Support platform and mounting structure for modular storage utility modules

Abstract

Support platforms and mounting structures for modular storage utility modules are provided. The support platform includes: a first back plate including a plurality of apertures configured to couple the first back plate to a wall; a first panel coupled to the first back plate, the first panel defining a plurality of apertures, the first back plate being viewable through the plurality of apertures; and a first plurality of female couplings collectively defined by the first back plate and the first panel, each of the first plurality of female couplings comprising: a concave surface defined by the first back plate; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first rib and the second rib each extend over the concave surface, and each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplings is configured to be removably coupled with the male coupler of the first utility module.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefits and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 388,064, filed July 11, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 400,547, filed August 24, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of containers and related devices. Specifically, this disclosure relates to support platforms configured to support utility modules (e.g., units) within a modular system and detachably coupled to the utility modules (e.g., units) within the modular system. Background Technology

[0004] Tool storage units are commonly used for transport vehicles and tool accessories. Some storage units are designed to be integrated into modular storage systems. Various platforms can be constructed to support the units within the modular system; these platforms serve, for example, to connect the units within the modular system to surfaces such as walls. Utility Model Content

[0005] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a support platform for modular storage utility modules, the support platform comprising: a first back plate including a plurality of openings configured to connect the first back plate to a wall; a first panel connected to the first back plate, the first panel defining the plurality of openings through which the first back plate is visible; and a first plurality of recessed connectors. The first plurality of recessed connectors are defined by the first back plate and the first panel. Each of the first plurality of recessed connectors includes a recessed surface defined by the first back plate. Each of the first plurality of recessed connectors further includes: a first rib and a second rib, each extending above the recessed surface. Each of the first plurality of recessed connectors is configured to removably connect to a convex connector of a first utility module.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a mounting structure comprising a back panel. The back panel comprises a first longitudinal sidewall, a second longitudinal sidewall opposite the first longitudinal sidewall, and a recessed surface extending between the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall. The back panel further comprises a plurality of apertures on the recessed surface configured to couple the back panel to a surface such that the mounting structure is supported by the surface. The mounting structure further comprises a face panel and a plurality of female couplers. The face panel is coupled to the back panel and defines a plurality of apertures. The plurality of female couplers is collectively defined by the back panel and the face panel. Each female coupler of the plurality of female couplers comprises a recessed surface defined by the back panel, a first rib, and a second rib. The first rib and the second rib each extend above the back panel. Each female coupler of the plurality of female couplers is configured to engage with a male coupler of a first utility module. The back panel comprises a first back panel and a second back panel, and wherein the first back panel is positioned behind a first row of the plurality of female couplers and the second back panel is positioned behind a second row of the plurality of female couplers. A second longitudinal sidewall of the first back panel is parallel to a first longitudinal sidewall of the second back panel, and wherein a gap extends between the second longitudinal sidewall of the first back panel and the first longitudinal sidewall of the second back panel.

[0007] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of forming a support platform for a utility module. In the method, a sheet of metal is positioned on a casting mold. A first punch press applies a first cutting force to an upper surface of the sheet of metal to cut an outer edge of the sheet of metal into a shape of the casting mold, thereby forming a face panel. A second punch press applies a second cutting force to the upper surface of the face panel to cut a plurality of apertures in the face panel. The face panel includes a plurality of protrusions extending into each aperture of the plurality of apertures. The method further includes bending the plurality of protrusions at an angle relative to the upper surface of the face panel. The face panel is coupled to a back panel to form the support platform. The support platform includes a plurality of female couplers defined by the back panel and the face panel, the plurality of female couplers configured to removably couple with male couplers of the utility module.

[0008] In various embodiments, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers includes a back wall, a first sidewall, a second sidewall opposite the first sidewall, and a front wall opposite the back wall. The first rib extends from the back wall toward the front wall and the first rib extends from the first sidewall toward the second sidewall. The second rib extends from the back wall toward the front wall and the second rib extends from the second sidewall toward the first sidewall.

[0009] In various embodiments, the support platform includes a plurality of columns of the first plurality of female couplers and a plurality of rows of the first plurality of female couplers perpendicular to the plurality of columns.

