US20150090682A1

US20150090682A1 - Shelving system

Info

Publication number: US20150090682A1
Application number: US14/041,537
Authority: US
Inventors: David L. Walker; Alex MIKITA
Original assignee: Zenith Products Corp
Current assignee: Zenith Products Corp
Priority date: 2013-09-30
Filing date: 2013-09-30
Publication date: 2015-04-02

Abstract

A cover for the base of a shelving system includes a first end and an opposing second end, a generally flat base wall formed at the second end, a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall, a third sidewall and an opposing fourth sidewall, an internal cavity formed by the base wall and the four sidewalls, and a support wall positioned in the internal cavity. The first and second sidewalls extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base wall at a predetermined acute angle with respect to the base wall. The third and fourth sidewalls extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall. The support wall includes at least one angled support which extends upwardly from the base wall toward the first end at the same predetermined acute angle as the first and second sidewalls.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the present invention relates generally to shelving systems and, more particularly, to a shelving system configured to rest against a vertically-oriented support surface at an angle. Another embodiment of the present invention relates generally to a cover for the base of such a shelving system. Another embodiment of the present invention relates generally to a connector for the frame of such a shelving system.
Numerous types of angled or leaning shelving systems have been developed for display or storage of various items, articles, objects and the like. Such conventional shelving systems include an elongated frame and one or more shelves. The frame typically includes two spaced apart parallel frame supports and each shelf is secured to and extends between the frame supports. In use, the frame is leaned against a vertical support surface, such as a vertical wall, at an angle.
A drawback associated with such conventional shelving systems is that the base of the frame, and more particularly the base of each of the frame supports, must be formed or cut at an angle to accommodate leaning of the shelving system at an angle against a vertical support surface or wall. The need for such an angled cut or form results in additional labor and costs involved in the manufacturing process.
Another drawback associated with such conventional shelving systems is that shipping and delivery of the systems can often be difficult, costly and bulky, because the frame supports are relatively large. Thus, large shipping packages and containers must be employed, resulting in increased costs for both the manufacturer and the purchaser.
Thus, it is desirable to provide an improved shelving system configured to be leaned against a vertical support surface or wall. More particularly, it is desirable to provide an improved leaning shelving system which does not require an angular cut to be made or formed at the base of the shelving system. It is also desirable to provide an improved leaning shelving system which can be packaged and shipped in a convenient and inexpensive manner.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a cover for the base of a shelving system including a first end and an opposing second end, a generally flat base wall formed at the second end, a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall, a third sidewall and an opposing fourth sidewall, an internal cavity formed by the base wall and the four sidewalls, and a support wall positioned in the internal cavity. The first and second sidewalls extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base wall at a predetermined acute angle with respect to the base wall. The third and fourth sidewalls extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall. The support wall includes at least one angled support extending upwardly from the base wall toward the first end at the same predetermined acute angle as the first and second sidewalls.
In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a shelving system including first and second frame supports, at least one shelf extending between the first and second frame supports. and first and second covers. Each frame support has a first, top end and an opposing second, bottom end. The first cover is positioned over the second, bottom end of the first frame support and the second cover is positioned over the second, bottom end of the second frame support. Each of the first and second covers includes a generally flat base wall, first and second sidewalls both extending upwardly from the base wall at a predetermined acute angle, third and fourth sidewall sidewalls extending generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall, and at least one angled support. The at least one angled support has a first proximal end secured to the base wall and an opposing free distal end configured to engage and support the second, bottom end of one of the first and second frame supports, such that in an assembled position, the first and second frame supports are positioned at an angle with respect to a vertical support surface.
In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a connector for interconnecting two members of a shelving system. The connector includes a one-piece body having opposing first and second open ends, a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls connected together side to side and extending from the first open end to the second open end, and a horizontally-oriented support wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and positioned between the first and second open ends. The plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls include opposing first and second sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second sidewalls. The connector also includes a first internal cavity formed between the first open end, the vertically-oriented sidewalls and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall for receiving a first member, as well as a second internal cavity formed between the second open end, vertically-oriented sidewalls and a second surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall for receiving a second member.
In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a shelving system including a first frame support having a first frame member and a second frame member, a second frame support having a third frame member and a fourth frame member, at least one shelf extending between the first and second frame supports, a first connector connecting the first frame member to the second frame member, and a second connector connecting the third frame member to the fourth frame member. Each of the first and second connectors includes a one-piece body having opposing first and second open ends, a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls connected together side to side and extending from the first open end to the second open end, and a horizontally-oriented support wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls. The plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls include opposing first and second sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second sidewalls. Each connector further includes a first internal cavity between the first open end, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall, as well as a second internal cavity between the second open end, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a second surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall. The first internal cavity is configured to receive a portion of the first or third frame members and the second internal cavity is configured to receive a portion of the second or fourth frame members. In an assembled position, a portion of the first frame member is positioned within the first internal cavity of the first connector, a portion of the second frame member is positioned within the second internal cavity of the first connector, a portion of the third frame member is positioned within the first internal cavity of the second connector, and a portion of the fourth frame member is positioned within the second internal cavity of the second connector.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shelving system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a connector of the shelving system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional front elevational view of the connector shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the shelving system shown in FIG. 1, without covers provided on the base of the shelving system;

FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of the shelving system shown in FIG. 1, in a use position leaned against a vertical support surface at an angle;

FIG. 5A is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken about area A of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is a partial right side elevational view of the shelving system shown in FIG. 4 leaned against a vertical support surface at an angle without a cover;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged top, right side perspective view of a cover of the shelving system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged bottom, right side perspective view of the cover shown in FIG. 7 with a sidewall removed;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged right side perspective view of the cover shown in FIG. 7 with a sidewall removed;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged side cross-sectional view of the cover shown in FIG. 7; and

FIG. 11 is an enlarged front cross-sectional view of the cover shown in FIG. 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right”, “left”, “lower”, and “upper” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the shelving system and designated parts thereof. The terminology includes the above-listed words, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Additionally, the words “a” and “an”, as used in the claims and in the corresponding portions of the specification, mean “at least one.”
Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals and characters indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1 and 5 a presently preferred embodiment of a shelving system in accordance with the present invention.
With particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, the shelving system, generally designated 10, comprises an elongated frame 12 having a first or top end 12 a and an opposing second or bottom end 12 b. The bottom end 12 b of the frame 12 forms a base 18 of the shelving system 10. In one embodiment, the frame 12 is preferably made of a natural or artificial wood material. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any suitable material may be used to form the frame 12, such as a metal, a polymeric material and the like, or a combination of these materials. It will also be appreciated that the frame 12 may be provided with one or more coatings, such as a moisture prevention coating, to extend the life of the shelving system 10.
The frame 12 preferably comprises at least a first elongated support bar or frame support 14 and a generally parallel second elongated support bar or frame support 16 spaced apart from the first elongated frame support 14. Each of the first and second elongated frame supports 14, 16 has respective first or top ends 14 a, 16 a and opposing second or bottom ends 14 b, 16 b. The top ends 14 a, 16 a, generally correspond to and define the top end 12 a of the frame 12, while the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b generally correspond to and define the bottom end 12 b of the frame 12 and the base 18 of the shelving system 10. Each frame support 14, 16 preferably has a generally rectangular or square cross-sectional shape when viewed from above or from a side thereof. Preferably, each frame support 14, 16 is in the shape of a rectangular bar. The length of the first frame support 14, which extends from the top end 14 a to the bottom end 14 b, is preferably generally identical to that of the second frame support 16.
In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4-5, the first frame support 14 comprises a first frame member 34 and a second frame member 36. Similarly, the second frame support 16 comprises a first frame member 38 and a second frame member 40. The second frame members 36, 40 are preferably base or leg frame segments, while the first frame members 34, 38 are preferably extender frame segments positioned atop the base or leg frame members 36, 40. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that each frame support 14, 16 may include additional frame members, and particularly additional extender frame members, in order to produce a shelving system 10 of any desired height. It will also be understood that each frame support 14, 16 may comprise only one frame member or segment.
Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the shelving system 10 preferably includes a first connector 62 which couples or connects the first frame member 34 to the second frame member 36 of the first frame support 14 to form a completed support. The shelving system 10 further preferably includes a second connector 62 which couples or connects the first frame member 38 to the second frame member 40 of the second frame support 16 to form a completed support.
Referring to FIGS. 2-3, each connector 62 preferably comprises a one-piece body 64 having a first open end 65 and an opposing second open end 66. The body 64 is made up of a plurality of vertically-oriented and connected sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, each of which extends from the first open end 65 to the second open end 66. More particularly, the body 64 is made of a first vertically-oriented sidewall 68 and an opposing second vertically-oriented sidewall 70. The opposing first and second vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70 are preferably spaced apart from each other and extend generally parallel to each other. The body 64 further includes a third vertically-oriented sidewall 72 and an opposing fourth vertically-oriented sidewall 74. The opposing third and fourth vertically-oriented sidewalls 72, 74 are preferably spaced apart from each other and extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70.
