BACKGROUND
The present invention relates to a refrigerated merchandiser, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a refrigerated merchandiser that can be converted from a refrigerated merchandiser of a first type to a refrigerated merchandiser of a second type.
In conventional practice, commercial businesses such as supermarkets and convenience stores are equipped with various refrigerated merchandisers including product display areas that support and display product (fresh or frozen product, beverages, condiments, dry goods, etc.). Conventional refrigerated merchandisers are assembled using tools and fasteners. That is, conventional refrigerated merchandisers include case structure and product display arrangements that have shelves and other display structure that are couplable to and removable from the case structure using fasteners. Accordingly, a user must use tools to assemble and disassemble conventional merchandisers. The use of fasteners increases the number of parts of conventional refrigerated merchandisers. Also, the use of fasteners and tools increase the complexity of assembly. Moreover, the increased number of parts and complexity makes it more difficult to use the same case structure for refrigerated merchandisers having different configurations.
Aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY
According to an exemplary construction, the invention includes a refrigerated merchandiser including a case including case structure defining a product display area and a refrigeration system supported by the case to condition the product display area. A first refrigerated section includes a first product display arrangement supported by the case structure and positioned in a first portion of the product display area. The refrigeration system is in communication with the first portion of the product display area to maintain the first portion of the product display area within a predetermined temperature range. A second refrigerated section includes a second product display arrangement that is supported by the case structure and that is positioned in a second portion of the product display area. The refrigeration system is in communication with the second portion of the product display area to maintain the second portion of the product display area within the predetermined temperature range. One or both the first product display arrangement or the second product display arrangement is replaceable by a third product display arrangement that is different from the first product display arrangement and the second display arrangement.
According to another exemplary construction, the invention includes a refrigerated merchandiser with a case that including a base, a rear wall, and a canopy at least partially defining a product display area having a first refrigerated section and a second refrigerated section laterally adjacent the first refrigerated section. A refrigeration system is coupled to the case and including a first evaporator and a second evaporator configured to selectively condition the product display area. The first refrigerated section includes a first product display arrangement that is at least partially supported by the rear wall. The first evaporator is in airflow communication with the first refrigerated section to maintain the first refrigerated section within a predetermined temperature range. The second refrigerated section includes a second product display arrangement that is at least partially supported by the rear wall. The second evaporator is in airflow communication with the second refrigerated section to maintain the second refrigerated section within the predetermined temperature range. One or both of the first product display arrangement and the second product display arrangement is replaceable with a third product display arrangement different from the first product display arrangement and the second product display arrangement, the third product display arrangement at least partially supported by the rear wall.
According to another exemplary construction, the invention includes a refrigerated merchandiser with a case including a base and a rear wall at least partially defining a product display area. A refrigeration system coupled to the case and in communication with a first portion of the product display area and a second portion of the product display area. The refrigeration system includes one or more heat exchangers to maintain the first portion of the product display area within a predetermined temperature range and the second portion of the product display area within the predetermined temperature range. A first shelf is supported by the rear wall and positioned in the first portion of the product display area and a second shelf is supported by the rear wall and positioned in the second portion of the product display area. The first shelf is removable from the rear wall and replaceable with a counter assembly supported by the base and the rear wall. The countertop assembly is attached to the base and the rear wall, in some embodiments without fasteners and without tools.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a refrigerated merchandiser embodying the invention and including a case with a first configuration that has a base, a rear wall, a first refrigerated section with a first product display arrangement supported by the rear wall, and a second refrigerated section with a second product display arrangement supported by the rear wall.
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the refrigerated merchandiser of FIG. 1A including the case with a second configuration that has the base, the rear wall, the second refrigerated section with the second product display arrangement supported by the rear wall, and the first refrigerated section with a third product display arrangement supported by the rear wall.
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the refrigerated merchandiser of FIGS. 1A and 1B with some components removed.
FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the case of FIG. 1B taken along line A-A of FIG. 1B.
FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the case of FIG. 1B taken along the line B-B of FIG. 1B.
FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the refrigerated merchandiser in the second configuration of FIG. 1B.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the refrigerated merchandiser of FIG. 1A with a portion of the first product display arrangement removed illustrating a rear panel coupled between vertical support members of the rear wall.
FIG. 4B is an enlarged perspective view of the rear panel coupled to vertical support members of the rear wall of FIG. 4A.
FIG. 4C is an enlarged perspective view of the vertical support members of FIG. 4A.
FIG. 4D is an enlarged perspective view of the rear panel of FIG. 4A.
FIG. 4E is a perspective view of lowermost shelves of the first product display arrangement of the refrigerated merchandiser of FIG. 1A.
FIG. 4F is an exploded view of the lowermost shelves of FIG. 4E.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a first step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including removing the rear panel of FIG. 4A and the first product display arrangement of FIG. 1A.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a second step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including coupling another rear panel and side panels to the rear wall.
FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of FIG. 6 illustrating one side panel of the third product display arrangement.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the side panel of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is another enlarged perspective view of a portion of the side panel of FIG. 7.
FIG. 10 is another enlarged perspective view of a portion of the side panel of FIG. 7.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a third step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including coupling lower panels to the rear panel and the base.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 11 with the lower panels coupled to the rear panel of FIG. 6 and the base with the side panels removed for clarity.
FIG. 13 is a cross-section view illustrating the lower panels of FIG. 12 during assembly and taken along the line C-C of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a fourth step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including coupling a front panel to the base.
FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view the front panel of FIG. 14.
FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the front panel.
FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the front panel of FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrating a tray attached to the front panel.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the case illustrating the side panels and the front panel coupled to the case.
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a fifth step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including coupling a countertop to the rear wall, the side panels, and the front panel.
FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the countertop of FIG. 19.
FIG. 21 is an upper perspective view of the countertop of FIG. 19 illustrating inlet apertures in the front rail.
FIG. 22 is a lower perspective view of the countertop of FIG. 19 illustrating insulation under a front rail of the countertop.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the countertop of FIG. 19 relative to the front panel.
FIG. 24 is a cross-section view of the countertop and front panel of FIG. 23 without the tray and taken along the line D-D of FIG. 23.
FIG. 25 is an enlarged cross-section view of the case of FIG. 1B along the line E-E of FIG. 18.
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a sixth step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including positioning food pans in the countertop.
FIG. 27A is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 1A illustrating a seventh step of the conversion of the first refrigerated section to the third product display arrangement of FIG. 1B including coupling a guard to the rear wall.
FIG. 27B is a perspective view of the guard of FIG. 1B and FIG. 27A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Before any constructions of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other constructions and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.
FIGS. 1A and 1B show a refrigerated merchandiser 10 including a case 100 that has a base 104, a rear wall 108, and a canopy or case top 112. The area that is partially enclosed by the base 104, the rear wall 108, and the canopy 112 defines a product display area 116. As illustrated, the product display area 116 is accessible by customers through an opening 120 adjacent the front of the case 100. The canopy 112 may have one or more light sources (not shown) for illuminating the product display area 116.
As illustrated, the base 104, the rear wall 108, and the canopy 112 collectively define a case structure of the refrigerated merchandiser 10, and the case structure defines the product display area 116. The case structure and configurations illustrated in various constructions of the Figures are merely exemplary. In other or additional constructions, the case structure may have other configurations. For example, the canopy may be omitted or have other orientations than that shown in the Figures. In another example, the case structure may include additional components not shown herein, such as one or more doors, partition devices, or any other suitable structure for defining the product display area 116 and/or delineating the product display area 116 into one or more portions of the product display area 116. Each of the different configurations may include components of other configurations and or components that are different from one or more of the configurations illustrated in the Figures, and one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other constructions of the exemplary case structures and configurations are contemplated and considered herein.
The refrigerated merchandiser of FIGS. 1A, 1B is a convertible refrigerated merchandiser that includes removable, replaceable, and interchangeable product display arrangements 122a, 122b, 122c that may include one or more of a plurality of shelves 124 with a first configuration, a plurality of shelves with a second configuration that is different from the first configuration, a counter assembly 126 (e.g., a salad bar assembly, deli assembly, a hot food station, a soup station assembly, etc.), a guard 128, or any other suitable structure for product display or access by consumers or other personnel. As discussed in greater detail below, components of each product display arrangement 122a, 122b, 122c are coupled to and supported by the case structure and support and display food product that is accessible from the front of the refrigerated merchandiser 10. As illustrated in the Figures, components of each product display arrangement 122a, 122b, 122c are coupled to and supported by the same base 104 and the same rear wall 108, as will be discussed in greater detail below. In other or additional constructions, components of each product display arrangement 122a, 122b, 122c may be coupled to and supported by other or additional components of the case structure or different case structure. In each construction, the components are interchangeable among different case structures.
As shown in FIGS. 1A-2C, the base 104 defines a lower portion of the product display area 116 and can support food product. With specific reference to FIG. 2A, the base 104 defines a ledge 104a that extends at least partially around a perimeter thereof. The rear wall 108 of the case 100 is coupled to and extends from the base 104, and the canopy 112 is coupled to and extends from the rear wall 108. In the illustrated construction, the rear wall 108 includes a plurality of vertical support members 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d and a plurality of rear panels 150a, 150b, 150c. A first vertical support member 130a is positioned on a first side of the case 100 and a second vertical support member 130b is spaced apart from first vertical support member 130a in a direction towards a center of the case 100. A fourth vertical support member 130d is positioned on a second, opposite side of the case 100 and a third vertical support member 130c is spaced apart from the fourth vertical support member 130d in a direction towards the center of the case 100. Accordingly, the second vertical support member 130b is positioned between the first vertical support member 130a and the third vertical support member 130c, and the third vertical support member 130c is positioned between the second vertical support member 130b and the fourth vertical support member 130d. Additionally, in the illustrated construction, the second vertical support member 130b and the third vertical support member 130c are positioned adjacent to one another.
With reference to FIGS. 4B-4C, each of the vertical support members 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d have same structure. Therefore, the following discussion relative to the first vertical support member 130a applies to each of the other vertical support members 130b, 130c, 130d. The first vertical support member 130a defines a longitudinal axis 136a. The first vertical support member 130a includes a first plurality of apertures 138a that are arranged in a row along the length thereof, a plurality of projections 142a (FIG. 4B) extending therefrom and spaced apart along a length thereof, and a second plurality of apertures 144a in one or more of the plurality of projections 142a. Each pair of adjacent projections 142a is separated by a gap 146a (FIG. 4B). And the apertures 138a, 138b, 138c, 138d of each of the vertical support members 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d are aligned with one another.
As shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2B, 2C, and 4A, the first rear panel 150a is positioned between the first vertical support member 130a and the second vertical support member 130b. The first rear panel 150a is spaced apart from the rear wall 108 by a gap defining a first rear duct 154a therebetween. The second rear panel 150b is positioned between the third vertical support member 130c and the fourth vertical support member 130d. The second rear panel 150b is spaced apart from the rear wall 108 by a gap defining a second rear duct 154b therebetween. Both the first rear panel 150a and the second rear panel 150a are removable and replaceable with a third rear panel 150c, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 2C.
Each of the rear panels 150a, 150b, 150c has the same structure unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, only the first rear panel 150a will be described in detail, and the differences among the different rear panels 150a, 150b, 150c will be highlighted. With reference to FIGS. 4B and 4D, the first rear panel 150a includes a first sidewall 174a and a second sidewall 178a on opposite sides thereof. A flange 188a extends from a lower end of the first rear panel 150a and defines a generally horizontal channel 192a that extends along a width of the first rear panel 150a. As will be discussed below, the flange 188a and the channel 192a are configured to cooperatively secure a portion of the first product display arrangement 122a. One or more projections 196a extend from each of the first and second sidewalls 174a, 178a. Each of the projections 196a, 200a are configured to be received within an aperture 144a, 144b of the respective vertical support members 130a, 130b such that the first rear panel 150a is removably secured to the rear wall 108 by engagement between the projections 142a, 142b, 144a, 144b, 196a, 200a of the first rear panel 150a and the respective vertical support member 130a, 130b. The first rear panel 150a further includes a plurality of apertures 204a extending therethrough.
The plurality of apertures 204a of the first rear panel 150a is arranged in a first configuration or pattern, the plurality of apertures 204b of the second rear panel 150b is arranged in a second configuration or pattern, and the plurality of apertures 204c of the third rear panel 150c is arranged in a third configuration or pattern. In the illustrated construction, the first configuration of apertures 204a of the respective first rear panel 150a and the second configuration of apertures 204b of the second rear panel 150b are the same, which will be discussed in greater detail below. In some constructions, the first and second configuration of apertures 204a, 204b may be different from one another. The third configuration of apertures 204c of the third rear panel 150c is different than the first and second configurations of the apertures 204a, 204b, which will be discussed below.
As shown in FIGS. 1A-2C, the case 100 of the refrigerated merchandiser 10 includes a first refrigerated section 210a and a second refrigerated section 210b. Generally, the first refrigerated section 210a is positioned between the first vertical support member 130a and the second vertical support member 130b, while the second refrigerated section 210b is positioned between the third vertical support member 130c and the fourth vertical support member 130d. The refrigerated merchandiser 10 includes a refrigeration system that is supported by the case structure and that is in communication with the first refrigerated section 210a and the second refrigerated section 210b. In the illustrated construction, the refrigeration system includes a first refrigeration system 214a and a second refrigeration system 214b. That is, the first refrigerated section 210a includes the first refrigeration system 214a and the second refrigerated section 210b includes the second refrigeration system 214b.
In the illustrated construction, each of the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b are supported at least in part by the case structure. As shown, each of the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b are supported in part by the base 104 and the rear wall 108. The first refrigeration system 214a is shown in FIG. 2C and the second refrigeration system is shown in FIG. 2B. The first refrigeration system 214a includes a first inlet 220a, a first lower duct 224a that is supported by the base 104, and a first fan assembly 228a positioned in the first lower duct 224a, as well as the first rear duct 154a, a first heat exchanger 232a (e.g., a first evaporator) that is positioned in the first rear duct 154a, a first upper duct 236a supported by the canopy 112, and a first outlet 240a. The second refrigeration system 214b includes a second inlet 220b, a second lower duct 224b supported by the base 104, and a second fan assembly 228b that is positioned in the second lower duct 224b, as well as the second rear duct 154b, a second heat exchanger 232b (e.g., a second evaporator) that is positioned in the second rear duct 154b, a second upper duct 236b that is supported by the canopy 112, and a second outlet 240b.
In the illustrated construction, the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b are substantially the same. Although the first refrigeration system 214a is discussed in detail below, it should be understood that the description of the first refrigeration system 214a applies equally to the second refrigeration system 214b. In other constructions, the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b may be different (e.g., including different components to achieve different temperatures in different parts or portions of the product display area 116. That is, for example, the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b may have other or additional components and/or one or more components may be omitted. In another example, the arrangement of the components of the first refrigeration system 214a may be different from the arrangement of the constitute components of the second refrigeration system 214b. In still other constructions, the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b may share components. For example, the first and second refrigeration systems 214a, 214b may share an inlet, an outlet, and/or a heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator).
In the illustrated construction, the first and second inlets 220a, 220b are located at or adjacent to the opening 120 and are in different horizontal planes. In some constructions, the first and second inlets 220a, 220b may be a single inlet that extends along all or a portion of the width of the case 100.
As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2C, the base 104 supports the first lower duct 224a (e.g., first air plenum) and the first fan assembly 228a is supported within the first lower duct 224a. The first lower duct 224a is in fluid communication with the first inlet 220a and the first rear duct 154a. As illustrated, the first lower duct 224a directs a first airflow 250a substantially horizontally through the base 104 from the first inlet 220a to the first rear duct 154a. The first inlet 220a is positioned to receive surrounding air in a substantially vertical direction and directs the air into the first lower duct 224a. Although the first refrigeration system 214a only has one first fan assembly 228a in the illustrated construction, in other constructions, the first refrigeration system 214a may include more than one fan assembly 228a. Moreover, in still other embodiments, the first and second fan assembly 228a, 228b may be replaced by a single fan assembly.
