Product divider assembly

Abstract

A product divider includes a base, a divider wall, and a blocker. The divider wall extends from the base. The blocker is coupled to the base and the divider and includes a back surface, a front surface, and a flange. The back surface faces the divider wall. The front surface is disposed opposite the back surface. The flange extends from the front surface.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Product Divider Assembly", filed on November 11, 2020, with application number 2020112518021. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to product shelving displays, and more specifically, to product shelving displays including movable dividers and / or pushers. Background Technology

[0003] This section provides background information in connection with this disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] In commercial environments (e.g., stores), products can be displayed in various ways. For example, a series of shelving units can be used to store and display products. Products can be arranged in columns and rows, with products of the same type arranged one behind another in columns, and different types of products arranged one after another in rows. When the first product in a column is selected and removed from the shelf, the second product in that column can be moved to the position of the first product to fill the gap left by the removal of the first product. Products in adjacent columns may have different dimensions (e.g., width). Movable dividers and pushers can be used to ensure that products arranged in rows and columns remain very close to each other when the first product in a column is removed, and when different types of products are placed and arranged in rows one after another. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 933,812, filed November 11, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 036,737, filed June 9, 2020, pursuant to 35 U.S. SC § 119(e). The disclosures of these earlier applications are considered part of the disclosure of this application and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0006] This section provides a general overview of this disclosure, rather than a full disclosure of its entire scope or all its features.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure provides a system. The system includes a divider and a guide rail. The divider includes a base and a first engagement mechanism. The guide rail includes a front wall, a rear wall, and a guide rail base, which cooperate to define a channel. The channel extends in a first direction and is configured to receive the base. The front wall includes a second engagement mechanism configured to selectively engage the first engagement mechanism. The first engagement mechanism is configured to prevent movement of the divider relative to the guide rail in the first direction when a first force is applied to the divider. The first engagement mechanism is configured to allow movement of the divider relative to the guide rail in the first direction when a second force is applied to the divider. The second force is greater than the first force.

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the first engagement mechanism includes at least one first tooth, and the second engagement mechanism includes at least one second tooth. The at least one first tooth may define a first height, and the at least one second tooth may define a second height greater than the first height. The at least one first tooth may define a first cross-sectional shape extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The at least one second tooth may define a second cross-sectional shape different from the first cross-sectional shape. The second cross-sectional shape may extend in the second direction. The at least one first tooth may include a plurality of first teeth, and the at least one second tooth may include a plurality of second teeth. At least one of the at least one first tooth or the at least one second tooth may be configured to flex upon application of a first force.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first engagement mechanism is formed of a first material, and the second engagement mechanism is formed of a second material different from the first material. The first material may have a first coefficient of friction, and the second material may have a second coefficient of friction greater than the first coefficient of friction.

[0010] In some embodiments, the separator includes a rear engagement mechanism, and the rear wall includes a groove. The groove may extend in a first direction and be configured to receive the rear engagement mechanism. The rear engagement mechanism may include a flange.

[0011] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a product separator. The product separator includes a base, a separator wall, and a stopper. The separator wall extends from the base. The stopper is coupled to the base and the separator and includes a rear surface, a front surface, and a flange. The rear surface faces the separator wall. The front surface is disposed opposite to the rear surface. The flange extends from the front surface.

[0012] Embodiments of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the separator wall extends from the rear surface along a first direction. The flange may extend from the front surface along a second direction. The first direction may be aligned with the second direction.

[0013] In some embodiments, the flange is aligned with the partition wall. The partition wall may include a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The flange may include a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface of the flange. The first side surface of the partition wall may be aligned with the first side surface of the flange. The second side surface of the partition wall may be aligned with the second side surface of the flange. The first side surface of the partition wall may be coplanar with the first side surface of the flange. The second side surface of the partition wall may be coplanar with the second side surface of the flange.

[0014] In some implementations, the stopper includes a bottom end. The flange may include a bottom end aligned with the bottom end of the stopper.

[0015] In some embodiments, the flange includes a tip, a front end, and an arcuate portion extending between the front end and the tip.

[0016] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a product separator. The product separator includes a base, a separator wall, a stopper, and a flange. The separator wall extends from the base. The stopper is coupled to the base and the separator wall. The flange extends from the stopper and is aligned with the separator wall.

