U.S. patent application number 12/526528 was filed with the patent office on 2010-02-04 for foldable dual shelf presentation system.
Invention is credited to Alexander Virvo.
Application Number | 20100025344 12/526528 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39864226 |
Filed Date | 2010-02-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100025344 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Virvo; Alexander |
February 4, 2010 |
FOLDABLE DUAL SHELF PRESENTATION SYSTEM
Abstract
A dual column presentation display system with optional
integrated shelving, storage, headers, panels, table base and top,
for use in displaying products, samples, premiums or the like made
optimally from a single piece of paperboard which when folded and
assembled forms a hinged dual column stand alone display system
with multiple shelving trays in each column and wherein a separate
center display header is nested between and attached to the dual
columns.
Inventors: |
Virvo; Alexander; (Stamford,
CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOFFMAN WARNICK LLC
75 STATE STREET, 14TH FLOOR
ALBANY
NY
12207
US
|
Family ID: |
39864226 |
Appl. No.: |
12/526528 |
Filed: |
February 15, 2008 |
PCT Filed: |
February 15, 2008 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US08/02034 |
371 Date: |
August 10, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60901481 |
Feb 15, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/59.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 5/116 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/59.2 |
International
Class: |
A47F 1/00 20060101
A47F001/00 |
Claims
1. A dual column presentation display system for use in retail,
sales, and promotional settings to display and offer for
consumption products, premiums, samples, and advertising
information comprising: a single sheet of paperboard approximately
rectangular in shape having a plurality of scores, fold lines, die
cuts, glue tabs, folding tabs, and slots; a parallel structure
having a series of parallel panels spanning said sheet separated by
similarly parallel panel fold lines; a first and second glue tab,
each on an opposing first and second edge of said sheet, said edges
aligned with said parallel structure; a glue joint strip aligned
with said parallel structure and located approximately in a middle
of said sheet; and a central hinge joint aligned with said parallel
structure, co-located with said glue joint strip, and extending
from a third edge of said sheet to an opposing fourth edge of said
sheet, said third and forth edges essentially parallel to each
other, and perpendicular to said parallel structure.
2. The dual column presentation display system of claim 1, further
comprising a series of at least four panels located between said
first glue tab edge and said hinge joint, ascending in number with
a first panel adjacent to said first glue tab, a second panel
adjacent to said first panel, a third panel adjacent to said second
panel, and a fourth panel adjacent to said third panel and also
adjacent to said hinge joint; said third panel contains a first
integral rectangular shelf tray bounded by a first tray fold line
and a first tray U-shaped score line, said first fold line and
first U-shaped score line together forming said first rectangular
shape; said first tray fold line essentially perpendicular to said
panel fold lines; and a middle portion of said first U-shape score
line having a first shelf locking tab appended to said first tray
by a first locking tab fold line, and each one of a first tray side
edge of said first U-shaped score line having a first folding side
tab appended by a first side tab fold line.
3. The dual column presentation display system of claim 2, further
comprising a first shelf tray locking slot cut into said first
panel at a height equal to said first tray fold line; and said
first shelf tray locking slot is parallel to said first shelf tray
fold line.
4. The dual column presentation display system of claim 2, further
comprising said third panel contains a second integral rectangular
shelf tray bounded by a second tray fold line and a second U-shaped
score line, said second fold line and second U-shaped score line
together forming said second rectangular shape; and said second
tray fold line essentially perpendicular to said panel fold lines;
and a middle portion of said second U-shape score line having a
second shelf locking tab appended to said second tray by a second
locking tab fold line, and each one of a side edge of said second
U-shaped score line having a second folding side tab appended by a
second side tab fold line.
5. The dual column presentation display system of claim 4, further
comprising a second shelf tray locking slot cut into said first
panel at a height equal to said second tray fold line; and said
second shelf tray locking slot is parallel to said second shelf
tray fold line.
6. The dual column presentation display system of claim 2, further
comprising a first bottom flap and first closing tab extending from
said fourth edge of said first panel; a third bottom flap and third
closing tab extending from said fourth edge of said third panel; a
second inner flap extending from said fourth edge of said second
panel; said second inner flap having a centrally located second
slot for receiving said first and said third closing tabs; a fourth
inner flap extending from said fourth edge of said fourth panel;
said fourth inner flap having a centrally located fourth slot for
receiving said first and said third closing tabs; and said
centrally located second and fourth slots dimensioned so as to
frictionally accommodate both said first and second closing tabs at
the same time.
