WO2020161690A2 - Appareil de stockage destiné à stocker un article, et procédé destiné à présenter une balance à une personne pour la peser - Google Patents

Appareil de stockage destiné à stocker un article, et procédé destiné à présenter une balance à une personne pour la peser Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2020161690A2
WO2020161690A2 PCT/IE2020/000004 IE2020000004W WO2020161690A2 WO 2020161690 A2 WO2020161690 A2 WO 2020161690A2 IE 2020000004 W IE2020000004 W IE 2020000004W WO 2020161690 A2 WO2020161690 A2 WO 2020161690A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
state
carrier element
storing apparatus
unit
drawer
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IE2020/000004
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2020161690A3 (fr
Inventor
John Mullins
Original Assignee
John Mullins
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by John Mullins filed Critical John Mullins
Publication of WO2020161690A2 publication Critical patent/WO2020161690A2/fr
Publication of WO2020161690A3 publication Critical patent/WO2020161690A3/fr

Links

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
    • A47B77/00—Kitchen cabinets
    • A47B77/04—Provision for particular uses of compartments or other parts ; Compartments moving up and down, revolving parts
    • A47B77/10—Provision for particular uses of compartments or other parts ; Compartments moving up and down, revolving parts with members movable outwards to a position of use, e.g. tables, ironing boards
    • 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
    • A47B83/00—Combinations comprising two or more pieces of furniture of different kinds
    • 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
    • A47B88/00—Drawers for tables, cabinets or like furniture; Guides for drawers
    • A47B88/40—Sliding drawers; Slides or guides therefor
    • A47B88/423—Fastening devices for slides or guides
    • A47B88/43—Fastening devices for slides or guides at cabinet side
    • 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
    • A47B88/00—Drawers for tables, cabinets or like furniture; Guides for drawers
    • A47B88/40—Sliding drawers; Slides or guides therefor
    • A47B88/453—Actuated drawers
    • A47B88/46—Actuated drawers operated by mechanically-stored energy, e.g. by springs
    • A47B88/463—Actuated drawers operated by mechanically-stored energy, e.g. by springs self-opening
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01G—WEIGHING
    • G01G19/00—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups
    • G01G19/44—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups for weighing persons
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01G—WEIGHING
    • G01G19/00—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups
    • G01G19/52—Weighing apparatus combined with other objects, e.g. furniture

