gate 560 is adapted to permit selective access to first front tank compartment 526 and adjacent second front tank compartment 540. Although one skilled in the art will appreciate that front gate 560 can be of any suitable construction, in the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, front gate 560 includes a unitary open frame front gate panel 564. Front gate panel 564 is adapted to simultaneously close both first front tank compartment 526 and adjacent second front tank compartment 540. More particularly, front gate panel 564 is adapted to simultaneously close both first front access portal 524 and adjacent second front access portal 536. More specifically, front gate panel 564 in a closed condition is adapted to extend between front intermediate side post 528, first front corner post 532, and second front corner post 544. It will be appreciated that, in a closed condition, front gate panel 564 is received by at least two of the following: front intermediate side post 528, first front corner post 532, and second front corner post 544. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, front gate 560 includes a set of hinges 568. Hinges 568 are adapted to support front gate panel 564 for pivotal movement about a respective front gate pivot axis 572 relative to front intermediate side post 528, first front corner post 532, and second front corner post 544. It will be understood that front gate panel 564 is movable on hinges 568 between the closed condition (shown FIG. 1) and an open condition (shown in FIG. 13). One skilled in the art will appreciate that hinges 568 can be oriented in any direction, such that front gate pivot axis 572 extends in any desired direction. In the specific embodiment illustrated, the front gate pivot axis 572 extends in a vertical direction. In other embodiments (not shown), front gate pivot axis 572 can extend, for example, in a horizontal direction. In the illustrated embodiment, hinges 568 are supported on first front corner post 532 for pivotal movement about first front corner post 532 relative to front intermediate side post 528 and second front corner post 544. In the illustrated embodiment, front gate 560 includes a latch 576 operable to retain front gate panel 564 in the closed condition. Latch 576 can be of any suitable construction. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, latch 576 includes a second set of hinges 569 (shown in FIG. 11) fixed to second front corner post 544. Each of the second set of hinges 569 is identical to hinge 568. Each hinge 568,569 includes a fixed hinge pin 580 supported by a respective of the first front corner post 532 or the second front corner post 544. Front gate panel 564 is supported by hinges 568 and 569 in a manner permitting slight movement in a vertical direction from a lower position (shown in FIG. 9) to an upper position (not shown) to clear the fixed hinge pin 580. More particularly, front gate panel 564 has a terminal end 588 opposite from hinges 568, first front corner post 532, and front gate pivot axis 572. Front gate panel 564 at terminal end 588 has a pair of latch pin apertures 589 adapted to receive latch pins 580. Vertical retaining blocks 565 selectively prevent vertical movement of front gate panel 564 relative to hinges 568,569. Front gate panel 564 can be lifted slightly from lower position 586 to upper position (not shown), such that terminal end 588 and latch pin apertures 589 clear latch pins 580 to be removed therefrom. When gate panel 564 is lowered and replaced on latch pins 580 at hinges 568 and hinges 569, hinge arms 571,573 can be rotated to the fully closed condition (FIG. 9). Thus, when front gate panel 564 is returned to lower position 586, latch pins 580 are received in latch pin apertures 589. Hinge arms 571,573 can rotate about pivot axis 572 such that front gate panel 564 occupies the closed position (FIG. 1) and the fully open position (FIG. 13). It will be observed that gate panel 564 also is pivotable on latch pins 580 about a second hinge axis 591 (FIG. 10). Second hinge axis 591 is spaced from front gate pivot axis 572 to permit gate panel 564 to wrap around second front corner post 544 and swing to a fully open position which is generally parallel to end member 360. In the closed position (shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 9), front gate panel 564 is locked or retained in a fixed position relative to second front corner post 544 and front intermediate post 528 by at least one suitable latch 576,569 which engages at least one of the first front corner post 532 and front intermediate post 528. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, when front gate 560 is in the closed condition (FIG. 1), tanks 108 cannot be loaded into or unloaded from first front tank compartment 526 and second front tank compartment 540. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, when front gate 560 is in the closed condition (FIG. 1), tanks 108 located on tank floor 276 in first front tank compartment 526 and second front tank compartment 540 cannot fall off or slide from tank floor 276. It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that, when front gate 560 is in the open condition (FIG. 2), tanks 108 can be loaded into or unloaded from first front tank compartment 526 and second front tank compartment 540.
As best shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, frame 112 includes a pair of adjacent rear access portals 620. More particularly, the pair of rear access portals 620 includes a first rear access portal 624 permitting access to a respective first rear tank compartment 626. First rear access portal 624 is an opening defined between a rear intermediate side post 628 and an adjacent first rear corner post 632. The pair of rear access portals 620 includes a second rear access portal 636 permitting access to a respective second rear tank compartment 640. Second rear access portal 636 is an opening defined between the rear intermediate side post 628 and an adjacent second rear corner post 644. The pair of rear access portals 620 thus includes first rear access portal 624 and second rear access portal 636 adjacent thereto. The pair of rear access portals 620 are commonly located above a respective rear one 548 of the side members 156. It will be understood that first rear tank compartment 626 and second rear tank compartment 640 abut and are defined on opposite sides of a common rear divider 652 respectively associated with rear intermediate side post 628 and center post 340. Likewise, it will be understood that the pair of rear access portals 620, including the first rear access portal 624 and adjacent second rear access portal 636, commonly adjoin rear intermediate side post 628.
