U.S. patent application number 10/514199 was filed with the patent office on 2006-07-27 for heat staked shelf.
Invention is credited to MatthewJ McMillin, Eric Rouch.
Application Number | 20060162373 10/514199 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34277877 |
Filed Date | 2006-07-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060162373 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McMillin; MatthewJ ; et
al. |
July 27, 2006 |
Heat staked shelf
Abstract
A shelving assembly (920) is disclosed, with the shelving
assembly (920) including a series of heat stake ribs (926). The
ribs (926) may be hot formed and made pliable so as to be flexed
for purposes of providing additional retention and support to a
glass shelf panel (928). The glass shelf panel (928) is also
secured to a plastic rim (922). Heat stake pads (942) may be
utilized with the heat stake ribs (926). The heat stake ribs (926)
may be deformed against the corresponding heat stake pads (942) so
as to provide support for the glass shelf panel (928).
Inventors: |
McMillin; MatthewJ; (New
Albany, IN) ; Rouch; Eric; (Louisville, KY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Varnum Riddering Schmidt & Howlett;Bridgewater Place
Po Box 352
Grand Rapids
MI
49501-0352
US
|
Family ID: |
34277877 |
Appl. No.: |
10/514199 |
Filed: |
August 8, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
August 8, 2003 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US03/24713 |
371 Date: |
July 7, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10375632 |
Feb 27, 2003 |
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10514199 |
Jul 7, 2005 |
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PCT/US03/02045 |
Jan 24, 2003 |
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10375632 |
Feb 27, 2003 |
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60351917 |
Jan 25, 2002 |
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60361464 |
Mar 4, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
62/440 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 2325/022 20130101;
A47B 96/062 20130101; F25D 25/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
062/440 |
International
Class: |
F25D 11/00 20060101
F25D011/00 |
Claims
1. A shelving assembly adapted for use in a refrigerator and other
articles employing shelving, characterized in that said shelving
assembly comprises; a shelf panel composed of glass; a plastic rim
sized and configured in a manner so as to provide for said plastic
rim to be secured around at least a portion of the perimeter of
said shelf panel; and securing means adapted to be heated and made
pliable so as to provide retention and support for said shelf
panel.
2. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in
that said securing means comprises a plurality of heat stake ribs
positioned at various locations around said shelf panel.
3. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 2, characterized in
that said securing means further comprises a plurality of heat
stake pads, with each of said pads associated with a different one
of said heat stake ribs.
4. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 2, characterized in
that said securing means further comprises at least one heat stake
pad, with said heat stake pad associated with at least two of said
heat stake ribs.
5. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 2, characterized in
that: said plurality of heat stake ribs are configured so that at
least two of said heat stake ribs are located adjacent each lateral
side of said shelf panel; and said securing means further comprises
a plurality of heat stake pads, with one of each of said heat stake
pads associated with all of said heat stake ribs adjacent a lateral
side of said shelf panel.
6. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in
that: said securing means comprises at least one heat stake rib
initially projecting downwardly from said plastic rim; and said
heat stake rib is adapted to be heated and made pliable, and while
in a pliable state turned inwardly and below said perimeter of said
shelf panel, so that at least a portion of said heat stake rib
abuts an underside portion of said shelf panel.
7. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 6, characterized in
that said heat stake rib is formed around said perimeter of said
shelf panel through the use of a small radius tool.
8. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 6, characterized in
that said heat stake rib is formed around said perimeter of said
shelf panel through the use of a large radius tool.
9. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in
that said securing means comprises: at least one heat stake rib
initially projecting downwardly from said plastic rim; at least one
heat stake pad adapted to be positioned on said heat stake rib and
heated so as to make pliable said heat stake rib; and when said
heat stake rib is heated to an appropriate temperature, upwardly
directed pressure may be exerted against said heat stake rib so as
to secure at least a portion of said heat stake pad against an
underside portion of said shelf panel.
10. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 9, characterized
in that: said heat stake pad comprises an aperture extending
through said heat stake pad, with said aperture sized so as to
receive said heat stake rib; said heat stake rib is heated and
received within said aperture of said heat stake pad, thereby
making said heat stake rib pliable; and when said heat stake rib is
sufficiently pliable, said heat stake rib is deformed against an
underside of said heat stake pad, so as to cause said heat stake
pad to abut an underside of said shelf panel.
11. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that said securing means comprises at least two heat stake pads,
each having an L-shaped configuration.
12. A securing means in accordance with claim 11, characterized in
that: said securing means comprises a plurality of heat stake ribs;
and each of said at least two heat stake pads comprises a plurality
of apertures extending there through, with each of said apertures
sized so as to receive one of said heat stake ribs.
13. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 2, characterized
in that said heat stake pads are constructed of ABS plastic.
14. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that said shelving assembly further comprises means comprising
an adhesive located intermediate said plastic rim and said shelf
panel, and providing for a leak-proof seal between said plastic rim
and said shelf panel, and for rigidly securing said plastic rim to
said shelf panel.
15. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized
in that said retention and support provided by said securing means
is additional to any retention and support provided through said
use of said adhesive.
16. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that such shelving assembly may be stationary or facilitate
sliding movement, as is desired, on a ribbed liner of a
refrigerator.
17. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that: said plastic rim extends around the entirety of the
periphery of said shelf panel; said plastic rim is of a unitary and
integral design; and said plastic rim comprises an upwardly
projecting backstop extending across the entirety of a rear portion
of said plastic rim.
18. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that: said plastic rim extends around the entirety of the
periphery of said shelf panel; said plastic rim is of a unitary and
integral design; and said plastic rim comprises a downwardly
projecting forward lip having an acute cross-section, and acting in
part as a bumper to prevent damage of said shelving assembly from
articles that may be knocked against a forward portion of said
shelving assembly, and further acting in part as a handle to
facilitate stationary positioning or sliding movement on a plastic
ribbed liner of a refrigerator.
19. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that said plastic rim comprises: a horizontally disposed
section; a downwardly projecting section integral with said
horizontally disposed section; an additional downwardly projecting
section integral with said horizontally disposed section; and the
combination of said horizontally disposed section, downwardly
projecting section and additional downwardly projecting section
form a groove.
20. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 19, characterized
in that: said horizontally disposed section of said plastic rim
projects inwardly and terminates in a flat plane; said flat plane
provides for a spacial area formed between a lower surface of said
horizontally disposed section and an upper surface of said glass
shelf panel; and said adhesive is provided within said spacial
area, and utilized to facilitate securing of said glass shelf panel
to said plastic rim.
21. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized
in that: said shelving assembly further comprises at least one slot
formed between said plastic rim and said glass shelf panel; said
plastic rim comprises a flat plane; within said at least one slot,
said adhesive is provided so as to secure and couple together said
glass shelf panel and said plastic rim while providing a leak-proof
barrier to liquids; and said at least one slot aids in flow of said
adhesive during the manufacturing process.
22. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized
in that said adhesive comprises a reactive polyurethane hot melt or
light cured acrylic adhesive.
23. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that said shelving assembly further comprises: a horizontally
disposed lower ledge depending from a downwardly projecting member
of said plastic rim; and a plastic stop depending downwardly or
upwardly, as desired, from said horizontally disposed lower
ledge.
24. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized
in that said shelf panel includes decorative means for concealing
the view of said adhesive.
25. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized
in that said shelf panel is decorated with frosting or etching so
as to conceal viewing of said adhesive.
26. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized
in that said shelving assembly comprises a metal frame for
supporting said glass shelf panel and plastic rim.
27. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that such shelving assembly further comprises means for
providing slidable movement of said shelf panel relative to said
metal frame.
28. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that said metal frame comprises; a forward and substantially
horizontally disposed frame member; a further substantially
horizontally disposed frame member positioned to the rear of said
metal frame; a pair of opposing and parallel sideplates; and means
for coupling said frame members to said sideplates.
29. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 28, characterized
in that each of said sideplates comprises means for removably
locking said shelving assembly to walls of said refrigerator and
other articles.
30. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that: said plastic rim extends around the entirety of the
periphery of said shelf panel; said plastic rim is of a unitary and
integral design; and said plastic rim comprises an upwardly
projecting backstop extending across the entirety of a rear portion
of said plastic rim.
31. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that: said plastic rim extends around the entirety of the
periphery of said shelf panel; said plastic rim is of a unitary and
integral design; and said plastic rim comprises a downwardly
projecting forward lip having an acute cross-section, acting in
part as a bumper to prevent damage of said shelving assembly from
articles that may be knocked against a forward portion of said
shelving assembly, and further acting in part as a handle to
facilitate sliding movement relative to said metal frame.
32. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that; said metal frame comprises a pair of opposing and parallel
sideplates; and each of said sideplates comprises an outwardly or
inwardly projecting section, or is flat as is desired, with each of
said flat, outwardly, or inwardly projecting sections being
receivable onto said grooves of said plastic rim.
33. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized
in that: said plastic rim comprises a substantially horizontally
disposed section, projecting inwardly and terminating in a flat
plane; said flat plane provides for a spacial area formed between a
lower surface of said horizontally disposed section and an upper
surface of said glass shelf panel; and said adhesive is provided
within said spatial area, and utilized to facilitate securing of
said glass shelf panel to said plastic rim.
34. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 27, characterized
in that: said metal frame includes a pair of opposing and parallel
sideplates; said plastic rim comprises a pair of grooves; said
sideplates comprise outwardly or inwardly projecting members or
flat sideplates, as desired; and said slidable movement of said
glass shelf panel relative to said metal frame is provided through
relative interaction of said outwardly or inwardly projecting
members of said sideplates or flat sideplates, as desired, to said
plastic rim through said grooves.
35. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 34, characterized
in that said slidable movement is achieved without requiring any
additional modifications to said shelving assembly.
36. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that; said metal frame includes a pair of opposing and parallel
sideplates; and each of said sideplates is of a completely flat
configuration, with each of said sideplates being receivable onto
grooves of said plastic rim.
37. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that said shelving assembly further comprises means comprising
an adhesive located intermediate said plastic rim and said shelf
panel, and providing for a leak-proof seal between said plastic rim
and said shelf panel, and for rigidly securing said plastic rim to
said shelf panel.
38. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 37, characterized
in that said adhesive comprises a reactive polyurethane hot melt or
light cured acrylic adhesive.
39. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 27, characterized
in that said shelving assembly further comprises: a horizontally
disposed lower ledge depending from a downwardly projecting member
of said plastic rim; and a plastic stop depending downwardly or
upwardly, as desired, from said horizontally disposed lower
ledge.
40. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 39, characterized
in that: said shelving assembly further comprises a horizontally
and inwardly or outwardly, as is desired, depending metal
protrusion; said metal frame comprises metal sideplates, with said
inwardly or outwardly depending metal protrusions extending
therefrom; and the combination of said metal protrusions and said
plastic stop provides for a stop mechanism for sliding movement of
said shelving assembly.
41. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 40, characterized
in that said metal protrusion is punched-out, formed, or fastened
so as to be horizontally depending or vertically depending, as is
desired.
42. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 26, characterized
in that said shelving assembly is stationary and further comprises;
opposing sideplates of said metal frame depending vertically
downward or depending inwardly from said shelving assembly; said
sideplates comprise a cantilever or metal frame, and are attached
to said plastic rim by screws, molded into said plastic rim, or
snapped onto said plastic rim; a plastic engagement mechanism
extending across a front and/or rear portion, as desired, of said
shelving assembly, said plastic engagement mechanism including a
fitted slot for capturing a front or rear frame member, as desired,
in a snap fit configuration; and said front or rear frame member is
coupled to remaining portions of said metal frame.
43. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 42, characterized
in that: said shelving assembly further comprises a rear plastic
rail having a downwardly projecting section; positioned at a
terminating end of said downwardly projecting section is a
horizontally disposed section substantially perpendicular to said
downwardly projecting section; said downwardly projecting member
and said horizontally disposed member form a slot; and said
shelving assembly further comprises a rear frame member,
interconnected to said sideplates, and located within said slot
formed in said rear plastic rail.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/375,632 filed 27 Feb., 2003 and an
International Patent Application No. PCT/US03/02045 filed 24 Jan.,
2003. The United States Patent Application and the International
Application claim priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 60/351,917, filed 25 Jan., 2002, and U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/361,464, filed 4 Mar., 2002.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A MICROFISHE APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The invention relates to shelving designs which may be
adapted for use with refrigerators and other articles employing
shelving and, more particularly, shelving having glass supported in
part through the use of heat stake ribs.
[0006] 2. Background Art
[0007] Previous types of shelving have been developed for use as
refrigerator and other shelves. In designing refrigerator shelving,
it is important to provide a means for permitting selected movement
of the shelf within the refrigerator, in addition to providing
adequate support for the shelf.
[0008] In addition to these design features, one problem which
arises with respect to refrigerator shelving relates to spills. It
would be advantageous to include means for containing spills. If
spills are allowed to build up, they can readily harbor bacteria,
mold and other materials which may contaminate food stuffs and the
like.
[0009] Still further, it is advantageous to insure that shelf
panels themselves are appropriately secured to a frame or other
supporting means. In addition, it is advantageous if the means for
supporting and appropriately securing the shelf panel to supporting
frame members is relatively inexpensive and facilitates
assembly.
[0010] Numerous shelving designs exist in the prior art. For
example, Kane, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,809, issued Oct. 14,
1996, discloses an encapsulated shelf assembly with a shelf support
supporting a panel. The panel has an edge and a one-piece member
encapsulating the panel edge and a substantial majority of the
shelf support. The shelf assembly may be formed in a mold apparatus
which defines a mold cavity and uses a spacing plug to position the
shelf support in a mold cavity of the apparatus in a location
spaced from the sides of the mold cavity.
[0011] Herrmann, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,735,589, issued Apr. 7,
1998, discloses a shelf assembly for a refrigerator compartment
which includes a member slidably supported for extension and
retraction on a support. The shelf member includes slide members
which are preferably molded as a rim on an article support surface.
A guide member extends from at least one, and preferably both, of
the side members to guide the sliding movement. A stop on the guide
member limits travel by engaging a limit surface on the shelf
support.
[0012] Bird, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,454,638, issued Oct. 3, 1995,
discloses adjustable refrigerator shelving having a shelf rail for
supporting a partial width shelf within a refrigerator compartment
on first and second, spaced shelf racks vertically oriented in the
compartment. The tracks releasably engage with a number of support
brackets for cantilever support of one or more shelves at a
plurality of vertically spaced locations. The shelf rail includes
rearwardly projecting hooks at each of the two opposing ends for
releasable engagement with the shelf tracks. Locking tabs are
included on the hooks to retain the shelf rails on the track, while
a rub strip is provided between the partial shelf and the shelf
rail, along a top edge of the shelf rail.
[0013] Bird, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,433, issued Jul. 4, 1995,
describes a refrigerator shelf which is adapted for containment of
spills on the shelf. The shelf includes a planer shelf member with
a rim molded around the perimeter edge of the shelf member to form
a liquid tight seal between the rim and the shelf member. The
molded rim projects above the top surface of the shelf member to
form a liquid dam for containing spills on the shelf member. In one
embodiment, the shelf is slidably mounted to allow horizontal
extension of the shelf, with access to the rear portion of the
shelf using slide guides molded into the rim along each side of the
shelf. The shelf is cantilevered upon support brackets from the
rear wall of a refrigerator to allow air flow around the shelf
sides. The support brackets are adapted to support the shelf at a
plurality of vertical positions.
[0014] Meier, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,720, issued Sep. 19,
2000, discloses a method of manufacturing a glass shelf with a
plastic edge. The glass panel is placed on a cavity of a mold with
a peripheral edge of the cavity corresponding to the peripheral
edge of the glass panel. The cavity has side cavity portions, each
housing one of the shelf brackets. Plastic material is injected
into the cavity adjacent corners, so that the forces of the
injected material are essentially self balancing around the
peripheral edge of the glass panel. In this manner, the glass panel
is maintained in a substantially mating conformity with the cavity
to produce a relatively consistently contoured frame.
[0015] The foregoing is merely a sample of the various types of
prior art references which currently exist with respect to
refrigerator shelving.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] In accordance with the invention, a shelving assembly is
adapted for use in a refrigerator and other articles employing
shelving. The assembly includes a shelf panel composed of glass. A
plastic rim is sized and configured in a manner so as to provide
for the rim to be secured around at least a portion of the
perimeter of the shelf panel. Securing means are adapted to be
heated and made pliable so as to provide retention and support for
the panel. The securing means can comprise a plurality of heat
stake ribs positioned at various locations around the panel. In
addition, the securing means can also include a plurality of heat
stake pads. Each of the pads can be associated with a different one
of the heat stake ribs. Alternatively, and also in accordance of
the invention, the securing means can comprise at least one heat
stake pad, with the heat stake pad associated with at least two of
the heat stake ribs.
[0017] Further in accordance with the invention, the plurality of
heat stake ribs can be configured so that at least two of the heat
stake ribs are located adjacent each lateral side of the shelf
panel. The securing means can further comprise a plurality of heat
stake pads, with one of each of the heat stake pads being
associated with all of the heat stake ribs adjacent a lateral side
of the shelf panel.
