U.S. patent application number 13/514729 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-04 for product exhibition structure and assembly and disassembly method thereof.
Invention is credited to Roman de Jesus Chavez Herrera, Bernardo Herman Baran, Mauricio Herman Dantus.
Application Number | 20120248949 13/514729 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44145143 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120248949 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Herman Baran; Bernardo ; et
al. |
October 4, 2012 |
PRODUCT EXHIBITION STRUCTURE AND ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY METHOD
THEREOF
Abstract
A collapsible and folding showcase used to load and exhibit
products, that is comprised of a base with at least three sides,
each side with two extremes, each extreme of a side is jointed with
another extreme of another side then forming corners between the
extremes; a top with at least three sides, each side with two
extremes, each extreme of a side is jointed with another extreme of
another side then forming corners between the extremes; at least
three posts, each post with a lower extreme and an upper extreme,
each post can be set up in a corner of the base through the upper
extreme of the post, each post can be coupled through the upper
extreme of the post with a corner of the top, each pair of posts
proximate to one another and coupled with one another and within
them at least a base of tray, then forming, between the pair of
proximate posts and the at least one base of the tray, a shelf, the
at least one base of tray positioned between the lower extreme and
the upper extreme of the post; at least one tray for each base of
tray, the tray can rest on the base of the tray.
Inventors: |
Herman Baran; Bernardo;
(Tlalnepantla, MX) ; Herman Dantus; Mauricio;
(Tlalnepantla, MX) ; Chavez Herrera; Roman de Jesus;
(Tlalnepantla, MX) |
Family ID: |
44145143 |
Appl. No.: |
13/514729 |
Filed: |
December 9, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
December 9, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2009/007702 |
371 Date: |
June 8, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
312/126 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 5/10 20130101; A47B
43/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
312/126 |
International
Class: |
A47F 3/14 20060101
A47F003/14 |
Claims
1. A collapsible showcase with at least four faces for supporting
and displaying products, comprising: a base with at least three
sides, each side with two ends, each end of a first side is with
joined to another end of a second side, forming corners between
each of the joined sides; a top with at least three sides, each
side with two ends, each end of a first side is joined to another
end of a second side, forming corners between each of the joined
sides; at least one tray base with at least three sides, each side
with two ends, each end of a first side is joined to another end of
a second side forming corners between each of the joined sides; at
least three posts, each post having a height, a lower end and an
upper end, the lower end of the post is coupled to one of the
corners of the base, the upper end of the post is coupled to one of
the corners of the top, each post coupled to at least one corner of
the tray base, wherein the corners of the tray base are located in
a substantially similar height in each of the posts; a tray for
each tray base, the tray is capable of resting on the tray base;
wherein the coupling of the corners of the tray base is flexible,
allowing mobility of a first side of the tray base in relation to a
second side of the tray base so that the sides of the tray base may
be rotated in relation to one another.
2. (canceled)
3. The showcase of claim 1, wherein each corner has a fastener that
allows rotation and wherein the showcase has an even number of
faces and has at least six faces, wherein a first pair of fasteners
in the base that are not located at adjacent corners are not
collinear with a second pair of fasteners in the base that are not
located at adjacent corners, wherein a first pair of fasteners at
the top that are not located at adjacent corners are not collinear
with a second pair of fasteners at the top that are not located at
adjacent corners, wherein the first base and top pair of fasteners
are off center with respect to the center of the base and top sides
respectively, and towards the interior of the non adjacent corners
and wherein the second pair of fasteners of the base and of the top
are off center with respect to the center of the base and top sides
respectively, and towards the exterior of the non adjacent
corners.
4. The showcase of claim 1, wherein the tray has some wings towards
the upper part of the showcase.
5. The showcase according to claim 1, wherein each shelf has at
least a second tray base, each second tray base being coupled with
the shelf by means of a fastener, wherein this fastening device
allows the rotation of the second tray base with respect to the
shelf, in such manner that the second tray base can be positioned
substantially parallel or substantially perpendicular to the
shelf.
6. A collapsible showcase with at least four faces for supporting
and displaying products, comprising: a base with at least three
sides, each side with two ends, each end of a first side is joined
to another end of a second side, forming corners between the each
of the joined sides; a top with at least three sides, each side
with two ends, each end of a first side is joined to another end of
a second side, forming corners between each of the joined sides; at
least three posts, each post having a height, a lower end and an
upper end, the lower end of the post is coupled to one of the
corners of the base, upper ends of the post is coupled to one of
the corners of the top, at least one tray base coupled to the
posts, the tray base positioned between the lower end and the upper
end of the post, one tray for each tray base, the tray being
capable of resting on the tray base; wherein the at least one tray
base is coupled with the posts by means of a first pair and a
second pair of fasteners that allow the rotation of the tray base
with respect to the posts, wherein the first pair of fasteners are
adjacent and collinear to each other, wherein the first pair of
fasteners is positioned at a lower part of the at least one tray
base and in an internal part of the post; wherein the second pair
of fasteners are adjacent and collinear to each other, wherein the
second pair of fasteners is positioned at the upper part of the at
least one tray base and in the internal part of the post; and
wherein the coupling of the corners of the tray base is flexible,
allowing mobility of a first side of the base in relation to a
second side of the tray base, so that the sides of the tray base
may be rotated in relation to one another.
7. The showcase of claim 6, wherein the top is coupled to the upper
end of the posts and wherein the base is coupled to the lower end
of the posts by means of a first pair and a second pair of
fasteners that allow the base and top rotation respectively, with
respect to the posts, wherein the first pair of fasteners are
positioned adjacently and collinearly to each other, wherein the
first pair of fasteners is located at a lower part of the base and
of the top and at an internal part of the post; and wherein the
second pair of fasteners are positioned adjacently and collinearly
with each other, wherein the second pair of fasteners is located at
the upper part of the base and of the top and in an internal part
of the post.
8. The showcase according to claim 7, wherein the showcase
additionally includes a skirt that has a width slightly bigger than
the width of the showcase, in a way that the skirt can slide around
the showcase and that it surrounds the lower part of the
showcase.
9. A collapsible showcase with at least four faces for supporting
and displaying products, comprising: at least three posts, each
post having a height, a lower end and an upper end, the lower end
of the post is coupled to one of the corners of the base, the upper
end of the post is coupled to one of the corners of the top, at
least one tray base with at least three sides, each side with two
ends, each end of a first side is joined to another end of a second
side, forming corners between the ends of the sides of the tray
base, each corner of the tray base is coupled to the posts, each
corner has an interior part and an exterior part, wherein the
interior part is close to the center of the showcase and wherein
the exterior part is distant from the center of the showcase, the
at least one tray base is positioned between the lower end and the
upper end of the post, one tray for each tray base, the tray is
capable of resting on the tray base; wherein the coupling between
each of the corners of the at least one tray base is by means of a
first pair and a second pair of fasteners that allow the rotation
of a first side of the tray base with respect to the other sides of
the tray base, wherein the first pair of fasteners that are not
adjacent to one another, are proximate to the center of the corners
created between the adjacent sides; wherein the second pair of
fasteners that are not adjacent to one another, are proximate to
the exterior part of the corner between the adjacent sides; and
wherein the coupling of the corners of the tray base is flexible,
allowing mobility of a first side of the tray base in relation to a
second side of the tray base, so that the sides of the tray base
may be rotated in relation to one another.
10. The showcase of claim 9, wherein the showcase additionally
includes a base with at least three sides, each side with two ends,
each end of a first side is joined to another end of a second side,
forming corners between each of the joined sides; and a top with at
least three sides, each side with two ends, each end of a first
side is joined to another end of a second side, forming corners
between each of the joined sides.
11. The showcase of claim 9, wherein the showcase includes a skirt
capable of sliding around the showcase in order to form a ring at
the lower part of the showcase.
