Adjustable shelving and method of using same

Abstract

Adjustable shelving and systems for storing and holding a plurality of article containers in a stacked vertical configuration within a shelving unit. Each of a plurality of adjustable shelves selectively couple to horizontal crossbeams of the shelving unit at a user determined location. An article container can then be inserted by setting each article container on one of a plurality of supports within each shelf. By having two shelves next to each other, each article container can be held in a cantilevered configuration and either side of the article container is supported by a different shelf. Each shelf is coupled to a plurality of crossbeams by a corresponding plurality of vise assemblies that are selectively actuated to either clamp or apply a squeezing force to each crossbeam.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of adjustable shelving accessories, and in particular, to adjustable mobile shelving units that enable users to create customized, organized shelving units or systems. BACKGROUND

[0002] As is well known in the art, shelving units, cabinets, racks, and countless other furniture pieces or structures have been used to house and / or store almost any kind or type of merchandise and items. Many of these units not only contain a plurality of shelves arranged in a vertical configuration, but each shelf includes dividers or other structural components that physically subdivide or break up the shelf into a plurality of compartments.

[0003] For example, U.S. Patent 6,164,215 discloses a cabinet assembly including a plurality of shelves, each of which includes a plurality of shelf dividers. Each divider includes one or more tabs that are inserted into the shelf in order to partition the storage space of each shelf.

[0004] Another example of a rack divider can be found in U.S. Application Publication 2011 / 0139736, which discloses a rack for displaying a plurality of items while also subdividing the shelf. Specifically, each divider includes a track and a movable pusher that pushes the items from the back of the divider forward as the previous item is removed from the display.

[0005] Yet another prior art solution for subdividing a shelf can be found in U.S. Patent 6,116,436, which discloses a plurality of wire frame storage dividers for spools. After each storage divider is positioned on its corresponding shelf, the spool is dropped or inserted into the wire frame, which holds the spool in an upright position, thereby allowing a user to store a large number of spools on a single shelf.

[0006] However, while each of the prior art solutions, including those listed above, allows users to subdivide shelves by inserting or attaching any number of dividers or spacers, each shelf divider cannot directly hold or contain items or goods in a suspended and stacked configuration. Instead, each divider allows users to lean against or support items, but in each case, items still primarily contact the shelf surface, necessitating a horizontally positioned shelf surface or shelf panel. However, this presents problems in certain situations where large cabinets or shelving systems may contain multiple shelves, significantly increasing the overall weight of the shelving and making the system more difficult to move or adjust. In addition to increasing the overall weight of the cabinet or shelving system, the shelf panels or other materials used to form each shelf surface also increase the manufacturing cost, which is typically passed on to consumers. Furthermore, because prior art dividers cannot directly hold or contain stored items, this can cause some items to shift or move within each shelf, increasing the likelihood of damage.

[0007] Therefore, what is needed is a device and method for subdividing and organizing shelving units that does not significantly increase the overall weight of the shelving units, while also providing additional structural support for any items stored by directly housing the items themselves. The device should be easy to use and quick to operate, requiring no additional tools or parts beyond the frame of the shelving unit itself. Summary of the Invention

[0008] It is well known that easily retrieving items from a pile of items set up on a shelf can be very difficult. If items at the bottom of the stack need to be stacked, the entire stack needs to be removed from the shelf. This is not only inefficient, but also means that the stored items must be placed on potentially unsafe or unwanted surfaces.

[0009] The modular design of the adjustable shelving unit of this invention solves the problem by allowing users to add an unlimited number of shelving units to a shelf and fully customize the shelves or shelving units to efficiently and conveniently hold items of different sizes between each set of shelving units. Each adjustable shelving unit maximizes vertical food storage capacity and provides a "slide-in and slide-out" passage for each item from top to bottom within each formed "stack". The adjustable shelving units allow for lateral and end loading, and each can be adjusted along the length of a single shelf to hold a variety of different storage devices or containers, such as, but not limited to, food trays, market trays, and food boxes.

[0010] The present invention provides an apparatus for holding a plurality of containers in a suspended stacked configuration within a shelf of a shelving unit. The apparatus includes a faceplate including a plurality of horizontal supports and a plurality of removable vise assemblies coupled to the faceplate. Each of the plurality of horizontal supports extends vertically outward from a vertical plane defined by the faceplate, while each of the plurality of removable vise assemblies is configured to selectively grip or crush at least one crossbeam forming the shelf.

[0011] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of removable vise assemblies includes a fixed clamp, a movable clamp, and a means for selectively adjusting the position of the movable clamp relative to the fixed clamp. Specifically, the faceplate includes a plurality of recesses each configured to receive the fixed clamp therein. More specifically, the fixed clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies includes a double pronged clamp, while each of the plurality of recesses has a window defined therein to receive the double pronged clamp.

[0012] In a related embodiment, the means for selectively adjusting the position of the movable clamp relative to the fixed clamp includes a coupling portion disposed on the fixed clamp, a hole defined by the movable clamp, and a thumb screw disposed through the hole and inserted into the coupling portion. In a further embodiment, the coupling portion includes an internal thread configured to engage a threaded portion of the thumb screw.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, a tab is coupled to each of the plurality of recesses. Here, the movable clamp has a bracket extending from a bottom surface of the movable clamp, the bracket itself configured to receive the tab.

[0014] In another embodiment, the fixed clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies has a first jaw disposed on a top surface of the fixed clamp, while the movable clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies has a second jaw disposed on a top surface of the movable clamp.

[0015] In yet another embodiment, the faceplate includes a plurality of vertical non-linear supports disposed vertically relative to the plurality of horizontal supports. In a related embodiment, the plurality of horizontal supports of the faceplate each include a plurality of heat dissipation bumps disposed along a length of each of the plurality of horizontal supports and a pair of tray stops disposed on longitudinal ends of each of the plurality of supports.

[0016] In a separate embodiment, each of the plurality of coupling means includes a stationary wall, a movable wall, and a bolt inserted through the movable wall and the stationary wall. A cam lever is also disposed on the bolt to actuate the movable wall relative to the stationary wall.

[0017] In related embodiments, each of the plurality of coupling devices instead includes an arm connected to a hinge disposed on the faceplate. In one particular embodiment, the distal end of the arm includes a flexible hook. In various embodiments, the distal end of the arm includes a flange oriented perpendicularly relative to the arm and a flange bolt inserted through the flange. The pad is connected to the distal end of the flange bolt and a wing nut disposed proximate the proximal end of the flange bolt.