[0018] In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the
securing means can comprise at least one heat stake rib initially
projecting downwardly from the plastic rim. The heat stake rib can
be adapted to be heated and made pliable, and while in a pliable
state turned inwardly and below the perimeter of the shelf panel,
so that at least a portion of the heat stake rib abuts an underside
of the shelf panel. The heat stake rib can be formed around the
perimeter of the shelf panel through the use of a small radius
tool. Alternatively, the heat stake rib can be formed around the
perimeter of the shelf panel through the use of a large radius
tool.
[0019] Other aspects of the invention include the securing means
having at least one heat stake rib initially projecting downwardly
from the plastic rim, with at least one heat stake pad adapted to
be in position on the heat stake rib and the heat stake rib is
heated so as to be made pliable. When the heat stake rib is heated
to an appropriate temperature, directed pressure may be exerted
against the heat stake rib, so as to secure at least a portion of
the heat stake pad against an underside portion of the shelf panel.
The heat stake pad can include an aperture extending through the
heat stake pad, with the aperture sized so as to receive the heat
stake rib. The heat stake rib can be heated and received within the
aperture of the heat stake pad, thereby making the heat stake rib
pliable. When the heat stake rib is sufficiently pliable, the heat
stake rib can be deformed against an underside of the heat stake
pad, so as to cause the heat stake pad to abut an underside of the
shelf panel.
[0020] Further in accordance with the invention, the securing means
can comprise at least two heat stake pads, each of the pads having
an L-shaped configuration. Still further, at least two heat stake
pads can include a plurality of apertures extending therethrough.
Each of the apertures is sized so as to receive one of the heat
stake ribs.
[0021] The shelving assembly can also include means comprising an
adhesive located intermediate to the plastic rim in the shelf
panel. The adhesive provides for a leak-proof seal between the
plastic rim and the shelf panel. The adhesive also rigidly secures
the plastic rim to the shelf panel. The retention support provided
by the securing means is additional to any retention and support
provided through use of the adhesive.
[0022] The shelving assembly may be stationary or may facilitate
sliding movement, as desired, on a ribbed liner of a refrigerator.
The plastic rim can extend around the entirety of the periphery of
the shelf panel. The plastic rim can be of an unitary and integral
design. The plastic rim can comprise an upwardly projecting
backstop extending across the entirety of the rear portion of the
rim. Still further, the plastic rim can comprise a downwardly
projecting forward lip having an acute cross section. This lip can
act in part as a bumper to prevent damage of the shelving assembly
from articles that may be knocked against a forward portion of the
shelving assembly. This further acts in part as a handle to
facilitate stationary positioning or a sliding movement on a
plastic ribbed liner of a refrigerator.
[0023] The plastic rim can include a horizontally disposed section.
A downwardly projecting section can be integral with the
horizontally disposed section. An additional downwardly projecting
section can also be integral with the horizontally disposed
section. The combination of the horizontally disposed section,
downwardly projecting section and additional downwardly projecting
section form a groove. Still further, the horizontally disposed
section can project inwardly and terminate in a flat plane. The
flat plane can provide for a spacial area formed between a lower
surface of the horizontally disposed section and an upper surface
of the glass shelf panel. The adhesive is provided within the
spacial area, and is utilized to facilitate securing of the glass
shelf panel to the plastic rim.
[0024] The shelving assembly can further include at least one slot
between the plastic rim and the shelf panel. The plastic rim can
include a flat plane. Within the slot, the adhesive can be provided
to as to secure and couple together the glass shelf panel and the
plastic rim, while providing a leak-proof barrier to liquids. The
slot also aids in the flow of the adhesive during the manufacturing
process. The adhesive can comprise a reactive polyurethane hot melt
or light cured acrylic adhesive.
[0025] Further in accordance with the invention, the shelving
assembly can include a horizontally disposed lower ledge depending
from a downwardly projecting member of the plastic rim. A plastic
stop can be provided which depends downwardly or upwardly, as
desired, from the horizontally disposed lower ledge. The shelf
panel can also include decorative means for concealing the view of
the adhesive. Still further, the shelf panel can be decorated with
frosting or etching, so as to conceal viewing of the adhesive.
[0026] In accordance with other aspects of the invention, the
shelving assembly can include a metal frame for supporting the
glass shelf panel and the plastic rim. The shelving assembly can
also include means for providing slidable movement of the shelf
panel relative to the metal frame. The metal frame can include a
forward and substantially horizontally disposed frame member. A
further substantially horizontally disposed frame member can be
positioned to the rear of the metal frame. The frame can further
include a pair of opposing and parallel side plates, and means for
coupling the frame members to the side plates. Each of the side
plates can include means for removably locking the shelving
assembly to walls of the refrigerator and other articles.
[0027] The plastic rim can extend around the entirety of the
periphery of the shelf panel. The plastic rim can be of a unitary
and integral design, and can comprise an upwardly projecting
backstop extending across the entirety of a rear portion of the
rim. The metal frame can include a pair of opposing and parallel
side plates, with each of the side plates comprising an outwardly
or inwardly projecting section, or it can be flat as desired. Each
of the flat, outwardly or inwardly projecting sections can be
received onto grooves of the plastic rim. The slidable movement can
be achieved without requiring any additional modifications to the
shelving assembly. The shelving assembly can include a depending
metal protrusion. The combination of the metal protrusions and the
plastic stop can provide for a stop mechanism for sliding movement
of the shelving assembly. The metal protrusion can be punched out,
formed or fastened so as to be horizontally or vertically
depending.
[0028] In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the
shelving assembly can be stationary and include sideplates which
comprise a cantilever or a metal frame. The sideplates are attached
to the plastic rim by screws, molded into the plastic rim or
snapped onto the plastic rim. A plastic engagement mechanism can be
provided, extending across a front or a rear portion of the
shelving assembly. The engagement mechanism can include a fitted
slot for capturing a front or rear frame member, as desired, in a
snap-fit configuration. The front or rear frame member can be
coupled to the remaining portions of the metal frame. Still
further, the shelving assembly can include a rear plastic rail. The
rail can have a downwardly projecting section. Positioned at a
terminating end of the downwardly projecting section is a
horizontally disposed section. This section is substantially
perpendicular to the downwardly projecting section. The downwardly
projecting member and the horizontally disposed member form a slot.
