U.S. patent application number 12/062954 was filed with the patent office on 2009-10-08 for collapsible storage container incorporating latch mechanism.
Invention is credited to Edmund W. Brown.
Application Number | 20090250459 12/062954 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41132310 |
Filed Date | 2009-10-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090250459 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brown; Edmund W. |
October 8, 2009 |
Collapsible Storage Container Incorporating Latch Mechanism
Abstract
A collapsible storage container is provided that incorporates a
latch mechanism for maintaining the storage container in a
non-collapsed configuration during use. The storage container
includes a generally flat base having at least first and second
support posts extending from corresponding corners of the base. A
removable panel is receivable between the first and second support
posts and a first pin element projects laterally from a first side
of the panel. A plate is positioned adjacent the first support post
and includes a recess therein for receiving the first pin element
therethrough. The recess is partially defined by an upper edge at a
predetermined angle to the axis of the first support post for
limiting vertical movement of the first pin element received in the
recess.
Inventors: |
Brown; Edmund W.; (Racine,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BOYLE FREDRICKSON S.C.
840 North Plankinton Avenue
MILWAUKEE
WI
53203
US
|
Family ID: |
41132310 |
Appl. No.: |
12/062954 |
Filed: |
April 4, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/4.33 ;
220/666 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2519/00995
20130101; B65D 2519/00059 20130101; B65D 2519/00925 20130101; B65D
2519/00338 20130101; B65D 2519/00164 20130101; B65D 2519/00562
20130101; B65D 2519/00522 20130101; B65D 2519/00024 20130101; B65D
2519/00268 20130101; B65D 2519/00502 20130101; B65D 2519/00597
20130101; B65D 2519/00233 20130101; B65D 2519/0097 20130101; B65D
2519/00661 20130101; B65D 2519/00696 20130101; B65D 19/12
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/4.33 ;
220/666 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/26 20060101
B65D006/26; B65D 6/16 20060101 B65D006/16 |
Claims
1. A collapsible storage container, comprising: a generally flat
base having at least first and second corners; a first pair of
support posts extending from the base, each support post of the
first pair of support posts extending along a corresponding axis
from a corresponding corner of the base and having an upper end and
a lower end; a removable panel receivable between the first pair of
support posts, the panel including a first side positionable
adjacent a first support post of the first pair of support posts
and a second side positionable adjacent a second support post of
the first pair of support posts; a first pin element projecting
laterally from the first side of the panel; and a plate
interconnected to the first support post of the first pair of
support posts and including an edge having a recess for supporting
the first pin element, the recess being defined by: a first portion
extending along an axis and having a first end communicating with
the edge of the plate and a second end; a second portion extending
along an axis parallel to and laterally spaced from the axis of the
first portion of the recess, the second portion of the recess
having first and second ends; and a third portion extending along
an axis at a predetermined angle to the axes of the first and
second portions of the recess and interconnecting the second end of
the first portion of the recess with the first end of the second
portion of the recess.
2. The container of claim 1 wherein the edge of the plate is
transverse to the axis of the first support post.
3. The container of claim 1 wherein the predetermined angle is
generally equal to 90 degrees.
4. The container of claim 1 wherein the first pin element has a
diameter and wherein the third portion of the recess has a height,
the height of the third portion of the recess being greater than
the diameter of the first pin element.
5. The container of claim 1 wherein the third portion of the recess
is defined by an upper edge and a lower edge, the upper edge
limiting vertical movement of the first pin element extending
through second portion of the recess.
6. The container of claim 5 wherein the lower edge defining the
third portion of the recess is arcuate for guiding the first pin
element from the first portion of the recess to the second portion
of the recess.
7. The container of claim 1 wherein first pin element terminates at
an enlarged head and wherein the panel includes inner and outer
surfaces, the inner surface of the panel and the first support post
define a pocket for receiving the enlarged head of the first pin
element therein.
8. A collapsible storage container, comprising: a generally flat
base having at least first and second corners; first and second
support posts extending from the base, each support post extending
along an axis from a corresponding corner of the base and having an
upper end; a removable panel receivable between the first and
second support posts, the panel including a first side positionable
adjacent the first support post and a second side positionable
adjacent a second support post; a first pin element projecting
laterally from the first side of the panel, the first pin element
terminating at an enlarged head; and a plate positioned adjacent
the first support post so as to define a pocket therebetween for
receiving the enlarged head of the first pin element, the plate
including an edge having a recess for receiving the first pin
element therein, the recess being defined by first and second
portions laterally spaced from and communicating with each
other.
