Product divider assembly

Abstract

A retail management system includes a carriage base (34) and an engagement mechanism. The carriage base includes a first end defining a front surface (40) and a second end formed at an opposite end of the first end. The engagement mechanism is disposed at the first end of the carrier base and includes a plurality of carrier teeth (54) extending from the front surface, the plurality of carrier teeth (54) including at least one primary carrier tooth (54b) having a first configuration and at least one secondary carrier tooth (54c) having a second configuration different from the first configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to product shelf displays and, more particularly, to product shelf displays including translatable dividers and / or pushers. Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] Products in a commercial environment such as a store can be displayed in a variety of ways. For example, a series of shelf units can be used to store and display products. Products can be arranged in columns and rows, where products of the same type are arranged in a row front to back, and different types of products are arranged in adjacent rows. When the first product in a column is selected and removed from the shelf, the second product in the column can move to the position of the first product to occupy the gap left by the removal of the first product. Products in adjacent columns can have different sizes (e.g., width). Movable dividers and pushers can be used to ensure that products arranged in rows and columns are close to each other when the first product in a column is removed and when different types of products are placed in rows adjacent to each other. Summary of the invention

[0004] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an example of a retail management system, which includes a bracket base and an engagement mechanism. The bracket base includes a first end defining a front surface and a second end formed at an opposite end of the first end. The engagement mechanism is disposed at the first end of the bracket base and includes a plurality of bracket teeth extending from the front surface, the plurality of bracket teeth including at least one main bracket tooth having a first configuration and at least one secondary bracket tooth having a second configuration different from the first configuration.

[0006] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the first dimension is a first length measured from the front surface to the distal end of the primary bracket tooth, and the second dimension is a second length measured from the front surface to the distal end of the secondary bracket tooth. In some configurations, each bracket tooth includes a top end defining a substantially planar surface perpendicular to the front surface.

[0007] In some embodiments, each bracket tooth has a first height extending from the bottom end to the top end along the front surface and includes a lower biasing surface formed adjacent to the bottom end. In some examples, the lower biasing surface extends at an oblique angle relative to the front surface of the bracket base. In some embodiments, the lower biasing surface includes an arcuate portion adjacent to the bottom end. In some configurations, the lower biasing surface has a second height that is at least half of the first height. In some configurations, each bracket tooth includes an arcuate peripheral side surface extending between the bottom end and the top end.

[0008] In some examples, the engagement mechanism is operable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the front surface of the bracket base. In some configurations, the engagement mechanism is integrally formed with the front surface of the bracket base.

[0009] In some embodiments, the engagement mechanism is a carriage engagement mechanism, and wherein the system further comprises a track. Optionally, the track comprises a track engagement mechanism operable to move between a first configuration and a second configuration. In some embodiments, the track comprises a frame, and the track engagement mechanism is attached to the frame and operable to move between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0010] In some examples, the track engaging mechanism includes a plurality of track teeth configured to move relative to the frame. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of track teeth is coupled to the frame by an elastic member comprising a material different from the frame. In some examples, each of the plurality of track teeth is integrally formed with the elastic member. In some embodiments, the track engaging mechanism includes a flexible front wall attached to the elastic member, and the plurality of track teeth extend from the front wall. In some examples, the elastic member includes a strip of a first material disposed between the frame and the track engaging mechanism, the first material having a lower hardness than a second material forming the frame or the track engaging mechanism.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides examples of an engagement mechanism for a retail management system including a track. In some examples, the engagement mechanism includes: a biasing element including a first end and a second end, the second end being formed on a side of the biasing element opposite to the first end; and a first engagement element disposed at the first end of the biasing element, the first engagement element having a front surface having a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth including at least one primary tooth having a first configuration and at least one secondary tooth having a second configuration different from the first configuration.

[0012] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the engagement mechanism includes a second engagement element disposed at a second end of the biasing element and defining an elongated rail portion, the elongated rail portion being configured to slidably receive the track. In some embodiments, the second engagement element includes an engagement structure configured to slidably secure the engagement mechanism to the track. In some configurations, the biasing element is configured as an elastic biasing element operable between a compression configuration and a relaxation configuration, the compression configuration having a first length between a first end and a second end, the relaxation configuration having a second length between the first end and the second end that is greater than the first length. In the compression configuration, the biasing element applies a biasing force to at least one of the first engagement element and the second engagement element.

[0013] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 1 is a top front perspective view of a product rack assembly including tracks and dividers according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear and top perspective view of the track and divider.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A front bottom perspective view of a separator.

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A rear lower perspective view of the track and divider.

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of the track.

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of a portion of the separator.

[0021] Figure 7 is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the track and separator taken along line 7-7.

[0022] Figure 8 According to the principles of the present disclosure Figure 1 A top front perspective view of another product divider used with a track.

[0023] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 Side view of a product divider.

[0024] Fig.10 yes Figure 8 A top view of a product divider.

[0025] Fig.11 yes Figure 8 Front view of the product divider.

[0026] Fig.12 yes Figure 8 Bottom view of the product divider.

[0027] Fig.13 is a top front perspective view of a product rack assembly including tracks and dividers according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 An exploded top front perspective view of a product bracket assembly.

[0029] Fig.15 yes Fig.13 A partial bottom plan view of a product bracket assembly.

[0030] Fig.16 yes Fig.13 A partial bottom perspective view of a product bracket assembly.

