FIELD
The present invention relates generally to product display devices for use in storing and displaying shelved products therefrom.
BACKGROUND
A wide variety of shelving and display devices have been designed and manufactured for use in merchandising shelved products to consumers. These devices are commonly used in convenience stores, grocery stores, and the like to store and display products for easy viewing and retrieval by a customer. The dual storage and display function performed by product shelving is particularly important due to the limited space available within a given store or merchandising area. The problem of limited available space is exacerbated when it comes to storing shelved products requiring refrigeration in display coolers and other types of cold vaults due to the costs associated with cooling each unit of area used to store cold items. Because of these costs, a merchant has only a limited space in which to display and merchandise cold items and every area of refrigerated-but-unused space costs the merchant money.
The space between conventional product shelves is generally more than sufficient to store and display certain products. As a result, there exists a potentially useful but unused space between the top of the products stored on one shelf and the bottom of the shelf located immediately above. This space comprises valuable real estate to the merchant because it is additional space that can be utilized to store and merchandise products. By making use of this space, the merchant is able to store and merchandise additional products without having to expand the store or encroach on areas of the store dedicated to other purposes. In the case of refrigerated items, the merchant is able to store and merchandise additional products without having to bear the costs of additional refrigeration units or other merchandising equipment.
Some shelving and display devices that are capable of taking advantage of this unused space and are utilized in the marketplace may provide a plurality of shelves which are vertically adjustable and positionable within a fixed framework. The fixed framework typically includes four upright support members to accommodate a wide range of shelved products of varying shapes and proportions, which may be changed or alternated over time. Such shelving and display devices and fixed framework may include some type of mechanism for vertically adjusting the shelving units. Although some of the known shelving systems allow for the initial placement of the shelves within its associated framework structure, once this initial positioning is accomplished, such systems do not allow for easy further adjustability of such individual shelves into other positions. The operator must perform difficult maneuvers to unlatch the front portion and the rear portion of the shelf unit before vertically adjusting the position of a shelf unit in either direction. These adjustment and repositioning processes take considerable time and can be especially challenging for a single employee working to adjust the devices.
Thus, there is a need for an improved shelving and display apparatus and the like wherein the apparatus can be easily repositioned within an associated framework structure. This can allow the shelving and display apparatus to achieve a plurality of different positions. Further, there is a need for an improved shelving and display apparatus that is easily adjustable.
Accordingly, the present invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems as set forth above.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure relates to an adjustable product merchandising display shelf apparatus that may be simply adjusted at a front portion or a rear portion. The shelf apparatus is capable of quick and easy vertical adjustment relative to an associated frame structure. The shelf apparatus can be used on conventional shelving systems commonly utilized in supermarkets, convenience stores, and other food and beverage outlets, including refrigerated coolers. Although the subject apparatus may be designed for use in a wide variety of refrigerated display cases presently utilized in the marketplace, the shelf apparatus can also be adaptable for use in many display shelf applications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the present invention, reference may be made to the following accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a top view of a shelf apparatus constructed according to the teachings hereof.
FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the shelf apparatus of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2.
FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a front portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-3.
FIG. 5 is a first magnified bottom perspective view of a front right portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-4.
FIG. 6 is a second magnified bottom perspective view of a front right portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-5.
FIG. 7 is a magnified top perspective view of a front right portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-6.
FIG. 8 is a first magnified bottom perspective view of a front left portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-7.
FIG. 9 is a second magnified bottom perspective view of a front left portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-8.
FIG. 10 is a magnified top perspective view of a front left portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-9.
FIG. 11 is a first perspective view of a first rotating member of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-10.
FIG. 12 is a second perspective view of a first rotating member of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-11.
FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of a rear portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-12.
FIG. 14 is a magnified top perspective view of a rear right portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-13.
FIG. 15 is a magnified top perspective view of a rear left portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-14.
FIG. 16 is a magnified bottom perspective view of a rear right portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-15.
FIG. 17 is a magnified bottom perspective view of a rear left portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-16.
FIG. 18 is a first perspective view of a second rotating member of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-17.
FIG. 19 is a second perspective view of a second rotating member of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-18.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a front portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-19.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a price channel on a front portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-20.
FIG. 22 is a side elevation view of a price channel on a front portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-21.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a rear portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-22.
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a price channel on a rear portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-23.
FIG. 25 is a side elevation view of a price channel on a rear portion of the shelf apparatus of FIGS. 1-24.
FIG. 26 is a side elevation view of a pin member having a recess.
FIG. 27 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a pin member having a recess as engaged with a rack.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention will now be described with reference to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. For purposes of clarity in illustrating the characteristics of the present invention, proportional relationships of the elements have not necessarily been maintained in the drawing figures.
FIGS. 1-3 depict an adjustable shelf apparatus 100 for use in storage case, such as a cabinet or a cooler for storing refrigerated or frozen items. In some examples, the adjustable shelf apparatus 100 is usable in coolers used in gas stations, convenience stores, grocery stores, and the like. In one embodiment, the adjustable shelf apparatus 100 may comprise a frame 110 and a first actuation system 130. In another embodiment, the shelf apparatus may further comprise a second actuation system 160. In yet another embodiment, the second actuation system 160 may be selectively operated and actuated independent of the first actuation system 130. The frame 110 may comprise a front transverse frame member 112 coupled with a rear transverse frame member 114 by side frame members 116. As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, in one embodiment, the frame 110 may comprise two side frame members 116. However, it will be understood that the frame 110 may comprise any number of side frame members 116 coupling the front transverse frame member 112 with the rear transverse frame member 114, including, without limitation, one side frame member 116, two side frame members 116, three side frame members 116, or any other suitable number of side frame members 116. The frame 110 may further comprise a plurality of front post members 118 and/or a plurality of rear post members 120. The plurality of front post members 118 and/or the plurality of rear post members 120 may be fixedly attached to the side frame members 116.