Frame 112 includes rear gate 660. Rear gate 660 is identical to front gate 560 except as otherwise described herein. Rear gate 660 is adapted to permit selective access to first rear tank compartment 626 and adjacent second rear tank compartment 640. Although one skilled in the art will appreciate that rear gate 660 can be of any suitable construction, in the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, rear gate 660 includes a unitary open frame rear gate panel 664. Rear gate panel 664 is identical to front gate panel 564 except as otherwise described herein. Rear gate panel 664 is adapted to simultaneously close both first rear tank compartment 626 and adjacent second rear tank compartment 640. More particularly, rear gate panel 664 is adapted to simultaneously close both first rear access portal 624 and adjacent second rear access portal 636. More specifically, rear gate panel 664 in a closed condition is adapted to extend between rear intermediate side post 628, first rear corner post 632, and second rear corner post 644. It will be appreciated that, in a closed condition, rear gate panel 664 is received by at least two of the following: rear intermediate side post 628, first rear corner post 632, and second rear corner post 644. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, rear gate 660 includes a set of hinges 668. Hinges 668 are identical to hinges 568 and are adapted to support rear gate panel 664 for pivotal movement about a respective rear gate pivot axis 672 relative to rear intermediate side post 628, first rear corner post 632, and second rear corner post 644. In the illustrated embodiment, rear gate 660 includes a latch 676 operable to retain rear gate panel 664 in the closed condition. Latch 676 can be of any suitable construction. In the specific embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, latch 676 is defined by a second set of hinges 669 including a pair of fixed latch pins (not shown) supported by second rear corner post 644. It will be appreciated that rear gate 660 is operable as previously described with respect to front gate 560.
In view of the foregoing, embodiments provide tank totes including a front gate 560 which is adapted to permit selective access to the first front tank compartment 526 and adjacent second front tank compartment 540. Embodiments provide a front gate 560 including a front gate panel 564 adapted to simultaneously close both first front tank compartment 526 and adjacent second front tank compartment 540. Embodiments provide front gate 560 including a front gate panel 564 which is adapted to simultaneously close both a first front access portal 524 and an adjacent second front access portal 536. Embodiment provide tank totes including a rear gate 660 which is adapted to permit selective access to the first rear tank compartment 626 and adjacent second rear tank compartment 640. Embodiments provide a rear gate 660 including a rear gate panel 664 adapted to simultaneously close both first rear tank compartment 626 and adjacent second rear tank compartment 640. Embodiments provide rear gate 660 including a rear gate panel 664 which is adapted to simultaneously close both a first rear access portal 624 and an adjacent second rear access portal 536.
Embodiments provide rigging protective structure 500 adapted to prevent or impede undesired contact between hoist rigging 416, tanks 108 and external structural features (not shown). Embodiments provide rigging protective structure 500 adapted to prevent or impede contact between external structural features and hoist engagement structure 400. Embodiments provide rigging protective structure 500 adapted to prevent or impede contact between external structural features and hoist rigging 420, including wire rope slings 412 of hoist rigging 416. Embodiments provide frame 112 including enclosure 304 which is adapted to prevent or impede undesired contact between external structural features and tanks 108. It will be understood that embodiments provide tank totes having construction, elements and improvements which are well-suited for transport, transfer and storage of fluid materials in rugged, off-shore marine environments, such as off-shore oil platforms. More particularly, it will be understood that embodiments provide tank totes which can be transported and transferred via suitable hoist equipment from supply vessels to off-shore oil platforms, and vice-versa, which are adapted to prevent or impede undesired contact between external structural features and tanks 108 and wire rope slings 412 of hoist rigging 416. Examples of external structural agents can include, for example in an off-shore oil platform environment, protruding structures such as beams and cables, and other cargo being transferred, when a tank container according to embodiment is being transferred via hoist equipment. One of skill in the art will appreciate that embodiments thus provide improved tank totes, and particularly improved tank totes adapted for storage, transport and transfer of a plurality of tanks in off-shore marine environments such as oil platforms.
Although specific embodiments are illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the same purpose can be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations. For example, although described in terms of the specific embodiments, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that implementations can be made in different embodiments to provide the required function. In particular, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the names and terminology of the apparatus are not intended to limit embodiments. Furthermore, additional apparatus can be added to the components, functions can be rearranged among the components, and new components to correspond to future enhancements and physical devices used in embodiments can be introduced without departing from the scope of embodiments. The terminology used in this application is intended to include all environments and alternatives which provide the same functionality as described herein.

