US20180116394A1 - Configurable shelf assembly - Google Patents
Configurable shelf assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20180116394A1 US20180116394A1 US15/858,094 US201715858094A US2018116394A1 US 20180116394 A1 US20180116394 A1 US 20180116394A1 US 201715858094 A US201715858094 A US 201715858094A US 2018116394 A1 US2018116394 A1 US 2018116394A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- board
- shoe
- leg
- shelf assembly
- positioning
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B47/00—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements
- A47B47/04—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements made mainly of wood or plastics
- A47B47/047—Modular arrangements of similar assemblies of elements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B47/00—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements
- A47B47/0091—Modular arrangements of similar assemblies of elements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B47/00—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements
- A47B47/0083—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements with four vertical uprights
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B87/00—Sectional furniture, i.e. combinations of complete furniture units, e.g. assemblies of furniture units of the same kind such as linkable cabinets, tables, racks or shelf units
- A47B87/02—Sectional furniture, i.e. combinations of complete furniture units, e.g. assemblies of furniture units of the same kind such as linkable cabinets, tables, racks or shelf units stackable ; stackable and linkable
- A47B87/0207—Stackable racks, trays or shelf units
- A47B87/0223—Shelves stackable by means of poles or tubular members as distance-holders therebetween
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B91/00—Feet for furniture in general
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B1/00—Devices for securing together, or preventing relative movement between, constructional elements or machine parts
-
- F16B2001/0035—
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2200/00—Constructional details of connections not covered for in other groups of this subclass
- F16B2200/83—Use of a magnetic material
Definitions
- the present specification relates generally to shelf assemblies, and more particularly to a shelf assembly that can be assembled in multiple configurations.
- shelf assemblies are generally known. For example, various shelves are sold as shelf assemblies in a box of parts for subsequent assembly at site where the shelf assembly is to be used. Typically, assembly requires multiple tools for fastening parts together somewhat permanently. For example, some components can be fastened using nails, woodscrews or adhesives making disassembly difficult. In addition, the shelf assembly generally can only be assembled in one configuration.
- shelf assemblies are easier to assemble and involve attaching posts to panels temporarily without using permanent fasteners. However, these shelf assemblies are often less stable and difficult to assemble and align than when assembling using permanent fasteners.
- a shelf assembly configured to support an item on a first surface.
- the shelf assembly includes a plurality of connectors disposed on a second surface of the board. The second surface is opposite the first surface.
- the shelf assembly includes a plurality of legs, wherein each leg includes a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to mate with a connector from the plurality of connectors.
- the shelf assembly also includes a shoe configured to be attached to the second end of a leg from the plurality of legs.
- the shelf assembly additionally includes a shoe magnet disposed in the shoe. The shoe magnet is configured to couple with a positioning element for positioning the shoe
- the shelf assembly may further include an additional shoe magnet disposed in the shoe proximate to the shoe magnet.
- the additional shoe magnet may be configured to couple with the base ferromagnetic material for positioning the shoe in an alternate position.
- the connector from the plurality of connectors may be disposed near an edge of the board.
- the leg may be configured to partially mate with the connector and an additional connector disposed on an additional board, wherein the leg connects the board to the additional board.
- the leg may be configured to mate with the connector using a friction fit.
- the shoe may include a non-slip surface.
- the non-slip surface may be a silicone surface.
- the shelf assembly may further include an additional shoe magnet disposed in the shoe proximate to the shoe magnet.
- the additional shoe magnet may be configured to couple with the base ferromagnetic element for positioning the shoe in an alternate position.
- the board may include a positioning element to couple with an additional leg.
- the positioning element may be a ferromagnetic material.
- a shoe configured to magnetically couple with a board having a plurality of positioning elements.
- the shoe includes a resiliently deformable body configured to be inserted in a leg.
- the resiliently deformable body provides a friction fit within the leg.
- the shoe includes a surface of the resiliently deformable for resting on the board.
- the shoe includes a ferromagnetic element configured to couple with a positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements.
- the ferromagnetic element may be a magnet.
- the shoe may further include an additional ferromagnetic element configured to couple with another positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements.
- a board configured to magnetically couple with a shoe having a ferromagnetic element.
- the board includes a rigid material configured to support an item on a first surface.
- the board also includes a plurality of connectors configured to mate with a leg.
- the plurality of connectors disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface.
- the board further includes a plurality of positioning elements distributed across the rigid material. Each positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements is configured to couple with a ferromagnetic element in a shoe.
- the plurality of positioning elements may be disposed on the second surface.
- Each of the positioning elements from the plurality of positioning elements may by secured to the second surface with a friction fit mechanism.
- the plurality of positioning elements may be disposed within each of the connectors in the plurality of connectors for aligning the leg with an additional leg placed on the first surface.
- Each of the plurality of connectors may be configured to mate with the leg using a friction fit.
- the plurality of positioning elements may be embedded within the rigid material.
- the plurality of positioning elements may be a plurality of magnets.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shelf assembly according to an embodiment
- FIGS. 2 a - b are perspective views of a board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 3 a - c are a) a zoomed in view, b) a cross section view of a connector on the board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , and c) a zoomed in view in accordance with another embodiment;
- FIGS. 4 a - b are perspective views of a leg in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 5 a - b are perspective views of a shoe in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective blown apart view of a shelf assembly according to another embodiment
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a shelf assembly according to another embodiment.
