Support structure

By designing a slidable support structure and locking mechanism, the operation problems of target modules in the modular storage system are solved, and stable and convenient modular system operation is achieved.

CN223071362UActive Publication Date: 2025-07-08MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202390000230.0
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-03-22
Filing Date
2023-03-21
Publication Date
2025-07-08
Estimated Expiration
2033-03-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the prior art, in a modular storage system, it is difficult to effectively touch and operate the target module when other modules exist above the target utility module.

Method used

A support structure is designed, including a slidable second arm and a platform, with a concave coupling and a latch recess on the platform. The position of the second arm is controlled by a locking mechanism to realize the removable coupling and locking of the platform, supporting the stable installation and removal of the modular storage unit.

Benefits of technology

It realizes that the target module is conveniently touched and operated in the modular storage system, improving the convenience and stability of the modular system.

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Abstract

A support structure is provided. The support structure is configured to be removably coupled with a utility module, such as a modular tool storage unit, in the system. The support structure facilitates sliding of the utility module relative to a surface to which the support structure is coupled.
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Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 322,477, filed on March 22, 2022, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of containers and related devices. In particular, this disclosure relates to a support platform configured to support and removably couple to unitary articles within a modular system. Background art

[0004] Tool storage units are commonly used to transport tools and tool accessories. Some storage units are designed to be incorporated into modular storage systems. Various platforms can be configured to support units within a modular system, such as platforms that slidably couple units to a vertical surface, such as a wall. Summary of the utility model

[0005] One embodiment of the present utility model relates to a support structure, which includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm rigidly coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm, the second arm being actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; and a platform rigidly coupled to the second arm, such that when the second arm moves from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, the platform moves outward from the base. The platform includes a plurality of concave couplers configured to removably couple the platform to a modular storage unit. Each of the plurality of concave couplers includes two ribs that extend towards each other above a recessed surface and are offset from the recessed surface.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present utility model relates to a support structure, which includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm rigidly coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm, the second arm being actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; and a platform rigidly coupled to the second arm. The platform includes a plurality of couplers configured to removably couple the platform to a modular storage unit. Each of the plurality of couplers includes a central wall, a first rib, and a second rib. The first rib and the second rib extend away from each other from the central wall. The first rib extends above a first recessed surface and is offset from the first recessed surface, and the second rib extends above a second recessed surface and is offset from the second recessed surface.

[0007] Another embodiment of the present utility model relates to a support structure, which includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm, the second arm being actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; a locking mechanism actuated between an unlocked configuration, a first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration; and a platform rigidly coupled to the second arm. When the locking mechanism is in the first locked configuration, the locking mechanism biases the second arm to remain in the fully retracted position, and when the locking mechanism is in the second locked configuration, the locking mechanism biases the second arm to remain in the fully extended position. The platform includes a plurality of concave couplers configured to detachably couple the platform to a modular storage unit. The platform further includes a latch recess configured to receive a latch extending from the modular storage unit, and the docking between the latch recess and the latch biases the modular storage unit to remain coupled to the platform via the plurality of concave couplers.

[0008] Another embodiment of the present utility model relates to a support structure. The support structure includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm rigidly coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm; and a platform rigidly coupled to the second arm. The second arm is actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position. The platform includes a plurality of concave couplers configured to detachably couple the platform to a modular storage unit, and each of the plurality of concave couplers includes two ribs extending above the recessed surface.

[0009] In various embodiments, the support structure includes a locking mechanism actuated between an unlocked configuration, a first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration. When the locking mechanism is in the first locked position, the locking mechanism biases the second arm to remain in the fully retracted position relative to the first arm. When the locking mechanism is in the second locked position, the locking mechanism biases the second arm to remain in the fully extended position relative to the first arm.

[0010] In various embodiments, the platform includes a latch recess configured to receive a latch extending from the modular storage unit. The docking between the latch recess and the latch biases the modular storage unit to remain coupled to the platform.