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a storing apparatus for storing an article, and in particular, though not limited to a storing apparatus for storing a weigh scales for presenting to a person for weighing thereof, and the invention also relates to one of a press unit, a cupboard unit and a drawer unit comprising the storing apparatus, and the invention further relates to a method for presenting a weigh scales to a person for weighing thereof.
  • Weigh scales of the type for weighing a person tend to be of a relatively flat type construction, and in general, are supported on a floor of a room, typically on the floor of a bedroom or a bathroom. Due to the overall area of such weigh scales when viewed in plan, they tend to take up floor space, which could be put to better use.
  • Many hotels provide a weigh scales in each bedroom or in an enclosure bathroom of each bedroom. In general in hotels floor space is at a premium, and floor space in bedrooms and container bathrooms is at a particularly high premium. In general, such hotels are forced to find a storage space for such weigh scales.
  • such weigh scales in hotel bedrooms or room bathrooms may be stored under a bed or under a hand-wash basin unit.
  • a guest wishes to use the weigh scales, the guest must firstly withdraw the weigh scales from the location at which it is stored, and on completion of weighing, must then return the weigh scale to its storage location.
  • This is inconvenient for a hotel guest, since it requires the hotel guest to physically lift the weigh scales from the location in which it is stored to a location where it may be used for weighing.
  • Such weigh scales may be of a weight which could result in injury to a hotel guest, for example, a back injury, particularly, if the storage location for the weigh scales is difficult to access.
  • the present invention is directed towards providing a storing apparatus for storing an article, and the invention is also directed towards a press unit, a cupboard unit or a drawer unit comprising the storing apparatus, as well as to a method for presenting a weigh scales to a person for weighing thereof.
  • a storing apparatus for storing an article, the storing apparatus comprising a carrier element for carrying the article, a support element defining a receiving area for receiving the carrier element, and a runner mechanism coupling the carrier element to the support element and guiding the carrier element in a first plane between a first state within the receiving area of the support element, and a second state exteriorly of the receiving area of the support element, and in a second plane substantially orthogonal to the first plane between the second state and a third state spaced apart from the second state.
  • the runner mechanism is coupled to the support element by a resilient coupling means for retaining the carrier element in the second state and for permitting urging of the carrier element against the resilient coupling means from the second state to the third state.
  • the runner mechanism is coupled to the support element by a resilient coupling means for retaining the carrier element in the second state and for permitting urging of the carrier element against the resilient coupling means from the second state to the third state.
  • the resilient coupling means comprises a spring.
  • the resilient coupling means comprises a tension spring.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to permit the carrier element to travel a distance between the second state and the third state thereof in the range of 1mm to 8mm.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to permit the carrier element to travel a distance between the second state and the third state thereof in the range of 5mm to 7mm.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to permit the carrier element to travel a distance between the second state and the third state thereof of approximately 6mm.
  • the runner mechanism is pivotally coupled to the support element about a main pivot axis, and is pivotal about the main pivot axis from a first state with the carrier element in the second state to a second state with the carrier element in the third state.
  • the runner mechanism is pivotal about the main pivot axis from the first state thereof to the second state thereof through an angle in the range of 0.1° to 1.0°.
  • the runner mechanism is pivotal about the main pivot axis from the first state thereof to the second state thereof through an angle in the range of 0.2" to 0.6".
  • the runner mechanism is pivotal about the main pivot axis from the first state thereof to the second state thereof through an angle of approximately 0.3°.
  • the main pivot axis extends transversely relative to the direction of motion of the carrier element between the first and second states thereof.
  • the main pivot axis extends transversely relative to the direction motion of the carrier element between the second and third states thereof.
  • the runner mechanism comprises an elongated first guide member extending between a first end and a second end, the first guide member being pivotally connected to the support element about the main pivot axis adjacent the first end thereof, and the first guide member being connected to the resilient coupling means at a location spaced apart longitudinally along the first guide member from the main pivot axis.
  • the first guide member is pivotally coupled to the support element about the main pivot axis within the receiving means.
  • the runner mechanism comprises an elongated second guide member secured to the carrier element.
  • the second guide member is rigidly secured to the carrier element.
  • first and second guide members are configured to be moveable relative to each other in the direction of travel of the carrier element between the first and second states of the carrier element.
