AU2023202779A1

AU2023202779A1 - Rack Assembly and Methods

Info

Publication number: AU2023202779A1
Application number: AU2023202779A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Vignesh ASHOK; Geoff RASMUSSEN
Original assignee: Viridian Glass Lp
Current assignee: VIRIDIAN GLASS LP
Priority date: 2022-05-06
Filing date: 2023-05-04
Publication date: 2023-11-23

Abstract

The problem: existing racks for transporting glass are rigid and not stackable and can only 5 hold on or two sheets of glass. The solution is to provide a light weight foldable rack having a plurality of parallel grooves. A portable rack assembly has a pallet base (10) and a rear wall (12) pivotally connected to the pallet base (10) and capable of folding down to cover the pallet base for transport or storage when not in use. The pallet base has a series of parallel grooves on its upper surface to allow for location of vertically positioned glass sheets when 10 in the unfolded position as shown. A plurality of dropper bars (75) are pivotally connected to the frame (150) of the upright and have a series of fingers having gaps therebetween matching the grooves so that they can be inserted between the glass sheets (not shown) to hold them in position. When fully stacked the glass sheets on the rack assembly can be shrink wrapped for transport. 15 (Figure 9) <75 CLOSE UP DETAIL 9B FIGURE 12,' CLOSE UP DETAILlOA CLOSE UP DETAILl OB 10 CLOSE UP DETAIL 1OC FIGURE 10 5/44-

Description

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RACK ASSEMBLY

The present invention relates to a rack assembly for storing planar sheet members and

several methods. The invention is directed particularly but not solely towards a foldable rack

assembly for storing glass sheets in a substantially vertical orientation for easy storage or

handling and/or for easy transportation.

Background of Invention

Storing fragile/brittle planar sheet like members like glass panes is typically difficult to

achieve without utilizing excessive storage space because of the difficulty in easily

manoeuvring when storing and retrieving them. Apart from the general risk of breakage

there is always the constant threat of harm to glaziers. Horizontal storage for such fragile or

brittle objects unless they are planar supported in their entire planar area, is therefore not

practical or cost effective thereby making vertical storage much more useful.

Existing vertical storage consists of using heavy rigid racks that are not easy to move and they

are severely limited in only being able to store one or two sheets. Storage in a moving truck

is therefore difficult taking up a lot of space. The same happens in a factory when

manufacturing the sheets or when needing to store them to be used i.e., a lot of space is

required and they are not very easy to store, remove or move. Additionally, yet another big

problem is storing the rack itself - they take up a lot of space and are not foldable or able to

be nested to save on space.

Another problem is that existing racks require separate structures to enable the sheets to

side abutting without touching requiring cork spacers and cushioning means and wrap

around covers. The sheets cannot be stacked thereby using more space. Because of the

heavy weight of existing racks there is more wear and tear on other structures such as the

wheels.

The time needed to store sheets on existing racks is significant involving delicate

manoeuvring, locating spacers, misplacing them, and needing to apply wraps there around

and all over again when repositioning or moving.

Similar problems of not being able to move the sheets and racks easily also occurs more

acutely when transporting the heavy weighted racks combined with the glass. Not being able

to stack glass on racks or stack the racks becomes even more of a problem in restricted spaces

like in a truck. Existing racks are heavy and in one piece or fixed construction also making

them harder to maintain. This fixed construction make thee racks non-adjustable.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited or mentioned in this

specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference

constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and

the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited

documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications

may be referred to herein; this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these

documents form structure of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia, New

Zealand or in any other country.

Object of the Invention It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved rack assembly and methods

that ameliorates some of the disadvantages and limitations of the known art or at least

provide the public with a useful choice.

Summary of Invention

In a first aspect the invention provides a rack assembly having a base having an upper and

lower surface and a rear wall pivotally connected to the base and capable of folding down to

cover the base when not in use, a series of parallel grooves on the upper surface of the base

to allow for storage of a plurality of vertically positioned glass sheets, one or more dropper

bars pivotally connected to the rear wall, the or each dropper bar has a series of fingers

having gaps therebetween matching those of the upper surface of the base, so that in use when the rear wall is in an upright position the dropper bar can be positioned against the side or top of the plurality of glass sheets to hold them in position.

Preferably the base is configured as a modified pallet base with provision for the insertion of

the tines of a forklift. More preferably this involves the possibility of insertion of the tines of

the forklift on the left and right sides (by providing spaced apart apertures in the side walls)

and also allowing the forklift tines to be inserted at the rear of the rack assembly.

Preferably the rack assembly has one or more struts interconnecting the base and the rear

wall when in use.

In another aspect the invention resides in a rack assembly for storing at least one planarsheet

thereon, having a front end and rear end which includes a base structure assembly 10

rotatably connected by a connecting and rotating system 6 to a wall structure assembly 12

at the rear end, for storing planar sheet members 2 thereon and between, wherein the base

structure assembly 10 includes a frame supporting a platform structure 64, forming an area

Al having sides, ends, a thickness 70 between an upper surface and lower surface, a front

and rear, and the wall structure assembly 12 includes a frame forming an area A2 and at least

one adjustable dropper arm member 75 movably supported thereon and the wall structure

assembly 12 forming an area having sides, ends and a thickness between a front side and rear

side, whereby one end of the wall structure assembly 12 is movably connected by the

connecting and rotating system 6 to an adjacent end of the base structure assembly 10 being

operatively connected to enable the wall structure assembly 12 to pivot about the connecting

and rotating system 6 to enable the wall structure assembly 12 to rotate about system 6 to

then be able to lie down on top of the base structure assembly 10, wherein the platform

structure 64 includes at least one groove 136 on one side to provide a housing when in use

for an edge portion for at least one planar sheet member 2 and the at least one dropper arm

member 75 outwardly protrude from the frame of the wall structure assembly 12 to in use

extend between the planar sheet members 2.

Preferably, the at least one groove 136 extends from one end 14, 16 of the base structure

assembly 10 to the other end i.e., from front to rear wherein each planar sheet member 2 is

a glass pane or glass sheet.

Preferably the platform structure 64 comprises machined HDPE sheets which is a high

density Polyethylene PE300 grade material which is a tough flexible material with excellent

chemical resistance, good electrical Insulation and low temperature impact strength.

Alternatively, the platform structure 64 comprises machined polypropylene.

Preferably, the base structure assembly 10 includes a polygonal shape made up of elongate

members of a channel cross section, being formed from a front view having a left side base

member 94 and right-side base member 96 and at least one cross base members 84, each

member being parallel with each other and being connected together by the platform

sections 64 and fastening means.

Preferably, the platform structure 64 is formed of at least two sections thereby providing at

least one longitudinal space 140 there between the platform sections wherein there are

three sections having spaces 140 there between and includes a grooved planar panel in use

located and connected on to at least one platform support member 65 which are supported

underneath at least by the left side base member 94 and right side base member 96 and at

least one cross base members 84.

Preferably the left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member

84 include at least two slots 106 there through wherein the slots 106 are aligned to form

spaces able to receive the tines of a forklift and the slots are located at an upper edge of each

member 94, 96.

Preferably the slots 106 are formed of a channel section 107 spanning from the left side base

member 94, to the right side base member 96 and oriented having its web in a horizontal

plane as a roof being open at each end to be able to receive the tines of a forklift wherein the channel sections is oriented across the width of the rack assembly oriented at right angles to the longitudinal extent of the grooves 136 and glass sheets 2 to facilitate inserting of the rack assembly into a side of a truck or container.

Preferably, the left side base member 94 and right-side base member 96 include elongate

members having a channel cross section having a web and flanges defining a space 96a there

between, being oriented in use on the ground or floor equally spaced on one of the flanges

where each member have their space 96a facing each other.

Preferably the base structure 10 includes at least one horizontal base rail member 86 formed

of a tubular or rod like member longitudinally oriented in a horizontal orientation parallel

with the left side base member 94 and right side base member 96, being located between

and spaced between platform support members 64 to rest and be connected to a top most

flange of the left side base member 94 and right side base member 96, and over and on cross

base member 84 to be spaced there between left side base member 94 to right side base

member 96 which function to provide increased strength to the base assembly 10 which can

also be used as tie-down rails for the retention system (eg holding members).

Preferably the horizontal base rail member 86 is located on top of the flange and another

horizontal base rail member 86 is connected underneath the top flange, of the platform

support members 94, 96.

Preferably the horizontal base rail member 86 is located through the web of the base

members 94, 84 and 96.

Alternatively, apparatus support members 62 are connected and located underneath the

base structure assembly 10 to support the apparatus 1on and above a substrate 13 wherein

there are apparatus support members 62 located at rear, at front and in between.

Alternatively, the base structure assembly 10 includes a perimeter frame 82 and cross base

members 84, each having a box cross section wherein the perimeter frame 82 has corners and includes front base member 90, rear base member 92, left side base member 94 and right-side base member 96 connected together by fastening means.

Alternatively, the apparatus support member 62 are connected and located underneath a

cross base members 84 and underneath a rear base member 92 and includes hanging down

support apparatus 89 configured to provide aligned rectangular storage cavities 106 for

sliding receipt of the tines of a fork lift vehicle to be able to slide in and lift and move the

apparatus with or without glass sheets thereon.

Alternatively, the apparatus support members 62 is located underneath the front base

member 90 and is in the form of at least one vertically oriented leg member 110 having a

foot 112 located at each front corner of the front base member 90.

Alternatively the apparatus support members 62 located under the front base member 90 ie

the leg member 110 and foot 112 together are formed of length or height at least the same

as the height 88 of the apparatus support members 62 located underneath the middle and/or

rear base members, to ensure the grooves 136 are level or if the height 88 are different

thereby ensuring a tilt of the apparatus 1 towards the rearto prevent or reduce the likelihood

of at least one the glass sheet sliding forwards and off the apparatus.

Alternatively, the base structure assembly 10 includes four cross base members 84 in

between the front base member 90 and rear base member 92 wherein two of the cross-base

members 84 are closer together than the other two cross base members 84 being closer to

the front base member 90 than to the rear base member 92.

Alternatively, the hanging support apparatus 89 include three cavities formed of a bottom

elongate member 102 subdivided by ribs 104, inclined at its ends to meet end of the cross

member 84 and the other hanging support apparatus 89 has two rectangular shaped cavities

106.

Preferably, the wall structure assembly 12 includes left side vertical wall members 150, right

side wall members 152 and top horizontal wall rail member 154 forming an inverted outer

square/rectangular shaped perimeter frame whereby each such member of the perimeter

frame shape includes an L shape cross section having an inner side face 159 facing frontwards

towards the base structure assembly 10, and the wall structure assembly 12 also includes

horizontal wall cross rail members 158-and dropper arm supporting members 160 extending

between the side vertical wall members 150, 152 and horizontal wall cross rail members 158

and dropper arm supporting members 160 being formed of similar members being located

immediately adjacent each other to extend horizontally to form a pair wherein one dropper

arm supporting member 160 is located above one horizontal wall cross rail member 158

wherein the horizontal wall cross rail members 158 are fixed to provide framing strength and

abutment for at least one dropper arm member 75 wherein horizontal wall cross rail

members 158 and dropper arm supporting members 160 are tubular members vertically

spaced in the wall structure 12 wherein the dropper arm supporting member 160 is end

rotatable and horizontal wall cross rail members 158 are end fixed members.

