GRAVITY FEED SHELVING APPARATUS AND SYSTEM

Abstract

A gravity feed shelving apparatus and system for a refrigerated display case includes a bracket element extending along a longitudinal axis. The bracket element includes a substantially planar body having a ramp arm extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end includes an attachment element configured to couple to a refrigerated display case. The substantially planar body includes an elevation portion vertically disposed between the ramp arm and the attachment element. The elevation portion forms an acute ramp angle in which the ramp arm slopes downwardly from the proximal end to the distal end. A support flange extends substantially perpendicularly from the ramp arm between the proximal end and the distal end and is configured to support a horizontal shelf.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to shelving systems for commercial display cases. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a gravity feed shelf that optimizes space utilization in a commercial display case.

BACKGROUND

Refrigerated display cases are commonly used in retail environments, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and supermarkets, to showcase perishable products, including beverages, dairy items, and pre-packaged foods. These display cases typically consist of horizontal shelves arranged at regular intervals to hold and present the products to customers.

Traditional refrigerated display cases utilize horizontal shelving configurations with a flat orientation, where products are lined up one behind the other. While these systems are widely used, such horizontal shelving configurations tend to limit product visibility and accessibility, especially for high turnover products where available products are often located at the rear of the shelf. The horizontal layout also results in wasted vertical space, as products cannot be optimally displayed due to stacking constraints. This inefficient use of space often results in poor product visibility, reduced sales, and a less satisfactory shopping experience.

Therefore, what is needed is an innovative gravity feed shelving apparatus and system that overcomes the limitations of traditional horizontal shelving configurations in refrigerated display cases by enabling easier access, improved visibility, and efficient product rotation. Beneficially, the innovative gravity feed shelving apparatus and system would maximize the efficient utilization of space within a refrigerated display case while providing alignment of the front edge with existing shelves to ensure a streamlined and aesthetically pleasing display.

In the present disclosure, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which the present disclosure is concerned.

While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate the present disclosure, no technical aspects are disclaimed and it is contemplated that the claims may encompass one or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure provides for a gravity feed shelving apparatus for a refrigerated display case. The apparatus includes a bracket element extending along a longitudinal axis. The bracket element includes a substantially planar body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a ramp arm extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The proximal end includes an attachment element configured to couple to an interior wall of a refrigerated display case and an elevation portion disposed between the ramp arm and the attachment element. The elevation portion forms an acute ramp angle in which the ramp arm slopes downwardly from the proximal end to the distal end. In some embodiments, the acute ramp angle is about eight degrees.

A support flange extends substantially perpendicularly from the ramp arm between the proximal end and the distal end and is configured to support a horizontal shelf.

In certain embodiments, the attachment element includes at least one tab extending along the longitudinal axis from the proximal end. In some embodiments, the tab and the substantially planar body are coplanar. In some embodiments, the tab includes a single positioning notch configured to retain the bracket element in a fixed position with respect to the interior wall. In certain embodiments, the single positioning notch is disposed adjacent to the proximal end and extends in a substantially vertical direction from a base of the tab. In some embodiments, multiple tabs are disposed one on top of another in a vertically stacked arrangement. A height of the stacked arrangement may be 3.5 inches or less.

In some embodiments, the bracket element further includes a bottom edge having a stabilizing projection extending in a perpendicular direction with respect thereto. The stabilizing projection may be configured to stabilize the bracket element against the interior wall.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a gravity feed shelving system for a refrigerated display case includes a support structure, a pair of bracket elements, and a horizontal shelf. The support structure is coupled to an interior wall of a refrigerated display case. In some embodiments, the pair of bracket elements is coupled to the support structure. Each of the pair of bracket elements includes a substantially planar body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a ramp arm extending along a longitudinal axis between the proximal end and the distal end.

In some embodiments, each of the pair of bracket elements further includes an attachment element, an elevation portion, and a support flange. The attachment element extends along the longitudinal axis from the proximal end and is coplanar with the substantially planar body. The attachment element is engaged with the support structure. The elevation portion is disposed between the ramp arm and the attachment element. In some embodiments, the elevation portion creates an obtuse angle between the ramp arm and the support structure. In certain embodiments, the support flange extends perpendicularly from the ramp arm between the proximal end and the distal end.

In some embodiments, the horizontal shelf is disposed between the pair of bracket elements. The horizontal shelf includes a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to a first bracket element of the pair of bracket elements and the second end is coupled to a second bracket element of the pair of bracket elements.

