GB2536800A

GB2536800A - Mobile display space

Info

Publication number: GB2536800A
Application number: GB1603499.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Greatrex Brendon; Jaeger Jim
Original assignee: Royal Wolf Trading Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: United Rentals Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-03-02
Filing date: 2016-02-29
Publication date: 2016-09-28
Also published as: AU2015100245A4; SG10201601545QA; GB201603499D0

Abstract

The mobile display space includes a frame 15, a rear wall, two end walls 12, a roof, a floor 52, and an opening front wall 20, wherein the opening front wall forms an extension of the floor when opened. An awning 40 may be operatively connected to the opening front wall by an extendable member, such that the awning is deployed when the front wall is opened. The awning and front wall may be hingedly mounted. A seal may be used around the opening front wall. Also claimed is a mobile display space including a frame, rear wall, two end walls, roof, a base with an upper surface forming a floor, and an opening front wall, wherein an opening mechanism configured to open and close the front wall is located within the base. The opening mechanism may include a hydraulic and/or electric actuator contained within one or more internal spaces within the base. The mobile display spaces may be intermodal or ISO containers.

Description

MOBILE DISPLAY SPACE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to display spaces or stages, typically, but not necessarily, used for retail outlets, bands or other performances, where the display space is mobile or in a containerised form.

BACKGROUND

10002] Display spaces are used for a very wide variety of purposes, such as retail outlets, experiential marketing, and stages for bands and other performances It is sometimes desirable for these spaces to be mobile or temporary, such as for use at festivals, markets, fairs, concerts and other events that are run over a particular time period.

10003] It is known to construct types of temporary display spaces at such events to provide a sheltered area for performers, retail stock and/or customers. Known display spaces are typically constructed from individual components such as steel or aluminium beams or scaffolding, and fabric or other light weight walls or panels, such as are used in a tent or marquee.

10004] Presently, a significant amount of time is required in constructing these display spaces on-site from individual components. The components are constructed as customised structures and typically involve relatively high costs due to the set-up labour and time required. After the event is finished, presently known display spaces are time consuming and therefore relatively costly to remove as well. Furthermore, many temporary display spaces are relatively fragile and are subject to damage by adverse weather, such as high winds. Display spaces that are assembled on-site also require associated equipment or products to be transported separately.

[0005] Shipping containers are known to be repurposed for a wide variety of uses after they have finished their life in their initial role, including for use as a display space. Generally, however, such use of a shipping container has many disadvantages, including -2 -the product being unsuitable or modifications being of poor design, no apparent engineering interrogation to ensure the construction is appropriate for the new use, an industrial finish, not user friendly, exposed hydraulic rams, hoses and other mechanical devices, and water sealing systems being poorly designed.

[0006] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

SUMMARY

[0007] According to one example aspect, there is provided a mobile display space, including a frame, a rear wall, two end walls, a roof, a floor, and an opening front wall, wherein the opening front wall forms an extension of the floor when in an open position [0008] According to another example aspect, there is provided a mobile display space, including a frame, a rear wall, two end walls, a roof, a base with an upper surface forming a floor, and an opening front wall, wherein an opening mechanism configured to move the front wall between an open position and a closed position is located within the base.

[0009] In another example form, the mobile display space further includes an awning operatively connected to the opening front wall, such that the awning is in a deployed position when the front wall is in the open position.

[0010] In another example form, the awning is connected to the front wall by an extendable linking member.

[0011] In another example form, the display space is formed from an intermodal freight container. -3 -

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0012] Example embodiments should become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only, of at least one preferred but non-limiting embodiment, described in connection with the accompanying figures.