- FIGS. 8 a - f are additional views of a board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 9 a - f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 10 a - f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 11 a - f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 12 a - f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 13 a - f are additional views of a leg in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 14 a - f are additional views of a shoe in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 .
- any usage of terms that suggest an absolute orientation e.g. “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, etc.
- orientation shown in a particular figure e.g. “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, etc.
- any usage of terms that suggest an absolute orientation e.g. “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, etc.
- top e.g. “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, etc.
- orientation e.g. “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, etc.
- a configurable shelf assembly is generally shown at 50 .
- the shelf assembly 50 is purely exemplary and that it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications to the shelf assembly 50 are contemplated.
- the shelf assembly 50 can be re-configured by modifying the stacking arrangement or by adding additional components to expand the shelf assembly 50 , which will be discussed in greater detail below.
- the shelf assembly 50 is not particularly limited and can be used in a wide variety of applications.
- the shelf assembly 50 can be used as a bookshelf, laundry room shelves, or any other application where items are to be stored in a space efficient manner.
- the shelf assembly 50 is generally configured to support items thereon for various purposes.
- the shelf assembly 50 can be used to organize a space or for displaying items.
- the shelf assembly 50 includes boards 55 - 1 , 55 - 2 , 55 - 3 , 55 - 4 , 55 - 5 (generically, board 55 and collectively boards 55 , this nomenclature is used elsewhere herein), a plurality of legs 60 , and a plurality of shoes 65 attached to at least some of the legs 60 .
- the shelf assembly 50 can be sold with each of the components assembled together or separately as a kit of parts to be assembled on site.
- the board 55 - 1 is shown in greater detail.
- the board 55 - 1 is generally configured to support item(s) on a top surface 100 .
- the board 55 - 1 is not particularly limited to any material and that several variations are contemplated.
- the board 55 - 1 is made from acrylonitrile butandiene styrene (ABS) plastic.
- ABS acrylonitrile butandiene styrene
- the board 55 - 1 can be made from other plastics or other materials such as carbon fiber composites, glass, rubber, wood, and rigid materials with mechanical properties that are sufficient for supporting the weight of the item(s).
- the board 55 - 1 can be substantially made of metal such as aluminum, titanium, steel, etc. if designed with sufficient spaces to not affect magnetic fields near positioning elements 125 as discussed in greater detail below.
- the board 55 - 1 includes ridges 105 on the bottom surface.
- the ridges form a grid and diagonal pattern as shown in FIG. 2 b .
- the exact pattern of the ridges is not particularly limited.
- the ridges 105 can be parallel, a cross pattern, any other type of pattern, or omitted in other embodiments.
- the ridges 105 are generally configured to provide additional structural rigidity and strength without having to increase the overall thickness of the board 55 - 1 . Accordingly; the ridges 105 allow for less material to be used in the board 55 - 1 while maintaining similar mechanical characteristics resulting in lighter a weight as well as decreased manufacturing costs since less materials are used.
- the board 55 - 1 may also include gussets (not shown) to further improve mechanical rigidity.
- the ridges 105 are disposed on the bottom surface, it is to be appreciated that the ridges 105 can also be disposed on the top surface in some embodiments and can also function to create divided sections on the top surface to separate items and improve organization functionality of the shelf assembly 50 .
- the shape of the board 55 - 1 is not particularly limited and that various shapes are contemplated.
- the board 55 - 1 is generally square in shape.
- the board 55 - 1 can be substituted with the board 55 - 2 and 55 - 5 (generally triangular), 55 - 4 (generally rectangular), or a board of another shape.
- Other shapes can include round boards, hexagonal boards, and other boards having irregular shapes and/or polygonal shapes.
- the board 55 - 1 further includes a plurality of connectors 110 (generically, connector 110 and collectively connectors 110 , this nomenclature is used elsewhere herein) as shown in greater detail in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b generally configured to secure a leg 60 to the board 55 - 1 .
- Each of the connectors 110 includes a plurality of tabs 115 configured to receive a peg 205 to mechanically secure the peg 205 therein.
- adjacent tabs 115 are configured to receive a peg 205 from a leg 60 to secure the leg 60 in place using a friction fit about at least one of the pegs 205 . It is to be appreciated that the friction fit does not necessary need to involve two tabs 115 .
- the connector 110 can include more tabs to engage the peg 205 to increase stability.
- the connector can include an opening having similar dimensions as the peg 205 into which the peg 205 can be inserted.
- the connectors 110 are not particularly limited a friction fit mechanism and that various connection mechanisms are contemplated.
- other embodiments can use clips, magnets or other means to secure a leg 60 to the board 55 - 1 .
- FIG. 3 c shows the connector 110 with additional ridges 116 to provide further mechanical stability.
- the ridges 116 can be a different material or formed from a molding process in the manufacture of the board 55 - 1 .
- the connector 110 also includes a holder 120 for securing a positioning element 125 within the board 55 - 1 .
- the holder 120 comprises a ring generally configured to secure the positioning element 125 using a friction fit.
- the holder 120 is not particularly limited and can be modified to be any shape dependent on the positioning element 125 .
- the holder 120 can be modified to be a plurality of tabs, clips or other mechanisms capable of holding the positioning element 125 .
- the holder 120 can be modified to be located elsewhere on the board 55 - 1 for positioning additional legs 60 above the board 55 - 1 at different location not associated with a connector 110 .