  • the runner mechanism comprises an intermediate guide member configured for accommodating relative movement of the first and second guide members relative to each other in the direction of travel of the carrier element between the first and second states of the carrier element.
  • the intermediate guide member is engageable with the first and second guide members for accommodating the relative movement between the first and second guide members in the direction of travel of the carrier element between the first and second states of the carrier element.
  • the intermediate guide member is slideably engageable with the first and second guide member as the carrier element is being urged between the first and second states.
  • the intermediate guide member is configured for guiding the second guide member relative to the first guide member from a retracted state within the support element with the carrier element in the first state, and an extended state extending outwardly from the support element with the carrier element in the second state thereof.
  • a pair of runner mechanisms are provided on respective opposite sides of the carrier element.
  • the two runner mechanisms are connected to the main support means about the main pivot axis.
  • a drive mechanism for urging the carrier element from the first state to the second state.
  • the drive mechanism is responsive to a slight urging of the carrier element from the first state further into the receiving area of the support element for activating the drive mechanism for urging the carrier element from the first state to the second state.
  • the drive mechanism comprises an air spring.
  • the drive mechanism is coupled between a pair of pivotally coupled linkages, a free end of one of the linkages being pivotally coupled to the support element, and a free end of the other linkage being pivotally coupled to the carrier element.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to retain the carrier element in the second state thereof until the force acting on the carrier element reaches the weight of a person, and the resilient coupling means is configured to permit movement of the carrier element from the second state thereof to the third state thereof in response to the force acting on the carrier element reaching the weight of a person.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to retain the carrier element in the second state thereof until the force acting on the carrier element reaches a force in the range of 4 newtons to 16 newtons, and for permitting movement of the carrier element from the second state thereof to the third state thereof in response to the force acting on the carrier element reaching the force in the range of 4 newtons to 16 newtons.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to retain the carrier element in the second state thereof until the force acting on the carrier element reaches a force in the range of 6 newtons to 14 newtons, and for permitting movement of the carrier element from the second state thereof to the third state thereof in response to the force acting on the carrier element reaching the force in the range of 6 newtons to 14 newtons.
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to retain the carrier element in the second state thereof until the force acting on the carrier element reaches a force of approximately 10 newtons, and for permitting movement of the carrier element from the second state thereof to the third state thereof in response to the force acting on the carrier element reaching the force of approximately 10 newtons.
  • the carrier element is configured to carry a weigh scales
  • the resilient coupling means is configured to retain the carrier element in the second state thereof with the weigh scales located in the carrier element.
  • the carrier element is urgeable downwardly from the second state into the third state with the carrier element abutting the ground.
  • the support element comprises a framework having a pair of side walls extending forwardly from a rear end wall and a front member extending between the side walls adjacent a front thereof.
  • the support frame defines the receiving area.
  • the side walls and the front member define an open mouth to the receiving area for accommodating the carrier element into and out of the receiving area.
  • the carrier element is coupled to the side walls of the framework by the respective runner mechanisms.
  • the carrier element comprises a tray for receiving the article.
  • the tray is configured for receiving a weigh scales.
  • the support element is configured for mounting in one of a press unit, a cupboard unit and a drawer unit.
  • the carrier element is configured as a drawer for mounting in the one of the press unit, the cupboard unit and the drawer unit.
  • the support element is configured for mounting in the one of the press unit, the cupboard unit and the drawer unit adjacent the ground.
  • the support element is configured for mounting in the one of the press unit, the cupboard unit and the drawer unit, so that when the carrier element is being urged from the first state to the second state, the carrier element is spaced apart above the ground.
  • the invention also provides a press unit, a cupboard unit or a drawer unit comprising the storing apparatus according to the invention, the support element of the storing apparatus being located in the press unit, the cupboard unit or the drawer unit relative to the ground, so that when the carrier element is in the third state, the carrier element abuts the ground.
  • the support element is located relative to the ground, so that the carrier element in the second state is spaced apart above the ground a distance lying in the range of 1mm to 8mm.
  • the support element is located relative to the ground, so that the carrier element in the second state is spaced apart above the ground a distance lying in the range of 5mm to 7mm.