[0017] Embodiments of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the separator wall extends from the stopper along a first direction, and the flange extends from the stopper along a second direction. The first direction may be aligned with the second direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, the partition wall includes a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The flange may include a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface of the flange. The first side surface of the partition wall may be aligned with the first side surface of the flange. The second side surface of the partition wall may be aligned with the second side surface of the flange. The first side surface of the partition wall may be coplanar with the first side surface of the flange. The second side surface of the partition wall may be coplanar with the second side surface of the flange.

[0019] The stopper may include a bottom end. The flange may include a bottom end aligned with the bottom end of the stopper.

[0020] In some embodiments, the flange includes a tip, a front end, and an arcuate portion extending between the front end and the tip.

[0021] Further areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and not for all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a top front perspective view of a product divider assembly including guide rails and dividers, based on the principles of this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Top rear perspective view of the guide rails and dividers.

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Bottom front perspective view of the divider.

[0026] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Bottom rear perspective view of the guide rails and dividers.

[0027] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a portion of the guide rail.

[0028] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of the divider.

[0029] Figure 7 It is along Figure 1 The sectional view of the guide rail and divider is taken from line 7-7.

[0030] Figure 8 Based on the principles of this disclosure, and Figure 1 Top front perspective view of another product divider used with guide rails.

[0031] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Side view of the product divider.

[0032] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A top view of the product divider.

[0033] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 Front view of the product divider.

[0034] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 Bottom view of the product divider.

[0035] In all the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Example constructions will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Exemplary constructions are provided so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and will fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, apparatus, and methods, are set forth to provide a full understanding of the constructions of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that exemplary constructions may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary constructions should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0037] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific exemplary constructions only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein may also be intended to include plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive, thus specifying the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but not excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring performance in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as such. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0038] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “linked to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, joined to, connected to, attached to, or linked to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly linked to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations associated with one or more of the listed items.

[0039] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the example construction, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section.

[0040] Reference Figure 1The diagram generally illustrates a product divider assembly 10. The product divider assembly 10 may be mounted on a shelf (not shown) or other suitable support and may include a guide rail 12, a divider 14, and in some embodiments, a pusher (not shown). The guide rail 12 extends along a first direction D1. The divider 14 extends in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1 and is coupled to the guide rail 12 for translation in the first direction D1. Specifically, the guide rail 12 includes a first engagement mechanism 16, and the divider 14 includes a second engagement mechanism 18 configured to engage with the first engagement mechanism 16. The engagement mechanisms 16 and 18 may be configured such that the divider 14 can selectively translate along the guide rail 12 in the first direction D1.

[0041] In some embodiments, engagement mechanisms 16, 18 allow the divider 14 to selectively translate along the guide rail 12 in a first direction D1 without using a locking mechanism, such as a button, switch, etc., for selectively locking the divider 14 to and unlocking it from the guide rail 12. By eliminating the need for a locking mechanism, the product divider assembly 10 can reduce the number of parts, thereby reducing weight, cost, and materials. Furthermore, compared to a locking mechanism, the means for translating the divider 14 along the guide rail 12 can be simplified, and this configuration eliminates confusion about whether the divider 14 is locked to or unlocked from the guide rail 12, thus reducing the risk of damage to the product divider assembly 10.

[0042] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The guide rail 12 can be configured to be placed on a store shelf (not shown) or other suitable surface or other suitable location. For example, the guide rail 12 may include a generally flat bottom surface. In some embodiments, the guide rail 12 may include feet or gripping members (not shown) to reduce friction between the guide rail and the shelf. In other embodiments, the guide rail 12 can be secured to the shelf in any suitable manner, such as mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, etc. Although the product divider assembly 10 is in Figure 1 The diagram shows a guide rail 12 and a divider 14, but it should be understood that any suitable number of these components can be implemented, including an optional pusher (not shown).

[0043] The guide rail 12 extends in a first direction D1, and the separator 14 extends in a second direction D2. In some embodiments, the first direction D1 is offset by 180 degrees from the second direction D2. For example, regarding... Figure 1 The orientation shown should be understood to mean that the first direction D1 extends from the upper right to the lower left, and from the lower left to the upper right. Similarly, regarding... Figure 1The orientation shown should be understood as the second direction D2 extending from the upper left to the lower right and from the lower right to the upper left.