12. The showcase of claim 11, wherein the skirt occupies a third of
the height of the whole showcase.
13. A collapsible showcase with five faces for supporting and
displaying products, comprising: a base with three sides, each side
with a first end and a second end, each end of one side is joined
to another end of a second side, forming corners between each of
the joined sides; a top with three sides, each side with a first
end and a second end, each end of a side is joined to another end
of a second side, forming corners between each of the joined sides;
three posts, each post having a height, with a lower end and an
upper end, the lower end of the post is coupled to one of the
corners of the base, upper end of the post is coupled to one of the
corners of the top, at least one tray base with three sides, each
side with a first and second ends, each end of a first side is
joined to another end of a second side, forming corners between
each of the joined sides of the tray base, each corner of the tray
base coupled to the posts, the at least one tray base positioned
between the lower end and the upper end of the post, a tray for
each tray base, the tray is capable of resting on the tray base,
wherein the coupling between each of the corners of the at least
one tray base of is achieved by means of fasteners that allow the
rotation from one side of the tray base with respect to the other
sides of the tray base, and wherein a first side of the top, a
first side of the tray base collinear with the first side of the
top and a first side of the base collinear with the first top side,
have a fastener between the first and second ends of the top, tray
base and base, respectively, what that allows the rotation of the
first top side, of the first tray base side and of the first base
side towards the interior of the showcase; wherein the coupling of
the corners of the tray base is flexible, allowing mobility of a
first side of the tray base in relation to a second side of the
tray base, so that the sides of the tray base may be rotated in
relation to one another.
14. A collapsible showcase with at least four faces for supporting
and displaying products, comprising: at least one tray base with at
least three sides, each side with two ends, each end of a first
side is joined with another end of a second side forming corners
between each of the joined sides; at least three posts, each post
having a height, a lower end and an upper end, each post coupled to
at least one corner of the tray base, wherein the corners of the
tray base are located in a substantially similar height in each of
the posts; a tray for each tray base, the tray is capable of
resting on the tray base; wherein the coupling of the corners of
the tray base is flexible, allowing mobility of a first side of the
tray base in relation to a second side of the tray base so that the
sides of the tray base may be rotated in relation to one another.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention refers to product exhibiting
structures, and more specifically to showcases easy to assemble and
disassemble for the exhibition of products in a point of sale, and
even more specifically to showcases of products with at least one
tray to bear and exhibit products at the point of sale, and an
assembly and disassembly method of these showcases.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The constant population growth demands a production of large
volumes of products to be purchased. In the points of sale,
structures that make it possible to bear a large volume of products
in reduced space is required, without missing the primary detail of
exhibiting the product. The distributors of a consumable product
have a problem when it comes to how to set up a product on a
showcase rapidly and completely in the less time possible, and also
dealing with the showcase having the adequate capacity to bear
these consumable products that are being exhibited.
[0003] Producers try to solve these problems sending their products
packed in a structure that is capable of transporting and
exhibiting the products. While this is useful for certain products,
there are other products that have to be set up in situ due to the
kind of product or to the producer's preference.
[0004] These showcases are known in the art. For example, in the
American Publication No. 2009/050589, reference is made to a
product exhibiting system that can be assembled quickly and
provides an efficient display of the product. One of the modalities
of the exhibiting system includes a shelf, display or exhibition
trays, clips used to put up the exhibition trays with the shelf and
graphic components. The product is packed and transported inside
the exhibition trays, what allows the display of the exhibition
trays and the product without having to remove the product from the
trays. The clips are fixed to the shelf and they are removable,
what allows multiple configurations of the exhibition system
(showcase). The part of shelf of the exhibition system can be set
up quickly and it is collapsible when not in use. Additionally, the
shelf is easily movable, what makes it possible to place the shelf
in different positions. The graphic components provide space for
advertising and are available in a variety of figures and sizes in
order to improve the appearance of the exhibition system.
[0005] In the American Publication No. 2008/0190872 an assembly of
modular platform that includes a plurality of pile-up shelves is
released, each shelf has a plurality of supports and at least a
divider that extends adjacent to the vertical supports, these
adjacent vertical supports with space between them so they can
receive the product to be displayed. The vertical supports include
a plurality of grooves and dividers that include a blocking hook in
each opposite extreme, so that each blocking hook hitches a
corresponding groove in the adjacent vertical supports, defining so
the determined configuration of platform.
[0006] In the Mexican patent application No. PA/a/2005/011459, a
packing structure is revealed, and it is used for the containment,
transportation, exhibition and sale of the products in points of
sale, it is a kind of structure consisting of a cubical
three-dimensional frame composed of four angular posts in a
rectangular or quadrangular arrangement, which are put together by
their upper and lower extremes with angular crosspieces, generating
empty windows on all its faces; these angular posts and crosspieces
are made of compressed rigid cardboard and they have two identical
arms that define an "L" shape, disposed with their vertex towards
the interior of the structure; this structure is placed on the base
or dais, characterized because the joint between the angular posts
and crosspieces is given through structural angles that include a
flat surface with the shape of an octagonal square with a rounded
vertex on each side of the square projecting upwards and
perpendicularly a fixing flap of a substantially trapezoidal
section; these flaps and the flat section with a square shape
include holes through which the fixing devices are lodged in order
to fix the arms to the crosspieces posts; a rectangular tab is
provided exactly at the outer corner of the octagonal square.
[0007] The American Publication No. 2007/0000857 reveals an
adjustable exhibition platform and a method for the manufacture of
these platforms. In certain modalities, the platforms have a
platform base, corner columns and elements of expansion that can be
adapted to hold up individual products or trays for products.
Corner columns are attached to the platform base in the places or
positions desired. The expansion elements are inserted by means of
insertion elements into the corner columns. The insertion portions
are formed to receive and secure the extremes of the elements of
expansion. Tops for the extremes, rear panels and optional printed
panels can be provided in the platform showcase in order to improve
the visual aspects of the showcase, as well as to provide
additional marketing space.
[0008] The utility Mexican model No. 1434 reveals a display-packing
and self-standing supply showcase that allows the transportation of
the product contained from the manufacturer to the points of sale;
this self-standing pack has the peculiarity of containing and
exhibiting the product, and also that it is the place from where
the final customer can grab it at the moment of purchase. It is
characterized because it has angular posts that result in a
preferably quadrangular or rectangular configuration, with a
plurality of angular crosspieces that are jointed at their extremes
into the posts by means of fixing devices, generating a plurality
of perimetrical supports at a same level, at multiple heights and a
certain separation space; where panels for containment and
exhibition of several products are displayed, these panels are
superimposed or fixed with different devices on the angular
crosspieces that result from the perimetrical supports.
[0009] The American U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,281 reveals an exhibition
device used for the exhibition of goods, such as books and posters.
The exhibition device has four structures with rectangular
supports. Each support structure includes a base, a first lateral
wall, a second lateral wall, a first door with hinges on the first
lateral wall, a second door with hinges on the second lateral wall,
a rear wall, and a cover with hinges on the rear wall. Each lateral
wall has hinges with the lateral wall attached to one of the
support structures. At least one wheel is connected to the base of
each support structure. The exhibition device is mobile between an
opened position where the rear walls of the support structure
define an enclosed space and a closed position where the rear walls
of each support face the rear wall of the attached support
structure.
[0010] The American U.S. Pat. No. 5,896,995 reveals a
transportation container based on a platform and an exhibition
shelf that is capable of sustaining itself and it usually has a
square form. The container includes a platform base, a lower tray,
a half-partition within the tray, and a plurality of piled boxes at
each side of the partition on the tray. The partition has one or
more packing containers that can sustain a package that can be used
by consumers. In the loading configuration, the container is
shackled and closed with a top. In the exhibition configuration,
the top is removed and disposed of and an exhibition cardboard is
put up on the partition. The method used for loading and exhibiting
small products using the loading container based on a platform and
an exhibition shelf is also revealed.
