U.S. patent application number 11/377933 was filed with the patent office on 2006-10-19 for modular storage system for logistical management of operational units.
Invention is credited to Richard A. Bothun, Mark E. Gallea, Michael D. Jines, Frederick A. Mather, Gregg S. Nelson, Marty L. Prins, Craig J. Ulrich.
Application Number | 20060231517 11/377933 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34714659 |
Filed Date | 2006-10-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060231517 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bothun; Richard A. ; et
al. |
October 19, 2006 |
Modular storage system for logistical management of operational
units
Abstract
An organization system according to the present invention
generally includes a plurality of reconfigurable carts that can be
positioned in the storage site in a generally side-by-side
configuration. At least one of the carts can be movable from the
storage site to the remote location independent of the other cart.
The carts can include one or more selectively positionable
partitions, such that the storage space is adjustably dividable
into a number of defined reconfigurable modules for separable
storage of the equipment.
Inventors: |
Bothun; Richard A.;
(Owatonna, MN) ; Gallea; Mark E.; (Waseca, MN)
; Jines; Michael D.; (Northfield, MN) ; Mather;
Frederick A.; (Owatonna, MN) ; Nelson; Gregg S.;
(Northfield, MN) ; Prins; Marty L.; (Owatonna,
MN) ; Ulrich; Craig J.; (Owatonna, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATTERSON, THUENTE, SKAAR & CHRISTENSEN, P.A.
4800 IDS CENTER
80 SOUTH 8TH STREET
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402-2100
US
|
Family ID: |
34714659 |
Appl. No.: |
11/377933 |
Filed: |
March 16, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10990766 |
Nov 17, 2004 |
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11377933 |
Mar 16, 2006 |
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60523044 |
Nov 17, 2003 |
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60543047 |
Feb 9, 2004 |
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60599227 |
Aug 5, 2004 |
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60616538 |
Oct 6, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/151 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 5/08 20130101; E04H
1/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/151 |
International
Class: |
A47F 5/08 20060101
A47F005/08 |
Claims
1. An organization system for storing equipment at a storage site
and transporting the equipment between the storage site and a
location remote from the storage site, the system comprising: at
least first and second reconfigurable carts selectively
positionable in the storage site in a generally side-by-side
configuration, wherein at least first cart is movable from the
storage site to the remote location independent of the other cart,
said first cart including: a base having generally opposed sides
presenting a cart width and generally opposed ends presenting a
cart length, the ends having end panels operably extending upwardly
therefrom to a cart top, the end panels and the base generally
defining a storage space therebetween, the storage space comprising
a storage space height presented between the base and cart top, a
storage space length presented between the end panels, and a
storage space width presented between the sides; one or more
partitions selectively positioned in the storage space, such that
the storage space is adjustably dividable into a number of defined
reconfigurable modules for separable storage of the equipment, the
partitions operably dividing at least two of the storage space
height, storage space length, or storage space width to define the
modules; and ground engaging wheel assemblies operably attached to
and extending below the base, such that said first cart is
selectively movable on the wheel assemblies from the storage site
to the remote location remote.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein one or more partitions comprise a
shelf disposed intermediate the base and cart top, the shelf
selectively vertically positionable in the storage space to present
a first reconfigurable module above the shelf and a second
reconfigurable module below the shelf.
3. The system of claim of claim 2, wherein the shelf is comprised
of a wire-grille.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein the shelf is operably coupled to
the end panels.
5. The system of claim 2, wherein the end panels are each comprised
of a wire-grille operably attached to a tubular frame
structure.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the shelf comprises a plurality
of shelf hangers having engagement members presented thereon, such
that the shelf is operably coupleable to the wire-grille of the end
panels with the engagement members.
7. The system of claim 2, wherein the shelf comprises a wall
portion extending upwardly from an edge presented on the shelf,
wherein the wall portion is configured to operably retain contents
on the shelf when the first cart is selectively moved between the
storage site and location remote from the storage site.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the one or more wall portions are
selectively removable from the shelf.
9. The system of claim 7, wherein the wall portions comprise
netting.
10. The system of claim 2, wherein the one or more partitions
comprises one or more selectively positionable dividers operably
coupled to and extending upwardly from the shelf, wherein the
divider portions are configured to operably divide the first
reconfigurable module into two or more secondary reconfigurable
modules above the shelf.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the dividers comprise two or
more generally planar portions, the planar portions operably
coupleable at selective positions to define a selectively variable
divider height.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more partitions
comprise a panel disposed intermediate the ends, panel selectively
removable from at least one of the cart sides and selectively
horizontally positionable in the storage space to present a first
reconfigurable module and a second reconfigurable module along the
cart length.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the one or more partitions
further comprise a shelf disposed intermediate the base and cart
top, the shelf selectively removable from at least one of the cart
sides and selectively vertically positionable in the storage space
to divide the first reconfigurable module into two or more
secondary reconfigurable modules.
14. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one track
follower mechanism operably attached to the base and a track
operably positioned on the floor and extending along a track axis
that is generally transverse to the cart length, the track follower
mechanism selectively engageable with the track such that the carts
are movable only in a direction generally parallel to the track
axis when the at least one track follower is selectively engaged
with the track.
15. The system of claim 1, further comprising an equipment holder
selectively operably coupled to at least one end panel.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more partitions
comprises one or more selectively positionable divider panels, the
divider panels being selectively removable and horizontally
positionable between the cart sides to present a first
reconfigurable module and a second reconfigurable module along the
cart width.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the divider panel is generally
flexible.
18. A method of assembling an organization system for storing
equipment at a storage site and transporting the equipment between
the storage site and a location remote from the storage site, the
method comprising: providing at least first and second
reconfigurable carts selectively positionable in the storage site
in a generally side-by-side configuration, wherein at least first
cart is movable from the storage site to the remote location
independent of the other cart, said first cart including: a base
having generally opposed sides presenting a cart width and
generally opposed ends presenting a cart length, the ends having
end panels operably extending upwardly therefrom to a cart top, the
end panels and the base generally defining a storage space
therebetween, the storage space comprising a storage space height
presented between the base and cart top, a storage space length
presented between the end panels, and a storage space width
presented between the sides; and ground engaging wheel assemblies
operably attached to the base, such that said first cart is
selectively movable on the wheel assemblies from the storage site
to the remote location remote; and selectively positioning one or
more partitions in the storage space, such that the storage space
is adjustably dividable into a number of defined reconfigurable
modules for separable storage of the equipment, the partitions
operably dividing at least two of the storage space height, storage
space length, or storage space width to define the modules; and
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising operably coupling a
shelf intermediate the base and cart top, the shelf selectively
vertically positionable in the storage space to present a first
reconfigurable module above the shelf and a second reconfigurable
module below the shelf.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising operably coupling
one or more wall portions on the shelf, such that the wall portions
extending upwardly therefrom, wherein the wall portions are
configured to operably retain contents on the shelf when the cart
is selectively moved between the storage site and location remote
from the storage site.
21. The method of claim 19, further comprising operably coupling
one or more selectively positionable dividers to the shelf, such
that the divider portions are configured to operably divide the
storage space above the shelf.
22. The method of claim 18, further comprising operably coupling a
panel intermediate the ends, the panel selectively removable from
at least one of the cart sides and selectively horizontally
positionable in the storage space to present a first reconfigurable
module and a second reconfigurable module along the cart
length.
23. The method of claim 18, further comprising operably attaching
at least one track follower mechanism to the base and operably
positioning a track on the floor and extending along a track axis
that is generally transverse to the cart length, the track follower
mechanism selectively engageable with the track such that the carts
are movable only in a direction generally parallel to the track
axis when the at least one track follower is selectively engaged
with the track.
24. The method of claim 18, further comprising operably disposing
one or more selectively positionable divider panels in the storage
space, the divider panels being selectively removable and
horizontally positionable between the cart sides to present a first
reconfigurable module and a second reconfigurable module along the
cart width.
25. A rail system for use with a transportable equipment
organization system having a cart, the rail system comprising: a
rail disposed in a groove presented on a floor surface and
extending along a rail path, the rail at least partially presenting
a storage site, the rail comprising first and second generally
opposed flanges and a channel depending from the first and second
flanges and extending along the rail generally parallel to the rail
path, the first and second generally opposed flanges having an
upper surface and a lower surface, the rail operably positioned in
the groove such that the lower surfaces of the first and second
flanges operably couple the floor surface and the channel extends
therebelow; and a rail follower mechanism operably attached to a
cart and selectively engageable with the channel, such that when
the at least one rail follower mechanism is selectively engaged
with the channel the cart is movable along the rail within the
storage site in a direction generally parallel to the rail path,
and such that when the at least one rail follower mechanism is
selectively disengaged with the channel the cart can be moved on
the floor and across the upper surfaces of the first and second
generally opposed flanges to enable removal of the cart from the
storage site.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the rail further comprises one
or more rail supports extending below the channel towards a groove
base presented in the groove, such that the one or more rail
supports can inhibit deformation to the rail.
27. The system of claim 25, wherein the upper surfaces of the first
and second generally opposed flanges are generally ramped, such
that the cart can be more easily moved across the upper
surfaces.
28. The system of claim 25, wherein the rail is installed in
relation to a floor that is selected from the set consisting of:
the floor of a vehicle, the floor of a trailer, the floor of a
storage system than includes a plurality of movable floors, an
existing floor, or a newly formed floor surface.
29. The system of claim 25, wherein the rail is selected from the
set consisting of a unitary rail or a rail having a plurality of
sections.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 10/990,766, entitled "MODULAR STORAGE STRUCTURE FOR
LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF OPERATIONAL UNITS" filed Nov. 17, 2004,
which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/523,044, entitled "LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR
OPERATIONAL UNITS" filed Nov. 17, 2003, U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/543,047, entitled "LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF
FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS" filed Feb. 9, 2004, U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/599,227, entitled "LOGISTICAL
MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS" filed Aug. 5,
2004, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/616,538, entitled
"LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS"
filed Oct. 6, 2004. The disclosures of the aforementioned
applications are hereby incorporated by reference to the extent not
inconsistent with the present disclosure.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to movable storage
cabinets. More particularly, the present invention relates to a
modular storage system for the logistical management of operational
units.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Those involved in field operational units often possess or
require a large amount of uniforms, supplies, and other equipment.
Examples of such operational units are athletic teams, construction
industries, medical and hospital organizations, military and
paramilitary organizations, theatre companies, and marching and
concert bands. There is currently a need within these groups for
better equipment storage and handling solutions. Specifically,
there is a need for a storage system that can be used to
effectively store equipment at storage sites and cycle and
transport the equipment between the storage sites and areas in
which the equipment is used.
[0004] As an example, space is always at a premium in schools and
athletic facilities. There is rarely enough room allocated for
athletic equipment storage. The storage space that is made
available for athletic equipment is often located in storage
facilities that are inconvenient for coaches, equipment managers,
and players. These storage facilities are often small, cramped
rooms, closets or portions of rooms or similar sites or spaces.
Storage facilities often overflow into areas that are not intended
for storage purposes, such as locker rooms, gymnasiums, and
coaches' offices. Equipment storage facilities are frequently messy
with athletic equipment strewn about the floor. If there are
storage shelves and bins, they usually do not have labels or enable
the equipment managers to visually inspect or manage the gear.
Equipping players at the beginning of the season is usually
disorganized and characterized by piles of gear spread out over the
storage facility or locker room for weeks.
[0005] Mobility is also an essential part of the storage of items
for field operational units. While a permanent storage facility
enables certain efficiencies to be gained by having a central
location of the stored items, in many instances some of these items
need to be transported to another site quickly, inexpensively, and
with minimal planning. For instance, in athletic endeavors,
planning and managing the practice, game, and travel logistics of
teams is a complicated task and usually not the primary focus of
the athletic or activities director, coaches, players, and
trainers. Athletic equipment is constantly being moved through a
usage cycle between "off-season" storage and "in-season" use and
management. During the season, equipment constantly needs to be
moved to and from storage areas, practice fields, and game
sites.
[0006] Safety is also a very important aspect of equipment
management. Player safety and avoidance of program and personal
liability can be accomplished by effectively managing gear through
regular inspections and record keeping. Regular gear inventory and
inspection is critical to identify and replace expired, damaged,
and lost equipment. By taking care of their equipment and knowing
what equipment is on hand and "game ready," schools can also extend
equipment life and can assure purchases only as necessary. Safety
also encompasses the sanitary aspects of storage. With adequate
ventilation, well-designed storage can mitigate the growth and
spread of mold and odor associated with locker rooms. Also, by
effectively managing and organizing equipment, schools can inhibit
and control loss and theft.
[0007] Moreover, in the field of athletics, equipment storage
systems must reflect the pride, excellence, and the winning
attitude of the schools' athletic programs. Pride and excellence
are rarely reflected in current equipment management areas or
processes. Messy, disorganized equipment areas do not reflect
discipline, pride, or excellence. Disorganized equipment
distribution to players does not support the desired tone of the
program. If the storage areas are poorly kept, they do not reflect
well on a school's excellence to parents, alumni, fellow educators,
and recruits. The makeshift storage areas are usually in a state of
disarray and can be a source of embarrassment for the schools. As a
result, the areas are often shut or closed during recruiting trips
to inhibit such embarrassment.
[0008] There are not any commercially available organizational
storage systems meeting the current needs or addressing the current
problems discussed above. As an illustration, high schools,
colleges, and universities usually use storage systems ranging from
makeshift and make-do systems to generic, mass-marketed products
modified for use as athletic equipment storage systems. The
makeshift or make-do solutions often comprise homemade wooden
shelves or generic shelving available from local hardware stores.
Carts are also often homemade and storage containers are usually
corrugated boxes, gear bags, garbage bags, laundry hampers, or
generic plastic bins. Any labeling is usually done with a marker
and tape on the equipment, shelves, and boxes.
[0009] Some universities/colleges and professional sports
organizations currently use expensive, high-density storage
solutions such as those manufactured by Spacesaver Corporation.
