Apparatus, systems and methods for transporting a cylindrical package

摘要

Apparatus and systems for transporting a generally cylindrical package include: (a) a frame including a support device having at least one compressible support member and a pivot device for pivoting the support device about a generally vertical axis, the support device being movable along the generally vertical axis between (1) a first predetermined position spaced apart from and below an outer surface of a generally cylindrical package which is removably telescoped upon a generally horizontal member of a support at a first predetermined location and (2) a second predetermined position in which the compressible support member contacts and supports at least a portion of the outer surface of the generally cylindrical package; and (b) a carriage assembly connected to and supporting the frame, the carriage assembly including a carriage for moving the frame between (1) a first predetermined position proximate the support and (2) a second predetermined position horizontally spaced apart from the first predetermined position such that the generally cylindrical package is removed from the first predetermined location upon the generally horizontal member of the support and transported to a second predetermined location horizontally spaced apart from the first predetermined location.