[0031] Fig.17 yes Fig.13 An exploded partial bottom perspective view of a product bracket assembly.

[0032] Fig.18 is a front view of a bracket engagement mechanism according to an example of the present disclosure, which can be coupled to Figure 1-17 In any product management system shown in .

[0033] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 Side view of the bracket engagement mechanism.

[0034] Fig. 20 yes Fig.18 A top plan view of a bracket engagement mechanism.

[0035] Fig.21 is a partial front upper perspective view of a product bracket assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 An enlarged view of a portion of the separator.

[0037] Fig.23 It is shown Fig.21 sectional view of an example of a product carrier assembly engaged with a track according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0038] Fig.24 yes Fig.21 0014] A rear lower perspective view of a product carrier assembly showing engagement of the product carrier assembly with a track according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig.25 yes Fig.23 An enlarged stereogram of an example of a track is provided in FIG.

[0040] Fig.26 The product bracket assembly is shown with Fig.23 An overhead plan view of the track.

[0041] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided to make the disclosure comprehensive and in-depth, and thus to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the configurations of the disclosure. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0043] The terms used herein are only used to describe specific exemplary configurations and are 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 "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and therefore indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. Unless specifically specified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as having to be performed in the specific order discussed or described. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0044] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on or engaged to, connected to, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words 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 of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0045] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used 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 can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Unless the context clearly indicates, terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply sequence or order. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the example construction, the first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0046] Reference Figure 1 , a product management system 10 is generally shown. The product management system 10 can be set on a shelf (not shown) or other suitable support device, and can include a track 12, a bracket assembly 14, and in some embodiments, a pusher (not shown). To describe the features of the present disclosure, the product management system and its components can be described according to a first axis or direction D1 extending generally along a transverse direction corresponding to the length of the track 12, a second axis or direction D2 extending generally perpendicular to the first direction D1 and along the longitudinal direction of the bracket assembly 14, and a third axis or direction D3 corresponding to a vertical direction extending perpendicular to each of the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0047] The track 12 extends in a first direction D1. The carriage assembly 14 extends in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1 and is coupled to the track 12 to translate in the first direction D1. Specifically, the track 12 includes a track engagement mechanism 16, and the carriage assembly 14 includes a carriage engagement mechanism 18, which is configured to engage with the track engagement mechanism 18. The engagement mechanisms 16, 18 may be configured to enable the carriage assembly 14 to selectively translate in the first direction D1 along the track 12.

[0048] In some embodiments, the engagement mechanisms 16, 18 can enable the carriage assembly 14 to selectively translate in the first direction D1 along the track 12 without the use of a manual engagement actuator (such as a button, switch, etc.) to selectively engage and disengage the carriage assembly 14 with the track 12. By eliminating the need for a manual actuator, the product management system 10 can reduce the number of components, thereby reducing weight, cost, and material. In addition, compared to a manual actuator, the device for translating the carriage assembly 14 along the track 12 can be simplified, and this configuration eliminates confusion as to whether the carriage assembly 14 is engaged or disengaged from the track 12, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the product management system 10.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the track 12 can be configured to be placed on a shelf (not shown) or other suitable surface in a store or other suitable location. For example, the track 12 can include a generally flat bottom surface. In some embodiments, the track 12 can include feet or gripping members (not shown) to reduce friction between the track and the shelf. In other embodiments, the track 12 can be secured to the shelf in any suitable manner, such as, for example, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, etc. Although Figure 1 The product management system 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes one track 12 and one carriage assembly 14 , but it will be appreciated that any suitable number of these components (including optional pushers (not shown)) may be implemented.

[0050] The track 12 may have a generally U-shaped cross-section, including a front wall 26, a rear wall 28, and a base 30 connecting the front wall 26 to the rear wall 28. The front wall 26, the rear wall 28, and the base 30 cooperate to define a channel 32, which is configured to receive a portion of the carriage assembly 14 and a portion of the pusher. The front wall 26 may include a track engaging mechanism 16. For example, the track engaging mechanism 16 may be attached to the front wall 26 or formed integrally with the front wall 26. In other embodiments, the track engaging mechanism 16 may be located at any suitable position on the track 12. In some embodiments, the track engaging mechanism 16 includes an upper flange 50 formed at the distal end of the front wall 26 and includes a plurality of track teeth 52, each track tooth 52 extending between the upper flange 50 and the base 30, whereby the track teeth 52 are arranged in series along the front wall 26 in the first direction D1. In other embodiments, the track engagement mechanism 16 may be any suitable engagement mechanism, such as, for example, a mechanical fastener, a magnet, an electromagnet, a hook and loop fastener, a high friction material, or the like.

[0051] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2, the rack assembly 14 extends from a front portion 20 to a rear portion 22. As used herein, the term "front" generally refers to the portion of the rack assembly 14 that will face potential customers or a store aisle, while the term "rear" generally refers to the portion of the rack assembly 14 that is farthest from potential customers or a store aisle. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the front portion 20 of the carriage assembly 14 can engage the track 12, i.e., be received in the channel 32. In other embodiments, the track 12 can be completely disposed between the front portion 20 and the rear portion 22 of the carriage assembly 14. Although the track 12 is shown as being closer to the front portion 20 than the rear portion 22, in some embodiments, the track 12 can be disposed closer to the rear portion 22 than the front portion 20, or disposed equidistantly relative to the front portion 20 and the rear portion 22 (e.g., centered therebetween).

