Module, modular transport and display unit for transport and display of products, and related methods

Abstract

A module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting a product to a store and for subsequently displaying the product in the store is disclosed. The module includes a shelf adapted to receive the product thereon, and at least one reconfigurable support structure. The at least one reconfigurable support structure is adapted to deploy to support one or more additional modules that when so supported will together form the modular transport and display unit with the initial module. The at least one reconfigurable support structure is also adapted to be received within the shelf such that each module, and in turn the modular unit, can be detached directly by a store operator to return to a logistics center without damaging any components.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to a module for a modular transport and display unit. In particular, the present application relates to a module for a modular transport and display unit that can be used to load products thereon for transport to a store and can then be seamlessly and easily used with minimal manipulation to display the products in, for example, the store, such as in conjunction with a special offer for the products.

[0002] The present application also relates to the modular transport and display unit, and to related methods of erecting or collapsing the module and / or the modular transport and display unit, respectively for loading the product thereon, or for returning the module and / or the transport and display unit to a service center after repair, cleaning or restoration (if necessary) before being used again to transport and display new products. Background Art

[0003] In the quest for a truly circular economy, reducing or eliminating single-use packaging and adopting centralized product distribution solutions is becoming increasingly important.

[0004] While pallets can be used to display products in stores, and they come in a range of suitable sizes (such as full pallets, half pallets and quarter pallets), they may not be attractive or convenient for consumers.

[0005] In order to attract consumer interest while maintaining ease of transportation, available in the prior art are shipping and display units that are efficiently constructed on a shipping platform, such as a pallet or a pallet on wheels (dolly). These units can be decorated on site or prior to shipping with promotional material, which is typically made of cardboard, such as billboards, banners, or billboards. In addition, some of these units can be reconfigurable, foldable, or retractable, greatly facilitating recycling: when a product has been sold or a particular promotion has ended, the store operator can fold or dismantle the units for return and reuse. However, before reusing these units, it may be necessary to repair, clean, or repair them in some other way. These operations can be costly or time-consuming.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for improved solutions that are more convenient, easier to handle and / or repair (if necessary), while still attractive to consumers and easy to operate by store operators. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequently displaying the products in the store, the module comprising: a shelf (or display tray) adapted to receive the products thereon; and at least one reconfigurable support structure, wherein the at least one reconfigurable support structure is adapted to be unfolded in a first upright configuration, the support structure being adapted to support one or more additional such modules so that all modules can together form the transport and display unit, and the at least one reconfigurable support structure being adapted to be stowed away in a second, stowed configuration.

[0008] Such a stand-alone module, which can also be combined with one or more modules of the same type to provide a complete or more complete transport and display unit, forms a sturdy and easy-to-handle transport and display solution with good maneuverability and is easy and friendly to operate in the store and return for reuse.

[0009] The at least one reconfigurable support structure may be rotatably arranged relative to the shelf or display tray.

[0010] The shelf or display tray may include a border suitable for holding the product on the shelf or display tray. The border may at least partially surround the shelf or display tray. However, preferably, the border completely surrounds the shelf or display tray, such as the border is integrally formed with the shelf or display tray, for example as a skirt extending vertically from the shelf or display tray. To maximize the number of products that can be accommodated on the shelf or display tray, the skirt may extend from the edge of the shelf or display tray.

[0011] In a preferred arrangement, the at least one reconfigurable support structure and the border may be integral so that maximum space for the product can be maintained on the shelf or display tray. For example, the reconfigurable support structure and the border may be adapted to form a pivotable connection, or may be coupled / engaged via a pivotable connection. In other words, the at least one reconfigurable support structure may be pivotally connected to the border, rather than elsewhere on the module, such as to the shelf - as this will maximize the module's payload.

[0012] Of particular interest in the present disclosure is how the reconfigurable support structure and the border can be integrated. For example, the reconfigurable support structure in an erected configuration can be adjacent to, abutting, or even disposed as a part of or forming a part of the border or a specific region thereof (such as a corner). Thus, when the reconfigurable support structure is erected, as much free space as possible can be left on a display tray or shelf to accommodate products for transport and / or display.

[0013] The reconfigurable support structure may include one or more rods that may be disposed adjacent to, adjacent to, or even included as part of a shelf boundary. The pivotable connection may include at least one pin that may be disposed on a corresponding rod and at least one guide that may be disposed on the shelf boundary for receiving the pin and guiding its movement so that at least one reconfigurable support structure may be rotated and / or translated relative to the shelf so that the pivotable end of the rod may clear the shelf boundary during reconfiguration.

[0014] The advantage of this configuration is that the rod can be disposed adjacent or even contiguous to the border, or can form part of the border itself, to maximize the space for products on the shelf, but it can clear the border when rotated to reconfigure the reconfigurable support structure. Of course, alternatively, the at least one pin can be disposed on the border and the at least one guide can be disposed on the rod.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one pin is arranged on a pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure, which can be a pivotable end of the rod. The at least one guide can be arranged in the shape of a slot, and in particular, is arranged to be a cutout through a (relatively thin) shelf border.

[0016] The pivotable connection may be arranged such that throughout the reconfiguration of the reconfigurable support structure, the minimum distance of the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure, for example measured from the base of the rod (i.e. the minimum distance between the base of the rod and the boundary) is less than a predetermined value. It is important that the support structure avoids the boundary when reconfiguring, and it is equally important that the support structure leaves as much space as possible on the shelf or display tray of the module in the upright position.

[0017] The pivotable connection may include an upper pin and a lower pin disposed on the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure (such as on the proximal end of the rod), and two corresponding upper and lower slots disposed on the shelf boundary for guiding the movement of the two corresponding pins. The lower slot may extend linearly along the shelf boundary, and the upper slot may be an arcuate shape with a downward concavity. Forming the slots according to these shapes may facilitate simultaneous and / or sequential translation and / or rotation of at least one reconfigurable support structure, which may be required for the rod base to avoid the boundary when reconfiguring the reconfigurable support structure.

[0018] The upper slot may form a retaining cusp at its end for retaining at least one support structure in the first configuration or the second configuration. However, the border may alternatively and / or additionally include a resiliently flexible retainer for retaining at least one support structure in the first configuration or the second configuration. However, other types of retainers may be provided.

[0019] Each reconfigurable support structure may comprise a pair of opposed pivotable rods and a bridge connecting respective distal ends of the pivotable rods. This arrangement is particularly simple and robust.

[0020] The rod may have an L-shaped cross section and be arranged so that the corresponding angle formed by the L-shape faces the shelf, which is also a simple measure to save or help save space on the shelf for any product to be accommodated thereon.

[0021] The bridge may include a pair of opposing brackets arranged to engage with the distal end of the pivotable rod. The pair of opposing brackets may have different shapes, but the preferred shape is an L-shape to match the cross-sectional shape of the corresponding L-shaped rod.

[0022] The module may include two reconfigurable support structures disposed at opposite ends of the shelf or display tray.

[0023] In addition, the modules can be arranged to reach their respective second stowed positions by equal and opposite stowage operations, so that the two reconfigurable support structures fold inwardly toward the shelf from their respective first upright positions. In this arrangement, the reconfigurable support structures can be stowed intuitively and / or neatly.

[0024] The at least one reconfigurable support structure may also be extendable in addition to its reconfigurability. It will be appreciated that this is particularly advantageous in terms of the modularity of the arrangement. When a plurality of modules are stacked one after another, variable and / or adjustable spacing between shelves or display trays can be easily achieved by varying the length of the respective support structures. This of course allows different products or different sizes of the same product (e.g. beverages or cosmetics) to be efficiently stored in a modular unit, thereby saving space and maintaining compactness.

[0025] The bridge may be adapted to be positioned in at least a first fully retracted position and a second fully extended position relative to the two rods. These may be the only two positions the bridge is configured to adopt, or of course there may be any arbitrary number of intermediate configurations. Preferably, the bridge may be telescopically extendable. The rod engaging brackets may each be slidably arranged on a respective rod.

[0026] Advantageously, the bridge may comprise an actuation mechanism arranged such that the bridge may be extended or retracted upon actuation of the actuation mechanism. The mechanism may be manually actuatable, for example by a shop operator.

[0027] Preferably, the actuation mechanism may include one or more bolts and biasing means for biasing the bolts to a protruding configuration. In the protruding configuration, the bolts may engage with one or more of the brackets and / or rods of the reconfigurable support structure, for example with a set of openings or recesses provided thereon for this purpose. The actuation mechanism may be configured such that actuation of the actuation mechanism causes the bolts to retract against the biasing means.

[0028] In a particularly preferred arrangement, the shelf is substantially rectangular. Preferably, the size of the shelf corresponds to the size of a pallet or trolley, or to the size of a partial pallet or trolley. More preferably, the shelf is the size of a quarter pallet or trolley.

[0029] Each reconfigurable support structure can be disposed adjacent to, near, at or near a short side of a rectangular shelf or display tray, and this will facilitate access (from at least one long side of the rectangle) to any product supported on the shelf. Each pivotable rod can be disposed at a respective corner of the rectangular shelf to further conserve space on the shelf to accommodate products thereon. Each bridge can extend parallel to the corresponding short side of the rectangular shelf and can have the same length as the corresponding short side. With a border or skirt extending vertically from the shelf or display tray, the reconfiguration motion of the reconfigurable support structure can then effectively be a two-dimensional rotation / translation on an imaginary or reference plane parallel to (or alternatively, containing) the border or skirt.

[0030] At least one reconfigurable support structure may be sized and arranged so that in its second stowed configuration, the reconfigurable support structure lies completely flat inside the boundary. This will prevent or reduce accidental damage to the module, for example during transportation to a repair and / or restoration facility before the module can be reused.

[0031] The two reconfigurable support structures may be sized and arranged such that the reconfigurable support structures lie completely flat within the interior of the boundary when both support structures are configured in the second stowed configuration.

[0032] Preferably, the above condition also applies when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended - so a shop operator does not necessarily have to retract the bridge to be able to store the reconfigurable support structure in a flat, fixed configuration.

[0033] Furthermore, the at least one reconfigurable support structure may be sized and arranged such that in the second, stowed configuration, the reconfigurable support structure lies flat with a footprint that is completely contained within the interior of the shelf - even further extending the above-mentioned advantages.

[0034] Additionally, the two reconfigurable support structures can be sized and arranged such that when both support structures are configured into the second, stowed configuration, the reconfigurable support structures lie flat with respective footprints fully contained within the interior of the shelf.

[0035] Preferably, the above condition is also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended.

[0036] The bottom surface of the shelf may be configured to fit snugly over another module and / or over the loading surface of a pallet or dolly to increase the stability of the unit.

[0037] The border or skirt may be provided with one or more recesses or handles to facilitate handling of the module, such as by a user who may then better grip the module by hand via the one or more recesses or handles.

[0038] Furthermore, in the first upright configuration, at least one support structure may be configured to be snugly received by a bottom surface of the one or more additional such modules, further serving to increase stability of the unit in the upright configuration.

[0039] Finally, at least one reconfigurable supporting structure can include one or more features, which are constructed and arranged to keep packaging elements (such as paperboard sheets) in place when at least one reconfigurable supporting structure is in the first erected configuration.Described packaging elements or paperboard sheets can prevent, for example, from touching products during transportation to stores.These features can include one or more tongues that are constructed to keep described packaging elements in place.Preferably, this is completed in cooperation with at least a portion of described border.Alternatively, or additionally, these features can include one or more slits that are constructed to keep described packaging elements in place.Preferably, this is completed in cooperation with another reconfigurable supporting structure as described herein.Described tongue or slit can be constructed so that packaging elements are arranged to be flush with one or more outer surfaces of the outer surface of border and / or associated supporting structure.

[0040] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequently displaying the products in the store, wherein the unit comprises at least a first module as described herein. The first module may comprise at least one erected reconfigurable support structure as described herein. The first module may comprise at least one retracted reconfigurable support structure as described herein.

[0041] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a combination of a module as described herein or a modular transport and display unit as otherwise described herein and a corresponding pallet or dolly. Preferably, the size of the module, modular unit and pallet or dolly corresponds to a quarter pallet size.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for erecting and / or stowing a module as described herein or a modular unit as described herein is provided, the method comprising: unfolding and stowing at least one reconfigurable support structure as described herein in a first erected configuration and / or stowing at least one reconfigurable support structure as described herein in a second stowed configuration.

[0043] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of preparing a modular transport and display as described herein, the method comprising:

[0044] providing a first module as described herein, and deploying the at least one reconfigurable support structure stowed as described herein in a first erect configuration;

[0045] stacking at least one other erection module as described herein on said first module;

[0046] Optionally, the unit is loaded with one or more products by placing the one or more products on any of the shelves of the first module or other modules of the modular unit.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of folding up a modular transport and display unit as described herein, the method comprising:

[0048] providing a first module as described herein, and storing at least one reconfigurable support structure erected as described herein in a second stowed configuration;

[0049] stacking at least one other stowed module on the first module;

[0050] Optionally, the modular unit is unloaded by removing one or more products from any of the shelves of the first module or other modules.