9. The container of claim 8 wherein the first portion of the recess
extends along an axis and has a first end communicating with the
edge of the plate and a second end.
10. The container of claim 9 wherein the second portion of the
recess extends along an axis parallel to and laterally spaced from
the axis of the first portion of the recess, the second portion of
the recess having first and second ends.
11. The container of claim 10 wherein the recess in the plate
includes a third portion extending along an axis at a predetermined
angle to the axes of the first and second portions of the recess
and interconnecting the second end of the first portion of the
recess with the first end of the second portion of the recess.
12. The container of claim 11 wherein the predetermined angle is
generally equal to 90 degrees.
13. The container of claim 11 wherein the first pin element has a
diameter and wherein the third portion of the recess has a height,
the height of the third portion of the recess being greater than
the diameter of the first pin element.
14. The container of claim 11 wherein the third portion of the
recess is defined by an upper edge and a lower edge, the upper edge
limiting vertical movement of the first pin element extending
through second portion of the recess.
15. The container of claim 14 wherein the lower edge defining the
third portion of the recess is arcuate for guiding the first pin
element from the first portion of the recess to the second portion
of the recess.
16. The container of claim 8 wherein the edge of the plate is
transverse to the axis of the first support post.
17. A collapsible storage container, comprising: a generally flat
base having at least first and second corners; first and second
support posts extending from the base, each support post extending
along an axis from a corresponding corner of the base and having an
upper end; a removable panel receivable between the first and
second support posts, the panel including a first side positionable
adjacent the first support post and a second side positionable
adjacent a second support post; a first pin element projecting
laterally from the first side of the panel; and a plate positioned
adjacent the first support post and including a recess therein for
receiving the first pin element therethrough, the recess being
partially defined by an upper edge at a predetermined angle to the
axis of the first support post for limiting vertical movement of
the first pin element received in the recess.
18. The container of claim 17 wherein the predetermined angle is
generally equal to 90 degrees.
19. The container of claim 17 wherein the recess in the plate
includes: a first portion extending along an axis and having a
first end communicating with an edge of the plate and a second end;
a second portion extending along an axis parallel to and laterally
spaced from the axis of the first portion of the recess, the second
portion of the recess having first and second ends; and a third
portion extending along an axis a predetermined angle to the axes
of the first and second portions of the recess and interconnecting
the second end of the first portion of the recess with the first
end of the second portion of the recess.
20. The container of claim 19 wherein the third portion of the
recess is defined a lower edge, the lower edge guiding the first
pin element from the first portion of the recess to the second
portion of the recess.
21. The container of claim 19 wherein the edge of the plate is
transverse to the axis of the first support post.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to collapsible storage
containers, and in particular, to a collapsible storage container
incorporating a latch mechanism that maintains the storage
container in a non-collapsed configuration during use.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In factories, large storage containers are often used to
store bulk products. By way of example, bulk products may be placed
in the storage container after fabrication. Thereafter, these bulk
products are transported to various workstations throughout the
factory where such products are needed for further processing.
Typically, these storage containers are transported by means of
forklift trucks that carry the storage containers containing the
bulk products between various locales in the factory. Consequently
it can be appreciated that such storage containers must be of
sufficient strength and durability to stand repeated handling by
the forklifts.
[0003] In order for these storage containers to withstand repeated
transport by forklift trucks, the storage containers much be
constructed from a durable material such as steel or the like. In
addition, these storage containers must have sufficient capacities
to hold a substantial quantity of bulk products. Given the large
footprints of these storage containers, it has become increasingly
popular to provide storage containers with collapsible panels,
thereby minimizing the necessary storage space of the containers
when not in use. An example of a prior collapsible storage
container is fully described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,691,885 assigned to
the assignee of the present application and incorporated herein by
reference.
[0004] While functional for their intended purpose, these prior
collapsible storage containers have certain problems associated
with their use. For example, when jostled during transport, the
panels of the storage container may become disengaged thereby
allowing storage container to inadvertently collapse. Consequently,
it is highly desirable to provide a collapsible storage container
incorporates latch mechanisms that prevent the panels of the
storage container from becoming disengaged during transport and/or
use of the storage container.