[0011] The American U.S. Pat. No. 5,251,753 reveals
loading/exhibition units that include a number of container trays
of products piled vertically supporting dividers upwards that
maintain the separation between the product containers. When its
condition is that of loading, the lower tray is received in a
nestling position in the skirt of the platform that rests on a
loading platform made of conventional wood. Each tray has an
individual corner support element that stretches between the
adjacent pair of the trays separated vertically. A corner post that
stretches out to the unit's total height is positioned in each
corner of the unit in order to provide additional structural
support during the loading process. In order to improve the
exhibition platform's aesthetical appearance, the platform's skirt
can be bent reversibly so that it ends up against the vertical
sides of the platform and it is positioned by means of auxiliary
hooking latches and grooves formed on the lateral walls of the
platform's skirt. An exhibition insert that has two opposite feet
and a central latch can be positioned at the border of the upper
tray/divider to make the unit have a better aesthetic appearance
when the unit is in a display condition.
[0012] The American U.S. Pat. No. 4,705,162 reveals a packing for
the load and exhibition of multiple goods, as well as the assembly
method. The pack consists of a plurality of displays at the base of
the tray to which a sheet with two flaps is attached. A section of
cardboard in a T shape is placed upwards between the showcases and
it hooks them together by means of a kind of wing looking cover so
it can be handled free of damages. When the package arrives to its
final location, the section T is removed and the individual
showcases are transported to the point of sale.
[0013] The American U.S. Pat. No. 2,941,772 reveals a support of
tray for platform frames.
[0014] The Mexican industrial design No. 18192 reveals a showcase
with a cubic form and with intermediate trays.
[0015] Equally, there is the application No. PCT/IB2009/007103 by
the same applicant which reveals exhibition structures that can
have any geometric configuration, and their assembly and packing
method. A specific configuration for the posts is released, as well
as for the bases, the top and their possible modalities.
Essentially, the construction of the posts, the bases and the top
are similar in the present invention, taking into account their
modalities, reason for which a brief description will be given of
how the parts of the present invention can be constructed without
giving much detail of any of them, since it must be understood that
the construction of the parts can be essentially the same in the
present invention, therefore, everything mentioned in the
application is transcribed, literally written as if in the original
application.
[0016] None of the previous publications reveals a showcase that
can be of an undetermined size and that can be capable of
supporting the weight of the products that are being exhibited, and
that at the same time can be assembled and packed easily and
promptly, i.e. in a matter of seconds.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention reveals a showcase for products at a
point of sale, which can adopt almost any kind of geometric figure,
as long as the showcase is equipped with two faces substantially
flat and more specifically with a base adjustable to the floor.
These kind of geometric figures generally are polyhedrons of any
kind, like for example: tetrahedrons, pentahedrons, hexahedrons,
octahedrons, dodecahedrons, icosahedrons, icosidodecahedrons,
rhombic triacontahedrons, enlarged pentagonal cupolas, octagonal
prismas, deltahedrons, stelled polyhedrons, and zonohedrons, among
others. The figure of the showcase and the showcase itself is
comprised of a base, a top, a height, at least one tray, and at
least four faces.
[0018] The base is comprised of a number of sides. The sides of the
base are composed of at least one face, where the first face is
situated in a substantially horizontal plane; a second optional
face is substantially perpendicular to the first face, reason for
which the second face is situated in a substantially vertical
plane; optionally the sides of the base can have a substantially
tubular shape, where one or several grooves or slots at the front
part of the base are made, as well as at the upper part of the
base, where the mentioned grooves or slots have a certain dimension
that allow keeping the qualities of the base as a product that
supports freight and strain.
[0019] Optionally, the sides of the base can have an enlarged
hexahedral shape and it is possible to make slots lengthwise the
base with a certain dimension so that the base does not loose its
capacity to support freight and strain. If there are two faces of
the base present, these can have their vertex formed towards the
interior of the showcase. If there are two faces of the base, the
possibility of these faces having their vertex formed towards the
exterior of the showcase is not to be ruled out. The number of
sides of the base will depend directly on the number of faces
contained in the showcase. For example, if the showcase has four
faces, the base will have three sides; if the showcase has five
faces; the base will have at least three sides; if the showcase has
six or more faces, the base will have at least four sides. The
joint of each of the sides of the base makes up a corner. The sides
of the base can be put together permanently; however, in certain
modalities not all sides of the base are put together.
Specifically, it is required that at least two sides of the base
are jointed. In the cases where at least two sides of the base are
put together, a detachable joint means is required, and it must be
flexible enough so that it allows mobility of one side of the base
in regard to the other side of the base, this device could be a
rivet or a snap, so that the sides can rotate simultaneously in
opposite direction in a common axis in positions from 0 to
360.degree..
[0020] The top is composed of a number of sides of the top. The
sides of the top have at least one face, where the first face is in
a substantially horizontal plane; a second optional face is
substantially perpendicular to the first face, reason for which the
second face is in a substantially vertical plane; optionally the
sides of the top can have a substantially tubular shape, where one
or several grooves or slots are made at the lower part of the top,
where these grooves or slots must be of a certain dimension so that
the top does not loose its tensile qualities. Optionally, the sides
of the top can have an enlarged hexahedral shape and it is possible
to make grooves or slots at the lower part of the top, with a
certain dimension so that the top does not loose its tensioning
capacity. If both faces of the top are present, these can have
their vertex formed towards the interior of the showcase. If there
are two faces of the top present, the possibility of them having
their vertex formed towards the exterior of the showcase is not to
be ruled out. The number of sides of the top will depend directly
on the number of faces that the showcase has. For example, if the
showcase has four faces, the top will have three sides; if the
showcase has five faces, the top will have at least three sides; if
the showcase has six or more faces, the top will have at least four
sides. The joint of each of the sides of the top forms a corner.
The sides of the top can be put together permanently; however, in
certain modalities not all sides of the base are jointed.
Specifically, it is required that at least two sides of the top are
put together. In the joints of the at least two sides of the top
that are put together, a detachable joint means is required, and it
must be flexible enough so that it allows mobility of one side of
the top in regard to the other side of the top, such means could be
a rivet or a snap so that the sides can rotate simultaneously in
opposite direction in a common axis in positions from 0 to
360.degree.. Optionally, the top can be substituted by at least two
turnbuckles forming a cross, or at least two turnbuckles parallel
to each other.
[0021] The height is composed of at least three posts. The number
of posts is directly computable given the number of corners of the
base. That is, if the base has three corners, three posts are
required; if the base has four or more corners, the number of posts
required is of at least four posts. The posts consist of two faces
on a Z and W plane, considering that the face of the sides of the
base is on an X plane, where a first face of the post is
substantially perpendicular to a second face of the post;
optionally, the post can have a substantially tubular or enlarged
hexahedral shape, where it is required that this substantially
tubular or enlarged hexahedral shape has at least one slot or
groove lengthwise the post, where the at least one slot or groove
must be facing towards the interior of the showcase, where the at
least one of the mentioned slots or grooves has a certain dimension
so that the post does not loose its tensile qualities. In the
embodiment of the faces, both faces of the posts must have their
vertex formed towards the interior of the showcase. The angle
created between the faces of the posts must be substantially
similar to the angle created by the corners of the sides of the
base. The post is comprised of two extremes; a first extreme of the
post can be fastened onto or jointed with the base somehow
described in the art. A second extreme of the post can be fastened
onto or jointed with the top or the turnbuckles somehow described
in the art.
[0022] Between the first extreme of the post and a second extreme
of the post, there is at least a base of tray. The number of bases
of tray can or cannot depend on the height of the posts. The number
of bases of tray can or cannot depend on the number of trays to be
set up on the showcase. The bases of tray are coupled with the
posts by any detachable means of joint.