[0052] The cradle assembly 14 includes a cradle base 34, a divider wall 36 attached to the cradle base 34, and a front stop 38. The cradle base 34 and the divider wall 36 generally extend from the front portion 20 to the rear portion 22, and the stop 38 is disposed at or near the front portion 20 to cooperate with a pusher (not shown) to hold the product in place. The cradle base 34 includes a top surface configured to receive and support the product. In some embodiments, the cradle base 34 includes a slot 46 for receiving the rear wall 28 of the track 12.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6 , the carriage assembly 14 may include a carriage engagement mechanism 18 located at or near the front portion 20. For example, the carriage engagement mechanism 18 is disposed at the front portion 20 in a cavity 35 formed in the bottom side of the carriage base 34. In the example shown, the carriage engagement mechanism 18 includes a biasing element 37 disposed within the cavity 35, a front engagement element 39 attached to a first end of the biasing element 37 and disposed in the front portion 20 of the carriage assembly 14 below the stop 38, and a rear engagement element 41 attached to a second end of the biasing element 37. Thus, the front engagement element 39 and the rear engagement element 41 are disposed on opposite ends of the biasing element 37 such that the biasing element 37 is configured to bias the front engagement element 39 away from the rear engagement element 41. In other embodiments, the carriage engagement mechanism 18 is disposed at any suitable location on the carriage assembly 14. The carriage engagement mechanism 18 may include a plurality of carriage teeth 54. During operation, the track engagement mechanism 16 may selectively engage with the front engagement element 39 of the carriage engagement mechanism 18, such as Figure 1 , 27. For example, as shown, the plurality of track teeth 52 can be configured to selectively engage with the plurality of bracket teeth 54. In other embodiments, the bracket engagement mechanism 18 can include any suitable engagement mechanism (such as, for example, mechanical fasteners, magnets, electromagnets, hook and loop fasteners, high friction materials, etc.) that is configured to selectively engage the track engagement mechanism 16.

[0054] Reference Figure 5-7 , the bracket teeth 54 of the bracket engagement mechanism 18 can be generally low profile relative to the track teeth 52 of the track engagement mechanism 16. For example, the height H of the bracket teeth 54 relative to the base surface 53 is 54 It may be less than the depth D between each track tooth 52. 52 In some embodiments, track teeth 52 are defined substantially parallel to depth D 52 The first cross-sectional shape extends in a plane of the height H, and the bracket teeth 54 are defined in a plane substantially parallel to the height H 54 The first cross-sectional shape may be different from the second cross-sectional shape. For example, the first cross-sectional shape may define a substantially convex or semi-cylindrical 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 track tooth 52 includes a pair of planar side walls defining a first cross-sectional shape, and the bracket tooth 54 includes a pair of planar side walls defining a second cross-sectional shape. The side walls of the track tooth 52 may define a first angle therebetween, and the side walls of the bracket tooth 54 may also define a second angle therebetween. The value of the first angle may be different from the value of the second angle. For example, the first angle may be substantially equal to 0 degrees, so that the side walls of the track tooth 52 are substantially identical to each other, and the second angle may be between 5 degrees and 175 degrees, so that the side walls of the bracket tooth 54 are transverse to each other. In some embodiments, the angle between the side walls of the second cross-sectional shape is substantially equal to 90 degrees.

[0055] In some embodiments, the bracket teeth 54 may include a relatively soft, resilient material having a lower hardness or modulus of elasticity than the material forming the base surface 53, such that the bracket teeth may flex relative to the base surface 53, i.e., toward and away from the base surface 53, in response to a force. In other embodiments, the track teeth 52 may include a soft, resilient material such that the track teeth may flex relative to the front wall 26 of the track 12 in response to a force. In other embodiments, both the track teeth 52 and the bracket teeth 54 may include a soft, resilient material such that they may flex in response to a force. The height H of the bracket teeth 54 is 54 The height H of the bracket teeth 54 may be high enough to prevent the bracket assembly 14 from moving laterally along the track 12 in the first direction D1 by causing engagement or contact between the track teeth 52 and the bracket teeth 54. However, the height H of the bracket teeth 54 is 54The first and second bracket teeth 52 and 54 may be low enough to allow the bracket assembly 14 to translate in the first direction D1 along the track 12 after a force applied to the bracket assembly 14 in the first direction D1 is sufficient to overcome the engagement or contact between the track teeth 52 and the bracket teeth 54. In this regard, the arrangement of the first and second bracket teeth 52, 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.) can allow the track tooth 52 to be disposed in a gap between adjacent ones of the bracket teeth 54, and vice versa, without causing the distal end of the bracket tooth 54 to engage with a portion of the front wall 26 disposed between these adjacent track teeth 52, and / or without causing the distal end of the track tooth 52 to engage the base surface 53.

[0056] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 as well as Fig.12 (where the bracket engagement mechanism 18 is shown in conjunction with a second example of a bracket assembly 14a), the bracket engagement mechanism 18 includes several elements for maintaining the alignment or orientation of the bracket engagement mechanism 18 during use. For example, the bracket assembly 14 may include a wall engagement structure 42 and one or more stabilizers 45. Figure 3 , the wall engagement structure 42 of the bracket assembly 14 can be integrated into the rear engagement element 41 of the bracket engagement mechanism 18. In particular, the wall engagement structure 42 can be spaced apart from the second end of the biasing element 47 to define a groove or rear rail portion 43 between the wall engagement structure 42 and the second end of the biasing element 37.