Each of the vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74 has a generally rectangular or square overall shape. As such, each sidewall 68, 70, 72, 74 has a pair of opposing longitudinal edges or sides 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a that extend from the first open end 65 of the connector 62 to the second open end 66. Preferably, a width W₆₈, W₇₀, W₇₂, W₇₄of each sidewall 68, 70, 72, 74 spans the distance between the respective opposing longitudinal edges or sides 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a. More preferably, the widths W₆₈, W₇₀of the first and second sidewalls 68, 70 are generally equal to each other and the widths W₇₂, W₇₄of the third and fourth sidewalls 72, 74 are generally equal to each other. Further, the widths W₆₈, W₇₀of the first and second sidewalls 68, 70 are preferably at least slightly larger than the widths W₇₂, W₇₄of the third and fourth sidewalls 72, 74.
Preferably, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74 are connected together in a side-to-side or edge-to-edge arrangement. As such, each longitudinal edge 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a of each sidewall 68, 70, 72, 74 is preferably secured or connected to, and more preferably integrally formed with, a longitudinal edge 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a of another sidewall 68, 70, 72, 74.
More preferably, one longitudinal edge 68 a of the first sidewall 68 is connected to or integrally formed with one longitudinal edge 72 a of the third sidewall 72, while the other longitudinal edge 68 a of the first sidewall 68 is connected to or integrally formed with one longitudinal edge 74 a of the fourth sidewall 74. Similarly, one longitudinal edge 70 a of the second sidewall 70 is connected to or integrally formed with the other longitudinal edge 72 a of the third sidewall 72, while the other longitudinal edge 70 a of the second sidewall 70 is connected to or integrally formed with the other longitudinal edge 74 a of the fourth sidewall 74.
As such, the body 64 of each connector 62 has a generally rectangular or square shape. More preferably, the body 64 has a shape and size that conforms to the shape and size of the frame members 40, 36, 38, 40. Each connector 62 may be made of any appropriate material, such as plastic, metal, wood and the like.
Referring to FIGS. 2-3, the body 64 of each connector 62 further preferably includes a horizontally-oriented support wall 76 which extends between the first and second sidewalls 68, 70 and between the third and fourth sidewalls 72, 74. The horizontally-oriented support wall 76 is preferably formed at an intermediate position between the opposing first and second open ends 65, 66 of the body 64. More preferably, the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 is connected to, and more preferably integrally formed with, each of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74 at the intermediate position between the opposing first and second open ends 65, 66. As such, the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 extends generally perpendicular to each of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74.
Preferably, the position of the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 is at a geometric midpoint between opposing first and second open ends 65, 66 of the body 64, such that a distance between the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 and the first open end 65 is equal to a distance between the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 and the second open end 66. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the horizontally-oriented support wall 76 may be formed at any position between the opposing first and second open ends 65, 66.
The body 64 of each connector 62 further includes a first internal cavity 78 and a second internal cavity 80. The first internal cavity 78 is formed between the first open end 65 of the body 64, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, and the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. The second internal cavity 80 is formed between the second open end 66 of the body 64, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, and the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. More preferably, the first internal cavity 78 is formed between the first open end 65 of the body 64, a first portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, and a first surface 76 a of the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. The second internal cavity 80 is preferably formed between the second open end 66 of the body 64, a second portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls 68, 70, 72, 74, and a second surface 76 b of the horizontally-oriented support wall 76. As such, the insertion or entry openings of the first and second internal cavities 78, 80 correspond to the first and second openings 65, 66 of the body 64, and are spaced-apart from and opposed to each other.
The first connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive the lower portion of the first frame support 14 therein and the second connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive the lower portion of the second frame support 16 therein. More particularly, the first internal cavity 78 of the body 64 of the first connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive at least a lower portion of the first frame member 34 of the first frame support 14 therein. The second internal cavity 80 of the body 64 of the first connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive at least an upper portion of the second frame member 36 of the first frame support 14 therein. More preferably, the first and second frame members 34, 36 of the first frame support 14 have respective first and second opposing ends 34 a, 34 b and 36 a, 36 b. The first end 34 a of the first frame member 34 preferably corresponds to the respective top ends 14 a, 12 a of the first frame support 14 and the frame 12, while the second end 34 b is received within the first internal cavity 78 of the first connector 62. The first end 36 a of the second frame member 36 is received within the second internal cavity 80 of the first connector 62, while the second end 36 b corresponds to the respective bottom ends 14 b, 12 b of the first frame support 14 and the frame 12.
