CN107249399B

CN107249399B - Product management display system with trackless pusher mechanism

Info

Publication number: CN107249399B
Application number: CN201580076471.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: S.N.哈迪; J.皮罗内
Original assignee: RTC Industries Inc
Current assignee: RTC Industries Inc
Priority date: 2014-12-22
Filing date: 2015-12-22
Publication date: 2020-05-12
Anticipated expiration: 2035-12-22
Also published as: WO2016106375A1; BR112017013529A2; BR112017013529B1; EP3236809A1; AU2015369659B2; KR20170099990A; KR102062173B1; EP3236809B1; CN107249399A; AU2015369659A1

Abstract

A product management display system for selling products on shelves or racks includes the use of a trackless pusher mechanism that travels along the surface on which the products are arranged. In one example, the tray or shelf may include a first product retaining member that prevents the product from being pushed away from the tray. The pusher mechanism of the exemplary embodiment includes a pusher surface, a second product retaining member, and a pusher floor extending forward of the pusher surface and extending between the pusher surface and the second product retaining member. A flat coil spring or other biasing element is operably connected behind the pusher mechanism. In use, the product to be sold may be arranged on the propeller floor. With this configuration, the pusher surface is prevented from pushing the final product off the shelf and onto the floor.

Description

Product management display system with trackless pusher mechanism

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. application No.14/579,604, filed on day 22, month 12, 2014. The present application also relates to U.S. application No.14/012,715 filed on 28/8/2012, which is a continuation of U.S. application No.13/542,419 filed on 5/7/2012, U.S. application No.13/542,419, which is a current U.S. patent No.8,739,984 claiming the benefits of U.S. provisional application No.61/530,736 filed on 2/9/2011, U.S. provisional application No.61/542,473 filed on 3/2011, and U.S. provisional application No.61/553545 filed on 31/2011, and is also a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application No.12/639,656 filed on 16/12/2009, current U.S. patent No.8,322,544, U.S. application No.12/639,656 is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application No.12/357,860 filed on 22/2009, current U.S. patent No.8,453,850, U.S. application No.12/357,860 is a continuation-in-on 8/2009, current U.S. application No.11/760,196 filed on 8,312,999, U.S. application No.11/760,196, filed 2006, 25, U.S. application No.11/411,761, a continuation of current U.S. patent No.7,823,734, U.S. application No.11/411,761 claiming the benefits of U.S. provisional application No.60/716,362 filed 2005, 9, 12, and U.S. provisional application No.60/734,692 filed 2005, 11, 8, all of which are hereby fully incorporated by reference.

Technical Field

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to shelf assemblies for use in vending products, and more particularly to shelf assemblies having an improved mechanism for displaying and pushing out products on the shelf.

Background

It is known that retail and wholesale stores, such as convenience stores, drug stores, department stores, discount stores, etc., require a large number of shelves both to store and display products to consumers. In displaying products, it is desirable that the products on the shelves be positioned toward the front of the shelves so that the products are visible and accessible to the consumer. In the case of freezers or refrigerators for storing and displaying products such as soft drinks, energy drinks, bottled water and other bottled or canned beverages, it is desirable that these products also be located towards the front of the shelf and be visible and accessible to the consumer.

To achieve this arrangement of products, known systems may include a sloped tray or floor that, by gravity, may cause the products to move toward the front of the shelf. Many of these systems include a floor or shelf made of a plastic material (such as polypropylene) that, due to its low coefficient of friction, allows the product to slide easily along an inclined floor or surface. However, over time, these surfaces can become obstructed by debris or sticky substances, which prevents proper sliding of the products, sometimes also causing some products to tip over, thereby preventing other products from moving to the front of the shelf.

Other systems include the use of a pusher system to push product toward the front of the shelf as the product at the front of the shelf is removed. Known pusher systems are typically mounted to the track and include a pusher plate and a coil spring for pushing the product forward. Sometimes, as the system is used and time passes, the track is obstructed by dirt or sticky material, which prevents proper operation of the pusher system in the track. Additionally, depending on the size, shape, and weight of the products to be vended, known pusher plates may occasionally tip or bend rearward, thereby causing the pusher mechanism to become stuck in the track. In those cases, the pusher mechanism may not be able to properly push the product toward the front of the shelf.

Some examples discussed herein relate to providing a trackless pusher system that works with gravity-fed vending systems (i.e., inclined shelves or racks) and non-gravity-fed vending systems.

Disclosure of Invention

One exemplary embodiment is directed to a product management display system for selling products on a shelf. This embodiment includes the use of a trackless pusher mechanism that travels along the surface on which the product is disposed. The trackless system overcomes the existing problems of retaining and guiding existing propeller mechanisms with rails. It should be understood that the teachings of this embodiment can be used with systems that include rails or the like for mounting a pusher mechanism.

The pusher mechanism may include a pusher plate and a pusher floor extending forward of the pusher plate. A flat coil spring or other biasing element is operatively connected behind the pusher plate and extends across the floor of the pusher mechanism to the front of the shelf. Alternatively, a flat coil spring or biasing element may extend across the divider to the front of the rack assembly. With this configuration, the pusher plate is prevented from tipping or bending backwards during operation.

An exemplary embodiment also includes the use of a propulsion mechanism, with products being sold on horizontal or non-inclined shelves or surfaces, and with a gravity feed system or a system using gravity as the means to propel the products toward the front of the shelf.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pusher plate may define a concave pushing surface for pushing cylindrical products, such as soft drink bottles or cans. Alternatively, the pusher plate may define a flat pushing surface, which may further comprise at its upper edge curved ribs or similar structures that can also be used for pushing cylindrical products.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the floor of the pusher mechanism may include a slotted or cut-out portion to align the pusher mechanism relative to the coil spring. Also, the base plate of the system may further include a notch or cut-out portion for receiving and mounting the flat end of the coil spring to the base plate. Spring end points may be disposed on the ends of the coil springs to mount the coil springs to the floor of the system. Alternatively, the ends of the coil spring may be mounted to the divider of the assembly.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment, an adapter adapted for a product management display system may be positioned on a floor surface of the display system. The adapter may include a planar surface having at least two ribs extending outwardly from and across the planar surface in a generally parallel manner. A coil spring may be positioned between the parallel extending ribs. With this configuration, the product to be vended can rest on the ribs, rather than directly on the coil springs, to enhance forward movement of certain types of products, such as beverage cans.

In yet another alternative aspect, a mounting member may be used to mount an end of the coil spring to a base plate of the system. For those systems that include spaced apart slide rails joined together by connecting ribs, the mounting members may be snap fit or otherwise mounted on the floor and between the slide rails.

In yet another alternative aspect, the trackless pusher system may be retrofitted to an existing rack assembly. This allows the trackless pusher system to be deployed in an existing rack system as a low cost alternative to purchasing the entire trackless pusher assembly.

In another example embodiment, the coil spring may be mounted to the retainer. The end of the coil spring may be mounted directly to the holder, or alternatively, the end may be mounted to the holder via an adapter. The adapter may have a curved portion that is received in a correspondingly shaped curved slot in the retainer to secure the end of the spring to the display assembly.

In another example embodiment, the brackets may be attached via a joggle connection to form a shelving assembly. In addition, the divider may be adjustable such that the width of the product rows may be adapted to receive products of different sizes.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the product management display system may be arranged in a stackable arrangement. The assembly may be provided with a first bracket and a second bracket, each having a first wall and a second wall. The first and second brackets are each adapted to receive a pusher mechanism and a retainer mechanism. First and second spacers are mounted to the first and second brackets for stacking the first and second brackets on top of each other. The first and second spacers may be provided with indentations and the first and second brackets may each be provided with a plurality of correspondingly shaped slots to receive the plurality of indentations.

