U.S. patent application number 14/037179 was filed with the patent office on 2014-06-05 for c-channel mount for overhead rack storage system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Todd Mansor. Invention is credited to Todd Mansor.
Application Number | 20140151315 14/037179 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44307609 |
Filed Date | 2014-06-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140151315 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mansor; Todd |
June 5, 2014 |
C-Channel Mount for Overhead Rack Storage System
Abstract
An overhead rack system is provided that may be mounted to the
ceiling of a structure such as a garage for storing items in an
organized manner off the floor. Overhead rack system is designed to
make use of a garage's previously unused ceiling space, allowing
home owners to store their items overhead and out of the way. The
system is ideally configured for storing large or heavy items that
otherwise can quickly fill a garage's available floor space.
Inventors: |
Mansor; Todd; (Phoenix,
AZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mansor; Todd |
Phoenix |
AZ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
44307609 |
Appl. No.: |
14/037179 |
Filed: |
September 25, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13231864 |
Sep 13, 2011 |
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14037179 |
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12692361 |
Jan 22, 2010 |
8511486 |
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13231864 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/117 ;
211/119; 248/235 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 43/003 20130101;
A47B 43/00 20130101; A47B 96/063 20130101; A47F 5/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/117 ;
211/119; 248/235 |
International
Class: |
A47B 43/00 20060101
A47B043/00; A47B 96/06 20060101 A47B096/06 |
Claims
1-18. (canceled)
19. An overhead rack system comprising: a plurality of rack
mounting tracks configured for securing the overhead rack system to
the ceiling joists of a structure, a rack member having a first
side rail platform and a second side rail platform, the first and
second side rail platforms coupled together by a plurality of rail
connectors to form a substantially rectangular frame member, said
substantially rectangular frame member having a channel running
along its perimeter configured to receive and support a drop-in
grid assembly configured for supporting items to be stored thereon,
and a plurality of removable support bracket members coupled to the
plurality of rack mounting tracks, said plurality of removable
support bracket members configured to attach to the rack
member.
20. The overhead storage system of claim 19, wherein said mounting
track further comprises an upper bracket member and a lower
extension assembly, said lower extension assembly configured to fit
within the interior of the upper bracket member and move in a
telescoping manner relative thereto, said telescoping movement
providing an adjustable distance between said ceiling joists and an
end of the mounting track opposite said location where said
mounting track is mounted to said ceiling joists of said
structure.
21. The overhead storage system of claim 19, wherein said removable
support bracket member further comprises a C-mount support bracket
having a wall and rail bracket, a rack member support mount and a
lower extension assembly mount, wherein said wall and rail bracket
is configured to receive a portion of a side rail platform within a
u-shaped portion of said wall and rail bracket and wherein said
lower extension assembly mount is configured to secure said C-mount
support bracket to said rack mounting track.
22. An overhead rack system comprising: a plurality of rack
mounting tracks configured for securing the overhead rack system to
the ceiling joists of a structure, said plurality of mounting
tracks further having an upper bracket member and a lower extension
assembly, said lower extension assembly configured to fit within
the interior of the upper bracket member and move in a telescoping
manner relative thereto, said telescoping movement providing an
adjustable distance between said ceiling joists and an end of the
mounting track opposite said location where said mounting track is
mounted to said ceiling joists of said structure, a rack member
having a first side rail platform and a second side rail platform,
the first and second side rail platforms coupled together by a
plurality of rail connectors to form a substantially rectangular
frame member, said substantially rectangular frame member having a
channel running along its perimeter configured to receive and
support a drop-in grid assembly configured for supporting items to
be stored thereon, a plurality of removable support bracket members
coupled to the plurality of mounting tracks at the end of the
mounting track opposition the location where said mounting track is
secured to the ceiling joists of the structure, said plurality of
removable support bracket members being configured to attach to the
rack member.
23. The overhead storage system of claim 22, wherein said removable
support bracket member further comprises a C-mount support bracket
having a wall and rail bracket, a rack member support mount and a
lower extension assembly mount, wherein said wall and rail bracket
is configured to receive a portion of a side rail platform within a
u-shaped portion of said wall and rail bracket and wherein said
lower extension assembly mount is configured to secure said
C-mount.
