CA2696755A1 - A track assembly for mobile shelving - Google Patents
A track assembly for mobile shelving Download PDFInfo
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- CA2696755A1 CA2696755A1 CA2696755A CA2696755A CA2696755A1 CA 2696755 A1 CA2696755 A1 CA 2696755A1 CA 2696755 A CA2696755 A CA 2696755A CA 2696755 A CA2696755 A CA 2696755A CA 2696755 A1 CA2696755 A1 CA 2696755A1
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- Prior art keywords
- track
- extrusion
- mobile shelving
- track extrusion
- shelving
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B53/00—Cabinets or racks having several sections one behind the other
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- Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)
- Assembled Shelves (AREA)
- Extrusion Of Metal (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates to a track assembly being of a hollow profile construction and having superior strength and stiffness. All functional components of the track, including joining means between tracks and between track and end brackets, anti-tilt means, and levelling means, are located either inside or beneath the track. The track assembly upper surface is therefore aesthetically pleasing and free from tripping hazards.
Description
CM) A track assembly for inobile shelving The present invention relates to a track assembly for niobiie shelving units and, in particular, to a hollow protile track assembly having superior stiffness characteristics and improved levelling and anti-tilt means associated therewith.
L3ACKCrRQ[JND OF TIiE INVENTION
Mobile shelving svstems typically comprise a plurality of shelving units which are equipped with rollers to traverse along spaced apart tracks, each individual shelf unit being a tall and narrow structure having an array of horizontal shelves.
The overall design and configuration of existing track extrusions is fraught with problems. Firstly, such tracks typically include a plurality of exposed extemal edges and protrusions which pose a safety risk in the torm of a tripping hazard to persons stepping over the track. Such protrusions are also visually unappealing. These problems are exacerbated when side ramps are not installed. Secondly, ttie strength and stiffness characteristics of existing tracks are otten not desirable, partlicularly when the shelving units supported there above are of a significant weight. Thirdly, existing track extrusions are not well designed as they involve external joining methods rhich often require glue and fit fasteners to be used with high precision. Significant arnourits of material are also used in their nianufacture, resulting in significant expense.
There exist fixeil mobile shelf covers for addressing some of these issues, however, they typically require the track to be fixed to the floor. Fixed mobile shelving tracks have a nutnber of inherent problems, including damage caused to the floor, the inability to re-use or re-locate the tracks, as well as fiitther disadvantages in respect of additional costs and additional installation time.
A further known problem with existing shelving, and their engagement with the tracks, is that when heavy items are placed on the higher shelves the structure becomes unstable. This instability, combined with the shelving unit being subjected to uneven lateral forces whilst being moved, can result in them toppling over in the direction of movement. Such occurrences can result in extensive dacnage to the shelf and surrounding property, as well as harm to persons located within the vicinity of the shelf. Anti-tilt devices have been implemented and used on mobile shelving systems to prevent shelving units from toppling over. However, prior art devices
L3ACKCrRQ[JND OF TIiE INVENTION
Mobile shelving svstems typically comprise a plurality of shelving units which are equipped with rollers to traverse along spaced apart tracks, each individual shelf unit being a tall and narrow structure having an array of horizontal shelves.
The overall design and configuration of existing track extrusions is fraught with problems. Firstly, such tracks typically include a plurality of exposed extemal edges and protrusions which pose a safety risk in the torm of a tripping hazard to persons stepping over the track. Such protrusions are also visually unappealing. These problems are exacerbated when side ramps are not installed. Secondly, ttie strength and stiffness characteristics of existing tracks are otten not desirable, partlicularly when the shelving units supported there above are of a significant weight. Thirdly, existing track extrusions are not well designed as they involve external joining methods rhich often require glue and fit fasteners to be used with high precision. Significant arnourits of material are also used in their nianufacture, resulting in significant expense.
There exist fixeil mobile shelf covers for addressing some of these issues, however, they typically require the track to be fixed to the floor. Fixed mobile shelving tracks have a nutnber of inherent problems, including damage caused to the floor, the inability to re-use or re-locate the tracks, as well as fiitther disadvantages in respect of additional costs and additional installation time.
A further known problem with existing shelving, and their engagement with the tracks, is that when heavy items are placed on the higher shelves the structure becomes unstable. This instability, combined with the shelving unit being subjected to uneven lateral forces whilst being moved, can result in them toppling over in the direction of movement. Such occurrences can result in extensive dacnage to the shelf and surrounding property, as well as harm to persons located within the vicinity of the shelf. Anti-tilt devices have been implemented and used on mobile shelving systems to prevent shelving units from toppling over. However, prior art devices
2 known to the present inventor present a number of problems. One such problem is that they are ot3en mounted above the shelving units, or on or near the track, in a visually unappealing, and again, obtrusive manner.
Finally, existittg means oCadjusting the height of mobile shelving tracks is cunibersome and often not practical. Traditionally, track height adjustment nteans in the form of stackable shims are visually unappealing, and difficult and laborious to install. This is because the tracks need to be raised for the correct number of shims to be placed there under.
Furthermore, the installation of mobile shelving systems requires that the tracks are laid and adjusted before the mobile shelving units are installed. After this installation set up, the tracks often require re-adjustment. The prior art methods of adjustment do not allow for quick and simple re-adjustment.
There is therefore a need for an improved track assembly for mobile shelving systems which is relatively cheap to manufacture and assemble, is unobtrusive whilst maintaining a superior stiffness, and which has an improved levelling and anti-tilt means.
It is therefore an object of the present inveiltion to overcome at least some of the aforementioned problenis or to provide the public with a useful alternative.
SUMMARY OF T}IE 11NVENTION
l herefore in one form of the invention there is proposed a track extrusion for mobile shelving, said track extrusion characterised by a tongitudinally extending hollow region inside the track extrusion confiigured to receive a joining meatts at a longitudinal end thereof and thereby facilitate the unobtrusive joining of said track extrusion with a further mobile shelving component_ The track hollow profile provides for increased strength atid stiffness characteristics as well as allowing for robust yet unobtrusive track joining.
Preferably said track extrusion is substantially triangular in cross section and has a central upper channel extending between two diagonally extending extemal walls, and two hollow regions disposed on transverse sides of said central channel and below the external walls, said two hollow regions adapted to receive two joining tneans.
Preferably said f'urtlier mobile shelving component is in the form of a second track extrusion, and said joining means is in the form of an elongate joining pin having a first end adapted to be received and locked in the hollow region of said track extrusiott, and a second end
Finally, existittg means oCadjusting the height of mobile shelving tracks is cunibersome and often not practical. Traditionally, track height adjustment nteans in the form of stackable shims are visually unappealing, and difficult and laborious to install. This is because the tracks need to be raised for the correct number of shims to be placed there under.
Furthermore, the installation of mobile shelving systems requires that the tracks are laid and adjusted before the mobile shelving units are installed. After this installation set up, the tracks often require re-adjustment. The prior art methods of adjustment do not allow for quick and simple re-adjustment.
There is therefore a need for an improved track assembly for mobile shelving systems which is relatively cheap to manufacture and assemble, is unobtrusive whilst maintaining a superior stiffness, and which has an improved levelling and anti-tilt means.