Another example pusher mechanism for a product management display system having a surface, comprising: a propeller surface; a product holder extending parallel to the pusher surface; a pusher floor extending forward from the pusher surface, the pusher floor configured to allow at least one product to sit on the pusher floor, the pusher floor being positionable on and movable across at least a portion of a surface of the display system; and

a coil spring. The pusher mechanism may rest on top of the surface of the display system and may not extend thereunder, may be positioned on the surface of the display system, and is mounted to the display system and held thereto by the coil spring. The helical spring may comprise a helical end portion positioned behind the impeller surface. The pusher floor may be substantially parallel to a surface of the display system. The pusher surface and the product holder can extend upwardly from the pusher floor, and the product holder can be spaced from the pusher surface such that the pusher surface, the product holder, and the pusher floor define a space for receiving at least one product therein. The product may be a bottle, and the bottle may be configured to fit between the pusher surface and the product holder. Only one bottle may be allowed to fit between the pusher surface and the product holder. The pusher surface may be concave. The pusher floor may define a channel for receiving the coil spring. The coil spring may extend across at least a portion of the pusher floor and be operably attached behind the pusher surface. The pusher mechanism may be mounted to the surface of the display system by a coil spring only.

Another product management display system may include: a carrier defining a surface configured to hold a row of products; a first product retainer configured to prevent a product from falling off the tray; an impeller mechanism having an impeller surface, a second product holder extending parallel to the impeller surface. The pusher mechanism may be configured to slide across at least a portion of the surface of the carriage and may have a coil spring having a coil end positioned behind the pusher surface and a forward end; and at least one divider for holding the products in rows. The pusher mechanism may be configured to rest on top of the carrier surface and not extend thereunder. The pusher mechanism may be mounted to a surface of the display system by a coil spring. The pusher surface and the second product retainer may extend upwardly from the pusher floor, and the product retainer may be spaced from the pusher surface for receiving at least one product therein. The pusher surface and the second product holder may define a space that may be configured to receive a last of the row of products. In one example, the products are vials, the pusher surface and the second holder are configured to receive only one vial, and the second product holder may be configured to hold a last of the plurality of products.

The pusher surface and the second product holder can define a space that can be configured to receive a product. The product may be a bottle and the space may be configured to receive only one bottle. The pusher mechanism may be mounted to the surface of the display system by a coil spring only. The product management display system may further include a first divider and a second divider, and the first and second product holders may be configured to extend between the first and second dividers. At least a portion of the coil spring may be configured to extend across at least a portion of the carrier surface to the front portion of the carrier. The surface of the display system may be horizontal. The first and second product holders may be transparent.

Another product management display system may include: a bracket defining a surface; a first product retainer configured to prevent a product from falling off the tray; and a pusher mechanism. The pusher mechanism may include a pusher surface, a second product holder, and a pusher floor extending forward from the pusher surface. The pusher floor may be configured to allow at least one product to be mounted on the pusher floor between the pusher surface and the second product holder, the pusher floor being positionable on a surface of the display system and movable thereacross. The pusher mechanism may be configured to rest on top of a surface of the display system and may not extend thereunder, and may be configured to mount to and be held to the display system by a coil spring, and may be mounted to and held to the display system by a coil spring only. The second product holder may be configured to hold a last of the plurality of products. The pusher surface may be concave. The pusher floor may define a plurality of apertures. The pusher floor and the second product holder may be configured to hold a single bottle.

Drawings

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary pusher mechanism mounted to an exemplary tray or product channel of the present invention.

Fig. 3 shows another isometric view of the system of fig. 2 with products disposed therein.

Fig. 4 illustrates another isometric view of the system of fig. 2 with a plurality of products disposed therein.

Fig. 5 illustrates an isometric rear view of the system of fig. 4.

Fig. 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the tray or product channel of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example end point of an end of a coil spring that may be used with the product management display system of the present invention.

Fig. 8 shows the example end point of fig. 7 mounted to a bracket or product channel surface.

FIG. 9 illustrates the example end point of FIG. 7 mounted to an end of a coil spring.

FIG. 10 illustrates the example end point of FIG. 7 mounted to an end of a coil spring.

FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a product management display system of the present invention.

Fig. 12 illustrates another isometric view of the system of fig. 11.

Fig. 13 shows a front view of the system of fig. 11.

Fig. 14 shows a top view of the system of fig. 11.

Fig. 15 shows a rear view of the system of fig. 11.

Fig. 16 illustrates an isometric view of an adapter that may be used with the present invention.

Fig. 17 shows a front view of the adapter of fig. 16.

Fig. 18 shows an example presentation of an adapter of the present invention.

Figure 19 shows an isometric view of a mounted adapter of the present invention.

Fig. 20 shows a front view of the mounted adapter of the present invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a product management display system of the present invention.

Fig. 22 illustrates a bottom isometric view of an exemplary mounting member that may be used to mount a coil spring end to a display system chassis.

Fig. 23 illustrates an isometric top view of the example mounting member of fig. 22.

Fig. 24 shows the example mounting member of fig. 22 mounted to an end of a coil spring mounted to an example advancer plate.

Fig. 25 illustrates another view of the example mounting member of fig. 22 mounted to an end of a coil spring mounted to an example pusher plate.

Fig. 26 illustrates the exemplary mounting member of fig. 22 with the attached coil spring mounted to the bottom plate of the system.

Fig. 27 illustrates the example mounting member of fig. 22 mounted on a system backplane.

FIG. 28 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a product management display system of the present invention.

Fig. 29 illustrates an enlarged isometric view of the bracket of the exemplary embodiment of fig. 28.

Fig. 29A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of fig. 28, showing a first method of securing.

Fig. 29B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of fig. 28, showing a second method of securing.

FIG. 30 shows an enlarged isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 28 showing a rivet attaching the spring to the bracket.

Fig. 31 shows an isometric view of the system of fig. 28 assembled on a pre-existing metal shelf.

Fig. 32 shows an isometric view of the system of fig. 28 assembled on a pre-existing metal shelf.

Fig. 33 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

Fig. 34 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

Fig. 35 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an adapter.

Fig. 36 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer.

Fig. 37 shows a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a presentation system.

Fig. 38 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

Fig. 39 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

Fig. 40 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

Fig. 41A shows a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary embodiment of a divider.

Fig. 41B shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a presentation system.

Fig. 41C shows an enlarged view of the cross section of fig. 41B.

Fig. 41D illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a divider.

Fig. 42 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

Fig. 43 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.

FIG. 44 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system.

FIG. 45 illustrates another isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system in which a product is present.

FIG. 46 illustrates a top view of another exemplary embodiment of a product management display system in which a product is present.

FIG. 47 illustrates an isometric rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system in which a product is present.

Fig. 48 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a pusher mechanism mounted to a divider.

FIG. 49 illustrates another isometric view of the divider and pusher mechanism assembled to the product management display system.

FIG. 50 illustrates an isometric view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a product management display system.

FIG. 51 illustrates another isometric view of the exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of FIG. 50 without a product.

FIG. 52 illustrates an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of FIG. 50.

FIGS. 53-55 illustrate another example product management display system.

Detailed Description

Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The terms "comprises" and "comprising," as well as variations thereof, are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Moreover, the terms "mounted," "mounted," or "mounting" are intended to broadly encompass any technique or method of mounting, attaching, joining, or coupling one component to another component (whether directly or indirectly).