Preferably each dropper arm supporting member 160 is paired with a horizontal wall cross

rail members 158 wherein dropper arm supporting member 160 is paired with a horizontal

wall cross rail members 158 which are touching each other whereby the dropper arm

supporting member 160 is rotatable allowing arms 75 and/or dropper arm supporting

member 160 to rotation accordingly.

Optionally a pair of braces can be provided to interconnect the rear wall and the base when

in the fully assembled position.

Preferably there are at least two dropper arm members 75 side by side, abutting or spaced

relationship being slidably movable along the rail 160 and rotatable vertically thereon or

there about and depending on the space between the glass sheets which can at least

individually rotate on the dropper arm supporting member 160.

Alternatively, a bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 is located upwardly from a bottom

of the vertical side wall members 150, 152 to provide a protruding portion 39 on each side of

the wall structure assembly 12.

Alternatively, each dropper arm supporting member 160 is located above one horizontal wall

cross rail member 158 wherein dropper arm supporting member 160 is a tubular or rod like

member and the horizontal wall cross rail member 158 is a rod or tube-like member or an

angle member.

Preferably, each dropper arm member 75 is movably connected to one dropper arm

supporting member 160 wherein the dropper arm support member 160 is a tube or rod like

member spanning between vertical side wall members 150, 152

Preferably, each dropper arm member 75 includes a base portion 164 and arm portion 166

wherein the base portion 164 is includes a tubular base 168 and plinth 172, upper connection

member 174 and lower connection member 176 wherein the plinth 172 provides support

and connection of the arm portion 166 to the tubular base 168, the arm portion 166 is an

elongate member formed of a planar shape with an angled end face 178 and side ribs and

upper connection member 174 provides a raised curved-stop formation 184.

Preferably, the tubular base 168 of the arm is slidably supported by a portion of the dropper

arm support member 160 and provides a friction fit there between for adjustment of the

angular position there around.

Preferably, the raised curved-stop formation 184 is located on top of the base portion 164

and is shaped and positioned to prevent further upwards rotation of the dropper arm

member 75 about the dropper arm support member 160.

Preferably, the plinth 172 is triangular shaped.

Preferably, the upper connection member 174 and lower connection member 176 are

shaped as bad like members and connect between the plinth 172 and the tubular member

168.

Preferably dropper arm members 75 are movably and rotatably attached adjacent to and

between the horizontal top wall rail member 154, horizontal bottom wall rail member 156

and horizontal wall cross rail members 158, on a dropper arm support member 160 which is

includes an elongate member in the form of a tube or rod which is oriented horizontally to

span between rotatable connections to the side wall members 150, 152.

Preferably, the dropper arm members 75 are rotatably mounted adjacent to top horizontal

wall rail member 154 on dropper arm support member 160 and are oriented such that they

can be angled upwardly having the front angled tip end 178 also facing upwardly.

Preferably, the dropper arm members 75 are rotatably mounted adjacent to the bottom

horizontal wall rail member 156 on a dropper arm support member 160 and are oriented

such that they can be angled upwardly having the front angled tip end 178 facing upwardly.

Preferably, the dropper arm members 75 are rotatably mounted adjacent to the horizontal

wall cross rail members 158 on a dropper arm support member 160 which are oriented such

that they can be angled horizontally having the front angled tip end 178 facing downwardly.

Preferably at the very top of the wall structure assembly 12 , there is one first dropper arm

support member 160 immediately below top horizontal wall rail member 154 (e.g., top rail)

by distance X1, at the bottom, there is above bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 (eg

bottom rail) (which is spaced by X2 above an end of the vertical wall side members 150, 152

ie vertical member protruding section 39) spaced by X3 there is a first horizontal wall cross

rail member 158 and then spaced by X4 above first horizontal wall cross rail member 158

there is a second dropper arm support member 160, in between the top horizontal wall rail

member 154 and the bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 (eg at mid rail) , there is a third

dropper arm support member 160 and a second horizontal wall cross rail member 158,

whereby closest to the second dropper arm support member 160, second horizontal wall

cross rail member 158 is spaced by X5 and above second horizontal wall cross rail member

158 by space X6 is third dropper arm support member 160 and third dropper arm support

member 160 is spaced below first tube member by X7.

Preferably the distances X7 and X5 are similar in dimension but are larger than X1, X6, X4,

the distances X1, X6 and X4 are similar in dimension are each smaller than X3, the distances

X7 and X5 are the largest dimension being significantly largerthan all the other distances and

the distances X1, X6 and X4 are the smallest dimensions being significantly the smallest

dimension.

Preferably, the connecting and rotating system 6 is operatively configured and connected to

a rear end of the base structure and to a lower end of the wall structure.

Preferably, the connecting and rotating system 6 includes pivot means 188, and a locking

means in the form of a first bracket member 190 as configured and operatively connected to

and with base structure assembly 10 and a second bracket member 192 configured and

operatively but movably connected to and with wall structure assembly 12 wherein the first

bracket member 190 is oriented at right angles to the base structure assembly 10 and the

second bracket member 192 is oriented in line with the wall structure assembly 12.

Preferably, the first bracket member 190 and second bracket members are each shaped as

elongate members having an L shaped cross section formed by two joined side by side

elongate planar members.

Preferably, the first bracket member 190 is made up of the elongate planar members having

a thickness, each planar member having an elongate shape that provides includes ends 200

and side edges 202 with an outer surface 204 and inner surface 206 with thickness 207

between, the ends 200 define a length 208 there between and side edges a width 210 there

between and inner surfaces 206 provides an inner space there between 209.

Preferably, one of the elongate members has one slotted first aperture 212 there through for

rotational receipt of part of the pivot means 188 wherein the position of the first aperture

212 is positioned above the thickness 70 of the base structure assembly 10 to enable rotation

of the wall structure there about to allow the wall structure assembly 12 to be able to be

folded or rotated with respect to base structure to be able to at least rest on top of the base

structure or even rotate further to downwardly intermesh therein.

Preferably, at a lower end 200 of the first bracket member 190 there includes a straight end

edge 214 being oriented at right angles to the side edges 202 whereas the other end edges

216 being an upper end are shaped providing a truncated V shaped tongue portion 218 on

each end portion of each elongate member, with abutments (side flat abutment 220,

central/corner flat abutment 224 and side angled abutment 226) as located in between

tongues 218 ie central abutment and on one side edge at different levels, with side abutment

220 being the lowest, wherein when in use the straight end edge 214 is located and directed

towards the substrate 13 but being spaced upwardly there from ie not extending beyond the

frame of the base structure.

Preferably, the second bracket member 192 is made up of the elongate planar members

having a thickness, each planar member having an elongate shape that provides includes

ends 300 and side edges 302 with an outer surface 304 and inner surface 306 and thickness

307 between, the ends 300 define a length 308 there between and side edges a width 310

there between and inner surfaces 306 provide an inner space there between 309.

Preferably, one end 300 (ie upper end) of the second bracket member 192 includes a straight

end edge 314 being oriented at right angles to the side edges 302 whereas the other end

edges 316 ( ie a lower end) are shaped providing a recessed portion 318 on each end portion

of each elongate member, to provide central/corner truncated V tongue (at corner) 320

between recessed portions 318 for each elongate side of the L cross sectional shape, and

outward half truncated V tongues on each outward side forming one outward pointed end

abutment 322 and one truncated/flat abutment 324 wherein the central truncated V tongue

320 is higher than the outward half truncated V tongues 322, 324 on the sides, wherein in

use the straight end edge 314 is located upwardly from the substrate 13 but being spaced

downwardly further there from the top of the wall structure assembly 12.

Preferably, the outward shape of the tongue portion 218 (with abutments as located in

between tongues 218 ie central abutment and on one side edge at different levels, with side

abutment being the lowest), is/are complementary to the inward shape of the recessed

portions 318 (central truncated V tongue (at corner) and outward half truncated V tongues

on each outward side) to provide a mating interlocking inter-fitting relationship there

between.

Preferably, the connecting and rotating system 6 includes a second aperture 350 (see fig 29)

which is located and positioned near a bottom of one face of vertical side wall members 150,

152 of the perimeter frame of the wall structure assembly 12 wherein the position of this

second aperture 350 aligns with position of first aperture 212 to allow a captured rod or bolt

of each pivot means 188 on each side of the assembly, to rotate there about.

Preferably, the second bracket member 192 has edge sliding capture means to enable one to

slidably move the second bracket member 192 up or down an outer corner of the vertical

side wall members 150, 152 when required to lock or unlock the pivoting means 188 by

unlocking the interlocking relationship between tongue portions 218 and recessed portions

318.

Preferably the base structure assembly 10 assembly includes an extension portion 360

cantilevered from the front end of the base structure assembly 10 for larger planar sheets 2,

and comprises a frame like structure including a square U shape having arm members 362,

head member 364 forming a movable hollow space 366 there between and locking

mechanism 368 wherein hollow space 366 allows the arm members 362 of extension portion

360 to slide within the base side arms 64, 96 to thereby extend or reduce the hollow space

366 by cantilevering outwardly from the front of the base structure 90, utilizing an

overlapping of the arm members 362 with the side members 64, 96 and the locking

mechanism 368.

Preferably at least one holding member400 is used to hold the glass panel members 2 having

dropper arm member 75 there between to the side members 150, 152 of the wall structure

assembly 12 wherein the holding member is at least one strap memberwhich can be oriented

in any suitable way and direction as required.

Preferably foam or rubber pieces are able to be placed as packers in between the glass sheet

members 2 at any suitable position.

Preferably a plastics wrap can also be applied to wrap all of the glass sheet members thereon

the rack assembly.

In a second broad aspect the invention resides in a method of assembly for the first

embodiment whereby the steps include:

form base structure by attaching beams 65 to underside of platform panel 118 to

form platform assembly

attach platform assembly to base members 94, 84, 96

attach rails 86

form wall structure by forming perimeter frame

insert dropper arms 75 to dropper arm support member 160

insert arms 75 and support members 160 within wall perimeter frame

insert rail 158 to be paired and touching support members 160 to form wall assembly.

Attached bottom of wall assembly to rear edge of base structure by connecting assembly 6.

In a third broad aspect the invention resides in a method of assembly for the second

embodiment whereby the steps include:

- Form perimeter frame 82 for base structure assembly 10; - Connect cross base members 84 between base side members 94, 96;

- Place platform structure 64 on top of assembled perimeter frame 82;

- Form perimeter frame 72 for wall structure assembly 12;

- Connect horizontal wall cross rail members 158 between vertical side wall members

150,152; - Form connection system 6 on base structure assembly 10;

- Assemble and rotatably connect wall structure assembly 12 to the connecting system

6.