[0005] Therefore, it is a primary object and feature of the present
invention to provide a collapsible storage container incorporating
a latch mechanism that maintains the storage container in a
non-collapsed configuration during use.
[0006] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide a collapsible storage container incorporating a latch
mechanism that maintains the configuration of a collapsible storage
container in response to the repeated transport of the storage
container by forklift truck.
[0007] It is a still further object and feature of the present
invention to provide a collapsible storage container incorporating
a latch mechanism that is simple to use and inexpensive to
manufacture.
[0008] In accordance with the present invention, a collapsible
storage container is provided. The container includes a generally
flat base having at least first and second corners. A first pair of
support posts extends from the base. Each support post of the first
pair of support posts extends along a corresponding axis from a
corresponding corner of the base. Each support post has an upper
end and a lower end. A removable panel is receivable between the
first pair of support posts. The panel includes a first side
positionable adjacent a first support post of the first pair of
support posts and a second side positionable adjacent a second
support post of the first pair of support posts. A first pin
element projects laterally from the first side of the panel. A
plate is interconnected to the first support post of the first pair
of support posts and includes an edge having a recess therein for
supporting the first pin element. The recess is defined by first,
second and third portions. The first portion extends along an axis;
has a first end communicating with the edge of the plate; and a
second end. The second portion extends along an axis parallel to
and laterally spaced from the axis of the first portion of the
recess. The second portion of the recess has first and second ends.
The third portion extends along an axis at a predetermined angle to
the axes of the first and second portions of the recess. The third
portion of the recess interconnects the second end of the first
portion of the recess with the first end of the second portion of
the recess.
[0009] The edge of the plate is transverse to the axis of the first
support post and the predetermined angle is generally equal to 90
degrees. In addition, the first pin element has a diameter and the
third portion of the recess has a height. The height of the third
portion of the recess is greater than the diameter of the first pin
element. The third portion of the recess is defined by an upper
edge and a lower edge. The upper edge limits the vertical movement
of the first pin element extending through second portion of the
recess. The lower edge defining the third portion of the recess is
arcuate for guiding the first pin element from the first portion of
the recess to the second portion of the recess. The first pin
element terminates at an enlarged head and the panel includes inner
and outer surfaces. The inner surface of the panel and the first
support post define a pocket for receiving the enlarged head of the
first pin element therein.
[0010] In accordance with a further aspect of the present
invention, a collapsible storage container is provided. The
container includes a generally flat base having at least first and
second corners. First and second support posts extend from the
base. Each support post extends along an axis from a corresponding
corner of the base and has an upper end. A removable panel is
receivable between the first and second support posts. The panel
includes a first side positionable adjacent the first support post
and a second side positionable adjacent a second support post. A
first pin element projects laterally from the first side of the
panel. The first pin element terminates at an enlarged head. A
plate is positioned adjacent the first support post so as to define
a pocket therebetween for receiving the enlarged head of the first
pin element. The plate includes an edge having a recess for
receiving the first pin element therein. The recess is defined by
first and second portions laterally spaced from and communicating
with each other.
[0011] The first portion of the recess extends along an axis and
has a first end communicating with the edge of the plate and a
second end. The second portion of the recess extends along an axis
parallel to and laterally spaced from the axis of the first portion
of the recess. The second portion of the recess has first and
second ends. The recess in the plate includes a third portion
extending along an axis at a predetermined angle to the axes of the
first and second portions of the recess. The third portion of the
recess interconnects the second end of the first portion of the
recess with the first end of the second portion of the recess.
[0012] The predetermined angle is generally equal to 90 degrees;
the first pin element has a diameter; and the third portion of the
recess has a height. The height of the third portion of the recess
is greater than the diameter of the first pin element. The third
portion of the recess is defined by an upper edge and a lower edge.
The upper edge limits vertical movement of the first pin element
extending through second portion of the recess. The lower edge is
arcuate for guiding the first pin element from the first portion of
the recess to the second portion of the recess. The edge of the
plate is transverse to the axis of the first support post.