24. A removable c-channel support bracket for use with an overhead
rack system, said bracket comprising: a u-shaped wall and rail
bracket configured to receive a square tubed lower extension
assembly of an overhead rack system within the interior of a
channel of said u-shaped bracket; a rack member support mount; and
a lower extension assembly mount configured to secure said u-shaped
wall and rail bracket to said square tubed lower extension
assembly.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is directed to overhead storage
products that utilize unused ceiling space to create additional
storage in homes. More specifically, the present invention is
directed to a modular overhead storage system having a horizontal
bike/package lift and motorized lift system that utilizes a
plurality of C-mount support bracket members for supporting the
side rails of a rack member.
BACKGROUND
[0002] There are many houses with a two car garage that have never
had two cars in them. Instead of using that space to shield cars
from the sun and harsh weather, the garage has become home to a
collection of gardening and lawn equipment, tools, woodworking
equipment, cast-off furniture and things that are no longer used,
but are not throw away. Finding items that are needed in a
cluttered garage is a complicated process. Usually, it starts with
edging between the stacks of boxes and miscellaneous equipment. If
the home owner is lucky, they may remember where this particular
item was last, or which box it may be located. More often, it
becomes a process of elimination that involves knowing what went
into the garage during which time period and playing `hot, hot,
cold` until that person stumbles upon what they're trying to
locate. Overhead garage storage can transform unused space in a
garage into fully functional storage space. Whether looking to
store holiday decorations, sports equipment or mementos, these
items can easily fit in a garage if the proper storage racks are in
place.
SUMMARY
[0003] In one embodiment, an overhead storage system is provided
comprising an overhead rack system, a motorized lift system and a
horizontal storage system. The overhead rack system has a plurality
of rack mounting tracks configured for securing the overhead rack
system to the ceiling joists of a structure. The rack system also
includes a rack member having a first side rail platform and a
second side rail platform. The first and second side rail platforms
are coupled together by a plurality of rail connectors to form a
substantially rectangular frame member. The substantially
rectangular frame member has a channel running along its perimeter
that is configured to receive and support a drop-in grid assembly
that is for supporting items to be stored thereon. The rack system
further includes a plurality of support bracket members coupled to
the plurality of mounting tracks, configured to attach to the rack
member.
[0004] The horizontal storage system is comprised of a storage
system mounting track, a plurality of upper beam members, a
plurality of lower beam members and a base channel assembly. The
storage system mounting track is configured for securing the
overhead rack system to the overhead rack system. The plurality of
upper beam members is secured to the storage system mounting track.
The plurality of lower beam members is pivotally connected to the
plurality of upper beam members using a cam and channel assembly
and spring-assist lift system. The base channel assembly is coupled
to the plurality of lower beam members for supporting items when
moving the horizontal storage system between a substantially
vertical loading position and a substantially horizontal storing
position.
[0005] The motorized lift system has a lift platform, a motor and
winch assembly and a track rail. The lift platform is configured to
receive an item to be stored on the rack member of the overhead
rack system. The lift platform also has a stabilizer edge for
engaging the side rail platforms of the rack member. The motor and
winch assembly has a plurality of truck wheels and a cable disposed
therein. The cable is coupled to the lift platform. The motor and
winch assembly is operable to move the lift platform between a
loading position and an unloading position adjacent the rack member
of the overhead rack system. The tack rail is mounted adjacent the
rack member of the overhead rack system and configured to receive
the truck wheels of the motor and winch assembly. The track rail is
configured to provide a guide for moving the lift platform along
the length of one side of the substantially rectangular frame
member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an
overhead rack system;
[0007] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a support bracket
member;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a front view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of an overhead rack system illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a side view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of an overhead rack system illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the combination of a
support bracket member and a lower extension assembly;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the embodiment of an overhead
rack system illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
horizontal bike storage system;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a front view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of a horizontal bike storage system illustrated in FIG.
5;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a side view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of a horizontal bike storage system illustrated in FIG.