[0010] In various embodiments, the support platform further comprises: a second back panel comprising a plurality of apertures configured to couple the second back panel to the wall; a second face panel coupled to the second back panel, the second face panel defining a plurality of apertures through which the second back panel is visible; and a second plurality of female couplers collectively defined by the second back panel and the second face panel. Each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers comprises: a recessed surface defined by the second back panel; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first and second ribs each extend above the recessed surface, and each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers is configured to removably couple with a male coupler of the first utility module. In various embodiments, a top of the second face panel meets a bottom of the first face panel. In various embodiments, the support platform comprises a plurality of columns of the first and second plurality of female couplers, and a plurality of rows of the first and second plurality of female couplers.

[0011] In various embodiments, the support platform further comprises: a third back panel comprising a plurality of apertures configured to couple the third back panel to the wall; a third face panel coupled to the third back panel, the third face panel defining a plurality of apertures through which the third back panel is visible; and a third plurality of female couplers collectively defined by the third back panel and the third face panel, each female coupler of the third plurality of female couplers comprising: a recessed surface defined by the third back panel; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first and second ribs each extend above the recessed surface, and each female coupler of the third plurality of female couplers is configured to removably couple with a male coupler of the first utility module; wherein the first face panel extends between a first outer edge and a second outer edge; wherein the third face panel extends between the first outer edge and the second outer edge; and wherein the first outer edge of the third face panel meets the second outer edge of the first face panel such that the first horizontal axis of the first face panel is collinear with the second horizontal axis of the third face panel.

[0012] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a stamped mounting interface, such as a stamped metal mounting interface, for coupling to and supporting a unit within a modular system. In particular embodiments, this design is unique in that it uses a stamped face panel to position couplers, such as female couplers, for track tile alignment to reduce tolerance stack-up.

[0013] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art who practice the embodiments as described in the written description and illustrated in the drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0014] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and together with the description serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] The present application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a support platform according to an example embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 is a front view of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3 is a front view of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0019] Figure 4 is a front view of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6 is a detailed perspective view of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0022] Figure 7 is a perspective view from a side of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8 is a side view of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0024] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a portion of a support platform of Figure 1 according to an example embodiment.

[0025] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a support platform according to an example embodiment. Figure 1

[0026] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a support platform according to an example embodiment. Figure 1

[0027] Figure 12 is a schematic front view of a support platform according to an example embodiment. Figure 1

[0028] Figure 13 is a flowchart of a method of forming a support platform according to an example embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Referring generally to the drawings, one or more support platforms are shown that support utility modules within a modular system. The support platforms include one or more back supports configured to attach to a surface of a structure, such as a wall. The support platforms provide a coupling mechanism, such as a female coupler, to couple to utility modules within the modular system with a corresponding male coupler. In use, the support platforms are coupled to a surface, such as a wall, and one or more utility modules are coupled to the support platforms through engagement between the male couplers and the female couplers.

[0030] In various embodiments, the support platforms include one or more stamped panels. Applicant has observed that the use of a stamping process to manufacture the panels provides a very high degree of shape and geometric consistency between the various stamped panels, facilitating stacking or tiling of multiple panels adjacent to one another.

[0031] The term "utility module" is used in its broadest sense hereinafter and is intended to mean a variety of items, such as storage containers of any shape and size, travel luggage, toolboxes, organizing boxes, compression workstations, cable organizers, tools (e.g., hand tools, power generators, and power sources), communication modules, carrying platforms, mobile platforms, beverage containers, etc., and wherein any utility module can be removably attached to the modular system.

[0032] Referring to Figures 1 to 4 ​​​, showing various aspects of a mechanism for supporting and storing utility modules, which is shown as a support platform 110. The support platform 110 includes a face panel 130, a face panel 131, a lower panel 140, and a back panel or back support 120. The back support 120 is coupled to the back of each of the face panel 130, the face panel 131, and the lower panel 140. The support platform 110 includes a plurality of female couplers 160 that are configured to be coupled to male couplers of utility modules. In various embodiments, the face panels 130, 131, 140 are formed of a metal material. In particular embodiments, the face panels 130, 131, 140 are formed of steel. In various embodiments, the face panels 130, 131, 140 are formed of one continuous piece of metal material, and the plurality of female couplers 160 are punched out of the metal.