[0013] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an example display space, [0014] Figure 2 illustrates a three dimensional view of framework for an example display space and various close-up sections, [0015] Figure 3 illustrates end views, with various close-up sections, of an example display space; [0016] Figure 4 illustrates a front view, with various close-up sections, of an example display space; [0017] Figure 5 illustrates enlarged cutaway views of the door opening mechanisms; [0018] Figure 6 illustrates cutaway end views of the door opening mechanisms and seals; and [0019] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of an example display space.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] The following modes, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or 20 embodiments [0021] In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the figures.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a display space 10 is shown that generally includes a base 11, end walls 12, rear wall 13 and a roof 14. Figure 1, for clarity, shows only a frame 15 and not any form of panelling of the base 11 walls 12, 13 or roof 14. Figure 1 also -4 -omits some other structural members. See Figure 7 for an illustration of a complete embodiment.

100231 A front side of the display space 10 includes a door 20 that substantially forms a front wall when in a closed position. The door 20 includes a frame 21 and is hingedly mounted to the frame 15 along a lower edge. The door 20 can move to an open position where it is substantially aligned with the base 11 (see Figure 3D).

[0024] The hinged connection of the door 20 to the frame 15 uses central brackets 22 with a hole 23 being connected using a pin 24. Similarly, end brackets 25 are connected using a hole 26 with a pin 27 and bracket 28. While a specific configuration of hinges is shown, it will be appreciated that any other suitable hinge connection may be used.

[0025] The door 20 is opened and closed using an opening mechanism that includes the connection of hole 29 on the end brackets 25 to the hydraulic actuator 30. This will be described in more detail below. Another embodiment may be electrically actuated rather than the present hydraulically operated version Any other suitable actuator or opening mechanism may also be used.

[0026] The frame 21 of the door 20 is shown facing towards the outside of the display space 10 when in the closed position. The side of the door 20 that is facing towards the inside of the display space 10 will preferably be a flat surface, so that when the door 20 is in the open position it creates an extension to the floor formed by an upper surface of the base 1L This means that the frame 21 provides support to the floor formed by the door 20 when in the open position.

100271 Referring to Figure 2, a second door portion, or awning 40, is associated with the front side of the display space 10. The awning 40 is attached along the top of the opening of the display space 10 using hinges 42. The awning 40 can be opened outwardly to a deployed position using lever arms 43, which are acted on by linking members 45 that connect to the door 20. In the embodiment shown the linking member 45 is extendable at the sliding connection 46 during the opening and closing procedure.

100281 During opening of the awning 40, the linking members 45 are placed in tension, pulling down on the lever arms 43 and causing the awning 40 to hinge outwardly. This mechanism is described in more detail below.

100291 Figure 2 shows internal components of the base 11, however the base 11 will actually include a cover over this frame and other components. This cover provides a flat surface, or floor, so that the inside of the display space 10 is suitable for its intended purpose, without any tripping hazards or the like. The cover also provides one or more internal spaces within the base 11, that may be useful for housing components, such as the door opening mechanisms as is described in more detail below. The outer limit of the base 11 may be defined by an outer cover, or may be left open.

[0030] Referring to Figures 3A to 3D, a sequence of configurations is shown to illustrate moving of the door 20 from the closed to the open position. The door 20 substantially covers the front side when closed and is shown in a position near to the closed position in Figure 3A.

[0031] As described above, the door 20 and awning 40 are operatively connected by a linking member 45 This operative connection means that the opening of the door 20 effects the raising of the awning 40 100321 The awning 40 is sized such that it does not contact the door 20 during the opening and closing procedures. In the present embodiment, the extendable linking member 45 aids in the clearance of the awning 40 to the door 20. As the door 20 begins to open, as shown in Figure 3B, the awning initially does not move or only slightly moves as the linking member 45 extends.

[0033] Once the linking member 45 is fully extended, however, it begins to exert a pulling force on the awning 40, causing it to open, as shown in Figure 3C. The extension of the linking member 45 means the door 20 is a significant way open while the awning 40 has only opened a small amount. This allows the awning 40 to clear the door 20, as shown in the enlarged portion of Figure 3C. At the same time, however, the sizing of the lever arm 43 of the awning 40 means it will arrive at the deployed position at the same time as the door 20 reaches the open position, as shown in Figure 3D 100341 Figure 3D illustrates that the second door portion acts as an awning when in the deployed configuration, while the inside of the door 20 when open forms a floor.

