U.S. patent application number 14/041537 was filed with the patent office on 2015-04-02 for shelving system.
This patent application is currently assigned to ZENITH PRODUCTS CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is ZENITH PRODUCTS CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Alex MIKITA, David L. WALKER.
Application Number | 20150090682 14/041537 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52739057 |
Filed Date | 2015-04-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150090682 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WALKER; David L. ; et
al. |
April 2, 2015 |
SHELVING SYSTEM
Abstract
A cover for the base of a shelving system includes a first end
and an opposing second end, a generally flat base wall formed at
the second end, a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall, a
third sidewall and an opposing fourth sidewall, an internal cavity
formed by the base wall and the four sidewalls, and a support wall
positioned in the internal cavity. The first and second sidewalls
extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base
wall at a predetermined acute angle with respect to the base wall.
The third and fourth sidewalls extend generally parallel to each
other and generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall.
The support wall includes at least one angled support which extends
upwardly from the base wall toward the first end at the same
predetermined acute angle as the first and second sidewalls.
Inventors: |
WALKER; David L.; (Chester,
PA) ; MIKITA; Alex; (Haddonfield, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ZENITH PRODUCTS CORPORATION |
New Castle |
DE |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ZENITH PRODUCTS CORPORATION
New Castle
DE
|
Family ID: |
52739057 |
Appl. No.: |
14/041537 |
Filed: |
September 30, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
211/153 ;
211/182; 211/183 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 47/04 20130101;
E04B 2001/266 20130101; A47B 45/00 20130101; F16B 12/12 20130101;
A47B 95/00 20130101; A47B 91/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/153 ;
211/183; 211/182 |
International
Class: |
A47B 96/02 20060101
A47B096/02; A47B 55/00 20060101 A47B055/00; A47B 95/00 20060101
A47B095/00; A47B 47/00 20060101 A47B047/00 |
Claims
1. A cover for the base of a shelving system comprising: a first
end and an opposing second end; a generally flat base wall formed
at the second end; a first sidewall and an opposing second
sidewall, the first and second sidewalls extending generally
parallel to each other and upwardly from the base wall at a
predetermined acute angle with respect to the base wall; a third
sidewall and an opposing fourth sidewall, the third and fourth
sidewalls extending generally parallel to each other and generally
perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall; an internal cavity
formed by the base wall and the four sidewalls, and a support wall
positioned in the internal cavity, the support wall including at
least one angled support extending upwardly from the base wall
toward the first end at the same predetermined acute angle as the
first and second sidewalls.
2. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one angled support
has a first proximal end secured to the base wall and an opposing
free distal end.
3. The cover of claim 2, wherein the first proximal end of the at
least one angled support is integrally formed with the base
wall.
4. The cover of claim 2, wherein the free distal end of the at
least one angled support forms a support surface configured to
engage and support a lower portion of a base of a shelving frame of
the shelving system.
5. The cover of claim 2, wherein the support wall includes a
plurality of spaced-apart angled supports, the distal free ends of
the plurality of angled supports forming a discontinuous support
wall located between the first and second ends of the cover.
6. The cover of claim 5, wherein the discontinuous support wall and
the base wall extend in unparallel planes.
7. The cover of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of
longitudinal ribs extending along at least a portion of an interior
surface of the third sidewall.
8. The cover of claim 7 further comprising a plurality of
longitudinal ribs extending along at least a portion of an interior
surface of the fourth sidewall.
9. The cover of claim 1, wherein the predetermined acute angle is
in the range of 60.degree.-88.degree..
10. The cover of claim 9, wherein the predetermined acute angle is
approximately 85.degree..
11. A shelving system comprising: first and second frame supports,
each frame support having a first, top end and an opposing second,
bottom end; at least one shelf extending between the first and
second frame supports; and first and second covers, the first cover
being positioned over the second, bottom end of the first frame
support and the second cover being positioned over the second,
bottom end of the second frame support, wherein each of the first
and second covers comprises: a generally flat base wall, first and
second sidewalls both extending upwardly from the base wall at a
predetermined acute angle, third and fourth sidewall sidewalls
extending generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall,
and at least one angled support having a first proximal end secured
to the base wall and an opposing free distal end configured to
engage and support the second, bottom end of one of the first and
second frame supports, such that in an assembled position, the
first and second frame supports are positioned at an angle with
respect to a vertical support surface.
12. The shelving system of claim 11, wherein the at least one
angled support extends upwardly from the base wall at the
predetermined acute angle and the first proximal end of the at
least one angled support is integrally formed with the base
wall.
13. The shelving system of claim 13, further comprising a plurality
of spaced apart angled supports.
14. The shelving system of claim 17, wherein the free distal ends
of the plurality of spaced apart angled supports form a
discontinuous support wall.
15. The shelving system of claim 13, wherein each of the first and
second covers further comprises a plurality of longitudinal angled
ribs extending along at least a portion of an interior surface of
the third sidewall and along at least a portion of an interior
surface of the fourth sidewall.
16. A connector for interconnecting two members of a shelving
system comprising: a one-piece body having opposing first and
second open ends, a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls
connected together side to side and extending from the first open
end to the second open end, and a horizontally-oriented support
wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular
to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and positioned
between the first and second open ends, the plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls including opposing first and second
sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and
opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel
to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second
sidewalls; a first internal cavity formed between the first open
end, a portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls
and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall for
receiving a first member; and a second internal cavity formed
between the second open end, a portion of the plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls and a second surface of the
horizontally-oriented support wall for receiving a second
member.
17. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a first aperture
formed through a first portion of the first sidewall and a second
aperture formed through a first portion of the second sidewall, the
first and second apertures being in communication with the first
internal cavity.
18. The connector of claim 2, wherein the first and second
apertures are generally offset from each other.
19. The connector of claim 2, further comprising a third aperture
formed through a second portion of the first sidewall and a fourth
aperture formed through a second portion of the second sidewall,
the third and fourth apertures being in communication with the
second internal cavity.
20. The connector of claim 4, wherein the third and fourth
apertures are generally offset from each other.
21. A shelving system comprising: a first frame support having a
first frame member and a second frame member; a second frame
support having a third frame member and a fourth frame member; at
least one shelf extending between the first and second frame
supports; a first connector connecting the first frame member to
the second frame member; and a second connector connecting the
third frame member to the fourth frame member, wherein each of the
first and second connectors comprises: a one-piece body having
opposing first and second open ends, a plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls connected together side to side and
extending from the first open end to the second open end, the
plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls including opposing first
and second sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other
and opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally
parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and
second sidewalls, a horizontally-oriented support wall integrally
formed with and extending generally perpendicular to the plurality
of vertically-oriented sidewalls, a first internal cavity between
the first open end, a portion of the plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls and a first surface of the
horizontally-oriented support wall, the first internal cavity being
configured to receive a portion of the first or third frame
members, and a second internal cavity between the second open end,
a portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a
second surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall, the
second internal cavity being configured to receive a portion of the
second or fourth frame members, wherein in an assembled position, a
portion of the first frame member is positioned within the first
internal cavity of the first connector, a portion of the second
frame member is positioned within the second internal cavity of the
first connector, a portion of the third frame member is positioned
within the first internal cavity of the second connector and a
portion of the fourth frame member is positioned within the second
internal cavity of the second connector.
22. The shelving system of claim 6, wherein each of the first and
second connectors includes first and second apertures in
communication with the first internal cavity and third and fourth
apertures in communication with the second internal cavity.
23. The shelving system of claim 7, wherein the first and second
apertures are generally offset from each other and the third and
fourth apertures are generally offset from each other.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates generally to
shelving systems and, more particularly, to a shelving system
configured to rest against a vertically-oriented support surface at
an angle. Another embodiment of the present invention relates
generally to a cover for the base of such a shelving system.
Another embodiment of the present invention relates generally to a
connector for the frame of such a shelving system.
[0002] Numerous types of angled or leaning shelving systems have
been developed for display or storage of various items, articles,
objects and the like. Such conventional shelving systems include an
elongated frame and one or more shelves. The frame typically
includes two spaced apart parallel frame supports and each shelf is
secured to and extends between the frame supports. In use, the
frame is leaned against a vertical support surface, such as a
vertical wall, at an angle.
[0003] A drawback associated with such conventional shelving
systems is that the base of the frame, and more particularly the
base of each of the frame supports, must be formed or cut at an
angle to accommodate leaning of the shelving system at an angle
against a vertical support surface or wall. The need for such an
angled cut or form results in additional labor and costs involved
in the manufacturing process.
[0004] Another drawback associated with such conventional shelving
systems is that shipping and delivery of the systems can often be
difficult, costly and bulky, because the frame supports are
relatively large. Thus, large shipping packages and containers must
be employed, resulting in increased costs for both the manufacturer
and the purchaser.
[0005] Thus, it is desirable to provide an improved shelving system
configured to be leaned against a vertical support surface or wall.
More particularly, it is desirable to provide an improved leaning
shelving system which does not require an angular cut to be made or
formed at the base of the shelving system. It is also desirable to
provide an improved leaning shelving system which can be packaged
and shipped in a convenient and inexpensive manner.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a
cover for the base of a shelving system including a first end and
an opposing second end, a generally flat base wall formed at the
second end, a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall, a
third sidewall and an opposing fourth sidewall, an internal cavity
formed by the base wall and the four sidewalls, and a support wall
positioned in the internal cavity. The first and second sidewalls
extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base
wall at a predetermined acute angle with respect to the base wall.
The third and fourth sidewalls extend generally parallel to each
other and generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall.
The support wall includes at least one angled support extending
upwardly from the base wall toward the first end at the same
predetermined acute angle as the first and second sidewalls.
[0007] In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to
a shelving system including first and second frame supports, at
least one shelf extending between the first and second frame
supports. and first and second covers. Each frame support has a
first, top end and an opposing second, bottom end. The first cover
is positioned over the second, bottom end of the first frame
support and the second cover is positioned over the second, bottom
end of the second frame support. Each of the first and second
covers includes a generally flat base wall, first and second
sidewalls both extending upwardly from the base wall at a
predetermined acute angle, third and fourth sidewall sidewalls
extending generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall,
and at least one angled support. The at least one angled support
has a first proximal end secured to the base wall and an opposing
free distal end configured to engage and support the second, bottom
end of one of the first and second frame supports, such that in an
assembled position, the first and second frame supports are
positioned at an angle with respect to a vertical support
surface.
[0008] In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to
a connector for interconnecting two members of a shelving system.
