JP2025524497A - Module, modular conveying and display unit for conveying and displaying products, and related methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying the products within the store is disclosed. The module includes a shelf adapted to receive products thereon and at least one reconfigurable support structure. When so supported, the at least one reconfigurable support structure is adapted to be unfolded to support one or more additional modules that collectively form the modular transport and display unit with the initial module. The at least one reconfigurable support structure is also adapted to be stored within the shelf, such that each module, and thus the modular unit, can be easily disassembled by a store operator for return to the distribution center without damaging any of the components.
[Selected Figure] Figure 51B

Description

This application relates to a module for a modular transport and display unit. In particular, this application relates to a module for a modular transport and display unit of the type that can be used to load products onto for transport to a store and then seamlessly and easily used with minimal effort to display the products in the store, for example, in conjunction with special product offers.

This application also relates to modular transport and display units and related methods for assembling or collapsing the modules and/or modular transport and display units for loading products thereon or for returning the modules and/or transport and display units to a service center, respectively, before they can be used again to transport and display new products after repair, cleaning, or reconditioning as necessary.

In the quest for a truly circular economy, it is becoming increasingly important to reduce or eliminate single-use packaging and adopt pooled product distribution solutions.

Pallets can be used to display products in stores, and they come in a range of suitable sizes, such as full pallets, half pallets, and quarter pallets, but they can be unattractive and inconvenient for consumers.

To attract consumer attention while maintaining ease of transport, conventional transport and display units are available that are effectively constructed on a transport platform, such as a pallet or a pallet on wheels ("dolly"). These units may be decorated on-site or prior to transport with promotional materials, typically made from cardboard, such as advertising strips, banners, or boards. Additionally, some of these units may be reconfigurable, bendable, or foldable, which greatly facilitates roundness, and when a product is sold or a special offer ends, store operators can fold or disassemble these units for return and reuse. However, before the units can be reused, they may need to be repaired, cleaned, or otherwise reconditioned. These operations may be expensive or time-consuming.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved solution that is more convenient, easier to handle, and/or easier to readjust if necessary, while still being attractive to consumers and easy for store operators to operate.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying the products within the store, the module comprising: a shelf (or tray) adapted to receive products thereon; and at least one reconfigurable support structure adapted to be unfolded in a first assembled configuration, the support structure adapted to support one or more further such modules such that all the modules collectively form the transport and display unit, and adapted to be stored in a second folded configuration.

Such independent modules can be further combined with one or more modules of the same type to provide a complete or more complete transport and display unit, creating a robust yet easy to operate transport and display solution that has good maneuverability, is easy to operate and use in the store and is easy to return for reuse.

At least one reconfigurable support structure may be rotatably positioned relative to the shelf or tray.

The shelf or tray may include a lip adapted to hold products on the shelf or tray. The lip can at least partially surround the shelf or tray. However, it is preferred that the lip completely surround the shelf or tray, such as by being integrally formed with the shelf or tray, for example, as a skirt extending perpendicularly from the shelf or tray. The skirt can extend from the edge of the shelf or tray to maximize the number of products that can be accommodated on the shelf or tray.

In a preferred configuration, the at least one reconfigurable support structure and lip may be integrated so that maximum space can be retained on a shelf or tray for products. For example, the reconfigurable support structure and lip may be adapted to form a pivotable connection or may be joined/connected by a pivotable connection. In other words, the at least one reconfigurable support structure may be pivotally connected to the lip, e.g., shelf, rather than elsewhere on the module, as this further maximizes the load capacity of the module.

This disclosure particularly focuses on how the reconfigurable support structure and the edge may be integrated. For example, the reconfigurable support structure in the assembled configuration may be provided adjacent to, proximate to, or part of a particular area thereof, such as an edge or corner, or may be a component thereof. Thus, when the reconfigurable support structure is assembled, much of the available space on the tray or shelf may be left to accommodate products for transport and/or display.

The reconfigurable support structures may include one or more stems that may be positioned adjacent to, proximate to, or incorporated as part of, the shelf edge. The pivotable connection may include at least one pin that may be provided on each stem and at least one guide that may be provided on the shelf edge to receive the pin and guide the movement so that at least one reconfigurable support structure can rotate and/or translate relative to the shelf, such that the pivotable ends of the stems can clear the shelf edge during reconfiguration.

This configuration is advantageous in that the stem may be positioned adjacent or close to the lip, or may form part of the lip itself, to maximize space for products on the shelf, but may clear the lip upon rotation to reconfigure the reconfigurable support structure. Of course, alternatively, at least one pin may be provided on the lip and at least one guide may be provided on the stem.

Preferably, at least one pin is provided at a pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure, which may be a pivotable end of a stem. At least one guide may be provided in the form of a slot, in particular as a notch cutting into the edge of a (relatively thin) shelf.

The pivotable connections may be positioned so that throughout the reconfiguration of the reconfigurable support structure, the minimum distance between the pivotable ends of the reconfigurable support structure, measured from the base of the stem, i.e., between the stem base and the lip, is less than a predetermined value. It is important that the support structure have a clean lip when reconfigured, and that in the assembled position, the support structure leaves as much space as possible on the shelf or tray of the module.

The pivotable connection may include upper and lower pins provided at a pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure, such as the proximal end of the stem, and two respective upper and lower slots provided at the edge of the shelf to guide the movement of the two respective pins. The lower slot may extend linearly along the edge of the shelf, and the upper slot may be arcuate with a downwardly facing concave surface. Forming the slots according to these shapes can facilitate simultaneous and/or sequential translation and/or rotation of at least one reconfigurable support structure, which may be required for the stem base to clear the edge during reconfiguration of the reconfigurable support structure.

The upper slot may form a retaining cusp at its end for retaining the at least one support structure in the first or second configuration. However, the lip may alternatively and/or additionally comprise a resiliently flexible retainer for retaining the at least one support structure in the first or second configuration. However, other types of retainers may be provided.

Each reconfigurable support structure may comprise a pair of opposing pivotable stems and a bridge connecting the distal ends of each of the pivotable stems. This arrangement is particularly simple and robust.

The stem may be L-shaped in cross section and positioned so that each angle formed by the L faces the shelf, which is also a simple means of saving or contributing to the saving of space above the shelf for any products stored thereon.

The bridge may include a pair of opposing brackets positioned to engage the distal ends of the pivotable stems. The pair of opposing brackets may have different shapes, but a preferred shape is L-shaped to match the cross-sectional shape of each L-shaped stem.

A module may include two reconfigurable support structures positioned at opposite ends of a shelf or tray.

Furthermore, the modules may be arranged such that the two reconfigurable support structures are folded inwardly toward the shelf from their respective first assembled positions, with their respective second folded positions being reached by equal and opposite stowing movements. In this arrangement, the reconfigurable support structures may be stowed intuitively and/or neatly.

At least one reconfigurable support structure may be extendable in addition to being reconfigurable. This will be appreciated as being particularly advantageous in relation to the modularity of the arrangement. When multiple modules are stacked on top of each other, variable and/or adjustable spacing between shelves or trays can be easily achieved by changing the length of each support structure. This naturally allows different products, or different sizes of the same product, e.g., beverages or cosmetics, to be efficiently stored in the modular unit, thereby saving space and maintaining compactness.

The bridge may be adapted to be positioned in at least a first fully retracted position and a second fully extended position relative to the two stems. These may be the only two positions the bridge is configured to assume, or of course there may be any number of intermediate configurations. Preferably, the bridge may be telescopically extendable. The stem-engaging brackets may each be slidably positioned on a respective stem.

Advantageously, the bridge may incorporate an actuation mechanism arranged such that the bridge may be extended or retracted upon actuation of the actuation mechanism. The mechanism may be manually actuatable, for example, by a store operator.

Preferably, the actuation mechanism may comprise one or more bolts and biasing means for biasing the bolts into the extended configuration. In the extended configuration, the bolts may engage one or more of the brackets and/or stems of the reconfigurable support structure, for example with a set of openings or recesses provided thereon for this purpose. The actuation mechanism may be configured such that actuation of the actuation mechanism retracts the bolts against the biasing means.

In a particularly preferred arrangement, the shelves are generally rectangular. Preferably, the shelves are sized to correspond to the size of a pallet or dolly, or to the size of half a pallet or dolly. More preferably, the shelves are sized to correspond to the size of a quarter pallet or dolly.

Each reconfigurable support structure may be provided adjacent to, next to, on, or close to a short side of a rectangular shelf or tray, thereby facilitating access (from at least one of the long sides of the rectangle) to any product supported on the shelf. Each pivotable stem may be provided at a respective corner of the rectangular shelf to conserve additional space above the shelf for accommodating products thereon. Each bridge may extend parallel to and have the same length as the corresponding short side of the rectangular shelf. In cases where the shelf or tray has a lip or skirt extending perpendicularly from it, the reconfiguration motion of the reconfigurable support structure may be a two-dimensional rotation/translation substantially parallel to the lip or skirt or on a notional or reference plane that also accommodates the lip or skirt.

At least one reconfigurable support structure may be sized and positioned such that in its second, folded configuration it lies completely within the lip. This prevents or reduces accidental damage to the module, for example, during transport to a repair and/or reconditioning facility before the module can be reused.

Both reconfigurable support structures may be sized and positioned to lie completely inside the lip when both support structures are configured in the second folded configuration.

Preferably, the above conditions are also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended, so that the store operator does not necessarily have to retract the bridge to be able to store the reconfigurable support structures in a flat, safe configuration.

Furthermore, at least one reconfigurable support structure may be sized and positioned to lie flat in a second, folded configuration with a footprint that is fully contained within the shelf, which propagates the above-referenced advantages even further.

Furthermore, both reconfigurable support structures may be sized and positioned such that when both support structures are configured in the second folded configuration, they lie flat and their respective footprints are contained entirely within the shelf.

Preferably, the above conditions are also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended.

The underside of the shelf may be configured to fit snugly over additional modules and/or over the loading surface of a pallet or dolly to increase the stability of the unit.

The lip or skirt may be provided with one or more recesses or handles to facilitate handling of the module by a user or the like, who can then better grip the module with their hands via the one or more recesses or handles.

Furthermore, in the first assembled configuration, at least one support structure may be configured to be snugly received by the underside of one or more further such modules to also enhance the stability of the unit in the assembled configuration.

Finally, the at least one reconfigurable support structure may include one or more mechanisms constructed and arranged to hold a packaging element, such as a cardboard sheet, in place when the at least one reconfigurable support structure is in a first assembled configuration. The packaging element or cardboard sheet may prevent access to the product, for example, during transport to a store. The mechanisms may include one or more tongues configured to hold the packaging element in place. Preferably, this is done in cooperation with at least a portion of the lip. Alternatively or additionally, the mechanisms may include one or more slits configured to hold the packaging element in place. Preferably, this is done in cooperation with another reconfigurable support structure described herein. The tongues or slits may be configured to position the packaging element flush with an outer surface of the lip and/or one or more outer surfaces of the associated support structure.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying the products within the store is provided, the unit comprising at least a first module as described herein. The first module may comprise at least one assembled reconfigurable support structure as described herein. The first module may comprise at least one folded reconfigurable support structure as described herein.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a combination of a module as described herein or a modular transport and display unit also as described herein with a corresponding pallet or dolly. Preferably, the module, modular unit, and pallet or dolly are sized to correspond to a quarter pallet size.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of assembling and/or folding a module described herein or a modular unit described herein, the method including deploying at least one folded reconfigurable support structure described herein in a first assembled configuration and/or storing at least one assembled reconfigurable support structure described herein in a second folded configuration.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of preparing a modular transport and display unit as described herein, the method comprising:
providing a first module as described herein and deploying at least one folded reconfigurable support structure as described herein in a first assembled configuration;
stacking at least one additional assembled module as described herein onto the first module;
loading the unit with one or more products, optionally by placing them on either the shelves of the first or further module(s) of the modular unit;
Includes:

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of folding a modular carry and display unit as described herein, the method comprising:
providing a first module as described herein and housing at least one assembled reconfigurable support structure as described herein in a second, folded configuration;
stacking at least one additional folded module onto the first module;
Optionally, unloading the modular unit by removing one or more products from any of the shelves of the first or further module(s);
Includes:

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying the products within the store, the module comprising:
a shelf adapted to receive an article thereon;
and at least one removable support structure adapted to support one or more further such modules, such that all the modules collectively form a carrier and display unit.