It is therefore an object of the present inveiltion to overcome at least some of the aforementioned problenis or to provide the public with a useful alternative.
SUMMARY OF T}IE 11NVENTION
l herefore in one form of the invention there is proposed a track extrusion for mobile shelving, said track extrusion characterised by a tongitudinally extending hollow region inside the track extrusion confiigured to receive a joining meatts at a longitudinal end thereof and thereby facilitate the unobtrusive joining of said track extrusion with a further mobile shelving component_ The track hollow profile provides for increased strength atid stiffness characteristics as well as allowing for robust yet unobtrusive track joining.
Preferably said track extrusion is substantially triangular in cross section and has a central upper channel extending between two diagonally extending extemal walls, and two hollow regions disposed on transverse sides of said central channel and below the external walls, said two hollow regions adapted to receive two joining tneans.
Preferably said f'urtlier mobile shelving component is in the form of a second track extrusion, and said joining means is in the form of an elongate joining pin having a first end adapted to be received and locked in the hollow region of said track extrusiott, and a second end
3 adapted to extend longitudinally outwardly from said track extrusion to be received in the hollow region of said second track extrusion.
In preterence ea:.h,joining pin is lockable in each track extrusion hollow region using at least one locking bolt adapted to engage coaxially aligned apertures extending through the joining pin and a lowermost surface associated with the hollow region, from the underside of the track extrusion.
Preferably said locking pin apertures are positioned such that when two track extrusions are joined together, they abut at their ends and thereby form flush diagonally extending external wails.
l0 In preference said track assembly further includes one or more packers adapted to sit beneath the,joint between the Hrst and second track extrusions, wherein the height of the joint is determ i ned by the number of packers therebeneath.
Preferablv each packer is rectangular and is adapted to sit longitudinally beneath said joint.
In preference said track extrusion includes an outwardly extending body on one side thereof for supporting further mobile shelving components, in which case said packer is rectangular and adapted to sit transversely beneath the joint.
Preferably each packer includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures, and a means of engaging an adjacently stacked packer. In preference the apertures of an uppermost packer are positioned and configured to accommodate head portions of said locking bolts.
In a furtlter aspect of the invention the mobile shelving component is in the form of an end bracket, and said joining means is in the form of at least one elongate joining pin integrally formed with said end bracket and adapted to be received and locked in the hollow region of said track extrusion.
Preferably each joining pin is lockable in each track extrusion hollow region using at least one locking bolt adapted to engage coaxially aligned apertures extending through the joining pin and a lowerrnost surface associated with the hollow region, from the underside of the track extrusion.
Cx%
In preterence ea:.h,joining pin is lockable in each track extrusion hollow region using at least one locking bolt adapted to engage coaxially aligned apertures extending through the joining pin and a lowermost surface associated with the hollow region, from the underside of the track extrusion.
Preferably said locking pin apertures are positioned such that when two track extrusions are joined together, they abut at their ends and thereby form flush diagonally extending external wails.
l0 In preference said track assembly further includes one or more packers adapted to sit beneath the,joint between the Hrst and second track extrusions, wherein the height of the joint is determ i ned by the number of packers therebeneath.
Preferablv each packer is rectangular and is adapted to sit longitudinally beneath said joint.
In preference said track extrusion includes an outwardly extending body on one side thereof for supporting further mobile shelving components, in which case said packer is rectangular and adapted to sit transversely beneath the joint.
Preferably each packer includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures, and a means of engaging an adjacently stacked packer. In preference the apertures of an uppermost packer are positioned and configured to accommodate head portions of said locking bolts.
In a furtlter aspect of the invention the mobile shelving component is in the form of an end bracket, and said joining means is in the form of at least one elongate joining pin integrally formed with said end bracket and adapted to be received and locked in the hollow region of said track extrusion.
Preferably each joining pin is lockable in each track extrusion hollow region using at least one locking bolt adapted to engage coaxially aligned apertures extending through the joining pin and a lowerrnost surface associated with the hollow region, from the underside of the track extrusion.
Cx%
4 In preference said locking pin apertures are positioned such that when the end bracket is joined to the track extrusion, it abuts with the track extrusion end.
In preference said track assembly further includes one or niore packers adapted to sit beneath the end of the track, wherein the height of the joint is detennined by the number of packers therebeneath.
Preferably each packer is rectangular and is adapted to sit longitudinally beneath the track end.
Preferably each packer includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures, and a means of engaging an adjacently stacked packer.
In preference the apertures of an uppermost packer are positioned and configured to acconimodate head portions of said locking bolts.
ln a turther form of the invention there is proposed a track assembly for a mobile shelving unit, said track assembly characterised by:
a longitudinal track body including a central longitudinally extending channel and opposed, longitudinally extending recesses disposed above, alongside and substantially perpendicularly to said channel such that said recesses are symmetrical about a vertical axis through said channel;
a runner adapted to slideably engage said central longitudinal channel and support said shelving unit thereabove, said runner including at least one removable end bracket having a suspended portion with opposed outwardly extending shouldeis adapted to engage said symmetrical recesses and thereby prevent said shelving unit from tilting about a transverse axis.
The means of preventing tilt of the supported shelving unit is therefore also located inside the track body minimising tripping hazards.
In preferencx said runner suspended portion includes two oppositely and outwardly extending shoulders adapted to engage two longitudinal recesses disposed above and on opposed transverse sides of said central longitudinally extending charinel.
In preference said runner includes two end brackets each having 'tntegraily fonned suspended portions including shoulders adapted to engage the track longitudinal recesses.
Preferably said track central channel is substantially V-shaped and adapted to support rollers associated with said runner thereabove, whereby opposed outer edges of each roller contacts an opposed surface of the V-shaped channel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF 1'HE DRAWINGS
In preference said track assembly further includes one or niore packers adapted to sit beneath the end of the track, wherein the height of the joint is detennined by the number of packers therebeneath.
Preferably each packer is rectangular and is adapted to sit longitudinally beneath the track end.
Preferably each packer includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures, and a means of engaging an adjacently stacked packer.
In preference the apertures of an uppermost packer are positioned and configured to acconimodate head portions of said locking bolts.
ln a turther form of the invention there is proposed a track assembly for a mobile shelving unit, said track assembly characterised by:
a longitudinal track body including a central longitudinally extending channel and opposed, longitudinally extending recesses disposed above, alongside and substantially perpendicularly to said channel such that said recesses are symmetrical about a vertical axis through said channel;
a runner adapted to slideably engage said central longitudinal channel and support said shelving unit thereabove, said runner including at least one removable end bracket having a suspended portion with opposed outwardly extending shouldeis adapted to engage said symmetrical recesses and thereby prevent said shelving unit from tilting about a transverse axis.
The means of preventing tilt of the supported shelving unit is therefore also located inside the track body minimising tripping hazards.
In preferencx said runner suspended portion includes two oppositely and outwardly extending shoulders adapted to engage two longitudinal recesses disposed above and on opposed transverse sides of said central longitudinally extending charinel.
