Temporary Display Rack

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed embodiments relate generally to temporary display racks or stands that are free-standing and used, for instance, in retail stores to hold one or more particular products such as food products, cleaning products, health products, hardware products, and the like for a specific marketing campaign. Typically, the temporary display rack includes cardboard or similarly-disposable components printed with information and images specific to the marketing campaign and is designed with shelf spacing specific to the height of the products being displayed.

BACKGROUND

Supermarkets, home centers, and other retail establishments, may have temporary display racks or stands used to display food products, cleaning products, health products, hardware products, and other merchandise. Some racks of this type are typically constructed from permanent display materials such as wood, metal, and plastics. These displays are fairly costly to manufacture and ship, making them expensive to purchase and to deploy through Direct Store Delivery (DSD) systems. If they are shipped unassembled, substantial labor and the use of tools is generally required to erect them at the point of sale. Further, they are not easily recyclable and, therefore, are rarely recycled, ending up instead in landfills. Other display racks are made wholly or predominantly from corrugated paperboard on which advertising graphics are printed. In many instances, these display stands are produced with a combination of cardboard and internal metal supports that are complicated to put together. Furthermore, the merchants may not fill the temporary display racks with the appropriate items for the intended marketing campaign or may not place the products in the correct location on the shelves. As such, it is common for the temporary display racks to be put together offsite, filled with product, and then shipped to the retail establishment. Shipping in this manner induces wear and tear and sometimes causes damage to the temporary display before it even reaches the merchant. Also, the product being carried may be damaged or leak during shipment. Furthermore, this is a costly and inefficient way of shipping the product and the temporary display rack. Additionally, the product manufacturer or consumer package good company running the marketing campaign does not know when (or even if) the merchant places the temporary display in the retail establishment and activates the campaign.

It is also noted that when made wholly or predominantly from corrugated paperboard, a display rack of the type noted above tends to wick water from its lower edges so as to lose its structural integrity when a floor on which the display rack is standing is cleaned. Also, such a display rack tends damage easily at its lower edges if struck by a cleaning appliance. Additionally, the temporary display rack may carry as much as one hundred fifty pounds of displayed merchandise. Consequently, it can be very difficult to push, pull, or turn the display rack carrying displayed merchandise without stressing its lower edges and risking structural integrity damage.

It would be advantageous to provide a mechanism and method for providing a temporary display rack that would overcome the limitations discussed above.

SUMMARY

The embodiments of the invention(s) described herein overcome the various limitations and disadvantages described above. Specifically, the specification describes a temporary display rack wherein at least some of the components are constructed from recyclable material. The temporary display rack can be shipped flat and assembled quickly on site without requiring the use of tools. Furthermore, the temporary display rack described herein includes a mechanism to assist merchants in placing the desired products on the shelves in the desired position. The temporary display rack described herein also includes a mechanism for the product manufacturer or consumer package good company running the marketing campaign to receive feedback indicating when the marketing campaign is active at the merchant (e.g., when the temporary display rack has been unpacked, assembled, and/or placed on the retail floor with product.) The temporary display rack described herein also includes a mechanism that protects the bottom of the display rack from water and wear and tear. The temporary display rack described herein also includes a mechanism to allow movement of the temporary display rack without risking structural integrity damage.

The following presents a summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some of the aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some of the concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In one aspect of the disclosure, a temporary display rack is provided. The temporary display rack may be used for instance as a specialty display in a retail store for a limited time marketing campaign. The temporary display rack includes a chassis (e.g., a disposable chassis) which has at least two display panels affixed with display graphics and a scannable display code (e.g., a unique scannable display code) for retail activation. The temporary display rack also includes a plurality of shelves (e.g., disposable shelves) configured to be supported by the disposable chassis. The disposable chassis and the plurality of disposable shelves are typically made of a honeycombed cardboard material. In some embodiments, the shelves include one or more item codes that correspond to a particular item to be placed on that shelf or below the item code. The temporary display rack also includes a re-usable base that is configured to support the chassis and shelves. Typically, the re-useable base is made of plastic, and as such it can be kept and used with a new disposable chassis and a new plurality of disposable shelves for a new marketing campaign. In some instances the base also includes wheels.

Another aspect of the disclosure is a flat kit for a temporary display rack. The flat kit is foldable such that it can be shipped in a flat configuration. The flat kit includes a chassis (e.g., a hinged chassis) including a first side panel, a back panel, and a second side panel. The chassis also includes a first hinge apparatus connecting the first side panel to the back panel such that a planar surface of the first side panel at least partially overlaps and contacts a planar surface of the back panel in a folded position. The chassis further includes a second hinge apparatus connecting the second side panel to the back panel such that a planar surface of the second side panel at least partially overlaps and contacts a planar surface of the first side panel in a folded position. The flat kit also includes a plurality of shelves configured to be supported by the hinged chassis when unfolded and assembled. When the first and second side panels are in their respective folded positions, the hinged chassis is configured to be transportable along with the plurality of shelves as a flat kit for subsequent assembly into a temporary display rack. In some embodiments, the flat kit also includes a re-usable base configured to support the temporary display rack when assembled.

