U.S. patent application number 11/253840 was filed with the patent office on 2006-02-16 for caster assembly suited for use with modular racks.
This patent application is currently assigned to EZ Shipper Racks, Inc.. Invention is credited to Melvin L. Harner, Jeffrey Salmanson.
Application Number | 20060032412 11/253840 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35798780 |
Filed Date | 2006-02-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060032412 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Harner; Melvin L. ; et
al. |
February 16, 2006 |
Caster assembly suited for use with modular racks
Abstract
A modular, low cost pallet and shelf assembly with one or more
removable caster assemblies is disclosed. The caster assemblies
each comprise a first member, the first member having one or more
first member features disposed to be removably coupled to a
corresponding one or more first matching features of a vertical
support member of a shelf assembly; a second member, the second
member having one or more second member features disposed to be
removably coupled to a corresponding one or more second matching
features of the vertical support member; and a wheel assembly,
coupleable to the first member and the second member. In one
embodiment, the caster assembly includes a horizontal member
disposed distal from the wheel that interfaces with a securing
member to bear at least a portion of the weight of the rack
assembly and to stabilize the caster when mounted to the rack
assembly.
Inventors: |
Harner; Melvin L.; (Malibu,
CA) ; Salmanson; Jeffrey; (Woodland Hills,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GATES & COOPER LLP;HOWARD HUGHES CENTER
6701 CENTER DRIVE WEST, SUITE 1050
LOS ANGELES
CA
90045
US
|
Assignee: |
EZ Shipper Racks, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
35798780 |
Appl. No.: |
11/253840 |
Filed: |
October 19, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11169493 |
Jun 29, 2005 |
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11253840 |
Oct 19, 2005 |
|
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|
10772048 |
Feb 4, 2004 |
6925943 |
|
|
11169493 |
Jun 29, 2005 |
|
|
|
10388860 |
Mar 14, 2003 |
6722292 |
|
|
10772048 |
Feb 4, 2004 |
|
|
|
09829589 |
Apr 9, 2001 |
6609466 |
|
|
10388860 |
Mar 14, 2003 |
|
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|
09358285 |
Jul 21, 1999 |
6244194 |
|
|
09829589 |
Apr 9, 2001 |
|
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|
09081411 |
May 19, 1998 |
5979338 |
|
|
09358285 |
Jul 21, 1999 |
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60046883 |
May 23, 1997 |
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60062754 |
Oct 23, 1997 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
108/55.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2519/00099
20130101; B65D 2519/00701 20130101; B65D 2519/0082 20130101; B65D
19/06 20130101; B65D 2519/00273 20130101; B65D 2519/0081 20130101;
B65D 2519/00233 20130101; B65D 2519/00029 20130101; B65D 2519/00333
20130101; B65D 2519/00323 20130101; B65D 2519/00532 20130101; B65D
2519/00064 20130101; B65D 2519/00164 20130101; B65D 2519/00606
20130101; B65D 19/42 20130101; B65D 2519/00781 20130101; B65D
2519/00293 20130101; B65D 2519/00502 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
108/055.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 19/44 20060101
B65D019/44 |
Claims
1. A caster assembly, comprising: a first member, the first member
having one or more first member features disposed to be removably
coupled to a corresponding one or more first matching features of a
vertical support member of a shelf assembly; a second member, the
second member having one or more second member features disposed to
be removably coupled to a corresponding one or more second matching
features of the vertical support member; and a wheel assembly,
coupleable to the first member and the second member.
2. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more first
member features and the one or more second member features are tabs
and the one or more first matching features and the one or more
second matching features are apertures.
3. The caster assembly of claim 2, wherein the apertures are
keyhole apertures are the tabs are disposed and shaped for
acceptance into keyhole apertures in the vertical support
member.
4. The caster assembly of claim 3, wherein at least one of the tabs
includes a head that is circumferentially trimmed to allow the
insertion of the at least one tab into an aperture while also
allowing a orthogonally disposed tab to be inserted into another
aperture.
5. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein the first member and the
second member together form a surface shapingly conforming to a
surface of the vertical support member.
6. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein the first member and the
second member are planar.
7. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein the second member is
perpendicular to the first member.
8. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein the wheel is removably
coupleable to the first member and the second member.
9. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein the wheel assembly
comprises a shaft and the wheel assembly is coupleable to the first
member and the second member via insertion of the shaft into a
sleeve coupled between the first member and the second member.
10. The caster assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a third
member, disposed on an opposite end of the caster assembly from the
wheel and perpendicular to the first member and the second
member.
11. The caster assembly of claim 10, wherein the third member is
disposed adjacent and parallel to a securing surface configured to
bear at least a portion of the weight of the shelf assembly when
the caster is coupled to the vertical support member.
12. The caster assembly of claim 11, wherein the securing surface
is disposed on a support member removably coupleable to the
vertical support member.
13. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein: the shelf assembly
further comprises a support member, coupled to the vertical support
member, the support member having a securing surface disposable
over a pallet and configured to bear at least a portion of the
weight of the shelf assembly when the shelf assembly is lifted by
the pallet; and the caster assembly further comprises a third
surface perpendicular to the first surface and the second surface
and disposed adjacent to and below the securing surface when the
caster assembly is coupled to the vertical support member.
14. The caster assembly of claim 1, wherein: the first member
comprises a first sub-member disposed beneath the vertical support
member when the caster assembly is coupled to the vertical support
member.
15. The caster assembly of claim 14, wherein the first sub-member
comprises a first surface perpendicular to the first sub-member and
extending away from the first member and the second member.
16. The caster assembly of claim 14, wherein the first sub-member
comprises a "U" shaped member disposed to extend around a bottom of
the vertical support member.