[0044] The guide rail 12 may have a generally U-shaped cross-section, including a front wall 26, a rear wall 28, and a guide rail base portion 30 connecting the front wall 26 to the rear wall 28. The front wall 26, the rear wall 28, and the guide rail base portion 30 cooperate to define a channel 32 configured to receive a portion of the separator 14 and a portion of the pusher. The front wall 26 may include a first engagement mechanism 16. For example, the first engagement mechanism 16 may be attached to or integrally formed with the front wall 26. In other embodiments, the first engagement mechanism 16 may be located at any suitable position on the guide rail 12. In some embodiments, the first engagement mechanism 16 includes a plurality of first teeth 52 extending along the front wall 26 in a first direction D1. In other embodiments, the first engagement mechanism 16 may be any suitable engagement mechanism, such as a mechanical fastener, a magnet, an electromagnet, a hook and loop fastener, a high-friction material, etc.

[0045] Reference Figure 1 and 2 The divider 14 extends from the front portion 20 to the rear portion 22. As used herein, the term "front" generally refers to the portion of the divider 14 that faces potential customers or store aisles, and the term "rear" generally refers to the portion of the divider 14 furthest from potential customers or store aisles. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the front portion 20 of the divider 14 can engage the guide rail 12, i.e., be received in the channel 32. In other embodiments, the guide rail 12 may be disposed entirely between the front portion 20 and the rear portion 22 of the divider 14. Although the guide rail 12 is shown as being positioned closer to the front portion 20 than to the rear portion 22, in some embodiments, the guide rail 12 may be positioned closer to the rear portion 22 than to the front portion 20, or equidistant from the front portion 20 and the rear portion 22 (e.g., located in the middle of them).

[0046] The separator 14 includes a base 34, a separator wall 36, and a stopper 38. The base 34 and separator wall 36 extend generally from the front portion 20 to the rear portion 22, while the stopper 38 is disposed at or near the front portion 20 to cooperate with the pusher to hold the product in place. The base 34 includes a top surface 40 configured to receive the product. In some embodiments, the base 34 includes a slot 58 for receiving the rear wall 28 of the guide rail 12.

[0047] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6The separator 14 may include a second engagement mechanism 18 located at or near the stopper 38. For example, the second engagement mechanism 18 may be positioned below the stopper 38 in the front portion 20 of the separator 14. In other embodiments, the second engagement mechanism 18 may be positioned at any suitable location on the separator 14. The second engagement mechanism 18 may include a plurality of second teeth 54. During operation, the first engagement mechanism 16 may selectively engage the second engagement mechanism 18, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown. For example, as shown, a plurality of first teeth 52 may be configured to selectively engage a plurality of second teeth 54. In other embodiments, the second engagement mechanism 18 may include any suitable engagement mechanism, such as a mechanical fastener, magnet, electromagnet, hook and loop fastener, high-friction material, etc., configured to selectively engage the first engagement mechanism 16.

[0048] Reference Figure 5-7 The second tooth 54 of the second engagement mechanism 18 may have a generally low profile relative to the first tooth 52 of the first engagement mechanism 16. For example, the height H of the second tooth 54 relative to the base surface 56 may be... 54 The depth D between each of the first tooth 52 is less than the depth D between each tooth. 52 In some embodiments, the first tooth 52 defines a position substantially parallel to depth D. 52 The first cross-sectional shape extends in the plane, while the second tooth 54 defines a shape that is substantially parallel to the height H. 54 The first cross-sectional shape extends in a plane. The second cross-sectional shape may differ from the first cross-sectional shape. For example, the first cross-sectional shape may define a substantially U-shaped configuration, while the second cross-sectional shape may define a substantially V-shaped, triangular, or truncated conical configuration, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the first tooth 52 includes a pair of planar sidewalls defining the first cross-sectional shape, and the second tooth 54 includes a pair of planar sidewalls defining the second cross-sectional shape. The sidewalls of the first tooth 52 may define a first angle therebetween, and the sidewalls of the second tooth 54 may define a second angle therebetween. The value of the first angle may differ from the value of the second angle. For example, the first angle may be substantially equal to zero degrees, such that the sidewalls of the first tooth 52 are substantially equal to each other, while the second angle may be between five and one hundred and seventy-five degrees, such that the sidewalls of the second tooth 54 are transverse to each other. In some embodiments, the angle between the sidewalls of the second cross-sectional shape is substantially equal to 90 degrees.