[0011] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description, and some of these additional features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or will be recognized from practice of the embodiments as described in the written description and the drawings included herein. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0012] The accompanying drawings are provided to offer further understanding, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the specification, are used to explain the principles and operations of the various embodiments. Description of the Drawings

[0013] The present application will be more fully understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and in the drawings:

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a support structure according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a perspective view of the platform of the support structure.

[0016] Figure 3 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a perspective view from below of a part of the support structure.

[0017] Figure 4 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a side view of a part of the support structure.

[0018] Figure 5 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a side view of a part of the support structure.

[0019] Figure 6 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a perspective view from below of a part of the support structure.

[0020] Figure 7 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a detailed perspective view from below of a part of the support structure.

[0021] Figure 8 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a detailed perspective view from below of a part of the support structure.

[0022] Figure 9 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a detailed perspective view of the support structure.

[0023] Figure 10 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a detailed perspective view of the support structure.

[0024] Figure 11Is a bottom view of a support structure according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 Is according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 11 Bottom perspective view of a portion of the support structure of

[0026] Figure 13 Is according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 11 Bottom view of a portion of the support structure of

[0027] Figure 14 Is according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 11 Bottom perspective view of a portion of the support structure of Detailed Description

[0028] Generally referring to the drawings, a support structure for supporting utility modules within a modular system is shown. A support structure is coupled to a vertical surface (such as a wall) and includes a plurality of slidable platforms, each of which is coupled to a utility module within the modular system. When utility modules are stacked directly on top of each other, in order to access a utility module within the middle of the stack, it may be necessary to remove the target utility module and all utility modules above the target utility module from the stack. This can be difficult in the case where the utility modules above the target utility module are heavy.

[0029] The support structure described herein facilitates accessing a target utility module when there are other utility modules above the target utility module coupled to the platform. In various embodiments, the target utility module is mechanically and reversibly coupled to the platform. To access the target utility module, a user slides the corresponding platform to an extended position. In various embodiments, the platform is configured to lock in the extended position. For the multiple embodiments where the utility module and the platform slide relative to each other when engaging and disengaging, locking the platform in the extended position helps to couple and / or decouple the utility module from the platform.

[0030] The term "utility module" is used herein in its broadest sense and refers to a variety of articles having any shape and size, such as storage containers, travel suitcases, toolboxes, organizers, compaction workbenches, cable storage devices, tools (such as hand tools, generators, and power supplies), communication modules, carrying platforms, mobile platforms, beverage containers, etc., and wherein any utility module can be detachably attached to the modular system.

[0031] Refer to Figures 1 to 10, showing a support structure 110 for a utility module within a modular system. The support structure 110 includes a base 120 configured to be coupled to a surface, such as a vertical surface, like a wall 102 (e.g., a wall of a structure, a wall of a vehicle). The support structure 110 includes one or more support units 112, each of the one or more support units being configured to slidably support a utility module. In various embodiments, each support unit 112 includes two first arms 130, two second arms 132 each coupled to the first arm 130, and a platform 138 coupled to the second arms 132. In a particular embodiment, the support structure 110 includes a first arm 130 rigidly coupled to the base 120, and a second arm 132 slidably coupled to the first arm 130, the second arm 132 being actuated relative to the first arm 130 between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position.

[0032] The first arm 130 is coupled (such as rigidly coupled) to the base 120. The second arm 132 is coupled (such as slidably coupled) to the first arm 130. The second arm 132 is actuated relative to the first arm 130 along an axis 136 between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position. In various embodiments, the second arm 132 slides in a direction 134 when moving from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position.

[0033] The platform 138 is coupled (such as rigidly coupled) to the second arms 132 such that when the second arms 132 move from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, the platform 138 moves outwardly from the base 120. The platform 138 defines a front surface 140 facing away from the base 120. The platform 138 includes one or more concave couplers 310 and / or couplers 360. In various embodiments, the concave couplers 310 are arranged in a grid pattern (e.g., 4x3 as shown) relative to the front surface 140. In various embodiments, the concave couplers 310 include one or more ribs 322, 332 (e.g., a first rib 322 and a second rib 332) extending above a recessed surface 312 of the respective concave coupler 310.