In some embodiments, the support structure includes multiple apertures disposed vertically therein. The attachment element is configured to engage at least one of the plurality of apertures. In some embodiments, the attachment element includes multiple tabs extending from the proximal end along the longitudinal axis. The substantially planar body and the tabs are coplanar.

In some embodiments, each of the tabs includes a single positioning notch configured to retain the bracket element in a fixed position with respect to the support structure. In some embodiments, the tabs are disposed one on top of another in a vertically stacked arrangement. The height of the vertically stacked arrangement may be 3.5 inches or less.

In some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving system further includes a gravity roller platform disposed on top of the horizontal shelf. The roller platform includes multiple rollers configured to passively move a product towards a front edge of the horizontal shelf.

In some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving system further includes an anchor element extending along a portion of a front edge of the horizontal shelf. The anchor element and the horizontal shelf are coplanar.

In some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving system further includes a rail element configured to engage the anchor element. The rail element extends along a length of the front edge of the horizontal shelf. In some embodiments, the rail element includes a securing feature disposed in a lower portion thereof. In some embodiments, the rail element includes an elongate product barrier extending from a front edge of the horizontal shelf along a vertical axis. In some embodiments, the rail element includes a lower edge. The lower edge is substantially aligned with a bottom surface of the horizontal shelf.

The present disclosure addresses at least one of the foregoing disadvantages. However, it is contemplated that the present disclosure may prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies in a number of technical areas. Therefore, the claims should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed hereinabove. To the accomplishment of the above, this disclosure may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as being part of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like elements are depicted by like reference numerals. The drawings are briefly described as follows.

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a bracket element of a gravity feed shelving apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the bracket element of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a gravity feed shelving apparatus engaging a representative support structure in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a horizontal shelf and gravity feed shelving system illustrating a manner in which the horizontal shelf is mounted onto the bracket element in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a horizontal shelf and rail element in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B is an enlarged side view of the horizontal shelf and rail element of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6 is a side view of one embodiment of an attachment element engaged with a representative support structure in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A is a side perspective view of one embodiment of a gravity feed shelving system implemented adjacent to an existing prior art shelf, illustrating alignment of the front edges in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B is a front view of the gravity feed shelving system and prior art existing shelf of FIG. 7A showing alignment of the respective front edges;

FIG. 8A is a side perspective view of one embodiment of a gravity feed shelving apparatus and gravity roller platform in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 8B is a side cross-sectional view of the gravity feed shelving apparatus and gravity roller platform of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a side view of a prior art shelf and a prior art label rail;

FIG. 9B is a side view of a representative horizontal shelf and rail element in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A is a side view of a prior art shelving bracket; and

FIG. 10B is a side view of one embodiment of a gravity feed shelving apparatus in accordance with the disclosure.

The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show various example embodiments. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure is thorough, complete and fully conveys the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As discussed above, traditional refrigerated display cases utilize horizontal shelving configurations with a flat orientation, where products are lined up one behind the other. These configurations tend to limit product visibility and accessibility. Known shelving configurations also result in wasted vertical space due to stacking constraints. This inefficient use of space often results in poor product visibility, reduced sales, and a less satisfactory shopping experience. The apparatus and systems disclosed herein address these and other issues.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 for a refrigerated display case (not shown) may be configured to store, display and/or provide refrigerated products or food items such as beverages, dairy products, produce, specialty items, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 is configured to automatically convey stored products along the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 to facilitate product visibility and accessibility.

In some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 includes a bracket element 12 having a substantially planar body 15. In certain embodiments, the substantially planar body 15 and/or other parts of the bracket element 12 include sheet metal or another metal or metal alloy such as steel, stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, combinations thereof, and/or the like. In other embodiments, the substantially planar body 15 and/or other parts of the bracket element 12 are made of a rigid plastic, composite, and/or another suitable rigid material. The substantially planar body 15 and/or other parts of the bracket element 12 may include a coating such as a powder coating, glaze, varnish, or other suitable coating to increase durability and/or aesthetics. In some embodiments, the substantially planar body 15 and/or other parts of the bracket element 12 include one or more textured surfaces.

In some embodiments, the substantially planar body 15 tapers from the proximal end 16 towards the distal end 18. In some embodiments, the distal end 18 includes a structural contour 21 configured to provide stability and reinforcement to the bracket element 12 at the distal end 18. For example, the structural contour 21 may extend substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 14 to form a blunt distal end 18. In some embodiments, the structural contour 21 extends along at least a portion of a bottom edge 44 of the bracket element 12 from the distal end 18 towards the proximal end 16. In some embodiment, for example, the structural contour 21 includes one or more curves, inflections, and/or undulations angled along the bottom edge 44 such that the substantially planar body 15 tapers from the proximal end 16 towards the distal end 18.