[0018] The present disclosure also provides a system for maintaining a plurality of containers in a suspended stack configuration. The system includes a shelving unit including a plurality of horizontal beams, a plurality of article containers, and a plurality of adjustable shelves selectively coupled to at least one of the plurality of horizontal beams. Each of the plurality of adjustable shelves specifically includes a plurality of horizontal supports extending perpendicularly from either side of a vertical plane defined by a faceplate of each of the plurality of adjustable shelves. Additionally, each of the plurality of horizontal supports is configured to receive a side or edge of at least one of the plurality of article containers.

[0019] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of adjustable shelves includes a plurality of coupling devices, each of the plurality of coupling devices located on the adjustable shelf so as to be coupled to a different one of the plurality of horizontal beams.

[0020] Relatedly, each of the plurality of coupling devices specifically includes a fixed clamp, a moveable clamp, and a device for adjusting the linear position of the moveable clamp relative to the fixed clamp. Specifically, a moveable finger screw can be disposed through the moveable clamp and inserted into the fixed clamp.

[0021] In another embodiment, each of the plurality of adjustable shelves includes a device for selectively adjusting the longitudinal position of the adjustable shelf relative to at least one of the plurality of horizontal beams to which it is selectively coupled.

[0022] In yet another embodiment, the plurality of article containers includes at least two article containers having different sizes.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the plurality of horizontal beams are located within the shelving unit so as to form a plurality of different levels. More specifically, at least one of the plurality of adjustable shelves is selectively coupled to at least two of the plurality of levels.

[0024] In another embodiment, the plurality of adjustable shelves are selectively connected to the same horizontal beam of the plurality of horizontal beams.

[0025] In yet another embodiment, each of the plurality of adjustable shelves includes injection molded plastic, while the plurality of horizontal beams includes pultruded plastic.

[0026] The present invention also provides a method for suspending a plurality of article containers in a shelving unit. The method includes placing a plurality of adjustable shelving racks within the shelving unit, selectively connecting the plurality of adjustable shelving racks to a plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit, and inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks. Next, each of the plurality of article containers is placed on a corresponding horizontal support within each of the at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks.

[0027] In one embodiment, the method further includes adjusting a longitudinal position of at least one of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks relative to at least one of the plurality of crossbeams.

[0028] In another embodiment, the step of placing the plurality of adjustable shelving racks within the shelving unit includes simultaneously positioning a first plurality of vise assemblies on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks on a corresponding first parallel pair of the plurality of crossbeams, and then rotating the plurality of adjustable shelving racks relative to the first parallel pair of the plurality of crossbeams. Next, a second plurality of vise assemblies are simultaneously positioned on a corresponding second parallel pair of the plurality of crossbeams.

[0029] In one particular embodiment, the plurality of adjustable shelving racks are selectively connected to the plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit by first opening a vise assembly on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks, accommodating a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams within the opened vise assembly, and then closing the vise assembly. In particular, closing the vise assembly exerts a compressive force on the at least one of the plurality of crossbeams through the vise assembly. Relatedly, closing the vise assembly further includes actuating a thumb screw disposed through the vise assembly.

[0030] In another embodiment, the step of inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks specifically includes inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks in a stacked vertical configuration.

[0031] In a further embodiment, placing each of the plurality of article containers on a corresponding horizontal support within each of the at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving racks is accomplished by placing an edge of each of the plurality of article containers on the corresponding horizontal support and then sliding each of the plurality of article containers into the shelving unit.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, placing the plurality of adjustable shelving racks within the shelving unit specifically includes placing the plurality of adjustable shelving racks on a plurality of shelving levels within the shelving unit.

[0033] In yet another embodiment, placing each of the plurality of article containers on a corresponding horizontal support within each of the at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units further comprises placing at least two of the plurality of article containers on opposite sides of the same adjustable shelving unit.

[0034] In a related embodiment, the step of inserting the plurality of article containers between the at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units specifically comprises inserting a plurality of article containers of different sizes between the at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units.

[0035] In one embodiment, the step of selectively connecting the plurality of adjustable shelving units to the plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit comprises opening a cam lever assembly disposed on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units and accommodating a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams within the cam lever assembly. Next, the cam lever assembly is actuated by specifically applying a pinching force by the cam lever assembly to the at least one of the plurality of crossbeams to close the cam lever assembly onto the at least one of the plurality of crossbeams.

[0036] In a separate but related embodiment, the method steps of selectively connecting the plurality of adjustable shelving units to the plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit comprises accommodating a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams within a corner portion defined in each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units and then rotating an arm connected to each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units over the width of the at least one of the plurality of crossbeams. Next, a distal end of the arm is connected to a lip disposed on the at least one of the plurality of crossbeams. Specifically, in one embodiment, the distal end of the arm is connected to the lip by fitting a hook disposed on the distal end of the arm around the lip. In an alternative embodiment, the distal end of the arm is connected to the lip by first disposing a pad on an outward facing surface of the lip and then advancing the pad until it contacts the outward facing surface of the lip.

[0037] While the apparatus and methods have or will be described in terms of functional explanations for grammatical flow, it should be expressly understood that the claims are not to be construed as being in any way limited by the recitation of "means" or "steps" for performing the specified functions, and are to be given the full scope of equivalents thereof under the Judicial Doctrine of Equivalents, and that they are to be accorded the full scope of equivalents to which the claims are entitled under the Doctrine of Equivalents irrespective of any other statements made that the application is not to be construed as being terminated or limited in any way by the expression of means or steps for performing the specified functions or the recitation of the designated claim elements / tortious structure set forth above. The present disclosure can now be better visualized, by turning to the following drawings, in which like elements are labeled by like numerals. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an adjustable shelving unit of the present application comprising a faceplate and a plurality of coupling devices.