The various aspects described herein, and the features disclosed in connection with each of such aspects, may be combined with one another unless otherwise specified or unless there are specific technical considerations that prevent such combinations.

The present modules and units, and associated methods, will now be described by way of example with reference to the following drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fixed reusable stand-alone display unit (RFSDU). FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the RFSDU of FIG. 1; FIG. 1 is a front view of a fully assembled fixed RFSDU with the trays in a first orientation. FIG. 10 is a front view of a fully assembled fixed RFSDU with the trays in a second orientation. FIG. 10 is a front view of a fully assembled fixed RFSDU with the trays in a third configuration. FIG. 10 is a front view of a fully assembled fixed RFSDU with trays in a fourth configuration. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first connector of the RFSDU of FIG. 1; FIG. 6 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 5 . FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the connector of FIG. 5 . FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the connector of FIG. 5 . FIG. 6 is a side view of the connector of FIG. 5 . FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 5 mounted on a fixed pallet base, further including column supports. FIG. 10 is a top view of the second connector mounted on the fixed pallet base. FIG. 1 is a top view of a fixed pallet base. FIG. 12B is an enlarged top view of the engagement mechanism of the fixed pallet base of FIG. 12A. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the connector and fixed pallet base of FIG. 11 further including side and rear column supports. FIG. 1 is a side view of the fixed RFSDU fully assembled and extended. FIG. 14B is a front view of the RFSDU of FIG. 14A. FIG. 1 is a front view of a partially assembled wheeled RFSDU. FIG. 1 is a front view of a fully assembled wheeled RFSDU. FIG. 12 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 11 showing the position of the column support base region in the first layout. FIG. 12 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 11 showing the position of the column support base region in a second layout. FIG. 12 is a top view of the connector of FIG. 11 showing the position of the column support base region in a third layout. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fixed RFSDU main structure and associated trays in a first transport configuration. FIG. 1 is a side view of the wheeled RFSDU main structure in a folded configuration. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the fixed RFSDU main structure with the aft strut support partially assembled. FIG. 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the connector nesting point and the slider of the rear strut support. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the rear strut support base area connected to the rear strut support slider. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the side column support base area connected to the side column support slider. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fixed RFSDU main structure showing the partially assembled aft strut support being moved horizontally into position. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the fixed RFSDU main structure of FIG. 23 showing the partially assembled aft strut support lowered into place. FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the connector and column support base engagement mechanism in a folded configuration. FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the column support base engagement mechanism of FIG. 25; FIG. 26 is a side view of the column support base engagement mechanism of FIG. 25 in a folded configuration. FIG. 26 is a side cross-sectional view of the column support base engagement mechanism of FIG. 25 in a folded configuration. FIG. 27 is a side cross-sectional view of the column support base engagement mechanism of FIG. 26 in an assembled configuration. FIG. 1 is a front view of the wheeled RFSDU fully assembled and extended. FIG. 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a telescoping extension mechanism of the column support. FIG. 30B is a front cross-sectional view of the telescoping extension mechanism of FIG. 30A. FIG. 31 is a front cross-sectional view of the telescoping extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a first position. FIG. 31 is a front cross-sectional view of the telescoping extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a second position. FIG. 31 is a front cross-sectional view of the telescoping extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a third position. FIG. 31 is a front cross-sectional view of the telescoping extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a fourth position. FIG. 10 is a second perspective view of the telescoping extension mechanism of the side support in a partially extended configuration. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the fixed RFSDU with the side and rear column supports assembled and the telescoping extension mechanisms of the supports in a retracted configuration. FIG. 34B is a perspective view of a user extending the telescoping extension mechanism of the rear strut support of the assembled RFSDU of FIG. 34A from a retracted configuration. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the telescoping extension mechanism of FIG. 33, with the rear column support in a fully extended configuration, immediately after being extended by a user. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the RFSDU of FIG. 33 with the telescoping extension mechanisms of the side and rear column supports in a fully extended configuration. FIG. FIG. 35B is a side view of the tray of FIG. 35A. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the tray inserted into the fixed RFSDU fully assembled and extended. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a user inserting a tray through a slot in a fully assembled and extended fixed RFSDU. FIG. 37B is a perspective view of the RFSDU of FIG. 37A with the tray fully inserted into the slot of FIG. 37A. 38 shows an enlarged perspective view of a tray inserted into one of the side column support slots of FIG. 37. FIG. FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the side column support slot. FIG. 39B is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of the side column support slot of FIG. 39A showing the flexible tray engagement mechanism. FIG. 10 shows a side cross-sectional view of the flexible tray engagement mechanism in a depressed position. FIG. 41 shows a side cross-sectional view of the flexible tray engagement mechanism of FIG. 40 in an unfolded state. FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the rear strut support showing the first locking mechanism. FIG. 42B is an enlarged exploded view of the first locking mechanism of FIG. 42A. FIG. 42B is an enlarged side view of a tray being inserted into the first locking mechanism of FIG. 42A. FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the rear strut support showing the second locking mechanism. FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the rear strut support showing the third locking mechanism. FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the rear strut support showing the fourth locking mechanism. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a user removing the bottom tray from the fully assembled RFSDU. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fully assembled and extended RFSDU and trays stacked apart. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a user retracting the telescoping extension mechanisms of the side column supports of a fully assembled and extended RFSDU. FIG. 46B is a perspective view of the user folding down the pivoting extension mechanism of the side column support of FIG. 46A. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a partially assembled RFSDU. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a partially assembled RFSDU showing which direction each column support should move to enter the transport position. FIG. 48B is a perspective view of the partially assembled RFSDU of FIG. 48A showing the partially assembled column supports in a delivery position. FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the partially assembled RFSDU of FIG. 47 with one of the side column supports in a partially folded position. FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the RFSDU of FIG. 47 in a transport position with the trays stacked apart. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the RFSDU in two stacking and transport positions of trays stacked on top of each other in an alternating manner. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of two RFSDUs in a transport position stacked on top of each other. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary foldable module comprising two foldable support structures in a stowed configuration. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an assembled module. FIG. 51B is a perspective view of the module of FIG. 51A removably attached to a pallet base. FIG. 51C is a perspective view of the module of FIG. 51B removably attached to a pallet base. FIG. 51C is a perspective view of the module of FIG. 51B in an assembled and extended configuration. FIG. 53B is a perspective view of the module of FIG. 53A removably attached to a pallet base. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stack of seven assembled modules removably attached to a pallet base forming an exemplary transport and display unit. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a stack of four folded modules forming a folded transport and display unit removably attached to a pallet base. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module described herein in a first position. FIG. 55B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism of FIG. 55A. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module described herein in a second position. FIG. 56B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism of FIG. 56A. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module described herein in a third position. FIG. 57B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism of FIG. 57A. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module described herein in a fourth position. FIG. 58B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism of FIG. 58A. 59 is a side view of the hinge mechanism of the foldable module of FIGS. 51 to 58 in a first position. FIG. FIG. 58B is an enlarged side view of the hinge mechanism of FIG. 58A. FIG. 60 is a side view of the hinge mechanism of FIG. 59 in a second position. FIG. 60B is an enlarged side view of the hinge mechanism of FIG. 60A. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pallet base adapter. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first fully assembled exemplary transport and display unit (or RFSDU) including a cardboard dress with product. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary fully assembled transport and display unit (or RFSDU) with a first cardboard dress added thereto. FIG. 62B is a perspective view of the transport and display unit of FIG. 62A with a first cardboard dress installed thereon. FIG. 62B is a perspective view of the transport and display unit of FIG. 62A with a second cardboard dress installed thereon. FIG. 62B is a perspective view of the transport and display unit of FIG. 62A with a third cardboard dress installed therein. FIG. 12 is a front view of a second fully assembled exemplary transport and display unit (or RFSDU) including a cardboard dress with product. FIG. 2 is a top view of a tray containing products arranged in a first configuration. FIG. 10 is a top view of a tray containing products arranged in a second configuration. FIG. 1 is a detailed schematic diagram of the RFSDU usage cycle. FIG. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a second exemplary foldable module comprising two foldable support structures in an assembled and extended configuration. FIG. 67 is a side view of the hinge mechanism of the foldable module of FIG. 66. FIG. 67 is an enlarged side view of the hinge mechanism of the foldable module of FIG. 66. FIG. 67 is a bottom view of the pin of the hinge mechanism of the foldable module of FIG. 66. FIG. 68B is a side view of the pin of FIG. 68A. FIG. 68B is a top view of the pin of FIG. 68A. FIG. 68B is a perspective view of the pin of FIG. 68A. FIG. 67 is a perspective view of the internal support of the foldable module of FIG. 66. FIG. 69B is an enlarged perspective view of the internal strut of FIG. 69A.

Similar features across different configurations are generally labeled using the same reference numerals. Features described in connection with any one of the aspects of this disclosure may also be provided in any other of the aspects disclosed herein, unless there is a specific reason why such a combination may not be possible.

Axes System The axis system in Figure 1, depicted for orientation purposes, indicates a first direction 10, a second direction 20, and a third direction 30 with respect to the orientation of the RFSDU. The first direction 10 may be considered to be a location reference in the width dimension, from right to left. The second direction 20 may be considered to be a location reference in the height dimension, from bottom to top. The third direction 30 may be considered to be a location reference in the depth dimension, from back to front.

1 and 2, a reusable freestanding display unit (RFSDU) 100 according to the arrangement of the present disclosure includes a pallet base 120, a connector 140, at least one column support 160, and at least one tray 220. The RFSDU shown in FIG. 1 is fully assembled, fully assembled, fully extended, and with the desired number of trays inserted.

The pallet base 120 is used to support the connectors and column supports of the RFSDU. The connectors are used to connect the column supports to the pallet base 120. The column supports are used to support the trays 220. The trays 220 are used to support the products.

The pallet base 120 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is a fixed pallet base 125. In other arrangements, the pallet base 120 may be a wheeled pallet base 130.

With reference to Figures 1 and 2, there are three column supports 160. In other arrangements, there may be more column supports 160, such as four or five, or fewer column supports, such as one or two. Each of the column supports 160 may be a side column support 170 or a rear column support 200. In this example, there are two side column supports 170 and one rear column support 200. Each of the side column supports 170 may be a left column support 180 or a right column support 190. In this example, one of the side column supports 170 is the left column support 180 and the other side column support 170 is the right column support 190. In other arrangements not shown, one of the column supports 160 may be a front column support.

The trays 220 are supported by the column supports 160 at intervals. These intervals may be regular, with the distance between adjacent trays 220 being substantially the same, or irregular, with the distance between adjacent trays 220 varying.

1 and 2 show five trays 220, but fewer trays 220, such as one, two, or three, may be used, or more trays, such as six, seven, eight, nine, or ten. The distance between the connector 240 and the lower tray may be the same as the distance between each adjacent tray, or may be different, such as smaller or larger. Figures 3A-4B show fully assembled RFSDUs with different numbers of trays. In Figure 3A, there are seven trays, each spaced a fixed distance from its adjacent tray. In Figure 3A, the distance between the connector 240 and the lower tray is greater than the distance between each adjacent tray. The arrangement shown in Figure 3B has six trays, with the top five trays spaced a fixed distance apart and the lower tray spaced further apart. In Figure 4A, there are five spaced a fixed distance apart, and the distance between the connector 240 and the lower tray is greater than the distance between each adjacent tray. In FIG. 4B, there are four trays set at regular intervals, and the distance between the connector 240 and the lower tray is less than the distance between each adjacent tray.

