EP4074217A1

EP4074217A1 - Shelf support structure

Info

Publication number: EP4074217A1
Application number: EP22167958.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Edoardo BILLOTTO
Original assignee: Volpato Industrie SpA
Current assignee: Volpato Industrie SpA
Priority date: 2021-04-12
Filing date: 2022-04-12
Publication date: 2022-10-19

Abstract

Support structure (1) comprising:
- at least two lateral uprights (2) shaped like a panel and with a thickness S', extending between them spaced parallel to a first development axis (X) and provided with corresponding internal walls (50) facing each other;
- at least one shelf (3) with a thickness S" which is removably arranged between said lateral uprights (2) and extending mainly along a second development axis (Y) between two lateral edges (3'),
- two side caps (6) for each shelf (3), each of said side caps (6) being associated, preferably removably, with one of said two side edges (3) of said shelf (3); and in which:
- each lateral upright (2) is equipped with a first groove (4), obtained on said internal wall (50) and extending parallel to said first development axis (X), for the removable fixing of said shelf (3);
- said two side caps (6), associated with each shelf (3), comprise coupling means (7) configured to engage by friction and/or shape ratio in the respective first grooves (4) of the two lateral uprights (2), and characterized by the fact that:
- each of said lateral uprights (2) also comprises at least one further groove (39', 39"),
- comprises at least one supporting element (21) for a shelf (3), said at least one supporting element (21) being inserted, preferably removably, at least partially inside said at least one further groove (39', 39") of a corresponding lateral upright (2), said shelf (3) resting on and/or engaging on said at least one supporting element (21) so that said supporting element (21) is hidden, at least in part, from the internal thickness S" of the corresponding shelf (3).

Description

FIELD OF THE TECHNIQUE

The present invention relates to a shelf support structure, in particular for supporting objects and/or tools or the like.
The shelf support structure object of the present invention finds advantageous use in the technical sector of the production and marketing of furniture structures for supporting and arranging various objects.
More generally, the shelf support structure according to the invention therefore fits into the technical sector of the production of pieces of furniture to be placed inside private and/or public houses of any type.
The support structure in question can advantageously be used alone in self-supporting installation mode (also called "free-standing") or it can be coupled and/or bound to a wall, for example of a living room of a house, or to a different piece of furniture, such as a fitted wall in a kitchen.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the technical sector of reference, support structures for shelves aimed at supporting objects, tools and/or tools of various sizes and types have been known for some time.
In particular, support structures are known, for example intended to be associated with equipped walls of kitchens of private homes, configured to support kitchen utensils or glasses, goblets, or the like.
These structures are normally equipped with at least two lateral uprights , substantially vertical and at least one horizontal shelf interposed between the two aforesaid uprights.
More in detail, the lateral uprights are often fixed at the bottom on a kitchen worktop and support the horizontal shelf between them, which is easily accessible by a user during the normal operations necessary for the preparation of dishes.
The known type of structure provides for fixing means for mechanically binding the shelf to the uprights, such as in particular metal brackets and screws, or bolts, or still said fixing means can provide for the application of hot glue or silicone.
Such support structures thus conceived have proved to be not free from drawbacks in practice.
The main drawback resides in the fact that the means for fixing the structures of the known type require a lot of time for the workers to fix the shelves to the uprights.
A further drawback resides in the fact that the fastening means of known structures often disfigure the aesthetic performance of the support structures, which nowadays require an essential aesthetic line free of discontinuity points.
A further drawback resides in the fact that the fastening means of known structures require tools for their assembly and use, increasing the capacity of the operators during assembly and the time required, effectively increasing installation costs.
DE202006000268 and TWM366345 describe a shelf structure with two lateral poles in which the shelves are locked between the lateral poles by means of suitable brackets that have a lower section and a lateral section, arranged between them to define an "L" shape, and a head protruding from the lateral section which is configured to engage by friction, following a bayonet coupling, within the single groove obtained in the lateral poles. In particular, the lower portion of the bracket rests and is fixed by means of screws to the lower surface of the shelf, while the lateral portion of the bracket rests and is fixed by means of screws to the lateral surface of the shelf. Furthermore, in DE202006000268 the same bracket for fixing the shelf to the upright is provided with a protruding pin arranged and configured so as to act as a limit switch for the bayonet coupling of the bracket; in particular, the protruding pin that acts as a limit switch hits the side posts and remains visible both from the front and from the side even when the shelf is fixed to the side posts and is positioned horizontally.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

The object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which overcomes, at least in part, the drawbacks of the aforementioned prior art.
Another purpose of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure in which it is possible to define and vary the height of each shelf, both at the time of installation but also subsequently, while ensuring a stable horizontal positioning of the shelf itself, in particular in order to avoid its overturning.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which is aesthetically pleasing, in particular as it does not have visible holes and screws.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which is particularly flexible and versatile, thus being able to adapt to various situations and needs.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure that can be fixed to a side wall or that can be self-supporting (free-standing).
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which is easy to assemble and install.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which is quick to assemble and install.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which allows to obtain a pleasant overall aesthetic effect and which gives the observer the sensation of being in front of a high quality product, both from an aesthetic and functional point of view.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which can be easily disassembled/uncoupled in the elements that compose it.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which can be easily coupled with various accessories, quickly and simply.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which has an alternative characterization, both in constructive and functional terms, with respect to traditional ones.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which can be obtained simply, quickly and with low costs.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure that can be mass-produced and quickly and efficiently.
Another object of the invention is to propose a shelf support structure which is of high standards, both functional and aesthetic, and at the same time affordable, thus allowing the possibility of its diffusion on a large scale.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These objects, both individually and in any combination thereof, as well as others that will emerge from the following description, are achieved, according to the invention, with a shelf support structure with the characteristics indicated in claim 1 and/or with a set of components with the characteristics indicated in claim 15.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The present invention is further clarified hereinafter in a preferred embodiment thereof reported for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawing tables, in which:

Figure 1: shows a perspective view of a support structure with shelves according to the invention,
Figure 2: shows an exploded perspective view of a lateral upright of the support structure according to the invention, in a first embodiment thereof,
Figure 3: shows a cross-sectional view of the lateral upright, taken along the III-III line of figure 2,
Figure 4: shows an exploded perspective view of a shelf of the support structure according to the invention,
Figure 5: shows an exploded perspective view of a detail of the shelf of figure 4, concerning one end thereof side,
Figure 6: shows in plan view means for fixing the shelf of figure 4,
Figure 7: shows in a perspective view from below the shelf of the support structure according to the invention, in a second embodiment thereof,
Figure 8: shows a sectional view of the shelf of figure 7, taken along the line VIII-VIII,
Figure 9: shows an exploded perspective view of a lateral upright of the support structure according to the invention, in a second embodiment thereof,
Figure 10: shows in perspective view anchoring means for fixing the lateral uprights in a first embodiment thereof,
Figure 11: shows in perspective view anchoring means for fixing the lateral uprights in a second embodiment thereof,
Figure 12: shows a perspective view of the support structure according to the invention in a first phase of its assembly,
Figure 13: shows an enlarged detail of figure 12 in perspective view,
Figure 14: shows in perspective view of the support structure according to the invention in a second phase of its assembly,
Figure 15: shows an enlarged detail of figure 14 in perspective view,
Figure 16: shows a perspective view of the support structure according to the invention in a third phase of its assembly,
Figure 17: shows an enlarged detail of figure 16 in perspective view,
Figure 18: shows a perspective view of the support structure according to the invention in a fourth phase of its assembly,
Figure 19: shows a perspective view of a enlarged detail of figure 18,
Figure 20: shows a further cross-sectional view of the upright of the support structure according to the invention,
Figure 21: shows a cross-sectional view of an enlarged detail of figure 20,
Figure 22: shows a cross-sectional view of a further enlarged detail of figure 20,
Figure 23: shows a perspective view of the support structure according to the invention with a side element, during a first phase of its assembly on the structure,
Figure 24: shows an enlarged detail of figure 23,
Figure 25: shows a perspective view of the support structure according to the invention with the side element of figure 23, during a second phase of its assembly on the structure,
Figure 26: shows an enlarged detail of figure 25,
Figure 27: shows a perspective view of a locking key, during its assembly on the coupling means of the shelf of the structure according to the invention,
Figure 28: shows a perspective view of a detail of the support structure according to the invention, in which the locking key of figure 27 is visible,
Figure 29: shows a perspective view from below of the shelf of the support structure according to the invention, equipped with an accessory;
Figure 30: shows a side plan view of the shelf of figure 29,
Figure 31: shows a perspective view of the accessory for the shelf of figure 30, in a second embodiment thereof,
Figure 32: shows a view of the section Y"Z" of a further variant of the lateral upright, to be used preferably for a self-supporting installation (stand-alone), i.e. not intended to be fixed to a wall,
Figure 33: shows a perspective view of a shelf support structure according to the invention,
Figures 33a - 33c: show in sequence an enlarged detail of fig. 33 when installing a shelf supporting element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME OF ITS PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As can be seen from the figures, the support structure object of the present invention has been identified as a whole with the reference 1.
The support structure 1 in question finds advantageous use in technical sector of the production and marketing of furniture structures for the support and arrangement of various objects.
More generally, the shelf support structure according to the invention therefore fits into the technical sector of the production of pieces of furniture to be placed inside private and/or public houses of any type.
The support structure in question can advantageously be used alone in a self-supporting version (stand-alone) or coupled and/or bound to a different piece of furniture, such as an equipped wall of a kitchen, or to a wall, for example of a living room of a house.
The shelf support structure 1 object of the present invention comprises at least two lateral uprights 2, extending mutually spaced parallel to a first development axis X and provided with corresponding internal surfaces 5 facing each other.
Each of the two lateral uprights 2 is shaped like a panel and, in particular, is defined by a laminar element having a thickness S' (which extends along the axis Z') much lower than the extension along the other two dimensions, ie along the X' direction and along the Y' direction, where X', Y' and Z' are perpendicular to each other. Conveniently, the direction X' corresponds to or is parallel to the first development axis X.
Preferably, each lateral upright 2 consists of a section bar.
Preferably, each lateral upright 2 is - at least in part - internally hollow.
Conveniently, each lateral upright 2 has an elongated extension along the direction X' which is greater than the extension along Y'.
Preferably, each lateral upright 2 has a cross section which comprises two walls, respectively an internal wall 50 and an external wall 51, which are facing, parallel and mutually spaced along a direction Z' corresponding to the thickness of the upright itself. Conveniently, each wall 50 and 51 develops planarly along the X' direction and also along the Y' direction which is perpendicular to X' and Z', thus completing the Cartesian triad.
Conveniently, the development of each wall 50 and 51 along the directions X' and Y', which are perpendicular to each other, is greater - preferably it is much greater - than the thickness S' of the upright 2, a thickness which corresponds to the distance between the two walls 50 and 51 have along the Z' direction.
Conveniently, the cross section of the upright 2 remains substantially the same in terms of shape and dimensions along the whole longitudinal development (ie the development along the X' direction) of the upright itself.
Conveniently, the two lateral uprights 2 are equal to each other.
Conveniently, the external wall 51 comprises an external surface 5" which, in conditions of use, is intended to be visible, while the internal wall 50 of each upright comprises an internal surface 5 which faces inwards and faces a corresponding internal surface 5 of another lateral upright 2.
The external wall 51 - and in particular its external surface 5" - of each upright 2 is continuous and, in particular, is completely free of openings or holes for the fixing of the shelves 3.
Conveniently, the lateral uprights 2 develop substantially planarly parallel to the first development axis X. In particular, they extend transversely to the aforementioned first development axis X between a rear thickness 52 and a front thickness 53, intended - in use - to be facing the user. More in detail, each lateral upright 2 comprises a front thickness 53 and a rear thickness 52 which extend parallel to the first development axis X (and therefore extend along the direction X').
Conveniently, each lateral upright 2 comprises a first groove 4 which is formed on the internal surface 5, and in particular on the internal wall 50, and is defined within the thickness S' of the corresponding upright. The first groove 4 is formed on the internal wall 50 in an intermediate zone between the front thickness 53 and the rear thickness 52 of each lateral upright 2.
Conveniently, each lateral upright 2 can also comprise at least one further groove 39' and/or 39" which is entirely defined/obtained within the thickness S' of the corresponding upright.
Preferably, each lateral upright 2 comprises a further front groove 39', which is formed on or in correspondence with or proximity to the front thickness 53 of each lateral upright 2, and a further rear groove 39", which is formed on or in correspondence with/proximity of the rear thickness 52 of each lateral upright 2.
Preferably, said further front groove 39' is formed on the internal surface 5, and in particular on the internal wall 50, and is defined within the thickness S' of the corresponding upright. Preferably, said further front groove 39' being formed on the inner wall 50 of each upright 2 at or near the front thickness 53 of each lateral upright 2. Conveniently, said further front groove 39" can be provided with narrow sides in correspondence with of his access.