In one embodiment, the front transverse frame member 112 and the two side frame members 116 may define a front portion 122 of the frame 110. In another embodiment, the rear transverse frame member 114 and two side frame members 116 may define a rear portion 124 of the frame 110. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the front portion 122 of the frame 110 may comprise the first actuation system 130, and the rear portion 124 of the frame 110 may comprise the second actuation system 160. The first actuation system 130 and the second actuation system 160 may be asymmetrically disposed within the frame 110 of the shelf apparatus 100, such that the second actuation system 160 may be located closer to the absolute center of the frame 110 than the first actuation system 130. However, it will be understood that the first actuation system 130 and the second actuation system 160 may be arranged and disposed within the frame 110 in any suitable manner, including, without limitation, symmetrically and asymmetrically relative to the absolute center of the frame 110.
Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the first actuation system 130 may comprise at least one, preferably two, first pin members 132, and a first biasing means 134, such as a spring, associated with at least one of the first pin members 132, and preferably first biasing means 134 each respectively associated with one of the first pin members 132. The first actuation system 130 may also comprise a first transverse pull bar 136, at least one first lateral tension member 138, a first medial tension member 140, and a first rotating member 142. In some embodiments, the first actuation system 130 may comprise medial tension members 140 each respectively associated with one of the first biasing means 134.
The first pin members 132 may be mounted on the side frame members 116 of the frame 110 and located proximate the front transverse frame member 112 and/or the front post members 118. In one embodiment, the first pin members 132 may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The first biasing means 134 may be operable to move the first pin members 132 between the extended position and the retracted position. The first biasing means 134 may bias the first pin members 132 to one of the extended position and the retracted position. For example, the first biasing means 134 may bias the first pin members 132 to the extended position. In another embodiment, the first biasing means 134 may bias the first pin members 132 to the retracted position.
As shown in FIG. 4, in the extended position, at least a portion of the first pin members 132 may pass through the side frame members 116 and generally extend beyond a profile defined by the frame 110. By extending beyond the profile defined by the frame 110, the first pin members 132 can releasably engage with a display frame member, including post members of such a display frame member. In one embodiment, the first pin members 132 may releasably engage with certain post members located at or proximate the front of the display frame member. In the retracted position, the first pin members 132 may not extend substantially beyond the profile defined by the frame 110 and may not engage with the display frame member. By moving the first pin members 132 between the extended position and the retracted position, the shelf apparatus 100 can be positioned, removed, and/or adjusted within a display frame member relative to other shelves. This can be achieved by releasably engaging with different portions of the display frame member, including any post members thereof. In combination with the front post members 118, which may be received by apertures on post members of the display frame member, the shelf apparatus 100 can securely attach to a front portion of the display frame member via the first pin members 132.
Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 8, the first biasing means 134 may comprise a spring member coupled to at least one fixed first resistance member 144. The fixed first resistance member 144 may be attached to the frame 110. In one embodiment, the at least one first resistance member 144 can compressingly engage with the spring member. The first resistance member 144 may counteract forces created by the compression of the spring member during operation of the first actuation system 130. In another embodiment, the at least one first resistance member 144 can fixedly restrain the spring member and counteract forces created by the extension of the spring member during operation of the first actuation system 130.
Referring to FIG. 4, the first transverse pull bar 136 may be coupled to the front transverse frame member 112 and generally extend along the full length thereof. The first transverse pull bar 136 may be movable, or pullable, between a disengaged position and an engaged position. The first transverse pull bar 136 may be biased by one or more biasing means, such as one or more spring members 145. The first transverse pull bar 136 may be biased to one of the disengaged position and the engaged position. For example, the first transverse pull bar 136 may be biased to the engaged position. In another embodiment, the first transverse pull bar 136 may be biased to the disengaged position.
Referring to FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 9, in one embodiment, the front transverse frame member 112 can compressingly engage with at least one spring member 145 biasing the first transverse pull bar 136. The front transverse frame member 112 may counteract forces created by the compression of the spring member 145 during operation of the first transverse pull bar 136. In another embodiment, the front transverse frame member 112 can fixedly restrain at least one spring member 145 biasing the first transverse pull bar 136 and counteract forces created by the extension of the spring member 145 during operation of the first transverse pull bar 136. In one embodiment, the movement of the first transverse pull bar 136 can be controlled by at least one first guide 146. For example, the at least one first guide 146 may constrain and/or guide the first transverse pull bar 136 to travel in a generally linear path as the pull bar 136 moves, such as via a pulling force, between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In some embodiments, the at least one first guide 146 may be coupled to at least one of the side members 116. For example, the at least one first guide 146 may include two first guides 146, each first guide 146 being coupled to a respective one of the side members 116 and operatively coupled to a respective one of the ends of the pull bar 136 for controlling movement of the pull bar 136.