The shelving assembly can include a rear frame member,
interconnected to the sideplates, and located within the slot
formed in the rear plastic rail.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0029] The invention will now be described with reference to the
drawings, in which:
[0030] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a first embodiment of a shelving
assembly in accordance with the invention;
[0031] FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the embodiment of the
shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the
invention;
[0032] FIG. 3 is an underneath side elevation view of the first
embodiment of the shelving assembly shown in FIG. 1, in accordance
with the invention;
[0033] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the
shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the
invention;
[0034] FIG. 5 is a sectional, elevation view taken along section
lines 5-5 of FIG. 1, illustrating certain principles of
interconnection of elements of the shelving assembly in accordance
with the invention;
[0035] FIG. 6 is a side sectional view taken substantially through
the middle of the first embodiment of the shelving assembly, along
section lines 6-6 of FIG. 1, with the sectional view also partially
cut away in the middle;
[0036] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the first embodiment of the
shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, and consisting
of an enlargement of FIG. 5;
[0037] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a metal cantilever frame
which may be employed with the first embodiment of the shelving
assembly in accordance with the invention;
[0038] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the
shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, illustrating
the sliding feature of the glass shelf relative to the metal
frame;
[0039] FIG. 10 is a sectional view similar in perspective and
structure to FIG. 7, and illustrating a cross-sectional view of a
second embodiment of a partial shelving assembly in accordance with
the invention, illustrating the interconnection of a plastic rim
with snaps and glass, and further illustrating the relationship of
these elements with an outwardly projecting sideplate;
[0040] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view similar in perspective and
content to the views of FIGS. 7 and 10, and illustrates an
additional embodiment of a partial shelving assembly in accordance
with the invention, and particularly directed to the feature of
employing an inwardly projecting sideplate with the shelving
assembly;
[0041] FIG. 12 is a similar view of a partial structure embodiment
of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as
illustrated in FIG. 11, and showing the relative position of one of
the snap features;
[0042] FIG. 13 illustrates a plan view of a non-cantilever or metal
frame embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the
invention;
[0043] FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the
shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 13, in accordance with the
invention;
[0044] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the
shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 13, in accordance with the
invention;
[0045] FIG. 16 is a rear elevation view of the shelving assembly as
shown in FIG. 13, in accordance with the invention;
[0046] FIG. 17 is a rear elevation view of the shelving assembly as
shown in FIG. 13 that utilizes snaps, in accordance with the
invention;
[0047] FIG. 18 is a sectional, elevation view taken from the right
side of FIG. 16, illustrating certain principles of interconnection
of elements of the shelving assembly in accordance with the
invention;
[0048] FIG. 19 is a sectional, elevation view taken from the right
side of FIG. 17, illustrating the snap feature in accordance with
the invention;
[0049] FIG. 20 is a sectional, front elevation view of a further
embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention,
with this particular shelving assembly having a stationary glass
shelf panel and plastic rim, and utilizing flat sideplates;
[0050] FIG. 21 is a sectional side, elevation view of the shelving
assembly illustrated in FIG. 20, and showing the use of snaps (such
as the snaps illustrated in FIG. 10 at various locations);
[0051] FIG. 22 is a partial sectional view, similar in structure to
the left-side portion of the sectional view of FIG. 6, and
illustrating the location of a front rail utilized with the
shelving assembly of FIG. 20, and providing characteristics to
maintain the glass shelf panel in a stationary position;
[0052] FIG. 23 is a partial sectional view, similar in structure to
the right-side of the sectional view of FIG. 6, and illustrating
the use of a rear plastic rail acting to hold the back of the shelf
to the cantilever or metal frame at the rear frame member;
[0053] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the shelving assembly first
illustrated in FIG. 20;
[0054] FIG. 25 is an underside, perspective view of the shelving
assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0055] FIG. 26 is a partial sectional view, similar in content to
the left-side portion of the sectional view of FIG. 6, and
illustrating an alternate embodiment employing a support ledge as
part of the plastic rim, for purposes of facilitating retention of
the glass shelf, and for aiding in the assembly of the glass shelf
panel, plastic rim and adhesive;
[0056] FIG. 27 is a sectional view similar in perspective and
content to the views of FIGS. 7, 10, 11, and 12 and illustrating
the use and relative positioning of a plastic stop which may be
employed and utilized with the snaps, such as the snaps illustrated
in FIG. 10;
[0057] FIG. 28 is an underside view of the metal protrusion and
plastic stop that combine to provide a stop mechanism for the
plastic rim and glass shelf panel assembly relative to a metal
frame with sideplates;
[0058] FIG. 29 is a sectional view similar in perspective and
content to the views of FIGS. 7, 10, 11, 12, and 27, and
illustrating the use and relative positioning of a heat stake rib
which may be utilized with the shelving assembly in accordance with
the invention;
[0059] FIG. 30 is a sectional view similar to FIG. 29, but showing
the heat stake rib curved so that a lower section thereof is flexed
inwardly toward and below the glass shelf panel, with the heat
stake rib being hot formed with a small radius tool;
[0060] FIG. 31 is a sectional view similar to FIG. 30, but showing
the securing position of the heat stake rib after being hot formed
with a large radius tool;
[0061] FIG. 32 is a sectional view similar to FIG. 29, but showing
the use of a heat stake pad with the heat stake rib;
[0062] FIG. 33 is a sectional view of the heat stake pad and the
heat stake rib of FIG. 32, but showing the heat stake rib after
being heated and causing the heat stake pad to abut the lower
portion of the glass shelf panel;
[0063] FIG. 34 is a perspective, underside view illustrating the
relationship between a heat stake rib and a heat stake pad;
[0064] FIG. 35 is a perspective, underside view similar to FIG. 34,
but showing a configuration where the heat stake rib is received
within the aperture of the heat stake pad;
[0065] FIG. 36 is similar to FIG. 35, but shows a "final"
configuration of the heat stake rib and heat stake pad after
heating, with the heat stake pad abutting a lower portion of the
shelf panel;
[0066] FIG. 37 is a partially perspective view of an elongated and
alternative configuration of a heat stake pad, with the heat stake
pad having an L-shaped configuration and a series of four apertures
for receiving four corresponding heat stake ribs;
[0067] FIG. 38 is a plan view of a heat stake pad having an
L-shaped configuration, and having a single aperture for receiving
a single heat stake rib;
[0068] FIG. 39 is a section view of the heat stake pad illustrated
in FIG. 38, taken along section lines 39-39 of FIG. 38; and
[0069] FIG. 40 is an end view of the heat stake pad illustrated in
FIGS. 38 and 39.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0070] The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of
example, in certain embodiments of shelving assemblies in
accordance with the invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-40. As
described in subsequent paragraphs herein, the shelving assemblies
in accordance with the invention employ an integral plastic rim
comprising only a single piece of plastic, thereby cutting down on
material usage and facilitating manufacturing processes. As also
shown in particular embodiments of the invention in the drawings,
snaps can be employed for purposes of adding retention and support
for the glass shelf itself. Still further, and in accordance with
the invention, the method of "joining" the glass shelf to the
plastic rim, and the particular interface for the coupling of the
same, provides significant advantages.
[0071] Still further, the shelving assembly can be manufactured in
a manner such that the shelving assembly may have capability of
slidable movement relative to a frame structure. The slidable
feature cannot be provided in encapsulated or sonic welded shelving
assemblies, without necessarily requiring any "special" add-on
hardware or additional plastic molded onto the shelf assembly
itself. In addition to the foregoing, the shelving assemblies in
accordance with the invention may include means for containing
liquid spillage in a leak-proof manner. In part, an adhesive is
employed between the glass and plastic rim structures, so as to
accomplish this spillage containment. Still further, traditional
encapsulated and sonic welded shelving designs may include crevices
which are substantially impossible to clean. Within such crevices,
build up of food and spillage (with associated bacteria) may
occur.
[0072] More specifically, in known shelving designs, it is not
uncommon to include glass encapsulated within plastic. This is
often referred to as encapsulated glass shelving, and is referenced
in part in certain of the prior art references described in prior
paragraphs herein. Encapsulated glass shelving has several
disadvantages, compared to shelving assemblies in accordance with
the invention. As earlier mentioned, shelving assemblies in
accordance with the invention are relatively more sanitary than
prior art shelving. For example, certain encapsulated glass
shelving designs are not actually leak-proof, but instead are
merely spill-resistant. Such designs will actually allow liquids to
spill. The spill-resistant design only impedes speed at which the
spill occurs to other shelves below in a refrigerator unit. Over
time, such spills can result in a build up of dried fluids between
cracks and crevices of the glass and plastic, allowing for growth
of bacteria, mold and other harmful materials. Shelving assemblies
in accordance with the invention significantly limit these
concerns.
[0073] Turning to the drawings, the first embodiment of a shelving
assembly in accordance with the invention that will be described is
a shelving assembly 100 as illustrated in plan view in FIG. 1, and
as further illustrated in FIGS. 2-9. Referring specifically to
FIGS. 1-9, the shelving assembly 100 includes a cantilever or metal
frame 102 (see FIG. 8). Although this particular embodiment of a
shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated
in FIGS. 1-9 utilizes a metal frame 102, it should be emphasized
that other embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with
this invention may consist of a shelving assembly without a metal
frame 102. Such an assembly is shown, for example, in the shelving
assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIGS.
13-19. Such an embodiment will be described in subsequent
paragraphs herein. Returning to FIGS. 1-9, the metal frame 102 is
used in part to support a glass shelf or glass shelf panel 104. In
addition, the metal frame 102 is also used in part to support a
plastic rim 106, which is also part of the shelving assembly 100 in
accordance with the invention. As described in subsequent
paragraphs herein, a concept in accordance with the invention is
the securing of the glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106
through the use of an adhesive (described in subsequent paragraphs)
throughout the entirety of the periphery of the glass shelf panel
104.
[0074] Returning to the metal frame 102, and referring primarily to
FIG. 8, the metal frame 102 includes a forward and substantially
horizontally disposed frame member 108. In addition, another
substantially horizontally disposed frame member 110 is positioned
to the rear of the metal frame 102. These frame members are coupled
by any suitable means (not shown) to a pair of opposing and
parallel sideplates 114. The sideplates 114 may include downwardly
projecting side members 113. In addition, projecting outwardly from
the upper portion of the downwardly side member 113 are outwardly
projecting members or flanges 112. These outwardly projecting
members 112 will serve purposes as described in subsequent
paragraphs herein. Each of the sideplates 114 may include a hanger
set 116 extending rearwardly from the corresponding sideplate 114.
The hanger set 116 may be utilized as cantilever brackets of
relatively conventional design, so as to removably lock the
shelving assembly 100 into tracks (not shown) connected to walls of
refrigerators or other assemblies to which the shelving assembly
100 is to be attached. These hanger sets 116 are conventional in
design and do not form any of the novel concepts of the invention.