The present invention may be embodied in various forms. Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to like elements, there is shown in FIG. 1 an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment. The exemplary vending system 10 includes a product dispensing tray 12 in which an exemplary trackless pusher mechanism 14 is mounted. As described below, the pusher mechanism 14 will fit within the carrier 12 and slide along the surface of the carrier without the use of rails, guides, or guides that are typically used to hold conventional pusher mechanisms to the carrier or the carrier floor. The pusher mechanism defines a pusher plate and a pusher floor extending forward of the pusher plate. A coil spring may extend across the pusher floor and be operatively connected to the carriage at a forward location on the carriage. In one aspect of the invention, the product to be vended may be disposed in the tray in front of the pusher deck and may rest on the pusher floor and coil spring. With this configuration, the weight of the product will prevent the pusher plate from tipping over to ensure that the product is pushed correctly. In addition, problems associated with debris or sticky matter affecting the effectiveness of known pusher systems using rails, or guides have been eliminated. Other aspects, embodiments and features of the present invention and its teachings are set forth in detail below.

The exemplary tray 12 may define a surface 16, and one or more divider panels or dividers 18 to divide the tray into a plurality of rows for placement of products. In alternative aspects, the carrier 12 may be a shelf or any other surface upon which products may be placed for sale. The surface 16 may be a solid surface, or a surface defining a plurality of spaced apart holes 20, which are spaced apart by a plurality of support ribs 22. The apertures 20 and ribs 22 provide a surface that allows for slidable movement of products disposed on the surface and allows liquids and contaminants to pass through the apertures 20 so that they do not collect on the surface 16. Surface 16 may be made of any suitable material that allows for slidable movement of the product on surface 16. Other surface or floor configurations are known and may be used with the principles of the present invention.

As shown in fig. 9 and 10, the surface 16 may define a rounded end portion 24 that includes a notch or cut-out portion 26. The end portion 24 may be rounded to match the shape of the product disposed on the carrier. For example, the illustrated end portion 24 is rounded or defines a semi-circular shape to match the shape of a bottle or jar that may be disposed in the carrier and on the end portion 24. Other shaped end portions may be used with the present description depending on the product to be vended.

The notch 26 may be used to receive and mount an end 29 of a coil spring 30 or similar biasing element. The slot 26 may define opposing angled edge surfaces 32 joined by an edge 34. The edge 34 is preferably centered across the width of the row of products formed in the tray 12 and extends perpendicular to the length of the tray. This configuration will center the coil spring 30 relative to the carriage 12 and will allow the spring to extend in a generally parallel manner relative to the length of the carriage. In other words, the illustrated edge 34 of the slot 26 will allow the spring 30 to extend along the length of the tray 12 at or near the center of the row of products formed by the tray. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the location and configuration of the notches may vary depending on the desired arrangement of the springs.

The coil spring 30 may define an end 29 configured to be disposed across the slot 26 onto an edge 34. In one aspect, end 29 of the coil spring may be V-shaped and act as a hook so that end 29 will wrap around edge 34, with a portion of end 29 of the coil spring extending below end portion 24 of surface 16. This configuration allows the coil spring to be easily mounted on the bracket.

In another aspect, and referring to fig. 7, a spring end point 60 may be added to the end 29 of the spring 30 to assist in mounting the spring to the system. The spring termination point 60 may define a variety of shapes and configurations depending on the configuration of the surfaces to which the bracket and spring end need to be attached. The spring end point 60 may be permanently attached to the end 29 of the coil spring 30, or it may be removable to allow for interchange or replacement of the spring end point 60. The spring termination point 60 may be made of plastic and may define one or more holes. The bore 61 may be used to receive the end 29 of the coil spring 30. The second aperture 63 may be used to receive a mating tongue or mounting member 65 extending from the surface 16 of the bracket 12, as described below. With this configuration, the end 29 of the coil spring 30 is operatively connected to the carrier 12.

In another aspect, end 29 of coil spring may be snap fit into a hole formed in surface 16, or may otherwise be inserted and secured into a hole or opening in the bracket, thereby securing end 29 of coil spring 30 in place.

Returning to fig. 1, the divider 18 may also be used to divide the products into rows. The dividers 18 extend generally upwardly from the surface 16 and, as shown in FIG. 1, may be positioned on opposite sides of the surface 16. Alternatively, the divider 18 may be positioned on the carriage 12 or to the surface 16 at any desired location. The divider 18 may be formed as an integral structure with the surface 16, or the divider 18 may be removable to provide additional flexibility to the system. Depending on the system, the divider may be attached to the front rail or the rear rail. The divider 18 may define a plurality of configurations and may extend upwardly any desired distance to provide a desired height of the divider between the rows of products to be vended. The height may be adjustable by adding divider extensions or the like.

Positioned at the front of the tray 12 and extending between the dividers 18 may be one or more product retaining members 44. The product retaining member 44 serves as a front retaining wall or bar for retaining the product in the tray 12 and preventing the product from falling out of the tray 12. These components are also configured to allow easy removal of the forwardmost product positioned in the carrier 12. The product retention member 44 may be one or more curved retention ribs, as shown in fig. 1. These illustrated retaining ribs may extend from one divider to another, thereby linking the dividers. The retaining ribs may also extend partially between the dividers, also shown as ribs 46 in fig. 1, and also serve to retain the product in the tray. Alternatively, as shown in fig. 6, the product retention member 44 may be a curvilinear solid retention wall 48 extending between the dividers. The retaining wall 48 may be transparent or translucent, allowing the product on the shelf to be visible. In another aspect, the retaining wall 48 may also extend partially between the dividers 18. In yet another embodiment shown in fig. 11-15, the retaining wall 100 may be attached to a surface of the carrier without being connected to the divider. In this embodiment, the retaining wall 100 may form an opening 102 defined by an upper member 104, opposing curved side walls 106, and a floor member 110, the side walls in turn defining an angled edge 108. Depending on the system, the sidewalls 106 may also be straight and not curved. The ends of the coil spring may also be clipped into the base plate 110 or otherwise attached to the bracket using any of the techniques described herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are a variety of shapes and configurations for product retaining member 44, and that the illustrated configuration is merely an exemplary embodiment of these various configurations.

Returning to fig. 1, the example trackless pusher mechanism 14 defines a pusher plate 50 and a pusher floor 52. The pusher plate 50 and the pusher floor 52 may form a single unitary structure or may be separate structures that are joined together using known techniques. Additionally, the pusher plate 50 and the pusher floor 52 may be made of any known suitable plastic or metal material. The propeller plate and propeller floor may be reinforced using any known reinforcement technique.

In one aspect, the pusher plate 50 forms a curvilinear pusher surface or face 54 that is configured to match the shape of the product to be vended, such as a plastic bottle or can containing a beverage, as shown in fig. 3-5. The curved pusher surface 54 allows the pusher to remain centrally aligned with the last product in the carrier. This configuration reduces friction and drag between the impeller and the divider wall. In an alternative aspect, the pusher surface or face may be a flat surface. In yet another aspect, the flat pusher surface may be accompanied by curved shaped ribs located near or on the top of the pusher plate and may be used to center and align the product in the carrier, in a manner similar to the curved pusher surface 54 shown in fig. 1. The curvilinear shaped ribs may define other shapes and configurations that allow for a cylindrical or similarly shaped product to be properly pushed into the carrier. Advertisements, product identification or other product information may be disposed on the pusher surface 54.