- the holder 120 can be omitted when the positioning element 125 is to be attached using other means such as adhesives or embedded within the board 55 - 1 .
- the positioning element 125 is a rare-earth magnet, such as a neodymium magnet having a grade of N48.
- the positioning element 125 is not particularly limited and can be substituted in other embodiments.
- the positioning element 125 can be a stronger or weaker magnet, or a magnet of a different type.
- the positioning element 125 can be substituted with a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or certain alloys thereof configured to magnetically couple with an external magnet.
- the positioning of the connectors 110 on the bottom surface of the board 55 - 1 is also not particularly limited.
- the board 55 - 1 includes connectors 110 at the corners or edge.
- an additional connector 110 can be added in the center of the board 55 - 1 to allow an additional leg 60 to provide further support.
- additional connectors 110 can be distributed across the bottom surface to allow for greater customization when assembling the configurable shelf assembly.
- the board 55 - 1 described above is a non-limiting representation only and that additional variations are contemplated.
- the position elements 125 can be omitted from the board 55 - 1 if the board is intended to be at the top of the shelf assembly 50 since no additional legs 60 would need to be positioned on top.
- the positioning elements 125 can be disposed on the top surface of the board 55 - 1 .
- the leg 60 is generally configured to support at least a portion of the weight of the board 55 - 1 and items placed thereon.
- the leg 60 is not particularly limited in design and material and variations are contemplated.
- the leg 60 is a hollow square column constructed from a hard plastic such as acrylonitrile butandiene styrene.
- the leg 60 can be a different shape, such as round, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, or any other regular or irregular shape.
- the leg 60 can be solid instead of hollow, and can be modified to be made from wood, carbon fiber composites, glass, rubber, and rigid materials with mechanical properties that are sufficient for supporting the board 55 - 1 .
- the leg 60 includes an opening 200 at a bottom end and a plurality of pegs 205 disposed at a top end.
- the opening is generally configured to for receiving a shoe 65 .
- the opening 200 is not particularly limited and can be varied in size and shape.
- the leg 60 includes four square pegs 205 disposed at the top end.
- Each of the pegs 205 is generally configured to mate with the connector 110 by fitting within a square cavity defined by the walls of the connector 110 and the tabs 115 . It is to be appreciated that although the connector 110 is configured to receive all four pegs 205 , the leg 60 can mate with the connector 110 using fewer than all four pegs 205 as discussed in greater detail below.
- the design and dimensions of the leg 60 is not particularly limited.
- the leg 60 can include more or less than 4 pegs.
- the leg 60 can include a single peg 205 configured to mate with the connector 110 .
- the leg 60 can include more pegs 205 for mating with the connector 110 in additional positions.
- the overall length of the leg 60 is not particularly limited and can be longer or short. However, it is to be appreciated that by using standard set of lengths, the legs 60 would be interchangeable with other legs 60 in the shelf assembly should replacement or reconfiguration be required.
- the shoe 65 is generally configured to be attached to the bottom end of the leg 60 .
- the shoe 65 includes a non-slip surface 300 , a lip 305 , and a plurality of openings 310 configured to receive ferromagnetic elements 315 .
- the shoe 65 is generally configured to be inserted into the opening 200 and held in place using a friction fit. It is to be understood by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that the shoe 65 is not particularly limited to any material and that several variations are contemplated.
- the shoe 65 is made from a soft resilient material such as silicone.
- the shoe 65 can be made from plastics or other materials such as, rubber, wood, and materials.
- the shoe 65 can be substantially made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, steel, etc.
- the lip 305 is generally configured to prevent the shoes from being inserted too far into the leg 60 and to ensure that the non-slip surface 300 maintains substantial contact with the base on which the leg 60 rests to reduce slippage.
- the non-slip surface 300 is not particularly limited and any manner that provides a higher coefficient of friction with a base can be used.
- the shoe 65 is entirely made from silicone which inherently has a high coefficient of friction with many materials.
- the non-slip surface 300 can include a coating to further increase the friction with specific surfaces.
- the non-slip surface 300 can include a textured pattern as well. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that the non-slip surface 300 can be modified depending on the base on which the shoe 65 will rest as a different base would be best suited for different materials to reduce slippage.
- the shoe 65 also includes openings 310 for receiving ferromagnetic elements 315 within the shoe 65 proximate to each other.
- the openings 310 are square in shape and generally configured to secure the ferromagnetic elements 315 using a friction fit. It is to be appreciated that the openings 310 are not particularly limited and can be modified to be any shape dependent on the ferromagnetic elements 315 . In other embodiments, the openings 310 can be modified to be a plurality of tabs, clips or other mechanisms capable of holding the ferromagnetic elements 315 .
- the openings 310 secure ferromagnetic elements 315 proximate each other, it is to be appreciated that the position of the leg 60 relative to the positioning element 125 is generally fixed and can be coupled at discreet locations corresponding to a ferromagnetic element 315 coupling with a positioning element 125 or at alternate positions where an adjacent ferromagnetic element 315 can couple with the positioning element 125 .
- the openings can be omitted when the ferromagnetic elements 315 can be attached using other means such as adhesives or embedded within the shoe 65 .
- the shoe 65 can be made substantially from a ferromagnetic material such that the ferromagnetic elements 315 are not needed.
- the ferromagnetic elements 315 are rare-earth magnets, such as a neodymium magnet having a grade of N48 similar to the positioning elements 125 .