In preference said runner includes two end brackets each having 'tntegraily fonned suspended portions including shoulders adapted to engage the track longitudinal recesses.
Preferably said track central channel is substantially V-shaped and adapted to support rollers associated with said runner thereabove, whereby opposed outer edges of each roller contacts an opposed surface of the V-shaped channel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF 1'HE DRAWINGS
5 The acconipanying cirawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specilicalion, ilittstrate several intplementations of the invention and, together with the description. serve to explain the advantages and principles of the invention.
In the drawings:
Figure 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a mobile shelving track and runner assembly, in accorclance with the present invention;
Figure 2 illustrates an underside perspective view of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure I;
Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure l;
Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the inobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure I;
Figure 5 illustrates a top perspective view of the runner and cross members forming part of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the runner and cross members shown in Figure 5;
Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the track forniing part of the mobile shelving track ancl runner assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 8 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the track shown in Figure 7;
Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a track end stop bracket foi-rning part of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 10 illustrates a cross sectional view of the mobile shelving track and runner asseinbly of Figure 1, without the cross members attached; and
In the drawings:
Figure 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a mobile shelving track and runner assembly, in accorclance with the present invention;
Figure 2 illustrates an underside perspective view of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure I;
Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure l;
Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the inobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure I;
Figure 5 illustrates a top perspective view of the runner and cross members forming part of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the runner and cross members shown in Figure 5;
Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the track forniing part of the mobile shelving track ancl runner assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 8 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the track shown in Figure 7;
Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a track end stop bracket foi-rning part of the mobile shelving track and runner assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 10 illustrates a cross sectional view of the mobile shelving track and runner asseinbly of Figure 1, without the cross members attached; and
6 Figure I 1 illustrates ttie cross sectional view of Figure 10 showing the way in which the rainp section is mounted to the track.
DESCRIPTTON OF Ti lE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The following detailed description of the invention refers to the accoinpanying drawings.
Altltougli the description iincludes exeinplary embodiments, other embodiments are possible, and changes may be niade to the embodiments described without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same and like parts.
Whilst the present invention is directed specifically towards a track assembly for mobile shelving, other components which form part of a complete mobile shelving system according to a preferred embodiment of the invention are also described.
A track and runner assembly 10 for mobile shelving is shown in Figures 1-4.
The assembly 10 comprises one or more longitudinal tracks 12 according to the present invention, a longitudinal runner 1=1 configured to slideably engage each track 12 and to support a shelving unit (not shown), otherwise known as a coinpactus, thereabove, and transverse cross members 16 for connecting two or more runners 14 together. A typical shelving unit is adapted to be mounted above two runners 14 slideable along two tracks 12 which are spaced apart by a distance corresponding approximately with the length of the shelving unit.
The rututer 14 is shown rnost clearly in Figures 5-6. The ninner 14 is substantially in the fotYn of an inverted U-shaped extrusion, liaving a primary chanttel ] 8 extending there along adapted to accoinmodate one or more roller cartridges 20, and four slots 22, 24, 26 and 28 extending along right, left and top sides thereof. In particular, slot 22 extends along the left side of the runner 14, slot 24 extends along the right side, and slots 26 and 28 extend along the upper side of the ntnner 14. 'I'he slots 22, 24, 26 and 28 are preferably in the form of T-slots, shaped like so to accommodate sqjuare nuts 30 having intemal threads. This provides for fast, versatile construction because the nut 30 provides an anchor point for extemal items at any point along the runner 14.
Once the nut 30 is moved to a desired position, the item, which typically includes a mounting aperture 32, is moved into position so that the aperture 32 and nut 30 become coaxially aligned. A screw 34 is used to extend through the aperture 32, through the slot 22, 24, 26 or 28, ...r~i
DESCRIPTTON OF Ti lE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The following detailed description of the invention refers to the accoinpanying drawings.
Altltougli the description iincludes exeinplary embodiments, other embodiments are possible, and changes may be niade to the embodiments described without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same and like parts.
Whilst the present invention is directed specifically towards a track assembly for mobile shelving, other components which form part of a complete mobile shelving system according to a preferred embodiment of the invention are also described.
A track and runner assembly 10 for mobile shelving is shown in Figures 1-4.
The assembly 10 comprises one or more longitudinal tracks 12 according to the present invention, a longitudinal runner 1=1 configured to slideably engage each track 12 and to support a shelving unit (not shown), otherwise known as a coinpactus, thereabove, and transverse cross members 16 for connecting two or more runners 14 together. A typical shelving unit is adapted to be mounted above two runners 14 slideable along two tracks 12 which are spaced apart by a distance corresponding approximately with the length of the shelving unit.
The rututer 14 is shown rnost clearly in Figures 5-6. The ninner 14 is substantially in the fotYn of an inverted U-shaped extrusion, liaving a primary chanttel ] 8 extending there along adapted to accoinmodate one or more roller cartridges 20, and four slots 22, 24, 26 and 28 extending along right, left and top sides thereof. In particular, slot 22 extends along the left side of the runner 14, slot 24 extends along the right side, and slots 26 and 28 extend along the upper side of the ntnner 14. 'I'he slots 22, 24, 26 and 28 are preferably in the form of T-slots, shaped like so to accommodate sqjuare nuts 30 having intemal threads. This provides for fast, versatile construction because the nut 30 provides an anchor point for extemal items at any point along the runner 14.
Once the nut 30 is moved to a desired position, the item, which typically includes a mounting aperture 32, is moved into position so that the aperture 32 and nut 30 become coaxially aligned. A screw 34 is used to extend through the aperture 32, through the slot 22, 24, 26 or 28, ...r~i
7 and into the nut 30 for threaded engagement therewith. Extending centrally along the top of the primary channel 18 is a fttrther slot 36 providing a fitrther inounting means for the roller cartridges 20 and end brackets 38, as will become apparent.
The runner 14 has been designed so that no additional post-processing of the extrusion is required after it has been cut, i.e. no drilling, slotting, etc.
The description iiti the following paragraphs relate to examples of items which are mountable to the runner 14. Some of these are necessary items, for example, the transverse cross members 16, but others are tiot necessarily essential, such as a locking bracket 40 for example. It is to be understood that other items which are not shown and described herein, could also be mounted to the ninner 14, for example, sensors (not shown), motors (not shown), mechanical drive clevices, and the like.
Mounted above the runner 14 are one or more clips 42 configured for engagement with a corresponding receiving means located beneath the shelving unit, such as a correspondingly shaped aperture (not shown), for exanlple. Clip 42 includes a inounting portion 44 having a mounting aperture 46 extending there through, and a second portion 48 upstanding from the mounting portion 44 anci doubled over for engagement with the corresponding receiving means.
'I'he clips 42 are fixed tca the runner 14 using a W4-screw 34 adapted to extend through aperture 32 to thereby engage a riut 30 located within slot 28, as described above. In the embodiment shown, there are two spaced apart clips 42 for each runner 14.