FIG. 2C shows that the first rear duct 154a is in fluid communication with the first lower duct 224a and extends upward from the base 104. The fan assembly 228a is configured to generate a refrigerated airflow through the first heat exchanger 232a. As illustrated, the first heat exchanger 232a is positioned in a lower portion of the first rear duct 154a. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand and appreciate that the first heat exchanger 232a may be located elsewhere in the duct system. Also, in other constructions, one or more fan assemblies 228a, 228b are configured to generate a refrigerated airflow through the first heat exchanger 232a and the second exchanger 232b. As oriented, the first airflow 250a passes substantially vertically through the first heat exchanger 232a and the first rear duct 154a directs the first airflow 250a generally vertically through the case 100. In the illustrated construction, the plurality of apertures 204a in the first rear panel 150a (or the apertures 204c in the third rear panel 150c) can fluidly couple the first rear duct 154a with the product display area 116 to permit at least some of the first airflow 250a to enter the product display area 116.
The canopy 112 defines the first upper duct 236a, which is in fluid communication with the first rear duct 154a and directs the first airflow 250a substantially horizontally through the canopy 112 toward a first outlet 240a. The first lower duct 224a, the first rear duct 154a, and the first upper duct 236a are fluidly coupled to each other to define a first air passageway that directs the first airflow 250a from the first inlet 220a to the first outlet 240a.
The portion of the first airflow 250a that is discharged from the first outlet 240a forms a first air curtain 260a that is directed generally downward across the opening 120 to maintain the food product within a predetermined temperature range (e.g., less than 32 degrees Fahrenheit, between 32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit, between 41 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, or at or above 150 degrees Fahrenheit). In the illustrated construction, the first and second refrigerated sections 210a, 210b maintain the food product within the same predetermined temperature range, but in other or additional constructions, the first and second refrigerated sections 210a, 210b may maintain the food product within different predetermined temperature ranges. Generally, the first inlet 220a receives at least some air from the first air curtain 260a. The case 100 may have an additional air passageway to direct a secondary air curtain downward across the opening 120. The first air curtain 260a and/or the second air curtain (when included) may be oriented at a suitable angle relative to a vertical plane that is oriented perpendicular to a support surface (e.g., the ground or floor) on which the merchandiser is supported. For example, the first air curtain 260a and/or the second air curtain (when included) may be oriented at an angle that is less than 10 degrees (e.g., horizontal merchandisers) or greater than 10 degrees relative to the vertical plane (e.g., self-service, or upright merchandisers).
As shown in FIG. 1A, the refrigerated merchandiser has a first configuration in which the first refrigerated section 210a includes the first product display arrangement 122a that is supported by the case structure (e.g., the rear wall 108) and the second refrigerated section 210b includes the second product display arrangement 122b that is supported by the case structure (e.g., the rear wall 108). The first product display arrangement 122a includes a plurality of shelves 124a supported by the rear wall 108 and the second product display arrangement 122b includes a plurality of shelves 124b supported by the rear wall 108. In the illustrated construction, each of the first and second product display arrangements 122a, 122b also include respective first and second vertical members 270a, 270b supported by a recess 274 (FIG. 13) in the base 104 adjacent the opening 120 and the lowermost shelves 124a, 124b. In the illustrated construction the recess 274 is an elongate recess that extends along the width of the case 100. In other constructions, the recess 274 may be separated into two recesses—one for each of the first and second refrigerated sections 210a, 210b.
As shown, the plurality of shelves 124a, 124b includes some that are suspended above the base 104 (e.g., suspended shelves) and some that are supported by the base 104 (e.g., lowermost shelves). With respect to FIG. 4A, the description of the shelves 124b of second product display arrangement 122b applies to the shelves 124a of the first product display arrangement 122a. Each of the shelves 124b defines a substantially horizontal support surface 308b for supporting product. Each of the shelves 124b includes one or more L-shaped hooks or projections (not shown) on opposite sides of the horizontal support surface 308b. Although not shown in the context of the shelves 124b, similar hooks are shown relative to the third product display arrangement 122c in FIGS. 6-8, for example, and are discussed in greater detail below. Each of the hooks of the shelves 124b is cooperatively received in one or more corresponding apertures 138c, 138d in respective vertical support member 130c, 130d such that the vertical support members 130c, 130d support the shelves 124b relative to the rear wall 108 and product display area 116.
In the illustrated construction, the plurality of shelves 124a of the first display arrangement have a first configuration and the plurality of shelves 124b of the second display arrangement have a second configuration that is the same as the first configuration. Accordingly, the suspended shelves 124a of the first product display arrangement 122a are arranged in a first column and the suspended shelves 124b of the second product display arrangement 122b are arranged in a second column. In the illustrated construction, each of suspended shelves 124a of the first product display arrangement 122a is aligned with a corresponding suspended shelf 124b of the second product display arrangement 122b such that the respective horizontal support surfaces 308a, 308b are positioned in the same plane. Generally, then, the pairs of aligned suspended shelves 124a, 124b each define a row that extends across the width of the case 100. In other or additional constructions, the first configuration of the plurality of shelves 124a of the first display arrangement may be different than second configuration the plurality of shelves 124b of the second display arrangement. For example, each of suspended shelves 124a of the first product display arrangement 122a may be staggered with a corresponding suspended shelf 124b of the second product display arrangement 122b such that the respective horizontal support surfaces 308a, 308b are positioned in the different planes. In another example, each of suspended shelves 124a of the first product display arrangement 122a may positioned at a first angle relative to the rear wall, whereas each of the suspended shelves 124b of the second product display arrangement 122b may be positioned a second, different angle relative to the rear wall 108. In still another example, there may be more suspended shelves 124a than suspended shelves 124b or vice versa.