  • the support element is located relative to the ground, so that the carrier element in the second state is spaced apart above the ground a distance of approximately 6mm.
  • the support element is located relative to the ground, so that the runner mechanism extends from the main pivot axis in the first state thereof at an upwardly inclined angle relative to the ground in the range of 0. G to 1.0°.
  • the support element is located relative to the ground, so that the runner mechanism extends from the main pivot axis in the first state thereof at an upwardly inclined angle relative to the ground in the range of 0.2° 0.6°.
  • the support element is located relative to the ground, so that the runner mechanism extends from the main pivot axis in the first state thereof at an upwardly inclined angle relative to the ground of approximately 3 ° .
  • the invention also provides a method for presenting a weigh scales to a person for weighing thereof, the method comprising providing the weigh scales on a carrier element, slideably coupling the carrier element to a support element by a runner mechanism, so that the carrier element is slideable on the runner mechanism in a first plane from a first state within a receiving area of the support element to a second state exteriorly of the receiving area of the support element, with the weigh scales presented to the person, locating the support element adjacent the ground, so that in the second state the carrier element is spaced apart above the ground, and coupling the runner mechanism to the support element to allow the carrier element in the second state to be urged downwardly in a second substantially vertical plane substantially orthogonal to the first plane to a third state abutting the ground in response to a person standing on the weigh scales on the carrier element for weighing thereof.
  • the runner mechanism is resiliently coupled to the support element for retaining the carrier element in the second state, and the carrier element is urged from the second state to the third state against the resilience of the resilient coupling of the runner mechanism to the support element.
  • the runner mechanism is pivotally coupled to the support element about a main pivot axis, and is pivotal about the main pivot axis from a first state with the carrier element in the second state to a second state with the carrier element in the third state.
  • a pair of runner mechanisms are provided.
  • the runner mechanisms are provided on respective opposite sides of the carrier element.
  • the support element is located in one of a press unit, a cupboard unit and a drawer unit.
  • the carrier element is provided as a drawer in the one of the press unit, the cupboard unit and the drawer unit.
  • the support element is mounted in the one of the press unit, the cupboard unit and the drawer unit adjacent the ground.
  • the support element is located in the one of the press unit, the cupboard unit and the drawer unit, so that when the carrier element is urged from the first state to the second state, the carrier element is spaced apart above the ground.
  • the carrier element is urgeable downwardly from the second state into the third state with the carrier element abutting the ground.
  • the resilient coupling of the runner mechanism to the support element is responsive to the weight of a person on the carrier element for permitting movement of the carrier element from the second state to the third state.
  • the carrier element comprises a tray for receiving the weigh scales.
  • the advantages of the invention are many.
  • the storing apparatus according to the invention provides a convenient and easy way to store an article, and in particular, provides a convenient and easy way for storing a weigh scales.
  • all that is required is to urge the carrier element from the first state to the second state, and then a person need only stand on the weigh scales while still located in the carrier element, and the carrier element and the weigh scales as a result of the weight of the person standing on the weigh scales is then urged from the second state to the first state, where the carrier element is abutting the floor, and is in fact supported on the floor during weighing of the person.
  • a further advantage of the storing apparatus according to the invention is that it permits use of the weigh scales without having to physically lift the weigh scales from a storage location to a location where it may be used for weighing. This, thus, minimises the risk of damage to the weigh scales, and allows a person to readily, easily and conveniently use the weigh scales for weighing. Additionally, there is no risk of injury to a person using a weigh scales stored in the storing apparatus according to the invention.
  • the storing apparatus according to the invention also provides for the safe and tidy storage of the weigh scales when not in use. Needless to say, similar advantages are achieved when the storing apparatus is used for storing other articles besides a weigh scales.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of storing apparatus according to the invention
  • Fig. 2 is a top plan view of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 illustrating a portion of the apparatus in a first state
  • Fig. 3 is a top plan view of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 illustrating the portion of Fig. 2 in a second state
  • Fig. 4 is a top plan view of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 illustrating the portion of Fig. 2 in a state between the first and second states
  • Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of another portion of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 ,
  • Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 on the line VII-VII of Fig. 3 illustrating the portion of Fig. in the second state
