US20030222043A1

US20030222043A1 - Adhesively bonded, leak-proof shelf

Info

Publication number: US20030222043A1
Application number: US10/375,632
Authority: US
Inventors: Eric Rouch; Matthew McMillin
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-01-25
Filing date: 2003-02-27
Publication date: 2003-12-04
Also published as: EP1585404A1; CN1668227A; US20090212505A1; EP1585404A4; MXPA05002615A; CA2489160A1; AU2003258137A1; WO2004066781A1; US20060162373A1; CN100407958C

Abstract

A shelving assembly (100) is disclosed, which may incorporate a metal frame (102). The metal frame (102) may be used to support a glass shelf panel (104). The metal frame (102) may be used in part to support a plastic rim (106). The glass shelf panel (104) is secured to the plastic rim (106) through the use of an adhesive (134). The adhesive (134) may be used throughout the entirety of the periphery of the glass shelf panel (104).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority of an International Patent Application titled ADHESIVELY BONDED, LEAK—PROOF SHELF and filed Jan. 24, 2003. The International Application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/351,917, filed Jan. 25, 2002, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/361,464, filed Mar. 4, 2002.[0001]

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFISHE APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to shelving designs which may be adapted for use with refrigerators and other articles employing shelving, and, more particularly, shelving having glass supported in part by a plastic rim and capable of slidable movement and limiting exposure of spills.

2. Background Art

Previous types of shelving have been developed for use as refrigerator and other shelves. In designing refrigerator shelving, it is important to provide a means for permitting selected movement of the shelf within the refrigerator, in addition to providing adequate support for the shelf.

In addition to these design features, one problem which arises with respect to refrigerator shelving relates to spills. It would be advantageous to include means for containing spills. If spills are allowed to build up, they can readily harbor bacteria, mold and other materials which may contaminate food stuffs and the like.

Numerous shelving designs exist in the prior art. For example, Kane, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,809, issued Oct. 14, 1996, discloses an encapsulated shelf assembly with a shelf support supporting a panel. The panel has an edge and a one-piece member encapsulating the panel edge and a substantial majority of the shelf support. The shelf assembly may be formed in a mold apparatus which defines a mold cavity and uses a spacing plug to position the shelf support in a mold cavity of the apparatus in a location spaced from the sides of the mold cavity.

Herrmann, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,735,589, issued Apr. 7, 1998, discloses a shelf assembly for a refrigerator compartment which includes a member slidably supported for extension and retraction on a support. The shelf member includes slide members which are preferably molded as a rim on an article support surface. A guide member extends from at least one, and preferably both, of the side members to guide the sliding movement. A stop on the guide member limits travel by engaging a limit surface on the shelf support.

Bird, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,454,638, issued Oct. 3, 1995, discloses adjustable refrigerator shelving having a shelf rail for supporting a partial width shelf within a refrigerator compartment on first and second, spaced shelf racks vertically oriented in the compartment. The tracks releasably engage with a number of support brackets for cantilever support of one or more shelves at a plurality of vertically spaced locations. The shelf rail includes rearwardly projecting hooks at each of the two opposing ends for releasable engagement with the shelf tracks. Locking tabs are included on the hooks to retain the shelf rails on the track, while a rub strip is provided between the partial shelf and the shelf rail, along a top edge of the shelf rail.

Bird, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,433, issued Jul. 4, 1995, describes a refrigerator shelf which is adapted for containment of spills on the shelf. The shelf includes a planer shelf member with a rim molded around the perimeter edge of the shelf member to form a liquid tight seal between the rim and the shelf member. The molded rim projects above the top surface of the shelf member to form a liquid dam for containing spills on the shelf member. In one embodiment, the shelf is slidably mounted to allow horizontal extension of the shelf, with access to the rear portion of the shelf using slide guides molded into the rim along each side of the shelf. The shelf is cantilevered upon support brackets from the rear wall of a refrigerator to allow air flow around the shelf sides. The support brackets are adapted to support the shelf at a plurality of vertical positions.

Meier, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,720, issued Sep. 19, 2000, discloses a method of manufacturing a glass shelf with a plastic edge. The glass panel is placed on a cavity of a mold with a peripheral edge of the cavity corresponding to the peripheral edge of the glass panel. The cavity has side cavity portions, each housing one of the shelf brackets. Plastic material is injected into the cavity adjacent corners, so that the forces of the injected material are essentially self balancing around the peripheral edge of the glass panel. In this manner, the glass panel is maintained in a substantially mating conformity with the cavity to produce a relatively consistently contoured frame.