Another aspect of the disclosure is a method for assembling a display rack. A first side panel, a back panel, and a second side panel are each provided. Furthermore, a first hinge apparatus with a first flap having first adhesive material covered with a first removable backing is provided. The first backing is removed from the first flap. The first side panel is connected to the back panel via the first adhesive material of the first hinge. Similarly, a second hinge apparatus comprising a second flap having second adhesive material covered with a second removable backing is provided. The second backing is removed from the second flap. The second side panel is connected to the back panel via the second adhesive material of the second hinge. As such, a chassis is formed from the first side panel, the back panel, and the second side panel connected to one another via the first and second hinge apparatuses. One or more shelves are also provided. Each shelf of the one or more shelves is connected to the chassis. Typically, a respective shelf is connected to the chassis by inserting a tab on the shelf into a corresponding slot of the side or back panels of the chassis. In some embodiments, the shelves are attached to one or both of the side panels before the back panel is attached to the side panel and before the first and second hinges are attached to the back panel. In some embodiments, the chassis is also inserted into a re-usable base, which may have wheels via similar tabs and slots. In some embodiments, the assembly of the display rack may be performed in two minutes or less.

Thus, these mechanisms and methods provide new, less cumbersome, and more efficient ways to provide, ship, and assemble a temporary display rack.

Various embodiments of systems, methods, and devices within the scope of the appended claims each have several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes described herein. Without limiting the scope of the appended claims, some prominent features are described herein. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Description of Embodiments,” one will understand how the features of various embodiments are used.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the aforementioned aspects of the invention as well as additional aspects and embodiments thereof, reference should be made to the Description of Embodiments below, in conjunction with the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the figures.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a temporary display rack, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the disassembled components of a temporary display rack including, side panels, a back panel, shelves, a base with wheels, and a header piece, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary shelf including a plurality of tabs, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary side panel including a plurality of receiving slots, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary base with wheels, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a flat kit for a temporary display rack, in which the disassembled components of the temporary display rack are stacked together and inserted into a shipping box, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 7A and 7B include illustrations and instructions for a method of assembling a flat kit into a temporary display rack, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart representing a method of assembling a flat kit into a temporary display rack, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a perspective detailed view of a honeycomb material used to make the panels and shelves of the temporary display rack, in accordance with some embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components and methods have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another (e.g., first side panel and second side panel). For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without changing the meaning of the description, so long as all occurrences of the first element are renamed consistently and all occurrences of the second element are renamed consistently. The first element and the second element are both elements, but they are not the same element.

The terminology used in the description of the embodiments herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and/or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” as well as the terms “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “if” may be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to,” depending on the context.

Many of the components of the temporary display rack described below are made of recyclable (e.g., honeycomb cardboard) material and are held in an assembled relationship by inter-fitting tabs and receiving slots. These components are lightweight, particularly relative to their strength, are easy to transport, and are capable of being set-up within the retail environment in two minutes or less. The manner in which the various structural components and graphics panels fit together provides a distinct advantage in terms of structural performance and ease of assembly, permitting the display racks to be efficiently deployed in the retail environment.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a temporary display rack 100. In some embodiments, the temporary display rack 100 includes a chassis 102 having a first side panel 104, a second side panel 106, and a back panel 108. In other embodiments, more or fewer panels are included in the chassis 102. For instance, in some embodiments, the chassis 102 includes only the first side panel 104 and the second side panel 106 but not the back panel 108, as such, in this embodiment product placed on the temporary display rack 100 can be viewed from the front and the back of the rack. As illustrated in FIG. 1, some embodiments include a base 110, with wheels 112. The base 110 elevates the chassis 102 above a floor. The temporary display rack 100 also includes a plurality of shelves 114, which are configured to be supported by the components (e.g., the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and/or the back panel 108) of the chassis 102. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 1, some embodiments also include a header piece 116, which extends at least partially above the chassis 102. Typically, the header piece 116 is an optional and non-structural component used to display images, information, or advertising. In some embodiments, the header piece is thinner than the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and the back panel 108. In some embodiments, the header piece is configured to slide between a top shelf of the plurality of shelves 114 and the back panel 108. In some embodiments, after sliding the header piece between the top shelf and the back panel, the header piece extends above the top of the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and/or the back panel 108 (in this way, the header piece is visible at a greater distance and can be used to attract attention from consumers standing at some distance from the temporary display rack 100). In some embodiments, a plurality of temporary display racks 100 are configured to be attached to one another (e.g., hooked together) to create a display having a larger footprint, such as a half-pallet or full-pallet footprint.