[0051] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequently displaying said products in said store, the module comprising:

[0052] a shelf adapted to receive the product thereon; and,

[0053] At least one removable support structure is adapted to support one or more additional such modules so that all modules together form said transport and display unit.

[0054] The various aspects described herein and the features disclosed in association with each such aspect may be combinable with each other, unless explicitly stated otherwise or there are specific technical considerations that would prevent such a combination. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The modules and units of the present invention and the related methods will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0056] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional diagram of a static reusable free-standing display unit (RFSDU).

[0057] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the RFSDU.

[0058] Figure 3A is a front view of a fully assembled static RFSDU with the display tray in a first arrangement.

[0059] Figure 3B is a front view of a fully assembled static RFSDU with the display tray in a second arrangement.

[0060] Figure 4A is a front view of a fully assembled static RFSDU with the display tray in the third arrangement.

[0061] Figure 4B is a front view of a fully assembled static RFSDU with the display tray in the fourth arrangement.

[0062] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the first connector of the RFSDU.

[0063] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A top view of the connector.

[0064] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Bottom view of the connector.

[0065] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Bottom perspective view of the connector.

[0066] Fig. 9 yes Figure 5 Side view of the connector.

[0067] Fig.10 is attached to the base of the static tray Figure 5 A perspective view of a connector also includes a support post.

[0068] Fig.11 is a top view of the second connector attached to the static tray base.

[0069] Fig. 12A is a top view of the static tray base.

[0070] Fig. 12B yes Fig. 12A An enlarged top view of the engagement features of the static tray base.

[0071] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 A perspective view of a connector and a static tray base, also including side pillar supports and rear pillar supports.

[0072] Fig.14A is a side view of a static RFSDU fully erected and extended.

[0073] Fig. 14B yes Fig.14A Front view of the RFSDU.

[0074] Fig.15A It is a front view of a partially erected wheeled RFSDU.

[0075] Fig. 15B It is a front view of a fully erected wheeled RFSDU.

[0076] Fig.16A yes Fig.11 A top view of a connector indicating the location of the base area of ​​the strut support in the first layout.

[0077] Fig. 16B yes Fig.11 A top view of the connector indicating the location of the base area of ​​the strut support in the second layout.

[0078] Fig. 16C yes Fig.11 A top view of the connector indicating the location of the strut support base area in the third layout.

[0079] Fig.17 is a perspective view of a static RFSDU main structure in a first transport configuration, and an associated display tray.

[0080] Fig.18 is a side view of the main structure of the wheeled RFSDU in a folded configuration.

[0081] Fig.19 It is a perspective view of the static RFSDU main structure, with the rear pillar support partly erected.

[0082] Fig. 20 is a perspective cutaway view of the connector's nesting point and the slide of the rear strut support.

[0083] Fig.21 is a perspective view of a rear pillar support base area connected to a rear pillar support slider.

[0084] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a side pillar support base area connected to a side pillar support slide.

[0085] Fig.23 is a perspective view of the static RFSDU main structure showing the partially erected rear pillar supports moved horizontally into position.

[0086] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A perspective view of the static RFSDU main structure showing the partially erected rear pillar supports lowered into place.

[0087] Fig.25 is an enlarged perspective view of the connector and strut support base engagement mechanism in a folded configuration.

[0088] Fig.26 yes Fig.25 Exploded perspective view of the pillar support base engagement mechanism.

[0089] Fig.27A is in a folded configuration Fig.25 A side view of a strut support base engagement mechanism.

[0090] Fig.27B is in a folded configuration Fig.25 A side cross-sectional view of a strut support base engagement mechanism.

[0091] Fig.28 Is in vertical configuration Fig.26 A side cross-sectional view of a strut support base engagement mechanism.

[0092] Fig.29 It is a front view of the wheeled RFSDU fully erected and extended.

[0093] Fig. 30A It is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the telescopic extension mechanism of the pillar support.

[0094] Fig. 30B yes Fig. 30A Front sectional view of the telescopic extension mechanism.

[0095] Fig.31A is a front cross-sectional view of the telescopic extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a first position.

[0096] Fig.31B is a front cross-sectional view of the telescopic extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a second position.

[0097] Fig.31C is a front cross-sectional view of the telescopic extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a third position.

[0098] Fig.31D is a front cross-sectional view of the telescopic extension mechanism of FIG. 30 in a fourth position.

[0099] Fig.32 is a second perspective view of the telescoping extension mechanism of the side support in a partially extended configuration.

[0100] Fig.33A A perspective view of a static RFSDU is shown with the side and rear pillar supports erected and their telescopic extension mechanisms in a retracted configuration.

[0101] Fig.33B The user will Fig.34A A perspective view of the telescopic extension mechanism of the rear pillar support of the erected RFSDU extending from the retracted configuration.

[0102] Fig.34A is a perspective view shortly after the user has extended the telescopic extension mechanism of FIG. 33 , with the rear pillar supports now in the fully extended configuration.

[0103] Fig.34B is a perspective view of the RFSDU of FIG. 33 with the telescopic extension mechanisms of the side pillar supports and the rear pillar supports in a fully extended configuration.

[0104] Fig.35A It is a top view of the display plate.

[0105] Fig.35B yes Fig.35A Side view of the display plate.

[0106] Fig.36 is a perspective view of a display tray inserted into a fully erected and extended static RFSDU.

[0107] Fig.37Ais a perspective view of a user inserting a presentation tray through a slot into a fully erected and extended static RFSDU.

[0108] Fig.37B yes Fig.37A A perspective view of the RFSDU showing the tray fully inserted into the Fig.37A in the narrow slot.

[0109] Fig.38 An enlarged perspective view of a display tray inserted into one of the side pillar support slots of FIG. 37 is shown.

[0110] Fig.39A is an enlarged perspective view of the side pillar support member slot.

[0111] Fig.39B yes Fig.39A An enlarged perspective cutaway view of a side pillar support member slot showing a flexible display tray engagement mechanism.

[0112] Fig.40 A side cross-sectional view of the flexible display tray engagement mechanism is shown in a depressed state.

[0113] Fig.41 Shown in an expanded state Fig.40 A side cross-sectional view of a flexible display tray engagement mechanism.

[0114] Fig.42A is an enlarged side view of the rear pillar support showing the first locking mechanism.

[0115] Fig.42B yes Fig.42A An enlarged exploded view of the first locking mechanism.

[0116] Fig.43 is inserted into Fig.42A An enlarged side view of the display tray in the first locking mechanism of FIG.

[0117] Fig.44A is an enlarged side view of the rear pillar support showing the second locking mechanism.

[0118] Fig.44B is an enlarged side view of the rear pillar support showing the third locking mechanism.

[0119] Fig.44C is an enlarged side view of the rear pillar support showing the fourth locking mechanism.

[0120] Fig.45A is a perspective view of a user removing the bottom display tray from a fully assembled RFSDU.

[0121] Fig.45BIt is a perspective view of the RFSDU fully erected and extended and the display trays stacked separately.

[0122] Fig.46A is a perspective view of a user retracting the telescoping extension mechanism of the side strut supports of the RFSDU fully erected and extended.

[0123] Fig.46B User folded Fig.46A A perspective view of the pivot extension mechanism of the side pillar support.

[0124] Fig.47 It is a stereogram of a partially erected RFSDU.

[0125] Fig.48A is a perspective view of a partially erected RFSDU showing the orientation to which each strut support should be moved to move into the transport position.

[0126] Fig.48B yes Fig.48A A perspective view of a partially erected RFSDU showing the partially erected strut supports in a transport position.

[0127] Fig.49 A is Fig.47 A perspective view of a partially erected RFSDU with one of the side pillar supports in a partially stowed position.

[0128] Fig.49 B is in transport position Fig.47 A perspective view of the RFSDU showing the trays stacked separately.

[0129] Fig.50A is a perspective view of two stacks of display trays stacked on top of each other in an alternating manner and the RFSDU in the transport position.

[0130] Fig.50B is a perspective view of two RFSDUs stacked on top of each other in a transport position.

[0131] Fig.51A is a perspective view of an exemplary stowable module including two foldable support structures in a stowed configuration.

[0132] Fig.51B It is a three-dimensional diagram of the vertical module.

[0133] Fig.52A is removably attached to the base of the tray Fig.51A A perspective view of the module.

[0134] Fig.52B is removably attached to the base of the tray Fig.51B A perspective view of the module.

[0135] Fig.53A is in an upright and extended configuration Fig.51B A perspective view of the module.

[0136] Fig.53B is removably attached to the base of the tray Fig.53A A perspective view of the module.

[0137] Fig.54A is a perspective view of a stack of seven upright modules removably attached to a pallet base to form an exemplary transport and display unit.

[0138] Fig.54B is a perspective view of a stack of four stowed modules that are removably attached to a pallet base to form a stowed transport and display unit.

[0139] Fig.55A is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module as described herein in a first position.

[0140] Fig.55B yes Fig.55A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism.

[0141] Fig.56A is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module as described herein in a second position.

[0142] Fig.56B yes Fig.56A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism.

[0143] Fig.57A is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module as described herein in a third position.

[0144] Fig.57B yes Fig.57A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism.

[0145] Fig.58A is a cross-sectional view of an extension mechanism of a support structure of a module as described herein in a fourth position.

[0146] Fig.58B yes Fig.58A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the extension mechanism.

[0147] Fig.59A is a side view of the hinge mechanism of the stowable module of Figures 51 to 58 in a first position.

[0148] Fig.59B yes Fig.58A An enlarged side view of the hinge mechanism.

[0149] Fig.60A is a side view of the hinge mechanism of Figure 59 in the second position.

[0150] Fig.60B yes Fig.60A An enlarged side view of the hinge mechanism.

[0151] Fig.61A is a perspective view of a tray base adapter.

[0152] Fig.61B is a perspective view of a first fully erected exemplary shipping and display unit (or RFSDU) including a cardboard decoration with a product.

[0153] Fig.62A is a perspective view of an exemplary shipping and display unit (or RFSDU) in full erection with a first paperboard decoration applied thereto.

[0154] Fig.62B yes Fig.62A A perspective view of a transport and display unit with a first cardboard decoration mounted thereon.

[0155] Fig.63A yes Fig.62A A perspective view of a shipping and display unit with a second cardboard decoration mounted thereon.

[0156] Fig.63B yes Fig.62A A perspective view of the transport and display unit with a third cardboard decoration mounted thereon.

[0157] Fig.64A is a front view of a second fully erected exemplary shipping and display unit (or RFSDU) including a cardboard decoration with a product.

[0158] Fig.64B is a top view of a display tray including products in a first arrangement.

[0159] Fig.64C is a top view of a display tray including product in a second arrangement.

[0160] Fig.65 is a detailed graphical overview of the usage cycle of the RFSDU.

[0161] Fig.66 is an exploded perspective view of a second exemplary stowable module including two foldable support structures in an erected configuration and an extended configuration.

[0162] Fig.67A yes Fig.66 Side view of the hinge mechanism of the retractable module.

[0163] Fig.67B yes Fig.66 An enlarged side view of the hinge mechanism of the retractable module.

[0164] Fig.68A yes Fig.66 Bottom view of the pins of the hinge mechanism of the retractable module.

[0165] Fig.68B yes Fig.68A Side view of the pin.

[0166] Fig.68C yes Fig.68A Top view of the pin.

[0167] Fig.68D yes Fig.68A A stereogram of the pin.

[0168] Fig.69A yes Fig.66 A three-dimensional view of the inner pillars of the retractable module.

[0169] Fig.69B yes Fig.69A An enlarged stereoscopic view of the inner pillar. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0170] Similar features across different arrangements will generally be labeled with the same reference numerals.Features described in conjunction with any one aspect of the present disclosure may be provided in any other aspect disclosed herein, unless there is a specific reason why such a combination is not possible.

[0171] Axis system

[0172] Depicted for directional purposes, Figure 1 The axis system in the figure indicates a first direction 10, a second direction 20 and a third direction 30 with respect to the orientation of the RFSDU. The first direction 10 can be considered to be from right to left in the width dimension. The second direction 20 can be considered to be from bottom to top in the height dimension. The third direction 30 can be considered to be from back to front in the depth dimension.

[0173] Introduction to RFSDU

[0174] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , a reusable free standing display unit (RFSDU) 100 according to an arrangement of the present disclosure includes a tray base 120 , a connector 140 , at least one post support 160 , and at least one display tray 220 . Figure 1 The RFSDU is shown fully assembled, fully erected, fully extended, and with the desired number of display trays inserted.

[0175] The tray base 120 is used to support the connector and the pillar support of the RFSDU. The connector is used to connect the pillar support to the tray base 120. The pillar support is used to support the display tray 220. The display tray 220 is used to support products.

[0176] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The pallet base 120 shown in FIG. 1 is a static pallet base 125 . In other arrangements, the pallet base 120 may be a wheeled pallet base 130 .