In a fourth broad aspect the invention resides in a method of assembly of loading or

unloading glass panels from the rack assembly as disclosed, includes the following steps of:

- Place folded assembly with base structure assembly 10 resting on a substrate 13;

- Unfold wall structure assembly 12 from base structure assembly 10;

- Lift and rotate dropper arm members 75 into place on wall structure assembly 12

- Place glass sheet on grooves 136 whereby the dropper arm members are located

between the glass sheets; - Strap the glass panel members having dropper arm member 75 there between to the

side members 150, 152 of the wall structure assembly 12.

Preferably this method can include the step of: the dropper arm members are rotated in an

upward configuration at the top of the wall structure assembly 12

Preferably this method can include the step of: the dropper arm members are rotated in a

downward configuration at the bottom of the wall structure assembly 12

horizontal configuration at the middle of the wall structure assembly 12

In a fifth broad aspect the invention resides in a method of assembly of loading or unloading

glass panels from the rack assembly as disclosed to a truck or container, includes the

following steps of: - Assembly rack assembly as given above

- Place glass on grooves

- Pack between glass to form loaded and packed rack assembly

- Insert forklift in side slots and lift

- Insert loaded and packed rack assembly into side of truck or container

This invention may also broadly be said to consist in the structures, elements and features

referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and

any or all combinations of any two or more of the structures, elements orfeatures, and where

specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents such equivalents are

deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

Brief Description

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, by reference to the

accompanying drawings:

First embodiment

Figure 1 is an upper perspective of the assembly in an unfolded configuration, in a first

embodiment

Figure 2 is a top plan view of the assembly of figure 1

Figure 3 is a right-side view of the assembly of figure 1

Figure 4 is a left side view of the assembly of figure 1

Figure 5 is a rear view of the assembly of figure 1

Figure 6 is a bottom front perspective view of the assembly of figure 1

Figure 7 is a rear bottom front perspective view of the assembly of figure 1

Figure 8 is a bottom plan view of the base structure assembly

Figure 9 is an upper front perspective view of the assembly

Close up detail 9A shows a close up of rows of inclined dropper arms

Figure 10 is another upper front perspective view of the assembly

Close up detail10A is a close up of the dropper arm in the top rail position

Close up detail10B is a close up of the dropper arm in the mid rail position

Close up detail 10C is a close up of the dropper arm in the bottom rail position

Figure 11is a rear lower perspective view of the assembly

Close up detail11A is a close up of the dropper arm in the top rail position

Close up detail11B is a close up of the dropper arm in the mid rail position

Close up detail11C is a close up of the dropper arm in the bottom rail position

Figure 12 is a rear upper perspective view of the assembly

Close up detail12A is a close up of the dropper arm in the top rail position

Close up detail12B is a close up of the dropper arm in the mid rail position

Close up detail12C is a close up of the dropper arm in the bottom rail position

Figure 13 is a front upper perspective view of the assembly

Close up detail 13A is a close up of part of the rear platform

Close up detail 13B is a close up of part of the middle platform

Close up detail 13C is a close up of part of the front platform

Figure 14 is a front upper perspective view of the assembly having the dropper arms in a

different position

Figure 14A is a close up of the dropper arm in the top rail position

Figure 14B is a close up of the dropper arm in the mid rail position

Figure 14C is a close up of the dropper arm in the bottom rail position

Figure 15 is side view of the wall structure assembly

Figure 15A is a close up of the dropper arm in the top rail position

Figure 15B is a close up of the dropper arm in the mid rail position

Figure 15C is a close up of the dropper arm in the bottom rail position

Figure 16 is a front perspective view of the assembly

Figure 16A is a close up of the connection of the upper bracket memberto the left and right

side members

Figure 16B is a close up of the rotating and connecting assembly from the outside

Figure 17 is a front perspective view of several assemblies in a folded configuration and in a

stacked or nested configuration

Figure 18 is a side view of several assemblies in a folded configuration and in a stacked or

nested configuration

Figure 19 is a front perspective view of one assembly in a folded configuration

Figure 20 is a rear end view of one assembly in a folded configuration

Figure 21is a side end view of one assembly in a folded configuration

Figure 22 is a top plan view of one assembly in a folded configuration

Figure 23 is front side perspective view of the assembly in use having glass panes/sheets

stored therein

Figure 24 is side view of the assembly in use having glass panes/sheets stored therein

Figure 25 is bottom plan view of the assembly in use having glass panes/sheets stored therein

Figure 26 is bottom perspective view of the assembly in use having glass panes/sheets stored

therein

Figure 27 is a front view of the assembly with glass of figures 23, 26

Figure 28 is front perspective view of the assembly in use having glass panes/sheets strapped

in place

Figure 29 is front perspective view of the wall frame structure

Figure 30 is front view of the wall frame structure

Figure 31 is rear perspective view of the wall frame structure

Figure 32 is side edge view of the wall frame structure

Figure 33 is a perspective view of the wall frame

Figure 33A is a close up of the dropper arm supporting member 160 and horizontal wall cross

rail member 158 in the top rail position

Figure 33B is a close up of the dropper arm supporting member 160 and horizontal wall cross

rail member 158 in the mid rail position

Figure 33C is a close up of the dropper arm supporting member 160 and horizontal wall cross

rail member 158 in the bottom rail position

Figure 34 is an upper perspective view of the base structure without the platform panel

Figure 35 is a lower perspective view of the base structure without the platform panel

Figure 36 is an upper perspective view of the base structure without the platform panel

Figure 36A is a close up of the fork lift tines receiving slots

Figure 36B is a close up of the fork lift tines receiving slots

Figure 37 is a side view of one of horizontal base rail members

Second Embodiment Figure 38 is an upper rear perspective of the assembly in a second embodiment

Figure 39 shows a bottom view showing the base structure assembly

Figure 40 is a left side view

Figure 41is a right-side view

Figure 42 is a back view

Figure 43 is a top view

Figure 44 Lower rear perspective view

Figure 45 is an upper front perspective view

Figure 46 is an upper left front perspective view of the assembly with the arms at different

orientations

Figure 46A close up perspective of arms at top of the wall frame

Figure 46B close up perspective of arms at middle

Figure 46C close up perspective of the arms at the bottom

Figure 47 is an upper front perspective view with arms rearranged

Figure 47A is a close-up view of the top support rail

Figure 47B is a close-up view of the mid support rail

Figure 47C is a close-up view of the bottom support rail

Figure 48 is a lower rear perspective view of the assembly

Figure 48A- top support rail

Figure 48B - mid support rail

Figure 48C - bottom support rail

Figure 49 is a lower rear perspective view of the assembly

Figure 49A - Grooves of rear platform section

Figure 49B - Grooves of front platform section

Figure 50 is a front side view of the several folded stacked/nested rack assemblies

Figure 51 is a side view of the several folded stacked rack assemblies

Figure 52 is a front view of the folded rack assembly

Figure 53 is a rear perspective view of the rack assembly unfolded

Figure 54 is a front view of the assembly in a folded configuration

Figure 55 is a side view of a folded rack assembly

Figure 56 is a rear perspective view of the rack assembly in use

Figure 57 is a front perspective view of the rack assembly in use

Figure 58 is a top plan view of the rack assembly of figure 57

Figure 59 is a side view of the assembly of figure 57

Figure 60 is front perspective view of the wall frame without the dropper arms

Figure 61is a front view of wall structure assembly of figure 60

Figure 62 is a side view of wall structure assembly

Figure 63 is a rear perspective view of wall structure assembly

Figure 64 is a bottom upward view of the base structure

Figure 65 is a top perspective view of the base structure assembly

Figure 66 is an inner perspective view of the upper wall structure bracket member

Figure 67 is another inner perspective view of the upper wall structure bracket member

Figure -68 is an inner perspective view of the lower structure bracket member

Figure 69 is another inner perspective view of the lower structure bracket member

Figure 70 is a underneath perspective view of a dropper arm member

Figure 71is an upper perspective view of a dropper arm member

Figure 72 is a top view of a dropper arm member

Figure 73 is a back-end view of a dropper arm member

Figure 74 is a side view of a dropper arm member

Figure 75 is an upper perspective view of a dropper arm member

Figure 75A - close up view of hook part

Figure 76 is a rear perspective view of the rack assembly having an extension portion - being

extended

Figure 76A shows the extension portion

Figure 76B shows a further enlargement of the extension portion

Figure 77 is a side view of the rack assembly with base frame extension portion

Figure 78 is a top plan view of the rack assembly having an extension portion - being

extended

Figure 79 is a perspective view of the rack assembly having an extension portion - being

extended

Figure 80 is an upper front perspective view of rack assembly with glass, utilizing the base

frame extension

Figure 81is a top plan view of the set-up of figure 80

Figure 82 is a side view of the set-up of figure 80

Figure 83 is a front perspective view of a modified rack with a brace.

Description of Drawings

The following description will describe the invention in relation to preferred embodiments of

the invention, namely a rack assembly. The invention is in no way limited to these preferred

embodiments as they are purely to exemplify the invention only and that possible variations

and modifications would be readily apparent without departing from the scope of the

invention.

As shown in the figures 1-82 there are two embodiments of the present invention shown

whereby figures 1-37 cover a rack assembly 1 having base structure assembly 10 including

several panel sections 64 supported by a frame including box section rails 65 underneath

platform sections 64 which rest on a upright channel members 94, 84, 96. At least one

strengthening or holding rod member 86 can also span between the channel side members

94, 96 in any suitable position. The wall structure 12 including an outer frame with internal

rail members 158, 160 being tubular or rod like member in pairs 158, 160 spanning from side

member 150 to side member 152 whereby an upper tube or rod member 160 rotatably

supports at least one drop per arm member 75 there around and the lower tube or rod

member 158 functions to provide frame support and/or abut forthe rotation of the dropper

arm members 75.

The second embodiment is disclosed in figures 38-65 which has its wall structure 12 including

a tubular or rod like member for the dropper arm members but being partnered with an

angle member instead of anothertube or rod like member. Also the base structure1 includes

cross rail support members 89 rather than the channel members 94, 84, 96 of the first

embodiment and has slots through them from the rear to front. Base structure has legs 112

and only two panel sections 64. At least one strengthening or holding rod member 86 can

also span between the side members support members 89 and or between the side embers

94 and 96, in any suitable position.

As shown in the figures, a rack assembly 1 for locating and storing at least one planar sheet

member 2 of the present invention includes at least one at least one base structure assembly

10 and at least one wall structure assembly 12, operatively connected together by a connecting and rotating system 6. Base structure assembly 10 and wall structure assembly

12 are each substantially planar shaped structures each having a shape comprising areas Al

and A2. Base structure assembly 10 is supported by a suitable surface or substrate 13 e.g.,

floor, platform or ground.

Base structure assembly 10 includes an assembled body comprising an area Al with front

end edge 14, rear end edge 16, left side edge 18 and right-side edge 20 having a top surface

22 and a bottom surface 24 forming a thickness dimension 26 there between the surfaces

22, 24. The edges 14, 16, 18, 20 have a length dimension 28. There are front corners 25 and

rear corners 27.

