U.S. patent application number 10/440948 was filed with the patent office on 2003-12-04 for dining unit.
Invention is credited to Muenzberg, Daniel G..
Application Number | 20030221913 10/440948 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29550152 |
Filed Date | 2003-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030221913 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Muenzberg, Daniel G. |
December 4, 2003 |
Dining unit
Abstract
A preferred embodiment of a dining unit includes a first case
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving food products.
The first case includes at least one of a tray and a shelf. The
dining unit also includes a second and a third case for at least
one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the food
products. The second and third cases each have a substantially
wedge-shaped planform, and the first case is positioned between the
second and third cases.
Inventors: |
Muenzberg, Daniel G.;
(Philadelphia, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WOODCOCK WASHBURN LLP
ONE LIBERTY PLACE, 46TH FLOOR
1650 MARKET STREET
PHILADELPHIA
PA
19103
US
|
Family ID: |
29550152 |
Appl. No.: |
10/440948 |
Filed: |
May 19, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60381613 |
May 17, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
186/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 10/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
186/42 |
International
Class: |
E04H 003/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A dining unit, comprising: a first and a second case for at
least one of holding, displaying, and serving food products, the
first and second cases each comprising at least one of a tray and a
shelf; and a third case for at least one of holding, displaying,
and serving others of the food products and having a substantially
wedge-shaped planform, wherein the third case comprises a shelf and
is positioned between the first and second cases.
2. The dining unit of claim 1, wherein the third case has a first
side panel, and a second side panel angled in relation to the first
side panel by an acute angle.
3. The dining unit of claim 2, wherein an end of the first case
abuts the first side panel of the third case, an end of the second
case abuts the second side panel of the third case so that the
first and second cases extend in substantially non-parallel
directions.
4. The dining unit of claim 2, wherein the acute angle is
approximately forty-five degrees.
5. The dining unit of claim 1, further comprising: a fourth case
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the
food products, the fourth case comprising a shelf and having a
substantially wedge-shaped planform; and a truss system comprising
a first support pole mounted on the third case, a second support
pole mounted on the fourth case, and a truss mechanically coupled
to the first and second support poles.
6. The dining unit of claim 5, wherein the first case is positioned
between the third and fourth cases, and the truss system secures
the third case in position in relation to the second case and
thereby inhibits movement of the first case.
7. The dining unit of claim 5, further comprising means for
mechanically coupling the truss to the first and second support
poles.
8. The dining unit of claim 5, further comprising a bracket
mechanism for mechanically coupling the truss to the first support
pole and comprising a substantially v-shaped bracket fixedly
coupled to one of the truss and the first support pole, a pocket
member fixedly coupled to the other of the truss and the first
support pole and substantially conforming to an end of the bracket,
wherein the pocket member receives the end of the bracket and
engagement of the pocket member and the bracket inhibits movement
of the pocket member in relation to the bracket.
9. The dining unit of claim 5, wherein: the third case comprises a
top panel having a bore formed therein; an end of the first support
pole is positioned within in the bore formed in the top panel of
the third case; the fourth case comprises a top panel having a bore
formed therein; and an end of the second support pole is positioned
within the bore formed in the top panel of the second case.
10. The dining unit of claim 5, further comprising lighting
suspended from the truss.
11. The dining unit of claim 5, further comprising one or more
signs fixedly coupled to at least one of the first and second
support poles and the truss.
12. The dining unit of claim 1, further comprising a backdrop
comprising a frame, and a display secured to the frame.
13. The dining unit of claim 5, further comprising a light mounted
on a top of one of the first and second support poles.
14. The dining unit of claim 1, where the first case is a beverage
and tray module.
15. The dining unit of claim 14, where the beverage and tray module
comprises a hot food cart and a beverage cart.
16. The dining unit of claim 1, where the second case is a cold
food and sandwich module.
17. The dining unit of claim 16, where the cold food and sandwich
module comprises a refrigerated cart and a cold food cart.
18. The dining unit of claim 2, where the first side panel has an
access opening formed therein, and the third case further comprises
a door for selectively covering the access opening.
19. The dining unit of claim 2, wherein the third case further
comprises a top panel, and the top panel and the shelf each adjoin
the first and second side panels and are substantially wedge
shaped.
20. The dining unit of claim 2, wherein the third case further
comprises a rear panel adjoining the first and second side panels,
the top panel, and the shelf.