[0033] One or more of the face panels, such as the face panel 131, include one or more latch recesses 137 that are configured to receive a latch extending from a utility module. When a latch from a utility module is engaged with the latch recess 137, the male couplers of the utility module are biased or prevented from disengaging from the female couplers 160.

[0034] Referring to Figure 2 , the support platform 110 is expandable along a horizontal or longitudinal axis 112 and a vertical or transverse axis 114, thereby enabling a user to add an infinite number of female couplers 160 to the support platform 110. As will be explained, one or more protrusions extending from a bottom of a face panel engage with one or more recesses defined by a top of the face panel to facilitate alignment between the face panels when both are secured to a wall. Similarly, one or more protrusions extend from a side of a face panel, and the protrusions engage with one or more recesses defined by an opposite side of another face panel to facilitate alignment between the face panels when both are secured to a wall.

[0035] The face panel 130 includes a plurality of apertures 136 arranged in a grid between a top 132 and a bottom 134 of the face panel 130. The face panel 130 includes two rows of female couplers 160, and thus two back supports 120 are coupled to the back of the face panel 130. As will be explained, the apertures 136 of the face panel 130 and the back supports 120 collectively define the plurality of female couplers 160.

[0036] In addition to what is described herein, the face panel 131 is similar in function and structure to the face panel 130. In particular, the face panel 131 includes only a single row of female couplers 160, and the face panel 131 is about half as tall as the face panel 130.

[0037] In addition to what is described herein, the lower panel 140 is similar in function and structure to the panel 131. In particular, the lower panel 140 includes a top portion 142 having a recess 150 configured to receive and / or engage with the protrusion 138 of the upper panel 130. In various embodiments, the protrusion 138 has a generally polygonal shape. In particular embodiments, the protrusion 138 has a trapezoidal shape. The lower panel 140 includes apertures 146 arranged in a row configured to partially define a female coupler 160. The lower panel 140 also includes a downwardly protruding protrusion 148 configured to engage with a recess of another lower panel 140 placed below. In various embodiments, the protrusion 148 has a generally polygonal shape. In particular embodiments, the protrusion 148 has a trapezoidal shape.

[0038] In various embodiments, the female couplers 160 and male couplers described and shown herein are compatible with the coupling mechanisms described in International Patent Publication No. WO 2017 / 191628, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0039] The support platform 110 can include any number of panels 130, panels 131, lower panels 140, and back supports 120. Referring to Figure 3 In particular embodiments, the support platform 110 includes a panel 130 and a first lower panel 140. The top portion 142 of the first lower panel 140 interfaces with the bottom portion 134 of the panel 130. The support platform 110 also includes a panel 131 that interfaces with the right side of the panel 130. A second lower panel 140 interfaces with the bottom of the panel 131, and a third lower panel 140 interfaces with the bottom of the second lower panel 140 (e.g., the top portion 142 of the third lower panel 140 interfaces with the bottom portion 144 of the second lower panel 140).

[0040] Referring to Figure 4 The support platform 110 includes a plurality of female couplers 160. In particular, the panel 130 defines a first plurality 192 of female couplers 160 and a second plurality 193 of female couplers 160. Figure 4 The panel 140 in the lower left corner of the panel 130 defines a third plurality 194 of female couplers 160. The panel 131 defines a fourth plurality 195 of female couplers 160. Figure 4 The panel 140 in the right center of the panel 130 defines a fifth plurality 196 of female couplers 160. Figure 4 The panel 140 in the lower right corner of the panel 130 defines a sixth plurality 197 of female couplers 160. In various embodiments, the female couplers 160 are arranged in a plurality of columns 116 and a plurality of rows 118.

