Collapsible support rack having a hinge assembly with a mechanically passive interlock

Abstract

A collapsible support rack for sheet pans has a first frame side and a second frame side. The support rack has a hinge assembly that mounts horizontally between the first frame side and the second frame side. The hinge assembly includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member. An interlock mechanism, which is mechanically passive in operation, enables the first frame side and the second frame side to be secured into either a folded configuration or an unfolded configuration.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929TITLECollapsible Support Rack having a Hinge Assembly with a Mechanically Passive InterlockINVENTORSLaura Gail Briscoe, Scottsdale, Arizona; and Eric J. Spurgeon, Buhler, Kansas.CROSS REFERENCESThis application is an international application which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 722,889, entitled “Collapsible Support Rack having a Hinge Assembly with a Mechanically Passive Interlock”, filed on 20 November 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.REFERENCE TO RESEARCHNot Applicable.REFERENCE TO CDSNot Applicable.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a collapsible support rack having a hinge assembly with a mechanically passive interlock that enables securement of the collapsible support rack in folded and unfolded configurations.BACKGROUND

[0002] Pan racks, also known as speed racks or bakery racks, are upright shelving assemblies that support storage of multiple cooking pans. Pan racks are used to store, cool, and transport baked goods and prepared food products in commercial kitchens, bakeries, and other food service businesses. Pan racks may be stationary or mounted on wheels to be rolled around from food preparation areas to food storage areas such as walk-in freezers. Pan racks provide a space-saving storage solution that allow cooks and bakers to store multiple cooking pans in one compactAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 location, rather than leaving multiple cooking pans laid out on countertops. Pan racks may come in many sizes, capacities, and configurations. Pan racks may require manual adjustments or complex mechanisms to actively engage or disengage the pan rack into various configurations or positions, which make the pan racks cumbersome and time consuming to store and operate.SUMMARY

[0003] The collapsible support rack has a first frame side, a second frame side, and a hinge assembly mounted horizontally between the first frame side and the second frame side. The hinge assembly securely positions the collapsible support rack in unfolded and folded configurations. The hinge assembly includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and an interlock mechanism.

[0004] The interlock mechanism is mechanically passive in operation. The interlock mechanism is structured to prevent movement between the first frame side and the second frame side in the unfolded configuration. The interlock mechanism may be structured to prevent over-extension of the hinge assembly in the folded configuration.

[0005] The interlock mechanism may have a first interlock that includes a first keyed member and a first receiver member. The first receiver member is structured to receive the first keyed member. The first keyed member received by the first receiver member may keep the first frame side parallel with the second frame side in the folded configuration.

[0006] The interlock mechanism has a second interlock that includes a second keyed member and a second receiver member. The second receiver member is structured to receive the second keyed member. The second keyed member received by the second receiver member may keep the first frame side parallel with the second frame side in the unfolded configuration.

[0007] The first keyed member and the second keyed member may be disposed upon a first end of a first linkage member, the length of which may be long. The first receiver member and the second receiver member may be disposed upon a first end of a second linkage member, the length of which may be short. A pivot of the hinge assembly may be disposed between the first keyed member and the second keyed member. The first receiver member may be disposed between the second receiver member and the pivot of the hinge assembly.

[0008] The hinge assembly may further include a hinge break member, which may be raised. The hinge break member may be disposed on a first end of the first linkage member. The hinge break member may be disposed between the first keyed member and the second keyed member. The hinge break may be disposed between the second keyed member and the pivot of the hinge assembly. The hinge break member may be structured to prevent the hinge assembly fromAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 overextending in the unfolded configuration.

[0009] The hinge assembly may further include a hinge break receiver, which may be slotted. The hinge break receiver may be disposed on the first end of the second linkage member. The hinge break receiver may be disposed between the second receiver member and the pivot of the hinge assembly. The hinge break receiver may be structured to receive the hinge break member.

[0010] The collapsible support rack includes a lower hinge assembly disposed between the first and second frame sides. The lower hinge assembly may be mounted adjacent and below a lower pan rack. The collapsible support rack may include an upper hinge assembly disposed between the first and second frame sides. The upper hinge assembly may be mounted adjacent and below an upper pan rack. The collapsible support rack may include a middle hinge assembly disposed between the first and second frame sides. The middle hinge assembly may be mounted adjacent and below a middle pan rack.

[0011] The collapsible support rack may include a handle. The handle may be mounted to a first vertical support of the first frame side. The handle may be mounted between a first end and a second end of the first vertical support. The collapsible support rack may be made portable by the handle.

[0012] The above advantages and features are of representative embodiments only, and are presented only to assist in understanding the invention. It should be understood that they are not to be considered limitations on the invention as defined by the claims. Additional features and advantages of embodiments of the invention will become apparent in the following description, from the drawings, and from the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Aspects are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 depicts a top-side perspective view of the collapsible support rack in a folded configuration.

[0015] FIG. 2 depicts a top-side perspective view of the collapsible support rack in an unfolded configuration.