Two cross members 16 are adapted to extend between runners 14 on spaced apart tracks 12 to provide the required support for each shelving unit. The cross tnentbers 16 are in the form of substantially 1-sliapecl extrusions having slots 50, 52 and 54 on left side, right side and top sides thereof, respectively. In preference the slots 50, 52 and 54 are also substantially in the fotm l of T-slots engageable by bo4screw/nut connections as described above, when mounting externat I items thereto.
Each cross member 16 is coupled to the runner 14 using hollow, triangular shaped brackets 56 at the junction therebetween. The perpendicular walls of the bracket 56 include outwardly extending projections 58 being shaped to fit snugly within the side slots 52 and 22 of both the cross member 16 and the runner 14 respectively. The projections 58 are ribbed to facilitate insertion through the slots and so that any impact loads on the bracket 56 are reduced.
~ CA 02696755 2010-02-17 445h
The runner 14 has been designed so that no additional post-processing of the extrusion is required after it has been cut, i.e. no drilling, slotting, etc.
The description iiti the following paragraphs relate to examples of items which are mountable to the runner 14. Some of these are necessary items, for example, the transverse cross members 16, but others are tiot necessarily essential, such as a locking bracket 40 for example. It is to be understood that other items which are not shown and described herein, could also be mounted to the ninner 14, for example, sensors (not shown), motors (not shown), mechanical drive clevices, and the like.
Mounted above the runner 14 are one or more clips 42 configured for engagement with a corresponding receiving means located beneath the shelving unit, such as a correspondingly shaped aperture (not shown), for exanlple. Clip 42 includes a inounting portion 44 having a mounting aperture 46 extending there through, and a second portion 48 upstanding from the mounting portion 44 anci doubled over for engagement with the corresponding receiving means.
'I'he clips 42 are fixed tca the runner 14 using a W4-screw 34 adapted to extend through aperture 32 to thereby engage a riut 30 located within slot 28, as described above. In the embodiment shown, there are two spaced apart clips 42 for each runner 14.
Two cross members 16 are adapted to extend between runners 14 on spaced apart tracks 12 to provide the required support for each shelving unit. The cross tnentbers 16 are in the form of substantially 1-sliapecl extrusions having slots 50, 52 and 54 on left side, right side and top sides thereof, respectively. In preference the slots 50, 52 and 54 are also substantially in the fotm l of T-slots engageable by bo4screw/nut connections as described above, when mounting externat I items thereto.
Each cross member 16 is coupled to the runner 14 using hollow, triangular shaped brackets 56 at the junction therebetween. The perpendicular walls of the bracket 56 include outwardly extending projections 58 being shaped to fit snugly within the side slots 52 and 22 of both the cross member 16 and the runner 14 respectively. The projections 58 are ribbed to facilitate insertion through the slots and so that any impact loads on the bracket 56 are reduced.
~ CA 02696755 2010-02-17 445h
8 Also located on i:he perpendicular walls of the bracket 56 are mounting apertures 32. The mounting apertures 32 on the bracket 56 are positioned to fx the cross memberSÃrlb in a perpendicular arrangement relative to the runner 14, that is, each perpendicular wall of the bracket 56 is mounted to the cross member 16 and runner 14 respectively.
Again, nuts 30 and screws 34 are preferably used for connecting the respective components.
In orcler for the runner 14 and hence the shelving unit to be slideable along the track 12, the runner 14 tnust also include means of housing the roller cartridges 20 ntentioned above. The present invention provides that the primary channel 18 of the rutuzer 14 accommodates one or rnore roller cartridgcs 20.
Each roller cartri:dge 20 is also of an inverted U-shaped configuration and of a size to fit inside the runner primary channel 18. The top side of the cartridge 20 includes two spaced apart mounting apertures 32, so that when the cartridge 20 is positioned in a desired location along the channel 18, it can be secured using self-tapping screws 34 extending through the apertures 32 and into slot 36. Such a configuration means that the rollers may be fitted to the runner 14 without the need for drilling. Typically, each shelving unit will include a roller at longitudinal ends of each runner 14, however, there may be circumstances where more are required, and the runner channel 18 may accommodate for this.
The roller cartriilge 20 includes larger, co-axially aligned apertures 60 extending through its side walls. A pin 62 which extends through the apertures is used to maintain a roller 64-69 inside the cartridge 20. The rolier ÃA-69 is rotatable about the pin 6-4-62 and allows the runner 14 and hence the shelving unit to move relative to the track 12, as will become apparent.
Also mountable to the runner 14 are end brackets 38 as mentioned. Not only are the end brackets 38 used to cap off the ends of the runner 14, they are configured to prevent the shelving unit from tilting. Each end bracket 38 is in the form of a rigid housing having an internal structure which corresponds substantially in shape with the cross section of the runner extrusion, so that it may engage an end thereof. A self-tapping screw 34 is used to fix the end bracket 38 in place, the screw 34 extending through an uppermost aperture 32 of the bracket 38, and into the runner slot 36. At the base of the end bracket 38 are two transversely extending shoulders 64 which when engaged with the track (as described below), are designed to prevent the shelving unit from toppling over. The end bracket 38 therefore constitutes the anti-tilt nieans of the assembly 10.
Again, nuts 30 and screws 34 are preferably used for connecting the respective components.
In orcler for the runner 14 and hence the shelving unit to be slideable along the track 12, the runner 14 tnust also include means of housing the roller cartridges 20 ntentioned above. The present invention provides that the primary channel 18 of the rutuzer 14 accommodates one or rnore roller cartridgcs 20.
Each roller cartri:dge 20 is also of an inverted U-shaped configuration and of a size to fit inside the runner primary channel 18. The top side of the cartridge 20 includes two spaced apart mounting apertures 32, so that when the cartridge 20 is positioned in a desired location along the channel 18, it can be secured using self-tapping screws 34 extending through the apertures 32 and into slot 36. Such a configuration means that the rollers may be fitted to the runner 14 without the need for drilling. Typically, each shelving unit will include a roller at longitudinal ends of each runner 14, however, there may be circumstances where more are required, and the runner channel 18 may accommodate for this.
The roller cartriilge 20 includes larger, co-axially aligned apertures 60 extending through its side walls. A pin 62 which extends through the apertures is used to maintain a roller 64-69 inside the cartridge 20. The rolier ÃA-69 is rotatable about the pin 6-4-62 and allows the runner 14 and hence the shelving unit to move relative to the track 12, as will become apparent.
Also mountable to the runner 14 are end brackets 38 as mentioned. Not only are the end brackets 38 used to cap off the ends of the runner 14, they are configured to prevent the shelving unit from tilting. Each end bracket 38 is in the form of a rigid housing having an internal structure which corresponds substantially in shape with the cross section of the runner extrusion, so that it may engage an end thereof. A self-tapping screw 34 is used to fix the end bracket 38 in place, the screw 34 extending through an uppermost aperture 32 of the bracket 38, and into the runner slot 36. At the base of the end bracket 38 are two transversely extending shoulders 64 which when engaged with the track (as described below), are designed to prevent the shelving unit from toppling over. The end bracket 38 therefore constitutes the anti-tilt nieans of the assembly 10.
9 The track 12 of the present invention is shown in Figures 7-8 in particular.
It can be seen that the track 12 is also rnade up of an extruded length of nietal and includes a hollow profile.