Wall structure assembly 12 includes an assembled body comprising an area A2 with bottom

end edge 30, top end edge 32, left side edge 34 and right-side edge 36 having an effective

front surface 38 and an effective rear surface 40 forming a thickness dimension 42 there

between the surfaces 38, 40. The edges 30, 32, 34, 36 have a length dimension 44. There

are top corners 37 and bottom end extensions 39.

In this example, the areas Al and A2 are square or rectangular in shape and the thickness

dimension 26 and 42 are much less in dimension than length 26 of each edges 14, 16, 18, 20

and length44ofeach edges30,32,34,36.

The base structure assembly 10 is connected by connecting and rotating system 6 at or near

one edge i.e., rear end edge 18 to a corresponding at or near a bottom/lower end edge 30 of

the wall structure assembly 12, at an angle 46 there between the areas Alof base structure

assembly 10 and A2 of wall structure assembly 12.

In use, the base structure assembly 10 is supported by or on substrate 13 e.g., floor, ground

or platform, thereby having its area Al forming in parallel a first plane 52 being generally

horizontal. The wall structure assembly 12 has its area A2 forming in parallel a second plane

54 which is oriented at approximate angle 46 with respect to the first plane 52.

Base structure assembly 10 includes a base support frame 60, at least two apparatus support members 62 and a platform structure 64. As seen in figs 4, 5, the base support frame 60 has an upper side 66 and a lower side 68 separated by a base thickness dimension 70. The platform structure 64 is connected on the upper side 66 of the base support frame 60, and the apparatus support members 62 are connected underneath or to the lower side 68 of the base support frame 60 to space and connectively support the base structure assembly 10 from the substrate 13.

Wall structure assembly 12 includes a wall support frame 72, dropper arm support member 74 and at least one dropper arm member 75. The dropper arm members 75 are movably connected to dropper arm support member 160 to when in use rotate outwardly protrude from the one side i.e., a front side of the wall structure assembly 12 facing the base structures assembly 10.

Base structure assembly 10 - see figures 24, 30, 31 The base structure assembly 10 when in use, includes at the very bottom, a polygonal shapes elongate members of a channel cross section 94, 84, 96 including upper and lower flanges separated by a vertical web, being formed from a front view having a left side base member 94 and right side base member 96 and at least one cross base members 84, each member being parallel with each other and being connected together on top by the platform sections 64 and fastening means. The platform structure 64 is formed of at least two elongate polygonal shaped sections thereby providing at least one longitudinal space 140 there between the platform sections. In this example there are three sections having spaces 140 there between. Space 140 extends through the entire width of base structure assembly 10.

The platform structure 64 is formed of a grooved planar panel 118 in use sit on to platform support members 65 (e.g., box sections 40X4OX3mmm) which are in turn supported and connected underneath by the left side base member 94 and right-side base member 96 and at least one cross base member 84. The platform structure 64 is oriented to span between the parallel member of the left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member 84. There is also a gap 67 located between the sides of the platform support members 65 and underneath the grooved planar panel 118. The left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member 84 are channel shaped members having when in use horizontal flanges and vertical webs whereby the both outer base members are oriented vertically on their flanges facing inwardly towards the cost cross base member 84 thereby presenting an outward flat vertical face as provided by the web with its slots 107 for the forklift and gaps 67 for providing access for strapping and a flat face of the glass sheets from the side of the rack assembly.

The left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member 84 include at least two slots 106 transverse to the length, there through. The slots 106 are sized the same and are oriented at an equal height and are shaped in this example as horizontal rectangular shaped channel sections 107. The slots 106 of the channel sections 107 are aligned to form spaces able to receive the tines of a forklift and the slots 106 and channel sections 10 are located at an upper edge of each member 94, 96.

Slots 106 are formed minimally as co-aligned slots within and through the left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member 84. Furthermore, the slots 106 are formed of channel section 107 spanning from the left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and oriented having its web in a horizontal plane. The channel sections 107 are oriented across the width of the rack assembly oriented at right angles to the longitudinal extent of the grooves 136 and glass sheets 2 to facilitate inserting or removal of each rack assembly into a side of a truck or container whereby the glass sheets are able to be oriented longitudinally with the length of the truck or container. This means that several rack assemblies can be inserted from the long side of the truck or container thereby enabling there to be end to end rack assemblies with the glass sheets being in a co-linear line with the base members 94, 84 and 96 also being in line with the length of container and truck. This means thatthe wall structure assemblies 12 and their planar extent are oriented parallel with the ends ofthe truck or container.

The left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member 84 include elongate members having another channel cross section having a web and flanges defining an enclosed channel space there between closed ends, being oriented in use on the ground or floor on one of the flanges where each member have their space facing each other. In this example there are one left side base member 94, right side base member 96 and cross base member 84 being equally spaced from one another.

The base structure 10 can include at least one horizontal base rail member 86 formed of a tubular or rod like member longitudinally oriented in a horizontal orientation parallel with the left side base member 94 and right side base member 96, being located and connected (eg welded or bolted) between, to and spaced between platform support member 65 to rest and be connected (eg welded) on top or underneath of a top most flange of the left side base member 94 and right side base member 96, cross base member 84 to be spaced there between left side base member 94 to right side base member 96. The horizontal base rail member 86 are located on top of the flange, underneath the flange or through the web of the base members 94, 84 and 96.

Base rail member(s) 86 are selected for size to function to provide increased strength to the base assembly 10 which can also be used as tie-down rails for whatever retention system (e.g., holding member e.g., strap or ties) for the glass sheets 2 in the rack assembly, is to be used e.g., straps. In this example, as shown in the drawings there are three rod members 86 located and spaced in at least one of the spaces 140 and/or anywhere suitable to provide strength and or a means to enable tying down.

Alternatively, as seen in figures 38-75 the base support frame 60 is polygonal in shape e.g., rectangular in overall shape and includes the following interconnected frame members, a perimeter base frame 82, at least one cross base member 84 and the apparatus support members 62 including hanging frame apparatus 89 and feet members. Perimeter frame 82 includes front base member 90, rear base member 92, left side base member 94 and right side base member 96 connected together by fastening means, each member comprising elongate members having a box cross section. The side base members 90, 92 extend past the rear base member 92 to create protruding end sections 97. In this example, the fastening means for the frame members includes bolts-nut-washers and/or welding.

Cross base members 84 also comprise elongate members having a box cross section and being of similar length but are parallel to cross base members 84 and are spaced between the front base member90 and rear base member92. As seen in figure 44there arefour base cross members 84 between the rear base member 92 and front base member 90 and with the rear base member 92 and front base member 90 which include two such cross base members 84 closer to the front, spaced by 98 being more closely spaced than the other spaced cross base members 84 which are spaced by 100, and are adjacent the front base member 90.

The hanging frame apparatus 89 includes at least two frame like structures of a plate cross section, being downwardly hanging from underneath the rear base member 92 and one of the cross base members 84 to extend to a height 88, 89 to the substrate 13, to include a bottom elongate member 102 extending at least substantially same length as the cross base members 84 but being upwardly supported by spaced ribs 104 from the rear base member 92 and cross base member 84 forming hollow cells or cavities 106 there between whereby the cells or cavities 106 of one frame like structure are aligned for sliding receipt of the tines of a fork lift vehicle which is then able to slide in, then lift and/or move the apparatus loaded or unloaded with glass sheets.

The bottom elongate member 102 of the hanging frame apparatus 89 also functions as an apparatus support member 62 to when in use, abut the substrate 13 to provide some support for the assembly 1 on the substrate 13, at a position in between the rear and front of the base structure assembly 62 and also at a rear of the base structure assembly 12 whereby there is a rear apparatus support member of a certain first height 88 and in between support member of a second height 89 is provided.

The bottom elongate member 102 of the rear base member 92 having angled or inclined section 108 joining to side base members 94, 96 at the rear member. The bottom elongate member 102 of the other frame like member as attached to underside of the cross-base member 84 are discrete separate lengths for each cell thereby separate cells 106.

The apparatus support members 62 also includes leg members 110 having a length less than as compared to the length of the side base members 94, 96, front base member 90, rear base member 92, cross base members 84. The leg member 110 also has a foot 112 located at one end. The leg member 110 which can be a box cross section is located and connected to the base support frame 60 of the base structure assembly 10 and to a foot 112. The foot 112 is abutting the substrate 13 and includes an inverted cup like structure with its edge doing the abutting. The leg and foot include height 114 which is selected in this option to be similar to the height 88, 89 of the hanging frame apparatus 89 below the base support frame 60 of the base structure assembly 10.

The platform structure 64 as seen figures 13, 497, includes a planar thin polygon planar shaped structure 118 having a body with a width 120, length 122, thickness dimension 124, upper surface 126 and lower surface 128 separated by the thickness dimension 124. The width 120 defines the sides 130 and the length 122 defines the ends 132 at the front and rear. The thickness dimension 124 being significantly less than the thickness dimension 26 of base structure assembly 10. The upper surface 126 includes side edge plinths 134 and in between the side plinths 134 there are a plurality of parallel grooves 136 having ends 138. There are no plinths 134 at the ends 132, with the ends 138 of the grooves 136 being open at the front and rear. The shape width and length and spacing of the grooves 136 being determined by reference tothe particular planarobject being edge store and located therein.

As shown in the figures the platform structure 64 is split into two separate elongate platform sections to be supported by the cross-base members 84 in the opposite direction, but also to be spaced by a space 140 being close to but not greater than the space 98 as between two cross base members 84 closer to the front base member 90. The space 140 is between the platform sections is aligned with a gap between perimeterframe 82, through to the substrate 13. The grooves 136 of one platform section are aligned with the grooves 136 of the spaced other platform section.

Platform structure 64 in this example comprises machined HDPE sheets.

As defined: "Essentially a high-density Polyethylene PE300 grade Material; it is a tough flexible material with excellent chemical resistance, good electrical Insulation and low temperature impact strength. HDPE Sheet is an alternative to Polypropylene when rigidity of the finished Component is important."

Wall structure Assembly 12 - see especially figures 1-16, 29-33, 44-49, 60-63 Wall structure assembly 12 is a polygonal shaped frame including a wall support frame 72 and at least one dropper arm member 75 movably mounted on a dropper arm support member 160 thereon. The dropper arms 75 are movably connected to wall support frame 72 to when in use rotate to outwardly protrude from the one side i.e., the front side 72.

Each dropper arm supporting member 160 can be associated with by being located adjacent to a horizontal wall cross rail member 158 which are both elongate items spanning between the right and left side wall members 150, 152, and are located immediately adjacent each other whereby dropper arm supporting member 160 is end pivotally mounted while horizontal wall cross rail member 158 is end fixed. Horizontal wall cross rail member 158 can function to provide strength to the wall support frame 72 and/or provide a stop or rotation limitation for each or at least one rotatable dropper arm members 75. Each horizontal wall cross rail member 158 can be located anywhere in the wall structure assembly 12.