[0049] In some embodiments, the second teeth 54 may be formed of a flexible material such that they can flex relative to the base surface 56 in response to a force, i.e., flex toward and away from the base surface 56. In other embodiments, the first teeth 52 may be formed of a flexible material such that they can flex relative to the front wall 26 of the guide rail 12 in response to a force. In other embodiments, both the first teeth 52 and the second teeth 54 may be formed of a flexible material such that they both flex in response to a force. The height H of the second tooth 54 54 It can be high enough to prevent the separator 14 from moving laterally along the guide rail 12 in the first direction D1 by causing engagement or contact between the first tooth 52 and the second tooth 54; however, the height H of the second tooth 54 is... 54 It can be low enough to allow the force applied to the separator 14 in the first direction D1 to be sufficient to overcome the engagement or contact between the first tooth 52 and the second tooth 54 after which the separator 14 translates along the guide rail 12 in the first direction D1. At this point, the arrangement of the first tooth 52 and the second tooth 54 (e.g., the first and second cross-sectional shapes, the angle defined by the respective sidewalls, the height H) 54 and depth D 52 (etc.) may allow the first tooth 52 to be disposed in the gap between adjacent teeth of the second tooth 54, and vice versa, while the distal end of the second tooth 54 does not engage with a portion of the front wall 26 disposed between such adjacent first teeth 52, and / or the distal end of the first tooth 52 does not engage with the base surface 56.

[0050] Reference Figure 3 and 4 The separator 14 may include a rear engagement mechanism 42. The rear engagement mechanism 42 may be configured to slidably engage the rear wall 28 of the guide rail 12. In this respect, the rear wall 28 may define a groove 60 extending in the first direction D1. In an assembly configuration, the engagement mechanism 42 may be translatably disposed within the groove 60, and the base 34 of the separator 14 may be translatably disposed within the channel 32 of the guide rail 12. That is, the rear engagement mechanism 42 may allow the separator 14 to translate (e.g., slide) along the first direction D1 while preventing the separator 14 from separating from the guide rail 12 in a vertical direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2).

[0051] Reference Figure 1 and 2 The divider 14 may include a pair of gripping members 44 disposed at or near the front portion 20. The gripping members 44 may be defined by generally U-shaped cutouts or gaps disposed on opposite sides of the blocker 38. In some embodiments, the gripping members include multiple ridges, a high-friction material, or any other suitable gripping member 44. By allowing the user's fingers to comfortably and efficiently engage opposite sides of the blocker 38, the gripping members 44 can facilitate pushing and pulling the divider 14 along a first direction D1.

[0052] In some embodiments, the pusher extends in the second direction D2 and is coupled to the guide rail 12 in a manner substantially similar to that of the divider 14 or any suitable manner. Similarly, the pusher may include a third engagement mechanism substantially similar to the second engagement mechanism 18, such that the pusher can be selectively translated along the guide rail 12 in the first direction D1, similar to the divider 14. Alternatively, the pusher may be translated along the guide rail 12 in any suitable manner, for example, sliding freely along the guide rail 12, or may be fixed to the guide rail 12.

[0053] The components of the product divider assembly 10, namely the guide rail 12, the divider 14, and the pusher and their associated components, can be formed from any suitable material (possibly multiple materials). These components can be formed from the same material, different materials, or some combination of both. For example, these components can be formed from plastic, metal, carbon fiber, etc. These components can be formed by or through any suitable process, such as injection molding, 3D printing, welding, gluing, mechanical fastening, etc.

[0054] As described above, the product divider assembly 10 can be implemented on a store shelf or other suitable surface or any suitable storage location. For example, two dividers 14 can be spaced apart from each other, and a pusher can be disposed between the two dividers 14 such that the dividers 14 and / or the pusher can be translated along the guide rail 12 to allow products to be inserted into the product divider assembly 10. For example, a wider product may require the dividers 14 to be translated away from each other along the guide rail 12 in a first direction D1, while a narrower product may require the dividers 14 to be translated toward each other along the guide rail 12 in the first direction D1. To translate the dividers 14, a user can grasp the dividers 14, for example at the gripping member 44, and push or pull the dividers 14 along the first direction D1. The engagement of the first tooth 52 and the second tooth 54 initially prevents the dividers 14 from moving along the guide rail 12. However, when the user applies sufficient force to the divider 14, the teeth 52, 54 and / or the guide rail 12 and / or any other suitable component of the divider 14 can briefly flex to allow the divider to translate along the guide rail 12, i.e., until one of the teeth 54 engages with an adjacent tooth of the first tooth 52. After flexing, the teeth 52, 54 and / or the guide rail 12 and / or any other suitable component of the divider 14 can return to their natural state to again prevent the divider 14 from moving along the guide rail 12. The aforementioned process can then be repeated. In real time, the aforementioned process can occur relatively quickly, allowing the divider 14 to translate along the guide rail 12 in a relatively continuous or fluid manner. Alternatively, the second tooth 54 can engage with the first tooth 52, causing the movement of the divider 14 to be uneven or undulating, with each tooth of the second tooth 54 sequentially engaging with each adjacent tooth of the first tooth 52, for example, similar to a ratchet mechanism.