Preferably, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 3 or 10), said further rear groove 39" is formed on the rear thickness 52 of each lateral upright 2 and is open towards the direction Y". Conveniently, said further rear groove 39" is free of restrictions at its access
Preferably, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 32), said further rear groove 39" is made on the internal surface 5, and in particular on the internal wall 50 and is obtained in correspondence with or proximity to the rear thickness 52 of each lateral upright 2. Conveniently, in this embodiment, said further rear groove 39" can be provided with narrow sides at its access.
Conveniently, it is understood that each lateral upright 2 can comprise only said further front groove 39', or only said further rear groove 39", or it can comprise both said further front groove 39' and said further front groove 39".
Conveniently, the first groove 4 is made on the internal wall 50 in an intermediate zone between the further front groove 39' and the further rear groove 39" of each lateral upright 2.
Preferably, the lateral uprights 2 extend along the first development axis X between a lower end and an upper end.
Preferably, corresponding closing plugs are mechanically associated with the lower end and the upper end, respectively a lower plug 2' and an upper plug 2".
Conveniently, within its thickness S', each lateral upright 2 comprises second internal cavities 60 (which preferably extend along the entire longitudinal extension of the upright itself). Conveniently, the lower plug 2' and/or the upper plug 2" comprise at least a second protruding portion 61 configured to fit - preferably by friction and/or shape ratio - into a corresponding second internal cavity 60 of the lateral upright 2.
Preferably, each lateral upright 2 is preferably made of metallic material, such as in particular aluminum.
Advantageously, the lower plug 2' and the upper plug 2" are made of a different material than the rest of the lateral upright 2, for example they are made of polymeric material, preferably of plastic.
The structure 1 comprises at least one shelf 3 which is removably arranged between said lateral uprights 2 and extends mainly along a second axis of development Y between two lateral edges, respectively 3' and 3".
More in detail, each shelf 3 horizontally connects two corresponding lateral uprights 2 side by side and parallel to each other. Conveniently, the support structure 1 according to the invention can comprise a plurality of (ie two or more) lateral uprights 2, vertically side by side, between which corresponding shelves 3 can be mechanically connected.
Preferably, the support structure 1 comprises two or more shelves 3, arranged parallel and side by side, arranged substantially horizontally at various heights, intended to support various objects and/or tools.
Each shelf 3 is shaped like a panel and, in particular, is defined by a laminar element having a thickness S" (which extends along the Z" direction) much lower than the extension along the other two dimensions, ie along the direction X" and along the direction Y", where X", Y" and Z" are perpendicular to each other. Conveniently, the direction X" corresponds to or is parallel to the second axis of development Y.
Advantageously, each shelf 3 is constituted by a section bar.
Preferably, each shelf 3 is - at least in part - internally hollow.
Conveniently, each shelf 3 has an elongated development along the X" direction which is greater than the development along the Y" direction.
Preferably, each shelf 3 has a cross section which comprises two walls, respectively an upper wall 54 and a lower wall 55, which are facing, parallel and mutually spaced along a direction Z" corresponding to the thickness of the shelf itself. Conveniently, each wall 54 and 55 develops planarly along the X" direction and along the Y" direction which is perpendicular to X" and Z", thus completing the Cartesian triple.
Conveniently, the development of each wall 54 and 55 of each shelf 3 along the X" and Y" directions, which are perpendicular to each other, is greater - preferably it is much greater - than the thickness S" of the shelf itself, a thickness which corresponds to the distance that the two walls 54 and 55 have along the Z" direction.
Conveniently, the transverse section of the shelf 3 remains substantially the same in terms of shape and dimensions along the entire longitudinal development (ie the development along the X" direction) of the shelf itself.
Advantageously, each shelf 3 comprises a first face 16, intended to be turned upwards for supporting objects, and a second face 17, facing opposite to said first face 16.
Advantageously, on the lower face 17 of each shelf 3 there is obtained at least a second groove 18 which is obtained/defined inside the thickness S" of the shelf 3.
Advantageously, at/near the front end 25 and/or rear 29 of the shelf 3, on the lower face 17 of each shelf 3 is formed at least a third groove 68 which is formed/defined within the thickness S" of the shelf 3.
Conveniently, the second groove 18 is formed on the lower face 17 in an intermediate area between the front end 25 and the rear end 29 of the shelf 3, preferably between any third grooves 68 obtained in correspondence with/proximity to the front end 25 and/or the rear end 29 of the shelf itself.
Advantageously, the lateral uprights 2 are configured to cover the cross section of said at least one shelf 3 when said shelf is removably fixed between said two lateral uprights .
Advantageously, the structure 1 comprises side caps 6 configured to be mechanically associated with the side edges 3' of the shelf 3. Preferably, the side caps 6 have a shape corresponding - in terms of shape and size - to that of the cross section Y" Z" of the shelf 3, to thus close the latter in correspondence with its lateral edges 3'.
Conveniently, within its thickness S", each shelf 3 comprises internal cavities 62 (which preferably extend along the entire longitudinal development of the shelf itself). Conveniently, each side cap 6 comprises at least one protruding portion 63 configured to fit - preferably by friction and/or shape ratio - into a corresponding internal cavity 62 of the shelf 3.
Conveniently, the side caps 6 can be fastened to the side edges 3' of the corresponding shelf 3 by means of fixing means 35, such as for example screws or rivets or similar members, which pass through corresponding through openings 45, to then engage in the shelf 3. Preferably, for this purpose, at least in correspondence with the lateral edges 3' of the shelf, corresponding receiving seats 44 for the fixing means 35 can be obtained.
Advantageously, the lateral uprights 2 and/or the shelves 3 are made of hard and resistant material, for example a metallic material, such as in particular aluminum, and more particularly an aluminum extrusion.
Conveniently, each lateral upright 2 has a panel conformation with a thickness S' along a direction Z', has an elongated development along a direction X', and also develops along a direction Y' which is perpendicular to X' and Z'. Conveniently, each shelf 3 has a panel conformation with a thickness S" along the Z" direction, has an elongated development along an X" direction, and also develops along a Y" direction which is perpendicular to X" and Z". The extension of each lateral upright 2 along the direction Y' is substantially equal to or greater than the extension of each shelf 3 along the direction Y'.
Conveniently, as mentioned, each lateral upright 2 is equipped with a first groove 4, obtained on the internal wall 50 and extending parallel to the first development axis X, for the removable fixing of the shelf 3.
The side caps 6 further comprise coupling means 7 which are configured to engage in said first grooves 4 by means of friction and/or aspect ratio. Conveniently, the side caps 6 are defined by a distinct piece, and preferably of different material, with respect to the shelf 3.
Preferably, the coupling means 7 are provided on the external face of each side cap 6, while said at least one protruding portion 63 is provided at the internal face (which is opposite to the external one) of said side cap 6.
Preferably, each side cap 6 comprises a laminar portion 6' with an external face from which the coupling means 7 protrude and with an internal face from which at least one protruding portion 63 protrudes, configured to fit into a corresponding cavity 62 which is defined, at the lateral edge 3' or 3", within the thickness S" of the shelf 3. Conveniently, the laminar portion 6' substantially has a shape and dimensions corresponding to those of the cross section Y"Z" of the shelf 3, to close and thus hide the lateral edges 3' of the shelf floor itself.
In this way, the support structure 1 object of the present invention allows to obtain a quick and simple assembly of the shelves 3 on the uprights 2, simply by means of the coupling means 7 which engage by friction and/or shape ratio inside the first grooves 4 of the uprights themselves.