Referring again to FIG. 4, the at least one first lateral tension member 138 may be operatively coupled with the plurality of first pin members 132 and the first rotating member 142. The at least one first lateral tension member 138 may comprise a rod, a metallic cord, a rope, other suitable means for transferring tension forces, or any combination thereof. The at least one first lateral tension member 138 may pullingly engage the first pin members 132. This may selectively move the first pin members 132 between the extended position and the retracted position. In one embodiment, the at least one first lateral tension member 138 may pullingly engage the first pin members 132 to the retracted position and overcome the bias of the first biasing means 134. In another embodiment, where the frame 110 of the shelf apparatus 100 comprises at least two side frame members 116 and first pin members 132 mounted thereon, the first actuation system 130 may comprise two first lateral tension members 138. One first lateral tension member 138 may be operatively coupled with first pin members 132 mounted on one side frame member 116. Another first lateral tension member 138 may be operatively coupled with first pin members 132 mounted on another side frame member 116. The two first lateral tension members 138 may be simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, actuated to simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage the first pin members 132 mounted on the at least two side frame members 116. However, it will be understood that the first actuation system 130 may comprise any number of first lateral tension members 138, including one first lateral tension member 138, two first lateral tension members 138, three first lateral tension members 138, or any other suitable number of first lateral tension members 138. For example, in another embodiment, the first actuation system 130 may comprise first pin members 132 mounted on at least two side frames members 116 and one first lateral tension member 138 operatively coupled therewith. The one first lateral tension member 138 may be individually actuated to simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage the first pin members 132.
The first medial tension member 140 may be operatively coupled with the first transverse pull bar 136 and the first rotating member 142. The first medial tension member 140 may comprise a rod, a metallic cord, a rope, other suitable means for transferring tension forces, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the first medial tension member 140 may extend and be moved, or pulled, generally longitudinal relative to the frame 110, such that it generally extends perpendicular to the front transverse frame member 112 and/or parallel to the side frame members 116. The first medial tension member 140 may be pullingly engaged by the first transverse pull bar 136 when the pull bar 136 is moved, or pulled, between the disengaged position and the engaged position. When pullingly engaged by the first transverse pull bar 136, the first medial tension member 140 pullingly engages the first rotating member 142 and causes the first rotating member 142 to rotate about an axis in a rotational amount proportionate to the displacement of the first transverse pull bar 136 as it moves, or is pulled, from the disengaged position to the engaged position.
The first rotating member 142 may be operatively coupled with the at least one first lateral tension member 138 and the first medial tension member 140. In one embodiment, the first pin members 132 may be pullingly engaged and actuated by the at least one first lateral tension member 138. The at least one first lateral tension member 138 may be pullingly engaged and actuated by the first rotating member 142. The first rotating member 142 may be pullingly engaged and actuated by the first medial tension member 140. The first medial tension member 140 may cause the first rotating member 142 to rotate about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation for the first rotating member 142 may be a common, shared center point of a plurality of first radial legs 148, shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, comprising the first rotating member 142. The first medial tension member 140 may be pullingly engaged and actuated by the first transverse pull bar 136. This may cause the first rotating member 142 to rotate about its axis in a rotational amount proportionate to the displacement of the first transverse pull bar 136 as it is moved, or pulled, from the disengaged position to the engaged position.
The first transverse pull bar 136 can be selectively actuated or moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position by a user of the shelf apparatus 100. In one embodiment, the first actuation system 130 can be configured and adapted so that the user of the shelf apparatus 100 can selectively actuate the first transverse pull bar 136 to position, remove, or adjust the shelf apparatus 100 with one hand and without assistance from another user.
Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the first rotating member 142 may comprise a plurality of first radial legs 148. In one embodiment, the plurality of first radial legs 148 may share and be joined at a common, shared center point located at the proximate-most end of each of the first radial legs 148. The plurality of first radial legs 148 may generally extend radially from the shared center point. The plurality of first radial legs 148 may define a length terminating at a distal-most end of each first radial leg 148. In one embodiment, the lengths of the plurality of first radial legs 148 may be approximately the same. In another embodiment, the lengths of the plurality of first radial legs 148 may vary and not be approximately the same. As shown in FIG. 11, the length of each first radial leg 148 of the first rotating member 142 may generally correspond with the respective moment arm created by external components acting thereon. Such external components can include, without limitation, the at least one first lateral tension member 138 and the first medial tension member 140. The length of each of the first radial legs 148 can be between about one-half (0.5) inch and about three (3) inches in some embodiments. For example, the length of each of the first radial legs 148 may be about one-half (0.5) inch, about one (1) inch, about one and one half (1.5) inches, about two (2) inches, about 2 and one half (2.5) inches, or about three (3) inches. The first radial legs 148 can have the same length or different lengths.
As shown in FIG. 12, at least one of the plurality of first radial legs 148 may be stepped to accommodate the configuration of internal components comprising the first actuation system 130. The configuration of the internal components may depend upon the location and arrangement, relative to the first rotating component 142, of the plurality of first pin members 132, the at least one first lateral tension member 138, and/or the first medial tension member 140. When at least one of the plurality of first radial legs 148 are stepped, the at least one first lateral tension member 138 may avoid contacting the first medial tension member 140 during operation of the first actuation system 130. In another embodiment, the plurality of first radial legs 148 may all be generally planar and generally accommodate the configuration of internal components comprising the first actuation system 130.
The at least one first lateral tension member 138 may be operatively coupled to at least one first radial leg 148, including via a rotating attachment. In one embodiment, the at least one first lateral tension member 138 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most end of the at least one first radial leg 148. However, it will be understood that the at least one first lateral tension member 138 may be operatively coupled with the at least one first radial leg 148 at any suitable location thereon. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the first actuation system 130 may comprise two first lateral tension members 138, which may be operatively coupled with the first pin members 132 mounted on at least two side frame members 116, shown, e.g., in FIG. 4. In one embodiment, the two first lateral tension members 138 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most ends of two of the first radial legs 148. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the two first radial legs 148 may comprise a singular continuous component, and the two first lateral tension members 138 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most ends thereof. The first radial legs 148 operatively coupled with the two first lateral tension members 138 may be stepped, generally correspond in length with, and be located generally opposite of each other relative to the shared center point of the plurality of first radial legs 148. However, it will be understood that the two first radial legs 148 may vary length and be located in any suitable arrangement relative to each other and/or the shared center point of the plurality of first radial legs 148.