FIGS. 4A, 4E-4G, and 13 show that the lowermost shelves 124a, 124b are supported by the respective rear panel 150a, 150b (e.g., the flanges 188a, 188b thereof) and the base 104. As shown, each of the lowermost shelves 124a, 124b have the same construction and therefore only those of the first product display arrangement 122a will be described in detail. The lowermost shelves 124a each include a body 350a that has a support wall 354a, a lip 362a, and a flange 374a. The flange 374a extends from the body 350a and is spaced apart from and below the support wall 354a. The flange 374a is configured to be received in the channel 192a of the flange 188a of the first rear panel 150a and is configured to abut a wall of the flange 188a that defines the channel 192. The lip 362a prevents product from spilling off the shelf. The body 350a of each of the lowermost shelves 124a is configured to be supported by the base 104 and the adjacent lowermost shelf 124a, 124b. The support wall 354a of the lowermost shelves 124a are in the same plane and are positioned at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the first rear panel 150a. The first vertical member 270a is positioned forwardly of the lowermost shelves 124a also prevents product on the support walls 354a of the lowermost shelves 124a, 124b from falling off the refrigerated merchandiser 10 due to the incline.
As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4D, the first configuration of the apertures 204a in the first rear panel 150a and the second configuration of the apertures 204b in the second rear panel 150b are configured to guide at least some of the first and second airflows 250a, 250b towards the product supported by the shelves 124a, 124b. As shown, each of the first and second configurations has a plurality of rows of apertures 204a, 204b extending across a width of the respective first and second rear panel 150a, 150b such that one or more of the rows is positioned above and/or below each shelf 124a, 124b. In the illustrated construction, there are fewer rows positioned in a top portion of the first and second rear panels 150a, 150b than there are rows positioned in a bottom portion of the first and second rear panels 150a, 150b (e.g., there are half as many rows in the top portion of the first and second rear panels 150a, 150b than in the bottom portion of the rear panels 150a, 150b). Because the illustrated first and second rear panels 150a, 150b have the same aperture configuration, the first and second airflows 250a, 250b are guided along generally similar or the same airflow paths. That is, the first airflow is guided along a first airflow path and the second airflow 250b is guided along a second airflow path that is similar to or the same as the first airflow path. The apertures 204a, 204b may have other configurations depending on several factors, including the configuration (e.g., quantity and/or location) of the shelves 124a, 124b. In constructions in which the aperture configurations in the rear panels 150a, 150b are different, the first and second airflows 250a, 250b may be guided along different airflow paths.
Comparing FIGS. 1A and 1B, the refrigerated merchandiser 10 can be converted from the first configuration of FIG. 1A to a second configuration of FIG. 1B. When in the second configuration, the first refrigerated section 210a includes the third product display arrangement 122c that is supported by the case structure (e.g., the rear wall 108) and the second refrigerated section 210b includes the second product display arrangement 122b that is supported by the case structure (e.g., the rear wall 108). That is, and as described in greater detail below, the first product display arrangement 122a is removable from the first refrigerated section 210a and replaceable with a third product display arrangement 122c. In some constructions, the second product display arrangement 122b is removable from the second refrigerated section 210b and replaceable with the third product display arrangement 122c. In other constructions contemplated herein, the first product display arrangement 122a and the second product display arrangement 122b may be each removable from the respective first and second refrigerated sections 210a, 210b and replaceable with the third product display arrangement 122c and a fourth product display arrangement (not shown). While an exemplary construction is described in detail with regard to changing the first product display arrangement 12a to the third product display arrangement 122c, it should be understood and appreciated that any part of the product display arrangement of the merchandiser 10 may be changed or adjusted to modify the merchandising capability of the merchandiser 10.
With reference to FIGS. 1B and 6-27B, in the illustrated construction, the third product display arrangement 122c includes a counter assembly 126. In the illustrated construction, the counter assembly 126 has a first side panel 400, a second side panel 404, a front panel 408, one or more lower panels 412, a countertop assembly 416, and a plurality of food pans 420 supported by the countertop assembly 416. It should be noted that the counter assembly 126 illustrated and discussed herein is merely exemplary and, in other constructions, may have any other suitable components and configurations. It should be noted that while in the illustrated construction the third product display arrangement 122c is a counter assembly 126, in other constructions, the third product display arrangement 122c may have another product display arrangement, such as a plurality of shelves having a configuration that is different than the first configuration shown in FIG. 1A or any other suitable product display arrangement. Moreover, in the instance in which a fourth product display arrangement is also used, it may be supported by case structure (e.g., the rear wall 108) and have any suitable components and configuration.
With reference to FIGS. 6-11, the first side panel 400 and the second side panel 404 are insulated panels and are supported by the rear wall 108 and the base 104. In particular, the first side panel 400 is supported by the first vertical support member 130a and the base 104, and the second side panel 404 is supported by the second vertical support member 130b and the base 104. The first and second side panels 400, 404 have the same construction, and although only the first side panel 400 is discussed in detail, the discussion thereof applies equally to the second side panel 404. The first side panel 400 is formed of three pieces in the illustrated construction. The first side panel 400 includes a first portion 450 (e.g., an outer portion), a second portion 454 (e.g., an inner portion) that is coupled to the first portion 450, and a third portion 458 (e.g., an insulative portion) that is positioned between the first portion 450 and the second portion 454. In the illustrated construction, the third portion 458 is formed from foam and therefore defines a foam slab. In other constructions, the third portion 458 may be formed from other insulative materials in lieu of or in addition to foam. In other constructions, the third portion 458 may be omitted such that the first and second panels 400, 404 may be uninsulated panels.