  • Fig. 8 is a view similar to Fig. 7 illustrating the portion of Fig. 2 in a third state
  • Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 on the line IX-IX of Fig. 4 illustrating the portion of Fig. 2 in the state of Fig. 4 intermediate the first and second states
  • Fig. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a detail of the storing apparatus of Fig. 1 .
  • Fig. 11 is a view similar to Fig. 10 with the detail of Fig. 10 is a different state to that of Fig. 10.
  • a storing apparatus which is particularly suitable for storing a weigh scales 3 in, for example, a press unit, a cupboard unit or a drawer unit (none of which are shown), for presenting the weigh scales to a person for weighing thereof.
  • the storing apparatus may be located in any other suitable structure for presenting the weigh scales 3 to a person for weighing of the person.
  • the storing apparatus 1 is configured to form a drawer structure, which can be located in the press unit, the cupboard unit or the drawer unit, and typically, would be located in the press, cupboard or drawer unit at the lower end thereof adjacent the ground, as will be described below.
  • the storing apparatus 1 comprises a support element, which in this embodiment of the invention is formed by a framework 4 which defines a receiving area 5 for receiving a carrier element, which in this embodiment of the invention is in the form of a drawer 7.
  • the drawer 7 is configured to receive and support the weigh scales 3 therein.
  • the drawer 7 is slideably coupled to the framework 4 by a pair of runner mechanisms 8 located on opposite sides of the drawer 7 for slideably guiding the drawer 7 in a first plane slightly inclined upwardly to the horizontal between a first state illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2 with the drawer 7 located within the receiving area 5 of the framework 4 and a second state illustrated in Figs.3 and 7 with the drawer 7 extending from and located exteriorly of the receiving area 5 for presenting the weigh scales 3 to a person.
  • the drawer 7 is coupled to the framework 4 by the runner mechanisms 8 for guiding the drawer 7 in a second plane, namely, a substantially vertical plane substantially orthogonal to the first plane between the second state and a third state illustrated in Fig. 8 with the drawer 7 abutting the ground and being supported on the ground for facilitating a person to weigh his or her self on the weigh scales 3.
  • a second plane namely, a substantially vertical plane substantially orthogonal to the first plane between the second state and a third state illustrated in Fig. 8 with the drawer 7 abutting the ground and being supported on the ground for facilitating a person to weigh his or her self on the weigh scales 3.
  • the framework 4 is formed from sheet metal material by punching and bending and comprises an open base 10.
  • a pair of spaced apart side walls 11 extend upwardly from the base 10, and a rear end wall 12 extends upwardly from the base 10 and extends substantially between the side walls 11.
  • a forward portion 14 of the base 10 joins the side walls 11 adjacent the forward end 13 thereof.
  • a central portion of the base 10 is removed to form an opening 15 therethrough.
  • the base 10, the side walls 11 and the rear end wall 12 define the receiving area 5 for the drawer 7, and the side walls 11 and the forward portion 14 of the base 10 define an open mouth 16 to the receiving area 5 for accommodating the drawer 7 as will be described below out of and into the receiving area 5 between the first and second states.
  • the side walls 11 terminate adjacent the front end thereof in respective upstanding members 17 from which a pair of forward returns 18 extend sidewardly outwardly. Screw accommodating openings 20 extending through the forward returns 18 are provided for facilitating securing the framework 4 to the lower end of a press or drawer unit with the base 10 of the framework 4 adjacent the ground 9 and the open mouth 16 extending forwardly from the press, cupboard or drawer unit.
  • the framework 4 would be located in a plinth of a conventional press or drawer unit.
  • the drawer 7 is formed from sheet metal by bending and punching, and comprises a base 22 and a pair of spaced apart side walls 24 extending upwardly from the base 22.
  • a front end wall 25 extends upwardly from the base 22 and between the side walls 24 and joins the side walls 24.
  • the base 22, the side walls 24 and the front wall 25 define a scales receiving area 26 for receiving and supporting the weigh scales 3.
  • Screw accommodating openings 27 extending through the front wall 25 facilitate fixing and securing a facia panel to the front wall 25.
  • Each runner mechanism 8 comprises an elongated first guide member 29 of steel of substantially U-shape cross-section which is coupled to the corresponding side wall 11 of the framework 4 as will be described below, and an elongated second guide member 30, which is also of steel of U-shape cross-section and is rigidly secured to the corresponding side wall 24 of the drawer 7.
  • An elongated intermediate guide member 32 also of steel and U-shape cross-section is slideably coupled between and to the corresponding first and second guide members 29 and 30, so that the second guide member 30 is slideable longitudinally within the intermediate guide member 32, and the intermediate guide member 32 is slideable longitudinally within the first guide member 29, to form the corresponding runner mechanism 8 as a telescoping runner mechanism.
  • Suitable roller or ball bearings (not shown) are provided, which act between the intermediate guide member 32 and the first and second guide members 29 and 30 for providing a smooth sliding guide motion for guiding and supporting the drawer 7 between the first and second states.
  • Such runner mechanisms as the runner mechanisms 8 will be well known to those skilled in the art.
