U.S. patent application number 11/266826 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-09 for shelving system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Fasteners For Retail, Inc.. Invention is credited to Daniel J. Kump, Paul A. Mueller.
Application Number | 20060049122 11/266826 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32775620 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060049122 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mueller; Paul A. ; et
al. |
March 9, 2006 |
Shelving system
Abstract
An adjustable length track for a pusher system includes a first
section and a second section which is operably connected to the
first section. A first elongated rail extends longitudinally along
the first section. A second elongated rail extends longitudinally
along the second section. The second section is moveable in
relation to the first section to allow a length of the track to be
changed, thereby enabling the track to be placed on associated
shelves of varying depths.
Inventors: |
Mueller; Paul A.;
(Wadsworth, OH) ; Kump; Daniel J.; (Highland
Heights, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Jay F. Moldovanyi, Esq.;Fay, Sharpe, Fagan, Minnich & McKee, LLP
Seventh Floor
1100 Superior Avenue
Cleveland
OH
44114-2579
US
|
Assignee: |
Fasteners For Retail, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
32775620 |
Appl. No.: |
11/266826 |
Filed: |
November 4, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10682169 |
Oct 9, 2003 |
|
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|
11266826 |
Nov 4, 2005 |
|
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|
10348306 |
Jan 21, 2003 |
|
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10682169 |
Oct 9, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/59.3 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 1/126 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/059.3 |
International
Class: |
A47F 1/04 20060101
A47F001/04 |
Claims
1. An adjustable length track for a pusher system, said track
comprising: a first section; a second section operably connected to
said first section; a first elongated rail extending longitudinally
along said first section; a second elongated rail extending
longitudinally along said section; and, wherein said second section
is moveable in relation to said first section to allow a length of
said track to be changed, thereby enabling said track to be placed
on associated shelves of varying depths.
2. The track of claim 1 wherein said first and second elongated
rails are longitudinally aligned.
3. The track of claim 2 further comprising a pusher slidably
mounted in at least one of said first and second elongated
rails.
4. The track of claim 3 further comprising a biasing member for
biasing said pusher in a forward direction.
5. The track of claim 4 wherein said biasing member comprises a
spring.
6. The track of claim 1 further comprising a hinge connecting said
first and second sections.
7. The track of claim 1 further comprising a sliding joint defined
between said first and second sections, said sliding joint allowing
said second section to slide in relation to said first section.
8. A shelving system comprising: an elongated mounting member
operationally securable to an associated shelf; a track received on
said mounting member wherein said track extends approximately
transversely to a longitudinal axis of the associated shelf, said
track comprising: a first section; a second section operably
connected to said first section; an elongated rail extending
longitudinally along at least said first section, and a pusher
slidably mounted in relation to said rail; and, wherein said second
section is moveable in relation to said first section to allow a
length of said track to be changed, thereby enabling said track to
be placed on associated shelves of varying depths.
9. The shelving system of claim 8 further comprising a divider
received on said mounting member wherein said divider extends
approximately transversely to said longitudinal axis of the
associated shelf.
10. The shelving system of claim 9 wherein said divider is spaced
from said track.
11. The shelving system of claim 8 wherein said mounting member
comprises a first longitudinally extending groove, a portion of
said track first section being accommodated in said mounting member
first groove.
12. The shelving system of claim 8 wherein said pusher comprises a
foot extending from a base member, said foot cooperating with said
rail.
13. The shelving system of claim 8 further comprising a biasing
member for biasing said pusher forwardly on said track.
14. An adjustable length merchandising system comprising: an
elongated mounting member operationally securable to a front
portion of an associated shelf and extending parallel to a
longitudinal axis thereof; a plurality of spaced tracks, wherein
said tracks extend rearwardly over the associated shelf, at least
one of said plurality of tracks including a pusher slidably mounted
thereon; a mounting structure for mounting each of said plurality
of spaced tracks to said elongated mounting member; and, wherein at
least one of said plurality of tracks comprises a means for
extending an operative length of said at least one track.
15. The merchandising system of claim 14 wherein said means for
extending comprises a paddle which is adapted to cantilever beyond
a rear end of said track.
16. The merchandising system of claim 15 wherein said paddle
comprises a foot which protrudes from a front face of said
paddle.
17. The merchandising system of claim 16 wherein said paddle
further comprises a bracing member spaced from said foot.
18. The merchandising system of claim 14 wherein said means for
extending comprises: a first section; a second section; and a means
for moving said first section in relation to said second
section.
19. The merchandising system of claim 18 wherein said means for
moving comprises a hinge which connects said first section to said
second section.
20. The merchandising system of claim 18 wherein said means for
moving comprises a telescoping joint connecting said first section
to said second section.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/682,169 which was filed on Oct. 9, 2003 and
is still pending. That application is a continuation-in-part of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/348,306 which was filed on Jan.
21, 2003 and is still pending.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to an adjustable
shelving system. More specifically, the present invention relates
to an adjustable forward-feeding display shelving system for
storing and displaying merchandise of a variety of shapes and sizes
and automatically delivering the merchandise to the front of the
shelf. The shelving system can be removably attached to an
associated shelf and is configured to organize merchandise on the
shelf.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Shelving is used extensively for stocking and storing
products or merchandise in a variety of stores. Most stores have
immovable shelving which is arranged back-to-back between
aisleways. The nature of the fixed shelves makes it difficult to
add and remove products. Moreover, such shelves make difficult the
rotation of the shelved products, which involves moving the older
stock to the front of the shelf and positioning new stock behind
the older stock. For a number of important merchandising
considerations, it is desirable that merchandise be displayed at
the front of a shelf so that the customer is induced to purchase
such forwardmost article. For example, if the goods are perishable
or are subject to becoming stale (e.g. cigarettes, fruit juices,
dairy products, or any item with an expiration date or a freshness
date), it is important that the articles be removed in a first in,
first out basis to maintain freshness. Also, if merchandise is not
displayed at the front of a shelf, it may not catch the shopper's
eye, which may cost the merchant sales.