Connector The connector 140 is removably attached to the pallet base 120. Referring now to Figures 5-9, the connector 140 includes sides 250, 251, 252, and 253 and at least one reinforcement feature 152. The reinforcement feature 152 is for reinforcing areas of the connector 140. In this arrangement, the connector 140 includes four sides and three reinforcement features 152. In other arrangements, the connector 140 may include fewer or more sides 250, 251, 252, and 253 and/or one, two, four, five, or more connector reinforcement features 152. In this arrangement, the four sides of the connector 140 are a connector front side 250, a connector rear side 251, a connector left side 252, and a connector right side 253. At least one of the connector reinforcement features 152 can be a connector corner reinforcement feature 153, and the third reinforcement feature 152 can be a connector midsection reinforcement feature 154. The connector corner reinforcement features 153 reinforce areas of the connector 140 where the sides share a boundary with one another. In this example, the two connector corner reinforcement features 153 are both located adjacent to the same side 252. The connector midsection reinforcement feature 154 is located along the length of one side 253 and is not directly adjacent to any other side.

The connector 140 has a connector width 240, a connector height 241, and a connector depth 242. The connector 140 has a connector top surface 244 that extends in the same direction as the connector width 240 and the same direction as the connector depth 242. The top surface 244 of the connector 140 is substantially rectangular in outline, having four substantially straight sides, opposing pairs of which are clearly perpendicular to each other, and adjacent sides of unequal length. The top surface 244 of the connector 140 includes a connector interior edge 141 that defines the boundary of the connector's main cross section. The boundary of the connector's main cross section defined by the connector interior edge 141 has a greater surface area than the surface area of the connector top surface 244, which includes the connector sides 250, 251, 252, 253 and the reinforcing features 152, 153, 154. The connector width 240 and the connector depth 242 may each be greater than the connector height 241.

The connector 140 further includes at least one connector post support guide 142 for receiving and guiding the at least one post support 160. The connector post support guide 142 may be formed as a groove within the connector 140.

In this arrangement, as seen in FIG. 11, there are three column support guides 142, two of which are connector side column support guides 144 and one is a connector rear column support guide 150. Of the two connector side column support guides 144, one is a connector left column support guide 146 and one is a connector right column support guide 148 for accommodating and guiding the left and right column supports, respectively. The connector rear column support guide 150 may be for accommodating the rear column support 200. In other arrangements, the connector 140 may include fewer or more connector column support guides 142, such as one, two, four, or five.

The connector column support guides 142 each extend along at least a portion of one or more connector side surfaces 250, 251, 252, and 253. The left column support guide 146 and the right column support guide 148 extend along at least a portion of the connector left side surface 252 and the connector right side surface 253, respectively. The left column support guide 146 and the right column support guide 148 extend substantially parallel to one another. The rear column support guide 150 extends along at least a portion of the connector rear side surface 251 and along at least a portion of the connector left side surface 252. In this arrangement, the distance the rear column support guide 150 extends along the connector rear side surface 251 is greater than the distance the rear column support guide 150 extends along the connector left side surface 252. In other arrangements, the rear column support guide 150 may extend along at least a portion of the connector rear side surface 251 and the connector right side surface 253.

As seen in FIG. 8, the connector 140 includes a connector fixture 155 for removably attaching the connector 140 to the pallet base 120. The connector fixture 155 may be a U-shaped pin extending from the underside of the connector 140.

Now, referring to FIG. 10, the connector 140 is removably attached to the pallet base 120. The connector 140 may be removably attached to the top of the pallet base 120. As shown, the side column supports 170 are located within the connector side column support guides 144.

The illustrated connector 140 is formed from a single, integral part, but in other examples it may be formed from several parts or may be formed as a single, integral part with the pallet base 120.

Referring now to Figures 12A and 12B, the pallet base 120 may include display mounting mechanisms 255 for removably mounting the display structure 600. The pallet base 120 in the illustrated arrangement includes four display mounting mechanisms 255, although other arrangements may include fewer mounting mechanisms, such as one, two, or three, or more mounting mechanisms, such as six or eight. The display mounting mechanisms 255 do not include any moving parts and may be flush with the top surface of the pallet base 120.

Column Support Introduction Figures 13, 14A, and 14B show a fully assembled and extended RFSDU, including the fixed pallet base 125. The column supports 160 may each include several sections. The column supports 160 may each include a column support first section 161, a column support second section 162, a column support third section 163, a column support base region 164, a column support first hinge 165, and a column support second hinge 166. The column support first section 161 is located adjacent to and nested within the connector 140. The column support first section 161 includes the column support base region 164. The column support base region 164 includes the column support first hinge. The column support first hinge 165 allows the column support 160 to fold substantially parallel to the top surface 244 of the connector 160. The column support first portion 161 is located adjacent to the column support second hinge 166. The column support second hinge 166 is also located adjacent to the column support second portion 162. The column support second hinge 166 allows the entire length of the column support 160 to be pivotally extended. The column support second portion 162 is located adjacent to the column support third portion. The column support second portion 162 may include a tip region 169. The column support third portion 163 extends telescopically from the end of the column support second portion 162.

Column Support Hinges The column support first hinge 165 and the column support second hinge 166 pivot between two configurations: undeployed and fully deployed. Between these two configurations, the column support first hinge 165 and the column support second hinge 166 can be considered partially deployed. When undeployed, the column support first hinge 165 has an opening angle of 0 degrees ±10 degrees. When fully deployed, the column support first hinge has an opening angle of substantially 90 degrees ±10 degrees. When undeployed, the column support second hinge 166 has an opening angle of 0 degrees ±10 degrees. When fully deployed, the column support second hinge has an opening angle of substantially 180 degrees ±20 degrees. In other arrangements, the first hinge 165 of the strut support and the second hinge 166 of the strut support may have different opening angles when undeployed and fully deployed relative to the arrangements described herein, such as opening angles of substantially 45 degrees ± 10 degrees, substantially 135 degrees ± 20 degrees, or substantially 270 degrees ± 20 degrees.

As shown in FIG. 17 , when the strut support 160 is in the folded configuration, the strut support first portion 161 and the strut support second portion 162 extend in a direction substantially parallel to the connector top surface 244. In this folded configuration, the tip region 169 of the strut support second portion 162 is adjacent to the base region 164 of the strut support first portion 161, and the distance between the tip region 169 and the base region 162 is less than the distance between the tip region 169 and the strut support second hinge 166. Furthermore, both the strut support first hinge 165 and the strut support second hinge 166 are undeployed.

Figure 15A shows the wheeled RFSDU 100 with the first hinge of each column support 160 deployed. When the column supports 160 are in a partially assembled configuration, the column support first portion 161 and the column support second portion 162 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connector top surface 244. In this partially assembled configuration, the tip region 169 of the column support second portion 162 is adjacent to the base region 164 of the column support first portion 161, and the distance between the tip region 169 and the base region 162 is less than the distance between the tip region 169 and the column support second hinge 166. In this partially assembled configuration, the column support first hinge 165 is fully deployed, and the column support second hinge 166 is not deployed.

Figure 15B shows the wheeled RFSDU 100 with the first and second hinges of each column support 160 deployed. When the column supports 160 are in a fully assembled configuration, the column support first portion 161 and the column support second portion 162 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connector top surface 244. In this fully assembled configuration, the tip region 169 of the column support second portion 162 is not adjacent to the base region 164 of the column support first portion 161, and the distance between the tip region 169 and the base region 162 is greater than the distance between the tip region 169 and the column support second hinge 166. In this fully assembled configuration, both the column support first hinge 165 and the column support second hinge 166 are fully deployed.

The column supports 160, 170, 180, 190, and 200 include column support slots 167, 177, 187, 197, and 207 for supporting the trays.

Column Support Layouts Reference is now made to Figures 16A-16C and 17. In some configurations, the column supports 160 may be located at various discrete points within each connector column support guide 142, or the connector column support guides 142 may include features to facilitate positioning the column supports 160 at discrete intervals. As seen in Figure 16A, a first layout shows a first base position 541 for the connector left column support guide 146, a first base position 543 for the connector right column support guide 148, and a first base position 545 for the connector rear column support guide 150. Each of the left column support guide 146 and the right column support guide 148 includes a front portion that is closest to the connector front side 250 and a rear portion that is closest to the connector rear side 251. Rear column support guide 150 includes a right portion extending along at least a portion of connector rear side 251 of connector 140 nearest connector right side 253, and a left portion extending along at least a portion of connector left side 252. The left portion of rear column support guide 150 can extend substantially parallel to left column support guide 146.

The first base position 541 is located at the front portion of the connector left support column guide 146 or closer to the front portion of the connector left support column guide 146 than the rear portion of the connector left support column guide 146. The first base position 543 is located at the rear portion of the connector right support column guide 148 or closer to the rear portion of the connector right support column guide 148 than the front portion of the connector right support column guide 148. The first base position 545 is located at the left portion of the connector rear support column guide 150 or closer to the left portion of the connector rear support column guide 150 than the right portion of the connector rear support column guide 150.

As seen in FIG. 16B, the second layout shows a first base position 541 of the connector left column support guide 146, a second base position 544 of the connector right column support guide 148, and a second base position 546 of the rear column support guide 150. The second base position 544 of the connector right column support guide 148 is located at a front portion of the connector right column support guide 148 or closer to the front portion of the connector right column support guide 148 than the rear portion of the connector right column support guide 148. The second base position 546 of the connector rear column support guide 150 is located at a left portion of the connector rear column support guide 150 or closer to the left portion of the connector rear column support guide 150 than the right portion of the connector rear column support guide 150.

As seen in FIG. 16C, the third layout shows a second base position 542 for the connector left column support guide 146, a second base position 544 for the connector right column support guide 148, and a second base position 546 for the rear column support guide 150. The second base position 542 for the connector left column support guide 146 is located at or closer to the rear portion of the connector left column support guide 146 than the front portion of the connector left column support guide 146.

The base region 184, 194, 204 of each corresponding column support 180, 190, 200 may be located at a corresponding first base position 541, 543, 545 or a corresponding second base position 542, 544, 546, respectively. In the first layout, each of the first hinges 185, 195, 205 and second hinges 186, 196, 206 of the column supports 180, 190, 200 may not be deployed. An example of this can be seen in FIG. 17 . The RFSDU in such a state may be considered to be in a transport configuration. In the second and third layouts, each of the first hinges 185, 195, 205 of the column supports 180, 190, 200 may be deployed to prevent the first portions of the left column support 180 and the right column support 190 from interacting with each other. The second hinges 186, 196, 206 of the column supports 180, 190, 200 may or may not be deployed.

The first, second, and third layouts can each be utilized for different purposes. For example, as seen in FIGS. 17 and 18, the first layout may be used with the first hinges 185, 195, 205 and the second hinges 186, 196, 206 undeployed while the RFSDU is being transported. This is because the first base position 541 of the connector left support guide 146, the first base position 543 of the connector right support guide 148, and the first base position 545 of the connector rear support guide 150, where the left support 180, the right support 190, and the rear support 200 would be located, respectively, are offset from one another. This allows the column supports 180, 190, 200 to rest on the upper surface 244 of the connector 140 when the first hinges 185, 195, 205 are not deployed, forming a substantially flat surface thereon.

The second layout may be used with the first hinges 185, 195, 205 and the second hinges 186, 196, 206 each deployed. In this layout, the left column support 180 and the right column support 190 are located near the connector front side 250, and the rear column support 200 is located near the connector rear side 251. As a result, items located at the front of the tray 220 are securely supported by the column supports 180, 190, 200.

A third layout may be used with the first hinges 185, 195, 205 and the second hinges 186, 196, 206 each deployed. In this layout, the left column support 180 and the right column support 190 are positioned substantially equidistant between the connector front side 250 and the connector rear side 251, and the rear column support 200 is positioned closer to the connector rear side 251.

Figure 18 shows the RFSDU 100 in a first layout, in which the pallet base 120 is a wheeled pallet base 130. The wheeled pallet base 130 includes a wheeled pallet platform 131, a wheeled pallet wheel 132, a rigid mount 133, and a rotating mount 134. The wheeled pallet platform has a wheeled pallet platform width 330, a wheeled pallet platform height 331, and a wheeled pallet platform depth 332. The wheeled pallet platform 131 also has a wheeled pallet platform upper surface 333 and a wheeled pallet platform lower surface 334, both of which extend in the same direction as the wheeled pallet platform width 330 and the wheeled pallet platform depth 332. The wheeled pallet platform upper surface 333 and the wheeled pallet platform lower surface are substantially rectangular in outline, having four substantially straight sides, opposite pairs of which are clearly perpendicular to each other, and adjacent sides of unequal length. The wheeled pallet platform width 330 and the wheeled pallet platform depth 332 may each be greater than the wheeled pallet platform height 331.

The wheeled pallet platform underside 334 includes two rigid mounts 133, each supporting a wheeled pallet wheel 132. The wheeled pallet platform underside 334 also includes one rotating mount 134, supporting one wheeled pallet wheel 132. The rotating mount 134 allows a user to push the pallet base 130 more easily than the fixed pallet base 125, thereby allowing the wheeled pallet base 130 to move in different directions across a relatively flat surface, such as a floor, which may or may not be desirable. The wheeled pallet wheels of the rigid mount 133 and the rotating mount 134 may be different from each other, such as constructed from different materials, or they may be of substantially the same design. The distance from the bottom of one of the wheeled pallet wheels 133 to the top end of the side column support 170 is 240 mm ± 20 mm.

19 shows the user beginning to assemble the RFSDU with the column supports 160 in first base positions 541, 543, 545, corresponding to the first layout described in detail above. One of the column supports 160, the rear column support 200, is shown fully assembled and located in the first base position 545 of the connector rear column support guide 148. The general assembly of the column support 160 will now be described in detail with reference to the rear column support 200 shown in FIG. 19.

The column support 160 initially begins in a folded configuration, with both the first hinge 165 and the second hinge 166 unfolded. To partially assemble the column support 160, a user lifts the column support first portion 161 and the second portion 162 at the ends corresponding to the column support second hinge 166 to rotate the portions about the column support first hinge 165, thus unfolding the column support first hinge 165. As shown in FIG. 19 , this action corresponds to arrow 570, which indicates the rotation of the rear column support first portion 201 about the rear column support first hinge 205. Once fully deployed, and provided that a first threshold moment about the first hinge 165 of the column support is reached, the first hinge 165 of the column support snaps into place, preventing non-deployment unless a second threshold moment is reached at which the first hinge 165 is released from the predetermined position and does not deploy. This is described in further detail herein. The first and second threshold moments may be in the same direction or in different directions.

The distal end region 169 of the second column support portion 162 is then lifted by the user to rotate the second column support portion 162 about the second column support hinge 166, thereby deploying the second column support hinge 166. As shown in FIG. 19 , this action corresponds to arrow 571, which indicates the rotation of the second column support portion 202 about the second column support hinge 206. Once fully deployed, and provided that the third threshold moment about the second column support hinge 166 is reached, the second column support hinge 166 snaps into place, preventing non-deployment unless the second column support hinge 166 is released from its position and reaches a fourth threshold moment at which non-deployment occurs.

The first, second, third, and fourth threshold moments may all be in the same rotational direction, only three (first, second, and third, etc.) may be in the same rotational direction, two (first and third, etc.) may be in the same rotational direction, or each may be in a different rotational direction.

Column Support First Hinges Figure 20 shows a cross-sectional view of the left side of the RFSDU of Figure 19 with the column support 160 at least partially assembled. A first arrangement of the column support first hinges 165 is shown. In this arrangement, the column support first hinges 165 include at least one column support first hinge pin 260, at least one column support first hinge leg 261, at least one column support first hinge foot 262, and at least one column support first hinge slider 263. In the illustrated arrangement, there are two column support first hinge pins 260, located adjacent to either side of the column support first portion 261 and positioned to form two points on a line parallel to a portion of the connector column support guide 152. The first hinge pin 260 of each column support may extend into a recess in the column support first portion 161 received therein. Each recess in the column support first portion 162 may have a cross-sectional dimension that is larger than the cross-sectional dimension of each corresponding column support first hinge pin 260, thereby allowing each column support first hinge pin 260 to rotate within the corresponding recess in the column support first portion 260. When the column support 160 is inserted into the connector 140, the first hinge leg 261 of at least one column support extends into the connector column support guide 142. The column support first hinge pin 260 may be integrally formed with the column support first hinge leg 261.

The first hinge foot 262 of the support column is located at the end of the first hinge leg 261 of the support column. The first hinge slider 263 of the support column connects at least one of the first hinge leg 261 of the support column and the first hinge foot 262 of the support column to at least one of the first hinge leg 261 of the support column and the first hinge foot 262 of the support column.

Each connector post support guide 142 may include a connector post support guide nesting point 143. The connector post support guide nesting point 143 may be located at each of the first and second base positions of the left, right, and rear support guides 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546. The connector post support guide nesting point 143 may be a portion of the connector post support guide 142 that includes a recess. A connector post support guide nesting point lip 256 may define a perimeter of the recess of the connector post support guide nesting point 143.

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 20, each of the first hinge feet 262 of the support posts can fit within the connector support post guide nesting point 143.

In the second arrangement shown in FIG. 21, the column support first hinge 165 is similar to that shown in FIG. 20, but with some differences. For example, the column support first hinge pin 260 may instead be the column support first hinge assembly 265. Additionally, the column support first hinge foot 262 may have a larger cross-sectional dimension than the column support first hinge leg 261. This may be preferable when the strut support 160 is inserted into the entrance portion of the connector strut support guide 142, has a cross-sectional dimension larger than that of the strut support's first hinge foot 262 and larger than that of the strut support's first hinge leg 261, and is held in the holding portion of the connector strut support guide 142, has a cross-sectional dimension smaller than that of the strut support's hinge foot 262 and larger than that of the strut support's hinge leg 261, and prevents the strut support 160 from being removed from the connector strut support guide 142. Furthermore, the strut support's first hinge slider 263 may not be present. This may facilitate movement of the strut support 160 along the length of the connector strut support guide 142, which may extend along at least two of the four connector sides 250, 251, 252, 253, such as the rear strut support 200.

In a third arrangement shown in FIG. 22, the column support 160 is a side column support 170, and there is a column support first hinge slider 263. In this particular arrangement, the two column support first hinge legs 261, the two column support first hinge feet 262, and the column support first hinge slider 263 are all formed from a single, integral piece. Additionally, the column support first hinge foot 262 has a terminal lower surface that is flush with the terminal lower surface of the column support first hinge slider 263.

Figure 23 shows a user moving a fully assembled column support 160, in this image the rear column support 200, from a first base position 545 to a second base position 546. To do this, the user must lift the column support before applying a lateral force, allowing the column support base region to move laterally within the connector column support guides 142. The column supports can be assembled in any order.

Figure 24 shows the user lowering the rear column support 200 to the nesting point 143 and second base position 546.

Column Support First Hinge Lock Assembly Figure 25 shows a fourth arrangement of the column support first hinge 165 known as the column support first hinge lock assembly 350, which can be seen in the exploded view of Figure 26. The column support first hinge lock assembly 350 interacts with the column support guide 142 to lock the column support 160 in place.

The first hinge lock assembly 350 of the column support may include at least one extension 359, at least one plunger 351, at least one lock pin 357, at least one rotation pin 358, and a sliding base 367.

The locking pin 357 and the rotating pin 358 may each have a substantially circular cross-section. The cross-sectional dimension of the locking pin 357 may be larger than the equivalent cross-sectional dimension of the rotating pin 358.

At least one extension 359 may extend from the base of the column support 160, and multiple extensions may extend with gaps between them. Each extension may include two pin recesses for accommodating a locking pin and a rotation pin, one of which is a locking pin recess 365 and the other of which is a rotation pin recess 366. The pin recesses 365, 366 of each extension may be arranged concentrically with one another, facilitating insertion of at least one pin through the corresponding recess therein. Each extension 359 includes a first extension sub-portion 360 and a second extension sub-portion 361. The locking pin recess 365 may be located within the first extension sub-portion, and the rotation pin recess 366 may be located within the second extension sub-portion 361.

The first and second extension sub-portions 360, 361 may be located adjacent to one another and formed from a single, integral piece. The lock pin recess 365 may extend through the first extension sub-portion 360, and the rotation pin recess 366 may extend through the second extension sub-portion 361. The first extension sub-portion 360 may be a rectangular parallelepiped. The first extension sub-portion 360 may include a side surface 362. The perimeter of the side surface 362 of the first extension sub-portion may be rectangular. The second extension sub-portion 361 may include a side surface 363. The side surface may lie in a plane defined by the second and third directions. The perimeter of the side surface 363 of the second extension sub-portion may include three straight sides and one curved side. The second sub-portion 361 of the extension can extend in the first direction 11 and can have substantially the same cross-section throughout. The curved sides around the sides of the second sub-portion of the extension can be convex or can extend in a forward direction. The lower surface 364 of the second sub-portion 361 is substantially flat.

At least one plunger 351 may comprise a base portion 352, a central portion 353 which may further comprise a pin recess 355, and a tip portion 354 which further comprises an engagement portion 356. The plunger 351 gradually widens towards its base. The base portion 352 may be a trapezoidal prism. The central portion 353 may be a rectangular parallelepiped. The tip portion 354 is for receiving and engaging a locking pin. A pin recess may extend through the central portion 353 and may receive a rotation pin 358. The engagement portion 356 may be C-shaped and is for engaging a locking pin 357. The base portion 352 of the plunger is wider than the tip portion. The plunger may have two substantially flat, parallel outer surfaces. The plunger may be formed from one integral part, or it may be several parts attached, possibly detachably attached, to one another.

The sliding base is adapted to accommodate the base portion of the plunger and includes at least one plunger portion 368 and at least two block portions 372. In FIG. 26, there are two plunger portions and three block portions. The block portions are adapted to maintain the structural integrity of the sliding base. The plunger portions are adapted to accommodate the base portion of the plunger. The plunger portions can accommodate one or more plungers. The plunger portions may have three main portions: one main base portion 369 and two main side portions 370. The base portion may be a plate having substantially flat upper and lower surfaces 377 and 378. Each side portion is adjacent to the base portion and extends from at least a portion of an edge of the base portion. The side portions may extend from at least a portion of opposing edges of the base portion. The side portions may extend substantially perpendicularly from the flat upper surface of the base portion such that the upper surface of the base portion is bounded by at least two of its sides. The side portions may extend in planes parallel to one another when undeformed. One side portion 370 may include a side portion lip 371. The side portion lip may extend in the same plane as the base portion. The side portion lip may extend from at least a portion of the outer upper edge of the side portion. The base portion and side portion may have substantially the same thickness. The side portion may extend along a portion of the edge of the base portion such that there is a gap on either side of the side portion. This means that the side portion of the plunger portion is not attached to the block portion and may therefore deform more easily.

The block portions 372 may each include a base portion 373 and a tip portion 374. The tip portion 374 is located on top of the base portion 373. The tip portion 374 is smaller than the base portion 373 and is centrally located on the base portion 373. There may be two types of block portions: an outer block portion 375 and an inner block portion 376. The outer block portion may be thinner than the inner block portion (i.e., extend into the inner block portion). The outer block portion and the inner block portion may have the same cross-section. They may both be parts with a consistent cross-section throughout. The thickness dimension of the outer block portion may be substantially the same as the corresponding thickness dimension of the outer extension of the strut support 160. The plunger portion and the block portion may be formed from one integral part, or may be several parts attached, possibly detachably attached, to each other. The plunger portion engages with the connector strut support guide.

As seen in FIG. 27A, the second sub-portion of the extension of the base portion of the column support includes two length dimensions from the center of the cross section of the rotation pin recess that are offset from each other by the hinge deployment angle. The first length dimension is L1, and the second length dimension is L2. FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view showing the plunger positioned within the sliding base. When the first hinge is deployed, the lower column section rotates around the rotation pin, now with a distance L2 between the rotation pin and the connector top surface 244. This means that the plunger is pulled upward while the sliding base remains in its original position. As this occurs, the sliding base deforms, and the protrusion locks itself into a corresponding recess in the connector's column support guide. This means that the sliding base is locked in place and cannot move in any direction relative to the connector. The locking pin then engages the plunger, and the c-section of the tip portion engages the locking pin. This prevents the column from rotating and tipping over. This can be seen in FIG. 28.

Telescopic Locking Mechanism The wheeled RFSDU shown in FIG. 29 includes telescopically extended column supports with their first and second hinges fully deployed. A third section of the column support may be telescopically extended a variable distance and may be locked into position at set intervals. The third section of the column support may be locked into at least one position by a telescopic locking mechanism 400, visible in FIGS. 30A and 30B . The telescopic locking mechanism may include a lock body 402. The lock body may further include a tip portion 404, a leg portion 414, and a foot portion 416. The tip portion may have an upper surface 408, which may be curved. The tip portion may have a lower surface 410, which may be substantially flat. The tip portion may also have at least one side surface 412, which may be substantially flat. The tip portion may be substantially D-shaped in cross section. The tip portion may include a tip portion extension 406 extending from a front surface. The tip portion extension 406 may include a substantially flat front surface. The lock body may include at least one leg portion and at least one foot portion. The at least one leg portion may connect the tip portion to the at least one foot portion. The leg portion may include at least one first leg portion 422 and at least one second leg portion 424. The first leg portion may be directly connected to the tip portion or may be directly connected to the foot portion. The first leg portion may be capable of undergoing elastic deformation. The first leg portion may be curved. The first leg portion may have a consistent thickness along at least a portion of its length. The second leg portion may be directly connected to the at least one first leg portion. In the illustrated example, each leg portion includes two first leg portions and one second leg portion. The second leg portion may have a consistent thickness along at least a portion of its length, which may be greater than the consistent thickness of the first leg portion. The second leg portion may be parallelepiped in shape. The second leg portion may be rectangular in shape. The foot portion may include a foot body 426 further including a foot pin 418 and a foot lip 420. The foot portion 416 may include a first side, a second side, an upper side, and a lower side. The foot lip 418 may be located on an upper side of the foot portion 416. The first leg portion may be directly connected to the foot portion at a location corresponding to the intersection between the first side and the upper side. The foot lip may be located on an upper side of the foot portion. The foot pin may be located on the second side. The foot portion may have an entirely substantially flat surface. The lock body may include at least one line of symmetry 430. The lock body may be formed from a single, integral piece.

The third portion of the pole support may fit within the second portion of the pole support. The third portion of the pole support may include several support edges for supporting the lock body. The lock body is in place when its movement is limited by the support edges of the third portion of the pole support. The lock body is held by the support edges of the third portion of the pole support. The support edges may include several portions. The first support edge 450 may extend along at least a portion of the length of the third portion of the pole support. The first support edge may prevent horizontal movement of the tip portion of the lock body relative to the third portion of the pole support. The second support edge may extend across at least a portion of the width of the third portion of the pole support. The second support edge may be directly adjacent to the first support edge. The second support edge may prevent upward vertical movement of the lock body relative to the third portion of the pole support when the lock body is in place. The second support edge may be adjacent to an upper side of the foot portion. The foot lip can be a region of increased thickness for engaging the second support edge. The third support edge can also extend across at least a portion of the width of the third portion of the pole support. The third support edge can be spaced apart from both the first and second support edges. The third support edge can prevent downward vertical movement of the lock body relative to the third portion of the pole support when the lock body is in place. The third support edge can be adjacent to the underside of the foot portion. The second and third support edges can be adjacent to the foot body of the lock body when the lock body is in place within the third portion of the pole support.

The second portion of the strut support may include at least one support edge 460, which is an area of increased thickness, for guiding the third portion of the strut support when telescopically extending and holding the third portion of the strut support. The support edge may include at least one foot pin notch 462, which may be similar to a notch. The foot pin notch is for receiving a foot pin of the lock body and locking it in place. The foot pin notch may include a horizontal lower surface and may further include a sloped upper surface.

Figures 31A-31D show the telescoping lock mechanism in operation. Figure 31A shows the lock body in an uncompressed configuration. Two foot pins are located in corresponding first foot pin notches. In Figure 31B, the tip portion is pressed down, compressing the lock body and retracting the foot pin from the first foot pin notch. The foot pin is then no longer located in the first foot pin notch. While the foot pin is retracted due to the compression of the lock body, the user applies force to the upwardly directed third portion. As seen in Figure 31C, this causes the third portion to move upward relative to the second portion. When the lock body reaches the second foot pin notch, the user stops compressing the lock body and extends the foot pin into the second foot pin notch, as shown in Figure 31D. The third portion is then locked in place. These steps can also be seen in Figures 33A-35B.

Shelves or Trays Trays 220 are for supporting items within the RFSDU 100. The RFSDU 100 may include two or more trays at two or more levels.

The tray comprises a plate body 221. The tray may include a major edge 222, and the plate body may include at least one support notch 225.

The plate body 221 is for supporting an item. The plate body may be substantially flat and may have substantially rectangular upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower surfaces of the plate body may share four edges. The plate body may include rounded corners.

The major edges enhance the usability of the tray and are intended to engage with the column supports. The major edges may extend around the periphery of the plate body. The major edges may include reinforcing structures. The major edges may extend beyond the upper and lower surfaces of the plate body. The major edges may extend along a portion of at least one edge of the plate body. The major edges may include a first portion 223 and a second portion 224. The major edges may be spaced apart from one another, forming at least one discontinuity therebetween. The major edges may extend substantially perpendicular to the plate body. The major edges may substantially define a leading edge 226, a trailing edge 227, and two side edges 228 of the tray 220. The major edges 222 may also further include reinforcing ribs 230 to enhance its strength characteristics.

The plate body may further include at least one support post notch 225 for engaging with a support post. At least one cut in the major edge portion may be located in the support post notch of the plate body.

The tray 220 may have a width of 600 mm, which may or may not include the major edge. The tray 220 may have a depth of 400 mm, which may or may not include the major edge. The major edge may have a height of substantially 30 mm. At least one cut in the major edge may have a width of 60 mm.

Assuming the RFSDU is fully assembled and extended, the tray 220 is inserted into the column support slots and is subsequently supported by them. The third portion of the column support may include at least one column support slot, as shown in FIG. 32.

As seen in Figures 36, 37A, and 37B, when a user inserts the tray 220 into the RFSDU 100, it is oriented substantially flat and enters the column supports from the front of the RFSDU. The front edge of the tray enters the side column support slots in front of the side edges first. When fully inserted, the tray 220 may be removably attached to the rear column supports. The engagement of the tray 220 with the side column supports can be seen in Figure 38.

Tray Engagement Mechanism In some arrangements, the column support slots 167, 177, 187, 197, 207 may include a tray engagement mechanism 232 to prevent removal of the tray 220.

The column support slots 167, 177, 187, 197, 207 may include a tray support portion 231. The tray support portion may include a front plate 235 and a mounting structure 236. A cross section of the mounting structure is shown in FIG. 39B. The mounting structure may further include a tray engagement mechanism 232. The tray support portion may be located substantially equidistant between the front and rear sides of the column support 160.

The front plate may be substantially flat and substantially rectangular in cross section. The front plate may have a thickness dimension with an upper side. The upper side may support the tray 220 when in position. The front plate may have a front surface with four corners. The corners may be filleted.

The mounting structure is for attaching the front plate to the column support and for supporting the tray. The mounting structure may have internal ribs to provide strength while keeping its weight to a minimum. The mounting structure may also be rectangular in cross section. The mounting structure may have a cross section that is smaller than a comparable cross section in the front plate. The mounting structure may be attached directly to the column support. The mounting structure may be located substantially in the center of the front plate.

The mounting structure may include an upper surface 237. The tray engagement mechanism may be located on the upper surface of the mounting structure. The tray engagement mechanism may be integrally formed with the mounting structure. The tray engagement mechanism may not be directly attached to the column support. The tray engagement mechanism shown in Figures 39A, 39B, 40, and 41 is formed from a lever 233 and a lever end 234. The lever may be substantially thin. In this arrangement, the lever or lever end is directly attached to the column support, although in other arrangements they may be. The lever end is bulbous. The lever end may have an increased thickness compared to the lever portion. The lever end may be bulbous compared to the lever. The lever end may extend upwardly beyond the upper surface of the lever.

There may be two or more tray support portions on each column support. For example, there may be five, seven, eight, nine, or ten tray support portions. When there are two or more tray support portions, they may be arranged along the length of the column supports 160, 170 so that they are arranged substantially linearly. Gaps may exist between the tray support portions to facilitate insertion of a tray between adjacent tray support portions. As such, the gaps may have cross-sectional dimensions greater than the height of the major edges of the tray 220, or they may be substantially equal to each other. The width of the mounting structure may be substantially equal to the gaps in the tray 220, or it may be greater.

Figure 40 shows a cross section of the mounting structures with the tray 220 inserted into the space between the two mounting structures, with arrow 238 indicating the direction of tray movement relative to the column support 160. The tray has been inserted past the gap at the main edge. A second portion of the main edge of the tray 220 may include a sloped sub-portion 229 to make it easier for the user to guide the tray past the gap and into the space between the two mounting structures. The tray engagement mechanism is pressed downward by the tray and is therefore in a depressed state.

Figure 41 shows a snapshot of a user attempting to remove tray 220, with arrow 239 indicating the direction of tray movement relative to the column support 160. When tray 220 is partially removed, the tray 220 gap is positioned above the tray engagement mechanism, so that the tray engagement mechanism is no longer pressed down by tray 220 and therefore returns to its resting state. In its resting state, the lever end prevents tray removal by engaging with the first portion of the major edge. Therefore, the tray cannot be removed. The user must then move the tray downward, while holding it substantially horizontal, until it reaches the bottom of the column support, where it may be reinserted and ready for transport.

Rear Locking Mechanism The rear locking mechanism 590 removably attaches an inserted tray to the rear column support 200, providing stability and support to the tray.

Referring now to Figures 42A and 42B, the rear locking mechanism includes a tray recess 587 located in the rear column support and may further include a lock insert 581 and a corresponding lock insert recess 586 located in the rear column support 200.

The tray recess may have a rear surface 588, an upper surface 589, and a lower surface 590. The rear surface, upper surface, and lower surface of the tray recess may each include at least one substantially flat portion.

The lock insert may be removably attached to the rear column support. The lock insert includes a body 582, an arm 583, and an attachment means 585. The arm and attachment means may both be attached to the body. The body, arm, and attachment means may be formed as one integral part. The arm may be an extension having an S-shaped cross-section. The arm may include an end, which may be rounded. The arm may be capable of undergoing cyclic deformation. The lock insert recess may include a primary recess 593 and an attachment means recess 594. The primary recess and the attachment means recess may be formed as a single recess or may be separate recesses. The primary recess 593 recess may include an arm recess to provide a volume within which at least a portion of the arm can elastically deform. The attachment means may include a prong. When attached to the rear column support, the lock insert may rest substantially within the lock insert recess, and the end of the arm may extend toward the tray recess.

Figure 43 shows a tray being inserted into a rear locking mechanism including a lock insert. The lock insert's arm is in its initial position. As the tray enters the tray recess, it contacts and moves the arm end upward so that the arm end is substantially within the arm recess of the lock insert recess. This movement of the arm end may place the arm under tension, which may be due to the arm being flexible. The tray may then be fully inserted so that the rear of the tray contacts the rear surface of the tray recess. The main edge of the tray 220 is pushed past the lock insert's arm end, allowing the arm to release its tension and return to its initial position, so that the arm end prevents the tray from being removed. To remove the tray, a threshold force is required to move the arm end above the tray's main edge. The upward movement of the arm end may be facilitated by its rounded edge.

Figure 44 shows three different configurations of the rear locking mechanism 580. In Figure 44A, the tray recess lower surface 590 includes a lower lip 591. This lower lip prevents the tray 220 from being removed. In Figure 44B, the lower lip 591 is present, but the locking insert is not, so the tray recess upper surface 589 is substantially flat. In Figure 44C, the tray recess lower lip is present, and there is a corresponding notch 592 on the tray recess upper surface 589.

Disassembling the RFSDU Figure 45A shows a user removing the tray from a fully assembled and combined RFSDU. The user, positioned at the front of the RFSDU, pulls the tray out of the RFSDU, away from the rear support posts. If no tray engagement mechanism is present, the tray may be removed completely and stacked on the outside of the fully assembled and extended RFSDU, as shown in Figure 45B.

Figures 46A and 46B show the user disassembling the RFSDU after the tray has been removed. The column supports start in the second base position. The user retracts the telescoping locking mechanism to substantially nest the third column support portion within the second column support portion. The user then undeploys the second hinge of the column support. The user then repeats the retraction and undeployment steps for each column support, leaving the RFSDU with the column supports in the second base position, unextended, and only the first hinge deployed, similar to that seen in Figure 47.

Figure 48A shows the RFSDU of Figure 47, with directional arrows indicating the direction a user must apply force to move the indicated column supports to the first base position. The rear column support 200 and right column support 190 are returned to the first base position, as seen in Figure 48B. The user must then apply force to either the first or second column support to undeploy the first hinge, as seen in Figure 49, resulting in the disassembled RFSDU in the transport position.

Figure 50A shows a folded RFSDU and two sets of seven trays stacked on top of each other. Figure 50B shows two folded RFSDUs stacked on top of each other. When multiple RFSDUs are stacked, the underside of the pallet base of the "top" RFSDU rests on the folded column supports.

51A and 51B illustrate an exemplary "foldable tray" 800. In this context, "foldable" refers to the presence of one or more reconfigurable support structures on a base, such as a shelf or tray, as described further below. It will be understood that the foldable tray 800 described herein constitutes a reconfigurable module 800 for the modular transport and/or display unit described herein. The foldable tray 800 includes a base 802, a major edge or lip 804, and at least one reconfigurable support structure provided as a generally U-shaped arm 806 that is reconfigurable within the described module 800. The at least one arm 806 includes at least one stem/bracket in the form of a support member 808 and at least one cross member or bridge 810 within the described module 800.

In the illustrated example, there are two arms 806, each arm including two support members 808 and one cross member 810. The arm 806 seen in the configuration of FIG. 51B is an inverted U-shape, with the support members 808 forming two parallel sides and the cross member 810 connecting them. Additionally, the arm 806 may have at least one line of symmetry, i.e., the two halves of the U-shape are symmetrical. In the illustrated example, the line of symmetry bisects the cross member 810.

The base 802, i.e., the shelf or tray 802 itself, is for supporting the product. The base 802 is substantially flat and has substantially rectangular upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower surfaces of the base 802 share four edges. The base 802 includes perforations 812 to facilitate drainage and/or increase static friction and prevent the product from moving from its designated position.

The major edge 804 (this feature may alternatively be referred to as a lip or skirt as used in the present description and appended claims) enhances the usability of the module or tray 800 and aligns the foldable tray 800 when stacking the trays. It also, along with the U-shaped arms 806, provides a number of pivotable connections, as described further below. The major edge 804 extends around the periphery of the base 802. The major edge 804 may include a reinforcing structure. The major edge 804 extends beyond the upper and lower surfaces of the base 802. The major edge 804 also extends along a portion of at least one edge of the base 802. The major edge 804 also extends substantially perpendicular to the base 802. The major edge 804 may include at least one alignment protrusion 814 located on at least one of the upper or lower surfaces of the major edge 804. In the illustrated example, the main edge 804 has four alignment protrusions 814 located at the four corners of the main edge 804. The alignment protrusions 814 have corresponding alignment recesses (not shown) on the underside of the main edge 804. When the foldable trays 800 are stacked, the alignment protrusions 814 of the lower tray 800 are inserted into the alignment recesses, aligning the trays 800. This increases the stability of the stack of modules 800 when the arms 806 are folded. The main edge 804 also defines the front edge, rear edge, and two side edges of the foldable tray 800. The main edge 804 may also include further reinforcing ribs to enhance its strength characteristics.

Figures 52A and 52B show the foldable tray 800 in an "unassembled" (i.e., folded or retracted) and assembled configuration, located on top of the pallet base 120.

Figures 53A and 53B show the folding tray 800 in an assembled and extended configuration.

Figure 54A shows seven assembled foldable trays 800 stacked on top of one another, positioned on top of the pallet base 120. Figure 54B shows four unstretched, unassembled foldable trays positioned on top of the pallet base 120. A single foldable tray 800 or module 800 may already be considered an RFSDU. However, more commonly, an RFSDU, or transport and display unit, comprises two or more stackable modules 800. A stack of two or more foldable modules 800 is more commonly considered an RFSDU.

55A and 55B , at least one arm 806 includes an extension mechanism 820. The extension mechanism 820 includes a control body 822, a pin body 826, several pin recesses 830, 832, 834 for receiving portions of the pin body 826, and resilient devices 836, 838. The control body 822 also includes a control protrusion 824. The control body 822 is biased by a first resilient device 836. There may be one or more control bodies 822 on each arm 806. In the illustrated example, there is one control body 822 as part of each extension mechanism 820. The pin body 826 may include an engagement pin 828. The pin body 826 and the engagement pin 828 may be formed as a single, integral part. The engagement pin 828 may be received in any of the pin recesses 830, 832, 834. The pin body 826 is biased by a second resilient device 838. The first resilient device 836 and the second resilient device 838 may be one or more springs, and more particularly, one or more tension and/or compression coil springs.

During normal use of the extension mechanism 820, the first resilient device 836 and the second resilient device 838 are resiliently biased. Furthermore, the first resilient device 836 and the second resilient device 838 each have a spring constant, and the spring constant of the first resilient device may be greater than the spring constant of the second resilient device 838. The control body 822 and the pin body 826 may be biased substantially perpendicularly toward each other by the respective resilient devices 836, 838. There may be one or more pin bodies 826 as part of each extension mechanism 820. In the illustrated example, there are two pin bodies 826 as part of each extension mechanism 820.

The control body 822 and the pin body 826 have substantially parallel upper and lower surfaces. The control body 822 and the pin body 826 also abut each other along at least one of their sides. The abutting sides of the control body 822 and the pin body 826 are substantially flat, but may not be substantially perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces. In the illustrated example, the abutting sides of the control body 822 and the pin body 826 are inclined so that vertical movement of one of the bodies 822, 826 causes horizontal movement of the other, and horizontal movement of one causes vertical movement of the other. In the illustrated example, the two pin bodies 826 abut the control body 822 on either side of the control body 822.

The cross member 810 includes at least one cross member recess 821. The extension mechanism 820 is at least partially located within the cross member recess 821. In the illustrated example, the control body 822 and the pin body 826 are substantially located within the cross member recess 821.

Each strut support 808 includes an inner strut (or stem) 852 and an outer strut (or bracket) 854. The outer strut (or bracket) 854 and the cross member (or bridge) 810 are formed as one integral piece. As such, the outer strut (or bracket) 854 covers the inner strut (or stem) 852 along at least a portion of the length of the strut support 808. The inner strut 852 may be made from a metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. The outer strut 854 may be made from a plastic material. The inner strut 852 includes a first inner strut engagement pin recess 830 and a second inner strut engagement pin recess 832. The pin recesses 830, 832 may be located at different distances along the length of the inner strut 852. The first inner post engagement pin recess 830 may be located closer to the base of the inner post 852 than the second inner post engagement pin recess 832. As such, the second inner post engagement pin recess 832 may be located closer to the distal or tip end of the inner post 852 than the first inner post engagement pin recess 830.

The extension mechanism is similar in principle to those commonly found in the state of the art for suitcase handles. Figures 55A-58B show snapshots of the extension mechanism at various stages of deployment/extension.

55A and 55B show the extension mechanism 820 in a first position. The control body 822 is in a first resting position. In this position, the first inner column engagement pin recess 830 and the outer column engagement pin recess 834 are aligned, and more specifically, may be concentrically aligned. The pin body 826 extends into at least one pin recess, locking the extension mechanism 820 in the first position. More specifically, the engagement pin 828 extends into the first inner column engagement pin recess 830 and the outer column engagement pin recess 834. When the control body 822 is in the first position, the first resilient device 836 is in a substantially extended configuration and the second resilient device 838 is in a substantially compressed configuration.

Figures 56A and 56B show the extension mechanism 820 in a second position. The control body 822 is in the second, depressed position. The user must press the control protrusion 824 to compress the first resilient device 836. This creates space for the pin body 826 to extend inward and be biased by the second resilient device 838. This movement of the pin body 826 contracts the engagement pin 828, which means it is no longer located within the first inner support engagement pin recess 830 or the outer support engagement pin recess 834. In this position, the extension mechanism 820 is free to extend, and therefore the user can pull the cross member 810 upward (indicated by the black arrow in Figure 56A) to extend the extension mechanism.

Figures 57A and 57B show the extension mechanism 820 in a third position. In this position, the arm 806 is extended. The control body 822 remains in the second depressed position. The outer post 854 slides over a portion of the inner post 852, so that the second inner post engagement pin recess 832 and the outer post engagement pin recess 834 are now aligned, and may more specifically be concentrically aligned.

Figures 58A and 58B show the extension mechanism 820 in a fourth position, in which the extension mechanism is fully deployed and the arm 806 is extended. The control body 822 is again in the first position due to the bias of the first resilient device 836. As a result, the pin body 826 returns to its first position, forcing the engagement pin 828 into the aligned recesses 832, 834 and locking the extension mechanism 820 in this fourth position.

Starting from the fourth position, to retract and lock the extension mechanism 820, the user can apply force to the control protrusion 824 to depress the control body 822. This returns the control body 822 to its second position. This results in the extension mechanism 820 being in its third position. Now, while continuing to depress the control body 822, the user can push the cross member 810 downward to retract the extension mechanism 820. This results in the extension mechanism 820 moving to its second position. Now, the user can then stop applying force to the control protrusion 824, and the bias of the first resilient device 836 will move the control body 822 back to its first position. As a result, the extension mechanism returns to its first position.

59A-60B, the arm 806 is attached to the module (or folding tray) 800, more specifically to its edge 804, via a hinge mechanism (or pivotable connection) 850. More specifically, the inner post 852 (or stem) is attached to the folding tray 800 via the hinge mechanism 850. The directional arrow 880 in FIG. 59A indicates the upward direction. The hinge mechanism 850 ensures that the base portions of the support members 808 follow the inner wall of the major edge 804 during deployment or assembly, allowing the support members 808 to be tightly hinged away from the corners of the major edge 804, thus minimizing the space required for the base portions of the support members 808 to rotate; otherwise, the support members 808 would need to be hinged further away from the very corners of the major edge 804. Instead, hinge mechanism 850 allows support members 808 to be hinged very close to the corners, meaning that when fully deployed, hinge mechanism 850 allows support members 808 to get up to 30 mm closer to the inside wall of major edge 804 compared to other hinge mechanisms. This results in more space being available for products on shelf 802.

The hinge mechanism 850 includes a locking assembly 855, at least one pin, and at least one pin guide or recess 862. In the illustrated example, there is a first pin 861 and a second pin 868, both connected to the inner support post 852, and the locking assembly 855 includes a hinge arm recess 856 and a hinge arm 858. The hinge arm 858 is configured to resiliently deform. The hinge arm 858 includes a tab 859 and a head 860. The tab 859 is attached to the major edge 804 at a first portion and to the head 860 at a second portion. The tab 859 is an elongated element and is configured to resiliently deform. The tab 859 can resiliently deform when the first pin 861 moves within the first pin recess or guide 862 and abuts against the head 860, and a force is applied to the tab 859.

The hinge arm recess 856 may be located above the first pin recess 862. The hinge arm recess 856 and the first pin recess 862 may be two portions of one continuous recess. The first pin recess 862 may include a leg portion 863 and a hook or cusp portion 864. The leg portion 863 and the hook or cusp portion 864 may form an "R" shape, such that the leg portion 863 is an elongated channel, the hook portion 864 is also a channel, although shorter than the leg portion 863, and the portions 863, 864 extend to form an acute angle with each other. The hinge arm recess 856 may be shaped so that the hinge arm 858 extends at least partially through the first pin recess 862. In this example, the head 860 of the hinge arm 858 extends partially through the leg portion 863 of the first pin recess 862, and the portion of the leg portion 863 is large enough to allow the first pin to fit substantially completely on either side of where the head 860 extends through the leg portion 863.

The second pin recess 870 may be located below the first pin recess 862. The second pin recess 870 may be a straight, elongated channel oriented to extend parallel to the base 802 when viewed from the side.

The first pin recess 862 and the second pin recess 870 may be substantially the same width. The first pin 861 and the second pin 868 may be substantially the same size.

In this example, the lock assembly 855 and pin recesses 862, 870 are formed from the major edge 804.

When the arm 806 is folded or deployed (not shown), the hinge mechanism 850 accommodates the arm 806. When the hinge mechanism 850 is folded/undeployed, the first pin 861 is located within the hook portion 864 of the first pin recess 862, and the second pin 868 is located within a first portion of the second pin recess 870. As the arm 806 is assembled, the first pin 861 begins to move through the hook portion 864 and beyond the joint connecting the leg portion 863 of the first pin recess 862 and the hook or cusp portion 864. Simultaneously, the second pin 868 moves from the first end of the second pin recess 870 and is substantially near the midpoint of the second pin recess 870 by the time the first pin 861 reaches the leg portion 863 of the first pin recess 862. As the first pin 861 moves through the leg portion 863 of the first pin recess, it abuts the head 860 of the hinge arm 858, elastically deforming the tab 859 and forcing the head 860 substantially fully into the hinge arm recess 856 and out of the first pin recess 862. This is shown in FIGS. 59A and 59B . At this point, the arm 806 is almost fully assembled. The first pin 861 continues to move through the leg portion 863 until the first pin 861 reaches the end of the leg portion 863 and can no longer move. As shown in FIGS. 60A and 60B , because the first pin 861 reaches the end of the leg portion 863 and can no longer move, the hinge arm 858 returns to its rest position, effectively compressing the first pin 861 against the end of the first pin recess 862, and more specifically, against the leg portion 863. The second pin 868 reaches the second end of the second pin recess 870. The arm 806 is now substantially assembled. Thus, in summary, once a first predetermined moment about the hinge mechanism 850 is reached that is sufficient to deform the tab 859 and allow the first pin 861 to continue its travel within the leg portion 863, the hinge mechanism is fully deployed, and the hinge mechanism 858 prevents folding unless a second threshold moment is reached in the opposite direction where the hinge mechanism 850 is released from position and does not collapse/deploy.

In order for the hinge mechanism 850 to be fully undeployed, the arms 806 may need to be retracted. However, this may alternatively not be required. When the hinge mechanism 850 is fully undeployed, the arms 806 rest below the top surface of the major edge 804, allowing the trays 800 to be stacked on top of each other without the arms interfering (and thus potentially unintentionally damaging) each other.

The pivot mechanism 850 described herein, including the pin/guide system described herein, is such that the reconfigurable arm 806 can be guided from an assembled configuration to a stowed configuration and vice versa, with the stem/base 808 of the arm 806 in the assembled configuration being integrated as seamlessly as possible with the edge or lip 804. Thus, further combined with the L-shaped cross section of the stem/base 808, the reconfigurability of the arm 806 does not adversely affect the product holding capacity of the module or tray 800.

Transporting Items The modules 800 described herein thus facilitate the transport of items that require extra protection during transport and are then easily displayed in a store, for example, for sale. Each tray 800 can be sealed using a disposable panel made from a material such as cardboard. This sealing configuration may require a total of three panels: two side panels and a U-shaped cover. The arms 806 include a series of tongues to secure the side panels. The side panels can slide from the top into dedicated slits in the arms before being pressed down to secure them. The cross members 810 may be triangular in shape and include tongues with protrusions positioned to prevent the side panels from being pulled out. The U-shaped cover covers the space between the two arms of the tray 800. When in place on the tray 800, the three panels are independent and do not touch each other.

Assembling the Transport and Display Unit with Cardboard Dress Figure 61A shows an insert 902 for the pallet base 120. The purpose of the insert 902 is to prevent lateral movement of the foldable trays 800 stacked on top of it. The insert 902 is configured to engage with the mounting feature 255 of the pallet base 120 (shown in Figure 12B) and with a corresponding recess in the base 802 of the foldable tray 800, thereby preventing lateral movement of the foldable tray 800. The insert 902 may extend above the upper surface 122 of the pallet base 120. At least two inserts 902 may be deployed on either side of the pallet base 120.

When assembling a modular transport and display unit with foldable trays 800, a user may first insert two inserts 902 into the corresponding mounting mechanisms of the pallet base 120. The first tray 800 begins to fold, and may then be fully assembled by the user, and may be unfolded by the user as needed. The first folded tray 800 may then be placed on top of the pallet base 120, with the inserts 902 positioned within the corresponding recesses in the base 802. Additional trays may then be assembled by the user, unfolded, and stacked one on top of the first tray 800. The user may then have a transport and display unit similar to that seen in FIG. 54A, with fewer or more total trays 800.

Referring now to Figures 62A and 62B, once the RFSDUs 100, 800 are fully assembled, the user may enclose the RFSDUs 100, 800 within a display structure 600. The display structure 600 is for displaying the RFSDUs 100, 800 in a store with branding appropriate to the products displayed on the RFSDUs 100, 800, and may be constructed from cardboard. The display structure 600 may include at least one tray cover for covering exposed edges of the tray.

The cardboard dress 950 shown in FIG. 62A is one example of a display structure 600. A user can then slide the cardboard dress 950 over the stack of trays 800 to cover at least a portion of the transport and display unit 100, 800. As indicated by the directional arrow 948 in FIG. 62A, the cardboard dress 950, described here as a sleeve, may be slid from the top of the stack down over the stack of trays 800. Other installation methods are possible. For example, rather than a sleeve, the cardboard dress may be supplied as an open, foldable sheet and wrapped around the unit. In the installation described, the cardboard dress 950 further includes at least one tab 960 that may fold over when the cardboard dress 950 reaches its display position relative to the stack of trays 800. The tab 960 engages at least one tray 800 via its base 802 or major edge 804 to ensure that the cardboard dress 950 remains in place. The cardboard dress 950 may have a bottom edge that is substantially flush with the top surface 122 of the pallet base 120. However, various other configurations are possible.

The cardboard dress 950 can take many different forms that may be implemented for different retail purposes. However, in FIGS. 62A and 62B, the cardboard dress 950 comprises a bottom cover 951 that substantially completely covers at least one of the trays 800. The illustrated cardboard dress 950 also comprises a headboard 952 and may further comprise at least one sideboard 953 (shown in FIG. 63A). Additionally, the cardboard dress 950 may include at least one tray cover 954 for covering at least a portion of the top surface of the base 802 of the tray 800 (as shown in FIG. 63B) and may cover (internally) at least a portion of the major edge 804. The at least one tray cover 954 is generally separate from the cardboard dress 950.

Figure 62B shows a transport and display unit having a first cardboard dress design 957. The first cardboard dress design 957 includes a bottom cover 951 and a headboard 952. The second cardboard dress design 958, shown in Figure 63A, includes a bottom cover 951, a headboard 952, and two sideboards 953. As shown in Figure 63A, the top tray 800 in the stack may not include any of the arms 806. Figure 63B shows a third cardboard dress design 959, including a bottom cover 951 and two tray covers 954. In each of the cardboard dress designs 957, 958, and 959, the bottom two trays 800 are substantially completely covered by the cardboard dress 950, more specifically, the bottom cover 951. Thus, the bottom two trays can function solely as a support structure without containing any product, or alternatively can store a quantity of product for sale; they are typically not accessible to customers, but can be used to replenish the upper display tray as needed.

Referring to Figures 61B and 64A-64C, in some examples, the products 610 may be provided on the trays 220 and then inserted into the RFSDU, or alternatively, the products 610 may be placed on the trays 220 when the trays 220 are already fully inserted. Further, in examples such as the foldable trays 800, the items may be provided on the foldable trays 800 before, during, or after stacking.

Figure 64A shows a front view of the transport and display unit filled with products 610. The products 610 can be seen sitting on two trays 800 that remain uncovered by cardboard dresses 950. Spacers 961 may be added to the trays 800 to limit movement of the products 610.

Figures 64B and 64C show different product arrangements on trays 220, 800 that may be implemented. Trays 220, 800 may not be filled to their maximum capacity for products 610 to increase product attractiveness. Each tray 220, 800 of an RFSDU 100, 800 may contain the same number of products 610 or a different number of products 610. In Figure 63B, products 610 are arranged in rows such that each row contains the same number of products. In Figure 63C, products 610 are arranged such that some rows contain fewer products 610 than other rows.

RFSDU Use Cycle Figure 65 shows the use cycle of an RFSDU through the supply chain. The transport symbol generally represents transport and may include one or methods selected from truck, car, van, train, ship, or airplane.

The trays and folded RFSDUs are provided separately at the service center 704 before being transported to a packaging/common packaging location 706. The RFSDUs are then fully assembled by the user, and the products may be loaded manually, in a partially automated manner, or in a substantially automated manner. The trays may be pre-loaded with product before insertion into the RFSDU, or may be loaded later. The RFSDU is covered by the display structure 600. The product-loaded RFSDU, covered by the display structure, is known as a loaded RFSDU. The number of trays can be adapted to point-of-sale design requirements. The loaded RFSDUs are then transported to a retailer distribution center 708. The loaded RFSDUs are then transported to a store 710, where they are received, handled, and placed on display for promotional purposes.

After use, once the promotion has been depleted, the display structure 600 may be removed and discarded, and the RFSDU 100 may be folded and placed in a transport position as described above. The tray and folded RFSDU may then be returned to the retailer distribution center before being returned to a service center for sorting, inspection, cleaning, and repair.

For foldable trays 800, the trays 800 are provided at the service center 704 before being transported to the packaging/common packaging location 706. The RFSDU is then fully assembled by the user, and the products may be loaded manually, in a partially automated manner, or in a substantially automated manner. If the RFSDU includes two or more foldable trays 800, the trays 800 may be pre-loaded with products before stacking, or may be loaded later. The RFSDU is then covered by the display structure 600. The loaded RFSDU and covered by the display structure is known as a loaded RFSDU. The number of trays 800 can be adapted to point-of-sale design requirements. The loaded RFSDU is then transported to the retailer distribution center 708. The loaded RFSDU is then transported to the store 710. The RFSDU is received, handled, and placed on display at the store for promotional purposes. After use, once the promotions are depleted, the display structure 600 may be removed and discarded or recycled, and each tray 800 may be reconfigured by retracting its arms before being stacked again, as seen in FIG. 54B. The stack of collapsible trays 800 may then be returned to the retailer's distribution center before being returned to a service center for sorting, inspection, cleaning, and repair.