Typically, the temporary display rack 100 includes a chassis 102 made of disposable material, i.e., it is a disposable chassis 102. As such, the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and the back panel 108 are made of a disposable material. Similarly, the shelves 114 are made of a similarly-disposable material, i.e., they are disposable shelves 114. In some embodiments, the disposable chassis 102 and the disposable shelves 114 are made of recyclable fiber-based materials such as containerboard or a honeycomb cardboard described in more detail with respect to FIG. 9.

In some embodiments, the chassis 102 and shelves 114 are affixed with display graphic 118 (i.e., the display graphics are either permanently affixed or temporarily/removably attached). In some embodiments, when assembled, the display graphics 118 (also referred to herein as graphics or graphic layer 118) cover substantially all of the exterior surface(s) of the first side panel 104 and the second side panel 106. In some embodiments, the back panel 108 has display graphics 118 only partially covering its exterior surface. In other embodiments, substantially all of or the majority of the back panel 108 is also affixed with display graphics 118 (i.e., the display graphics are either permanently affixed or temporarily/removably attached to the back panel). Similarly, in some embodiments, the shelves 114 are affixed with display graphics on substantially all of the showing assembled surfaces (i.e., the display graphics are either permanently affixed or temporarily/removably attached to the shelves). In other embodiments, only the top surface and/or top and front surfaces of the shelf are affixed with display graphics. In some embodiments, the display graphics are designed (or configured to) cover slots extending through the exterior surfaces of the back panel 108, first side panel 104, and/or second side panel 106. In this way, the exterior surfaces appear smooth and only the display graphic is visible, creating a pleasing and attractive aesthetic appearance on the exterior surfaces of the temporary display rack.

Utilizing the temporary display rack 100, products for sale to the general public are supported and displayed at the point of sale on the temporary display rack 100, placed in prominent locations of a retail establishment for maximum visibility and easy access to the product. Furthermore, in some embodiments, graphics are applied to the temporary display rack 100 to enhance visual attraction to the displayed product (as discussed above). The temporary display rack 100 is designed to support the weight of the displayed product and to withstand the rigors of prolonged use in a retail environment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the disassembled components of a temporary display rack 100, referred to herein as a flat kit 200 for a temporary display rack. The flat kit 200 is designed such that it can be shipped in a flat configuration. For instance, the components can be stacked on top of one another as illustrated in FIG. 6. As illustrated in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the flat kit 200 includes a hinged chassis 202 (e.g., the disposable chassis 102 discussed above is configured for storage as a hinged chassis 202) including a first side panel 104, a back panel 108, and a second side panel 106. The hinged chassis 202 also includes a first hinge apparatus 204a connecting the first side panel 104 to the back panel 108 such that a planar surface of the first side panel at least partially overlaps and contacts a planar surface of the back panel in a folded position (as illustrated in FIG. 6). The chassis further includes a second hinge apparatus 204b connecting the second side panel 106 to the back panel 108, such that a planar surface of the second side panel 106 at least partially overlaps and contacts a planar surface of the first side panel 104 in a folded position. In some embodiments, the hinged side panels are designed folded ‘backwards,’ so that when placed in a shipping box, the back panel 108 lies flat on the bottom of the box when the two side panels are folded and stacked above it. One advantage of this configuration is that the surfaces of the side and back panels that will be on the exterior surfaces when the temporary display rack is assembled are more protected during shipment. For instance, when only the assembled exterior surfaces are affixed with graphics, these graphics are protected from wear and tear by being folded in on one another during shipment.

The flat kit 200 also includes a plurality of shelves 114 configured to be supported by the hinged chassis 202 when unfolded and assembled. The number of shelves 114 provided with the flat kit 200 is dependent upon the size of the product(s) to be placed thereon. For instance, FIG. 2 illustrates four shelves 114, but as many shelves as there are receiving slots in the hinged chassis 202 could be provided. For instance, the hinged chassis 202 illustrated in FIG. 2 could support nine shelves 114. When the first and second side panels 104/106 are in their respective folded positions, the hinged chassis 202 is configured to be transportable along with the plurality of shelves 114 as a flat kit 200 for subsequent assembly into a temporary display rack 100.

In some embodiments, the flat kit 200 also includes a base 110 configured to support the temporary display rack 100 when assembled. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the base 110 may include wheels 112. Another optional component of the flat kit 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 is the header piece 116.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary shelf 114. The shelf 114 includes a front surface 304, a first side surface 306, a back surface 308, a second side surface 310, a top surface 312, and a bottom surface 314.