Such high-density storage solutions have movable shelving units
carried on a rail system typically installed in a raised floor such
that the shelving units can be slide together and apart to provide
for more space efficient storage as shown, for example, in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 6,688,708, 6,669,314, 6,644,213, 6,371,031, 6,231,138,
6,161,485, 4,557,534, 4,432,589, and 3,829,189. Because these
systems are fixed on dual tracks, those using the system are not
enabled to bring the storage system to an off-site area. Those
wishing to access the storage must come to the storage facility and
cannot bring the storage system with them. In addition, solid
panels enclose the shelves and/or bins in the storage system, which
inhibits any airflow within the arrangement. Moreover, the bin and
shelving arrangement within the systems are also fixed so those
using the systems do not have the flexibility of being able to
arrange the shelves and/or bins in appropriate dimensions for
different sized articles. Also, although the storage solutions
manufactured by Spacesaver Corporation have been modified to
accommodate athletic equipment, the solutions are generally
designed for document storage and therefore cannot fulfill all of
the aforementioned equipment storage needs of logistical management
units.
[0010] Other similar movable storage systems have been developed
for storage units that are fixed onto and movable along dual
tracks. Some exemplary systems can be seen in U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,644,213, 6,371,031, 6,112,917, 6,027,190, 5,160,189, 4,597,615,
4,467,924, 4,307,922, 4,256,355, and 6,161,485. The storage units
in these storage systems are movable along the dual tracks and the
contents can be accessed when two adjacent units are separated by a
space. However, the units in these storage systems cannot be
removed from the dual tracks and taken out of the storage site. As
a result, those desiring to transport equipment to an off-site area
will not be able to do so using the units in the storage systems
described in these patents.
[0011] There have also been systems developed in which the units
are fixed relative to a wall but that can be pulled outwardly away
from the wall to access the contents. U.S. Pat. No. 6,688,708
describes a space saving storage system in which the storage
modules move along a bracket mounted on the wall. The storage
modules are movable along the bracket and can be pulled outwardly
from the wall to access the contents. However, as with the patents
listed above, the units cannot be removed from the bracket and
taken out of the storage facility. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,231,138,
6,027,190, and 5,683,155 describe additional fixed storage systems.
The storage units described in these patents can be pulled
outwardly from the wall to access the contents, but cannot be
removed from the tracks and taken out of the storage facility. As a
result, those desiring to transport equipment to an off-site area
will not be able to do so using the units in the storage systems
described in these patents.
[0012] While the vast majority of storage systems are fixed within
a given facility, there have been a few attempts to provide storage
units that can be removed from the storage facility. U.S. Pat. No.
4,807,765 describes a space saving system in which the storage
units are movable on casters along adjacent dual track arrangements
within a storage facility to provide front-to-rear movement of
adjacent carts that are stored in a side-by-side relation in their
storage position. While these carts could be removed from the track
and taken out of the storage facility, the carts are not designed
to accommodate equipment that is used by field operational units.
In addition, the carts or shelves can only be removed off the end
of the tracks. U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,106 is directed to a space
saving system in which the storage units are shelf main bodies that
are provided with pivotable casters and are movable along a dual
set of overhead rails within a storage facility. While these shelf
main bodies can be removed from the overhead rails so as to
function as conveyer wagons, as with the above-listed patents,
neither the shelf main bodies nor the overhead rails are not
designed to accommodate equipment that is used by field operational
units.
[0013] A patent that is directed towards an athletic equipment
carrier rack can be seen in U.S. Pat. No. 2,904,383. The patent
describes an athletic equipment carrier rack to be used for the
care and handling of various articles of athletic equipment.
However, the cart described by this patent is an isolated unit and
is not designed to be incorporated into a modular storage
system.
[0014] Because the deficiencies discussed above have not been
addressed by conventional modular storage systems and carts, there
is a current need for a modular storage cart addressing the
problems and deficiencies inherent with conventional designs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The organization system and cart according to the present
invention solve the deficiencies of conventional equipment storage
systems by providing a system that can be used to effectively store
uniforms and equipment at a storage facility and transport the
equipment between the facility and remote areas in which the
equipment is to be used. Unlike conventional systems, the carts
according to the present invention can be selectively
reconfigurable to present storage spaces of varying sizes, shapes,
and configurations for accommodating uniforms and equipment of
different field operational units. The organization system
generally includes a plurality of reconfigurable carts positionable
in the storage site in a generally side-by-side configuration. At
least one of the carts can be movable from the storage site to the
remote site independent of the other cart or carts.
[0016] Each of the carts can include a track follower mechanism
attached to the base and a track operably positioned on the floor
and extending along a track axis that is generally transverse to
the cart length. The track follower mechanism is engageable with
the track at the storage site such that the carts are movable only
in a direction generally parallel to the track axis when the at
least one track follower is selectively engaged with the track. The
track can include track supports extending therebelow into a groove
that is defined in the floor to inhibit deformation to the
track.
[0017] An aspect of various embodiments of the present invention is
that the carts can include partitions selectively positionable in
the storage space, such that the storage space is adjustably
dividable into a number of defined reconfigurable modules for
separable storage of the equipment. The partitions can include
shelves, panels, and adjustable dividers.
[0018] A shelf can be disposed intermediate the base and cart top
and selectively vertically positionable in the storage space to
present a first reconfigurable module above the shelf and a second
reconfigurable module below the shelf. The shelf can include shelf
hangers for coupling the shelf to the end panels of the cart and
wall portions configured to retain contents on the shelf when the
cart is moved from a storage facility. The wall portions can be
ridge members or generally flexible members, such as netting.
[0019] A further aspect of various embodiments of the present
invention is that the partitions can include a panel disposed
intermediate the sides or ends of the cart. The panels can be
removable from the cart sides and positionable in the storage space
to present a first reconfigurable module and a second
reconfigurable module along the cart length or width.
[0020] Because the carts according to the present invention can be
selectively reconfigurable to present storage spaces of varying
sizes, shapes, and configurations, the carts can be used to
accommodate uniforms and equipment of many different field
operational units.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a modular storage
system, depicting a plurality of carts selectively engaged with a
track at a storage site;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a modular storage
system, depicting a cart having a wire-grille panel and equipment
disposed therein;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a modular storage
system, depicting a cart having equipment disposed therein and
being manually moved along a track;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a top front perspective view of a retained
cart;
[0025] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a base of the retained cart of
FIG. 4;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a top front perspective view of the base of FIG.
5, depicting a wheel mechanism, track follower mechanism, and logo
plate in exploded view;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a bottom front perspective view of the base of
FIG. 5;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a top front perspective view of the base of FIG.
5, depicting bumpers prior to being placed on respective frame
posts;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a top front fragmentary perspective view of the
frame post of the base of FIG. 8, depicting bumpers placed on
respective frame posts;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a top front perspective view of the bumper of
FIG. 9;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a top front perspective view of a retained cart,
depicting end frames coupled to the base;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a top front fragmentary perspective view of the
frame post of the base, depicting bumpers and end frames being
coupled to the base;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a top front perspective view of the end frame of
FIG. 11 and wire-grille panel prior to being coupled to the end
frame;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a top front perspective view of a bracket prior
to being coupled to an end frame;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a top front perspective view of the bracket of
FIG. 14 being coupled to an end frame;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a top front perspective view of the bracket of
FIG. 14 coupled to an end frame and wire-grille panel;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a top front perspective view of a locking bracket
coupled to an end frame and wire-grille panel;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an outside portion of the
bracket of FIG. 14;
[0039] FIG. 19 is an end view of the outside portion of the bracket
of FIG. 18;
[0040] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an outside portion of the
locking bracket of FIG. 17;
[0041] FIG. 21 is an end view of the outside portion of FIG.
20;
[0042] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an inside portion of the
bracket of FIG. 14 and locking bracket of FIG. 17;
[0043] FIG. 23 is an end view of the inside portion of FIG. 22;
[0044] FIG. 24 is a top front perspective view of a handle bracket
prior to being coupled to an end frame;
[0045] FIG. 25 is a top front perspective view of the handle
bracket of FIG. 24 and a handle, depicting the handle bracket and
handle being coupled to the end frame;
[0046] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an inside handle bracket
portion of the handle bracket of FIG. 24;
[0047] FIG. 27 is an end view of the inside handle bracket portion
of FIG. 26;
[0048] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an outside handle bracket
portion of the bracket of FIG. 24;
[0049] FIG. 29 is an end view of the outside handle bracket portion
of FIG. 28;
[0050] FIG. 30 is a top front perspective view of the retained cart
of FIG. 11, depicting a wire-grille panel coupled to the end
frame;
[0051] FIG. 31 is a top front perspective view of a cart top of the
cart of FIG. 4, depicting a top panel being coupled to a pair of
top panel extrusions;
[0052] FIG. 32 is a top front perspective view of the cart top of
FIG. 31 being operably coupled to an end frame;
[0053] FIG. 33 is a top elevational view of the top panel extrusion
of FIG. 31;
[0054] FIG. 34 is an end view of the top panel extrusion of FIG.
31;
[0055] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the top panel extrusion of
FIG. 31, depicting a roof cap being coupled to the top panel
extrusion;
[0056] FIG. 36 is a top front perspective view of the end frame and
wire-grille panel of FIG. 13, depicting a solid panel being coupled
to the end frame and wire-grille panel;
[0057] FIG. 37 is a top front perspective view of a track;
[0058] FIG. 38 is an end view of the track of FIG. 37;
[0059] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the track of FIG. 37,
depicting spring pins prior to being coupled to the track;
[0060] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the track of FIG. 37,
depicting the track prior to being coupled to a second track
member;
[0061] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the track of FIG. 37,
depicting an end cap being coupled to the track;
[0062] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a track follower;
[0063] FIG. 43a is a top elevational view of a plunger of the track
follower of FIG. 42;
[0064] FIG. 43b is a side elevational view of the plunger of FIG.
43a;
[0065] FIG. 44a is a side elevational view of a roller of the track
follower of FIG. 42;
[0066] FIG. 44b is a top elevational view of the roller of FIG.
44a;
[0067] FIG. 44c is a cross-sectional view of the roller of FIG.
44a;
[0068] FIG. 45 is an elevational view of the shoulder bolt of a
track follower;
[0069] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the plunger guide of a
track follower mechanism;
[0070] FIG. 47 is a top front perspective view of a modular
cart;
[0071] FIG. 48 is an exploded view of a base of the cart of FIG.
47;
[0072] FIG. 49 is a top front perspective view of the base of FIG.
48;
[0073] FIG. 50a is a perspective view of a wheel mechanism of the
cart of FIG. 47, depicting the wheel mechanism being coupled to the
base of FIG. 47;
[0074] FIG. 50b is a side view of the wheel mechanism of FIG.
50a;
[0075] FIG. 50c is a front view of the wheel mechanism of FIG.
50a;
[0076] FIG. 51 is an exploded view of a track follower
mechanism;
[0077] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a plunger clip of the track
follower mechanism of FIG. 51;
[0078] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a backer of the track
follower mechanism of FIG. 51;
[0079] FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the track follower
mechanism of FIG. 51;
[0080] FIG. 55 is a top front perspective view of a modular cart,
depicting bypass doors in a closed configuration;
[0081] FIG. 56 is a top front perspective view of the cart of FIG.