The first medial tension member 140 may be operatively coupled with a first radial leg 148, including via a rotating attachment. In one embodiment, the first medial tension member 140 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most end of the first radial leg 148. However, it will be understood that the first medial tension member 140 may be operatively coupled to the first radial leg 148 at any suitable location thereon. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, in one embodiment, where at least one first lateral tension member 138 is operatively coupled with at least one first radial leg 148, the first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the first medial tension member 140 may generally correspond in length with at least one first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the at least one first lateral tension member 138. However, the length of each first radial leg 148 of the first rotating member 142 may vary in length and still generally correspond with the respective moment arms created by the at least one first lateral tension member 138 and the first medial tension member 140 acting upon the plurality of first radial legs 148. In one embodiment, the first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the first medial tension member 140 may be arranged, relative to the shared center point of the plurality of first radial legs 148, generally orthogonal to the at least one first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the at least one first lateral tension member 138. However, it will be understood that the arrangement of the plurality of first radial legs 148 of the first rotating member 142 may generally correspond with the respective moment arm created by external components acting upon the plurality of first radial legs 148.
As shown in FIG. 11, the first rotating member 142 may be located generally at the middle point along the width of the frame 110, as defined by the side frame members 116. In another embodiment, the first rotating member 142 may be located at any point along the width of the frame 110 generally within the front portion 122 of the frame 110, depending on the application and necessary use of the shelf apparatus 100. The components of the first actuation system 130, and features thereof, may be adapted to accommodate the eccentric position of the first rotating member 142. In an embodiment comprising at least two first lateral tension members 138, the length of one first lateral tension member 138 may vary from the length of another first lateral tension member 138 to accommodate the eccentric position of the first rotating member 142. Further, the length of one first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the one first lateral tension member 138 may correspond with the length of another first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the other first lateral tension member 138 according to the forces acting upon the first rotating member 142 during the operation of the first actuation system 130. In another embodiment, the arrangement of the plurality of first radial legs 148 of the first rotating member 142 may vary to accommodate the eccentric position of the first rotating member 142. The arrangement of the plurality of first radial legs 148 may further correspond according to the forces acting upon the first rotating member 142 that are created by external components. In such an embodiment, the first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the first medial tension member 140 may be arranged, relative to the shared center point of the plurality of first radial legs 148, in a generally non-orthogonal manner relative to the at least one first radial leg 148 operatively coupled with the at least one first lateral tension member 138.
In another embodiment, the first actuation system 130 may comprise two first rotating members 142 and at least two first medial tension members 140 operatively coupled with the first transverse pull bar 136. The two first rotating members 142 may comprise two first radial legs 148. The two first radial legs 148 may correspond, respectively, with a first lateral tension member 138 and a first medial tension member 140. Where the frame 110 of the shelf apparatus 100 comprises at least two side frame members 116, the first actuation system 130 may further comprise first pin members 132 mounted on the at least two side frame members 116 and two first lateral tension members 138. One first rotating member 142 may be operatively coupled with one first lateral tension member 138. Another first rotating member 142 may be operatively coupled with another first lateral tension member 138.
The first transverse pull bar 136 may be moved, or pullingly displaced, from the disengaged position to the engaged position by a user. The first transverse pull bar 136 when moved from the disengaged to the engaged position may simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the two first medial tension members 140. The two first medial tension members 140 may simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the two first rotating members 142. The two first rotating members 142 may then simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, rotate about their respective axes and simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the two first lateral tension members 138. The two first lateral tension members 138 may be simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, actuated to simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the first pin members 132 mounted on the at least two side frame members 116.
In an embodiment where the first actuation system 130 comprises two first rotating members 142, the first rotating members 142 may be located generally near the middle point along the width of the frame 110. However, it will be understood that one first rotating member 142 may be located adjacent one side frame member 116 and/or another first rotating member 142 may be located adjacent another side frame member 116.
Similarly, referring to FIG. 13, the second actuation system 160 may comprise a plurality of second pin members 162, a second biasing means 164, a second transverse pull bar 166, at least one second lateral tension member 168, a second medial tension member 170, and a second rotating member 172. It will be understood that the components comprising the second actuation system 160 may be the same or similar to, be arranged in the same or similar manner as, and/or function in the same or similar manner as the components comprising the first actuation system 130.
The second pin members 162 may be mounted on the side frame member 116 of the frame 110, proximate the rear transverse frame member 114 and/or the rear post members 120. In one embodiment, the second pin members 162 may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In one embodiment, the second biasing means 164 may bias the second pin members 162 to one of the extended position and the retracted position. For example, the second biasing means 164 may bias the second pin members 162 to the extended position. In another embodiment, the second biasing means 164 may bias the first pin members 162 to the retracted position.
As shown in FIG. 13, in the extended position, at least a portion of the second pin members 162 may pass through the side frame members 116 and generally extend beyond a profile defined by the frame 110. Similar to the first pin members 132, the second pin members 162 in the extended position can releasably engage with a display frame member, including rear post members of such a display frame member. By moving the second pin members 162 between the extended position and the retracted position, the shelf apparatus 100 can be positioned, removed, and/or adjusted within a display frame member relative to other shelves. In combination with the rear post members 120, which may be received by apertures on post members of the display frame member, the shelf apparatus 100 can securely attach to a rear portion of the display frame member via the second pin members 162.
Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the second biasing means 164 may comprise a spring member coupled to at least one fixed second resistance member 174. The fixed second resistance member 174 may be attached to the frame 110. Similar to the at least one first resistance member 144, the fixed second resistance member 174 can compressingly engage with the spring member. The fixed second resistance member 174 may counteract forces created by the compression of the spring member during operation of the second actuation system 160. In another embodiment, the at least one fixed second resistance member 174 can fixedly restrain the spring member and counteract forces created by the extension of the spring member during operation of the second actuation system 160.
The second transverse pull bar 166 may be coupled to the rear transverse frame member 114 and generally extend along the full length thereof. The second transverse pull bar 166 may be movable, or pullable, between a disengaged position and an engaged position. The second transverse pull bar 166 may be biased by one or more biasing means 167, such as one or more spring members, to one of the disengaged position and the engaged position. For example, the second transverse pull bar 166 may be biased to the engaged position. In another embodiment, the first transverse pull bar 166 may be biased to the disengaged position.
Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, in one embodiment, the rear transverse frame member 114 can compressingly engage with at least one spring member 167 biasing the second transverse pull bar 166. The rear transverse frame member 114 may counteract forces created by the compression of the spring member 167 during operation of the second transverse pull bar 166. In another embodiment, the rear transverse frame member 114 can fixedly restrain at least one spring member 167 biasing the second transverse pull bar 166 and counteract forces created by the extension of the spring member during operation of the second transverse pull bar 166. In one embodiment, the movement of the second transverse pull bar 166 can be controlled by at least one second guide 176. For example, the at least one second guide 176 may constrain and/or guide the second transverse pull bar 166 to travel in a generally linear path as the pull bar 166 moves, such as via a pulling force, between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In some embodiments, the at least one second guide 176 may be coupled to at least one of the side members 116. For example, the at least one second guide 176 may include two second guides 176, each second guide 176 being coupled to a respective one of the side members 116 and operatively coupled to a respective one of the ends of the pull bar 166 for controlling movement of the pull bar 166.
The at least one second lateral tension member 168 may be operatively coupled with the plurality of second pin members 162 and the second rotating member 172. The at least second lateral tension member 168 may comprise a rod, a metallic cord, a rope, other suitable means for transferring tension forces, or any combination thereof. The at least second lateral tension member 168 may pullingly engage the second pin members 162. This may selectively move the second pin members 162 to the extended position and/or the retracted position. In one embodiment, the at least one second lateral tension member 168 may pullingly engage the second pin members 162 to the retracted position and overcome the bias of the second biasing means 164. In another embodiment, where the frame 110 of the shelf apparatus 100 comprises at least two side frame members 116 and second pin members 162 mounted thereon, the second actuation system 162 may comprise two second lateral tension members 168. One second lateral tension member 168 may be operatively coupled with second pin members 162 mounted on one side frame member 116. Another second lateral tension member 168 may be operatively coupled with second pin members 162 mounted on another side frame member 116. The two second lateral tension members 168 may be simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, actuated to simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage the second pin members 162 mounted on the at least two side frame members 116. However, it will be understood that the second actuation system 160 may comprise any number of second lateral tension members 168, including one second lateral tension member 168, two second lateral tension members 168, three second lateral tension members 168, or any other suitable number of second lateral tension members 168. Similar to the first actuation system 130, in one embodiment, the second actuation system 160 may comprise second pin members 162 mounted on at least two side frames members 116 and one second lateral tension member 168 operatively coupled therewith. The one second lateral tension member 168 may be individually actuated to simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage the second pin members 160.
The second medial tension member 170 may be operatively coupled with the second transverse pull bar 166 and the second rotating member 172. The second medial tension member 170 may comprise a rod, a metallic cord, a rope, other suitable means for transferring tension forces, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the second medial tension member 170 may extend and be moved, or pulled, generally longitudinal relative to the frame 110, such that it generally extends perpendicular to the rear transverse frame member 114 and/or parallel to the side frame members 116. The second medial tension member 170 may be pullingly engaged by the second transverse pull bar 166 when it is moved, or pulled, between a disengaged position and an engaged position. This, in turn, may cause the second medial tension member 170 to pullingly engage the second rotating member 172 and cause the second rotating member 172 to rotate about an axis in a rotational amount proportionate to the displacement of the second transverse pull bar 166 as the pull bar 166 is moved, or pulled, from the disengaged position to the engaged position. Depending on the symmetrical or asymmetrical orientation of the first actuation system 130 and the second actuation system 160 within the frame 110 and relative to the absolute center of the frame 110, the first medial tension member 140 and the second medial tension member 170 may vary length. In one embodiment, the first medial tension member 140 and the second medial tension member 170 can vary length so that the relation and distance of the first transverse pull bar 136 to the front transverse frame member 112 is the same, similar, or generally corresponds with the relation and distance of the second transverse pull bar 166 to the rear transfer frame member 114.
The second rotating member 172 may be operatively coupled with the at least one second lateral tension member 168 and the second medial tension member 170. Similar to the first rotating member 142, in one embodiment, the second rotating member 172 may pullingly engage and actuate the second pin members 162 via the at least one second lateral tension member 168. The second rotating member 172 may be pullingly engaged and actuated by the second transverse pull bar 166 via the second medial tension member 170. This may cause the second rotating member 172 to rotate about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation for the second rotating member 172 may be a common, shared center point of a plurality of second radial legs 178 comprising the second rotating member 172. The second rotating member 172 may rotate about its axis in a rotational amount proportionate to the pullingly displacement of the second transverse pull bar 166 as the pull bar 166 is moved, or pulled, from the disengaged position to the engaged position.