The connector includes a one-piece body having opposing first and
second open ends, a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls
connected together side to side and extending from the first open
end to the second open end, and a horizontally-oriented support
wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular
to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and positioned
between the first and second open ends. The plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls include opposing first and second
sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and
opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel
to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second
sidewalls. The connector also includes a first internal cavity
formed between the first open end, the vertically-oriented
sidewalls and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support
wall for receiving a first member, as well as a second internal
cavity formed between the second open end, vertically-oriented
sidewalls and a second surface of the horizontally-oriented support
wall for receiving a second member.
[0009] In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to
a shelving system including a first frame support having a first
frame member and a second frame member, a second frame support
having a third frame member and a fourth frame member, at least one
shelf extending between the first and second frame supports, a
first connector connecting the first frame member to the second
frame member, and a second connector connecting the third frame
member to the fourth frame member. Each of the first and second
connectors includes a one-piece body having opposing first and
second open ends, a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls
connected together side to side and extending from the first open
end to the second open end, and a horizontally-oriented support
wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular
to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls. The plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls include opposing first and second
sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and
opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel
to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second
sidewalls. Each connector further includes a first internal cavity
between the first open end, the plurality of vertically-oriented
sidewalls and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support
wall, as well as a second internal cavity between the second open
end, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a second
surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall. The first
internal cavity is configured to receive a portion of the first or
third frame members and the second internal cavity is configured to
receive a portion of the second or fourth frame members. In an
assembled position, a portion of the first frame member is
positioned within the first internal cavity of the first connector,
a portion of the second frame member is positioned within the
second internal cavity of the first connector, a portion of the
third frame member is positioned within the first internal cavity
of the second connector, and a portion of the fourth frame member
is positioned within the second internal cavity of the second
connector.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The following detailed description of preferred embodiments
of the present invention will be better understood when read in
conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of
illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings
embodiments which are presently preferred. It is understood,
however, that the invention is not limited to the precise
arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shelving system in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a connector of the
shelving system shown in FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional front elevational view
of the connector shown in FIG. 2;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the shelving system
shown in FIG. 1, without covers provided on the base of the
shelving system;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of the shelving
system shown in FIG. 1, in a use position leaned against a vertical
support surface at an angle;
[0016] FIG. 5A is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken about area
A of FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a partial right side elevational view of the
shelving system shown in FIG. 4 leaned against a vertical support
surface at an angle without a cover;
[0018] FIG. 7 is an enlarged top, right side perspective view of a
cover of the shelving system shown in FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 8 is an enlarged bottom, right side perspective view of
the cover shown in FIG. 7 with a sidewall removed;
[0020] FIG. 9 is an enlarged right side perspective view of the
cover shown in FIG. 7 with a sidewall removed;
[0021] FIG. 10 is an enlarged side cross-sectional view of the
cover shown in FIG. 7; and
[0022] FIG. 11 is an enlarged front cross-sectional view of the
cover shown in FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] Certain terminology is used in the following description for
convenience only and is not limiting. The words "right", "left",
"lower", and "upper" designate directions in the drawings to which
reference is made. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to
directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center
of the shelving system and designated parts thereof. The
terminology includes the above-listed words, derivatives thereof,
and words of similar import. Additionally, the words "a" and "an",
as used in the claims and in the corresponding portions of the
specification, mean "at least one."
[0024] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals
and characters indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in
FIGS. 1 and 5 a presently preferred embodiment of a shelving system
in accordance with the present invention.
[0025] With particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, the shelving
system, generally designated 10, comprises an elongated frame 12
having a first or top end 12a and an opposing second or bottom end
12b. The bottom end 12b of the frame 12 forms a base 18 of the
shelving system 10. In one embodiment, the frame 12 is preferably
made of a natural or artificial wood material. However, it will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that any suitable material
may be used to form the frame 12, such as a metal, a polymeric
material and the like, or a combination of these materials. It will
also be appreciated that the frame 12 may be provided with one or
more coatings, such as a moisture prevention coating, to extend the
life of the shelving system 10.
[0026] The frame 12 preferably comprises at least a first elongated
support bar or frame support 14 and a generally parallel second
elongated support bar or frame support 16 spaced apart from the
first elongated frame support 14. Each of the first and second
elongated frame supports 14, 16 has respective first or top ends
14a, 16a and opposing second or bottom ends 14b, 16b. The top ends
14a, 16a, generally correspond to and define the top end 12a of the
frame 12, while the bottom ends 14b, 16b generally correspond to
and define the bottom end 12b of the frame 12 and the base 18 of
the shelving system 10. Each frame support 14, 16 preferably has a
generally rectangular or square cross-sectional shape when viewed
from above or from a side thereof. Preferably, each frame support
14, 16 is in the shape of a rectangular bar. The length of the
first frame support 14, which extends from the top end 14a to the
bottom end 14b, is preferably generally identical to that of the
second frame support 16.
[0027] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4-5, the first
frame support 14 comprises a first frame member 34 and a second
frame member 36. Similarly, the second frame support 16 comprises a
first frame member 38 and a second frame member 40. The second
frame members 36, 40 are preferably base or leg frame segments,
while the first frame members 34, 38 are preferably extender frame
segments positioned atop the base or leg frame members 36, 40. It
will be understood by those skilled in the art that each frame
support 14, 16 may include additional frame members, and
particularly additional extender frame members, in order to produce
a shelving system 10 of any desired height. It will also be
understood that each frame support 14, 16 may comprise only one
frame member or segment.
