Referencing "Units and Personnel in Cargo Bays," pp 43-44, (c)2009 PDF.
I'm wondering how long it takes to offload vehicles (and 'mechs) from a cargo bay. For all examples, let's assume a small craft with 100 tons cargo and a cargo-manipulator equipped exoskeleton.
First the rules say units in cargo are treated as regular non-containerized cargo, as per the chart on p 42. So, our exoskeleton can unload 1.2 tons per minute.
Then it says a 'mech can't use its own hands to help the process. But does that mean a vehicle can use itself to help the process? So, a 100t 'mech would take 83.33 minutes to load or unload (100/1.2), but a 100t tank would take 1.67 minutes (100/60)?
Finally, it says the unitary nature of non-infantry units halves the needed time, except for 'mechs. So, does that mean the 100t tank above can be loaded or unloaded in 0.83 minutes (1.67/2)?
Or, going back to the first question, if the 100t tank can't use itself to help the process, it also takes 83.33 minutes, with the aid of an exoskeleton, which is then halved to 41.67 minutes (83.33/2)?
I can see arguments either way, but considering the HUGE time difference (50x!), I figured I'd ask.
Also, can that cargo exoskeleton even be used to load or unload units and personnel? It's not like you can lift that tank and carry it out of the bay. And can an exoskeleton, or pack animal or whatever, help with unloading infantry from a cargo bay? Especially when they can probably grab their own gear (though unpacking and organizing takes some time).
Thanks.