[0016] FIG. 3 depicts a bottom-side perspective view of the collapsible support rack in the unfolded configuration.

[0017] FIG. 4 depicts a top-side perspective view of a first linkage member of a hinge assembly.

[0018] FIG. 5 depicts a top-side perspective view of a second linkage member of the hinge assembly.Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929

[0019] FIG. 6 depicts a cross-sectional view of a first interlock engaged to maintain the hinge assembly in the folded configuration.

[0020] FIG. 7 depicts a cross-sectional view of a second interlock engaged to maintain the hinge assembly in the unfolded configuration.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The collapsible support rack features a hinge assembly structured for smooth and secure folding. The hinge assembly is mounted horizontally between a first frame side and a second frame side of the collapsible support rack. The hinge assembly includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and an interlock mechanism that is mechanically passive in operation. The interlock mechanism engages with the linkage members to secure the collapsible support rack in folded and unfolded configurations. The interlock mechanism may be disposed upon the first linkage member, which may be long, and the second linkage member, which may be short. A first interlock may include a first keyed member and a first receiver member that is structured to receive the first keyed member. A second interlock may include a second keyed member and a second receiver member that is structured to receive the second keyed member. The first and second interlocks may be structured to keep the first and second frame sides parallel and adjacent in the folded and unfolded configurations. The hinge assembly may include a hinge break member and a hinge break receiver that is structured to receive the hinge break member. Cooperation between the hinge break member and the hinge break receiver may prevent the hinge assembly from overextending in the unfolded configuration. A lower hinge assembly may be mounted adjacent and below a lower pan rack. A middle hinge assembly may be mounted adjacent and below a middle pan rack. An upper hinge assembly may be mounted adjacent and below an upper pan rack. The lower, middle, and upper hinge assemblies provide convenience and stability to the collapsible support rack for handling pans in various culinary applications.

[0022] Now referring to the figures, a top-side perspective view of the collapsible support rack 1000 in a folded configuration is shown in FIG. 1. The collapsible support rack 1000 has a first frame side 110 and a second frame side 120. A frame side may be square or rectangular in shape. The first frame side 110 of the collapsible support rack 1000 may have a first vertical support 172 and a second vertical support 174. The vertical support members may be made of solid or hollow material such as square or cylindrical tubing that provides a rigid structure for the frame sides. In one example, hollow metal tubing having dimensions including a length of approximately 15 inches (approx. 38 centimeters (cm)) and a rectangular cross section of approximately one inch by one inch (approx. 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm) with a thickness of approximately 1 / 16 of an inch (approx.Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-039290.17 cm) was utilized as the structure for vertical support.

[0023] A frame side may have a plurality of rails. The plurality of rails may extend horizontally between vertical supports of the frame side. A plurality of fasteners 180 such as screws, bolts, rivets, or other general purpose fasteners or fastening means may mount rails to the vertical supports. In one example, a rivet with an aluminum domed head and a steel mandrel are used to secure a rail to a vertical support. Little to no gap between the rail and the vertical support may be present in order to prevent food debris from entering between the two components. The rail may be an elongated, solid sheet of metal folded into an L-shape as viewed horizontally from one end of the mounted rail. The rail may have a horizontal floor 121 and a vertical wall 123.

[0024] In one example, solid sheet metal having a 16-gauge thickness of approximately 1 / 16 of an inch (approx. 0.13 cm) and a length of approximately 18 inches (approx. 45 cm) was utilized as the structure for the rail. In another example, solid sheet metal having a 20-gauge thickness of approximately 1 / 20 of an inch (approx. 0.08 cm) was utilized. The horizontal floor 121 may be approximately 1.5 inches (approx. 4 cm) in width to support sheet pans or trays placed into the rack. The vertical wall 123 may be approximately 1.0 inches (approx. 2.5 cm) in height to retain the sheet pan or trays within the rack.

[0025] A first plurality of rails 112 extend horizontally between the first vertical support 172 and the second vertical support 174. The first plurality of rails 112 are connected between a first end 171 and a second end 173 of the first vertical support 172 and a first end 175 and a second end 177 of the second vertical support 174. The first plurality of rails 112 may be disposed parallel to a second plurality of rails 122.

[0026] A second plurality of rails 122 extend horizontally between a first vertical support 176 and a second vertical support 178 of the second frame side 120. The second plurality of rails 122 are connected between the first vertical support 176 and the second vertical support 178. The second plurality of rails 122 may be disposed parallel to the first plurality of rails 112.

[0027] The longitudinal axis of the plurality of rails may be maintained perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the vertical supports when collapsible support rack 1000 is in either folded or unfolded configurations. The first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 are horizontally collapsible so that the collapsible support rack 1000 can stow either vertically or horizontally while not in-use in a folded configuration 140. The collapsible support rack 1000 stowed in a vertical orientation takes up little counter space so bakers and cooks have more counter space to prepare other culinary dishes. The first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 are horizontally expandable for the collapsible support rack 1000 to assume an open style, box-like shape while in-use in an unfolded configuration 150. The open style, box-like shape allows bakersAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 and cooks to load sheet pans from any side of the collapsible support rack 1000.