[0055] Now refer to Figure 8-12 Another divider 14a is provided for use with guide rail 12 and / or pusher (not shown). Given the fundamental structural and functional similarity of the components associated with divider 14a relative to divider 14, the same reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the figures to identify the same components, while similar reference numerals with letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0056] Reference Figure 10 The separator 14a can extend in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1, and can be connected to the guide rail 12 for translation in the first direction D1. Specifically, the guide rail 12 includes a first engagement mechanism 16, and the separator 14a includes a second engagement mechanism 18. Figure 11-12 The second engagement mechanism 18 is configured to engage with the first engagement mechanism 16. Engagement mechanisms 16 and 18 may be configured such that the separator 14a can selectively translate along the guide rail 12 in a first direction D1.

[0057] The separator 14a also includes a base 34, a separator wall 36, and a stopper 38a. The separator wall 36 may include a first side surface 62 and a second side surface 64 opposite to the first side surface 62. In some embodiments, the first side surface 62 is substantially (e.g., ±5 degrees) parallel to the second side surface 64. In this respect, the first side surface 62 and the second side surface 64 may extend in the same direction. For example, in an assembly configuration (e.g., Figure 1 In this embodiment, the first side surface 62 and the second side surface 64 may extend in the second direction D2. In some embodiments, the first side surface 62 and / or the second side surface 64 are substantially planar.

[0058] A stopper 38a is disposed at or near the front portion 20 to cooperate with the pusher to hold the product in place. The stopper 38a may include a front surface 66, a rear surface 68 opposite to the front surface 66, a pair of gripping members 44, and a flange 70 disposed at or near the front portion 20. Each of the gripping members 44 may include an arcuate flange 71 extending from the front surface 66 of the stopper 38a.

[0059] The flange 70 may include a bottom end 72, a top end 74 opposite to the bottom end 72, a rear end 76 extending between the bottom end 72 and the top end 74, a front end 78 opposite to the rear end 76 and extending between the bottom end 72 and the top end 74, a first lateral side 80 extending between the bottom end 72, the top end 74, the rear end 76, and the front end 78, and a second lateral side 82 opposite to the first lateral side and extending between the bottom end 72, the top end 74, the rear end 76, and the front end 78. At least one of the top end 74 and the front end 78 may include an arcuate portion 84. For example, the arcuate portion 84 may define a radius of curvature extending from the top end 74 and the front end 78. In some embodiments, the top end 74 and / or the front end 78 may extend tangentially from the arcuate portion 84 to provide improved comfort and operability when a user applies force to the flange 70. In some embodiments, the bottom end 72 extends from and is coplanar with the lower edge 86 of the stopper 38a to improve the connection between the separator 14a and the guide rail 12 in the assembly configuration.

[0060] The first lateral side 80 and the second lateral side 82 can extend from the stopper 38a (e.g., front surface 66) in a direction transverse to the first direction D1. In some embodiments, the first lateral side 80 and / or the second lateral side 82 define a planar configuration extending from the stopper 38a in a direction substantially (e.g., ±5 degrees) perpendicular to the first direction D1 and substantially (e.g., ±5 degrees) parallel to the second direction D2. During use, in order to translate the divider 14a relative to the guide rail 12, the user can grasp the divider 14a and push and pull it along the first direction D1. The configuration of the flange 70 (e.g., the first lateral side 80 and the second lateral side 82) allows the user to more easily grasp the divider 14a and apply force in a direction transverse to the second direction D2, thereby allowing the user to adjust the position of the divider 14a relative to the guide rail 12, as described above. In particular, the flange 70 is constructed to allow the user to translate the separator 14a in the first direction D1 without causing the separator 14a to rotate relative to the first direction D1 and / or the second direction D2.

[0061] The following terms provide exemplary constructions of product separator components and systems.