[0004] In order to automatically move an item forward as the one
before it is removed, numerous forward feed devices have been
devised. There devices generally fall into three categories. The
first category is inclined tracks, relying on gravity to feed,
slide, or roll products forward. Gravity feeding is unpredictable
in that various materials slide easier than others because of
different weights and frictional interfaces between the products
and the track. The second category employs conveyor belts which
still use gravity to effect forward movement. These devices
typically are cumbersome, expensive, and complicated, due to the
need to properly tension and track the conveyor belts. The third
category uses spring-biased paddles to feed the product forward.
Such paddle-based forward feed devices have been found useful for
certain merchandise.
[0005] However, a merchant with two or more different depths of
shelving must purchase tracks of two or more depths, to employ the
spring-biased paddles. There thus exists a need for a track system
that is capable of accommodating shelving of varying depths.
[0006] Also, the current mounting designs of such spring biased
paddles on rails is not optimum and, thus, leaves room for
improvement.
[0007] Accordingly, it has been considered desirable to develop a
new and improved track system for merchandise display which would
overcome the foregoing difficulties and others while providing
better and more advantageous overall results.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an
adjustable length track is provided for a pusher system. The track
comprises a first section and a second section operably connected
to the first section. A first elongated rail extends longitudinally
along the first section. A second elongated rail extends
longitudinally along the second section. The second section is
moveable in relation to the first section to allow a length of the
track to be changed, thereby enabling the track to be placed on
associated shelves of varying depths.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a shelving system includes an elongated mounting member
operationally securable to an associated shelf. A track is received
on the mounting member, wherein the track extends approximately
transversely to a longitudinal axis of the associated shelf. The
track comprises a first section and a second section operably
connected to the first section. An elongated rail extends
longitudinally along at least the first section. A pusher is
slidably mounted in relation to the rail. The second section is
moveable in relation to the first section to allow a length of the
track to be changed, thereby enabling the track to be placed on
associated shelves of varying depths.
[0010] In accordance with a further embodiment of the present
invention, a merchandising system comprises an elongated mounting
member operationally securable to a front portion of an associated
shelf and extending parallel to a longitudinal axis thereof. A
plurality of spaced tracks are provided, wherein the tracks extend
rearwardly over the associated shelf. At least one of the tracks
includes a pusher slidably mounted thereon. A mounting structure is
provided for mounting each of the plurality of spaced tracks to the
elongated mounting member. Each of the tracks comprises a first
section and a second section and wherein the second section is
moveable in relation to the first section to allow a length of the
track to be changed, thereby enabling the track to be placed on
associated shelves of varying depths.
[0011] Still other aspects of the present invention will become
apparent to those of average skill in the art upon reading and
understanding of the following detailed specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangements of parts, several embodiments of which will be
described in detail in this specification, and illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a shelf
management system according to the present invention, including a
portion of an elongate track, two paddles in accordance with a
first and a second embodiment, a front panel, and a front end
clip;
[0014] FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of a merchandise
shelving system according to the present invention, including a
portion of the elongate track, two rear panels and two rear end
clips in accordance with the first and second embodiments;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a sectioned view through the shelf management
system of FIG. 1 in accordance with the first embodiment of the
present invention;
[0016] FIG. 3 is an assembled perspective view of the shelf
management system of FIG. 1 in accordance with the first embodiment
of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a shelf management system
including an elongated track and paddle assembly according to a
third embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a reduced top plan view of the assembly of FIG.
4;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the assembly of FIG. 5
along line 6-6;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a paddle of the
assembly of FIG. 4;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the paddle of FIG.
7;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a shelf management system
including an elongate track and paddle assembly according to a
fourth embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an adjustable length track
according to another embodiment of the present invention,
illustrating a second track section in a horizontal
orientation;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the adjustable track of
FIG. 10 with the second track section being shown in a vertical
orientation;
[0025] FIG. 12 is an enlarged exploded perspective view of the
adjustable track sections of FIG. 10;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the adjustable track
of FIG. 10 in use in a shelf management system with a paddle being
located on the second track section;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the adjustable track
system of FIG. 13 with the second track section being shown in a
vertical orientation;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a still further embodiment
of an adjustable length track according to the present invention
with the track being in a shortened condition;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the adjustable length track
of FIG. 15 with the track being in a lengthened position;
[0030] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a track and a paddle
according to a yet further embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the track and paddle
of FIG. 17;
[0032] FIG. 19 is a greatly enlarged cross sectional view of the
track and paddle of FIG. 17;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of the paddle of FIG.
17;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of the paddle of FIG.
17;
[0035] FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of the paddle of FIG. 20;
and,
[0036] FIG. 23 is a rear elevational view of the paddle of FIG.
20.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for
the purposes of illustrating several preferred embodiments of the
invention only and not for purposes of limiting same, FIGS. 1A and
1B show two embodiments of the shelf management system according to
the present invention.