[0013] In accordance with a still further aspect of the present
invention, a collapsible storage container is provided. The
container includes a generally flat base having at least first and
second corners. First and second support posts extend from the
base. Each support post extends along an axis from a corresponding
corner of the base and has an upper end. A removable panel is
receivable between the first and second support posts. The panel
includes a first side positionable adjacent the first support post
and a second side positionable adjacent a second support post. A
first pin element projects laterally from the first side of the
panel. A plate is positioned adjacent the first support post and
includes a recess therein for receiving the first pin element
therethrough. The recess is partially defined by an upper edge at a
predetermined angle to the axis of the first support post for
limiting vertical movement of the first pin element received in the
recess.
[0014] The predetermined angle is generally equal to 90 degrees and
the recess in the plate includes first, second and third portions.
The first portion extends along an axis and has a first end
communicating with the edge of the plate. The second portion
extends along an axis parallel to and laterally spaced from the
axis of the first portion of the recess. The second portion of the
recess has first and second ends. The third portion extends along
an axis a predetermined angle to the axes of the first and second
portions of the recess. The third portion interconnects a second
end of the first portion of the recess with the first end of the
second portion of the recess.
[0015] The third portion of the recess is defined a lower edge. The
lower edge guides the first pin element from the first portion of
the recess to the second portion of the recess. The edge of the
plate is transverse to the axis of the first support post.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The drawings furnished herewith illustrate a preferred
construction of the present invention in which the above advantages
and features are clearly disclosed as well as others which will be
readily understood from the following description of the
illustrated embodiment.
[0017] In the drawings:
[0018] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a storage container in
accordance with the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is an isometric view showing a portion of the storage
container of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 3 is an isometric view showing first and second side
panels of the storage container of FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of an end cap for the
storage container of FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 5 is an end view of the end cap of FIG. 4;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a top plan view view of the end cap of FIG. 4;
[0024] FIG. 7 is an enlarged side elevational view of the end cap
of FIG. 4 mounted on the storage container of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 8 is an isometric view showing a removable panel for
the storage container of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of a first portion of a
panel connector for the panel of FIG. 8;
[0027] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a second portion of the
panel connector for the panel of FIG. 8;
[0028] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the panel connector for the
panel of FIG. 8 in a first position;
[0029] FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the panel connector for the
panel of FIG. 8 in a second position;
[0030] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a
latch mechanism for the storage container of FIG. 1; and
[0031] FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a second embodiment of a
latch mechanism for the storage container of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, a storage container in accordance
with the present invention is generally designated by the reference
numeral 10. Storage container 10 defines an interior storage volume
11 and includes a generally flat base 12. Base 12 includes a floor
13 having upper surface 14 and lower surface positioned on frame
15. Base 12 of storage container 10 is generally square in shape
and support posts 24a-24d projecting vertically from the
corresponding corners of base 12. Each support post 24a-24d
includes lower and upper members 16 and 18, respectively, pivotably
interconnected, as hereinafter described. Each lower member 16 has
a lower end 28 and an upper end 30, and is defined by inner and
outer sidewalls 27 and 29, respectively, and rear wall 31. As
described, each lower member 16 has a generally U-shaped cross
section. Lower ends 28 of lower members 16 of support posts 24a-24d
are intended to engage supporting surface 20 and support storage
container 10 thereabove.
[0033] Lower members 16 of support posts 24a and 24b are
interconnected by lower sidewall panel 32. Lower panel 32 includes
upper and lower support bars, 34 and 36, respectively, extending
between lower members 16 of support posts 24a and 24b. Upper and
lower support bars 34 and 36, respectively, of lower panel 32 are
spaced from and parallel to each other. Wire mesh screen 38 extends
between lower members 16 of support posts 24a and 24b, as well as,
between upper and lower support bars, 34 and 36, respectively.