Positioned behind the impeller surface or face 54 may be one or more support members 58, such as ribs, walls, or gussets. The support member 58 is configured to support the pusher surface 54 and also to connect the pusher plate 50 to the pusher floor 52. As seen in fig. 5, positioned between the support members 58 is a coil spring 30, and more particularly a coil end 57, which serves to urge the pusher plate 50 forward along the carrier 12, as understood in the art. Any technique for operatively connecting the coil spring to the pusher plate 50 may be used with the present invention.

As shown in fig. 1, the pusher floor 52 may be positioned below the pusher plate 50 and may extend forward of the pusher surface 54 of the pusher plate. The pusher floor 52 may extend any predetermined distance at any predetermined angle. For example, the pusher floor 52 may extend generally perpendicular to the pusher surface 54. In an exemplary embodiment, the pusher floor 52 may extend a sufficient distance to allow one product (such as a single bottle or can) to be disposed on the pusher floor. In another aspect, the pusher floor 52 can be configured to allow more than one product to be disposed on the pusher floor. The pusher floor 52 may define any shape, including the circular shape, and may define any product retention features on the surface of the pusher floor, such as ribs, walls, etc., to further retain the product on the pusher floor.

As seen in fig. 2, the pusher floor 52 may define an elongated channel, groove, or recessed portion 59 that may be sized, shaped, and configured to receive the coil spring 30. In an exemplary embodiment, the channel or groove 59 may extend across the bottom plate 52 and extend in a generally perpendicular manner relative to the advancer plate 50. In another aspect, the groove or channel may extend across the entire pusher floor 52 or over a portion thereof, as shown in fig. 19, such a configuration allowing for proper alignment and positioning of the pusher plate 50 in the cradle. The groove 59 may define a depth that matches or exceeds the thickness of the coil spring 30. With this configuration, the coil spring 30 will be placed at or below the pusher floor surface so that the product is not placed directly on the coil spring, but rather the product will be placed on the pusher floor surface. As shown in fig. 19, the pusher floor may include holes and openings through which debris or other objects may pass. Alternatively, the base plate may be a solid surface.

In an alternative aspect of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 16-20, an adapter 180 may be positioned on surface 16. Referring to fig. 16 and 17, the adapter 180 may include one or more raised ribs 182 on which a product may be placed. Raised ribs 182 may extend longitudinally along the length of adapter 180. The adapter 180 may be a flat extrusion of plastic material (or any other suitable material) defining a flat surface 184, with the one or more ribs 182 extending outwardly from the flat surface 184. The adapter 180 may define a rounded end 185 and include a notch or cut-out 186 through or across which the coil spring may extend. The rounded end 185 may be configured to match the shape of the product disposed on the carrier. Other shapes of end 185, slot 186 and adapter 180 may be used with the present description depending on the product to be vended. The adapter 180 may be a separate insertable piece or, alternatively, a component integrally formed with the surface 16.

Referring to fig. 18, the adapter 180 can be easily inserted onto the surface 16 and between the dividers 18. Referring to fig. 19, once the adapter 180 is installed, the pusher mechanism 14 may be positioned on top of the adapter 180 and may slide freely across the ribs 182 of the adapter 180. The coil springs 30 may extend in a parallel manner between the ribs 182 and may be seated at or below the top surfaces of the ribs 182, as more clearly seen in fig. 20. With this configuration, a product to be vended can sit on and slide along the ribs 182 without riding on the coil spring 30.

In alternative aspects, the ribs 182 may be one or more raised strips, or a series of fingers, that may be used to assist in the movement of the product across the surface 16. In yet another alternative embodiment, the ribs 182 may be product moving members, such as a conveyor or one or more rollers or rolling members, that allow products to roll across the rolling members toward the front of the product display system. An exemplary roller assembly includes U.S. patent application serial No.11/257,718, assigned to RTC Industries, Inc, filed on 25/10/2005, which is incorporated herein by reference. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, there are many possible techniques that may be used with the pusher mechanism for assisting in the movement of products on the shelf or floor.

The underside of the pusher floor 52 may be a smooth flat surface that slides freely along the surface 16. Alternatively, and similar to above, the pusher floor 52 may include belts, conveyors, rollers, etc., which will allow the pusher floor to slide along the surface while lifting the pusher floor from the surface 16. In another alternative embodiment, the underside of the pusher floor may be configured with rail mounting members to allow the pusher to be mounted to a track or rail, as understood in the art.

The pusher floor also defines a notch or cut-out portion 62 through which the coil spring 30 will pass. The end 29 of the coil spring 30 will pass through the notch 62 and through the notch 26 of the surface 16 and will be mounted to the bracket using any of the techniques described above.

In use, as the pusher mechanism 14 is pushed rearwardly in the carrier 12, the end 29 of the coil spring 30 will remain in place as described above and the coil end 57 of the spring 30 will begin to unwind behind the pusher plate 50. If the pusher 14 is allowed to move forward in the tray 14, such as when product is removed from the front of the tray, the helical end 57 of the spring 30 will wind and push the pusher plate 50 forward in the tray 12, thereby urging product toward the front of the tray.

In an alternative embodiment, the coil spring 30 may extend below and below the pusher floor 52 as opposed to above and across the pusher floor, as shown in the figures. With this configuration, the groove 59 and notch 62 may not be necessary.

The coil spring 30 may be any biasing element including, but not limited to, a flat coil spring commonly used with propeller systems. The present description may use one or more coil springs to urge the pusher mechanism 14 forward, depending on the desired application. The helical tension of the spring 30 may also vary depending on the particular application.

Referring to fig. 2, the trackless pusher mechanism 14 is shown mounted to the carriage 12. As shown, the pusher mechanism 14 fits between the dividers 18 in the carrier 12. The end 29 of the coil spring 30 extends through a slot in the pusher floor and is mounted to the bracket as described above. In use, the pusher mechanism 14 will slide along the surface 16 of the carriage 12 without the use of rails, tracks or guides. As shown in fig. 2, the pusher mechanism 14 is shown in a forward position.

Referring to fig. 3, the pusher mechanism 14 is shown vending one product 70 in the vending system 10. The product is prevented from exiting the carrier by the product retaining member 44. Product 70 may be any product to be vended, including the soft drink bottle shown. As can be seen in this figure, the product 70 rests on the pusher floor 52 and the coil spring 30, which extends below the product. The weight of the product on the bottom plate 52 and the positioning of the product across the spring 30 prevents the plate 50 from tipping in the tray 12.

Referring to fig. 4, the pusher mechanism 14 is shown vending a plurality of products 70 in the vending system 10. As can be seen in this figure, product adjacent the pusher plate 50 rests on the pusher floor 52 and on the coil spring 30, which extends below the product. Other products will rest on the coil spring 30, which extends below these products. Alternatively, the adapter 180 may be positioned in the system, in which case the product may rest on the adapter's ribs 182, opposite the coil spring. Again, the weight of the product on the pusher floor 52 and the positioning of the product across the spring 30 prevents the plate 50 from tipping in the tray 12. In use, as one product is removed from the front of the tray adjacent the product retaining member 44, the pusher mechanism 14 (by pushing the coil spring 30) will push the remaining products forward in the tray 12 until the forward most product contacts the product retaining member 44. As additional product is removed, the pusher mechanism 14 will continue to push the remaining product toward the product retaining member 44.