[0039] Figure 1B is Figure 1A an enlarged perspective view of one of the plurality of coupling devices seen in

[0040] Figure 2A is Figure 1A a partially exploded perspective view of the adjustable shelving seen in

[0041] Figure 2B is Figure 2A an enlarged partially exploded perspective view of one of the plurality of coupling devices seen in

[0042] Figure 3A is Figure 1B a perspective view of the fixed clip portion of the coupling device seen in

[0043] Figure 3B is Figure 3A a bottom view of the fixed clip seen in

[0044] Figure 3C is Figure 1B a perspective view of the movable clip portion of the coupling device seen in

[0045] Figure 3D is Figure 3C a rear view of the movable clip seen in

[0046] Figure 4A is Figure 1A a side view of the panel portion of the adjustable shelving seen in

[0047] Figure 4B is Figure 4A a front view of the panel seen in

[0048] Figure 4C is Figure 4A a perspective view of the panel seen in

[0049] Figure 5A is a front view of the system of the invention, wherein two adjustable shelving have been provided between the plurality of crossbeams defining a shelving unit.

[0050] Figure 5B is Figure 5A a front view of the system seen in

[0051] Figure 6A is a perspective view of a crossbeam of the shelving defining a shelving unit.

[0052] Figure 6B is Figure 6A an end view of the crossbeam seen in

[0053] Figure 7A is an elevation view of an alternative embodiment of a shelving unit comprising a plurality of shelves, each shelf comprising a plurality of article containers suspended in a stacked vertical configuration.

[0054] Figure 7B is an elevation view of an alternative shelving unit seen in Figure 7A

[0055] Figure 8A is a top-down perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a coupling device for coupling an adjustable shelving rack to a shelving unit comprising a cam lever.

[0056] Figure 8B is a side view of an alternative embodiment seen in Figure 8A

[0057] Figure 9A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a coupling device for coupling an adjustable shelving rack to a shelving unit comprising a pivotable arm and a hook disposed at a distal end of the arm, the arm being in an open configuration.

[0058] Figure 9B is a side view of an alternative embodiment seen in Figure 9A

[0059] Figure 10A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a coupling device for coupling an adjustable shelving rack to a shelving unit comprising a pivotable arm and a pad disposed at a distal end of the arm, the arm being in an open configuration.

[0060] Figure 10B is a side view of an alternative embodiment seen in Figure 10A

[0061] The present disclosure and its various embodiments can now be better understood by turning to the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which are presented as illustrative examples of the embodiments defined in the claims. It is expressly understood that the embodiments defined in the claims can range far beyond the illustrative embodiments described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] The present invention addresses the problems of the prior art and others by providing an adjustable shelving rack that is Figure 1A ​​​​The shelf 10 is generally indicated by reference numeral 10 in the accompanying drawings. The shelf 10 includes a generally rectangular panel 12, which itself includes a grid or mesh of horizontal supports 14 and vertical supports 16. Each horizontal support 14 extends from either side of the surface of the geometric plane defined by the panel 12. A vise assembly 20 is disposed in each corner of the panel 12 for connecting the shelf 10 to at least one crossbeam of the shelf unit 100, as described below. Figure 5A , 5B As described in further detail in 7A and 7B. The vertical support 16, horizontal support 14, and vise assembly 20 of the shelf 10 each preferably comprise injection-molded plastic or a plastic compound. Specifically, the panel 12 of the shelf 10 comprises a single piece or a one-piece injection-molded plastic to provide maximum structural integrity and strength for the shelf 10.

[0063] exist Figure 1B In the enlarged view of the vise assembly 20, each vise assembly 20 includes a retaining clamp 18 that is coupled to a recess 26 defined in each of the four corner portions of the panel 12. In a preferred embodiment, a movable clamp 22 is further coupled to the panel 12 and is adjustable relative to the retaining clamp 18 by means of a coupling device, such as a bolt 24.

[0064] More details about the fixing clamp 18 can be found in Figure 3A and 3B As seen in the image, each retaining clamp 18 includes a body 32 having a generally cylindrical connecting portion 38 extending outward from one surface of the body 32. The connecting portion 38 further includes a recess or internal thread 40 disposed along its entire internal longitudinal length. The body 32 also includes a first jaw 36 disposed or integrally formed on the top surface or top of the body 32. Furthermore, a double-forked clamp 34 for attaching the retaining clamp 18 to the panel 12 is provided on one side of the body 12, as further discussed below. Figure 3B The fastener 18 is shown in a bottom view. The double-fork clamp 34 includes two flexible forks with a pair of generally hook-shaped or barbed ends arranged in a generally mirror-like configuration.

[0065] Go to Figure 4A- 4C, more details regarding the panels 12 can be obtained. Each panel 12 includes a recess 26 formed in each of the four corners of the panel 12. Each recess 26 in turn includes a window 30 defined therein. Each vertical support 16 includes a generally "zigzag" or non-linear shape, which increases the stiffness or rigidity of the panels 12, which in turn increases the overall structural strength of the shelf 10. Additionally, each horizontal support 14 includes a plurality of heat dissipation bumps 25 symmetrically disposed over the length of each respective horizontal support 14. A pair of symmetrical tray stoppers 27 are disposed on either end of each horizontal support 14. As Figure 4A and 4C can best be seen, the longitudinal length of each of the plurality of horizontal supports 14 extends beyond the respective lateral position of each recess 26. In Figure 4B , it can be seen how each horizontal support 14 extends outward in a perpendicular direction relative to the vertical supports 16 on either side of the panel 12. It can also be seen that each recess 26 includes a generally "C" shaped cross-section for accommodating the body 32 of the securing clamp 18 therein without enlarging the profile of the shelf 10.

[0066] As seen in the partially exploded view of Figure 2A and 2B , each securing clamp 18 is coupled to the recess portion 26 by inserting the double pronged clip 34 into the window 30. As the double pronged clip 34 is inserted into the window 30, each prong is pushed towards the other in order to fit through the narrower window 30. Once inserted, the inherent spring force or elasticity of the double pronged clip 34 pushes each prong away from the other to its natural or resting position. The hooked end of each prong then ensures that the securing clamp 18 will not accidentally come loose from the recess 26 of the panel 12.