Accordingly, various other means may be utilized for purposes of
supporting the shelving assembly 100 on a wall or other article of
manufacture, without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
[0075] The glass shelf or glass shelf panel 104, and the plastic
rim 106, may be appropriately supported on the metal frame 102. As
shown primarily in FIG. 4, the plastic rim 106 will extend around
the entirety of the periphery of the glass shelf or glass shelf
panel 104. In this particular embodiment, the plastic rim 106 will
have a cross-sectional configuration as primarily illustrated in
FIGS. 5 and 7. However, other cross-sectional configurations of the
plastic rim 106 may be utilized without departing from the novel
concepts and spirit and scope of the invention. More specifically,
the plastic rim 106 includes a horizontally disposed section 120.
Extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed
section 120, is a downwardly projecting section 122. Also extending
downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section
120, is another downwardly projecting section 124. The combination
of the horizontally disposed section 120, downwardly projecting
section 122, and downwardly projecting section 124, forms a slide
space 126. Turning again to the sideplate 114, and as illustrated
in FIG. 7, the sideplate 114 may include an outwardly projecting
section 128, which may be received within the slide space 126. The
outwardly projecting section 128 may correspond with the
horizontally disposed and outwardly directed flange or member 112
previously described with respect to FIG. 8. Although this
particular embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the
invention as illustrated in FIG. 7 utilizes a sideplate 114 with an
outwardly projecting member 128, it should be emphasized that other
embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention
may utilize an inwardly projecting member or a completely "flat"
sideplate 114. An inwardly projecting member is shown, for example,
in the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as
illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. A "flat" sideplate is shown, for
example, in the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention
as illustrated in FIGS. 20-25. "Inwardly projecting sideplates" and
"flat sideplate" embodiments will be described in subsequent
paragraphs herein.
[0076] As earlier stated, the plastic rim 106 includes a
substantially horizontally disposed section 120, again as
illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7. As also earlier stated, the plastic
rim 106 extends around the entirety of the periphery of the
shelving assembly 100. The horizontally disposed section 120
projects inwardly and terminates in a downwardly projecting lip
130, again as illustrated primarily in FIG. 7. As further
illustrated in FIG. 7, the relative structure of the downwardly
projecting lip 130 provides for a spacial area 132 formed between
the lower surface of the horizontally disposed section 120 and the
upper surface of the glass shelf panel 104. Within this spacial
area 132, an appropriate adhesive 134 is provided within the
spacial area 132, and is utilized to facilitate securing of the
glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106. This adhesive 134 may
be utilized around the entire periphery of the glass shelf or glass
shelf panel 104. In addition to providing a means for securing the
glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106, the adhesive 134 also
acts as a leak-proof barrier, preventing spillage from seeping down
to lower shelves or other surfaces around the periphery of the
glass shelf panel 104. Further, with the use of the adhesive 134,
as opposed to traditional encapsulation and sonic welding
procedures, build up of food and spills (with resultant bacteria)
do not occur within crevices that are substantially incapable of
being cleansed. In substantial part, the unitary design of the
plastic rim 106 in accordance with the invention provides these
advantages.
[0077] As earlier stated, the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 104,
interconnected with the plastic rim 106, may have capability of
sliding relative to the metal frame 102. The sliding action can
occur through the relative coupling of the outwardly projecting
member 128 of the sideplate 114 to the plastic rim 106 through the
slide space 126. The shelving assembly 100 with the glass shelf 104
and plastic rim 106 in a relatively extended position is
illustrated in FIG. 9. As will be described in subsequent
paragraphs herein, the shelving assemblies in accordance with the
invention may include "stop" designs having the capability of
preventing the glass shelf panel 104 and plastic rim 106 from
completely sliding "out of" the metal frame 102. Certain
embodiments of "stop" designs in accordance with the invention are
described in subsequent paragraphs. However, other "stop" means of
preventing the glass shelf panel 104 and plastic rim 106 from
sliding completely out of the metal frame 102 may be utilized,
without departing from the novel concepts and spirit and scope of
the invention. In addition, other embodiments of shelving
assemblies in accordance with the invention may be stationary and
not have the capability of sliding. Such a shelving assembly in
accordance with the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 20-25. Such
an embodiment will be described in subsequent paragraphs
herein.
[0078] The plastic rim 106 also includes other structural
configurations at forward and rearward locations of the shelving
assembly 100. For example, and as primarily illustrated in FIG. 6,
the plastic rim 106 may include an upwardly projecting "backstop"
140 extending across the entirety of the rear portion of the
plastic rim 106. The plastic rim 106 may also include a downwardly
projecting member 142 extending across the rear portion or around
the entire underside of the shelving assembly 100, as is desired.
Downwardly projecting member 142 also acts as a positioning aid for
the glass shelf panel 104 during manufacturing. As previously
described, the plastic rim 106 is of a single, unitary design.
Therefore, the upwardly projecting backstop 140 and downwardly
projecting member 142 are integral with the remaining portions of
the plastic rim 106. The shelving assembly 100 described herein
with respect to the backstop 140 may also utilize various other
"backstop" designs, without departing from the novel concepts and
the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0079] At the forward area of the plastic rim 106, the plastic rim
106 includes a downwardly projecting forward lip 144, having an
arcuate cross section as illustrated in FIG. 6. The downwardly
projecting lip 144 acts in part as a "bumper" to prevent damage of
shelving assembly 100 from articles which may be "knocked against"
the forward portion of the shelf assembly 100. In addition to the
"bumper" features of the projecting lip 144, the projecting lip 144
may also act as a manually operable handle, so that a user may
slide the shelf panel 104 and plastic rim 106 forward or rearward
of the metal frame 102, for purposes of extending and retracting
the assembly, respectively. The forward portion of the plastic rim
106 may also include side members 146 (see FIGS. 6 and 9), again
for purposes of protection. The first embodiment of a shelving
assembly in accordance with the invention has now been described
with respect to shelf assembly 100. In particular, the shelf
assembly 100 in accordance with the invention includes an
integrally formed plastic rim 106, glass shelf panel 104 and metal
frame 102. As previously described, an adhesive 134 facilitates
securing of the glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106. In
addition, the adhesive 134 acts as a leak-proof barrier against
spillage seeping off of the glass shelf panel 104. This adhesive
134, in combination with the unitary structure of the plastic rim
106, also assists in preventing build up of food particles and
fluids within cracks or crevices which cannot readily be cleaned.
Accordingly, this design also limits build up of bacteria.
[0080] Still further, the shelving assembly 100 in accordance with
the invention cuts down material usage and facilitates speeding up
of manufacturing processes, in view of the integral design of the
plastic rim 106. As previously discussed, the coupling of the glass
panel 104 to the plastic rim 106 and the integral construction of
the plastic rim 106 significantly differs from current methods of
completely encapsulating glass shelving within plastic, or the use
of top and bottom pieces of plastic sonically welded around glass.
Still further, and as described with respect to the shelving
assembly 100, the glass shelf 104 and plastic rim 106 can slide on
the metal frame 102. This sliding movement is substantially
incapable of being accomplished in encapsulated or sonic welded
shelving assembly, without the addition of special add-on hardware
or additional plastic molding associated with the shelf.
[0081] Further in accordance with the invention, various types of
adhesives may be employed. To illustrate, two types of adhesives
that may be utilized are a polyurethane hot melt or a light cured
acrylic adhesive. However, various types of adhesives may be
utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel
concepts of the invention.
[0082] A second embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance
with the invention is illustrated in part as shelving assembly 200
in FIG. 10. For purposes of clarity and brevity, the entirety of
the shelf assembly 200 is not illustrated. The shelf assembly 200
is substantially similar in design and construction to shelf
assembly 100 previously described with respect to FIGS. 1-9. The
distinctions between shelf assembly 100 and shelf assembly 200 are
primarily shown in FIG. 10, which is similar in perspective and
content to FIGS. 5 and 7 associated with shelf assembly 100. More
specifically, with shelf assembly 200, a metal frame is provided
which includes a sideplate 214. The sideplate includes an outwardly
projecting tab 228 at its upper portion. The outwardly projecting
tab 228 is integral with the sideplate 214. The shelving assembly
200 further includes a plastic rim 206, similar in structure and
function to the plastic rim 106 also previously described with
respect to FIG. 7. The plastic rim 206 includes a horizontally
disposed section 220. Extending downwardly, and integral with the
horizontally disposed section 220, is a downwardly projecting
section 222. Also extending downwardly, and integral with the
horizontally disposed section 220, is another downwardly projecting
section 224. The combination of the horizontally disposed section
220, downwardly projecting section 222, and downwardly projecting
section 224, forms a slide space 226. The sideplate 214 may include
an outwardly projecting section 128, which may be received with in
the slide space 226. The slide space 226 has the same function as
slide space 126 as illustrated in FIG. 7, with respect to shelving
assembly 100. That is, the slide space 226 provides for a slidable
coupling and support of the plastic rim 206 with the sideplate 214,
through the outwardly projecting tab 228 of the sideplate 214. As
with the assembly 100, the shelving assembly 200 also includes a
spacial area 232 formed between the plastic rim 206 and a glass
shelf or glass shelf panel 204, with the plastic rim 206 having a
downwardly projecting lip 230. Within the spatial area 232, an
adhesive 234 is provided so as to secure and couple together the
glass shelf panel 204 and the plastic rim 206. Distinguishable from
the shelving assembly 100 in accordance with the invention, the
shelving assembly 200 includes one or a series of snaps 250 which
may be positioned at various locations on the underside of the
front, back, and sides (or combinations thereof) of the plastic rim
206. A snap 250 is formed through the use of a horizontally
disposed ledge 260 as illustrated in FIG. 10. The horizontal
disposed ledge 260 is preferably formed integral with the
downwardly projecting section 222 of the plastic rim 206, at
certain positions along the plastic rim 206. The horizontally
disposed section 220, downwardly projecting section 222 and
horizontally disposed ledge 260 are sized so as to form a slot 262
as shown in FIG. 10. The slot 262 is appropriately sized so as to
provide a "snap-fit" coupling of the edge of the glass shelf or
glass shelf panel 204 with the snap 250 through the slot 262. In
accordance with the invention, the snap 250 may be utilized to
provide additional retention and support for the glass shelf or
glass shelf panel 204.