The shelf 114 includes a plurality of tabs 302. The tabs 302 are sized to substantially fill a corresponding receiving slot in a component of the chassis (e.g., a corresponding slot in the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and/or the back panel 108). As illustrated in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the shelf 114 has a plurality of tabs 302 on three of its sides. In other embodiments, the shelf 114 has at least one tab 302 on three of its sides (e.g., all the sides except for the front 304 of the shelf 114 when assembled). In still other embodiments, the shelf 114 has at least one tab 302 on two of its sides. As discussed with respect to FIG. 10, the shelf 114 is typically a disposable shelf 114 made of recyclable fiber-based materials such as containerboard or a honeycomb cardboard with a thickness of ¾ of an inch. In some embodiments, the shelf 114 is configured to support at least 45 lbs. As illustrated in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the tabs 302 are integrally formed with the shelf 114 and thus are of substantially the same thickness as the shelf 114. In some embodiments, the shelf 114 is affixed with a graphic layer 118 on substantially all of its surfaces. In some embodiments, the graphic layer 118 that is affixed to the shelf 114 indicates a desired arrangement of product on the shelf (i.e., a particular organization of products, such as organizing the product in three rows and four columns by following instructions on the graphic layer 118). In other embodiments the graphics are affixed on substantially all of the showing assembled surfaces of the shelf 114. For instance, in some embodiments, the graphics layer 118 is not affixed to the tabs 302, because the graphics do not show when the shelf 114 is assembled. In some embodiments, substantially all of the top surface 312 and/or top 312 and front 304 surfaces of the shelf are affixed with a graphics layer 118, but the bottom 314, first side 306, back surface 308, second side surface 310, and all surfaces of the tabs 302 are not affixed with a graphic layer 118. In some embodiments, a minority of the first side 306, back surface 308, second side surface 310 are affixed with graphics. For instance, a portion of these surfaces may be affixed with graphics in order to secure the graphics to the top surface 312 and front surface 304.

In some embodiments, the shelf 114 also includes one or more item codes 316 affixed (or removably attached) thereon. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 3, three item codes 316 are affixed to the shelf 114. In some embodiments, the item codes 316 are included in the graphics layer 118 affixed to the shelf 114. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the item codes 316 are separately affixed to the graphics on the shelf 114 (e.g., via separate stickers.) In some embodiments, a respective item code 316 corresponds to a UPC code for a product to be placed on the corresponding disposable shelf. For instance, in some embodiments, the item code 316 includes price information regarding the product. In some embodiments, the product code provides manufacture and/or distributor information. In some embodiments, when scanned, the item code 316 provides appropriate information to create and print a price label for the shelf and/or for each product.

In some embodiments, the placement of a respective item code 316 indicates the location of placement of a corresponding product on the shelf 114 (in some embodiments, the respective item code 316 is used in conjunction with the display graphic 118, in order to identify appropriate product placement). For instance, the item codes 316 in FIG. 3 indicate that three columns of corresponding product should be placed on this shelf (e.g., one column of corresponding product behind each item code). In some embodiments, an item code 316 is associated with a custom planogram indicating correct product placement on the temporary display rack. For example, a respective item code 316 (or one or more item codes 316) is affixed to a respective shelf of the plurality of shelves and the respective item code 316 is associated with a planogram used to determine correct product placement on the respective shelf. In some embodiments, the item codes 316 are displayed on the front surface 304 of the shelf 114, rather than on the top surface 312, and can still be used to guide product placement (e.g., each shelf includes a different planogram to guide product placement). Thus, one of the benefits of using the item codes 316 is that they provide the retailer with visual guides for product placement. This enhances the overall execution of merchandising of a product (e.g., the right product ends up in the right place.) Also, the Consumer Packaging Good Company (CPG) benefits by ensuring that its product is being merchandised according to its respective plan and campaign. Furthermore, the company that produces and delivers the temporary display rack directly assists in creating a merchandising program tied to the calendar (i.e., a merchandising program that changes throughout the calendar year, such as a merchandising program that changes the products displayed in the temporary display rack based on upcoming holidays) with the display vehicle (e.g., the temporary display rack) used on the merchant's floor for the defined sales period before being recycled.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary side panel, such as the second side panel 106 of FIGS. 1 and 2, although the description below applies generally to both the first side panel 104 and the back panel 108 as well. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the side panel 106 includes a bottom surface 404, a first side surface 406, a top surface 408, a second side surface 410, an interior surface 412 (e.g., the surface of the panel 106 that faces inwardly when the temporary display rack is assembled), and an exterior surface 414 (e.g., the surface of the panel 104 that faces outwardly when the temporary display rack is assembled).

The side panel 106 also includes a plurality of receiving slots 402. Each receiving slot 402 is sized to snugly receive a tab of a shelf 114 (See, e.g., tabs 302 of shelf 114, FIG. 3). The side panel 106 generally has a plurality of columns of receiving slots 402, although some embodiments include only one column of receiving slots 402. The side panel 106 generally also has a plurality of rows of receiving slots 402. In some embodiments, the rows are vertically spaced 4 inches from one another. In some embodiments, when the flat kit 200 is provided, the side panel 106 provided has at least enough rows of receiving slots 402 to receive the number of provided shelves 114 (e.g., the nine rows of receiving slots 402 of side panel 106 receive nine shelves 114). In other embodiments, the side panel 106 includes more rows of receiving slots 402 than the number of shelves 114 provided in the flat kit 200. As such, the design of side panel 106 allows for various configurations of shelf heights depending on the size and shape of the product to be displayed. Thus, shelves of the temporary display rack, in accordance with these other embodiments, can be adjusted and re-configured during the course of a marketing campaign. Furthermore, a benefit of this flexible side panel design 106 is that one consistent design can be used for many different products in different marketing campaigns.