[0038] More particularly, FIG. 1A shows an exploded view of the
components comprising a shelving system generally designated by
reference numeral 10 including a portion of an elongate track 12, a
product pusher paddle 14 with a foot 16 in accordance with a first
embodiment, a front end clip 18, and a front panel 20. Also shown
in phantom lines is an alternative product pushing paddle 15
without the foot in accordance with a second embodiment. The
components of the shelving system 10 could be formed in accordance
with the present invention from a conventional thermoplastic, such
as polyvinyl chloride plastic or any other suitable plastic by
extrusion, molding, or any suitable plastic forming technique. The
shelving system 10 is configured in such a way so as to accept
packages of various widths, depths, and configurations. More
particularly, the spacing between adjacent tracks 12 can be
adjusted to accommodate packages of different widths. Also, the
shelving system can be employed on shelves of differing depths.
[0039] The track 12 is generally configured in an elongate
orientation, including a front end portion 13 and a rear end
portion 17 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, respectively. The track 12
includes a base wall 22 and a side wall 24. The base wall 22 and
the side wall 24 are perpendicular to each other. The base wall 22
of the track 12 includes a pair of T-shaped rails 26, 28 thereon.
The T-shaped rails 26, 28 each include a vertical leg 30, 32,
respectively extending transverse to an upper surface 33 of the
base wall 22. The vertical legs 30, 32 each have a flattened
horizontal surface 34, 36, respectively thereon. The flattened
horizontal surfaces 34, 36 increase the support surface area for
carrying product without impeding the sliding movement of product
along the horizontal surfaces 34, 36 utilizing the available forces
provided by the product feeding shelving system. The vertical legs
30, 32 space the flattened horizontal surfaces 34, 36 from the
upper surface 33 of the base wall 22. The T-shaped rails 26, 28
extend collinear with the length of the track 12.
[0040] The track 12, at one side, includes the side wall 24
extending perpendicular to the base wall 22. The side wall 24
functions as a divider member to separate the shelf space into
individual merchandise display areas. The side wall 24 includes a
first face 40, a second face 42, and a flange 44. The flange 44 is
generally transverse to the second face 42 of the side wall 24. The
flange 44 is collinear with the length of the track 12. The flange
44 is proximal to the base wall 22 and generally coplanar with the
flattened horizontal surfaces 34, 36 of the T-shaped rails 26, 28.
The flange 44 has a horizontal surface 47. The base wall 22, at
another side, includes a terminal edge 46, distal to the side wall
24, which extends upward generally perpendicular to the base wall
22. The terminal edge 46 is collinear with the length of the track
12. The front edges of the rails 27, 29, the front edge of the base
wall 23, the front edge of the side wall 25, and the front edge of
the flange 45 are coplanar and aligned generally with the front
edge of the associated shelf, not shown.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 1A, the paddle 14 according to the first
embodiment includes the foot 16. The paddle 14 further includes a
pusher wall 56 with a front face 58 and a pair of gussets 60, 62
which extend rearwardly from a rear face 64. These are generally
angled from the top of the pusher wall 56 to a base 70 of the
paddle 14. The gussets 60, 62 serve to stiffen the pusher wall 56.
The foot 16 extends forward of the pusher wall front face 58. An
upper surface (shown in FIG. 2) of the base 70 serves as a spring
carrier surface 72. At opposing sides of the spring carrier surface
72 are a pair of outside edges 76 and (not visible) projecting
downward generally perpendicular to the spring carrier surface 72.
The outside edges are parallel to one another and are spaced to
slidably engage, along with an underside or sliding surface 80 of
the spring carrier surface 72, the flattened horizontal surfaces
34, 36 of the T-rails 26, 28. The foot 16 extends forwardly
transverse to the front face 58 of the pusher wall 56. The foot 16
includes a pair of opposing outside flanges 82, 84. A pair of
product supporting arms 86, 88 are included on a top surface of the
foot 16. A pair of guide legs 87, 89 are included on a bottom
surface of the foot 16. The arms 86, 88 and legs 87, 89 are
collinear with T-rails 26, 28 when the shelving system 10 is in an
assembled arrangement, as will be described hereinafter.
[0042] As also shown in FIG. 1A, the second embodiment of the
paddle 15 does not include a foot. However, the paddle 15 does
include a pusher wall 90 with a front face 92 and a pair of gussets
94, 96 extending rearwardly from a rear face 98. These generally
angle from the top of the pusher wall 90 to a base 100 of the
paddle 15. The gussets 94, 96 serve to stiffen the pusher wall 90.
An upper surface of the base 100 serves as a spring carrier
surface. At opposing sides of the spring carrier surface are a pair
of rolled edges 104, 106 projecting downwardly and inwardly. The
base 100 also includes a pair of legs 118, 120 extending transverse
to a lower or sliding surface 108 of the base 100. The legs 118,
120 are configured to slidably engage the upper surface 33 of the
base wall 22 to support and align the paddle 15 along the track
12.
[0043] With continued reference to FIG. 1A, a front end clip 18 for
each track 12 is shown. This includes a vertical rectangular front
plate 130 with a front face 132 and a rear face 134. The front
plate 130 includes a mounting element 136 extending transverse to
the rear face 134 of the plate 130. The mounting element 136
comprises a pair of vertically oriented opposing side walls 138,
140 and a bottom wall. The mounting element 136 of the front end
clip 18 slides in between the T-rails 26, 28 in the front end
portion 13 of the track and frictionally engages legs 30, 32,
flattened horizontal surfaces 34, 36 and the upper surface 33 of
the base wall 22. As shown in FIG. 2, a tooth 152 protrudes from a
lower face of the clip and engages in a slot 154 in the track to
fix the front end clip 18 to the front end portion 13 of the track
12 without the use of any glue or other adhesive material.