17. A shelf assembly, comprising: a plurality of vertical support
members; a securing member, releasably coupled to at least one of
the plurality of vertical support members, the securing member
having a downfacing surface perpendicular to the vertical support
members, the downfacing surface configured to bear at least a
portion of the weight of the shelf assembly when the shelf assembly
is lifted by a pallet disposed between the vertical support members
and below the downfacing surface; and a plurality of casters, each
caster having a wheel and removably coupled to the bottom of each
of the plurality of vertical support members.
18. A method of assembling a wheeled shelf assembly having a
plurality of vertical support members and a plurality of support
members comprising a weight bearing member, comprising the steps
of: removably affixing a caster assembly to a bottom end of each of
the vertical support members, each of the casters comprising: a
first member, disposed to accept a wheel on a first end of the
first member; a caster weight bearing member coupled to the first
member, the caster weight bearing member perpendicular to the
vertical support members; removably affixing a securing member to
at least one of the vertical support members, the securing member
comprising a horizontal weight bearing member having a downfacing
surface disposed proximate and above the caster weight bearing
member, the horizontal weight bearing member also configured to
bear at least a portion of the weight of the shelf assembly when
the shelf assembly is lifted by a pallet disposed between the
vertical support members and below the downfacing surface.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein: the step of affixing the
caster to the vertical support member comprises the steps of:
inserting tabs disposed on the caster into apertures disposed in
the vertical support member, and applying force to the caster in a
direction towards a longitudinal center of the vertical support
member; the step of affixing the securing member to the vertical
support member comprises the steps of: inserting tabs disposed on
the securing member into apertures disposed in the vertical support
member, and applying force to the securing member towards the
affixed caster.
20. A caster assembly, comprising: a first member, the first member
having one or more first member features disposed to be removably
coupled to a corresponding one or more first matching features of a
vertical support member of a shelf assembly; a second member, the
second member having one or more second member features disposed to
be removably coupled to a corresponding one or more second matching
features of the vertical support member; and a sleeve, coupled to
the first member and the second member, the sleeve for accepting a
shaft coupled to a wheel.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/169,493, filed Jun. 29, 2005 by Jeffrey
Salmanson and Jon R. Dickey and entitled "MODULAR LOW COST SHELF
ASSEMBLY," now issued as U.S. Pat. No. X,XXX,XXX, which application
is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/772,048,
filed Feb. 4, 2004 by Jeffrey Salmanson and Jon R. Dickey and
entitled "MODULAR LOW COST SHELF ASSEMBLY", and issued Aug. 9, 2005
as U.S. Pat. No. 6,925,943, which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/388,860, filed Mar. 14, 2003 by Jeffrey
Salmanson and Jon R. Dickey and entitled "MODULAR LOW COST SHELF
ASSEMBLY" and now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,722,292, which
application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/829,589, filed Apr. 9, 2001, for "MODULAR LOW COST PALLET AND
SHELF ASSEMBLY," by Jeffrey Salmanson and Jon R. Dickey now issued
as U.S. Pat. No. 6,609,466, which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/358,285, filed Jul. 21, 1999, for "MODULAR
LOW COST PALLET AND SHELF ASSEMBLY," by Jeffrey Salmanson and Jon
R. Dickey, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,244,194, which is a
continuation of application Ser. No. 09/081,411, filed May 19,
1998, for "MODULAR LOW COST PALLET AND SHELF ASSEMBLY," by Jeffrey
Salmanson and Jon R. Dickey, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,338, issued
Nov. 9, 1999, which claim benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 60/046,883, filed May 23, 1997 by Jeffrey Salmanson and Jon R.
Dickey, and entitled "MODULAR PALLET AND SHELF ASSEMBLY USING
CONVENTIONAL HARDWARE," and U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/062,754, filed Oct. 23, 1997 by Jeffrey Salmanson and Jon R.
Dickey, and entitled "MODULAR LOW COST SHELF ASSEMBLY," all of
which applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to shipping and
retail display devices and more particularly to a modular low cost
pallet and shelf assembly using conventional hardware and for
removable casters for use with same.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Products shipped from the manufacturer or producer are often
shipped to the retailers in corrugated boxes. Typically, these
boxes are loaded onto wooden pallets, lifted with a forklift onto a
shipping container, and unloaded into the container for
transportation to the retail outlet. When the goods arrive at the
retail outlet, the corrugated boxes are removed from the shipping
container, loaded onto pallets, moved to the retail display
location or storage using a forklift or similar device. The
products are then removed from the corrugated boxes, and placed on
retail display.
[0006] There are several problems associated with the
aforementioned procedures. Unloading and loading the corrugated
boxes is a labor-intensive procedure, often resulting in damage to
the products and/or the corrugated boxes. It is also common for the
products to be damaged when the corrugated boxes (which are
typically stacked during storage and transportation) collapse.
[0007] Another problem with these procedures is that the corrugated
boxes are not generally reusable, and must be broken down and
disposed of by the retail outlets. Alternative wood racking
systems, such as those employed in nurseries, do not solve this
problem. These racking systems are also difficult to transport,
require labor intensive procedures to unload transported products
and display them at a retail level, and cannot be broken down
easily at the retail outlet. These devices are also typically held
together with nails, which further complicate their disassembly and
storage, and make any return to the manufacturer generally
unprofitable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] As the foregoing indicates, there is a need for efficient
transportation of products from the manufacturer or producer to
retail display. The present invention satisfies that need.
[0009] The present invention discloses a racking system using a
modular pallet and shelving assembly. This racking system is easily
constructed and broken down, and which uses conventional,
standardized, and readily available hardware. The design of the
present invention directs the weight of the rack to a metal
structure advantageously placed in relation to the pallet. Even
when used with a commonly available wooden pallet, this design is
exceptionally strong, allowing the unit to be lifted and
transported with a forklift or pallet jack. This system provides an
efficient system for delivering material and products to the
marketplace (or to warehouses for later retail sales) without
damage. The present invention also allows material and products to
be removed from trucks by forklift, and placed directly on retail
display.