The foregoing is merely a sample of the various types of prior art references which currently exist with respect to refrigerator shelving.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which: [0015]
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a first embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention; [0016]
FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the embodiment of the shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the invention; [0017]
FIG. 3 is an underneath side elevation view of the first embodiment of the shelving assembly shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the invention; [0018]
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the invention; [0019]
FIG. 5 is a sectional, elevation view taken along section lines [0020] 5-5 of FIG. 1, illustrating certain principles of interconnection of elements of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 6 is a side sectional view taken substantially through the middle of the first embodiment of the shelving assembly, along section lines [0021] 6-6 of FIG. 1, with the sectional view also partially cut away in the middle;
FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the first embodiment of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, and consisting of an enlargement of FIG. 5; [0022]
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a metal cantilever frame which may be employed with the first embodiment of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention; [0023]
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, illustrating the sliding feature of the glass shelf relative to the metal frame; [0024]
FIG. 10 is a sectional view similar in perspective and structure to FIG. 7, and illustrating a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a partial shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, illustrating the interconnection of a plastic rim with snaps and glass, and further illustrating the relationship of these elements with an outwardly projecting sideplate; [0025]
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view similar in perspective and content to the views of FIGS. 7 and 10, and illustrates an additional embodiment of a partial shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, and particularly directed to the feature of employing an inwardly projecting sideplate with the shelving assembly; [0026]
FIG. 12 is a similar view of a partial structure embodiment of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIG. 1, and showing the relative position of one of the snap features; [0027]
FIG. 13 illustrates a plan view of a non-cantilever or metal frame embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention; [0028]
FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 13, in accordance with the invention; [0029]
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 13, in accordance with the invention; [0030]
FIG. 16 is a rear elevation view of the shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 13, in accordance with invention; [0031]
FIG. 17 is a rear elevation view of the shelving assembly as shown in FIG. 13 that utilizes snaps, in accordance with the invention; [0032]
FIG. 18 is a sectional, elevation view taken from the right side of FIG. 16, illustrating certain principles of interconnection of elements of the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention; [0033]
FIG. 19 is a sectional, elevation view taken from the right side of FIG. 17, illustrating the snap feature in accordance with the invention; [0034]
FIG. 20 is a sectional, front elevation view of a further embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention, with this particular shelving assembly having a stationary glass shelf panel and plastic rim, and utilizing flat sideplates; [0035]
FIG. 21 is a sectional side, elevation view of the shelving assembly illustrated in FIG. 20, and showing the use of snaps (such as the snaps illustrated in FIG. 10 at various locations; [0036]
FIG. 22 is a partial sectional view, similar in structure to the left-side portion of the sectional view of FIG. 6, and illustrating the location of a front rail utilized with the shelving assembly of FIG. 20, and providing characteristics to maintain the glass shelf panel in a stationary position; [0037]
FIG. 23 is a partial sectional view, similar in structure to the right-side of the sectional view of FIG. 6, and illustrating the use of a rear plastic rail acting to hold the back of the shelf to the cantilever or metal frame at the rear frame member; [0038]
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the shelving assembly first illustrated in FIG. 20; [0039]
FIG. 25 is an underside, perspective view of the shelving assembly illustrated in FIG. 24; [0040]
FIG. 26 is a partial sectional view, similar in content to the left-side portion of the sectional view of FIG. 6, and illustrating an alternate embodiment employing a support ledge as part of the plastic rim, for purposes of facilitating retention of the glass shelf, and for aiding in the assembly of the glass shelf panel, plastic rim and adhesive; [0041]
FIG. 27 is a sectional view similar in perspective and content to the views of FIGS. 7, 10, [0042] 11, and 12 and illustrating the use and relative positioning of a plastic stop which may be employed and utilized with the snaps, such as the snaps illustrated in FIG. 10; and
FIG. 28 is an underside view of the metal protrusion and plastic stop that combine to provide a stop mechanism for the plastic rim and glass shelf panel assembly relative to a metal frame with sideplates.[0043]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of example, in certain embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention, as illustrated in FIGS. [0044] 1-28. As described in subsequent paragraphs herein, the shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention employ an integral plastic rim comprising only a single piece of plastic, thereby cutting down on material usage and facilitating manufacturing processes. As also shown in particular embodiments of the invention in the drawings, snaps can be employed for purposes of adding retention and support for the glass shelf itself. Still further, and in accordance with the invention, the method of “joining” the glass shelf to the plastic rim, and the particular interface for the coupling of the same, provides significant advantages.
Still further, the shelving assembly can be manufactured in a manner such that the shelving assembly may have capability of slidable movement relative to a frame structure. The slidable feature cannot be provided in encapsulated or sonic welded shelving assemblies, without necessarily requiring any “special” add-on hardware or additional plastic molded onto the shelf assembly itself. In addition to the foregoing, the shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention may include means for containing liquid spillage in a leak-proof manner. In part, an adhesive is employed between the glass and plastic rim structures, so as to accomplish this spillage containment. Still further, traditional encapsulated and sonic welded shelving designs may include crevices which are substantially impossible to clean. Within such crevices, build up of food and spillage (with associated bacteria) may occur. [0045]
More specifically, in known shelving designs, it is not uncommon to include glass encapsulated within plastic. This is often referred to as encapsulated glass shelving, and is referenced in part in certain of the prior art references described in prior paragraphs herein. Encapsulated glass shelving has several disadvantages, compared to shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention. As earlier mentioned, shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention are relatively more sanitary than prior art shelving. For example, certain encapsulated glass shelving designs are not actually leak-proof, but instead are merely spill-resistant. Such designs will actually allow liquids to spill. The spill-resistant design only impedes speed at which the spill occurs to other shelves below in a refrigerator unit. Over time, such spills can result in a build up of dried fluids between cracks and crevices of the glass and plastic, allowing for growth of bacteria, mold and other harmful materials. Shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention significantly limit these concerns. [0046]