[0044] Also shown in FIG. 1A is the front panel 20. The front panel
20, which can be an extruded piece, is cut to fit the length of the
shelf. The front panel 20, and a rear panel described hereinafter,
generally allow the product tracks 12 to be stably held so as to
define a width for the product as well as to hold the product
tracks 12 to the shelf at both the front and the back ends of the
shelf, yet allowing them to slide sideways on the shelf. The front
panel 20 and rear panel are advantageously configured such that a
plurality of product tracks 12 can be slidably mounted to them. The
front panel 20 is generally configured in an L-shaped arrangement
with a base wall 160 and a front wall 162 extending upward
generally transverse to the base wall 160. The front panel 20 may
be comprised of a clear plastic material to allow a merchant or
prospective purchaser a clear line of vision to the product being
carried by the shelving system. The front wall 162 includes a front
face 164 and a rear face 166. A downward extending flange 168
projects from the rear face 166 of the front panel 20. The flange
168 includes a first leg 170 which extends perpendicular to the
rear face 166 and a second leg 172 generally perpendicular to the
first leg 170. The second leg 172 extends downward generally
parallel to the rear face 166. The first leg 170 and the second leg
172 form the downward extending flange configuration which provides
an open slot 174. As shown in FIG. 2, the open slot 174 is
configured to receive the front plate 130 of the front end clip 18.
An upper portion 176 of the front wall 162 serves as a product
retaining wall which extends upward and preferably angles slightly
rearward from a location above the flange 168. The product
retaining wall 176 serves as a forwardmost stopping surface for the
shelf management system 10 and utilizes the rearward angle to hold
products within the adjustable shelf management system 10 while the
product is being urged forward in the manner described in greater
detail hereinafter.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 1B, a low profile rear end clip 180
cooperates with a low profile rear panel 214 in the first
embodiment of the present invention. With reference now to FIG. 3,
these two elements are configured in such a way as to allow a rear
end of the pusher paddle 14 to extend rearward beyond the rear end
portion 17 of the track 12. However, the foot 16 holds the pusher
paddle on the track. The low profile rear end clip 180 includes
vertically extending first and second walls 184, 186, respectively.
A horizontal connecting wall (not visible) connects the first and
second walls 184, 186 at their respective bottom edges thereby
defining an upwardly open slot 190 between the first 184 and second
186 walls. Extending transverse to the second wall 186 are two
opposing upper mounting tabs 192, 194 at opposing ends of the
second wall 186. A lower mounting tab 196 extends transverse to the
second wall 186 centered along a lower edge 198 of the second wall
186 between the two upper mounting tabs 192, 194. Each upper
mounting tab 192, 194 includes a pair of integrally formed support
walls 200, 201 and 202, 203, respectively, extending from a top
edge 187 of the second wall 186 angularly to the front edge of the
tabs. Planar bottom surfaces are provided for the mounting tabs 192
and 194. These are configured to slidingly engage the upper surface
33 of the track base wall 22. The lower mounting tab 196 has a
planar upper surface 204 including an upward projecting tooth 206
generally centered between opposed side edges 205 and (not visible)
of the lower mounting tab 196 proximal to a front edge 197. The
upper surface 204 of the lower mounting tab 196 is configured to
slidingly engage the bottom surface 35 of the track base wall 22.
As shown in FIG. 2, the upward projecting tooth 206 engages an
opening 210 in the base wall 22 between the T-rails 26, 28 thereby
preventing disengagement of the rear end clip 180 from the track
12.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 1B, the low profile rear panel 214 of the
first embodiment is defined by a base wall 216 and an upwardly
extending rear wall 218. The rear wall 218 extends transverse to
the base wall 216 and includes an L-shaped upper edge 220. The
L-shaped upper edge 220 has a first leg 222 generally perpendicular
to the rear wall 218 and a second leg 224 extending downward
generally parallel to the rear wall 218. The first leg 222 and the
second leg 224 form a downwardly open channel 226. The channel 226
is configured to engage the first vertically extending wall 184 of
the rear end clip 180. As with the front panel, the rear panel 214
is cut to the length of the shelf and accommodates a plurality of
product tracks 12. The base wall 216 of the rear panel 214 may
include anti-skid layer 230 extending along the length of the
bottom side of the base wall 216 proximal to the rear wall 218 for
preventing movement of the rear panel in relation to the shelf.
Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2, a set of anti-skid bumps 232 may
be used. The layer 230 or bumps 232 can be co-extruded or
separately applied to the rear panel 214.
[0047] With reference now to the second embodiment, the front end
clip 18 may be utilized also as the rear end clip as shown in FIG.
1B. For this purpose, a second embodiment of a rear panel 240 is
employed. In this embodiment, the rear panel 240 includes a base
wall 242 and a rear wall 244. The rear wall 244 projects upwardly
transverse to the base wall 242. The rear wall 244 includes an
L-shaped upper edge 246. The L-shaped upper edge 246 includes a
first leg 248 projecting transverse to the rear wall 244 in a
forward direction. A second leg 250 projects downward, generally
parallel to the rear wall 244, from the first leg 248. In this
embodiment, the rear panel 240 is similar to the front panel 20 but
without a product retaining wall (upper portion).