[0028] At least a first hinge assembly 100 couples the first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 together. The first hinge assembly 100 incorporated may be structured to allow for the collapsible support rack 1000 to collapse in a stowed, folded configuration and expand into an unstowed, unfolded configuration. The first hinge assembly 100 may be mounted horizontally between the first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 via a first linkage member and a second linkage member. A hinge assembly kit that includes the first linkage member, the second linkage member, and an interlock mechanism (as discussed later) may be used in other types of support racks or devices structured to collapse from an unfolded configuration 150 to a folded configuration 140, and vice versa.

[0029] Referring now to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, a first linkage member 210 and a second linkage member 220 of a hinge assembly are shown. The first linkage member 210 and second linkage member 220 shown are structured for a back hinge assembly of the collapsible support rack 1000. The first linkage member 210 and second linkage member 220 may be used to form an upper hinge assembly 200, a middle hinge assembly 400, a lower hinge assembly 600, or any of the upper, middle, and lower hinge assemblies. Although details of the linkage members shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are for a back hinge assembly, one can envision a mirrored image of the first linkage member 210 and the second linkage member 220 that provides details for structurally designing a first linkage member 310 and a second linkage member 320 for a front hinge assembly 300. As shown in FIG. 2, a first end of the first linkage member 310 is pivotally mounted to a first end 222 of the second linkage member 320 with a pivot pin disposed through a pivot aperture 360.

[0030] The first linkage member 210 may be long in length relative to the second linkage member 220. A break extension 232 may be disposed on the first end 212 of the first linkage member 210. A generally flat solid bar of metal may be utilized as the structure for the first linkage member 210. In one example, the first linkage member 210 is 11-gauge or approximately 1 / 8 of an inch (approx. 0.3 cm) in thickness, approximately 0.75 inches (approx. 2 cm) in width, and approximately 8.5 inches (approx. 22 cm) in length. In another example, the first linkage member 210 is 16-gauge or approximately 1 / 16 of an inch (approx. 0.13 cm) in thickness, approximately 1 inch (approx. 2.5 cm) in width, and approximately 8.5 inches (approx. 22 cm) in length. In another example, the first linkage member 210 is 3-gauge thickness of approximately 1 / 4 of an inch (approx. 0.6 cm), approximately 0.5 inches (approx. 1 cm) in width, and approximately 8.5 inches (approx. 22 cm) in length.

[0031] An inclined portion 218, such as a bend or fold in the flat bar, may be disposed between a first portion 217 and a second portion 219 of the first linkage member 210. A plane of the firstAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 portion 217 may be adjacent and parallel with a plane of the second portion 219 due to the inclined portion 218. In one example, the inclined portion 218 may have an inclined angle (a) of approximately 45 degrees relative to a plane of the first linkage member 210. The inclined angle (a) may range between 5 degrees to 85 degrees. The inclined angle (a) may range further between 10 degrees to 80 degrees, between 15 degrees to 75 degrees, between 20 degrees to 70 degrees, between 25 degrees to 65 degrees, between 30 degrees to 60 degrees, between 35 degrees to 55 degrees, or between 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In one example, the inclined angle (a) doubles the overall height of the originally flat metal bar by approximately 1 / 8 of an inch (approx. 0.3 cm) so that the first linkage member 210 has a total height of approximately 1 / 4 of an inch (approx. 0.6 cm). The inclined portion 218 is structured to allow the first end 222 of the second linkage member 220 to overlap with the first portion 217 of the first linkage member 210 when the hinge assembly is in the folded configuration 140. Cooperation between linkage members may give an advantage where opposing rails of a pan rack come into abutting contact or overlap in a nesting manner with one another in the folded configuration 140. This may allow for significant horizontal collapse of the collapsible support rack 1000 when stowed vertically, thereby providing even more countersaving space.

[0032] The second linkage member 220 may be short in length relative to the first linkage member 210. A generally flat solid bar of metal may also be utilized as the structure for the second linkage member 220. In one example, the second linkage member 220 is 11-gauge or approximately 1 / 8 of an inch (approx. 0.3 cm) in thickness, approximately 0.75 inches (approx. 2 cm) in width, and approximately 7 inches (approx. 18 cm) in length. In another example, the second linkage member 220 is 16-gauge or approximately 1 / 16 of an inch (approx. 0.13 cm) in thickness, approximately 1 inch (approx. 2.5 cm) in width, and approximately 7 inches (approx. 18 cm) in length. In another example, the second linkage member 220 is 3-gauge thickness of approximately 1 / 4 of an inch (approx. 0.6 cm), approximately 0.5 inches (approx. 1 cm) in width, and approximately 7 inches (approx. 18 cm) in length.

[0033] Referring back to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the first hinge assembly 100 may secure the collapsible support rack 1000 in the folded configuration 140 and the unfolded configuration 150 with an interlock mechanism 230. The interlock mechanism 230 prevents movement between the first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 when engaged but allows for disengagement of the hinge assembly so that the collapsible support rack 1000 can be folded or collapsed into a stowed state for storage or unstowed state for use. The interlock mechanism 230 may be mechanically passive in operation, allowing for simple and reliable operation by the user to ensure proper engagement or disengagement of the hinge assembly without the need for active control.Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929Having a mechanically passive interlock mechanism within the hinge assembly may also prevent unintended movements or shifts of the collapsible support rack 1000 during storage and use which could lead to safety concerns. Potential user errors or malfunctions that may compromise stability and functionality of the collapsible support rack 1000 are reduced or prevented by incorporation of the mechanically passive interlock mechanism having a user-friendly design that enhances functionality and ease of use.

[0034] The interlock mechanism can vary in configuration and construction. The interlock mechanism may comprise a plurality of keyed members and receivers that work cooperatively together. The keyed members and receivers may be structured for passive or active engagement. Different types of keyed members and receivers may be utilized to mate and / or interface during interlocking engagement. The interlock mechanism may incorporate ball detents, spring-loaded detent pins or balls, ball sleeves with ball bearing(s), spring plungers, rotary switches, rotary detents, latches, folding latches and hinge-pins, moveable lock plates, pin and slot devices, sliding block and guide grooves, snap-fit connections, transmission assembly, pawls, cam locks, or other mechanisms that incorporate keyed members and receivers for passive or active mechanical engagement to hold linkage members of the hinge assembly in place. The interlock mechanism may or may not be a locking detent type paired with or without a separate release mechanism, such as a button(s), lever(s), or other release switch. The interlock mechanism presented in detail below is one such example that may be utilized with a hinge assembly of the collapsible support rack 1000.

[0035] An interlock mechanism may be structured to passively lock the first linkage member 210 with the second linkage member 220. The first linkage member 210 and second linkage member 220 may be interlocked in the folded configuration 140, the unfolded configuration 150, or both. The interlock mechanism may cooperate with the first linkage member 210 and the second linkage member 220 so that the collapsible support rack 1000 is folded and locked into the folded configuration 140. In the folded configuration 140, the interlock mechanism is structured to prevent over-extension and unfolding of the first hinge assembly 100. The interlock mechanism may cooperate with the first linkage member 210 and second linkage member 220 so that the collapsible support rack 1000 is unfolded and locked into the unfolded configuration 150. In the unfolded configuration 150, the interlock mechanism is structured to prevent over-extension and folding of the first hinge assembly 100.

[0036] The interlock mechanism may be structured to release or disengage an interlocked position held between the first linkage member 210 and the second linkage member 220. A release force may be applied manually to the hinge assembly by a user to overcome an engaged force of theAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 interlock mechanism, which may be fixed or adjustable. A minimum of 5 Newtons (N) may release the collapsible support rack 1000 that is interlocked in the open, unfolded configuration 150 or that is interlocked in the closed, folded configuration 140. In one example, the minimum release force to release and expand the collapsible support rack 1000 that is interlocked in the closed, folded configuration 140 is approximately 10 N. In another example, the minimum release force to release and collapse the collapsible support rack 1000 that is interlocked in the open, unfolded configuration 150 is approximately 15 N. The release force may range between approximately 5 N (one pound-force) and approximately 45 N (ten pounds-force). The release force may range further between 5 N and 25 N, between 5 N and 15 N, between 15 N and 25 N, between 10 N and 20 N, between 12 N and 22 N, between 8 N and 18 N, or further between 14 N and 16 N of force. In a preferred example, the release force to release the collapsible support rack 1000 interlocked in the open, unfolded configuration 150 is approximately 15 N of force.

[0037] The interlock mechanism may comprise a first interlock 240 that maintains the collapsible support rack 1000 in a folded configuration 140 and a second interlock 250 that maintains the collapsible support rack 1000 in an unfolded configuration 150. Referring now to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the second linkage member 220 of a hinge assembly is shown with cross-sectional cutouts to view the first interlock 240 and the second interlock 250, respectively. The interlock mechanism may comprise the first interlock 240, the second interlock 250, or both.

[0038] The first interlock 240 may include a first keyed member 242 and a first receiver member 244 structured to receive the first keyed member 242. The first keyed member 242 may be a protuberance or projection that is pressed to project outwards from a surface of the hinge assembly. The protuberance or projection may be rounded. In one example, the first keyed member 242 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 64 of an inch or approximately between 0.01” to 0.03” (approx. 0.03 cm to 0.08 cm). In another example, the first keyed member 242 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 32 of an inch or approximately between 0.02” to 0.04” (approx. 0.05 cm to 0.1 cm). In yet another example, the first keyed member 242 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 16 of an inch or approximately between 0.05” to 0.07” (approx. 0.1 cm to 0.2 cm).

[0039] The first receiver member 244 may be a concavity or recess that is pressed or drilled inwards from a surface of the hinge assembly. The concavity or recess may be rounded. In one example, the first receiver member 244 may be recessed inwards into the second linkage member 220 by about 1 / 64 of an inch or approximately between 0.01” to 0.03” (approx. 0.03 cm to 0.08 cm). In another example, the first receiver member 244 may be recessed inwards into the secondAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 linkage member 220 by about 1 / 32 of an inch or approximately between 0.02” to 0.04” (approx. 0.05 cm to 0.1 cm). In yet another example, the first receiver member 244 may be recessed inwards into the second linkage member 220 by about 1 / 16 of an inch or approximately between 0.05” to 0.07” (approx. 0.1 cm to 0.2 cm). The first keyed member 242 is received complementarily by the first receiver member 244 to keep the first frame side 110 parallel with the second frame side 120 in the folded configuration 140.

[0040] The second interlock 250 may include a second keyed member 252 and a second receiver member 254 structured to receive the second keyed member 252. The second keyed member 252 may be a protuberance or projection that is pressed to project outwards from a surface of the hinge assembly. The protuberance or projection may be rounded. In one example, the second keyed member 252 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 64 of an inch or approximately between 0.01” to 0.03” (approx. 0.03 cm to 0.08 cm). In another example, the second keyed member 252 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 32 of an inch or approximately between 0.02” to 0.04” (approx. 0.05 cm to 0.1 cm). In yet another example, the second keyed member 252 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 16 of an inch or approximately between 0.05” to 0.07” (approx. 0.1 cm to 0.2 cm).

[0041] The second receiver member 254 may be a concavity or recess that is pressed or drilled inwards from a surface of the hinge assembly. The concavity or recess may be rounded. In one example, the second receiver member 254 may be recessed inwards into the second linkage member 220 by about 1 / 64 of an inch or approximately between 0.01” to 0.03” (approx. 0.03 cm to 0.08 cm). In another example, the second receiver member 254 may be recessed inwards into the second linkage member 220 by about 1 / 32 of an inch or approximately between 0.02” to 0.04” (approx. 0.05 cm to 0.1 cm). In yet another example, the second receiver member 254 may recessed inwards into the second linkage member 220 by about 1 / 16 of an inch or approximately between 0.05” to 0.07” (approx. 0.1 cm to 0.2 cm). The second keyed member 252 is received complementarily by the second receiver member 254 to keep the first frame side 110 parallel with the second frame side 120 in the unfolded configuration 150.

[0042] Now referring back to FIG. 4, the first keyed member 242 and the second keyed member 252 are shown disposed upon a first end 212 of the first linkage member 210. Alternatively, the first keyed member 242 and the second keyed member 252 may be disposed upon a first end 222 of the second linkage member 220. A pivot aperture 260 of the hinge assembly is shown disposed between the first keyed member 242 and the second keyed member 252.

[0043] The hinge assembly may further comprise a hinge break member 270. The hinge breakAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 member 270 is structured to prevent the hinge assembly from overextending in the unfolded configuration 150. The hinge break member 270 is shown disposed on a first end 212 of the first linkage member 210. The hinge break member 270 may be disposed along a first edge 211 of the first linkage member 210. The hinge break member 270 may be disposed between the first keyed member 242 and the second keyed member 252. The hinge break member 270 may be disposed between the first keyed member 242 and the pivot aperture 260 of the hinge assembly. Alternatively, the hinge break member 270 may be disposed on a first end 222 of the second linkage member 220.

[0044] The hinge break member 270 may be raised. The hinge break member 270 may be an elongated, triangular ridge folded outwards from a surface of the hinge assembly. A linkage member of the hinge assembly may be pressed to form the triangular ridge.

[0045] In one example, the hinge break member 270 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 8 of an inch (approx. 0.125” or 0.3 cm). In another example, the hinge break member 270 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 16 of an inch (approx. 0.06” or 0.15 cm). In yet another example, the hinge break member 270 may be projected outwards from the first linkage member 210 by about 1 / 4 of an inch (approx. 0.25” or 0.6 cm).

[0046] In one example, the hinge break member 270 may have a length of approximately 1.0” (approx. 2.5 cm) and a width of approximately 0.125” (approx. 0.3 cm). In another example, the hinge break member 270 may have a length of approximately 0.5” (approx. 1.3 cm) and a width of approximately 0.06” (approx. 0.15 cm). In yet another example, the hinge break member 270 may have a length of approximately 1.5” (approx. 3.8 cm) and a width of approximately 0.25” (approx. 0.6 cm).

[0047] Now referring to FIG. 5, the first receiver member 244 and the second receiver member 254 are shown disposed upon a first end 222 of the second linkage member 220. Alternatively, the first receiver member 244 and the second receiver member 254 may be disposed upon the first end 212 of the first linkage member 210. A pivot aperture 260 of the hinge assembly is shown disposed at the first end 222 of the second linkage member 220. The first receiver member 244 may be disposed between the pivot aperture 260 and the second receiver member 254.

[0048] The hinge assembly may further comprise a hinge break receiver 280. The hinge break receiver 280 is structured to receive the hinge break member 270. The hinge break receiver 280 is shown disposed on a first end 222 of the second linkage member 220. The hinge break receiver 280 may be disposed along a first edge 221 of the second linkage member 220. The hinge break receiver 280 may be disposed between the second receiver member 254 and a pivot aperture 260Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 of the hinge assembly. The hinge break receiver 280 may be disposed between the first receiver member 244 and the pivot aperture 260 of the hinge assembly. Alternatively, the hinge break receiver 280 may be disposed on a first end 212 of the first linkage member 210.

[0049] The hinge break receiver 280 may be slotted. The hinge break receiver 280 may be an elongated slot or channel disposed along an edge of the hinge assembly. A cut out may be made in a linkage member of the hinge assembly to form the elongated slot. In one example, the hinge break receiver 280 may have a length of approximately 1.0” (approx. 2.5 cm) and a width of approximately 0.125” (approx. 0.3 cm). In another example, the hinge break receiver 280 may have a length of approximately 0.5” (approx. 1.3 cm) and a width of approximately 0.06” (approx. 0.15 cm). In yet another example, the hinge break receiver 280 may have a length of approximately 1.5” (approx. 3.8 cm) and a width of approximately 0.25” (approx. 0.6 cm).

[0050] A plurality of racks may be stacked vertically within the collapsible support rack 1000 as a 2-tier, 3-tier, 4-tier, 5-tier, or more tier rack configuration. As shown in FIG. 2, a 5-tier rack configuration is shown. The 5-tier rack configuration may be sized to fit vertically underneath upper cabinetry disposed above kitchen counters. One can imagine 5 half-size sheet pans or trays being placed lengthwise upon horizontal floors 121 of pan racks of the collapsible support rack 1000 that is the 5-tier configuration. An additional 5 half-size sheet pans or trays may be placed widthwise upon vertical walls 123 of pan racks making for a total of 10 sheet pans or trays that may be held by the collapsible support rack 1000. Alternatively, one can imagine a total of 10 quarter-size sheet pans or trays being placed widthwise upon horizontal floors 121 of pan racks of the collapsible support rack 1000 that is 5-tier. An additional 5 half-size sheet pans or trays may be placed widthwise upon vertical walls 123 of pan racks making for a total of 15 sheet pans or trays that may be held by the collapsible support rack 1000. Considering just these two examples, it is evident from the total number of sheet pans that may be held, with food, upon the collapsible support rack 1000 that the interlocking hinge assemblies give much support and stability to the frame structure though the overall unit may be light in weight, even under 5 pounds.

[0051] Collapsible support rack 1000 has the ability to securely hold sheet pans of varying sizes and shapes. Baking pans, sheets, and trays come in many shapes and sizes and perform a number of culinary functions. Generally, baking trays (also referred to as baking sheets) are flat, generally rectangular metal pans, often with at least one rolled-over edge, upon which food products are located at various stages during preparation or processing. Therefore, the collapsible support rack 1000 may be structurally sized to accommodate any dimension of baking pan, including full-sheet size pans typically used by professionals and half-sheet size pans typically used by consumers.

[0052] Placement and configuration of hinge assemblies may provide the advantage that bakingAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 pans may access pan racks from any of the four sides of the collapsible support rack 1000. In the example shown, the 5-tier rack configuration includes an upper pan rack 130, a lower pan rack 190, and a plurality of middle pan racks. An upper hinge assembly 200 is disposed below the upper pan rack 130. The upper hinge assembly 200 may be mounted adjacent and below the upper pan rack 130 between the first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 with mounting brackets. One advantage to mounting the upper hinge assembly 200 in this way is that the cook or baker has the ability to place and store a casserole dish, roasting pan, or other tall baking pan upon the upper pan rack 130. A lower hinge assembly 600 is disposed below the lower pan rack 190. The lower hinge assembly 600 may be mounted adjacent and below the lower pan rack 190 between the first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 with mounting brackets. The collapsible support rack 1000 may include a middle hinge assembly 400. The middle hinge assembly 400 is disposed below a middle pan rack 160. The middle hinge assembly 400 may be mounted adjacent and below a middle pan rack 160 between the first frame side 110 and the second frame side 120 with mounting brackets. Another advantage to hinge assembly mounting and operating configurations is that a casserole dish, roasting pan, or other tall baking pan may be stored within the middle rack portion of the collapsible support rack 1000 if no middle hinge assembly blocks front- or back-side access.

[0053] A mounting bracket 700, best shown in FIG. 3, may be used for mounting a hinge assembly to the collapsible support rack 1000. The mounting bracket 700 may be made of plastic, metal, or other durable material that is rigid and sturdy. The mounting bracket 700 may mount a hinge assembly to a pan rack by being fastened to an underside of a rail of the pan rack. Alternatively, the mounting bracket 700 may mount a hinge assembly to a vertical support by being fastened to a sidewall of the vertical support. Alternatively, the mounting bracket 700 may mount a hinge assembly to both an underside of a rail of a pan rack and a vertical support. In this case, the mounting bracket 700 may be L-shaped.

[0054] A plurality of pivot pins may be used to mount ends of linkage members together and mount ends of the hinge assembly to opposing rails of the pan rack, vertical supports of opposing frame sides, or both. A second end 214 of first linkage member 210 is pivotally mounted to a mounting bracket on the second frame side 120 with pivot pin 164, which may be a rivet disposed through pivot aperture 216. A second end 224 of second linkage member 220 is pivotally mounted to a mounting bracket on the first frame side 110 with pivot pin 162, which may be a rivet disposed through pivot aperture 226. The first end 212 of first linkage member 210 is pivotally mounted to the first end 222 of second linkage member 220 with pivot pin 262, which may be a rivet disposed through pivot aperture 260.Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929

[0055] A clip washer may be disposed between the mounting bracket and hinge assembly ends and / or between linkage members to allow pivotal movement of the linkage members of the hinge assembly. A joint edge 225 of the second end 224 of second linkage member 220 may have flattened and / or curved portion(s) to allow pivotal movement against the mounting bracket on first frame side 110. Likewise, a joint edge 215 of the second end 214 of first linkage member 210 may have flattened and / or curved portion(s) to allow pivotal movement against the mounting bracket on second frame side 120.

[0056] In the folded configuration 140, the collapsible support rack 1000 may be portable by a cook or baker by use of a handle 800. The handle 800 may be mounted to the first vertical support 172 at any position between the first end 171 and the second end 173. The handle 800 may be mounted to any of the vertical supports. Mounting the handle 800 at a middle position of a vertical support may balance the collapsible support rack 1000 when being carried.

[0057] An end cap 900 may be installed into an end of a vertical support made of hollow tubing. The end cap 900 may be made of a high-friction material such as durable plastic or rubber. In one example, the end cap 900 is made of a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). The high-friction material of the end cap 900 may prevent the collapsible support rack 1000 from sliding on a counter as pans are loaded into the racks. The end cap 900 may provide a padded feature to protect counters.

[0058] The collapsible support rack 1000 made be made of materials gauged for heavy or lightweight applications. The collapsible support rack 1000 may be made of food-grade or food-safe materials that comply with governmental standards and requirements. The collapsible support rack 1000 may be made of durable, sturdy materials such as plastic or metal that provide stability and prevent safety hazards during use. Use of stainless steel or aluminum may also allow for resistance to heat and corrosion while conducting heat away from pans that are being held on the racks for cooling. The collapsible support rack 1000 is ideal for use in amateur or professional culinary settings.

[0059] Clause 1. A sheet pan support rack comprising: a first frame side; a second frame side; a hinge assembly mounted horizontally between the first frame side and the second frame side, the hinge assembly comprising: a first linkage member; a second linkage member; an interlock mechanism that is mechanically passive in operation;Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 wherein the hinge assembly positioned in: a folded configuration, the interlock mechanism is structured to prevent over-extension of the hinge assembly; and an unfolded configuration, the interlock mechanism is structured to prevent movement between the first frame side and the second frame side.

[0060] Clause 2. The sheet pan support rack of claim 1, wherein the interlock mechanism comprises: a first interlock that includes: a first keyed member; a first receiver member structured to receive the first keyed member; and wherein the first keyed member received by the first receiver member keeps the first frame side parallel with the second frame side in the folded configuration.

[0061] Clause 3. The sheet pan support rack of claim 2, wherein the interlock mechanism further comprises: a second interlock that includes: a second keyed member; a second receiver member structured to receive the second keyed member; and wherein the second keyed member received by the second receiver member keeps the first frame side parallel with the second frame side in the unfolded configuration.

[0062] Clause 4. The sheet pan support rack of claim 3, wherein the first keyed member and the second keyed member are disposed upon a first end of the first linkage member.

[0063] Clause 5. The sheet pan support rack of claim 4, wherein the first linkage member is long.

[0064] Clause 6. The sheet pan support rack of claim 4, wherein a pivot of the hinge assembly is disposed between the first keyed member and the second keyed member.

[0065] Clause 7. The sheet pan support rack of claim 3, wherein the first receiver member and the second receiver member are disposed upon a first end of the second linkage member.

[0066] Clause 8. The sheet pan support rack of claim 7, wherein the second linkage member is short.

[0067] Clause 9. The sheet pan support rack of claim 7, wherein the first receiver member is disposed between the second receiver member and a pivot of the hinge assembly.

[0068] Clause 10. The sheet pan support rack of claim 3, the hinge assembly further comprising: a hinge break member that is raised.Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929

[0069] Clause 11. The sheet pan support rack of claim 10, wherein the hinge break member is disposed on a first end of the first linkage member between the first keyed member and the second keyed member.

[0070] Clause 12. The sheet pan support rack of claim 10, wherein the hinge break member is structured to prevent over-extension of the hinge assembly in the unfolded configuration.

[0071] Clause 13. The sheet pan support rack of claim 10, the hinge assembly further comprising: a hinge break receiver that is slotted.

[0072] Clause 14. The sheet pan support rack of claim 13, wherein the hinge break receiver is disposed on a first end of the second linkage member between the second receiver member and a pivot of the hinge assembly.

[0073] Clause 15. The sheet pan support rack of claim 13, wherein the hinge break receiver is structured to receive the hinge break member.

[0074] Clause 16. The sheet pan support rack of claim 1, further comprising: a lower hinge assembly disposed between the first frame side and the second frame side and mounted adjacent and below a lower pan rack; and an upper hinge assembly disposed between the first frame side and the second frame side and mounted adjacent and below an upper pan rack.

[0075] Clause 17. The sheet pan support rack of claim 1, the first frame side further comprising: a first vertical support having; a first end; a second end; a handle mounted to the first vertical support between the first end and the second end; and wherein, in the folded configuration, the sheet pan support rack is portable by the handle.

[0076] It is understood that the invention is not confined to the particular construction and arrangement of parts herein described. That although the drawings and specification set forth a preferred embodiment, and although specific terms are employed, they are used in a description sense only and embody all such forms as come within the scope of the following claims.

[0077] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumeratedAttorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929 herein, are possible from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0078] For the convenience of the reader, the above description has focused on a representative sample of all possible embodiments, a sample that teaches the principles of the invention and conveys the best mode contemplated for carrying it out. Throughout this application and its associated file history, when the term “invention” is used, it refers to the entire collection of ideas and principles described; in contrast, the formal definition of the exclusive protected property right is set forth in the claims, which exclusively control. The description has not attempted to exhaustively enumerate all possible variations. Other undescribed variations or modifications may be possible. Where multiple alternative embodiments are described, in many cases it will be possible to combine elements of different embodiments, or to combine elements of the embodiments described here with other modifications or variations that are not expressly described. A list of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, nor that any or all of the items are comprehensive of any category, unless expressly specified otherwise. In many cases, one feature or group of features may be used separately from the entire apparatus or methods described. Many of those undescribed variations, modifications and variations are within the literal scope of the following claims, and others are equivalent.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-03929CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A sheet pan support rack comprising: a first frame side; a second frame side; a hinge assembly mounted horizontally between the first frame side and the second frame side, the hinge assembly comprising: a first linkage member; a second linkage member; an interlock mechanism that is mechanically passive in operation; wherein the hinge assembly positioned in: a folded configuration, the interlock mechanism is structured to prevent over-extension of the hinge assembly; and an unfolded configuration, the interlock mechanism is structured to prevent movement between the first frame side and the second frame side.

2. The sheet pan support rack of claim 1, wherein the interlock mechanism comprises: a first interlock that includes: a first keyed member; a first receiver member structured to receive the first keyed member; and wherein the first keyed member received by the first receiver member keeps the first frame side parallel with the second frame side in the folded configuration.

3. The sheet pan support rack of claim 2, wherein the interlock mechanism further comprises: a second interlock that includes: a second keyed member; a second receiver member structured to receive the second keyed member; and wherein the second keyed member received by the second receiver member keeps the first frame side parallel with the second frame side in the unfolded configuration.

4. The sheet pan support rack of claim 3, wherein the first keyed member and the second keyed member are disposed upon a first end of the first linkage member.

5. The sheet pan support rack of claim 4, wherein the first linkage member is long.Attorney Docket No. 2025-09-039296. The sheet pan support rack of claim 4, wherein a pivot of the hinge assembly is disposed between the first keyed member and the second keyed member.

7. The sheet pan support rack of claim 3, wherein the first receiver member and the second receiver member are disposed upon a first end of the second linkage member.

8. The sheet pan support rack of claim 7, wherein the second linkage member is short.

9. The sheet pan support rack of claim 7, wherein the first receiver member is disposed between the second receiver member and a pivot of the hinge assembly.

10. The sheet pan support rack of claim 3, the hinge assembly further comprising: a hinge break member that is raised.

11. The sheet pan support rack of claim 10, wherein the hinge break member is disposed on a first end of the first linkage member between the first keyed member and the second keyed member.

12. The sheet pan support rack of claim 10, wherein the hinge break member is structured to prevent over-extension of the hinge assembly in the unfolded configuration.

13. The sheet pan support rack of claim 10, the hinge assembly further comprising: a hinge break receiver that is slotted.

14. The sheet pan support rack of claim 13, wherein the hinge break receiver is disposed on a first end of the second linkage member between the second receiver member and a pivot of the hinge assembly.

15. The sheet pan support rack of claim 13, wherein the hinge break receiver is structured to receive the hinge break member.

16. The sheet pan support rack of claim 1, further comprising: a lower hinge assembly disposed between the first frame side and the second frame side and mounted adjacent and below a lower pan rack; and an upper hinge assembly disposed between the first frame side and the second frame side and mounted adjacent and below an upper pan rack.

17. The sheet pan support rack of claim 1, the first frame side further comprising: a first vertical support having; a first end; a second end; a handle mounted to the first vertical support between the first end and the second end; and wherein, in the folded configuration, the sheet pan support rack is portable by the handle.

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