Referring to fig. 5, a rear view of the pusher mechanism 14 shows the pusher mechanism 14 vending a plurality of products 70 in the vending system 10. Again, the product adjacent the pusher plate 50 rests on the pusher floor 52 and the coil spring 30, which extends below the product. Other products will rest on the coil spring which extends below these products. Alternatively, the adapter 180 may be positioned in the system, in which case the product may rest on the adapter's ribs 182, opposite the coil spring. As one product is removed from the front of the carrier adjacent the product retaining member 44, the helical end of the spring 30 will push the pusher plate 50 of the pusher mechanism 14 forward in the carrier 12 until the forward-most product contacts the product retaining member 44. As can be seen in the figures, the helical end 57 may be located between two support members 58. The support members will hold the helical spring between these members. As can be seen in the figures, the pusher floor 52 may extend below the support member 58.

Referring to fig. 6, an exemplary embodiment of a pusher carriage is shown. With this embodiment, the plurality of carriers 12 may be formed as a single multi-carrier assembly 80. The multiple trays may have a floor in common with dividers 18 extending upwardly from the floor to create the multiple trays or rows. In this embodiment, the product retaining member 44 may be a solid member that extends between the two dividers, as described above. One or more multi-bracket assemblies 80 may be coupled or joined together in a side-by-side manner using any known technique, including clamps, dowels, fasteners, and the like. With this configuration, multiple rows of products may be provided for vending multiple products.

As described above, the trackless pusher mechanism 14 may be used with a gravity-fed system, i.e., a system having a tray or product channel mounted on a slope to allow gravity-assisted product vending. Alternatively, the trackless pusher mechanism 14 may be used with a system mounted in a non-inclined or horizontal manner, wherein gravity provides little or no assistance for product vending. The trackless pusher mechanism 14 may also be used to push differently shaped products.

Fig. 7 illustrates an example end point 60 of the end 29 of the coil spring 30 that may be used with the merchandising system 10. As shown, the end point 60 defines a hole 61 for receiving the end 29 of the coil spring, and a hole 63 for mounting to the bracket surface 16. As seen in fig. 7, in one aspect of an alternative embodiment, extending below surface 16 may be a tongue or mounting member 65, which may be configured to mate with aperture 63 and snap fit end point 60 to tongue 65 and thus surface 16.

Referring to fig. 8, the example endpoint 60 of fig. 7 is shown mounted to a tongue or mounting member 65. The tongue 65 may include an elongated outwardly extending rib 67 for snapping the endpoint 60 to the tongue 65. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other techniques may be used to mount the end point 60 to the surface 16, and that the illustrated technique is merely an exemplary embodiment of one such technique.

Referring to fig. 9, an exemplary end point 60 is shown fully mounted to surface 16, and more specifically, to end portion 24 of surface 16 of bracket 12, in a snap-fit manner. And shows the hole 61 that mounts the end 29 of the coil spring 30 to the end point 60. As shown in fig. 19, the end 29 of the coil spring can be inserted into the hole 61. The bore 61 is configured to receive the end 29 of the coil spring and hold the end 29 in place and allow the end 29 of the coil spring to be removed from the bore 61 in the event it is desired to disconnect the coil spring from the termination point to remove the pusher mechanism 14 from the system.

Referring to fig. 10, the end 29 of the coil spring is shown fully mounted to the exemplary end point 60. As shown in this figure, the coil spring 30 is now operatively connected to the surface 16 of the carrier 12. Thus, the pusher mechanism 14 is now mounted to the carriage 12.

Referring to fig. 21-27, an alternative technique for mounting the end 29 of the coil spring 30 to the merchandise display system is shown. The mounting member 130 may be used to mount the end 29 of the coil spring to the bottom plate 131 of the system. For those systems that include spaced apart slide rails 132 that are joined together by connecting ribs 134 (fig. 26-27), the mounting members 130 may be snap fit or otherwise mounted on the base plate 131, between the slide rails 132. The mounting member will thus hold the end of the helical spring in place and to the floor of the system.

Referring to fig. 22-23, the mounting member 130 may include one or more legs 136 on one or more sides of the member 130. The legs may be configured to snap fit under the rails 132 to thereby retain the mounting member 130 to the floor of the system. The legs 136 may include leg ends 137 that define an L-shaped or angled surface configured to contact the underside of the guide rail 132 and prevent the mounting member 130 from being lifted from the floor unless intentionally bent out of the underside of the guide rail 132. The legs 136 may contact the connecting ribs 134, which prevents slidable movement of the mounting member 130 relative to the base plate. Referring to fig. 26, the mounting member 130 is shown mounted to the system floor, and more specifically to the rail. Fig. 27 shows mounting member 130, which remains in place as advancer plate 141 is pulled away from the front of the system. The mounting member 130 may be attached to this type of system backplane 131 using other techniques. For example, a separate mounting clip, one or more fasteners, adhesive, or other techniques may be used to secure the mounting member 130 to the base plate 131.

Referring to fig. 22-23, the mounting member 130 may further include a hole or opening or slot 138 that will receive the end 29 of the spring. The spring may be mounted using any of the techniques described herein or other techniques. The configuration of the holes 138 and mounting member 130 hold the springs in place on the mounting member 130, similar to the technique described above.

The mounting member 130 may also include a sliding rib 139 on the top surface that allows products thereon to slide more easily across the mounting member after the mounting member is mounted to the system floor. The mounting member 130 may further include an elongated flat body 140 that extends forward of the location of the legs 136 to provide stability to the mounting member 130 after mounting to the system floor.

Referring to fig. 24-25 and 27, the pusher plate or pusher mechanism 141 can include a pusher face 143 configured to match the shape of the product against which it is pushed. As shown, the pusher face 143 may be curvilinear in shape to match the shape of a bottle or other cylindrical object. The pusher plate 141 may further include a pusher floor 145, which is similar to the pusher floor configuration described above. The pusher floor 145 may further include a spring sleeve 147 that receives the coil spring 30 to cover and protect the spring. The spring sleeve 147 may extend partially or completely across the pusher floor 145 in the direction of the spring 30. The spring sleeve 147 may have a relatively short height and flat surface 149 to allow a product to be placed thereon without significant tipping or tilting of the product.

The pusher plate 141 may be positioned on top of the bottom plate 131 to slide on top of the surface, as described above. The pusher plate may be positioned between two product separator walls 153, which are joined together by product retaining members 155. Additional product retention members 157 may extend outwardly from the product divider.

Referring to fig. 28 and 29, an alternative technique for mounting the end 29 of the coil spring 30 to the merchandise display system is shown. In this embodiment, end 29 is riveted to bracket 216.

Referring to fig. 28-32, in an alternative embodiment, the trackless pusher system may be retrofitted to an existing rack assembly 230, which may have a product divider already built therein. For example, in one embodiment, the trackless pusher system may be retrofitted to an existing metal shelf assembly. Referring to fig. 30-32, the bracket or adapter 216 may have a skid plate 222 that may be sized for a single lane of the shelf 234 or may be sized for the entire shelf width. The sliding bottom plate 222 may include a plurality of raised ribs 224 that help reduce friction of the vended products on the tray 216. It should be understood that one or more raised ribs 224 may be used with the sliding baseplate 222. Alternatively, the skid plate 222 may be a flat planar surface without raised ribs. The bracket or adapter 216 may be constructed similarly to the adapter 180 of fig. 16.

As shown in fig. 28 and 30, the end 29 of the coil spring 30 may be riveted to the front end 228 of the bracket 216 via a rivet 229, or may be attached by any other attachment technique. The brackets 216 may be held to the shelves by any attachment technique suitable for the particular shelf. In one embodiment, and as shown in fig. 29-32, the carrier 216 may include one or more outwardly extending fingers or catches 220 that may engage one or more individual bars 232 of a shelf 234 to retain the carrier 216 on the shelf 234. The fingers or catches 220 may extend longitudinally along the length of the bracket 216, or may be spaced apart along the length of the bracket. The clip 220 may be used to clip the bracket 216 to an existing metal shelf. As shown in fig. 29A and 29B, the

latches

220A and 220B may define a plurality of configurations that allow the bracket 216 to latch to a shelf. The embodiments shown in fig. 28-32 allow the trackless pusher system to be disposed in an existing rack system, such as a metal rack system, as a low cost alternative to the entire trackless pusher assembly. It is to be understood that any of the pusher mechanisms described herein may be used with this embodiment.