55, depicting the bypass doors in an open configuration and
equipment disposed therein;
[0082] FIG. 57a is a cross-sectional view of a bypass door
track;
[0083] FIG. 57b is a side elevational view of the bypass door track
of FIG. 57a;
[0084] FIG. 57c is a top elevational view of the bypass door track
of FIG. 57a;
[0085] FIG. 58 is a side elevational view of a bypass door
glide;
[0086] FIG. 59 is a cross sectional view of the bypass door glide
of FIG. 58;
[0087] FIG. 60a is a front elevational view of a bypass door;
[0088] FIG. 60b is a side elevational view of the bypass door of
FIG. 60a;
[0089] FIG. 60c is a front elevational view of the bypass door of
FIG. 60a;
[0090] FIG. 61 is an exploded view of a bypass door latch being
coupled to the bypass door of FIG. 60a;
[0091] FIG. 62 is an exploded view of a bypass door latch being
coupled to the bypass door of FIG. 60a;
[0092] FIG. 63 is an exploded view of a bypass door roller being
coupled to the bypass door of FIG. 60a;
[0093] FIG. 64a is an exploded view of a bypass door glide of the
bypass door of FIG. 60a;
[0094] FIG. 64b is an exploded view of a bypass door of FIG. 64a
without a glide;
[0095] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a first bypass door
according to a second embodiment;
[0096] FIG. 66 is a fragmentary perspective view of the bypass door
of FIG. 65;
[0097] FIG. 67 is a perspective view of a second bypass door
according to a second embodiment;
[0098] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of a bypass door roller of the
bypass door of FIG. 65;
[0099] FIG. 69 is a fragmentary perspective view of a wire-grille
panel and truss system;
[0100] FIG. 70 is a side elevational view of a double truss;
[0101] FIG. 71a is a rear perspective view of a truss hanger;
[0102] FIG. 71b is a front perspective view of the truss hanger of
FIG. 71a;
[0103] FIG. 72 is a front perspective view of a shelf hanger;
[0104] FIG. 73 is a fragmentary perspective view of a truss,
depicted with equipment disposed thereon;
[0105] FIG. 74 is a perspective view of a helmet hanger;
[0106] FIG. 75 is a perspective view of a cart having a plurality
of helmet hangers disposed therein, depicting fully populated
helmet hangers;
[0107] FIG. 76 is a perspective view of a long pad hanger;
[0108] FIG. 77 is a perspective view of a short pad hanger;
[0109] FIG. 78 is a perspective view of a retained cart, depicting
fully populated pad hangers;
[0110] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of a pad hanger according to a
second embodiment;
[0111] FIG. 80 is a perspective view of a hanger according to a
third embodiment;
[0112] FIG. 81 is a perspective view of a cart having fully
populated pad stackers;
[0113] FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a cart having an
unpopulated pad stacker;
[0114] FIG. 83 is a perspective view of a pad stacker;
[0115] FIG. 84a is an elevational view of a pad tower of the pad
stacker of FIG. 83;
[0116] FIG. 84b is bottom elevational view of a pad tower of the
pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0117] FIG. 84c is an elevational view of a pad tower of the pad
stacker of FIG. 83;
[0118] FIG. 84d is a perspective view of a pad tower of the pad
stacker of FIG. 83;
[0119] FIG. 85a is a side elevational view of a base of the pad
stacker of FIG. 83;
[0120] FIG. 85b is a top elevational view of a base of the pad
stacker of FIG. 83;
[0121] FIG. 85c is a side elevational view of a base of the pad
stacker of FIG. 83;
[0122] FIG. 86a is a side elevational view of a pad support of the
pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0123] FIG. 86b is a side elevational view of a pad support of the
pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0124] FIG. 86c is a top elevational view of a pad support of the
pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0125] FIG. 87a is a perspective view of a support channel of the
pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0126] FIG. 87b is a side elevational view of a support channel of
the pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0127] FIG. 87c is a top elevational view of a support channel of
the pad stacker of FIG. 83;
[0128] FIG. 88 is a perspective view of a modular cart;
[0129] FIG. 89 is a perspective view of the track follower of a
cart and a track, depicting the track follower in an engaged
configuration;
[0130] FIG. 90 is a perspective view of the track follower track of
FIG. 89, depicting the track follower in an engaged position prior
to being disengaged using a foot;
[0131] FIG. 91 is a perspective view of the track follower track of
FIG. 89, depicting the track follower in an disengaged position
after being disengaged using a foot;
[0132] FIG. 92 is a perspective view of a modular cart, depicting
the cart partially outside of the storage site;
[0133] FIG. 93a is a perspective view of the track follower of a
modular cart and a track, depicting the track follower in a locked
position by a plunger lock bracket;
[0134] FIG. 93b is a perspective view of the plunger lock bracket
of FIG. 93a;
[0135] FIG. 94 is a perspective view of a modular cart, track, and
island stop;
[0136] FIG. 95 is a perspective view of an island stop base of the
island stop of FIG. 94;
[0137] FIG. 96 is a perspective view of a retained cart having an
attic;
[0138] FIG. 97 is a perspective view of the attic of FIG. 96;
[0139] FIG. 98a is a perspective view of an attic frame of the
attic of FIG. 96;
[0140] FIG. 98b is a side elevational view of the attic frame of
FIG. 98a;
[0141] FIG. 98c is a side elevational view of an attic frame;
[0142] FIG. 99 is a cross-sectional view of a cart having a video
system in an employed position;
[0143] FIG. 100 is a cross-sectional view of the cart of FIG. 99
depicting the video system in an unemployed position;
[0144] FIG. 101 is a side elevational view of the cart of FIG.
98;
[0145] FIG. 102 is a perspective view of a cart having two shelves
in a side-by-side configuration depicting the shelves extending
substantially along the length of the cart between front and rear
end panels;
[0146] FIG. 103 is a perspective view of a shelf having two shelf
channels operably coupled to an underside thereof;
[0147] FIG. 104 is a perspective view of a shelf hanger having
engagement members operably coupled to a wire-grille end panel;
[0148] FIG. 105 is a fragmentary perspective view of a shelf prior
to being operably coupled to a shelf hanger;
[0149] FIG. 106 is a fragmentary perspective view of a shelf of
FIG. 105 after being operably coupled to a shelf hanger depicting
the shelf channel pin operably positioned in the shelf hanger;
[0150] FIG. 107 is a perspective view of a cart having two shelves
in a side-by-side configuration depicting the shelves extending
only partially along the length of the cart;
[0151] FIG. 108 is a perspective view of a cart having a shelf and
an adjustable divider selectively position and operably coupled to
the shelf;
[0152] FIG. 109 is a perspective view of a shelf and an adjustable
divider prior to being operably coupled to the shelf;
[0153] FIG. 110 is a perspective view of the adjustable divider of
FIG. 109 being operably coupled to the shelf;
[0154] FIG. 111a-111e are perspective views of an adjustable
divider being adjusted in height.
[0155] FIG. 112 is a perspective view of a cart having a shelf
extending substantially along the length of the cart between front
and rear end panels and a pair of shelf lips operably coupled to
the shelf;
[0156] FIG. 113 is a perspective view of a shelf lip;
[0157] FIG. 114 is a fragmentary perspective view of a shelf and a
shelf lip prior to being operably coupled to the shelf, with arrows
indicating the position of the shelf lip relative to the shelf;
[0158] FIG. 115 is a fragmentary perspective view of the shelf lip
of FIG. 114 being operably coupled to the shelf, with arrows
indicating the position of the shelf lip relative to the shelf;
[0159] FIG. 116 is a perspective view of a cart having a shelf
configuration depicting the shelf extending only partially along
the length of the cart and a pair of shelf lips operably coupled to
the shelf;
[0160] FIG. 117 is a perspective view of a cart having a shelf and
a cart divider operably coupled to the shelf;
[0161] FIG. 118 is a side elevational view of a cart divider;
[0162] FIG. 119 is a fragmentary view of a wire-grille end panel
depicting the eyelet of the cart divider operably coupled to the
wire-grille end panel with a tie;
[0163] FIG. 120 is a perspective view of a cart having a
configuration depicting the card divider extending only partially
along the length of the cart;
[0164] FIG. 121 is a perspective view of a cart having a shelf
extending substantially along the length of the cart between front
and rear end panels and a pair of shelf nets operably coupled to
the shelf;
[0165] FIG. 122 is a perspective view of a shelf net;
[0166] FIG. 123 is a fragmentary perspective view of a shelf and
end panel and a shelf net operably coupled to the end panel
proximate the shelf;
[0167] FIG. 124 is a perspective view of a cart having a shelf
configuration depicting the shelf extending only partially along
the length of the cart and a shelf net operably coupled to the end
panel and a grill divider proximate the shelf;
[0168] FIG. 125 is a perspective view of a bat/racquet holder;
[0169] FIG. 126 is a side elevational view of a bat/racquet
holder;
[0170] FIG. 127 is a perspective view of a bat/racquet holder with
its engagement member operably coupled to a wire-grille end panel
and a plurality of bat operably hung on recesses formed on the
bat/racquet holder;
[0171] FIG. 128 is a fragmentary perspective view of a track
operably coupled in a groove defined on the floor; and
[0172] FIG. 129 is an end view of the track depicted in FIG.
128.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0173] As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, a modular storage system 110
according to an embodiment of the present invention generally
comprises a track 114 and one or more carts 112, 212. The carts 112
are arranged in a storage facility along a single track 114. The
storage facility can be a retrofitted area of an already existing
facility or the storage facility can be designed and implemented
into a newly constructed facility. In an already existing facility,
the track 114 can be positioned onto and connected to a
pre-selected portion of a floor. In a newly constructed facility,
the track 114 can be integrated directly into or onto a newly
formed floor.
[0174] The modular storage system as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2
includes a mixture of retained carts 112 (as shown in FIG. 3) and
modular carts 212 (as shown in FIG. 55). As can be seen in FIG. 3,
the retained carts 112 populated with uniforms and equipment are
preferably movable by manual force in a direction that is generally
parallel to and along the track 114. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2,
the modular carts 212 are also preferably movable along the track
114. In addition to being movable along the track 114, the modular
carts 212 can also be removed from the storage site 11 and taken to
an off-site location.
[0175] It will be understood that the mixture of retained carts 112
and modular carts 212 can be of any number and mix, depending upon
the length of the track 114 installed at the storage facility and
the width of each cart 112, 212. It will also be appreciated that
any number of tracks 114 could be installed in a variety of floor
plan configurations at a given storage facility given the
dimensions of the floor plan of the storage facility. As shown in
FIG. 1, some of the retained carts 112 are full width (112a) and
others are half width (112b). Preferably, all of the carts 112, 212
have a similar length, although this is not required. For purposes
of describing the various embodiments of the present invention, the
carts 112, 212 will be referred to as having a width in a direction
generally parallel to the track 114 and a length in a direction
generally perpendicular to the track 114. Similarly, the carts 112,
212 will have sides oriented along the length of the carts and ends
oriented along the width of the carts.
[0176] The carts 112, 212 generally comprise a reconfigurable
storage structure that includes a number of different means for
storing uniforms, equipment, and other items used by field
operational units. The modular storage system 110 as depicted in
the figures is designed to accommodate high school athletic
equipment. As such, the following description of different means
for storing uniforms, equipment, and other items is generally
directed to athletic equipment storage. However, those of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that the storage structures and
means could be easily used to accommodate a number of different
operational units, including, but not limited to, construction
industries, medical and hospital organizations, military and
paramilitary organizations, theatre companies, and marching and
concert bands.
[0177] In addition, the arrangement of the track 114 and carts 112,
212 enable users to come to the storage facility, quickly find
their equipment in a particular cart, move the carts along the
track to access the appropriate cart, remove their equipment from
the cart, and move on to an off-storage-site location with the
necessary equipment. Because the uniforms and equipment are
organized and arranged within the carts, those persons who monitor
and track the equipment to be stored in the modular storage system
110 are able to determine what equipment remains within the storage
facility and what equipment is being used at an offsite location.
When users return to the storage facility to return their uniforms
or equipment, they can give the uniforms and equipment to the
persons responsible for monitoring and tracking the equipment, who
can then return the equipment to the proper cart within the storage
facility. Alternatively, users can return their own equipment to
the proper cart within the storage facility.
[0178] Because the modular carts 212 can be taken out of the
confines of the storage facility and transported to an off-site
location, the modular storage system 110 of the present invention
permits operational units that require large amounts of uniforms
and various pieces of equipment to transport the uniforms and
equipment in an organized manner. By doing so, the units are much
less likely to forget or lose track of the uniforms and equipment.
For example, military units often travel with large amounts of gear
including uniforms, weapons, first aid kits, tents, cots,
ammunition, and other equipment. When the military unit must
travel, the logistics of transporting the members and equipment can
create pose significant logistical problems. However, by using a
modular storage system 110 according to the various embodiments of
the present invention, the military unit can travel in an organized
manner. Each uniform and piece of equipment can have a position
within the carts 112, 212 when leaving a storage facility and when
arriving at a destination. Because the equipment does not need to
be removed from the cart during transportation, much time and
effort can be saved by not having to load and unload any
containers.
[0179] Also, when inventory is taken prior to leaving a storage
facility, inventorying is not required when arriving at a
destination as there is no need to remove anything from the cart.
These same benefits occur with other operational units such as
athletic teams, construction industries, medical and hospital
organizations, theatre companies, marching and concert bands,
police and fire departments, and medical rescue teams.
[0180] Description of the Retained Carts
[0181] Referring to FIGS. 3-12, embodiments of the retained cart
will be described. It will be noted that reference numerals in the
100's are generally used to denote the base features and components
of the retained carts 112. The retained carts 112 are preferably
retained within the storage facility during normal use and not
designed to be removable from the storage facility. In order to be
removed from the storage facility, the retained carts 112 generally
would need to be lifted out of the track 114 by selectively
releasing them from the confines of the track 114 and then carried
out of the storage facility (i.e., to a location other than the
location of the track 114). Alternatively, the track 114 may be
removed in order to permit the retained carts 114 to be removed
from the storage facility.
[0182] As depicted in FIG. 4, a retained cart 112 according to an
embodiment of the present invention preferably comprises a cart
base 116, a cart top 122, a front end 118, and a rear end 120
opposed the front end 18. The cart base 116, cart top 122, front
end 118, and rear end 120 generally define a reconfigurable storage
structure. The front end 118, rear end 120, and cart top 122
preferably have substantially similar structure on both the
retained cart 112 and modular cart 212. As such, the discussion of
the front end 118, rear end 120, and cart top 122 with respect to
the retained cart 112 is therefore relevant and incorporated by
reference to the later discussion with respect to the modular cart
212. For purposes of this description, front is used to reference
the end of the cart base that, when in position on the track 114,
is closest to the track 114. Rear is used to reference the end of
the cart base 116 that is furthest from the track 114.
[0183] The cart base 116 of the retained cart 112 according to an
embodiment of the present invention, as depicted in FIGS. 5-8,
preferably comprises a bottom 124, a pair of opposed base sides
130a, 130b connected to the bottom 124, a front plate 126, and an
opposed rear plate 128. The front plate 126 and rear plate 128 are
operably connected to a bottom front 132 and a bottom rear 134,
respectively, wherein the bottom front 132 and bottom rear 134 are
preferably substantially perpendicular to the opposed sides 130a,
130b. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the bottom 124, front plate 126,
rear plate 128, and base sides 130a, 130b generally define a
storage basement 117 that can be used to store various equipment or
articles below a horizontal level of a top surface of base sides
130a, 130b. The bottom 124, front plate 126, rear plate 128, and
base sides 130a, 130b are preferably constructed of sheet steel,
although other materials such as aluminum, alloys, graphite or
composites materials or various plastics could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0184] The cart base 116 further preferably comprises a plurality
of preferably cylindrical frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d
disposed on the base sides 130a, 130b where the base sides 130a,
130b intersect the front plate 126 and rear plate 128. The frame
posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d preferably include a post slot 171
such that the base sides 130a, 130b and frame posts 168a, 168b,
168c, 168d can be connected by sliding the post slots 171 onto the
base sides 130a, 130b. Although the frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c,
168d are depicted as being cylindrical in shape, it is contemplated
that they may be square, rectangular, or any other geometric shape.
The frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d are preferably constructed
of tubular steel, although other materials such as aluminum, alloys
or graphite or composite materials could be used without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0185] As depicted in FIG. 5, the front plate 126 and rear plate
128 are preferably "C" or channel shaped and comprise
concave-shaped plate ends 146 so that the plates 126, 128
substantially abut the cylindrical frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c,
168d when the cart base 116 is assembled. The front plate 126 and
rear plate 128 are preferably connected to the bottom 124 using
fasteners 800. The terms "fastener" as used in this application
includes screw, bolt, nut, rivet, snap, or other generally known
mechanical fasteners. Although the plates 126, 128 are depicted as
being "C" or channel shaped, it is contemplated that they be curved
or flat. As depicted in FIG. 6, the front plate preferably includes
a logo plate 144.