[0083] The foregoing description of the shelving assembly 200
describes the primary features of shelving assembly 200 which
distinguish from the shelving assembly 100. However, both the
shelving assembly 100 and the shelving assembly 200 comprise shelf
assemblies in accordance with the invention.
[0084] Additional features of alternative embodiments of a shelving
assembly in accordance with the invention are illustrated in FIGS.
11 and 12. Referring specifically to FIG. 11, the drawing of FIG.
11 illustrates, in part, an alternate cross-section of the plastic
rim 306 utilizing an inwardly projecting sideplate 314. Shelving
assembly 300 consists of a plastic rim 306, glass shelf panel 304,
and metal frame (not shown for brevity purposes) similar to the
metal frame shown in FIG. 8. More specifically, the plastic rim 306
includes a horizontally disposed section 320. Extending downwardly,
and integral with the horizontally disposed section 320, is a
downwardly projecting section 322. The combination of the
horizontally disposed section 320 and the downwardly projecting
section 322 forms a slide space 326. The sideplate 314 may include
an inwardly projecting section 328, which may be received within
the slide space 326.
[0085] Similar to the shelving assembly 100 illustrated in FIG. 7,
shelving assembly 300 has a plastic rim 306 that extends around the
entirety of the periphery of the shelving assembly 300. The
horizontally disposed section 320 projects inwardly and terminates
in a downwardly projecting lip 330 as seen in FIG. 11. As further
illustrated in FIG. 11, the relative structure of the downwardly
projecting lip 330 provides for a spacial area 332 formed between
the lower surface of the horizontally disposed section 320 and the
upper surface of the glass shelf panel 304. Within this spacial
area 332, an appropriate adhesive 334 is provided and is utilized
to facilitate securing of the glass shelf panel 304 to the plastic
rim 306. This adhesive 334 may be utilized around the entire
periphery of the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 304. In addition
to providing a means for securing the glass shelf panel 304 to the
plastic rim 306, the adhesive 334 also acts as a leak-proof
barrier, preventing spillage from seeping down to lower shelves or
other surfaces around the periphery of the glass shelf panel 304.
Further, with the use of the adhesive 334, as opposed to
traditional encapsulation and sonic welding procedures, build up of
food and spills (with resultant bacteria) do not occur within
crevices that are substantially incapable of being cleansed. In
substantial part, the unitary design of the plastic rim 306 in
accordance with the invention provides these advantages.
[0086] The glass shelf or glass shelf panel 304, interconnected
with the plastic rim 306, may have capability of sliding relative
to the metal frame. The sliding action can occur through the
relative coupling of the inwardly projecting member 328 of the
sideplate 314 to the plastic rim 306 through the slide space 326.
The shelving assembly 300 with the glass shelf 304 and plastic rim
306 could have a similar extended position as previously seen in
FIG. 9. Again, as will be described in subsequent paragraphs
herein, the shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention
may include "stop" designs having the capability of preventing the
glass shelf panel 304 and plastic rim 306 from completely sliding
"out of" the metal frame. Certain embodiments of "stop" designs in
accordance with the invention are described in subsequent
paragraphs. However, other "stop" means of preventing the glass
shelf panel 304 and plastic rim 306 from sliding completely out of
the metal frame may be utilized, without departing from the novel
concepts and spirit and scope of the invention.
[0087] An additional embodiment is described as shelving assembly
400 as seen in FIG. 12. For purposes of clarity and brevity, the
entirety of the shelf assembly 400 is not illustrated. The shelf
assembly 400 is substantially similar in design and construction to
shelf assembly 300 previously described with respect to FIG. 11.
The distinctions between shelf assembly 300 and shelf assembly 400
are primarily shown in FIG. 12, which is similar in perspective and
content to FIGS. 5 and 7 associated with shelf assembly 100. More
specifically, with shelf assembly 400, a metal frame is provided
which includes a sideplate 414. The sideplate includes an inwardly
projecting tab 428 at its upper portion. The inwardly projecting
tab 428 is integral with the sideplate 414. The shelving assembly
400 further includes a plastic rim 406, similar in structure and
function to the plastic rim 306 also previously described with
respect to FIG. 11. The plastic rim 406 includes a horizontally
disposed section 420. Extending downwardly, and integral with the
horizontally disposed section 420, is a downwardly projecting
section 422. The combination of the horizontally disposed section
420 and downwardly projecting section 422, forms a slide space 426.
The sideplate 414 may include an inwardly projecting section 428,
which may be received with in the slide space 426. The slide space
426 has the same function as slide space 326 as illustrated in FIG.
11, with respect to shelving assembly 300. That is, the slide space
426 provides for a slidable coupling and support of the plastic rim
406 with the sideplate 414, to an inwardly projecting member 428 of
the sideplate 414. As with the assembly 300, the shelving assembly
400 also includes a spacial area 432 formed between the plastic rim
406 and a glass shelf or glass shelf panel 404, with the plastic
rim 406 having a downwardly projecting lip 430. Within the spatial
area 432, an adhesive 434 is provided so as to secure and couple
together the glass shelf panel 404 and the plastic rim 406.
Distinguishable from the shelving assembly 300 in accordance with
the invention, the shelving assembly 400 includes one or a series
of snaps 450 which may be positioned at various locations on the
underside of the front, back, and sides (or combinations thereof)
of the plastic rim 406. A snap 450 is formed through the use of a
horizontally disposed ledge 460 as illustrated in FIG. 12. The
horizontal disposed ledge 460 is preferably formed integral with
the downwardly projecting section 422 of the plastic rim 406, at
certain positions along the plastic rim 406. The horizontally
disposed section 420, downwardly projecting section 422 and
horizontally disposed ledge 460 are sized so as to form a slot 462
as shown in FIG. 12. The slot 462 is appropriately sized so as to
provide a "snap-fit" coupling of the edge of the glass shelf or
glass shelf panel 404 with the snap 450 through the slot 462. In
accordance with the invention, the snap 450 may be utilized to
provide additional retention and support for the glass shelf or
glass shelf panel 404.
[0088] The foregoing description of the shelving assembly 400
describes the primary features of shelving assembly 400 that
distinguish it from the shelving assembly 300. However, both the
shelving assembly 300 and the shelving assembly 400 comprise shelf
assemblies in accordance with the invention.
[0089] Additional embodiments are illustrated in FIGS. 13-19. FIGS.
13-19 are embodiments that do not include a cantilever or metal
frame 102 as described in FIG. 8. These embodiments utilize similar
features as described in shelving assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 400
with the exception of the metal frame. FIGS. 13-19 contain a
plastic rim 506 and glass shelf panel 504. The shelving assembly
500 illustrated in FIGS. 13-19 can be placed on various types of
support structures such as a ribbed liner of a refrigerator (not
pictured) or other similar support structures. For some
applications, a metal frame may be rendered useless or unusable
with the type of shelving assemblies previously described herein.
In those circumstances the shelving assembly 500 without a metal
frame as illustrated in FIGS. 13-19 may be utilized. FIG. 16
illustrates a rear view of the shelving assembly 500 and FIG. 18
represents a cross-section of the right side of FIG. 16, similar to
FIGS. 7 and 11. FIG. 17 illustrates an additional embodiment
showing the rear view of shelving assembly 500 with snaps and FIG.
19 represents a cross-section of the right side of FIG. 17
utilizing snaps 550, similar to FIGS. 10 and 12. While FIGS. 17 and
19 represent cross-sections in accordance with the invention, other
cross-sectional configurations of the plastic rim 506 may be
utilized without departing from the novel concepts and spirit and
scope of the invention.