[0067] As seen in Figure 3D , the movable clamp 22 is coupled to the securing clamp 18 by sliding the hollow interior 64 defined in the center of the movable clamp 22 over the coupling portion 38, then inserting the bolt 24 through the hole 44 and then into the female threading 40 of the coupling portion 38. The bolt 24 is then rotated or actuated in a clockwise direction within the female threading 40 of the coupling portion 38, thereby pushing or sliding the movable clamp 22 towards the securing clamp 18, thereby bringing the second jaw 42 of the movable clamp 22 closer and closer to the first jaw 36 of the securing clamp 18. When the bolt 24 is rotated in the opposite or counter-clockwise direction, the movable clamp 22 retracts or disengages from the securing clamp 18, which in turn widens the gap between the first jaw 36 and the second jaw 42. When the movable clamp 22 is adjusted by the bolt 24, as Figure 3C and 3DAs best viewed, the bracket 46, extending vertically downward from the movable clamp 22, simultaneously moves back and forth on the tab 28, which extends outward from below the recess 26. Specifically, as the movable clamp 22 moves toward the fixed clamp 18, the tab 28 also inserts into the bracket 46. The interlocking assembly formed between the tab 28 and the bracket 46 ensures that any rotational movement between the panel 12 and the movable clamp 22 is prevented when the bolt 24 is rotated.

[0068] It should also be noted that, in alternative embodiments, bolt 24 may also include a wing nut or another type of flange extending outward from the longitudinal length of bolt 24, so that the user can apply greater torque, thus making it easier to rotate bolt 24.

[0069] The adjustable shelf 10 is connected to or disposed within the shelf unit 100, which includes multiple vertical columns 112 and multiple horizontal beams 114. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a function or feature.) Figure 6A and 6B This allows for a better understanding of the crossbeam 114 of the shelving unit 100. For example... Figure 6B As seen in the cross-section, each beam 141 is substantially shaped as a hollow double I-beam structure. The double I-beam structure includes a top surface 124, a bottom surface 126, and two sidewalls 128, defining a hollow cavity 130 along the entire length of the beam 114. Each beam 114 also includes, along its entire length, a downwardly turned lip 132 adjacent to the top surface 124 and an extension segment 134 adjacent to the bottom surface 126. Preferably, the lip 132 faces “outward” or towards the “exterior” of the mounting unit 100, i.e., on opposite sides of the beam 114.

[0070] The vertical columns 112 and horizontal beams 114 of the shelving unit 100 are manufactured by a pultrusion process, which includes the following steps: supplying glass fiber rovings, guiding fibers from the glass fiber rovings through a resin impregnator, impregnating the fibers with resin from the resin impregnator, pulling the impregnated fibers through a forming die, shaping the fibers into a predetermined shape to form a pultruded component, and cutting the formed pultruded beams or columns to a predetermined length. Specifically, both the primary horizontal beams 114 and the primary vertical columns 112 comprise plastic or a plastic composite and are manufactured by a known pultrusion process.

[0071] The pultrusion process generally includes extruding a plurality of strands of glass fiber or other suitable material from a plurality of rovings disposed on a rack through a plurality of pulleys or other suitable devices. The strands of glass fiber are placed together with other materials, such as mats, in a resin bath or impregnated with resin and other substances that bind the strands of rovings together in a resin impregnator. Depending on the type of glass fiber material supplied by the rovings, the resin can be liquid-based or powder-based and can include a mixture of one or more thermoset or thermoplastic resins. If desired, various types of filament windings can be added to the strands containing resin through an in-line winder. Adding filament windings increases the biaxial strength of the pultruded component. The strands containing resin are then mechanically pulled through a series of actuators by a set of roving pullers that help the glass fiber rovings achieve an initial, rough shape before being pulled through a flange die that forms the glass fiber into a constant, predetermined shape. After being pulled, heated, or cured, the pultruded component is then cut into a desired length or lengths with a saw.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the horizontal crossbeams 114 and the vertical uprights 112 include a mixture of 70% to 80% glass and 20% to 30% resin. The glass fiber fed from the rovings is a continuous filament of 2025 glass fiber. As the glass fiber enters the resin impregnator 176, the resin includes 50% BAYDUR PUL2500 (polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI)), 47.32% BAYDURE PUL2500 (polyol system), 2.07% release agent (AXEL INT-1948MCH), and 0.25% colorant (REBUS code 70165) impregnated onto the glass fiber. After each component has been properly cured, molded, and cut, the resulting product is an extremely strong and durable structural element for the shelving system 100 that is still light enough to be easily carried or otherwise manipulated. However, it is expressly understood that other similar types of glass fiber or resin can be used in different proportions than those listed here without departing from the original spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0073] In Figure 5A and 5B the preferred embodiment, the horizontal crossbeams 114 are paired in parallel pairs two by two and coupled to the vertical uprights 112 at either end of each crossbeam 114. From this, each pair of parallel crossbeams 114 forms a support structure or frame for a shelf or level within the larger shelving unit 100. Each pair of parallel crossbeams 114 can accommodate a plurality of adjustable shelving racks 10. It is also noted that fewer or additional crossbeams 114 than expressly shown in Figure 5A and 5B may be used without departing from the original spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, Figure 5ATwo pairs of parallel crossbeams 114 are shown, thereby providing at least one frame or support for at least one shelving space, however, additional pairs of crossbeams 114 can exist, thereby providing the user with more options to position adjustable shelving units 10 at different levels or heights within shelving unit 100.

[0074] To incorporate adjustable shelving unit 10 into shelving unit 100, the user inserts adjustable shelving unit 10 between the two pairs of vertical parallel crossbeams 114 by first positioning vise assembly 20 on one longitudinal edge of shelving unit 10 across the width of the corresponding parallel pair of crossbeams 114, as seen in Figure 5A Specifically, each vise assembly 20 is initially positioned in an open configuration, wherein movable clamp 22 is retracted or separated from fixed clamp 18, such that the top surface 114 of lower crossbeam 124 can be fitted or inserted therein. Shelving unit 10 is then rotated or pivoted in the direction indicated by arrow 48, which brings vise assembly 20 on the opposite longitudinal edge of shelving unit 10 into close proximity with the bottom surface 126 of the upper pair of crossbeams 114. Next, the user simultaneously or sequentially actuates thumb screw 24 of each vise assembly 20 to bring movable clamp 22 and fixed clamp 18 together, as described above. As movable clamp 22 moves towards fixed clamp 18, first jaw 36 is pressed against the inner edge of each crossbeam 114 while second jaw 42 is simultaneously pressed against the corresponding outer edge of each crossbeam 114 as each vise assembly 20 is actuated. In other words, actuating each vise assembly 20 of shelving unit 10 forces fixed clamp 18 and movable clamp 22 to clamp, grip or squeeze the crossbeams 114 on which they are positioned. When all four vise assemblies 20 are tightened, adjustable shelving unit 10 is securely held between the two adjacent pairs of parallel crossbeams 114, thereby subdividing the storage space or volume defined by the frame of shelving unit 100, i.e. horizontal crossbeams 114 and vertical uprights 112. For example, as seen in Figure 5B By placing two adjustable shelving units 10 within a single shelving area of shelving unit 100, the user can divide a single storage area into three separate storage sub-areas, i.e. sub-area A, sub-area B and sub-area C, as seen in