The second transverse pull bar 166 can be selectively actuated or moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position by a user of the shelf apparatus 100. In one embodiment, the second actuation system 160 can be configured and adapted so that the user of the shelf apparatus 100 can selectively actuate the second transverse pull bar 166 to position, remove, or adjust the shelf apparatus 100 with one hand and without assistance from another user. Further, in another embodiment, the second actuation system 160 may be selectively actuated by a user separately and independently from the first actuation system 130. In yet another embodiment, the shelf apparatus 100 may be configured so that one user can simultaneously and independently actuate the first actuation system 130 and the second actuation system 160.
Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the second rotating member 172 may comprise a plurality of second radial legs 178. In one embodiment, the plurality of second radial legs 178 may share and be joined at a common, shared center point located at the proximate-most end of each of the second radial legs 178. The plurality of second radial legs 178 may generally extend radially from the shared center point. The plurality of second radial legs 178 may define a length terminating at a distal-most end of each second radial leg 178. In one embodiment, the lengths of the plurality of second radial legs 178 may be approximately the same. In another embodiment, the lengths of the plurality of second radial legs 178 may vary and not be approximately the same. As shown in FIG. 18, the length of each second radial leg 178 of the second rotating member 172 may generally correspond with the respective moment arm created by external components acting thereon. Such external components can include, without limitation, the at least one second lateral tension member 168 and the second medial tension member 170. The length of each of the second radial legs 178 can be between about one-half (0.5) inch and about three (3) inches in some embodiments. For example, the length of each of the second radial legs 178 may be about one-half (0.5) inch, about one (1) inch, about one and one half (1.5) inches, about two (2) inches, about 2 and one half (2.5) inches, or about three (3) inches. The second radial legs 178 can have the same length or different lengths.
As shown in FIG. 19, at least one of the plurality of second radial legs 178 may be stepped to accommodate the configuration of internal components comprising the second actuation system 160. The configuration of the internal components may depend upon the location and arrangement, relative to the second rotating member 172, of the plurality of second pin members 162, the at least one second lateral tension member 168, and/or the second medial tension member 170. When at least one of the plurality of second radial legs 178 are stepped, the at least one second lateral tension member 168 may avoid contacting the second medial tension member 170 during operation of the second actuation system 160. In another embodiment, the plurality of second radial legs 178 may all be generally planar and generally accommodate the configuration of internal components comprising the second actuation system 160.
The at least one second lateral tension member 168 may be operatively coupled to at least one second radial leg 178, including via a rotating attachment. In one embodiment, the at least one second lateral tension member 168 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most end of the at least one second radial leg 178. However, it will be understood that the at least one second lateral tension member 168 may be operatively coupled with the at least one second radial leg 178 at any suitable location thereon. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the second actuation system 160 may comprise two second lateral tension members 168, which may be operatively coupled with the second pin members 162 mounted on at least two side frame members 116 shown, e.g., in FIG. 13. In one embodiment, the two second lateral tension members 168 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most ends of two second radial legs 178. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the two second radial legs 178 operatively coupled with the two second lateral tension members 168 may comprise a singular continuous component, and the two second lateral tension members 168 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most ends thereof. The second radial legs 178 may be stepped, generally correspond in length with, and be located generally opposite of each other relative to the shared center point of the plurality of second radial legs 178. However, it will be understood that the two second radial legs 178 may vary length and be located in any suitable arrangement relative to each other and/or the shared center point of the plurality of second radial legs 178.
The second medial tension member 170 may be operatively coupled with a second radial leg 178, including via a rotating attachment. In one embodiment, the second medial tension member 170 may be operatively coupled to the distal-most end of the second radial leg 178. However, it will be understood that the second medial tension member 170 may be operatively coupled to the second radial leg 178 at any suitable location thereon. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, in one embodiment, where at least one second lateral tension member 168 is operatively coupled with at least one second radial leg 178, the second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the second medial tension member 170 may generally correspond in length with at least one second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the at least one second lateral tension member 168. However, the length of each second radial leg 178 of the second rotating member 172 may vary in length and still generally correspond with the respective moment arms created by the at least one second lateral tension member 168 and the second medial tension member 170 acting upon the plurality of second radial legs 178. In one embodiment, the second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the second medial tension member 170 may be arranged, relative to the shared center point of the plurality of second radial legs 178, generally orthogonal to the at least one second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the at least one second lateral tension member 168. However, it will be understood that the arrangement of the plurality of second radial legs 178 of the second rotating member 172 may generally correspond with the respective moment arm created by external components acting upon the plurality of second radial legs 178.
As shown in FIG. 18, the second rotating member 172 may be located generally at the middle point along the width of the frame 110, as defined by the side frame members 116. In another embodiment, the second rotating member 172 may be located at any point along the width of the frame 110 generally within the rear portion 124 of the frame 110, depending on the application and necessary use of the shelf apparatus 100. The components of the second actuation system 160, and features thereof, may be adapted to accommodate the eccentric position of the second rotating member 172. In an embodiment comprising at least two second lateral tension members 168, the length of one second lateral tension member 168 may vary from the length of another second lateral tension member 168 to accommodate the eccentric position of the second rotating member 172. Further, the length of one second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the one second lateral tension member 168 may correspond with the length of another second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the other second lateral tension member 168 according to the forces acting upon the second rotating member 172 during the operation of the second actuation system 160. In another embodiment, the arrangement of the plurality of second radial legs 178 of the second rotating member 172 may vary to accommodate the eccentric position of the second rotating member 172. The arrangement of the plurality of second radial legs 178 may further correspond according to the forces acting upon the second rotating member 172 that are created by external components. In such an embodiment, the second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the second medial tension member 170 may be arranged, relative to the shared center point of the plurality of second radial legs 168, in a generally non-orthogonal manner relative to the at least one second radial leg 178 operatively coupled with the at least one second lateral tension member 168.