[0177] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , there are three pillar supports 160. In other arrangements, there may be more (such as four or five) pillar supports 160, or there may be fewer (such as one or two) pillar supports. Each of the pillar supports 160 may be a side pillar support 170 or a rear pillar support 200. In the present example, there are two side pillar supports 170 and one rear pillar support 200. Each of the side pillar supports 170 may be a left pillar support 180 or a right pillar support 190. In the present example, one of the side pillar supports 170 is a left pillar support 180, and the other side pillar support 170 is a right pillar support 190. In other arrangements not shown, one of the pillar supports 160 may be a front pillar support.

[0178] The display trays 220 are supported at intervals by the support column supports 160. These intervals may be regular, wherein the distances between adjacent display trays 220 are substantially the same, or they may be irregular, wherein the distances between adjacent display trays 220 are different.

[0179] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiment, five display trays 220 are shown, but fewer (such as one, two or three) display trays 220 may be used, or more (such as six, seven, eight, nine or ten) display trays 220 may be used. The distance between the connector 240 and the bottom display tray may be the same as or different from the distance between each two adjacent display trays, such as less than or greater than the distance between each two adjacent display trays. FIG. 3A to FIG. 4B A fully assembled RFSDU is shown with different numbers of display trays. Figure 3A In the example, there are seven display trays, each of which is arranged at regular intervals from the adjacent display trays. Figure 3A In the embodiment, the distance between the connector 240 and the bottom display tray is greater than the distance between every two adjacent display trays. Figure 3B The arrangement shown in has six display trays, with the top five display trays being arranged at regular intervals and the bottom display trays being spaced further apart. Figure 4AIn the embodiment, there are five display trays arranged at regular intervals, and the distance between the connector 140 and the bottom display tray is greater than the distance between every two adjacent display trays. Figure 4B In the embodiment, there are four display trays arranged at regular intervals, and the distance between the connector 240 and the bottom display tray is smaller than the distance between every two adjacent display trays.

[0180] Connectors

[0181] The connector 140 is removably attached to the tray base 120. Referring now to Figures 5 to 9 , the connector 140 includes sides 250, 251, 252, 253 and at least one reinforcement feature 152. The reinforcement feature 152 is used to reinforce some areas of the connector 140. In the present arrangement, the connector 140 includes four sides and three reinforcement features 152. In other arrangements, the connector 140 may include fewer or more) sides 250, 251, 252, 253 and / or connector reinforcement features 152 (such as one, two, four or five reinforcement features). In the present arrangement, the four sides of the connector 140 are the connector front side 250, the connector rear side 251, the connector left side 252 and the connector right side 253. At least one of the connector reinforcement features 152 may be a connector corner reinforcement feature 153, and the third reinforcement feature 152 may be a connector midsection reinforcement feature 154. The connector corner reinforcement features 153 reinforce the area where the sides of the connector 140 are adjacent to each other. In this example, both connector corner reinforcement features 153 are located adjacent to the same side 252. The connector midsection reinforcement feature 154 is located along the length of one side 253 and is not directly adjacent to any other side.

[0182] The connector 140 has a connector width 240, a connector height 241, and a connector depth 242. The connector 140 has a connector top surface 244 that extends in the same direction as the connector width 240 and in the same direction as the connector depth 242. The top surface 244 of the connector 140 is substantially rectangular in profile, substantially having four substantially straight sides, opposite pairs of sides being clearly at right angles to each other, and adjacent sides having unequal lengths. The top surface 244 of the connector 140 includes a connector inner boundary 141 that defines the boundary of the connector main cutout. The boundary of the connector main cutout defined by the connector inner boundary 141 has a larger surface area than the surface area of ​​the connector top surface 244 including the connector sides 250, 251, 252, 253 and the reinforcement features 152, 153, 154. The connector width 240 and the connector depth 242 can both be greater than the connector height 241.

[0183] The connector 140 further includes at least one connector post support guide 142 for receiving and guiding at least one post support 160. The connector post support guide 142 may be formed as a groove in the connector 140.

[0184] In this arrangement and if Fig.11 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , there are three pillar support guides 142, two of which are connector side pillar support guides 144 and one is a connector rear pillar support guide 150. Of the two connector side pillar support guides 144, one is a connector left pillar support guide 146 and one is a connector right pillar support guide 148, which are used to accommodate and guide the left pillar support and the right pillar support, respectively. The connector rear pillar support guide 150 can be used to accommodate the rear pillar support 200. In other arrangements, the connector 140 can include fewer or more (such as one, two, four or five) connector pillar support guides 142.

[0185] The connector post support guides 142 each extend along at least a portion of one or more connector sides 250, 251, 252, 253. The left post support guide 146 and the right post support guide 148 extend along at least a portion of the left side 252 and right side 253 of the connector, respectively. The left post support guide 146 and the right post support guide 148 extend substantially parallel to each other. The rear post support guide 150 extends along at least a portion of the connector rear side 251 and along at least a portion of the connector left side 252. In this arrangement, the distance that the rear post support guide 150 extends along the connector rear side 251 is greater than the distance that the rear post support guide 150 extends along the connector left side 252. In other arrangements, the rear post support guide 150 may extend along at least a portion of the connector rear side 251 and the connector right side 253.

[0186] like Figure 8 As seen in FIG. 1 , the connector 140 includes a connector retainer 155 for removably attaching the connector 140 to the tray base 120. The connector retainer 155 may be a U-shaped pin extending from the bottom surface of the connector 140.

[0187] Reference now Fig.10 , the connector 140 is removably attached to the tray base 120. The connector 140 may be removably attached to an upper portion of the tray base 120. As shown, the side pillar support 170 is located within the connector side pillar support guide 144.

[0188] The connector 140 is shown as being formed from one integral part, but may be formed from several parts or as an integral part with the tray base 120 in other examples.

[0189] Reference now Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B For the purpose of removably attaching the display structure 600, the tray base 120 can include display attachment features 255. The tray base 120 of the illustrated arrangement includes four display attachment features 255, although in other arrangements, fewer (such as one, two, or three) or more (such as six or eight) display attachment features can be included. The display attachment features 255 do not include a moving portion and can be flush with the top surface of the tray base 120.

[0190] Pillar support parts introduction

[0191] Fig.13 , Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The RFSDU is shown fully erected and extended, including the static tray base 125. The pillar supports 160 can each include several sections. The pillar supports 160 can each include a pillar support first section 161, a pillar support second section 162, a pillar support third section 163, and a pillar support base area 164, a pillar support first hinge 165, and a pillar support second hinge 166. The pillar support first section 161 is positioned adjacent to the connector 140 and nested within the connector. The pillar support first section 161 includes a pillar support base area 164. The pillar support base area 164 includes a pillar support first hinge. The pillar support first hinge 165 allows the pillar support 160 to be folded substantially parallel to the top surface 244 of the connector 140. The pillar support first section 161 is positioned adjacent to the pillar support second hinge 166. The strut support second hinge 166 is also adjacent to the strut support second section 162. The strut support second hinge 166 allows the overall length of the strut support 160 to be pivotally extended. The strut support second section 162 is positioned adjacent to the strut support third section. The strut support second section 162 may include a top end region 169. The strut support third section 163 telescopically extends from the end of the strut support second section 162.

[0192] Pillar support hinge

[0193] The strut support first hinge 165 and the strut support second hinge 166 pivot between two configurations: retracted and fully extended. Between these two configurations, the strut support first hinge 165 and the strut support second hinge 166 can be considered to be partially extended. When retracted, the opening angle of the strut support first hinge 165 is 0 degrees (±10 degrees). When fully extended, the opening angle of the strut support first hinge is substantially 90 degrees (±10 degrees). When retracted, the opening angle of the strut support second hinge 166 is 0 degrees (±10 degrees). When fully extended, the opening angle of the strut support second hinge is substantially 180 degrees (±20 degrees). In other arrangements, the strut support first hinge 165 and the strut support second hinge 166 can have different opening angles when retracted and fully extended to the arrangements described herein, such as an opening angle of substantially 45 degrees (±10 degrees), substantially 135 degrees (±20 degrees), or substantially 270 degrees (±20 degrees).

[0194] like Fig.17 As shown in , when the strut support 160 is in the folded configuration, the strut support first section 161 and the strut support second section 162 extend in a direction substantially parallel to the connector top surface 244. In the folded configuration, the top region 169 of the strut support second section 162 is adjacent to the base region 164 of the strut support first section 161, and the distance between the top region 169 and the base region 164 is shorter than the distance between the top region 169 and the strut support second hinge 166. In addition, the strut support first hinge 165 and the strut support second hinge 166 are both retracted.

[0195] Fig.15A The wheeled RFSDU 100 is shown with the first hinge of each strut support 160 deployed. When the strut support 160 is in a partially erected configuration, the strut support first section 161 and the strut support second section 162 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connector top surface 244. In the partially erected configuration, the top region 169 of the strut support second section 162 is adjacent to the base region 164 of the strut support first section 161, and the distance between the top region 169 and the base region 164 is shorter than the distance between the top region 169 and the strut support second hinge 166. In the partially erected configuration, the strut support first hinge 165 is fully deployed, and the strut support second hinge 166 is retracted.

[0196] Fig. 15BThe wheeled RFSDU 100 is shown with the first hinge and the second hinge of each strut support 160 deployed. When the strut support 160 is in a fully erected configuration, the strut support first section 161 and the strut support second section 162 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connector top surface 244. In the fully erected configuration, the top region 169 of the strut support second section 162 is not adjacent to the base region 164 of the strut support first section 161, and the distance between the top region 169 and the base region 164 is longer than the distance between the top region 169 and the strut support second hinge 166. In the fully erected configuration, the strut support first hinge 165 and the strut support second hinge 166 are both fully deployed.

[0197] The post supports 160, 170, 180, 190, 200 include post support slots 167, 177, 187, 197, 207 for supporting a display tray.

[0198] Pillar support layout

[0199] Reference now FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C and Fig.17 In some configurations, the strut supports 160 may be located at various non-discrete points within their respective connector strut support guides 142, or the connector strut support guides 142 may include features for facilitating the positioning of the strut supports 160 at discrete intervals. Fig.16A As seen in FIG. 1 , the first layout shows a first base position 541 of the connector left pillar support guide 146, a first base position 543 of the connector right pillar support guide 148, and a first base position 545 of the connector rear pillar support guide 150. Each of the left pillar support guide 146 and the right pillar support guide 148 includes a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion being a portion closest to the connector front side 250, and the rear portion being a portion closest to the connector rear side 251. The rear pillar support guide 150 includes a right portion and a left portion, the right portion extending along at least a portion of the connector rear side 251 of the connector 140 closest to the connector right side 253, and the left portion extending along at least a portion of the connector left side 252. The left portion of the rear pillar support guide 150 may extend substantially parallel to the left pillar support guide 146.

[0200] The first base position 541 is positioned at the front of the connector left pillar support guide 146, or is positioned closer to the front of the connector left pillar support guide 146 than the rear of the connector left pillar support guide 146. The first base position 543 is positioned at the rear of the connector right pillar support guide 148, or is positioned closer to the rear of the connector right pillar support guide 148 than the front of the connector right pillar support guide 148. The first base position 545 is positioned at the left portion of the connector rear pillar support guide 150, or is positioned closer to the left portion of the connector rear pillar support guide 150 than the right portion of the connector rear pillar support guide 150.

[0201] like Fig. 16B , the second layout shows a first base position 541 of the connector left pillar support guide 146, a second base position 544 of the connector right pillar support guide 148, and a second base position 546 of the rear pillar support guide 150. The second base position 544 of the connector right pillar support guide 148 is positioned at the front of the connector right pillar support guide 148, or closer to the front of the connector right pillar support guide 148 than the rear of the connector right pillar support guide 148. The second base position 546 of the connector rear pillar support guide 150 is positioned at the left portion of the connector rear pillar support guide 150, or closer to the left portion of the connector rear pillar support guide 150 than the right portion of the connector rear pillar support guide 150.

[0202] like Fig. 16C , the third layout shows a second base position 542 of the connector left pillar support guide 146, a second base position 544 of the connector right pillar support guide 148, and a second base position 546 of the rear pillar support guide 150. The second base position 542 of the connector left pillar support guide 146 is positioned at the rear of the connector left pillar support guide 146, or closer to the rear of the connector left pillar support guide 146 than the front of the connector left pillar support guide 146.

[0203] The base region 184, 194, 204 of each of the corresponding pillar supports 180, 190, 200 can be located at each of the corresponding first base positions 541, 543, 545 or the corresponding second base positions 542, 544, 546. In the first configuration, each of the first hinges 185, 195, 205 and the second hinges 186, 196, 206 of the pillar supports 180, 190, 200 can be retracted. Fig.17An example of this can be seen in . The RFSDU in this state can be considered to be in the transport configuration. In the second and third configurations, each of the first hinges 185, 195, 205 of the strut supports 180, 190, 200 can be deployed to prevent the first sections of the left and right strut supports 180, 190 from interacting with each other. The second hinges 186, 196, 206 of the strut supports 180, 190, 200 can be deployed or retracted.