  • each first guide member 29 extends between a first end, namely, a rear end 33, and a second end, namely, a front end 34 and is pivotally coupled to the corresponding side wall 11 of the framework 4 adjacent a rear end 35 of the corresponding side wall 11 by a pivot pin 36.
  • Each pivot pin 36 extends from the corresponding first guide member 29 and pivotally engages a pivot bore 31 in the corresponding side wall 11 of the framework 4.
  • the pivot pins 36 of the first guide members 29 define a common main pivot axis 37, which extends transversely of the direction of the sliding motion of the drawer 7 in the runner mechanisms 8 between the first and second states, and about which the first guide members 29 are pivotal from a first state illustrated in Fig. 7 with the drawer 7 in the second state and a second state illustrated in Fig. 8 with the drawer 7 in the third state.
  • the forward end 34 of the first guide member 29 of each runner mechanism 8 is resiliently coupled to the corresponding side wall 11 of the framework 4 by a corresponding resilient coupling means, namely, a tension spring 38.
  • Each tension spring 38 is coupled to the forward end 34 of the corresponding first guide member 29 and to a screw 39 extending from the upstanding portion 17 of the corresponding side wall 11.
  • the tension springs 38 resilient support the first guide members 29 and in turn the drawer 7, and are of length in their relaxed state to support the corresponding first guide members 29 with the first guide members 29 in the first state thereof inclined at an angle a to the horizontal of approximately 0.3°, inclining forwardly upwardly at the angle a from the main pivot axis 37.
  • the drawer 7 is slideable from the first state to the second state thereof with the first guide members 29 in the first state and in turn, the runner mechanisms 8 also in the first state.
  • the tension springs 38 are of sufficient tension and resilience to support the drawer 7 with the weigh scales 3 therein in the second state thereof when the first guide members 29 are in the first state.
  • the tension springs 38 are configured to yield to allow the first guide members 29 to pivot through the angle a about the main pivot axis 37 defined by the pivot pins 36 from the first state with the drawer 7 in the second state spaced apart above the ground, downwardly to the second state of the first guide member 29 with the drawer 7 in the third state abutting the ground 9, in response to a downward force.
  • the downward force, for urging the first guide members 29 from the first state to the second state with the drawer 7 being urged from the second state to the third state abutting the ground may be any suitable force, and typically, would be a force of approximately 10 newtons, so that the first guide members 29 are responsive to a person standing on the weigh scales 3 when located in the drawer 7 when the first guide members 29 are in the first state and the drawer 7 is in the second state for urging the first guide members 29 from the first state to the second state, and in turn for urging the drawer 7 from the second state to the third state with the drawer 7 abutting the ground and supported thereon, in order to allow a person standing on the weigh scales 3 in the drawer 7 to weigh his or her self.
  • the angle a at which the tension springs 38 support the first guide members 29 in the first state which is approximately 0.3°, is such that in the first state of the first guide members 29 the drawer 7 in the second state is spaced apart a distance d approximately 6mm above the ground, see Fig. 7.
  • a drive mechanism 52 which in this embodiment of the invention comprises an air spring 40 acting between a pair of pivotally coupled linkage members 41 and 42 is provided for urging the drawer 7 from the first state to the second state when the first guide members 29 are in the first state.
  • the linkage members 41 and 42 are pivotally coupled adjacent their proximal end by a pivot pin 43.
  • the linkage member 41 is pivotally coupled adjacent its distal end 44 to the base 10 of the framework 4 by a pivot pin 45 adjacent one of the side walls 11 of the framework 4 towards the rear end thereof.
  • a distal end 47 of the linkage member 42 is pivotally coupled to the base 22 of the drawer 7 adjacent a rear end 48 thereof by a pivot pin 49.
  • the air spring 40 is pivotally coupled to the linkage members 41 and 42 intermediate their ends by respective pivot pins 50 and 51.
  • the linkage members 41 and 42 and the air spring 40 are configured so that when the first guide member 29 is in the first state and the drawer 7 is in the first state, by slightly urging the drawer 7 further inwardly into the receiving area 5, the air spring 40 and the linkage members 41 and 42 are activated to urge the drawer 7 outwardly of the receiving area 5 from the first state to the second state. Additionally, the air spring 40 and the linkage members 41 and 42 are configured so that when the drawer 7 is urged from the second state into the first state, the linkage members 41 and 42 and the air spring 40 are configured to retain the drawer 7 in the first state until it is pushed further inwardly into the receiving area 5 to activate the linkage members 41 and 42 and the air spring 40 for urging the drawer 7 from the first state to the second state.
  • the storing apparatus 1, as discussed above may be located in a drawer, cupboard or press unit adjacent the lower end thereof, typically, with the base 10 of the framework 4 supported on the ground, and the framework 4 secured to the drawer, cupboard or press unit by the forward returns 18.
  • a facia panel or other suitable panel is typically secured to the front wall 25 of the drawer 7.
  • the weigh scales 3 is then placed in the weigh scales receiving area 26 of the drawer 7, and the storing apparatus 1 is ready for use.