In another embodiment, the second actuation system 160 may comprise two second rotating members 172 and at least two second medial tension members 170 operatively coupled with the second transverse pull bar 166. The two second rotating members 172 may comprise two second radial legs 178. The two second radial legs 178 may correspond, respectively, with a second lateral tension member 168 and a second medial tension member 170. Where the frame 110 of the shelf apparatus 100 comprises at least two side frame members 116, the second actuation system 160 may further comprise second pin members 162 mounted on the at least two side frame members 116 and two second lateral tension members 168. One second rotating member 172 may be operatively coupled with one second lateral tension member 168. Another second rotating member 172 may be operatively coupled with another second lateral tension member 168.
The second transverse pull bar 166 may be moved, or pullingly displaced, from the disengaged position to the engaged position by a user. The second transverse pull bar 166 may simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the two second medial tension members 170. The two second medial tension members 170 may simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the two second rotating members 172. The two second rotating members 172 may then simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, rotate about their respective axes and simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the two second lateral tension members 168. The two second lateral tension members 168 may be simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, actuated to simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, pullingly engage and actuate the second pin members 162 mounted on the at least two side frame members 116.
In an embodiment where the second actuation system 160 comprises two second rotating members 172, the second rotating members 172 may be located generally near the middle point along the width of the frame 110. However, it will be understood that one second rotating member 172 may be located adjacent one side frame member 116 and/or another second rotating member 172 may be located adjacent another side frame member 116.
Referring to FIGS. 20-22, the front transverse frame member 112 of the shelf apparatus may comprise an L-shaped flange member 180. The flange member 180 may be attached to the front transverse frame member 112 and the side frame members 116, including attaching to the front sides or underside portions thereof. The flange member 180 may be attached by any suitable means, including, without limitation, via welding, bolts, screws, any other suitable fastening means, or any combination thereof.
As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the flange member 180 may comprise an upstanding wall portion 182. The upstanding wall portion 182 may generally be perpendicular to and extend beyond the profile of a surface defined by the upper-most surfaces of the front transverse member 112 and the side frame members 116. The surface defined by the upper-most surfaces of the front transverse member 112 and the side frame members 116 may generally be where certain products being merchandised may be positioned or stored on the shelf apparatus 100. The upstanding wall portion 182 may function as a stopping means for products positioned or stored on the shelf apparatus 100 to prevent the same from sliding off the shelf apparatus 100 when it is positioned in a gravity-feed orientation or a sloped manner. The upstanding wall portion 182 may stop different types of products depending upon the size of the particular products being merchandised from a particular shelf apparatus 100. Further, the upper end portion of the upstanding wall portion 182 may include a barb or other projection projecting back towards the rear portion 124 of the shelf apparatus 100 and towards the products positioned the upstanding wall portion 182. Such barb or other projection can serve as an additional stopping means and prevent the upfront product from toppling over the upstanding wall portion 182. Use of the barb or projection may also allow for the entire height of the upstanding wall portion 182 to be reduced since the barb or projection can function to prevent the upfront product, when sliding down the full length of an empty product channel, from toppling over the upstanding wall portion 182.
Referring to FIG. 22, a conventional first price channel 184 may be attached to or otherwise integrally formed with the upstanding wall portion 182 of the flange member 180 extending along the full length thereof. The first price channel 184 may be attached to the flange member 180 by any suitable means, including, without limitation, through welding, bolts, screws, any other suitable fastening means, or any combination thereof. The first price channel 184 may be adapted to provide for quick and easy change out of product and pricing information associated with each individual shelf apparatus 100. The first price channel 184 may generally comprise a first back panel member 186 with a plurality of first channel members 188 extending therefrom. However, it will be understood that the shape of the first price channel 184 can take on a wide variety of different shapes. The first channel members 188 may be configured to slidingly receive a indicia or price panel of corresponding size. The indicia or price panel can be slidingly introduced at one of the open ends of the first price channel 184 adjacent the side frame members 116 of the frame 110. Thereafter, a user can slidingly move the indicia or price panel to the location on the first price channel 184 that corresponds a certain product being merchandised. In one embodiment, the first price channel 184 may comprise one first channel member 188 that is located at the bottom of the first price channel 184. In such embodiment, an indicia or price panel larger than the first back panel member 186, or even the first price channel 184, can be used, because the larger indicia or price panel can rest of the first channel member 188 and freely extend above and beyond the first price channel 184 without impediment. This, in effect, gives a user two different options as to the size of any indicia or price panel that a user wants to display in front of each respective shelf apparatus 100 when the flange member 180 is being utilized.