Similarly, the first internal cavity 78 of the body 64 of the second connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive at least an upper portion of the first frame member 38 of the second frame support 16 therein, and the second internal cavity 80 of the body 64 of the second connector 62 is sized and shaped to receive at least a lower portion of the second frame member 40 of the second frame support 16 therein. More preferably, the first and second frame members 38, 40 have respective first and second opposing ends 38 a, 38 b and 40 a, 40 b. The first end 38 a of the first frame member 38 preferably corresponds to the respective top ends 16 a, 12 a of the second frame support 16 and the frame 12, while the second end 38 b is received within the first internal cavity 78 of the second connector 62. The first end 40 a of the fourth frame member 40 is received within the second internal cavity 80 of the second connector 62, while the second end 40 b corresponds to the respective bottom ends 16 b, 12 b of the second frame support 16 and the frame 12.
Accordingly, elongated first and second frame supports 14, 16 may be formed by joining the relatively shorter frame members 34, 36 and 38, 40 together with the connector 62. As such, the individual parts of the shelving assembly 10 are relatively small or short, allowing the shelving assembly 10 to be packaged and shipped in a relatively small container or package. This assembly to form the elongated first and second frame supports 14, 16 may be done by the end user or customer.
In an assembled position of the shelving assembly 10, the second end 34 b of the first frame member 34 is positioned within the first internal cavity 78 of the first connector 62 and the first end 36 a of the second frame member 36 is positioned within the second internal cavity 80 of the first connector 62, thereby coupling the first and second frame members 34, 36 together to form a completed first frame support 14. Also, in the assembled position of the shelving assembly 10, the second end 38 b of the first frame member 38 of the second frame support 16 is positioned within the first internal cavity 78 of the second connector 62 and the first end 40 a of the second frame member 40 is positioned within the second internal cavity 80 of the second connector 62, thereby coupling the first and second frame members 38, 40 together to form a completed second frame support 16.
Referring to FIGS. 2-3, each connector 62 further includes a plurality of apertures which facilitate securing of the frame members 34, 36, 38, 40 within the connectors 62. Preferably, each connector 62 includes a pair of first and second apertures 82, 84 and a pair of third and fourth apertures 86, 88. Each of the apertures 82, 84, 86, 88 are preferably through apertures. The first aperture 82 is preferably formed in a first portion of the first sidewall 68 and the second aperture 84 is preferably formed in a first portion of the second sidewall 70. More preferably, the first aperture 82 is formed in the first sidewall 68 at a position proximate the third sidewall 72 and the second aperture 84 is formed in the second sidewall 70 at a position proximate the fourth sidewall 74. As such, the first and second apertures 82, 84 are preferably generally offset from each other, and more preferably axially offset from each other. The first and second apertures 82, 84 are both preferably formed in an area of the first internal cavity 78, such that the first and second apertures 82, 84 are both in communication with the first internal cavity 78.
The third aperture 86 is preferably formed in a second portion of the first sidewall 68 and the fourth aperture 88 is preferably formed in a second portion of the second sidewall 70. More preferably, the third aperture 86 is formed in the first sidewall 68 at a position proximate the third sidewall 82. The third aperture 86 is also preferably formed below and in vertical alignment with the first aperture 82. The fourth aperture 88 is formed in the second sidewall 70 at a position proximate the fourth sidewall 74. The fourth aperture 88 is preferably formed below and in vertical alignment with the second aperture 84. As such, the third and fourth apertures 86, 88 are preferably generally offset from each other, and more preferably axially offset from each other. The first third and fourth apertures 86, 88 are both preferably formed in an area of the second internal cavity 80, such that the third and fourth apertures 86, 88 are both in communication with the second internal cavity 80.
For assembly of the shelving system 10, each of the apertures 82, 84, 86, 88 of each connector 62 is configured to receive a fastener (not shown), such as a screw, therethrough. More particularly, the first and second apertures 82, 84 receive fasteners therethrough which engage, and more preferably penetrate, the second ends 34 b, 38 b of the first frame members 34, 38 of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 positioned within the first internal cavities 78, respectively. Similarly, the third and fourth apertures 86, 88 receive fasteners therethrough which engage, and more preferably penetrate, the first ends 36 a, 40 a of the second frame members 36, 40 of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 positioned within the second internal cavities 80, respectively.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4-5, the shelving system 10 further comprises at least one shelf 20 attached to the frame 12. Preferably, the at least one shelf 20 is attached or secured to the frame 12 between the top end 12 a and the bottom end 12 b thereof. More preferably, a plurality of shelves 20 are attached or secured to the frame 12 at spaced-apart positions along the length of the frame 12 from the top end 12 a toward the bottom end 12 b. Preferably, each shelf 20 generally extends between the spaced-apart first and second frame members 14, 16. Each shelf 20 preferably has a generally rectangular or square cross-sectional shape when viewed from above or from a side thereof. Each shelf 20 also preferably has a first or top planar and flat surface 20 a and an opposing second or bottom planar and flat surface 20 b. The top planar surface 20 a is preferably configured to support various types of articles, objects, items and the like.