  • the drawer 7 When a person wishes to weigh his or her self, the drawer 7 is urged slightly inwardly into the receiving area 5, by for example, a toe of a foot of the person to activate the drive mechanism 52, to in turn urge the drawer 7 outwardly of the receiving area 5 from the first state to the second state with the first guide members 29 retained in the first state thereof by the tension springs 38.
  • the person wishing to weigh his or her self then stands on the weigh scales 3 in the drawer 7.
  • the weight of the person standing on the weigh scales 3 urges the first guide members 29 about the main pivot axis 37 defined by the pivot pins 36 downwardly from the first state to the second state, thereby resulting in the drawer 7 being urged downwardly from the second state to the third state, with the drawer abutting the ground and supported thereon.
  • the weight of the person can then be read from the weigh scaies.
  • the tension springs 38 return the first guide members 29 about the main pivot axis 37 from the second state to the first state, thus returning the drawer 7 from the third state to the second state spaced apart above the ground.
  • the drawer 7 with the weigh scales 3 therein may then be urged from the second state to the first state by the toe of a person, and the drawer 7 with the weigh scales 3 therein is retained in the first state by the drive mechanism 52 until it is again activated by urging the drawer 7 slightly inwardly into the receiving area 5 for activation of the drive mechanism 52.
  • the storing apparatus according to the invention will be of considerable benefit for use in bedrooms and/or room bathrooms of hotels, guest houses and the like. Although, needless to say, the benefits and advantages of the storing apparatus would also be achieved in a bedroom, bathrooms and compartment bathrooms of a domestic dwelling.
  • each runner mechanism may comprise only the first and second guide members, and in which case, the second guide member would be slideable within the first guide member.
  • first guide member may be slideable within the second guide member, and where an intermediate guide member is provided, it is envisaged that the first guide member may be slideable within the intermediate guide member, and the intermediate guide member would then be slideable within the second guide member.
  • first guide members may be resiiiently biased by the resilient guide means into the first state, and in which case, it is envisaged that the first guide members would be resiiiently urged against suitable stop means for retaining the first guide member in the first state against the resilient action of the resilient means.
  • both ends of the runner mechanisms could be resiliently supported, and in which case the runner mechanisms would be moveable between the first and second states, and the carrier element would be moveable between the second and third states with rectilinear motion.
  • any other suitable drive mechanism for urging the drawer from the first state to the second state may be provided, and indeed, in some cases, it is envisaged that the drawer may be located in the framework to be manually operable between the first and second states.
  • support element has been described as comprising a framework, any other suitable constructions of support element may be provided, for example, the support element may be provided as an enclosure, into and out of which the carrier element would be slideable. Needless to say, while the carrier element has been described as comprising a drawer, any other suitable form of carrier element may be provided.
  • the weigh scales may be secured by suitable fixings in the carrier element or may be merely placed in or on the carrier element.
  • the storing element has been described for use in storing a weigh scales, the storing apparatus may be used for storing any other apparatus or article.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)
  • Drawers Of Furniture (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un appareil de stockage (1) destiné à stocker une balance (3) comprenant un cadre (4) permettant un positionnement à l'intérieur d'une unité placard, d'une unité armoire ou d'une unité tiroir, le cadre (4) étant adjacent au sol. Un tiroir (7) destiné à stocker la balance (3) est porté de façon coulissante à l'intérieur du cadre (4) sur des mécanismes de glissière (8) et peut être poussé par un mécanisme d'entraînement (52) à partir d'un premier état dans lequel le tiroir (7) est situé à l'intérieur du cadre (4) jusqu'à un deuxième état dans lequel le tiroir (7) s'étend vers l'extérieur à partir du cadre (4), la balance (3) étant alors exposée et prête à être utilisée. Les mécanismes de glissière (8) sont accouplés de manière pivotante au cadre (4) autour d'un axe de pivotement principal (37) au niveau de l'extrémité arrière de celui-ci, et les mécanismes de glissière (8) sont supportés par des ressorts de tension (38), qui retiennent les mécanismes de glissière (8) dans un premier état incliné légèrement vers le haut par rapport à l'horizontale depuis l'axe de pivotement (37) lorsque le tiroir (3) est poussé du premier état au deuxième état. Les ressorts de tension (38) supportent le tiroir (7) dans le deuxième état, mais cèdent en réponse au fait qu'une personne monte sur la balance lorsque le tiroir (7) est dans le deuxième état, permettant ainsi un mouvement vers le bas du tiroir (7) du deuxième état à un troisième état, le tiroir (7) venant en butée contre le sol et étant supporté par celui-ci (9) pour permettre le pesage d'une personne debout sur la balance.
PCT/IE2020/000004 2019-02-05 2020-02-05 Appareil de stockage destiné à stocker un article, et procédé destiné à présenter une balance à une personne pour la peser WO2020161690A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IES2019/0018 2019-02-05
IES20190018 2019-02-05