[0204] The first layout, the second layout and the third layout can each be used for different purposes. Fig.17 and Fig.18 As seen in FIG. 1 , the first layout can be used with each of the first hinges 185, 195, 205 and the second hinges 186, 196, 206 retracted while the RFSDU is transported. This is because the first base position 541 of the connector left pillar support guide 146 where the left pillar support 180 is located, the first base position 543 of the connector right pillar support guide 148 where the right pillar support 190 is located, and the first base position 545 of the connector rear pillar support guide 150 where the rear pillar support 200 is located are offset from each other. This allows the pillar supports 180, 190, 200 to rest on the top surface 244 of the connector 140 when the first hinges 185, 195, 205 are retracted and form a substantially flat surface thereon.

[0205] The second layout can be used with each of the first hinge 185, 195, 205 and the second hinge 186, 196, 206 unfolded. In this layout, the left and right pillar supports 180, 190 are located near the connector front side 250, and the rear pillar support 200 is located near the connector rear side 251. Therefore, the goods loaded at the front of the display tray 220 will be firmly supported by the pillar supports 180, 190, 200.

[0206] The third layout can be used with each of the first hinge 185, 195, 205 and the second hinge 186, 196, 206 deployed. In this layout, the left pillar support 180 and the right pillar support 190 are substantially equidistantly located between the connector front side 250 and the connector rear side 251, and the rear pillar support 200 is located close to the connector rear side 251.

[0207] Fig.18The RFSDU 100 is shown in a first layout, wherein the tray base 120 is a wheeled tray base 130. The wheeled tray base 130 includes a wheeled tray platform 131, wheeled tray wheels 132, rigid supports 133, and swivel supports 134. The wheeled tray platform has a wheeled tray platform width 330, a wheeled tray platform height 331, and a wheeled tray platform depth 332. The wheeled tray platform 131 also has a wheeled tray platform top surface 333 and a wheeled tray platform bottom surface 334, both extending in the same direction as the wheeled tray platform width 330 and in the same direction as the wheeled tray platform depth 332. The wheeled tray platform top surface 333 and the wheeled tray platform bottom surface are substantially rectangular in profile, having substantially four substantially rectilinear sides, with opposing pairs of sides being substantially at right angles to each other, and with adjacent sides having unequal lengths. The wheeled pallet platform width 330 and the wheeled pallet platform depth 332 may both be greater than the wheeled pallet platform height 331 .

[0208] The wheeled tray platform bottom surface 334 includes two rigid supports 133, each of which supports a wheeled tray wheel 132. The wheeled tray platform bottom surface 334 also includes one swivel support 134, which supports one wheeled tray wheel 132. The swivel support 134 allows the wheeled tray base 130 to be moved in different directions across a relatively flat surface (such as a floor) more easily than the static tray base 125 by a user, which may or may not be desired. The wheeled tray wheels of the rigid supports 133 and the swivel support 134 can be different from each other, such as constructed of different materials, or they can have substantially the same design. The distance from the bottom of one of the wheeled tray wheels 133 to the top of the side pillar support 170 is 240 mm ± 20 mm.

[0209] Assembly of RFSDU

[0210] Fig.19 The user is shown beginning to erect the RFSDU with the strut supports 160 in the first base position 541, 543, 545, which corresponds to the first arrangement described in detail above. One of the strut supports 160, the rear strut support 200, is shown fully erected and in the first base position 545 of the connector rear strut support guide 148. Reference will now be made to Fig.19 The erection of the pillar support 160 will be generally described in detail with reference to the rear pillar support 200 shown in FIG.

[0211] The strut support 160 is initially in a folded configuration with the first hinge 165 and the second hinge 166 retracted. To partially erect the strut support 160, the user first lifts the ends of the strut support first section 161 and the strut support second section 162 corresponding to the strut support second hinge 166 to rotate the sections around the strut support first hinge 165, thereby unfolding the strut support first hinge 165. Fig.19 5 and 6. As shown, this action corresponds to arrow 570 indicating the rotation of the rear pillar support first section 201 about the rear pillar support first hinge 205. When fully deployed, and if a first threshold torque about the pillar support first hinge 165 is reached, the pillar support first hinge 165 will snap into place, thereby preventing it from retracting, unless a second threshold torque is reached that causes the first hinge 165 to disengage and retract. This is described in more detail further in this specification. The first threshold torque and the second threshold torque can be in the same direction, or in different directions.

[0212] The user then lifts the top region 169 of the strut support second section 162 to rotate the strut support second section 162 about the strut support second hinge 166, thereby unfolding the strut support second hinge 166. Fig.19 , this action corresponds to arrow 571 indicating the rotation of the rear pillar support second section 202 about the rear pillar support second hinge 206. When fully deployed, and if a third threshold torque about the pillar support second hinge 166 is reached, the pillar support second hinge 166 will snap into place, thereby preventing it from retracting, unless a fourth threshold torque is reached that causes the pillar support second hinge 166 to unsnap and retract.

[0213] The first threshold torque, the second threshold torque, the third threshold torque and the fourth threshold torque may all be in the same rotational direction, or only three (such as the first threshold torque, the second threshold torque and the third threshold torque) may be in the same rotational direction, or two (such as the first threshold torque and the third threshold torque) may be in the same rotational direction, or each may be in a different rotational direction.

[0214] Pillar support first hinge

[0215] Fig. 20 Shows Fig.191 , a cross-sectional view of the left hand side of the RFSDU of FIG. 1 , wherein the strut support 160 is at least partially erected. A first arrangement of a strut support first hinge 165 is shown. In this arrangement, the strut support first hinge 165 includes at least one strut support first hinge pin 260, at least one strut support first hinge leg 261, at least one strut support first hinge foot 262, and at least one strut support first hinge slider 263. In the arrangement shown, there are two strut support first hinge pins 260, which are positioned adjacent to opposite sides of the strut support first section 261 and are arranged so that they form two points on a line parallel to a portion of the connector strut support guide 152. Each strut support first hinge pin 260 can extend into a recess of the strut support first section 161 in which the strut support first hinge pin is accommodated. The lateral dimension of each recess of the strut support first section 162 can be larger than the lateral dimension of each corresponding strut support first hinge pin 260. This allows each strut support first hinge pin 260 to rotate within a corresponding recess of the strut support first section 260. When the strut support 160 is inserted into the connector 140, at least one strut support first hinge leg 261 extends into the connector strut support guide 142. The strut support first hinge pin 260 may be integrally formed with the strut support first hinge leg 261.

[0216] The support post first hinge foot 262 is located at the distal end of the support post first hinge leg 261. The support post first hinge slider 263 connects at least one of the support post first hinge leg 261 and the support post first hinge foot 262 with at least one of the support post first hinge leg 261 and the support post first hinge foot 262.

[0217] Each connector post support guide 142 may include a connector post support guide nesting point 143. The connector post support guide nesting point 143 may be located at each of the first base locations 541, 543, 545 and the second base locations 542, 544, 546 of the left post support guide, the right post support guide, and the rear post support guide. The connector post support guide nesting point 143 may be a portion of the connector post support guide 142 that includes a recess. The connector post support guide nesting point lip 256 may define the perimeter of the recess of the connector post support guide nesting point 143.

[0218] exist Fig. 20 In the arrangement shown, each of the post support first hinge legs 262 may fit within the connector post support guide nesting point 143 .

[0219] exist Fig.21 In the second arrangement shown, the first hinge 165 of the pillar support is connected to Fig. 20 , but there are a number of differences. For example, the strut support first hinge pin 260 may alternatively be a strut support first hinge assembly 265. In addition, the lateral dimension of the strut support first hinge foot 262 may be larger than the lateral dimension of the strut support first hinge leg 261. This may be preferred to prevent the strut support 160 from being removed from the connector strut support guide 142, because the strut support 160 can be inserted at the entrance portion of the connector strut support guide 142 (whose lateral dimension is larger than both the lateral dimension of the strut support first hinge foot 262 and the lateral dimension of the strut support first hinge leg 261) and retained in the retaining portion of the connector strut support guide 142 (whose lateral dimension is smaller than the lateral dimension of the strut support hinge foot 262 and larger than the lateral dimension of the strut support hinge leg 261). In addition, the strut support first hinge slider 263 may not be present. This may facilitate movement of a strut support 160 , such as the rear strut support 200 , along the length of the connector strut support guide 142 , which may extend along at least two of the four connector sides 250 , 251 , 252 , 253 .

[0220] exist Fig. 22 In the third arrangement shown, the strut support 160 is a side strut support 170, and there is a strut support first hinge slider 263. In this particular arrangement, the two strut support first hinge legs 261, the two strut support first hinge feet 262, and the strut support first hinge slider 263 are all formed from one integral part. In addition, the end bottom surface of the strut support first hinge foot 262 is flush with the end bottom surface of the strut support first hinge slider 263.

[0221] Fig.23 The user is shown moving a fully erected strut support 160 (rear strut support 200 in this image) from a first base position 545 to a second base position 546. To do this, the user needs to lift the strut support before applying a lateral force, thereby allowing the strut support base region to move laterally within the connector strut support guide 142. The strut supports may be assembled in any order.

[0222] Fig.24 The user is shown lowering the rear pillar support 200 to the nesting point 143 and the second base position 546 .

[0223] Pillar support first hinge locking assembly

[0224] Fig.25 A fourth arrangement of the first pillar support hinge 165 is shown, which is referred to as the first pillar support hinge locking assembly 350. Fig.26 The post support first hinge locking assembly 350 interacts with the post support guide 142 to secure the post support 160 in place.

[0225] The strut support first hinge locking assembly 350 may include at least one extension portion 359 , at least one plunger 351 , at least one locking pin 357 , at least one rotation pin 358 , and a sliding base 367 .

[0226] Each of the locking pin 357 and the rotating pin 358 may have a substantially circular cross-section. The lateral dimension of the locking pin 357 may be greater than the equivalent lateral dimension of the rotating pin 358.

[0227] At least one extension 359 may extend from the base section of the strut support 160, and if the number of extensions is more than one, the extensions may extend with gaps therebetween. Each extension may include two pin cavities for accommodating a locking pin and a rotation pin: one is a locking pin cavity 365, and the other pin cavity is a rotation pin cavity 366. The pin cavities 365, 366 of each extension may be arranged so that they are concentric with each other, thereby facilitating the insertion of at least one pin through the corresponding cavity in each of them. Each extension 359 includes an extension first sub-portion 360 and an extension second sub-portion 361. The locking pin cavity 365 may be located within the extension first sub-portion, and the rotation pin cavity 366 may be located within the extension second sub-portion 361.

[0228] The first extension sub-portion 360 and the second extension sub-portion 361 are positioned adjacent to each other and may be formed by one integral part. The locking pin cavity 365 may extend through the first extension sub-portion 360, and the rotating pin cavity 366 may extend through the second extension sub-portion 361. The first extension sub-portion 360 may be a cuboid. The first extension sub-portion 360 may include a side surface 362. The periphery of the first extension sub-portion side 362 may be rectangular. The second extension sub-portion 361 may include a side surface 363. These side surfaces may be located in a plane defined by the second direction and the third direction. The periphery of the second extension sub-portion side surface 363 may include three straight edges and one curved edge. The second extension sub-portion 361 may extend in the first direction 11 and may always have substantially the same cross-section. The curved edge of the periphery of the second extension sub-portion side surface may be convex and may extend in a direction facing forward. The bottom surface 364 of the second sub-portion 361 is substantially flat.

[0229] At least one plunger 351 may include a base 352, a middle portion 353, and a top 354, the middle portion 353 may also include a pin cavity 355, and the top 354 may also include an engagement portion 356. The plunger 351 gradually widens toward its base. The base 352 may be a trapezoidal prism. The middle portion 353 may be a cuboid. The top 354 is used to accommodate and engage a locking pin. The pin cavity may extend through the middle portion 353 and may accommodate a rotation pin 358. The engagement portion 356 may be C-shaped and is used to engage with a locking pin 357. The base 352 of the plunger is wider than the top. The plunger may have two substantially flat, parallel outer surfaces. The plunger may be formed of one integral part, or may be several parts attached to each other (possibly detachably attached).

[0230] The sliding base is used to accommodate the base of the plunger and includes at least one plunger portion 368 and at least two stopper portions 372. Fig.26 In the embodiment of the present invention, there are two plunger parts and three stopper parts. The stopper parts are used to maintain the structural integrity of the sliding base. The plunger part is used to accommodate the base of the plunger. The plunger part can accommodate one or more plungers. The plunger part can have three main parts: a main base 369 and two main side parts 370. The base can be a plate with a substantially flat upper surface 377 and a lower surface 378. Each side part can be adjacent to the base, extending from at least a portion of the edge portion of the base. The side part can extend from at least a portion of the opposite edge portion of the base. The side part can extend substantially perpendicularly from the flat upper surface of the base so that the upper surface of the base is surrounded by at least two sides thereof. When not deformed, the side parts can extend in planes parallel to each other. One side part 370 can include a side lip 371. The side lip can extend in the same plane as the base. The side lip can extend from at least a portion of the outer upper edge of the side part. The base and the side part can have substantially the same thickness. The side portion may extend along a portion of the edge portion of the base so that there is a gap at either side of the side portion. This means that the side of the plunger portion is not attached to the stopper portion and can be deformed more easily as a result.