[0048] According to the first embodiment, the paddle 14 is in
sliding connection with the product track 12 (best shown in FIGS. 2
and 3). The sliding connection comprises a first and second pair of
surfaces, with the first pair located adjacent the first T-shaped
rail and the second pair of surfaces located adjacent the second
T-shaped rail. One surface of the first and second pairs is formed
on the top side of the outside flanges 82, 84 of the foot. The
other surface of each of the first and second pairs is on the upper
surfaces of the T-rails 26, 28. The first and second pairs of
surfaces engage to resist separation of the paddle from the track.
Additionally, there is a third pair of surfaces 87, 89 located on
the bottom side of the foot 16. These engage adjacent surface 33 on
the track base wall 22 to maintain alignment of the paddle 14 with
the track 12. Furthermore, there is a fourth pair of surfaces
located on the bottom side of the foot. These include respective
notches 91 and (not visible) as shown in FIG. 1A. The notches
engage a surface of the rear end clip 180 to halt rearward travel
of the paddle on the track.
[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the front face 58 of the paddle 14
extends generally normal to the upper surface 33 of the track 12.
The front face 58 of the paddle is designed to allow the paddle to
maintain contact with the products positioned directly in front of
it. The spring carrier surface 72 and the sliding surface 80 of the
paddle 14 are generally formed from the same section of material
which extends rearward of the pusher wall 56 along a direction
generally perpendicular to the front face 58. In the illustrated
embodiment in FIG. 2, the gussets 60, 62 support the relationship
between the pusher wall 56 and the foot 70. The outer edges 76 and
(not visible) of the base 70 extend downward transverse to the
spring carrier surface 72. These outer edges form a fifth pair of
sliding surfaces. These cooperate with a respective surface of the
track 12. The fifth pair of surfaces engage to maintain alignment
of the paddle 14 with the track 12. The base 70 includes a central
opening 71, proximate to the rear face 64, which allows a roll
spring to pass therethrough.
[0050] With reference again to FIG. 1A, the opposing outside
flanges 82, 84 are designed to slide under the flattened horizontal
surfaces 34, 36 of the rails 26, 28. The sliding surface 80 (FIG.
2) of the paddle 14 is designed to slide over the flattened
horizontal surfaces 34, 36 of the rails 26, 28. Through the use of
the opposing flanges 82, 84, the opposing outside edges 76, 78, and
the rails 26, 28 of the track 12, a slidable positive lock between
the track 12 and the paddle 14 is formed. The slidable positive
lock reduces the likelihood of the paddle 14 separating or
misaligning from the track 12 under high load.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 1A, the second embodiment of the paddle 15
(phantom lines) comprises first and second rolled edges 104, 106
which, in use, are located adjacent the rails 26, 28 of the track.
These cooperate with the respective adjacent track 34, 36. The
rolled edges engage the tracks to maintain alignment of the paddle
with the track. Additionally, the legs 118, 120 of the second
paddle 15 engage adjacent portions of the respective T-rails 26,
28. Such engagement helps resist separation of the paddle from the
track.
[0052] The pushing surface or front face 92 extends generally
normal to the upper surface 33 of the base wall 22. The spring
carrier surface 102 and the sliding surface 108 are generally
formed from the same section of material which extends rearward of
the rear face 98 of the pusher wall 90 along a direction generally
perpendicular to the front face 92 or pushing surface. In the
illustrated embodiment in FIG. 1A, a pair of gussets 94 and (not
visible) support the relationship between the pusher wall 90 and
the base 100 of the paddle 15.
[0053] In both embodiments, a biasing element in the form of a
spring 260 is used to bias the paddle 14 toward the front end
portion 13 of the track 12. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the biasing
element can be a roll spring 260. The roll spring 260 has
characteristics which may make it desirable over various other
types of springs, such as compression springs. For instance, the
roll spring 260 naturally recoils back into its tightly wound
initial state after being extended and released. Also, as the roll
spring 260 is stretched, the force exerted by it is approximately
the same during such stretching. It will be appreciated that other
biasing elements may be used, i.e. elastic straps, coil springs,
and other biasing members. The roll spring 260 is advantageous
because it provides a uniform force throughout its extension, is
simple to install, and does not require attachment to the foot 70.
The roll spring 260 may be permanently, semi-permanently, or
removably attached to the front clip 18. In the embodiment
illustrated, the roll spring 260 is semi-permanently attached to
the clip 18 by inserting a first end 262 of the spring 260 into a
slot (not visible) in the clip. A spring portion 264 immediately
adjacent the first end 262 is then bent 900 and inserted into a
stem of the clip. The remainder of the spring is then rotated
90.degree. around its longitudinal axis.
[0054] The balance of the roll spring 260 rests on a spring
carrying surface 72 of the base 70 of the paddle 14. Due to the
configuration of the roll spring 260, it does not need to be
secured to the spring carrier surface 72. Alignment of the coiled
section of the roll spring 260 is maintained by the rear face 64 of
the pusher wall 56, and the inside walls (not shown) of the gussets
60, 62. The rear face 64 of the pusher wall 56 provides a front
support and the inside walls of the gussets 60, 62 provide side
restraints with respect to movement of the roll spring 260.