[0034] Lower members 16 of support posts 24c and 24d are
interconnected by lower sidewall panel 40. Lower panel 40 includes
upper and lower support bars, 42 and 44, respectively, extending
between lower members 16 of support posts 24c and 24d. Upper and
lower support bars 42 and 44, respectively, of lower panel 40 are
spaced from and parallel to each other. Wire mesh screen 46 extends
between lower members 16 of support posts 24c and 24d, as well as,
between upper and lower support bars 42 and 44, respectively.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 3, each upper member 18 of support posts
24a-24d has generally square-shaped cross-section and includes
inner and outer sidewalls 48 and 50, respectively, and front and
rear walls 51 and 52, respectively, that define cavity 54. End caps
33 are supported on the upper ends of each upper member 18 of
support posts 24a-24d. As best seen in FIGS. 4-7, each end cap 33
includes a generally flat base 31 having upper and lower surfaces
35 and 37, respectively. Base 31 is further defined by inner and
outer ends 39 and 41, respectively, as well as, first and second
sides 43 and 45, respectively. A generally conical mount 47
projects vertically from base 31 of each end cap 33 at a location
adjacent front end 43 thereof. As described, mount 47 extends along
an axis coincident with the axis of upper member 18. As a result,
inner end 39 of base 31 of end cap 33 on support post 24a projects
laterally from support post 24a towards support post 24c; inner end
39 of base 31 of end cap 33 on support post 24c projects laterally
from support post 24c towards support post 24a; inner end 39 of
base 31 of end cap 33 on support post 24b projects laterally from
support post 24b towards support post 24d; and inner end 39 of base
31 of end cap 33 on support post 24d projects laterally from
support post 24d towards support post 24b.
[0036] Referring back to FIGS. 1-3, inner and outer sidewalls 48
and 50, respectively, and rear wall 52 extend downwardly of front
wall 51 and are received in upper end 30 of a corresponding upper
member 16 therein. Lower ends 48a and 50a of sidewalls 48 and 50,
respectively, of upper members 18 are chamfered so as to facilitate
the pivoting of upper members 18 with respect to lower members 16.
Lower ends 48a and 50a of sidewalls 48 and 50 of upper members 18
further include axially aligned apertures 48b and 50b,
respectively, therein. It can be appreciated that lower ends 48a
and 50a of sidewalls 48 and 50, respectively, of upper members 18
are positioned within upper ends 30 of corresponding lower members
16 such that apertures 48b and 50b, in sidewalls 48 and 50,
respectively, are aligned with oblong apertures 56 and 58 in
sidewalls 27 and 29, respectively, of corresponding lower members
16.
[0037] In order to pivotably connect upper members 18 and
corresponding lower members 16 of support posts 24a-24d, the shaft
of carriage bolts 62 extend through apertures 48b and 50b, in
sidewalls 48 and 50, respectively, and through oblong apertures 56
and 58 in sidewalls 34 and 36 , respectively, of corresponding
lower members 16. Nuts are threaded onto the corresponding shafts
of carriage bolts 62 to retain carriage bolts 62 in position. It is
contemplated for the diameter of the shafts of carriage bolts 62 to
be less than the vertical length of oblong apertures 56 and 58 in
sidewalls 34 and 36, respectively, of corresponding lower members
16 so as to allow limited vertical movement of upper members 18
with respect to corresponding lower members 16. Locking pins 63
project laterally from outer sidewalls 50 of upper members 18 and
are receivable within corresponding notches 64 provided in upper
edges 66 of outer sidewalls 29 of lower members 16 when upper
members 18 are in the locking position so as to prevent upper
members 18 from pivoting with respect to lower members 16.
[0038] Upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24b are
interconnected by upper sidewall panel 68. Upper panel 68 includes
upper and lower support bars, 70 and 72, respectively, extending
between upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24b. Upper and
lower support bars 70 and 72, respectively, of upper panel 68 are
spaced from and parallel to each other. Wire mesh screen 76 extends
between upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24b, as well as,
between upper and lower support bars 70 and 72, respectively.
[0039] Upper members 18 of support posts 24c and 24d are
interconnected by upper sidewall panel 80. Upper panel 80 includes
upper and lower support bars, 82 and 84, respectively, extending
between upper members 16 of support posts 24c and 24d. Upper and
lower support bars 82 and 84, respectively, of upper panel 80 are
spaced from and parallel to each other. Wire mesh screen 86 extends
between upper members 18 of support posts 24c and 24d, as well as,
between upper and lower support bars 82 and 84, respectively.