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2020161690A2 true WO2020161690A2 (fr) 2020-08-13
WO2020161690A3 WO2020161690A3 (fr) 2020-12-03

Family

ID=71614935

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IE2020/000004 WO2020161690A2 (fr) 2019-02-05 2020-02-05 Appareil de stockage destiné à stocker un article, et procédé destiné à présenter une balance à une personne pour la peser

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2020161690A2 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN113465717A (zh) * 2021-06-23 2021-10-01 大连理工高邮研究院有限公司 一种智能制造物料管理系统
CN115284449A (zh) * 2022-07-05 2022-11-04 湖州众驰建材有限公司 混凝土搅拌站高精度粉料绿色环保称量及进料装置

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6802578B1 (en) * 1999-06-22 2004-10-12 Alison C. Lang Drawer
US6371584B1 (en) * 2001-03-28 2002-04-16 Oden R. Alreck Scale drawer adapted for under cabinet mounting
US7138586B1 (en) * 2006-08-03 2006-11-21 Kim Brian S Refrigerator with scale

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN113465717A (zh) * 2021-06-23 2021-10-01 大连理工高邮研究院有限公司 一种智能制造物料管理系统
CN113465717B (zh) * 2021-06-23 2022-08-16 大连理工高邮研究院有限公司 一种智能制造物料管理系统
CN115284449A (zh) * 2022-07-05 2022-11-04 湖州众驰建材有限公司 混凝土搅拌站高精度粉料绿色环保称量及进料装置

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2020161690A3 (fr) 2020-12-03

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7165689B2 (en) Rack and organizer
US7355131B2 (en) Bathroom vanity with storage for a weigh scale
US3481429A (en) Drawer step
US6832739B1 (en) Paper towel holder
US7832816B2 (en) Frame to support pull-out and rotating racks for cabinets
US6802578B1 (en) Drawer
US20080169411A1 (en) Hanging feminine products storage dispenser
WO2020161690A2 (fr) Appareil de stockage destiné à stocker un article, et procédé destiné à présenter une balance à une personne pour la peser
US10531735B1 (en) Double storage shoe rack
US20090039747A1 (en) Footwear storage device
KR101725394B1 (ko) 높이조절형 칸막이와 모니터 및 수납도구의 거치 기능을 갖는 레일바가 장착된 스마트오피스 데스크
JP2002236525A (ja) キーボード支持装置
US20070018544A1 (en) Combined magazine rack and toilet paper holder
US6079603A (en) Under the counter paper towel dispensing system
US6340214B1 (en) Safety shelf
US2285491A (en) Shoe display rack
US20040251080A1 (en) Retractable and extensible step assembly
US1545122A (en) Towel bar and clothesrack
US20070080121A1 (en) Universal shoe rack
US7264196B2 (en) Toilet paper dispenser
US6502256B1 (en) Drawer without hardware for installation under bed
US6405971B1 (en) Toilet paper dispensing system
US10905237B1 (en) Roller chair
US3185233A (en) Portable stand-up type bathroom scale
US3500768A (en) Reversible lower bookcase base frame

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 20740421

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 20740421

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2