[0041] The panel 130 extends between a first outer edge 208 and a second outer edge 210. The first outer edge 208 and the second outer edge 210 extend between the top 132 and the bottom 134 of the panel 130. In other words, the first outer edge 208 and the second outer edge 210 extend along the vertical axis 114. Similarly, the panel 140 extends between a first outer edge 204 and a second outer edge 206. The first outer edge 204 and the second outer edge 206 extend between the top 142 and the bottom 144 of the panel 140. The panel 131 extends between a first outer edge 212 and a second outer edge 214.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the panel 130 is coupled to the panel 131 such that the first plurality 192 of female couplers 160 is aligned with the fourth plurality 195 of female couplers 160. When the panel 130 and the panel 131 are arranged in this orientation, the second outer edge 210 of the panel 130 is joined and / or contiguous with the first outer edge 212 of the panel 131. Similarly, the panel 140 in the lower right corner of the second panel 130 and the sixth plurality 197 of female couplers 160 are aligned with the panel 140 in the lower left corner of the second panel 130 and the third plurality 194 of female couplers 160. The second outer edge 206 of the panel 140 in the lower left corner is joined and / or contiguous with the first outer edge 204 of the panel 140 in the lower right corner. In this arrangement, the horizontal axis 112 of the first panel 140 is collinear with the second horizontal axis 112 of the second panel 140. Figure 4 Figure 4 Figure 4

[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, aspects of the support platform 110 are shown. As can be seen, the female coupler 160 is defined by the back support 120 and an aperture of one of the panels 130, 131 or an aperture of the lower panel 140. Figures 5 to 6

[0044] Referring to FIG. 3, aspects of the female coupler 160 are shown. The female coupler 160 includes a recessed surface 164 defined by the back support 120. A rear wall 166, an opposing front wall 172, a first side wall 168, and an opposing second side wall 170 extend around the female coupler 160. The female coupler 160 includes a pocket 174 collectively defined by the recessed surface 164, the rear wall 166, the front wall 172, the first side wall 168, and the second side wall 170. Figure 6

[0045] ​​​​​The first rib 176 extends from the rear wall 166 and the first side wall 168 over the pocket 174 and / or the recessed surface 164. In particular, the first rib 176 extends from the first side wall 168 in the direction 182, and the first rib 176 extends from the rear wall 166 in the direction 180. The second rib 178 extends from the rear wall 166 and the second side wall 170 over the pocket 174 and / or the recessed surface 164. In particular, the second rib 178 extends from the second side wall 170 in the direction 184, and the second rib 178 extends from the rear wall 166 in the direction 180.

[0046] The first lateral protrusion 186 extends downward from the first side wall 168 toward the recessed surface 164. The second lateral protrusion 188 extends downward from the second side wall 170 toward the recessed surface 164. The rear protrusion 190 extends downward from the rear wall 166 toward the recessed surface 164. The first lateral protrusion 186, the second lateral protrusion 188, and / or the rear protrusion 190 facilitate coupling of a single splint locking mechanism (e.g., a rotating male coupler) to one of the female couplers 160.

[0047] To couple the female coupler 160 to a male coupler, the male coupler is moved relative to the female coupler 160 in the direction 162. The first lateral protrusion 186, the second lateral protrusion 188, and / or the rear protrusion 190 interface with the male coupler to facilitate engagement and / or disengagement of the male coupler with the female coupler 160.

[0048] The back support 120 includes a plurality of coupling mechanisms, shown as apertures 122, configured to couple the back support 120 to a surface, such as a wall. In various embodiments, the apertures 122 are arranged in a first row 124 at an upper portion of the back support 120 and in a second row 126 at a lower portion of the back support 120. In such embodiments, the first row 124 is spaced apart from the second row 126 by a distance. In particular embodiments, the first row 124 and the second row 126 of apertures 122 extend along the horizontal axis 112. In use, a user couples the back support 120 to a wall (e.g., through a stud in the wall) with fasteners or anchors, such as bolts or screws, through the apertures 122 in the first row 124 and / or the second row 126.

[0049] Referring to Figures 7 to 11Various aspects of the support platform 110 are shown. This will be described in more detail below. In the detailed description, the faceplate 130, faceplate 131, and / or faceplate 140 are made of 2.5 mm thick steel and are made through two stamping operations. First, in a "blanking" operation, a punch will cut the entire outer edge of the part. As will generally be understood, blanking differs from the punch or piercing type of stamping in that the cut piece is the desired portion of the metal piece, and the metal that is cut or removed is scrap. Second, a stamping punch will cut out the cleat pockets, the locking pockets, and any holes needed for welding. The cleat pocket tabs (e.g., tabs 186, 188, 190) will be bent in a separate operation.