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the shelves 20 may be attached to the frame 12 by any known conventional mechanisms. For example, the interior surfaces of the first and second frame supports 12, 14 may include one or more spaced-apart and corresponding grooves configured to receive the edges of a shelf 20 therein. Alternatively, the edges of each shelf 20 may be secured to the first and second frame supports 12, 14 by the use of mechanical fasteners, such as screws, nuts and the like. As yet another example, the interior surfaces of the first and second frame supports 12, 14 may include one or more spaced-apart and corresponding supports or brackets configured to receive the edges of a shelf 20 thereon.
The top ends 14 a, 16 a of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 (i.e., the top ends 34 a, 38 a of the first frame members 34, 38) are formed as generally planar and flat surfaces 22, 24, respectively. Similarly, the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 (i.e., the bottom ends 36 b, 40 b of the second frame members 36, 40) are formed as generally planar and flat surfaces 26, 28, respectively. As such, if the first and second frame supports 14, 16 were situated in a vertical orientation directly on a horizontally-oriented support surface 30, such as a floor surface, as shown in FIG. 4, the flat surfaces 22, 24, 26, 28 would extend generally parallel to the floor surface 30 and generally perpendicular to a vertically-oriented support surface 32, such as a wall, extending perpendicularly upwardly from the floor. More preferably, the flat surfaces 26, 28 of the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b would be generally flush with the floor surface 30. In such a position, each shelf is generally horizontally-oriented with respect to the frame 12 and extends generally parallel to the floor surface 30 on which the shelving system 10 is situated.
The above-described positioning of the frame 12 generally relates to a non-use position of the shelving system 10. In use, as shown in FIG. 5, the shelving system 10 is preferably a leaning or angled shelving system. As such, in a use position of the shelving system 10, the frame 12 is preferably angled with respect to and leaned against the vertically-oriented wall support surface 32. More particularly, in the use position of the shelving system 10, the top end 12 a of the frame 12 is preferably in direct contact with the vertically-oriented wall support surface 32 while the bottom end 12 b of the frame 12 is preferably spaced apart from the vertically-oriented wall support surface 32.
In one embodiment, the top end 12 a of the frame 12 merely rests against the vertical wall 32 without any portion of the shelving system 10 being secured to the vertical wall 32. In another embodiment, at least one portion of the shelving system 10 is removably or permanently secured to the vertical wall 32. For example, in one embodiment, one or more mechanical fasteners may be used to secure the top end 12 a of the frame 12 to the vertical wall 32. In another embodiment, one or more of the shelves 20 may include a rear bracket 33 and one or more mechanical fasteners may be inserted through the bracket and into the vertical wall 32 in order to secure the shelving system 10 thereto.
In one embodiment, the plurality of shelves are of differing sizes, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. Each of the shelves 20 is attached to the frame 12 in such a manner that the rear edges 20 d of the shelves 20 are vertically aligned with each other and are generally in contact with or proximate to the vertical wall surface 32. As such, the front edges 20 c of the shelves 20 are not aligned with each other, but rather offset from each other (see FIG. 5). It will be understood that the shelves 20 may be attached to the frame 12 in a different manner, such that the rear edges 20 d are offset from each other and the front edges 20 c are vertically aligned, or such that neither the front nor rear edges 20 c, 20 d are vertically aligned with each other. It will also be understood that the shelves 20 may all be of the same size.
Since the bottom surfaces 26, 28 of the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 are generally planar and flat, an angled gap or space 35 would exist between the bottom surfaces 26, 28 (and thus the base 18 of the shelving system 10) and the floor surface 30 when the shelving system 10 is leaned against the wall 32 and the frame supports 12, 14 would only engage the floor or other support surface 30 along a small line or at an individual point (see FIG. 6). To account for the gap 35, a cover 42 is preferably provided on the bottom portion of each of the frame supports 14, 16. More particularly, each cover 42 is positioned over the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 to account for the gap 35 that would exist between the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b and the floor surface 30, so that, as shown in FIG. 5, the frame supports 14, 16 are more fully supported by the underlying support surface or floor 30. Each cover 42 is thus positioned over the second, bottom ends 36 b, 40 b of the second frame members 36, 40 of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 (see FIGS. 5A), such that the shelving assembly 10 may be leaned at an angle against a vertical support surface or wall 32 even though the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 are generally planar and flat.