[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the shelving system 10 preferably
includes a first connector 62 which couples or connects the first
frame member 34 to the second frame member 36 of the first frame
support 14 to form a completed support. The shelving system 10
further preferably includes a second connector 62 which couples or
connects the first frame member 38 to the second frame member 40 of
the second frame support 16 to form a completed support.
[0029] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, each connector 62 preferably
comprises a one-piece body 64 having a first open end 65 and an
opposing second open end 66. The body 64 is made up of a plurality
of vertically-oriented and connected sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, each
of which extends from the first open end 65 to the second open end
66. More particularly, the body 64 is made of a first
vertically-oriented sidewall 68 and an opposing second
vertically-oriented sidewall 70. The opposing first and second
vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70 are preferably spaced apart
from each other and extend generally parallel to each other. The
body 64 further includes a third vertically-oriented sidewall 72
and an opposing fourth vertically-oriented sidewall 74. The
opposing third and fourth vertically-oriented sidewalls 72, 74 are
preferably spaced apart from each other and extend generally
parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and
second vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70.
[0030] Each of the vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74 has
a generally rectangular or square overall shape. As such, each
sidewall 68, 70, 72, 74 has a pair of opposing longitudinal edges
or sides 68a, 70a, 72a, 74a that extend from the first open end 65
of the connector 62 to the second open end 66. Preferably, a width
W.sub.68, W.sub.70, W.sub.72, W.sub.74 of each sidewall 68, 70, 72,
74 spans the distance between the respective opposing longitudinal
edges or sides 68a, 70a, 72a, 74a. More preferably, the widths
W.sub.68, W.sub.70 of the first and second sidewalls 68, 70 are
generally equal to each other and the widths W.sub.72, W.sub.74 of
the third and fourth sidewalls 72, 74 are generally equal to each
other. Further, the widths W.sub.68, W.sub.70 of the first and
second sidewalls 68, 70 are preferably at least slightly larger
than the widths W.sub.72, W.sub.74 of the third and fourth
sidewalls 72, 74.
[0031] Preferably, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls
68, 70, 72, 74 are connected together in a side-to-side or
edge-to-edge arrangement. As such, each longitudinal edge 68a, 70a,
72a, 74a of each sidewall 68, 70, 72, 74 is preferably secured or
connected to, and more preferably integrally formed with, a
longitudinal edge 68a, 70a, 72a, 74a of another sidewall 68, 70,
72, 74.
[0032] More preferably, one longitudinal edge 68a of the first
sidewall 68 is connected to or integrally formed with one
longitudinal edge 72a of the third sidewall 72, while the other
longitudinal edge 68a of the first sidewall 68 is connected to or
integrally formed with one longitudinal edge 74a of the fourth
sidewall 74. Similarly, one longitudinal edge 70a of the second
sidewall 70 is connected to or integrally formed with the other
longitudinal edge 72a of the third sidewall 72, while the other
longitudinal edge 70a of the second sidewall 70 is connected to or
integrally formed with the other longitudinal edge 74a of the
fourth sidewall 74.
[0033] As such, the body 64 of each connector 62 has a generally
rectangular or square shape. More preferably, the body 64 has a
shape and size that conforms to the shape and size of the frame
members 40, 36, 38, 40. Each connector 62 may be made of any
appropriate material, such as plastic, metal, wood and the
like.
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, the body 64 of each connector 62
further preferably includes a horizontally-oriented support wall 76
which extends between the first and second sidewalls 68, 70 and
between the third and fourth sidewalls 72, 74. The
horizontally-oriented support wall 76 is preferably formed at an
intermediate position between the opposing first and second open
ends 65, 66 of the body 64. More preferably, the
horizontally-oriented support wall 76 is connected to, and more
preferably integrally formed with, each of the plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74 at the intermediate
position between the opposing first and second open ends 65, 66. As
such, the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 extends generally
perpendicular to each of the plurality of vertically-oriented
sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74.
[0035] Preferably, the position of the horizontally-oriented
support wall 76 is at a geometric midpoint between opposing first
and second open ends 65, 66 of the body 64, such that a distance
between the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 and the first
open end 65 is equal to a distance between the
horizontally-oriented support wall 76 and the second open end 66.
However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the
horizontally-oriented support wall 76 may be formed at any position
between the opposing first and second open ends 65, 66.
[0036] The body 64 of each connector 62 further includes a first
internal cavity 78 and a second internal cavity 80. The first
internal cavity 78 is formed between the first open end 65 of the
body 64, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72,
74, and the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. The second
internal cavity 80 is formed between the second open end 66 of the
body 64, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72,
74, and the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. More preferably,
the first internal cavity 78 is formed between the first open end
65 of the body 64, a first portion of the plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, and a first surface
76a of the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. The second
internal cavity 80 is preferably formed between the second open end
66 of the body 64, a second portion of the plurality of
vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, and a second surface
76b of the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. As such, the
insertion or entry openings of the first and second internal
cavities 78, 80 correspond to the first and second openings 65, 66
of the body 64, and are spaced-apart from and opposed to each
other.