"I'he track 12 comprises generally a base 66, intemal walls 68, 70, 72 and 74, and exterrtal walls 76 and 78 which are each integrally formed. The external walls 76 and 78 at upper ends of the track 12 extend a short distance inwardly, past internal wal{s 70 and 72. The base 66 and the extemal walls 76 and 78 form a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape, however, because the external walls fall short of ineeting at an apex, they define a central channel 80 extending along the track 12.
The internal geor.netry of the track 12, in particular the high, hollow profile, allows for robust but unobtrusive tirack joirting, and should remove lhe need for installers to use glue and fit fasteneis with high precision, as will become apparent.
The inside surface of internal walls 76-70 and 4~8-72 are shaped to perform two functions.
Firstly, at a lowermost region of the channel 80, the internal walls 94-79and 7-8-72 define a V-shaped guide 82, which is the surface upon which the rollers 44-69 are supported. The rollers 64 69 engal;e the guide 82 centrally with both edges of the roller 63-69 contacting the guide. The weight of the shelving unit on the roller retains it in the desired position, and allows sufficient friction for it to rotate srnoothly across the guide. In order to prevent wear, and to strengthen the guide, retaining beads (not shown) retain crinoline strips, generally made of steel, along the V-shaped guide 82.
Secondly, disposed above the V-shaped guide 82 are opposed recesses 84 for acconimodating shoulders 64 associated with the end bracket 38. Those skilled in the art would realise that when the assembled ninner 14 is positioned above the track 12, with the shelving unit supported thereabove, any lateral movement of the shelving unit would be restricted by the shoulders 64, because thev are prevented from upward movement by the upper ends of the external walls 76 and 78. Accordingly, tilting of the shelving units is prevented. This is particularly important when the shelving units have signifcant weight on the top shelves making them prone to such movement.
Between internal walls 68 and 70, and internal walls 72 and 74, hollow regions 86 are defined. The hollow regions 86 are adapted to acconimodate joining pins 88 which are used to join two track ends together. The hollow regions 86 also accommodates pins 90 associated with an end stop bracket 92 of the track 12. Therefore, the end stop bracket 92 is mounted to the end of the track 12 using two joining pins 90 associated therewith, while for joining two segmcnts of track 12 together, individual joining pins 88 are used, as shown in Figure l.
In both cases, the joining pins 88 and 90 include a plurality of apertures 94 spaced apart there along, and are adapted to be inserted into the hollow regions 86 of the track 12 until they 5 are in co-axial alignment with apeitures 96 extending through the base 66 of the track 12. Self-tapping screws 34 are once again used to engage the coaxial apertures and therebv secure the components together.
The end stop bracket 92, as its naine suggests, is adapted to be mounted to the end of a track 12. For cxample, ihere could be three or four track segments joined to fonn a single track,
It can be seen that the track 12 is also rnade up of an extruded length of nietal and includes a hollow profile.
"I'he track 12 comprises generally a base 66, intemal walls 68, 70, 72 and 74, and exterrtal walls 76 and 78 which are each integrally formed. The external walls 76 and 78 at upper ends of the track 12 extend a short distance inwardly, past internal wal{s 70 and 72. The base 66 and the extemal walls 76 and 78 form a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape, however, because the external walls fall short of ineeting at an apex, they define a central channel 80 extending along the track 12.
The internal geor.netry of the track 12, in particular the high, hollow profile, allows for robust but unobtrusive tirack joirting, and should remove lhe need for installers to use glue and fit fasteneis with high precision, as will become apparent.
The inside surface of internal walls 76-70 and 4~8-72 are shaped to perform two functions.
Firstly, at a lowermost region of the channel 80, the internal walls 94-79and 7-8-72 define a V-shaped guide 82, which is the surface upon which the rollers 44-69 are supported. The rollers 64 69 engal;e the guide 82 centrally with both edges of the roller 63-69 contacting the guide. The weight of the shelving unit on the roller retains it in the desired position, and allows sufficient friction for it to rotate srnoothly across the guide. In order to prevent wear, and to strengthen the guide, retaining beads (not shown) retain crinoline strips, generally made of steel, along the V-shaped guide 82.
Secondly, disposed above the V-shaped guide 82 are opposed recesses 84 for acconimodating shoulders 64 associated with the end bracket 38. Those skilled in the art would realise that when the assembled ninner 14 is positioned above the track 12, with the shelving unit supported thereabove, any lateral movement of the shelving unit would be restricted by the shoulders 64, because thev are prevented from upward movement by the upper ends of the external walls 76 and 78. Accordingly, tilting of the shelving units is prevented. This is particularly important when the shelving units have signifcant weight on the top shelves making them prone to such movement.
Between internal walls 68 and 70, and internal walls 72 and 74, hollow regions 86 are defined. The hollow regions 86 are adapted to acconimodate joining pins 88 which are used to join two track ends together. The hollow regions 86 also accommodates pins 90 associated with an end stop bracket 92 of the track 12. Therefore, the end stop bracket 92 is mounted to the end of the track 12 using two joining pins 90 associated therewith, while for joining two segmcnts of track 12 together, individual joining pins 88 are used, as shown in Figure l.
In both cases, the joining pins 88 and 90 include a plurality of apertures 94 spaced apart there along, and are adapted to be inserted into the hollow regions 86 of the track 12 until they 5 are in co-axial alignment with apeitures 96 extending through the base 66 of the track 12. Self-tapping screws 34 are once again used to engage the coaxial apertures and therebv secure the components together.
The end stop bracket 92, as its naine suggests, is adapted to be mounted to the end of a track 12. For cxample, ihere could be three or four track segments joined to fonn a single track,
10 wherein the two endmost track segments include end stop brackets 92 for preventing the runner 14 froni travelling beyond the tracks. An enlarged view of the end stop bracket 92 is shown in Figure 9 and it can be seen that it comprises a substantially triangular shaped housing 98, joining pins 90 extending outwardly from an internal bracket plate 100, and a stop portion 102 extending between the pins 90 ancl into channel 80 when the bracket 92 is mounted to the track 12.
The stop portion 102 includes a plurality of ribs 104 which provide an elastotneric buffer for reducing impact loads. Shelving units when moved generate a significant amount of force due to their weight and therefore require that the track end stops be robust enough to dampen such force upon impact. The end stop bracket 92 also includes anti-tilt shoulders 106 as per the runner end brackets 38.
The height of the track 12 also needs to be maintained level along its length.
It is also preferable for the heighi: of the track 12 to also be easily adjustable even after assembly. One or more packers 108 shown most clearly in Figure 2 and the cross sectional views, are used to achieve this. Each packer 108 is substantially rectangular in shape and includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures 1 10 extending there through. One row of three apertures 110 on-of the packer 108 includes elevated square surrounding portions 112. The adjacent row of three apertures 1 10 include locating mcan.s 111 for engaging the elevated square surrounding portions 112 of a second packer 108 positioned therebeneath. Each adjacently stacked packer 108 is rotated by 180 degrees relative to the other.