[0034] The platform 138 is configured to be detachably coupled to a utility module, such as a modular storage unit shown as a storage unit 190, for example via a coupler and / or a concave coupler. The concave couplers 310 are detachably coupled to convex couplers extending from a bottom surface of the storage unit 190.

[0035] To engage the storage unit 190 with the platform 138, a male connector extending from the bottom of the storage unit 190 is inserted into the female connector 310 and / or the connector 360, and the storage unit 190 is slid relative to the platform 138 toward the base 120. As will be explained, in various embodiments, the platform 138 is configured to be locked in the extended position. The platform 138 being locked in the extended position facilitates coupling the storage unit 190 to the platform 138 because the platform 138 is biased to remain stationary relative to the storage unit 190 while the storage unit 190 is slid toward the base 120.

[0036] The platform 138 includes one or more latch recesses 148 (e.g., a plurality of latch recesses 148) configured to receive latches extending from the storage unit 190. The docking between the latch recesses 148 and the latches biases the storage unit 190 to remain coupled to the platform 138 (such as via the plurality of female connectors 310 and / or the plurality of connectors 360). In particular, the docking between the latch recesses 148 and the latches biases the male connector extending from the bottom of the storage unit 190 to remain engaged and coupled with the ribs 322, 332 of the female connector 310. In other words, the docking between the latches and the respective latch recesses 148 among the plurality of latch recesses 148 biases the storage unit 190 to remain coupled to the platform 138 via the plurality of female connectors 310 and / or the plurality of connectors 360. In various embodiments, the latch recesses 148 are positioned between the front surface 140 of the platform 138 and the plurality of female connectors 310 and the plurality of connectors 360.

[0037] The support structure 110 includes a locking mechanism 150. The locking mechanism 150 actuates between an unlocked configuration and at least one of a first locked configuration and a second locked configuration. In a particular embodiment, the locking mechanism 150 actuates between an unlocked configuration, a first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the second arm 132 and the platform 138 are permitted to slide relative to the first arm 130. When the locking mechanism 150 is in the first locked configuration, the locking mechanism 150 biases the second arm 132 to remain in the fully retracted position relative to the first arm 130. When the locking mechanism 150 is in the second locked configuration, the locking mechanism 150 biases the second arm 132 to remain in the fully extended position relative to the first tab 170 of the first arm 130.

[0038] Reference Figures 3 to 5, showing various aspects of the support structure 110 when the second arm 132 is in the fully retracted position relative to the first arm 130. The locking mechanism 150 includes a user docking element shown as a plate 152. To actuate the locking mechanism 150, the user presses the plate 152 against the biasing force exerted by the spring 154. As a result, the rod 156 rotates about the pin 158, causing the protrusion 160 at the end of the rod 156 to disengage from the first arm 130.

[0039] Reference Figure 4 , when the locking mechanism 150 is in the first locking configuration, the protrusion 160 extends within the aperture 172 of the first tab 170, thereby biasing the second arm 132 to remain stationary relative to the first arm 130 when the second arm 132 is in the fully retracted position. The locking mechanism 150 configured to lock the second arm 132 in the fully retracted position is useful when the support structure 110 is coupled to a movable object (such as the inner wall of a vehicle (e.g., a truck)), and the user desires to reduce the possible movement of the components within the support structure 110 while the vehicle is in motion. Reference Figure 5 , after the user actuates the locking mechanism 150, the protrusion 160 disengages from the first tab 170, thereby permitting the second arm 132 to slide relative to the first arm 130.

[0040] Reference Figures 6 to 8 , showing various aspects of the support structure 110 when the second arm 132 is in the fully extended position relative to the first arm 130. Reference Figure 7 , the protrusion 160 extends within the aperture 176 of the second tab 174, thereby biasing the second arm 132 to remain stationary relative to the first arm 130 when the second arm 132 is in the fully extended position. Reference Figure 8 , after the user actuates the locking mechanism 150, the protrusion 160 disengages from the second tab 174, thereby permitting the second arm 132 to slide relative to the first arm 130.