Turning to the drawings, the first embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention that will be described is a [0047] shelving assembly 100 as illustrated in plan view in FIG. 1, and as further illustrated in FIGS. 2-9. Referring specifically to FIGS. 19, the shelving assembly 100 includes a cantilever or metal frame 102 (see FIG. 8). Although this particular embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 utilizes a metal frame 102, it should be emphasized that other embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with this invention may consist of a shelving assembly without a metal frame 102. Such an assembly is shown, for example, in the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIGS. 13-19. Such an embodiment will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein. Returning to FIGS. 1-9, the metal frame 102 is used in part to support a glass shelf or glass shelf panel 104. In addition, the metal frame 102 is also used in part to support a plastic rim 106, which is also part of the shelving assembly 100 in accordance with the invention. As described in subsequent paragraphs herein, a concept in accordance with the invention is the securing of the glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106 through the use of an adhesive (described in subsequent paragraphs) throughout the entirety of the periphery of the glass shelf panel 104.
Returning to the [0048] metal frame 102, and referring primarily to FIG. 8, the metal frame 102 includes a forward and substantially horizontally disposed frame member 108. In addition, another substantially horizontally disposed frame member 110 is positioned to the rear of the metal frame 102. These frame members are coupled by any suitable means (not shown) to a pair of opposing and parallel sideplates 114. The sideplates 114 may include downwardly projecting side members 113. In addition, projecting outwardly from the upper portion of the downwardly side member 113 are outwardly projecting members or flanges 112. These outwardly projecting members 112 will serve purposes as described in subsequent paragraphs herein. Each of the sideplates 114 may include a hanger set 116 extending rearwardly from the corresponding sideplate 114. The hanger set 116 may be utilized as cantilever brackets of relatively conventional design, so as to removably lock the shelving assembly 100 into tracks (not shown) connected to walls of refrigerators or other assemblies to which the shelving assembly 100 is to be attached. These hanger sets 116 are conventional in design and do not form any of the novel concepts of the invention. Accordingly, various other means may be utilized for purposes of supporting the shelving assembly 100 on a wall or other article of manufacture, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
The glass shelf or [0049] glass shelf panel 104, and the plastic rim 106, may be appropriately supported on the metal frame 102. As shown primarily in FIG. 4, the plastic rim 106 will extend around the entirety of the periphery of the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 104. In this particular embodiment, the plastic rim 106 will have a cross-sectional configuration as primarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7. However, other cross-sectional configurations of the plastic rim 106 may be utilized without departing from the novel concepts and spirit and scope of the invention. More specifically, the plastic rim 106 includes a horizontally disposed section 120. Extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 120, is a downwardly projecting section 122. Also extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 120, is another downwardly projecting section 124. The combination of the horizontally disposed section 120, downwardly projecting section 122, and downwardly projecting section 124, forms a slide space 126. Turning again to the sideplate 114, and as illustrated in FIG. 7, the sideplate 114 may include an outwardly projecting section 128, which may be received within the slide space 126. The outwardly projecting section 128 may correspond with the horizontally disposed and outwardly directed flange or member 112 previously described with respect to FIG. 8. Although this particular embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIG. 7 utilizes a sideplate 114 with an outwardly projecting member 128, it should be emphasized that other embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention may utilize an inwardly projecting member or a completely “flat” sideplate 114. An inwardly projecting member is shown, for example, in the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. A “flat” sideplate is shown, for example, in the shelving assembly in accordance with the invention as illustrated in FIGS. 20-25. “Inwardly projecting sideplates” and “flat sideplate” embodiments will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein.
As earlier stated, the [0050] plastic rim 106 includes a substantially horizontally disposed section 120, again as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7. As also earlier stated, the plastic rim 106 extends around the entirety of the periphery of the shelving assembly 100. The horizontally disposed section 120 projects inwardly and terminates in a downwardly projecting lip 130, again as illustrated primarily in FIG. 7. As further illustrated in FIG. 7, the relative structure of the downwardly projecting lip 130 provides for a spacial area 132 formed between the lower surface of the horizontally disposed section 120 and the upper surface of the glass shelf panel 104. Within this spacial area 132, an appropriate adhesive 134 is provided within the spacial area 132, and is utilized to facilitate securing of the glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106. This adhesive 134 may be utilized around the entire periphery of the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 104. In addition to providing a means for securing the glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106, the adhesive 134 also acts as a leak-proof barrier, preventing spillage from seeping down to lower shelves or other surfaces around the periphery of the glass shelf panel 104. Further, with the use of the adhesive 134, as opposed to traditional encapsulation and sonic welding procedures, build up of food and spills (with resultant bacteria) do not occur within crevices that are substantially incapable of being cleansed. In substantial part, the unitary design of the plastic rim 106 in accordance with the invention provides these advantages.
As earlier stated, the glass shelf or [0051] glass shelf panel 104, interconnected with the plastic rim 106, may have capability of sliding relative to the metal frame 102. The sliding action can occur through the relative coupling of the outwardly projecting member 128 of the sideplate 114 to the plastic rim 106 through the slide space 126. The shelving assembly 100 with the glass shelf 104 and plastic rim 106 in a relatively extended position is illustrated in FIG. 9. As will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein, the shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention may include “stop” designs having the capability of preventing the glass shelf panel 104 and plastic rim 106 from completely sliding “out of” the metal frame 102. Certain embodiments of “stop” designs in accordance with the invention are described in subsequent paragraphs. However, other “stop” means of preventing the glass shelf panel 104 and plastic rim 106 from sliding completely out of the metal frame 102 may be utilized, without departing from the novel concepts and spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, other embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention may be stationary and not have the capability of sliding. Such a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 20-25. Such an embodiment will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein.
The [0052] plastic rim 106 also includes other structural configurations at forward and rearward locations of the shelving assembly 100. For example, and as primarily illustrated in FIG. 6, the plastic rim 106 may include an upwardly projecting “backstop” 140 extending across the entirety of the rear portion of the plastic rim 106. The plastic rim 106 may also include a downwardly projecting member 142 extending across the rear portion or around the entire underside of the shelving assembly 100, as is desired. Downwardly projecting member 142 also acts a positioning aid for the glass shelf panel 104 during manufacturing. As previously described, the plastic rim 106 is of a single, unitary design. Therefore, the upwardly projecting backstop 140 and downwardly projecting member 142 are integral with the remaining portions of the plastic rim 106. The shelving assembly 100 described herein with respect to the backstop 140 may also utilize various other “backstop” designs, without departing from the novel concepts and the spirit and scope of the invention.