[0186] While the preferred embodiment of the present invention
describes the operable connection of various members and elements
of the carts 112, 212 with the use of mechanical fasteners 800, the
various components of the carts 112, 212 could be assembled by
welding or gluing in an alternative embodiment. It will be
understood, however, that this alternate embodiment of assembling
the carts 112, 212 does not facilitate easily on-site assembly of
the carts 112, 212 as is provided for by the preferred
embodiment.
[0187] The cart base 116 further preferably comprises a pair of
opposed beams 164a, 164b disposed on and extending along the base
sides 130a, 130b between the frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d.
The beams 164a, 164b are preferably tubular in shape and comprise
concave shaped beam ends 166 so that the beams 164a, 164b
substantially abut the cylindrical frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c,
168d. While the beam cross-sections as depicted are tubular in
shape, it is contemplated that the beams nave a different shaped
cross-section, such as square, rectangular, flat, or other various
geometric shapes. The beams 164a, 164b are preferably constructed
of tubular steel, although other materials such as aluminum, alloys
or graphite or composite materials or various plastics could be
used without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
[0188] The bottom 124 preferably comprises a top surface 136, an
underside 138 opposed the top surface 136, and a plurality of wheel
slots 140 extending from the top surface 136 through the underside
138. The wheel slots 140 are preferably located proximate the frame
posts 168a, 168b, 168c, and 168d. The bottom 124 further comprises
a support bar 142 that is disposed on the underside 138 extending
substantially between the opposed base sides 130a, 130b. The
support bar 142 as depicted has a square-shaped cross-section
although it is contemplated that the support bar 142 be flat or
tubular in shape. The support bar 142 can be constructed of steel,
although other materials such as aluminum, alloys or graphite or
composite materials or plastics could be used without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention. Each wheel slot 140
preferably comprises an axle plate 150 having an axle pin aperture
158 and a plurality of axle plate tabs 160.
[0189] The cart base 116 further preferably comprises a plurality
of wheels covers 148, each wheel cover 148 having a plurality of
axle pin apertures 152, a plurality of wheel cover tabs 154, and a
plurality of axle plate tab slots 156. When the wheel cover 148 is
placed onto the bottom 124 of the cart base 116, the wheel cover
148 preferably extends between the opposed sides 130a, 130b. In
this position, the wheel cover tabs 154 are inserted into a
plurality of wheel cover tab slots 162 included on the bottom 124
of the cart base 116 and the axle plate tabs 160 on the axle plates
150 are inserted into the axle plate tab slots 156 on the wheel
covers 148. The wheel cover tabs 154 and axle plate tabs 160 assist
in holding the axle plates 150 and wheel covers 148 in place. The
wheel covers 148 and axle plates 150 are preferably constructed of
sheet steel, although other materials such as aluminum, alloys or
graphite or composite materials or plastics could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0190] The components of the above-described cart base 116 are
preferably selected, configured, and assembled so that the base 116
has a structural integrity and strength sufficient so that when the
carts 112 are moved along the track 114, the carts 112 will not
canter, flex, or bend by more than S degrees from normal to the
track 114, and preferably by no more than 2-3 degrees from normal.
By having such a structural integrity, when the carts 112 are moved
along the track 114, the cart will not bind on the track 114, thus
enabling easy manual movement of the carts 112 along the preferred
embodiment of a single track 114. As a result of this preferred
structural integrity, the present invention is able to dispense
with the need for dual track arrangements as is generally taught in
the modular storage systems of the prior art.
[0191] With continuing reference to FIG. 6, the cart base 116
preferably comprises at least three wheel mechanisms 172. The wheel
mechanisms 172 on the retained cart 112 are generally axle-type
wheels and generally comprise a wheel 174 having a wheel aperture
176, an axle pin 178 extending through the wheel aperture 176, and
a plurality of washers 180. To connect each wheel 174 to the cart
base 116, prior to placing the wheel covers 148 onto the cart base
116, the axle pin 178 is first inserted through the axle pin
aperture 152 in the wheel cover 148. The axle pin 178 is then
preferably inserted through a washer 180, the wheel aperture 176,
through more washers 180, and then through the axle pin aperture
158 in the axle plate 150. The axle pin 178 is then connected to
the wheel cover 148 by inserting a fastener 800 through a portion
of the axle pin 178 into the wheel cover 148. The axle pins 178 and
washers 180 are preferably constructed of steel, although other
materials such as aluminum, alloys or graphite or composite
materials could be used without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention. When the wheel mechanisms 172 are installed on
the cart base 116, at least a portion of the wheels 174 extends
below the underside 138 of the bottom 124. The wheels 174 are
preferably constructed of nylon or polyolefin, such as part number
PB0820112WS02 from Tricker Caster & Wheel Sales in Fairbault,
Minn., although other equivalent polymer materials could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In an
embodiment, a total of four wheel mechanisms 172 are utilized, with
one pair of wheel mechanisms 172 on each end of the cart base 116.
It will be understood that any number of wheel mechanism 172
greater than two could be incorporated into the design of the cart
base 116 to decrease the weight load per wheel mechanism 172, for
example, by providing additional wheel mechanisms 172 positioned at
different points along the length of the cart base 116. In another
embodiment of the present invention, the wheel 174 could be a
caster wheel or ball wheel.
[0192] The cart base 116 further comprises at least one track
follower mechanism 182. The track follower mechanism 182 can be
seen in FIG. 5 and in greater detail in FIGS. 42-46. As depicted in
the figures, the retained cart 112 according to an embodiment of
the present invention includes two track follower mechanisms 182
positioned at opposite sides of the front end 118, although it is
contemplated that the carts 112 could include one or more track
follower mechanisms 182 positioned to engage the track 104 wherever
the track 114 is positioned relative to the length of the carts
112, 212. For example, in an alternate embodiment, the track 114
and corresponding track follower mechanisms 182 could be positioned
proximate the rear end 120 of the carts 112 or the track followers
182 could be positioned at any position along the length of the
cart 112, for example, in the middle of the length of the cart 112.
It will be understood, however, that the advantage of the
positioning of the track follower mechanisms 182 on the front end
of the carts 112 permits for easy following of a single track with
the ability to manually move the carts 112 with a minimum amount of
effort.
[0193] The track follower mechanism 182 comprises a track follower
184 having a plunger 186 that can be cylindrical in shape and a
roller 192 connected to the plunger 186 using a shoulder bolt 194.
The frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d preferably include a plunger
guide 190, such that when the track follower mechanism 182 is
inserted into the frame post 168, the plunger 186 of the track
follower mechanism 182 rests within the plunger guide 190. Once the
plunger 186 rests within the plunger guide 190, the roller 192 can
be connected to the plunger 186 using the shoulder bolt 194. In
this position, the track follower mechanism 182 is vertically
movable and rotatable about the plunger 186 within the frame post
168 in the plunger guide 190. When the track follower mechanism 182
is inserted into the frame posts 168a, 168d, the track follower
roller 192 extends below the frame posts 168a, 168d. A plunger cap
188 on the plunger 186 opposite the shoulder bolt 194 inhibits the
track follower mechanism 182 from falling out of the frame post
168. The roller 192 can be constructed of glass-filled nylon,
although other materials such as steel, aluminum, bronze, alloys,
graphite or composite materials or various plastics could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The
plunger 186, shoulder bolt 194, and plunger guide 190 are
preferably constructed of steel or aluminum, although other
materials could be used without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention.
[0194] The cart base 116 further preferably includes a plurality of
bumpers 196. As depicted in FIGS. 8-12, the bumpers 196 are
preferably cylindrical or donut-shaped and preferably comprise a
bumper clearance aperture 198 and a bumper flat surface 199. The
bumpers 196 are placed onto the frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d
so that the bumper clearance apertures 198 are substantially
aligned with post clearance apertures 170 that are included on the
frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d. In this position the bumper
flat surfaces 199 on the bumpers 196 proximate the rear plate 128
substantially face one another and the bumper flat surfaces 199 on
the bumpers 196 proximate the front plate 126 substantially face
one another. This flat surface 199 extends laterally beyond
vertical members 304 of frames 302 to provide clearance for any
panels that are placed onto the carts 112. The bumpers 196 are
preferably constructed of nylon, although other materials such as
rubber or various plastics could be used without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention.
[0195] The bumpers 196 protect adjacent carts 112, 212 when the
carts 112, 212 are moved along the track 114 within the storage
facility. If a first cart 112 is moved towards a second cart 112,
such that the carts 112 contact one another, the bumpers 196 on the
first cart 112 will contact the bumpers 196 of a second cart 112
rather than other parts of the carts 112 coming into contact with
one another. As the bumpers 196 are constructed of nylon or other
similar resilient materials, they will absorb the forces exerted
when adjacent carts 12 are moved into an abutting relation along
the track 14.
[0196] The cart as depicted in FIG. 4 also preferably comprises a
front end 118 and a rear end 120, each end 118, 120 preferably
comprising a frame 302 and a wire-grille panel 300 connected to the
frame 302 using a plurality of brackets 310. It will be noted that
reference numerals in the 300's are generally used to denote the
features and components of frame, ends and top of the retained
carts 112. The frame 302 comprises a pair of generally opposed
vertical members 304 connected by a substantially horizontal member
306. As depicted in FIGS. 11-12, to connect the frames 302 to the
cart base 116, the lower portion 305 of the vertical members 304
are inserted into the frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d. Once the
frame 302 is inserted into the frame posts 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d,
a fastener 800 is inserted through the bumper clearance aperture
94, through the frame post aperture 170, and into the aperture in
the frame. While the frames as depicted are tubular in shape, it is
contemplated that the frames have a different shaped cross-section,
such as square, rectangular, flat, or other various geometric
shapes. The frames 302 are preferably constructed of tubular steel,
although other materials such as aluminum, alloys, graphite or
composite materials could be used without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention. The wire-grille panel 300 can be
constructed of wire steel, although other materials such as mesh or
plastic wire could be used without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention.
[0197] In an embodiment, the wire-grille panel 300 enables air to
move within the cart 112. When uniforms or wearable equipment are
placed into the cart 112, the air movement will enable the uniforms
and wearable equipment to dry out, inhibiting any mold, fungus, or
bacteria from forming and spreading on the uniforms and wearable
equipment. Preferably, the wire-grille panels 300 have an at least
25% opening in the panel and optionally an at least 50% and up to
95% opening. Although the panels 300 are preferably constructed as
wire-grilles, solid panels with equivalent cut out apertures could
also be utilized to achieve the desired airflow.
[0198] The brackets 310 are generally used to connect the
wire-grille panel 300, or a solid panel 326 as depicted in FIG. 36,
to the frames 302. As depicted in FIGS. 14-22, the brackets 310
comprise an inside bracket portion 312 and an outside bracket
portion 314. In order to connect the wire-grille panel 300 to the
frame 302, the wire-grille panel 300 is placed into the frame 302
and the inside bracket portion 312 and outside bracket portion 314
are placed together so that they capture the frame 302 and
wire-grille panel 300. The inside bracket portion 312 and outside
bracket portion 314 are then connected using a plurality of
fasteners 800.
[0199] As depicted in FIG. 17, the bracket 310 can also include a
lock portion 316. When one desires to connect adjacent carts 12 in
a modular storage system 10, brackets 310 comprising lock portions
316 are included. To lock adjacent carts 112 together, adjacent
carts 112 including lock portions 316 are placed together. A lock
is then inserted into the lock portions 316 of each bracket 310 and
then secured. The brackets 310 are preferably constructed of steel,
although other materials such as aluminum, alloys, graphite or
composite materials or various plastics could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0200] Once the frames 302 and wire-grille panels 300 or solid
panels 326 have been installed on the cart base 116, the cart base
116, and panels on the front end 118 and rear end 120 generally
define a storage structure. As discussed below, the storage
structure can be reconfigurable and can be used to store uniforms,
wearable equipment, equipment, gear and other various articles for
equipping field operational units.
[0201] As depicted in FIGS. 4 and 30, the front end 118 further
preferably comprises a handle 324 connected to the frame 302 with a
handle bracket 318 having an inside handle bracket portion 320 and
outside handle bracket portion 322. Once the wire-grille panel 300
has been positioned in the frame 302, the inside handle bracket
portion 320 and outside handle bracket portion 322 are placed
together so that they capture the frame 302 and wire-grille panel
300. Fasteners 800 are then inserted through the inside handle
bracket portion 320 and outside handle bracket portion 322 and into
the handles 324. The handles 324 are preferably constructed of
steel, although other materials such as aluminum, alloys, graphite
or composite materials or various plastics could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0202] The ends of the carts 112 can also preferably include
labeling panels that can be attached to the wire-grille panels 300
or solid panels 326. By including a labeling panel, those using the
carts 112 can determine what the cart 112 contains without needing
to look within the cart, but by merely looking at the labeling
panel.
[0203] As stated above, and as depicted in FIG. 36, the front end
118 and rear end 120 can also include a solid panel 326. Once the
wire-grille panel 300 has been positioned in the frame 302, the
solid panel 326 is then positioned in the frame 302. The inside
bracket portion 312 and outside bracket portion 314 are then placed
together so that they capture the frame 302 and wire-grille panel
300. Fasteners 800 are then inserted through the inside bracket
portion 312 and outside bracket portion 314. In an embodiment of
the present invention, the solid panel 326 is substantially the
same size as the wire-grille panel 300.
[0204] In another embodiment of the present invention, the solid
panel 326 comprises a plurality of solid panel 326 sections
selectively positioned on the wire-grille panel 300. In another
embodiment of the present invention, the carts 112 could comprise a
solid panel 326 without using a wire-grille panel 300. In an
embodiment, the solid panels 326 are preferably constructed of
5/8'' veneer core plywood with a laminate overlay, although other
materials such as aluminum, graphite or composite materials or
various plastics could be used without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention.