[0041] In various embodiments, the concave coupler 310, the coupler 360, and the latch recess 148 are compatible with the coupling mechanism described in International Patent Publication No. WO 2017 / 191628, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] Figure 9Depicts a detailed view of the coupling structure provided by platform 138. In various embodiments, platform 138 includes a plurality of concave couplers 310 configured to detachably couple platform 138 to a modular storage unit (e.g., storage unit 190). Each of the plurality of concave couplers 310 includes a rear wall 314, a front wall 316 opposite the rear wall 314, a first side wall 318, and a second side wall 320 opposite the first side wall 318, with the first side wall 318 and the second side wall 320 extending between the front wall 316 and the rear wall 314. Each of the plurality of concave couplers 310 includes a first rib 322 extending from the first side wall 318 in a direction 324 toward the second side wall 320 and in a direction 326 from the rear wall 314 toward the front wall 316, and a second rib 332 extending from the second side wall 320 in a direction 334 toward the first side wall 318 and in a direction 326 from the rear wall 314 toward the front wall 316. Each of the first rib 322 and the second rib 332 is above and offset from the recessed surface 312.

[0043] In a specific embodiment, each of the plurality of concave couplers 310 includes two ribs (e.g., first rib 322 and second rib 332) that extend toward each other above the recessed surface 312 and are offset from the recessed surface. In a specific embodiment, each concave coupler 310 includes a rear wall 314 and each of the two ribs (e.g., first rib 322 and second rib 332) that extend from the rear wall 314 in a direction 326 parallel to the direction 134 in which the second arm 132 slides relative to the first arm 130. In various embodiments, the first rib 322 extends from the first side wall 318 in a direction 324 perpendicular to the direction 134, and the second rib 332 extends from the second side wall 320 in a direction 334 perpendicular to the direction 134 and opposite to the direction 324. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of concave couplers 310 includes at least six couplers arranged in a grid (e.g., 3x2 as shown on the right half of platform 138, or 3x4 on the entire platform 138). In a specific embodiment, platform 138 includes a plurality of concave couplers 310, and each of the plurality of concave couplers 310 includes two ribs configured to engage a tongue extending from a modular storage unit.

[0044] Figure 10Depicts a detailed view of the coupling structure provided by platform 138. In various embodiments, platform 138 includes a plurality of connectors 360 configured to detachably couple platform 138 to a modular storage unit (e.g., storage unit 190). Each of the plurality of connectors 360 includes a central wall 362, a first rear wall 364 and a second rear wall 366 extending away from each other from the central wall 362, and a first front wall 368 and a second front wall 370 extending away from each other from the central wall 362 and in front of the first rear wall 364 and the second rear wall 366, respectively. Each connector 360 includes a first rib 372 extending in a direction 374 from the central wall 362 and in a direction 376 from the first rear wall 364, and a second rib 382 extending in a direction 384 from the central wall 362 and in a direction 376 from the second rear wall 366. The first rib 372 is above and offset from the first recessed surface 390, and the second rib 382 is above and offset from the second recessed surface 392.

[0045] In a specific embodiment, each of the plurality of connectors 360 includes a central wall 362, a first rib 372, and a second rib 382, with the first rib 372 and the second rib 382 extending away from each other from the central wall 362. The first rib 372 extends above and is offset from the first recessed surface 390, and the second rib 382 extends above and is offset from the second recessed surface 392 (such as a second recessed surface 392 different from the first recessed surface 390). In various embodiments, the first rib 372 extends from the central wall 362 in a direction 374 perpendicular to direction 134, and the second rib 382 extends from the central wall 362 in a direction 384 perpendicular to direction 134 and opposite to direction 374. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of connectors 360 includes at least six connectors arranged in a grid (e.g., 3x2 as shown on the right half of platform 138, or 3x4 on the entire platform 138).

[0046] Reference Figures 11 to 14 , shows a support structure 210 according to an exemplary embodiment. Except for the differences discussed herein, support structure 210 is substantially the same as support structure 110. In particular, the locking mechanism 250 of support structure 210 includes a structure different from that of the locking mechanism 150 of support structure 110.