[0023] The base of the tray has a determined number of sides, where
this number of sides of the base of the tray can or cannot depend
directly on the number of faces that the showcase has. For example,
if the showcase has four faces, the base of tray will have at least
three sides, if the showcase has five faces, the base of the tray
will have at least three sides; if the showcase has six or more
faces, the base of the tray will have at least four sides. However,
it is possible that if the showcase has six faces, the number of
sides of the base of tray can be larger. For example, if the
showcase has six faces, the base of the tray can have at least
twelve faces, then forming a dodecahedron. The sides of the base of
the tray have at least one face, where the face is in a
substantially horizontal plane; a second optional face is
substantially perpendicular to the first face, reason for which the
second face is in a substantially vertical plane; optionally, the
sides of the base of the tray can have a substantially tubular
shape, where a groove or slot is made in the interior part of the
base of the tray, where these grooves or slots have a certain
dimension that allow to maintain the qualities of the base of the
tray as a loading product. Optionally, the base of the tray can
have an enlarged hexahedral shape concerning all its sides, and
slots can be made longwise the base of the tray with a certain
dimension so that this base does not loose its loading capacity.
The joint of each of the sides of the bases of the tray forms a
corner. The sides of the bases of the trays can be put together
permanently; however, in certain modalities not all sides of the
bases of the trays are jointed. Specifically, it is required that
at least two sides of the bases of the trays are put together. For
the joints of at the least two sides of the tray bases that are put
together, a detachable joint means is required, it must be flexible
enough in order to allow mobility of one side of the base of the
tray with regard to the other side of the base of the tray, such
could be a rivet or a snap, so that the sides can rotate
simultaneously in opposite direction in a common axis in positions
from 0 to 360.degree..
[0024] The shelves have a substantially similar shape as that of
the base of the trays when the bases of the trays are in an
assembled position. The number of sides of the shelf will depend
directly on number of sides of the base of the tray. The shelf is
preferably made of only one piece of material which is preferably
uniform and smooth. The size of the shelf (area) is given by the
size of the base and of the top indirectly, and by the size of the
base of the tray, directly. It is required that the size of the
shelf is such that it can rest on or nestle against the base of the
tray and it is also required that the size of the shelf is
demarcated, possibly when in contact with the base of the tray.
[0025] Depending on the shape of the showcase, the showcase can
have at least three faces. These faces can be substantially hollow
or substantially solid. If the faces are substantially solid, one
can make use of this substantially solid face to put up advertising
on the showcase, what means that the showcase has a kind of
clothing or casing advertising some product. If the faces are
substantially solid, this solidity can be achieved by an element
positioned vertically, that can be put together to the exterior
part of the post. The element can be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible.
The element can be coupled with the posts by any existing means of
joint. Preferably, a means of permanent joint is not required or
recommended, but rather a removable joint, because a subsequent
uncoupling will be required between the joint element and the
posts.
[0026] And so, with this configuration, the tray may have a
substantial size, as well a substantial load at the same time,
being it stable and self-standing enough to load the products
regardless of the size (area) covered by the tray and also having
enough flexibility to be assembled and packed quickly.
[0027] This way, an objective of the present invention can be to
provide a showcase that can be substantially big in size compared
to other showcases and that can support the load of the product in
spite of the tray's surface, and at the same time provide a
showcase that can be easily assembled and packed just like a
showcase of a smaller size.
[0028] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
showcase that can contain a substantially heavy load of products
and bear the load of the product despite the surface of the tray,
and at the same time that can be easily assembled and packed.
[0029] Also, another object of the invention is to provide a
showcase that is structurally sturdy and at the same time is easy
to assemble and pack.
[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
showcase substantially flexible as for its assembly and its
usefulness.
[0031] And yet another object of the present invention is the
assembly method for the showcase mentioned above.
[0032] And still one more object of the present invention is a
packing method for the showcase.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0033] The particular characteristics and advantages of the
invention, as well as other objects of the invention, will be
apparent in the following description, given together with the
attached figures, which are:
[0034] FIG. 1 is a conventional exploded perspective view of a
first embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a conventional perspective view of the assembly of
the showcase, in a first step of the first embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a conventional perspective view of the assembly,
in a second step of a first embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a conventional perspective view of the first
embodiment of the invention.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a conventional perspective view of three showcases
of the first embodiment, while being put together or assembled.
[0039] FIG. 6 is a conventional perspective view of three showcases
of the first embodiment once put together.
[0040] FIG. 7 is a conventional perspective view of the top and the
base in a second embodiment of the invention.
[0041] FIG. 8 is a conventional exploded perspective view in the
second embodiment of the invention.
[0042] FIG. 9 is a conventional perspective view of a first step of
assembly in the second embodiment of the invention.
[0043] FIG. 10 is a conventional perspective view of the second
embodiment of the invention.
[0044] FIG. 11 is an upper view of the first step of assembly in
the second embodiment of the invention
[0045] FIG. 12 is an upper view of the second step of assembly in
the second embodiment of the invention.
[0046] FIG. 13 is a conventional perspective view of a third
embodiment of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 14 is a conventional perspective view of the packing
process in the third embodiment of the invention.
[0048] FIG. 15 is a view in detail of FIG. 14.
[0049] FIG. 16 is a conventional perspective view of the third
embodiment of the invention in packed position.
[0050] FIG. 17 is a conventional perspective view of a fourth
embodiment of the invention.
[0051] FIG. 17a is an upper view of the fourth embodiment of the
invention.
[0052] FIG. 18 is a conventional perspective view of a first step
of packing in the fourth embodiment of the invention.
[0053] FIG. 18a is a view in detail of FIG. 18.
[0054] FIG. 18b is an upper view of the first packing step in the
fourth embodiment of the invention.
[0055] FIG. 19 is a conventional perspective view of a second step
of the packing process in the fourth embodiment of the
invention.
[0056] FIG. 19a is an upper view of the second step of the packing
process in the fourth embodiment of the invention.
[0057] FIG. 20 is a conventional perspective view of the fourth
embodiment of the invention in a packed position.
[0058] FIG. 20a is an upper view of the fourth embodiment of the
invention in a packed position.
[0059] FIG. 21 is a conventional perspective view of a
sub-embodiment in the fourth embodiment of the invention in a first
step of the unpacking process.
[0060] FIG. 22 is a conventional perspective view of a
sub-embodiment in the fourth embodiment of the invention in a
second step of the unpacking process.
[0061] FIG. 23 is a conventional perspective of a sub-embodiment in
the fourth embodiment of the invention in a third step of the
unpacking process.
[0062] FIG. 24 is a conventional perspective view of a
sub-embodiment in the fourth embodiment of the invention in a
fourth step of the unpacking process.
[0063] FIG. 25 is a conventional perspective of a sub-embodiment in
a fourth embodiment already assembled.
[0064] FIG. 26 is a conventional perspective view of the base of
the sub-embodiment in the third and fourth modalities.
[0065] FIG. 27 is a conventional perspective view of the showcase
in a sub-embodiment of a third embodiment in a first step of the
assembly process.
[0066] FIG. 28 is a conventional perspective view of the showcase
in a sub-embodiment of the fourth embodiment in a first step of the
assembly process.
[0067] FIG. 29 is a conventional perspective view of the showcase
in a sub-embodiment of the third or fourth embodiment in a second
step of the assembly process.
[0068] FIG. 30 is a conventional perspective view of the showcase
in a sub-embodiment of the third or fourth modalities already
assembled.
[0069] FIG. 31 is a conventional perspective view of the fourth
embodiment of the invention being packed.
[0070] FIG. 32 is a conventional perspective view of the third
embodiment of the invention being packed.