[0205] As depicted in FIG. 4, the cart 112 also preferably
comprises a top 122, which can be seen in greater detail in FIGS.
31-35. The cart top 122 generally comprises a top panel 328
extending from the front frame 302a to the rear frame 302b and a
plurality of top panel extrusions 330a, 330b positioned on opposing
sides of the top panel 328 and extending substantially along the
length of the top panel 328. The top panel extrusions 330a, 330b
are preferably connected to top panel 328 using a plurality of
fasteners 800. As can be seen in the figures, the top panel
extrusions preferably have a profile that matches the profile of
the end frames 302 where the vertical members 304 intersect the
horizontal member 306. The top panel 328 is positioned on support
brackets 308 disposed on the horizontal member 306 of the frames
302. Once the top panel 328 is positioned on support brackets 308,
it is then preferably connected to the support brackets 308 using
fasteners 800.
[0206] Once the top panel 328 is connected to the frames 302a,
302b, the top panel extrusions 330a, 330b are connected to the top
panel 328 using fasteners 800. Roof caps 332 are then connected to
the top panel extrusions 330a, 330b using fasteners 800. The roof
caps 332 protect the top panel extrusions 330a, 330b and provide a
more aesthetically appealing appearance. The top panels 328 are
preferably constructed of 5/8'' veneer core plywood with a laminate
overlay, although other materials such as aluminum, graphite or
composite materials or various plastics could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The roof caps
332 are preferably constructed of 14-gauge steel, although other
materials such as aluminum, alloys, graphite or composite materials
or various plastics could be used without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention.
[0207] As depicted in FIGS. 96-98, the cart 112, in an embodiment
of the present invention, an attic 334 is disposed on the cart top
122 of the cart 112. The attic 334 comprises a pair of generally
opposed attic frames 336a, 336b separated by and connected to an
attic top 338. The attic 334 further preferably comprises attic
wire-grille panels 340 connected to the attic frames 336a, 336b
using brackets 342 that are substantially similar to brackets 310
described above. The attic top 338 can be the same length as the
cart top 122. The attic 334 is assembled substantially as described
with reference to earlier discussion of the construction and
materials of the cart 112, the earlier discussion being
incorporated with reference to the attic 334.
[0208] As depicted in FIGS. 55-56, the retained cart 112 and
modular cart 212 can further comprise a bypass door mechanism 344.
The bypass door mechanism 344 comprises at least one bypass door
350, a bottom door track 348, and a top door track 346. The at
least one bypass door 350 can be constructed of 5/8'' veneer core
plywood with a laminate overlay, although other materials such as
aluminum, graphite or composite materials or various plastics could
be used without departing from the spirit and scope of this
invention. The door tracks 346, 348 are preferably constructed of
extruded aluminum, although other materials such as alloys,
graphite or composite materials or various plastics could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
[0209] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the
bypass doors 350 comprise a bottom door glide 354 and a top door
glide 352 connected to the bottom 353 and top 351 of the bypass
door 350, respectively. As depicted in FIG. 64a, the glides 354,
352 are connected to the bypass door 350 using fasteners 800. The
bypass door 350 also preferably comprises a latch mechanism 360
connected to the bypass door 350 using fasteners 800, as can be
seen in FIG. 61-62. The bottom door glide 354 preferably comprises
a plurality of door rollers 356. As depicted in FIG. 63, the door
rollers 356 are connected to the bottom door glide 354 using
fasteners 800 and door roller plate 358. The door glides 354, 352
are preferably constructed of extruded aluminum, although other
materials such as steel, alloys, graphite or composite materials or
various plastics could be used without departing from the spirit
and scope of this invention. The latch mechanisms 360 are
preferably constructed of steel, although other materials such as
aluminum, alloys, graphite or composite materials or various
plastics could be used without departing from the spirit and scope
of this invention. The door rollers 356 are preferably constructed
of sintered bronze, although other materials such as nylon,
urethane, or various polymer materials could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
[0210] An alternative embodiment of the bypass door 350b can be
seen in FIGS. 65-68. The door 350b of this embodiment comprises a
plurality of door rollers 356b disposed on the bottom of the door
350b and a plurality of door claws 362 disposed at the top 351b of
the door 350b. When the doors 350b are assembled on the cart 12,
the claws 362 slide along the top door track 346b disposed on the
top 351b of the door 350b.
[0211] The Track
[0212] The modular storage system 110 preferably comprises a single
track 114. It will be noted that reference numerals in the 400's
are generally used to denote the features and components of the
track 114. Although a single track 114 can be utilized, it will be
understood that for certain aspects of the present invention, a
plurality of tracks 114 may be provided and utilized within the
scope of those aspects of the present invention.
[0213] As depicted in FIGS. 37-41, the track 114 of the modular
storage system 110 generally comprises a track length 400, a track
width 402, a channel 404 extending along the track length 400, and
a pair of generally opposed ramped surfaces 406, the ramped
surfaces 406 being perpendicular to the track length 400. In an
embodiment of the present invention, the track length 400 comprises
a unitary, integral track section. In another embodiment of the
present invention, the track 114 comprises separate track sections
connected using a plurality of spring pins 408. As depicted in
FIGS. 39-40, to connect separate track portions, the spring pins
408 are inserted into a cross-section of the track 114 and the
portions are then placed together.
[0214] For cross-sections of the track 114 that end in the middle
of a room, i.e., not at a wall, a track cap 410 having dimensions
that are substantially the same as the exposed cross-section can be
connected to the track 114 using fasteners 800 to inhibit the carts
112, 212 from moving beyond the track length 400. The track cap 410
also protects the exposed cross-section and provides a pleasing
appearance. The track 14 can be constructed of extruded aluminum,
although other materials such as steel could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The spring
pins 408 are preferably constructed of steel, although other
materials such as aluminum, bronze, or various plastics could be
used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
The track caps 410 are preferably constructed of 16-gauge steel,
although other materials such as aluminum, alloys, graphite or
composite materials or various plastics could be used without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0215] In an embodiment of the present invention, the track 114 can
be installed into a newly formed surface. In this embodiment, the
ramped surfaces 406 would not be required, as the channel 404 would
be incorporated below the surface of a floor.
[0216] Referring to FIG. 128, an in-ground track 800 can comprise a
pair of generally opposed and planar flanges 802 that rest upon the
floor. A portion of the track 800 can extend into the groove that
is defined below the surface of the floor. The portion of the track
800 extending below the surface of the floor generally comprises a
pair of side walls 806 for guiding a track follower along the
length of the track 800. The in-ground track 800 can also comprise
one or more T-shaped track supports 808 extending below the track
800. The track 800 supports can inhibit deformation of the track
800 into the groove if a great and/or non-uniform downward force is
place on the track 800. The track can be operably coupled to the
floor using fasteners 810, such as screws. Alternatively, the track
800 can rest in the groove with gravity or can be operably coupled
to the groove with an adhesive, such as glue or epoxy.
[0217] The track 114 could also be installed on the floor of a
vehicle, the floor of a trailer, or the floor of a storage system
than includes a plurality of movable floors.
[0218] As described above, an "in-ground" track can be used in
conjunction with the modular storage system for selectively and
engageably tracking modular or retained carts thereto. Such a track
can be incorporated into or operably coupled in a groove defined on
a floor in a new or existing facility. The floor and groove defined
therein are described in greater detail below. By incorporating or
coupling the track in a groove defined in the floor, as opposed to
on the surface of the floor, the overall height of the track can be
minimized. This can enable a user to move a cart over a track with
minimal force and gravitational resistance. This configuration can
also inhibit any structure protruding from the floor, thus
providing numerous aesthetic and operational benefits.
[0219] Referring to FIGS. 128 and 129, an in-ground track 800
generally comprises a first generally planar elongate track flange
802 and a second generally opposed and generally planar elongate
track flange 804. As will be described in greater detail below, the
track flanges 802, 804 can provide structure for a track 800 to
rest upon when the track 800 is disposed in a groove that is
incorporated into the floor.
[0220] The track 800 further generally comprises a first elongate
track channel wall 806 and a second generally opposed elongate
track channel wall 808, the track channel walls 806, 808 operably
depending from the first and second track flanges 802, 804,
respectively. The track channel walls 806, 808 can depend from a
flange edge 816 included on the respective track flanges 802, 804,
as generally depicted in FIGS. 128 and 129. Alternatively, the
track channel walls 806, 808 can depend from a portion
intermediately positioned on the track flanges 802, 804. The track
channel walls 806, 808 can be integrally formed with or operably
coupled to the track flanges 802, 804.
[0221] Referring to FIG. 129, the track 800 also generally
comprises a generally planar elongate track base 810 operably
coupled to the wall lower end 838 of the first and second track
channel walls 806, 808. The track base 810 can be generally
parallel the track flanges 802, 804. In addition the track base 810
can be integrally formed with or operably coupled to the track
channel walls 806, 808.
[0222] The track channel walls 806, 808 and track base 810
generally define a track channel 812 therein that is configured to
guide a track follower mechanism (not depicted in FIGS. 128 and
129) when the track follower mechanism is operably selectively
engaged with the track 800. As generally depicted in FIGS. 128 and
129, the track channel 812 comprises a cross section that is
generally rectangular in shape. The track channel 812 alternatively
can comprise a cross section of any number of shapes or
configurations, such as square, triangle, or other polyhedron. In
general, the track channel 812 comprises a shape defined such that
it can correspond with the general shape of a track follower on a
track follower mechanism.
[0223] Referring to FIG. 129, as described above, each of the
elongate track flanges 802, 804 is generally operably coupled to a
respective track channel walls 806, 808 with a flange edge 816 on
an upper end 838 of the track channel walls 806, 808 that is
defined between the track flanges 802, 804 and the respective track
channel walls 806, 808. The flange edge 816 can be generally
curvilinear (as depicted in FIGS. 128 and 129) or generally linear.
The flange edge 816 can provide the junction between the track
flanges 802, 804 and respective track channel walls 806, 808 with
additional stability and support. When the track 808 is disposed in
a groove defined on the floor, the track flanges 802, 804 can
support the track 800 on the floor. Such configuration can place
additional stress at the junction between the track flanges 802,
804 and respective track channel walls 806, 808 when weight is
placed on the track 800 or when a cart is operably coupled with the
track 800. The weight or stress can be countered with the
additional material defined at the flange edge 816.
[0224] Referring to FIG. 129, each of the track flanges 802, 804
also generally comprises a generally planar upper flange surface
818 and a generally opposed lower flange surface 820. The track
flanges 802, 804 also comprise an outer track edge 814 intermediate
the upper and lower flange surfaces 818, 820 on the outside
portions thereof. The track edge 814 can be generally rounded or
angled to minimize the overall height of the track edge 814.
[0225] Each of the flanges 802, 804 can also comprise a track lip
822 generally opposed the outer track edge 814, the track lip 822
being defined proximate the track channel 812 and positioned
proximate the intersection of either of the track flanges 802, 804
and respective track channel walls 806, 808. The track lip 822 can
extend inwardly with respect to the track channel 812 and can
provide structure for operable engagement with a track follower on
a track follower mechanism when the track follower mechanism is
operably engaged with the track 800.
[0226] Each of the track lips 822 can comprise an inner lip surface
824, a lower lip surface 826, and a lip radius surface 828
intermediate the track lip 822 and respective inner track channel
wall surface. The lip radius surface 828 can provide sufficient
structure to inhibit any stress concentration or crack formations
intermediate the track lips 822 and track channel wall 806, 808. In
addition, the lip radius surface 828 can be used to place spring
pins to connect separate sections of the track 800. The spring pins
can be substantially the same as the spring pins 408 depicted and
described with respect to the above-ground track in FIGS. 39 and
40. The upper and bottom flange surfaces 818, 820, track edge 814,
and track lip 822 can generally define each of the track flanges
802, 804. The relatively short height of the track lip inner
surface 824 compared to the track channel wall inner surfaces 836
can minimize and surface friction between a track follower (not
depicted in FIGS. 128 and 129) and the track when the track
follower mechanism is operably engaged with the track 800. The
track channel wall inner surfaces 836 are described in greater
detail below with respect to the elongate track channel walls 806,
808.
[0227] The track flanges 802, 804 each comprise a flange thickness
830. The flange thickness 830a proximate the track edge 814 can be
less than the thickness 830b proximate the track lip 822. This can
provide a generally slightly ramped upper flange surface 818
(ramped upwardly from the track edge 814 towards the track channel
812) and can enable a cart being moved over the track 800 to easily
traverse the track. This can also minimize the height of the track
edge 814 yet retain a thickness 830 of the track flanges 802, 804
generally sufficient to inhibit damage to the track 800 when weight
is placed on the track 800 or when a cart is operably coupled to
the track 800.
[0228] Referring to FIG. 129, each of the elongate track channel
walls 806, 808 generally comprises an outer track channel wall
surface 834 and an inner track channel wall surface 836. The inner
track channel wall surface 836 on first and second generally
opposed track channel walls 806, 808 generally partially define the
track channel 812. Each of the track channel walls 806, 808 also
generally terminate on a wall upper end 838 at the respective track
flanges 816 proximate the track lip 822 described above with
respect to the track flange portions 802, 804. The track channel
walls 806, 808 can be generally uniform in thickness, but can be
greater in thickness proximate the upper and lower ends of the
walls to provide additional strength and support to the track 800.
The thickness of the track channel walls 806, 808 is generally
sufficient to inhibit damage to the track 800 when weight is placed
on the track 800 or when a cart is operably coupled to the track
800.
[0229] Referring to FIG. 129, the elongate track base 810 generally
comprises an upper track base surface 842 and a generally opposed
track bottom surface 844. The track base 810 can also comprise a
pair of base edges 852 intermediate the track base 810 and
respective track channel walls 806, 808. The thickness of the track
base 810 is generally sufficient to inhibit damage to the track 800
when weight is placed on the track 800 or when a cart is operably
coupled to the track 800.