In this example dropper arm supporting member 160 and horizontal wall cross rail member 158 can be formed as the same type of members but still allow rotation and end fixing so that in one option both can be tubular members orjustthe dropperarm supporting member 160 can be a tube with horizontal wall cross rail member 158 being an angle member.

For example, wall support frame 72 includes elongate members comprising left side vertical wall members 150 (e.g., 50x50x5 angle), right side vertical wall members 152 (e.g., 50x50x5 angle), top horizontal wall rail member 154 (e.g., 50x50x5 angle), and at least one horizontal wall cross rail member 158. Each dropper arm supporting member 160 is paired with a horizontal wall cross rail members 158 wherein each dropper arm supporting member 160 is paired with a horizontal wall cross rail members 158 which are touching or abutting each other whereby the dropper arm supporting member 160 is rotatable allowing each dropper arm member 75 and/or dropper arm supporting member 160 to rotation accordingly. In this example there are at least two dropper arm members 75 side by side configuration or a whole row of arms 75 and abutting which can at least individually or collectively rotate with respect to each other on the dropper arm supporting member 160.

Alternatively, wall support frame 72 can include a bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 (e.g., 50x5x5 angle) and at least one horizontal wall cross rail member 158 as an angle member (e.g., 25x25x3).

In this example, below the top horizontal wall rail member 154 which is a horizontal oriented member, there are spaced two horizontal wall cross rail members 158 (e.g., one horizontal wall cross rail member 158 can be located centrally and one horizontal wall cross rail member 158 can located closer to the bottom horizontal wall rail member 156.

The vertical side wall members 150, 152 are vertically oriented and extend downwardly past the bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 to create protruding end sections 39. The elongate members of the wall support frame are interconnected by any suitable connecting means. The connecting means, in this example can include bolting with nuts/washers and/or welding.

The vertical left side wall members 150, right side wall members 152 and top horizontal wall rail member 154 form an outer square/rectangular perimeter frame whereby each such member of the U shape includes an L shape cross section having an inner side face 159 facing frontwards towards the base structure assembly 10. The bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 is a different cross section to the U shape members and is located upwardly from the bottom of the side wall members 150, 152.

The horizontal wall cross rail members 158 as located between the top horizontal wall rail member 154 and bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 to span across to and between the vertical side wall members 150, 152 and also comprise an elongate member with an L shaped cross section also facing the front ie 25 x25 x 3 and oriented in an opposite direction to the angle of the top horizontal wall rail member 154, bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 and side members 150, 152 ie facing each other.

One horizontal wall cross rail member 158 is located in this example at or close to the bottom of the wall structure assembly 12 and one cross member is located almost midway between the top horizontal wall rail member 154 and the bottom horizontal wall rail member 156.

The horizontal wall cross rail member 158 located at the bottom or near, of the U shape frame, is a cross member which is located recessed up from a bottom end of the vertical side wall members 150,152.

A dropper arm support member 160 is also an elongate member in the form of a tube, bar or rod having a circular cross section having ends 162 which ends are end supported and rotatably connected by end pivot connection 161 in inner face 159 of each vertical side wall members 150, 152 which enables one to be able individually rotate and support each dropper arm member 75 about the bar to any suitable position to space and/or cushion the glass as required. Pivot connection 161 includes a bolt or screw with at least one washer at each end of the dropper arm support member 160 which is designed to rotatably hold the member 160 to side member 150, 152. Each dropper arm support member 160 is oriented to be parallel and spaced from the top horizontal wall rail member 154, bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 and horizontal wall cross rail members 158.

As shown in figure 30 in this first embodiment the wall cross rail members 158 and dropper arm support member 160 are paired parallel members being immediately adjacent each eg abutting or touching while still allowing arms 75 to rotate or spaced say 10-20mm apart but are spaced down the frame of left side vertical wall member 150, right side vertical wall member 152, top horizontal wall member 154 by certain distances. When in use in the wall structure when in a substantial vertical orientation for ease of reference (realizing that the orientation will change when folding the wall 12 down to the base assembly 10) Each dropper arm support member 160 is located above the wall cross rail members 158. As seen there can be three spaced pairs of wall cross rail members 158 and dropper arm support member

160, spaced as distances X1, X2, X3 and X4.

Distance X1 is from the top rail member 154 to a first pair and distance X2 is the distance

between the first pair and second pair, distance X3 is the distance between the second pair

to the third pair and the distance X4 is the distance from the third pair to the bottom of the

frame 12 or bottom of side members 150, 152. X1 and X4 are similar in dimension but much

less than eitherof X2 and X3. X2 is about double that of X1orX2 and is largerthan X3 but X3

is larger than X1 or X4.

These distances can be selected to whatever is required for stability and strength and

rotational movement of the dropper arm members 75.

As shown in the second embodiment in figure 61:

At the very top of the wall structure, there is a first dropper arm support member 160

immediately below top horizontal wall rail member 154 by distance X1,

- at the bottom, there is above bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 (which is spaced by

X2 above an end of the vertical wall side members 150, 152 i.e., vertical member protruding

section 39) spaced by X3 there is a first horizontal wall cross rail member 158 and then spaced

by X4 above first horizontal wall cross rail member 158 there is a second dropper arm support

member 160.

- in between the top horizontal wall rail member 154 and the bottom horizontal wall rail

member 156, there is a third dropper arm support member 160 and a second horizontal wall

cross rail member 158, whereby closest to the second dropper arm support member 160,

second horizontal wall cross rail member 158 is spaced by X5 and above second horizontal

wall cross rail member 158 by space X6 is third dropper arm support member 160.

Third dropper arm support member 160 is spaced below first tube member by X7.

Distances X7 and X5 are similar in dimension but are larger than X1, X6, X4.

Distances X1, X6 and X4 are similar in dimension are each smaller than X3.

Distances X7 and X5 are the largest dimension being significantly larger than all the other

distances.

Distances X1, X6 and X4 are the smallest dimensions being significantly the smallest.

Dropper arm member 75 - As seen in figures 70-77.

Each dropper arm member 75 includes a base portion 164 and arm portion 166.

The base portion 164 includes a tubular member 168, shaped with a cylindrical hollow space

170 there between sized for sliding receipt of the dropper arm support member 160 there

through, a plinth 172, upper connection member 174 and lower connection member 176.

The arm portion 166 is an elongate planar shaped ribbed body with a front arm tip end 178

comprising an angled front end and base end 180 attached to the base portion 164.

The plinth 172 includes a triangular shaped polygon (hollow ribbed structure in this example)

having one base end 180 attached to an outer periphery of the tubular member 168 and the

other end 182 joined or formed to one end i.e., base end 180 of the arm portion 166. The

plinth 172 has a plinth base length the same length as the tubular member 168 and a same

height as the height of the arm portion 166 as seen in figures 70-77.

The upper connection member 174 (connecting a top of base end 180 to the top of the plinth

172) includes a ring like band shaped member 182 having a planar shaped member

surrounding and abutting an outer top surface of the tubular member 168, and thereby

providing a raised curved-stop formation 184. Lower connection member 176 is located on

an opposite side of the plinth 172 to that upper connection member 174, to connect base

end 180 to underneath the tubular member 168. The upper connection member 174 and

lower connection member 176 are sized to be the same width as the edge of the arm portion

166 and extend from the base of the plinth as extending from a base of the arm portion - see

figures 70-77.

In use, each dropper arm member 75 can be rotated whereby the base portion 164 rotates

by rotating the tubular member 168 about the dropper arm support member 160 but is

prevented from rotating too far upwards by curved stop surface 184 abutting an adjacent cross wall member. Each dropper arm member 4 stays rotationally in place via a sliding friction between the tubular member 168 and the dropper arm support member 160.

As shown in figures there are dropper arm members 75 shown movably and rotatably attached adjacent and between the horizontal top wall rail member 154, horizontal bottom wall member 156 (as in second embodiment in figures 38-65) and horizontal wall cross rail member 158, to dropper arm support member 160 which is also an elongate member in the form of a tube, bar or rod. Each dropper arm member 75 is able to rotate independently of other dropper arms and of the dropper arm support member 160. When a loader loads the glass onto a particular groove or slot 136, they push/pull every dropper arm member 4 downwards/upwards as loaded.

As shown in the figures, in particular adjacent and immediately below the top horizontal wall rail member 154 (e.g., top rail), the dropper arm members 75 are rotatably mounted to dropper arm support member 160 and are oriented such that they can be adjustably angled fully downwardly having the front angled tip end 178 also facing upwardly - see fig 3, 4, to provide better side abutment to a glass sheet of a particular area. There is no cross-rail member 158 at this top most part of the wall structure assembly 12, to limit downward rotation just limited in upward rotation by the top rail member

Also shown in in the figures 1-37 and in figures 38-65, in particular adjacent to the bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 (eg bottom rail), with adjacent below cross rail member 158, the dropper arm members 75 are rotatably mounted to dropper arm support member 160 and are oriented such that they can be adjustably angled upwardly (greater than the angle of the dropper arm member 75 at the top) having the front angled tip end 178 facing upwardly, to provide better side abutment to a glass sheet 2 of a particular area. Downward rotation of the dropper arm member4 is limited but supported and limited by the lower cross rail member 158.

As shown in the figures 1-37 and 38-65 in particular adjacent and above to the mid rail or horizontal wall cross rail member 158, each dropper arm member 75 is rotatably mounted to dropper arm support member 160 and are oriented such that they can be adjustably angled upwardly (e.g more than the lower dropper arm members 75 having the front angled tip end 178 facing downwardly - see fig 3, 4 to provide better side abutment to a glass sheet of a particular area. Downward rotation of the dropper arm member 75 is limited but supported by the lower cross rail member 158.

The dropper arm members 75 as shown in the figures is as being oriented upwardly, horizontally and downwardly.

Considering the glass not being loaded: For top rail or top horizontal wall rail member 154, dropper arm members 75 are inverted without a (25x5x3) horizontal wall cross rail member 158 to attain a maximum possible retention to a longer piece of glass. For the mid cross rail 158 and bottom rail or bottom horizontal wall rail member 156, provided the 25x25 L shaped member horizontal wall cross rail member 158 provides support for dropper arm member 4 to be directed horizontally.

The dropper arm members 75 angled at their tips i.e., they are angled in a certain way to sit on the (L -section) angle bar of horizontal wall cross rail member 158 considering the fact when it sits perpendicular to the L section (i.e., at 90 deg), a small push or pull on the rack will make the dropper arm members 75 fall down. Therefore, it was made to sit at a certain angle making it not too easy to go down except with a small push or pull on the rack.

Connecting and rotating system 6 see fig 6, 25, 26, 32-35 Connecting and rotating system 6 is located at or close to, a lower protruding end 39 15-7 of the perimeter frame of the wall structure assembly 12 and at or close to a rear protruding end 97 of the base structure assembly 10, being configured and rotatably connected to and between a rear end (at protruding end sections 97) of the base structure assembly 10 and (at protruding end section 39) lower end of wall structure assembly 12 to cause at least one of the base structure assembly 10 and wall structure assembly 12 to be rotated towards each other to be folded or abutted there against there-against each other. In this example the wall structure assembly 12 is rotated downwardly towards the base structure assembly 10 as seen in fig 29 to lie on or abut or intermesh somewhat.