The first portion 450 includes a rectangular body 462 with a first or outer wall 464 and one or more side walls 465 that extend from the outer wall 464. In the illustrated construction, there are three side walls 465, but in other constructions the body 462 may have other configurations. Each of the sides walls 465 have a flange 466 extending therefrom. Collectively, the outer wall 464, the side walls 465, and the flanges 466 define a recess 470, which receives the third portion 458. One or more L-shaped hooks or projections 474 extend from a rear edge 490 of the body 462 of the first portion 450. The hooks 474 are configured to be received in respective apertures 138a of the first vertical support member 130a. The second portion 454 includes a second or inner wall 478, a first flange 482 extending in a first direction from the inner wall 478 and a second flange 486 extending in a second direction from the inner wall 478. The second portion 454 is positioned relative to the first portion 450 such that the inner wall 478 abuts a portion of each of the flanges 466 of the first portion 450 and the first flange 482 of the second portion 454 abuts the rear edge 490 of the first portion 450. The inner wall 478 and the first flange 482 of the second portion 454 enclose at least a portion of the recess 470. As shown, the first portion 450 and the second portion 454 cooperatively define a pocket therebetween. In the illustrated construction, the pocket receives the third portion 458, but in other constructions, the pocket may remain empty. Accordingly, the third portion 458 is sandwiched between the first portion 450 and the second portion 454. Moreover, the third portion 458 is sandwiched between the outer wall 464 and the inner wall 478. The second flange 486 is positioned adjacent a front edge 494 (e.g., a front side wall 465, FIG. 10) of the first portion 450 and extends therefrom. The first and second side panels 400, 404 are supported by the ledge 104a of the base 104.
The first and second panels 400, 404 are merely exemplary and may have other configurations than that discussed herein. For example, the first and second panels 400, 404 may be integrally formed as a single piece, with or without insulation. That is, in some constructions, the first and second panels 400, 404 may not be insulated and be integrally formed (rather than first and second portions 450, 454 coupled to one another) such that there is no pocket between the outer wall 464 and the inner wall 478. In other constructions, the first and second panels 400, 404 be integrally formed without insulation in the pocket between the outer wall 464 and the inner wall 478.
As shown in FIGS. 11-13, the lower panels 412 (also called baffle pans) are positioned between the first and second side panels 400, 404 and are supported by the third rear panel 150c and the base 104. In the illustrated construction there are two lower panels 412. In other constructions, there may be a single lower panel 412 or more than two lower panels 412. As shown, each of the lower panels 412 includes a body 500 that has a first wall or support wall 504, a plurality of side walls 505 extending form the support wall 504, a first flange 524 extending from one of the side walls 505 (e.g., a rear side wall), a second flange 528 extending from another of the sidewalls 505 (e.g., a front side wall), and a plurality of apertures 532 extending through the front side wall 505. As shown, the first flange 524 is spaced apart from and below the support wall 504. The first flange 524 is configured to be received in the channel 192c of the flange 188c of the third rear panel 150c such that a wall of the body 500 abuts a wall of flange 188a. The second flange 528 positioned below the support wall 504. In the illustrated construction, the second flange 528 is generally L-shaped. Each of the lower panels 412 is supported by the base 104. More specifically, a first portion of the second flange 528 rests on the base 104 (e.g., on the ledge 104a), and a second portion of the second flange 528 extends downward into the base 104 and abuts a rearward-facing wall 529 of the base 104. As best shown in FIG. 25, the apertures 532 are located adjacent the second flange 528 (toward a front of the base 104). As shown, the lower panels 412 are supported by and extend between the third rear panel 150c and the base 104. When assembled, a gap 530 exists between the lower panels 412 and a front of the base 104 (FIG. 13). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 25, the gap 530 exists between the front panel 408 and the second flanges 486 of the first and second side panels 400, 404. The support wall 504 of the lower panels 412 provide a platform for refrigerated backstock and the apertures 532 direct return airflow 250a into each lower panel 412. The airflow 250a exits the lower panels 412 into the first lower duct 224, as discussed above.
With reference to FIGS. 14-17 and 25, the front panel 408 is an insulated panel that is supported by the base 104 between the first and second side panels 400, 404. The front panel 408 is formed of three pieces in the illustrated construction. The front panel 408 includes a first portion 550 (e.g., an outer portion), a second portion 554 (e.g., an inner portion) that is coupled to the first portion 550, and a third portion 558 (e.g., an insulative portion) that is disposed between the first portion 550 and the second portion 554. In the illustrated construction, the third portion 558 is formed from foam and therefore defines a foam slab. In other constructions, the third portion 558 may be formed from other insulative materials in lieu of or in addition to foam. In other constructions, the third portion 558 may be omitted such that the front panel 408 may be uninsulated panels.