[0010] Because the present system also utilizes reusable metal
shelving, it can be easily broken down. This allows the system to
be reused on site, disposed of by selling the racking system as a
complete package, or in its component parts, or simply returned to
the shipper or manufacturer for re-use. Further, because the design
of the present invention is both simple and strong, the system can
be more space efficiently constructed to take advantage of the
available truck container space.
[0011] The present invention also can be used with a caster
assembly that can be removably attached to the modular rack
assembly to permit wheeling the rack assembly about. The caster
assembly comprises a first member having one or more first member
features disposed to be removably coupled to a corresponding one or
more first matching features of a vertical support member of the
shelf assembly, a second member having one or more second member
features disposed to be removably coupled to a corresponding one or
more second matching features of the vertical support member; and a
wheel assembly, coupleable to the first member and the second
member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Referring now to the drawings in which like reference
numbers represent corresponding parts throughout:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2A is a view of one embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating a coupling between the pallet and the
shelving;
[0015] FIG. 2B is a close up view of the relationship between the
tabs and the keyhole apertures in one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a side view of one embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the pallet and vertical support
members;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present
invention using cleats;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a close up view of one embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating a coupling between the pallet and vertical
support members;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a side view of one embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the use of cleats to couple the pallet and
the vertical support members;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a diagram of the cleats used in one embodiment of
the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
present invention illustrating a segmented design suitable for
smaller merchandising units;
[0022] FIG. 8B is a section view of the coupling between the
segments shown in FIG. 8A;
[0023] FIG. 9A presents a side view illustrating the use of an
inverted keyhole aperture configuration;
[0024] FIG. 9B presents a top view illustrating the use of an
inverted keyhole aperture configuration;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment using the
inverted keyhole aperture configuration;
[0026] FIG. 11 is a top view of another embodiment of the present
invention using the inverted keyhole apertures;
[0027] FIG. 12A is a top view of another embodiment of the present
invention showing an alternative arrangement for the pallet
securing members;
[0028] FIG. 12B is a side view of another embodiment of the present
invention showing an alternative arrangement for the pallet
securing members;
[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
present invention showing an alternative arrangement for the pallet
securing members;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a side view of another embodiment of the present
invention showing the use of double-sided keyhole apertures;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a side view of another embodiment of the present
invention showing the use of a strengthening segment in the
vertical support member;
[0032] FIG. 16 is a side view of another embodiment of the present
invention showing the use of fewer keyhole apertures;
[0033] FIG. 17 is a flow chart depicting the assembly of one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIGS. 18A-18F are diagrams of embodiments of a caster
assembly that can be removably attached to one or more of the
vertical support members of the rack assembly;
[0035] FIGS. 19A-19C are diagrams showing an alternative embodiment
of how the caster assembly may be coupled to the vertical support
members of the rack assembly;
[0036] FIG. 19D-19F are diagrams showing an alternative trimmed tab
embodiment;
[0037] FIG. 19G-19I are diagrams showing how the caster assembly
can be attached to the vertical support members using the trimmed
tab embodiment;
[0038] FIG. 20 is a flow chart describing exemplary method steps
that can be used to assemble a shelf assembly with casters;
[0039] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing one embodiment of the caster
assembly coupled to the rack assembly; and
[0040] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the
caster assembly coupled to the rack assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0041] In the following description of the preferred embodiment,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part
hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration a specific
embodiment in which the invention may be practiced. It is
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural
changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
present invention. The invention comprises a plurality of L-shaped
vertical support members 100, which are so arranged to accept a
pallet 102 therebetween. In one embodiment, the pallet 102 is a
common two-way wood pallet, which accepts forklift tongues in slots
on the front and rear of the pallet 102. In an alternative
embodiment, a four-way pallet may be used. The four-way pallet
comprises additional slots to on opposite sides of the pallet to
accept forklift tongues, thus allowing the pallet to be lifted by a
forklift from any side. The design of the pallet 102 can be changed
to accommodate different loads, with heavier-duty construction
pallets 102 employed for maximum strength applications. Each
vertical support member 100 comprises a plurality of keyhole shaped
apertures 108 disposed on the right angle portions of the vertical
support members 100. In one embodiment, the vertical support
members 100 are commonly available angle posts that are 84 inches
in length.
[0043] The present invention also comprises a plurality of L-shaped
cross braces 104, which are affixed to the vertical support members
100. Each L-shaped cross brace 104 comprises a right angle portion
and a number of cross brace tabs 109, each of which is small enough
to be inserted into the larger portion of the keyhole shaped
aperture 108, yet large enough to be retained by the smaller
portion of the keyhole shaped aperture 108. When a plurality of
braces 104 are so coupled with the vertical cross members 100, the
right angle portion (which comprises the lower portion of and "L"
when viewed from the side) of the brace 104 forms a horizontal
surface, upon which a planar surface 106 is placed. Planar surface
106 is sized so as to be inserted between all four vertical support
members 100 and larger than the aperture formed by the braces 104
extending between the vertical support members. Accordingly, the
braces 104 serve to support the planar surface 106. The planar
surface 106 can be comprised of particle board, OSB, plastic,
metal, or other material. Planar surface 106 may also be molded to
conform to the product.
[0044] In one embodiment, the braces 104 are commonly available
double rivet beams. The size of the braces 104 is selected in
accordance with the desired dimensions of the finished assembly, as
is the pallet 102 size. In a typical arrangement, two of the braces
104 are 48 inches in length, and two are 42 inches in length. The
number of braces 104 used in the assembly is also determined by the
number of desired shelves of the finished product. For example, a
four-shelf unit would require eight 48 inch braces 104 and eight 42
inch braces, whereas a five-shelf unit wood require ten 48 inch
braces and ten 42 inch braces.
[0045] Since four braces 104 are not required to hold the planar
surfaces 106, it is also possible to use only two braces per shelf
level, in a staggered relationship. For example, the first level
can use two 48 inch braces 104, the next, two 42 inch braces 104,
and so on. This configuration is nominally not as strong, but is
lower in cost, and suitable for many applications.
