Load transporting apparatus.

摘要

Load transporting apparatus enables loads (17) to be transported on and off vehicles. The apparatus requires a loading platform (15) to be located adjacent a load receiving surface (12) of a vehicle (10). The platform and the surface each have channel shaped tracks (16, 13) which are aligned with one another. An inflatable tube (25) on which is carried a plate (27) is located in the base (22) of the channel and skates (18) are arranged to be moved along the plates when the tube is inflated. Thus the skates (18) can move along the . channels (16,13) supporting a load (17) when a transfer to or from the vehicle is required. When in position deflation of the tubes (25) causes the skates (18) to lower and the load (17) rests on the associated surface (12). In the deflated position the skates (18) can be moved along the tracks (13,16) out of engagement with the load. The plates (27) have a central depression to ensure that the skates (18) remain centrally located in the tracks.