Each cover 42 may be made of any appropriate material, such as plastic, metal, wood and the like. Referring to FIGS. 5A and 7-11, each cover 42 preferably comprises a first, generally open end 42 a and an opposing second, generally closed end 42 b. The second end 42 b of each cover 42 is preferably closed by a base wall 44. More particularly, a generally flat base wall 44 is formed at the second end 42 b of each cover 42. By the term “flat,” it will be understood that the base wall 44 may be formed or cast as a generally horizontally-oriented wall, or may be formed or cast as a generally angled wall which sits generally flush on a horizontally-oriented surface. Preferably, the base wall 44 is oriented in a completely horizontal plane and preferably sits generally flush with the floor surface 30 when the shelving assembly 10 is situated thereon and leaned against the vertical wall surface 32. In one embodiment, a contact surface of the bottom wall 44 is preferably made with a plurality of spaced-apart treads 45 (see FIG. 8), preferably rubber treads 45, for preventing slipping of the cover 42 with respect to the floor 30.
The base wall 44 further preferably has opposing front and rear edges or sides 44 a, 44 b which extend generally parallel to each other, as well as opposing left and right lateral edges or sides 44 c, 44 d which extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the front and rear edges 44 a, 44 b. It will be understood that the terms front, rear, left and right are for illustrative purposes only, and opposing meaning may be associated with such terms without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Referring to FIGS. 5A and 10, each cover 42 preferably further comprises a first or front sidewall 46 and an opposing second or rear sidewall 48. Preferably, each sidewall 46, 48 has a first proximal end 46 a, 48 a secured to or integrally formed with the base wall 44 and an opposing second free distal end 46 b, 48 b. The first and second sidewalls 46, 48 each have a respective height H₄₆, H₄₈, extending from the proximal ends 46 a, 48 a to the distal ends 46 b, 48 b.
As shown in FIGS. 5A and 10, the first and second sidewalls 46, 48 preferably extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base wall 44. More particularly, the first sidewall 46 preferably extends upwardly from the front edge 44 a of the base wall 44 and the second sidewall 48 preferably extends upwardly from the rear edge 44 b.
More preferably, the first and second sidewalls 46, 48 extend upwardly from the front and rear edges 44 a, 44 b of the base wall 44 at a predetermined acute angle α with respect to the base wall 44 (see FIG. 10). More particularly, the first sidewall 46 extends in a direction upwardly from the front edge 44 a and toward the rear edge 44 b at a predetermined acute angle α with respect to the base wall 44. The second sidewall 48 extends generally parallel to the first sidewall 46 and in a direction upwardly from the rear edge 44 b and toward the wall 32 against which the shelving assembly 10 is positioned, at the same predetermined acute angle α with respect to the base wall 44. Preferably, the predetermined acute angle α is in the range of 60° to 88°. More preferably, the predetermined acute angle α is approximately 85°, but other acute angles may be used in some applications.
Referring to FIGS. 7-9, each cover 42 preferably further comprises a third or left sidewall 50 and an opposing fourth or right sidewall 52. The third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 preferably extend generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base wall 44. Preferably, each sidewall 50, 52 has a first proximal end 50 a, 52 a secured to or integrally formed with the base wall 44 and an opposing second distal end 50 b, 52 b. More particularly, the third sidewall 50 preferably extends upwardly from the left-hand lateral edge 44 c of the base wall 44 and the fourth sidewall 48 preferably extends upwardly from the opposing right-hand lateral edge 44 d. More preferably, the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 extend generally perpendicularly upwardly from the lateral edges 44 c, 44 d of the base wall 44.
Preferably, the height H₅₀of the third sidewall 50 is generally the same as the height H₅₂of the fourth sidewall 52. The respective heights H₅₀, H₅₂of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 are a measure of the distance from the proximal ends 50 a, 52 a to the distal ends 50 b, 52 b. However, it will be understood that the respective heights H₅₀, H₅₂of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 need not be the same and may differ from each other.
Each cover 42 preferably further comprises an internal cavity 54 formed by the base wall 44 and the four sidewalls 46, 48, 50, 52. The internal cavity 54 is preferably sized and shaped to receive the second or bottom end 14 b, 16 b of a respective frame support 14, 16 (see FIG. 5A).
In one embodiment, at least a portion of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 is generally concave in shape. More particularly, in one embodiment, a center portion of each of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 is concave, such that the center portions curve at least slightly inwardly toward the internal cavity 54. In one embodiment, the interior surfaces of at least one of and preferably both of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 include a plurality of spaced-apart longitudinal ribs 58 extending along at least a portion thereof. The concave shape of the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52 and the longitudinal ribs 58 facilitate superior gripping of the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b of the first and second frame supports 14, 16 within the internal cavity 54 of the covers 42. It will be understood that additional or alternative mechanisms may be used to secure the frame supports 14, 16 within the cover 42, such as fasteners, adhesives, and the like.