[0037] The first connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive the
lower portion of the first frame support 14 therein and the second
connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive the lower portion of
the second frame support 16 therein. More particularly, the first
internal cavity 78 of the body 64 of the first connector 62 is
sized and shaped to receive at least a lower portion of the first
frame member 34 of the first frame support 14 therein. The second
internal cavity 80 of the body 64 of the first connector 62 is
sized and shaped to receive at least an upper portion of the second
frame member 36 of the first frame support 14 therein. More
preferably, the first and second frame members 34, 36 of the first
frame support 14 have respective first and second opposing ends
34a, 34b and 36a, 36b. The first end 34a of the first frame member
34 preferably corresponds to the respective top ends 14a, 12a of
the first frame support 14 and the frame 12, while the second end
34b is received within the first internal cavity 78 of the first
connector 62. The first end 36a of the second frame member 36 is
received within the second internal cavity 80 of the first
connector 62, while the second end 36b corresponds to the
respective bottom ends 14b, 12b of the first frame support 14 and
the frame 12.
[0038] Similarly, the first internal cavity 78 of the body 64 of
the second connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive at least an
upper portion of the first frame member 38 of the second frame
support 16 therein, and the second internal cavity 80 of the body
64 of the second connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive at
least a lower portion of the second frame member 40 of the second
frame support 16 therein. More preferably, the first and second
frame members 38, 40 have respective first and second opposing ends
38a, 38b and 40a, 40b. The first end 38a of the first frame member
38 preferably corresponds to the respective top ends 16a, 12a of
the second frame support 16 and the frame 12, while the second end
38b is received within the first internal cavity 78 of the second
connector 62. The first end 40a of the fourth frame member 40 is
received within the second internal cavity 80 of the second
connector 62, while the second end 40b corresponds to the
respective bottom ends 16b, 12b of the second frame support 16 and
the frame 12.
[0039] Accordingly, elongated first and second frame supports 14,
16 may be formed by joining the relatively shorter frame members
34, 36 and 38, 40 together with the connector 62. As such, the
individual parts of the shelving assembly 10 are relatively small
or short, allowing the shelving assembly 10 to be packaged and
shipped in a relatively small container or package. This assembly
to form the elongated first and second frame supports 14, 16 may be
done by the end user or customer.
[0040] In an assembled position of the shelving assembly 10, the
second end 34b of the first frame member 34 is positioned within
the first internal cavity 78 of the first connector 62 and the
first end 36a of the second frame member 36 is positioned within
the second internal cavity 80 of the first connector 62, thereby
coupling the first and second frame members 34, 36 together to form
a completed first frame support 14. Also, in the assembled position
of the shelving assembly 10, the second end 38b of the first frame
member 38 of the second frame support 16 is positioned within the
first internal cavity 78 of the second connector 62 and the first
end 40a of the second frame member 40 is positioned within the
second internal cavity 80 of the second connector 62, thereby
coupling the first and second frame members 38, 40 together to form
a completed second frame support 16.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, each connector 62 further includes a
plurality of apertures which facilitate securing of the frame
members 34, 36, 38, 40 within the connectors 62. Preferably, each
connector 62 includes a pair of first and second apertures 82, 84
and a pair of third and fourth apertures 86, 88. Each of the
apertures 82, 84, 86, 88 are preferably through apertures. The
first aperture 82 is preferably formed in a first portion of the
first sidewall 68 and the second aperture 84 is preferably formed
in a first portion of the second sidewall 70. More preferably, the
first aperture 82 is formed in the first sidewall 68 at a position
proximate the third sidewall 72 and the second aperture 84 is
formed in the second sidewall 70 at a position proximate the fourth
sidewall 74. As such, the first and second apertures 82, 84 are
preferably generally offset from each other, and more preferably
axially offset from each other. The first and second apertures 82,
84 are both preferably formed in an area of the first internal
cavity 78, such that the first and second apertures 82, 84 are both
in communication with the first internal cavity 78.
[0042] The third aperture 86 is preferably formed in a second
portion of the first sidewall 68 and the fourth aperture 88 is
preferably formed in a second portion of the second sidewall 70.
More preferably, the third aperture 86 is formed in the first
sidewall 68 at a position proximate the third sidewall 82. The
third aperture 86 is also preferably formed below and in vertical
alignment with the first aperture 82. The fourth aperture 88 is
formed in the second sidewall 70 at a position proximate the fourth
sidewall 74. The fourth aperture 88 is preferably formed below and
in vertical alignment with the second aperture 84. As such, the
third and fourth apertures 86, 88 are preferably generally offset
from each other, and more preferably axially offset from each
other. The first third and fourth apertures 86, 88 are both
preferably formed in an area of the second internal cavity 80, such
that the third and fourth apertures 86, 88 are both in
communication with the second internal cavity 80.
[0043] For assembly of the shelving system 10, each of the
apertures 82, 84, 86, 88 of each connector 62 is configured to
receive a fastener (not shown), such as a screw, therethrough. More
particularly, the first and second apertures 82, 84 receive
fasteners therethrough which engage, and more preferably penetrate,
the second ends 34b, 38b of the first frame members 34, 38 of the
first and second frame supports 14, 16 positioned within the first
internal cavities 78, respectively. Similarly, the third and fourth
apertures 86, 88 receive fasteners therethrough which engage, and
more preferably penetrate, the first ends 36a, 40a of the second
frame members 36, 40 of the first and second frame supports 14, 16
positioned within the second internal cavities 80,
respectively.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4-5, the shelving system 10 further
comprises at least one shelf 20 attached to the frame 12.
Preferably, the at least one shelf 20 is attached or secured to the
frame 12 between the top end 12a and the bottom end 12b thereof.
More preferably, a plurality of shelves 20 are attached or secured
to the frame 12 at spaced-apart positions along the length of the
frame 12 from the top end 12a toward the bottom end 12b.