[0062] Clause 1: A system comprising: a separator including a base, a wall connected to the base, and a first tooth and a second tooth extending a first distance from the wall; and a guide rail including a front wall, a rear wall, and a guide rail base, the front wall, the rear wall, and the guide rail base cooperating to define a channel extending in a first direction and configured to receive the base, the front wall including a third tooth and a fourth tooth configured to selectively engage the first tooth and the second tooth, the third tooth and the fourth tooth extending a second distance from the front wall, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

[0063] Clause 2: The system of Clause 1, wherein the first tooth defines the low profile relative to the third tooth.

[0064] Clause 3: The system of Clause 1 or 2, wherein the first tooth is defined in a first cross-sectional shape extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein the third tooth is defined in a second cross-sectional shape extending in the second direction, different from the first cross-sectional shape.

[0065] Clause 4: A system of any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first tooth or the third tooth is configured to flex when a first force is applied to the separator in a first direction.

[0066] Clause 5: A system of any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the first tooth is formed of a first material having a first coefficient of friction, and the third tooth is formed of a second material having a second coefficient of friction different from the first coefficient of friction.

[0067] Clause 6: A system of any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the separator includes a stop connected to the base and includes a rear surface, a front surface and a flange, the rear surface facing the wall of the separator, the front surface being disposed opposite the rear surface, and the flange extending from the front surface.

[0068] Clause 7: The system of Clause 6, wherein the wall extends from the rear surface in a second direction transverse to the first direction, and wherein the flange extends upward from the front surface in a third direction transverse to the first direction.

[0069] Clause 8: The system of Clause 7, wherein the second direction is parallel to the third direction.

[0070] Clause 9: The system of Clause 8, wherein the flange is aligned with the wall of the separator.

[0071] Clause 10: A system of any one of Clauses 6 to 9, wherein the stopper includes a bottom end, and wherein the flange includes a bottom end aligned with the bottom end of the stopper.

[0072] Clause 11: A system of any one of Clauses 6 to 10, wherein the blocker includes a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the first side defining a first cut and the second side defining a second cut.

[0073] Clause 12: The system of Clause 11, wherein the stopper includes an arcuate flange extending from the stopper adjacent to the first cut.

[0074] Clause 13: A product divider, comprising: a base; a divider wall extending from the base; a stopper connected to the base and the divider wall; and a flange extending from the stopper and aligned with the divider wall.

[0075] Clause 14: The product divider of Clause 13, wherein the divider wall extends from the stop in a first direction and the flange extends from the stop in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0076] Clause 15: A product divider of Clause 13 or 14, wherein the divider wall includes a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface, wherein the flange includes a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface of the flange, and wherein the first side surface of the divider wall is aligned with the first side surface of the flange.

[0077] Clause 16: Product divider of Clause 15, wherein the second side surface of the divider wall is aligned with the second side surface of the flange.

[0078] Clause 17: A product divider of Clause 15 or 16, wherein a first side surface of the divider wall is coplanar with a first side surface of the flange, and wherein a second side surface of the divider wall is coplanar with a second side surface of the flange.

[0079] Clause 18: A product separator of any one of Clauses 13 to 17, wherein the stopper includes a bottom end, and wherein the flange includes a bottom end aligned with the bottom end of the stopper.

[0080] Clause 19: A product divider of any one of Clauses 13 to 18, wherein the divider includes a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the first side defining a first cut and the second side defining a second cut.

[0081] Clause 20: Product separator of Clause 19, wherein the blocker includes an arcuate flange extending from the blocker adjacent to the first cut.

[0082] The above description is provided for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular construction are generally not limited to that particular construction, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected constructions, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also apply to variations in many other respects. Such variations should not be considered a departure from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A product divider system comprising: a pusher including a base and a plurality of second teeth extending a second distance from the base; and a rail including a front wall, a back wall, and a rail base that cooperate to define a channel, the channel extending in a first direction and configured to receive the base of the pusher, the front wall including a plurality of first teeth configured to selectively engage the plurality of second teeth, the plurality of first teeth extending a first distance from the front wall and defining a gap having a depth disposed adjacent each of the plurality of first teeth, the first distance, the second distance, and the depth measured in a direction perpendicular to the front wall, the first distance and the depth of the gap being greater than the second distance such that each of the plurality of second teeth can be disposed in one of the gaps without a distal end of the plurality of second teeth engaging a portion of the front wall disposed between the plurality of first teeth, wherein the plurality of second teeth are configured to resist movement of the pusher relative to the rail in the first direction when a first force is applied on the pusher; the plurality of first teeth are configured to flex to allow movement of the pusher relative to the rail in the first direction when a second force is applied on the pusher, wherein the second force is greater than the first force.