One or more packers 108 (depending on the desired height) are adapted to sit beneath the joining pins 90 at the ends of the track 12, as weli as beneath the joining pins 88 at one or more joints between track segments. The apertures 1 10 are designed to accommodate the head II
portions of the self-tapping screws 34 which engage the joining pins 88 and 90. Those skilled in the art would realise that any number of stacked packers 108 could be added or removed to increase or decrease the height of a particular section of track 12.
A further advantage to the improved stittness characteristics of the track extrusion is that it allows for wider spacing of the packers 108 along the track 12.
The assembly 10 includes a plurality ofoptionaliy attachable ramp sections 114. These are used to provide a smooth surface over the track 12 and prevent the track 12 from forming a tripping hazard. Each ramp section 114 includes a substantially rectangular body 116 having a hook section 118 at one end thereof, and a straight edge 120 at the opposed end adapted to lie substantially flush with the ground when assembled. The rainp section body 116 includes a plurality of ribs 122 on its upper surface for gripping purposes. There are reinforcing menibers 124 positioned below the body 1 16 which are advantageous because they reduce the overall weight of the ramp section and maintain strength. The hook section 118 extends downwardly froni the body 116, then inwardly and upwardly with respect to the track 12.
The track extrusion is also desigCted to accommodate the ramp sections 114.
Turning now to Figures 10-1 1, between the lower end of the external walls 76 and 78, and the internal walls 68 and 74 respectively, there are defined receiving channels Fr-? 125 for engaging the hook section 118 of each ramp section 114. In particular, each ramp section 114 is configured to engaf;e the receiving channels 8-2- 125by way of a rotatable snap-fit. Figure 12 illustrates this process, whereby the hciok section l 18 is inserted into the receiving channel 82-125 and then urged upwardly while rotating edge 120 of the body downwardly until the hook section 11.8 is snap-fit in place. This ramp pivot geometry is designed to allow removal and refining of ramps (for re-levelling purposes) without having to lift up or up-end the track 12.
A rubber tube 126 is also inserted between the rounded end of the external walls 76 and 78 and the junction between the downwardly and inwardly extending surfaces of the hook section 118. The tube 126 provides a down-force and minimises rantp "kick-up"
which could create a tripping hazard. A further advantage to the rubber tube 126 is that it also acts as a flexible joiner, assisting in handling and simultaneous fitting of multiple ramp sections to the track 12.
The ramps are optional as the track extrusion has been designed to be aesthetic and safe even if used without ranips 114.
ci~
Finally, the runner 14 is able to be locked at different positions along the track 12. A
locking bracket 40 is shown in the drawings which is also engageable to an upper slot 28 of the runner 14, as well as the side slots, by means described above. The locking bracket 40 includes a housing 128 mounted to the runner 14, the housing 128 defining a vertical chamber extending downwardly alongside the runner 14 to the track l 2, '1'he chamber includes a vertical aperture 130. When the shelving unit is to be locked, the runner is moved along the track 12 until the vertical apei-ture 130 becomes co-axially aligned with an aperture 132 that has been pre-drilled into the track 12. Once aligned, a locking pin 134 cart be inserted thr-ough the co-axially aiigned apertures 130 and 132, into the hollow region 86 where it rests on the base 66, thereby locking the runner 14 to the track 12.
The stop portion 102 includes a plurality of ribs 104 which provide an elastotneric buffer for reducing impact loads. Shelving units when moved generate a significant amount of force due to their weight and therefore require that the track end stops be robust enough to dampen such force upon impact. The end stop bracket 92 also includes anti-tilt shoulders 106 as per the runner end brackets 38.
The height of the track 12 also needs to be maintained level along its length.
It is also preferable for the heighi: of the track 12 to also be easily adjustable even after assembly. One or more packers 108 shown most clearly in Figure 2 and the cross sectional views, are used to achieve this. Each packer 108 is substantially rectangular in shape and includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures 1 10 extending there through. One row of three apertures 110 on-of the packer 108 includes elevated square surrounding portions 112. The adjacent row of three apertures 1 10 include locating mcan.s 111 for engaging the elevated square surrounding portions 112 of a second packer 108 positioned therebeneath. Each adjacently stacked packer 108 is rotated by 180 degrees relative to the other.
One or more packers 108 (depending on the desired height) are adapted to sit beneath the joining pins 90 at the ends of the track 12, as weli as beneath the joining pins 88 at one or more joints between track segments. The apertures 1 10 are designed to accommodate the head II
portions of the self-tapping screws 34 which engage the joining pins 88 and 90. Those skilled in the art would realise that any number of stacked packers 108 could be added or removed to increase or decrease the height of a particular section of track 12.
A further advantage to the improved stittness characteristics of the track extrusion is that it allows for wider spacing of the packers 108 along the track 12.
The assembly 10 includes a plurality ofoptionaliy attachable ramp sections 114. These are used to provide a smooth surface over the track 12 and prevent the track 12 from forming a tripping hazard. Each ramp section 114 includes a substantially rectangular body 116 having a hook section 118 at one end thereof, and a straight edge 120 at the opposed end adapted to lie substantially flush with the ground when assembled. The rainp section body 116 includes a plurality of ribs 122 on its upper surface for gripping purposes. There are reinforcing menibers 124 positioned below the body 1 16 which are advantageous because they reduce the overall weight of the ramp section and maintain strength. The hook section 118 extends downwardly froni the body 116, then inwardly and upwardly with respect to the track 12.
The track extrusion is also desigCted to accommodate the ramp sections 114.
Turning now to Figures 10-1 1, between the lower end of the external walls 76 and 78, and the internal walls 68 and 74 respectively, there are defined receiving channels Fr-? 125 for engaging the hook section 118 of each ramp section 114. In particular, each ramp section 114 is configured to engaf;e the receiving channels 8-2- 125by way of a rotatable snap-fit. Figure 12 illustrates this process, whereby the hciok section l 18 is inserted into the receiving channel 82-125 and then urged upwardly while rotating edge 120 of the body downwardly until the hook section 11.8 is snap-fit in place. This ramp pivot geometry is designed to allow removal and refining of ramps (for re-levelling purposes) without having to lift up or up-end the track 12.
A rubber tube 126 is also inserted between the rounded end of the external walls 76 and 78 and the junction between the downwardly and inwardly extending surfaces of the hook section 118. The tube 126 provides a down-force and minimises rantp "kick-up"
which could create a tripping hazard. A further advantage to the rubber tube 126 is that it also acts as a flexible joiner, assisting in handling and simultaneous fitting of multiple ramp sections to the track 12.
The ramps are optional as the track extrusion has been designed to be aesthetic and safe even if used without ranips 114.
ci~
Finally, the runner 14 is able to be locked at different positions along the track 12. A
locking bracket 40 is shown in the drawings which is also engageable to an upper slot 28 of the runner 14, as well as the side slots, by means described above. The locking bracket 40 includes a housing 128 mounted to the runner 14, the housing 128 defining a vertical chamber extending downwardly alongside the runner 14 to the track l 2, '1'he chamber includes a vertical aperture 130. When the shelving unit is to be locked, the runner is moved along the track 12 until the vertical apei-ture 130 becomes co-axially aligned with an aperture 132 that has been pre-drilled into the track 12. Once aligned, a locking pin 134 cart be inserted thr-ough the co-axially aiigned apertures 130 and 132, into the hollow region 86 where it rests on the base 66, thereby locking the runner 14 to the track 12.