[0055] With reference again to FIG. 2, it is appreciated that in
the first embodiment, the foot 16 of the paddle 14 limits the
forward travel of the paddle 14. Although the forward travel of the
paddle is inhibited by the foot 16, the foot 16 enables the pusher
wall 56 to extend rearward beyond the rear portion 17 of the track
12 (as seen in FIG. 3). This additional rearward travel of the
paddle 14 allows the entire length of the track to be utilized for
storing and moving products. It will be appreciated that, in the
second embodiment, using the paddle 15, the paddle 15 can traverse
substantially the entire length of the track 12 but the pusher wall
90 does not travel beyond the rear end of the track 12.
[0056] The shelf management system 10 comprises the track 12 to
underlie a plurality of products. The track 12 extends
longitudinally between the front and rear end portions 13, 17, and
laterally between the terminal edge 46 and the side wall 24. As
illustrated in FIG. 3, the shelving system 10 and feeding assembly
generally comprises a number of product tracks 12. It will be
appreciated that the base walls 160, 216, 242 of the front and rear
panels are of sufficient depth in order to provide the necessary
stability and alignment to the product tracks extending
therebetween. Due to the use of T-rails 26, 28 product tracks 12
decrease the contact surface area between the packages and the
product supporting and feeding assembly such that friction may be
reduced between the products and the assembly. The horizontal
surface 47 of flange 44 of a first track 12 is coplanar with the
flattened horizontal surfaces 34, 36 of a second adjacent track 12
to improve the product support and alignment as the products move
along the track 12.
[0057] With reference now to FIGS. 2 and 3, a plurality of adjacent
tracks 12 are shown stably held by the front panel 20 and the rear
panel 214. This configuration results in a secure connection of a
plurality of tracks 12 within the shelving system 10 such that the
individual tracks 12 cannot flop around. The front panel 20 may be
attached to the shelf in any suitable manner, including friction
fitting or permanent attachment (i.e. a Christmas tree clip 270 as
shown in FIG. 2). The side wall 24 of each respective track 12
separates the products supported on individual tracks 12 such that
the product carried by one product track 12 will not interfere with
the movement of product carried by an adjacent product track 12. As
shown, the side wall 24 is integral with the base wall 22. However,
the side wall can be a separate divider wall (not shown). It is
also appreciated that a product label 272 may be affixed to the
front face 164 of the front panel 20.
[0058] With reference now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a paddle
is there illustrated. In this embodiment, like components are
identified by like numerals with a primed (') suffix and new
components are identified by new numerals. In this embodiment, a
paddle 300 is slidably mounted on a track 12'. The track is
generally configured as an elongated member oriented such that it
extends from a front of a shelf to a rear of the shelf. The track
includes a base wall 22'. Mounted on the base wall are a pair of
T-shaped rails 26' and 28'. Spaced from the rails is a side wall
24'. The side wall includes a first face 40' and a second face 42'
(FIG. 6). The paddle includes a pusher wall 310. With reference now
also to FIG. 5, the pusher wall 310 includes a front face 312 for
contacting merchandise and a rear face 314. The pusher wall 310 is
mounted on a base 316. A pair of gussets 320 and 322 are located on
opposed side edges of the pusher wall 310 and extend from the
pusher wall to the base 316. The gussets are meant to reinforce the
pusher wall 310. Reinforcing stakes on ribs 324 may also be
provided adjacent the side walls. The stakes can be molded together
with the side walls.
[0059] Positioned atop the base 316 is a spring 330. As with the
embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the spring 330 may be a coil spring. In
this embodiment, the coil spring is not supported by the gussets
320 and 322 since the gussets are spaced a considerable distance
from the relatively central location of the spring 330. Rather, the
spring is simply held on the base 316. The spring 330 does not vary
its location laterally in the process of coiling and uncoiling so
that it would approach either of the gussets. The spring 330 is
looped around the distal end of the base 316 and then extends
forward, such that a central portion 332 is located between the
rails 26' and 28', as is best seen in FIG. 5. If desired, the
spring can have a front end (not visible) which is secured either
to the track 12' or to a front clip (not illustrated), which can be
of the type illustrated in FIGS. 1-3.
[0060] Defined between the side wall 24' and the second rail 28' is
a slot 338 (FIG. 6). Positioned in the slot is a foot, guide or
extension 340 of the paddle. With reference now also to FIG. 7, the
foot is located adjacent the second gusset 322 and projects from a
lower surface 341 (FIG. 8) of the base 316. The foot can be in the
shape of an upside down U and can comprise a top wall 342.
Projecting from opposite side edges of the top wall 342 are first
and second arms or walls 46. Extending laterally from the first arm
344 is a flange 348. The flange is adapted to contact a lower
surface 352 of the second rail 28' as is most evident from FIG. 6.
At the same time, the second arm 346 abuts against the first face
40' of the side wall 24' to brace the paddle 300 and retard lateral
movement thereof. Cooperation of the flange 348 and the second rail
28' retards vertical movement of the paddle 300. However, sliding
movement along the rails 26', 28' is permitted. As is best shown in
FIG. 8, a transverse stiffening wall 356 can extend between the two
arms 344 and 346 between the ends thereof. It is also apparent from
FIG. 8 that a rear end 360 the foot 340, can terminate short of the
rear edge of the base 316, if so desired.
[0061] In this embodiment, the foot or guide 340 of the paddle is
thus captured between the rail 28' and the sidewall 24'. It should,
however, be recognized that the guide 340 could be captured between
a rail and any sort of wall or approximately vertically extending
protrusion of the track 12'. In other words, instead of the side
wall 24' as illustrated in FIG. 6, some sort of protrusion could be
employed in combination with a rail in order to capture the guide.