The bracket element 12 may include a ramp arm 20 extending along a longitudinal axis 14 between a proximal end 16 and a distal end 18. The proximal end 16 may include an attachment element 22 configured to couple the bracket element 12 to the refrigerated display case (not shown). In some embodiments, the attachment element 22 is configured to couple to a sidewall, rear wall, and/or other suitable interior walls 34 of the refrigerated display case (not shown) such that the distal end 18 is disposed adjacent to a door of the refrigerated display case (not shown).

In some embodiments, the substantially planar body 15 includes an elevation portion 24 extending vertically along the proximal end 16 and disposed between the ramp arm 20 and the attachment element 22. The elevation portion 24 may elevate the ramp arm 20 at the proximal end 16. Thus, the elevation portion 24 may form an acute ramp angle 19 in the ramp arm 20 such that the ramp arm 20 slopes downwardly from the proximal end 16 towards the distal end 18.

In some embodiments, a support flange 28 protrudes outwardly from the ramp arm 20 and extends perpendicularly with respect to the substantially planar body 15 between the proximal end 16 and the distal end 18. In some embodiments, the support flange 28 extends towards an interior area of the refrigerated display case such that, in certain embodiments, the bracket element 12 substantially aligns with and is disposed adjacent to an interior wall of a refrigerated display case (not shown).

Referring now to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the bracket element 12 further includes a stabilizing projection 34 extending in a substantially transverse direction from a bottom edge 44 of the bracket element 12. In some embodiments, the stabilizing projection 34 is substantially parallel to the ramp arm 20 and includes a width substantially identical to and aligned with a width of the ramp arm 20. In some embodiments, the stabilizing projection 34 is configured to stabilize the bracket element 12 against the refrigerated display case (not shown).

Referring now to FIG. 3, while still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the proximal end 16 of the bracket element 12 includes an attachment element 22 configured to couple the bracket element 12 to the refrigerated display case 30. The attachment element 22 may removably or fixably couple the bracket element 12 to the refrigerated display case 30. In some embodiments, the attachment element 22 is configured to removably couple the bracket element 12 to a support structure 40 in the refrigerated display case 30. The support structure 40 may be fixed to the refrigerated display case 30 via one or more mechanical fasteners such as screws, nails, adhesives, bolts, rivets, and/or any other suitable fastener.

In one embodiment, the support structure 40 includes one or more support bars 48 oriented vertically within the refrigerated display case 30. Each of the support bars 48 may include at least one aperture 42 disposed vertically therein. Each of the apertures 42 may have a size and shape configured to receive the attachment element 22 and thus engage the bracket element 12 with the support structure 40. In some embodiments, each of the apertures 42 is oriented one on top of the other, interspaced at fixed intervals with respect to each other along a length of the support bar 48. In this manner, a position of the bracket element 12 may be adjusted relative to the support structure 40 by selectively disengaging and re-engaging the attachment element 22 with apertures 42 disposed at various positions along the support bar 48.

In some embodiments, the attachment element 22 includes one or more tabs 36a, 36b, 36c extending proximally from the proximal end 16 and aligned with the longitudinal axis 14. Each tab 36a, 36b, 36c may be coplanar with the substantially planar body 15 of the bracket element 12. In some embodiments, multiple tabs 36a, 36b, 36c are disposed one on top of another in a vertically stacked arrangement 38. Each of the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c may be interspaced at a fixed interval with respect to each other tab 36a, 36b, 36c. In some embodiments, the spacing of the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c corresponds to the spacing of the apertures 42 such that each tab 36a, 36b, 36c aligns with a corresponding aperture 42.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, while still referring to FIG. 3, some prior art brackets 100 also include multiple tabs 101a, 101b, 101c configured to engage corresponding apertures 42 in the support structure 40. Each of these prior art tabs 101a, 101b, 101c, however, may include more than one positioning slot 107a, 107b configured to provide adjustability with respect to the angle at which the prior art bracket 100 is retained. Thus, the prior art tabs 101a, 101b, 101c configured to provide adjustability relative to the support structure 40 are not equivalent to the present tabs 36a, 36b, 36c configured to support the bracket element 12 in a single fixed position.