5;
[0015] FIG. 8 is a top view of the embodiment of a horizontal bike
storage system illustrated in FIG. 5;
[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates a horizontal bike storage system in a
substantially vertical loading position with a bicycle loaded
thereon;
[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
horizontal bike storage system;
[0018] FIG. 11 is a front view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of a horizontal package storage system illustrated in
FIG. 10;
[0019] FIG. 12 is a side view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of a horizontal package storage system illustrated in
FIG. 10;
[0020] FIG. 13 is a top view of the embodiment of a horizontal
package storage system illustrated in FIG. 10;
[0021] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
motorized lift system;
[0022] FIG. 15 is a front view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of a motorized lift system illustrated in FIG. 14;
[0023] FIG. 16 is a side view showing certain elements of the
embodiment of a motorized lift system illustrated in FIG. 14;
[0024] FIG. 17 is a top view of the embodiment of a motorized lift
system illustrated in FIG. 14;
[0025] FIG. 18 illustrates a motorized lift system in an unloading
position with an overhead rack system; and
[0026] FIG. 19 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an overhead
rack system with the C-mount support bracket members on one side
mounted to the wall studs.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth, such as examples of the overhead rack system, bike lift
system, package lift system and motorized lift system, in order to
provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will
be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present
invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other
instances, well known components or methods have not been described
in detail but rather in a general manner in order to avoid
unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. Thus, the specific
details set forth are merely exemplary. The specific details may be
varied from and still be contemplated to be within the spirit and
scope of the present invention.
[0028] It should be appreciated that reference throughout this
specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or "one
example" or "an example" means that a particular feature, structure
or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may
be included, if desired, in at least one embodiment of the present
invention. Therefore, it should be appreciated that two or more
references to "an embodiment" or "one embodiment" or "an
alternative embodiment" or "one example" or "an example" in various
portions of this specification are not necessarily all referring to
the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features,
structures or characteristics may be combined as desired in one or
more embodiments of the invention. It will also be understood that
when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to
another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the
other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast,
when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or
"directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening
elements present.
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an overhead rack system
100. Overhead rack system 100 is constructed to be mounted to the
ceiling of a garage for storing items in an organized manner off
the floor. Overhead rack system 100 provides a way to maximize a
home's available storage space. Rack system 100 is designed to make
use of a garage's previously unused ceiling space, allowing home
owners to store their items overhead and out of the way. The system
is ideally configured for storing large or heavy items that
otherwise can quickly fill a garage's available space. Plastic
storage bins, or boxes that could quickly clutter available garage
floor space fit perfectly on overhead rack 100, helping to maximize
available space.
[0030] In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, overhead rack
system 100 is generally comprised of four rack mounting tracks 105,
110, 115, 120 and a rack member 103. Rack mounting tracks 105, 110,
115, 120 are further comprised of ceiling mount 135, 150, 165, 180
coupled to upper bracket members 125, 140, 155, 170 respectively.
Ceiling mounts 135, 150, 165, 180 are adapted to be mounted to the
ceiling of a garage, and shall be manufactured of a material strong
enough to support the weight of the rack and the items that will be
stored thereon. Lower extension assembly 130, 145, 160, 175 are
disposed within the interior of upper bracket members 125, 140,
155, 170 so as to create a telescoping mounting track 105, 110,
115, 120, thereby adjusting the location of the rack member
relative to the ceiling mounts 135, 150, 165, 180.
[0031] Rack member 103 comprises a first side rail platform 190
coupled to a second side rail platform 195 using a plurality of
rail connectors 101, 102. The rack member 103 is configured to
support any number of differing sized items utilizing one or more
drop-in grid assembly 111, 112. The strength of the connection
formed by rail connectors 101, 102 provides the means to allow the
rack member 103 to be shipped in a smaller container, since a
single side rail member running the length of the first an second
side rail platform would be twice as long as shipping them separate
and connecting them together using the firs rail connector 101 and
second rail connector 102.
[0032] A plurality of C-mount support bracket members 185, 186,
187, 188 are coupled to one end of the respective lower extension
assembly 130, 145, 160, 175 for joining the four mounting tracks
105, 110, 115, 120 to the rack member 103. FIG. 1A illustrates
C-mount support bracket member 188 in greater detail. Support
bracket member 188 is generally comprised of a wall and rail
bracket 123, a rack member support mount 121 coupled to a tab
member 124 and a lower extension assembly mount 122. C-mount
support bracket member 188 is adapted to support the weight of 1/4
of the maximum weight intended to be stored on rack member 103. In
the illustrated embodiment, lower extension assembly mount 122 is
configured to be connected to the lower extension assembly 175.
FIG. 19 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an overhead rack
system 500 with a plurality of C-mount support bracket members 501,
502, 503, 504 on one side mounted to the wall studs.