In such a design, the side wall could be absent or could be located
on the opposite side of the track. Also, a much wider track could
be provided including a plurality of rails and, perhaps, a
plurality of pushers mounted on such rails with each pusher having
an extension that is captured between an adjacent rail and some
sort of protrusion that may extend approximately vertically in
relation to a base wall of the track.
[0062] With reference now to FIG. 9, still another embodiment of a
paddle is there illustrated. For ease of appreciation and
understanding of this embodiment, like components are identified by
like numerals with a double primed suffix ('') and new components
are identified by new numerals. In this embodiment, a track 12''
includes a base wall 22'' and a side wall 24''. Located on the base
wall 22'' are a pair of spaced rails 26'' and 28''. Slidably
mounted on the track 12'' is a paddle 400. The paddle includes a
pusher wall 410 having a front face 412. The pusher wall 410
extends from a base 416. Extending from the pusher wall 410 to the
base 416 are a pair of gussets 420 (only one of which is visible).
These are located on opposed side edges of the pusher wall 410 and
base 416.
[0063] A spring, such as a coil spring is positioned on an upper
surface of the base 416. Depending from the base 416 is a foot,
guide, or extension 440. More particularly, the foot depends from a
lower surface of the base.
[0064] Protruding from a central portion of the base 416 is a tab
or bracing member 470. The tab is meant to be used when the paddle
400 is fully retracted towards a back rail as illustrated in the
embodiment of FIG. 3. In use, the tab 470 braces the paddle on the
rear rail, when the paddle is fully retracted, to prevent it from
wobbling. The tab protrudes from a front edge of the base lower
surface in a spaced manner from the foot 440. It should be
appreciated, however, that the tab can have many different
designs.
[0065] The design illustrated in FIG. 9 also enables the pusher
wall 412 to extend rearward beyond a rear face of the track 22'.
This additional rearward travel of the paddle 400 allows the entire
length of the track to be utilized for storing and moving products.
Thus, the design of FIG. 9 illustrates a means for extending an
operative length of the track 22'. More particularly, both the
extension 440 and the tab 470 allow the paddle 400 to be retracted
beyond the track 22, yet still stay connected with the track.
[0066] A similar design can be seen in the embodiment of FIGS. 4-8.
In that design, the flange 348 maintains contact between the track
22' and the paddle, even when the pusher wall 310 is retracted
beyond the rear end of the track 22'. Thus, the operative length of
the track can be extended so as to enable the track to be used on
deeper shelves.
[0067] With reference now to FIG. 10, another embodiment of the
shelving system according to the instant disclosure comprises a
track 510 which includes a first section 512. The first section
comprises a first rail 514 and a second rail 516. Defined between
the two rails is an elongated aperture 518. A first notch 520 and a
second notch 522 can be provided in a respective one of the rails.
As is illustrated in FIG. 10, more than one such notch can be
employed if desired. At a front end of the track first section 512,
there can be provided a transversely extending slot 526, as shown
in FIG. 11. The slot separates a front portion 528 of the track
first section 512 from the remainder thereof. If desired, the slot
can be defined in an underside of the track first section 512.
[0068] The track 510 also comprises a second section 532. With
reference now also to FIG. 12, the second track section includes a
first rail 534 and a second rail 536. Defined therebetween is an
elongated aperture 538. Provided in the first rail 534 is a first
notch 540. Provided in the second rail 536 is a second notch 542.
One or more ribs 544 can connect a pair of side walls 545 and 546
on which the rails 534 and 536 are defined. It should be
appreciated that similar ribs can be defined on the track first
section 512, if so desired.
[0069] With reference again to FIG. 10, connecting the track first
and second sections 512 and 532 is a hinge construction 550. With
reference again to FIG. 12, the hinge construction can comprise a
pair of pins 552 (only one of which is visible in FIG. 12) which
engage a pair of opposed ears 554 defined on the track second
section 532. To this end, provided in each ear is an aperture 556
for accommodating a respective hinge pin 552. To control the range
of movement of the track second section 532 in relation to the
first section 512, a pair of extensions 558 can be provided on the
track first section 512. These cooperate with respective front
sections 562 and 564 of the track second section rails 534 and 536.
In this way, the track second section 532 cannot rotate past the
horizontal in relation to the track first section 512 as is
illustrated in FIG. 10. However, the track second section can be
rotated up to 90.degree. in relation to the track first section as
is illustrated in FIG. 11. With this construction, a means is
provided for extending an operative length of the track.
[0070] With reference now to FIG. 13, when the track 510 is placed
on a subjacent shelf (not shown) that is deeper than is the length
of the track first section 512, the track second section can be
folded down. In this way, more merchandise can be accommodated on
the track, and, hence on the shelf. However, when the track is of a
shallower depth, the track second section can be pivoted up out of
the plane of the shelf so that the track first section spans the
entire depth of the shelf. This is illustrated in FIG. 14. One
benefit of such a design is that the same track assembly 510 can be
employed both on deeper shelves and on shallower shelves, thereby
saving the merchant from having to stock two different lengths of
track for its shelves.