[0230] The track base 810 can further include a first track support
848 and a second track support 850 operably coupled to and
extending below the track base bottom surface 842. In other
embodiments, the track base 810 can include more than two supports.
Each of the track supports 848, 850 generally comprises a support
column 854 operably coupled to the track bottom surface 854 at a
first column end 853 and a support base 856 operably coupled to the
support column 854 at a second column end 855. Each of the support
bases 856 can comprise a first support flange 858 and a second
support flange 860. The track supports 848, 850 in this
configuration can be generally T-shaped, as depicted in FIGS. 128
and 129. The track supports 848, 850 can inhibit deformation of the
track 800 into the groove defined on a floor if a great and/or
non-uniform downward force is place on the track 800.
[0231] Referring to FIGS. 128 and 129, the in-ground track 800 can
generally be used in conjunction with a groove 866 defined on a
floor 862 below a floor surface 864. The groove 866 can generally
comprise a groove base 868 and first and second base walls 870, 872
extending upwardly from the groove base 868 to the floor surface
864. While the groove 866 is generally depicted as comprising a
rectangular cross-section, the groove 866 can comprise a
cross-section of other geometric configurations without departing
from the scope and sprit of the present invention, such as square,
triangle, or other polyhedron. In addition, while edges 874 defined
at the intersection of the groove base 868 and respective groove
walls 870, 872 is depicted as being generally angular, the edge 874
can be defined to be generally curvilinear.
[0232] The groove 866 can be formed into a newly-formed surface.
For example, in a concrete or cement floor, a mold or other
structure can be used to form the groove 866 into the floor 862.
Alternatively, the groove 866 can be cut out or otherwise formed
into an already-existing floor 862. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that a number of methods can be used to define the groove
866 in a floor 862. The floor 862 can be formed of concrete,
cement, wood, various polymers, various metals, or any other
materials known to those skilled in the relevant arts.
[0233] Once a floor 862 has a groove 866 defined therein, the track
800 can be placed into the groove 866. To do this, the base 810 and
track channel walls 806, 808 are placed such that they operably
rest in the groove 866. The track supports 848, 850 can operably
rest upon the groove base 868 of the groove 866 and inhibit any
further downward displacement of the track 800. Alternatively, as
generally depicted in FIG. 129, the lower flange surfaces 820 of
the track flanges 802, 804 can operably rest upon the floor surface
and inhibit any further downward displacement of the track 800. In
this embodiment, the track supports 848, 850 are operably retained
at a distance from the groove base 868. However, in the event that
anything could displace the track base 810 downwardly, the first
and second track supports 848, 850 can inhibit any excessive
deformation of the track 800.
[0234] The track 800 can be operably coupled to the floor 862 using
any type of fastener 876, such as screws as depicted in FIGS. 128
and 129. Alternatively, the track 800 can rest in the groove 866
with gravity or can be operably coupled to the groove 866 with an
adhesive, such as glue or epoxy.
[0235] The in-ground tack 800 can be constructed of extruded
aluminum. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the
track 800 can be constructed of other materials, such as extruded
polymers, without departing from the scope and spirit of the
present invention. In addition, some of the features described
above and included in the track 800 can be machined into the track
800 after initial formation.
[0236] Features of the above-ground track 114 depicted and
described above can also be included in the in-ground track 800. As
such, such depictions and descriptions with respect to the
above-ground track 114 are hereby incorporated by reference with
respect to the in-ground track 800.
[0237] The Modular Cart
[0238] Referring now to FIG. 47, a modular cart 212 in accordance
with the present invention will be described. It will be noted that
reference numerals in the 200's are generally used to denote the
features and components of the modular cart 212. As shown in the
embodiment depicted in FIG. 47, the modular cart 212 generally
comprises a base 216, a top 222, a front end 218, and a rear end
220 generally opposed the front end 218, wherein the cart base 216,
top 222, front end 218, and rear end 220 generally define a storage
structure. The modular cart 212 according to this embodiment is
designed to be selectively removable from the track 114 in the
storage facility for purposes of transporting equipment and
articles within the modular cart 212 to an off-site location. Once
the logistical purposes of equipping a field unit at a location
off-site and remote from the storage facility have been
accomplished, the modular cart 212 can be reloaded with the
equipment, gear and articles and returned to the storage facility
where it can then be selectively re-engaged with the track 114 as
part of the modular storage system 110.
[0239] As can be seen in FIG. 47, the ends 218, 220 and top 222 of
this embodiment of the cart 212 are substantially similar to those
as described in relation to the cart 112 according the first
embodiment as described above. The above discussion of the ends
118, 120 and top 122 for the retained cart 112 is hereby
incorporated with respect to the ends 218, 220 and 222 of the
modular cart 212 according to this embodiment.
[0240] The cart base 216 of the modular cart, as depicted in FIGS.
48-49, comprises a bottom 224, a front plate 226 and a rear plate
228 connected to the bottom 224 using fasteners 800, and a pair of
generally opposed sides 230a, 230b. The cart base 216 further
preferably comprises a plurality of cylindrical frame posts 268
disposed on the sides 230a, 230b. The frame posts 268 preferably
include a side slot 271 such that the sides 230a, 230b can be
connected to the frame posts 268 by sliding the sides 230a, 230b
into the slots 271. The cart base 216 also preferably comprises
beams 264 connected to the sides 230a, 230b and extending
substantially from the frame posts 268 proximate the front plate
226 to the frame posts 268 proximate the rear plate 228.
[0241] Referring to FIGS. 50b and 50c, the bottom 224 generally
includes a plurality of wheel mechanisms 272, each wheel mechanism
270 comprising a caster 275 and a wheel 274. As depicted in FIG.
50a, the casters 275 are connected to the bottom 224 using
fasteners 800. It is contemplated that the casters 275 be pivotable
or static. Wheel mechanisms 272 according to the various
embodiments of the present invention are preferably exemplified by
part number 16-XA-06201-S from Tricker Caster & Wheel Sales in
Fairbault, Minn. Again, any number of wheel mechanisms 272 greater
than two could be provided on the cart base 216. The casters 275
are preferably constructed of steel, although other materials such
as aluminum, alloys, graphite or composite materials could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Wheels 274 according to this embodiment are preferably constructed
of urethane, although other materials such as nylon or other
similar polymer materials could be used without departing from the
spirit and scope of this invention. In another embodiment of the
present invention, the wheel 274 could be an axled wheel or ball
wheel. The wheel mechanisms 227 are preferably 6'' to 9'' high,
optimally 7.5'' high, and the wheels 274 preferably have a diameter
of approximately 4'' to 8'', optimally 6.0'' and a width of
approximately 1.5'' to 3'', optimally 2.0''. The wheels 274 each
have a load rating of at least 500-100 pounds, optimally 850
pounds. As can be seen in FIG. 50a, the wheels 274 preferably
comprise a concave cross-section in which the diameter at the
center of the wheel is slightly larger than the diameter at the
edges of the width of the wheel.
[0242] The cart base 216 also preferably comprises a plurality of
track follower mechanisms 282. The track follower mechanisms 282
are substantially the same as the track follower mechanisms 182
described above. However, track follower mechanisms 282 further
comprise a locking mechanism 293 as depicted in FIGS. 51-54. The
locking mechanism 293 enables a user to lock the track follower 284
up in a retained position when the modular cart 212 is removed from
the track 114 in the storage facility. As depicted in FIGS. 51-54,
the locking mechanism 293 preferably comprises a lever arrangement
with a plunger clip 295 and a backer 297, the plunger clip 295 and
backer 297 preferably being L-shaped, the plunger clip 295 and
backer 297 being connected to the underside 238 using fasteners
800. The plunger clip 295 and backer 297 are preferably constructed
of steel, although other materials such as aluminum, alloys,
graphite or composite materials or various plastics could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
Although the locking mechanism 293 is described in terms of the
lever arrangement as described, it will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art that numerous other locking mechanisms could be
implemented to secure the track follower mechanism 282 in a
retained position, such as a pin and aperture arrangement, a
friction fit or wedge arrangement, a screw arrangement, a slot and
ledge arrangement or the like.
[0243] Although the track follower mechanism 282 and locking
mechanism 293 are preferably disposed on the front end 218 of the
modular cart 220, it will be recognized that alternate embodiments
are also contemplated by the present invention. For example, in an
alternate embodiment, the track 114 and corresponding track
follower mechanisms 282 could be positioned proximate the rear end
220 of the carts 212 with appropriate coupling and linkages could
be provided for mechanical triggering the track follower mechanism
282 and locking mechanism 293 from the front end 218 of the cart
212. In another embodiment, the track followers 282 could be
positioned at any position along the length of the cart 212, for
example, in the middle of the length of the cart 112 corresponding
to placement of the track 114, and electronic powered controls,
such as battery operated solenoids, could be used to remotely
operated the track follower mechanism 282 and locking mechanism
293.
[0244] Trusses, Hangers Stackers and Shelves
[0245] Referring now to FIGS. 69-73, the carts 112, 212 preferably
include a truss system 364 having a truss or rod 366 and a truss
hanger 376. The truss 366 comprises a truss hanger 376 and
preferably comprises a first truss member 370 and a second truss
member 372. The second truss member 372 can be shorter in length
than the first truss member 370. The truss 366 can be selectively
positioned on the wire-grille panel 300 using a plurality of truss
hangers 376. The truss hangers 376 have a body 378 and a plurality
of engagement members 380 disposed perpendicular to the body 378.
The distance between each of the engagement members 380 generally
corresponds to the spacing in the wire members on the wire-grille
panel 300. Once a user has selected a position for the truss hanger
376, the hanger 376 can be positioned on, and engaged with, the
wire-grille panel 300. A truss hanger 376 positioned on, and
engaged with, a wire-grille panel 300 can be seen in FIG. 69.
[0246] Once a pair of truss hangers 376a, 376b are engaged with
opposed front and end wire-grille panels 300a, 300b, the truss 366
can be placed onto the truss hangers 376. The body 378 of the truss
hanger 376 preferably comprises a first truss member slot 382 and a
second member slot 384, which the first truss member 370 and second
truss member 372 fit, respectively. Including a first truss member
370 and second truss member 372 provides many benefits. For
example, when helmet hangers 502 or pad hangers 504 populated with
equipment and hung on the truss 366, the populated hangers will
have a center of gravity that is below the second truss member.
When a cart 12 having these populated hangers is moved along the
track 14, the hangers are likely to swing back and forth in a
pendulum motion that is parallel to the movement of the cart. The
swinging hangers will make it more difficult to move the cart 12 as
the momentum of the cart will be constantly changing due to the
swinging hangers. By providing a first truss member 370 and second
truss member 372, the populated hanger will be inhibited from
excessive swinging as the combined height of the truss members 370,
372 gives more height and surface area for the hangers to contact
and thus more height and surface area to inhibit swinging of the
hangers. Alternatively, a single truss member could be used if the
height was sufficient to provide the same height and surface area.
The truss members 370, 372 are preferably constructed of tubular
steel, although other materials such as aluminum, graphite or
composite materials could be used without departing from the spirit
and scope of this invention. The hangers 376 are preferably
constructed of steel, although other materials such as aluminum,
graphite or composite materials or various plastics could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
[0247] The present invention includes a number of means for hanging
equipment, such as football helmets and football shoulder pads. It
will be noted that reference numerals in the 500's are generally
used to denote the features and components of hangers and stackers
adapted for use in the modular storage system 110 of the present
invention. A helmet hanger 502 can be seen in FIG. 74. The helmet
hanger 502 comprises a plurality of truss hooks 508 and a pair of
generally opposed helmet hanger members 509. The helmet hanger 502
further comprises a plurality of helmet hooks 510 disposed
vertically along the pair of generally opposed hanger members 509.
As depicted in FIG. 75, the helmet hanger 502 is hung on the truss
366 and the helmet hanger 502 can then be populated with helmets.
The helmet hanger 502 can be constructed of wire steel, although
other materials such as graphite or composite materials or various
plastics could be used without departing from the spirit and scope
of this invention.
[0248] Another means for hanging equipment includes a pad hanger
504. Long and short pad hangers 504a, 504b can be seen in FIGS.
76-77. The pad hangers 504a, 504b comprise a truss hook 512
connected to a pad hanger member 513. The pad hangers also comprise
a pad hook 514 generally opposed the truss hook 512. As depicted in
FIG. 78, the pad hanger 504 is hung on the truss 366 and the pad
hanger 504 can then be populated with pads. The pad hanger 504 can
be constructed of wire steel, although other materials such as
graphite or composite materials or various plastics could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
Alternative pad and helmet hangers 503 can be seen in FIGS.
79-80.
[0249] In one embodiment, the present invention preferably includes
means for stacking equipment within the storage space of the carts
112, 212. A pad stacker 506 can be seen in FIGS. 81-87. The pad
stacker 506 preferably comprises a stacker base 516, a stacking
tower 518, a pad support 520, and a support channel 522. The
stacker base 516 comprises a pair of generally opposed stacker
frames 524a, 524b connected to a stacker frame cross tube 526. The
stacker base 516 further comprises a pair of stacker handles 528a,
528b connected to the pair of generally opposed stacker frames 524.
The stacker base 516, stacking tower 518, and support channel 522
are preferably constructed of steel, although other materials such
as aluminum, alloys, graphite or composite materials or various
plastics could be used without departing from the spirit and scope
of this invention. The pad support 520 can be constructed of vacuum
formed ABS, 0.125'' thick, with a haircell finish, although other
materials could be used without departing from the spirit and scope
of this invention.
[0250] The stacking tower 518 comprises a short tube loop 530 and a
long tube loop 536, the tube loops 530, 536 connected at a bottom
end 532 to a tower channel 531. At least one of the tube loops 530,
536 comprises a plurality of pin apertures 534. The pad support 520
comprises a pad support base 538 and a pad support member 540. The
support channel 522 comprises a support plate 542 and a support
channel member 544 connected to the support plate 542. The pad
support 520 is then connected to the support plate 542 of the
support channel 522.