[0057] like Figure 4 As shown, the rear rail portion 43 of the bracket engagement mechanism 18 is configured to receive a portion of the rear wall 28 of the track 12 when the bracket assembly 14 is assembled to the track 12. In other words, the rear rail portion 43 is aligned with the slot 46 of the bracket base 34 to provide a continuous channel extending across the width of the bracket assembly 14 in the second direction D2. Therefore, the rear rail portion 43 of the bracket engagement mechanism 18 cooperates with the slot 46 of the bracket base 34 to each receive a portion of the rear wall 28 of the track 12.

[0058] The wall engagement structure 42 can be configured to slidably engage the rear wall 28 of the track 12 to secure the bracket engagement mechanism 18 (and the bracket assembly 14) to the rear wall 28. In this regard, the rear wall 28 can define a groove 60 extending in the first direction D1 along the length of the track 12. In an assembled configuration, the wall engagement structure 42 can be translatably disposed within the groove 60, while the bracket base 34 of the bracket assembly 14 can be translatably disposed within the channel 32 of the track 12. That is, the wall engagement structure 42 can allow the bracket assembly 14 and the bracket engagement mechanism 18 to translate (e.g., slide) along the first direction D1 while inhibiting the bracket assembly 14 from separating from the track 12 in the vertical direction D3 (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the first and second directions D1, D2). An interface is provided between the rear wall 28 of the track 12 and the rear rail portion 43 of the bracket engagement mechanism 18 for maintaining the orientation of the bracket engagement mechanism 18 relative to the track 12 when the bracket assembly 14 translates along the track 12. For example, when the carriage assembly 14 is translated along the track 12 without the carriage teeth 54 being fully disengaged from the track teeth 52, interference between the teeth 52, 54 may generate a reaction force on the front engagement element 39 in a direction opposite to the translation direction. This reaction force may include a torsional force component that causes the carriage engagement mechanism 18 to rotate within the cavity 35. However, by providing an interface between the rear wall 28 and the rear rail portion 43, rotation of the carriage engagement mechanism 18 is minimized to maintain alignment between the track teeth 52 and the carriage teeth 54.

[0059] In addition to the rear engagement element 41, the cradle engagement mechanism 18 may also include a pair of stabilizers 45 disposed at the first end of the biasing element 37. Each stabilizer 45 extends outwardly to a distal end that engages with a front wall portion of the cradle base 34 of the cradle assembly 14. The stabilizers 45 function as both (i) a positive stop to prevent overextension of the biasing element 37 and the front engagement element 39, and (ii) an alignment aid to maintain the rotational orientation of the cradle engagement mechanism 18 relative to the cradle base 34.

[0060] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the cradle assembly 14 can include a pair of gripping members 44 disposed at or near the front portion 20. The gripping members 44 can be defined by generally arcuate or concave cutouts or voids disposed on opposite sides of the stop 38. In some embodiments, the gripping members include a plurality of ridges, a high friction material, or any other suitable gripping members 44. The gripping members 44 can facilitate pushing and pulling the cradle assembly 14 along the first direction D1 by allowing the user's fingers to comfortably and effectively engage opposite sides of the stop 38.

[0061] In some embodiments, the pusher extends in the second direction D2 and is coupled to the track 12 in a manner substantially similar to the carriage assembly 14 (i.e., via the carriage base 34) or in any suitable manner. Likewise, the pusher may include a third engagement mechanism substantially similar to the carriage engagement mechanism 18, so that the pusher can selectively translate along the track 12 in the first direction D1, similar to the carriage assembly 14. Alternatively, the pusher can translate along the track 12 in any suitable manner, such as freely sliding along the track 12, or can be fixed to the track 12.

[0062] The components of the product management system 10 (i.e., the track 12, the bracket assembly 14, and the pusher and its related components) can be formed of any suitable material. These components can be formed of the same material, different materials, or some combination of the two. For example, these components can be formed of plastic, metal, carbon fiber, etc. These components can be formed by or implement any suitable process (such as, for example, injection molding, 3D printing, welding, gluing, mechanical fastening, etc.).

[0063] As described above, the product management system 10 can be implemented on a shelf or other suitable surface in a store or any suitable storage location. For example, the two bracket assemblies 14 can be spaced apart from each other, and the pusher can be disposed between the two bracket assemblies 14 so that the bracket assemblies 14 and / or the pusher can be translated along the track 12 to allow the product to be inserted into the product management system 10. For example, wide products may require the bracket assemblies 14 to be translated away from each other along the track 12 in the first direction D1, while narrow products may require the bracket assemblies 14 to be translated closer to each other along the track 12 in the first direction D1. In order to translate the bracket assembly 14, the user can grasp the bracket assembly 14, for example at the gripping member 44, and push or pull the bracket assembly 14 along the first direction D1. The engagement of the track teeth 52 and the bracket teeth 54 can initially resist the movement of the bracket assembly 14 along the track 12. However, when the user applies sufficient force on the carriage assembly 14, the teeth 52, 54 and / or the track 12 and / or any other suitable component of the carriage assembly 14 can bend briefly to allow the divider to translate along the track 12, i.e., until one of the teeth in the carriage teeth 54 engages with an adjacent tooth in the track teeth 52. After bending, the teeth 52, 54 and / or the track 12 and / or any other suitable component of the carriage assembly 14 can return to their natural state to again inhibit movement of the carriage assembly 14 along the track 12. The foregoing process can then be repeated. In real time, the foregoing process can occur relatively quickly so that the carriage assembly 14 can translate along the track 12 in a relatively continuous or fluid manner. Alternatively, the carriage teeth 54 can engage with the track teeth 52 so that the movement of the carriage assembly 14 is jerky or bumpy, wherein each carriage tooth 54 is sequentially engaged with each adjacent tooth of the track teeth 52, such as similar to a ratchet mechanism.