[0040] Storage container 10 further includes a pair of removable
gates 90. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 8, each gate 90 includes
upper and lower panels 92 and 94, respectively. Each lower panel 94
includes a generally rectangular wire mesh screen 96 having
opposite ends 98 and 100, and opposite sides 102 and 104. Lower
support rod 106 extends along side 104 of wire mesh screen 96 and
has a first end 106a extending beyond end 98 thereof and a second
end 106b extending beyond end 100 thereof. Each end 106a and 106b
of lower support rod 106 terminates at a corresponding enlarged
head 107, for reasons hereinafter described. Similarly, upper
support rod 108 extends along side 102 of wire mesh screen 96
beyond ends 98 and 100 thereof and terminates at corresponding
enlarged heads 110 and 112, for reasons hereinafter described. A
generally J-shaped support bracket 114 is positioned over and is
interconnected to upper support rod 108. Support bracket 114
includes leg 118 overlapping side 102 of wire mesh screen 96.
[0041] Upper panels 92 of gates 90 include wire mesh screens 122
having opposite sides 124 and 126 and opposite ends 128 and 130.
Upper support rods 134 extend along the entire length of sides 126
of wire mesh screens 122 and beyond ends 128 and 130 of wire mesh
screens 122, for reasons hereinafter described. First ends 134a of
upper support rods 134 terminate at enlarged heads 135 and second
ends 134b of upper support rods 134 terminate at enlarged heads
137. Generally U-shaped support brackets 136 are positioned over
and are interconnected to corresponding upper support rods 134.
Each upper support rod 134 includes base 138 having legs 139 and
142 depending therefrom for receiving a corresponding upper support
rod 134 therebetween.
[0042] Upper and lower panels 92 and 94, respectively, of gates 90
are interconnected by a plurality of generally connectors generally
designated by the reference numeral 140. Connectors 140 are axially
spaced along corresponding support brackets 114 of lower panels 94.
As best seen in FIGS. 9-12; each connector 140 includes a generally
U-shaped bar 142 having first and second spaced legs 144 and 146,
respectively, interconnected by base 148 transverse thereto. Legs
144 and 146 of bars 142 are bonded to wire mesh screens 122 of
upper panels 92 of gates 90.
[0043] Connectors 140 further include generally U-shaped brackets
150. Brackets 150 include first and second spaced legs 152 and 154,
respectively, interconnected by base 156 transverse thereto. First
leg 152 of each bracket 150 is positioned between legs 144 and 146
of a corresponding bar 142 and terminal end 152a of first leg 152
is bonded to leg 118 of support bracket 114 of a corresponding
lower panel 94 of gates 90. Terminal ends 154a of second legs 154
are bonded to wire mesh screens 96 of lower panels 94 of
corresponding gates 90. As described, brackets 150 defined
generally oblong pathways 156 for capturing corresponding bases 148
of bars 142. Passageways 157 defined by brackets 150 are of
sufficient dimension so as to allow limited vertical movement of
upper panels 92 with respect to corresponding lower panels 94 of
gates 90.
[0044] In order to assemble storage container 10, upper members 18
are pivoted with respect to corresponding lower members 16 from a
collapsed position to a vertical pivoting position, FIG. 1.
Thereafter, upper panels 68 are released such that upper panels 68
move vertically downward to their locked positions, wherein pins 63
projecting from outer sidewalls 50 of upper members 18 become
seated in corresponding notches 64 provided in upper edges 66 of
outer sidewalls 29 of lower members 16 in order to lock support
posts 24a-24d in position.
[0045] Once support posts 24a-24d are locked in position, one of
the pair of gates 90 is positioned between support posts 24a and
24c. More specifically, second end 106b of lower support rod 106 is
inserted into an opening in a plate that extends between sidewalls
27 and 29 of lower member 16 of support post 24c. Head 107 at first
end 105a of lower support rod 106 is inserted through enlarged
portion 160a of opening 160 in plate 162 that extends between
sidewalls 27 and 29 of lower member 16 of support post 24a. The
opening in a plate that extends between sidewalls 27 and 29 of
lower member 16 of support post 24c and opening 160 through plate
162, respectively, are of sufficient vertical length to allow for
limited vertical movement of lower support rod 106, and hence, of
lower panel 94 of gate 90.