[0071] FIG. 33 is a view in detail of the fasteners in the third
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0072] The present invention reveals a showcase 1 for products in a
point of sale, which can adopt almost any kind of geometric figure,
provided that the showcase has two substantially smooth faces and
more specifically it is required that the base may be coupled to
the floor. This kind of geometric figures are in general
polyhedrons of any kind, for example: tetrahedrons, pentahedrons,
hexahedrons, octahedrons, dodecahedrons, icosahedrons,
icosidodecahedrons, rhombic triacontahedrons, elongated pentagonal
cupolas, octagonal prisms, deltahedrons, stelled polyhedrons and
zonohedrons, among others, where the tetrahedrons, pentahedrons,
hexahedrons and octahedrons are often preferred.
[0073] The showcase 1 usually consists of a base 10, a top 20, a
height, at least one tray 30 and at least four faces, including the
face of the base 10 and of the top 20.
[0074] The materials used to make the showcase 1 can vary, however,
strong materials are preferred, materials that do not bend easily
but have certain flexibility. A few examples are plastics like
polystyrenes, PVC, high density polyethylenes, polypropylenes, PET,
etc., wood, metals that tend to have certain flexibility,
cardboard, corrugated cardboard, etc.
First Embodiment
[0075] In this first embodiment of the present invention reference
will be made to figures from 1 to 6.
[0076] The base 10 is comprised of a number of sides 11. The sides
11 of the base 10 have at least one face 12, where the face 12 is
situated in a substantially horizontal plane; a second optional
face 13 is substantially perpendicular to the face 12, reason why
the second face 13 is situated in a substantially vertical plane;
optionally, the sides 11 of the base 10 can have a substantially
tubular shape, where several grooves or slots are made at the front
part of the base 10 as well as at the upper part of the base 10,
where such grooves or slots have a certain dimension that makes it
possible to maintain the qualities of the base as a product that
supports freight and strain. Optionally, the sides 11 of the base
10 can have an elongated hexahedral shape and slots can be made
lengthwise the base with a certain dimension so that the base 10
does not loose its capacity to support freight and strain. If there
are two faces 12, 13 of the base 10, these can have their vertex
formed towards the interior of the showcase 1. When having both
faces 12, 13 of the present base 10, the possibility of them having
their vertex formed towards the exterior of the showcase 1 is not
to be ruled out. The number of sides 11 of the base 10 will depend
directly on the number of faces 40 that the showcase 1 has. For
example, if the showcase 1 has four faces 40, the base 10 will have
three sides 11; if the showcase 1 has five faces 40, the base 10
will have at least three sides 11; if the showcase 1 has six or
more faces 40, the base 10 will have at least four sides 11. The
joint of each of the sides 11 of the base makes up a corner 14. The
corners of the base 10 are permanently jointed. In the joints of
the corners 14 of the base 10, a detachable means of joint is
required, it has to be flexible enough in order to allow mobility
of one side 11 of the base 10 with regard to the other side 11' of
the base 10, so that the sides 11, 11' can be rotated
simultaneously in opposite direction in a common axis in positions
from 0 to 360.degree.. Specifically, fasteners are placed, such as
rivets or snaps, in the corners 14 on the face 12. The fasteners
must be placed in such way that they allow the rotation of one side
11 with regard to the other side 11'. It is required that a first
pair of fasteners 65 that are crossed, that is, a first pair of
fasteners 65 that are not adjacent to each other, have to be at a
same point on the corners 14, 14', while a second pair of crossed
fasteners 65' is situated at a second point on the corners 14',
14'''. This means that the first pair of fasteners 65 must not be
collinear with the second pair of fasteners 65'.
[0077] The first pair of fasteners 65 is off center with respect to
the center of the face 12, consequently with respect to the center
of the side 11 and with respect to the center of the base 10. The
position of the first pair of fasteners 65 is off center at the
interior part of the corners 14, 14'', while the position of the
second pair of fasteners 65 is at the exterior part of the corners
14', 14''', and is also off center. This lack of collinearity
between the first pair and the second pair of fasteners 65 allows
the rotation of the base 10, specifically of the side 11 in regard
to the side 11'' and of the side 11' in regard to the side
11'''.
[0078] The top 20 consists of a number of sides 21. The sides 21 of
the top 20 are comprised of at least one face 22, where the face 22
is situated in a substantially horizontal plane; an optional second
face 23 is substantially perpendicular to the face 22, and this is
why the second face 23 is situated in a substantially vertical
plane; optionally, the sides 21 of the top 20 can have a
substantially tubular shape, where several grooves or slots are
made at the lower part of the top 20, where these grooves or slots
must be of a certain dimension so that the top 20 does not loose
its tensile qualities. Optionally, the sides 21 of the top 20 can
adopt an elongated hexahedral shape and grooves and slots can be
made at the lower part of the top 20, with a certain dimension so
that the top 20 does not loose it tightening capacity. If there are
two faces 22, 23 present at the top 20, these can have their vertex
formed towards the interior of the showcase 1. The number of sides
21 of the top 20 will depend directly on the number of faces 40
that the showcase 1 has. For example, if the showcase 1 has four
faces 40, the top 20 will have three sides 21; if the showcase 1
has five faces 40, the top 20 will have at least three sides 21; if
the showcase 1 has six or more faces 40, the top 20 will have at
least four sides 21. The joint of each of the sides 21 of the top
20 forms a corner 24. The corners 24 of the top 20 are permanently
jointed, and it is required to have a detachable means of joint
that is flexible enough in order to allow mobility of one side 21
of the top 20 with regard to the other side 21' of the top 20, so
that the sides 21, 21' can be rotated simultaneously in opposite
direction in a common axis in positions from 0 to 360.degree. .
Specifically, fasteners are placed and these can be rivets or snaps
in the corners 24 on the face 22. The fasteners must be placed in a
way that they allow the rotation of one side 21 with regard to the
other side 21'. It is required that a first pair of fasteners 65
are crossed, that is, a first pair of fasteners 65 that are not
adjacent to each other and that are positioned at the same point on
the corners 24, 24'', while a second pair of crossed fasteners 65'
is positioned at a second point on the corners 24', 24'''. This
means that the first pair of fasteners 65 must not be collinear
with the second pair of fasteners 65'.
[0079] The first pair of fasteners 65 are off center in regard to
the center of the face 22, and consequently in regard to the center
of the side 21 and in regard to the center of the top 20. The
position of the first pair of fasteners 65 is off center, located
at the interior part of the corners the 24, 24'', while the
position of the second pair of fasteners 65' is located at the
exterior part of the corners 24', 24''', and is also off center.
This lack of collinearity between the first pair and second pair of
fasteners 65 allows the rotation of the top 20, specifically the
rotation of the side 21 with respect to the side 21''' and of the
side 21' with respect to the side 21''.
[0080] Optionally, the top 20 can be substituted with at least two
turnbuckles forming a cross, or at least two turnbuckles parallel
to each other.
[0081] Optionally, neither the base 10 nor the top 20 or at least
one of them are capable of rotating. This is because the joints
between the sides are permanent, but the fasteners 65 are such that
they do not allow the rotation between the parts.
[0082] The height is conformed by at least three posts 50. The
number of posts is directly calculable by the number of corners 14
of the base 10. That is, if the base 10 has three corners 14, three
posts 50 are required; if the base 10 has four or more corners 14,
at least four posts 50 are required. The posts 50 are composed of
two faces 51, 52 in a Z and W plane, taking into consideration that
the face 12 of the sides of the base 10 is in an X plane, where a
first face 51 of the post 50 is substantially perpendicular to a
second face 52 of the post 50; optionally, the post 50 can have a
substantially tubular shape or an elongated hexahedral shape, where
it is required that this substantially tubular or elongated
hexahedral shape has at least one slot or groove lengthwise the
mentioned post 50, where this at least one slot or groove must be
facing towards the interior of the showcase 1, and where this at
least one slot or groove has a certain dimension so that the post
does not loose its loading capacity. In the embodiment of faces 51,
52, both faces of the posts must have their vertex formed towards
the interior of the showcase 1. The angle created between the faces
51, 52 of the posts 50 must be substantially similar to the angle
created by the corners of the sides 11 of the base 10. The post 50
consists of two extremes 53, 54, a first extreme 53 of the post 50
that can be gripped onto or jointed with the base 10 some way
described in the art. A second extreme 54 of the post 50 can be
gripped onto or jointed with the top 20 or the turnbuckles some way
described in the art.