The support structure 1 according to the invention therefore allows to obtain a simple assembly of the shelves 3 on the lateral uprights 2 obviating the need for the use of tools by specialized operators and also allowing the possibility of freely varying - even on site at the time of first installation or even subsequently - the positioning of each shelf 3 along the two lateral uprights 2, and all this is achieved in a particularly aesthetically pleasing way since - once the structure is assembled - no holes or visible screws are provided, nor on the external 5" or internal 5" surface of each lateral upright 2 nor on the upper 16 or lower faces 17 of each shelf.
Conveniently, the coupling means 7 for said shelf 3 comprise at least two shaped bodies 8 protruding from the side caps 6 and configured to be inserted and engaged inside the first groove 4 of the lateral uprights 2 by means of a bayonet coupling.
The term "bayonet coupling" hereinafter means a coupling suitable for connecting two elements by means of a substantially friction and/or interlocking and/or shape ratio which is operated by the movement and/or rotation of a first element, for example the shaped body 8, between a free configuration, in which there is no mechanical constraint, and a constrained configuration, in which the first element, for example the shaped body 8, is mechanically constrained to the second element, for example defined by internal walls of the groove 4 of the lateral upright 2. In particular, with "bayonet coupling" we mean a coupling in which a shaped body engages by friction and/or interlocking and/or shape relationship with the internal walls of a groove a followed by a rotation of about 90° of said shaped body, once obviously it has been inserted inside said groove.
Advantageously, each of said first grooves 4 remains defined by a first bottom wall 9 (which can preferably be defined by a portion of the external wall 51), two first side walls 10 which extend starting from the first bottom wall 9 and two first side walls 11.
More in detail, the first side walls 11 extend from the first side walls 10 parallel to the first bottom wall 9, define between them a first access opening 12 for said coupling means 7.
Furthermore, advantageously, the first sides 11 of the first groove 4 define an undercut portion 13 for locking the coupling means 7 inside the first groove 4.
Conveniently, in accordance with the preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the shaped body 8 of the coupling means 7 comprises a connecting neck 14 which extends from an external face of the side cap 6 of said shelf 3, and which is intended to be interposed between the sides 11 of the lateral uprights 2.
Advantageously, furthermore, the shaped body 8 of the coupling means 7 comprises a locking head 15 which extends from the connecting neck 14, is more bulky than the connecting neck 14, and is configured to be housed inside said first groove and to be locked in the first groove 4 by the first undercut portions 13, interposed between the first bottom wall 9 and the first edges 11.
Preferably, the locking head 15 comprises at least one recessed portion 48 configured to engage in shape relationship with a protruding portion 49 obtained inside the first groove 4.
Preferably, the locking head 15 protrudes from the laminar portion 6' along a direction X'" and extends laterally along a direction Y'" to a greater extent than the development along a direction Z‴, where X'", Y'" and Z'" are perpendicular to each other.
Advantageously, the locking head 15 of the shaped body 8 of the coupling means 7 has a height A (corresponding to the extension along the X'" direction) less than or equal to the linear distance between the first bottom wall 9 and the first sides 11 and of width B (corresponding to the development along the Y'" direction) equal to or greater than the linear distance between the first side walls 10, to thus allow the locking head 15 to engage by friction and/or shape ratio with the first undercut portions 13.
Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the locking head 15 has a development along the direction Z'" which is less than the distance D between the sides 11 of the first groove 4 (and corresponding to the width of the access door 12), to allow the frontal insertion of the side cap inside the groove. Preferably, in a possible embodiment, each side cap 6 has lateral thickenings to thus increase the contact by friction with the internal surface 5 of the lateral uprights 2.
Each shelf 3 - in order to connect it and/or mechanically constrain it to the lateral uprights 2 - can be moved between a sliding configuration, in which the coupling means 7 are slidably inserted in the first groove 4 parallel to the first development axis X, and a locking configuration, in which the coupling means 7 are blocked by friction and/or aspect ratio inside the first groove 4.
In particular, the coupling means 7 of the side caps 6 associated with the lateral edges 3' of the shelf 3 are firstly inserted inside the first groove 4 so as to allow sliding of said coupling means 7 inside the groove itself until the desired height arrangement for the shelf 3 is reached. Therefore, once the desired height arrangement for the shelf 3 has been reached, the latter is rotated by 90° around the second axis Y so that the coupling means 7 come into contact with the side walls of the first groove 4, thus locking by friction and/or aspect ratio the side caps 6, and therefore the corresponding shelf 3 associated with said caps. More in detail, in the sliding configuration (illustrated in the attached figure 14), the shelf 3, with associated side caps 6, is oriented vertically (i.e. it is arranged so that the direction Y" of the shelf 3 is arranged parallel to the direction X' of the lateral upright 2) and is moved parallel to the first axis X, preferably starting from an upper end of the lateral uprights 2, as illustrated in the attached figure 12 and in the enlargement of figure 13.
Advantageously, in the sliding configuration, the shelf 3 with the associated side cap 6 is rotated/oriented in such a way that the width B (i.e. the extension along the Y'" direction) of the locking head 15 of the shaped body 8 of the coupling means 7 of the side cap 6 associated with the shelf 3 is aligned parallel to the first development axis X.
Conveniently, moreover, in accordance with what is shown in the attached figure 18 and in the enlargement of figure 19, in the In the locking configuration the shelf 3 is rotated in such a way that the head 15 interferes laterally with the first lateral walls 10 of the first groove 4, with the width B (i.e. the extension along the Y'" direction) of said head 15 which is substantially aligned transversely (or in any case angled) with respect to the first development axis X.
Conveniently, to move the shelf 3 from the sliding configuration to the locking configuration, the shelf 3 itself is rotated by about 90° around a rotation axis substantially parallel to the second axis of development Y (and in particular it is rotated by about 90° around the X'" direction of the head 15 and corresponding to the X" direction of the shelf).
Conveniently, in the sliding configuration, the shelf 3 with its side caps 6 extends planarly along a substantially vertical lying plane and in the locking configuration the shelf 3 with its side caps 6 extends planarly along a substantially horizontal lying plane.
Advantageously, in the locking configuration, the locking head 15 laterally intercepts the side walls 10 of the first groove 4, thus locking the shelf 3 in the desired position.
Preferably, the height of said connecting neck 14 is less than or equal to the thickness of the first sides 11 of the lateral uprights 2.
Advantageously, in this way, the first sides 11 remain clamped between the side cap 6 of the shelf 3 and the locking head 5 with shelf 3 in the lock configuration.
Conveniently, the sides 11 remain constrained and interposed between the side cap 6 and the locking head 15, assisting the locking in position of the shelf 3.
The support structure 2 according to the invention comprises at least one supporting element 21 for a shelf 3 In particular, each supporting element 21 is configured to be inserted, at least in part, inside the thickness S' of the lateral upright 2 in correspondence with said further front groove 39' and/or said further rear groove 39" of said upright.
Furthermore, on each supporting element 21 a shelf 3 rests and/or engages so that said supporting element 21 is hidden, at least in part, within the thickness S" of the corresponding shelf 3. In particular, each supporting element 21 is configured to receive in support or for engagement with a shelf 3 so that said supporting element 21 is hidden, at least in part, within the thickness S" of the corresponding shelf 3.
Conveniently, each supporting element 21 is a distinct and separate element/piece with respect to the side caps 6.
Conveniently, in correspondence with each lateral upright 2, the following can be provided:

a first supporting element 21 acting at the rear thickness 52 of the upright 2 and/or the rear end of the shelf 3, and/or
a second supporting element 21 acting at the front thickness 53 of the upright 2 and/or the front end of the shelf 3.

Conveniently, each supporting element 21 is configured to act at the front and/or at the rear as a lower support for a shelf 3. Conveniently, the supporting element 21 acts as an end-of-stroke element for moving the shelf 3 along the uprights 2.
Conveniently, the supporting element 21 - receiving the shelf 3 in support or hooking - prevents the shelf from overturning., and in particular the downward rotation of the shelf 3 around the second axis Y.
Preferably, the supporting element 21 is configured to be mechanically associated with the rear thickness 52 of at least one of the lateral uprights 2. Preferably, the supporting element 21 comprises at least a portion 21' which is configured to be inserted and housed inside a further rear groove 39" obtained at the rear thickness 52 of the lateral upright 2. Preferably, the further rear groove 39" is defined between the internal wall 51 and the external wall 52.
Conveniently, the supporting element 21 comprises a supporting portion and/or coupling 22' for the shelf 3. Preferably, the support and/or coupling portion 22' can comprise a seat 22" for coupling engagement of a corresponding counter-fastening element 23 obtained in the shelf 3. Preferably, said counter-fastening element 23 is defined by a toothed profile that protrudes along the Z direction starting from a section of the upper wall 54 which, at the rear end 29 of the shelf 3, extends along the Y" direction beyond the lower wall 55.
Advantageously, the supporting element 21, which is configured to be associated with the rear thickness 52 of at least one of the lateral uprights 2, also comprises means 40 for fixing the element itself which, with its portion 21' is engaged to the uprights 2, thus allowing the entire structure 1 to be fixed to the wall. Preferably, these means 40 are defined in correspondence with the support/coupling portion 22' of the supporting element 21. Preferably, these means 40 comprise through holes 41 which are intended to be traversed by corresponding wall fastening members, such as screws or the like. Conveniently, therefore, the same supporting element 21, which acts at the rear as a support or hook for a shelf 3, also allows the upright 2, and therefore of the structure 1 to be fixed to the wall.
Advantageously, the supporting element 21 is configured in so that, when the shelf 3 rests or engages on said supporting element 21 (preferably when the shelf 3 is supported or hooked to the support/hooking portion 22'), the means 40 for fixing to the wall - and in particular the through holes intended to be crossed by the fastening elements - are covered by the thickness S" of the shelf itself, thus being hidden from view.
The supporting element 21, illustrated in detail in the attached figures 11A and 11B, comprises at least one wall 22 positioned to intercept the shelf 3.
Advantageously, the second face 17 (in use facing downwards) of the shelf 3 is capable of reaching against the supporting element 21, to block the shelf 3 on the lateral uprights 2 at the rear.
Advantageously, each lateral upright 2 comprises a plurality of supporting elements 21, each configured to abut on a corresponding shelf 3.
Conveniently, the shelf 3 is moved from the sliding configuration to the locking configuration until the shelf 3 abuts against at least one supporting element 21.
In this way, the supporting element 21 acts at the rear and/or front as a lower support for the corresponding shelf 3.
Preferably, the supporting element 21 can also be fixed to the corresponding lateral upright 2 by means of screws or rivets or the like and is advantageously made of polymeric material.
In accordance with the first embodiment of the supporting element 21 illustrated in the attached figure 11A and in figure 21, the latter supporting element 21 is configured to house a protruding toothed profile 23 of the shelf 3. The toothed profile 23 develops from a rear end 29 of the shelf 3, and is advantageously configured to be housed, preferably by interlocking or snapping, in the seat 22' obtained in the supporting element 21.
Advantageously, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 33 and 33a - 33c), the supporting element 21 is configured to be inserted in said further front 39' and/or rear 39" groove and to engage by friction and/or shape ratio within said further groove, preferably by means of a bayonet. Preferably, the supporting element 21 can have a substantially hammer-like conformation with:

a further shaped locking head 80 configured to engage by friction and/or shape ratio within said further groove 39' and/or 39",
a shank 81 provided at one end with a coupling seat 82 for engaging a tool (for example an Allen key 90 or screwdriver) so as to cause, once the tool is engaged in said seat, the rotation of 90° of the supporting element 21 around the development axis of the shank 81, and thus bring the shaped locking head 80 from a condition in which it slides inside said further groove 39' and/or 39" to a condition in which it engages by friction and/or shape ratio inside said further groove 39' and/or 39".

Preferably, said further shaped locking head 80 of said at least one supporting element 21 is configured (ie it has such a shape and dimensions) so as to be able to assume a condition that allows the insertion of said further head 80 inside said further groove 39' and/or 39" through the access door of the latter made on the internal wall 51 of each lateral upright 2 (see fig. 33a).
Conveniently, the shank 81 of the supporting element 21 is configured in such a way as to receive the shelf 3 in support and, in particular, to be inserted and housed completely - thus being hidden from view - inside a third groove 68 obtained on the lower face 17 of each shelf 3 (see fig. 33c).
Preferably, in a possible embodiment, a retaining edge 24' is provided which is configured to be fixed directly to each shelf 3 at a front end 25 of the shelf 3 itself. More in detail, the retaining edge 24' is configured to protrude vertically from the first face 16 of the shelf 3. Preferably, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the attached figure 22, the retaining edge 24' is fixed by interlocking at the end front 25 of the corresponding shelf 3.
For example, the retaining edge 24' can act as a side for retaining objects arranged above the first face 16 of the shelf 3.
Conveniently, the further front groove 39' defines a corresponding longitudinal guide 27 for the insertion and fixing of at least one further element, preferably for example of a supporting element 21 which, at the front, acts as a support and/or lower coupling for the corresponding shelf 3 and/or of a side element 24.
In in particular, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the attached figures 23 - 26, the side element 24 comprises a bar 24" and two shaped lateral bodies 26, preferably with a pin, configured to be slidably housed and engaged inside corresponding longitudinal guides 27. Conveniently, the shaped lateral bodies 26 are configured to fit bayonet-like into corresponding longitudinal guides 27, each of which is defined by a further front groove 39' obtained in each lateral upright 2.
Conveniently, the shaped lateral bodies 26 can be made in a single body with the bar 24" or can be removably associated with the latter.
Conveniently, the longitudinal guides 27 extend parallel to the first longitudinal axis X and house the aforementioned shaped lateral bodies 26. Conveniently, the shaped lateral bodies 26 have a transverse extension substantially equal to the linear distance between two side walls of the corresponding further front grooves 39' of each upright 2 which define the longitudinal guides 27, to thus engage by friction and/or shape ratio inside said further front grooves 39'.
The side panel element 24 is advantageously movable between a sliding configuration (illustrated in the attached figures 23 and 24), in which it is free to slide along the longitudinal guides 27, preferably as long as they reach the stop or are slightly spaced from the upper face 16 of the shelf 3 and a locking configuration, in which the side element 24 is rotated around an axis parallel to the second axis of development Y, in which the lateral pins 26 of said element lock inside the corresponding longitudinal guides 27.
Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the edge element 24 can also be inserted and locked inside the further rear grooves 39" of the lateral uprights 2.
Advantageously, at least one is obtained on the lower face 17 of each shelf 3 second groove 18 which is defined within the thickness S" of the shelf 3. Conveniently, the second groove 18 can be configured for detachably retaining at least one accessory device 19.
In accordance with the exemplary but non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the attached figures 29 - 31, the accessory device comprises a hook 28, for example intended to be arranged on an equipped wall of a kitchen of a user.
Otherwise, the accessory device 19 may comprise any type of device, such as for example a roll holder (for example to rotatably support a roll of paper) or a rack for glasses or the like.
Advantageously, the accessory device 19 comprises second coupling means 20 configured to removably engage said accessory device 19 to said shelf 3 by means of friction and/or shape ratio.
Conveniently, the second coupling means 20 of the accessory device 19 comprise at least one shaped body 30 projecting at one end of the accessory device 19 and configured to be housed and engaged inside the second groove 18 of the shelf 3 by means of a bayonet coupling.
Conveniently, the accessory device 19 is removably associated with the second groove 18, so that the user can fasten the latter quickly and easily to the shelf 3, and can release it in case of need, for example for maintenance and/or cleaning the accessory device 19 itself.
Advantageously, the second groove 18 is defined inside the thickness S" of the shelf 3 by a second bottom wall, two second side walls which extend starting from the second bottom wall and two second sides.
More in detail, the second banks develop from the second side walls parallel to the second bottom wall, they define a second access opening between them for said second coupling means 20.
Furthermore, advantageously, the second sides of the second groove 18 define a portion undercut to lock the second coupling means 20 inside the second groove 18.
Conveniently, in accordance with the preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the second shaped body 30 of the second coupling means 20 comprises a connecting neck which is develops from the end of the accessory device 19, interposed between the second sides of the shelf 3.
Advantageously, furthermore, the second shaped body 30 of the second coupling means 20 comprises a second locking head which extends from the connecting neck, is equipped of greater dimensions than the connecting neck, it is housed inside the second groove 18 and is blocked in the second groove 18 by the undercut portions, interposed between the second bottom wall and the second banks.
In accordance with the alternative embodiment illustrated in the attached figure 31, the second locking head of the second coupling means 20 has a substantially polygonal shape, and in particular a substantially hexagonal shape. Obviously, the locking head of the second coupling means 20 may have any shape suitable for defining a bayonet coupling inside the second groove 18.
In accordance with the alternative embodiment illustrated in the attached figures 7 and 8, in the second groove 18 obtained on the second face 17 of the shelf 3, lighting means 31 can be housed, such as for example a strip of LEDs. Conveniently, moreover, the support structure 2 can comprise a cover 32 arranged to cover the lighting means 31. Preferably, the cover 32 is positioned to obstruct the second inlet opening of the second groove 18 and, advantageously, is at least partially transparent in order to be crossed by the general light from the lighting means 31.
Advantageously, in order to stably block the shaped body 8 of the coupling means 7 inside the corresponding first groove 4, the support structure 2 according to the invention can comprise at least one locking key 33, for example of the type illustrated in the attached figures 27 and 28.
More in detail, the locking key 33 is configured to intercept the locking head 15 of the shaped body 8 to increase the friction developed with the side walls 10 and/or with the bottom wall 9 and/or with the sides 11 of the first groove 4.
Preferably, the chi locking key 33 is configured to deform the locking head 15. More in detail, the locking head 15 is provided with slots in which teeth 34 of the key 33 are housed. In particular, the dimensions of the teeth 34 of the key 33 are greater than the space defined by the slots. In this way, the insertion of the teeth 34 into the slots of the locking head 15 causes a deformation of the locking head 15 itself, which is pushed against the walls 9, 10, 11 of the first groove 4, thus increasing the friction produced with the latter, by tightly locking the shelf 3 on the uprights 2.
The support structure 1 thus conceived therefore achieves the intended purposes.
The present invention also relates to a set of components for making the shelf support structure 1 as described above. In particular, said set of components includes:

at least two lateral uprights 2 shaped like a panel with a thickness S' and comprising a first groove 4 which extends along a direction X' and a further groove (39', 39") which develops parallel to said first groove (4),
at least one shelf 3 shaped like a panel with a thickness S",
two side caps 6 for each shelf 3, each of which being configured to be associated, preferably removably, with one of said two side edges 3' of said shelf 3 and comprising coupling means 7 configured to engage by friction and/or ratio of form in the respective first grooves 4 of the two lateral uprights 2,
at least one supporting element 21 for a shelf 3 which is formed in a separate piece with respect to said side caps 6, said at least one supporting element 21 being configured to be inserted, preferably removably, at least partially inside said further groove 39' and/or 39" of a corresponding lateral upright 2 and to be hidden, at least in part, within the thickness S" of the corresponding shelf 3 with which it comes into contact.

In particular, the support structure 1 according to the invention is particularly advantageous with respect to the traditional ones in that:

- -it is quick and easy to assemble and install,
- -it is economical to make and to assemble and install,
- - it is extremely versatile and flexible, being able to freely vary at will and without any constraint - even on site - the height of the shelves along the uprights, while ensuring positioning stability and anti-tipping of the shelves themselves,
- -has a high structural strength,
- -there is no drilling or visible screw,
- -obviates the need for an operator to use particular tools for its assembly,
- -it is economical since it consists of a small number of components which are simple to manufacture and of low cost, and which can be easily manufactured in series,
- -it is aesthetically pleasing.

The present invention has been illustrated in a preferred embodiment thereof, but it is understood that executive variations may be made in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention.