Indeed, unlike prior art brackets 100, each tab 36a, 36b, 36c of the bracket element 12 presently disclosed may include a single positioning notch 37 configured to retain the bracket element 12 in a fixed position with respect to the support structure 40 and/or refrigerated display case 30. In this manner, the acute ramp angle 19 formed by the ramp arm 20 may be maintained upon installation of the bracket element 12. In other words, the installed bracket element 12 may maintain the ramp arm 20 at an angle identical to the acute ramp angle 19 formed by the bracket element 12 itself. In some embodiments, the acute ramp angle 19 is about eight degrees (8°).

In some embodiments, each of the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c of the stacked arrangement 38 may be consolidated such that an area 46 occupied by the attachment element 22 is reduced relative to that of prior art attachment mechanisms 104. For example, typical prior art brackets include a profile height 105 of between five and six inches (5-6 in.) In some embodiments, the stacked arrangement 38 of the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c occupies a reduced area 46 such that vertical spacing between the ramp arm 20 of a first bracket element 12 and the ramp arm 20 of an adjacent bracket element 12 may be likewise reduced.

In some embodiments, for example, vertical spacing between the ramp arm 20 of one bracket element 12 and the ramp arm 20 of a bracket element 12 disposed immediately there below is 3.5 inches or less. In other embodiments, vertical spacing between the ramp arm 20 of one bracket element 12 and the ramp arm 20 of a bracket element 12 disposed immediately there below is 3.0 inches or less. In some embodiments, profile dimensions of each bracket element 12 are reduced as a result of the smaller area 46 occupied by the attachment element 22. This may facilitate optimal placement and spacing of bracket elements 12 while effectively eliminating wasted space.

In certain embodiments, each of the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c includes a hook portion 76 defined by the single positioning notch 37. Engaging the hook portion 76 with a corresponding aperture 42 of the support structure 40 may thus automatically lock a position of the bracket element 12 with respect to the support structure 40.

In some embodiments, the bracket element 12 includes an elevation portion 24 extending along the proximal end 16 between the attachment element 22 and the ramp arm 20. The elevation portion 24 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14. The elevation portion 24 may thus elevate the ramp arm 20 with respect to the attachment element 22 so as to separate the ramp arm 20 from the attachment element 22. In some embodiments, the elevation portion 24 defines an area or extent along the proximal end 16 that includes a length between the ramp arm 20 and attachment element 22. In some embodiments, the elevation portion 24 is disposed adjacent to the support structure 40 when the attachment element 22 is engaged therewith. The elevation portion 24, however, creates the acute ramp angle 19 within the bracket element 12 itself such that a slope of the ramp arm 20 does not depend on an angle or mode of attachment between the attachment element 22 and the support structure 40.

In some embodiments, the acute ramp angle 19 formed by the elevation portion 24 results in an obtuse angle formed between the support structure 40 and the ramp arm 20. Thus, in certain embodiments, the distal end 18 of the bracket element 12 is vertically offset from the proximal end 16 of the bracket element 12 when the bracket element 12 is engaged with the support structure 40. In other words, the proximal end 16 and the distal end 18 are not horizontally coplanar when the bracket element 12 is unattached nor when the bracket element 12 is engaged with the support structure 40. In some embodiments, the obtuse angle formed between the support structure 40 and the ramp arm 20 when the bracket element 12 is engaged with the support structure 40 is at least 98 degrees (98°). Thus, the ramp arm 20 may include a slope of at least 8 degrees (8°).

Referring now to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, a gravity feed shelving system 50 for a refrigerated display case includes a support structure 40, a pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b, and a horizontal shelf 60. The support structure 40 may be coupled to an interior wall 32 of a refrigerated display case (not shown). In some embodiments, as shown, the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b are coupled to the support structure 40. Each of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b may be substantially planar and may include a ramp arm 20a, 20b extending along a longitudinal axis 14 between a proximal end 16 and a distal end 18.

In some embodiments, each of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b further includes an attachment element 22a, 22b, an elevation portion 24a, 24b, and a support flange 28a, 28b. Each attachment element 22a, 22b may extend along the longitudinal axis 14 from the proximal end 16 of each bracket element 12a, 12b. In some embodiments, the attachment element 22a, 22b is coplanar with the respective bracket element 12a, 12b.