[0090] The various embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance
with the invention which have been described in the foregoing
paragraphs have commonality with respect to their capability of
exhibiting sliding characteristics for the glass shelf panels.
Concepts in accordance with the invention relating to the use of
glass shelf panels with plastic rims interconnected as discussed
herein may also be applied to shelving assemblies which maintain
the glass shelf panels in a stationary position, relative to
surrounding frame structures. For example, a stationary shelving
assembly having features in accordance with the invention is shown
in shelving assembly 600, illustrated in FIGS. 20-25. With
reference first to FIG. 24, the shelving assembly 600 includes
components substantially similar in function and structure to
components illustrated and described in prior paragraphs with
respect to other shelving assemblies in accordance with the
invention. That is, the shelving assembly 600 includes a metal
frame 602, used in part to support a glass shelf or glass shelf
panel 604. The metal frame 602 is also used in part to support a
plastic rim 606, which is part of the shelving assembly 600 in
accordance with the invention. In a manner previously described
herein with respect to other shelving assemblies in accordance with
the invention, the glass shelf panel 604 is preferably secured to
the plastic rim 606 with the use of an adhesive (as described in
previous paragraphs) throughout the entirety of the periphery of
the glass shelf panel 604.
[0091] As shown particularly in the underside view of the shelving
assembly 600 in FIG. 25, the shelving assembly 600 (again, like
other shelving assemblies previously described herein) includes a
forward and substantially horizontally disposed frame member 608.
In addition, another substantially horizontally disposed frame
member 610 is positioned to the rear of the metal frame 602. These
frame members 608, 610 are coupled to other structures of the
shelving assembly 600 as described in subsequent paragraphs herein.
Additional metal frame or sideplate attachment options may be
utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel
concepts of the invention. For example, screw on sideplates, molded
in sideplates, and snap on sideplates (all utilized in tandem with
the plastic rim) may be utilized in accordance with the
invention.
[0092] The shelving assembly 600 in accordance with the invention
also includes a pair of opposing sideplates 614. In the particular
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 20-25, the sideplates 614 are shown
as flat sideplates which depend vertically downward from the
shelving assembly 600. With the particular shelving assembly 600 in
accordance with the invention having stationary shelf
characteristics, the sideplates 614 may also be formed as inwardly
or outwardly projecting sideplates.
[0093] With reference specifically to FIG. 21, the shelving
assembly 600 in accordance with the invention can utilize a series
of snaps 650 on the sides of the shelving assembly 600. The snaps
650 can correspond in function and structure to the snaps 250
previously described with respect to FIG. 10.
[0094] With reference to FIG. 22, the shelving assembly 600 in
accordance with the invention may include a plastic engagement
mechanism 660. The plastic engagement mechanism 660 is of a
cross-sectional configuration as illustrated in FIG. 22. The
plastic engagement mechanism 660 extends across the front portion
of the shelving assembly 600. The plastic engagement mechanism 660
is of a resiliency and includes a fitted slot 662 which is used to
"capture" the front frame member 608 in a "snap fit" configuration.
With the forward frame member 608 coupled to remaining portions of
the metal frame 602 in a manner previously described with respect
to other shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention, the
capture of the frame member 608 by the plastic engagement mechanism
660 maintains the glass shelf panel 604 stationary relative to the
frame member 608.
[0095] Further, and with reference to FIG. 23, the rear portion of
the glass shelf panel 604 is supported through the use of a rear
plastic rail 670 having a cross-sectional configuration as shown in
FIG. 23. The rear plastic rail 670 includes a downwardly projecting
section 672. Positioned at the terminating end of the downwardly
projecting section 672 and integral therewith is a horizontally
disposed section 674 which is substantially perpendicular to the
section 672. The downwardly projecting member 672 and the
horizontally disposed member 674 form a slot 676 as illustrated in
FIG. 23.
[0096] An alternative embodiment of a shelving assembly in
accordance with the invention is illustrated in FIG. 26. Referring
specifically to FIG. 26, the drawing of FIG. 26 illustrates, in
part, a cross-section of the front or forward area of the plastic
rim 706. This configuration is similar to the left-side portion of
the drawing of FIG. 6. As with FIG. 6, the shelving assembly
configuration 700 includes the plastic rim 706 with a projecting
forward lip 744. The plastic rim 706 is secured to the glass shelf
panel 704 through use of the adhesive 734. However, unlike the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the shelving assembly 700
includes a support ledge 702 illustrated in cross section in FIG.
26. The support ledge 702 preferably extends along the entire
periphery of the forward portion of the shelving assembly 700.
Also, the shelving assembly 700 preferably includes (although not
shown specifically in FIG. 26) the use of snaps on the remaining
three sides of the shelf assembly 700. Such snaps can correspond in
function and structure to the snaps 250 previously described with
respect to FIG. 10. The primary purpose of the support ledge 702 is
to facilitate retention of the glass shelf panel 704 within the
entire shelving assembly. In addition, the support ledge 702
assists in stabilizing the glass shelf panel 704 during the process
of assembly of the shelf panel 704, plastic rim 706 and the
adhesive 734. As an alternative to use of the support ledge 702 in
the forward portion of the shelving assembly 700, the support ledge
702 could alternatively be positioned at the rear portion of the
shelving assembly 700.
[0097] Still another feature of shelving assemblies in accordance
with the invention, and as an alternative embodiment to those
previously described herein, is the shelving assembly 800
illustrated in FIG. 27. The shelving assembly 800 is somewhat
similar in scope to the shelving assembly 400 previously described
herein with respect to FIG. 12. More specifically, the shelving
assembly 800 includes a glass shelf panel 804, plastic rim 806 and
metal frame with sideplates 814. In addition, an adhesive 834 is
utilized to secure the glass shelf panel 804 to the plastic rim
806. Similar to FIG. 12, the shelving assembly 800 may also include
a series of snaps 850. That is, and in a manner similar to FIG. 12,
a horizontally disposed lower ledge 860 depends from the downwardly
projecting member 822 of the plastic rim 806. The foregoing
elements are substantially included within the shelving assembly
400 as illustrated in FIG. 12 and described in prior paragraphs
hereof. However, distinguishable from shelving assembly 400, the
shelving assembly 800 includes a plastic stop 807 depending
downwardly from the lower and horizontally disposed ledge 860. The
plastic stop 807 is associated with one of the snaps 850 positioned
on one side of the shelving assembly 800, and one of the snaps 850
positioned on the opposing side of shelving assembly 800.
[0098] In addition to the plastic stops 807, the shelving assembly
800 also includes a horizontally and inwardly depending metal
protrusion 803 which is preferably integral with the metal
sideplate 814 and extending therefrom. The relative positioning of
the metal protrusion 803 is as shown in FIG. 27. With the metal
protrusion 803 and the plastic stop 807, the combination thereof
provides for a stop mechanism for the feature of the shelving
assembly 800 comprising slidable properties. That is, as the glass
panel 804 and plastic rim 806 are slid forwardly on the metal
cantilever frame 802, the provision of the plastic stop 807 on each
side of the shelving assembly 800 abutting a metal protrusion 803
extending from the sideplate 814 (again on each side of the
shelving assembly 800), prevents the plastic rim 806 and the glass
shelf panel 804 from sliding off of the metal cantilever frame 802.
Again, the plastic stops 807 are only associated with the snaps 850
which include the horizontally depending ledge 860. Still further,
these plastic stops are only associated with two of the snaps
located on opposing sides of the shelving assembly 800.
[0099] It should be emphasized that various configurations of the
concept of providing "stop" features as illustrated in FIG. 27 for
shelving assembly 800 may be modified without departing from the
spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention. For
example, the metal protrusion 803 maybe punched out, formed, or
fastened so as to be horizontally depending or vertically
depending, as is desired with respect to the sideplate 814. As
shown in FIG. 27, the metal protrusion 803 is horizontally
depending. However, the metal protrusion 803 could, alternatively,
be vertically depending, and bent in a manner so that the metal
protrusion 803 was primarily in a vertical configuration. With the
metal protrusion 803 in a vertical configuration, it can provide a
greater cross sectional area for abutment against the plastic stop
803. In this matter, the "stop" feature may be somewhat
enhanced.