At the forward area of the [0053] plastic rim 106, the plastic rim 106 includes a downwardly projecting forward lip 144, having an arcuate cross section as illustrated in FIG. 6. The downwardly projecting lip 144 acts in part as a “bumper” to prevent damage of shelving assembly 100 from articles which may be “knocked against” the forward portion of the shelf assembly 100. In addition to the “bumper” features of the projecting lip 144, the projecting lip 144 may also act as a manually operable handle, so that a user may slide the shelf panel 104 and plastic rim 106 forward or rearward of the metal frame 102, for purposes of extending and retracting the assembly, respectively. The forward portion of the plastic rim 106 may also include side members 146 (see FIGS. 6 and 9), again for purposes of protection. The first embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention has now been described with respect to shelf assembly 100. In particular, the shelf assembly 100 in accordance with the invention includes an integrally formed plastic rim 106, glass shelf panel 104 and metal frame 102. As previously described, an adhesive 134 facilitates securing of the glass shelf panel 104 to the plastic rim 106. In addition, the adhesive 134 acts as a leak-proof barrier against spillage seeping off of the glass shelf panel 104. This adhesive 134, in combination with the unitary structure of the plastic rim 106, also assists in preventing build up of food particles and fluids within cracks or crevices which cannot readily be cleaned. Accordingly, this design also limits build up of bacteria.
Still further, the [0054] shelving assembly 100 in accordance with the invention cuts down material usage and facilitates speeding up of manufacturing processes, in view of the integral design of the plastic rim 106. As previously discussed, the coupling of the glass panel 104 to the plastic rim 106 and the integral construction of the plastic rim 106 significantly differs from current methods of completely encapsulating glass shelving within plastic, or the use of top and bottom pieces of plastic sonically welded around glass. Still further, and as described with respect to the shelving assembly 100, the glass shelf 104 and plastic rim 106 can slide on the metal frame 102. This sliding movement is substantially incapable of being accomplished in encapsulated or sonic welded shelving assembly, without the addition of special add-on hardware or additional plastic molding associated with the shelf.
Further in accordance with the invention, various types of adhesives may be employed. To illustrate, two types of adhesives that may be utilized are a polyurethane hot melt or a light cured acrylic adhesive. However, various types of adhesives may be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention. [0055]
A second embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention is illustrated in part as shelving assembly [0056] 200 in FIG. 10. For purposes of clarity and brevity, the entirety of the shelf assembly 200 is not illustrated. The shelf assembly 200 is substantially similar in design and construction to shelf assembly 100 previously described with respect to FIGS. 1-9. The distinctions between shelf assembly 100 and shelf assembly 200 are primarily shown in FIG. 10, which is similar in perspective and content to FIGS. 5 and 7 associated with shelf assembly 100. More specifically, with shelf assembly 200, a metal frame is provided which includes a sideplate 214. The sideplate includes an outwardly projecting tab 228 at its upper portion. The outwardly projecting tab 228 is integral with the sideplate 214. The shelving assembly 200 further includes a plastic rim 206, similar in structure and function to the plastic rim 106 also previously described with respect to FIG. 7. The plastic rim 206 includes a horizontally disposed section 220. Extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 220, is a downwardly projecting section 222. Also extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 220, is another downwardly projecting section 224. The combination of the horizontally disposed section 220, downwardly projecting section 222, and downwardly projecting section 224, forms a slide space 226. The sideplate 214 may include an outwardly projecting section 128, which may be received with in the slide space 226. The slide space 226 has the same function as slide space 126 as illustrated in FIG. 7, with respect to shelving assembly 100. That is, the slide space 226 provides for a slidable coupling and support of the plastic rim 206 with the sideplate 214, to an outwardly projecting member 228 of the sideplate 214. As with the assembly 100, the shelving assembly 200 also includes a spacial area 232 formed between the plastic rim 206 and a glass shelf or glass shelf panel 204, with the plastic rim 206 having a downwardly projecting lip 230. Within the spatial area 232, an adhesive 234 is provided so as to secure and couple together the glass shelf panel 204 and the plastic rim 206. Distinguishable from the shelving assembly 100 in accordance with the invention, the shelving assembly 200 includes one or a series of snaps 250 which may be positioned at various locations on the underside of the front, back, and sides (or combinations thereof) of the plastic rim 206. A snap 250 is formed through the use of a horizontally disposed ledge 260 as illustrated in FIG. 10. The horizontal disposed ledge 260 is preferably formed integral with the downwardly projecting section 222 of the plastic rim 206, at certain positions along the plastic rim 206. The horizontally disposed section 220, downwardly projecting section 222 and horizontally disposed ledge 260 are sized so as to form a slot 262 as shown in FIG. 10. The slot 262 is appropriately sized so as to provide a “snap-fit” coupling of the edge of the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 204 with the snap 250 through the slot 262. In accordance with the invention, the snap 250 may be utilized to provide additional retention and support for the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 204.
The foregoing description of the shelving assembly [0057] 200 describes the primary features of shelving assembly 200 which distinguish from the shelving assembly 100. However, both the shelving assembly 100 and the shelving assembly 200 comprise shelf assemblies in accordance with the invention.
Additional features of alternative embodiments of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention are illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. Referring specifically to FIG. 11, the drawing of FIG. 11 illustrates, in part, an alternate cross-section of the [0058] plastic rim 306 utilizing an inwardly projecting sideplate 314. Shelving assembly 300 consists of a plastic rim 306, glass shelf panel 304, and metal frame (not shown for brevity purposes) similar to the metal frame shown in FIG. 8. More specifically, the plastic rim 306 includes a horizontally disposed section 320. Extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 320, is a downwardly projecting section 322. The combination of the horizontally disposed section 320 and the downwardly projecting section 322 forms a slide space 326. The sideplate 314 may include an inwardly projecting section 328, which may be received within the slide space 326.
Similar to the [0059] shelving assembly 100 illustrated in FIG. 7, shelving assembly 300 has a plastic rim 306 that extends around the entirety of the periphery of the shelving assembly 300. The horizontally disposed section 320 projects inwardly and terminates in a downwardly projecting lip 330 as seen in FIG. 11. As further illustrated in FIG. 1, the relative structure of the downwardly projecting lip 330 provides for a spacial area 332 formed between the lower surface of the horizontally disposed section 320 and the upper surface of the glass shelf panel 304. Within this spacial area 332, an appropriate adhesive 334 is provided and is utilized to facilitate securing of the glass shelf panel 304 to the plastic rim 306. This adhesive 334 may be utilized around the entire periphery of the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 304. In addition to providing a means for securing the glass shelf panel 304 to the plastic rim 306, the adhesive 334 also acts as a leak-proof barrier, preventing spillage from seeping down to lower shelves or other surfaces around the periphery of the glass shelf panel 304. Further, with the use of the adhesive 334, as opposed to traditional encapsulation and sonic welding procedures, build up of food and spills (with resultant bacteria) do not occur within crevices that are substantially incapable of being cleansed. In substantial part, the unitary design of the plastic rim 306 in accordance with the invention provides these advantages.