[0047] The locking mechanism 250 biases the second arm 232 to remain stationary relative to the first arm 230 when in the first locked position and the second locked position. To remove the platform 238 away from the wall, the user actuates the locking mechanism 250 to access the utility module coupled to the corresponding platform 238.

[0048] The locking mechanism 250 includes a latch 258 that rotates about an axis 262 when a user actuates a lever 256 (e.g., actuating a plate at the front of the locking mechanism 250 causes the lever 256 to slide toward the front of the platform 238). A protrusion 260 extends from the latch 258 and selectively mates with a first arm 230. A biasing element, shown as a spring 264, biases the latch 258 about the axis 262 in a direction 266, thereby biasing the locking mechanism 250 toward a locked position (e.g., a first locked position in a fully retracted position or a second locked position in a fully extended position).

[0049] The protrusion 260 mates with a first tab 270 to bias the second arm 232 to remain in a fully retracted position relative to the first arm 230. The protrusion 260 mates with a second tab 274 to bias the second arm 232 to remain in a fully extended position relative to the first arm 230.

[0050] It should be understood that the drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered restrictive.

[0051] According to this specification, further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, this specification should be construed as merely illustrative. The configurations and arrangements shown in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in the present disclosure, many modifications can be made (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc. of various elements) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed can be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the positions of the elements can be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number or position of discrete elements can be altered or changed. According to alternative embodiments, the order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm or method step can be changed or reordered. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions can also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0052] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, no intention is made to interpret any method set forth herein as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or where no particular order is specifically recited in the claims or the specification, no particular order should be inferred. Additionally, as used herein, the article "a" is intended to include one or more components or elements and is not to be construed as being limited to only one. As used herein, "rigidly coupled" means that two components are coupled in such a manner that the components move together in a fixed positional relationship when a force is applied thereto.

[0053] The various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to any combination of any features, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or in a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any of the other exemplary embodiments discussed above.

[0054] For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "coupled" means that two components are directly or indirectly joined to each other. Such joining may be fixed in nature or may be movable in nature. Such joining may be accomplished by integrally forming two members and any additional intermediate members as a single unitary body, or by attaching two members or two members and any additional members to each other. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0055] Although the present application recites particular combinations of features in the appended claims, the various embodiments of the present invention relate to any combination of any of the features described herein (whether or not such combination is currently claimed), and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or in a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any of the other exemplary embodiments discussed above.

[0056] In the various exemplary embodiments, the relative dimensions (including angles, lengths, and radii) shown in the drawings are proportional. Actual measurements of the drawings will disclose the relative dimensions, angles, and proportions of the various exemplary embodiments. The various exemplary embodiments extend to various ranges of absolute and relative dimensions, angles, and proportions that can be determined from the drawings. The various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more of the relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the drawings. Further, the actual dimensions not expressly set forth in this specification can be determined by using the ratios of the dimensions measured in the drawings in combination with the expressly stated dimensions set forth in this specification.

Claims

1. A support structure, characterized in that, The support structure includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm rigidly coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm and actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; and a platform rigidly coupled to the second arm such that when the second arm moves from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, the platform moves outwardly from the base, the platform including a plurality of concave couplers configured to removably couple the platform to a modular storage unit, each of the plurality of concave couplers including two ribs that extend toward each other above a recessed surface and are offset from the recessed surface.

2. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein, The second arm slides in a first direction when moving from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, each of the plurality of concave couplers including a rear wall, and each of the two ribs extending from the rear wall in a second direction parallel to the first direction.

3. The support structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support structure includes a latch recess configured to receive a latch extending from the modular storage unit, docking between the latch recess and the latch biasing the modular storage unit to remain coupled to the platform via the plurality of concave couplers, and wherein the latch recess is positioned between a front surface of the platform and the plurality of concave couplers.