One example of part of connecting and rotating system 6 includes pivot means 188, and the other part is a locking means in the form of a first bracket member 190 as configured and operatively connected to and with base structure assembly 10 and a second bracket member 192 configured and operatively but movably connected to and with wall structure assembly 12.

First and second bracket members 190, 192 comprise elongate shaped bodies including substantially L shaped cross sections whereby the first bracket member 190 is fixed outwardly to each opposing rear corner of the rear of the base structure assembly 10 to upwardly protrude above and at right angles to the base structure assembly 10. Second bracket members 192 are each slidably fixed to an outside (rear and side) of a lower ends of the opposing vertical side wall members 150, 152 of the perimeterframe of the wall structure assembly 12, being oriented to be in line with the wall side members 150, 152 of the wall structure assembly 12.

Pivot means 188 includes a rod or bolt with end fixing e.g., nut, washer etc there through to allow the wall structure assembly 12 to rotate about the pivot means 188 with respect to a stationery base structure assembly 10.

The elongate shaped body of one first bracket member 190 is made up of elongate planar members having a thickness, each planar member having an elongate shape that provides includes ends 200 and side edges 202 with an outer surface 204 and inner surface 206 with thickness 207 between. The ends 200 define a length 208 there between and side edges a width 210 there between. Inner surfaces 206 provides an inner space there between 209. The elongate planar members are joined at right angles to each other along their length forming the L shaped cross section.

One of the elongate members has one slotted first aperture 212 there through for rotational receipt of part of the pivot means. The position of the first aperture 212 in the elongate member is positioned above the thickness 70 of the base structure assembly 10 to enable rotation of the wall structure assembly 12 there about to allow the wall structure assembly 12 to be able to be folded or rotated with respect to base structure assembly 10 to be able to at least rest on top of the base structure assembly 10 or even rotate furtherto downwardly intermesh therein.

One end 200 of the first bracket member 190 (ie lower end) includes a straight end edge 214 is oriented at right angles to the side edges 202 whereas the other end edges 216 (ie upper end) are shaped providing a truncated V shaped tongue portion 218 with one side abutments (abutments are located in between tongues 218 ie side flat abutment 220, central/corner abutment 224, side angled abutment 226, with one side edge at different levels, with side flat abutment 220 being the lowest, central abutment 224 being highest of abutments), on each end portion of each elongate member. In use the straight end edge 214 is located and directed towards the substrate 13 but being spaced upwardly there from i.e., not downwardly extending beyond the frame thickness 70 of the base structure assembly 10.

The elongate shaped body of one second bracket member 192 is made up of elongate planar members having a thickness, each planar member having an elongate shape that provides includes ends 300 and side edges 302 with an outer surface 304 and inner surface 306 and thickness 307 between. The ends 300 define a length 308 there between and side edges a width 310 there between. Inner surfaces 306 provide an inner space there between 309. The elongate planar members are joined at right angles to each other along their length forming the L shaped cross section.

One end 300 (eg upper end) of the second bracket member 192 includes a straight end edge 314 being oriented at right angles to the side edges 302 whereas the other end edges 316 Eg a lower end) are each shaped providing a recessed portion 318 (truncated V shape) on each end portion of each elongate member thereby having a central/corner truncated V tongue (at corner) 320 between recessed portions 318 for each elongate side of the L cross sectional shape, and outward half truncated V tongues on each outward side forming one outward pointed end abutment 322 and one truncated/flat abutment 324 wherein the central truncated Vtongue 320 is higherthan the outward half truncated V tongues 322, 324 on the sides. The recessed portion 218 is shaped as a flat surface similar in orientation to one side abutment surface. In use the straight end edge 314 is located and directed away from the substrate 13 but being spaced downwardly there from the top of the wall structure assembly 12.

The outward shape of the truncated V shaped tongue portion 218 (abutments as located in between tongues 218 ie central abutment 224 and on one side edge at different levels, flat side abutment 220 being the lowest and an angled side abutment 226), is/are complementary to the inward shape of the recessed portions 318 (central truncated Vtongue (at corner) and outward half truncated V tongues on each outward side) to provide a mating interlocking inter-fitting relationship there between. In use first bracket member 190 is oriented in an upright protruding orientation affixed to an outer surface of the two rear corners of the base structure assembly 10 having the tongue portions upwardly protruding beyond the base structure - see figures 68, 69.

To allow for the interlocking relationship if the first bracket 190 has tongue portions upwardly protruding, then the second bracket 192 must have its interlocking surfaces i.e., recessed portions, downwardly protruding. Equally the opposite orientation of the tongue portion and recessed portion will also work for interlocking. The first bracket member 190 is fixed in position on the base structure assembly 10 but the second bracket member 192 is able to slide up and down the outer corner of the vertical side wall members 150, 152, to allow interlocking, when wanting to lock in the position of the wall structure assembly 12 with respect to the base structure assembly 10.

Also, as part of the connecting and rotating system 6, there is another aperture i.e., a second aperture 350 is located near the bottom of one face of vertical side wall members 150, 152 of the perimeter frame of the wall structure assembly 12- as seen in the figures. The position of this second aperture 350 aligns with first aperture 212 to allow each rod or bolt of each pivot means 188 on each side of the assembly to rotate there about.

Pivot means 188 is located at a lower portion of the wall structure assembly 12 to a rear end of the base structure assembly 10 and the first bracket member 190, includes a rod or bolt there through aligned apertures 212, 350 to allow the wall structure assembly 12 to be rotated about the pivot means 188 with respect to a stationery base structure assembly 10. As seen in figure 29, the pivoting of the wall structure assembly 12 will only occur when the second bracket 192 of wall structure assembly 12 is slidably moved upwardly away out of engagement or intermeshing 320, 224, from the first bracket 190 of the base structure -.

Second bracket member 192 though mostly L shaped in cross section does also have edge sliding capture means to enable one to slidably move the second bracket member 192 up or down an outer corner of the vertical side wall members 150, 152 when required to lock or unlock the pivoting means 188 by unlocking the interlocking relationship (between tongues and recesses).

As shown in the example of the figures, the base structure assembly 10 can include a perimeter frame with four cross base members 84 and at least two-part platform sections (one short and one long) on top. The wall structure assembly 12 of this example, includes a square or rectangular frame (vertical side wall members 150, 152, horizontal top wall member 154 and optional in second embodiment having horizontal bottom wall rail member 156) with two horizontal wall cross rail members 158 and three horizontal dropper arm support members 160. With the dropper arm support members 160 spaced up/down the wall structure, there can be as many dropper arm members 4 as there are sheets of material 2 (e.g., glass sheets), edge supported in the grooves 136 of the platform structure 36 having platform sections. The sheet material 2 need not be just one length as the floor space 140 allows easier access underneath some of the longer sheets to better facilitate removal from the assembly 1 when required.

As shown in figure 28, at least one holding member 400 e.g., a strap, rope, or plastics wrap etc, can used to strap the glass panel member(s) having dropper arm member 75 there between to the side members 150, 152 of the wall structure assembly 12. The at least one holding member can be used in combination or individually oriented at any configuration e.g., horizontal, or diagonally etc. The retention system can also include the foam or rubber pieces or corner buffers to protect the exposed corners of the glass sheets especially when used in combination with tries or straps. The exposed longitudinal edges of the glass sheets 2 can also have protection including rubber, foam or plastics edge strips. Holding member 40 can also be used to hold down the base members 94, 84 and 96 of the rack assembly by inserting straps or ties 400 through the gaps 67 on to the floor of the truck or container.

Third embodiment Figure 83 shows the latest changes (in front perspective view) including a slightly longer base and taller back section supported by a detachable brace than shown and described in the original embodiments. In this embodiment there are 3 grooved HDPE sheets 16 on the base - to improve its mechanical properties, whilst the functionality remains the same. The base has a pair of edge members 1.6 and a central member 1.5. The edge members have outer faces 1.1 and a pair of apertures 1.7 spaced apart to allow for the insertion of the tines of a fork lift. Corresponding apertures (not shown) are provided on the central member 1.5 and in alignment with the outer apertures 1.7. Cross bars 1.3 extend between the side members and the central member 1.5. In addition, item 1.9 in Fig 83 represents a solid round bar. There are 3 such bars secured (welded) in different locations to use as tie-down points for straps which can be used to secure each glass sheet.

The base and its subsidiary structures are made up of alloy. For the forks, right/left fork slots can be used when loading on the truck, as it is best to load the racks sideways onto a truck.

However, for factory movements, the forks can also be inserted from behind but not from the front.

The pivotally connected wall has a top rail 2.1 and two vertical rails 2.2. The vertical rails are pivotally connected to the top of the base, with the pivot point 4 passing through upright angle members 5 which provide a back stop for the wall when erected. Each vertical rail 2.2 has dropper bars 2.4 pivotally connected thereto. Three dropper bars are shown each having a pivot point 3.

A pair of detachable bracing struts 7 are provided to help lock the wall frame to the base. Each bracing strut 7 is pivotally connected to its respective vertical rail 2.2 and is detachable connected to an anchor point 8 on the upper surface of the base by a looking pin 1.10. The pair of bracing struts 7 provide additional rigidity and strength to the frame.

A GPS Slot is provided on the top rail (un-numbered central slot) - to allow for the insertion and fixing of GPS Trackers to each rack wen erected.

The method of assembly of the rack assembly includes the following steps: For the first embodiment: Form base structure by attaching beams 65 to underside of platform panel 118 to form platform assembly Attach platform assembly to base members 94, 84, 96 Attach rails 86 Form wall structure by forming perimeter frame Insert dropper arms 75 to dropper arm support member 160 Insert arms 75 and support members 160 within wall perimeter frame Insert rail 158 to be paired and touching support members 160 to form wall assembly. Attached bottom of wall assembly to rear edge of base structure by connecting assembly 6.

Alternatively for the second embodiment one method of assembly includes: - Form perimeter frame 82 for base structure assembly 10; - Connect cross base members 84 between base side members 94, 96; - Place platform structure 64 on top of assembled perimeter frame 82; - Form perimeter frame 72 for wall structure assembly 12;

150, 152;

- Form connection system 6 on base structure assembly 10;

6.

Another possible method of assembly of loading or unloading glass panels from the rack

assembly as disclosed, includes the following steps of:

- Unfold wall structure assembly 12 from base structure assembly 10; - Lift and rotate dropper arm members 75 into place on wall structure assembly 12

- Place glass sheet on grooves 136 whereby the dropper arm members are located

between the glass sheets;

- Strap the glass panel members having dropper arm member 75 there between to the

side members 150, 152 of the wall structure assembly 12.