Preferably, each shelf 20 generally extends between the
spaced-apart first and second frame members 14, 16. Each shelf 20
preferably has a generally rectangular or square cross-sectional
shape when viewed from above or from a side thereof. Each shelf 20
also preferably has a first or top planar and flat surface 20a and
an opposing second or bottom planar and flat surface 20b. The top
planar surface 20a is preferably configured to support various
types of articles, objects, items and the like.
[0045] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the
shelves 20 may be attached to the frame 12 by any known
conventional mechanisms. For example, the interior surfaces of the
first and second frame supports 12, 14 may include one or more
spaced-apart and corresponding grooves configured to receive the
edges of a shelf 20 therein. Alternatively, the edges of each shelf
20 may be secured to the first and second frame supports 12, 14 by
the use of mechanical fasteners, such as screws, nuts and the like.
As yet another example, the interior surfaces of the first and
second frame supports 12, 14 may include one or more spaced-apart
and corresponding supports or brackets configured to receive the
edges of a shelf 20 thereon.
[0046] The top ends 14a, 16a of the first and second frame supports
14, 16 (i.e., the top ends 34a, 38a of the first frame members 34,
38) are formed as generally planar and flat surfaces 22, 24,
respectively. Similarly, the bottom ends 14b, 16b of the first and
second frame supports 14, 16 (i.e., the bottom ends 36b, 40b of the
second frame members 36, 40) are formed as generally planar and
flat surfaces 26, 28, respectively. As such, if the first and
second frame supports 14, 16 were situated in a vertical
orientation directly on a horizontally-oriented support surface 30,
such as a floor surface, as shown in FIG. 4, the flat surfaces 22,
24, 26, 28 would extend generally parallel to the floor surface 30
and generally perpendicular to a vertically-oriented support
surface 32, such as a wall, extending perpendicularly upwardly from
the floor. More preferably, the flat surfaces 26, 28 of the bottom
ends 14b, 16b would be generally flush with the floor surface 30.
In such a position, each shelf is generally horizontally-oriented
with respect to the frame 12 and extends generally parallel to the
floor surface 30 on which the shelving system 10 is situated.
[0047] The above-described positioning of the frame 12 generally
relates to a non-use position of the shelving system 10. In use, as
shown in FIG. 5, the shelving system 10 is preferably a leaning or
angled shelving system. As such, in a use position of the shelving
system 10, the frame 12 is preferably angled with respect to and
leaned against the vertically-oriented wall support surface 32.
More particularly, in the use position of the shelving system 10,
the top end 12a of the frame 12 is preferably in direct contact
with the vertically-oriented wall support surface 32 while the
bottom end 12b of the frame 12 is preferably spaced apart from the
vertically-oriented wall support surface 32.
[0048] In one embodiment, the top end 12a of the frame 12 merely
rests against the vertical wall 32 without any portion of the
shelving system 10 being secured to the vertical wall 32. In
another embodiment, at least one portion of the shelving system 10
is removably or permanently secured to the vertical wall 32. For
example, in one embodiment, one or more mechanical fasteners may be
used to secure the top end 12a of the frame 12 to the vertical wall
32. In another embodiment, one or more of the shelves 20 may
include a rear bracket 33 and one or more mechanical fasteners may
be inserted through the bracket and into the vertical wall 32 in
order to secure the shelving system 10 thereto.
[0049] In one embodiment, the plurality of shelves are of differing
sizes, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. Each of the shelves 20 is
attached to the frame 12 in such a manner that the rear edges 20d
of the shelves 20 are vertically aligned with each other and are
generally in contact with or proximate to the vertical wall surface
32. As such, the front edges 20c of the shelves 20 are not aligned
with each other, but rather offset from each other (see FIG. 5). It
will be understood that the shelves 20 may be attached to the frame
12 in a different manner, such that the rear edges 20d are offset
from each other and the front edges 20c are vertically aligned, or
such that neither the front nor rear edges 20c, 20d are vertically
aligned with each other. It will also be understood that the
shelves 20 may all be of the same size.
[0050] Since the bottom surfaces 26, 28 of the bottom ends 14b, 16b
of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 are generally planar
and flat, an angled gap or space 35 would exist between the bottom
surfaces 26, 28 (and thus the base 18 of the shelving system 10)
and the floor surface 30 when the shelving system 10 is leaned
against the wall 32 and the frame supports 12, 14 would only engage
the floor or other support surface 30 along a small line or at an
individual point (see FIG. 6). To account for the gap 35, a cover
42 is preferably provided on the bottom portion of each of the
frame supports 14, 16. More particularly, each cover 42 is
positioned over the bottom ends 14b, 16b of the first and second
frame supports 14, 16 to account for the gap 35 that would exist
between the bottom ends 14b, 16b and the floor surface 30, so that,
as shown in FIG. 5, the frame supports 14, 16 are more fully
supported by the underlying support surface or floor 30. Each cover
42 is thus positioned over the second, bottom ends 36b, 40b of the
second frame members 36, 40 of the first and second frame supports
14, 16 (see FIGS. 5A), such that the shelving assembly 10 may be
leaned at an angle against a vertical support surface or wall 32
even though the bottom ends 14b, 16b of the first and second frame
supports 14, 16 are generally planar and flat.