7. The dual column presentation display system of claim 2, further
comprising a further series of at least four additional panels
located between said second glue tab edge and said hinge joint,
ascending in number with a fifth panel adjacent to said second glue
tab, a sixth panel adjacent to said fifth panel, a seventh panel
adjacent to said sixth panel, and an eighth panel adjacent to said
seventh panel and also adjacent to said hinge joint; said seventh
panel contains a third integral rectangular shelf tray bounded by a
third tray fold line and a third tray U-shaped score line, said
third fold line and third U-shaped score line together forming said
third rectangular shape; said third tray fold line essentially
perpendicular to said panel fold lines; and a middle portion of
said third U-shape score line having a third shelf locking tab
appended to said third tray by a third locking tab fold line, and
each one of a third tray side edge of said third U-shaped score
line having a third folding side tab appended by a third side tab
fold line.
8. The dual column presentation display system of claim 7, further
comprising a third shelf tray locking slot cut into said fifth
panel at a height equal to said third tray fold line; and said
third shelf tray locking slot is parallel to said third shelf tray
fold line.
9. The dual column presentation display system of claim 7, further
comprising said seventh panel contains a fourth integral
rectangular shelf tray bounded by a fourth tray fold line and a
fourth tray U-shaped score line, said fourth fold line and fourth
U-shaped score line together forming said fourth rectangular shape;
said fourth tray fold line essentially perpendicular to said panel
fold lines; and a middle portion of said fourth U-shape score line
having a fourth shelf locking tab appended to said fourth tray by a
fourth locking tab fold line, and each one of a fourth tray side
edge of said fourth U-shaped score line having a fourth folding
side tab appended by a fourth side tab fold line.
10. The dual column presentation display system of claim 9, further
comprising a fourth shelf tray locking slot cut into said fifth
panel at a height equal to said fourth tray fold line; and said
fourth shelf tray locking slot is parallel to said fourth shelf
tray fold line.
11. A dual column presentation display system for use in retail,
sales, and promotional settings to display and offer for
consumption products, premiums, samples, and advertising
information comprising: a plurality of hollow columns fabricated
from a flexible material such as paperboard or plastic; each of
said columns having a longitudinal axis and each said column joined
to a common hinge joint, said joint being parallel to said
longitudinal axes and further being external to each said column;
and each said column able to rotate about said joint to the extent
allowed by other said columns.
12. The dual column presentation display system of claim 11,
further comprising said columns are vertically oriented in their
intended display space; and at least one of said columns has a
first horizontal tray for displaying said products.
13. The dual column presentation display system of claim 12,
further comprising a panel of similar length as said columns and
having a pair of upper extension arms and a pair of lower extension
arms; each of said arms having a flap and locking tab; a pair of
said columns each having an upper slot and a lower slot, each of
said upper slots adapted to receive one of said upper extension
flaps and locking tabs; each of said lower slots adapted to receive
one of said lower extension flaps and locking tabs; said panel
removably mounted between said pair of columns by means of said
combination of flaps, tabs and slots whereby said front panel is
fixably displayed between said pair of columns.
14. The dual column presentation display system of claim 13,
further comprising an upper panel of shorter length than said
columns and having a pair of upper extension arms and a lower
extension tab; each of said arms having a flap and locking tab; a
pair of said columns each having an upper slot for receiving said
flaps and tabs; a base skirt having attachment means for attaching
to a lower portion of said pair of columns, said skirt projecting
out laterally from said columns and providing support for a table
top; said top having a surface slot for receiving said panel lower
extension tab; wherein said upper panel fixedly locates said column
pair spatially and said table top provides a surface for product
demonstrations.
15. The dual column presentation display system of claim 13,
further comprising at least one slot in said panel for receiving,
holding and displaying of flat printed material such as brochures
or magazines.
16. The dual column presentation display system of claim 12,
further comprising each display consists of a modular series of
pairs of columns, each said column having a rectangular
cross-section, and each said pair hingedly aligned so that said
product trays are facing in the same lateral direction, said pairs
cooperatively arranged in a scalable manner to occupy a display
space.
17. The dual column presentation display system of claim 12,
further comprising said first horizontal tray having a front panel
handedly mounted on a front edge of said first horizontal tray and
said front panel angled forward into a display space for dispensing
products and samples.
18. A dual column presentation display system for use in retail,
sales, and promotional settings to display and offer for
consumption products, premiums, samples, and advertising
information comprising a pair of rectangular columns hingedly
attached, each column open on one surface only; each having a pair
of horizontal trays located vertically from each other; said
columns rotated into a desired position and further fixed by a
display panel rigidly mounted between the pair of columns.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of a provisional patent
application, titled "Foldable Dual Shelf Presentation System",
Application No.: 60/901,481, and filed in the United States Patent
and Trademark Office on Feb. 15, 2007.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable
REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates generally to the need for a
simple foldable, easily customizable, single unit temporary shelf
display structure for use at in-store sampling, demonstrations and
at various event venues, in addition to a structure that has
features that makes it an ideal display to present products at
retail. What is needed is a simple to set up, single unit
presentation system that has all the necessary functionality
built-in. The system needs to be a standard structure where the
addition of separate attachments will create additional benefits
for the demonstrator, presenter or marketer. Further, it is
important that this presentation system has a more appealing look
and feel than a traditional shelf displays and/or shelf and demo
table combinations. In the field of sampling and in-store
demonstrations and the structures one typically finds are not very
exciting to look at. A typical demo unit is front facing and
includes a folding table with table skirt, and maybe an easel back
sign. And if a traditional shelf display is not used, the product
may simply be dispensed from its original shipping carton, or
placed on the table top for view.