- the ferromagnetic elements 315 are not particularly limited and can be substituted in other embodiments.
- the ferromagnetic elements 315 can be a stronger or weaker magnet, or a magnet of a different type.
- the ferromagnetic elements 315 can be a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or certain alloys thereof configured to magnetically couple with an external magnet, such as the position element 125 .
- one of the positioning element 125 and the ferromagnetic elements 315 is a permanent magnet, while the other can be either a permanent magnet or unmagnetized.
- FIG. 6 another embodiment of a shelf assembly is generally shown in a blown up view at 50 a .
- the shelf assembly 50 a is a two-level shelf having 4 boards 55 a , twelve legs 60 a , and twelve shoes 65 a .
- legs 60 a - 1 , 60 a - 3 , 60 a - 4 , and 60 a - 6 each engage with a connector 110 a by having all four pegs 205 a mating with the corner connectors.
- the legs 60 a - 2 and 60 a - 5 each partially mate with two connectors 110 a from adjacent boards 55 a . Accordingly, two pegs 205 a from each of the legs 60 a - 2 and 60 a - 5 mate with a connector 110 a and the other two pegs 205 a mate with a separate connector 110 a from an adjacent board 55 a . It is to be appreciated that by using a single leg 60 a to connect adjacent board 55 a , fewer materials can be used to assemble the shelf assembly 50 a in addition to being able to provide improved alignment of the boards 55 a . In addition, the leg 60 a can function to connect the adjacent boards to provide a stable configuration. In other embodiments, the leg 60 a can be used to mate with four separate connectors 110 a , where one peg 205 a is inserted in each of the connectors 110 a . Therefore, larger shelf assemblies can be configured using few legs 60 a.
- leg 60 can be modified to connect with multiple connectors. It is to be appreciated that in such embodiments, the legs can effectively form walls to further improve organization.
- the ferromagnetic element of the shoes 65 a - 1 , 65 a - 2 , and 65 a - 3 are coupled to positioning elements in the boards 55 a below. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art that the combination of the magnetic coupling with the non-slip surface 300 a provides a stable shelf assembly 50 a where the legs 60 a will are firmly in place.
- FIG. 7 another embodiment of a shelf assembly is generally shown in a blown up view at 50 b .
- the shelf assembly 50 a is a two-level shelf having 4 boards 55 b , legs 60 b , legs 62 b , and shoes 65 a .
- the legs 60 b can also be inserted into each other to create extended legs.
- legs 62 b having a longer length can be used.
- FIGS. 8 to 14 addition views of various components of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 are also shown.
- each of the components such as the board 55 , the legs 60 and the shoes 65 can each be sold separately or as a set.
- additions to shelf assemblies 50 can also be readily added by obtaining more components separately.
- magnetically coupling the legs 60 to a board 55 below and/or using a non-skid surface 300 improved stability is provided to the shelf assembly 50 as a whole while allowing the shelf assembly to be quickly disassembled and reassembled.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Assembled Shelves (AREA)
- Pallets (AREA)
- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
Abstract
A shelf assembly is provided. The shelf assembly includes at least one board. Each board has at least on connector on the bottom surface. Legs are configured to mate with the connector during assembly. In addition, the shelf assembly includes a shoe with a magnet in the shoe to position the legs on top of the board using positioning elements disposed on the board. A board and shoe are also provided.
Description
- The present specification relates generally to shelf assemblies, and more particularly to a shelf assembly that can be assembled in multiple configurations.
- Shelf assemblies are generally known. For example, various shelves are sold as shelf assemblies in a box of parts for subsequent assembly at site where the shelf assembly is to be used. Typically, assembly requires multiple tools for fastening parts together somewhat permanently. For example, some components can be fastened using nails, woodscrews or adhesives making disassembly difficult. In addition, the shelf assembly generally can only be assembled in one configuration.
- Other shelf assemblies are easier to assemble and involve attaching posts to panels temporarily without using permanent fasteners. However, these shelf assemblies are often less stable and difficult to assemble and align than when assembling using permanent fasteners.
- In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a shelf assembly. The shelf assembly includes a board configured to support an item on a first surface. In addition, the shelf assembly includes a plurality of connectors disposed on a second surface of the board. The second surface is opposite the first surface. Furthermore, the shelf assembly includes a plurality of legs, wherein each leg includes a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to mate with a connector from the plurality of connectors. The shelf assembly also includes a shoe configured to be attached to the second end of a leg from the plurality of legs. The shelf assembly additionally includes a shoe magnet disposed in the shoe. The shoe magnet is configured to couple with a positioning element for positioning the shoe
- The shelf assembly may further include an additional shoe magnet disposed in the shoe proximate to the shoe magnet. The additional shoe magnet may be configured to couple with the base ferromagnetic material for positioning the shoe in an alternate position.
- The connector from the plurality of connectors may be disposed near an edge of the board.
- The leg may be configured to partially mate with the connector and an additional connector disposed on an additional board, wherein the leg connects the board to the additional board.
- The leg may be configured to mate with the connector using a friction fit.
- The shoe may include a non-slip surface.
- The non-slip surface may be a silicone surface.
- The shelf assembly may further include an additional shoe magnet disposed in the shoe proximate to the shoe magnet. The additional shoe magnet may be configured to couple with the base ferromagnetic element for positioning the shoe in an alternate position.
- The board may include a positioning element to couple with an additional leg.