Claims

1. A tank tote adapted to rest on an external support, the tank tote comprising:

a base adapted to rest on the external support;

a tank floor defined by the base, the tank floor being suitable to support a plurality of tanks; and

a frame joined to the base, the frame including a plurality of sides extending up from the base in a vertical direction, the plurality of sides defining an enclosure above the tank floor, the plurality of sides including a first side spaced from a second side, the frame including a front divider, the front divider being spaced from the first side, cooperation of the front divider with the first side defining a first front tank compartment suitable to receive a first tank, the front divider being spaced from the second side, cooperation of the front divider with the second side defining a second front tank compartment suitable to receive a second tank, the front divider separating the first front tank compartment from the second front tank compartment, the first front tank compartment being accessible through a first front access portal, the second front tank compartment being accessible through a second front access portal, the front divider separating the first front access portal from the second front access portal, the frame including a front gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the front gate in the closed position preventing passage of the first tank through the first front access portal, the front gate in the closed position preventing passage of the second tank through the second front access portal.

2. A tank tote according to claim 1 and further comprising:

the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the front divider, the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the first side, the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the second side, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider and with the first side preventing movement of the first tank through the first front access portal, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider and with the second side preventing movement of the second tank through the second front access portal.

3. A tank tote according to claim 2 and further comprising:

the base having a generally rectangular periphery when viewed from above, the periphery including a spaced pair of ends extending in parallel relationship, the periphery including a front edge extending between the ends in perpendicular relationship thereto, the periphery including a rear edge extending between the ends in spaced parallel relationship to the front edge, the base having a center, the center being equidistant from the pair of ends, the center being equidistant from the front edge and the rear edge;

the first side being spaced from the second side in parallel relation thereto, the first side extending in the vertical direction above a first one of the end members, the second side extending in the vertical direction above a second one of the end members, the front divider being intermediate the first side and the second side, the front divider extending from the front edge toward the center in parallel relationship to the first side and the second side, the first front access portal being adjacent and the second front access portal above the front edge;

the front gate in the closed position being above the front edge, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider and with the first side preventing movement of the first tank across the front edge through the first front access portal, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider and with the second side preventing movement of the second tank across the front edge through the second front access portal.