[0083] Between the first extreme 53 of the post 50 and a second
extreme 54 of the post 50, there is at least a base 31 of tray 30.
The number of bases 31 of tray can or cannot depend on the height
of the posts 50. The number of bases 31 of tray can or cannot
depend of the number of trays 30 that will be put up on the
showcase 1. The base 31 of the tray consists of a certain number of
sides 32, where this number of sides 32 of the base 31 depends
directly on the number of posts 50 that the showcase 1 has. For
example, if the showcase 1 has three or four posts 50, the base 31
of the tray will have at least two sides 32; if the showcase 1 has
five or six posts 50, the base 31 of the tray will have at least
three sides 32; if the showcase 1 has seven or eight posts 50, the
base 31 of the tray will have at least four sides 32. The extremes
of the sides 32 of the bases 31 of tray are coupled with the posts
50 by any means of detachable joint. Specifically, the joint of at
least one side 32 of the base 31 of tray with two posts 50 close to
each other is required. The sides 32 of the base 31 of the tray are
comprised of at least one face 33 in a substantially horizontal
plane; an optional second face 34 is substantially perpendicular to
the first face 33, reason why the second face 34 is in a
substantially vertical plane. Optionally the sides 32 of the base
31 of the tray may have a substantially tubular or elongated
hexahedral shape, where a groove or slot is made in the interior
part of the sides 32 of the base 31 of the tray, where these
grooves or slots have a certain dimension that allows the qualities
of the base 31 of the tray to remain as that of a loading product.
The joint of each of the extremes of the sides 32 of the base 31 of
the tray with the adjacent posts 50 forms a shelf 60. The sides 32
of the bases 31 of the trays are permanently jointed with the posts
50. Specifically, it is required that the extremes of at least one
first side 32 of the base 31 of the tray is jointed with a pair of
posts 50 that are adjacent to each other, while the extremes of at
least a second side 32' of the base of the tray is jointed with a
second pair of posts 50 that are adjacent to each other, where the
first pair and the second pair of posts 50 can be sharing a post
50. The joint of the side 32 with the posts 50 must be a detachable
joint without mobility.
[0084] The number of sides of a tray 30 will depend directly on the
sides of the base 31 of the tray. The tray 30 is preferably made of
only one piece of material, which is preferably smooth and uniform.
The size of the tray (area) 30 is given by the size of the base 10
and the top 20 indirectly, and by the distance between the sides of
the base 31 of the tray, directly. It is required that the size of
the tray 30 is such that it can rest on or nestle against the base
31 of the tray and that the size of the tray 30 is demarcated,
possibly in contact with the base 31 of the tray. The tray 30 can
have some wings 35, in such way that these wings 35 have the same
function as the second face 34 of the sides 32 of the base 31 of
the tray, in the spaces where there is no second face 34 of the
sides 32 of the base 31 of the tray.
[0085] To assemble the showcase, if it has a base with three sides
11, one corner 14 of the base 10 has to be rotated with respect to
the other corner 14, in such manner that a triangle is formed. If
the base has four sides 11, a first pair of corners 14, 14'' of the
base 10 is rotated with respect to a second pair of corners 14',
14''', in such way that they form a rectangle or a quadrangle
approximately. If the base has five of more sides 11, a first pair
of corners 14 of the base 10 are rotated with respect to a second
pair of corners 14, in such manner that a pentagon, a hexagon or
something similar and approximate is formed.
[0086] The same operation is carried out with the top 20, if the
top 20 is not substituted with crossed turnbuckles or parallel
turnbuckles.
[0087] Once the base is assembled, the first extremes 53 of a first
pair of adjacent posts 50 is inserted, jointed by the base 31 of
the tray 30, this is, the first extremes 53 of a first shelf 60 in
a first and a second corner of the face 12 of two sides 11 of the
base 10. This joint can be given by a means described in the art.
For example, in the PCT/IB2009/007103, some squares that could be
used in this present invention are released. In the same way,
grooves and slots are revealed that are similar to those of the
extreme of the post 50 so that the extreme 53 of the post 50 can be
coupled with the face 12. If it concerns a base 10 with three sides
11, the first extreme 53 of another post 50 is inserted in a third
corner of the face 12 of the free side 11 of the base 10, or it is
also possible to think of a shelf 60 with three posts. If it
concerns a base 10 with four sides 11, the first extremes 53 of a
second shelf 60 are inserted into a third and fourth corner of the
face 12 of the sides 11 of the base 10. If it concerns a base 10 of
more than four sides 11, depending on if the number of sides 11 is
an even or an odd number, the shelves 60 or posts 50 are inserted
respectively, until all the corners 14 of the base 10 are held
together with a post.
[0088] The shelves 60 and the posts 50 are held by some means,
placed accordingly with the base 10 in vertical position.
[0089] The tray 30 is placed in a way that the shelf rests on or
nestles against the face 33 of the sides 32 of the base 31 of tray
the 30. Due to the fact that the tray 30 has a triangular,
rectangular, quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc. shape, and
because the tray is made of only one piece of rigid material, when
placing the tray 30 in order for it to rest on or nestles against
the face 33, the tray 30 will force the base 10 to take shape
accordingly with the shape of the tray 30.
[0090] Finally, the top 20 or the turnbuckles are placed, with the
object of tightening the showcase. The second extremes 54 of a
first shelf 60 are jointed with the face 22 of the top 20. This
joint can be given by a means described in the art, as is the case
in PCT/IB2009/007103.
[0091] As we can observe in FIGS. 5 and 6, the showcases 1 can be
placed close to each other so that they give the illusion of a
showcase with the desired measures.
Second Embodiment
[0092] In this second embodiment of the present invention we will
make reference to figures from 7 to 12.
[0093] The construction of the parts in this second embodiment is
essentially similar to the construction of the parts in the first
embodiment. Specifically, the construction of the base 10, of the
top 20, of the bases 31 of trays and of the posts 50 is essentially
the same. The construction of the joint between a base 31 of the
tray and two adjacent posts 50, this is, the construction of the
shelves 60, is similar.
[0094] Specifically, with the shelves 60, a second side 32' of tray
is put together, in a way that the joint between this second side
32' with respect to the first side 32 of the tray and with respect
to the post 50 is made by a detachable means of joint, however, it
has to be flexible enough in order to allow mobility of the second
side 32' with regard to the first side 32 and with regard to the
post 50, so that the sides 32, 32' can be rotated simultaneously in
opposite direction in a common axis in positions from approximately
0.degree. to 90.degree., in the case in which the posts 50 have two
faces 51, 52; however, if the posts 50 have a tubular shape of an
elongated hexahedral shape, the grooves or slots provided in these
posts 50 may allow the rotation of the second side 32' in relation
with the first side 32 in positions of approximately from 0.degree.
to more than 90.degree..
[0095] This way, a same shelf 60 can have two sides 32 of the base
31 of the tray. This joint between the first side and the second
side 32' can be achieved with a fastener, such as a rivet or
snap.
[0096] The tray 30 may have some wings 35, in a manner that the
wings 35 have the same function as that of the second face 34 of
the sides 32 of the base 31 of the tray, in the spaces where there
is not a second face 34 of the sides 32 of the base 31 of the tray.
However, if the base 31 of the tray has two faces 33, 34, the wings
are not necessary.
[0097] The assembly method is essentially the same as the one used
in the first embodiment. Specifically, the way to assemble the base
and the top, this last one being replaceable by turnbuckles, is the
same.