[0064] Now refer to Figure 8-12 , another carriage assembly 14a is provided for use with the track 12 and / or pusher (not shown). In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the carriage assembly 14a relative to the carriage assembly 14, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals with letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0065] Reference Fig.10 , the bracket assembly 14a can extend in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1, and can be coupled to the track 12 to translate in the first direction D1. Specifically, the track 12 includes a track engagement mechanism 16, and the bracket assembly 14a includes a bracket engagement mechanism 18 ( Figure 11-12 ), which is configured to engage with the track engagement mechanism 16. The engagement mechanisms 16, 18 may be configured to enable the carriage assembly 14a to selectively translate along the track 12 in the first direction D1.

[0066] The bracket assembly 14a also includes a bracket base 34, a partition wall 36, and a stopper 38a. The partition wall 36 may include a first side surface 62 and a second side surface 64 opposite 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 regard, the first side surface 62 and the second side surface 64 can extend in the same direction. For example, in an assembled configuration (e.g., Figure 1 ), the first side surface 62 and the second side surface 64 can extend in the second direction D2. In some embodiments, the first side surface 62 and / or the second side surface 64 are substantially planar.

[0067] The stopper 38a is disposed at or near the front portion 20 to cooperate with the pusher to secure the product in place. The stopper 38a may include a front surface 66, a rear surface 68 opposite the front surface 66, a pair of gripping members 44, and a flange 70 disposed at or near the front portion 20. Each gripping member 44 may include an arcuate flange 71 extending from the front surface 66 of the stopper 38a.

[0068] The flange 70 may include: a bottom end 72; a top end 74 opposite the bottom end 72; a rear end 76 extending between the bottom end 72 and the top end 74; a front end 78 opposite the rear end 76 and extending between the bottom end 72 and the top end 74; a first side 80 extending between the bottom end 72, the top end 74, the rear end 76, and the front end 78; and a second side 82 opposite the first 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 maneuverability by a user applying force on the flange 70. In some embodiments, the bottom end 72 extends from and is coplanar with a lower edge 86 of the stop 38a to improve coupling of the bracket assembly 14a to the track 12 in the assembled configuration.

[0069] The first side portion 80 and the second side portion 82 may extend from the stopper 38a (e.g., the front surface 66) in a direction transverse to the first direction D1. In some embodiments, the first side portion 80 and / or the second side portion 82 define a planar configuration extending from the stopper 38a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1 (e.g., + / - 5 degrees) and in a direction substantially parallel to the second direction D2 (e.g., + / - 5 degrees). During use, in order to translate the bracket assembly 14a relative to the track 12, the user may grasp the bracket assembly 14a and push or pull the bracket assembly 14a along the first direction D1. The configuration of the flange 70 (e.g., the first side portion 80 and the second side portion 82) may allow the user to more easily grasp the bracket assembly 14a and apply force in a direction transverse to the second direction D2, thereby allowing the user to adjust the position of the bracket assembly 14a relative to the track 12, as described above. In particular, the configuration of the flange 70 may allow a user to translate the bracket assembly 14a in the first direction D1 without rotating the bracket assembly 14a relative to the first direction D1 and / or the second direction D2.

[0070] Now refer to Figure 13-20 , another carriage assembly 14b is provided for use with the track 12 and / or pusher (not shown). In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the carriage assembly 14b relative to the carriage assembly 14, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals with letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0071] Reference Fig.13 The bracket assembly 14b includes a bracket base 34b having a bracket engagement mechanism 18b ( Figure 15-20 ), which is constructed as Figure 1-3 The carriage assembly 14b is shown engaged with the track engagement mechanism 16 of the track 12. The engagement mechanisms 16, 18b can be configured to enable the carriage assembly 14b to selectively translate in the first direction D1 along the track 12 without actively disengaging the carriage engagement mechanism 18b from the track engagement mechanism 16. In other words, the carriage engagement mechanism 18b is configured so that a user can translate the carriage assembly 14b along the track 12 by applying a lateral translation force F1 (i.e., in the first direction D1), whereby during the movement, the carriage engagement mechanism 18b remains partially engaged with the track engagement mechanism 16 to provide the desired resistance force F1 in the direction opposite to the lateral translation force F1. R This feature will be described in more detail below with reference to the construction of the bracket engagement mechanism 18b.