21. The dining unit of claim 1, wherein the dining unit has a
substantially v-shaped planform.
22. The dining unit of claim 5, further comprising: a fifth case
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving food products
and comprising at least one of a tray and a shelf; and a sixth case
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the
food products, the sixth case comprising a shelf and having a
substantially wedge-shaped planform, wherein the fifth case is
positioned between the third and the sixth cases.
23. The dining unit of claim 22, wherein the first and fifth cases
extend in substantially the same direction.
24. The dining unit of claim 24, further comprising a seventh case
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the
food products, the seventh case comprising a shelf and having a
substantially wedge-shaped planform, wherein the fifth case is
positioned between the sixth and seventh cases.
25. The dining unit of claim 24, wherein the truss system further
comprises a third support pole mounted on the sixth case, a fourth
support pole mounted on the seventh case, a second of the trusses
mechanically coupled to the first and third support poles, and a
third of the trusses mechanically coupled to the third and the
fourth support poles.
26. The dining unit of claim 1, wherein an end of the first case is
mechanically coupled to a first side panel of the third case, and
an end of the second case is mechanically coupled to a second side
panel of the third case.
27. A modular assembly, comprising: a first and a second elongated
module for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving food
products and each comprising at least one of a tray and a shelf;
and a corner module for at least one of holding, displaying, and
serving others of the food products and comprising a shelf, and a
first and a second side panel each adjoining the shelf, wherein the
second side panel is angled in relation to the first side panel by
an acute angle, an end of the first elongated module abuts the
first side panel, and an end of the second elongated module abuts
the second side panel so that the first and second modules extend
in substantially non-parallel directions.
28. The assembly of claim 27, wherein the corner module has a
substantially wedge-shaped planform.
29. The assembly of claim 27, further comprising; another of the
corner modules, a first side panel of the other of the corner
modules abutting another end of the first elongated module; and a
truss system comprising a first support pole mounted on one of the
corner modules, a second support pole mounted on the other of the
corner modules, and a truss mechanically coupled to the first and
second support poles.
30. The assembly of claim 29, further comprising means for
mechanically coupling the truss to the first and second support
poles.
31. The assembly of claim 27, wherein the corner module further
comprises a top panel, and the top panel and the shelf are
substantially wedge shaped.
32. A dining unit, comprising: a first case for at least one of
holding, displaying, and serving food products and comprising at
least one of a tray and a shelf, and a second and a third case for
at least one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the food
products, the second and third cases each having a substantially
wedge-shaped planform, wherein the first case is positioned between
the second and third cases.
33. The dining unit of claim 32, wherein the second and third cases
each have a first side panel, and a second side panel angled in
relation to the first side panel by an acute angle.
34. The dining unit of claim 33, wherein the acute angle is
approximately 45 degrees.
35. The dining unit of claim 32, further comprising a truss system
comprising a first support pole mounted on the second case, a
second support pole mounted on the third case, and a truss
mechanically coupled to the first and second support poles.
36. The dining unit of claim 35, wherein the truss system secures
the second case in position in relation to the third case and
thereby inhibits movement of the first case.
37. The dining unit of claim 35, further comprising means for
mechanically coupling the truss to the first and second support
poles.
38. The dining unit of claim 35, further comprising a bracket
mechanism for mechanically coupling the truss to the first support
pole, the bracket mechanism comprising a pocket member fixedly
coupled to one of the truss and the first support pole, and a
substantially v-shaped bracket fixedly coupled to the other of the
truss and the first support pole, wherein the pocket member
receives an end of the bracket.
39. The dining unit of claim 35, further comprising a sign fixedly
coupled to one of the first support pole and the truss.
40. The dining unit of claim 32, where the first case is one of a
beverage and tray module and a cold food and sandwich module.
41. The dining unit of claim 32, wherein the second and the third
cases each further comprise a top panel, and the top panel and the
shelf each adjoin the first and second side panels and are
substantially wedge shaped.
42. The dining unit of claim 41, wherein the second and the third
cases each further comprise a rear panel adjoining the first and
second side panels, the top panel, and the shelf.
43. A modular assembly, comprising: an elongated module for at
least one of holding, displaying, and serving food products and
comprising at least one of a tray and a shelf; and a first and a
second corner module for at least one of holding, displaying, and
serving others of the food products, the first and second corner
modules each comprising a shelf, and a first and a second side
panel each adjoining the shelf, wherein the second side panel is
angled in relation to the first side panel by an acute angle, the
first side panel of the first corner module abuts a first end of
the elongated module, and the second side panel of the second
corner module abuts a second end of the elongated module.