[0231] The stopper portions 372 may each include a base 373 and a top 374. The top 374 is disposed on top of the base 373. The top 374 is smaller than the base 373 and is disposed in the center of the base 373. There may be two types of stopper portions: an outer stopper portion 375 and an inner stopper portion 376. The outer stopper portion may be thinner than the inner stopper portion (i.e., extend further inwardly than the inner stopper portion). The outer stopper portion and the inner stopper portion may have the same cross-section. Both of them are portions that always have a consistent cross-section. The thickness dimension of the outer stopper portion may be substantially the same as the corresponding thickness dimension of the outer extension portion of the pillar support 160. The plunger portion and the stopper portion may be formed of one integral part, or may be several parts attached to each other (possibly detachably attached). The plunger portion engages with the connector pillar support guide.

[0232] like Fig.27A As seen in FIG. 1 , the second sub-portion of the extension of the base of the support member includes two length dimensions from the cross-sectional center of the rotation pin cavity, which are offset from each other by the expansion angle of the hinge. The first dimension length is L1, and the second dimension length is L2. Fig.27B The cross section shown shows the plunger located within the sliding base. When the first hinge is deployed, the bottom strut section rotates about the swivel pin, at which point the distance between the swivel pin and the connector top surface 244 is L2. This means that the plunger is pulled upwards while the sliding base remains in its original position. When this happens, the sliding base deforms and the protrusion locks itself into the corresponding recess in the connector's strut support guide. This means that the sliding base is locked in place and cannot move in any direction relative to the connector. The locking pin then engages the plunger, with the top c-section engaging the locking pin. This prevents the strut from rotating and falling over. This can be seen in the illustration below. Fig.28 Seen in.

[0233] Telescopic locking mechanism

[0234] Fig.29 The wheeled RFSDU shown in FIG. 1 includes a support column whose first and second hinges are fully unfolded and telescopically extendable. The support column third section can be telescopically extended to different distances and can be locked in place at set intervals. The support column third section can be locked into at least one position by a telescopic locking mechanism 400, which can be Fig. 30A and Fig. 30B. The telescopic locking mechanism may include a locking body 402. The locking body may also include a top 404, a leg portion 414, and a foot portion 416. The top may have an upper surface 408 that may be curved. The top may have a lower surface 410 that may be substantially flat. The top may also have at least one side surface 412 that may be substantially flat. The cross-section of the top may be substantially D-shaped. The top may include a top extension 406 extending from a front surface. The top extension 406 may include a substantially flat front surface. The locking body may include at least one leg portion and at least one foot portion. At least one leg portion may connect the top with at least one foot portion. The leg portion may include at least one first leg portion 422 and at least one second leg portion 424. The first leg portion may be directly connected to the top and may be directly connected to the foot portion. The first leg portion may be capable of undergoing elastic deformation. The first leg portion may be curved. The first leg portion may have a consistent thickness along at least a portion of its length. The second leg portion may be directly connected to at least one first leg portion. In the example shown, each leg portion includes two first leg portions and one second leg portion. The second leg portion may have a uniform thickness along at least a portion of its length, and the thickness may be greater than the uniform thickness of the first leg portion. The second leg portion may be in the form of a parallelepiped. The second leg portion may be in the form of a cuboid. The foot portion may include a foot body 426, which also includes a foot pin 418 and a foot lip 420. The foot portion 416 may include a first side, a second side, an upper side, and a lower side. The foot lip 418 may be located on the upper side of the foot portion 416. The first leg portion may be directly connected to the foot portion at a position corresponding to the intersection between the first side and the upper side. The foot lip may be located at the upper side of the foot portion. The foot pin may be located at the second side. The foot portion may have only a substantially flat surface. The locking body may include at least one axis of symmetry 430. The locking body may be formed by an integral part.

[0235] The third section of the pillar support can be assembled in the second section of the pillar support. The third section of the pillar support can include a plurality of support edges for supporting the locking body. The locking body is in place when the movement of the locking body is limited by the support edges of the third section of the pillar support. The locking body is held by the support edges of the third section of the pillar support. The support edge can include several parts. The first support edge 450 can extend along at least a portion of the length of the third section of the pillar support. The first support edge can prevent the top of the locking body from moving horizontally relative to the third section of the pillar support. The second support edge can extend across at least a portion of the width of the third section of the pillar support. The second support edge can be directly adjacent to the first support edge. The second support edge can prevent the locking body from moving vertically upward relative to the third section of the pillar support when the locking body is in place. The second support edge can be adjacent to the upper side of the foot portion. The foot lip can be an area of ​​increased thickness for engaging with the second support edge. The third support edge can also extend across at least a portion of the width of the third section of the pillar support. The third support edge can be separated from both the first support edge and the second support edge. The third support edge can prevent the locking body from moving vertically downward relative to the third section of the strut support when the locking body is in place. The third support edge can be adjacent to the lower side of the foot portion. When the locking body is in place in the third section of the strut support, the second support edge and the third support edge can be adjacent to the foot body of the locking body.

[0236] The strut support second section may include at least one support edge 460, which is an area of ​​increased thickness to guide the strut support third section when telescopically extending and retaining the strut support third section. The support edge may include at least one leg pin cutout 462, which may be similar to a notch. The leg pin cutout is used to accommodate a leg pin of the locking body and lock it in place. The leg pin cutout may include a horizontal lower surface and may also include an angled upper surface.

[0237] FIG. 31A to FIG. 31D The telescoping locking mechanism is shown in operation. Fig.31A The locking body is shown in an uncompressed form. The two leg pins are located in corresponding first leg pin cutouts. Fig.31B In the embodiment of the present invention, the top portion is pushed downward, thereby compressing the locking body, causing the leg pin to retract from the first leg pin cutout. The leg pin is then no longer located in the first leg pin cutout. As the leg pin retracts due to the compression of the locking body, the user applies an upward force to the third section. Fig.31C This causes the third section to move upward relative to the second section. When the locking body reaches the second leg pin cutout, the user stops compressing the locking body, thereby allowing the leg pin to extend into the second leg pin cutout (at Fig.31D ). The third section is then locked into place. These steps can also be FIG. 33A to FIG. 35B Seen in.

[0238] Shelves or display trays

[0239] Display tray 220 is used to support cargo in RFSDU 100. RFSDU 100 may include more than one display tray at more than one height.

[0240] The display tray comprises a plate body 221. The display tray may comprise a major edge 222, and the plate body may comprise at least one pillar cutout 225.

[0241] The board body 221 is used to support the cargo. The board body may be substantially flat and may have substantially rectangular upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower surfaces of the board body may share four edges. The board body may include rounded corners.

[0242] The main edge is used to improve the usability of the display tray and engage with the pillar support. The main edge can extend around the periphery of the plate body. The main edge can include a reinforcement structure. The main edge can extend beyond the upper surface and the lower surface of the plate body. The main edge can extend along a portion of at least one edge of the plate body. The main edge can include a first portion 223 and a second portion 224. These portions of the main edge can be separated from each other, thereby forming at least one break therebetween. The main edge can extend substantially perpendicular to the plate body. The main edge can substantially define the front edge 226, the rear edge 227 and the two side edges 228 of the display tray 220. The main edge 222 can also include a reinforcement rib 230 for increasing its strength characteristics.

[0243] The panel body may further include at least one post cutout 225 for engaging with a post support. At least one break in the portions of the major edge may be located at the post cutout of the panel body.

[0244] The display tray 220 may have a width of 600 mm, which may or may not include the main edge. The display tray 220 may have a depth of 400 mm, which may or may not include the main edge. The height of the main edge may be substantially 30 mm. At least one break in the main edge may have a width of 60 mm.

[0245] Assuming the RFSDU is fully erected and extended, the display tray 220 is inserted into the support member slots and then supported by them. The support member third section may include at least one support member slot, such as Fig.32 shown.

[0246] like Fig.36 , Fig.37A and Fig.37BAs seen in FIG. 1 , when a user is inserting the display tray 220 into the RFSDU 100, the display tray is oriented substantially flat and enters the pillar supports from the front side of the RFSDU. The front edge of the display tray enters the side pillar support slots first before the side edges. When fully inserted, the display tray 220 can be removably attached to the rear pillar supports. The engagement of the display tray 220 with the side pillar supports can be Fig.38 Seen in.

[0247] Display tray engagement mechanism

[0248] In some arrangements, the post support slots 167 , 177 , 187 , 197 , 207 may include a display tray engagement mechanism 232 for preventing the display tray 220 from being removed.

[0249] The pillar support slots 167, 177, 187, 197, 207 may include a display tray support portion 231. The display tray support portion may include a front plate 235 and an attachment structure 236. The cross-section of the attachment structure is Fig.39B The attachment structure may also include a display tray engagement mechanism 232. The display tray support portion may be located substantially equidistantly between the front and rear sides of the pillar support 160.

[0250] The front plate may be substantially flat and may be substantially rectangular in cross-section. The front plate may have a thickness dimension with an upper side. When in place, the upper side may support the display tray 220. The front plate may have a front surface with four corners. The corners may be chamfered.

[0251] The attachment structure is used to attach the front panel to the pillar support and to support the display tray. The attachment structure may have internal ribbing to provide strength while keeping its weight to a minimum. The cross-section of the attachment structure may also be rectangular. The cross-section of the attachment structure may be smaller than the equivalent cross-section in the front panel. The attachment structure may be directly attached to the pillar support. The attachment structure may be located in a substantially central position of the front panel.

[0252] The attachment structure may include a top surface 237. The display tray engagement mechanism may be located on the top surface of the attachment structure. The display tray engagement mechanism may be integrally formed with the attachment structure. The display tray engagement mechanism may not be directly attached to the pillar support. Fig.39A , Fig.39B , Fig.40 and Fig.41The display tray engagement mechanism shown in is formed by a joystick 233 and a joystick end 234. The joystick can be substantially thin. In this arrangement, the joystick or joystick end is directly attached to the pillar support, while in other arrangements they may be. The joystick end is bulbous. The joystick end may have an increased thickness compared to the joystick portion. The joystick end may be bulbous compared to the joystick. The joystick end may extend upwardly beyond the top surface of the joystick.

[0253] There may be more than one display tray support portion on each support column. For example, there may be five, seven, eight, nine or ten display tray support portions. If there is more than one display tray support portion, they may be arranged along the length of the support column 160, 170 so that they are arranged roughly in a straight line. There may be gaps between the display tray support portions to facilitate inserting the display tray between adjacent display tray support portions. In this way, the lateral dimensions of the gaps may be larger than the height of the main edges of the display tray 220, or they may be substantially equal to each other. The width of the attachment structure may be substantially equal to the gap of the display tray 220, or the width may be greater.

[0254] Fig.40 A cross section of the attachment structures is shown, wherein a display tray 220 is inserted into the space between the two attachment structures, wherein arrow 238 shows the direction in which the display tray is moved relative to the pillar support 160. The display tray has been inserted beyond the gap of the main edge. The second portion of the main edge of the display tray 220 may include an angled sub-portion 229, which is used to make it easier for a user to guide the display tray into the space between the two attachment structures and beyond the gap of the display tray. The display tray engagement mechanism is pushed downward by the display tray and is therefore in a depressed state.

[0255] Fig.41 A snapshot is shown of a user attempting to remove a display tray 220, wherein arrow 239 shows the direction in which the display tray is moved relative to the pillar support 160. When the display tray 220 is partially removed, the gap of the display tray 220 is located above the display tray engagement mechanism, so that the display tray engagement mechanism is no longer depressed by the display tray 220 and thus returns to its resting state. In its resting state, the end of the lever blocks the removal of the display tray by engaging with the first portion of the main edge. In this way, the display tray cannot be removed. The user must then move the display tray downwards, while keeping the display tray substantially horizontal, to reach the bottom of the pillar support, where it can be reinserted in preparation for transport.

[0256] Rear locking mechanism

[0257] The rear locking mechanism 590 removably attaches the inserted display tray to the rear pillar support 200, thereby providing stability and support for the display tray.

[0258] Reference now Fig.42A and Fig.42B The rear locking mechanism includes a display tray cavity 587 within the rear pillar support and may also include a locking insert 581 and a corresponding locking insert cavity 586 within the rear pillar support 200 .

[0259] The display tray cavity may have a rear surface 588, an upper surface 589, and a lower surface 590. The rear surface, the upper surface, and the lower surface of the display tray cavity may each include at least one substantially flat portion.

[0260] The locking insert can be removably attached to the rear pillar support. The locking insert includes a body 582, an arm 583 and an attachment device 585. The arm and the attachment device can both be attached to the body. The body, the arm and the attachment device can be formed as an integral part. The arm can be an extension with an S-shaped cross-section. The arm can include an end, and the end of the arm can be rounded. The arm may be able to undergo cyclic deformation. The locking insert cavity can include a main cavity 593 and an attachment device cavity 594. The main cavity and the attachment device cavity can be formed as one cavity, or they can be separate cavities. The main cavity 593 cavity can include an arm cavity, which is used to provide a volume portion in which at least a portion of the arm can be elastically deformed. The attachment device can include a prong. When attached to the rear pillar support, the locking insert can be substantially resting in the locking insert cavity, and the end of the arm can extend toward the display tray cavity.