100351 Figures 4 to 6 illustrate more clearly the opening mechanism associated with the door 20. The hydraulic actuator 30 is connected to the door 20 and provides the necessary force to perform the procedure. The connection between the door 20 and the awning 40, however, reduces the necessary force to be applied by the actuator 30.

100361 It will be understood that the term opening mechanism" will typically provide the necessary force for both opening and dosing the door 20, however in some example embodiments it may only be necessary for the opening mechanism to provide force to either open or close the door 20. For example, one of the opening or closing processes may be assisted by gravity or may be assisted by another component of the opening mechanism, such as a spring.

100371 The display space 10 in the embodiment shown includes a corner casting 50, which is a typical component of a shipping container that is used for securing containers to one another during transport. The display space 10 has a lower surface 51 and the base 11 has an upper surface, or floor 52. The floor 52 provides a continuous and smooth surface within the interior of the display space 10 to maximise aesthetic appeal, safety and usability of the space. This is particularly shown in Figure 7. In some example embodiments, the lower surface 51 may not be present or may only cover a portion of the base 11, in which case the lower limit of the base is defined by a lowermost surface of the corner castings SO.

100381 The actuator 30 and other components of the opening mechanism associated with opening and closing the door 20 are all contained within a space underneath the floor 52 of the base 11. These components are also located within the external dimensions of the display space 10 (above lower surface St, for example). This can allow the display space 10 to adhere to the dimensions necessary to conform to sizing standards, such as those for shipping containers.

100391 The rear portion 55 of the bracket 28 provides support for mounting the bracket 25, while also allowing space for the actuator 30. In the embodiment shown, a cutout 56 is -7 -provided to package the actuator 30 and allow the necessary movement for operation, however it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that other methods of packaging the required components are possible.

[0040] Keeping the door 20 opening mechanism all within the internal space of the base 11 provides for increased safety during use of the display space 10. When the door is in the closed position, however, everything is still contained within the dimensions of the container. This means the display space can be transported via rail, truck or ship with ease [0041] Figure 6 illustrates that a seal 60 is used around the door 20 to ensure a substantially weather resistant fit with the frame 15 when closed. Display spaces are often not designed with such a weather resistant configuration. Using such a seal allows the display space 10 to be transported with items inside, even if they are water sensitive. This minimises transport volumes and minimises setup times when the display space 10 arrives onsite.

[0042] In a particular, but non-limiting embodiment, the display space 10 is constructed from a type of container as a starting point of manufacture or assembly, for example from a shipping container. This allows the display space 10 to be relatively easily manufactured by cutting out or removing sections of the container, reinforcing the container, if required, and adding doors and other components as required.

[0043] Throughout the specification the reference to a shipping container may include any suitable form of container. In one example aspect, a shipping container may refer to an intermodal container as typically used in containerised intermodal freight transport. Intermodal containers include those conforming to international standard ISO 1496, for example.

[0044] The embodiment in the Figures uses a 2011 (6.058m) long, high cube side bi-fold door container as a starting point for manufacture. The completed product has one long side wall that folds down using hydraulic rams under the floor structure to form an extended floor section. All the mechanical components are concealed beneath the floor in both the open and closed position, as well as throughout the opening and closing processes. The long side wall folding down drives the second part of the door, the awning, that is -8 -automatically deployed as the first part of the wall is lowered Preferably, the mobile display space is portable, inherently strong and conforms to established sizes.

100451 There are a wide variety of applications and market sectors envisaged for the present invention. These include, but are not limited to, 'pop up-retail, rapid deployment, "experiential" point of sale displays for new product launches, and a mobile stage for bands or shows.

[0046] Generally, though not necessarily, components of the mobile display space are steel components, although the floor section is preferably wood, such as plywood panels. However, it should be appreciated that a wide variety of materials can be used to form or construct the mobile display space.