[0006] There are a multitude of existing options for temporary
displays that hold products, foods, beverages, books, magazines,
novelties and many other items for in-store presentations and or
sampling. The competition for customer's attention is fierce and
there is more and more pressure on marketers to produce more
attractive, more efficient and more effective displays. Marketers
are challenged with the need to create displays that are easy to
set up, meet stringent size constraints set by retailers, are
efficient to produce, and most importantly are effective at
accomplishing the task.
[0007] Some companies can afford to continuously create
one-of-a-kind display constructions that achieve a marketers
creative display objectives, however, our highly competitive
environment presents a growing need for a standardized, flexible
display structure that achieves the marketer's objectives of being
attractive, having plenty of "selling" space on a display, without
having to think up a complete new structure each time a display
needs to be designed. Such a display solution would need to be
simple to set up and easily customizable.
[0008] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0009] The traditional standard presentation system has a shelf
display with folding table base. The most basic display is made
with a single tray that is designed to hold the product, and the
header is attached on top of the display. The table is a separate
structure, and can be provided by the store, or event venue. A
separate sign and a printed table cloth may be added to accommodate
selling messages. Although all the necessary parts to create a
presentation are there, the end result may not have a very cohesive
look, especially since there is no control as to the size table
that will be made available to the demonstrator. From store to
store the presentation may have a different look and feel.
[0010] The traditional standard shelf display with a shopping cart
table is slightly better than the structure described above. Using
a shopping cart as a table creates a more consistent look as
shopping carts are often the same size. Using this option, the
shopping cart is covered by a tabletop to which a poster for
`selling messages` is affixed.
[0011] Another display presentation configuration is the pop-up
standard shelf display with a separate table. Sometimes a shelf
display ships flat and is assembled by the demonstrator or store
clerk. A separate table may also be shipped to complete the
presentation, or the store may provide one. Although usually easy
to set up, the demonstrator still needs to manage two separate
items: the table; and the shelf unit. This adds complexity to
making certain the presentation is consistent. Store managers may
request that the table be separated from the shelf so as not to
constrict traffic. And, unfortunately, decisions like these may be
good for the store but may prove damaging to the presentation.
[0012] One of the major concerns when evaluating traditional
displays, is that the most basic display is made with a single tray
that is designed to hold the product with a header attached on top
of the display. The product in this display faces forward. This
display although functional, is not exciting to look at. Once the
tray display is set up, the header is slipped on to the top of the
tray to complete the display. The complaint that many marketers
have with this display is that, all too often, the header either is
never put on the display or, the header is taken off well before
the display has completed its work. This happens because the header
is at the top of the display and is not permanently attached, so if
it is blocking other products, and/or other signage in the store in
the store, the header is often taken down by store clerks, shoppers
and sometimes, even by competitors.
[0013] A slightly better approach than the structure described
above, is a permanent header. This design uses glue, or a tab
mechanism to permanently attach the header to the top of the tray.
Once the tray display is set up, the header is folded back and the
wings slip in top the top of the tray. This design eliminates the
header from being easily removed. However it can still be made
ineffective by slipping out the wings and having the header fall
forward covering the display and eliminating the selling message
from the shoppers view.
[0014] Another approach is the traditional standard shelf display
with a header attached to a perimeter of the tray. This basic
single tray display is also designed to hold the product facing
forward, and the header that is attached to the tray usually
extends past the top and a least to one side of the display and at
times it will extend on both the right and left side of the
display. This simple display structure certainly does a reasonable
job of showcasing the product, but is also not very exciting to
look at, as it is one step above a shipping carton. In fact it
often is a shipping carton put on a base. The header "hangs-out"
from the sides of the display, interfering with the limited space
in the shopping aisles.
[0015] Another improvement to the above display presentation
systems is a dual shelf display with a header display between the
shelves where the entire display system is made from one single
piece of paperboard. This dual shelf display with a large header in
the middle is the structure that best addresses the need to have a
large selling space on the display that cannot be easily removed.
This structure has two product trays on either side of a center
graphics panel. In this structure, each of the trays are connected
to the center panel by a crease. Unfortunately, this structure, in
addition to the product trays, requires a separate base to prop up
the display. This display is designed to make the product face
forward, and in the end looks like other basic single tray displays
with the one difference that the graphics are in the center of the
display.