[0075] To adjust the relative position of any adjustable shelf 10 within the shelf unit 100, the user loosens or adjusts each finger screw 24 in each corresponding vise assembly 20, causing the first jaw 36 and the second jaw 42 to retract from the inner and outer edges of each crossbeam 114, respectively. With both the top surface 124 and bottom surface 126 of each crossbeam 114 still positioned between, but not in firm contact with, the user can move along... Figure 5B The adjustable shelf 10 can be moved laterally by sliding, pushing, or otherwise moving as indicated by arrows 50 and 52. By keeping each vise assembly 20 positioned around the edge of the beam 114 but not firmly clamping it, the user can adjust the relative position of the adjustable shelf 10 within the shelf unit 100 without completely removing or pulling it out. Alternatively, the user can simply loosen each vise assembly 20, slide the shelf 10 laterally along the length of the beam 114 to the new desired position, and then retighten or re-engage each vise assembly 20 to secure the adjustable shelf 10 back to its resting position within the shelf unit 100. To completely remove the adjustable shelf 10, the user loosens or widens each vise assembly 20 and then rotates or pivots the adjustable shelf 10 in the direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 48. The shelf 10 can then be lifted from the shelf system 100 and cleaned or reinserted if necessary.

[0076] Alternatively, in Figure 8A and 8BIn the separate embodiment seen in FIGS. 18-20, a cam lever or cam lock system can be used to couple each of the four corners of panel 12 to a corresponding crossbeam 114. In this embodiment, each recess 26 is entirely replaced by a stationary wall 170 disposed perpendicular to the generally horizontal tab 28. A bolt 172 inserted through a movable wall 174 is also inserted through stationary wall 170 and held in place by a handle 176. A cam lever 178 is disposed on the opposite end of bolt 172, which when actuated, changes the position of movable wall 174 relative to stationary wall 170. Specifically, when cam lever 178 is in the "open" position, movable wall 174 is pushed away from stationary wall 170, thereby increasing the distance between the two. Panel 12 is then disposed on shelving unit 100 such that crossbeam 114 is placed in the space formed between movable wall 174 and stationary wall 170. Cam lever 178 is then actuated to the "closed" position, pushing movable wall 174 closer to stationary wall 170, while simultaneously pulling the proximal end of bolt 172 through cam lever 178, as is known in the art. Actuation of cam lever 178 can effectively apply a squeezing or clamping force to crossbeam 114 disposed therebetween and lock the corresponding corner or edge of panel 12 in a respective position along the longitudinal length of crossbeam 114. To remove panel 12 from crossbeam 114 or simply readjust its longitudinal position along crossbeam 114, cam lever 178 is moved back to the open position, which releases the clamping action applied to crossbeam 114. The position of panel 12 is then adjusted as desired and then locked back in place by again closing or re-actuating cam lever 178.

[0077] In Figure 9A and 9B another embodiment of how panel 12 can be selectively coupled or locked to crossbeam 114 is seen. Here, an arm 180 is coupled to a portion of panel 12 by a pivot or hinge 182. Arm 180 is rotatable or able to pivot about hinge 182.

[0078] As described above, the crossbeam 114 is placed or positioned within the cutout or hole defined in each corner of the panel 12, preferably with the surface of the crossbeam 114 in contact with the tab 28. The arm 180 is then swung or pivoted onto the top surface 124 of the crossbeam 114. When the arm 180 is placed on the crossbeam, the snap button or hook 184 disposed on the distal end of the arm 180 is placed in close proximity to the lip 132 disposed along the longitudinal length of the crossbeam 114. Pressure is applied to the hook 184, which causes the hook 184, which comprises a flexible but resilient material, to receive the lip 132 therein in a substantially frictional or snap-type fit. When the hook 184 fits around or receives the lip 132, an audible "click" or "snap" sound can be emitted. The rounded or large load "U" shape of the hook 184 ensures that the lip 132 remains within the hook 184 as long as the panel 12 remains coupled to the crossbeam 114. To remove the panel 12 from the crossbeam 114 or simply to readjust its longitudinal position along the crossbeam 114, the distal end of the hook 184 is manipulated to move the hook 184 away from the lip 132 of the crossbeam 114. The arm 180 can then be swung or moved back from the top surface 124 of the crossbeam 114, thereby clearing the way for the panel 12 to be removed from the crossbeam 114. The position of the panel 12 is then adjusted as desired, followed by the panel 12 being locked into the new position by again snapping the hook 184 onto the lip 132 after rotating or swinging the arm 180 back onto the crossbeam 114 via the hinge 182.

[0079] In Figure 10A and 10B can be seen how the panel 12 is selectively coupled or locked to the crossbeam 114 in a related but different embodiment. Here, an arm 188 is coupled to a portion of the panel 12 via a pivot or hinge 196. The arm 188 is rotatable or pivotable about the hinge 196. A flange 190 is disposed at the distal end of the arm 188, which is oriented generally perpendicular or orthogonal with respect to the arm 188. A threaded flange bolt 192 is inserted through the flange 190, which in turn comprises a pad 196 disposed on one side of the flange 190 and a wing nut 194 disposed on the opposite side of the flange 190. The wing nut 194 is engaged with the threaded flange bolt 192, thereby allowing it to rotate about the flange bolt 192, while the pad 196 is coupled to the flange bolt 192 at a fixed position distal to the flange bolt 192.