[0047] Embodiments of the mobile display space in containerised form can be made to be standard sizes of typical shipping containers. For example, they may conform to the specification of a 20ft container (6.058m external length) or 40ft container (12.192m external length). However, non-standard sizes, for example lengths of 6 metre, 7 metre, 8 metre, etc., or any other lengths, can be made. Similarly, non-standard widths or heights can also be used.

[0048] It should be appreciated, however, that the mobile display space can be made from individual components rather than being made from a shipping container. The frame can be modified or reinforced as required for suitable strengthening of the mobile display 20 space.

[0049] Due to the modular nature of the mobile display space, it is relatively easily transported to a desired site, where, if necessary, counterweights can be attached for additional stability. Counterweights can be transported separately then attached to the mobile display space on-site. Counterweights can be pre-fabricated concrete slabs or blocks that can be positioned in cut-out or open panel sections. Different sizes and layouts of counterweights can be used depending on expected conditions at a site, for example dependent on expected winds that the mobile display space may be required to withstand.

100501 The mobile display spaces are designed to allow stacking of the mobile display space units on top of each other, or to allow stacking of other containers on top of the mobile display spaces. Additional reinforcing frames can be provided around the opening if necessary.

[0051] The mobile display space can be supported on different types of ground. The mobile display space can be placed directly on a ground surface, if appropriate, or can be used with a footing or foundation system if required. Footing support is dependent on the nature of the ground, for example whether the mobile display space is being placed on concrete slabs, kerbing or soil. Timber planks might be used as a support system to distribute loads.

[0052] The mobile display space is fully reusable after having been transported and installed at various sites. The mobile display space can be installed in numerous different arrangements and locked or bolted, or otherwise secured, into position After completion of an event at a site, when the mobile display space is no longer required, all components can be disassembled, packed-up and easily transported off the site [0053] The mobile display space offers a cost-effective solution in providing transportable retail or performance space. The general basis for a containerised mobile display space can be a cargo shipping container, making the structure easy to manage, suitable to manoeuvre and transport, and relatively easily constructed. Materials used in a containerised mobile display space are commonly available.

[0054] A containerised mobile display space is an easily transportable structure suitable for rapid deployment. A containerised mobile display space may be fitted out as required and can be delivered ready for operation or final assembly with counterweights on-site. Products or equipment to be used with the display space when on-site may be transported within the display space for fast set-up or may be transported separately if necessary. Additional fittings may be provided within the display space for securing items during transport if they are to be contained within the display space during transport.

[0055] Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or -10 -collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0056] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

The claims: 1. A mobile display space, including a frame, a rear wall, two end walls, a roof, a floor, and an opening front wall, wherein the opening front wall forms an extension of the floor when in an open position.
2. A mobile display space, including a frame, a rear wall, two end walls, a roof a base with an upper surface forming a floor, and an opening front wall, wherein an opening mechanism configured to move the front wall between an open position and a closed position is located within the base.
3. The mobile display space according to claim 2, wherein the opening mechanism includes an actuator.
4. The mobile display space according to claim 3, wherein the opening mechanism is hydraulic actuated and/or electrically actuated.
5. The mobile display space according to any one of the preceding claims, further including an awning operatively connected to the opening front wall, such that the awning is in a deployed position when the front wall is in the open position.
6. The mobile display space according to claim 5, wherein the awning is connected to the front wall by an extendable linking member.
7. The mobile display space according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the awning is attached along a top of an opening of the display space using hinges.
8 The mobile display space according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the display space is formed from an intermodal freight container.
9. The mobile display space according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the opening front wall is hingedly mounted to the frame along a lower edge.
10. The mobile display space according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the base includes a cover which provides one or more internal spaces within the base.

-12 -
11. The mobile display space according to claim 2 and claim 10, wherein the actuator is contained within the one or more internal spaces within the base.
12. The mobile display space according to any one of the previous claims, wherein a seal is used around the opening front wall for a substantially weather resistant fit with the frame when closed.
13. The mobile display space according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mobile display space is a transportable structure.