[0016] A further embodiment of the above dual shelf display system
is the display described above, except that, instead of being made
from a single piece of paperboard, the two product trays and the
center graphics panel are manufactured as separate elements and
thereafter connected by tabs or other fastening means. This display
also has the product being displayed face forward, and requires a
separate base to complete the display.
[0017] Of course if money is no object, any number of temporary
custom shelf displays may be created to meet any marketer's
specific objective. Often new custom displays require clever design
structures that are specifically designed to showcase a particular
product, and will not lend themselves easily to work for other
products. In this category there are no standards, as everything is
custom, so there are no efficiencies in design or in
production.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] Against the foregoing background, it is the primary object
of the present invention to provide a foldable temporary display
comprised of a single structure that forms two columns that are
attached by a foldable means and a separate and large,
inter-locking display header that, when connected between the
columns, creates an attractive display with a substantially "open"
look. The "locked-in" header keeps the display in such a fixed
position.
[0019] It is the object of the invention, to provide a display
where the two columns may be formed to feature shelves to hold
product, forming a dual shelf structure.
[0020] It is also the object of the invention, to provide a display
where the two columns may be formed without shelves forming an
interesting dual column shape for additional space for signage.
[0021] It further the object of the invention, to provide a display
where the one or both columns may be formed with a drop down door
as in a dump bin dispenser, where the dual columns store the
products and or samples being dispensed.
[0022] It is yet another object of the invention, to provide a
display where the columns may be different from each other, where
one may contain shelves while the other is a dump bin.
[0023] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a
display with an "open" look and feel with a wide viewing angle.
Varied viewing angles may be achieved by rotating the shelf columns
of the dual shelf structure to the desired angle from each other
and locking them in place with the placement of the center panel
that is attached to each of the columns. One such ideal and
inviting viewing angle is approximately 270 degrees. This creates a
convex feel to the front of the display with the two columns facing
away from each other with the center panel facing forward.
[0024] It is another object of the invention, to provide a display
where the bottom portion of the dual shelf structure may be
extended so that it forms its own base to the display, and does not
need a separate base. A shorter version makes a great tabletop
display.
[0025] It is another object of the invention to add a table skirt
and a table top for use of the display as a demo table and shelf
unit in one. This demo table structure makes it ideal for use in
product sampling and in product demos.
[0026] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a display that will accept a rear graphics panel to create a
finished look on the back of the display.
[0027] It is another object of the present invention to have the
dual shelf structure be made from a single piece of flexible
material, such as paperboard, plastic, or other known flexible
materials used in making temporary displays.
[0028] It is yet another object of the present invention to offer
significant space for advertising, promotional or informational
messaging on the center display header that is nested between the
shelves when the display is set up.
[0029] It is but another object of the present invention to create
pockets in the center or rear panel so that they may be used to
showcase product samples.
[0030] It is but another object of the present invention to make
the center display header interchangeable, allowing marketers to
easily switch-out creative messages. They may reuse the same dual
shelf structure with a different center display header. One such
example is where a company may want to create sampling events
around several different products. All that they would need to do
is create a new center display header for each sampling event while
using the exact same dual shelf structure. This approach would be
both cost effective and easy to execute.
[0031] It is yet still another object of the invention to provide a
display that is considered easy to assemble at store level. The two
part (dual shelf and center panel billboard) system takes only a
few minutes to assemble.
[0032] It is still another object of the invention to use the
display in such a configuration where the dual shelves of one unit
are on opposite sides so that multiple display units of the dual
shelf structure may be placed side-by-side to create a modular
scalable display. The individual dual shelf structures may be
attached to each other by glue, tape, lock tabs or any other well
known fastening means, or by a separate friction fit tray
structures at the base, and or a friction fit interlocking
header.
[0033] It is another object of the invention, to provide a display
that has a substantially flat profile prior to assembly to allow
for efficient storage and efficient shipping.
[0034] It is yet still another object of the present invention, to
provide a display that allows for the shelves to be assembled and
filled with product, then shipped pre-packed for quick store
assembly.
[0035] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a
display that uses a dual shelf structure which may be used to
accommodate a single shelf, multiple shelves, or if preferred, no
shelves at all. The structure that normally holds shelves may be
constructed to feature hooks for hanging product, drop down doors
to create a dump bins, or with no openings at all, where the shelf
columns may provide additional space for messaging.
[0036] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a
display structure that works as a floor display, and if constructed
at a smaller size may be used as a tabletop or counter display.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] The foregoing and still other objects and advantages of the
present invention will be more apparent from the detailed
explanation of the preferred embodiments of the invention in
connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0038] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the floor display dual shelf
construction containing two shelf towers.
[0039] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the display header.
[0040] FIG. 2A is a plan view of the table base
[0041] FIG. 2B is a plan view of the table top.
[0042] FIG. 3 is an alternate front display header
[0043] FIG. 3A is a plan view of the rear display panel.