[0046] Lower panel 94 of gate 90 between support posts 24a and 24c
is pivoted to a vertical position such that heads 110 and 112 of
upper support rod 108 are aligned with corresponding pockets 164
projecting from rear walls 52 of upper members 18 of support posts
24a and 24c, respectively. Lower panel 94 of gate 90 is then
released so as to allow lower panel 94 to move vertically downward
such that heads 110 and 112 become seated in corresponding pockets
164 projecting from rear walls 52 of upper members 18 of support
posts 24a and 24c, respectively. It can be appreciated that notches
164a may be provided in pockets 164, respectively, projecting from
rear walls 52 of upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24c,
respectively, to allow upper support rod 108 of lower panel 94 of
gate 90 to pass therethrough.
[0047] With lower panel 94 of gate 90 fixed between support posts
24a and 24c, upper panel 92 of gate 90 is pivotable between a
folded configuration wherein upper panel 92 is adjacent lower panel
94 and a vertical configuration, FIG. 1, wherein upper panel 92 and
lower panel 94 of gate 90 lie in a common plane. As upper panel 92
is pivoted to the vertical configuration, heads 135 and 137 of
upper support rod 134 are aligned with corresponding openings 168
in pockets 166 projecting from rear walls 52 of upper members 18 of
support posts 24a and 24c, respectively.
[0048] In a first embodiment, referring to FIG. 13, each pocket 166
is defined first and second spaced, vertical legs 202 and 204,
respectively, having inner edges 202a and 204a bonded to rear wall
52 of upper member 18 of corresponding support posts 24a and 24c.
Outer edges 202b and 204b of first and second vertical legs 202 and
204, respectively, are interconnected by a generally flat plate 206
having upper and lower edges 208 and 210, respectively. Notch 212
is formed in upper edge 208 in plate 206 of each pocket 166.
[0049] With heads 135 and 137 of upper support rod 134 aligned with
corresponding notches 212 in pockets 166 projecting from rear walls
52 of upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24c, respectively,
upper panel 92 of gate 90 is then released so as to allow support
rod 134, and hence upper panel 92, to move vertically downward into
notches 212 in pockets 166 projecting from rear walls 52 of upper
members 18 of support posts 24a and 24c, respectively, such that
heads 135 and 137 of support rod 134 are seated in corresponding
pockets 166. As described, bases 35 of end caps 33 mounted on upper
ends of support posts 24a and 24c extend over notches 212 in
pockets 166 so as to retain heads 135 and 137 of support rod 134 in
corresponding pockets 166 during transport of storage container 10,
FIG. 7.
[0050] Once one of the gates 90 is mounted to support posts 24a and
24c, the other of the pair of gates 90 is mounted to support posts
24b and 24d in the same manner heretofore described in order to
fully assemble storage container 10. In order to collapse storage
container 10, the process is reversed. Upper panel 92 of the gate
90 between support posts 24b and 24d is lifted upwardly and
outwardly such that support rod 134, and hence heads 135 and 137,
exits notches 212 in pockets 166 thereby allowing upper panel 92 of
gate 90 to be disconnected from support posts 24b and 24d.
Thereafter, upper panel 92 is returned to its folded configuration
and lower panel 94 of the gate 90 between support posts 24b and 24d
is removed by lifting lower panel 94 vertically such that heads 110
and 112 are removed from pockets 164, respectively, and pivoting
lower panel 94 from its vertical position. Head 107 at first end
106a of lower support rod 106 is removed from opening 160 in plate
162 through enlarged portion 160a of opening 160. In addition,
second end 106a of lower support rod 106 is removed from the
generally rectangular opening in the plate in lower support member
24d thereby disengaging a first of the gates 90 from storage
container 10.
[0051] Similarly, upper panel 92 of the gate 90 between support
posts 24a and 24c is lifted upwardly and outwardly such that
support rod 134, and hence heads 135 and 137, exits notches 212 in
pockets 166 thereby allowing upper panel 92 of gate 90 to be
disconnected from support posts 24a and 24c. Thereafter, upper
panel 92 is returned to its folded configuration and lower panel 94
of the gate 90 between support posts 24a and 24c is removed by
lifting lower panel 94 vertically such that heads 110 and 112 are
removed from pockets 164, respectively, and by pivoting lower panel
94 from its vertical position. Head 107 at first end 106a of lower
support rod 106 is removed from opening 160 in plate 162 through
enlarged portion 160a of opening 160. In addition, second end 106b
of lower support rod 106 is removed from the generally rectangular
opening in the plate in lower support member 24c thereby
disengaging a first of the gates 90 from storage container 10.
