HINGE AND SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR AN INTERMEDIATE DECK IN A TRAILER

摘要

A hinge and support system for supporting cargo in a freight compartment is provided. The system includes a hinge member (55), associated with a deck panel (20, 21), which has at least one flexible projection (60). The hinge member mates with a support member (75) having a pocket (86) for which the hinge member's flexible projections can be snapped into and retained within so as to allow pivotal movement of the hinge member with respect to the support member. The hinge member is also movably supported by the deck panel so that the hinge member can move relative to the deck panel when the deck panel is deployed. The support member includes one ledge (80) which engages the deck panel when deployed and a second ledge (82) which engages the panel when stowed upright so as to substantially isolate the hinge member from the weight of the deck panel and items placed on it. The hinge structure can be utilized in other contexts.