In some embodiments, for instance when the temporary display rack includes a base 110, the side panel 106 also includes one or more tabs 420. The tab(s) 420 are sized to substantially fill a corresponding receiving slot in the base 110 (See, e.g., receiving slots 502 of base 110, FIG. 5).

As discussed with respect to FIG. 10, the side panel 106 is typically a disposable side panel 106 made of recyclable fiber-based materials such as containerboard or a honeycomb cardboard with a thickness of ¾ of an inch. As illustrated in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the tabs 420 are integrally formed with the side panel 106 and thus are of substantially the same thickness as the shelf 114. Similarly, in some embodiments, the receiving slots 402 extend through the side panel 106 and thus are approximately ¾ of an inch in depth.

In some embodiments, the side panel 106 is affixed with graphics on substantially all of the exterior surface 414. In preferred embodiments, the graphics are printed on a graphic layer 118 that covers the receiving slots 402 such that the exterior of the side panel 106 appears to have a smooth, unblemished, solid face for displaying graphics. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the graphic layer 118 covers the top surface 408, the front surface (which is the second side surface 410 in FIG. 4), and at least a portion of the interior surface 412. In some embodiments, the graphic layer 118 affixed to the interior surface 412 of the side panel 106 includes shelf placement indications 416, indicating where each of the plurality of disposable shelves 114 should be placed. For instance, in some embodiments, the graphics layer 118 is cut away to indicate where the shelves 114 should be placed. In some embodiments, the notches are of the height of the shelf 114 such that when the shelf 114 is in the proper place the notch is not visible in the assembled temporary display rack 100. In other embodiments, the shelf placement indication 416 is printed in a different color or printed with instructional arrows or similar indicators of where the shelves 114 should be placed. As illustrated to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the bottom surface 404 and any tabs 420 extending therefrom are not affixed with graphics.

In some embodiments, the side panel 106 includes at least one display code 418. The display code 418 is typically a unique scannable display code used for retail activation. For instance, in some embodiments, it is a program-specific universal product code (“UPC”). Although FIG. 4 illustrates the display code 418 located on the second side panel 106, in other embodiments, the display code 418 is provided on a different portion of the chassis 102, such as the first panel 104 or the back panel 108. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the display code 418 is placed on the interior surface 412 of the side panel. In some embodiments, the code is placed in a location that is not visible until the flat kit 200 has been removed from its shipping container and has been at least partially assembled. By ensuring that the display code is not visible until the temporary display rack is at least partially assembled, the retailer (e.g., the retailer supplying the temporary display rack and coordinating the corresponding merchandising campaign) is assured that scanning of the display code 418 more reliably indicates that the merchant is in compliance with the merchandising campaign.

In some embodiments, the display code 418 is included in the graphics affixed to the side panel 106. In other embodiments it is separately affixed to the side panel 106 or to the graphics on the side panel 106 (e.g., via separate sticker.) In some embodiments, the unique scannable display code 418 provides information regarding a marketing campaign associated with one or more products that are to be placed on the temporary display rack. In some embodiments, when scanned, the display code 418 provides information regarding campaign activation to an entity (e.g., a retailer) distinct from a merchant in possession of the temporary display rack. For instance, after scanning, information may be communicated to the manufacturer, to the CPG, or to the entity that produced and/or delivered the temporary display rack to the merchant. Thus, these external entities are notified that the program has started or is being executed by the merchant. One of the benefits of the display code 418 is that the retailer can gain visibility into specific store execution. Furthermore, the retailer receives proof of merchandising compliance. Generally, compliance improves merchandising success, which results in increased product sales. Also, with proof of execution, the CPG can assist with in-store labor associated with setting up and stocking the display, which results in decreased labor costs to the merchant. Furthermore, when the display code 418 is scanned, the CPG has evidence of the merchandising display being activated, which allows for a more predictable return on investment (ROI). Furthermore, the company that produces and/or delivers the temporary display rack also receives access to store-level execution information, which allows the company to generate service fees to manage the CPG's costs and labor credits.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary base 110, in accordance with some embodiments. The base 110 is configured to support everything above it, e.g., the disposable chassis 102, shelves 114, and any product(s) displayed thereon. In some embodiments, the base 110 is a re-usable base 110. For instance, in some embodiments, the re-usable base is made of wood or plastic/polymer. In some embodiments, the base 110 is molded from a suitable polymer, such as nylon 6/6 or high-impact polystyrene, preferably in one piece or alternatively in plural pieces welded or joined adhesively, via rivets, or via other fasteners. As such, typically a re-usable base 110 is shipped to a merchant along with the chassis components and shelves in a first flat kit 200 as a part of a first marketing campaign. Then the re-usable base 110 is used, for subsequent marketing campaigns (or for a new phase of a current marketing campaign), with additional flat kits 200 (e.g., flat kits that are distinct from the first flat kit) that are shipped without a new base. In some embodiments, the additional flat kits 200 include new display graphics or new items codes to apply to the temporary display rack. In these embodiments, the new display graphics or new item codes provide updated instructions for product arrangement on the temporary display rack. In other embodiments, each additional flat kit includes one or more of: a new first side panel, a new second side panel, a new back panel, a new header piece, new display graphics, and/or new item codes. In this way, the specific store in which the temporary display rack is located can quickly and easily re-assemble or re-configure the temporary display rack.