[0046] FIG. 2A is a close up view of one embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the relationship between the pallet 102 and
the vertical support members 100. In this embodiment, pallet
securing members 118 are utilized to releasably accept and secure
the pallet 102 in place between the vertical support members 100,
and to bear the weight of the racking system when lifted by a fork
lift or pallet jack. As strength requires, either two or four
pallet-securing members 118 can be used.
[0047] FIG. 2B is a detailed view of the embodiment shown in FIG.
2. Keyhole apertures 108 each comprise a first aperture segment 107
and a second aperture segment 109, which is smaller in cross
section than the first aperture segment 107. Tab heads 110A are
smaller than the first aperture segment 107, yet larger than the
second aperture segment 109. Hence, when tab heads 110A are
inserted into the first aperture segment 107 and moved laterally,
the tab 110 is affixed within the aperture 108.
[0048] The pallet 102 comprises a plurality of bottom members 112
and support members 114, both of which are affixed to a pallet
cross member 116. In one embodiment, the vertical support members
100 are affixed to the pallet 102 by inserting one or more wood
screws 124 (such as lag screws) of suitable length and diametric
cross section through the appropriate keyhole apertures 108 and
into the pallet 102.
[0049] In another embodiment, a number of pallet-securing members
118 are employed. These pallet-securing members 118 comprise one or
more pallet-securing member tabs 110 which are inserted into the
keyhole apertures 108 of the vertical support members 100.
Ordinarily, the pallet-securing member tabs 110 are of the same
design as the cross member tabs 109. However, since the
pallet-securing member tabs 110 must bear greater weight and shear
force, these tabs may be suitably reinforced or made of stronger
material, if necessary.
[0050] In one embodiment, the pallet-securing members 118 are cross
braces 104 but inverted so that an interiorly-extending portion 120
having a horizontal surface is disposed above the vertical surface
122. This places an interiorly-extending securing surface 120 over
the top of the pallet 102, and in particular, the support members
114. In this configuration, the pallet 102 is restrained between
the vertical support members 100. Pallet securing member tabs 110
on the support members 118 are inserted into the larger opening of
the keyhole tabs 108. The support members 118 transfer the weight
of the assembly to the metal structure, rather than the pallet
102.
[0051] The pallet support members 118 and vertical support members
100 may optionally be affixed to the pallet 102 with a suitably
sized fastening device 124 such as a wood screw or lag bolt. The
fastening device 124 should comprise a head larger than any
dimension of the keyhole aperture 108. This assures that the
components are securely fastened together. One-quarter inch lag
bolts of 11/4 inch length are suitable for this purpose. If
necessary, a suitably placed hole or aperture may be drilled
through the pallet 102 before the bolt is inserted and thereafter
secured with a nut or other means.
[0052] The tabs 110 comprise a head portion 110A and a shank
portion 110B. The head 110A is a smaller diameter than the larger
portion of the keyhole apertures 108, to allow insertion therein.
In one embodiment, the upper portion of the inner surface of the
keyhole aperture 108 and the tab shank 110B are in contact, thus
causing the tab head 110A to extend beyond the keyhole aperture
108. This provides additional strength to prevent the vertical
support members 100 from extending away from the support brace 118.
In another embodiment, the head size of the fastening device 124 is
selected to be close to or contact the tab to minimize this
possibility. In still another embodiment, the support brace 118
comprises two or more tabs 110, and each tab is inserted into its
corresponding keyhole aperture 108. For additional strength, all of
these couplings may be further secured by additional fastening
devices 124, if desired.
[0053] FIG. 3 is a front view of one embodiment of the invention
showing another view of the coupling between the pallet and
vertical support members.
[0054] FIG. 4 presents another embodiment of the present invention,
where pallet securing members 118 comprise one or more cleats 126,
including a left cleat 126A and a right cleat 126B.
[0055] FIG. 5 presents a close-up view of an embodiment of the
modular pallet assembly in which the pallet securing member 118 is
embodied in one or more cleats 126. Nominally, each cleat 126 is
L-shaped, and comprises a one or more cleat tabs 111 on one outer
surface, and one or more keyhole-shaped apertures 108 on the other
outer surface. The cleat 126 also includes an interiorly-extending
securing surface over the pallet 102. In one embodiment, the cleat
126 is affixed to the pallet 102 by one or more fastening devices
128 inserted through the keyhole aperture 108 in the cleat. The
fastening device 128 can be a wood screw of suitable dimension or
other fastening means. Optionally, vertical support member 100 can
be further secured to the pallet by one or more additional
fastening devices 130. Cleat tab 111 extends within a keyhole
aperture 108, and may be secured with an additional fastening
device as described herein.
[0056] FIG. 6 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and
5.
[0057] FIG. 7 is an illustration showing the two types of cleats
employed in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Left cleats
126A (depicted in FIG. 5), and right cleats 126B are employed.
Nominally, a total of four cleats 126 (two left cleats 126A, and
two right cleats 126B) are used.
[0058] Nominally, four vertical support members 100 are employed in
the present invention, one at each corner of the pallet 102. In
alternative embodiments, the present invention can comprise
additional vertical support members 100 for additional bracing.
Nominally, these additional vertical support members 100 will be
flat, and not L-shaped, so as to be easily affixed to the cross
members 104, but the present invention can accommodate a wide
variety of vertical support member shapes with modification. These
additional vertical support members 100 may be affixed to the
pallet, but need not be so. Further, if exceptional rigidity is
required, the additional cross bracing may be employed in either
the pallet 102 structure, the metal between vertical support
members 100, or both.
[0059] FIG. 8A presents perspective view of another embodiment of
the present invention illustrating a segmented design in which the
assembly comprises two rigid, yet easily separable sections which
can be separated to form smaller shelving units for separate
transport or for display and merchandising of products. In this
embodiment, the vertical support members 100 comprise bottom
vertical support members 100A and top vertical support members
100B, both of which are of generally shorter length than the
vertical support members 100 previously described herein. The lower
portion of the bottom vertical support members 100A are secured to
a first pallet 102A using the techniques and structures described
earlier in this disclosure.