[0033] In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, the support bracket member 188
is coupled to the lower extension assembly 175 using a nut and bolt
assembly 127. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
any mounting means may be used without departing from the intended
scope and spirit of the present invention. Continuing with the
illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, the side rail of
first side rail platform 190 would be inserted into the upper
U-shaped area of the wall and rail bracket 123. The rack member
103, and more specifically the rail member of the first side rail
platform 190, is supported by the combination of the rack member
support mount 121 and tab member 124. FIG. 19 illustrates an
alternate embodiment of an overhead rack system 500 with a
plurality of C-mount support bracket members 501, 502, 503, 504 on
one side mounted to the wall studs. This wall mounted overhead
garage rack 500 is a variation of overhead rack system 100, but can
hold more weight and can be mounted to a combination of ceiling and
walls.
[0034] FIGS. 2 and 3 further illustrate a side and front view of
the overhead rack system 100. FIG. 2 shows a front view of two
mounting track members 110, 120. Mounting track members 110 is
comprised of a ceiling mount 150 connected to an upper bracket
member 140, which serves as one of the four mounting foundations
for the rack system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, ceiling
mount 150 is coupled to the upper bracket member 140 using a
mounting track U-bend 151 that is attached to the ceiling mount 150
and welded to the upper bracket member 140. It should be
appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that any means for
connecting the ceiling mount 150 to the upper bracket member 140
may be utilized. Lower extension assembly 145 is configured to fit
within the interior of upper bracket member 140 so as to create a
telescoping mounting track member 110.
[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, lower extension assembly 145
and upper bracket member 140 are constructed of square tubing with
a plurality of holes configured to receive a plurality of bolt
assemblies (not shown). The square tubing of the upper bracket
member 140 is sized to be slightly larger in diameter than the
square tubing of the lower extension assembly 145 so that the lower
extension assembly 145 fits within the upper bracket member 140 and
is configured to move relative thereto in a telescoping manner. The
telescoping relationship between the upper bracket member 140 of
fixed mounting track member 110 relative to the lower extension
assembly 145 allows a user to adjust the distance between the
ceiling and the second side rail platform 195 of rack member 103.
The bolt assemblies are mounted through matching holes in each, so
as to secure the lower extension assembly 145 to the upper bracket
member 140 in a user chosen position and thus form a single, rigid
mounting track member 110 from the multi-piece construction of
parts. A similar construction is contemplated for mounting track
105, which is also coupled to the second side rail platform 195 of
rack member 103.
[0036] Continuing with the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3,
mounting track member 120 is comprised of a ceiling mount 180
connected to an upper bracket member 170, which also serves as one
of four mounting foundations for the rack system 100. In the
illustrated embodiment, ceiling mount 180 is coupled to the upper
bracket member 170 using a mounting track U-bend 152 that is
attached to the ceiling mount 180 and welded to the upper bracket
member 170. It should be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in
the art that any means for connecting the ceiling mount 180 to the
upper bracket member 170 may be utilized. Lower extension assembly
175 is configured to fit within the interior of upper bracket
member 170 so as to create a telescoping mounting track member
120.
[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, lower extension assembly 175
and upper bracket member 170 are constructed of square tubing with
a plurality of holes configured to receive a plurality of bolt
assemblies (not shown). The square tubing of the upper bracket
member 170 is sized to be slightly larger in diameter than the
square tubing of the lower extension assembly 175 so that the lower
extension assembly 175 fits within the upper bracket member 170 and
is configured to move relative thereto in a telescoping manner. The
telescoping relationship between the upper bracket member 170 of
fixed mounting track member 120 relative to the lower extension
assembly 175 allows a user to adjust the distance between the
ceiling and the first side rail platform 190 of rack member 103.
The bolt assemblies are mounted through matching holes in each, so
as to secure the lower extension assembly 145 to the upper bracket
member 140 in a user chosen position and thus form a single, rigid
mounting track member 110 from the multi-piece construction of
parts. A similar construction is contemplated for mounting track
115, which is also coupled to the first side rail platform 190 of
rack member 103.