[0100] Another embodiment of a stop mechanism in accordance with
the invention is illustrated in shelving assembly 900 as seen in
FIG. 28. Shelving assembly 900 is similar in scope to shelving
assembly 100 previously described in FIGS. 1-9. A plastic rim 906
is bonded to a glass shelf panel 904 through the use of an
adhesive. A metal frame with outwardly depending sideplates 914 is
utilized. However, inwardly depending sideplates and flat
sideplates may also be utilized without departing from the novel
concepts and the spirit and scope of the invention. Similar to
shelving assembly 800 in FIG. 27, shelving assembly 900 as seen in
FIG. 28 may utilize a sideplate 914 with a metal protrusion 903
that acts in combination with a plastic stop 907 that is integral
with the plastic rim 906. The metal protrusion 903 and plastic stop
907 in shelving assembly 900 perform a similar function as the
metal protrusion 803 and plastic stop 807 as described in FIG. 27.
This stop mechanism can be utilized with the sliding shelving
assemblies previously described herein. Also, as illustrated in
FIG. 28, the glass shelf panel 904 may contain decoration 909 by
means including but not limited to frosting, etching, or as is
desired to conceal viewing of the adhesive on the underside of the
shelving assembly 900. Various types of decoration may utilized on
the shelving assemblies described herein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.
[0101] A still further embodiment of a shelving assembly in
accordance with the invention is illustrated in part as shelving
assembly 920 illustrated in FIGS. 29, 30 and 31. For purposes of
clarity and brevity, the entirety of the shelf assembly 920 is not
illustrated. In substantial part, the shelf assembly 920 is similar
in design and construction to shelf assembly 200, 400 and 800
illustrated in FIGS. 10, 12 and 27, respectively. The distinctions
of shelf assembly 920 relative to the other shelf assemblies
resides in the use of heat stake principles for purposes of
providing additional securing of the plastic rim to the glass shelf
panel. More specifically, and with reference to FIGS. 29, 30 and
31, the shelving assembly 920 includes a plastic rim 922, somewhat
similar in structure and function to the plastic rims 106, 206, et
al. previously described herein. The plastic rim 922 includes a
horizontally disposed section 924 and a downwardly projecting
section 926. In accordance with the invention, extending
downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 924
is a downwardly projecting section in the form of a heat stake rib
926. The heat stake rib 926 is adjacent the perimeter of the glass
shelf panel 928. If desired, the shelving assembly 920 may also
include a spatial area 930 formed between the plastic rim 922 and
the glass shelf panel 928. Within the spatial area 930, an adhesive
932 may be provided so as to secure and couple together the glass
shelf panel 928 and the plastic rim 922.
[0102] Further in accordance with the invention, a plurality of
heat stake ribs 926 may be positioned at various locations on the
front, back and sides (or combinations thereof) of the plastic rim
922. The entirety of a heat stake rib 926 is illustrated in partial
perspective view in FIGS. 34 and 35. With reference to the shelving
assembly 200 illustrated in FIG. 10, the heat stake ribs 926
replace the series of snaps 250 associated with the shelving
assembly 200.
[0103] For purposes of assembly, the series of heat stake ribs 926
may be heated by appropriate means. When one of each of the heat
stake ribs 926 is heated to an appropriate temperature, the ribs
926 become pliable and thus flexible. While in this heated state,
each of the heat stake ribs 926 may be bent or curved so that a
lower section 934 of each heat stake rib may be flexed inwardly
toward and below the glass shelf panel 928. The process of heating
the ribs 926 is conventionally referred to as "hot forming," and is
a practice which is known in the industrial arts. When the heat
stake ribs 926 are appropriately formed toward and below the glass
shelf panel 928, the ribs 926 take the form as illustrated in FIGS.
30 and 31. More specifically, FIG. 30 illustrates the positioning
of the heat stake rib 926 after being hot formed with a small
radius tool. Correspondingly, FIG. 31 illustrates the securing
position of the heat stake rib 926 toward and below the glass shelf
panel 928 after being hot formed with a large radius heat stake
tool. In each case, the heat stake ribs 926 are formed over and
onto the glass shelf panel 928. In this manner, the heat stake ribs
926 provide additional support for the glass shelf panel 928. In
addition, the formation of the heat stake ribs 926 is such that the
ribs 926 may be more readily formed with a greater length than the
tabs of the snaps 250 previously described with respect to the
shelving assembly 200. This additional length increases the
supporting strength of the heat stake ribs 926 relative to the
snaps 250.
[0104] FIGS. 32-36 illustrate the use of the heat stake ribs 926,
but with a particular means for hot forming the ribs 926 and a
securing configuration distinguishable from the "bending over" of
the ribs 926 relative to the glass shelf panel 928. More
specifically, the shelving assembly illustrated in FIGS. 32-36
(identified as shelving assembly 940) is substantially similar to
shelving assembly 920, but includes the use of additional elements
identified as heat stake pads 942. A heat stake pad 942 or series
of heat stake pads will be associated with each of the heat stake
ribs 926 or series of heat stake ribs. The structural configuration
of a heat stake pad 942 is best illustrated in FIG. 34.
Specifically, each heat stake pad 942 may have a substantially
rectangular configuration, with a relatively small thickness. The
heat stake pads 942 may be constructed of various types of
materials. For example, each heat stake pad 942 may be constructed
of ABS plastic. As further illustrated in FIG. 34, each heat stake
pad 942 includes a substantially rectangular aperture 944. Each
aperture 944 is appropriately sized so as to fit the cross
sectional configuration of a corresponding heat stake rib 926. For
purposes of assembly, the heat stake pads 942 are appropriately
positioned below the heat stake ribs 926 and then moved upwardly so
that the corresponding heat stake rib 926 is received within the
aperture 944 of the heat stake pad 942. This configuration is best
illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 35. Each heat stake rib 926 or series
of heat stake ribs may be appropriately heated by a heat stake tool
(not shown). The heat stake tool may use various forms of heat. For
example, the heat stake tool may use infra-red heat. The heat of
the heat stake tool will cause each of the corresponding heat stake
ribs 926 to increase in temperature. This increase in temperature
will cause the heat stake ribs to become pliable. When the heat
stake ribs 926 have reached an appropriate temperature, pressure
can be exerted on the bottom portion of each heat stake rib 926 so
as to cause the portion of each heat stake rib 926 located below
the aperture 944 of a corresponding pad 942 to become deformed and
"tightened" against the lower portion of the corresponding heat
stake pad 942. This configuration is best illustrated in FIGS. 33
and 36. With this configuration, and as specifically illustrated in
FIG. 33, the heat stake pad 942 abuts the lower portion of the
glass shelf panel 928. When each of the heat stake pads 942 and
ribs 926 cool back to an ambient temperature, the deformation of
the lower portion of each heat stake rib 926 provides lower support
of a corresponding one of the pads 942 in a manner so as to again
provide additional support for the glass shelf panel 928. It should
be emphasized that various types of heat stake ribs may be
utilized, along with various types of heat stake pads. Also,
various means for heating the ribs and pads may be utilized,
without departing from any of the novel concepts of the
invention.
[0105] As an example of an alternative configuration for the heat
stake pads, a heat stake pad 980 is illustrated in FIG. 37. The
heat stake pad 980 is of an L-shaped configuration. More
specifically, the heat stake pad 980 includes an elongated member
982. Positioned longitudinally along the elongated member 982 are a
series of apertures 986. The apertures 986 have the same function
as the aperture 944 previously described with respect to the heat
stake pads 926 illustrated in FIGS. 34, 35 and 36. That is, the
apertures 986 are adapted to receive the heat stake ribs 926. Still
further, the heat stake pad 980 includes a leg member 984 which may
be integral with the member 982 but extends perpendicularly
thereto. When the heat stake pad 980 is appropriately positioned
with heat stake ribs 926 appropriately received within the
corresponding apertures 986, the elongated member 982 will abut the
lower portion of a corresponding shelf panel as previously
described with the heat stake pads 942.
[0106] A further embodiment of a heat stake pad in accordance with
the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 38, 39 and 40 as heat stake
pad 990. The heat stake pad 990 is similar in construction to the
heat stake pad 980, in that the heat stake pad 990 is of an
L-shaped configuration. That is, the heat stake pad 990 includes a
member 992 integral with or otherwise connected to a perpendicular
leg member 996. However, unlike the heat stake pad 980 which
includes a series of apertures 986 for receiving a series of heat
stake ribs 926, the heat stake pad 990 includes only a single
aperture 994. Correspondingly, the heat stake pad 990 is therefore
adapted to receive only a single heat stake rib 926 through the
aperture 994. When appropriately positioned relative to a shelf
panel, and appropriately heated, the heat stake pad 990 will have
its member 992 abutting the lower portion of the corresponding
shelf panel.
[0107] It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent arts
that other embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with
the invention may be designed. That is, the principles of shelving
assemblies in accordance with the invention are not limited to the
specific embodiments described herein. Accordingly, it will be
apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and other
variations of the above-described illustrative embodiments of the
invention may be effected without departing from the spirit and
scope of the novel concepts of the invention.
* * * * *