- The positioning element may be a ferromagnetic material.
- In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a shoe configured to magnetically couple with a board having a plurality of positioning elements. The shoe includes a resiliently deformable body configured to be inserted in a leg. The resiliently deformable body provides a friction fit within the leg. Furthermore, the shoe includes a surface of the resiliently deformable for resting on the board. In addition, the shoe includes a ferromagnetic element configured to couple with a positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements.
- The ferromagnetic element may be a magnet.
- The shoe may further include an additional ferromagnetic element configured to couple with another positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements.
- In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a board configured to magnetically couple with a shoe having a ferromagnetic element. The board includes a rigid material configured to support an item on a first surface. The board also includes a plurality of connectors configured to mate with a leg. The plurality of connectors disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface. The board further includes a plurality of positioning elements distributed across the rigid material. Each positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements is configured to couple with a ferromagnetic element in a shoe.
- The plurality of positioning elements may be disposed on the second surface.
- Each of the positioning elements from the plurality of positioning elements may by secured to the second surface with a friction fit mechanism.
- The plurality of positioning elements may be disposed within each of the connectors in the plurality of connectors for aligning the leg with an additional leg placed on the first surface.
- Each of the plurality of connectors may be configured to mate with the leg using a friction fit.
- The plurality of positioning elements may be embedded within the rigid material.
- The plurality of positioning elements may be a plurality of magnets.
- Reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shelf assembly according to an embodiment; -
FIGS. 2a-b are perspective views of a board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 3a-c are a) a zoomed in view, b) a cross section view of a connector on the board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 , and c) a zoomed in view in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIGS. 4a-b are perspective views of a leg in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 5a-b are perspective views of a shoe in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective blown apart view of a shelf assembly according to another embodiment; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a shelf assembly according to another embodiment; -
FIGS. 8a-f are additional views of a board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 9a-f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 10a-f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 11a-f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 12a-f are additional views of another board in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIGS. 13a-f are additional views of a leg in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ; and -
FIGS. 14a-f are additional views of a shoe in accordance with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 . - As used herein, any usage of terms that suggest an absolute orientation (e.g. “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, etc.) are for illustrative convenience and refer to the orientation shown in a particular figure. However, such terms are not to be construed in a limiting sense as it is contemplated that various components will, in practice, be utilized in orientations that are the same as, or different than those described or shown.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , a configurable shelf assembly is generally shown at 50. It is to be understood that theshelf assembly 50 is purely exemplary and that it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications to theshelf assembly 50 are contemplated. For example, theshelf assembly 50 can be re-configured by modifying the stacking arrangement or by adding additional components to expand theshelf assembly 50, which will be discussed in greater detail below. Theshelf assembly 50 is not particularly limited and can be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, theshelf assembly 50 can be used as a bookshelf, laundry room shelves, or any other application where items are to be stored in a space efficient manner. - The
shelf assembly 50 is generally configured to support items thereon for various purposes. For example, theshelf assembly 50 can be used to organize a space or for displaying items. In the present embodiment, theshelf assembly 50 includes boards 55-1, 55-2, 55-3, 55-4, 55-5 (generically, board 55 and collectively boards 55, this nomenclature is used elsewhere herein), a plurality oflegs 60, and a plurality ofshoes 65 attached to at least some of thelegs 60. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that theshelf assembly 50 can be sold with each of the components assembled together or separately as a kit of parts to be assembled on site. - Referring to
FIGS. 2a and 2b , the board 55-1 is shown in greater detail. In the present embodiment, the board 55-1 is generally configured to support item(s) on atop surface 100. It is to be understood by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that the board 55-1 is not particularly limited to any material and that several variations are contemplated. For example, in the present embodiment, the board 55-1 is made from acrylonitrile butandiene styrene (ABS) plastic. In other embodiments, the board 55-1 can be made from other plastics or other materials such as carbon fiber composites, glass, rubber, wood, and rigid materials with mechanical properties that are sufficient for supporting the weight of the item(s). In further embodiments, the board 55-1 can be substantially made of metal such as aluminum, titanium, steel, etc. if designed with sufficient spaces to not affect magnetic fields nearpositioning elements 125 as discussed in greater detail below. - In the present embodiment, the board 55-1 includes
ridges 105 on the bottom surface. The ridges form a grid and diagonal pattern as shown inFIG. 2b . However, it is to be appreciated that the exact pattern of the ridges is not particularly limited. For example, theridges 105 can be parallel, a cross pattern, any other type of pattern, or omitted in other embodiments. Theridges 105 are generally configured to provide additional structural rigidity and strength without having to increase the overall thickness of the board 55-1. Accordingly; theridges 105 allow for less material to be used in the board 55-1 while maintaining similar mechanical characteristics resulting in lighter a weight as well as decreased manufacturing costs since less materials are used. In further embodiments, the board 55-1 may also include gussets (not shown) to further improve mechanical rigidity. Although theridges 105 are disposed on the bottom surface, it is to be appreciated that theridges 105 can also be disposed on the top surface in some embodiments and can also function to create divided sections on the top surface to separate items and improve organization functionality of theshelf assembly 50. - It is also to be appreciated that the shape of the board 55-1 is not particularly limited and that various shapes are contemplated. For example, the board 55-1 is generally square in shape. The board 55-1 can be substituted with the board 55-2 and 55-5 (generally triangular), 55-4 (generally rectangular), or a board of another shape. Other shapes can include round boards, hexagonal boards, and other boards having irregular shapes and/or polygonal shapes.