[0261] Fig.43 Shown is a display tray inserted into a rear locking mechanism comprising a locking insert. The arm of the locking insert is resting in an initial position. When the display tray enters the display tray cavity, it contacts the end of the arm and displaces the end of the arm upwards so that the end of the arm is substantially located in the arm cavity of the locking insert cavity. This movement of the end of the arm can put the arm under tension, which may be due to the arm being flexible. Then, the display tray can be fully inserted so that the rear of the display tray contacts the rear surface of the display tray cavity. The main edge of the display tray 220 is pushed beyond the end of the arm of the locking insert, thereby allowing the arm to release its tension and return to its initial position so that the end of the arm prevents the display tray from being removed. To remove the display tray, a threshold force is required so that the end of the arm is displaced upwards above the main edge of the display tray. The rounded edge of the end of the arm can contribute to the displacement of the end of the arm.

[0262] FIG. 44 shows three different arrangements of the rear locking mechanism 580. Fig.44AIn the embodiment, the lower surface 590 of the display tray cavity includes a lower surface lip 591. The lower surface lip prevents the display tray 220 from being removed. Fig.44B In the embodiment, there is a lower surface lip 591, but no locking insert. Therefore, the upper surface 589 of the display tray cavity is substantially flat. Fig.44C In the embodiment, there is a lip on the lower surface of the display tray cavity, and a corresponding cutout 592 on the upper surface 589 of the display tray cavity.

[0263] Disassembly of RFSDU

[0264] Fig.45A A user is shown removing a display tray from a fully erected and assembled RFSDU. A user at the front side of the RFSDU pulls the display tray out of the RFSDU away from the rear support. If the display tray engagement mechanism is not present, the display tray can be completely removed and can be stacked outside the fully erected and extended RFSDU, such as Fig.45B shown.

[0265] Fig.46A and Fig.46B The user is shown disassembling the RFSDU after the display tray has been removed. The strut supports begin in the second base position. The user retracts the telescoping locking mechanism to substantially nest the third strut support section within the second strut support section. The user then retracts the second hinge of the strut support. The user then repeats the retracting and retracting steps for each strut support, leaving the strut supports in the RFSDU in the second base position (not extended and with only the first hinge deployed), similar to Fig.47 Seen in.

[0266] Fig.48A Shows Fig.47 The RFSDU of FIG. 1 shows a directional arrow indicating the force that the user must apply in order to move the indicated pillar support to the first base position. The rear pillar support 200 and the right pillar support 190 are moved back to the first base position, as shown in FIG. Fig.48B The user must then apply force to the first strut support or the second strut support to retract the first hinge (eg Fig.49 ), so that the disassembled RFSDU is in the transport position.

[0267] Fig.50A Two sets of folded RFSDUs and seven display trays stacked on top of each other are shown. Fig.50B Two folded RFSDUs are shown stacked on top of each other. When multiple RFSDUs are stacked, the bottom surface of the tray base of the "top" RFSDU rests on the folded leg supports.

[0268] Overview of the "Foldable Display Tray"

[0269] Fig.51A and Fig.51B An exemplary "foldable display tray" 800 is shown. In this context, "foldable" refers to the presence of one or more reconfigurable support structures on a base (such as a shelf or display tray), as will be further described below. It should be understood that the foldable display tray 800 described herein constitutes a reconfigurable module 800 for a modular transport and / or display unit as described herein. The foldable display tray 800 includes a base 802, a major edge or border 804, and at least one reconfigurable support structure, which in the described module 800 is configured as a reconfigurable, generally U-shaped arm 806. At least one arm 806 includes at least one rod / bracket (which in the described module 800 is in the shape of a support member 808) and at least one cross member or bridge 810.

[0270] In the example shown, there are two arms 806, and each arm includes two support members 808 and a cross member 810. Fig.51B As seen in the configuration of FIG. 8 , arm 806 is an inverted U-shape, wherein strut member 808 forms two parallel sides and cross member 810 connects the two parallel sides. In addition, arm 806 can have at least one axis of symmetry, i.e., the two halves of the U-shape are symmetrical. In the example shown, the axis of symmetry bisects cross member 810.

[0271] The base 802 (i.e., the shelf or display tray 802 itself) is used to support the product. The base 802 is substantially flat and has a substantially rectangular upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface and the lower surface of the base 802 share four edges. The base 802 includes perforations 812 to facilitate drainage and / or increase static friction, thereby preventing product displacement.

[0272] The main edge 804 (this feature is alternatively referred to as a border or skirt, as described in the invention summary and the appended claims of the present invention) is used to improve the usability of the module or display tray 800 and align the foldable display tray 800 when the display trays are stacked. It also provides multiple pivotable connections together with the U-shaped arm 806, as will be further described below. The main edge 804 extends around the periphery of the base 802. The main edge 804 may include a reinforcement structure. The main edge 804 extends beyond the upper and lower surfaces of the base 802. The main edge 804 also extends along a portion of at least one edge of the base 802. The main edge 804 also extends substantially perpendicular to the base 802. The main edge 804 may include at least one alignment nub 814 located on at least one of the upper or lower surfaces of the main edge 804. In the example shown, the main edge 804 has four alignment nubs 814 located at the four corners of the main edge 804. The alignment protrusions 814 have corresponding alignment cavities (not shown) on the lower surface of the main edge 804. When the foldable display trays 800 are stacked, the alignment protrusions 814 of the lower display tray 800 are inserted into the alignment cavities, thereby aligning the display trays 800. This increases the stacking stability of the module 800 when the arms 806 are folded. The main edge 804 also defines the front edge, the rear edge and the two side edges of the foldable display tray 800. The main edge 804 may also include reinforcing ribs for increasing its strength characteristics.

[0273] Fig.52A and Fig.52B The collapsible display tray 800 is shown in both an “unerected” (ie, folded or stowed) and an erected configuration, the collapsible display tray being positioned on top of the tray base 120 .

[0274] Fig.53A and Fig.53B The foldable display tray 800 is shown in an upright and extended configuration.

[0275] Fig.54A Seven upright foldable display trays 800 are shown stacked on top of one another, positioned on top of the tray base 120 . Fig.54B Four foldable display trays are shown un-expanded and un-erected, sitting on top of the tray base 120. One foldable display tray 800 or module 800 may be considered an RFSDU. However, more generally, an RFSDU or transport and display unit will include two or more stackable modules 800. A stack of two or more foldable modules 800 is more commonly considered an RFSDU.

[0276] Extension mechanism of foldable display tray

[0277] like Fig.55A and Fig.55BAs seen in FIG. 1 , at least one arm 806 includes an extension mechanism 820. The extension mechanism 820 includes a control body 822, a pin body 826, several pin cavities 830, 832, 834 for receiving a portion of the pin body 826, and elastic devices 836, 838. The control body 822 also includes a control protrusion 824. The control body 822 is biased by a first elastic device 836. There may be one or more control bodies 822 in each arm 806. In the example shown, there is one control body 822 as part of each extension mechanism 820. The pin body 826 may include an engagement pin 828. The pin body 826 and the engagement pin 828 may be formed as an integral part. The engagement pin 828 may be received in any one of the pin cavities 830, 832, 834. The pin body 826 is biased by a second elastic device 838. The first elastic device 836 and the second elastic device 838 may be one or more springs, and may specifically be one or more tension and / or compression coil springs.

[0278] In normal use of the extension mechanism 820, the first elastic device 836 and the second elastic device 838 are elastically biased. In addition, the first elastic device 836 and the second elastic device 838 each have a spring constant, and the spring constant of the first elastic device can be greater than the spring constant of the second elastic device 838. The control body 822 and the pin body 826 can be biased by their respective elastic devices 836, 838 in directions substantially perpendicular to each other. There can be one or more pin bodies 826 as part of each extension mechanism 820. In the example shown, there are two pin bodies 826 as part of the extension mechanism 820.

[0279] The control body 822 and the pin body 826 have substantially parallel upper and lower surfaces. The control body 822 and the pin body 826 also abut each other along at least one of their sides. The abutting sides of the control body 822 and the pin body 826 are substantially flat, but may not be substantially perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces. In the example shown, the abutting sides of the control body 822 and the pin body 826 are inclined so that vertical movement of one of the bodies 822, 826 causes horizontal movement of the other, and horizontal movement of one causes vertical movement of the other. In the example shown, the two pin bodies 826 abut the control body 822 on opposite sides of the control body 822.

[0280] The cross member 810 includes at least one cross member cavity 821. The extension mechanism 820 is at least partially located within the cross member cavity 821. In the example shown, the control body 822 and the pin body 826 are substantially located within the cross member cavity 821.

[0281] Each strut support 808 includes an inner strut (or rod) 852 and an outer strut (or bracket) 854. The outer strut (or bracket) 854 and the cross member (or bridge) 810 are formed as an integral part. In this way, the outer strut (or bracket) 854 covers the inner strut (or rod) 852 along at least a portion of the length of the strut support 808. The inner strut 852 can be made of metal (such as aluminum or stainless steel). The outer strut 854 can be made of a plastic material. The inner strut 852 includes a first inner strut engagement pin cavity 830 and a second inner strut engagement pin cavity 832. The pin cavities 830, 832 can be located at different distances along the length of the inner strut 852. The first inner strut engagement pin cavity 830 can be positioned closer to the base of the inner strut 852 than the second inner strut engagement pin cavity 832. In this way, the second inner strut engagement pin cavity 832 can be positioned closer to the distal end or tip of the inner strut 852 than the first inner strut engagement pin cavity 830.

[0282] The extension mechanism is similar in principle to the mechanisms commonly found in the prior art in connection with suitcase handles. FIG. 55A to FIG. 58B are snapshots of the extension mechanism at various stages of deployment / extension.

[0283] Fig.55A and Fig.55B The extension mechanism 820 is shown in a first position. The control body 822 is in a first stationary position. In this position, the first inner strut engagement pin cavity 830 and the outer strut engagement pin cavity 834 are aligned, and more specifically, can be concentrically aligned. The pin body 826 extends into at least one of the pin cavities, thereby locking the extension mechanism 820 in the first position. More specifically, the engagement pin 828 extends into the first inner strut engagement pin cavity 830 and the outer strut engagement pin cavity 834. When the control body 822 is in the first position, the first elastic device 836 is in a substantially extended configuration, and the second elastic device 838 is in a substantially compressed configuration.

[0284] Fig.56A and Fig.56B The extension mechanism 820 is shown in a second position. The control body 822 is in a second depressed position. The user must press the control protrusion 824, thereby compressing the first elastic device 836. This creates space for the pin body 826 to extend inwardly under the bias of the second elastic device 838. This movement of the pin body 826 retracts the engagement pin 828, which means that it is no longer located in the first inner support engagement pin cavity 830 or the outer support engagement pin cavity 834. In this position, the extension mechanism 820 is free to extend, so the user can pull the cross member 810 upward ( Fig.56A ) to extend the extension mechanism.

[0285] Fig.57A and Fig.57BThe extension mechanism 820 is shown in a third position. In this position, the arm 806 has been extended. The control body 822 remains in the second depressed position. The outer support 854 has slid over a portion of the inner support 852 so that the second inner support engagement pin cavity 832 and the outer support engagement pin cavity 834 are now aligned, and more specifically, may be concentrically aligned.

[0286] Fig.58A and Fig.58B The extension mechanism 820 is shown in a fourth position. In this position, the extension mechanism has been fully deployed and the arm 806 is extended. Due to the bias of the first resilient device 836, the control body 822 is again in the first position. As a result, the pin body 826 extends back to its first position, thereby pushing the engagement pin 828 into the aligned cavities 832, 834 and locking the extension mechanism 820 in this fourth position.

[0287] When starting from the fourth position, to retract and lock the extension mechanism 820, the user can apply force to the control protrusion 824 to depress the control body 822. This causes the control body 822 to move back to its second position. This causes the extension mechanism 820 to be in its third position. Here, while continuing to depress the control body 822, the user can push the cross member 810 downward and retract the extension mechanism 820. This causes the extension mechanism 820 to move to its second position. Here, the user can then stop applying force to the control protrusion 824, and the bias of the first resilient device 836 causes the control body 822 to move back to its first position. As a result, the extension mechanism returns to its first position.