44. The assembly of claim 43, further comprising a truss system
comprising a first support pole mounted on the first corner module,
a second support pole mounted on the second corner module, and a
truss mechanically coupled to the first and second support
poles.
45. A kit for a dining unit, comprising: a first case for at least
one of holding, displaying, and serving food products, the first
case comprising at least one of a tray and a shelf; a second and a
third case for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving
others of the food products and each having a substantially
wedge-shaped planform; and a truss system comprising a first
support pole for mounting on the second case, a second support pole
for mounting on the third case, and a truss for being mechanically
coupled to the first and second support poles.
46. The kit of claim 45, wherein the second and third cases each
have a first side panel, and a second side panel angled in relation
to the first side panel by an acute angle.
47. The kit of claim 46, wherein the acute angle is approximately
forty-five degrees.
48. The kit of claim 45, further comprising means for mechanically
coupling the truss to the first and second support poles.
49. The kit of claim 45, further comprising a bracket mechanism for
mechanically coupling the truss to the first support pole, the
bracket mechanism comprising a pocket member fixedly coupled to one
of the truss and the first support pole, and a substantially
v-shaped bracket fixedly coupled to the other of the truss and the
first support pole, wherein the pocket member receives an end of
the bracket.
50. The kit of claim 45, wherein the second and third cases each
comprise a top panel having a bore formed therein for receiving
respective ends of the first and second support poles.
51. The kit of claim 45 further comprising lighting for being
suspended from the truss.
52. The kit of claim 45, further comprising a sign for being
fixedly coupled to one of the first support pole and the truss.
53. The kit of claim 45, further comprising a backdrop comprising a
frame, and a display secured to the frame.
54. The kit of claim 45, where the first case is one of a beverage
and tray module and a cold food and sandwich module.
55. The kit of claim 45, wherein the second and third cases each
further comprise a top panel, and the top panel and the shelf each
adjoin the first and second side panels and are substantially wedge
shaped.
56. The kit of claim 55, wherein the second and third cases each
further comprise a rear panel adjoining the first and second side
panels, the top panel, and the shelf.
57. A kit for a modular assembly, comprising: an elongated module
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving food products
and comprising at least one of a tray and a shelf, a first and a
second corner module for at least one of holding, displaying, and
serving others of the food products and each comprising a shelf,
and a first and a second side panel each adjoining the shelf, the
second side panel being angled in relation to the first side panel
by an acute angle; and a truss system comprising a first support
pole for mounting on one of the corner modules, a second support
pole for mounting on the other of the corner modules, and a truss
for being mechanically coupled to the first and second support
poles.
58. A method for assembling a dining unit comprising (i) a first
case for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving food
products, the first case comprising at least one of a tray and a
shelf, (ii) a second and a third case for at least one of holding,
displaying, and serving others of the food products and each having
a substantially wedge-shaped planform, and (iii) a truss system
comprising a first support pole for mounting on the second case, a
second support pole for mounting on the third case, and a truss for
being mechanically coupled to the first and second support poles,
the method comprising: positioning the first case between the
second and third cases; mounting the first support pole on the
second case; mounting the second support pole on the third case;
and mechanically coupling the truss to the first and second support
poles.
59. The method of claim 58, wherein positioning the first case
between the second and third cases comprises causing a first end of
the first case to abut a side panel of the second case, and causing
a second end of the first case to abut a side panel of the third
case.
60. The method of claim 58, wherein mounting the first support pole
on the second case comprises positioning an end of the first
support pole in a bore formed in a top panel of the second case,
and mounting the second support pole on the third case comprises
positioning an end of the second support pole in a bore formed in a
top panel of the third case.
61. The method of claim 58, wherein mechanically coupling the truss
to the first and second support poles comprises positioning a
bracket fixedly coupled to one of the first support pole and the
truss in a pocket member fixedly coupled to the other of the first
support pole and the truss.
62. The method of claim 58, wherein mounting the first support pole
on the second case, mounting the second support pole on the third
case, and mechanically coupling the truss to the first and second
support poles secures the third case in position in relation to the
second case and thereby inhibits movement of the first case.
63. The method of claim 58, further comprising fixedly coupling a
sign to one of the truss and the first and second support
poles.