[0080] As noted above, the crossbeam 114 is placed or positioned within the cutout or hole defined in each corner of the panel 12, preferably with the surface of the crossbeam 114 in contact with the tab 28. The arm 188 is then swung or pivoted onto the top surface 124 of the crossbeam 114. When the arm 188 is placed on the crossbeam, the flange portion 190 of the arm 188 is naturally positioned or placed against the lip 132 disposed along the longitudinal length of the crossbeam 114. The wing nut 194 is actuated in a first direction, which causes the flange bolt 192 to advance through the flange 190, which in turn causes the pad 196 to advance toward the outwardly facing surface of the lip 132. The wing nut 194 is actuated until the pad 196 is in firm contact with the outwardly facing surface of the lip 132, thereby locking the particular corner of the panel 12 along the length of the crossbeam to that particular position. To remove the panel 12 from the crossbeam 114 or simply readjust its longitudinal position along the crossbeam 114, the wing nut 194 is actuated in a second, opposite direction to cause the pad 196 to retract or move away from the lip 132 of the crossbeam 114. The arm 188 can then be swung or moved back from the top surface 124 of the crossbeam 114, thereby clearing the way for the panel 12 to be removed from the crossbeam 114. The position of the panel 12 is then adjusted as needed, followed by the panel 12 being locked into the new position by again tightening the pad 196 against the lip 132 after rotating or swinging the arm 188 back onto the crossbeam 114 via the hinge 186. Although Figure 10A and Figure 10B While showing how the flange 190 positions the pad 196 to be tightened or pressed against the outwardly facing surface 132, it should be clearly understood in related embodiments that the flange 190 can include a length that is longer than currently seen, thereby positioning the flange bolt 192 and pad 196 to advance and press against the side wall 128 of the crossbeam 114 rather than the lip 132.

[0081] In addition to dividing the shelves within the shelving unit 100 into one or more subcompartments or subareas for storage, the shelving unit 10 also provides structural support for the merchandise to be stored within the shelving unit 100 in a suspended stack configuration. The shelving unit 100 can be seen in Figure 7A and 7B An alternative embodiment of the shelving unit 100' is seen in FIG. 15, which includes three separate shelves or levels 150, 152, 154, each level including a plurality of adjustable shelving units 10 coupled to a corresponding plurality of crossbeams 114 forming each shelf 150, 152, 154. As disclosed above, each adjustable shelving unit 10 in turn includes a plurality of horizontal supports 14, such as Figure 7AAs seen in the front view, these horizontal supports 14 project or extend perpendicularly laterally from either side of the panel 12. Thus, by aligning containers between the matching or parallel horizontal supports 14 of two adjacent adjustable shelving units 10, a user can arrange multiple food or item containers on each level 150, 152, 154 of the shelving system.

[0082] Specifically, the food or item containers can be food trays 50, as known in the art, which include a raised lip or rim about the perimeter of the food tray 50. The user selects the height relative to the shelving unit 10 at which they wish to place the food tray 50, and then places the lip or rim of the food tray 50 on the horizontal supports 14 of each adjacent shelving unit 10 corresponding to that height. Once each side or edge of the food tray 50 is in contact with the corresponding horizontal supports 14, the user then slides or pushes the food tray 50 distally away from itself deeper into the shelf or level 154 until the entire length of the food tray 50 is supported by the corresponding horizontal supports 14, respectively. The food tray 50 can then be released by the user, sometimes leaving the food tray suspended and supported by the shelving unit 10. The food tray 50 specifically rests on the plurality of heat-dissipating bumps 25 provided on each corresponding horizontal support 14 to prevent heat transfer between the food tray 50 and the shelving unit 10. The pair of tray stops 27 provided on either end of the horizontal supports 14 help ensure that the food tray 50 is in a position that will not inadvertently slide out of the horizontal supports 14. To remove the food tray 50 from the shelving system 100, the user need only lift the food tray 50 from the horizontal supports 14 and pull the food tray 50 out of the shelving unit 100, or slide or pull the food tray 50 proximally toward itself until the lip or rim of the food tray 50 slides off the edge of each horizontal support 14.

[0083] The user can then repeat the process by inserting another food tray 50 between the same two adjacent shelving units 10 by sliding the second food tray 50 between any pair of free or available horizontal supports 14, thereby forming a substantially stacked configuration of the storage food trays 50 and maximizing the storage space of the shelf 154. It should be noted that because the food trays 50 are held in a suspended stacked configuration by the adjacent adjustable shelving units 10, the food trays 50 are not one directly resting on another or in contact with one another. Thus, the user can place consumable goods or other items within each food tray 50 without being crushed by the food trays 50 stacked above it, or potentially damaging the goods contained within the food tray 50 below it. Additionally, because each food tray 50 is stored in a suspended state, the user can add or remove food trays 50 from the bottom of the adjacent shelving units 10 without having to first move or adjust any food trays 50 disposed directly above it.

[0084] Although it has been described above that each food tray 50 is inserted longitudinally into the shelving system 100, it should be clearly noted that the food trays 50 can also be inserted laterally by varying or altering one or two adjacent shelving units 10 to match the total length of the food trays 50. For example, as described above, the relative position of each adjusting shelving unit 10 can be changed by loosening each vise assembly 20 and then sliding the adjusting shelving unit 10 to the new desired position. Each food tray 50 can then be supported in a suspended stacking configuration in the same manner as disclosed above, i.e., each lateral end or edge of the food tray 50 is placed on a corresponding horizontal support 14.

[0085] Relatedly, such as Figure 7A and 7B As seen, multiple shelves 10 can be used to accommodate various types of food or article containers of different sizes or shapes. Specifically, containers of one type or size are arranged in each sub-area defined by the adjustable shelves 10. For example, the uppermost shelf or shelf 150 of the shelving unit 100 includes four adjustable shelves 10, which are positioned along the longitudinal length of each corresponding crossbeam 114 to accommodate three different types of containers: multiple flat trays 52 in sub-area A, multiple compartmentalized trays 54 in sub-area B, and multiple market trays 56 in sub-area C. Figure 7A and Figure 7B As clearly seen, the flat tray 52 has a different height and width relative to the compartment tray 54, which in turn has a different height and width relative to the market tray 56. However, regardless of the specific size of the container, each adjustable shelf 10 can accommodate a variety of different types of containers in a suspended stack configuration. In a preferred embodiment, the horizontal supports 14 of each adjustable shelf 10 are spaced two inches apart to accommodate the maximum number of containers. However, if desired, even containers with relatively high heights (such as multiple pizza dough boxes 58) positioned on the middle tier or shelf 152, or large food boxes 62 positioned on the lower tier or shelf 154, can also be accommodated by the adjustable shelf 10. It should be understood that when two different containers comprise at least one of the same or substantially similar dimensions, both containers can be accommodated in a suspended stack configuration between two identical adjacent adjustable shelves 10. For example, as seen in the middle shelf or shelf 152 of the shelving unit 100, food trays 50 and a plurality of small food boxes 60 can be arranged on the same two adjacent adjustable shelves 10, because both food trays 50 and small food boxes 60 include, for example, the same total width.

[0086] In related embodiments, a user can place multiple shelving units 100 side-by-side to create a shelving system with extended or elongated tiers or shelves 150, 152, 154. Thus, a user can position multiple shelving units 10 on the horizontal beams 114 so that various containers can be stored in a suspended stack configuration between different adjacent shelving units 100, 100'. For example, a user can couple shelving units 10 to the beams 114 of two adjacent shelving units 100, 100', and then store multiple long containers, such as pizza dough boxes 58, between the shelving units 10. The user can then access containers from either shelving unit 100, 100', particularly the longitudinal or lateral sides of either shelving unit 100, 100'.

[0087] In Figure 7A and 7B The specific number and configuration of shelving units 10 seen in FIGS. 1-3 and described above is intended for illustrative purposes only. Fewer or additional shelving units 10 can be used for each shelf 150, 152, 154 or entire shelving unit 100, 100' without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Additionally, a user can also accommodate different types of items or containers by positioning or coupling each shelving unit 10 to the appropriate location along each beam 114 in a different order or configuration as explicitly shown, as needed to satisfy the particular needs of the user.

[0088] Many alterations and modifications will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. Therefore, it must be understood that the illustrative embodiments have been set forth only for the purposes of example and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments and various embodiments defined by the following embodiments.

[0089] Therefore, it must be understood that the illustrative embodiments have been set forth only for the purposes of example and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments defined by the following claims. For example, although the elements of the claims are set forth below in a specific order, it must be understood that the embodiments encompasses other combinations of elements that are disclosed above, even if such combinations are not specifically recited. The teaching that two elements combine to form a claimed combination is further understood to mean that the two elements can be combined in either order, i.e., the first element can be combined with the second element or the second element can be combined with the first element. The removal of any disclosed element of an embodiment is explicitly contemplated as within the scope of the embodiments.

[0090] The words used in this specification to describe the various embodiments are to be understood not only in the sense of their commonly defined meanings, but to include by special definition in this specification the structures, material or acts of which they represent alternative embodiments intended to be within the scope of the application.

[0091] Therefore, the definitions in this specification of the words or phrases, such as "structural", "material", or "act", are, unless otherwise specified, intended to be construed in context as broad as is allowed by law, without limiting them to a narrow or restrictive sense.

[0092] Therefore, the definitions in this specification of the words or phrases, such as "structural", "material", or "act", are, unless otherwise specified, intended to be construed in context as broad as is allowed by law, without limiting them to a narrow or restrictive sense.

[0093] Therefore, the definitions in this specification of the words or phrases, such as "structural", "material", or "act", are, unless otherwise specified, intended to be construed in context as broad as is allowed by law, without limiting them to a narrow or restrictive sense.

Claims

1. An adjustable shelving unit for holding a plurality of containers in a suspended stacked configuration within a shelf of a shelving unit, the adjustable shelving unit comprising: a generally rectangular panel, the panel comprising a grid or mesh of horizontal supports and vertical supports; wherein each of the plurality of horizontal supports extends perpendicularly from a vertical plane defined by the panel; and wherein the panel further comprises a removable vise assembly disposed on each corner of the panel, wherein each of the removable vise assemblies is configured to selectively compress at least one crossbeam forming the shelf.

2. The adjustable stand of claim 1, wherein, Each removable vise assembly comprises: a fixed clamp; a movable clamp; and means for selectively adjusting the position of the movable clamp relative to the fixed clamp.

3. The adjustable stand of claim 2, wherein, The panel comprises a plurality of recesses, each recess configured to house the fixed clamp of at least one of the plurality of vise assemblies.

4. The adjustable stand of claim 3, wherein, The fixed clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies comprises a double pronged clamp, and wherein each of the plurality of recesses comprises a window defined therein to house the double pronged clamp of at least one fixed clamp.

5. The adjustable stand of claim 2, wherein, The means for selectively adjusting the position of the movable clamp relative to the fixed clamp comprises: a coupling portion disposed on the fixed clamp; a hole defined through the movable clamp; and a thumb screw disposed through the hole and inserted into the coupling portion.

6. The adjustable stand of claim 2, wherein, Further comprising a tab coupled to each of the plurality of recesses, and wherein the movable clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies comprises a bracket extending from a bottom surface of the movable clamp, the bracket configured to house the tab coupled to at least one of the plurality of recesses.

7. The adjustable stand of claim 2, wherein, The fixed clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies comprises a first jaw disposed on a top surface of the fixed clamp, and wherein the movable clamp of each of the plurality of vise assemblies comprises a second jaw disposed on a top surface of the movable clamp.

8. The adjustable stand of claim 5, wherein, The coupling portion comprises an internal thread configured to engage a threaded portion of the thumb screw.

9. The adjustable stand of claim 1, wherein, The panel comprises a plurality of non-linear vertical supports disposed perpendicularly relative to the plurality of horizontal supports.

10. The adjustable stand of claim 1, wherein, The adjustable shelving unit comprises a plurality of coupling devices, each of the plurality of coupling devices comprising: a stationary wall; a movable wall; a bolt inserted through the movable wall and the stationary wall; and a cam lever coupled to the bolt.

11. The adjustable stand of claim 10, wherein, Each of the plurality of coupling devices comprises an arm coupled to a hinge disposed on the panel, wherein a distal end of the arm comprises a flexible hook.

12. The adjustable stand of claim 10, wherein, Each of the plurality of coupling devices comprises an arm coupled to a hinge disposed on the panel, wherein a distal end of the arm comprises: a flange oriented perpendicularly relative to the arm; a flange bolt inserted through the flange; a pad coupled to the flange bolt; and a wing nut coupled to the flange bolt.

13. The adjustable stand of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of horizontal supports of the panel further comprise: a plurality of heat dissipation bumps disposed along a length of each of the plurality of horizontal supports; and a plurality of heat dissipation bumps disposed along a length of each of the plurality of horizontal supports; and A pair of tray stops disposed on each longitudinal end of each of the plurality of horizontal supports.