[0044] FIG. 3B is a plan view of an alternate tabletop.
[0045] FIG. 3C is plan view of an alternate table base
[0046] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the Dual Shelf construction showing
slits.
[0047] FIG. 4A is a plan view of an alternate rear panel.
[0048] FIG. 4B is a plan view of a front panel skirt.
[0049] FIG. 5 is a perspective view where the left side of dual
shelf structure is folded over and attached.
[0050] FIG. 6A is a top view of dual shelf structure, with the glue
flaps folded inwardly and the towers rotated away from each
other.
[0051] FIG. 6B is a top view of dual shelf structure with the glue
flaps folded inwardly and the towers rotated adjacent to each
other.
[0052] FIG. 6C is a top view of dual shelf structure, with the glue
flaps folded outwardly and the towers rotated away from each
other.
[0053] FIG. 6D is a top view of dual shelf structure, with the glue
flaps folded outwardly and the towers rotated towards each
other.
[0054] FIG. 6E is a top view of a multi-unit dual shelf display
structure
[0055] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a partially folded dual
shelf structure shown in an upside down position.
[0056] FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of the dual shelf
structure.
[0057] FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of the front display
header.
[0058] FIG. 7C is a top planar view of the dual shelf structure
with the front display header attached.
[0059] FIG. 8 is a perspective rear view of a fully assembled dual
shelf structure.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a perspective front view of the fully assembled
dual shelf structure with the front display header partially
attached on the right side, and not yet attached at the top and
bottom of the left side.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a perspective side view of the of the rear panel
in position to be attached to the left rear of the display.
[0062] FIG. 11 is a perspective front view of the fully assembled
dual shelf display with a full front header attached to right and
left shelf towers. Also shown is a shelf structure inserted into
the center panel to display small items.
[0063] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the dual shelf
structure with the table skirt placed in position prior to being
locked into lower shelves of right and left towers.
[0064] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of FIG. 12 with the
table skirt locked into bottom shelves of right and left shelf
towers, and with the tabletop placed over table base and attached
to dual shelf tower.
[0065] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of FIG. 13 with the
display header attached to right shelf tower, and ready to be
attached to left shelf tower.
[0066] FIG. 15 has been intentionally omitted.
[0067] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the fully assembled
dual shelf structure with attached table of FIG. 14.
[0068] FIG. 17 has been intentionally omitted.
[0069] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the dual shelf
structure where the right and left shelf towers are rotated to a
front facing position, and a front bottom header is in position to
lock into the dual shelf structure of FIG. 20.
[0070] FIG. 19 has been intentionally omitted.
[0071] FIG. 20 is a perspective front view of the front facing dual
shelf structure of FIG. 19.
[0072] FIG. 21 is a perspective front view of the assembled dual
shelf structure with large attached table of FIG. 3.
[0073] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of the dual shelf
structure where the shelf structure is not rotated to form an angle
to the shelves. This configuration is used when multiple dual shelf
structures are assembled in the same display unit to create a dual
sided display of FIG. 6E.
[0074] FIG. 23 has been intentionally omitted.
[0075] FIG. 24 is a perspective front view tabletop model of the
display of FIG. 11 with a center panel that is designed to accept
an image or a photo.
[0076] FIG. 25 is a perspective rear view of the display of FIG. 11
where the rear panel is designed with three shelves that display
magazines, samples or other products.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0077] To the accomplishments of the foregoing objects and
advantages the present invention in brief summary comprises a
display with a dual shelf structure connected to the center
billboard panel by means of a tab structure, glue, tape, hook and
loop or other well know fastening means.
[0078] In the preferred embodiment, a display structure is formed
from two parts, first a dual tower shelf structure formed from a
single flat piece of paperboard 100 of FIG. 1, and secondly, a flat
center panel billboard 250 of FIG. 3. The dual tower shelf
structure 100 is comprised of two shelf columns or towers, 118 and
119 (see FIG. 7A) which are formed by folding paperboard 100 on
folds 10 and 114 and gluing the rear surface of tabs 116 and 117 to
the rear surfaces of panels 104 and 105 respectively as shown in
FIG. 5. When tabs 116 and 117 are glued then dual shelf structure
of FIG. 7A may be formed. Panels 105, 106, 107 and 108 (FIG. 1)
will form column 118 (FIG. 7A) while panels 101, 102, 103 and 104
(FIG. 1) will form column 119 (FIG. 7A).
[0079] Column 118 is formed by folding and locking bottom flaps 136
and 138 into inner flaps 135 and 137, and column 119 is formed by
folding and locking bottom flaps 231 and 233 into inner flaps 232
and 234. Additional structure to the columns 118, 119 is provided
by locking respective shelf tab 123 of shelves 122, 140, 139 and
141 into respective receiving slots 127. When assembled, each
column is formed separately but is attached to the other by means
of a flexible joint 112 as shown in FIG. 7A & 7C. Once the
structure is formed, one shelf column 118 may be rotated by means
of flexible joint 112 towards (or away from) the other column 119.