[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one particular example of
a plurality of telescoping mounting track members 115, 120
supporting the first side rail platform 190 of rack member 103
utilizing a plurality of support bracket members 185, 188. In this
view, the mounting relationship between the support bracket members
185, 188 and the first side rail platform 190 of rack member 103 is
shown. The rack member 103, and more specifically the rail member
of the first side rail platform 190, is supported by the
combination of the rack member support mounts and tab members (not
shown) of support bracket members 185, 188. In one embodiment, the
rail member of the first side rail platform 190 is coupled to the
rack member support mounts and tab members of support bracket
members 185, 188 using a bolt assembly. FIG. 3A illustrates the
combination support bracket member 185 and lower extension assembly
160 in greater detail.
[0039] FIG. 4 shows the underside of the rack member 103. In the
illustrated embodiment, a plurality of grid stiffeners 196, 197 are
used to give support and strength to the rack member 103. Grid
stiffeners 196, 197 provide both additional structure to the first
side rail platform 190 and second side rail platform 195 for
purposes of strengthening each as well as support for items placed
on drop in grid members 111, 112 so that the grid members do not
sag and become detached from the first and second side rail
platforms.
[0040] FIGS. 5-9 illustrate one embodiment of a horizontal bike
storage system 200 that may be used in connection with the overhead
rack system 100 illustrated and described with respect to FIGS.
1-4. In one embodiment, the horizontal bike storage system 200 is
constructed using 14 gage powder coated steel, can handle bikes
from 1' to 6' up to 150 pounds, and can be mounted to the garage
ceiling taking up little garage ceiling storage space. The
horizontal bike storage system 200 of the present invention is
intended to be a ceiling mounted bike rack that uses a
spring-assist lift system to store a bike horizontally, which is in
contrast to similar bike racks that store the bike vertically,
allowing for little or no room to walk underneath the bike, and
causing the garage to be difficult to navigate. Since the
horizontal bike storage system 200 is so compact, it can also
easily be used as a bike storage accessory mounted under overhead
rack system 100.
[0041] Unlike bike racks that simply hang the bike from the ceiling
or wall, the horizontal bike storage system 200 folds a bike flat
against the ceiling or bottom of overhead rack system 100, and, in
the illustrated embodiment, occupies approximately 20-26 inches of
hanging ceiling space. Furthermore, the spring-assist lift system
ensures that the user will easily be able to fold a bike to the
ceiling, making this bike storage system extremely compact and easy
to use. The horizontal bike storage system 200 is ideal for low
profile ceilings, as it keeps the bike folded flat to the ceiling.
Such an arrangement allows for more garage clearance, and utilizes
un-used garage ceiling space.
[0042] As illustrated in the perspective view of FIG. 5, horizontal
bike storage system 200 is generally comprised of a storage system
mounting track 215, a plurality of upper beam members 210, 211
pivotally connected to a plurality of lower beam members 205, 206
that are each connected to a bike lift channel assembly 220. In
operation, the tires of the bike are placed into the bike lift
channel assembly 220 and the frame of the bike would be secured to
lower beam members 205, 206 prior to moving the horizontal bike
storage system 200 from a substantially vertical loading position
to a substantially horizontal storage position. As an example, FIG.
9 illustrates a horizontal bike storage system 290 in a
substantially vertical loading position with a bike loaded thereon.
In one embodiment, a plurality of VELCRO.RTM. straps (not
illustrated) may be used to secure the frame of the bike to lower
beam members 205, 206, although, as one of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate, any similar securement means may be used
without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0043] FIGS. 6-8 illustrate the various parts of the horizontal
bike storage system 200 from a front view of the system, a side
view of the system and a top view of the system. Storage system
mounting track 215 is configured to be mounted to the joists or
similar structure of the ceiling of a garage or the rack member 103
of overhead rack system 100. Upper beam members 210, 211 are
coupled to the mounting track 215 using mounting track c-channel
members 212, 213, which are, in one embodiment, welded to the upper
beam members 210, 211 and then attached to the mounting track
215.
[0044] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, upper beam member
210 is pivotally connected to lower beam member 205 using a cam and
channel assembly 240. Similarly, upper beam member 211 is pivotally
connected to lower beam member 206 using a cam and channel assembly
235. Cam and channel assembly 235 comprises a first cam member 236
that is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded to the lower beam
member 206 and a first channel member 237 that is, in the
illustrated embodiment, welded to upper beam member 211. The first
cam member 236 fits within and rotates relative to the first
channel member 237, thereby allowing lower beam member 206 to
rotate relative to upper beam member 211. First cam member 236 is
held in place relative to first channel member 237 by a pin
assembly (not shown). Cam and channel assembly 240 comprises a
first cam member 241 that is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded
to the lower beam member 205 and a first channel member 242 that
is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded to upper beam member 210.