Referring to FIGS. 5A and 9-11, at least one angled support 56 is positioned in the internal cavity 54 of each cover 42 to form a support wall. More preferably, the internal cavity 54 is provided with a plurality of angled supports 56 at spaced-apart positions in a direction from the first (i.e., front) sidewall 46 toward the second (i.e., rear) sidewall 48. The angled supports 56 preferably extend generally parallel to each other and to the first and second sidewalls 46, 48, as well as generally upwardly from the base wall 44 toward the first open end 42 a of the cover 42. Preferably, each angled support 56 has a first proximal end 56 a secured to or integrally formed with the base wall 44 and an opposing second, free distal end 56 b. Each angled support 56 also preferably extends across the internal cavity 54 to span the distance between the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52. As such, in addition to extending upwardly from the base wall 44, each angled support 56 also extends from or at least engages an interior surface of the third sidewall 50 to an interior surface of the fourth sidewall 52.
The distal ends 56 b of the angled supports 56 form a support surface 60, and more preferably a discontinuous support wall, between the first and second ends 42 a, 42 b of the cover 42 which is configured to engage and support the bottom end 12 b of the frame 12. More particularly, as shown in FIG. 5A, the support surface 60 of each cover 42 engages and supports the bottom end 14 b, 16 b of a respective first and second frame support 14, 16.
Preferably, as shown in FIG. 10, each angled support 56 extends upwardly from the base wall 44 at the same predetermined acute angle α as the first and second sidewalls 46, 48. That is, each angled support 56 preferably extends in a direction upwardly from the base wall 44 and toward the rear edge 44 b at the predetermined acute angle α of 60° to 88°, and more preferably approximately 85°, with respect to the base wall 44.
Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 9-11, the distal end 56 b of each angled support 56 does not reach the first open end 42 a of the cover 42. As such, each angled support 56 terminates at an intermediate position between the first open end 42 a and the opposing second closed end 42 b. Each angled support 56 thus has a height H₅₆, extending from the proximal end 56 a to the distal end 56 b, which is smaller than that of both the first and second sidewalls 46, 48, as well as the third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52. Preferably, the longitudinal ribs 58 extend from the distal ends 56 b of the angled supports 56 toward the open end 42 a of the cover 42 (see FIG. 10). Each of the distal ends 56 b is preferably angled toward the rear edge 44 b, such that the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b sit flush on the distal end 56 b and engage the distal end 56 b at a 90° angle.
Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the height H₄₆of the first sidewall 46 is at least slightly larger than the height H₄₈of the second sidewall 48. As such, the open end 42 a of the cover 42 extends in an angled plane P_42a. More particularly, the open end 42 a of the cover 42 defines a plane P_42aextending at a downward slope in a direction from the distal end 46 b of the first sidewall 46 toward the distal end 48 b of the second sidewall 48. The plane P_42aof the open end 42 a is thus unparallel to the flat and horizontal base wall 44 and floor surface 30.
Preferably, the plurality of angled supports 56 also have differing heights H₅₆, as shown in FIGS. 10-11. In one embodiment, the angled supports 56 have successively reduced heights H₅₆. More preferably, the angled support 56 closest or most proximate the first sidewall 46 and the first edge 44 a of the base wall 44 has the largest height H₅₆of the plurality of angled supports 56, the angled support 56 closest or most proximate the second sidewall 48 and the second edge 44 b of the base wall 44 has the smallest height H₅₆, and the angled supports 56 therebetween have successively reduced heights H₅₆in a direction from the first sidewall 46 and first edge 44 a toward the second sidewall 48 and the second edge 44 b.
As such, the discontinuous support wall 60 is an angled wall, and more particularly an intermediate angled wall. The intermediate angled wall need not be formed by the spaced apart angled supports 56. Instead, the intermediate angled wall may be a solid or discontinuous piece extending up from the base wall 44. Alternatively, the intermediate angled wall may be in the form of a shelf extending between the opposing third and fourth sidewalls 50, 52
More particularly, the discontinuous support wall 60 extends in an angled plane P₆₀. The angled plane P₆₀of the support wall 60 preferably extends at a downwards slope in a direction from the first sidewall 46 toward the second sidewall 48. More preferably, the angled plane P₆₀of the support wall 60 is parallel to the angle plane P_42aof the open end 42 a of the cover 42. The plane P₆₀of the discontinuous support wall 60 is thus unparallel to the flat and horizontal base wall 44 and floor surface 30.
The angled structures and differing heights of the first and second (i.e., front and rear) sidewalls 46, 48 and the angled supports 56 accommodate leaning of the shelving system 10 against the vertical support wall 32 at an angle. More particularly, in the assembled position of the shelving system 10, with a cover 42 positioned over the bottoms ends 14 b, 16 b of each frame support 14, 16, the planar and flat bottom surfaces 26, 28 of the bottom ends 14 b, 16 b are flush with the angled interior support walls 60 of the covers 42 (see FIG. 5A). Thus, the expense and labor involved with cutting the bottom ends 14, 16 b of the frame supports 14, 16 is avoided. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the respective heights H₄₆, H₄₈of the first and second sidewalls 46, 48 and the angles of extension of the first and second sidewalls 46, 48 and the angled supports 56 may be varied as necessary to vary the degree or angle at which the shelving system 10 leans against the vertical wall 32.
It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. Also, based on this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art would further recognize that the relative proportions of the components illustrated could be varied without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