The first portion 550 includes a rectangular body 562 that defines a first or outer wall 566 and one or more side walls 567 that extend from the outer wall 566. In the illustrated construction, there are four side walls 567, but in other constructions the body 562 may have other configurations. One of the side walls 567 (e.g., a lower side wall) has a flange 572 extending therefrom. Collectively, the outer wall 566, the side walls 567, and the flange 572 define a recess 570, which receives the third portion 558. The second portion 554 includes a generally rectangular body 574 that defines a second or inner wall 578 and one or more side walls 579 extending from the inner wall 578. In the illustrated construction, there are four side walls 579, but in other constructions the body 574 may have other configurations. Collectively, the inner wall 566 and the side walls 579 define a recess 582. One of the side walls 579 (e.g., a lower side wall) has a flange 586 extending therefrom. The inner wall 578 of the second portion 554 is spaced apart from the outer wall 566 of the first portion 550 and the recesses 570, 582 are positioned adjacent to one another. The third portion 558 is positioned between the first portion 550 and the second portion 554 within the recesses 570, 582. The flange 586 of the second portion 554 is configured to be seated in a portion of the recess 570 and is configured to abut the flange 572 of the first portion 550. The lower side wall 579 of the body 574 of the second portion 554 defines a ledge 590, while the flange 586 of the second portion 554 and a lower portion of the first portion 550 collectively define a projection. The projection 594 is configured to be seated in the recess 274 in the base 104 that formerly received the first vertical member 270a and the ledge 590 of the second portion 554 abuts the base 104 (e.g., the ledge 104a). Additionally, the inner wall 578 of the second portion 554 abuts the second flanges 486 of the first and second side panel 400, 404 thereby preventing inward movement of the front panel and sealing the third portions 458 of each of the first and second side panels 400, 404. In the illustrated construction, a crumb tray 598 is coupled (e.g., by fasteners or a bridge/lance) to the inner wall 578 of the second portion 554.
With reference to FIGS. 19-24, the countertop assembly 416 includes a countertop 610, an insulative member 614, and a cover 618 that, together with the countertop 610, encloses the insulative member 614. The countertop 610 includes a generally rectangular body 626 with a top wall 630 and one or more side walls 631 extending from the top wall 630. A front flange 632 extends from one of the side walls 631 (e.g., a front side wall). A recess 634 is defined by the top wall 630, the side walls 631, and the flange 632. The top wall 630 includes an opening 636 extending therethrough. As shown, the food pans 420 are also included in the countertop assembly 416 and are positioned within the opening 636 and supported by edges of the top wall 630 that define the opening 636.
The body 626 is configured to be positioned on and supported by the first side panel 400, the second side panel 404, and the front panel 408. Specifically, the first side panel 400, the second side panel 404, and the front panel 408 are positioned within and sealed relative to the side walls 631. A rear flange 638 extends from a rear edge of the top wall 630 and includes holes 642 on opposite sides that align with holes (not shown) in the respective first and second vertical support members 130a, 130b. The aligned holes 642 may receive fasteners (not shown) therethrough to couple the countertop 610 to the rear wall 108. The fastener may be secured without tools. In some embodiments, the countertop 610 may be coupled to the rear wall 108 without fasteners and without tools. A front portion of the body 626 extends beyond the front panel 408. In the illustrated embodiment, the front portion includes a portion of the top wall 630, the front side wall 631, and the flange 632. The front portion supports the insulative member 614 (e.g., a foam slab or other insulative material) within a portion of the recess 634 and the cover 618 is coupled to the front portion (e.g., the flange 632). Together, the countertop 610, the cover 618, and the front panel 408 cooperate to enclose the insulative member 614. A plurality of apertures 646 (e.g., a grill) extends through the top wall 630 between the front portion and the opening 636. The crumb tray 598 is configured to be positioned below the grill 646, catches return grill debris, and is easily accessible, as will be discussed below. As shown, the front panel 408 is seated within the recess 634 between the grill 646 and the front portion. The outer wall 566 of the first portion 550 of the front panel 408 abuts the insulative member 614 of the front portion of the countertop 610. The insulated front portion isolates the grill and the product within the first air curtain 260a. Additionally, the front panel 408 is locked-in by a front portion of the countertop 610, the insulative member 614, and the second flanges 486 of the first and second side panels 400, 404. Moreover, the front panel 408 and side panels 400, 404 engage with and may seal to the bottom of countertop 610.
In the illustrated construction, the third product display arrangement 122c includes a guard 128 (e.g., a sneeze guard) that is supported by the rear wall 108 (e.g., the first and second vertical support members 130a, 130b) and suspended above the counter assembly 126. The guard 128 includes a frame 654 that defines an opening 666 and that supports a transparent portion 670 (e.g., a glass portion, window, etc.) over a portion of the opening 666. Accordingly, a portion of the opening 666 remains open to receive the refrigerated air of the first air curtain 260a for refrigerating the product in the food pans 420. The frame 654 includes one or more hooks or projections 674, 678 extending from opposite sides thereof. Each of the hooks 674, 678 are cooperatively received in one or more corresponding apertures 138a, 138b in respective vertical support member 130a, 130b such that the vertical support members 130a, 130b support the guard 128 relative to the rear wall 108 and product display area 116.