The first cam member 241 fits within and rotates relative to the
first channel member 242, thereby allowing lower beam member 205 to
rotate relative to upper beam member 210. First cam member 241 is
held in place relative to first channel member 242 by a pin
assembly (not shown).
[0045] The horizontal bike storage system 200 additionally
comprises a spring-assist lift system to assist the user from
moving the horizontal bike storage system 200 from a substantially
vertical position when loading a bike, to a substantially
horizontal position when storing the bike. Spring-assist lift
system is generally comprised of a plurality of springs 230, 231
coupled to the upper beam members 210, 211 and the lower beam
members 205, 206 by a plurality of ring assemblies 245, 246, 247,
248, generally comprising a plurality of shafted eye bolts and
locking nuts.
[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the first spring-assist lift
system of the horizontal bike storage system 200 is comprised of a
first spring assembly 231 coupled to the upper beam member 211
using a first ring assembly 247 and coupled to the lower beam
member 206 using a second ring assembly 245. In one embodiment, the
hole distance for the first ring assembly 247 on the upper beam
member 211 is 12'' from the mounting track 215, and the hole
distance for the second ring assembly 245 on the lower beam member
206 is 12'' from the cam and channel assembly 235. Similarly, the
second spring-assist lift system of the horizontal bike storage
system 200 is comprised of a second spring assembly 230 coupled to
the upper beam member 210 using a first ring assembly 248 and
coupled to the lower beam member 205 using a second ring assembly
246. In one embodiment, the hole distance for the first ring
assembly 248 on the upper beam member 210 is 12'' from the mounting
track 215, and the hole distance for the second ring assembly 246
on the lower beam member 205 is 12'' from the cam and channel
assembly 240.
[0047] In operation, the first spring assembly 230 of the first
spring-assist lift system would expand in the substantially
vertical position and contract in the substantially horizontal
position when the upper beam member 210 is pivoted relative to
lower beam member 205 using cam and channel assembly 240.
Similarly, the second spring assembly 231 of the second
spring-assist lift system would expand in the substantially
vertical position and contract in the substantially horizontal
position when the upper beam member 211 is pivoted relative to
lower beam member 206 using cam and channel assembly 235. In this
manner, the cam and channel assembly and the first and second
spring-assist lift systems operate together to assist the user from
moving the horizontal bike storage system 200 from a substantially
vertical loading position shown in FIG. 9 to a substantially
horizontal storage position (not illustrated). In the illustrated
embodiment, a pulley attachment point 250 is provided so as to
attach the bike lift channel assembly 220 of the horizontal bike
storage system 200 to a pulley system (not shown) to assist in the
moving of the storage system from a substantially vertical position
to a substantially horizontal position.
[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the horizontal bike storage
system 200 has the capability of telescoping to increase or
decrease its overall size. In the illustrated embodiment, lower
extender 260 and lower beam member 206 are constructed of square
tubing with a plurality of holes configured to receive a plurality
of bolt assemblies (not shown). The square tubing of the lower beam
member 206 is sized to be slightly larger in diameter than the
square tubing of the lower extender 260 so that the lower extender
260 fits within the lower beam member 206 and is configured to move
relative thereto in a telescoping manner. Similarly, lower extender
265 and lower beam member 205 are constructed of square tubing with
a plurality of holes configured to receive a plurality of bolt
assemblies (not shown). The square tubing of the lower beam member
205 is sized to be slightly larger in diameter than the square
tubing of the lower extender 265 so that the lower extender 265
fits within the lower beam member 205 and is configured to move
relative thereto in a telescoping manner The telescoping
relationship between the lower beam members 205, 206 relative to
the lower extenders 260, 265 allows a user to adjust the distance
between the ceiling and the tire rail assembly 220.