This method can include the step of: the dropper arm members are rotated in an upward

configuration at the top of the wall structure assembly 12

This method can include the step of: the dropper arm members are rotated in a downward

configuration at the bottom of the wall structure assembly 12

This method can include the step of: the dropper arm members are rotated in a horizontal

configuration at the middle of the wall structure assembly 12

Yet another method can be:

- Assembly rack ass as given above - Place glass on grooves

- Pack between glass to form loaded and packed rack assembly

- Insert forklift in side slots and lift

- Insert loaded and packed rack assembly into side of truck or container

Parts Schedule Rack assembly 1

Planar sheet members 2

Connecting and rotating system 6

Base structure assembly 10

Wall structure assembly 12

Substrate 13

Areas Al and A2.

Base structure assembly 10

Front end edge 14, rear end edge 16, left side edge 18 and right-side edge 20

Top surface 22 and bottom surface 24

Thickness dimension 26

Edges 14, 16, 18, 20 have a length dimension 28

Front corners 25 and rear corners 27.

Wall structure assembly 12

Bottom end edge 30, top end edge 32, left side edge 34 and right-side edge 36

Front surface 38 and rear surface 40

Thickness dimension 42

Length dimension 44

Top corners 37 and bottom end extensions 39.

Angle 46

First plane 52

Second plane 54

Base structure assembly 10 includes

Base support frame 6G

Apparatus support members 62

Platform structure 64

Platform support member 65

Upper side 66

Gap 67 (under platform panel 118)

Lower side 68

Base thickness dimension 70

Wall support frame Front side 72 Dropper arm member 75.

Base Structure assembly Height 88 Perimeter frame 82 Cross base member 84 Horizontal base rail member 86 Hanging frame apparatus 89 Front base member 90 Rear base member 92 Left side base member 94 Right side base member 96 Protruding end section 97 Spaced 98 spaced 100 Bottom elongate member 102 ribs 104 hollow cells or cavities 106 channel sections 107 angled or inclined section 108 leg members 110 foot 112 height 114

Platform Planar panel structure 118 width 120, length 122, thickness dimension 124 upper surface 126 and lower surface 128 separated by the thickness dimension 124 sides 130 ends132 side edge plinths 134 parallel grooves 136 having ends 138. space 140

Wall Structure Assembly left side vertical wall members 150 right side vertical wall members 152 top horizontal wall rail member 154, bottom horizontal wall rail member 156 horizontal wall cross rail member 158 protruding end sections 39 inner side face 159 dropper arm support member 160 X1 vertical distance between 160 and 154 X2 vertical distance between 156 and ground X3 vertical distance between 156 and 158 X4 vertical distance between 158 and 160 X5 vertical distance between 160 and 158 X6 vertical distance between 158 and 160 X7 vertical distance between 160 and 154 pivot connection 161 ends 162

Dropper arm members dropper arm support member 160 base portion 164 arm portion 166.

tubular member 168, cylindrical hollow space 170 plinth 172, upper connection member 174 lower connection member 176. front arm tip end 178 angled front end and base end 180 other end 182 raised curved-stop formation 184

Connecting and rotating 6 pivot means 188, first bracket member 190 second bracket member 192 ends 200 and side edges 202 outer surface 204 and inner surface 206 thickness 207 between length 208 width 210 slotted first aperture 212 straight end edge 214 other end edges 216 truncated V shaped tongue portion 218 side flat abutment 220 central/corner flat abutment 224 side angled abutment 226 ends 300 and side edges 302 with an outer surface 304 and inner surface 306 thickness 307 length 308 side edges a width 310 straight end edge 314 end edges 316 recessed portion 318 central/corner truncated V tongue 320 pointed abutment 322 flat abutment 324 second aperture 350 of side wall members 150, 152

Extension Portion extension portion 360 arm member 362 head member 364 hollow space 366 locking mechanism 368 groove 370 retention system - holding member 400

Optional Advantages a) Adjustable b) Safe storage c) Foldable or retractable configuration d) More able to be moved e) More easily transported f) Are stackable in a folded configuration g) Lightweight sturdy construction h) Easy to assemble or disassemble i) Not too heavy Simple construction j) Able to store multiple glass panes k) Racks can be transported on trucks I) Easier to pick up or store single pane m) Time saving in loading or unloading glass n) Greater amount of glass able to be stored o) Shorter loading and unloading times for glass p) Less space required for storage of glass and rack q) Can moved manually or mechanically using wheels r) Can have folding or adjustable floor and/or folding wall s) Has readily usable dropper arms to space and hold glass t) Rack assembly are side lifted enabling them to be inserted/removed from the side of a container or truck e.g., by forklift u) Can include channel members spanning the width of the rack assembly for forklift tine insertion to move rack assembly i.e., oriented at rights to the planar extent of the glass sheets v) Apparatus have shorter feet at mid to rear to ensure rear tilting of apparatus w) Rear tilting ensures glass sheets cannot slide forwardly and off the apparatus x) At least one strap or tie can be used to hold the glass to the rack assembly y) Glass sheets can be shrink wrapped in plastic to facilitate transportation z) Can have an extendable floor or extendable base structure assembly aa) Extra separate structures like wraps, cork or foam separators can be used bb) Is nestable with other rack assemblies to significantly save on space in the factory or on a truck cc) Rack assembly can easily fold up to save on space anyway being stored like in a factory or truck.

Variations Throughout the description of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations of that word such as "comprising" and "comprises", are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

Dropper arm members 75 can also be manufactured from any suitable material that provides cushioning and support e.g., plastics or rubber or even foam, in any combination, for the job of abutting, cushioning or holding the glass together on the rack assembly frames. The shape of each arm 75, including length and thickness can also be varied to suit the thickness of glass being used, the width of the grooves 136 and their spacing on the base structure 10. One preferred arrangement is in the form of a plurality of fingers (each finger corresponding to the thickness of a glass sheet) and havinggaps therebetween, the gaps matchingthe grooves on the base. This is best illustrated in Figure 56.

As seen in figures 17-22, 50-55 the rack assembly 1is of the present invention is also designed by virtue of the configuration of connecting and rotating system 6 to be foldable or end rotatable about the bottom of the wall assembly 12 whereby the wall structure assembly 12 is folded or pivotally rotated at its lower end, from a ninety degree up right orientation to a zero degrees near horizontal orientation where the wall structure assembly 12 is resting in a lapped configuration on top of the base structure assembly 10.

With the pivot pin of pivot means 188, positionally affixed but allowing rotation there about, being extended horizontally through aperture 212 of the upright oriented first bracket 190 located at the rear end of the protruding end 97 of the side members 94, 96 of the base structure assembly 10. Spaces 140 are show between platform sections, though it is also possible to not have any spaces 140 which means that the platform can be formed as a one platform section spanning the entire area of the base structure. The size and shape of the space can also be varied to suit requirements.

The rack assembly including the dropper arms can be manufactured from any suitable material such as rubber, steel, aluminium or plastics or any combination thereof. The rack being made up of separate elongate members of similar or different cross sections to form a frame, is able to bejoined or connected by fasteners such as bolts and nuts and/or be welded. In one example, the vertical frame can be manufactured or fabricated from an alloy to ensure a lighter weight, the base can be fabricated from folded aluminium sheets made into 40x0 x 3 box structures, with for slots complying with HVSC compliance whereby when loaded on a truck the 2 ton rated straps will be tied down to the tie down rail on the side of the truck which is achieved by taking the straps through the gap between the 40x4x3 box sections. Alternatively, any of the components can be fabricated from an alloy.

Lengths and size of any members or components of the assembly can be altered to suit requirements. Other pivoting means 188 or rotating means for moving the wall structure assembly 12 and/or base structure 10, beside bolts, rods, pins etc are also equally possible such hinging or props. To extend the dimensions of the area of the base structure 10 and/or wall structure assembly 12 one can use telescoping portions, slide out portions or fold out portions as seen in floor extension example of the figures of the second embodiment but equally the first embodiment can also include extension portions that either slid or telescope out or they can be entirely separate add on features to any part of the base and or wall.

. The optional apparatus support members 62 located under the front base member 90 ie the leg member 110 and foot 112 together can be longer in length or height than the height 88, 89 of the apparatus support members 62 located underneath the middle and/or rear base members, thereby ensuring an optional tilt of the apparatus 1 towards the rear to prevent or reduce the likelihood of at least one the glass sheet sliding forwards and off the apparatus.

Slots or cavities 106 though placed in the sides of the base members 94, 84, 96 can be located on the front face through to the rear face if required. Also the number of slots and cavities 106 shape and pattern can be varied as well. A forklift could also utilize the longitudinal space between the base members from the front or rear of the assembly, with our without a channel 107 to house the tines. Terms like front and rear and sides relate to the orientation as shown in the following front views of figures 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 28, 42, 45, 46, 49,50,52,57,79,80.

The particular cross sections of any of the members such as the base frame members, platform structure and wall structure can be varied to suit both strength and practical-ness requirements with their use e.g., channels, angle members, strip plate like members (second embodiment), box sections or "I" beams.

As shown figures 77-82 the base structure 10 assembly can also include an extension portion 360 cantilevered from the front end of the base structure assembly for larger planar sheets 2. Extension portion 360 comprises a frame like structure including a square U shape having arm members 362, head member 364 forming a movable hollow space 366 there between and locking mechanism 368. The hollow space 366 allows the arm members 362 of extension portion 360 to slide within the base side arms 64, 96 thereby reducing the hollow space to nothing leaving just the head member 364 outwardly exposed overlapping with front base member 90.

The arm members 362 each comprise an elongate member having a longitudinal length in line with and overlapping internally with the longitudinal length of left and right-side base members 94, 96. The arm members 362 have a hollow box cross section of a certain width and height. The length of the arm members 362 will be no greaterthan the length of the side base members 94, 96. This inter-sliding action includes in this example, box members sliding within box members but equally other cross sections that allows inter-sliding and support, are also possible e.g., circular, or angles.

Locking extension mechanism 568 includes in this example, a movable bolt and locking nut that interfits with complementary apertures located there through in spaced intervals along the length of both arm members 362 to first allow unlocking and the extension of the extension portion 360 to a desired extension and commensurate hollow space 366, from the front base member 90 depending on the length of the planar sheet member 2, to have the extension portion 360 cantilevered from the base structure 10 utilising some overlap of the arm members 362 with the side portions 94, 96 to provide support therefrom. Other methods of locking are also possible such as by locking pins or in combination with other methods.

Head member 364 includes elongate hollow box section which includes an elongate top member on top of or formed as part of the box section, having spaced parallel grooves 370 along the length, which such grooves 370 align with but are spaced from the grooves 136 in the platform structure 64.

Members used for strength and/ or fixing means can be varied to suit these requirements which means that the cross section need not be limited to being rod or tube like.

Furthermore any of the other elongate member such as box sections, channels or angle cross

sections are selected to allow easy fixing or interconnection with each other and so can be

varied to suit both strength and connection requirements with cost considerations whereby

the types of members and configurations are equally possible. Also, cross members can be

added to any of the frames to improve strength and stableness.

It will of course be realised that while the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative

example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would

be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit

of this invention as is hereinbefore described. The tongue portions can be swapped for the

recessed portions. The shape of the tongue portions with respect to shape of the recessed

portion can be any shape as long as they can interlock.