Removable Support Structure It was mentioned above, particularly with reference to FIG. 63A , that in the context of a fully formed and assembled product display unit, the top tray may advantageously not include support arms. After all, such a tray may not need to provide support for another tray placed thereon. Accordingly, any reconfigurable arms 806 provided on this particular tray could, of course, potentially remain unused and thus be deemed unnecessary or undesirable if the tray is always used as the top tray of the display unit. Thus, the top tray need only be provided as essentially a conventional tray (but, of course, one adapted to be supported from below by the arms 806 of another tray 800). Alternatively, the support arms 806 may be removable to maintain maximum flexibility of use. Below, implementations of removable support arms 806 are described.

Figures 66-69B relate to a second example of a folding tray 920. The first example of the folding tray 800 and the second example of the folding tray 920 are substantially the same, except for a few differences, described in detail below, intended to facilitate the detachment and reattachment of at least one arm 930 of the folding tray 920, as well as the arm 806 of the folding tray 800, to the folding tray 920. The at least one arm 930 may be disposable and may not be reattached once detached from the folding tray 920. The at least one arm may be constructed from one or more materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, cardboard, or a plastic material, the latter two being naturally most suitable for disposable arms. The at least one arm 930 may or may not be extendable. In the tray 920 shown in Figures 66-67B, the arm 930 is extendable.

67A and 67B, one difference between foldable trays 800 and 920 is that instead of extending around the perimeter of the base at a substantially constant height like major edge 804 of foldable tray 800, major edge 922 of foldable tray 920 is shortened in height along its side, which is a shortened edge 922. This shortened edge 922 reduces the likelihood of a product getting caught on major edge 922 when removed from foldable tray 920 by a user, resulting in an improved user experience, and may have the additional benefit of reducing the amount of material required to manufacture foldable tray 920. Major edge 922 may be of a higher height at the corners of edge 922 to facilitate the inclusion of a hinge mechanism.

One further difference is that, similar to the first pin 861 and/or second pin 868 of the folding tray 800, at least one pin 871 of the folding tray 920, but of course preferably all pins 871, are removably attachable to at least one inner support post 926, similar to the inner support post 852. The folding tray 920 may include eight pins 871, two per support post 926. The pins 871 are essentially implemented as inserts and/or screws in the illustrated example. More specifically, the pins 871 may be considered to be threaded inserts, set screws, grub screws, and/or headless screws. Additionally, the pins 871 may be considered to be partially threaded headless screws. In the illustrated example, each pin 871 is substantially the same, although in principle different pins could be used.

As shown in FIGS. 68A-68D, pin 871 includes a shaft 872, a threaded drive 874, and a point 875. Shaft 872 further includes a threaded portion 873 extending along a portion of shaft 872. In some pins, threaded portion 873 can extend along substantially the entire shaft 872 and may therefore be considered fully threaded. The threaded drive 874 of the illustrated pin is a hexagonal socket head, although other pins may utilize various other drive styles, for example, a cross-shaped screw drive such as a Phillips screw drive. Point 875 is a flat point, but may be different in other embodiments and may be, for example, a cup point, a conical point, or an elliptical point.

69A and 69B, the inner post 926 further includes at least one pin engagement feature 928 for removably attaching at least one pin 871 to the inner post 926. In the present tray, each inner post 926 includes two pin engagement features 928, although in other trays, each inner post may include a different number of pin engagement features 928, such as three, four, or five. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 69A and 69B, each pin engagement feature 928 is a recess or may be formed entirely through the inner post 926 as a drilling. The pin engagement feature 928 is threaded to engage with the threaded portion 873 of the pin 871. The pin engagement feature 928 has a circular cross-section.

A user can removably attach each pin 871 to one of the at least one inner posts 926 using a tool. Alternatively, a user can removably attach each pin 871 to one of the at least one inner posts 926 without using a tool. Each of the at least one pins 871 is removably attached to one of the at least one inner posts 926 by threading each pin 871 into one of the at least one pin engagement features 928. Additionally, in other trays, the pins 871 can be removably attached to the inner posts 926 by alternative engagement means, such as a snap fit or an interference fit. When a removable pin 871 is removed, the corresponding post 926 is easily removed from the tray 920.

Claims (32)

1. A module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying said products within said store, said module comprising:
a tray adapted to receive the product thereon, the tray comprising a lip at least partially surrounding the tray and adapted to hold the product thereon;
at least one reconfigurable and removable support structure rotatably disposed relative to the shelf and pivotally connected to said edge;
Equipped with
the at least one reconfigurable support structure:
deployed in a first assembled configuration, said support structure adapted to support one or more further such modules, such that all modules collectively form said carrying and display unit;
The module is adapted to be stored in a second folded configuration or to be removed entirely from said tray. the lip completely surrounds the shelf;
Preferably, the lip is integrally formed with the shelf;
More preferably, the edge is provided as a skirt extending perpendicular to the shelf;
More preferably, the module of claim 1 wherein the skirt extends from an edge of the shelf. the reconfigurable support structure is positioned adjacent an edge of the shelf, and the pivotable connection comprises at least one pin and at least one guide for receiving the pin and guiding its movement, such that the at least one reconfigurable support structure is adapted to rotate and translate relative to the shelf such that a pivotable end of the at least one reconfigurable support structure can clear the edge of the shelf during reconfiguration;
Preferably, the at least one pin is provided at the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure;
More preferably, said guide is provided in the form of a slot,
More preferably, the module of claim 1 or 2, wherein the guide is provided as a notch through the edge of the shelf. The module of claim 3, wherein the pivotable connection is positioned so that the minimum distance between the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure and the lip is less than a predetermined value throughout the entire reconfiguration of the reconfigurable support structure. The module of claim 3 or 4, wherein the pivotable connection comprises an upper pin and a lower pin provided at the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure, and two respective upper and lower slots for guiding movement of the two respective pins, the lower slot extending linearly along the edge of the shelf, and the upper slot being arcuate with a downwardly concave surface. The module of claim 5, wherein the upper slot forms a retaining cusp at its end to retain the at least one support structure in either the first or second configuration. The module of claim 5 or 6, wherein the lip comprises a resiliently flexible retainer for holding the at least one support structure in the first or second configuration. A module as described in claim 5, 6 or 7, wherein at least one of the pins is removable, and preferably both pins are removable. each reconfigurable support structure comprising a pair of opposing pivotable stems and a bridge connecting the distal ends of each of the pivotable stems;
Preferably, the stem is L-shaped in cross section and is arranged such that each angle formed by the L faces the shelf;
More preferably, a module according to any preceding claim, wherein the bridge comprises a pair of opposing brackets arranged to engage the distal end of the pivotable stem. A module as described in any preceding claim, wherein the module comprises two such reconfigurable support structures disposed at opposite ends of the shelf, the module being arranged such that the two reconfigurable support structures fold inwardly toward the shelf from their respective first assembled positions, and their respective second folded positions are reached by equal and opposite retracting movements. the at least one reconfigurable support structure is further extensible;
Preferably, the bridge is adapted to be positioned in at least a first fully retracted position and a second fully extended position relative to the two stems;
More preferably, the bridge is elastically extendable;
More preferably, the module of any preceding claim, wherein the stem-engaging brackets are each slidably disposed on a respective stem. the bridge incorporating an actuation mechanism arranged such that upon actuation of the actuation mechanism the bridge can be extended or retracted;
Preferably, the actuation mechanism comprises one or more bolts and biasing means for biasing the bolts into the extended configuration;
12. The module of claim 11, wherein the actuation mechanism is preferably configured such that actuation of the actuation mechanism causes the bolt to retract against the biasing means. the shelf is generally rectangular;
Preferably, the shelves are pallet or dolly size, or half pallet or dolly size;
More preferably, the module of any preceding claim, wherein the shelves are the size of a quarter pallet or dolly. each reconfigurable support structure is disposed on a short side of the rectangular shelf;
Preferably, each pivotable stem is provided at a respective corner of said rectangular shelf;
More preferably, the module of claim 13, wherein each bridge extends parallel to a corresponding short side of the rectangular shelf and has the same length. A module as described in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one reconfigurable support structure is sized and positioned to lie completely within the lip in its second, folded configuration. both reconfigurable support structures are sized and positioned to lie completely within said lip when both support structures are configured in said second folded configuration;
16. A module according to claim 15 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the above condition is preferably also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended. The module of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one reconfigurable support structure is sized and positioned such that when lying in the second folded configuration, its footprint is contained entirely within the shelf. both reconfigurable support structures are sized and positioned such that when both support structures are configured in the second folded configuration, their respective footprints lie flat and are contained entirely within the interior of the shelf;
18. A module according to claim 17 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the above condition is preferably also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended. A module as described in any preceding claim, wherein the underside of the shelf is configured to fit snugly over additional modules and/or over the loading surface of a pallet or dolly. A module as described in any preceding claim, wherein, in the first assembled configuration, the at least one support structure is configured to be snugly received by the underside of the one or more further such modules. the at least one reconfigurable support structure comprising one or more mechanisms constructed and arranged to hold a packaging element, such as a cardboard sheet, in place when the at least one reconfigurable support structure is in the first assembled configuration;
Optionally, the mechanism comprises one or more tongues configured to hold the packaging element in place, preferably in cooperation with at least a portion of the lip; and/or the mechanism comprises one or more slits configured to hold the packaging element in place, preferably in cooperation with another reconfigurable support structure. 1. A module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying said products within said store, said module comprising:
a shelf adapted to receive the product thereon;
at least one removable support structure adapted to support one or more further such modules, such that all modules collectively form said transport and display unit;
A module comprising: The module of claim 22, wherein the at least one removable support structure, when present, is adapted to be reconfigurable between the first assembled configuration and a second stowed or folded configuration, the support structure adapted to support the one or more additional such modules. A modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and subsequently displaying said products in said store, said unit comprising at least a first module according to any one of claims 1 to 21,
Optionally, the first module comprises at least one assembled reconfigurable support structure;
Optionally, the first module comprises at least one folded, reconfigurable support structure. A combination of a module according to any one of claims 1 to 23 or a modular transport and display unit according to claim 24 with a corresponding pallet or dolly,
Preferably, the combination wherein said modules, modular units and said pallets or dollies are sized to correspond to a quarter pallet. A method of assembling and/or folding a module according to any one of claims 1 to 21 or a modular unit according to claim 24, the method comprising unfolding at least one folded reconfigurable support structure in the first assembled configuration and/or storing at least one assembled reconfigurable support structure in the second folded configuration. 25. A method of preparing a modular transport and display unit according to claim 24, said method comprising:
deploying the at least one folded reconfigurable support structure in the first assembled configuration;
stacking the at least one additional assembled module onto the first module;
Optionally, loading one or more products into said modular unit by placing them on either the shelves of the first or further module(s) of said unit;
A method comprising: 25. A method of folding a modular carrying and display unit according to claim 24, said method comprising:
stowing the assembled at least one reconfigurable support structure in the second folded configuration; and
stacking the at least one additional folded module onto the first module;
Optionally, unloading the modular unit by removing one or more products from any of the shelves of the first or further module(s);
A method comprising: A modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and then displaying the products within the store, the unit comprising at least a first module as described in claim 22 or 23. 30. A combination of a module according to claim 22 or 23 or a modular transport and display unit according to claim 29 with a corresponding pallet or dolly,
Preferably, the combination wherein said modules, modular units and said pallets or dollies are sized to correspond to a quarter pallet. 30. A method of providing a module according to claim 22 or 23 or a modular unit according to claim 29, said method comprising attaching at least one removed support structure and/or removing at least one removable support structure;
Optionally, the method includes deploying the at least one folded reconfigurable support structure in the first assembled configuration and/or storing the at least one assembled reconfigurable support structure in the second folded configuration. 30. A method of preparing or folding a modular carry and display unit according to claim 29, said method comprising attaching at least one detached support structure and/or removing at least one removable support structure.