[0098] Once the base is assembled, the first extremes 53 of a first
pair of adjacent posts 50 are inserted; they are jointed through
the base 31 of the tray 30, that is, the first extremes 53 of a
first shelf 60 in a first and second corner of the face 12 of the
sides 11 of the base 10. This joint can be given by a means
described in the art. For example, in the PCT/IB2009/007103, some
squares are revealed that could be used in the present invention.
In the same way, grooves or slots are revealed in a similar form as
that of the extreme of the post 50 so that the extreme 53 of the
post 50 may be coupled with the face 12. If it concerns a base 10
with three sides 11, the first extreme 53 of another post 50 is
inserted into a third corner of the face 12 of the free side 11 of
the base 10, or else it is possible to think of a shelf with three
posts 50. If it concerns a base 10 with four sides 11, the first
extremes 53 of a second shelf 60 are inserted into a third and
fourth corner of the face 12 of the sides 11 of the base 10. If the
base 10 has more than four sides 11, depending on whether the
number of sides is a an even or an odd number, shelves 60 or posts
50 are inserted respectively, until all the corners 14 of the base
10 are put together with a post 50.
[0099] The second side 32' is rotated with respect to the first
side 32 and with respect with to the post 50, until the second base
32 of tray bumps into the adjacent post 50 of the opposite shelf
60. Optionally, the second side 32' can be rotated some degrees
depending on the quantity of posts 50 to be placed, hence the
quantity of corners 14 of the base 10. In any of both cases, the
second side 32' is rotated to a point where the second side 32' can
bump into the adjacent post 50 of the opposite shelf 60 once the
shelves are assembled. The same operation is carried out with the
opposite shelf 60.
[0100] The shelves 60 and the posts 50 placed with respect to the
base 10 in vertical position are held up by some means.
[0101] The tray 30 is placed so that the shelf rests on or nestles
against the face 33 of the sides 32 of the base 31 of tray 30. Due
to the fact that the tray 30 has triangular, rectangular,
quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc. shape, and because the
tray is made of only one rigid piece, when placing the tray 30 in
order for it to rest on or nestle against the face 33, the tray 30
will force the base 10 to take shape accordingly with the shape of
the tray 30.
[0102] Finally, the top 20 or the turnbuckles are placed with the
finality of tightening the showcase. The second extremes 54 of a
first shelf 60 are put together with the face 22 of the top 20.
This joint can be achieved by a means described in the art, as is
the case in patent PCT/IB2009/007103.
[0103] The rotation point between the second side 32' with respect
to the first side 32 and with respect to the post 50 can be
substantially centered or off center. These rotation points can
meet in a collinear manner with the rotation point of the base, if
there were such.
[0104] In this embodiment it is preferable that the base 31 of tray
that rotates is the base 31 with lesser length. This means, in the
case that the showcase were a hexahedron, and more specifically for
example, if it had a shape similar to a cuboid, it is preferable
that the bases 31 of the trays that are jointed with the two posts
50 forming a shelf 60 are the bases 31 of the trays that have
greater length, while the bases 31 of the trays that can rotate in
relation with the bases 31 between the posts 50 should be those
that have lesser length. In the case of cubes or truncated pyramids
for example, given that the length of the bases 31 is substantially
the same, it is not relevant which base 31 can rotate or not and
which base 31 is between the two posts 50 forming a shelf 60.
Third Embodiment
[0105] Another embodiment of the present invention is referred to
in figures from 13 to 16, 32 and 33.
[0106] As in the first modalities, the construction of the showcase
1 is substantially similar. The base 10, the top 20 and the posts
50 are substantially the same concerning their construction and
their number, as in the first and second modalities.
[0107] However, unlike the first and second modalities, all the
sides 32 of the bases 31 of the trays are directly coupled with the
posts 50. The number of sides 32 of the bases 31 of tray is similar
to that in the second embodiment, except that, due to the fact that
all the sides 32 are coupled with a post, the sides 32 do not have
any mobility with respect to the adjacent sides 32', 32'' and with
respect to the first pair of posts 55, but instead, they have
mobility with respect to the opposite side 32''', with respect to
the second pair of posts 56, as well as with the base 31 that is
located at the upper or lower part.
[0108] This is, the coupling between the bases 31 of the trays and
the posts 50, is made by means of a fastener 65 that allows the
rotation of the base 31 with respect to the posts 50. As we can
observe in FIG. 15, it is required that a first pair 66 of adjacent
fasteners 65 are placed collinearly with one another, while a
second pair 67 of adjacent fasteners 65, which are collinear with
one another, should not be collinear with the first pair 66 of
fasteners 65.
[0109] Specifically, the first pair 66 of fasteners 65 is centered
with respect to the base 31 and with respect to the post 50. The
position of the first pair 66 of fasteners 65 is at the lower part
of the base 31 of the trays and in the most internal part of the
post 50, specifically in the most internal part of the second face
52 of the post or the tube or the elongated hexahedron. The
position of the second pair 67 of fasteners 65 is at the upper part
of the base 31 of tray and in the most internal part of the post
50, specifically in the most internal part of the second face 52 of
the post 50 or the tube or the elongated hexahedron. This lack of
collinearity between the first pair 66 and the second pair 67 of
fasteners 65 allows the rotation in order to fold down the base 31
of the tray in relation with the other bases 31, i.e. the bases 31
that are positioned at the upper or lower part, and accordingly
with the post 50.
[0110] In this embodiment, the provided props 37 are also
collapsible. Specifically, a prop 37 is fixed on the sides 32,
32''' and a second prop 37' is fixed on the sides 32, 32'' of the
base 31 of the tray. In the center of the prop there is a fastener
65 that allows the rotation of both parts of the prop 37, 37'.
Consequently, when the showcase 1 is rotated towards a folded
position, the prop 37, 37' is also rotated into a folded position.
Equally, when the showcase is rotated towards an unfolded position,
the prop 37, 37' is rotated into an unfolded position.
[0111] The assembly method is essentially similar to that of the
first and second modalities. Specifically, the way to assemble the
base and the top, which can be substituted with turnbuckles, is the
same.
[0112] Once the base is assembled, the first extremes 53 of a first
pair 55 of posts 50 is inserted in a first and second corner of the
face 12 of the sides 11 of the base 10. This joint can be achieved
by means described in the art. For example, in patent
PCT/IB2009/007103, squares that could be used in the present
invention are revealed. In the same way, grooves and slots are also
released; they have a similar shape to those of the extreme post 50
so that the extreme 53 of the post 50 can be coupled with the face
12. If it concerns a base 10 with three sides 11, it is rotated in
order to fold down the opposite post 50, as well as the base 31 of
the tray with respect to the first pair 55 of posts 50, and the
first extreme 53 of the post 50 is inserted in a third corner of
the face 12 of the free side 11 of the base 10. If we have a base
10 with four sides 11, it is rotated in order to fold down the
second pair of posts 56, as well as the base 31 of the tray with
respect to the first pair 55 of the post 50, and the first extremes
53 of a second pair 56 of posts 50 are inserted in a third and
fourth corner of the face 12 of the sides 11 of the base 10. If it
concerns a base 10 with more than four sides 11, depending on
whether the number of sides is an even or an odd number, they are
rotated so that they fold down and the posts 50 are inserted until
all the corners of the base 10 are put together with a post.
[0113] The tray 30 is placed in a way that the shelf rests on or
nestles against the face 33 of the sides 32 of the base 31 of the
tray 30. Due to the fact that the tray 30 has a triangular,
rectangular, quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc., shape, and
because the tray is made of only one rigid piece, when placing the
tray 30 in order for it to rest on or nestle against the face 33,
the tray 30 will force the base 10 to take shape accordingly with
the shape of the tray 30. Finally, the top 20 or the turnbuckles
are placed, with the object of tightening the showcase. The second
extremes 54 of a first shelf 60 are jointed with the face 22 of the
top 20. This joint can be achieved by means described in the art,
as is the case in patent PCT/IB2009/007103.