[0072] The cradle assembly 14b also includes a cradle base 34b, a partition wall 36, and a front stop 38. The front stop 38 is disposed at or near the front portion 20 to cooperate with the pusher to hold the product in place. The front stop 38 may include a front surface 66b, a rear surface 68b opposite the front surface 66b, and a pair of gripping members 44. In this example, the gripping members 44 include a pair of arcuate ribs 44 extending from the front surface 66b of the stop 38b. Although not shown in the illustrated example, the stop 38 may optionally include the previously described Figure 8-12 The flange 70 described. Optionally, the cradle assembly 14b can include a rear stopper 38b attached to the cradle base 34b and / or the dividing wall 36 between the front portion 20 and the rear portion 22 of the cradle assembly 14b. The rear stopper 38b includes a panel or protrusion attached to the cradle base 34b and / or the dividing wall 36 and is configured to block the product receiving area of ​​the product management system 10, thereby preventing products loaded into the product management system 10 from being pushed out of the rear portion 22 of the cradle assembly. In some examples, the position of the rear stopper 38b can be adjusted along the second direction D2 so that the product receiving area of ​​the product management system 10 has a desired depth (i.e., the distance measured from the front portion 20 along the second direction D2).

[0073] Reference Figure 15-20 The bracket engagement mechanism 18b of this example is substantially similar to the above-described bracket engagement mechanism 18. Thus, the bracket engagement mechanism 18b includes a biasing element 37, a front engagement element 39b defining a plurality of bracket teeth 54b, 54c, and a rear engagement element 41 including a wall engagement structure 42 and a rear rail portion 43.

[0074] Reference Figure 18-20 The bracket engagement mechanism 18b of this example is provided with a primary bracket tooth 54b and a secondary bracket tooth 54c, as discussed below. Generally, each bracket tooth 54b, 54c has a height H extending from a top end 55b, 55c to a bottom end 56 along the third direction D3. 54 , the third direction D3 generally corresponds to a vertical direction perpendicular to each of the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The main bracket teeth 54b have a different configuration (e.g., size, shape, material) than the secondary bracket teeth 54c so that the main bracket teeth 54b have different operating characteristics than the secondary bracket teeth 54c. For example, the main bracket teeth 54b can be configured to provide greater engagement with the rail in one or both of the lateral direction D1 or the vertical direction D2.

[0075] The top end 55b, 55c of each bracket tooth 54b, 54c defines a generally horizontal surface (i.e., extending in the planes of D1 and D2) that extends perpendicular to the front surface of the bracket base 34. The top end 55b, 55c of each bracket tooth 54b, 54c is configured to engage with the upper flange 50 of the track 12 when the bracket assembly 14b is mounted on the track 12 to prevent the bracket assembly 14b from being inadvertently disengaged from the track 12 in the vertical direction D3. The interface between the top ends 55b, 55c of the bracket teeth 54b, 54c and the upper flange 50 of the front wall 26 provides vertical retention and torsional stability to the front portion of the bracket assembly 14b.

[0076] like Fig.19 As best shown in FIG. 5 , each carrier tooth 54b, 54c also includes a circumferential side surface 57b, 57c extending from the top end 55b, 55c to the bottom end 56 and defining the circumferential profile of the carrier tooth 54a, 54c. In the example shown, the circumferential side surface 57b, 57c of each tooth is semi-cylindrical in shape and defines a convex circumferential profile of each tooth 54b, 54c relative to the front surface 40 of the front engagement element 39b. Although the example shown provides a semi-cylindrical circumferential side surface 57, the shape of the circumferential side surface 57b, 57c can also be polygonal. Referring to FIG. Fig. 20 , the circumferential side surfaces 57b, 57c define the length L of each carrier tooth 54b, 54c 54b , L 54c and width W 54 Here, the length L 54b , L 54c The width W is measured as the distance from the front surface 40 to the distal end or apex of the bracket teeth 54b, 54c (ie, along the second direction D2), while the width W 54 Measured as the distance from a first side of the bracket teeth 54a, 54c to a second side of the bracket teeth 54b, 54c (ie, along the first direction D1). Optionally, the bracket teeth 54b, 54c may be arranged to have a first length L 54b The main bracket tooth 54b has a length L less than the first 54b The second length L 54c Here, the main bracket tooth 54b extends a greater distance from the front surface 40 of the front engagement element 39 than the secondary bracket tooth 54c. Therefore, the upper surface defined by the top end 55b of the main bracket tooth 54b is larger and extends further into the track engagement mechanism 16 than the upper surface defined by the shorter top end 55c of the secondary bracket tooth 54c.

[0077] The main bracket teeth 54b and the secondary bracket teeth 54c cooperate to promote a desired balance of stability and adjustability. For example, the longer main bracket teeth 54b provide a larger interface with the upper flange 50 of the track engagement mechanism (i.e., vertical and torsional stability), while the shorter secondary bracket teeth 54c provide reduced lateral resistance, thereby allowing the bracket assembly 14b to be translated laterally along the track 12 by applying a translation force F1 to the gripping member 44. Although the illustrated example shows the main bracket teeth 54b and the secondary bracket teeth 54c arranged in a repeating pattern of one secondary bracket tooth 54c and two main bracket teeth 54b along the front surface 40 of the front engagement element 39, the front engagement element 38 may include any number or arrangement of main bracket teeth 54b and secondary bracket teeth 54c to provide a desired balance of vertical stability and lateral adjustability.