Referring to FIGS. 23-25, a conventional second price channel 190 may be attached to or otherwise integrally formed with the rear transverse frame member 114 and extend along the full length thereof. The second price channel 190 may be attached to the rear transverse frame member 114 by any suitable means, including, without limitation, via welding, bolts, screws, any other suitable fastening means, or any combination thereof. Whereas the upstanding wall portion 182 of the flange member 180 may extend beyond the profile of a surface defined by the upper-most surfaces of the front transverse member 112 and the side frame members 116 to serve as a stopping means for products stored on the shelf apparatus 100, the second price channel 190 may generally extend below the profile of a surface defined by the upper-most surfaces of the rear transverse member 114 and the side frame members 116. In doing so, the second price channel 190 may display product and pricing information in rear of each respective shelf apparatus 100 without impeding the introduction of any products to be merchandised that are introduced at the rear of the shelf apparatus 100.
The second price channel 190 may be adapted to provide for quick and easy change out of product and pricing information associated with each individual shelf apparatus 100. The second price channel 190 may generally comprise a second back panel member 192 with a plurality of second channel members 194 extending therefrom. However, it will be understood that the shape of the second price channel 190 can take on a wide variety of different shapes. The second channel members 194 may be configured to slidingly receive a indicia or price panel of corresponding size, wherein such indicia or price panel corresponds with the product and pricing information of the indicia or price panel used with the first price channel 184. The indicia or price panel can be slidingly introduced at one of the open ends of the second price channel 190 adjacent the side frame members 116 of the frame 110. Thereafter, a user can slidingly move the indicia or price panel to the location on the second price channel 190 that corresponds with a certain product being merchandised. In one embodiment, the second price channel 190 may comprise one second channel member 194 that is located at the bottom of the second price channel 190. In such embodiment, an indicia or price panel larger than the second back panel member 192, or even the second price channel 190, can be used, because the larger indicia or price panel can rest of the second channel member 194 and freely extend above and beyond the second price channel 190 without impediment. This, in effect, gives a user two different options as to the size of any indicia or price panel that a user wants to display in rear of each respective shelf apparatus 100 when the second price channel 190 is being utilized.
Turning to FIGS. 26 and 27, the plurality of first pin members 132 may be provided with a recess 200 positioned on or proximate to an end region 202 of each first pin member 132. The end region 202 may comprise the portion of the first pin member 132 that may pass through the side frame members 116 and generally extend beyond the profile defined by the frame 110 when the first pin member 132 is in the extended position. The recess 200 may include an inner surface 204 having a first end 206 and a second end 208 and at least one sidewall 210. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 26, a first sidewall 210 may be coupled to the first end 206 of the surface 204 and a second sidewall 210 may be coupled to the second end 208 of the surface 204. The first and second sidewalls 210 may extend downwardly and away from the inner surface 204 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 204.
The recess 200 may be configured to engage a mating feature within a storage case. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, the recess 200 may be configured to engage a display frame member 212 when the adjustable shelf apparatus 100 is in use and the first pin member 132 is in the extended position. At least a portion of the inner surface 204 may be positioned to receive a first surface 214 of the display frame member 212, and at least one sidewall 210 may engage at least a second surface 216 of the display frame member 212. The movement of the first pin member 132 between the extended position and the retracted position may be restricted or prevented by the engagement between the recess 200 and the display frame member 212. Specifically, the movement of the pin member 132 may be restricted by the engagement between the at least one sidewall 210 and the second surface 216 of the display frame member 212.
Thus, in order to pull the first transverse pull bar 136 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, a user may be required to lift the frame 110 in a direction extending upwardly and away from the first surface 214 of the display frame member 212. When the frame 110 is lifted, the recess 200 may cease to engage the display frame member 212 and the at least one sidewall 210 may no longer be blocked by the second surface 216 of the display frame member 212. Therefore, the movement of the first pin member 132 from the extended to the retracted position may no longer be restricted and a user may be capable of adjusting the position of the frame 110 with respect to the display frame.
In this way, the recess 200 may provide enhanced safety when the adjustable shelf apparatus 100 is in use. For example, if the frame 110 is supporting more weight than a user is capable of safely supporting, the user may be unable to disengage the recess 200 and the display frame member 212 by lifting the frame 110. Instead, a user may be required to remove at least a portion of the weight supported by the frame 110 until the weight supported by the frame 110 is reduced to a load that the user can safely handle.
The foregoing description of the recess 200 of the plurality of first pin members 132 with respect to FIGS. 26-27 may apply equally to the plurality of second pin members 162, and like numbered or named parts may have substantially the same structure and function. For example, in certain embodiments, the plurality of first pin members 132 and the plurality of second pin members 162 may each be provided with a recess 200. In other embodiments, the recess 200 may be provided with only the plurality of first pin members 132 or with only the plurality of second pin members 162. In still other embodiments, any suitable selection of the first and second pin members 132, 162 may be provided with a recess 200.
From the foregoing, it will be seen that the various embodiments of the present invention are well adapted to attain all the objectives and advantages hereinabove set forth together with still other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the present structures. It will be understood that certain features and sub-combinations of the present embodiments are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. Since many possible embodiments of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, it is also to be understood that all disclosures herein set forth or illustrated in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. The various constructions described above and illustrated in the drawings are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the concepts, principles, and scope of the present invention.
As is evident from the foregoing description, certain aspects of the present invention are not limited by the particular details of the examples illustrated herein, and it is therefore contemplated that other modifications and applications, or equivalents thereof, will occur to those skilled in the art. The terms “having,” “including,” and similar terms as used in the foregoing specification are used in the sense of “optional” or “may include” and not as “required.”
Many changes, modifications, variations, and other uses and applications of the present invention will, however, become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the specification and the accompanying drawings. All such changes, modifications, variations, and other uses and applications which do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention are deemed to be covered by the invention, which is limited only by the claims which follow.
Patent Application
20250194825