[0251] To assemble the pad stacker 506, the stacking tower channel
531 is connected to the stacker frame cross tube 526 using
fasteners 800. A pin is then inserted into one of the pin apertures
534 and the support channel 522 and pad support 520 are then placed
onto the stacking tower 518 and lowered down until it rests upon
the pin.
[0252] Once the pad stacker 506 has been assembled, the pad stacker
506 can be placed onto the cart base 116 or 216 of a cart. As can
be seen in FIG. 82, the pad stacker 506 is depicted in a cart 112.
The stacker frames 524 are supported by the sides 130a, 130b of the
cart base 116. A pad stacker 506 populated with pads can be seen in
FIG. 81. In an embodiment of the present invention, the pad stacker
506 comprises wheels. When the pad stackers 506 are fully populated
with pads, the pad stackers 506 will very likely be extremely
heavy. Those involved with athletics will appreciate that a pad
stacker 506 according to this embodiment can be moved along a
surface without the need of lifting the pad stacker 506 off of the
ground. When the pad stackers 506 have been populated and placed
into the cart 12, each of the carts 12 can preferably hold more
than eighty sets of shoulder pads.
[0253] As depicted in FIG. 3, the cart 112 according to an
embodiment of the present invention also includes a shelf system
386. A shelf 388 can be selectively positioned on the wire-grille
panel 300 using a plurality of shelf hangers 390. The shelf hangers
390 have a body 392 and a plurality of engagement members 394
disposed perpendicular to the body 392. The distance between each
of the engagement member 394 generally corresponds to the spacing
in the wire members on the wire-grille panel 300. Once a user has
selected a position for the shelf hanger 390, the shelf hanger 390
can be positioned on, and engaged with, the wire-grille panel 300.
Once a pair of shelf hangers 390 is engaged with opposed front and
end wire-grille panels 300, the shelf 388 can be placed onto the
shelf hangers 390. The shelf 388 can be constructed of sheet or
wire steel, although other materials such as aluminum or plastic
could be used without departing from the spirit and scope of this
invention.
[0254] Installation
[0255] When the track is installed in a room not near the wall, an
island stop 354 may be needed to create the bounds of the storage
facility. In this type of embodiment, the storage facility will be
generally defined by the track length 342 and the overall length of
the carts as they are moved along the track 114. When the track is
installed in an area not near a wall, track end caps 350 should be
used to inhibit damage to the exposed cross section of the track 14
and also to provide a more pleasing appearance.
[0256] Once the modular storage system 110 of the present invention
has been installed in a storage facility, the carts 112, 212 can be
placed into the storage facility. In an embodiment, a plurality of
carts 112, 212 will be used, the plurality of carts comprising both
retained carts 112 and modular carts 212. To place the retained
carts 112 into the storage site, they generally would have to be
lifted into the storage facility and positioned such that the track
followers 184 are directly above the channel 404 of the track 114.
Once the retained carts have been positioned, the track followers
184 should be enabled to engage with the channel 404 of the track
114. Once the track followers 184 engage with the channel 404 of
the track 114, the retained carts can then be manually moved within
the storage facility in a direction along the track 114.
[0257] To place modular carts 212 in the storage facility, the
modular carts 212 can be manually moved over the track 14. By
manually providing the modular cart 212 with enough momentum, the
wheels 274 will roll over the ramped surfaces 406 of the track. The
modular cart can then be placed so that the track followers 284 are
directly above the channel 404 of the track 114. Once the modular
carts 212 have been positioned, the track followers 284 should be
enabled to engage with the channel 404 of the track 114. To do
this, the plunger clip 295 and backer 297 should be pulled away
from the track follower 284 so that the track follower can move
freely. Once this is done, the track follower 284 will engage with
the channel 404 of the track 114. The modular carts 212 can then be
manually moved within the storage facility in a direction along the
track 114.
[0258] In an embodiment, there can be at least a portion of the
track 114 that does not include a cart 112, 212. By having such a
space, the carts 112, 212 can be moved along the track 114 and
different carts 112, 212 can then be accessed proximate the portion
not including a cart 112, 212.
[0259] In an embodiment of the present invention, comprising
modular carts 212 and retained carts 112, the modular carts 212
could contain uniforms and equipment in off-season use or uniforms
and equipment that is not need to be taken out of the storage
facility in the cart. This type of uniforms and equipment could be
retrieved by individuals or taken to the individuals. The retained
carts 112 could contain equipment that is needed out of the storage
site 11 and easier to transport in a cart 12. Such equipment could
include game uniforms and equipment. A modular cart 212 such as
this could be simply loaded onto a trailer or into a vehicle and
transported to a game site.
[0260] When the at least one track follower mechanism 282 on
modular carts 212 is selectively engaged with the track 114, these
carts 212 are operably retained by and movable only in a direction
generally parallel to the track 114 permitting the cart to be
selectively positioned within a storage position that is generally
side-by-side with an adjacent cart 112, 212 along the track. In
this position, the contents of the carts 112, 212 are accessible
position as the carts 112, 212 are generally spaced apart with
adjacent carts along the track.
[0261] As depicted in FIG. 88-89, when it is desired that the cart
212 remain in the storage facility, the rollers 292 of the track
followers 284 are engaged with the channel 404 of the track 114. In
this position, the cart 212 is movable in a direction along the
track 114. However, as can be seen in FIGS. 91-92, the modular cart
212 is removable from the track 114 and movable in a direction
generally perpendicular to the track 114 when the at least one
track follower 284 is selectively disengaged from the track 114.
FIG. 90 depicts a track follower 284 in an engaged position with
respect to the track 114. By using a foot, as depicted in FIG. 91,
the track follower 284 can be lifted so that the plunger clip 295
and backer 297 on the locking mechanism 293 retains the track
follower 284 in a retained position. As depicted in FIG. 92, once
the track follower 284 is in a retained position, the modular cart
212 is removable from the track 114 and movable in a direction
generally perpendicular to the track 114.
[0262] If those using modular carts 212 desire to inhibit the cart
212 from being removed from the storage facility, the plunger lock
bracket 602 can be used to keep the track follower 284 in an
engaged position. The plunger lock bracket 602 comprises a lock
slot 604 that can be placed onto the locking portion 316 of a
bracket 310 and a channel portion 606 that inhibits the track
follower 284 from being placed in a retained position. The plunger
lock bracket 602 can be seen in FIG. 93.
[0263] The storage facility for the modular storage system 110 of
the present invention can be located in any area of the room,
facility or even a storage area in vehicle such as a truck or
trailer. While it is preferred that the storage facility be located
near a wall and in the corner of a room, it is contemplated that
the storage facility be located in the center of a room. In this
type of arrangement, there will likely be a need to place an island
stop 608, as depicted in FIGS. 94-95, within the room. The island
stop 608 comprises an island stop frame 610 and an island stop base
612 located on ends 614a, 614b of the island stop frame 610. The
island stop base 612 comprises a substantially flat island stop
plate 620 and an island stop bracket 618 connected to the island
stop plate 620. The island stop bracket 618 preferably comprises an
island stop glide 616 to inhibit damage to the underside of the
cart base 116. When the modular storage system 110 is used with an
island stop 608, the island stop 608 is placed near the termination
of a track 114. When a cart 112 is moved along the track 114
towards the island stop 608, the island stop 608 inhibits the cart
112 from running out of track 114. This type of arrangement enables
a user to place the modular storage system 110 in any location
within a room or storage area.
[0264] The cart base 116/216, cart top 122/222, front end 118/118,
and rear end 120/220 of the retained cart 112 and the modular cart
212 according to the various embodiments of the present invention
provides the carts 112, 212 with a defined structural integrity
that is sufficient to permit the manual movement of the carts 12 in
the direction that is generally parallel to the track 14 by a
manual force greater than the coefficient of a rolling friction of
the wheels 172/272 times the maximum gross weight exerted on one of
the ends 18, 20 of the cart 12 and inhibit binding along the length
of the cart 12.
[0265] Instructional and AV Accessories
[0266] As depicted in FIG. 1, a modular cart 212 according to an
embodiment of the present invention can be provided with a drawing
panel or white board 622. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the
white board 622 is mounted on a front end 218 of the modular cart
212, although it will be understood that white board 622 could be
mounted on either a side or end of the modular cart 212 or even the
front end of a retained cart 112.
[0267] As depicted in FIGS. 99-101, a cart 212 according to an
embodiment of the present invention comprises a video system 624.
The video system 624 preferably includes a camera 626 and monitor
628 operably connected to a processor 630. The video system 624 is
connected a power source 632 such as a battery or may be plugged
into an electricity outlet.
[0268] Storage Shelf Accessories
[0269] Referring to FIGS. 102 and 107, the retained and modular
carts as described above can include one or more storage shelves
700 to enable a user to further organize the contents that are
stored and transported within the storage structure that is defined
in the retained and modular carts. Referring to FIG. 102, the
storage shelf can be positioned in a retained cart 212 (as
depicted) or in a modular cart. As will be described in greater
detail below, the storage shelf 700 is placed onto a plurality of
shelf hangers 718 that are operably coupled to wire-grille panels
300 included on the end panels 218 of the retained cart 212. The
end panels 218, 220 and wire-grille panels 300 are depicted and
described in greater detail above.
[0270] Referring to FIG. 103, the storage shelf 700 generally
includes a shelf portion 702 that can be constructed of sheet or
wire steel and one or more shelf channels 704 that are operably
coupled to an underside of the shelf portion 702. Those skilled in
the art will recognize that the shelf portion can be constructed of
other materials, including but not limited to various metals,
plastics, and fibrous materials.
[0271] Referring to FIG. 103, when the shelf portion 702 is
constructed of wire steel, the shelf portion 702 can comprise a
plurality of generally parallel elongate primary wire members 706
operably coupled to generally parallel elongate secondary wire
members 708 that can be generally perpendicular to the primary wire
members 706. A wire frame member 710 can frame the primary and
secondary wire members 706, 708 and can include rounded portions
709 and any corners thereof. The wire members 706, 708 can be
circular in cross-section, as depicted generally in the figures.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that the wire members 706,
708 and wire frame member 710 can comprise differently shaped cross
sections.
[0272] The network of primary and secondary wire members 706, 708
can be welded or otherwise coupled at some or all of the
intersections of the primary and secondary wire members 706, 708.
In addition, the primary and secondary wire members 706, 708 can be
welded or otherwise coupled at their ends to the wire frame member
710. The network of wire members 706, 708 and the wire frame 710
can provide strength and stability to the storage shelf 700 and can
also enable air movement through the air spaces defined between the
wire members. The shelf 700 can be constructed of other materials
known to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit
and scope of this invention, such as aluminum or various plastics.
In addition, the wire members 706, 708 and the wire frame 710 can
be painted or coated with variously colored paint or polymer
coatings to inhibit corrosion of the shelf portion 702, provide an
appealing aesthetic appearance, and inhibit damage to contents
placed upon the shelf 700.
[0273] Each of the shelf channels 704 that are operably coupled to
the shelf portion 702, such as on an underside of the shelf portion
702, can comprise an elongated channel member 712 and a pair of
shelf channel pins 714 disposed at the ends of the channel member
712.
[0274] Referring to FIG. 105, the elongated channel member 712 can
comprise a C-shaped cross section. Those skilled in the art would
recognize that other channel member shapes and configurations can
be used, such as a hollow or solid cylindrical or other various
shaped configurations. The shelf channel member can comprise first
and second elongate generally opposed wall portions and an elongate
base portion. In this embodiment, the shelf channel comprises a
generally C-shaped cross section. The shelf channel can be welded
or otherwise coupled to the wire members 706, 708 and/or the wire
frame 710 and can provide strength and stability to the storage
shelf 700. The channel member 712 can be constructed of steel,
although those skilled in the art would recognize that other
materials, such as aluminum or various plastics, could be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
[0275] The shelf channel pins 714 can be circular in cross-section,
as depicted generally in the figures. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that the shelf channel pins 714 can comprise differently
shaped cross sections. The shelf channel pins 714 can be welded or
otherwise coupled to the shelf channel base 713 proximate the ends
of the shelf channels 704. Referring to FIGS. 105-106, the shelf
channel pins 714 can operably couple a portion of a shelf hanger
718 to retain the shelf 700 in its position within the storage
space of a retained or cart 112, 212. The shelf hangers 718 are
described in greater detail herein.
[0276] Referring to FIG. 102, the shelves 700 can extend
substantially along the length of the cart 212 between the front
and rear end panels 218, 220. Alternatively, the shelves can extend
only partially along the length of the cart 212. For example, as
depicted in FIG. 107, a grill divider 716 is included on the cart.
The grill divider 716 can include substantially the same structure
as the wire-grille panels 300, which are depicted and described in
greater detail above. In this embodiment, the shelves 700 extend
between the rear end panel 220 of the cart 212 and the cart divider
716. The cart 212 can include any number of full or partial
shelves. The cart can comprise single-spaced shelves or
side-by-side shelves (depicted in FIGS. 102 and 107).
[0277] Referring to FIGS. 104-106, the shelf hangers 718 can be
operably coupled to the wire-grille panels 300 included on the end
panels 218, 220 of the cart 212 and provide a top portion for the
shelves 700 to rest upon to retain the shelves 700 in their
position within the storage structure. As previously described
herein with respect to the storage shelf and also as previously
described herein with respect to truss hangers 376 for the truss
system (FIGS. 71a and 71b), the shelf hangers 718 generally
comprise a body 720 and a plurality of engagement members 722
disposed generally perpendicular to the body 720 on a pair of
generally parallel extensions 724 extending from the shelf hanger
body 720.
[0278] The engagement members 722 are generally hook-shaped and the
distance between each of the engagement members 722 generally
corresponds to the spacing in the wire members on the wire-grille
panel 300. The hanger body 720 can also include one or more cutouts
726 defined thereon in which, for example, the channel member 712
can operably couple when the shelves 700 are placed onto the shelf
hanger 718. In addition, the shelf hanger can include a hanger tab
725 on a lower end thereof that can couple with a portion of the
wire-grille panel 300 to securely retain the shelf hanger 718 with
respect to the wire-grille panel 300.