The glass shelf or [0060] glass shelf panel 304, interconnected with the plastic rim 306, may have capability of sliding relative to the metal frame. The sliding action can occur through the relative coupling of the inwardly projecting member 328 of the sideplate 314 to the plastic rim 306 through the slide space 326. The shelving assembly 300 with the glass shelf 304 and plastic rim 306 could have a similar extended position as previously seen in FIG. 9. Again, as will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein, the shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention may include “stop” designs having the capability of preventing the glass shelf panel 304 and plastic rim 306 from completely sliding “out of” the metal frame. Certain embodiments of “stop” designs in accordance with the invention are described in subsequent paragraphs. However, other “stop” means of preventing the glass shelf panel 304 and plastic rim 306 from sliding completely out of the metal frame may be utilized, without departing from the novel concepts and spirit and scope of the invention.
An additional embodiment is described as [0061] shelving assembly 400 as seen in FIG. 12. For purposes of clarity and brevity, the entirety of the shelf assembly 400 is not illustrated. The shelf assembly 400 is substantially similar in design and construction to shelf assembly 300 previously described with respect to FIG. 11. The distinctions between shelf assembly 300 and shelf assembly 400 are primarily shown in FIG. 12, which is similar in perspective and content to FIGS. 5 and 7 associated with shelf assembly 100. More specifically, with shelf assembly 400, a metal frame is provided which includes a sideplate 414. The sideplate includes an inwardly projecting tab 428 at its upper portion. The inwardly projecting tab 428 is integral with the sideplate 414. The shelving assembly 400 further includes a plastic rim 406, similar in structure and function to the plastic rim 306 also previously described with respect to FIG. 11. The plastic rim 406 includes a horizontally disposed section 420. Extending downwardly, and integral with the horizontally disposed section 420, is a downwardly projecting section 422. The combination of the horizontally disposed section 420 and downwardly projecting section 422, forms a slide space 426. The sideplate 414 may include an inwardly projecting section 428, which may be received with in the slide space 426. The slide space 426 has the same function as slide space 326 as illustrated in FIG. 11, with respect to shelving assembly 300. That is, the slide space 426 provides for a slidable coupling and support of the plastic rim 406 with the sideplate 414, to an inwardly projecting member 428 of the sideplate 414. As with the assembly 300, the shelving assembly 400 also includes a spacial area 432 formed between the plastic rim 406 and a glass shelf or glass shelf panel 404, with the plastic rim 406 having a downwardly projecting lip 430. Within the spatial area 432, an adhesive 434 is provided so as to secure and couple together the glass shelf panel 404 and the plastic rim 406. Distinguishable from the shelving assembly 300 in accordance with the invention, the shelving assembly 400 includes one or a series of snaps 450 which may be positioned at various locations on the underside of the front, back, and sides (or combinations thereof) of the plastic rim 406. A snap 450 is formed through the use of a horizontally disposed ledge 460 as illustrated in FIG. 12. The horizontal disposed ledge 460 is preferably formed integral with the downwardly projecting section 422 of the plastic rim 406, at certain positions along the plastic rim 406. The horizontally disposed section 420, downwardly projecting section 422 and horizontally disposed ledge 460 are sized so as to form a slot 462 as shown in FIG. 12. The slot 462 is appropriately sized so as to provide a “snap-fit” coupling of the edge of the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 404 with the snap 450 through the slot 462. In accordance with the invention, the snap 450 may be utilized to provide additional retention and support for the glass shelf or glass shelf panel 404.
The foregoing description of the [0062] shelving assembly 400 describes the primary features of shelving assembly 400 that distinguish it from the shelving assembly 300. However, both the shelving assembly 300 and the shelving assembly 400 comprise shelf assemblies in accordance with the invention.
Additional embodiments are illustrated in FIGS. [0063] 13-19. FIGS. 13-19 are embodiments that do not include a cantilever or metal frame 102 as described in FIG. 8. These embodiments utilize similar features as described in shelving assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 400 with the exception of the metal frame. FIGS. 13-19 contain a plastic rim 506 and glass shelf panel 504. The shelving assembly 500 illustrated in FIGS. 13-19 can be placed on various types of support structures such as a ribbed liner of a refrigerator (not pictured) or other similar support structures. For some applications, a metal frame may be rendered useless or unusable with the type of shelving assemblies previously described herein. In those circumstances the shelving assembly 500 without a metal frame as illustrated in FIGS. 13-19 may be utilized. FIG. 16 illustrates a rear view of the shelving assembly 500 and FIG. 18 represents a cross-section of the right side of FIG. 16, similar to FIGS. 7 and 11. FIG. 17 illustrates an additional embodiment showing the rear view of shelving assembly 500 with snaps and FIG. 19 represents a cross-section of the right side of FIG. 17 utilizing snaps 550, similar to FIGS. 10 and 12. While FIGS. 17 and 19 represent cross-sections in accordance with the invention, other cross-sectional configurations of the plastic rim 506 may be utilized without departing from the novel concepts and spirit and scope of the invention.
The various embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention which have been described in the foregoing paragraphs have commonality with respect to their capability of exhibiting sliding characteristics for the glass shelf panels. Concepts in accordance with the invention relating to the use of glass shelf panels with plastic rims interconnected as discussed herein may also be applied to shelving assemblies which maintain the glass shelf panels in a stationary position, relative to surrounding frame structures. For example, a stationary shelving assembly having features in accordance with the invention is shown in [0064] shelving assembly 600, illustrated in FIGS. 20-25. With reference first to FIG. 24, the shelving assembly 600 includes components substantially similar in function and structure to components illustrated and described in prior paragraphs with respect to other shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention. That is, the shelving assembly 600 includes a metal frame 602, used in part to support a glass shelf or glass shelf panel 604. The metal frame 602 is also used in part to support a plastic rim 606, which is part of the shelving assembly 600 in accordance with the invention. In a manner previously described herein with respect to other shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention, the glass shelf panel 604 is preferably secured to the plastic rim 606 with the use of an adhesive (as described in previous paragraphs) throughout the entirety of the periphery of the glass shelf panel 604.
As shown particularly in the underside view of the [0065] shelving assembly 600 in FIG. 25, the shelving assembly 600 (again, like other shelving assemblies previously described herein) includes a forward and substantially horizontally disposed frame member 608. In addition, another substantially horizontally disposed frame member 610 is positioned to the rear of the metal frame 602. These frame members 608, 610 are coupled to other structures of the shelving assembly 600 as described in subsequent paragraphs herein. Additional metal frame or sideplate attachment options may be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention. For example, screw on sideplates, molded in sideplates, and snap on sideplates (all utilized in tandem with the plastic rim) may be utilized in accordance with the invention.
The [0066] shelving assembly 600 in accordance with the invention also includes a pair of opposing sideplates 614. In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 20-25, the sideplates 614 are shown as flat sideplates which depend vertically downward from the shelving assembly 600. With the particular shelving assembly 600 in accordance with the invention having stationary shelf characteristics, the sideplates 614 may also be formed as inwardly or outwardly projecting sideplates.
With reference specifically to FIG. 21, the [0067] shelving assembly 600 in accordance with the invention can utilize a series of snaps 650 on the sides of the shelving assembly 600. The snaps 650 can correspond in function and structure to the snaps 250 previously described with respect to FIG. 10.