11 jig 136 is provided for forming the pre-drilled apertures 132 in the track
12. 'fhe jig 136 is an elongate structure mountable to the track 12 in a transverse arrangement as shown in Figure 1. The jig 136 includes a downwardly extending section 138 at its centre which extends inside channel 80, a.s well as downwardly extending sections 140 at ends thereof which abut with the etternal walls 76 and 78 of the track 12. On opposed ends of the jig 136 are apertures 144 and 146.
"I`he jig 136 is first adapted to be mounted to the track 12 so that aperture 144 is positioned over a desired point to be drilled. The purpose of this smaller aperture 144 is to mark the track 12 with a suitable tool (not shown), the mark acting as a locating guide for a drill bit or the like used to drill a hole through the track 12. The jig 136 is theri demounted from the track 12, rotated by I 80 degrees, and mounted to the track 12 again so that the larger aperture 146 extends over the marked lx-int. A drill (not shown) can then be used to drill a hole through the track 12 where marked.
It is to be understood that the design of some of the components shown and described could change where necessary. For example, where there is a mechanical driving means associated with the runner, one of the track external walls 78 would extend a greater distance outwards front the channel 80 and include a flat upper surface (not shown) for accommodating a drive wheel (not shown), Such a track would therefore include a further hollow region 86. In such circumstances, the same packers 108 could be used but simply rotated by 90 degrees so that instead of extending longitudinally relative to the track 12, it would extend transversely.
cLqs
"I`he jig 136 is first adapted to be mounted to the track 12 so that aperture 144 is positioned over a desired point to be drilled. The purpose of this smaller aperture 144 is to mark the track 12 with a suitable tool (not shown), the mark acting as a locating guide for a drill bit or the like used to drill a hole through the track 12. The jig 136 is theri demounted from the track 12, rotated by I 80 degrees, and mounted to the track 12 again so that the larger aperture 146 extends over the marked lx-int. A drill (not shown) can then be used to drill a hole through the track 12 where marked.
It is to be understood that the design of some of the components shown and described could change where necessary. For example, where there is a mechanical driving means associated with the runner, one of the track external walls 78 would extend a greater distance outwards front the channel 80 and include a flat upper surface (not shown) for accommodating a drive wheel (not shown), Such a track would therefore include a further hollow region 86. In such circumstances, the same packers 108 could be used but simply rotated by 90 degrees so that instead of extending longitudinally relative to the track 12, it would extend transversely.
cLqs
13 Further advantages and improvements may very well be made to the present invention without deviating from its scope. Although the invention has been sliown and described in what is conceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is recognized that departures mav be made therefrorrr within the scope and spirit of the invention, which is not to he lirnited to the details disclosed herein but is to be accorded the full scope of the clainis so as to embrace any and all equivalent devices and apparatus.
(n any claims that follow and in the summary of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprising" is used in the sense of -including", i.e. the features specified may be associated with further features in various embodiments of the invention.
(n any claims that follow and in the summary of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprising" is used in the sense of -including", i.e. the features specified may be associated with further features in various embodiments of the invention.
Claims (21)
1. A track extrusion for mobile shelving, said track extrusion characterised by a longitudinally extending hollow region inside the track extrusion configured to receive a joining means at a longitudinal end thereof and thereby facilitate the unobtrusive joining of said track extrusion with a further mobile shelving component.
2. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 1 wherein said track extrusion is substantially triangular in cross section and has a central upper channel extending between two diagonally extending external walls, and two hollow regions disposed on transverse sides of said central channel and below the external walls, said two hollow regions adapted to receive two joining means.
3. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein said further mobile shelving component is in the form of a second track extrusion, and said joining means is in the form of an elongate joining pin having a first end adapted to be received and locked in the hollow region of said track extrusion, and a second end adapted to extend longitudinally outwardly from said track extrusion to be received in the hollow region of said second track extrusion.
4. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 3 wherein each joining pin is lockable in each track extrusion hollow region using at least one locking bolt adapted to engage coaxially aligned apertures extending through the joining pin and a lowermost surface associated with the hollow region, from the underside of the track extrusion.
5. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 4 wherein said locking pin apertures are positioned such that when two track extrusions are joined together, they abut at their ends and thereby form flush diagonally extending external walls.
6. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 4 or claim 5 further including one or more packers adapted to sit beneath the joint between the first and second track extrusions, wherein the height of the joint is determined by the number of packers therebeneath.
7. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 6 wherein each packer is rectangular and is adapted to sit longitudinally beneath said joint.
8. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 7 wherein said track extrusion includes an outwardly extending body on one side thereof for supporting further mobile shelving components, in which case said packer is rectangular and adapted to sit transversely beneath the joint.
9. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 7 or claim 8 wherein each packer includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures, and a means of engaging an adjacently stacked packer.
10. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as in claim 9 wherein the apertures of an uppermost packer are positioned and configured to accommodate head portions of said locking bolts.
11. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein said further mobile shelving component is in the form of an end bracket, and said joining means is in the form of at least one elongate joining pin integrally formed with said end bracket and adapted to be received and locked in the hollow region of said track extrusion.
12. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 6 wherein each joining pin is lockable in each track extrusion hollow region using at least one locking bolt adapted to engage coaxially aligned apertures extending through the joining pin and a lowermost surface associated with the hollow region, from the underside of the track extrusion.
13. A track extension for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 7 wherein said locking pin apertures are positioned such that when the end bracket is joined to the track extrusion, it abuts with the track extrusion end.
14. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 12 or claim 13 further including one or more packers adapted to sit beneath the end of the track, wherein the height of the joint is determined by the number of packers therebeneath.
15. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 14 wherein each packer is rectangular and is adapted to sit longitudinally beneath the track end.
16 16. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as characterised in claim 15 wherein each packer includes a 3x2 matrix of apertures, and a means of engaging an adjacently stacked packer.
17. A track extrusion for mobile shelving as in claim 16 wherein the apertures of an uppermost packer are positioned and configured to accommodate head portions of said locking bolts.
18. A track assembly for a mobile shelving unit, said track assembly characterised by:
a longitudinal track body including a central longitudinally extending channel and opposed, longitudinally extending recesses disposed above, alongside, and substantially perpendicularly to said channel such that said recesses are symmetrical about a vertical axis through said channel;
a runner adapted to slideably engage said central longitudinal channel and support said shelving unit thereabove, said runner including at least one removable end bracket having a suspended portion with opposed, outwardly extending shoulders adapted to engage said symmetrical recesses and thereby prevent said shelving unit from tilting about a transverse axis.
a longitudinal track body including a central longitudinally extending channel and opposed, longitudinally extending recesses disposed above, alongside, and substantially perpendicularly to said channel such that said recesses are symmetrical about a vertical axis through said channel;
a runner adapted to slideably engage said central longitudinal channel and support said shelving unit thereabove, said runner including at least one removable end bracket having a suspended portion with opposed, outwardly extending shoulders adapted to engage said symmetrical recesses and thereby prevent said shelving unit from tilting about a transverse axis.