[0114] This embodiment allows the packing of the showcase 1 in
vertical positions with respect to its assembly state. This means,
the packing position reduces the volume of the showcase 1; however,
it increases the height of the showcase 1 because a shelf 60 has
greater height with respect to a second shelf 60.
[0115] This embodiment is easy to pack for its skillful and quick
transportation, and showcases occupy not much space and can be
piled one on top of the other.
Fourth Embodiment
[0116] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in
figures from 17 to 20, and 31.
[0117] Just as in the first two modalities, the construction of the
showcase 1 is substantially similar. The base 10, the top 20 and
the posts 50 are substantially the same concerning construction and
number as in the first and second modalities.
[0118] The construction of the bases 31 of the trays with respect
to the posts 50 is substantially the same as in the third
embodiment of the invention. However, instead of having mobility
with respect to the upper and lower bases 31, there is mobility
with respect to the sides 32 of the bases 31. The side 32 has a
certain mobility with respect to the adjacent and opposite sides
32', 32'', 32''' as well as with respect to the first pair 55 of
posts 50.
[0119] This means, the fasteners 65 are off center in a way that
they allow the rotation of the sides 32', 32'', 32''' and of a
first pair 55 of posts 50 with respect to the other side 32 and
with respect to the second pair 56 of posts 50.
[0120] As observed in FIG. 17a, it is required that a first pair 66
of crossed fasteners 65, that is, fasteners 65 that are not
positioned adjacently, are at a same first point on the face 33,
while a second pair 67 of adjacent fasteners 65, that are also
crossed, are at a second point on the face 33, a second point that
is not similar to the first point.
[0121] Specifically, the first pair 66 of fasteners 65 is off
center with respect to the base 31 and with respect to the face 33.
The location of the first pair 66 of fasteners 65 is proximate to
the center of the intersection or corner 36 created between the
sides 32, 32', as well as in the center of the intersection or
corner 36' created between the sides 32'', 32'''. The location of
the second pair 66 of fasteners 65 is located proximate to the
external corner of the intersection or corner 36'' created between
the sides 32', 32'', and is also proximate to the external corner
of the intersection or corner 36''' created between the sides 32,
32'''. The off centre position of the second pair 67 of fasteners
65 allows the free rotation of the sides 32'-32''' with respect to
the side 32. Additionally, it is possible that at least two corners
36, 36', for example, the corners that have the first pair 66 of
fasteners 65, are truncated, that is, that the side 32 is not
conformed by exact angles of 90.degree., but that at least one of
these angles is divided in two parts so that two angles are
obtained and the addition of these two angles results in
90.degree.. It is possible to consider that all the corners
36-36''' are truncated, so that the showcase 1 can be collapsed
horizontally towards any side.
[0122] The method of assembly is essentially similar to that of the
first and second modalities. Specifically, the way of assembly of
the base and the top, same that can be substituted with
turnbuckles, is the same.
[0123] Once the base is assembled, a first pair 55 of posts 50
rotates with respect to the second pair 56 of posts 50 until the
desired figure is obtained, this shape can be a hexahedron. The
first extremes 53 of a first pair 55 of posts 50 is inserted in a
first and second corner of the face 12 of two sides 11 of the base
10. This joint can be achieved by any means described in the art.
For example, in patent PCT/IB2009/007103 some squares are revealed,
and these could be used in the present invention. In the same way,
grooves or slots are revealed, similar to those of the extreme of
the post 50, so that the extreme 53 of the post 50 may be coupled
with the face 12. If it concerns a base 10 with three sides 11, the
first extreme 53 of the third post 50 is inserted in a third corner
of the face 12 of the free side 11 of the base 10. If it is a base
with four sides 11, the first extremes 53 of a second pair 56 of
the posts 50 are inserted in a third and fourth corner of the face
12 of the sides 11 of the base 10. If we consider a base with more
than four sides, depending on whether the number of sides is an
even or an odd number, posts 50 are inserted, until all the corners
of the base 10 are put together with a post.
[0124] The tray 30 is placed, in a way that the shelf can rest on
or nestle against the face 33 of the sides 32 of the base 31 of the
tray 30. Due to the fact that the tray 30 has a triangular,
rectangular, quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc. shape, and
because the tray is made of only one rigid piece, when placing the
tray 30 so that it rests on or nestles against the face 33, the
tray 30 will force the base 10 to take the shape accordingly with
the shape of the tray 30.
[0125] Finally, the top 20 or turnbuckles are placed, with the
object of tightening the showcase. The second extremes 54 of a
first shelf 60 are jointed with the face 22 of the top 20. This
joint can be achieved by means described in the art, as is the case
in patent PCT/IB2009/007103.
[0126] This embodiment allows the packing of the showcase in
horizontal positions with respect to its assembly state. This means
that the packing position reduces the volume of the showcase 1;
however it enlarges the width of the showcase.
[0127] A sub-embodiment of the fourth embodiment is referred to in
figures from 21 to 25.
[0128] As in the first two modalities, the construction of the
showcase 1 is substantially similar. The base 10, the top 20 and
the posts 50 are substantially equal concerning construction and
number as in the first and second modalities.
[0129] The construction of the bases 31 of the trays with respect
to the posts 50 is substantially the same as in the third
embodiment of the invention. However, instead of having mobility
with regard to the upper and lower bases 31, there is mobility with
regard to the sides 32 of the bases 31. The side 32 has mobility
with respect to the adjacent sides 32', 32'', as well as with
respect to the first pair 55 of posts 50 and with the second pair
56 of posts 50.
[0130] This means that al least one fastener 65 is centered in such
way that it allows the rotation of at least one of the sides 32 and
of a first pair 55 of posts 50, with respect to the other sides
32', 32'' and with respect to the second pair 56 of posts 50.
[0131] Specifically, the fasteners 65 are centered with respect to
the base 31 and with respect to the face 33. The location of at
least one fastener 65 is proximate to the center of the side 32. In
the same way, there are fasteners 65 in the extremes of the sides
32, specifically in a certain point of intersection between a first
side 32 and a second side 32', as well as the first side 32 and a
third side 32'', and between a second side 32'and a third side
32''.
[0132] This way, at least one side 32, 11 is capable of rotating on
its own axis, providing at the same time the rotation of both sides
32', 32'' with respect to the rotated side 32.
[0133] An advantage of the way of rotating in the present
sub-embodiment is that at least one side 32 can be lodged within
the two sides 32', 32'' when the showcase is folded.
[0134] This embodiment is easy to pack for a skillful and quick
transportation where the showcases occupy not much space and can be
piled one on top of the other.
Other Embodiments
[0135] A embodiment that is possible with a third and fourth
embodiment is shown in figures from 26 to 30. Specifically, the
base 10 and the top 20 are substituted with an additional base 31
of tray. In order to provide the structure with rigidity, a skirt 2
is provided, preferably a collapsible skirt that has same shape as
the showcase 1.
[0136] The skirt 2 is slightly greater in width than the showcase
1, so that the skirt 2 can slide around the showcase 1, forming a
kind of ring of the showcase 1.
[0137] Specifically, it is preferable that the skirt 2 surrounds
the lower part of the showcase 1. Once the tray 30 is set up, the
showcase 1 is provided with rigidity thanks to the skirt 2 and the
tray 30.
[0138] It is preferable that the skirt 2 fills a space equivalent
to approximately a third of the total of the height of the showcase
in order to provide the necessary rigidity.
[0139] Alterations in the structure just describe in the present
invention can be made beforehand by those with skills and art in
the matter. However, it must be understood that the present
description is related to the preferred modalities of the
invention, which is for illustrative purposes only, and that it
must not be constructed as a limitation of the invention. All the
modifications that do not deviate from the spirit of the invention
are included in the body of the attached clauses.
* * * * *