- The board 55-1 further includes a plurality of connectors 110 (generically,
connector 110 and collectivelyconnectors 110, this nomenclature is used elsewhere herein) as shown in greater detail inFIGS. 3a and 3b generally configured to secure aleg 60 to the board 55-1. Each of theconnectors 110 includes a plurality oftabs 115 configured to receive apeg 205 to mechanically secure thepeg 205 therein. In particular,adjacent tabs 115 are configured to receive apeg 205 from aleg 60 to secure theleg 60 in place using a friction fit about at least one of thepegs 205. It is to be appreciated that the friction fit does not necessary need to involve twotabs 115. Instead, theconnector 110 can include more tabs to engage thepeg 205 to increase stability. In other embodiments, the connector can include an opening having similar dimensions as thepeg 205 into which thepeg 205 can be inserted. - Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that the
connectors 110 are not particularly limited a friction fit mechanism and that various connection mechanisms are contemplated. For example, other embodiments can use clips, magnets or other means to secure aleg 60 to the board 55-1. As another example of a variation,FIG. 3c shows theconnector 110 withadditional ridges 116 to provide further mechanical stability. It is to be appreciated that theridges 116 can be a different material or formed from a molding process in the manufacture of the board 55-1. - The
connector 110 also includes aholder 120 for securing apositioning element 125 within the board 55-1. In the present embodiment, theholder 120 comprises a ring generally configured to secure thepositioning element 125 using a friction fit. It is to be appreciated that theholder 120 is not particularly limited and can be modified to be any shape dependent on thepositioning element 125. In other embodiments, theholder 120 can be modified to be a plurality of tabs, clips or other mechanisms capable of holding thepositioning element 125. It is to be appreciated that theholder 120 can be modified to be located elsewhere on the board 55-1 for positioningadditional legs 60 above the board 55-1 at different location not associated with aconnector 110. In further embodiments, theholder 120 can be omitted when thepositioning element 125 is to be attached using other means such as adhesives or embedded within the board 55-1. - In the present embodiment, the
positioning element 125 is a rare-earth magnet, such as a neodymium magnet having a grade of N48. However, it is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art that thepositioning element 125 is not particularly limited and can be substituted in other embodiments. For example, thepositioning element 125 can be a stronger or weaker magnet, or a magnet of a different type. In other embodiments, thepositioning element 125 can be substituted with a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or certain alloys thereof configured to magnetically couple with an external magnet. - The positioning of the
connectors 110 on the bottom surface of the board 55-1 is also not particularly limited. In the present embodiment, the board 55-1 includesconnectors 110 at the corners or edge. However, in other embodiments, there can be more orless connectors 110. For example, anadditional connector 110 can be added in the center of the board 55-1 to allow anadditional leg 60 to provide further support. In other embodiments,additional connectors 110 can be distributed across the bottom surface to allow for greater customization when assembling the configurable shelf assembly. - It is to be re-emphasized that the board 55-1 described above is a non-limiting representation only and that additional variations are contemplated. As an example of a variation, it is to be appreciated that the
position elements 125 can be omitted from the board 55-1 if the board is intended to be at the top of theshelf assembly 50 since noadditional legs 60 would need to be positioned on top. As another example of a variation, thepositioning elements 125 can be disposed on the top surface of the board 55-1. - Referring to
FIGS. 4a and 4b , an example of aleg 60 is shown in detail. Theleg 60 is generally configured to support at least a portion of the weight of the board 55-1 and items placed thereon. Theleg 60 is not particularly limited in design and material and variations are contemplated. In the present embodiment, theleg 60 is a hollow square column constructed from a hard plastic such as acrylonitrile butandiene styrene. In other embodiments, theleg 60 can be a different shape, such as round, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, or any other regular or irregular shape. In addition, theleg 60 can be solid instead of hollow, and can be modified to be made from wood, carbon fiber composites, glass, rubber, and rigid materials with mechanical properties that are sufficient for supporting the board 55-1. - The
leg 60 includes anopening 200 at a bottom end and a plurality ofpegs 205 disposed at a top end. The opening is generally configured to for receiving ashoe 65. It is to be appreciated that theopening 200 is not particularly limited and can be varied in size and shape. In the present embodiment, theleg 60 includes foursquare pegs 205 disposed at the top end. Each of thepegs 205 is generally configured to mate with theconnector 110 by fitting within a square cavity defined by the walls of theconnector 110 and thetabs 115. It is to be appreciated that although theconnector 110 is configured to receive all fourpegs 205, theleg 60 can mate with theconnector 110 using fewer than all fourpegs 205 as discussed in greater detail below. - It is to be appreciated that the design and dimensions of the
leg 60 is not particularly limited. For example, theleg 60 can include more or less than 4 pegs. In other embodiments, theleg 60 can include asingle peg 205 configured to mate with theconnector 110. Alternatively, theleg 60 can includemore pegs 205 for mating with theconnector 110 in additional positions. As another variation, the overall length of theleg 60 is not particularly limited and can be longer or short. However, it is to be appreciated that by using standard set of lengths, thelegs 60 would be interchangeable withother legs 60 in the shelf assembly should replacement or reconfiguration be required. - Referring to
FIGS. 5a and 5b , an example of ashoe 65 is shown in detail. Theshoe 65 is generally configured to be attached to the bottom end of theleg 60. Theshoe 65 includes anon-slip surface 300, alip 305, and a plurality ofopenings 310 configured to receiveferromagnetic elements 315. - In the present embodiment, the
shoe 65 is generally configured to be inserted into theopening 200 and held in place using a friction fit. It is to be understood by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that theshoe 65 is not particularly limited to any material and that several variations are contemplated. For example, in the present embodiment, theshoe 65 is made from a soft resilient material such as silicone. In other embodiments, theshoe 65 can be made from plastics or other materials such as, rubber, wood, and materials. In further embodiments, theshoe 65 can be substantially made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, steel, etc. - The