[0279] Referring again to FIGS. 104-106, once a user has selected a
position for the shelf hanger 718, the shelf hanger 718 can be
positioned on and engaged with the wire-grille panel 300. Once a
pair of shelf hangers 718 are engaged with opposed front and end
wire-grille panels 218, 220, the shelf 700 can be placed onto the
shelf hangers 718 such that the shelf channel pins 714 operably
couple the body 720 of the shelf hangers 718. In this position, the
channel member 712 can be positioned in the cutout 726 included on
the body 720 of the shelf hanger 718. The pin 714 can inhibit
side-to-side movement of the shelf 700 by operably engaging the
extensions 724 of the hanger. In addition, the channel member 712
can inhibit side-to-side movement of the shelf 700 by operably
engaging the cutout 726 in the shelf hanger body 720.
[0280] There can be an aperture 727 formed on the body 720 of the
shelf hanger 718 through which a nylon tie (not depicted) can be
inserted. The nylon tie can then be inserted through a portion of
the wire-grille panel 300 and tied off, such that the nylon tie can
retain the shelf hanger 718 with respect to the wire-grille panel
300.
[0281] The shelves 700 can be various widths, for example, 24
inches and 32 inches, and can be vertically adjustable in various
increments, for example, one-inch increments. The shelves 700 can
also include a shelf liner, such as a plastic, metal, or paper
liner, that can be placed on the shelf 700 and enable a user to
more easily slide items in and out of the carts. The shelves 700
can enable adjustable storage space a variety of contents,
including water jugs, duffel bags, ball bags, storage bins,
helmets, and various uniforms.
[0282] Referring to FIGS. 108-127, the retained and modular carts
112, 212 and storage shelf 700 can also comprise various shelf
accessories to enable a user to organize additional contents,
equipment, and uniforms within the storage structure. Such
accessories can include grill dividers, adjustable storage space
dividers, shelf lips, panel dividers, and cargo nets. The retained
and modular carts can also include an equipment holder, for
example, a bat/racquet holder, that can be used to hang bats,
racquets, and other equipment thereon.
[0283] Referring to FIG. 108, an adjustable shelf divider 728 can
be positioned on and operably coupled to a shelf 700. In this
position, the adjustable shelf divider 728 can be used to divide
space along the length of the cart 112 on the shelf 700. Such
division can enable various contents to be organized and stored in
separate storage space portions or "cubbies" on the shelf 700.
While the shelf 700 is depicted as including one adjustable shelf
divider 728 creating two separate storage space portions, those
skilled in the art will recognize that two or more adjustable shelf
dividers 728 can be placed on the shelf 700 or in other locations
in the cart 112 to create three or more separate storage space
portions on the shelf 700 or in other locations in the cart
112.
[0284] Referring to FIG. 109, an adjustable shelf divider 728 can
comprise a lower panel 730 and an upper panel 732 operably
coupleable with the lower panel 728. The lower panel 730 can
comprise a divider portion 738 comprising a plurality of tab slots
740 and a knob 742. The lower panel 730 can also comprise a base
flange 734 operably coupled to or integrally formed with the
divider portion 738 of the lower panel 730. The base flange 734 can
be generally perpendicular to the divider portion 738 and can
comprise a plurality of apertures 736 thereon.
[0285] The upper panel 732 can comprise a plurality of knob slots
744 between a top edge 743 and a bottom edge 745 thereof and one or
more tabs 746 defined on the bottom edge 745. The upper and lower
panels 73, 732 of the shelf divider 728 can be constructed of sheet
steel, although those of skill in the art will recognize that other
materials can be used.
[0286] Referring to FIGS. 109-111, to assembly and install the
shelf divider 728, the shelf divider 728 is selectively placed at a
desired location on a shelf 700. The shelf divider 728 can then be
coupled to the shelf 700 using a fastener assembly 748, such a bolt
750 and a wing nut 752, by coupling the base flange 734 of the
lower panel 730 to one or more of shelf channels 704 such that the
shelf portion 702 is intermediate the base flange 734 and shelf
channel 704. Referring to FIG. 111, once the divider 728 is
operably installed on the shelf 700, the height of the divider 728
can be adjusted. First, the knob 742 can be twisted to unlock the
top panel 732. Next, the top panel 732 can be lowered and the top
panel 732 can be removed. The tabs 746 on the top panel 732 can
then be inserted into the selected slots 740 on the lower panel 730
at a desired height. The top panel 732 can then be raised and the
knob 742 can be twisted such that the top panel 732 is locked into
place.
[0287] The shelf divider 728 can enable a user to divide the
storage space on, above, or below a storage shelf 700 into smaller
organized storage spaces. This can enable the available storage
space on one shelf 700 to be used for storing distinct items in
separate areas, such as clothing or equipment for different
sports.
[0288] Referring to FIG. 112, a shelf lip 754 can be placed on a
shelf to enable items to be placed on the shelves 700 without
rolling or sliding off of the shelf 700. Referring to FIG. 113, a
shelf lip 754 comprises an L-shaped elongated portion having two
generally perpendicular sections, an upper portion 756 and a lower
portion 758. As depicted, the two sections 756, 758 comprise a
relatively short upper section 756 and a relatively long lower
section 758. In another embodiment, the two sections 756, 758 can
be generally equal in length. In another embodiment, the two
sections 756, 758 comprise a relatively short lower section 758 and
a relatively long upper section 758. Referring to FIG. 113, the
upper and lower portions 756, 758 can include shelf lip overlaps
755, 759, respectively that can provide the shelf lip 754 with
further stability and support.
[0289] The shelf lip 754 can be constructed of sheet steel,
although those of skill in the art will recognize that other
materials, such as aluminum and various plastics, can be used
without departing from the scope and spirit of the present
invention. The sections 756, 758 can include a plurality of
apertures 760 defined therein such that a number of fasteners 748,
such as a bolt 750 and wing nut 752, can be used to attach the lip
754 to the shelf 700.
[0290] Referring to FIGS. 114-115, to assembly and install the
shelf lip 754, the shelf lip 754 is selectively placed at a desired
location on a shelf 700. Referring to FIG. 115, the shelf lip 754
can then be coupled to the shelf 700 using a fasteners 748, such as
a bolt 750 and wing nut 752, by coupling the lower portion 758 to
one or more of shelf channels 700 such that the shelf portion 702
is intermediate the lower portion 758 of the shelf lip 754 and
shelf channel 704.
[0291] The shelf lip 754 can enable items to be placed on the
shelves 700 without rolling or sliding off of the shelf 700. For
example, balls can be placed on the shelf 700 and retained on the
shelf 700 by the shelf lip 754. When the retained or carts 112, 212
are moved along a track 114 in a storage site 111 or moved to in
any direction off of a track, the balls can be inhibited from
rolling off of the shelf 700 by the shelf lip 754. Various other
equipment and clothing, such as jerseys or uniforms, can be placed
on a shelf 700 having a shelf lip 754 and can be inhibited from
falling off of the shelf 700 by the shelf lip 754.
[0292] The shelf lip 754 can extend substantially along the length
of retained or cart 112, 212 or can extend partially along the
length of the retained or carts 112, 212. For example, on the
full-length shelf 700 as depicted in FIG. 112, the shelf lip 754
extends substantially between the end panels 118, 120 of a cart. In
FIG. 116, on the partial-length shelf 700, wherein a grill divider
716 is included on the cart 112, the shelf lip 754 extends between
the front end 118 of the cart 112 and the cart divider 116. The
cart 112 can include any number of full or partial shelves 700,
each of these can optionally include a shelf lip 754.
[0293] Referring to FIG. 117, the cart 112 can also include a
storage space divider panel 762 to enable a user to divide the
storage space into smaller organized storage spaces along the width
of the cart. Such division can enable various contents to be
organized and stored in separate storage space portions or
"cubbies" within the cart 212. While the cart 212 is depicted as
including one storage space divider panel 762 creating two separate
storage space portions, those skilled in the art will recognize
that two or more storage space divider panels 762 can be placed in
the cart 212 to create three or more separate storage space
portions in the cart 112.
[0294] Referring to FIG. 118, the storage space divider panel 762
generally includes a panel 763 and a plurality of eyelets 764 for
connection with the end panels 118, 120. The divider panel 762 can
be coupled to the end panels 118, 120 using nylon or wire ties 765.
The divider panel 762 can be constructed of a flexible polymer
sheet, although those of skill in the art will recognize that other
flexible or rigid materials can be used. The divider panel 762 can
be positioned at a desired position within the storage structure
and the nylon ties 765 can then be used to tie the divider panel
762 to the wire-grille panels 300 included on the end panels 118,
120.
[0295] The divider panel 762 can enable a user to divide the
storage space into smaller organized storage spaces. This can
enable a first space to be used for storing distinct items from a
second space, such as clothing or equipment for the same or
different sports. By being flexible, the divider panel 762 can
enable a storage space to flex as needed with the contents of in
the storage spaces. In addition, the divider can act as a visual
barrier from one side of a cart to the other.
[0296] Referring to FIG. 121, the cart 112 can also include a net,
such as a cargo net 766 to enable items to be placed on the shelves
without rolling or sliding off of the shelf. Referring to FIG. 122,
the cargo net 766 can comprise a border 770 and netting 768 defined
therein. The cargo net 766 can be connected to the wire shelving
700 or the end panels 118, 120 using s-hooks 774 that are operably
coupled to loops 772 that are included on the border 770 or the
netting 768 or border 770 at selected positions.
[0297] The netting 768 can be constructed of synthetic fiber,
although those of skill in the art will recognize that other
materials, such as natural fibers, can be used. The netting 768 and
border 770 include some elasticity such that the cargo net 766 can
flex as items are placed in or move within the storage space on the
shelf 700. The elasticity also can enable items generally larger
than the width of the shelf 700 to be placed on and retained within
the storage space on the shelf 700. Referring to FIG. 123, the
s-hooks 774 on the cargo net 766 can be operably coupled to the
wire-grille panels 300 to operably retain the cargo net 766 with
respect to the shelf 700.
[0298] The cargo net can enable items to be placed on the shelves
without rolling or sliding off of the shelf. For example, balls can
be placed on the shelf and retained on the shelf by the cargo net.
When the cart is moved along a track in a storage site or moved to
in any direction off of a track, the balls will be inhibited from
rolling off of the shelf by the cargo net. Various other equipment
and clothing, such as jerseys or uniforms, can be placed on a shelf
having a cargo net and inhibited from falling off of the shelf by
the cargo net.
[0299] The cargo net 766 can extend substantially along the length
of the cart 112 or can extend partially along the length of the
cart 112. For example, on the full-length shelf 700 as depicted in
FIG. 121, the cargo net 766 extends substantially between the end
panels 118, 120 of a cart 112. In FIG. 124, on the partial-length
shelf 700, wherein a grill divider 716 is included on the cart 112,
the cargo net 766 extends between the front end 118 of the cart 112
and the cart divider 716. The cart 112 can include any number of
full or partial shelves 700, each of these can optionally include a
cargo net 766.
[0300] Referring to FIGS. 125 and 126, an equipment holder 776 or
bat/racquet holder generally includes an elongated portion 778 and
a plurality of extensions 780 extending from a front side of the
elongated portion 778 and coupled at a bend 779 therebetween. There
are a number of bat or racquet handle recesses 782 that are defined
between the extensions 780 that are selectively sized to hang bats
or racquets within. An upturned lip portion 784 located on the end
of the extensions 780 can inhibit any bats and/or racquets from
sliding off of the holder 776 once positioned within the recesses
782 formed on the bat/racquet holder 776. The bat/racquet holder
776 can be constructed of formed sheet steel, although those of
skill in the art will recognize that other materials can be
used.
[0301] The equipment holders 776 or bat/racquet holders are
generally retained in position by one or more bat/racquet holder
hooks 786 that are integrally formed with or operably coupled to a
rear portion of the elongated portion 778. The bat/racquet holder
hooks 786 each have a body 788 and a plurality of engagement
members 792 disposed on an extension 790 extending generally
perpendicularly from the body 788.
[0302] The distance between each of the engagement members 792
generally corresponds to the spacing in the wire members on the
wire-grille panel 300. Once a user has selected a position for the
bat/racquet holder 776, the bat/racquet holder hooks 774 can be
positioned on, and engaged with, the wire-grille panel 300, as
depicted in FIG. 127. The engagement members 792 can create a
"hook" 793 at a bend thereof that can rest upon the wire members on
the wire-grille panel 300. The bat/racquet holders 776 can further
be retained in position on the wire-grille panel 300 using a nylon
tie (not depicted). There can be an aperture 794 formed on the body
788 of the bat/racquet holder hooks 786 through which the nylon tie
can be inserted. The nylon tie can then be inserted through a
portion of the wire-grille panel 300 and tied off, such that the
nylon tie retains the bat/racquet holder 776 with respect to the
wire-grille panel 300. In addition, the bat/racquet holder 776 can
include a hanger tab 795 on a lower end thereof that can couple
with a portion of the wire-grille panel 300 to securely retain the
bat/racquet holder 776 with respect to the wire-grille panel
300.
[0303] The bat/racquet holders 776 can be used for various types of
equipment. In athletics, such equipment can include baseball or
softball bats, tennis or racquetball racquets, gloves, or many
other types of sports equipment that those skilled in the art would
recognize. In military organizations, such equipment can include
weapons, helmets, scopes, or many other types of military equipment
that those skilled in the art would recognize. In marching or
concert bands, such equipment could include instruments, uniforms,
or other equipment that those skilled in the art would
recognize.
[0304] The embodiments described herein are intended to be
illustrative and not limiting. Additional embodiments are described
within the claims. Although the present invention has been
described with reference to particular embodiments, those skilled
in the art will recognize that changes may be made to the
embodiments in form and detail without departing from the spirit
and the scope of the invention.
* * * * *