[0049] FIGS. 10-13 illustrate one embodiment of a horizontal
package storage system 300 that may be used in connection with the
overhead rack system 100 illustrated and described with respect to
FIGS. 1-4. In one embodiment, the horizontal package storage system
300 is constructed using 14 gage powder coated steel, can handle
packages up to several hundred pounds, and can be mounted to the
garage ceiling taking up little garage ceiling storage space. The
horizontal package storage system 300 of the present invention is
intended to be a ceiling mounted rack that uses a spring-assist
lift system to store a storage container, box, carton or the like
in a horizontal storage position. Since the horizontal package
storage system 300 is compact, it can also easily be used as a box
storage accessory mounted under overhead rack system 100.
[0050] As illustrated in the perspective view of FIG. 10,
horizontal package storage system 300 is generally comprised of an
upper bracket mount 320, a plurality of first upper beam members
310, 311 pivotally connected to a plurality of lower beam members
315, 316, that are each coupled, through second lower beam members
317, 318, to a package base assembly 335. In operation, a box or
storage container is placed onto the package base assembly 335 and
additional boxes or containers are stacked thereon, and the storage
containers are secured to lower beam members 315, 316, 317, 318
prior to moving the horizontal package storage system 300 from a
substantially vertical loading position to a substantially
horizontal storage position. In one embodiment, a plurality of
VELCRO.RTM. straps (not illustrated) may be used to secure the
boxes to lower beam members 315, 316, 317, 318, although, as one of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, any similar securement
means may be used without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0051] FIGS. 11-13 illustrate the various parts of the horizontal
package storage system 300 from a front view of the system, a side
view of the system and a top view of the system. Upper bracket
mount 320 is configured to be mounted to the joists or similar
structure of the ceiling of a garage or the rack member 103 of
overhead rack system 100. Upper beam members 310, 311 are coupled
to the upper bracket mount 320 using mounting track c-channel
members 312, 313, which are welded to the upper beam members 310,
311 and then attached to the upper bracket mount 320.
[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the horizontal package
storage system 300 has a package base assembly 335 that is
comprised of a plurality of base members 340, 341, 343 and a lower
weldment 342. The first lower beam members 315, 316 are joined to
the second lower beam members 317, 318 by a plurality of vertical
connectors 330, 331. The use of shorter beam members 315, 316, 317,
318 connected by the vertical connectors 330, 331 increases the
overall strength of the individual pieces supporting the weight of
the storage containers, thereby increasing the weight of the load
that may be handled by the horizontal package storage system 300
when in the substantially horizontal storage position.
[0053] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, upper beam member
310 is pivotally connected to first lower beam member 315 using a
cam and channel assembly 325. Similarly, upper beam member 311 is
pivotally connected to first lower beam member 316 using a cam and
channel assembly 326. Cam and channel assembly 325 comprises a
first cam member 372 that is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded
to the lower beam member 315 and a first channel member 371 that
is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded to upper beam member 310.
The first cam member 372 fits within and rotates relative to the
first channel member 371, thereby allowing first lower beam member
315 to rotate relative to upper beam member 310. First cam member
372 is held in place relative to first channel member 371 by a pin
assembly (not shown). Cam and channel assembly 326 comprises a
first cam member 374 that is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded
to the lower beam member 316 and a first channel member 373 that
is, in the illustrated embodiment, welded to upper beam member 311.
The first cam member 374 fits within and rotates relative to the
first channel member 373, thereby allowing first lower beam member
316 to rotate relative to upper beam member 311. First cam member
374 is held in place relative to first channel member 373 by a pin
assembly (not shown).
[0054] The horizontal package storage system 300 additionally
comprises a spring-assist lift system to assist the user from
moving the horizontal package storage system 300 from a
substantially vertical position when loading storage containers, to
a substantially horizontal position when storing the containers.
Spring-assist lift system is generally comprised of a plurality of
springs 350, 351 coupled to the upper beam members 310, 311 and the
first lower beam members 315, 316. In the illustrated embodiment,
the first spring-assist lift system of the horizontal package
storage system 300 is comprised of a first spring assembly 351
coupled to the upper beam member 310 using a first ring assembly
357 and coupled to the first lower beam member 315 using a second
ring assembly 356. Similarly, the second spring-assist lift system
of the horizontal package storage system 300 is comprised of a
second spring assembly 350 coupled to the upper beam member 311
using a first ring assembly 358 and coupled to the first lower beam
member 315 using a second ring assembly 372.