14. A system for holding a plurality of containers in a configuration of a suspended stack, the system comprising: a shelving unit comprising a plurality of horizontal beams; a plurality of article containers; and a plurality of adjustable shelving units according to any one of claims 1-13, the plurality of adjustable shelving units being selectively coupled to at least one of the plurality of horizontal beams; wherein each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises a plurality of horizontal supports extending perpendicularly from either side of a vertical plane defined by a faceplate of each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units; and wherein each of the plurality of horizontal supports is configured to accommodate a side of at least one of the plurality of article containers.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein, Each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises a plurality of coupling devices, each of the plurality of coupling devices being disposed on the adjustable shelving unit so as to be coupled to a different one of the plurality of horizontal beams.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein, Each of the plurality of coupling devices comprises: a fixed clamp; a movable clamp; and a device for adjusting a linear position of the movable clamp relative to the fixed clamp.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein, Each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises a device for selectively adjusting a longitudinal position of the adjustable shelving unit relative to at least one of the plurality of horizontal beams to which it is selectively coupled.

18. The system of claim 14, wherein, The plurality of article containers comprises at least two article containers having different sizes.

19. The system of claim 14, wherein, The plurality of horizontal beams are disposed within the shelving unit to form a plurality of shelves.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein, The plurality of adjustable shelving units selectively coupled to at least one of the plurality of horizontal beams comprises at least one of the plurality of adjustable shelving units selectively coupled to at least two of the plurality of shelves.

21. The system of claim 16, wherein, The device for adjusting a linear position of the movable clamp relative to the fixed clamp comprises a removable thumb screw disposed through the movable clamp and inserted into the fixed clamp.

22. The system of claim 14, wherein, The plurality of adjustable shelving units selectively coupled to at least one of the plurality of horizontal beams comprises a plurality of adjustable shelving units selectively coupled to the same one of the plurality of horizontal beams.

23. The system of claim 14, wherein, The plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises injection molded plastic, and wherein the plurality of horizontal beams comprises pultruded plastic.

24. The system of claim 15, wherein, Each of the plurality of coupling devices comprises: a stationary wall; a movable wall; a bolt inserted through the movable wall and the stationary wall; and a cam lever coupled to the bolt.

25. The system of claim 15, wherein, Each of the plurality of coupling devices comprises an arm coupled to a hinge disposed on the faceplate, wherein a distal end of the arm comprises a flexible hook.

26. The system of claim 15, wherein, Each of the plurality of coupling devices comprises an arm coupled to a hinge disposed on the faceplate, wherein a distal end of the arm comprises: a flange oriented perpendicularly relative to the arm; a flange bolt inserted through the flange; a washer coupled to the flange bolt; and a wing nut coupled to the flange bolt.

27. A method for suspending a plurality of article containers in a shelving unit, the method comprising: positioning a plurality of adjustable shelving units within the shelving unit according to any of claims 1-13; selectively coupling the plurality of adjustable shelving units to a plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit; inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units; and positioning each of the plurality of article containers on a corresponding horizontal support within each of at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein, The method further comprises adjusting a longitudinal position of at least one of the plurality of adjustable shelving units relative to at least one of the plurality of crossbeams.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein, Positioning the plurality of adjustable shelving units within the shelving unit comprises: simultaneously positioning a first plurality of vise assemblies positioned on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units on a corresponding first parallel pair of the plurality of crossbeams; rotating the plurality of adjustable shelving units relative to the first parallel pair of the plurality of crossbeams; and simultaneously positioning a second plurality of vise assemblies positioned on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units on a corresponding second parallel pair of the plurality of crossbeams.

30. The method of claim 27, wherein, Selectively coupling the plurality of adjustable shelving units to a plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit comprises: opening a vise assembly positioned on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units; accommodating a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams within the opened vise assembly; and closing the vise assembly; wherein closing the vise assembly exerts a compressive force on at least one of the plurality of crossbeams via the vise assembly.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein, Closing the vise assembly comprises actuating a thumb screw disposed through the vise assembly.

32. The method of claim 27, wherein, Inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units in a stacked vertical configuration.

33. The method of claim 27, wherein, Positioning each of the plurality of article containers on a corresponding horizontal support within each of at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises placing an edge of each of the plurality of article containers on the corresponding horizontal support and sliding each of the plurality of article containers into the shelving unit.

34. The method of claim 27, wherein, Positioning the plurality of adjustable shelving units within the shelving unit comprises positioning a plurality of adjustable shelving units on a plurality of shelves disposed within the shelving unit.

35. The method of claim 27, wherein, Positioning each of the plurality of article containers on a corresponding horizontal support within each of at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises positioning at least two of the plurality of article containers on opposite sides of the same at least two of the adjustable shelving units.

36. The method of claim 27, wherein, Inserting the plurality of article containers between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units comprises inserting a plurality of article containers of different sizes between at least two of the plurality of adjustable shelving units.

37. The method of claim 27, wherein, Selectively coupling the plurality of adjustable shelving units to a plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit comprises: opening a cam lever assembly positioned on each of the plurality of adjustable shelving units; accommodating a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams within the opened cam lever assembly; and actuating the cam lever assembly to close the cam lever assembly onto at least one of the plurality of crossbeams; wherein actuating the cam lever assembly applies a pinching force to at least one of the plurality of crossbeams via the cam lever assembly.

38. The method of claim 27, wherein, selectively coupling the plurality of adjustable shelving brackets to a plurality of crossbeams forming the shelving unit includes: receiving a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams within a corner portion defined in each of the plurality of adjustable shelving brackets; rotating an arm coupled to each of the plurality of adjustable shelving brackets over a width of at least one of the plurality of crossbeams; and coupling a distal end of the arm to a lip disposed on at least one of the plurality of crossbeams.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein, coupling the distal end of the arm to the lip disposed on at least one of the plurality of crossbeams includes fitting a hook disposed on the distal end of the arm around the lip.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein, coupling the distal end of the arm to the lip disposed on at least one of the plurality of crossbeams includes: disposing a pad on an outward facing surface of the lip; and advancing the pad until the pad contacts the outward facing surface of the lip.

Images