[0060] A plurality of cross braces 104 are coupled to the vertical
support members 100. Cross braces 104A are coupled to the vertical
support members 100 to form an aperture for inserting planar
surfaces 106 a right angle shelf portion on which supports the
planar surfaces 106, as previously described and illustrated.
Pallet support members 105 are inserted between the lower vertical
support members 100A at the topmost position in an inverted "L"
configuration, with the right angle portion disposed above or below
the vertical portion. So disposed, the right angle portions of the
pallet support members 104B form a shelf or cavity which supports a
second pallet 102B, which, if desired, may be secured to the
assembly using lag screws 130 or similar fastening devices inserted
through apertures in the right angle portions of the cross braces
104B. Upper vertical support members 100B and second pallet
securing members such as the cleats 126 described earlier are then
secured to the upper pallet 102B using the structures and methods
previously described to secure the shelving to the pallet 102,
using either cleats 126, pallet securing members 118, or inverted
cross braces 104.
[0061] FIG. 8B is a side view of the structures shown in FIG.
8A.
[0062] FIG. 9A presents a side view of another embodiment of the
present invention illustrating the use of a unique keyhole aperture
108 configuration. In this embodiment, the vertical support member
100 comprises two sets of keyhole apertures 108, a first set 121
comprising one or more keyhole apertures 108A facing in a first
direction, and a second set 123 comprising one or more keyhole
apertures 108B facing in a second direction substantially inverted
from that of the first set of keyhole apertures 108A. For purposes
of clarity, keyhole apertures 108A will be referred to henceforth
as downward facing keyhole apertures, and keyhole apertures 108B
will be referred to as upward facing keyhole apertures. This
embodiment also shows another alternative for the pallet securing
members 118. Here, one or more right angle support members 140,
having one or more right angle support member tabs 113 of suitable
size for insertion into the upward facing keyhole apertures 108B
are utilized. The right angle support members 140 are disposed
adjacent to the vertical support members 100 in a fitting
relationship and affixed to the vertical support members by
inserting tabs 113 in the upward facing keyhole apertures 108B, and
applying suitable force in a direction towards the upward facing
keyhole aperture 108B smaller portion.
[0063] When the foregoing elements are arranged as described above,
a pallet 102 can be inserted in the space formed by the vertical
support members 100 to allow the entire assembly to be lifted and
moved with a forklift or other similar device. Lifting forces from
the pallet 102 are then borne by the right angle support members
140, right angle support member tabs 113, and upward facing keyhole
aperture 118B smaller portions, structural elements which are well
suited to support considerable weight. This embodiment may also be
practiced with the use of pallet securing members 118 or cleats 126
in the place of right angle support member 140. This embodiment
also obviates the need for the insertion or removal of pallet
securing devices 124, speeding assembly and disassembly.
[0064] FIG. 9B is a top view of the embodiments shown in FIG.
9A.
[0065] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the foregoing embodiment
of the present invention. Safety devices, such as clips or right
angle bolts 142 can be inserted into keyhole apertures 108. In the
event of a tab 110 failure, these safety devices serve to restrict
excessive motion of structures that were supported by the failed
tab 110. In the illustrated embodiment, right angle bolt 142 is
inserted into keyhole aperture 108A. The right angle bolt 142
comprises a head structure 144 which prevents passage through the
keyhole aperture 108, and preferably, a shank structure 146 that is
smaller in cross section than the smaller portion of the keyhole
aperture 108. In one embodiment, shank structure 146 is of
sufficient length and/or mass to assure that the right angle bolt
142 is balanced to as to remain in the keyhole aperture 108 after
insertion. If necessary, the safety device may be locked or secured
into the keyhole apertures by bolts, clips, pins, or other
means.
[0066] Friction between the tabs 110 and the upward facing keyhole
apertures 108B as well as friction between the right angle support
members 140 and the vertical support members 100 are generally
sufficient to retain the tabs 113 in the smaller portion of the
keyhole aperture 108B. However, if desired, vertical support member
100 and right angle support member 140 may also comprise
interconnecting fastening means. Such fastening means can feature,
for example, one or more shear apertures 150 in each structure
adjacently disposed on assembly, thus allowing the insertion of a
pin, nail, or other device 152 after assembly to restrict the
apertures from sliding relative to one another. Similarly, if
desired, the right angle support member 140 and pallet 102 can be
affirmatively secured to the vertical support member 100 by means
of a wood screw, nail, bolt or other securing device 144 inserted
through the upward facing keyhole aperture 108B larger portion.
[0067] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, a simple cleat 126 is used
in place of the right angle support member 126. If additional
strength is desired, a second cleat can be disposed at a right
angle to and lapped on top of the illustrated cleat so that the
cleat tabs 111 from the second cleat are disposed through the
upward facing keyhole apertures 108A in the vertical support member
100. If necessary, the location of the upward facing keyhole
apertures 108A presented to the cleat tabs 111 of the second cleat
can be adjusted vertically in an amount sufficient to account for
the vertical displacement of the second cleat, or the location of
the tabs on the second cleat can be so adjusted to achieve the same
effect. Also, if desired, a nail, bolt, or wood screw may be
inserted into the cleat 126 keyhole aperture 118 and into the
pallet 102 to secure the pallet 102 to the assembly.
[0068] Upward facing keyhole apertures 108B are generally disposed
near the lower portion of the vertical support members 100.
However, that need not be the case. Upward facing keyhole apertures
108B can be disposed on any portion of the vertical support members
100, and when used in conjunction with other structures herein
described, provide an exceptionally strong means for lifting and
transporting any assembly constructed using the vertical support
members 100.
[0069] FIGS. 12A and 12B present another embodiment of the present
invention, in which the pallet securing members 118 (here, inverted
cross braces 104) are affixed so that the securing surface is
disposed at the bottom of the securing member. This configuration
can be advantageously used to accommodate different pallet 102
thicknesses.