[0055] In operation, the first spring assembly 351 of the first
spring-assist lift system would expand in the substantially
vertical position and contract in the substantially horizontal
position when the upper beam member 310 is pivoted relative to
first lower beam member 315 using cam and channel assembly 325.
Similarly, the second spring assembly 350 of the second
spring-assist lift system would expand in the substantially
vertical position and contract in the substantially horizontal
position when the upper beam member 311 is pivoted relative to
lower beam member 316 using cam and channel assembly 326. In this
manner, the cam and channel assembly and the first and second
spring-assist lift systems operate together to assist the user from
moving the horizontal package storage system 300 from a
substantially vertical loading position shown in FIG. 10 to a
substantially horizontal storage position (not illustrated).
[0056] FIGS. 14-17 illustrate one embodiment of a motorized lift
system 400 that may be used in connection with the overhead rack
system 100 illustrated and described with respect to FIGS. 1-4. In
using the overhead rack system 100, it may be difficult to load
heavy items on the rack member 103 by hand. Tool boxes, tires,
heavy boxes, and numerous other items may be difficult to carry up
a ladder and placed on the rack member 103. The motorized lift
system 400 of the present invention provides a way to lift items
into position to be stored on the overhead rack system 100. In the
illustrated embodiment, the motorized lift system 400 is capable of
carrying up to 150 pounds.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 14, the motorized lift system 400 is
generally comprised of a lift platform 405 coupled to a motor and
winch assembly 415, that is in turn mounted to a solid steel track
rail 410 that can span the entire garage. Motorized lift system 400
is driven by a powerful winch and motor system 415 so as to make
accessing overhead rack system 100 and storing heavy or bulky items
thereon a relatively simple task. In operation, once the items are
loaded into the platform 405 of the motorized lift system 400, a
user operates the controls to move the platform 405 to the desired
position on the overhead rack system 100. Once the lift system 400
has moved platform 405 into position, the user can easily slide the
items to be stored from the lift platform 405 onto the overhead
rack system 100.
[0058] FIGS. 15-17 further illustrate a side, front and top view of
motorized lift system 400. As illustrated in FIG. 15, lift platform
405 is coupled to motor and winch assembly 415 using a cable 420
that is connected to beam top cross 421. Cable 420 is wound on a
spool (not shown) within the winch housing 416. The cable 420 is of
sufficient length so as to allow the lift platform to be dropped to
a level sufficient for the user to load the heavy or bulky storage
item thereon.
[0059] Lift platform 405 is constructed of a plurality of base
members 427, a plurality of upright members 425, 426 and a
plurality of top members 428. In the illustrated embodiment, lift
platform 405 is a rectangular shape to accommodate oversized
storage containers, however, any shape may be used in accordance
with the scope and spirit of the present invention.
[0060] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the lift platform 405 further
comprises a stabilizer edge 430 that is configured to attach to the
side rail of a side rail platform of a rack member of the overhead
rack system 100. Once the lift platform 405 is in position with the
stabilizer edge 430 engaged with the side rail of the side rail
platform, the lift platform 405 is stable and the item to be stored
may be slid from the surface of the lift platform without the
unintended result of the base of the lift platform swinging
downward and dumping the item onto the floor. FIG. 18 shows the
lift platform 490 engaged with a rack member of an overhead rack
system.
[0061] FIG. 17 shows the winch and motor system 415 further
comprising a plurality of truck wheels 435, 436, 437, 438 for
moving the winch and motor system 415 and the lift platform 405
coupled thereto along the entire length of track rail 410. In
operation, the user would be provided a control mechanism (not
shown) that would operate the up and down movement of the winch
system, and the side to side movement of the motorized lift system
400. In another embodiment, the side to side movement may be purely
mechanical in nature, thus, the user would simply push the lift
platform 405 causing the truck wheels 435, 436, 437, 438 to move
along the entire length of track rail 410.
[0062] While the methods disclosed herein have been described and
shown with reference to particular operations performed in a
particular order, it will be understood that these operations may
be combined, sub-divided, or re-ordered to form equivalent methods
without departing from the teachings of the present invention.
Accordingly, unless specifically indicated herein, the order and
grouping of the operations is not a limitation of the present
invention.
[0063] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the foregoing
description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various
features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a
single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose
of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of
one or more of the various inventive aspects.
[0064] While the invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be
understood by those skilled in the art that various other changes
in the form and details may be made without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention.
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