[0052] In order to fully collapse storage container 10, upper
members 18 of support posts 24a-24d are lifted vertically with
respect to corresponding lower members 16 such that locking pins 63
are disengaged from corresponding notches 64a. Thereafter, upper
members 18 are pivoted on corresponding shafts of carriage bolts 62
towards base 12 to their collapsed position.
[0053] In an alternate embodiment, referring to FIG. 1 4, each
pocket 166a is defined first and second spaced, vertical legs 170
and 172, respectively, having inner edges 170a and 172a bonded to
rear wall 52 of upper member 18 of corresponding support posts 24a
and 24c. Outer edges 170b and 172b of first and second vertical
legs 170 and 172, respectively, are interconnected by a generally
flat plate 174 having upper and lower edges 176 and 178,
respectively. Opening 168 is formed in upper edge 176 in plate 174
and communicates with cavity 180. Cavity 180 includes a first
portion 184 extending along a first axis generally parallel to rear
wall 52 and a second portion 185 generally parallel to and
laterally spaced from first portion 184. First portion 184 of
cavity 180 is defined by first and second spaced upper side edges
187 and 189, respectively; an upper end communicating with opening
168; and a lower end 186. Lower end 186 of first portion 184 of
cavity 180 is interconnected to upper end 188 of second portion 185
of cavity 180 by a generally horizontal portion 190 of cavity 180.
Horizontal portion 190 of cavity 180 is defined by an arcuate lower
edge 192 extending from first upper side edge 187 to first lower
side edge 194 and an arcuate upper edge 196 extending from second
upper side edge 189 to second lower side edge 198. First and second
lower side edges 194 and 198, respectively, define second portion
185 of cavity 180 and are interconnected by generally C-shaped
terminal edge 200.
[0054] With heads 135 and 137 of upper support rod 134 aligned with
corresponding openings 168 in pockets 166a projecting from rear
walls 52 of upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24c,
respectively, upper panel 92 of gate 90 is then released so as to
allow support rod 134, and hence upper panel 92, to move vertically
downward though first portions 184 of cavities 180 in pockets 166a
projecting from rear walls 52 of upper members 18 of support posts
24a and 24c, respectively. Arcuate lower edges 192 of horizontal
portions 190 of cavities 180 guide support rod 134 to second
portions 185 of cavities 180 in pockets 166a projecting from rear
walls 52 of upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24c,
respectively. Thereafter, support rod 134 is supported on terminal
edges 200 of second portions 185 of cavities 180 in pockets 166a
projecting from rear walls 52 of upper members 18 of support posts
24a and 24c, respectively, such that heads 135 and 137 of support
rod 134 are seated in corresponding pockets 166a. It can be
appreciated that arcuate upper edges 198 of horizontal portions 190
of cavities 180 in pockets 166a projecting from rear walls 52 of
upper members 18 of support posts 24a and 24c, respectively,
maintain support rod 134 within second portions 185 of cavities 180
in pockets 166a projecting from rear walls 52 of upper members 18
of support posts 24a and 24c, respectively, and discourage support
rod 134 from exiting pockets 166a through openings 168 during
transport of storage container 10.
[0055] Once one of the gates 90 is mounted to support posts 24a and
24c, the other of the pair of gates 90 is mounted to support posts
24b and 24d in the same manner to fully assemble storage container
10. In order to collapse storage container 10, the process is
reversed. Upper panel 92 of the gate 90 between support posts 24b
and 24d is lifted upwardly and outwardly such that support rod 134,
and hence heads 135 and 137, exits cavities 180 in pockets 166a
through openings 168 therein. Likewise, upper panel 92 of the gate
90 between support posts 24a and 24c is lifted upwardly and
outwardly such that support rod 134, and hence heads 135 and 137,
exits cavities 180 in pockets 166a through openings 168 therein.
Lower panels 94, and hence gates 90, may be removed and upper
members 18 of support posts 24a-24d, respectively, may be collapsed
as heretofore described.
[0056] Various modes of carrying out the invention are contemplated
as being within the scope of the following claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which is
regarded as the invention.
* * * * *