[0051] Each cover 42 may be made of any appropriate material, such
as plastic, metal, wood and the like. Referring to FIGS. 5A and
7-11, each cover 42 preferably comprises a first, generally open
end 42a and an opposing second, generally closed end 42b. The
second end 42b of each cover 42 is preferably closed by a base wall
44. More particularly, a generally flat base wall 44 is formed at
the second end 42b of each cover 42. By the term "flat," it will be
understood that the base wall 44 may be formed or cast as a
generally horizontally-oriented wall, or may be formed or cast as a
generally angled wall which sits generally flush on a
horizontally-oriented surface. Preferably, the base wall 44 is
oriented in a completely horizontal plane and preferably sits
generally flush with the floor surface 30 when the shelving
assembly 10 is situated thereon and leaned against the vertical
wall surface 32. In one embodiment, a contact surface of the bottom
wall 44 is preferably made with a plurality of spaced-apart treads
45 (see FIG. 8), preferably rubber treads 45, for preventing
slipping of the cover 42 with respect to the floor 30.
[0052] The base wall 44 further preferably has opposing front and
rear edges or sides 44a, 44b which extend generally parallel to
each other, as well as opposing left and right lateral edges or
sides 44c, 44d which extend generally parallel to each other and
generally perpendicular to the front and rear edges 44a, 44b. It
will be understood that the terms front, rear, left and right are
for illustrative purposes only, and opposing meaning may be
associated with such terms without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 10, each cover 42 preferably
further comprises a first or front sidewall 46 and an opposing
second or rear sidewall 48. Preferably, each sidewall 46, 48 has a
first proximal end 46a, 48a secured to or integrally formed with
the base wall 44 and an opposing second free distal end 46b, 48b.
The first and second sidewalls 46, 48 each have a respective height
H.sub.46, H.sub.48, extending from the proximal ends 46a, 48a to
the distal ends 46b, 48b.
[0054] As shown in FIGS. 5A and 10, the first and second sidewalls
46, 48 preferably extend generally parallel to each other and
upwardly from the base wall 44. More particularly, the first
sidewall 46 preferably extends upwardly from the front edge 44a of
the base wall 44 and the second sidewall 48 preferably extends
upwardly from the rear edge 44b.
[0055] More preferably, the first and second sidewalls 46, 48
extend upwardly from the front and rear edges 44a, 44b of the base
wall 44 at a predetermined acute angle .alpha. with respect to the
base wall 44 (see FIG. 10). More particularly, the first sidewall
46 extends in a direction upwardly from the front edge 44a and
toward the rear edge 44b at a predetermined acute angle .alpha.
with respect to the base wall 44. The second sidewall 48 extends
generally parallel to the first sidewall 46 and in a direction
upwardly from the rear edge 44b and toward the wall 32 against
which the shelving assembly 10 is positioned, at the same
predetermined acute angle .alpha. with respect to the base wall 44.
Preferably, the predetermined acute angle .alpha. is in the range
of 60.degree. to 88.degree.. More preferably, the predetermined
acute angle .alpha. is approximately 85.degree., but other acute
angles may be used in some applications.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 7-9, each cover 42 preferably further
comprises a third or left sidewall 50 and an opposing fourth or
right sidewall 52. The third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 preferably
extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base
wall 44. Preferably, each sidewall 50, 52 has a first proximal end
50a, 52a secured to or integrally formed with the base wall 44 and
an opposing second distal end 50b, 52b. More particularly, the
third sidewall 50 preferably extends upwardly from the left-hand
lateral edge 44c of the base wall 44 and the fourth sidewall 48
preferably extends upwardly from the opposing right-hand lateral
edge 44d. More preferably, the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52
extend generally perpendicularly upwardly from the lateral edges
44c, 44d of the base wall 44.
[0057] Preferably, the height H.sub.50 of the third sidewall 50 is
generally the same as the height H.sub.52 of the fourth sidewall
52. The respective heights H.sub.50, H.sub.52 of the third and
fourth sidewalls 50, 52 are a measure of the distance from the
proximal ends 50a, 52a to the distal ends 50b, 52b. However, it
will be understood that the respective heights H.sub.50, H.sub.52
of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 need not be the same and
may differ from each other.
[0058] Each cover 42 preferably further comprises an internal
cavity 54 formed by the base wall 44 and the four sidewalls 46, 48,
50, 52. The internal cavity 54 is preferably sized and shaped to
receive the second or bottom end 14b, 16b of a respective frame
support 14, 16 (see FIG. 5A).
[0059] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the third and
fourth sidewalls 50, 52 is generally concave in shape. More
particularly, in one embodiment, a center portion of each of the
third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 is concave, such that the center
portions curve at least slightly inwardly toward the internal
cavity 54. In one embodiment, the interior surfaces of at least one
of and preferably both of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52
include a plurality of spaced-apart longitudinal ribs 58 extending
along at least a portion thereof. The concave shape of the third
and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 and the longitudinal ribs 58 facilitate
superior gripping of the bottom ends 14b, 16b of the first and
second frame supports 14, 16 within the internal cavity 54 of the
covers 42. It will be understood that additional or alternative
mechanisms may be used to secure the frame supports 14, 16 within
the cover 42, such as fasteners, adhesives, and the like.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 9-11, at least one angled support
56 is positioned in the internal cavity 54 of each cover 42 to form
a support wall. More preferably, the internal cavity 54 is provided
with a plurality of angled supports 56 at spaced-apart positions in
a direction from the first (i.e., front) sidewall 46 toward the
second (i.e., rear) sidewall 48. The angled supports 56 preferably
extend generally parallel to each other and to the first and second
sidewalls 46, 48, as well as generally upwardly from the base wall
44 toward the first open end 42a of the cover 42. Preferably, each
angled support 56 has a first proximal end 56a secured to or
integrally formed with the base wall 44 and an opposing second,
free distal end 56b. Each angled support 56 also preferably extends
across the internal cavity 54 to span the distance between the
third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52. As such, in addition to
extending upwardly from the base wall 44, each angled support 56
also extends from or at least engages an interior surface of the
third sidewall 50 to an interior surface of the fourth sidewall
52.