[0070] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment
shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B.
[0071] FIG. 14 is a side view of another embodiment of the present
invention in which keyhole apertures are replaced with double-sided
keyhole apertures 200. Each double-sided keyhole aperture 200 has
an upward oriented aperture segment 202 and a downward oriented
aperture segment 204. This design is simpler to produce because the
keyhole apertures 200 have a symmetrical orientation and can be
easily punched from the vertical support members 100 without
reorientation.
[0072] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention using double-sided keyhole apertures 200. In this
embodiment, a strengthening segment 220 is placed between the
double-sided keyhole apertures 200 to increase the strength of the
modular shelving. This configuration is particularly well suited to
heavy loads. Strengthening segment 220 can be implemented by a
greater distance between double-sided keyhole apertures 222 and
224, a greater distance between the double-sided keyhole apertures
224 and 226, or a greater distance between both. Alternatively, a
vertical support member can be reinforced in this are as required
with additional thickness material, molding or stamping a stronger
shape, or by heat treatment
[0073] FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention in which only a limited number of double-sided keyhole
apertures 200 are utilized. This configuration is useful in
situations where higher vertical support member 100 rigidity is
required, or when less flexibility in shelf location is
required.
[0074] In addition to the aforementioned advantages, the present
invention is also easily constructed and broken down. Construction
is accomplished by placing pallet securing members 118 or cleats
128 about the periphery of the pallet 102 so that the pallet
securing tabs 110 (or, in embodiments using cleats 126, the cleat
tabs 111) face outward from the center of the pallet. Next,
vertical support members 100 are placed at each corner of the
pallet 102. Then, downward force is applied to the vertical support
members to lock them to the pallet securing members 118 (or cleats
126). Then, the desired number of number and location of shelves is
determined. At the aforementioned locations, four cross braces 104
are inserted into the structure with the tabs 110 on the braces
fitting into the keyhole apertures 108 in the vertical support
members 100. Downward force is then applied to the cross braces
104, affixing them in position. When so inserted, these cross
braces 104 form a shelf upon which the planar surface 106 is
placed, completing the construction. Disassembly follows the
reverse procedure.
[0075] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating the foregoing
operations. The process begins by placing 302 a pallet securing
member 118 having a pallet securing tab 110 about the periphery of
a pallet so that the pallet securing tab faces outward from the
center of the pallet 102. Then, vertical support members 100 are
placed 304 at each corner of the pallet 102, and the pallet
securing tabs 110 are inserted 306 through the keyhole apertures
108. Pressure is then applied 308 to each vertical support member
100 so as to affix the keyhole apertures 108 to the pallet securing
tabs 110. A plurality of cross braces 104 having cross brace tabs
109 are then disposed 310 between the vertical support members 100.
These cross braces 104 are then coupled and secured to the vertical
support members 100 by inserting the cross member tabs 109 in the
vertical support member apertures 108 and applying suitable force
on the cross member braces 104. Finally, the process is completed
by placing 316 shelving between the vertical support members 100
and upon the cross member braces 104.
[0076] The present invention may be practiced in a number of
embodiments. For example, while the foregoing has been described
with respect to conventional L-shaped steel shelving with tabs 110
and keyhole shaped apertures 108, the present invention can be
practiced with other means to affix the elements of the invention
together. Similarly, although generally stronger in construction,
L-shaped members are not required to practice the present
invention. Although the present invention is especially suitable
for transport via fork lifts, it is also envisioned that the
foregoing invention can be practiced with the use of wheels (which
may comprise braking or setting means) affixed to the bottom
surface of the pallet 102. Also, while the present invention has
been described with apertures 108 on the vertical support members
100, and tabs on other elements, the invention is not so limited,
and could be practiced in other embodiments. For example, the
present invention could be practiced using tabs on the vertical
support members, and apertures on the other interconnecting
elements. Cross braces can also be affixed with the use of
push-through sections at appropriate locations in the vertical
support members. Such push through sections can be fashioned by
making U-shaped cuts in the vertical support members, and bending
the cut sections inward. The upper portion of the cut sections can
then support cross braces or shelving of medium to light
weight.
Wheeled Embodiments
[0077] FIGS. 18A-18C are diagrams showing a caster assembly 1802
that can be removably attached to one or more of the vertical
support members 100. FIG. 18A is a diagram showing a top view of
the caster assembly 1802, FIG. 18B is a drawing showing a bottom
view of the caster assembly, and FIG. 18C is a diagram showing a
bottom view of the caster assembly 1802 and a coupleable wheel
assembly 1822. In FIGS. 18A-18C, an arrow is shown, delineating the
observer's perspective for the other views shown. For example, the
"C" arrows of FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate the direction an
observer would be viewing the caster assembly 1802 to see the side
view presented in FIG. 18C. Also, the "A" and "B" arrows shown in
FIG. 18C indicate the direction an observer would be viewing the
caster assembly 1802 to see the top and bottom views of FIGS. 18A
and 18B, respectively.
[0078] The caster assembly 1802 can be removably coupled to the
lower extremity of the vertical support members 100 and are
configured for attachment of wheels, thus permitting wheels to be
attached to the modular shelf assembly so that it may be wheeled
about.
[0079] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 18A-18C, the caster
assembly 1802 comprises a first member 1804 and a second member
1806 communicatively coupled to the first member 1804. In the
illustrated embodiment, the first member 1804 and the second member
1806 are planar members, and are disposed perpendicular to one
another so that they may be inserted into the concave portion of
the "L" shaped vertical support members 100. However, all that is
required is that the first member 1804 and the second member 1806
together form an outside surface shaped to substantially conform to
that of the inner surface of the vertical support member 100. For
example, the interior surface of one or more of the vertical
support members 100 could be "V" shaped or even planar, in which
case, the caster assembly 1802 would be shaped to conform to such
surface.