Yet other very useful options for the rack assembly 1 of the present invention as shown by

the drawings, mean that the modularform of the parts that interfit to form the rack assembly

mean that the rack assembly can easily fold or hinge by having the wall assembly configured

to be rotated downwardly about the base of the wall assembly 12 at connecting and rotating

system 6, towards the base assembly 10 to provide a more flat or compact planar structure.

This has the big advantage of taking a whole lot less space either in the factory or when being

transported or moved.

The base may have different configurations or may make use of a typical pallet base with the

grooved portions attached on top. Though we prefer to use a specially made alloy base with

provision for the forklift tines to be inserted from the sides or rear of the base.

The maximum glass sheet dimension one rack assembly can be designed for:

1.8m*1.2m (W*H/H*W).

The minimum glass sheet dimension one rack assembly can be designed to carry:

0.25m*0.25m

In one example one rack assembly can accumulate the glass sheet dimensions between:

0.25m*0.25m>W*H<1.8m*1.2m

Example dimensions include 1200mm x 1184mm for each area Al or A2 with substrate 13

support members being 105mm high.

The apparatus can be optionally configured in a folded or unfolded configuration. In a folded

configuration the apparatus can stacked one on top of another.

The feet extend from the underside of the base frame to a great depth than the distance the

cavities touch the substrate 13 to there give backwards or rear tilt, to better ensure the glass

sheets are not able to easily slide forward and off the apparatus.

It will also be understood that where a product, method or process as herein described or

claimed and that is sold incomplete, as individual components, or as a "kit of Structures",

that such exploitation will fall within the ambit of the invention.

These and other features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the method

of operation and functions of the related elements of structures and the combination of

structures and economics of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration

of the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form

structure of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding

structures in the various figures.

It is acknowledged that the term 'comprise' may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed

with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and

unless otherwise noted, the term 'comprise' shall have an inclusive meaning - i.e., that it will

be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components it directly references, but

also other non-specified components or elements. This rationale will also be used when the

term 'comprised' or 'comprising' is used in relation to one or more steps in a method or

process. The terms "including and having" or "having and including", as used herein, are

defined as comprising (i.e., open language).

For purposes of the description hereinafter, terms "upper", "up", "lower", "down", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal", "side", "front", "rear" and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

In one variation from the other design, the previous single platform structure 64 of HDPE sheets can be split into three separate sheets with two gaps in between.

The two gaps assist in implementing a different retention system if required. Presently, one has to implement slots on the 40 X 40 X 3 mm section with a hook protected with silicon tube or similar material tied which hooks on to the glass attached with straps which fits on the corner of every glass unit.

The gaps are formed as forklift slots which are placed on the side to meet the standard procedure of loading the racks sideways on to the truck. The purpose of the gaps in between the folded channel is for pallet jacks to slide in and give the racks a small lift to push/pull inside the factory.

One reason for providing these slots is that a customer's factory floor space can be very limited, thereby making too difficult to access using forklifts. With the pallet jacks plus the advantage of light weight frame, floor workers will be more able to push through the rack withease. In one example as seen in figure 28, a single piece bungee or strap 400 with corner piece tied to the small rods on the base is one way to achieve this system.

The applicant has also tested wrapping glass by implementing a vacuum system (e.g., shrink wrapping) which helps in packing the glass with a plastic sheet, so it handles well combined with optional foam pieces (e.g., pool noodles). Once the rack assembly 1 reaches a customer site, the customer merely unwraps the plastic and returns it back to the applicant. The plastic will then be collected by the supplier to re-use it, which can be called eco-friendly. Some possiblefuture changes include testinga first 50 racks in the market to get customer feedback whereby the next set of 50 racks will be built subjected to check and adjust process.

The rack of the present invention is designed to carry glass sizes ranging from 250x250mm to 1300x1150mm with thickness varying from 15mm to 30mm (which would be able to carry 80% of double-glazed units). Though in the future, other glass sizes will be able to be accommodated very simply by adjusting the rack dimensions by building a 2400mm long rack to accommodate all such glass units.

Claims

1. A rack assembly having a base having an upper and lower surface and a rear wall pivotally connected to the base and capable of folding down to cover the base when not in use, a series of parallel grooves on the upper surface of the base to allow for storage of a plurality of vertically positioned glass sheets, one or more dropper bars pivotally connected to the rear wall, the or each dropper bar has a series of fingers having gaps therebetween matching those of the upper surface of the base, so that in use when the rear wall is in an upright position the dropper bar can be positioned against the side or top of the plurality of glass sheets to hold them in position.

2. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the assembly has one or more bracing struts interconnecting the base and the rear wall when in use.

3. A rack assembly having a front end and rear end which includes a base structure (10) rotatably connected by a connecting and rotating system (6) to a wall structure assembly (12) at the rear end, for storing planar sheets thereon and between, wherein the base structure assembly (10) includes a frame supporting a platform structure (64), forming an area having sides, ends, a thickness (70) between an upper surface and lower surface, a front and rear, and the wall structure assembly (12) includes a frame and adjustable dropper arms (4) movably supported thereon and the wall structure assembly (12) forming an area having sides, ends and a thickness between a front side and rear side, whereby one end of the wall structure assembly (12) is movably connected by the connecting and rotating system (6) to an adjacent end of the base structure assembly (10) being operatively connected to enable the wall structure assembly (12) to pivot about the connecting and rotating system (6) to enable the wall structure to lie down on top of the base structure, wherein the platform structure (64) includes at least two grooves on one side to provide a housing when in use for an edge portion for each planar sheet and the dropper arms 4 outwardly protrude from the frame of the wall structure assembly (12) to in use extend between the planar sheets.

4. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one groove (136) extends from one end (14, 16) of the base structure assembly (10) to the other end i.e., from front to rear wherein each planar sheet member (2) is a glass pane or glass sheet.

5. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the base structure assembly (10) includes a polygonal shape made up of elongate members of a channel cross section, being formed from a front view having a left side base member (94) and right-side base member 96 and at least one cross base members (84), each member being parallel with each other and being connected together by the platform sections (64) and fastening means.

6. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the platform structure (64) is formed of at least two sections thereby providing at least one longitudinal space (140) there between the platform sections wherein there are three sections having spaces (140) there between and include s a grooved planar panel in use located and connected on to at least one platform support member (65) which are supported underneath at least by the left side base member 94 and right side base member (96) and at least one cross base members (84).

7. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the left side base member (94), right side base member (96) and cross base member (84) include at least two slots (106) there through wherein the slots (106) are aligned to form spaces able to receive the tines of a forklift and the slots are located at an upper edge of each member (94, 96).

8. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the slots (106) are formed of a channel section (107) spanning from the left side base member (94), to the right side base member (96) and oriented having its web in a horizontal plane as a roof being open at each end to be able to receive the tines of a forklift wherein the channel sections is oriented across the width of the rack assembly oriented at right angles to the longitudinal extent of the grooves (136) and glass sheets (2) to facilitate inserting of the rack assembly into a side of a truck or container.

9. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the left side base member (94) and right-side base member (96) include elongate members having a channel cross section having a web and flanges defining a space (96a) there between, being oriented in use on the ground or floor equally spaced on one of the flanges where each member have their space (96a) facing each other.

10. A rack assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the base structure (10) includes at least one horizontal base rail member (86) formed of a tubular or rod like member longitudinally oriented in a horizontal orientation parallel with the left side base member (94) and right side base member (96), being located between and spaced between platform support members (64) to rest and be connected to a top most flange of the left side base member (94) and right side base member (96), and over and on cross base member (84) to be spaced there between left side base member (94) to right side base member (96) which function to provide increased strength to the base assembly (10) which can also be used as tie-down rails for the retention system.

11. A method of loading glass panels on a rack assembly including: • Place a folded rack assembly having a base structure and a folded down rear wall with its base structure resting on a substrate; • Unfold the rear wall from the base structure; • Lift and rotate dropper arm members into place on the rear wall • Place glass sheets on grooves on the upper surface of the base with the corresponding grooves on the dropper arm members being located between the glass sheets; • Strap around the rear wall and around the opposite edge of the glass sheets to hold them in place.

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6 96 140 84 FIGURE 9 94

12

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150

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5/44

154 A 150 150 75 CLOSE UP DETAIL 11A ANGELES B 12 2023202779

C 64 150 158

75 CLOSE UP DETAIL 11B 150

94 75 84 192 10 96 6 190 CLOSE UP DETAIL 11C

FIGURE 11

160

154 158

12 10 CLOSE UP DETAIL 12A 75 160 152 64 B 158 75 192 CLOSE UP DETAIL 12B

190 75 107 160 94 158 84 CLOSE UP DETAIL 12C

FIGURE 12

6/44

136 118 134

154 132 152 65 12 CLOSE UP DETAIL 13A

132 2023202779

150 126 B 128 CLOSE UP DETAIL 13B 124 C K 65 96 10 CLOSE UP DETAIL 13C

by FIGURE 13

154 75 12 152 150 CLOSE UP DETAIL 14A

A 118 75 150 B 158 CLOSE UP DETAIL 14B C

6 75 158 CLOSE UP DETAIL 14C

10 9484 96 FIGURE 14

7/44

75 150 158 750 CLOSE UP DETAIL 15A

A CLOSE UP DETAIL 15B 150 B

C 75 150 CLOSE UP DETAIL 15C

FIGURE 15

8/44

75 12 152 152 2023202779

192 64 A 150 B all A CLOSE UP DETAIL 16A

192 C 120 6

90 192 150 122

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9/44

64 2023202779

6

94 96 84 96 FIGURE 17

96 6

96

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10/44

12 2023202779

10

94 65

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11/44

8 2023202779

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FIGURE 25

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94 10 84 FIGURE 26 96

14/44

154 2 12 2023202779

AMOUNT

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FIGURE 27

94 84 96

154 12

2 400 75 152

6 94 10 84 96 FIGURE 28

15/44

158 154 150 04 160 12 2023202779

160

158 152

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FIGURE 29

154 150 160 XI

158 12 X2 152 160

158 X3 160

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FIGURE 30

16/44

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FIGURE 31

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FIGURE 32

17/44

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B 150 2023202779

152 160

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FIGURE 33

18/44

65 86 2023202779

106

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19/44

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86 86 65

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20/44

2023202779

152 150 160 138 75. 136 132

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22/44

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FIGURE 48

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26/44

75 192

ACCORDANCE 2023202779

190

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190 192 150

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106 106 190

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FIGURE 56

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FIGURE 60

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FIGURE 61

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FIGURE 62

33/44

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160

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160 37 156

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94 60 10 84

90 106 97 104. 89 2023202779

ACCOUNT

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104

106 96 84 82 8 88 102 FIGURE 64 106

97 10 82 96 92 84 84 84 97

8A

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60 90 94 100 25 FIGURE 65

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300 192 192 307 314 2023202779

304 306 302 302 307 308

1 318 318 320

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192 192 300

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218 224 218 216 207 200

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Figure 70

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FIGURE 73

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166 172 l 174 2023202779

ACCORDANCE

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FIGURE 81

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2.1

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'JHVSF Figure 83

44/44