In the illustrated construction, the first airflow 250a in the first rear duct 154a is guided to the food pans 420 above and below the countertop 610 via the third configuration of the apertures 204c in the third rear panel 150c. Accordingly, the third configuration of apertures 204c includes rows of apertures 204c that extend across a width of the third rear panel 150c in the top two-thirds of the third rear panel 150c. In the illustrated construction, some of the rows are positioned below the countertop 610 to provide the first airflow 250a below the countertop 610 and some of the rows are positioned above the countertop 610. For example, the rows below the countertop 610 direct (e.g., a portion of the first airflow 250a along and/or under the pans 420), and the rows above the countertop 610 direct another portion of the first airflow 250a across the top of the countertop 610. The differences between the first product display arrangement 122a and the third product display arrangement 122c, in part, mean that the first airflow 250a is guided along one or more different airflow paths based on which of the first product display arrangement 122a and the third product display arrangement 122c is in use. As an example, the first airflow 250a is guided along the first airflow path (as noted above relative to FIG. 1A) to the product when the first product display arrangement 122a is installed in the merchandiser 10, and the first airflow 250a is guided along a third airflow path to the product when the third product display arrangement 122c is installed in the merchandiser 10. In this example, the first flow path and the third airflow path are different.
The refrigerated merchandiser of FIG. 1A having the first configuration including the first product display arrangement 122a (e.g., the first column of shelves 124a) and the second product display arrangement 122b (e.g., the second column of shelves 124b) may be converted quickly and easily to the refrigerated merchandiser of FIG. 1B having the second configuration with the second product display arrangement 122b (e.g., a single column of shelves 124b) and the third product display arrangement 122c (e.g., the counter assembly 126 and the guard 128). To this end, a user need only remove the first column of shelves 124a and the first rear panel 150a from the rear wall 108 (e.g., first and second vertical support members 130a, 130b). The shelves 124a are coupled to the rear wall 108 without fasteners and without tools. More specifically, the suspended shelves 124a engage the rear wall 108 via a fit and clip arrangement between respective hooks of the shelves 124a and apertures 138a, 138b of the vertical support members 130a, 130b. With reference to FIGS. 1A and 4A, the lowermost shelves 124a are supported, without fasteners, between the flange 188a of the rear wall 150a and the base 104. Accordingly, a user may remove the suspended shelves 124a by simply removing the hooks from the corresponding apertures 138a, 138b of the vertical support members 130a, 130b, and/or pulling the lowermost shelves 124a off the merchandiser 10.
With reference to FIGS. 4C and 4D, the rear panel 150a is coupled to the rear wall 108 without threaded or rivet-type fasteners and without tools. More specifically, the projections 196a, 200a of the rear panel 150a are engageable with the respective apertures 144a, 144b of the respective vertical support members 130a, 130b. Accordingly, a user may remove the rear panel 150a by disengaging the projections 196a, 200a thereof from the corresponding vertical support member 130a, 130b. A user may change the rear panel 150a by attaching the third rear panel 150c to the rear wall 108 (e.g., the first and second vertical support members 130a, 130b) before assembling the counter assembly 126 and the guard 150 as described herein. Like the rear panel 150a, the rear panel 150c is coupled to the rear wall 108 via engagement between the projections 196c, 200c and apertures 144a, 144b of the vertical support members 130a, 130b. The lower panels 412 are supported, without fasteners, between the flange 188a and the base 104.
With reference primarily to FIGS. 18 and 27A, the panels 400, 404 and the guard 128 are coupled to the rear wall 108 without threaded or rivet-type fasteners and without tools. More specifically, the panels 400, 404 and the guard 128 are supported by the rear wall 108 via hooks 474, 674 that are received in corresponding apertures 138a, 138b of the vertical support members 130a, 130b. Moreover, the panel 408 is coupled to the base 104 without fasteners and without tools. As shown, the panel 408 is supported, without fasteners, by the base 104 between the panels 400, 404. The countertop assembly 416 is supported by the panels 400, 404, 408 and the rear wall 108. In the illustrated construction, the countertop 610 includes a fastener to secure the countertop 610 to and prevent improper removal from the rear wall 108. In some constructions, the countertop 610 may be secured to the merchandiser 10 in other ways that do not include a fastener and do not involve tools.
The components of the case 100 and the first refrigeration system 214a can be used to support both configurations without having to use threaded fasteners or rivets (or similar fasteners necessitating the use of tools) for attachment of components to the case 100 and removal of components from the case 100. That is, the components of each of the first, second, and third product display arrangements 122a, 122b, 122c are attachable to and removable from the merchandiser 10 without threaded fasteners such that the user can easily interchange the merchandiser 10 between a variety of configurations. In this way, the case structure of the merchandiser 10 can be used to define different merchandising capability and different airflow paths based on the variety of configurations such that the same refrigeration system (e.g., the first and second refrigerated sections 210a, 210b) may be used to direct conditioned airflow to product supported by the various configurations. For purposes of the claims, the phrase “without fasteners” means that screws, bolts, rivets, or other fasteners that necessitate a tool for installation or removal. The phrase “without tools” means that conventional tools (e.g., screwdrivers, rivet guns, snips, impact drivers, etc.) are not necessary for replacement of one or more product display arrangements in the merchandiser 10.
In the illustrated construction, the refrigerated merchandiser 10 may be manufactured by first forming or assembling the base 104 and the rear wall 108 with the vertical support members 130a-130d and the rear panels 150a-150c. Additionally, the method includes operatively coupling a refrigeration system to the merchandiser 10 (e.g., at least partially supported by the base 104 and/or the rear wall 108). The method further includes providing the first product display arrangement 122a, the second product display arrangement 122c, and the third product display arrangement, each of which can be coupled to the rear wall 108 and supported in either of the refrigerated sections 210, 210b as a user sees fit.
Various additional features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Patent Application
20230414013