[0071] With continued reference to FIG. 13, a pusher paddle 570 is
mounted on the track 510. Since the construction of a pusher paddle
has been discussed previously, that discussion will not be repeated
here. The track 510 can be mounted to a front rail 580. The front
rail can comprise a vertically oriented wall 582 including a fence
584 mounted in a groove 586. The front rail also includes a
horizontally oriented wall 588. Defined in the horizontally
oriented wall is a groove 590. The groove 590 accommodates the
front portion 528 of the track first section 512. In other words, a
rear portion of the front rail horizontally oriented wall 588
defines a plateau which is accommodated in the transverse slot 526
in the track. This construction is described in applicant's
currently pending patent application Ser. No. 10/854,991 which was
filed on May 27, 2004 and is entitled "Adjustable Shelving System".
It is also described in applicant's earlier filed application Ser.
No. 10/686,096 filed on Oct. 14, 2003 and also entitled "Adjustable
Shelving System". The disclosures of both of these applications are
incorporated herein in their entirety.
[0072] As discussed in the above-identified two applications, a
shelf divider, such as the shelf divider 600, can also be provided.
Such dividers are useful in creating rows of products held on
spaced tracks. Such a divider 600 can be of one piece with the
track 510 or can be connected to the track 510, if desired.
Alternatively, the divider 600 can be spaced from the track 510. In
this embodiment, the divider is spaced from the track and is
separately mounted on the front rail 580. A variety of such divider
constructions is discussed in the above-identified two applications
which have been incorporated hereinto.
[0073] With reference now to FIG. 15, another embodiment of a means
for selectively extending the operative length of the track is
provided. In this embodiment, a track 610 includes a first section
612. The first section comprises a first rail 614 and a second rail
616. The rails are spaced from each other by an elongated
longitudinally extending aperture 618. Defined adjacent a front end
of the track first section can be a transverse slot 626. The track
510 also includes a second section 632 which comprises a first rail
634, a second rail 636 and an elongated aperture 638.
[0074] A telescoping track construction 650 is provided in this
embodiment. More particularly, the telescoping construction
comprises a first front flange 652 and a second front flange 654.
These extend outwardly from respective first and second sidewalls
656 and 658 of the track second section 632. In this way, the track
second section flanges accommodate respective rear portions 662 and
664 of sidewalls 666 and 668 of the track first section 612. The
telescopic movement of the track first section in relation to the
track second section is illustrated by the arrows in FIGS. 15 and
16. As can be seen, the operative length of the track 610 can be
changed from a shorter length illustrated in FIG. 15 to a longer
length illustrated in FIG. 16 by sliding the two track sections 612
and 632 in relation to each other. In this way, the track 610 can
be lengthened or shortened to fit deeper or shallower shelving.
[0075] With reference now to FIG. 17, another embodiment of a track
700 is there illustrated. In this embodiment, the track does not
include a longitudinally extending elongated aperture or slot.
Rather, the track includes a first side wall 702, a second side
wall 704 spaced therefrom and a top wall 706 which connects the two
side walls. Defined on the first side wall is a first track 710.
Defined on the second side wall is a second track 712. With
reference now also to FIG. 19, it can be seen that the first and
second tracks are defined as flanges which extend transversely away
from the plane of the respective side wall. A front plate 716 can
be defined on the track, as best shown in FIG. 17. Slidably mounted
on the track 700 is a pusher or paddle 720. The pusher or paddle
can include a front wall 721 which comprises a front face 722 and a
rear face 724, best shown in FIG. 20. With continued reference to
FIG. 20 now, the front wall 721 is mounted on a base 726. A pair of
gussets 730 and 732 are located adjacent opposed side edges of the
front wall 721 and extend from the front wall to the base 726. The
gussets are meant to reinforce the front wall. Reinforcing stakes
or ribs 734 may also be provided adjacent the side walls. The
stakes can be molded together with the side walls if so
desired.
[0076] Positioned atop the base 726 is a suitable coil spring 740,
as is shown in FIG. 22. The coil spring is supported on a flange or
shelf 748 which extends rearwardly from the front wall rear face
724 and is located between the pair of gussets 730 and 732 as is
illustrated in FIG. 23. The spring 740 is looped around a distal
end of the shelf 748 and then extends forward through a slot 750
defined in the front wall 721. This can also be seen in FIG.
21.
[0077] In this embodiment, a pair of guides 760 and 762 (see FIGS.
20 and 21) extend downwardly from the base 726. The guides include
respective flanges 754 and 756, as illustrated in FIG. 21. With
reference now again to FIG. 19, the flanges 754 and 756 are located
beneath the first and second tracks 710 and 712. In other words,
suitable channels 760 and 762 are defined in the pusher or paddle
720 so as to accommodate the rails 710 and 712 of the track 700. In
this way, the pusher 720 is slidably mounted on the track 700, as
is illustrated, e.g., in FIG. 18.
[0078] As with the embodiments of FIGS. 10-16, the track 700 can be
provided with either a hinged section or a telescopic section to
enable the length of the track to be adjusted for shelves of
varying depths. This disclosure has described five different means
for extending an operative length of a track. The first such means
comprises the paddle assembly disclosed in FIGS. 1-3. A second such
means includes the paddle assembly disclosed in FIGS. 4-8. A third
means comprises the paddle assembly disclosed in FIG. 9. FIGS.
10-14 disclose a hinged track assembly, which comprises a fourth
such means. Finally, FIGS. 15-16 disclose a telescoping track
assembly, which comprises a fifth such means.
[0079] The invention has been described with reference to several
embodiments, obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to
others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. It
is intended to include all such modifications and alterations
insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims and
the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *