Retail merchandise shelving system

Abstract

The invention relates to a retail goods shelving system, in particular to a bracket for a shelf and a shelving arrangement. A first bracket and a second bracket are provided. Each bracket has a support section, a mounting section and a transition section. The mounting section is laterally offset from the support section. The support section comprises a vertical, a top and a bottom flange portion. The top and bottom flange portions are spaced apart in the vertical direction and extend from a first side of the vertical flange portion in the direction in which the support section is offset from the mounting section. The transition section of the first bracket offsets the support section of the first bracket towards the second bracket and the transition section of the second bracket offsets the support section of the second bracket towards the first bracket. The invention also relates to a method of cleaning the shelving arrangement described above.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Patent Applications

[0002] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 014,395, filed April 23, 2020, the entire teachings and disclosure of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates generally to retail display devices, and more particularly to a retail shelving system. BACKGROUND

[0004] Retail shelving is a staple in the retail merchandise environment. While such shelving comes in a variety of forms, it generally includes a vertical support structure that supports one or more shelves that extend outwardly from the vertical structure. The vertical structure is typically a wall-like structure and houses integrated mounting rails (the mounting rails are referred to in the industry as risers, and more particularly as gondola risers) to which the shelves are mounted. Particular embodiments of such an arrangement are provided in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 222,722, filed December 17, 2018, and assigned to the assignee of the present application.

[0005] The shelves of these display devices will typically include a frame that includes a bracket for each shelf that extends outwardly, with a laterally extending support bar extending between the brackets. The brackets will have mounting features for adjustably mounting the shelves to the risers.

[0006] Unfortunately, when the shelves are used to display items such as food, the shelves need to be cleaned. However, if the spacing between adjacent shelves is insufficient, e.g., less than 1 inch, it can be difficult to properly clean all of the relevant surfaces of the shelves without having to remove every other laterally adjacent shelf to provide access to the end surfaces of the shelves.

[0007] Additionally in some embodiments, the laterally extending support bars can be affixed to the brackets in a manner that exposes the ends of the support bars. Unfortunately, to reduce weight and material costs, these support bars are typically tubular at least at their ends, such that food or other debris can enter the support bars, and likewise can be difficult to clean at least without removing the support bars from the risers.

[0008] Unfortunately, removing the shelves from the risers for cleaning purposes and then reinstalling the shelves can require a significant amount of time, particularly if the cleaning activity is done by one person.

[0009] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a retail shelving system that addresses the above-mentioned shortcomings of existing shelving systems. SUMMARY

[0010] Examples provide new and improved retail merchandise display devices and, in particular, new and improved shelving systems.

[0011] In one example, a shelving arrangement is provided that includes first and second uprights and first and second brackets. The first upright includes a first column of slots formed in a front face thereof. The second upright includes a second column of slots formed in a front face thereof. The second upright is positioned adjacent the first upright. The first and second brackets each include a support section, a mounting section, and a transition section. The bracket defines a first side and an opposite second side. The transition section laterally offsets the mounting section from the support section. The support section includes a vertical flange portion, a top flange portion, and a bottom flange portion. The top flange portion extends from the first side of the vertical flange portion in a direction in which the transition section offsets the support section from the mounting section. The bottom flange portion extends from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the direction in which the transition section offsets the support section from the mounting section. The bottom flange portion is spaced apart (e.g., in a vertical direction) from the top flange portion. The mounting section of the first bracket mounts the bracket to the first upright. The mounting section of the second bracket mounts the bracket to the second upright. The first side of the first bracket faces away from the second bracket. The first side of the second bracket faces away from the first bracket. The first and second brackets form a space between the second side of the first bracket and the second side of the second bracket.

[0012] In one example, a lateral spacing between the mounting section of the first bracket and the mounting section of the second bracket is less than or equal to 0.75 inches, and a lateral spacing between the support section of the first bracket and the support section of the second bracket is at least 1 inch.

[0013] In one example, the first upright and the second upright are formed from a same piece of material.

[0014] In one example, the first upright and the second upright are formed from separate components. A lateral spacing between the first upright and the second upright is no more than 0.5 inches, and optionally no more than 0.25 inches.

[0015] In one example, for each of the first bracket and the second bracket: the top flange portion extends from a rear end proximate the transition section toward a front end proximate a distal end of the bracket. The bottom flange portion extends from the rear end proximate the transition section toward the front end proximate the distal end of the bracket. A first vertical spacing between the rear end of the top flange portion and the rear end of the bottom flange portion is greater than a second vertical spacing between the front end of the top flange portion and the front end of the bottom flange portion.

[0016] In one example, the top and bottom flange portions of the first bracket extend from the vertical flange portion in a direction extending away from the second bracket. The top and bottom flange portions of the second bracket extend from the vertical flange portion in a direction extending away from the first bracket.

[0017] In one example, the support section of the first bracket is free of any flanges extending past the vertical flange portion toward the second bracket. The support section of the second bracket is free of any flanges extending past the vertical flange portion toward the first bracket.

[0018] In one example, for each of the first and second brackets, the top flange portion is connected to the vertical flange portion by a first bend, and the bottom flange portion is connected to the vertical flange portion by a second bend.

[0019] In one example, the first bracket has a first length defined between a first end defined by an end of the support section and a second end defined by the mounting section. The support section defines at least 75% of the first length. The second bracket has a second length defined between a first end defined by an end of the support section and a second end defined by the mounting section. The support section defines at least 75% of the second length.

[0020] In one example, for each of the first and second brackets, the support section, the mounting section, and the transition section are formed from a single, unitary piece of material, the first bend is formed between and connects the transition section and the support section, and the second bend is formed between and connects the transition section and the mounting section.

[0021] In one example, a first end of the support strut is attached to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket between the top and bottom flange portions of the first bracket in the vertical direction. A second, opposite end of the support strut is attached to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket between the top and bottom flange portions of the second bracket in the vertical direction.

[0022] In one example, the support strut includes first and second mounting stubs and a connecting bar interconnecting the first and second mounting stubs. The first and second mounting stubs are tubular elements. An end of the first mounting stub is attached to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket such that the vertical flange portion encloses the end of the first mounting stub. An end of the second mounting stub is attached to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket such that the vertical flange portion encloses the end of the second mounting stub.

[0023] In one example, the first mounting stub is T-welded to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket, and the second mounting stub is T-welded to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket.

[0024] In a cleaning example, a system as outlined herein is provided. The method includes cleaning within a gap formed between first and second brackets without removing the first bracket from a first upright and without removing the second bracket from a second upright.

[0025] In one example, a bracket for a shelving unit is provided that is to be installed to a vertical upright in a shelving arrangement. The bracket includes a support section, a mounting section, and a transition section. The bracket defines a first side and an opposite second side. The transition section laterally offsets the mounting section from the support section by at least half an inch. The support section includes a vertical flange portion, a top flange portion, and a bottom flange portion. The top flange portion extends from the first side of the vertical flange portion in a direction in which the transition section offsets the support section from the mounting section. The bottom flange portion extends from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the direction in which the transition section offsets the support section from the mounting section. The bottom flange portion is vertically spaced from the top flange.

[0026] In one example, the support section is devoid of any flange portion extending from the vertical flange portion in a direction laterally opposite the top and bottom flange portions.

[0027] In one example, a bracket for a shelving unit is provided that is to be installed to a vertical upright in a shelving arrangement. The bracket includes a support section, a mounting section, and a transition section. The bracket defines a first side and an opposite second side. The transition section laterally offsets the mounting section from the support section. The support section includes a vertical flange portion, a top flange portion, and a bottom flange portion. The top flange portion extends from the first side of the vertical flange portion in a direction in which the transition section offsets the support section from the mounting section. The bottom flange portion extends from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the direction in which the transition section offsets the support section from the mounting section. The bottom flange portion is vertically spaced from the top flange. The support section is devoid of any flange portion extending from the vertical flange portion in a direction laterally opposite the top and bottom flange portions.

[0028] In an example, the support section, the mounting section, and the transition section are formed from a single continuous piece of material.

[0029] In an example, the support section is formed from a different component than the mounting section. The support section is pivotably attached to the mounting section to allow for changing an orientation of the support section relative to the mounting section.

[0030] In one example, a shelving system is provided that includes first and second shelving units. The first shelving unit has a bracket at a first end of the first shelving unit. The bracket has a support section that extends rearward from a front of the first shelving unit at least 85% of a depth of the first shelving unit from the front to a back of the first shelving unit. The second shelving unit has a bracket at a first end of the second shelving unit. The bracket has a support section that extends rearward from a front of the second shelving unit at least 85% of a depth of the second shelving unit from the front to a back of the second shelving unit. The first end of the first shelving unit is adjacent to the first end of the second shelving unit. A minimum spacing between the support sections of the first and second shelving units is at least 1 inch, and preferably at least 1.25 inches. The support sections define an outer surface of the bracket that faces the adjacent shelving unit.

[0031] In one example, the bracket of the first shelving unit has a mounting section that is laterally offset toward the second shelving unit. The mounting section is rearward of the support section. The bracket of the second shelving unit has a mounting section that is laterally offset toward the first shelving unit. The mounting section is rearward of the support section.

[0032] In one example, the front of the first shelving unit is aligned with the front of the second shelving unit, and the depth of the first shelving unit is the same as the depth of the second shelving unit.

[0033] Other aspects, objectives, and advantages of the application will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the application. In the drawings:

[0035] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an example of a retail merchandise display device according to one example;

[0036] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a front perspective view of a frame of a shelving unit of the retail merchandise display device of

[0037] Figure 3 is Figure 2 a perspective view of a bracket of the shelving frame of

[0038] Figure 4 is Figure 2 a perspective view of a second bracket of the shelving frame of for opposite end portions of the shelving frame of

[0039] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a top view of adjacent shelving unit brackets of adjacent shelving units of the retail merchandise display device of

[0040] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the shelf frame of Figure 2

[0041] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the shelf frame of Figure 2

[0042] Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of two adjacent brackets of an adjacent shelf of the retail merchandise display device of Figure 1

[0043] Figure 9 is an exploded schematic view of the shelf frame of Figure 2

[0044] Figure 10 and Figure 11 illustrate a shelf of Figure 1 with a deck panel attached thereto;

[0045] Figure 12 is a front perspective view of an example of a retail merchandise display device according to one example;

[0046] Figure 13 is a front perspective view of the frame of a shelf of the retail merchandise display device of Figure 12

[0047] Figure 14 and Figure 15 is a perspective view of a bracket of the frame of Figure 13

[0048] Figure 16 is an exploded schematic view of a bracket of Figure 14 and Figure 15

[0049] Figure 17 is a top view of an adjacent shelf bracket of an adjacent shelf of the retail merchandise display device of Figure 12

[0050] While the application will be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the application to those embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the application, as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figure 1 A retail merchandise display device in the form of a shelf arrangement 100 is shown in simplified form.

[0052] ​​​​​​​​The shelving arrangement 100 includes a plurality of shelves 102A and 102B. The shelves 102A, 102B each include a frame 104A, 104B and a top deck, which is not shown in Figure 1 but is shown in Figure 10 and Figure 11 . The top deck is mounted to the top of the frame 104A, 104B. Goods to be displayed are located on the top deck.

[0053] The shelving arrangement includes four uprights 106A through 106D. The shelves 102A are mounted to the uprights 106A and 106B, while the shelves 102B are mounted to the uprights 106C, 106D.

[0054] Each of the uprights 106A through 106D includes a vertical column of slots 108 formed in the front face of the upright 106A through 106D (see also Figure 8 . In the illustrated embodiment, the upright 106B and the upright 106C are adjacent to each other. Preferably, the two uprights 106B, 106C are in contact or spaced no more than 0.25 inches apart. By changing the slots 108 in which the frames 104A, 104B are mounted, the slots 108 allow the vertical position of the shelves 102A, 102B to be adjusted.

[0055] The shelves 102A and 102B are substantially identical, so only a single shelf will be described, but features will be common between the two shelves 102A, 102B. Also, while two shelves 102A, 102B are shown, multiple shelves can be employed. Typically, in the shelving arrangement 100, there will be multiple shelves spaced in the vertical direction.

[0056] The shelves 102A, 102B, and particularly their frames 104A, 104B, are configured to facilitate cleaning of the frames 104A, 104B, and particularly between adjacent shelves 102A, 102B, more particularly without the need to remove components of the frames 104A, 104B.

[0057] Figure 2 A frame 104 of a shelf 102 is shown removed from an upright 106. The frame includes opposing brackets 110, 112 (also referred to as support arms) and a pair of support bars 114, 116. The support bars 114, 116 extend laterally between and interconnect the brackets 110, 112.

[0058] The brackets 110, 112 extend longitudinally between a front end and a rear end. This longitudinal direction is generally perpendicular to the front face of the upright 106, and perpendicular to the lateral direction along which the support bars 114, 116 extend between adjacent brackets 110, 112 of a corresponding shelf 102.

[0059] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The shelves 110, 112 are shown with the support bars 114, 116 removed. The shelves 110, 112 are substantially mirror images of one another. Each shelf includes a body portion 120 that includes a support section 122, a transition section 124, and a mounting section 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the support section 122, the transition section 124, and the mounting section 126 are formed from a continuous piece of material.

[0060] The transition section 124 interposes the mounting section 126 and the support section 122. The transition section 124 is angled relative to both the support section 122 and the mounting section 126 to laterally offset the support section 122 from the mounting section 126. More particularly, a bend 132 interconnects the support section 122 and the transition section 124, and a bend 134 connects an opposite end of the transition section 122 to the mounting section 126. In the illustrated example, the bends 132, 134 are bent in opposite directions relative to one another to provide the desired offset orientation.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the body portion 120 is a single piece of material that forms all of the sections of the shelf 110 or the shelf 112. Preferably, the shelves 110, 112 are formed from stamped sheet metal.

[0062] Each support section 122 includes a vertical flange portion 136, a top flange portion 138, and a bottom flange portion 140. The top flange portion 138 extends from an inner side 142 of the shelf 112 and from a top of the vertical flange portion 136. The bottom flange portion 140 extends from the inner side 142 of the shelf 112 and from a bottom of the vertical flange portion 136, such that the top flange portion 138 and the bottom flange portion 140 are spaced apart from one another in a vertical direction.

[0063] The direction in which the top flange portion 138 and the bottom flange portion 140 extend from the vertical portion 136 is the same as the direction in which the transition section 124 offsets the support section 122 from the mounting section 126. For the individual shelf, the transition section 124 offsets the support section 122 inward from the mounting section 126, e.g., toward a shelf on the other end of the rack. Similarly, the top flange portion 138 and the bottom flange portion 140 extend inward from the vertical flange portion 136, e.g., toward a shelf on the other end of the rack.

[0064] The top flange portion extends from a rear end 150 proximate the transition section 124 toward a front end 152 proximate the distal end 154 of the body portion 120. The bottom flange portion 140 extends from a rear end 156 proximate the transition section 124 toward a front end 158 proximate the distal end 154 of the body portion 120. The support section 122 narrows from the transition section 124 toward the distal end 154. More particularly, the vertical spacing between the rear ends 150, 156 is greater than the vertical spacing between the front ends 152, 158.

[0065] It is noted that in the illustrated example, the support section 122 does not have any outwardly extending flange portions, such as a flange portion that extends outwardly from an outer side 160 of the body portion 120 (which is opposite the inner side 142).

[0066] The mounting section 126 includes mounting features for releasably securing the bracket 110, 112 to the upright 106, and in particular for releasable mounting engagement with the slot 108 so that the vertical position of the shelf relative to the upright 106 can be adjusted.

[0067] In the illustrated example, the mounting features are in the form of hooks 162 that are inserted into the slot 108 and engage with the upright 106.

[0068] Referring to Figure 5 , the bracket 110, 112 has a length LI from a rear end defined by the end of the hook 162 to the distal end 154. The support section 122 has a length L2 from the rear end to the front end (e.g., the distal end 154). The length L2 is at least 75% of the length LI, and in some examples at least 85% of the length LI.

[0069] Referring to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 , in examples, the support pole 114, 116 is formed from multiple components. It is noted that in the illustrated example, the support poles 114, 116 are identical, so only the support pole 116 will be described. The support pole 116 includes a connecting pole 170 that is generally U-shaped along 90% or more of its length. The support pole 116 includes mounting posts 172 at opposite ends. The mounting posts 172 are received into the ends of the connecting pole 170. In the present example, the mounting posts are formed from rectangular tubing.

[0070] The mounting posts 172 can include buttons 174. The connecting pole 170 has tabs 176 to form openings in the ends of the connecting pole 170. The buttons 174 secure the posts 172 within the connecting pole 170. Notably, the connecting pole 170 and the posts 172 are generally allowed to float relative to one another (e.g., the buttons 174 do not lock within the connecting pole 170 to provide a fixed length).

[0071] The support bar extends between a first end 178 and a second end 180. These ends 178, 180 are attached to the inner side of the shelf 110, 112. This is shown in Figure 6 the end 178 of the middle support bar 116.

[0072] In the preferred example, the end 178 is T-welded to the inner side 142, and in particular to the vertical flange portion 136. This arrangement closes off an opening that would otherwise be formed by the formation of the post 172 through the tube. This arrangement prevents food or other material from entering the tube, which can cause problems and is difficult to clean when the shelf is used for food, and in particular for food such as meat or produce.

[0073] Further, referring to Figure 6 , it is shown that the connection between the end 178 of the support bar 116 and the shelf 112 is formed vertically between the top flange portion 138 and the bottom flange portion 140.

[0074] In the illustrated example, the uppermost surface of the mounting post 172 is mounted against the lowermost surface of the top flange portion 138.

[0075] While the uprights 106B, 106C are shown as separate components, they can be formed from a single component with at least one pair of vertical columns of slots 108.

[0076] The configuration of the opposing shelves of the shelf 102 is such that when two similar shelves are mounted laterally adjacent to each other, for example, see Figure 1 and Figure 5 the shelves 102A and 102B in a gap 182 is formed between the support sections 122A, 122B. Preferably, this gap has a lateral spacing S of at least 1 inch, preferably at least 1.25 inches, when the corresponding uprights 106B, 106C are in contact with each other and the shelves 102A, 102B are mounted to the corresponding pairs of uprights 106A, 106B and 106C, 106D. This at least 1 inch spacing allows easy access to clean the outer sides 160A, 160B of the immediately adjacent shelves 112A, 110A. Further, by having the top flange portion 138 and the bottom flange portion 140 bent / extended inward (i.e., away from the immediately adjacent flange of an adjacent shelf or toward the other shelf of the same shelf) rather than outward, this spacing and ease of access to clean is maintained. This is a significant improvement over prior art shelves that have top and bottom flanges that either or both extend outward.

[0077] In one embodiment, the transition section 124 offsets the support section 122 from the mounting section 126 by at least one-half inch, measured from the outer side of the support section to the outer side of the mounting section. Thus, when two racks are positioned adjacent to each other, such as in the system described herein, the two adjacent racks will provide at least one inch of spacing S between the adjacent shelves.

[0078] Further, by using the T-shaped welded end of the support rack 114, 116, and in particular its mounting post 172, debris is not trapped within the tubular mounting post 172, further improving the cleaning ability and cleanliness of the shelf.

[0079] Figure 12 Another embodiment of a shelf arrangement 200 is shown. The shelf arrangement includes shelves 202A and 202B. The shelves 102A, 102B each include a frame 104A, 104B and a top deck, which is not shown in the Figure 12 but is similar to the top deck shown in the Figure 10 and Figure 11 of the previous embodiments.

[0080] In the shelf arrangement 200, the uprights 106A-D and the slots 108 are the same as in the previously described shelf arrangement 100.

[0081] The shelves 202A and 202B are substantially identical, so only a single shelf will be described, but features will be common between the two shelves 202A, 202B. Further, while two shelves 202A, 202B are shown, multiple shelves can be employed. Typically, in the shelf arrangement 200, there will be multiple shelves spaced in the vertical direction.

[0082] Also, the shelves 202A, 202B, and in particular their frames 204A, 204B, are configured to facilitate easier cleaning of the frames 204A, 204B, and in particular between adjacent shelves 202A, 202B, and more particularly without the need to remove or limited removal of components of the frames 204A, 204B.

[0083] Figure 13 The frame 204 of the shelf 202 is shown removed from the uprights 106. The frame 204 includes opposing racks 210, 212 and a pair of support posts 114, 116. The opposing racks 210, 212 are different from the racks 110, 112 of the shelves 104 of the previous embodiments. The support posts 114, 116 extend laterally between and interconnect the racks 210, 212 and are substantially the same as in the shelves 104.

[0084] The brackets 210, 212 extend longitudinally between a front end and a rear end. This longitudinal direction is generally perpendicular to the front face of the upright 106, and perpendicular to the lateral direction along which the support bars 114, 116 extend between adjacent brackets 210, 212 of a corresponding shelf 202.

[0085] The principal difference is that the brackets 210, 212 are adjustable to allow for different angles of the top surface 215 of the shelf 202. More particularly, each bracket 210, 212 includes a main body 220 and an adjustable mounting plate 222.

[0086] Referring now to Figures 14 to 16 , one bracket 210 is shown. However, the bracket 212 is a mirror image of the bracket 210, so only a single bracket need be described. The bracket arm 210 includes a main body 220 and an adjustable plate 222 mounted to the main body 220. As shown, each mounting post 172 is fixed to the main body 220 and extends therefrom. As shown, the adjustable plate 222 is attached to the main body 220 via a threaded fastener 224. The threaded fastener 224 extends through a hole 226 of a bushing 228 of the main body 220, and then the main body 220 and the adjustable plate 222 can be tightened together using a threaded knob 230 or the like.

[0087] The adjustable plate 222 also includes mounting structures 227 that include mounting hooks 262 that are received in the holes 108 of the upright support 106A-D. However, these mounting structures 227 can take any suitable form to facilitate mounting the shelf 202 to any pre-existing structure.

[0088] The adjustable plate 222 also includes a pin 232 that is received in one of a plurality of holes 234 formed in the main body 220. When each bracket 210 extends outwardly in a cantilevered fashion from its associated upright support 106A-D, the angle of each bracket is controlled by which hole 234 the pin 232 is received in. For example, when the pin 232 is received in the uppermost hole 234, the main body 220 is substantially horizontal, e.g., horizontal / orthogonal to the force of gravity, compared to the adjustable plate 222. However, by removing any hardware fasteners 230, one can reposition the adjustable plate 222 relative to the main body 220 (or vice versa) and insert the pin 232 into a different one of the holes 234.

[0089] Here, the main body 220 pivots about an axis 247 as indicated by arrow 249 in Figure 16 .

[0090] With the brackets 110, 112, the mounting structure 126 is integrally formed with the rest of the brackets 110, 112. However, the tilt can be accommodated depending on which notch of the hook 162 is engaged with the upright 106A-D.

[0091] As in the previous embodiments, the mounting post 172 does not extend through the vertical flange portion 236 of the body 220, again preventing debris from the outside of the body 220 from entering the mounting post 172. The body 220 generally includes a support section 233 similar to the support section 122 of the previous embodiments. In addition to the vertical flange portion, the support section also includes a top flange portion 238 and a bottom flange portion 240. The top flange portion 238 extends from the inside face 242 of the bracket 210 and from the top of the vertical flange portion 236. The bottom flange portion 240 extends from the inside face 242 of the bracket 210 and from the bottom of the vertical flange portion 236, such that the top flange portion 238 and the bottom flange portion 240 are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

[0092] The direction in which the top flange portion 238 and the bottom flange portion 240 extend from the vertical portion 236 is the same as the direction in which the transition section 236 offsets the support section 233 from the section 235 that includes the adjustment hole 234. For a single shelf, the transition section 236 offsets the support section 233 inwardly from the offset section 235, e.g., toward a bracket on the other end of the shelf. Similarly, the top flange portion 238 and the bottom flange portion 240 extend inwardly from the vertical flange portion 236, e.g., toward a bracket on the other end of the shelf.

[0093] Thus, as noted, the support section 233 is substantially the same as the support section 122 of the previous embodiments, except for the pivoting capability relative to the adjustable plate 222.