As shown in fig. 33 and 44, in another exemplary embodiment, the display management system includes one or more pusher mechanisms 286, one or more dividers 266, one or more brackets 306, and one or more holders 250. The pusher mechanism 286 may be formed from a pusher plate 287 and a pusher floor 288. The products are arranged on the pusher floor 288 and are directed to the front of the display management system via the divider 266 and the pusher plate 287. The coil spring 30 biases the pusher mechanism 286 toward the retainer 250 so that the product moves to the front of the system.

In one exemplary embodiment, as shown in fig. 33, the coil spring 30 may be mounted to a retainer 250. Alternatively, the coil spring 30 may be mounted to the divider 266 (also shown in fig. 48 and 49). The coil spring 30 may be directly mounted to the holder 250 as shown in fig. 33, or may be mounted to the holder 250 via a separate adapter 252 as shown in fig. 34.

As shown in fig. 35, the adapter 252 has a wall 254 proximate a first end 256. The first end 256 has a curved portion 262 that curves upward. The intermediate portion of the adapter 252 may be provided with a curved slot 260 adapted to receive a correspondingly shaped spring end (not shown).

The coil spring 30 may be fixed at one end to a middle portion of the adapter 252. In one exemplary embodiment, the curved slot 260 corresponds in shape and size to the first spring end. Additionally, the first spring end of the coil spring 30 may be crimped or bent to provide additional securement. However, any sufficient fastening method may be used to secure the first spring end of the coil spring 30 to the adapter 252.

In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in fig. 36 and 37, the retainer 250 has a curved cutback 284 that corresponds in shape and size to the curved portion 262 of the adapter 252. The curved slot 284 extends the length of the holder to allow for infinite positioning of the adapter 252 along the length of the holder 250.

To secure the first spring end of the coil spring 30 to the retainer 250, the curved portion 262 of the adapter 252 is disposed into the curved slot 284 of the retainer 250. The curved cutaways 284 secure the adapter 252 and the first spring end of the coil spring 30 to the retainer 250 and provide for quick and easy assembly of the display system. The wall 254 provides additional stability to the connection between the holder 250 and the adapter 252. However, other methods may be used to secure the adapter 252 and/or the first spring end of the coil spring 30 to the retainer 250.

Alternatively, as shown in fig. 33 and 44, the coil spring 30 of the advancer plate 287 may be mounted directly to the front of the bracket 306. The first spring end 290 of the coil spring 30 is provided with a bent portion. The curved portion curves downwardly from the pusher floor 288 and is adapted to be received in a recess 316 (shown in FIG. 33) defined by a lip 318 of the front surface of the dispensing carriage 306 and the retainer 250. The vertically oriented surface of the retainer 250 and the lip 318 are spaced apart such that a gap is formed between the front edge of the lip 250 and the vertically oriented surface. To secure the coil spring 30 and pusher mechanism 286 to the assembly, the first spring end 290 is inserted into a gap formed between the forward edge of the lip 318 and the vertically oriented surface of the retainer 250 and is disposed in the recess 316 formed by the lip 318 of the dispensing bracket 306 and the retainer 250.

In another exemplary embodiment, as shown in fig. 38, 39, 48 and 49, the coil spring 30 may be mounted directly to the divider 266. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, coil spring 30 may be mounted perpendicular to pusher floor 288 such that the axis about which coil spring 30 is wound is perpendicular to pusher floor 288. The first spring end 290 may be provided with an angled portion 292 and an end point portion 296. In one exemplary embodiment, the angled portion 292 may be curved perpendicular to the coil spring body 294. The divider may be provided with a slot 298 adapted to receive the end portion 296 of the first spring end 290.

To secure the coil spring to the divider, the end portion 296 is inserted into the slot 298. Once the end point portion 296 is fully inserted into the slot 298, the angled portion 292 engages the slot 298 to secure the first spring end 290 to the divider 266.

As shown in fig. 33, various pusher mechanism designs may be implemented. The pusher plate 287 may be formed flat to accommodate a correspondingly shaped product. Alternatively, the advancer plate 286 may have a curved first end and a flat second end. This serves to accommodate various cylindrical products having different sized diameters and assists in the operation of the pusher mechanism 286. During operation, the product in the pusher mechanism 286, along with the curved first end, urges the pusher mechanism against the divider 266, such that during tensioning or operation, the coil spring 30 remains flat against the divider 266 holding the first spring end 290. This allows for smoother operation of the pusher mechanism and ensures that product is dispensed more properly as the user removes product from the system.

In another exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 40-41D, the distance between dividers 266 can be adjusted to accommodate different sized containers. The divider 266 may be provided with a connecting portion 272. The connecting portion 272 may be provided with a first elongated angled surface 268 and a second elongated angled surface 270. In addition, the connection portion 272 may be provided with a plurality of protrusions 274. As shown in fig. 41B, the guide rail may be formed from teeth 278 having a front surface 280 and a side surface 282.

When assembled, as shown in FIG. 41C, the connecting portion 272 is received between the teeth 278 of the rail. In addition, elongated

angled surfaces

268 and 270 and protrusion 274 are wedged between teeth 278. As also shown in fig. 41C, the elongated

angled surfaces

268 and 270 engage the front surface 280 and the projection 274 engages the side surface 282 of the tooth 278 to secure the connection portion 272 between the rails.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 42, the carrier 306 is provided with dovetail slot connections. The first side 308 of the bracket 306 is provided with a tongue 312 that is adapted to fit within a groove 314 positioned on the second side 310 of the bracket 306. To attach the bracket, groove 314 is aligned with tongue 312 so that tongue 312 is securely seated within groove 314.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 43, the cradle 306 is configured to receive the retainer 250 at the front end. The holder may be provided with a rectangular hole 300, the holder being provided with a correspondingly sized and shaped protrusion 302. To secure the retainer 250 to the bracket 306, the tabs 302 fit into the apertures 300 to lock the retainer in place on the bracket 306.

As shown in FIGS. 45-47, after the product management display system is assembled, the product is loaded into the system. By adjusting the divider 266, a variety of different product sizes and shapes can be loaded into the system. As shown in fig. 46 and 47, the coil spring 30 combined with the pusher plate 287 pushes the product toward the holder 250. As the user removes the product from the system, the pusher plate 287 pushes the remaining product so that the product slides along the bottom plate 264 to the holder 250. This ensures that all products remain at the front of the display system.

As shown in FIGS. 50-52, product management display system 400 may be arranged such that

brackets

402, 404 may be stacked upon one another. This embodiment may generally include a first bracket 402, a second bracket 404, a first spacer 406, and a second spacer 408.

The

carriers

402, 404 are each configured to hold a product to be dispensed. The first bracket 402 and the second bracket 404 may each be provided with a free holder 410, a pusher mechanism 412, first and second guide walls, and a coil spring 414.

The pusher mechanism 414 is arranged in a similar manner to the embodiments described above so that when product is removed it slides along the surface of the

carriers

402, 404. In addition, any of the alternative arrangements of the pusher mechanisms described above may be implemented in a stackable carrier arrangement.