In certain embodiments, the attachment element 22a, 22b of each of the bracket elements 12a, 12b is engaged with a corresponding support bar 48a, 48b of the support structure 40. The elevation portion 24a, 24b of each of the bracket elements 12a, 12b is disposed between the corresponding ramp arm 20a, 20b and attachment element 22a, 22b. In some embodiments, the elevation portions 24a, 24b of each of the bracket elements 12a, 12b creates an obtuse angle between each of the ramp arms 20a, 20b and the corresponding support bar 48a, 48b of the support structure 40. The obtuse angle formed between the ramp arm 20a and the support bar 48a of the first bracket element 12a may be identical to the obtuse angle formed between the ramp arm 20b and the support bar 48b of the second bracket element 12b. In some embodiments, the obtuse angle 26 is at least 98 degrees.

The support flange 28a, 28b of each of the bracket elements 12a, 12b may extend perpendicularly from the corresponding ramp arm 20a, 20b between the proximal end 16 and the distal end 18. In some embodiments, the horizontal shelf 60 is configured to be disposed upon and supported by the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b. Thus, as shown, the support flanges 28a, 28b of each of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b may support and/or retain opposing ends 62, 64 of the horizontal shelf 60. In certain embodiments, each support flange 28a, 28b extends in an opposite direction such that, upon installation, the two support flanges 28a, 28b extend towards each other in the same plane to support the horizontal shelf 60.

For example, in certain embodiments, the horizontal shelf 60 includes a first end 62 coupled to the first bracket element 12a of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b and a second end 64 coupled to the second bracket element 12b of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b. Each of the support flanges 28a, 28b may include dimensions configured to support and/or retain a corresponding end 62, 64 of the horizontal shelf 60.

In one embodiment, the horizontal shelf 60 includes a length 70 greater than a distance 74 between the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b. In this manner, the first end 62 may extend beyond the first bracket element 12a and the second end 64 may extend beyond the second bracket element 12b. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, while still referring to FIG. 4, one or both of the ends 62, 64 of the horizontal shelf 60 is configured to extend or wrap around the support flange 28a, 28b and/or portion of the corresponding bracket element 12a, 12b to stabilize and/or secure the horizontal shelf 60 in position. In these and other embodiments, at least a portion of the horizontal shelf 60 may be mechanically secured to the bracket element 12 via one or more bolts, rivets, grommets, adhesives, welding, and/or other suitable fasteners or mechanical fastening mechanisms. Each support flange 28a, 28b may include a strength and rigidity sufficient to support the weight of the horizontal shelf 60 as well as any products and/or other contents disposed thereon.

In addition, each bracket element 12 may have a weight tolerance of up to two hundred fifty (250) pounds. In some embodiments, each bracket element 12 has a weight tolerance of up to two hundred (200) pounds. In other embodiments, each bracket element 12 has a weight tolerance of up to one hundred fifty (150) pounds.

In some embodiments, the support structure 40 may include a pair of support bars 48a, 48b configured to receive and/or retain each of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b. Each support bar 48a, 48b may include multiple apertures 42 disposed therein along a vertical axis 78. In some embodiments, the attachment elements 22a, 22b of each of the bracket elements 12a, 12b are configured to engage one or more of the apertures 42 to secure the bracket elements 12a, 12b to the support structure 40. In some embodiments, each of the attachment elements 22a, 22b includes multiple tabs 36a, 36b, 36c extending from the proximal end 16 of each of the bracket elements 12a, 12b along its longitudinal axis 14. The bracket elements 12a, 12b and the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c extending from their proximal ends 16 may be coplanar.

In some embodiments, each of the tabs 36a, 36b, 36c is disposed one on top of another in a vertically stacked arrangement 38 along the proximal end 16. An area 46 occupied by the vertically stacked arrangement 38 may be three and a half inches (3.5 in.) or less. In some embodiments, a position of each of the pair of bracket elements 12a, 12b relative to the support structure 40 is adjustable.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving system 50 includes an anchor element 88 extending along at least a portion of the horizontal shelf 60. In some embodiments, the anchor element 88 includes a metal or metal alloy such as steel, stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, combinations thereof, and/or the like. In other embodiments, the anchor element 88 is made of a rigid plastic, composite, or other suitable rigid material. In some embodiments, the anchor element 88 is coupled to or integrated with a front edge 66 of the horizontal shelf 60 such that the anchor element 88 and the horizontal shelf 60 are coplanar. In certain embodiments, the anchor element 88 includes a shape such as a “C” shape, and “L” shape, or another suitable shape formed to retain a rail element 80.