4. A tank tote according to claim 3 and further comprising:

the frame including a rear divider, the rear divider being spaced from the first side, cooperation of the rear divider with the first side defining a first rear tank compartment suitable to receive a third tank, the rear divider being spaced from the second side, cooperation of the rear divider with the second side defining a second rear tank compartment suitable to receive a fourth tank, the rear divider separating the first rear tank compartment from the second rear tank compartment, the first rear tank compartment being accessible through a first rear access portal, the second rear tank compartment being accessible through a second rear access portal, the rear divider separating the first rear access portal from the second rear access portal, the frame including a rear gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the rear gate in the closed position preventing passage of the third tank through the first rear access portal, the rear gate in the closed position preventing passage of the fourth tank through the second rear access portal.

5. A tank tote according to claim 4 and further comprising:

the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the rear divider, the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the first side, the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the second side, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider and with the first side preventing movement of the third tank through the first rear access portal, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider and with the second side preventing movement of the fourth tank through the second rear access portal.

6. A tank tote according to claim 5 and further comprising:

the rear divider being intermediate the first side and the second side, the rear divider extending from the rear edge toward the center in parallel relationship to the first side and the second side, the first rear access portal being adjacent and the second rear access portal above the rear edge;

the rear gate in the closed position being above the rear edge, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider and with the first side preventing movement of the third tank across the rear edge through the first rear access portal, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider and with the second side preventing movement of the fourth tank across the rear edge through the second rear access portal.

7. A tank tote according to claim 6 and further comprising:

a first front-rear divider extending from the first end toward the center in perpendicular relation to the front divider and the rear divider, the first front-rear divider separating the first front tank compartment from the first rear tank compartment;

a second front-rear divider extending from the second end toward the center in perpendicular relation to the front divider and the rear divider, the second front-rear divider separating the second front tank compartment from the second rear tank compartment.

8. A tank tote according to claim 1 and further comprising:

the tank floor including a plurality of discrete floor sections, each floor section being defined by a respective upper surface of the base.

9. A tank tote according to claim 2 and further comprising:

the front gate including a front gate panel supported for pivotal movement about a front gate pivot axis, the front gate panel being selectively pivotably movable about the front gate pivot axis relative to the closed position, in the closed position cooperation of the front gate panel with the front divider and with the first side preventing movement of the first tank through the first front access portal, in the closed position cooperation of the front gate panel with the front divider and with the second side preventing movement of the second tank through the second front access portal, the front gate panel being selectively pivotably movable about the front gate pivot axis between the closed position and an open position, in the open position the front gate panel being spaced apart from the front divider to permit movement of the first tank through the first front access portal and to permit movement of the second tank through the second front access portal.

10. A tank tote according to claim 9 and further comprising:

the front gate including at least one hinge supporting the front gate panel for pivotal movement about the front gate pivot axis, the at least one hinge defining the front gate pivot axis, the at least one hinge being supported by one of the first side and the second side, the front gate including a latch suitable to retain the front gate panel in the closed position.

11. A tank tote according to claim 2 and further comprising:

the front gate including front gate support apparatus suitable to retain a front gate panel in the closed position, the front gate support apparatus being suitable to support the front gate panel to be removed from the closed position, the front gate panel when removed from the closed position being in a removed condition, in the removed condition the front gate panel being separated from the front divider, the first side and the second side to permit movement of the first tank through the first front access portal and to permit movement of the second tank through the second front access portal.

12. A tank tote according to claim 11 and further comprising:

the front gate support apparatus including at least one retaining member affixed to one of the front gate panel, the base, the front divider, the first side and the second side, the at least one retaining member being suitable to retain the front gate panel in the closed position, the at least one retaining member being suitable to selectively release the front gate panel from the closed position.