The center display header 250 of FIG. 7B is attached, by inserting
tuck tabs 257 and 262 (FIG. 7B) into the corresponding openings 129
and 130 (FIG. 1) in dual shelf structure 100, nesting the center
display panel 267 of display header 250 between the two shelf
columns 119 and 118.
[0080] When the center panel 250 is attached to both columns 118,
119 in the preferred embodiment, the dual shelf structure is locked
in a fixed position, offering approximately a 270 degree angle of
view.
[0081] Referring to the drawings and, in particular to FIG. 1
thereof the dual shelf structure 100 with center display header 250
of the present invention is provided and referred to generally by
the sheet of paperboard 100 of FIG. 1 that is die cut and scored in
such a way that it may be folded to form a display structure with
two shelf columns 118 and 119 connected by fold 112 as shown in
FIG. 7A. It is the intent of the inventor, to make the display
minimally from one sheet of paperboard. The inventor anticipates
that in certain instances, two or more sheets of paperboard may be
joined to create a similar structure, instances where a single
large sheet of paperboard is not easily available, or the job may
not fit the machinery needed to create the display. It is further
the intent of the inventor to make this structure from any suitable
paperboard, plastic, or any other material that is flexible and
easy to work with using conventional converting equipment.
[0082] In the preferred embodiment the right side (FIG. 1,
everything right of fold 112) and the left side (FIG. 1, everything
left of fold 112) of the paperboard 100 are folded and glued on
tabs 116 and 117 forming the right and left containers 119 and 118
of the display. FIG. 5 is a perspective view where the left portion
of the display is rotated and folded on score 114 where tab 117 is
attached to the rear of panel 105, however it should be noted that
any other suitable means of attachment may be used including but
not limited to tuck flaps, tape, staples, snaps or other well known
fastening means. The right side is folded on score 110 and attached
to the rear of panel 104. It should be noted that FIG. 5 is the
backside view of FIG. 1 and therefore the `left` and `right` sides
are reversed.
[0083] FIG. 6C shows the preferred embodiment where tabs 116 and
117 are glued on opposite sides of fold 112 and separated by a
space 400 (FIG. 6D) for ease of gluing and assembly. It should be
noted that that there are several tab configurations that may be
desired in order to control the amount of space 400 that exists
between the right and left shelf columns 119 and 118. As is shown
in FIG. 6B, tabs 116 & 117 are folded into the columns 118
& 119, and conversely in FIG. 6C the tabs 116 & 117 are
folded away from the columns 118 & 119. This is one way to vary
the space 400 between the columns.
[0084] In certain applications it may be desired to remove fold 112
(FIG. 6B and FIG. 6D) and/or have tabs 116 and 117 glued on top of
one another (not shown). This is a very desirable tab configuration
in those instances where the marketer or manufacturer would like to
maximize the space necessary to hold product and minimize the space
400 between the columns 119 and 118. Another way in which that same
space may be minimized is by folding tabs 116 and 117 inwardly and
gluing the tabs in such a way that the outside of tabs 116 and 117
are adjacent to the inside of paperboard 100, resulting in the tabs
116 and 117 appearing inside of the shelf column structures 118 and
119 (FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B). This way the folds 120 and 121 (FIG. 6A)
may be brought closer to almost touch, only to be slightly
separated by fold 112. In this instance where there is no fold 112,
a fold may be created by rotating one of the shelf structures 119
or 119 from the other causing a fold to occur in paperboard 100 in
the space between folds 120 and 121.