[0288] Hinge mechanism for foldable display tray

[0289] Now consider Figures 59A to 60B , the arm 806 is attached to the module (or foldable display tray) 800, and more specifically, to its edge 804, via a hinge mechanism (or pivotable connection) 850. More specifically, the inner support 852 (or rod) is attached to the foldable display tray 800 via the hinge mechanism 850. Fig.59A The directional arrow 880 in the figure indicates the upward direction. The hinge mechanism 850 ensures that the base of the support member 808 is along the inner wall of the main edge 804 during deployment or erection, thereby allowing the support member 808 to be firmly hinged away from the corner of the main edge 804, thereby minimizing the space required for the base of the support member 808 to rotate; otherwise, the support member 808 will need to be hinged at a position farther from the corner of the main edge 804. Alternatively, the hinge mechanism 850 allows the support member 808 to be hinged very close to the corner. This means that compared with other hinge mechanisms, the fully deployed hinge mechanism 850 allows the support member 808 to be up to 30 mm closer to the inner wall of the main edge 804. This allows additional space to be used for products on the shelf 802.

[0290] The hinge mechanism 850 includes a locking assembly 855, at least one pin and at least one pin guide or cavity 862. In the example shown, there are a first pin 861 and a second pin 868 both connected to the inner support 852, and the locking assembly 855 includes a hinge arm cavity 856 and a hinge arm 858. The hinge arm 858 is configured to be elastically deformable. The hinge arm 858 includes a tab 859 and a head 860. The tab 859 is attached to the main edge 804 at a first portion and to the head 860 at a second portion. The tab 859 is an elongated element and is configured to be elastically deformable. When the first pin 861 moves in the first pin cavity or guide 862 and abuts the head 860 to apply a force, the tab 859 may be elastically deformed.

[0291] The hinge arm cavity 856 can be located above the first pin cavity 862. The hinge arm cavity 856 and the first pin cavity 862 can be two parts of a continuous cavity. The first pin cavity 862 can include a leg portion 863 and a hook or point portion 864. The leg portion 863 and the hook or point portion 864 can form an "r" shape, so that the leg portion 863 is an elongated channel, and the hook portion 864 is also a channel (although shorter than the leg portion 863) and extends so that the portions 863, 864 form an acute angle with each other. The hinge arm cavity 856 can be shaped so that the hinge arm 858 extends at least partially through to the first pin cavity 862. In this example, the head 860 of the hinge arm 858 partially extends through the leg portion 863 of the first pin cavity 862, wherein some sections of the leg portion 863 are large enough to allow the first pin to substantially fully fit wherein the head 860 extends through either side of the leg portion 863.

[0292] The second pin cavity 870 may be located below the first pin cavity 862. The second pin cavity 870 may be a straight elongated channel oriented so that it extends parallel to the base 802 when viewed from the side.

[0293] The first pin cavity 862 and the second pin cavity 870 may have substantially the same width. The first pin 861 and the second pin 868 may have substantially the same size.

[0294] In this example, locking assembly 855 and pin cavities 862 , 870 are formed by major edge 804 .

[0295] When the arm 806 is folded or laid down (not shown), the hinge mechanism 850 stores the arm 806. When the hinge mechanism 850 is folded / retracted, the first pin 861 is located in the first hook portion 864 of the first pin cavity 862, and the second pin 868 is located in the first portion of the second pin cavity 870. When the arm 806 is erected, the first pin 861 begins to move through the hook portion 864 and exceeds the curved portion connecting the leg portion 863 and the hook or point portion 864 of the first pin cavity 862. At the same time, the second pin 868 moves from the first end of the second pin cavity 870 and is substantially close to the midpoint of the second pin cavity 870 when the first pin 861 reaches the leg portion 863 of the first pin cavity 862. As the first pin 861 travels through the leg portion 863 of the first pin cavity, it abuts the head 860 of the hinge arm 858, thereby elastically deforming the tab 859 and pushing the head 860 substantially completely into the hinge arm cavity 856 and out of the first pin cavity 862. Fig.59A and Fig.59B . At this point, the arm 806 is almost fully erected. The first pin 861 continues to travel through the leg portion 863 until the first pin 861 reaches the end of the leg portion 863 and cannot travel further. When the first pin 861 reaches the end of the leg portion 863 and cannot travel further (at Fig.60A and Fig.60B 863), the hinge arm 858 returns to its resting position, thereby effectively pressing the first pin 861 against the end of the first pin cavity 862, and more specifically against the leg portion 863. The second pin 868 reaches the second end of the second pin cavity 870. The arm 806 is now substantially upright. Therefore, in summary, if a first predetermined torque about the hinge mechanism 850 is reached that is sufficient to deform the tab 859 and allow the first pin 861 to continue its travel within the leg portion 863, the hinge mechanism will fully deploy while preventing the hinge arm 858 from folding, unless a second threshold torque is reached in the opposite direction that causes the hinge mechanism 850 to disengage and fold / retract.

[0296] In order for the hinge mechanism 850 to be fully retracted, the arm 806 may need to be retracted. However, alternatively, this may not be required. When the hinge mechanism 850 is fully retracted, the arm 804 is located below the top surface of the major edge 804, thereby allowing the display trays 800 to be stacked on top of each other without interference from the arm (and thus avoiding possible inadvertent damage).

[0297] The pivotable mechanism 850 described herein (which includes a system of pins / guides as described herein) allows the reconfigurable arm 806 to be guided from an erected configuration to a stowed configuration, and vice versa, wherein the stem / base 808 of the arm 806 in the erected configuration is as seamlessly integrated as possible with the edge or border 804. Thus, even more in combination with the L-shape in cross-section of the stem / base 808, the reconfigurability of the arm 806 does not adversely affect the product holding capabilities of the module or display tray 800.

[0298] Transportation of goods

[0299] Therefore, the module 800 described herein helps the transportation of goods that need extra protection during transportation, and is easy to display in stores (e.g., for sale) afterwards. Each display tray 800 can be sealed using a disposable panel made of a material (such as cardboard). This sealing configuration may require three panels in total: two side panels and a U-shaped cover. Arm 806 includes a series of tongues to keep the side panels fixed. The side panels can slide from the top into the special slits provided in the arms, and then pushed down and fixed. Cross member 810 includes a tongue with a protrusion, which can be triangular and arranged to prevent the side panels from being pulled out. The U-shaped cover covers the space between the two arms of the display tray 800. When the three panels are in place on the display tray 800, the three panels are independent and do not contact each other.

[0300] Assembly of shipping and display unit with cardboard decoration

[0301] Fig.61A An insert 902 is shown for the tray base 120. The purpose of the insert 902 is to prevent lateral movement of the foldable display tray 800 stacked thereon. The insert 902 engages with the attachment feature 255 of the tray base 120 (at Fig. 12B ), and is configured to engage with a corresponding recess in the base 802 of the foldable display tray 800, thereby preventing lateral movement of the foldable display tray 800. The insert 902 may extend above the top surface 122 of the tray base 120. At least two inserts 902 may be disposed on opposite sides of the tray base 120.

[0302] When assembling a modular transport and display unit including a foldable display tray 800, a user may first insert the two inserts 902 into corresponding attachment features of the tray base 120. The first display tray 800 may be initially folded and then fully erected by the user and may be stretched out by the user if necessary. The folded first display tray 800 may then be placed on top of the tray base 120 with the inserts 902 located within corresponding recesses of the base 802. Other display trays may then be erected by the user and may be stretched out and stacked one on top of the first display tray 800. Thus, the user may have a plurality of display trays with the same size as the first display tray 800. Fig.54A A transport and display unit similar to that seen in FIG. 8 , having a fewer or greater total number of display trays 800.

[0303] Reference now Fig.62A and Fig.62B When the RFSDU 100, 800 is fully assembled, the user may then enclose the RFSDU 100, 800 within the display structure 600. The display structure 600 is used to display the RFSDU (with branding appropriate for the product displayed on the RFSDU 100, 800) in a store and may be constructed of cardboard. The display structure 600 may include at least one display tray cover for covering the exposed edge of the display tray.

[0304] Fig.62A The cardboard decoration 950 shown in FIG. 1 is an example of a display structure 600. The user can then slide the cardboard decoration 950 over the stack of display trays 800 to cover at least a portion of the transport and display unit 100, 800. Fig.62A As indicated by the directional arrow 948 in the figure, the cardboard decoration 950, which is described here as a sleeve, can be slid down from the stack of display trays 800 and covered on the stack of display trays. Other installation methods will be possible. For example, the cardboard decoration can be supplied as an open, foldable sheet instead of a sleeve and wrapped around the unit. In the described installation, the cardboard decoration 950 also includes at least one tab 960, which can be folded down once the cardboard decoration 950 has reached its display position relative to the stack of display trays 800. The tab 960 is engaged with at least one display tray 800 via its base 802 or main edge 804 to ensure that the cardboard decoration 950 remains in place. The cardboard decoration 950 can have a lower edge that is substantially flush with the top surface 122 of the tray base 120. However, various other configurations will be possible.

[0305] The cardboard decoration 950 can take many different forms that can be implemented for different retail purposes. Fig.62A and Fig.62BIn the embodiment, the cardboard decoration 950 includes a lower cover 951 that substantially completely covers at least one of the display trays 800. The illustrated cardboard decoration 950 also includes a headboard 952 and may also include at least one side panel 953 (at the Fig.63A In addition, the cardboard decoration 950 may include (such as Fig.63B 800) is used to cover at least a portion of the top surface of the base 802 of the display tray 800, and the cardboard decoration may (interiorly) cover at least a portion of the main edge 804. The at least one display tray cover 954 is typically separate from the cardboard decoration 950.

[0306] Fig.62B The shipping and display unit is shown with a first cardboard decorative design 957. The first cardboard decorative design 957 includes a lower cover 951 and a head panel 952. Fig.63A The second cardboard decorative design 958 shown in FIG. 1 includes a lower cover 951, a head panel 952, and two side panels 953. The uppermost display tray 800 in the stack may not include any of the arms 806, such as Fig.63A shown. Fig.63B A third cardboard decorative design 959 is shown, which includes a lower cover 951 and two display tray covers 954. In each of the cardboard decorative designs 957, 958, 959, the lower two display trays 800 are substantially completely covered by the cardboard decoration 950, and more specifically by the lower cover 951. Thus, the lower two display trays can be used only as a support structure without containing any products, or can alternatively store a certain amount of products for sale (but these products are generally not accessible to customers, and can be used to refill the upper display trays when necessary).

[0307] refer to Fig.61B and Figures 64A to 64C In some examples, the product 610 may be disposed on the display tray 220 and then inserted into the RFSDU, or alternatively, the product 610 may be placed on the display tray 220 when the display tray 220 has been fully inserted. Furthermore, in examples such as the foldable display tray 800, the product may be disposed on the foldable display tray 800 prior to stacking (if stacked) or after stacking.

[0308] Fig.64A A front view of the shipping and display unit is shown filled with product 610. The product 610 can be seen sitting on two display trays 800 that remain uncovered by the cardboard decoration 950. Dividers 961 can be added to the display trays 800 to limit the movement of the product 610.

[0309] Fig.64Band Fig.64C Different product arrangements on the display trays 220, 800 that can be achieved are shown. The display trays 220, 800 cannot be filled to the maximum capacity of the products 610 in order to increase the attractiveness of the products. Each display tray 220, 800 of the RFSDU 100, 800 can contain the same number of products 610 or different numbers of products 610. Fig.63B In FIG. 63A , products 610 are arranged in columns so that each column contains the same number of products. In FIG. 63C , products 610 are arranged so that some columns contain fewer products 610 than other columns.

[0310] RFSDU life cycle

[0311] Fig.65 The life cycle of the RFSDU is shown through the supply chain.The transport symbol generally represents transportation and may include one or more methods selected from a truck, car, van, train, ship or airplane.

[0312] The display tray and folded RFSDU are provided separately at the service center 704 before being transported to the packaging / co-packing location 706. The RFSDU is then fully assembled by the user and the product can be filled manually, partially automated, or substantially automated. The display tray can be pre-filled with product before being inserted into the RFSDU, or loaded thereafter. The RFSDU is covered by the display structure 600. The RFSDU filled with product and covered by the display structure is called a loaded RFSDU. The number of display trays can match the point of sale design requirements. The loaded RFSDU is then transported to the retailer distribution center 708. The loaded RFSDU is then transported to the store 710. The RFSDU is received, processed and placed to be displayed at the store for promotional purposes.

[0313] After use, once the promotion is over, the display structure 600 is removed and discarded, and the RFSDU 100 can be folded and placed in a shipping position, as previously described. The display tray and folded RFSDU can then be shipped back to the retailer distribution center, and then returned to the service center for sorting, inspection, cleaning, and repair.

[0314] With respect to the foldable display tray 800, the display tray 800 is set at the service center 704 before being transported to the packaging / co-packing location 706. The RFSDU is then fully assembled by the user and the product can be filled manually, in a partially automated manner, or in a substantially automated manner. If the RFSDU includes more than one foldable display tray 800, the display tray 800 can be pre-filled with product before stacking, or loaded thereafter. The RFSDU is then covered by the display structure 600. An RFSDU filled with product and covered by the display structure is referred to as a loaded RFSDU. The number of display trays 800 can match the point of sale design requirements. The loaded RFSDU is then transported to the retailer distribution center 708. The loaded RFSDU is then transported to the store 710. The RFSDU is received, processed, and placed on display at the store for promotional purposes. After use, once the promotion is exhausted, the display structure 600 is removed and discarded, or recycled, and each display tray 800 can be reconfigured by stowing its arms before restacking, such as in Fig.54B The stacks of foldable display trays 800 can then be shipped back to the retailer distribution center, after which they are returned to the service center for sorting, inspection, cleaning, and repair.