13. A tank tote according to claim 5 and further comprising:

the rear gate including a rear gate panel supported for pivotal movement about a rear gate pivot axis, the rear gate panel being selectively pivotably movable about the rear gate pivot axis relative to the closed position, in the closed position cooperation of the rear gate panel with the rear divider and with the first side preventing movement of the third tank through the first rear access portal, in the closed position cooperation of the rear gate panel with the rear divider and with the second side preventing movement of the fourth tank through the second rear access portal, the rear gate panel being selectively pivotably movable about the rear gate pivot axis between the closed position and an open position, in the open position the rear gate panel being spaced apart from the rear divider to permit movement of the third tank through the first rear access portal and to permit movement of the fourth tank through the second rear access portal.

14. A tank tote according to claim 13 and further comprising:

the rear gate including at least one hinge supporting the rear gate panel for pivotal movement about the rear gate pivot axis, the at least one hinge defining the rear gate pivot axis, the at least one hinge being supported by one of the first side and the second side, the rear gate including a latch suitable to retain the rear gate panel in the closed position.

15. A tank tote according to claim 5 and further comprising:

the rear gate including rear gate support apparatus suitable to retain a rear gate panel in the closed position, the rear gate support apparatus being suitable to support the rear gate panel to be removed from the closed position, the rear gate panel when removed from the closed position being in a removed condition, in the removed condition the rear gate panel being separated from the rear divider, the first side and the second side to permit movement of the third tank through the first rear access portal and to permit movement of the fourth tank through the second rear access portal.

16. A tank tote according to claim 15 and further comprising:

the rear gate support apparatus including at least one retaining member affixed to one of the rear gate panel, the base, the rear divider, the first side and the second side, the at least one retaining member being suitable to retain the rear gate panel in the closed position, the at least one retaining member being suitable to selectively release the rear gate panel from the closed position.

17. A tank tote adapted to rest on an external support, the tank tote comprising:

a base adapted to rest on the external support, the base having a generally rectangular periphery when viewed from above, the periphery including a spaced pair of ends extending in parallel relationship, the periphery including a front edge extending between the ends in perpendicular relationship thereto, the periphery including a rear edge extending between the ends in spaced parallel relationship to the front edge, the base having a center, the center being equidistant from the pair of ends, the center being equidistant from the front edge and the rear edge;

a frame joined to the base, the frame including a plurality of sides extending up from the base in a vertical direction, the plurality of sides defining an enclosure above the tank floor, the plurality of sides including a first side spaced from a second side, the first side being spaced from the second side in parallel relation thereto, the first side extending in the vertical direction above a first one of the end members, the second side extending in the vertical direction above a second one of the end members, the frame including a front divider, the front divider being spaced from the first side, the front divider being intermediate the first side and the second side, the front divider extending from the front edge toward the center in parallel relationship to the first side and the second side, the first front access portal being adjacent the second front access portal above the front edge, cooperation of the front divider with the first side defining a first front tank compartment suitable to receive a first tank, the front divider being spaced from the second side, cooperation of the front divider with the second side defining a second front tank compartment suitable to receive a second tank, the front divider separating the first front tank compartment from the second front tank compartment, the first front tank compartment being accessible through a first front access portal, the second front tank compartment being accessible through a second front access portal, the front divider separating the first front access portal from the second front access portal, the frame including a front gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the front gate in the closed position being above the front edge, the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the front divider, the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the first side, the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the second side, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider and with the first side preventing movement of the first tank across the front edge through the first front access portal, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider and with the second side preventing movement of the second tank across the front edge through the second front access portal.