[0085] FIG. 7 is a perspective view where both shelf columns 119
and 118 are partially assembled, and the dual shelf structure is
resting in an upside down position for ease of set up. Assembly of
bottom flaps 231, 232, 233, 234 and 135, 136, 137 and 138 are
helpful in making the shelf columns square, and similar flaps may
optionally appear at the top of the dual shelf structure (not
shown). The inventor contemplates that these bottom flaps are not
necessary for the functionality of the display if the shelf panels
122, 140, 139 and 141 are engaged. To engage shelf 122, while the
unit is in the upside down position, fold shelf Support panels 124
and 125 inwardly inside shelf column and push shelf 122 towards the
rear of shelf column 118, so that shelf lock 123 may be engaged
with shelf receiving slot 127. Then repeat same procedure to engage
shelves 140, 141 and 139 into their corresponding shelf receiving
slots 127. FIG. 11 shows the assembled shelves 139 and 141 locked
into panel 108 and shelves 122 and 140 locked into panel 101. The
square or rectangular structure for the individual columns 119 and
118 is urged by the engagement of shelf panels 122, 140, 139 and
141, and further when shelf flaps 123 are engaged with the shelf
receiving slots 127. It is the intent of the inventor to permit
more shelves if desired, even if the additional shelves are
constructed as separate structures (not shown). This the
rectangular or square configuration may also be formed by top
and/or bottom flaps as previously discussed, or the structure may
be given by introducing an altogether separate structure (not
shown) such as a box or insert, made from the same or different
material that will fill out the space within the panels comprising
shelf columns 119 and 118. This structure may also be given by the
product that is placed into the display, such as stacked boxes or
other displayable products. The height, width and depth of the
shelves may be altered by increasing or decreasing the size of the
blank paperboard being used to form dual shelf structure 100, and
or by altering the distances between the scores in such a way that
the shelf columns 119 and 118 would be formed with narrower or
wider profiles, as necessary to best display the products. The
height of the cavity within the shelf structures may also be
adjusted by vertically re-positioning the shelf assembly, which
includes the shelf, shelf tab and its corresponding receiving slot
at the rear of the shelf column. By moving the shelf assembly up or
down you can achieve different cavity heights, so long as there is
sufficient paperboard to make the shelf and the corresponding
receiving shelf slot 127. There are limitations as to how short a
cavity may be as shelf 122 must be long enough so that shelf tab
123 must be able to be cut from paperboard 100 and able to reach
shelf receiving slot 127 and slide over tab 126 of FIG. 8 and be
folded down to lock into shelf receiving slot 127. It should also
be noted that the distance between shelves should be sufficient to
allow the free movement of product in and out of shelf columns 119
and 118.
[0086] It is also the intent of the inventor to offer this display
without shelves such as when there is a need to use the display as
a gravity feed, where the shelf would be an obstruction. In this
embodiment the columns would be shelf-free and a continuous column
which would allow product to flow freely down the length of the
column only to have an opening at the bottom of the column from
which the product would be easily dispensed (not shown). It is
further the intent of the inventor to allow the marketer to decide
whether shelf columns 119 and 118 should be substantially the same
size or substantially different in size (not shown), or if the
number of shelves in shelf column 118 should equal the number of
shelves in shelf column 119 or if the number of shelves should be
different and non symmetrical in size (not shown). It is further
the intent of the inventor to allow to increase or decrease the
length of shelves 122, 139, 141 and 140 and to move up or down
shelf receiving slot 127 in such a way as to create special angles
in the positioning of the shelf so as to cause the products being
displayed to lean forward or backward as desired by the marketer.
It is the intent of the inventor to offer an alternate version of
the shelf columns being formed (not shown) where shelf flaps are
not used but an alternate method to create a square or rectangular
structure for shelf columns 118 and 119.
[0087] It is further the intent of the inventor to have a more
secure locking mechanism in instances where the product is heavy,
where the shelf tab 123 would have an opening at the score through
which a flap taken from the rear of the display would lock the
shelf in position (not shown). It is important to note that the
inventor anticipates that with today's sophisticated die cut and
gluing machines it is possible to attach the shelves to their
respective backer panels during the manufacturing process with glue
or adhesive, eliminating the need for shelf slots. FIG. 8 is a rear
view of the same display showing how the shelf lock 123 engages
with shelf slot 127 by folding over tab 126. In the instance where
the shelves may be attached automatically the slots 127 and tabs
126 would not be visible from the rear view of the display of FIG.
8.
[0088] The attachment of the center panel 250 is shown in the top
view of FIG. 7C where display header extension 251 is shown with
tab 257 and flap 258 (see also FIG. 7B). Flap 258 is rotated
downwards on fold 266 so that it is adjacent to tab 257, in this
configuration tab 257 easily slips into slot 129. Once the tab 257
slips through slot 129, flap 258 is rotated upwards to lock display
header extension 251 to shelf column 119. This same process is used
to lock in display header extensions 253, 254 and 252 shown in FIG.
7B to their corresponding slots 143, 142 and 130 (see also FIG. 1).
In this configuration, center panel 267 is nested between columns
119 and 118 making it an inviting display with plenty of space for
messaging. It may be desired to make the display approachable from
the rear as well as the front of the display. In this case the
marketer may choose to add a graphic panel to the rear portion of
the display. To do so, rear panel 500 of FIG. 3A is attached to the
rear of dual shelf structure 100 as shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 8 shows
rear slots 131, 132, 334 and 335 designed to accept rear graphic
panel flaps 508, 504, 507 and 506 respectively. To minimize any raw
edges of the paperboard optional flaps 502 and 503 were added to
rear panel 100. They get folded inwardly and will be adjacent to
column panels 108 and 101 respectively once panel 500 is tabbed
into the dual shelf structure.