In some embodiments, the rail element 80 includes a substantially rigid or resilient material formed or molded to display a product label and/or price tag. In some embodiments, the rail element 80 includes acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”), polycarbonate (“PC”), polyphenylene oxide (“PPO”), polyphenylene ether (“PPE”), polyamide (“PA”), polybutylene terephthalate (“PBT”), acrylic, or any other suitable rigid plastic and/or other suitable material.

The rail element 80 may be configured to extend along the front edge 66 of the horizontal shelf 60 to display a product label and/or price tag. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the rail element 80 is configured to removably engage the rail element 80. For example, the rail element 80 may include a recess 92 configured to slidably engage at least a portion of the anchor element 88. In other embodiments, the rail element 80 includes one or more protrusions, slots, grooves, and/or other suitable securing features configured to removably engage a corresponding portion of the anchor element 88. In certain embodiments, the recess 92 or other securing feature is disposed near or adjacent to a lower edge 58 or portion of the rail element 80. In this manner, an upper edge 56 or portion of the rail element 80 may extend beyond the top surface of the horizontal shelf 60 when the rail element 80 is engaged with the anchor element 88.

In some embodiments, as discussed in more detail below, the rail element 80 includes an elongate product barrier 90 extending from a front edge 66 of the horizontal shelf 60 along a vertical axis 78.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, while also referring to FIG. 1, the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 disclosed herein may be implemented in connection with an existing prior art shelving system 98. The prior art shelving system 98 may include one or more shelves 102 supported by one or more prior art brackets 100 attached to a support structure 40. In some embodiments, the support structure 40 may be fixed to one or more interior walls 32 of a refrigerated display case 30.

The support structure 40 may include one or more vertical support bars 48 having a plurality of vertically disposed apertures 42. Each of the prior art brackets 100 may include a prior art attachment mechanism 104 configured to engage the apertures 42 to retain the prior art bracket 100 and shelf 102 with respect to the support structure 40. When attached to the support structure 40 in this manner, a prior art bracket 100 may retain its associated shelf 102 at an angle of approximately ninety degrees (90°) relative to the vertical support bar 48 and/or interior wall 32.

The gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 presently disclosed may be implemented in connection with the support structure 40 and/or vertical support bars 48 of the prior art shelving system 98 such that a horizontal shelf 60 supported by the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 aligns with a prior art shelf 102 supported by the prior art shelving system 98.

In some embodiments, the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 includes a bracket element 12 having a ramp arm 20 extending at an acute ramp angle 19 from the proximal end 16 to the distal end 18. In some embodiments, the acute ramp angle 19 is about eight degrees (8°). The bracket element 12 may include an attachment element 22 having multiple tabs 36a, 36b, 36c configured to engage apertures 42 in the support structure 40. In some embodiments, each tab 36a, 36b, 36c includes a single positioning notch 37 configured to retain the bracket element 12 in a predetermined, fixed position with respect to the support structure 40 and/or refrigerated display case 30.

In some embodiments, the installed bracket element 12 maintains the ramp arm 20 at the same acute ramp angle 19 formed by the bracket element 12 itself. As a result, the ramp arm 20 may retain the horizontal shelf 60 at an obtuse angle 26 with respect to the support structure 40 and/or refrigerated display case 30.

In some embodiments, the ramp arm 20 of the bracket element 12 forms an acute ramp angle 19 of about eight degrees (8°) such that the top surface 61 of the horizontal shelf 60 is retained at an obtuse angle 26 of approximately ninety-eight degrees (98°) relative to the support structure 40 and/or refrigerated display case 30. This slope of the horizontal shelf 60 may facilitate automatic delivery of a product 96 via gravity from the rear edge 68 to the front edge 66. In other embodiments, the acute ramp angle 19 may be between about five degrees and about fifteen degrees) (5°-15°) such that the top surface 61 of the horizontal shelf 60 is retained at an angle 26 of approximately ninety-five degrees (95°) to approximately one hundred five degrees (105°) relative to the support structure 40 and/or refrigerated display case 30.