64. The method of claim 58, further comprising positioning a
backdrop comprising a frame, and a display secured to the frame
proximate the first, second, and third cases.
65. The method of claim 58, further comprising fixedly coupling a
light to the truss.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/381,613 which
was filed on May 17, 2002 and is hereby incorporated by reference
in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is related to dining units for
holding, displaying, or serving food products.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Dining units are commonly used by food vendors for selling
prepared food products. A dining unit typically comprises one or
more cases or modules having trays or shelves for holding,
displaying, or serving the food products. The cases or modules are
often arranged in a linear pattern, i.e., in a straight line or at
right angles. This type of arrangement can require relatively large
amounts of floor space, and can thus present disadvantages in
applications where the amount of available floor space is limited.
Moreover, arranging the cases in a linear pattern may not provide
potential customers with an optimal view of the food products
within the cases.
[0004] Lighting, signage, and displays can be critical to the
success of a food-vending operation. Most dining units, however, do
not include provisions for incorporating such features so as to
create an overall environment conducive to marketing and selling
food products. Also, dining units are often used in temporary,
i.e., short-term, applications such as conventions, trade shows,
etc. Reconfiguring a dining unit for a particular application can
require adding or eliminating cases or modules to serve a
particular food product, or to satisfy a specific anticipated sales
volume. Many dining units, however, cannot easily be reconfigured
in this manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] A preferred embodiment of a dining unit comprises a first
and a second case for at least one of holding, displaying, and
serving food products. The first and second cases each comprise at
least one of a tray and a shelf. The dining unit also comprises a
third case for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving
others of the food products. The third case has a substantially
wedge-shaped planform. The third case comprises a shelf and is
positioned between the first and second cases.
[0006] A preferred embodiment of a modular assembly comprises a
first and a second elongated module for at least one of holding,
displaying, and serving food products. The first and second
elongated modules each comprise at least one of a tray and a shelf.
The modular assembly also comprises a corner module for at least
one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the food
products. The corner module comprises a shelf, and a first and a
second side panel each adjoining the shelf The second side panel is
angled in relation to the first side panel by an acute angle, an
end of the first elongated module abuts the first side panel, and
an end of the second elongated module abuts the second side panel
so that the first and second modules extend in substantially
nonparallel directions.
[0007] Another preferred embodiment of a dining unit comprises a
first case for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving
food products. The first case comprises at least one of a tray and
a shelf. The dining unit also comprises a second and a third case
for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the
food products. The second and third cases each have a substantially
wedge-shaped planform, and the first case is positioned between the
second and third cases.
[0008] Another preferred embodiment of a modular assembly comprises
an elongated module for at least one of holding, displaying, and
serving food products. The elongated module comprises at least one
of a tray and a shelf. The modular assembly also comprises a first
and a second corner module for at least one of holding, displaying,
and serving others of the food products. The first and second
corner modules each comprise a shelf, and a first and a second side
panel each adjoining the shelf. The second side panel is angled in
relation to the first side panel by an acute angle. The first side
panel of the first corner module abuts a first end of the elongated
module, and the second side panel of the second corner module abuts
a second end of the elongated module.
[0009] A preferred embodiment of a kit for a dining unit comprises
a first case for at least one of holding, displaying, and serving
food products. The first case comprises at least one of a tray and
a shelf. The kit also comprises a second and a third case for at
least one of holding, displaying, and serving others of the food
products. The second and third cases each have a substantially
wedge-shaped planform. The kit also comprises a truss system
comprising a first support pole for mounting on the second case, a
second support pole for mounting on the third case, and a truss for
being mechanically coupled to the first and second support
poles.
[0010] A preferred embodiment of a kit for a modular assembly
comprises an elongated module for at least one of holding,
displaying, and serving food products. The elongated module
comprises at least one of a tray and a shelf. The kit also
comprises a first and a second corner module for at least one of
holding, displaying, and serving others of the food products. The
first and second corner modules each comprise a shelf, and a first
and a second side panel each adjoining the shelf. The second side
panel is angled in relation to the first side panel by an acute
angle. The kit also comprises a truss system comprising a first
support pole for mounting on one of the corner modules, a second
support pole for mounting on the other modules, and a truss for
being mechanically coupled to the first and second support
poles.