19. A track assembly for a mobile shelving unit as characterised in claim 18 wherein said runner suspended portion includes two oppositely and outwardly extending shoulders adapted to engage two longitudinal recesses disposed above and on opposed transverse sides of said central longitudinally extending channel.
20. A track assembly as characterised in claim 18 or claim 19 wherein said runner includes two end brackets each having integrally formed suspended portions including shoulders adapted to engage the track longitudinal recesses.
21. A track assembly as characterised in any one of claims 18-20 wherein said track central channel is substantially V-shaped and adapted to support rollers associated with said runner thereabove, whereby opposed outer edges of each roller contacts an opposed surface of the V-shaped channel.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2893508A CA2893508C (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2008-08-18 | A track assembly for mobile shelving |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2007904484 | 2007-08-17 | ||
| AU2007904484A AU2007904484A0 (en) | 2007-08-17 | A track assembly for mobile shelving | |
| PCT/AU2008/001202 WO2009023907A1 (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2008-08-18 | A track assembly for mobile shelving |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2893508A Division CA2893508C (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2008-08-18 | A track assembly for mobile shelving |
Publications (2)
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|---|---|
| CA2696755A1 true CA2696755A1 (en) | 2009-02-26 |
| CA2696755C CA2696755C (en) | 2015-11-24 |
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| CA2893508A Active CA2893508C (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2008-08-18 | A track assembly for mobile shelving |
| CA2696755A Active CA2696755C (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2008-08-18 | A track assembly for mobile shelving |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2893508A Active CA2893508C (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2008-08-18 | A track assembly for mobile shelving |
Country Status (7)
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| US (1) | US20110215064A1 (en) |
| EP (2) | EP2185033B1 (en) |
| CN (2) | CN101808550B (en) |
| AU (1) | AU2008288681B2 (en) |
| CA (2) | CA2893508C (en) |
| NZ (2) | NZ583196A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2009023907A1 (en) |
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| TWI402450B (en) * | 2010-11-30 | 2013-07-21 | Wistron Corp | Track type supporting mechanism and supporting system |
| ITFI20120296A1 (en) * | 2012-12-28 | 2014-06-29 | Fortezza Spa | GUIDE FOR MOBILE SHELVES |
| CN113180380B (en) * | 2021-04-25 | 2022-07-12 | 江西卓尔金属设备集团有限公司 | Sloping plate ground type rail of cabinet type compact shelf |
Family Cites Families (18)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4467924A (en) * | 1981-09-08 | 1984-08-28 | Stacor Corporation | Movable aisle storage system |
| US4455709A (en) * | 1982-06-16 | 1984-06-26 | Zanini Walter D | Floor mounted guide and shim assembly for sliding doors |
| US5024164A (en) * | 1988-02-29 | 1991-06-18 | Pipp Mobile Systems, Inc. | Mobile storage system with improved driving assemblies |
| US4912807A (en) * | 1989-05-08 | 1990-04-03 | Futch Clark R | Sliding door/window track assembly |
| CN2071016U (en) * | 1990-07-11 | 1991-02-13 | 段吉祥 | Drawer sliding rail device |
| US5205627A (en) * | 1991-03-14 | 1993-04-27 | Ripp Mobile System, Inc. | Modular anti-tip lateral mobile storage system |
| US5597217A (en) * | 1995-05-19 | 1997-01-28 | Hoska; Gerald R. | Anti-tip bracket for high capacity shelving |
| US6299072B1 (en) * | 1999-02-11 | 2001-10-09 | Learning Curve Toys International, Inc. | Toy train track connector |
| JP2001206512A (en) * | 2000-01-31 | 2001-07-31 | Okamura Corp | Connecting structure for rail |
| CN2488379Y (en) * | 2001-07-09 | 2002-05-01 | 冯海伦 | Guide rail for drawer |
| US6948785B1 (en) * | 2001-09-06 | 2005-09-27 | Tab Products Company | Track system for mobile carriages |
| US7165497B2 (en) * | 2002-10-07 | 2007-01-23 | E-Z-Rect Manufacturing Ltd. | Track system for mobile storage apparatus |
| US6843180B1 (en) * | 2003-01-30 | 2005-01-18 | Spacesaver Corporation | Anti-tip arrangement for a mobile storage system |
| US7143474B2 (en) * | 2003-06-17 | 2006-12-05 | Metro Industries, Inc. | Compact, modular storage system |
| JP3845400B2 (en) * | 2003-08-18 | 2006-11-15 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Hybrid vehicle |
| DE102004001284A1 (en) * | 2004-01-07 | 2005-08-25 | Zambelli-Stahlmöbel-GmbH & Co. | Sliding shelf system has shelves mounted on carriages fitted with rollers which move along E-profile rail and are mounted in center of carriage between pairs of vertical plates separated by spacer |
| US7555871B1 (en) * | 2005-02-03 | 2009-07-07 | Guardian, Llc | Window framing system for sliding windows |
| WO2008028230A1 (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2008-03-13 | Glidestore Freetrack Pty Ltd | A method and apparatus for providing an anti-tilt mechanism |
-
2008
- 2008-08-18 EP EP08782950.3A patent/EP2185033B1/en active Active
- 2008-08-18 CA CA2893508A patent/CA2893508C/en active Active
- 2008-08-18 CA CA2696755A patent/CA2696755C/en active Active
- 2008-08-18 WO PCT/AU2008/001202 patent/WO2009023907A1/en active Application Filing
- 2008-08-18 CN CN2008801044512A patent/CN101808550B/en active Active
- 2008-08-18 NZ NZ583196A patent/NZ583196A/en unknown
- 2008-08-18 AU AU2008288681A patent/AU2008288681B2/en active Active
- 2008-08-18 EP EP13001791.6A patent/EP2617321B1/en active Active
- 2008-08-18 US US12/673,794 patent/US20110215064A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2008-08-18 NZ NZ594289A patent/NZ594289A/en unknown
- 2008-08-18 CN CN2012102724649A patent/CN102940407A/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| NZ583196A (en) | 2012-10-26 |
| CA2893508C (en) | 2017-04-25 |
| WO2009023907A1 (en) | 2009-02-26 |
| CA2893508A1 (en) | 2009-02-26 |
| EP2617321A1 (en) | 2013-07-24 |
| US20110215064A1 (en) | 2011-09-08 |
| EP2185033A4 (en) | 2011-12-28 |
| CN101808550A (en) | 2010-08-18 |
| EP2185033A1 (en) | 2010-05-19 |
| AU2008288681A1 (en) | 2009-02-26 |
| AU2008288681B2 (en) | 2014-05-15 |
| CA2696755C (en) | 2015-11-24 |
| CN101808550B (en) | 2013-04-17 |
| EP2617321B1 (en) | 2014-10-08 |
| EP2185033B1 (en) | 2013-04-10 |
| CN102940407A (en) | 2013-02-27 |
| NZ594289A (en) | 2011-10-28 |
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