The prior art shelving system 98, on the other hand, may retain its associated shelf 102 at an angle of approximately ninety degrees (90°) relative to the support structure 40 and/or refrigerated display case 30. Despite the disparate angles of the shelves 60, 102 associated with each of the gravity feed shelving system 50 and the prior art shelving system 98, respectively, the front edges 66, 108 of each shelf 60, 102 may nevertheless align. In this manner, various embodiments of the gravity feed shelving apparatus 10 and gravity feed shelving system 50 may be configured to be compatible with and easily integrated with prior art shelving systems 98 and components while providing increased functionality. In some embodiments, a rail element 80 associated with the gravity feed shelving system 50 aligns with a prior art label rail 112 associated with the prior art shelving system 98 to further facilitate a streamlined, aesthetically-pleasing display.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A and 8B, some embodiments of a gravity feed shelving system 50 include a gravity roller platform 52 disposed on the top surface 61 of the horizontal shelf 60 as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B. In some embodiments, the gravity roller platform 52 extends along a portion of the top surface 61 of the horizontal shelf 60 such that an edge of the gravity roller platform 52 aligns with the front edge 66 of the horizontal shelf 60. The gravity roller platform 52 may be coupled to the top surface 61 via one or more mechanical fasteners such as nails, screws, bolts, rivets, grommets, adhesives, welding, and/or the like.

The roller platform 52 may include multiple rollers 54 configured to passively move a product 96 towards the front edge 66 of the horizontal shelf 60. In some embodiments, each of the rollers 54 is configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14. In certain embodiments, each of the rollers 54 is disposed closely adjacent to one another to facilitate transporting the product 96 towards the front edge 66.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A and 9B, while still referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, in some embodiments, the rail element 80 includes a recess 92 or other suitable securing feature disposed in a lower portion of the rail element 80 and/or near the lower edge 58. The recess 92 may have a size and shape configured to slidably engage the anchor element 88 to retain the rail element 80 in position with respect to the horizontal shelf 60. In these and other embodiments, an upper portion and/or upper edge 56 of the rail element 80 may thus be disposed substantially above the anchor element 88 and/or the top surface 61 of the horizontal shelf 60.

Further, in some embodiments, the rail element 80 includes a lower edge 83 that is substantially aligned with a bottom surface 65 of the horizontal shelf 60. In this manner, the rail element 80 may be configured to align with a prior art label rail 112 associated with a prior art shelving system 98, despite the ramp arm 20 retaining the horizontal shelf 60 on a slope with respect to the prior art shelf 102.

In some embodiments, the upper portion of the rail element 80 includes an elongate product barrier 90 extending along at least a portion of the front edge 66 of the horizontal shelf 60. The elongate product barrier 90 may include a height sufficient to prevent a product 96 from inadvertently falling from the horizontal shelf 60. In some embodiments, the elongate product barrier 90 includes a rigid material such as metal, plastic, and/or another suitable material.

Unlike the elongate product barrier 90 of the present disclosure, typical prior art label rails 112 tend to include an attachment feature 114 disposed in an upper portion thereof. Thus, when the attachment feature 114 is attached to the prior art shelf 102, there tends to be little or no ledge 103 extending above the prior art shelf 102 to block or otherwise prevent a product 96 from inadvertently traversing beyond a front edge 108 or other edge or boundary of the shelf 102. Importantly, the elongate product barrier 90 presently disclosed may prevent a product 96 from inadvertently falling from the horizontal shelf 60 as gravity and/or the gravity roller platform 52 automatically moves it towards the front edge 66.

Referring again to FIGS. 7A and 7B, while still referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, in some embodiments, the rail element 80 includes a label retention element 82 disposed opposite the recess 92. The label retention element 82 may thus be coplanar with the horizontal shelf 60 and may be visible beyond its front edge 66.

The label retention element 82 may include a size and shape configured to removably retain a product label 94 and/or price tag. In some embodiments, the label retention element 82 extends substantially between the upper edge 56 and the lower edge 58 of the rail element 80. In some embodiments, the label retention element 82 includes an arc-shaped or other suitably shaped recess formed between a top lip 84 and a bottom lip 86 of the rail element 80.

In certain embodiments, the product label 94 includes dimensions substantially corresponding to the distance between the top lip 84 and the bottom lip 86 such that the product label 94 may be retained therebetween. In other embodiments, the product label 94 may be made of paper or another suitable flexible or resilient material such that the product label 94 may bend or be otherwise deformed to be retained by the label retention element 82.

In some embodiments, the label retention element 82 includes substantially the same shape and/or dimensions of a corresponding label retention feature 116 of a prior art label rail 112. In these and other embodiments, the label retention element 82 may thus substantially align with the label retention feature 116 of the existing label rail 112 where the gravity feed shelving system 50 is implemented in connection with a prior art shelving system 98. This feature may thus increase overall aesthetic appeal of the refrigerated display case.

It is understood that when an element is referred hereinabove as being “on” another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may be present therebetween. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element, there are no intervening elements present.