[0011] A preferred method is provided for assembling a dining unit
comprising a first case for at least one of holding, displaying,
and serving food products, the first case comprising at least one
of a tray and a shelf, a second and a third case for at least one
of holding, displaying, and serving others of the food products and
each having a substantially wedge-shaped planform, and a truss
system comprising a first support pole for mounting on the second
case, a second support pole for mounting on the third case, and a
truss for being mechanically coupled to the first and second
support poles. The preferred method comprises positioning the first
case between the second and third cases, mounting the first support
pole on the second case, mounting the second support pole on the
third case, and mechanically coupling the truss to the first and
second support poles.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of a prsently-preferred embodiment, is better
understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For
the purpose of illustrating the invention, the drawings show an
embodiment that is presently preferred. The invention is not
limited, however, to the specific instrumentalities disclosed in
the drawings. In the drawings:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a presently-preferred dining
unit;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the dining unit shown in
FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of
the dining unit shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the dining unit shown in
FIG. 3;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of another alternative embodiment
of the dining unit shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the dining unit shown in
FIG. 5; and
[0019] FIG. 7 is a magnified view of the area designated "A" in
FIG. 2, showing the dining unit in a partially disassembled
state.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0020] A preferred embodiment of a dining unit 10 is depicted in
FIGS. 1-7. The dining unit 10 preferably comprises two cases in the
form of a beverage and tray module 12 and a cold food and sandwich
module 14. The dining unit 10 also comprises three additional cases
in the form of a first corner module 16, a second corner module 18,
and a third corner module 20. Preferably, the first corner module
16 is fixedly coupled to an end of the beverage and tray module 12,
and the second corner module 18 is fixedly coupled to an opposing
end of the beverage and tray module 12.
[0021] Preferably, the second corner module 18 is also fixedly
coupled to an end of the cold food and sandwich module 14, and the
third corner module 20 is fixedly coupled to an opposing end of the
food and sandwich module 14. Further details concerning the
interrelationship between the beverage and tray module 12, the cold
food and sandwich module 14, and the first, second, and third
corner modules 16, 18, 20 are presented below.
[0022] The beverage and tray module 12 can comprise a hot food cart
22 for displaying and serving hot foods. The beverage and tray
module 12 can also comprise a beverage cart 24 for storing and
displaying cold beverages.
[0023] The beverage and tray module 12 has a front 12a and a back
12b (see FIG. 1). The beverage and tray module 12 is configured so
that beverages and foodstuffs can be displayed and served to
individuals facing the front 12a of the beverage and tray module
12, by service personnel located on the opposite side thereof. The
beverage and tray module 12 can have an overall length of
approximately ten feet.
[0024] The cold food and sandwich module 14 can comprise a
refrigerated cart 26 for storing and displaying cold foods. The
cold food and sandwich module 14 can also comprise a cold food cart
28 for storing and displaying foodstuffs used for sandwich
making.
[0025] The cold food and sandwich module 14 has a front 14a and a
back 14b. The cold food and sandwich module 14 is configured so
that beverages and foodstuffs can be displayed and served to
individuals facing the front 14a of the cold food and sandwich
module 14, by service personnel located on the opposite side
thereof. The cold food and sandwich module 14 can have an overall
length of approximately ten feet.
[0026] Further details relating to the beverage and tray module 12
and the cold food and sandwich module 14 are not necessary to an
understating of the invention, and therefore are not presented
herein.
[0027] The first corner module 16 preferably comprises a first side
panel 16a, a second side panel 16b, and an adjoining rear panel 16c
(see FIG. 1). The first corner module 16 also preferably comprises
a top panel 16d and a bottom panel 16e that adjoin the side panels
16a, 16b and the rear panel 16c (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Preferably,
the corner module 16 further includes a shelf panel 16f positioned
within the corner module 16, between the top panel 16d and a bottom
panel 16e. The top panel 16d, bottom panel 16e, and shelf panel 16f
can be used to display food products that do not require warming or
refrigeration. (Alternative embodiments of the first corner module
16 can be equipped with heating or refrigeration equipment so that
the top panel 16d, bottom panel 16e, and shelf panel 16f can
display food products that require warming or refrigeration.)
[0028] The top panel 16d has a forward edge 16g, the bottom panel
has 16e a forward edge 16h, and the shelf panel 16f has a forward
edge 16i. Each of the forward edges 16g, 16h, 16i preferably has a
curvilinear shape when viewed from above, i.e., from the
perspective of FIG. 1. It should be noted that the forward edges
16g, 16h, 16i are curved for ornamental purposes; other shapes may
be used in alternative embodiments.