[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the caster assembly 1802
comprises a sleeve 1810, sized and shaped to accept a shaft portion
1824 of a wheel assembly 1822 as further described below. The first
member 1804 and the second member 1806 may also be coupled to one
another via the sleeve 1810. That is, instead of or in addition to
the first member 1804 being welded or otherwise affixed to the
second member 1806 at the edges of the members 1804,1806, the first
member 1804 and the second member 1806 can be affixed to each other
via the sleeve 1810 (e.g. by affixing both to the sleeve 1810 but
not to each other).
[0081] Preferably, the caster assembly 1802 also comprises a third
member 1808 which is disposed on an opposite end of the caster
assembly 1802 from the wheel assembly 1822 and perpendicularly to
the first member 1804 and the second member 1806. As is shown
below, when the caster assembly 1802 is installed in the vertical
support member 100 of the modular rack assembly, the third member
1808 is disposed proximate (and typically adjacent to and in
contact with) and parallel to the downward-facing securing surface
120 of the modular shelf assembly described above. The third member
1808 interfaces with this downward facing securing surface 120,
allowing that surface to support at least a portion of the weight
of the modular shelf assembly when the modular shelf assembly is
wheeled about.
[0082] The third member 1808 is shown in FIGS. 18A-18C as extending
from the first member 1804 to the second member 1806 and coupled to
both (e.g. via welding), but this need not be the case.
[0083] FIGS. 18D and 18E illustrate further embodiments of the
caster assembly 1802, in showing different third member 1808
designs. In FIG. 8D, the caster assembly includes two third members
1808' which provide surfaces extending perpendicularly from the
first member 1804 towards the convex (or interior) area of the
caster assembly 1804. Such third members 1808' can be formed by
simply stamping a form for the first member 1804 that includes a
suitably sized and shaped surface, and bending this surface over to
be perpendicular to the first member 1804. FIG. 18E shows a similar
embodiment, except the third members 1808'' extend to the sleeve
1810. This strengthens the caster assembly 1802, by using the
presence of the sleeve 1810 to prevent the third member 1808'' from
being bent further downwards with the application of weight to the
third member 1808''.
[0084] The first member 1804 and second member 1806 each include
one or more features which are disposed and configured to be
removably coupled to a corresponding one or more features of the
vertical support member 100. In the embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 18A-18C, these first member surface features comprise a pair
of tabs 1812A,B on the first member 1804 and the second member
surface features comprise a pair of tabs 1814A,B on the second
member 1806. These tabs 1812A,B and 1814A,B are inserted into
corresponding features (such as the double-sided keyhole apertures
200 described above) in the corresponding vertical support member
100 and the caster assembly 1802 is slid upwards to affix the
caster assembly 1802 to the vertical support member 100.
[0085] FIGS. 18A-18C also disclose optional sub-members 1816, 1818
which are disposed at the wheel end of the caster assembly 1802.
The sub-members 1816, 1818 provide additional support to allow the
caster assembly 1802 to support the weight of the modular shelf
assembly. The sub-members 1816, 1818 extend away from the concave
portion of the caster assembly (i.e. outwards), and are disposed on
the edge of the caster assembly 1802. When the caster assembly 1802
is affixed to the vertical support member 100, the sub-members
1816, 1818 extend under the bottom of the vertical support members
100 and accept at least a portion of the weight of the modular rack
assembly. These sub-members 1816, 1818 also reduce torquing of
members 100 during the transport of the rack under load by grasping
the corner post at it's bottom, where twisting or torquing is at is
maximum when the rack is rolled about under load.
[0086] The sub-members 1816, 1818 can be simply extensions that
present a horizontal surface perpendicular to and below the bottom
end of the vertical support member 100 (as shown in FIGS. 18D-18F),
or, they may comprise "J" or "hook" cross-sectioned extensions that
reach under and to the outside surface of the vertical support
member 100. In either case, the sub-members 1816-1818 can be formed
by suitable stamping the shape of the first and second members
1804, 1806 to include a feature and bending the feature in the
appropriate direction.
[0087] In sub-members 1816, 1818 can substantially increase the
strength and stability of the attachment of the caster assembly
1802 to the vertical support members 100. In one embodiment, the
sub-members 1816, 1818 are of sufficient size and strength and are
disposed such that two tabs (e.g. 1812A and 1814A) can be
eliminated. This makes insertion of the remaining tabs (e.g. 1812B
and 1814B) into the apertures 200 easier to accomplish.
[0088] The foregoing structures (e.g. tabs 1812A,B and 1814A,B
inserted within and affixed to corresponding apertures 200 in the
vertical support member 100, a third member 1808 interfacing with
this downward facing securing surface 120, and sub-members 1816 and
1818) provide for an extremely strong and secure attachment of the
caster/wheel assembly to the rack assembly.
[0089] In one embodiment, the wheel assembly 1822 and caster
assembly 1902 comprise interacting structures to which retain the
shaft portion 1824 within the sleeve 1810, thus preventing the
shaft portion from falling out of the sleeve should one of the
wheel assemblies 1822 pass over a bump or a curb. In one
embodiment, these interacting structures comprise a compressible
ring 1850 and a matching notch 1852.
[0090] It is noted that the size, shape, and location of the
apertures 200 may be modified to more easily permit the caster
assembly 1802 to be attached. For example, FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate
an embodiment in which selected apertures 200 of the vertical
support members 100 are modified to permit easier insertion of the
tabs 1812, 1814 of the caster assembly 1802.