[0315] Removable support structure

[0316] The above has been specially combined Fig.63A Describe in the scenario of fully formed and erected product display unit, the topmost display tray may advantageously not include support arms. After all, such display tray may not need to provide support for another display tray arranged thereon. Therefore, any reconfigurable arm 806 arranged on this particular display tray may remain as possibly unused (of course, if this display tray is always used as the topmost display tray of the display unit), and therefore may be considered as unnecessary or unnecessary. Therefore, the topmost display tray may only be set to a basic conventional display tray (although this display tray is certainly suitable for being supported from below by the arm 806 of another display tray 800). Alternatively, support arms 806 may be removable--to maintain maximum flexibility of use. Below, the implementation of removable support arms 806 is described.

[0317] Figures 66 to 69BA second example of a foldable display tray 920 is directed to. The first example of the foldable display tray 800 is substantially identical to the second example of the foldable display tray 920, except for a number of differences described in detail below, which are intended to facilitate detachment and reattachment of at least one arm 930 of the foldable display tray 920 (similar to arm 806 of the foldable display tray 800) from the foldable display tray 920. The at least one arm 930 may be disposable and may not be reattached once detached from the foldable display tray 920. The at least one arm may be constructed of one or more materials including aluminum, stainless steel, cardboard, or plastic materials - the latter two materials being of course most suitable for disposable arms. The at least one arm 930 may or may not be extended. In Figures 66 to 67B In the display tray 920 shown in FIG. 9 , the arm 930 does extend and retract.

[0318] like Fig.67A and Fig.67B As seen in the foldable display trays 800 and 920, one difference between the foldable display trays 800 and 920 is that, unlike the major edge 804 of the foldable display tray 800, which extends at a substantially uniform height around the perimeter of the base, the major edge 922 of the foldable display tray 920 has a reduced height along its sides, which is the reduced edge 922. The reduced edge 922 reduces the likelihood that a product will get caught on the major edge 922 when a user removes the product from the foldable display tray 920, thereby improving the user experience and may have the additional benefit of reducing the amount of material required to manufacture the foldable display tray 920. The major edge 922 may have a greater height at the corners of the edge 922 to facilitate inclusion of a hinge mechanism.

[0319] One other difference is that, similar to the first pin 861 and / or the second pin 868 of the foldable display tray 800, at least one pin 871 (but of course preferably all pins 871) of the foldable display tray 920 can be removably attached to at least one inner pillar 926 (similar to the inner pillar 852). The foldable display tray 920 can include a total of eight pins 871, with two pins for each pillar 926. In the example shown, the pin 871 is basically implemented as an insert and / or a screw. More specifically, the pin 871 can be considered as a threaded insert, a set screw, a flat head screw, and / or a headless screw. In addition, the pin 871 can be considered as a partially threaded headless screw. In the example shown, each pin 871 is basically the same, but in principle different pins can be used.

[0320] like FIG. 68A to FIG. 68DAs shown, pin 871 includes shaft 872, screw drive 874 and tip 875. Shaft 872 also includes threaded portion 873 extending along a portion of shaft 872. In some pins, threaded portion 873 can extend substantially along the entire shaft 872 and thus be considered fully threaded. The screw drive 874 of the pin shown is a hexagonal head, but other pins can utilize various other drive styles, such as a cross screw drive (such as a Phillips screw drive). Tip 875 is a flat head, but can be different in other embodiments, such as a cup head, a cone head, or an oval point head.

[0321] like Fig.69A and Fig.69B , the inner support 926 also includes at least one pin engagement feature 928 for removably attaching at least one pin 871 to the inner support 926. In the present display tray, each inner support 926 includes two pin engagement features 928, but in other display trays, each inner support may include a different number (such as three, four, or five) of pin engagement features 928. Fig.69A and Fig.69B Each pin engagement feature 928 in the present embodiment shown in FIG. 8 is a cavity and may be formed as a through-hole through the entire inner support 926. The pin engagement feature 928 is threaded so as to engage with the threaded portion 873 of the pin 871. The pin engagement feature 928 has a circular cross-section.

[0322] The user may use a tool to removably attach each pin 871 to one of the at least one inner pillars 926. Alternatively, the user may removably attach each pin 871 to one of the at least one inner pillars 926 without the use of a tool. Each pin 871 is removably attached to one of the at least one inner pillars 926 by screwing each of the at least one pin 871 into one of the at least one pin engagement features 928. Additionally, in other display trays, the pins 871 may be removably attached to the inner pillars 926 by alternative engagement means, such as a snap fit or an interference fit. Upon removal of the removable pins 871, the corresponding pillars 926 will easily detach from the display tray 920.

Claims

1. A module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequently displaying said products in said store, said module comprising: a display tray adapted to receive the product thereon, the display tray including a border at least partially surrounding the display tray and adapted to retain the product thereon; as well as at least one reconfigurable and removable support structure rotatably arranged relative to the shelf and pivotally connected to the border, Wherein, the at least one reconfigurable support structure is adapted to: deployed in a first erect configuration, wherein the support structure is adapted to support one or more additional modules such that all modules together form the transport and display unit, and stowed in the second stowed configuration, or are removed from the display tray together.

2. The module according to claim 1, wherein: said border completely surrounds said shelf; Preferably, wherein the border is integrally formed with the shelf; More preferably, wherein the border is configured as a skirt extending vertically relative to the shelf; More preferably, wherein the skirt extends from an edge of the shelf.

3. The module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: the reconfigurable support structure being disposed adjacent to a shelf boundary, and the pivotable connection comprising at least one pin and at least one guide for receiving the pin and guiding movement of the pin, such that the at least one reconfigurable support structure is adapted to rotate and translate relative to the shelf such that a pivotable end of the at least one reconfigurable support structure can clear the shelf boundary during reconfiguration; Preferably, wherein said at least one pin is disposed on said pivotable end of said reconfigurable support structure; More preferably, wherein the guide is configured in the shape of a slot; More preferably, wherein the guide is arranged to pass through a cutout of the shelf boundary.

4. The module according to claim 3, wherein: The pivotable connection is arranged such that, throughout reconfiguration of the reconfigurable support structure, a minimum distance between the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure and the boundary is less than a predetermined value.

5. The module according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The pivotable connection includes an upper pin and a lower pin arranged on the pivotable end of the reconfigurable support structure and two corresponding upper and lower slots for guiding the movement of the two corresponding pins, wherein the lower slot extends linearly along the shelf boundary and the upper slot is an arcuate shape with a downward concavity.

6. The module according to claim 5, wherein: The upper slot forms a retaining point at an end thereof for retaining at least one support structure in the first configuration or the second configuration.

7. A module according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The boundary comprises a resiliently flexible retainer for retaining the at least one support structure in the first configuration or the second configuration.

8. A module according to claim 5, 6 or 7, wherein: At least one of the pins is removable; preferably both pins are removable.

9. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: Each reconfigurable support structure includes a pair of opposed pivotable rods and a bridge connecting respective distal ends of the pivotable rods; Preferably, wherein the rod has an L-shaped cross-section and is arranged so that the corresponding angle formed by the L-shape faces the shelf; More preferably, wherein the bridge comprises a pair of opposed brackets arranged to engage with the distal end of the pivotable rod.

10. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: The module includes two reconfigurable support structures arranged at opposite ends of the shelf, wherein the module is arranged to reach the corresponding second stowed positions of the reconfigurable support structures through equal and opposite storage operations, so that the two reconfigurable support structures are folded inwardly toward the shelf from their corresponding first upright positions.

11. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: The at least one reconfigurable support structure is additionally extendable; Preferably, wherein the bridge is adapted to be positioned in at least a first fully retracted position and a second fully extended position relative to the two rods; More preferably, wherein the bridge is telescopically extendable; More preferably, wherein the rod engaging brackets are each slidably arranged on a respective rod.

12. The module according to claim 11, wherein The bridge comprises an actuation mechanism arranged so that the bridge can be extended or retracted upon actuation of the actuation mechanism; Preferably, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises one or more bolts and biasing means for biasing the bolts to the protruding configuration; Preferably, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured such that actuation of the actuation mechanism causes the bolt to retract against the biasing means.

13. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: The shelf is generally rectangular; Preferably, the shelf is of a size of a pallet or a trolley, or a portion of a pallet or a trolley; More preferably, wherein the shelf is the size of a quarter pallet or a dolly.

14. The module according to claim 13, wherein: Each reconfigurable support structure is disposed at a short side of the rectangular shelf; Preferably, wherein each pivot rod is disposed at a corresponding corner of the rectangular shelf; More preferably, each bridge extends parallel to a corresponding short side of the rectangular shelf and has the same length as the corresponding short side.

15. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein The at least one reconfigurable support structure is sized and arranged such that, in its second, stowed configuration, it lies completely flat within the perimeter.

16. A module according to claim 15 when appended to claim 10, wherein the two reconfigurable support structures are sized and arranged so that, when both support structures are configured in the second stowed configuration, they lie completely flat inside the boundary; Preferably, the above condition is also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended.

17. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: The at least one reconfigurable support structure is sized and arranged such that, in the second stowed configuration, it lies flat and the footprint is completely contained within the shelf.

18. A module according to claim 17 when appended to claim 10, wherein the two reconfigurable support structures are sized and arranged such that, when both support structures are configured in the second stowed configuration, they lie flat and the respective footprints are completely contained within the interior of the shelf; Preferably, the above condition is also met when at least one or both of the reconfigurable support structures are extended.

19. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: The bottom surface of the shelf is configured to fit snugly onto another module and / or onto a loading surface of a pallet or dolly.

20. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein In the first upright configuration, the at least one support structure is configured to be snugly received by a bottom surface of one or more additional modules.

21. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein: the at least one reconfigurable support structure comprising one or more features constructed and arranged to hold a packaging element, such as a sheet of paperboard, in place when the at least one reconfigurable support structure is in the first erected configuration; Optionally, the feature comprises one or more tongues configured to retain the packaging element in place, preferably in cooperation with at least a portion of the border; and / or Wherein the feature comprises one or more slits configured to retain the packaging element in place, preferably in cooperation with another reconfigurable support structure.

22. A module for a modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequent display of said products in said store, said module comprising: a shelf adapted to receive the product thereon; as well as, At least one removable support structure is adapted to support one or more additional said modules so that all modules together form said transport and display unit.

23. The module according to claim 22, wherein: Said at least one removable support structure, when present, is adapted to be reconfigurable between a first erect configuration and a second stowed or collapsed configuration, wherein in said first erect configuration said support structure is adapted to support said one or more additional said modules.

24. A modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequent display of said products in said store, wherein: The unit comprises at least a first module according to any one of claims 1 to 21; Optionally, wherein the first module comprises at least one upright reconfigurable support structure; Optionally, wherein the first module comprises at least one stowable reconfigurable support structure.

25. A combination of a module according to any one of claims 1 to 23 or a modular transport and display unit according to claim 24 and a corresponding pallet or trolley; Preferably, wherein The size of the modules, the modular units and the pallet or trolley corresponds to the size of a quarter pallet.

26. A method of erecting and / or stowing a module according to any one of claims 1 to 21 or a modular unit according to claim 24, the method comprising: At least one reconfigurable support structure is deployed and stowed in the first erected configuration and / or at least one reconfigurable support structure is stowed and erected in the second stowed configuration.

27. A method of preparing a modular transport and display unit according to claim 24, the method comprising: deploying the at least one stowed reconfigurable support structure in a first erect configuration; stacking at least one other upright module on the first module; Optionally, one or more products are arranged on any of the shelves of the first module or other modules of the modular unit, thereby loading the unit with one or more products.

28. A method of stowing the modular transport and display unit of claim 24, the method comprising: stowing the erected at least one reconfigurable support structure in a second stowed configuration; stacking at least one other collapsed module on the first module; Optionally, the modular unit is unloaded by removing one or more products from any of the shelves of the first module or other modules.

29. A modular transport and display unit for transporting products to a store and for subsequent display of said products in said store, wherein: The unit comprises at least a first module according to claim 22 or 23.

30. A combination of a module according to claim 22 or 23 or a modular transport and display unit according to claim 29 and a corresponding pallet or trolley; Preferably, wherein The size of the modules, the modular units and the pallet or trolley corresponds to the size of a quarter pallet.

31. A method of providing a module according to claim 22 or 23 or a modular unit according to claim 29, the method comprising: attaching at least one removable support structure and / or removing at least one removable support structure; Optionally, the method further comprises deploying the at least one reconfigurable support structure stowed in a first erected configuration and / or stowing the at least one reconfigurable support structure erected in a second stowed configuration.

32. A method of preparing or stowing the modular transport and display unit of claim 29, the method comprising: Attaching at least one removable support structure and / or removing at least one removable support structure.

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