[0029] The first and second side panels 16a, 16b each extend
between the rear panel 16c and the forward edges 16g, 16h, 16i. The
first and second side panels 16a, 16b diverge as the first and
second side panels 16a, 16b extend forward from the rear panel 16c.
The first and second side panels 16a, 16b preferably diverge at an
acute angle such as approximately 45 degrees (this angle is denoted
by the symbol ".alpha." in FIG. 1). In other words, the second side
panel 16b is preferably angled by approximately 45 degrees in
relation to the first side panel 16a. This feature gives the first
corner module 16 a substantially wedge-shaped (or pie-shaped)
appearance when viewed from above (see FIG. 1). In other words, the
first corner module 16 preferably has a substantially wedge-shaped
planform.
[0030] Preferably, the side panels 16a, 16b each have an access
opening formed therein proximate the rear panel 16c. A respective
access door 16j is coupled to each of the side panels 16a, 16b (see
FIG. 1), preferably by hinges (not shown). The access doors 16j
cover the respective access openings. The access doors 16j each
translate between a closed position, and an open position that
facilitate access to the inside of the first corner module.
[0031] Lights 19 may be secured to a bottom surface of the top
panel 16d and bottom surface of the shelf panel 16f to illuminate
the foodstuffs displayed within the corner module 16 (see FIG.
2).
[0032] The second and third corner modules 18, 20 are substantially
identical to the first corner module 16. The above-noted details
relating to the configuration of the first corner module 16
therefore apply equally to the second and third corner modules 18,
20. (Corresponding components in the first, second, and third
corner modules 16, 18, 20 are denoted in the figures by
alphanumeric references symbols having identical alphabetical
portions.)
[0033] A first side panel 18a of the second corner module 18
preferably abuts a second end 12d of the beverage and tray module
12. A second side panel 18b of the second corner module 18 likewise
preferably abuts a first end 14c of the cold food and sandwich
module 14.
[0034] The angled orientation of the side panels 18a, 18b causes
the beverage and tray module 12 to be angled in relation to the
cold food and sandwich module 14. More particularly, the beverage
and tray module 12, the second corner module 18, and the cold food
and sandwich module 14 have a substantially v-shaped configuration
when coupled as noted (see FIG. 1).
[0035] The first side panel 16a of the first corner module 16
preferably abuts a first end 12c of the beverage and tray module
12. A first side panel 20a of the third corner module 20 likewise
preferably abuts a second end 14d of the cold food and sandwich
module 14.
[0036] The first corner module 16 faces outwardly when coupled to
the beverage and tray module 12. In other words, the first corner
module 16 is positioned so that the rear panel 16c is located
proximate the back 12b of the beverage and tray module 12. Hence,
foodstuffs displayed on the top panel 16d, bottom panel 16e, and
shelf panel 16f are accessible to individuals facing the front 12a
of the beverage and tray module 12.
[0037] The third corner module 20 likewise faces outwardly when
coupled to the cold food and sandwich module 14. In other words,
the third corner module 20 is positioned so that a rear panel 20c
thereof is located proximate the back 14b of the cold food and
sandwich module 14. Hence, foodstuffs displayed on a top panel 20d,
a bottom panel 20e, and a shelf panel 20f of the third corner
module 20 are accessible to individuals facing the front 14a of the
cold food and sandwich module 14.
[0038] The dining unit 10 further comprises a truss system (see
FIG. 2). The truss system comprises a first support pole 38, a
second support pole 40, and a third support pole 42. The first,
second, and third support poles 38, 40, 42 are preferably formed
from aluminum. It should be noted that the first, second, and third
support poles 38, 40, 42 are formed with a substantially circular
cross section for ornamental purposes; other cross-sectional
configurations can be used in alternative embodiments.
[0039] The first support pole 38 is fixedly coupled the top panel
16d of the first corner module 16. More particularly, an end 38a of
the first support pole 38 is positioned in a bore in the top panel
16d of the first corner module 16. The end 38a is secured in the
bore by conventional means such as fasteners.
[0040] An end 40a of the second support pole 40 is positioned in a
bore formed in a top panel 18d of the second corner module 18, and
is secured in the bore by conventional means such as fasteners. An
end 42a of the third support pole 42 is positioned in a bore formed
in the top panel 20d of the third corner module 20, and is secured
in the bore by conventional means such as fasteners.