To provide for easy assembly and disassembly, the stackable product management display system may be provided with a dovetail connection or any other suitable connection, such as a snap-fit connection, a screw threaded connection, or a riveted connection. The first and second brackets are provided with notches 416 for assembling the first and

second spacers

406, 408 to the first and

second brackets

402, 404. Each of the first and

second brackets

402, 404 may be provided with a slot 418 on their respective outer surfaces for receiving a correspondingly shaped notch 416 on the first and

second spacers

406, 408.

To assemble the stackable product management display system, notches 416 on the first and

second spacers

406, 408 are positioned to lock into correspondingly shaped slots 418 placed into the outer surfaces of the first and

second brackets

402, 404. This provides a stackable arrangement that can be implemented in conjunction with any of the embodiments described above.

53-55 illustrate another example merchandise display system similar to the examples described herein, wherein like reference numerals are used to identify like components. However, in this example, additional product retention members 544b may be provided to limit movement of the last product P of the product row.

Similar to the embodiments described above, the example carrier 512 may define a surface 516 and one or more partitions, plates, or dividers 518 to move products therein. Surface 516 may be a solid surface, or a surface defining a plurality of spaced apart holes, the holes being spaced apart by a plurality of support ribs as described again. Surface 516 may be made of any suitable material that allows for slidable movement of the product over surface 516.

In this example, surface 516 provides a single row for positioning a plurality of products. In alternative aspects, the tray 512 may be a shelf or any other surface upon which a single row or multiple rows of products may be disposed for sale. For example, a plurality of dividers may be provided to divide the tray into a plurality of rows for arranging the products. Other surface or floor configurations are known and may be used with the principles of this specification.

In this example, the surface 516 may define a rounded end portion 524 that includes a slot 526 for receiving an end of a coil spring 530. The end portions 524 may be rounded to match the shape of the product disposed on the carrier. For example, the illustrated end portion 524 is rounded or defines a semi-circular shape to match the contour of a container, bottle, or jar that may be disposed in the carrier and on the end portion 524. Other shaped end portions may be used with the present description depending on the product to be vended.

The slot 526 may be used to receive and mount the end 529 of a coil spring 530 or similar biasing element. This configuration will center the coil spring 530 relative to the bracket 512 and will allow the spring to extend in a generally parallel manner relative to the length of the bracket. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the location and configuration of the slots 526 may vary depending on the desired arrangement of the springs.

The coil spring 530 may define an end 529 configured to be disposed in the slot 526. In one aspect, the end 529 of the coil spring may be L-shaped and act as a hook, such that the end 529 will extend downward and engage the slot to retain the end 529 of the coil spring. This configuration allows the coil spring to be easily mounted on the bracket.

The divider 518 may be used to guide the products disposed therein. The dividers 518 extend generally upwardly from the surface 516 and, as shown in fig. 53, may be positioned on opposite sides of the surface 516. However, the divider 518 may be positioned on the bracket 512 or to the surface 516 at any desired location to accommodate various product types. The divider 518 may be formed as an integral structure with the surface 516, or the divider 518 may be removable to provide additional flexibility to the system. Depending on the system, the divider 518 may be attached to either the front rail or the rear rail. The divider 518 may define a plurality of configurations and may extend upwardly any desired distance to provide a desired height of the divider between the rows of products to be vended. The height may be adjustable by adding divider extensions or the like.

A first product retention member 544a may be positioned at the front of the bracket 512, which may extend between the dividers 518. In this example, the product retention members 544a serve as front retaining walls or bars for retaining the product in the tray 512 and preventing the product from falling out of the tray 512. The product retention members 544a are also configured to allow for easy removal of the forwardmost product positioned in the tray 512. Additionally, the first product retention member 544a may be a curvilinear shaped solid retention wall 548a, or any additional retention member described herein. The retaining wall 548a may be transparent or translucent to allow the product on the shelf to be visible. In another aspect, the retaining wall 548a may also extend partially between the dividers 518 so as not to connect the dividers 518. Also as shown in this example, the divider 518 may have a curved portion in the front portion to provide additional product retention in the forward direction of the tray.

Similar to the examples described above, the merchandising system may include a trackless pusher mechanism 514, which may be any of the pusher mechanisms described herein and/or may include one or more of the features and functions of any of the pusher mechanisms disclosed herein. In one example, the pusher mechanism 514 defines a pusher plate or pusher surface 550, a pusher floor 552, and a second product retention member or product holder 544 b. The pusher plate 550, pusher floor 552, and second product retention member 544b may be formed as a single unitary structure, or may be separate structures that are joined together using known techniques, such as any known permanent or removable attachment method. Additionally, the pusher plate 550, the pusher floor 552, and the second product retention member 544b may be made of any known suitable plastic or metal material. The pusher plate 550, pusher floor 552, and second product retention member 544b may be formed from a colored or transparent plastic material. Also, the pusher plate 550, the pusher floor 552, and the second product retention member 544b may be reinforced using any known reinforcement technique.

In one aspect, the pusher plate 550 forms a curvilinear pusher surface or face 554 that is configured to match the shape of a product to be vended, such as a plastic bottle or can containing a beverage. Also, second product retention member 544b may be curvilinear in shape and may be configured to match the shape of the product to be vended. The curvilinear shaped pusher surface 554 and the corresponding curvilinear shaped second product retention member 544b allow the pusher to remain centrally aligned with the last product in the carrier. Advertising, product identification, or other product information may be disposed on the pusher surface 554 or on the second product retention member 544 b.

The pusher floor 552 may be positioned below the pusher plate 550 and may extend forward of the pusher surface 554 of the pusher plate. The pusher floor 552 may extend any predetermined distance at any predetermined angle. For example, the pusher floor 552 may extend generally perpendicular to the pusher surface 554. In an exemplary embodiment, the pusher floor 552 may extend a sufficient distance to allow one product (such as a single bottle or can) to be disposed on the pusher floor. In another aspect, the pusher floor 552 can be configured to allow more than one product to be disposed on the pusher floor. The pusher floor 552 may define any shape, including the circular shape, and may define any product retaining features on the surface of the pusher floor, such as ribs, walls, etc., to further retain product on the pusher floor.

The pusher floor 552 may define an elongated channel, groove, or recessed portion 559 that may be sized, shaped, and configured to receive the coil spring 530. In an exemplary embodiment, the channel or groove 559 may extend partially across the bottom plate 552 and extend in a generally perpendicular manner relative to the pusher plate 550. Such a configuration allows for proper alignment and positioning of the pusher plate 550 in the cradle. The groove 559 may define a depth that matches or exceeds the thickness of the coil spring 530. With this configuration, the coil spring 530 will be placed at or below the pusher floor surface so that the product is not placed directly on the coil spring, but rather the product will be placed on the pusher floor surface. The impeller floor may include holes and openings through which debris or other objects may pass. Alternatively, the base plate may be a solid surface.

The second product retention member 544b may be formed as a curved solid retention wall 548, which may be integrally formed with the pusher mechanism 514. As shown in fig. 53, the second product retention member 544b may extend parallel to the pusher surface 554. The pusher surface 554 and the second product retention member 544b extend upwardly from the pusher floor. Also, the second product retention member 544b may be spaced apart from the pusher surface 544 such that the pusher surface 544, the second product retention member 544b, and the pusher floor 552 define a space for receiving at least one product therein.