[0091] FIG. 19A illustrates an aperture 1902 in which the vertical
portion 200' is offset by a distance "d" from the nominal position
(the distance "d" being the approximate distance from the top of
the head to the base of tab 1814). This allows insertion of tab
1812 into the aperture 200', the sliding the caster assembly 1802
to the position illustrated in FIG. 19B (thus disposing the tab
1814 through aperture 200, and sliding the caster assembly upwards
locking the first tab 1812 in aperture 1902 and the second tab 1814
in the second aperture 200 as shown in FIG. 19C. Also note that
when the caster assembly 1802 is slid upwards, the sub-member 1818
interfaces with the vertical support member 110. In the flat tab
embodiment disclosed in FIG. 18F, the sub-member 1818 provides
additional weight-bearing capability, while in the hooked
embodiment of the sub-member shown in FIG. 18C, both weight bearing
and enhanced stability are provided, as the sub-member 1818
prevents shifting the caster assembly 1802 away from the
longitudinal axis of the vertical support member.
[0092] While FIGS. 19A-19C depict a system wherein the apertures
200 are modified in order that the caster assembly 1802 can be
easily coupled to the vertical support members 100, this can also
be accomplished by modifying the tabs 1802.
[0093] FIGS. 19D-19F are top, side, and perspective views of an
alternate embodiment of the tabs 1812 (denoted 1812'). The tabs
1812 include a head portion base portion 1904, a center portion
1906 and a head portion 1908. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 19D-19F, the head portion is trimmed so that less than the
full circumference of the head is present.
[0094] FIGS. 19G-19I are drawings depicting how the tabs 1812'
having trimmed heads are facilitate assembly of the caster assembly
1802 on the rack. FIG. 19G depicts insertion of the trimmed tab
1812' into a standard double sided keyhole aperture 200. Because
the tab 1812' is trimmed, it can be inserted into it's respective
aperture while tab 1814 remains out of it's aperture. Then, as
shown in FIG. 19H, the caster assembly 1802 can be slid to the
left, placing tab 1814 in its aperture as well. Sliding the caster
assembly 1802 upward then removably affixes the caster assembly
1802 to the vertical support member 100 via both tabs (1814 and
1812') and by structure 1818. Note that the circumferentially
trimmed head of the tab 1812 allow the insertion of the that tab
1812' into its respective aperture 200 while also allowing a
orthogonally disposed tab 1814 to be inserted into another
respective aperture 200.
[0095] Other attaching features can be used to removably affix the
caster assembly 1802 to the vertical support member 100. For
example, mutually cooperative tabs may be placed in the vertical
support member, and apertures in the caster assembly. Further, the
vertical support member 100 may have a tab and an aperture, while
the caster assembly 1802 also has corresponding apertures and tabs,
respectively. While tabs and cooperatively interlocking tabs are a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, the present
invention could also be implemented with other attachment
structures.
[0096] FIG. 20 is a flow chart describing exemplary method steps
that can be used to assemble a shelf assembly with casters. The
assembly process of FIG. 20 will be described in conjunction with
FIG. 21, which presents an embodiment of the caster assembly 1802
assembled on a modular rack assembly.
[0097] As shown in block 2002, a caster assembly 1802 is removably
affixed to a bottom end of each of the vertical support members
100. The caster assembly 1802 comprises a caster assembly 1802 that
includes a first member (e.g. 1804 or 1806) which is disposed to
accept a wheel 1826, disposed on a first end of the first member
1804,1806, and a caster weight bearing member 1808, which has a
surface that is perpendicular to the vertical support member 100
when affixed to the vertical support member 100. In one embodiment,
the caster assembly 1802 is affixed to the vertical support member
100 by inserting tabs 1812, 1814 into matching apertures 200 in the
vertical support member 100, and applying force to the caster
assembly 1802 in a direction away from the bottom of the vertical
support member 100 and towards its longitudinal center.
[0098] As shown in block 2004, the securing member 118 is then
removably affixed to at least one of the vertical support members
100. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 21, the securing member
118 comprises an inverted cross brace 104 having an
inward-extending horizontal weight bearing member 2002 having a
downward surface, and is configured to bear at least a portion of
the weight of the shelf assembly. When the securing member 118 is
installed, the downward surface of the horizontal weight bearing
member 2002 is disposed proximate (and optionally in contact with)
the third member 1808. This interaction limits the motion of the
caster assembly 180 after affixment to the vertical support
members, thus providing for an attachment to the vertical support
member 100 with increased stability.
[0099] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the
caster assembly 1802 in use with the modular rack assembly. As is
the case with the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, when the securing
member 118 (as illustrated, inverted cross brace 104) is installed
to the vertical support member and the caster assembly 1802 is
installed thereafter, the weight bearing member 2002 of the
securing member 118 is disposed proximate and preferably, in
contact with the third surface 1808 of the caster assembly 1802.
Unlike the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, the securing member 118
affixed to the vertical support member 100 such that the securing
member tabs 2202 are at the upper end of the apertures in the
vertical support member (in this respect, similar to the embodiment
shown in FIG. 14). This embodiment has several advantages. First,
this embodiment allows easy conversion from a rack that is moved
about by lifting the pallet 102 disposed therebelow to a rack that
is moved about by attachment of the caster assembly 1802. That is
because in both cases, the securing member 118 helps support the
weight of the rack assembly as it is moved about. When moved about
by the pallet 102, the securing member 118 contacts the pallet 102
and prevents the pallet 102 from moving upwards and helps bear the
weight of the modular rack assembly. When moved about by wheels and
the caster assembly 1802, the securing member 118 contacts the
third surface 1808 and helps bear the weight of the modular rack
assembly on the caster assembly 1802.
Conclusion
[0100] In summary, a modular pallet and shelving assembly has been
described which uses widely available conventional components,
reduces damage to products in transit, and reduces time consuming
handling of products to remove them from shipping containers and
place them on retail shelves. The present invention presents a
flexible solution to product transportation. The structure may be
returned to the manufacturer, broken down and used for its
component parts, or disposed of, or returned to the manufacturer in
an assembled or disassembled state. Further, the present invention
supports multiple pallet structures to heights suitable for retail
display and merchandising.
[0101] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of
the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration
and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit
the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and
variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is
intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this
detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto. The
above specification, examples and data provide a complete
description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the
invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the
invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended.
* * * * *