2. The product divider system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second teeth defines a low profile relative to each of the plurality of first teeth.

3. The product divider system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second teeth defines a second cross-sectional shape extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein each of the plurality of first teeth defines a first cross-sectional shape extending in the second direction that is different than the second cross-sectional shape.

4. The product divider system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second teeth or each of the plurality of first teeth are configured to flex when a first force is applied in the first direction on the pusher.

5. The product divider system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second teeth is formed of a second material having a second coefficient of friction, and the plurality of first teeth is formed of a first material having a first coefficient of friction that is different than the second coefficient of friction.

6. A product divider system comprising: a rail including a front wall, a back wall, and a rail base that cooperate to define a channel, the channel extending in a first direction, the front wall including a first engagement mechanism having a plurality of first teeth, the plurality of first teeth extending in the first direction along the front wall; and a pusher including a base and a plurality of second teeth extending a second distance from the base, the plurality of second teeth configured to selectively engage the plurality of first teeth, the plurality of second teeth extending a third distance from the base and defining a gap having a depth disposed adjacent each of the plurality of second teeth, the third distance, the second distance, and the depth measured in a direction perpendicular to the front wall, the third distance and the depth of the gap being greater than the second distance such that each of the plurality of second teeth can be disposed in one of the gaps without a distal end of the plurality of second teeth engaging a portion of the front wall disposed between the plurality of first teeth, wherein the plurality of second teeth are configured to resist movement of the pusher relative to the rail in the first direction when a first force is applied on the pusher; the plurality of first teeth are configured to flex to allow movement of the pusher relative to the rail in the first direction when a second force is applied on the pusher, wherein the second force is greater than the first force. A divider including a base extending from a front to a back and defining a top surface, and a barrier extending from the top surface at or near the front, the base of the divider including a second engagement mechanism disposed below the barrier in the front and having a plurality of second teeth, the first and second engagement mechanisms configured to selectively engage one another to resist movement of the divider relative to the rail in the first direction when a first force is applied on the divider, and to allow movement of the divider relative to the rail in the first direction when a second force is applied on the divider; wherein the second force is greater than the first force, the plurality of first teeth and the plurality of second teeth have different cross-sectional shapes and different heights, such that a depth of the first teeth is greater than a height of the second teeth to allow at least one of the first teeth and the second teeth to elastically flex under the second force, and at least one of the first teeth or the second teeth is formed of a flexible material and / or a material having a different coefficient of friction than the other.

7. The product divider system of claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of second teeth defines a low profile relative to each of the plurality of first teeth.

8. The product divider system of claim 6, wherein the plurality of second teeth defines a second cross-sectional shape extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein the plurality of first teeth defines a first cross-sectional shape extending in the second direction that is different than the second cross-sectional shape.

9. A product divider system, comprising: a rail including a front wall, a back wall, and a rail base that cooperate to define a channel extending in a first direction, the front wall including a first engagement mechanism including a plurality of first teeth extending in the first direction along the front wall; and a pusher including a base extending from a front to a back and defining a top surface, and a barrier extending from the top surface at or near the front, the base of the pusher including a second engagement mechanism disposed below the barrier in the front and including a plurality of second teeth, the first and second engagement mechanisms configured to selectively engage one another to resist movement of the pusher relative to the rail in the first direction when a first force is applied on the pusher, and to allow movement of the pusher relative to the rail in the first direction when a second force is applied on the pusher; wherein the second force is greater than the first force, wherein the plurality of first teeth and the plurality of second teeth have different cross-sectional shapes and different heights, such that a height of each of the first teeth is greater than a height of each of the second teeth to allow at least one of the first teeth and the second teeth to elastically flex under the second force, and ​ wherein at least one of the first plurality of teeth or the second plurality of teeth is formed of a flexible material and / or a material having a different coefficient of friction than the other of the first plurality of teeth or the second plurality of teeth.

10. The product divider system of claim 9, wherein each of the second plurality of teeth defines a low profile with respect to the first plurality of teeth.

11. The product divider system of claim 9, wherein the second plurality of teeth defines a second cross-sectional shape extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein the first plurality of teeth defines a first cross-sectional shape extending in the second direction that is different than the second cross-sectional shape.

Images