Claims

Support structure (1) comprising:
- at least two lateral uprights (2) shaped like a panel and with a thickness S', extending between them spaced parallel to a first development axis (X) and provided with corresponding internal walls (50) facing each other;

- at least one shelf (3) with a thickness S" which is removably arranged between said lateral uprights (2) and extending mainly along a second development axis (Y) between two lateral edges (3'),

- two side caps (6) for each shelf (3), each of said side caps (6) being associated, preferably removably, with one of said two side edges (3) of said shelf (3);
and in which:
- each lateral upright (2) is equipped with a first groove (4), obtained on said internal wall (50) and extending parallel to said first development axis (X), for the removable fixing of said shelf (3);

- said two side caps (6), associated with each shelf (3), comprise coupling means (7) configured to engage by friction and/or shape ratio in the respective first grooves (4) of the two lateral uprights (2),
and characterized by the fact that:
- each of said lateral uprights (2) also comprises at least one further groove (39', 39"),

- comprises at least one supporting element (21) for a shelf (3), said at least one supporting element (21) being inserted, preferably removably, at least partially inside said at least one further groove (39', 39") of a corresponding lateral upright (2), said shelf (3) resting on and/or engaging on said at least one supporting element (21) so that said supporting element (21) is hidden, at least in part, from the internal thickness S" of the corresponding shelf (3).
Support structure (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one shelf (3) and said at least two lateral uprights (2) are profiles which, at least in part, are internally hollow.
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that:
- each lateral upright (2) has a panel conformation with a thickness S' along a Z' direction, has an elongated development along an X' direction and also develops along a Y' direction, where X', Y' and Z' are perpendicular to each other,

- each shelf (3) has a panel conformation with a thickness S" along the Z" direction, has an elongated development along an X" direction and also develops along a Y" direction, where X", Y" and Z" are perpendicular to each other,
and from the fact that the extension of each lateral upright (2) along the Y' direction is substantially equal to or greater than the extension of each shelf (3) along the Y" direction, to thus allow the lateral uprights (2) to completely cover the side edges (3') of said shelves (3) from view.
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that each lateral upright (2) comprises a front thickness (53) and a rear thickness (52) which extend parallel to said first development axis (X), said at least one further groove (39', 39") being formed on the internal wall (50) of each upright (2) at or near the front thickness (53) of each lateral upright (2) and/or at or near the rear thickness (52) of each lateral upright (2), and by the fact that said first groove (4) is defined in an intermediate zone, preferably substantially in the center, between the front thickness (53) and the thickness rear (52) of each lateral upright (2).
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that each lateral upright (2) comprises a front thickness (53) and a rear thickness (52) which extend parallel to said first development axis (X), said at least one further groove (39") being formed on the rear thickness (52) of each lateral upright (2) and by the fact that said first groove (4) is defined in an intermediate zone, preferably substantially in the center, between the front thickness (53) and the rear thickness (52) of each lateral upright (2).
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one supporting element (21) which comprises a portion (21') which is configured to be inserted and housed inside said additional groove (39") of a lateral upright (2).
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one supporting element (21) which also comprises means (40) for fixing the element to the wall, said supporting element (21) is configured so that, when the shelf (3) rests or engages on said supporting element (21), the means (40) for fixing to the wall are covered by the thickness (S") of the shelf itself, thus being hidden from view.
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one supporting element (21) which is provided with at least one seat (22') for engaging a corresponding counter - fastening element (23) obtained in the shelf (3) or associated with the shelf (3).
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one supporting element (21) which is configured to be inserted in said further groove (39', 39") of each upright lateral (2) and to engage by friction and/or aspect ratio within said further groove (39', 39"), preferably by means of a bayonet coupling, said at least one supporting element (21) being also configured to receive in support said shelf (3) and be inserted completely, or for the most part, inside a third groove (68) obtained on the lower face of said shelf (3), thus being completely, or for the most part, hidden from view.
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said coupling means (7) comprise at least two shaped bodies (8), one for each side cap (6), and configured to be inserted inside respective first groove (4) of said lateral uprights (2) and to engage by friction and/or shape ratio in the respective first grooves (4) by means of a bayonet coupling.
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of said first grooves (4) remains defined by a first bottom wall (9), two first side walls (10) which develop starting from said first back wall (9) and two first side walls (11), which:
- develop from said first side walls (10) parallel to said first bottom wall (9),

- define between themselves a first access opening (12) for said coupling means (7),

- define an undercut portion (13) for locking said coupling means (7) inside said first groove (4).
and in that said shaped body (8) of said coupling means (7) comprises:
- a connecting neck (14) which extends from said lateral end (6) of said shelf (3), interposed between said first edges (11) of said lateral uprights (2);

- a locking head (15) which extends from said connecting neck (14), has a greater bulk compared to said connecting neck (14), is housed inside said first groove and is locked in said first groove (4) from said first undercut portions (13), interposed between said first bottom wall (9) and said first sides (11).
Support structure (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that said locking head (15) of said shaped body (8) of said coupling means (7) is equipped with a height (A) less than or equal to linear distance between said first bottom wall (9) and said first sides (11) and of width (B) equal to or greater than the linear distance between said first side walls (11).
Support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one shelf (3) can be moved between a sliding configuration, in which said coupling means (7) are slidably inserted in the respective first grooves (4) of the two lateral uprights (2) parallel to said first development axis (X), and a locking configuration, in which said coupling means (7) are locked by friction and/or internal shape ratio of the corresponding first grooves (4).
Support structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one shelf (3) comprises a first face (16), intended to be turned upwards for supporting objects, and a second face (17), facing opposite to said first face (16) and on which a second groove (18) is formed, configured to detachably hold at least one accessory device (19) and in that said accessory device (19) comprises second coupling means (20) configured to removably engage said accessory device to said shelf (3) by means of friction and/or shape ratio.
Assembly of components for making a shelf support structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, said assembly of components comprising:
- at least two lateral uprights (2) shaped like a panel with a thickness S' and comprising a first groove (4) which extends along an X' direction and a further groove (39', 39") which develops parallel to said first groove (4),

- at least one shelf (3) shaped like a panel with a thickness S",

- two side caps (6) for each shelf (3), each of which being configured to be associated, preferably removably, with one of the two lateral edges (3') of said shelf (3) and comprising coupling means (7) configured to engage by friction and/or aspect ratio in respective first grooves (4) of the two lateral uprights (2),

- at least one supporting element (21) for a shelf (3) which is formed in a separate piece with respect to said side caps (6), said at least one supporting element (21) being configured to be inserted, preferably removable, at least in part inside said further groove (39', 39") of a corresponding lateral upright (2) and to be hidden, at least in part, inside the thickness S" of the corresponding shelf (3) with which gets in touch.