In preferred embodiments, the re-usable base 110 further includes a plurality of wheels 112. Typically, one wheel 112, or one set of wheels 112, is mounted under each corner of the base 110, as shown in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the wheels 112 are multi-directional such that they facilitate movement of the temporary display rack 100 (even when loaded with product) in any direction along the floor. In some embodiments, the wheels 112 or wheel sets 112 are each mounted on a swivel caster rotatable about an axis substantially perpendicular to the floor upon which the wheels rest. Typically, the wheels 112 are mounted to the rotatable caster via an axle pin so as to be freely rotatable about a generally horizontal axis defined by the axle pin. The entire wheel assembly is secured to the base 110 via rivets, other fasteners, or adhesively. In some embodiments, each wheel 112 is molded from a suitable polymer, such as nylon 6/6 or high-impact polystyrene, preferably in one piece or alternatively in two halves welded or joined adhesively. In some embodiments, steel pins or other fasteners are preferred for the axle pins.

In most embodiments, the base 110 also includes one or more receiving slots 502 substantially sized to snugly receive a tab 420 of a component of the chassis 102 (e.g., the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, or the back panel 108). For instance, when the chassis components are made of honeycomb cardboard having a thickness of ¾ of an inch and tabs 420 integrally formed thereon, then the receiving slots 502 of the base 110 will also have a thickness of ¾ of an inch.

As illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 5, the base 110 is equipped with four wheels 112. The base 110 is arranged to elevate the temporary display rack 100 above a floor by a few inches so as to reduce structural integrity damage due to water wicking from the lower edges of the temporary display rack 100, cleaning appliances striking the temporary display rack 100, or both. The wheels 112 are designed to resist accidental movement of the temporary display rack 100, as along the floor, but to facilitate manual pushing, pulling, or turning movement of the temporary display rack 100 along the floor.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a flat kit 200 (e.g., a first flat kit or an additional flat kit that includes one or more of the components of the flat kit 200) for a temporary display rack 100 in which one or more of the disassembled components of the temporary display rack 100 are stacked together and inserted into a shipping box 602, in accordance with some embodiments. The flat kit 200 is foldable such that it can be shipped in a flat configuration. The flat kit 200 includes a chassis 102 including a first side panel 104, a back panel 108, and a second side panel 106. In some embodiments, the chassis 102 is a hinged chassis 202, which also includes a first hinge apparatus connecting the first side panel 104 to the back panel 108 such that a planar surface of the first side panel 104 at least partially overlaps and contacts a planar surface of the back panel in a folded position. In some embodiments, the hinged chassis 202 further includes a second hinge apparatus connecting the second side panel 106 to the back panel 108 such that a planar surface of the second side panel at least partially overlaps and contacts a planar surface of the first side panel in a folded position. In other embodiments, the first and second hinges are not connected to the components of the chassis 102 during shipment, or are connected to only one chassis component and are then connected to the other component(s) during assembly as illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B either adhesively, with hook and loop fasteners, or with other suitable attachment mechanisms.

The flat kit 200 also includes a plurality of shelves 114 configured to be supported by the chassis 102 when unfolded and assembled. When the first and second side panels (e.g., first side panel 104 and second side panel 106) are in their respective folded and/or stacked positions, the chassis 102/202 is configured to be transportable along with the plurality of shelves 114 as a flat kit 200 for subsequent assembly into a temporary display rack 100. In some embodiments, the flat kit 200 also includes a header piece 116 used to display images, information, or advertising. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the header piece 116 is typically thinner than the other components, thus making it lighter and easier to ship. For instance, in some embodiments, during the approximately three month life of a typical marketing campaign (or of a particular seasonal phase of an on-going marketing campaign) using the temporary display rack 100, a new header piece (and/or new display graphics) is shipped each month to update the campaign for a current season or marketing campaign focus. The header piece 116 is typically also disposable and made of recyclable materials. In some embodiments, the header piece 116 may be made of corrugated cardboard covered on both sides with a graphic display layer 118. Typically, the header piece includes one or more tabs 604 configured to slide between a top shelf 114 and the back panel 108 of the assembled temporary display rack 100. In some embodiments, the header piece 116 includes, on its back side, a removable twin stick back or hook-and-loop fasteners which secure the header 116 to the back panel 108 during assembly. Although not illustrated in FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the flat kit 200 also includes a re-usable base 110 configured to support the temporary display rack when assembled.