[0089] It is further the intent of the inventor to provide such a
degree of flexibility in the display construction to accommodate a
variety of design requests within the scope of this display. One
such configuration is a single unit presentation display shelf
structure and attached table of FIG. 16, made up from a medley of
four interlocking separate parts shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 2A
and FIG. 2B-including: dual tray structure 100; table skirt 300;
tabletop 400 and modified display header 250 of FIG. 2. FIG. 12 is
a perspective view of the assembled dual shelf structure 100 with
the table skirt 300 folded on score 306 and in position to lock
table skirt flaps 301 and 302 into shelf slots 144 and 145
respectively. To further secure the table skirt at the bottom of
the table skirt are tabs 305 and 304 which are inserted in dual
shelf structure slots 143 and 142 respectfully in the same manner
as the tab insertions previously shown in FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C. FIG.
13 shows table skirt 300 locked into dual shelf structure 100 and
with tabletop 400 resting on top of table skirt 303 and locked into
slots 126 of dual shelf structure 100. To complete the presentation
system, FIG. 2 shows a modified display header 250 of FIG. 3 that
is locked into dual shelf structure using tabs 257 and 262 in the
same manner as previously shown in FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C. To
stabilize the header, FIG. 14 shows optional tab 203 being inserted
into tabletop slit 401. FIG. 14 also shows display header tab 259
and flap 258 prior to being folded and being locked into slot 129.
It is further the intent of the inventor to attach taller, shorter,
wider and narrower tables than which are shown in FIG. 21. FIG. 21
is a perspective view of assembled table base 350 and assembled
table top 450 from FIG. 3C and FIG. 3B which shows a different
style table that has a rectangular orientation and may be extended
as far as necessary to support the product being displayed. This
structure is also made with a table skirt 350 and a tabletop 450,
however in this instance instead of having the table lock directly
into the dual shelf structure, the tabletop and the table skirt may
lock into the display header 250. Tabletop 450 of FIG. 3B is
conventionally folded to form a rectangular tabletop, where panel
451 locks into receiving slit 265 on modified panel 250 of FIG. 3.
Flaps 351, 353, 354 and 352 lock into slots 367, 368, 270 and 269
respectfully. It is contemplated by the inventor, that additional
support may be included within the rectangular shelf structure that
will help hold heavy objects that may be too heavy for the current
structure to hold up. This structure may be formed from any number
of suitable substrates designed specifically to hold up heavy
weight.
[0090] It is further the intent of the inventor to create a
structure in such a way that the paperboard 100 may be constructed
in such a way that fold 112 is eliminated and panels 104 and 105
become a single panel as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 22
and top view FIG. 6D. Panels 103 and 106 are facing in opposite
directions, so that when multiple units are attached that they form
a display that may be shopped from opposite sides of the display as
shown in FIG. 6E. With this orientation, the combined panels 104
and 105 form a single panel 601 with a large space for
informational or promotional messaging. It is important to note
that the dual shelf structure may be rotated 180 degrees so that
panel 601 is facing outwardly on both sides of the multi-unit
display as shown in FIG. 6E. It is the intent of the inventor to
build flexibility into the size of the shelves and the height of
the shelves that may be used. For example, if length 601 is fixed
then the length of 106 and 103 may be varied from dual shelf
structure to dual shelf structure, as long as the complete shelf
structure stays within the base tray 500 of FIG. 6E. FIG. 6E is an
example of the same sized, multiple units held together with a
friction fit base 500 and may optionally have a similar friction
fit header. The inventor also contemplates that the multi-unit
displays may also be held together with tape, glue, rivets, hook
and loop and other well known fastening means. FIG. 18 and FIG. 20
are the same structure of FIG. 22 with the exception that the dual
shelf structure is folded on fold 112 so that panels 103 and 106
are in a front facing orientation. This embodiment offers some
unique advantages contemplated by the inventor including the
ability to vary the height 602 (see FIGS. 20 & 22) of the shelf
within the constraints imposed by the length of the available shelf
to lock into the rear panels as previously discussed. FIG. 18 shows
the front base panel 380 of FIG. 4B in position to lock flaps 381
and 382 into shelf slits 144 and 145 respectfully, and for further
support tabs 383 and 384 would lock into slots 143 and 142
respectfully. FIG 4A shows a plan view of the rear cover 550 of
FIG. 18.
[0091] It is important to note that the various combinations of
tabs and corresponding slots may be varied to the needs of the
marketer without compromising the display, FIG. 24 is a dual shelf
structure display forming a table top unit. This unit also
contemplates a slip-in header 150 in the center display header.
FIG. 25 shows a modified rear panel 500 of FIG. 10 designed to hold
three magazine facings 151, 152 and 153. The inventor also
contemplates that the shelf tower may take on different shapes than
the square and rectangular ones discussed above. The tower
cross-sectional shapes may include but not be limited to various
geometric shapes such as a circle, ellipse, triangle or various
types of polygons. These alternate structures will enhance the over
all look of the dual structure display.
* * * * *