The second product retention member 544b is configured to retain at least one product against the pusher surface 554 such that a final product is retained between the pusher surface 554 and the second product retention member 544 b. For example, the product may be a bottle, can, or container and may be configured to fit between the pusher surface 544 and the product retention member 544 b. In one example, the second product retention member 544b may be configured to retain a single container, bottle, or canister against the pusher surface 554, or only one container, bottle, or canister is fitted between the pusher surface 544 and the product retention member 544 b. For example, the tray 512 may hold a plurality of products therein, the second product retention member 544b may be configured to hold a last product of the plurality of products against the pusher surface 554, or the second product retention member 544b may be configured to hold a last product of the row of products. In this manner, the second product retention member 544b may prevent the last product on a tray or shelf from being pushed by the pusher mechanism on the first holder 544a onto another shelf or floor. In addition, the second product retention member 544b retains the last product in an upright position on the tray or shelf.

The second product retention members 544b may be configured to extend between the dividers 552 and may abut the dividers 552, or the dividers 552 and the second product retention members 544b may define gaps on either side of the tray 512. In one example, the second product retention member 544b can be formed to be transparent so that a consumer can see the product through the retainer 554 b.

Additionally, the second product retention member 544b may be a curved shaped solid retention wall 548b, or any additional retention member described herein. The retaining wall 548b may be transparent or translucent to allow the product on the shelf to be visible. In another aspect, the retaining wall 548b may also extend partially between the dividers 518 so as not to connect the dividers 518.

As with the previous example, in use, as the pusher mechanism 514 is pushed rearward in the bracket 512, the end 529 of the helical spring 530 will remain in place as described above and the helical end of the spring 530 will begin to unwind behind the pusher plate 550. If the pusher 514 is allowed to move forward in the tray 514, such as when product is removed from the tray front, the helical end of the spring 530 will wind and push the pusher plate 550 forward in the tray 512, thereby urging product toward the tray front.

As in some examples described herein, the trackless pusher mechanism 514 is shown mounted to the bracket 512. As shown, the pusher mechanism 514 fits between the dividers 518 in the carrier 512. In use, the pusher mechanism 514 will slide along the surface 516 of the bracket 512 without the use of rails, or guides.

As in some examples described herein, the weight of the product on the pusher floor 552 and the positioning of the product across the spring 530 prevent the plate 550 from tipping in the tray 12. In use, as one product is removed from the front of the tray adjacent the product retention members 544, the pusher mechanism 514 (by pushing the coil spring 530) will push the remaining products forward in the tray 512 until the forward-most product contacts the product retention members 544. As additional product is removed, the pusher mechanism 514 will continue to push the remaining product toward the product retention member 544 a.

Additionally, the last product in the product row may be retained between the second product retention member 544b and the pusher surface 554 such that the last product in the product row is retained in the pusher mechanism 514 and prevented from falling off the bracket 511. In some cases, a larger product retention member 544a may be desired to prevent the last container or vial from falling on product retention member 544 a. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to have a smaller product retention member 544 a. However, when smaller product retaining members are used, the last container may drop onto product retaining member 544 a. Thus, securing the last vial with the second product retention member 544b may help prevent the last container from being pushed onto the product retention member while enabling the use of a smaller product retention member 544 a.

Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present invention. For example, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a plurality of the components may be used in a store in various configurations. The present invention is therefore not limited to a single system nor to the vertical putter configuration shown in the drawings, as this system is only exemplary of the features, teachings and principles of the present specification. It will also be understood that the examples defined herein may be applied to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features described or evident from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present description. The embodiments described herein explain the best modes known for practicing the invention and will enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention. The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

Various features of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A pusher mechanism for a product management display system having a surface, comprising:

propeller surface;

product holder, extending parallel to the pusher surface;

a pusher floor extending forwardly from the pusher surface, the pusher floor being configured to allow at least one product to be seated on the pusher floor, the pusher floor being positionable on and movable across at least a portion of the surface of the display system; and

coil spring;

wherein the pusher mechanism rests on top of, and does not extend below, the surface of the display system, is positionable on the surface of the display system, and is mounted to and held to the display system by a coil spring;

wherein the coil spring includes a helical end positioned behind the propeller surface;

wherein the propeller base plate is substantially parallel to the surface of the display system;

wherein the pusher surface and the product holder extend upwardly from the pusher base, the product holder being spaced apart from the pusher surface such that the pusher surface, the product holder and the pusher base define a space for receiving at least one product therein ,

Wherein the product holder holds the last of the at least one product against the pusher surface.

2. The pusher mechanism of claim 1, wherein the product is a bottle and the bottle is configured to fit between the pusher surface and the product holder.

3. The pusher mechanism of claim 2, wherein only one bottle is allowed to fit between the pusher surface and the product holder.

4. The pusher mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pusher surface is concave.

5. The pusher mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pusher base plate defines a channel for receiving the coil spring.

6. The pusher mechanism of claim 1, wherein the coil spring extends across at least a portion of the pusher floor and is operably attached behind the pusher surface.

7. The pusher mechanism of claim 1, wherein the pusher mechanism is mounted to the surface of the display system only by means of coil springs.

8. A product management display system, comprising:

a bracket defining a surface configured to hold a row of products;

a first product holder configured to prevent the product from falling off the rack;

a pusher mechanism having a pusher surface, a second product holder extending parallel to the pusher surface, the pusher mechanism configured to slide across at least a portion of the surface of the carrier;

a helical spring having a helical end and a forward end positioned behind the propeller surface;

at least one divider for holding the products in rows;

wherein the pusher mechanism is configured to sit on top of the carrier surface and not extend below it;

wherein the pusher mechanism is mounted to the surface of the display system by means of a coil spring;

wherein the pusher surface and the second product holder extend upwardly from the pusher floor, the product holder being spaced from the pusher surface for receiving at least one product therein,

Wherein the second product holder holds the last of the at least one product against the pusher surface.

9. The product management display system of claim 8, wherein the pusher surface and the second product holder define a space configured to receive the last product of the row.

10. The product management display system of claim 9, wherein the product is a bottle and the space is configured to receive only one bottle.

11. The product management display system of claim 8, wherein the pusher mechanism is mounted to the surface of the display system only by means of coil springs.

12. The product management display system of claim 8, further comprising a first divider and a second divider, and wherein the first product holder and the second product holder are configured to overlap the first divider and the second divider. Extends between the two dividers.

13. The product management display system of claim 8, wherein at least a portion of the coil spring extends across at least a portion of the carrier surface to the front portion of the carrier.

14. The product management display system of claim 8, wherein the first product holder and the second product holder are transparent.

15. A product management display system, comprising:

a bracket, defining a surface for holding a plurality of products;

a first product holder configured to prevent the plurality of products from falling off the rack;

a pusher mechanism including a pusher surface, a second product holder, a coil spring, and a pusher base plate extending forwardly from the pusher surface, the pusher base plate configured to allow at least one product on the pusher surface and the second product holder mounted on a thruster base plate, which can be positioned on the carrier surface and can be moved across it;

wherein the pusher mechanism rests on top of the cradle surface and does not extend below it, and is mounted to the cradle and held to the display system only by coil springs;

Wherein, the second product holder is configured to hold the last of the plurality of products.

16. The product management display system of claim 15, wherein the pusher surface is concave.

17. The product management display system of claim 15, wherein the pusher base plate defines a plurality of apertures.

18. The product management display system of claim 15, wherein the pusher surface, the pusher floor, and the second product holder are configured to hold a single bottle.

19. The product management display system of claim 15, further comprising a first divider and a second divider, and wherein the first product holder and the second product holder are configured to overlap the first divider and the second product holder. Extends between the two dividers.

20. The product management display system of claim 15, wherein the first product holder and the second product holder are transparent.