lip 305 is generally configured to prevent the shoes from being inserted too far into theleg 60 and to ensure that thenon-slip surface 300 maintains substantial contact with the base on which theleg 60 rests to reduce slippage. Thenon-slip surface 300 is not particularly limited and any manner that provides a higher coefficient of friction with a base can be used. In the present embodiment, theshoe 65 is entirely made from silicone which inherently has a high coefficient of friction with many materials. Thenon-slip surface 300 can include a coating to further increase the friction with specific surfaces. In other embodiments, thenon-slip surface 300 can include a textured pattern as well. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that thenon-slip surface 300 can be modified depending on the base on which theshoe 65 will rest as a different base would be best suited for different materials to reduce slippage. - The
shoe 65 also includesopenings 310 for receivingferromagnetic elements 315 within theshoe 65 proximate to each other. In the present embodiment, theopenings 310 are square in shape and generally configured to secure theferromagnetic elements 315 using a friction fit. It is to be appreciated that theopenings 310 are not particularly limited and can be modified to be any shape dependent on theferromagnetic elements 315. In other embodiments, theopenings 310 can be modified to be a plurality of tabs, clips or other mechanisms capable of holding theferromagnetic elements 315. By having theopenings 310 secureferromagnetic elements 315 proximate each other, it is to be appreciated that the position of theleg 60 relative to thepositioning element 125 is generally fixed and can be coupled at discreet locations corresponding to aferromagnetic element 315 coupling with apositioning element 125 or at alternate positions where an adjacentferromagnetic element 315 can couple with thepositioning element 125. In other embodiments, the openings can be omitted when theferromagnetic elements 315 can be attached using other means such as adhesives or embedded within theshoe 65. In some embodiments, theshoe 65 can be made substantially from a ferromagnetic material such that theferromagnetic elements 315 are not needed. - In the present embodiment, the
ferromagnetic elements 315 are rare-earth magnets, such as a neodymium magnet having a grade of N48 similar to thepositioning elements 125. However, it is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art that theferromagnetic elements 315 are not particularly limited and can be substituted in other embodiments. For example, theferromagnetic elements 315 can be a stronger or weaker magnet, or a magnet of a different type. In other embodiments, theferromagnetic elements 315 can be a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or certain alloys thereof configured to magnetically couple with an external magnet, such as theposition element 125. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art with the benefit of this description that one of thepositioning element 125 and theferromagnetic elements 315 is a permanent magnet, while the other can be either a permanent magnet or unmagnetized. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , another embodiment of a shelf assembly is generally shown in a blown up view at 50 a. In the present embodiment, like components of theshelf assembly 50 a bear like reference to their counterparts in theshelf assembly 50, except followed by the suffix “a”. In the present embodiment, theshelf assembly 50 a is a two-level shelf having 4boards 55 a, twelvelegs 60 a, and twelveshoes 65 a. As shown,legs 60 a-1, 60 a-3, 60 a-4, and 60 a-6 each engage with aconnector 110 a by having all fourpegs 205 a mating with the corner connectors. Thelegs 60 a-2 and 60 a-5 each partially mate with twoconnectors 110 a fromadjacent boards 55 a. Accordingly, twopegs 205 a from each of thelegs 60 a-2 and 60 a-5 mate with aconnector 110 a and the other twopegs 205 a mate with aseparate connector 110 a from anadjacent board 55 a. It is to be appreciated that by using asingle leg 60 a to connectadjacent board 55 a, fewer materials can be used to assemble theshelf assembly 50 a in addition to being able to provide improved alignment of theboards 55 a. In addition, theleg 60 a can function to connect the adjacent boards to provide a stable configuration. In other embodiments, theleg 60 a can be used to mate with fourseparate connectors 110 a, where onepeg 205 a is inserted in each of theconnectors 110 a. Therefore, larger shelf assemblies can be configured usingfew legs 60 a. - While the foregoing provides certain non-limiting example embodiments, it should be understood that combinations, subsets, and variations of the foregoing are contemplated. For example, instead of having a
leg 60 connect with asingle connector 110, thelegs 60 can be modified to connect with multiple connectors. It is to be appreciated that in such embodiments, the legs can effectively form walls to further improve organization. - In the present embodiment, the ferromagnetic element of the
shoes 65 a-1, 65 a-2, and 65 a-3 are coupled to positioning elements in theboards 55 a below. It is to be appreciated by a person of skill in the art that the combination of the magnetic coupling with the non-slip surface 300 a provides astable shelf assembly 50 a where thelegs 60 a will are firmly in place. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , another embodiment of a shelf assembly is generally shown in a blown up view at 50 b. In the present embodiment, like components of theshelf assembly 50 b bear like reference to their counterparts in theshelf assembly 50, except followed by the suffix “b”. In the present embodiment, theshelf assembly 50 a is a two-level shelf having 4 boards 55 b,legs 60 b,legs 62 b, andshoes 65 a. As shown, thelegs 60 b can also be inserted into each other to create extended legs. Alternatively,legs 62 b having a longer length can be used. By combining thelegs 60 b or usinglegs 62 b, the height of theshelf assembly 50 b can be adjusted. - Referring to
FIGS. 8 to 14 , addition views of various components of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 are also shown. - Various advantages will now be apparent to a person of skill in the art. Of note is the ability to configure and assemble the
shelf assembly 50 from some simple components. Accordingly, each of the components, such as the board 55, thelegs 60 and theshoes 65 can each be sold separately or as a set. In addition, by standardizing the components, additions toshelf assemblies 50 can also be readily added by obtaining more components separately. Furthermore, by magnetically coupling thelegs 60 to a board 55 below and/or using anon-skid surface 300, improved stability is provided to theshelf assembly 50 as a whole while allowing the shelf assembly to be quickly disassembled and reassembled. - While specific embodiments have been described and illustrated, such embodiments should be considered illustrative only and should not serve to limit the accompanying claims.