[0078] Optionally, one or more of the bracket teeth 54b, 54c may also include a lower biasing surface extending from the bottom end 56. Here, the lower biasing surface 58 is formed as a substantially planar surface oriented at an oblique angle relative to the front surface 40 of the front engagement element 39, so that the length of each bracket tooth 54b, 54c increases along the direction from the bottom end 56 to the top end 55. As shown, the lower biasing surfaces 58 of the primary bracket tooth 54b and the secondary bracket tooth 54c extend at the same angle. Optionally, the lower biasing surface 58 may include an arcuate or convex portion formed adjacent to the bottom end 56. In use, the lower biasing surface 58 surface is a ramp for engaging the bracket engagement mechanism 18b with the track engagement mechanism 16. Specifically, when the front portion 20 of the carriage assembly 14b is lowered into the track 12, the lower biasing surface 58 engages the upper flange 50 of the front wall 26 and biases the front engagement element 39 of the carriage engagement mechanism 18b to the retracted state (i.e., the carriage teeth 54b, 54c are retracted into the cavity 35). Once the carriage teeth 54b, 54c are fully engaged with the track engagement mechanism 16, the biasing element 37 moves the front engagement element 39 back to the extended state so that the carriage teeth 54a, 54c engage under the upper flange 50. Thus, the lower biasing surface 58 allows the carriage assembly 14b to engage with (i.e., snap into) the track 12 without manually moving the carriage engagement mechanism 18b between the extended position and the retracted position (i.e., without using a manual button or actuator).

[0079] Reference Fig.17, the bracket engagement mechanism 18b can be provided with one or more adjustment inserts 48, which are configured to engage with the biasing element 37 to modify or adjust the stiffness of the biasing element 37. For example, the track engagement mechanism 16b may include a removable adjustment insert 48 having different wall thicknesses or material properties to define different stiffness levels. In the example shown, the adjustment insert 48 is implemented as an insert ring 48, which can be received in the annular body of the biasing element 37. The user can replace or supplement the adjustment insert 48 as needed based on the type of product stored on the product management system. For example, heavier products may require relatively rigid adjustment inserts 48 to minimize inadvertent disengagement or translation of the bracket assembly 14b, while lighter products may require relatively compliant adjustment inserts 48 or no adjustment inserts to make the bracket assembly 14b easy to adjust.

[0080] Now refer to Figure 21-26 , another product management assembly 10c is provided that includes a carriage assembly 14c for use with a track 12c and / or a pusher (not shown). In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the carriage assembly 14c relative to the carriage assembly 14, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the accompanying drawings to identify like components, while like reference numerals with letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0081] In this example, the track 12c is provided with a resilient or dynamic track engagement mechanism 16c, while the bracket base 34 of the bracket assembly 14c is provided with a fixed or static bracket engagement mechanism 18c. Here, the bracket engagement mechanism 18c can be formed as an integral part of the bracket assembly 14c, whereby the bracket teeth 54-54c are formed directly on the front surface of the divider. The bracket teeth 54-54c can have any of the configurations discussed above.

[0082] like Figure 23-26, the track 12c can be described as including a frame 90, a track engagement mechanism 16c, and a resilient member 92 that attaches the track engagement mechanism 16c to the frame 90. Here, the frame 90 is a portion of the front wall 26c of the track 12 and includes a front side wall 94 and an upper flange 50 extending from the front side wall 94 to define a front channel 96. The resilient member is disposed within the front channel 96 and can include a front surface 98 attached to a rear surface of the front side wall 94. The bracket engagement mechanism 16c can also be received within the front channel 96 and attached to a rear surface 100 of the resilient member 92. In particular, the track engagement mechanism 16c can include a front wall 102 attached to the rear surface 100 of the resilient member 92. The track teeth 52 extend from the rear surface of the front wall 102 of the track engagement mechanism 16c. Here, the front wall 102 of the track engaging mechanism 16c is constructed as a flexible member having a relatively high hardness, so that when the bracket tooth 54 translates in the first direction D1 along the track teeth, the front wall 102 bends along the length of the elastic member 92. Although the illustrated example shows that the track teeth 52 extend from the front wall 102 of the track engaging mechanism 16c, in other examples, the track teeth 52 may directly include elastic materials without using elastic members, or may be directly coupled to the elastic member 92. In addition, the elastic member 92 may be provided as an integral element coupled to a plurality of track teeth 52, or may include a plurality of independent elastic members 92, each of which is coupled to one or more of the track teeth 52.

[0083] Optionally, the track engaging mechanism 16c may define an upper flange 104 and / or an opposing lower flange 106. Here, the upper flange 104 provides an upper engaging interface for the top ends 55b, 55c of the bracket teeth 56b, 56c. One or both of the upper flange 104 and the lower flange 106 may be omitted from the track engaging mechanism 16c, such that the frame 90 of the track 12c defines the upper and lower surfaces of the track engaging mechanism 16b.

[0084] In the example shown, the resilient member 92 comprises one or more strips of a resilient polymer material having a lower hardness than the material of the frame 90 and the track engaging mechanism 16c and a greater elasticity than the material of the frame 90 and the track engaging mechanism 16c. For example, foamed polymers and rubber are suitable materials. Additionally or alternatively, the resilient member 92 may comprise a compressible mechanical structure, such as a helical compression spring or a leaf spring disposed between the front side wall 94 of the frame 90 and the front wall 102 of the track engaging mechanism 16c.