[0061] The distal ends 56b of the angled supports 56 form a support
surface 60, and more preferably a discontinuous support wall,
between the first and second ends 42a, 42b of the cover 42 which is
configured to engage and support the bottom end 12b of the frame
12. More particularly, as shown in FIG. 5A, the support surface 60
of each cover 42 engages and supports the bottom end 14b, 16b of a
respective first and second frame support 14, 16.
[0062] Preferably, as shown in FIG. 10, each angled support 56
extends upwardly from the base wall 44 at the same predetermined
acute angle .alpha. as the first and second sidewalls 46, 48. That
is, each angled support 56 preferably extends in a direction
upwardly from the base wall 44 and toward the rear edge 44b at the
predetermined acute angle .alpha. of 60.degree. to 88.degree., and
more preferably approximately 85.degree., with respect to the base
wall 44.
[0063] Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 9-11, the distal end
56b of each angled support 56 does not reach the first open end 42a
of the cover 42. As such, each angled support 56 terminates at an
intermediate position between the first open end 42a and the
opposing second closed end 42b. Each angled support 56 thus has a
height H.sub.56, extending from the proximal end 56a to the distal
end 56b, which is smaller than that of both the first and second
sidewalls 46, 48, as well as the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52.
Preferably, the longitudinal ribs 58 extend from the distal ends
56b of the angled supports 56 toward the open end 42a of the cover
42 (see FIG. 10). Each of the distal ends 56b is preferably angled
toward the rear edge 44b, such that the bottom ends 14b, 16b sit
flush on the distal end 56b and engage the distal end 56b at a
90.degree. angle.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the height H.sub.46
of the first sidewall 46 is at least slightly larger than the
height H.sub.48 of the second sidewall 48. As such, the open end
42a of the cover 42 extends in an angled plane P.sub.42a. More
particularly, the open end 42a of the cover 42 defines a plane
P.sub.42a extending at a downward slope in a direction from the
distal end 46b of the first sidewall 46 toward the distal end 48b
of the second sidewall 48. The plane P.sub.42a of the open end 42a
is thus unparallel to the flat and horizontal base wall 44 and
floor surface 30.
[0065] Preferably, the plurality of angled supports 56 also have
differing heights H.sub.56, as shown in FIGS. 10-11. In one
embodiment, the angled supports 56 have successively reduced
heights H.sub.56. More preferably, the angled support 56 closest or
most proximate the first sidewall 46 and the first edge 44a of the
base wall 44 has the largest height H.sub.56 of the plurality of
angled supports 56, the angled support 56 closest or most proximate
the second sidewall 48 and the second edge 44b of the base wall 44
has the smallest height H.sub.56, and the angled supports 56
therebetween have successively reduced heights H.sub.56 in a
direction from the first sidewall 46 and first edge 44a toward the
second sidewall 48 and the second edge 44b.
[0066] As such, the discontinuous support wall 60 is an angled
wall, and more particularly an intermediate angled wall. The
intermediate angled wall need not be formed by the spaced apart
angled supports 56. Instead, the intermediate angled wall may be a
solid or discontinuous piece extending up from the base wall 44.
Alternatively, the intermediate angled wall may be in the form of a
shelf extending between the opposing third and fourth sidewalls 50,
52
[0067] More particularly, the discontinuous support wall 60 extends
in an angled plane P.sub.60. The angled plane P.sub.60 of the
support wall 60 preferably extends at a downwards slope in a
direction from the first sidewall 46 toward the second sidewall 48.
More preferably, the angled plane P.sub.60 of the support wall 60
is parallel to the angle plane P.sub.42a of the open end 42a of the
cover 42. The plane P.sub.60 of the discontinuous support wall 60
is thus unparallel to the flat and horizontal base wall 44 and
floor surface 30.
[0068] The angled structures and differing heights of the first and
second (i.e., front and rear) sidewalls 46, 48 and the angled
supports 56 accommodate leaning of the shelving system 10 against
the vertical support wall 32 at an angle. More particularly, in the
assembled position of the shelving system 10, with a cover 42
positioned over the bottoms ends 14b, 16b of each frame support 14,
16, the planar and flat bottom surfaces 26, 28 of the bottom ends
14b, 16b are flush with the angled interior support walls 60 of the
covers 42 (see FIG. 5A). Thus, the expense and labor involved with
cutting the bottom ends 14, 16b of the frame supports 14, 16 is
avoided. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the
respective heights H.sub.46, H.sub.48 of the first and second
sidewalls 46, 48 and the angles of extension of the first and
second sidewalls 46, 48 and the angled supports 56 may be varied as
necessary to vary the degree or angle at which the shelving system
10 leans against the vertical wall 32.
[0069] It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
changes could be made to the embodiments described above without
departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. Also, based on
this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art would
further recognize that the relative proportions of the components
illustrated could be varied without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. It is understood, therefore, that this
invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed,
but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and
scope of the present invention as defined by the appended
claims.
* * * * *