FIGS. 7A and 7B include illustrations and instructions for a method of assembling a flat kit 200 into a temporary display rack 100 in accordance with some embodiments.

As illustrated in FIG. 7A, in the first illustrated step (702), the second side panel 106 is laid down so that its printed side faces the floor. It is noted that in some embodiments, the side panels 104/106 can be distinguished from the back panel 108 because they are narrower than the back panel 108. Then, in some embodiments, one or more adjustable shelves 114 are inserted into the second panel 106. When a shelf 114 is only covered with a graphic display layer 118 on one side, then the unprinted side of the shelf faces toward the tabs 420 on the bottom side of the second side panel 106. In some embodiments, the adjustable shelves 114 are inserted into the second side panel 106 according to shelf placement indications 416.

In the second illustrated step (704), the first side panel 104 is placed onto the tabs 302 of the shelves 114 so that the tabs 302 are received snugly into the corresponding receiving slots 402 in the first panel 104. In some embodiments, in order to make sure that the shelves will be substantially horizontal to the floor when upright, the user should also check that the shelves are inserted into the first side panel 104 in accordance with the shelf placement indications 416.

In the third illustrated step (706), the semi-assembled temporary display rack is turned so that its front faces the floor. Then the back panel 108 is placed onto the tabs 302 of the shelves 114 so that the tabs 302 are received snugly into the corresponding receiving slots 402 in the back panel 108.

The method continues in FIG. 7B. In the fourth illustrated step (708), the first side panel 104 and the second side panel 106 both include a pre-assembled hinge apparatus, each having a flap with a removable backing that protects an adhesive material. In this step, the first backing is removed from the first flap. The first side panel 104 is connected to the back panel 108 via the first adhesive material of the first hinge 204a. Likewise, the second backing is removed from the second flap. The second side panel 106 is connected to the back panel 108 via the second adhesive material of the second hinge 204b. The first and second adhesive materials are pressed down firmly onto the back panel 108 to ensure that the adhesives are secure. One benefit of assembling the shelves 114 inside the chassis 102 (comprising the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and the back panel 108 in this embodiment) is that the first and second hinges 204 are adhered (either permanently or removably) to the back panel 108 in its assembled configuration, allowing the hinges 204 to make a tight and secure corner for the assembled temporary display rack 100.

In the fifth illustrated step (710), an optional base 110 having wheels 112 is provided. The bottom tabs 420 of the chassis (comprising bottom tabs 420 from the first side panel 104, the second side panel 106, and the back panel 108 in this embodiment) are each inserted so that the bottom tabs 420 are received snugly into the corresponding receiving slots 502 in the base 110. In some embodiments, the bottom tabs 420 are of substantially the same width as the tabs 302 and the bottom tabs 420 are longer than the tabs 302.

In the sixth illustrated step (712), an optional header 116 is provided. The header 116 is inserted into a slot at the back edge of the top shelf 114, between the top shelf 114 and the back panel 108. Then, in some embodiments, twin-stick backing is removed from the back side of the header and pressed onto the back panel 108 to secure the header 116. Finally, the assembled temporary display rack 100 is loaded with one or more types of product onto its shelves 114 and the temporary display rack may be moved into its display position.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart representing a method of assembling 800 a flat kit 200 into a temporary display rack 100, in accordance with some embodiments.

First, a chassis is provided (802). In some embodiments, the chassis includes a first side panel, a back panel, and a second side panel (804). In some embodiments, the first side panel includes a first plurality of slots, the second side panel includes a second plurality of slots, and the back panel includes a third plurality of slots. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third pluralities of slots each contain the same number of slots. For example, the first, second, and third pluralities of slots are arranged in nine rows and two columns, such that each row includes two slots each, for a total of eighteen slots. In some embodiments, the first plurality of slots and the second plurality of slots are in substantially the same x-y positions (i.e., each slot on the first side panel has the same Cartesian coordinates as a corresponding slot on the second side panel) on the first and second side panels, respectively. Stated another way, in some embodiments, the first and second pluralities of slots are mirror images of one another.

In some embodiments, the chassis also includes a first hinge apparatus and a second hinge apparatus (806). In some embodiments, the first hinge apparatus is attached to the first side panel and includes a first flap having first adhesive material covered with a first removable backing. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second hinge apparatus is attached to the second side panel and includes a second flap having second adhesive material covered with a second removable backing. In other embodiments, the first and second hinge apparatuses are both attached to the back panel.