With reference to FIG. 22, the [0068] shelving assembly 600 in accordance with the invention may include a plastic engagement mechanism 660. The plastic engagement mechanism 660 is of a cross-sectional configuration as illustrated in FIG. 22. The plastic engagement mechanism 660 extends across the front portion of the shelving assembly 600. The plastic engagement mechanism 660 is of a resiliency and includes a fitted slot 662 which is used to “capture” the front frame member 608 in a “snap fit” configuration. With the forward frame member 608 coupled to remaining portions of the metal frame 602 in a manner previously described with respect to other shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention, the capture of the frame member 608 by the plastic engagement mechanism 660 maintains the glass shelf panel 604 stationary relative to the frame member 608.
Further, and with reference to FIG. 23, the rear portion of the [0069] glass shelf panel 604 is supported through the use of a rear plastic rail 670 having a cross-sectional configuration as shown in FIG. 23. The rear plastic rail 670 includes a downwardly projecting section 672. Positioned at the terminating end of the downwardly projecting section 672 and integral therewith is a horizontally disposed section 674 which is substantially perpendicular to the section 672. The downwardly projecting member 672 and the horizontally disposed member 674 form a slot 676 as illustrated in FIG. 23.
An alternative embodiment of a shelving assembly in accordance with the invention is illustrated in FIG. 26. Referring specifically to FIG. 26, the drawing of FIG. 26 illustrates, in part, a cross-section of the front or forward area of the [0070] plastic rim 706. This configuration is similar to the left-side portion of the drawing of FIG. 6. As with FIG. 6, the shelving assembly configuration 700 includes the plastic rim 706 with a projecting forward lip 744. The plastic rim 706 is secured to the glass shelf panel 704 through use of the adhesive 734. However, unlike the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the shelving assembly 700 includes a support ledge 702 illustrated in cross section in FIG. 26. The support ledge 702 preferably extends along the entire periphery of the forward portion of the shelving assembly 700. Also, the shelving assembly 700 preferably includes (although not shown specifically in FIG. 26) the use of snaps on the remaining three sides of the shelf assembly 700. Such snaps can correspond in function and structure to the snaps 250 previously described with respect to FIG. 10. The primary purpose of the support ledge 702 is to facilitate retention of the glass shelf panel 704 within the entire shelving assembly. In addition, the support ledge 702 assists in stabilizing the glass shelf panel 704 during the process of assembly of the shelf panel 704, plastic rim 706 and the adhesive 734. As an alternative to use of the support ledge 702 in the forward portion of the shelving assembly 700, the support ledge 702 could alternatively be positioned at the rear portion of the shelving assembly 700.
Still another feature of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention, and as an alternative embodiment to those previously described herein, is the [0071] shelving assembly 800 illustrated in FIG. 27. The shelving assembly 800 is somewhat similar in scope to the shelving assembly 400 previously described herein with respect to FIG. 12. More specifically, the shelving assembly 800 includes a glass shelf panel 804, plastic rim 806 and metal frame with sideplates 814. In addition, an adhesive 834 is utilized to secure the glass shelf panel 804 to the plastic rim 806. Similar to FIG. 12, the shelving assembly 800 may also include a series of snaps 850. That is, and in a manner similar to FIG. 12, a horizontally disposed lower ledge 860 depends from the downwardly projecting member 822 of the plastic rim 806. The foregoing elements are substantially included within the shelving assembly 400 as illustrated in FIG. 12 and described in prior paragraphs hereof. However, distinguishable from shelving assembly 400, the shelving assembly 800 includes a plastic stop 807 depending downwardly from the lower and horizontally disposed ledge 860. The plastic stop 807 is associated with one of the snaps 850 positioned on one side of the shelving assembly 800, and one of the snaps 850 positioned on the opposing side of shelving assembly 800.
In addition to the plastic stops [0072] 807, the shelving assembly 800 also includes a horizontally and inwardly depending metal protrusion 803 which is preferably integral with the metal sideplate 814 and extending therefrom. The relative positioning of the metal protrusion 803 is as shown in FIG. 27. With the metal protrusion 803 and the plastic stop 807, the combination thereof provides for a stop mechanism for the feature of the shelving assembly 800 comprising slidable properties. That is, as the glass panel 804 and plastic rim 806 are slid forwardly on the metal cantilever frame 802, the provision of the plastic stop 807 on each side of the shelving assembly 800 abutting a metal protrusion 803 extending from the sideplate 814 (again on each side of the shelving assembly 800), prevents the plastic rim 806 and the glass shelf panel 804 from sliding off of the metal cantilever frame 802. Again, the plastic stops 807 are only associated with the snaps 850 which include the horizontally depending ledge 860. Still further, these plastic stops are only associated with two of the snaps located on opposing sides of the shelving assembly 800.
It should be emphasized that various configurations of the concept of providing “stop” features as illustrated in FIG. 27 for [0073] shelving assembly 800 may be modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention. For example, the metal protrusion 803 maybe punched out, formed, or fastened so as to be horizontally depending or vertically depending, as is desired with respect to the sideplate 814. As.shown in FIG. 27, the metal protrusion 803 is horizontally depending. However, the metal protrusion 803 could, alternatively, be vertically depending, and bent in a manner so that the metal protrusion 803 was primarily in a vertical configuration. With the metal protrusion 803 in a vertical configuration, it can provide a greater cross sectional area for abutment against the plastic stop 803. In this matter, the “stop” feature may be somewhat enhanced.
Another embodiment of a stop mechanism in accordance with the invention is illustrated in [0074] shelving assembly 900 as seen in FIG. 28. Shelving assembly 900 is similar in scope to shelving assembly 100 previously described in FIGS. 1-9. A plastic rim 906 is bonded to a glass shelf panel 904 through the use of an adhesive. A metal frame with outwardly depending sideplates 914 is utilized. However, inwardly depending sideplates and flat sideplates may also be utilized without departing from the novel concepts and the spirit and scope of the invention. Similar to shelving assembly 800 in FIG. 27, shelving assembly 900 as seen in FIG. 28 may utilize a sideplate 914 with a metal protrusion 903 that acts in combination with a plastic stop 907 that is integral with the plastic rim 906. The metal protrusion 903 and plastic stop 907 in shelving assembly 900 perform a similar function as the metal protrusion 803 and plastic stop 807 as described in FIG. 27. This stop mechanism can be utilized with the sliding shelving assemblies previously described herein. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 28, the glass shelf panel 904 may contain decoration 909 by means including but not limited to frosting, etching, or as is desired to conceal viewing of the adhesive on the underside of the shelving assembly 900. Various types of decoration may utilized on the shelving assemblies described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent arts that other embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention may be designed. That is, the principles of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. For example, several of the embodiments of shelving assemblies in accordance with the invention utilize outwardly depending members or flanges (such as [0075] member 128 illustrated in FIG. 7), for purposes of providing coupling between the plastic rim and the metal frame, and facilitating sliding movement. However, sideplates employing inwardly depending members, and essentially “flat” sideplates may also be utilized in various alternatives to the embodiment described herein, without departing from the novel concepts of the invention. Still further, although not described with respect to each of the shelving assembly embodiments disclosed herein, each of these embodiments maybe provided with the ability for stationary or sliding movement between the glass shelf panel and plastic rim, and the slideplates, ribbed liner, or other support structure. Accordingly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and other variations of the above-described illustrative embodiments of the invention may be effected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A shelving assembly adapted for use in a refrigerator and other articles employing shelving, characterized in that said shelving assembly comprises;

a shelf panel composed of glass;

a plastic rim sized and configured in a manner so as to provide for said plastic rim to be secured around at least a portion of the perimeter of said shelf panel; and

means comprising an adhesive located intermediate said plastic rim and said shelf panel, and providing for a leak-proof seal between said plastic rim and said shelf panel, and for rigidly securing said plastic rim to said shelf panel.

2. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that such shelving assembly may be stationary or facilitate sliding movement, as is desired, on a ribbed liner of a refrigerator.

3. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

said plastic rim extends around the entirety of the periphery of said shelf panel;

said plastic rims of a unitary and integral design; and

said plastic rim comprises an upwardly projecting backstop extending across the entirety of a rear portion of said plastic rim.

4. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

said plastic rim is of a unitary and integral design; and

said plastic rim comprises a downwardly projecting forward lip having an arcuate cross-section, and acting in part as a bumper to prevent damage of said shelving assembly from articles that may be knocked against a forward portion of said shelving assembly, and further acting in part as a handle to facilitate stationary positioning or sliding movement on a plastic ribbed liner of a refrigerator.

5. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said plastic rim comprises:

a horizontally disposed section;

a downwardly projecting section integral with said horizontally disposed section;

an additional downwardly projecting section integral with said horizontally disposed section;

the combination of said horizontally disposed section, downwardly projecting section and additional downwardly projecting section form a groove.

6. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 5, characterized in that:

said horizontally disposed section of said plastic rim projects inwardly and terminates in a flat plane;

said flat plane provides for a spacial area formed between a lower surface of said horizontally disposed section and an upper surface of said glass shelf panel; and

said adhesive is provided within said spacial area, and utilized to facilitate securing of said glass shelf panel to said plastic rim.

7. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

said shelving assembly further comprises at least one slot formed between said plastic rim and said glass shelf panel;

said plastic rim comprises a flat plane;

within said at least one slot, said adhesive is provided so as to secure and couple together said glass shelf panel and said plastic rim while providing a leak-proof barrier to liquids; and

said at least one slot aids in flow of said adhesive during the manufacturing process.

8. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said adhesive comprises a reactive polyurethane hot melt or light cured acrylic adhesive.

9. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

said shelving assembly comprises a series of snaps positioned at various locations around the periphery of said plastic rim;

each of said snaps is formed through a horizontally disposed ledge formed integral with a downwardly depending member of said plastic rim, at certain positions along the periphery of said plastic rim;

said plastic rim further comprises an inwardly projecting member;

said inwardly projecting member, said downwardly projecting member and said lower ledge are sized so as to form a slot; and

said slot is appropriately sized so as to provide a snap-fit coupling of an edge of said glass shelf panel with said snap through said slot, wherein each of said snaps is thereby utilized to provide additional retention and support for said glass shelf panel.

10. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that siad shelving assembly further comprises:

a horizontally disposed lower ledge depending from a downwardly projecting member of said plastic rim; and

a plastic stop depending downwardly or upwardly, as desired, from said horizontally disposed lower ledge.

11. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said shelf panel includes decorative means for concealing the view of said adhesive.

12. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said shelf panel is decorated with frosting or etching so as to conceal viewing of said adhesive.

13. A shelving assembly adapted for use in a refrigerator and other articles employing shelving, characterized in that said shelving assembly comprises;

a shelf panel composed of glass;

a plastic rim sized and configured in a manner so as to provide for said plastic rim to be secured around at least a portion of the perimeter of said shelf panel;

a metal frame for supporting said glass shelf panel and plastic rim; and

14. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that such shelving assembly further comprises means for providing slidable movement of said shelf panel relative to said metal frame.

15. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said metal frame comprises;

a forward and substantially horizontally disposed frame member;

a further substantially horizontally disposed frame member positioned to the rear of said metal frame;

a pair of opposing and parallel sideplates; and

means for coupling said frame members to said sideplates.

16. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 15, characterized in that each of said sideplates comprises means for removably locking said shelving assembly to walls of said refrigerator and other articles.

17. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that:

said plastic rim is of a unitary and integral design; and

18. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that:

said plastic rim is of a unitary and integral design; and

said plastic rim comprises a downwardly projecting forward lip having an arcuate cross-section, acting in part as a bumper to prevent damage of said shelving assembly from articles that may be knocked against a forward portion of said shelving assembly, and further acting in part as a handle to facilitate sliding movement relative to said metal frame.

19. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said plastic rim comprises;

a horizontally disposed section;

an inwardly projecting section integral with said additional downwardly projecting section; and

the combination of said horizontally disposed section, downwardly projecting section, additional downwardly projecting, and inwardly projecting section form a groove.

20. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 19, characterized in that;

said metal frame includes a pair of opposing and parallel sideplates; and

each of said sideplates comprises an outwardly or inwardly projecting section, or is flat as is desired, with each of said flat, outwardly, or inwardly projecting sections being receivable onto said grooves of said plastic rim.

21. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 19, characterized in that:

said substantially horizontally disposed section of said plastic rim projects inwardly and terminates in a flat plane;

said adhesive is provided within said spatial area, and utilized to facilitate securing of said glass shelf panel to said plastic rim.

22. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that:

said plastic rim comprises a flat plane;

23. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized in that:

said metal frame includes a pair of opposing and parallel sideplates;

said plastic rim comprises a pair of grooves;

said sideplates comprise outwardly or inwardly projecting members or flat sideplates, as desired; and

said slidable movement of said glass shelf panel relative to said metal frame is provided through relative interaction of said outwardly or inwardly projecting members of said sideplates or flat sideplates, as desired, to said plastic rim through said grooves.

24. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 23, characterized in that said slidable movement is achieved without requiring any additional modifications to said shelving assembly.

25. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said plastic rim comprises;

a horizontally disposed section;

an additional downwardly projecting section integral with said horizontally disposed section; and

the combination of said horizontally disposed section, downwardly projecting section, and additional downwardly projecting section form a groove.

26. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 25, characterized in that;

said metal frame includes a pair of opposing and parallel sideplates; and

each of said sideplates is of a completely flat configuration, with each of said sideplates being receivable onto said grooves of said plastic rim.

27. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said adhesive comprises a reactive polyurethane hot melt or light cured acrylic adhesive.

28. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that:

said plastic rim further comprises an inwardly projecting member;

29. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said shelf panel includes decorative means for concealing view of said adhesive.

30. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said shelf panel is decorated with frosting or etching to conceal viewing of said adhesive.

31. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 14, characterized in that said shelving assembly further comprises:

32. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 31, characterized in that:

said shelving assembly further comprises a horizontally and inwardly or outwardly, as is desired, depending metal protrusion;

said metal frame comprises metal sideplates, with said inwardly or outwardly depending metal protrusions extending therefrom; and

the combination of said metal protrusions and said plastic stop provides for a stop mechanism for sliding movement of said shelving assembly.

33. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 32, characterized in that said metal protrusion is punched-out, formed, or fastened so as to be horizontally depending or vertically depending, as is desired.

34. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that said shelving assembly is stationary and further comprises;

opposing sideplates of said metal frame depending vertically downward or depending inwardly from said shelving assembly;

said sideplates comprise a cantilever or metal frame, and are attached to said plastic rim by screws, molded into said plastic rim, or snapped onto said plastic rim;

a series of snaps formed on front, rear, and/or sides, as desired, of said shelving assembly;

a plastic engagement mechanism extending across a front and/or rear portion, as desired, of said shelving assembly, said plastic engagement mechanism including a fitted slot for capturing a front or rear frame member, as desired, in a snap fit configuration; and

said front or rear frame member is coupled to remaining portions of said metal frame.

35. A shelving assembly in accordance with claim 34, characterized in that:

said shelving assembly further comprises a rear plastic rail having a downwardly projecting section;

positioned at a terminating end of said downwardly projecting section is a horizontally disposed section substantially perpendicular to said downwardly projecting section;

said downwardly projecting member and said horizontally disposed member form a slot; and

said shelving assembly further comprises a rear frame member, interconnected to said sideplates, and located within said slot formed in said rear plastic rail.