[0041] The truss system also comprises a first truss 44 and a
second truss 46 (see FIG. 2). The first truss 44 preferably has a
length approximately equal to that of the beverage and tray module
12. The second truss 46 preferably has a length approximately equal
to that of the cold food and sandwich module 14. The first and
second trusses 44, 46 are preferably formed from aluminum. It
should be noted that the specific configuration of the trusses 44,
46 depicted in the figures is chosen for ornamental purposes; other
structural configurations that provide suitable load-bearing
capacity can be used in alternative embodiments.
[0042] An end of the first truss 44 is fixedly coupled to a second
end 38b of the first support pole 38. An opposing end of the first
truss 44 is fixedly coupled to a second end 40b of the second
support pole 40. The first truss 44 is thus suspended above the
beverage and tray module 12 from the first and second support poles
38, 40.
[0043] Moreover, the first truss 44 and the first and second
support poles 38, 40 secure the beverage and tray module 12 between
the first and second corner modules 16, 18. In other words, the
noted arrangement of the first truss 44 and the first and second
support poles 38, 40 secures the first corner module 16 in position
in relation to the second corner module 18, and thus inhibits
movement of the beverage and tray module 12 which, as noted above,
is positioned between the first and second corner modules 16,
18.
[0044] The ends of the first truss 44 are preferably coupled to the
second ends 38b, 40b of the first and second support poles 38, 40
using the bracket mechanism 51 depicted in FIG. 7. The bracket
mechanism 51 comprises pocket members 53 fixedly coupled to
respective ends of the truss 44, and brackets 55 fixedly coupled to
the second ends 38b, 40b of the first and second support poles 38,
40 (for clarity, only the second end 40b of the pole 40 is depicted
in FIG. 7). The brackets 55 are substantially V-shaped, as depicted
in FIG. 7. Each pocket member 53 is adapted to fit over an end of a
corresponding bracket 55 when the first truss 44 is lowered onto
the first and second support poles 38, 40. The bracket 55 engages
the corresponding pocket member 53, and thereby prevents further
downward movement of the first truss 44.
[0045] An end of the second truss 46 is fixedly coupled to a second
end 40b of the second support pole 40. An opposing end of the
second truss 46 is fixedly coupled to a second end 42b of the third
support pole 42. The second truss 46 is thus suspended above the
cold food and sandwich module 14 from the second and third support
poles 40, 42. The ends of the second truss 46 are fixedly coupled
to the second ends 40b, 42b of the second and third support poles
40, 42 using the above-described bracket mechanism 51 (see FIG.
7).
[0046] Moreover, the second truss 46 and the second and third
support poles 40, 42 secure the cold food and sandwich module 14
between the second and third corner modules 18, 20. In other words,
the noted arrangement of the second truss 46 and the second and
third support poles 40, 42 secures the second corner module 18 in
position in relation to the third corner module 20, and thus
inhibits movement of the cold food and sandwich module 14 which, as
noted above, is positioned between the second and third corner
modules 18, 20.
[0047] Conventional track lights 58 can be suspended from the first
and second trusses 44,46. The track lights 58 are preferably
mounted on swivel means that permit the track lights 58 to be aimed
at selected locations throughout the dining unit 10. Additional
track lights 58 can be mounted on the first, second, and third
support poles 38, 42, 44.
[0048] The first, second, and third support poles 38, 40, 42 can
each have a light fixture integrated into the respective second
ends 38b, 40b, 42b thereof. These light fixtures each accommodate a
spot light 45 that shines upwardly (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Moreover,
conventional heat lamps (not shown) can be suspended from the first
truss 44 to warm food located in the hot food cart 22 of the
beverage and tray module 12.
[0049] Signage can be displayed at various locations on the dining
unit 10. For example, an elongated sign 60 can be mounted on each
of the first and second trusses 42, 46 (see FIG. 2). The signs 60
can display, for example, writing or a graphical display (not
shown) that identifies the general type of food served at a
particular dining unit 10.
[0050] Moreover, signs 62 can be secured to the first, second, and
third support pole 38, 40, 42, as shown in FIG. 2. The signs 62 can
display, for example, the menu and food prices (not shown) at a
particular dining unit 10.
[0051] The dining unit 10 also comprises a backdrop 64 (see FIGS. 1
and 2). The backdrop 64 includes a frame 66, and a display 68
attached to the frame 66. The display 68 can depict, for example,
an oversized rendition of one or more of the food items served at a
particular dining unit 10 (not shown), thereby drawing the
attention of potential customers.