In some embodiments, the first backing is removed from the first flap (808). Then the first side panel is connected to the back panel via the first adhesive material of the first hinge (810). In some embodiments, the second backing is removed from the second flap (812). The second side panel is connected to the back panel via the second adhesive material of the second hinge (814). As such, a chassis is formed from the first side panel, the back panel, and the second side panel connected to one another via the first and second hinge apparatuses. In other embodiments the first and second hinge apparatuses are already attached to the side panels and the back panel such that the chassis is erected simply by unfolding the side panels from the back panel (in these other embodiments, the flat kit used to ship the components of the temporary display rack included first and second hinges that were already attached to the side panels). In still other embodiments, the hinges are not attached to either of the side panels or the back panels. In these embodiments, the hinges are attached to the temporary display rack after the chassis components are secured to the shelves (e.g., the hinges are a standalone component that is used to secure or couple the side panels to/with the back panel).

One or more shelves are also provided (816). Each shelf of the one or more shelves is connected to the chassis (818). Typically, a respective shelf is connected to the chassis by inserting a tab on the shelf into a corresponding slot in one or more of the side or back panels of the chassis. It is noted that in some embodiments, the one or more shelves are inserted into the components of the chassis (e.g., the two side panels and/or the back panel).

In some embodiments, a base (which may be re-useable and may have wheels) is also provided, and the chassis is inserted into (i.e., connected to) the base, via similar tabs and slots to the mechanism used to inset the shelves into the chassis (820). In some embodiments, the tabs and slots used to connect the base to the chassis are larger than (e.g., are of substantially the same width, but are longer than) the tabs and slots used to insert the shelves into the chassis. In some embodiments, the base includes a fourth plurality of slots (e.g., the third plurality contains a number of slots that is distinct from the number of slots contained in the first, second, and third pluralities of slots). In some embodiments, each slot of the fourth plurality of slots is configured to receive one of the tabs of the first side panel, the second side panel, or the back panel. In some embodiments, the slots in the fourth plurality of slots have at least one dimension that differs from the dimensions of the slots in the first, second, and third pluralities of slots (e.g., the slots in the fourth plurality of slots are longer (have substantially the same width and also have a larger length dimension)).

In some embodiments, a header piece is also provided, and is connected to the chassis (822). Typically, connecting the header to the chassis is accomplished by inserting one or more tabs of the header between a top shelf and the back panel of the assembled temporary display rack 100. In some embodiments, the header piece is also affixed to the back panel by a removable twin-stick back on its back side or by hook and loop or other suitable fasteners. In some embodiments, the assembly of the display rack is completed in less than two minutes.

After assembly, the display code is scanned for retail activation and the item code(s) are scanned (824). In some embodiments, scanning the display code causes information regarding a marketing campaign associated with one or more products that are to be placed on the temporary display rack to be transmitted to the manufacturer, to the CPG, or to the entity that produced and/or delivered the temporary display rack to the merchant (as discussed in more detail above). In some embodiments, scanning the item code(s) allows the merchant to create and print a price label for the shelf and/or for each product.

Finally, the display rack is stocked with appropriate products (826). For instance, the product(s) associated with the item code(s) are placed on and/or behind the item codes or are placed according to a planogram associated with the item code(s). Finally, the temporary display rack is placed in the merchant's display room. For instance, in some embodiments, it may be moved into position using the wheels on the base.

FIG. 9 is a perspective detailed view of a honeycomb material 900 used to make the panels (e.g., side panels 104 and 106 and back panel 108) and shelves 114 of the temporary display rack 100, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the honeycomb material 900 is disposable. For instance, in some embodiments, it is made of recyclable fiber-based materials. Thus, these components can be recycled by using existing fiber recycling supply chains at retailers or by using a vendor's internal supply chains. In some embodiments, the honeycomb cardboard material 900 components are each approximately ¾ of an inch thick, as opposed to more traditional corrugated cardboard which is typically approximately ⅛ of an inch thick. In some embodiments, the components are made of a honeycomb cardboard 900 material having a thickness of at least half an inch. In some embodiments, the honeycomb cardboard 900 consists of a top layer 902, a bottom layer 904, and a honeycomb shaped internal layer 906, wherein each honeycomb cell has a hexagonal cross section. This honeycomb material 900 allows the components of the temporary display rack 100 to be stronger and lighter than a corresponding corrugated cardboard component. For instance, in some embodiments, each shelf 114 of the disclosed design is capable of supporting 45 lbs. Additionally, the honeycomb cardboard capable of supporting 45 lbs. weighs approximately 30% less than a corresponding corrugated cardboard component. As such, the components are not only cheaper to ship, but are also easier to recycle and even require less paper for their initial construction, which consequently leaves a smaller carbon footprint.

The above description, for explanatory purposes, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Various modifications may be made in the embodiments described above without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention. Thus, as an example, the temporary display rack equipped with the respective base and with the respective wheels may be generally of any size, shape, or style capable of displaying product in a retail environment.

Temporary Display Rack

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