We claim:

1. A cover for the base of a shelving system comprising:

a first end and an opposing second end;

a generally flat base wall formed at the second end;

a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall, the first and second sidewalls extending generally parallel to each other and upwardly from the base wall at a predetermined acute angle with respect to the base wall;

a third sidewall and an opposing fourth sidewall, the third and fourth sidewalls extending generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall;

an internal cavity formed by the base wall and the four sidewalls, and

a support wall positioned in the internal cavity, the support wall including at least one angled support extending upwardly from the base wall toward the first end at the same predetermined acute angle as the first and second sidewalls.

2. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one angled support has a first proximal end secured to the base wall and an opposing free distal end.

3. The cover of claim 2, wherein the first proximal end of the at least one angled support is integrally formed with the base wall.

4. The cover of claim 2, wherein the free distal end of the at least one angled support forms a support surface configured to engage and support a lower portion of a base of a shelving frame of the shelving system.

5. The cover of claim 2, wherein the support wall includes a plurality of spaced-apart angled supports, the distal free ends of the plurality of angled supports forming a discontinuous support wall located between the first and second ends of the cover.

6. The cover of claim 5, wherein the discontinuous support wall and the base wall extend in unparallel planes.

7. The cover of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of longitudinal ribs extending along at least a portion of an interior surface of the third sidewall.

8. The cover of claim 7 further comprising a plurality of longitudinal ribs extending along at least a portion of an interior surface of the fourth sidewall.

9. The cover of claim 1, wherein the predetermined acute angle is in the range of 60°-88°.

10. The cover of claim 9, wherein the predetermined acute angle is approximately 85°.

11. A shelving system comprising:

first and second frame supports, each frame support having a first, top end and an opposing second, bottom end;

at least one shelf extending between the first and second frame supports; and

first and second covers, the first cover being positioned over the second, bottom end of the first frame support and the second cover being positioned over the second, bottom end of the second frame support,

wherein each of the first and second covers comprises:

a generally flat base wall,

first and second sidewalls both extending upwardly from the base wall at a predetermined acute angle,

third and fourth sidewall sidewalls extending generally perpendicularly upwardly from the base wall, and

at least one angled support having a first proximal end secured to the base wall and an opposing free distal end configured to engage and support the second, bottom end of one of the first and second frame supports, such that in an assembled position, the first and second frame supports are positioned at an angle with respect to a vertical support surface.

12. The shelving system of claim 11, wherein the at least one angled support extends upwardly from the base wall at the predetermined acute angle and the first proximal end of the at least one angled support is integrally formed with the base wall.

13. The shelving system of claim 13, further comprising a plurality of spaced apart angled supports.

14. The shelving system of claim 17, wherein the free distal ends of the plurality of spaced apart angled supports form a discontinuous support wall.

15. The shelving system of claim 13, wherein each of the first and second covers further comprises a plurality of longitudinal angled ribs extending along at least a portion of an interior surface of the third sidewall and along at least a portion of an interior surface of the fourth sidewall.

16. A connector for interconnecting two members of a shelving system comprising:

a one-piece body having opposing first and second open ends, a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls connected together side to side and extending from the first open end to the second open end, and a horizontally-oriented support wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and positioned between the first and second open ends, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls including opposing first and second sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second sidewalls;

a first internal cavity formed between the first open end, a portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall for receiving a first member; and

a second internal cavity formed between the second open end, a portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a second surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall for receiving a second member.

17. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a first aperture formed through a first portion of the first sidewall and a second aperture formed through a first portion of the second sidewall, the first and second apertures being in communication with the first internal cavity.

18. The connector of claim 2, wherein the first and second apertures are generally offset from each other.

19. The connector of claim 2, further comprising a third aperture formed through a second portion of the first sidewall and a fourth aperture formed through a second portion of the second sidewall, the third and fourth apertures being in communication with the second internal cavity.

20. The connector of claim 4, wherein the third and fourth apertures are generally offset from each other.

21. A shelving system comprising:

a first frame support having a first frame member and a second frame member;

a second frame support having a third frame member and a fourth frame member;

at least one shelf extending between the first and second frame supports;

a first connector connecting the first frame member to the second frame member; and

a second connector connecting the third frame member to the fourth frame member,

wherein each of the first and second connectors comprises:

a one-piece body having opposing first and second open ends,

a plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls connected together side to side and extending from the first open end to the second open end, the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls including opposing first and second sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and opposing third and fourth sidewalls which extend generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second sidewalls,

a horizontally-oriented support wall integrally formed with and extending generally perpendicular to the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls,

a first internal cavity between the first open end, a portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a first surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall, the first internal cavity being configured to receive a portion of the first or third frame members, and

a second internal cavity between the second open end, a portion of the plurality of vertically-oriented sidewalls and a second surface of the horizontally-oriented support wall, the second internal cavity being configured to receive a portion of the second or fourth frame members,

wherein in an assembled position, a portion of the first frame member is positioned within the first internal cavity of the first connector, a portion of the second frame member is positioned within the second internal cavity of the first connector, a portion of the third frame member is positioned within the first internal cavity of the second connector and a portion of the fourth frame member is positioned within the second internal cavity of the second connector.

22. The shelving system of claim 6, wherein each of the first and second connectors includes first and second apertures in communication with the first internal cavity and third and fourth apertures in communication with the second internal cavity.

23. The shelving system of claim 7, wherein the first and second apertures are generally offset from each other and the third and fourth apertures are generally offset from each other.