Track system for modular storage

Abstract

A track system for a modular storage system has a single track positioned on a floor and extending along a track path. The modular storage system includes plurality of carts, each cart having a track follower mechanism that preferably is movable between a retained position and an engaged position and at least three wheels that are operably attached to and support the cart relative to the floor. The cart is retained by the track and manually movable on the wheels along the track path when the at least one track follower is selectively engaged with the track.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM [0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 523,044, entitled “LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS” filed Nov. 17, 2003, U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 543,047, entitled “LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS” filed Feb. 9, 2004, U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 599,227, entitled “LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS” filed Aug. 5, 2004, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 616,538, entitled “LOGISTICAL MANAGEMENT OF FIELD EQUIPMENT FOR OPERATIONAL UNITS” filed Oct. 6, 2004. The disclosures of the aforementioned provisional applications are hereby incorporated by reference to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to movable storage cabinets. More particularly, the present invention relates to a track system for use with a modular storage system for the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014] In an embodiment of the present invention, a track system for use with a modular storage system includes a single track operably positioned on a floor and extending along a track path, a plurality of carts, each cart having a frame that includes a pair of ends separated by a length, the frame having a defined structural integrity between the pair of ends and including structure defining at least one storage space that is carried by the cart and having a defined maximum gross weight when the at least one storage space is occupied. The cart further includes a track follower mechanism that is operably attached to one of the pair of ends of the cart. In one embodiment, the track follower mechanism includes at least a portion of which is movable between a retained position and an engaged position. The car

Problems solved by technology

Those involved in field operational units often possess or require a large amount of uniforms, supplies, and other equipment.

There is rarely enough room allocated for athletic equipment storage.

The storage space that is made available for athletic equipment is often located in places that are inconvenient for coaches, equipment managers, and players.

These storage areas are often small, cramped, and overflow into areas that are not intended for storage purposes, such as locker rooms, gymnasiums, and coaches' offices.

Equipment storage rooms are frequently messy with athletic equipment strewn about the floor.

The storage room shelves and bins usually do not have labels or allow the equipment managers to visually inspect or manage the gear.

Equipping players at the beginning of the season is usually disorganized and characterized by piles of gear spread out over the storage or locker room for weeks.

For instance, in athletic endeavors, planning and managing the practice, game, and travel logistics of teams is a complicated task and usually not the primary focus of the athletic or activities director, coaches, players, and trainers.

Messy, disorganized equipment areas do not reflect discipline, pride, or excellence.

Disorganized equipment distribution to players does not support the desired tone of the program.

If the storage areas are poorly kept, they do not reflect well on a school's excellence to parents, alumni, fellow educators, and recruits.

The makeshift storage areas are usually in a state of disarray and a source of embarrassment for the schools.

There are not any commercially available organizational systems meeting the current needs discussed above.

Some universities/colleges and professional sports organizations currently use expensive, high-density storage solutions such as those manufactured by Spacesaver Corporation.

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