Moreover, any components or materials can be formed from a same, structurally continuous piece or separately fabricated and connected.

It is further understood that, although ordinal terms, such as, “first,” “second,” “third,” are used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, “a first element,” “component,” “region,” “layer” or “section” discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings herein.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, are used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It is understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions as illustrated herein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat may, typically, have rough and/or nonlinear features. Moreover, sharp angles that are illustrated may be rounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are not intended to limit the scope of the present claims.

In conclusion, herein is presented a gravity feed shelving apparatus and system. The disclosure is illustrated by example in the drawing figures, and throughout the written description. It should be understood that numerous variations are possible, while adhering to the inventive concept. Such variations are contemplated as being a part of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A gravity feed shelving apparatus for a refrigerated display case, comprising: a bracket element extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the bracket element comprises a substantially planar body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a ramp arm extending between the proximal end and the distal end, the proximal end comprising an attachment element configured to couple to a refrigerated display case, wherein the substantially planar body comprises an elevation portion vertically disposed between the ramp arm and the attachment element, the elevation portion forming an acute ramp angle in which the ramp arm slopes downwardly from the proximal end to the distal end; anda support flange extending substantially perpendicularly from the ramp arm between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein the support flange is configured to support a horizontal shelf.

2. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 1, wherein the acute ramp angle is about eight degrees.

3. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 1, wherein the attachment element comprises at least one tab extending along the longitudinal axis from the proximal end.

4. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one tab and the substantially planar body are coplanar.

5. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one tab comprises a single positioning notch configured to retain the bracket element in a fixed position with respect to the refrigerated display case.

6. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 5, wherein the single positioning notch is disposed adjacent to the proximal end and extends in a substantially vertical direction from a base of the at least one tab.

7. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 6, wherein the at least one tab comprises a plurality of tabs disposed one on top of another in a vertically stacked arrangement.

8. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 7, wherein a height of the vertically stacked arrangement comprises 3.5 inches or less.

9. The gravity feed shelving apparatus of claim 8, wherein the substantially planar body comprises a bottom edge having a stabilizing projection extending in a transverse direction with respect thereto, wherein the stabilizing projection is configured to stabilize the bracket element against the refrigerated display case.

10. A gravity feed shelving system for a refrigerated display case, comprising: a support structure coupled to an interior wall of a refrigerated display case;a pair of bracket elements coupled to the support structure, wherein each of the pair of bracket elements comprises a substantially planar body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a ramp arm extending along a longitudinal axis between the proximal end and the distal end, each of the pair of bracket elements further comprising: an attachment element extending along the longitudinal axis from the proximal end, wherein the attachment element is coplanar with the substantially planar body and engaged with the support structure;an elevation portion disposed between the ramp arm and the attachment element, wherein the elevation portion creates an obtuse angle between the ramp arm and the support structure; anda support flange extending perpendicularly from the ramp arm between the proximal end and the distal end; anda horizontal shelf disposed between the pair of bracket elements, the horizontal shelf comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is coupled to a first bracket element of the pair of bracket elements and the second end is coupled to a second bracket element of the pair of bracket elements.

11. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 10, wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of apertures disposed vertically therein, wherein the attachment element is configured to engage at least one of the plurality of apertures.

12. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 10, wherein the attachment element comprises a plurality of tabs extending from the proximal end along the longitudinal axis, wherein the substantially planar body and the plurality of tabs are coplanar.

13. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of tabs comprises a single positioning notch configured to retain the bracket element in a fixed position with respect to the support structure.

14. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of tabs is disposed one on top of another in a vertically stacked arrangement, and wherein a height of the vertically stacked arrangement comprises 3.5 inches or less.

15. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 10, further comprising a gravity roller platform disposed on top of the horizontal shelf, the roller platform comprising a plurality of rollers configured to passively move a product towards a front edge of the horizontal shelf.

16. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 10, further comprising an anchor element extending along at least a portion of a front edge of the horizontal shelf, wherein the anchor element and the horizontal shelf are coplanar.

17. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 16, further comprising a rail element configured to engage the anchor element, wherein the rail element extends along a length of the front edge of the horizontal shelf.

18. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 17, wherein the rail element comprises a securing feature disposed in a lower portion thereof.

19. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 18, wherein the rail element comprises an elongate product barrier extending from a front edge of the horizontal shelf along a vertical axis.

20. The gravity feed shelving system of claim 19, wherein the rail element comprises a lower edge, and wherein the lower edge is substantially aligned with a bottom surface of the horizontal shelf.