4. The support structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of concave couplers includes a rear wall, a front wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall extending between the front wall and the rear wall, wherein a first one of the two ribs extends from the first side wall toward the second side wall, and wherein a second one of the two ribs extends from the second side wall toward the first side wall.

5. The support structure according to claim 4, wherein The second arm slides in a first direction when moving from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, the first rib extending from the first side wall in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the second rib extending from the second side wall in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to the second direction.

6. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein The support structure includes a locking mechanism actuated between an unlocked configuration and a first locked configuration, the locking mechanism biasing the second arm to remain in the fully retracted position when the locking mechanism is in the first locked configuration.

7. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein The support structure includes a locking mechanism actuated between an unlocked configuration and a second locked configuration, the locking mechanism biasing the second arm to remain in the fully extended position when the locking mechanism is in the second locked configuration.

8. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein The support structure includes a plurality of latch recesses, each of the plurality of latch recesses configured to receive a latch extending from the modular storage unit, docking between the latch and the corresponding latch recess of the plurality of latch recesses biasing the modular storage unit to remain coupled to the platform via the plurality of concave couplers.

9. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of female connectors includes a rear wall, a front wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall extending between the front wall and the rear wall, wherein a first one of the two ribs extends from the first side wall toward the second side wall and extends from the rear wall to the front wall, and wherein a second one of the two ribs extends from the second side wall toward the first side wall and extends from the rear wall to the front wall.

10. The support structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of female connectors includes at least six connectors arranged in a grid.

11. A support structure, characterized in that, The support structure includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm rigidly coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm, the second arm being actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; and a platform rigidly coupled to the second arm, the platform including a plurality of connectors configured to removably couple the platform to a modular storage unit, each of the plurality of connectors including a central wall, a first rib, and a second rib, the first rib and the second rib extending away from each other from the central wall, the first rib extending above a first recessed surface and offset from the first recessed surface, and the second rib extending above a second recessed surface and offset from the second recessed surface.

12. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The support structure includes a latch recess configured to receive a latch extending from the modular storage unit, the docking between the latch recess and the latch biasing the modular storage unit to remain coupled to the platform via the plurality of connectors, and wherein the latch recess is positioned between the front surface of the platform and the plurality of connectors.

13. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The second arm slides in a first direction when moving from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position, the first rib extending from the central wall in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the second rib extending from the central wall in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to the second direction.

14. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The support structure includes a locking mechanism actuated between an unlocked configuration and a first locked configuration, the locking mechanism biasing the second arm to remain in the fully retracted position when the locking mechanism is in the first locked configuration.

15. The support structure according to claim 14, wherein, The support structure includes the locking mechanism actuated between the unlocked configuration, the first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration, the locking mechanism biasing the second arm to remain in the fully extended position when the locking mechanism is in the second locked configuration.

16. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The plurality of connectors are arranged in a grid.

17. A support structure, characterized in that, The support structure includes: a base configured to be coupled to a wall; a first arm coupled to the base; a second arm slidably coupled to the first arm, the second arm being actuated relative to the first arm between a fully retracted position and a fully extended position; A locking mechanism that actuates between an unlocked configuration, a first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration, where when the locking mechanism is in the first locked configuration, the locking mechanism biases the second arm to remain in the fully retracted position, and when the locking mechanism is in the second locked configuration, the locking mechanism biases the second arm to remain in the fully extended position; and A platform that is rigidly coupled to the second arm, the platform including a plurality of concave connectors and a latch recess, the plurality of concave connectors being configured to detachably couple the platform to a modular storage unit, the latch recess being configured to receive a latch extending from the modular storage unit, and the docking between the latch recess and the latch biases the modular storage unit to remain coupled to the platform via the plurality of concave connectors.

18. The support structure according to claim 17, wherein The latch recess is positioned between the front surface of the platform and the plurality of concave connectors.

19. The support structure according to claim 17, characterized in that, The plurality of concave connectors are arranged in a grid.

20. The support structure according to claim 17, wherein Each of the plurality of concave connectors includes two ribs configured to engage a tongue extending from the modular storage unit.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Utility assembly and coupling mechanism

    WO2017191628A1