[0094] In the present embodiment, the adjustable plate 222 is positioned laterally outwardly from the body 220 to which it is pivotably connected.

[0095] The adjustable plate 222 is substantially planar and vertically oriented to limit the amount of debris that can be captured thereby. Further, the vertically oriented planar body makes it easier to clean.

[0096] Referring to Figure 17 The brackets 110, 112 have a length L3 from a rear end defined by the end of the hook 262 to the distal end 254. The support section 233 has a section offset from the end of the mounting plate 222 that is at least 60% of the length L3, and in some examples at least 75% of the length L3. This again provides a region of extended length in which a large gap 282 is formed between the support sections 233 of adjacent brackets 210, 212.

[0097] Furthermore, the length of the flange 238 is preferably greater than 75% of the length from the end 254 to the transition section 236, more preferably greater than 85%, and even more preferably approximately 95% of the length from the transition section 236 to the distal end 254.

[0098] As used herein, reference numerals including letters are specific examples of general references to reference numerals without letters (e.g., uprights / shelves, supports discussed above).

[0099] All references cited in this article, including published documents, patent applications and patents, are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent that each reference is individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and is listed in its entirety in this article.

[0100] The use of the terms “a,” “an,” and “the,” and similar designations, in the context of describing the invention (particularly in the context of the following claims), should be interpreted as covering both the singular and plural, unless otherwise stated herein or obviously contradicted by the context. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” should be interpreted as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including but not limited to”). Unless otherwise stated herein, references to numerical ranges herein are intended merely as shorthand for each individual value falling within the range, and each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if individually cited herein. Unless otherwise stated herein or obviously contradicted by the context, all methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order. The use of any and all example or exemplary language provided herein (e.g., “such as”) is merely for the purpose of better illustrating the invention and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of the invention, unless otherwise required. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating that any unclaimed element is necessary for the practice of the invention.

[0101] This document describes preferred embodiments of the invention, including the best modes of carrying out the invention known to the inventors. Variations of these preferred embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. The inventors expect those skilled in the art to appropriately employ such variations, and the inventors intend that the invention be practiced in ways other than those specifically described herein. Accordingly, the invention includes all modifications and equivalents to the subject matter set forth in the appended claims as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated herein or otherwise explicitly contradicted by the context, any combination of all possible variations of the foregoing elements is included in the invention.

Claims

1. A shelving arrangement comprising: a first upright comprising a first column of slots formed in a front face thereof; a second upright comprising a second column of slots formed in a front face thereof, the second upright positioned adjacent the first upright; a first shelf of the first upright comprising: a support section, a mounting section, and a transition section, the first shelf defining a first side and an opposite second side, the transition section laterally offsetting the support section from the mounting section in a first direction; the support section comprising: a vertical flange portion; a top flange portion extending from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the first direction; a bottom flange portion extending from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the first direction, the bottom flange portion spaced apart from the top flange portion; the mounting section configured to mount the first shelf to the first upright; a second shelf of the second upright comprising: a support section, a mounting section, and a transition section, the second shelf defining a first side and an opposite second side, the transition section laterally offsetting the support section from the mounting section in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite the first direction when the first shelf and the second shelf are mounted to respective first and second uprights; the support section comprising: a vertical flange portion; a top flange portion extending from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the second direction; a bottom flange portion extending from the first side of the vertical flange portion in the second direction, the bottom flange portion spaced apart from the top flange; the mounting section configured to mount the second shelf to the second upright; wherein the first side of the first shelf faces away from the second shelf, the first side of the second shelf faces away from the first shelf, and a space is formed between the second side of the first shelf and the second side of the second shelf when the first shelf and the second shelf are mounted to respective first and second uprights, wherein the support section, the mounting section, and the transition section of the first shelf and the second shelf are formed from a single, continuous piece of material, and wherein the first direction extends away from the second shelf, and the second direction extends away from the first shelf.

2. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein a lateral spacing between the mounting section of the first shelf and the mounting section of the second shelf is less than or equal to 0.75 inches, and a lateral spacing between the support section of the first shelf and the support section of the second shelf is at least 1 inch.

3. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein the first upright and the second upright are formed from a single piece of material.

4. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein the first upright and the second upright are formed from separate components, wherein a lateral spacing between the first upright and the second upright is no greater than 0.5 inches, and optionally no greater than 0.25 inches.

5. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein for each of the first shelf and the second shelf: the top flange portion extends from a rear end proximate the transition section toward a front end proximate the distal end of the support section, wherein the bottom flange portion extends from a rear end proximate the transition section toward a front end proximate the distal end of the support section; a first vertical spacing between the rear end of the top flange portion and the rear end of the bottom flange portion is greater than a second vertical spacing between the front end of the top flange portion and the front end of the bottom flange portion.

6. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein: the support section of the first bracket is devoid of any flanges extending past the vertical flange portion toward the second bracket; and the support section of the second bracket is devoid of any flanges extending past the vertical flange portion toward the first bracket.

7. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein for each of the first bracket and the second bracket, the top flange portion is connected to the vertical flange portion by a first bend, and the bottom flange portion is connected to the vertical flange portion by a second bend.

8. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein the first bracket has a first length defined between a first end defined by an end of the support section and a second end defined by the mounting section, the support section defining at least 75% of the first length; wherein the second bracket has a second length defined between a first end defined by an end of the support section and a second end defined by the mounting section, the support section defining at least 75% of the second length.

9. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein, for each of the first bracket and the second bracket, the first bend is formed between and connects the transition section and the support section, and the second bend is formed between and connects the transition section and the mounting section.

10. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein the support section is formed from a different piece than the mounting section, the support section being pivotably attached to the mounting section to allow for changing an orientation of the support section relative to the mounting section.

11. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, further comprising: a first support bar extending laterally from the support section of the first bracket and a second support bar extending laterally from the support section of the second bracket; a first end of the first support bar is attached to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket between the top flange portion and the bottom flange portion of the first bracket in a vertical direction; and a first end of the second support bar is attached to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket between the top flange portion and the bottom flange portion of the second bracket in a vertical direction.

12. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, comprising: a support bar extending laterally between the support section of the first bracket and the support section of the second bracket.

13. The shelving arrangement of claim 12, wherein: a first end of the support bar is attached to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket between the top flange portion and the bottom flange portion of the first bracket in a vertical direction; and a second, opposite end of the support bar is attached to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket between the top flange portion and the bottom flange portion of the second bracket in a vertical direction.

14. The shelving arrangement of claim 12, wherein: the support pole comprises first and second mounting struts and a connecting bar interconnecting the first and second mounting struts; the first and second mounting struts are tubular elements; an end of the first mounting strut is attached to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket such that the vertical flange portion encloses the end of the first mounting strut; and an end of the second mounting strut is attached to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket such that the vertical flange portion encloses the end of the second mounting strut.

15. The shelving arrangement of claim 14, wherein the first mounting strut is T-welded to the vertical flange portion of the first bracket and the second mounting strut is T-welded to the vertical flange portion of the second bracket.

16. The shelving arrangement of claim 12, wherein for each of the first and second brackets, the support section is formed from a different piece than the mounting section, the support section being pivotably attached to the mounting section to allow for changing the orientation of the support section relative to the mounting section.

17. The shelving arrangement of claim 1, wherein: the first bracket is part of a first shelf, the first bracket being at a first end of the first shelf, the support section of the first bracket extending rearward from the front of the first shelf at least 85% of the depth of the first shelf from the front to the back of the first shelf; the second bracket is part of a second shelf, the second bracket being at a first end of the second shelf, the support section of the second bracket extending rearward from the front of the second shelf at least 85% of the depth of the second shelf from the front to the back of the second shelf; the first end of the first shelf is adjacent the first end of the second shelf, the minimum spacing between the support sections of the first and second brackets of the first and second shelves being at least 1 inch and preferably at least 1.25 inches.

18. The shelving arrangement of claim 17, wherein the front of the first shelf is aligned with the front of the second shelf and the depth of the first shelf is the same as the depth of the second shelf.

19. A method of cleaning the shelving arrangement of claim 1, comprising: cleaning within the gap formed between the first and second brackets without removing the first bracket from the first upright and without removing the second bracket from the second upright.

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