18. A tank tote according to claim 17 and further comprising:

the frame including a rear divider, the rear divider being intermediate the first side and the second side, the rear divider being spaced from the first side, the rear divider extending from the rear edge toward the center in parallel relationship to the first side and the second side, cooperation of the rear divider with the first side defining a first rear tank compartment suitable to receive a third tank, the frame including a first front-rear divider extending from the first end toward the center in perpendicular relation to the front divider and the rear divider, the first front-rear divider separating the first front tank compartment from the first rear tank compartment, the rear divider being spaced from the second side, cooperation of the rear divider with the second side defining a second rear tank compartment suitable to receive a fourth tank, a second front-rear divider extending from the second end toward the center in perpendicular relation to the front divider and the rear divider, the second front-rear divider separating the second front tank compartment from the second rear tank compartment the rear divider separating the first rear tank compartment from the second rear tank compartment, the first rear tank compartment being accessible through a first rear access portal, the second rear tank compartment being accessible through a second rear access portal, the rear divider separating the first rear access portal from the second rear access portal, the first rear access portal being adjacent the second rear access portal above the rear edge, the frame including a rear gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the rear gate in the closed position being above the rear edge, the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the rear divider, the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the first side, the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the second side, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider and with the first side preventing movement of the third tank across the rear edge through the first rear access portal, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider and with the second side preventing movement of the fourth tank across the rear edge through the second rear access portal.

19. A tank tote according to claim 17 and further comprising:

20. A tank tote according to claim 17 and further comprising:

21. A tank tote according to claim 20 and further comprising:

22. A tank tote according to claim 17 and further comprising:

23. A tank tote according to claim 22 and further comprising:

24. A tank tote adapted to rest on an external support, the tank tote comprising:

a frame joined to the base, the frame including a vertical center post extending from the center of the base, the vertical center post being joined in integral fixed relationship with the base, the frame defining an enclosure above the tank floor, the enclosure defining four tank compartments arranged in two back-to-back pairs, the pairs including a front pair adjacent the front edge and a rear pair adjacent the rear edge, the front pair including a first front tank compartment suitable to receive a first tank moved across the front edge through a first front access portal, the front pair including a second front tank compartment suitable to receive a second tank moved across the front edge through a second front access portal, the second front tank compartment being adjacent the first front tank compartment, the rear pair including a first rear tank compartment suitable to receive a third tank moved across the rear edge through a first rear access portal, the rear pair including a second rear tank compartment suitable to receive a fourth tank moved across the rear edge through a second rear access portal, the second rear tank compartment being adjacent the first rear tank compartment, the frame including a front divider intermediate the first front tank compartment and the second front tank compartment, the front divider extending from a midpoint of the front edge to the vertical center post in perpendicular relationship to the front edge, the front divider separating the first front access portal from the second front access portal, the frame including a rear divider intermediate the first rear tank compartment and the second rear tank compartment, the rear divider extending from a midpoint of the rear edge to the vertical center post in perpendicular relationship to the rear edge, the rear divider separating the first rear access portal from the second rear access portal, the frame including a first front-rear divider extending from the vertical center post between the first front tank compartment and the first rear tank compartment in perpendicular relation to the front divider and the rear divider, the first front-rear divider separating the first front tank compartment from the first rear tank compartment, the frame including a second front-rear divider extending from the vertical center post between the second front tank compartment and the second rear tank compartment in perpendicular relation to the front divider and the rear divider, the second front-rear divider separating the second front tank compartment from the second rear tank compartment, the frame including a front gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the front gate in the closed position being above the front edge, the front gate in the closed position cooperating with the front divider, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider preventing movement of the first tank across the front edge through the first front access portal, cooperation of the front gate in the closed position with the front divider preventing movement of the second tank across the front edge through the second front access portal, the frame including a rear gate selectively movable relative to a closed position, the rear gate in the closed position being above the rear edge, the rear gate in the closed position cooperating with the rear divider, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider preventing movement of the third tank across the rear edge through the first rear access portal, cooperation of the rear gate in the closed position with the rear divider preventing movement of the fourth tank across the rear edge through the second rear access portal.