[0085] The resilient member 92 is configured to provide a biasing force F3 in the second direction to counteract the compressive force F4 applied by the carriage teeth 54b, 54c to the track engaging mechanism 16c when the carriage assembly 14c is translated along the first direction D1. For example, when a lateral force is applied to the carriage assembly 14c in the first direction D1, the convex carriage teeth 54b, 54c can apply a compressive force to the distal end of the track tooth 52 to bias the track tooth 52 toward the front side wall 94 of the frame 90 in the second direction D2. Once the desired lateral position is achieved and the carriage teeth 54b, 54c engage the track teeth 52 (i.e., are received therebetween), the resilient member 92 biases the track engaging mechanism 16c in the second direction D2 so that the second track tooth 52 extends between the adjacent carriage teeth 54 therein. The resilient member 92 and the track engaging mechanism 16c can be configured so that only a local portion of the track engaging mechanism 16c bends when the carriage assembly 14c is translated. In other words, when the bracket teeth 54b, 54c depress corresponding portions of the track engaging mechanism 16c, the track engaging mechanism 16c may deform or bend in a wave-like manner.

[0086] The foregoing examples of the carriage assemblies 14-14c are configured to provide an easily adjustable and durable product management system 10 whereby a user may change the lateral position of the carriage assemblies 14-14c without the use of an actuator for manually engaging and disengaging the track 12. Instead, the construction and materials of the track teeth 52 and / or the carriage teeth 54-54c are designed and selected to allow one or both sets of teeth 52, 54-54c to move or flex relative to the other set of teeth 52, 54-54c in the second direction D2 in response to the application of a force in the lateral direction D1. In other words, the lateral force F1 applied to the carriage is converted into a longitudinal force that causes one of the sets of teeth 52, 54-54c to move away from the other set of teeth 52, 54-54c in the second direction D2, thereby allowing the carriage teeth 54-54c to pass along the track teeth 52 in the first direction D1.

[0087] Although the bracket assembly 14-14c of the present disclosure is implemented as a product divider including a partition wall 36 attached to the bracket base 34-34c, the principles of the present disclosure can be applied to the construction of bracket assemblies for other uses in product management systems. For example, the bracket assembly 14-14c can be constructed to include a dynamic product pusher that is configured to bias the product inventory toward the front portion of the bracket assembly 14-14c, as known in the art. This construction can be achieved by forming a rail portion in or along the top surface of the bracket base 34-34c. Other embodiments of the bracket base 34-34c can also be implemented without departing from the principles of the present disclosure.

[0088] The foregoing description is provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exclusive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but where applicable, they are interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration even if not specifically shown or described. The same situation can also be different in many ways. Such changes should not be regarded as departing from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A retail management system, comprising: a bracket base including a first end defining a front surface and a second end formed at an opposite end opposite to the first end; and An engagement mechanism is disposed at the first end of the bracket base and includes a plurality of bracket teeth extending from the front surface, the plurality of bracket teeth including at least one main bracket tooth having a first configuration and a secondary bracket tooth having a second configuration different from the first configuration.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The first configuration includes a first length measured from the front surface to a distal end of the primary bracket tooth, and the second configuration includes a second length measured from the front surface to a distal end of the secondary bracket tooth.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the carrier teeth includes a tip defining a substantially planar surface perpendicular to the front surface.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the carrier teeth has a first height extending from a bottom end to a top end along the front surface and includes a lower biasing surface formed adjacent the bottom end.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The lower biasing surface extends at an oblique angle relative to the front surface of the bracket base.

6. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The lower biasing surface includes an arcuate portion proximate the bottom end.

7. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The lower biasing surface has a second height that is at least half of the first height.

8. The system according to claim 4, wherein: Each of the carrier teeth includes an arcuate circumferential side surface extending between the bottom end and the top end.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The engagement mechanism is operable relative to the front surface of the bracket base between a retracted position and an extended position.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The engagement mechanism is formed integrally with the front surface of the bracket base.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The engagement mechanism is a bracket engagement mechanism, and wherein the system further comprises: A track includes a track engaging mechanism operable to move between a first configuration and a second configuration.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The track includes a frame, and the track engagement mechanism is attached to the frame and is operable to move to a first configuration and a second configuration.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein: The track engaging mechanism includes a plurality of track teeth configured to move relative to the frame.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: Each track tooth of the plurality of track teeth is coupled to the frame by a resilient member comprising a different material than the frame.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: Each of the plurality of track teeth is integrally formed with the elastic member.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein: The track engaging mechanism includes a flexible front wall attached to the resilient member, and the plurality of track teeth extend from the flexible front wall.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein: The resilient member comprises a strip of a first material disposed between the frame and the track engaging mechanism, the first material having a lower hardness than a second material forming the frame or the track engaging mechanism.

18. An engagement mechanism for a retail management system including a track, the engagement mechanism comprising: a biasing element comprising a first end and a second end; and A first engagement element is disposed at the first end of the biasing element and includes a front surface having a plurality of teeth including at least one primary tooth having a first configuration and at least one secondary tooth having a second configuration different from the first configuration.

19. The engagement mechanism of claim 18, further comprising a second engagement element disposed at the second end of the biasing element and defining an elongated rail portion configured to slidably receive the track.

20. The engagement mechanism according to claim 19, wherein: The second engagement element includes an engagement structure configured to slidably secure the engagement mechanism to the track.

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