[0052] The backdrop 68 is not physically connected to the other
components of the dining unit 10, and is preferably located behind
the beverage and tray module 12 and the cold food and sandwich
module 14. More particularly, the backdrop 68 is preferably
positioned so that a working space for the service personnel is
defined between the backdrop 68, and the beverage and tray module
12 and cold food and sandwich module 14.
[0053] The dining unit 10 is believed to create an overall
environment conducive to displaying and serving food products. In
particular, the beverage and tray module 12, the cold food and
sandwich module 14, and the corner modules 16, 18, 20 are
integrated so as to form a continuous series of casings and shelves
from which a variety of hot and cold foodstuffs and beverages can
be viewed on a simultaneous basis by potential customers. Food and
beverages of the customers' choice can then be served easily and
expeditiously from the beverage and tray module 12, the cold food
and sandwich module 14, and the corner modules 16, 18, 20.
[0054] The lights 58 can provide a source of illumination for the
dining unit 10 and its immediate vicinity. The lights 58 are
integrated with the temporary dining unit 10 by way of the first
and second trusses 44, 46 and the first, second, and third support
poles 38, 42, 44.
[0055] The first and second trusses 44, 46 and the first, second,
and third support poles 38, 42, 44 also provide a means for
integrating signage into the dining unit 10. The backdrop 64 can
permit an eye-catching display to be integrated into the dining
unit 10. These features can facilitate the display of information
such as menus and prices, as well as advertising to attract
potential customers. Moreover, the signage and displays can be
placed in predetermined areas that optimize the beneficial effects
while minimizing the intrusiveness thereof.
[0056] The dining unit 10 can thus serve as an integrated,
self-contained system that can be used on a stand-alone basis to
create an overall environment for marketing and selling food and
beverages. The dining unit 10, it is believed, can be quickly and
easily assembled at a particular location without the need for
specially trained personnel, and with minimal tooling.
[0057] Moreover, the wedge-shaped configuration of the first,
second, and third 16, 18, 20 gives the beverage and tray module 12
and the cold food and sandwich module 14 a substantially v-shaped
configuration, as previously noted. The relatively compact v-shaped
configuration allows the dining unit 10 to be placed in relatively
small (narrow) areas that could not accommodate the tray module 12
and the cold food and sandwich module 14 when arranged in a
straight-line configuration.
[0058] Moreover, the v-shaped configuration of the beverage and
tray module 12 and the cold food and sandwich module 14 can permit
potential customers standing in front of the dining unit 10 to view
the contents of the beverage and tray module 12 and the cold food
and sandwich module 14 on a substantially simultaneous basis.
[0059] It is to be understood that even though numerous
characteristics of the present invention have been set forth in the
foregoing description, together with details of the structure and
function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only, and
changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape,
size, and arrangement of the parts, within the principles of the
invention.
[0060] For example, specific details relating to the beverage and
tray module 12 and the cold sandwich module 14 are presented for
exemplary purposes only. Virtually any type of case or module
adapted to display, serve, store, heat, or cool foodstuffs or
beverages can be used in place of the beverage and tray module 12
and the cold food and sandwich module 14, including cases and
modules having a length less than or greater than ten feet. Cashier
carts and merchandiser carts can also be used in place of the
beverage and tray module 12 and the cold food and sandwich module
14.
[0061] Moreover, alternative embodiments of the dining unit 10 can
be configured with virtually any number of cases or modules. Hence,
variants of the dining unit 10 can be optimally configured for a
particular application or installation site. For example, FIGS. 3
and 4 depict a dining unit 10a comprising the beverage and tray
module 12 and the first and second corner modules 16, 18, but not
the cold food and sandwich module 14. (Corresponding components of
the dining units 10, 10a are denoted by identical reference symbols
in FIGS. 1-4.)
[0062] FIGS. 5 and 6 depict a dining unit 10b. The dining unit 10b
comprises all of the components as the dining unit 10. (Components
common to the dining units 10, 10a are denoted by identical
reference numerals in FIGS. 1, 2, 5, and 6.) The dining unit 10b
further comprises a hot food and grill cart 70 fixedly coupled to
the third corner module 20, and a fourth corner module 72 fixedly
coupled to an end of the hot food and grill cart 70.
* * * * *