Claims (17)
1. A shelf assembly comprising:
a board configured to support an item on a first surface;
a plurality of connectors disposed on a second surface of the board, the second surface opposite the first surface;
a plurality of legs, wherein each leg includes a first end and a second end, the first end configured to mate with a connector from the plurality of connectors using a friction fit;
a shoe configured to be attached to the second end of a first leg from the plurality of legs;
a positioning element for positioning the shoe; and
a shoe magnet disposed in the shoe, the shoe magnet configured to couple with a positioning element for positioning the shoe.
2. The shelf assembly of claim 1 , further comprising an additional shoe magnet disposed in the shoe proximate to the shoe magnet, wherein the additional shoe magnet is configured to couple with the positioning element for positioning the shoe in an alternate position.
3. The shelf assembly of claim 1 , wherein the connector from the plurality of connectors is disposed near an edge of the board.
4. The shelf assembly of claim 3 , further comprising an additional board having an additional connector, wherein the leg is configured to partially mate with the connector and the additional connector, and wherein the leg connects the board to the additional board.
5. (canceled)
6. The shelf assembly of claim 1 , wherein the shoe comprises a non-slip surface.
7. The shelf assembly of claim 6 , wherein the non-slip surface is a silicone surface.
8. (canceled)
9. The shelf assembly of claim 1 , wherein the board comprises an additional positioning element to couple with a second leg from the plurality of legs.
10. The shelf assembly of claim 1 , herein the positioning element is a ferromagnetic material.
11-13. (canceled)
14. A board configured to magnetically couple with a first leg and a second leg, the second leg having a shoe having a ferromagnetic element, the board comprising:
a rigid material configured to support an item on a first surface;
a plurality of connectors configured to mate with the first leg, the plurality of connectors disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface; and
a plurality of positioning elements distributed across the rigid material, each positioning element from the plurality of positioning elements configured to couple with the ferromagnetic element in the shoe of the second leg, wherein each of the positioning elements from the plurality of positioning elements is secured to the second surface with a friction fit mechanism.
15-16. (canceled)
17. The board of claim 14 , wherein the plurality of positioning elements is disposed within each of the connectors in the plurality of connectors for aligning the first leg connected to the second surface with the second leg placed on the first surface.
18. The board of claim 14 , wherein each of the plurality of connectors is configured to mate with the first leg using a friction fit.
19. The board of claim 14 , wherein the plurality of positioning elements is embedded within the rigid material.
20. The board of claim 14 , wherein the plurality of positioning elements is a plurality of magnets.
Priority Applications (1)
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US15/858,094 US20180116394A1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-12-29 | Configurable shelf assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
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CN201620865450.1U CN206197701U (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2016-08-10 | Stand connection and Multi-function article shelf |
CN201620865450.1 | 2016-08-10 | ||
US15/283,560 US9888769B1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2016-10-03 | Configurable shelf assembly |
US15/858,094 US20180116394A1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-12-29 | Configurable shelf assembly |
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US15/283,560 Continuation US9888769B1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2016-10-03 | Configurable shelf assembly |
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US15/858,094 Abandoned US20180116394A1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-12-29 | Configurable shelf assembly |
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US10578140B2 (en) * | 2014-07-08 | 2020-03-03 | James Blake PORTER | Magnetic fasteners and related articles and methods |
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US20190313788A1 (en) * | 2018-04-17 | 2019-10-17 | Ugmonk Inc. | Modular desk top organizer |
CN109264142A (en) * | 2018-08-09 | 2019-01-25 | 江苏同庆安全科技有限公司 | A kind of assembly type shares pallet and its Sharing Management system |
GB2603375B (en) * | 2019-09-02 | 2023-12-06 | King Living Singapore Pte Ltd | A modular article of furniture |
CN112309038A (en) * | 2020-06-18 | 2021-02-02 | 重庆麦佳农业科技有限公司 | Intelligent combined sales cabinet |
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CN114455170A (en) * | 2021-12-30 | 2022-05-10 | 昆山市翔惠包装材料有限公司 | Fast assembly tray |
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Also Published As
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CA2944089A1 (en) | 2018-02-10 |
US9888769B1 (en) | 2018-02-13 |
CN206197701U (en) | 2017-05-31 |
US20180042377A1 (en) | 2018-02-15 |
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