[0050] In various embodiments, the back support 120 is another stamped piece of steel that is bent and then welded to the back of the faceplates 130, 131, 140. The back support 120 has rows of slots (e.g., apertures 122) for mounting to a wall. In various embodiments, the back support 120 is a lower grade of steel or thinner compared to the faceplates 130, 131, 140. The punched areas between the bent tabs (e.g., tabs 186, 188, 190) are used to make PACKOUT TM The accessory cleats pass through the cleat pockets of the faceplates. In various embodiments, the back support 120 is welded to the faceplates 130, 131, 140 in the bent tab areas. The height of each of the back supports 120 away from the wall and its tolerances align the faceplates 130, 131, and 140 from one track (e.g., the combination of the faceplates 130, 131, 140 and the back support 120) to the next track, allowing the system to tile. In various embodiments where the concave couplers 160 are arranged in rows, the number of rows of concave couplers 160 will be the same as the number of back supports 120 coupled to the faceplates 130, 131, 140.

[0051] The back support 120 includes a first longitudinal sidewall 189 extending along the horizontal axis 112 and a second longitudinal sidewall 191 extending in an orientation that is substantially parallel (i.e., ±10 degrees parallel) to the first longitudinal sidewall 189. The concave surface 164 extends between the first longitudinal sidewall 189 and the second longitudinal sidewall 191. A plurality of apertures 122 extend through the concave surface 164. The apertures 122 are configured to couple the back support 120 to a surface such that the support platform 110 is supported by the surface.

[0052] The first longitudinal sidewall 189 and the second longitudinal sidewall 191 each extend between the first end 200 and the second end 202 of the back support 120. The back support 120 further includes a plurality of tabs 216 extending inwardly (i.e., toward the opposing longitudinal sidewall) from the first longitudinal sidewall 189 and the second longitudinal sidewall 191. The plurality of tabs 216 includes an opening 218 located between adjacent tabs 216, where the opening 218 is positioned along the horizontal axis 112. The opening 218 ensures that the tabs 216 do not extend into the space of the pocket 174 defined by the concave surface 164, the back wall 166, the front wall 172, the first sidewall 168, and the second sidewall 170.

[0053] When the panel 130 includes a plurality of female couplers 160 arranged in a first row and a second row, the first row and the second row each extend along the horizontal axis 112 of the panel 130. The first back support 120 is positioned behind the first row of the plurality of female couplers 160, and the second back support 120 is positioned behind the second row of the plurality of female couplers 160. In such an embodiment, the second longitudinal sidewall 191 of the first back support 120 is substantially parallel (i.e., ±10 degrees parallel) to the first longitudinal sidewall 189 of the second back support 120.

[0054] In comparison to the panels 130, 131, 140, the back supports 120 are smaller in size in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. In various embodiments, the back supports 120 do not contact each other when the tracks are laid out vertically or horizontally. In such embodiments, at least a portion of the panels 130, 131, 140 extend beyond the corresponding back support 120 in the vertical direction (i.e., along the vertical axis 114) as well as in the horizontal direction (i.e., along the horizontal axis 112). In other words, the major or longitudinal dimension of the panels 130, 131, 140 is greater than the major or longitudinal dimension of the back supports 120. In specific embodiments, the first outer edge 208 of the panel 130 extends beyond the first end 200 of the back support 120, and the second outer edge 210 of the panel 130 extends beyond the second end 202 of the back support 120. Similarly, the minor or transverse dimension of the panels 130, 131, 140 is greater than the minor or transverse dimension of the back supports 120.

[0055] In particular, a first gap, shown as Gl, is located between the first longitudinal sidewall 189 and the second longitudinal sidewall 191 of adjacent back supports 120. In other words, Gl provides space between adjacent back supports 120 such that the adjacent back supports 120 do not contact each other along the vertical axis 114. Similarly, a second gap, shown as G2, is located between the first end 200 and the second end 202 of adjacent back supports 120. Thus, G2 provides space between back supports 120 that are adjacent to each other along the horizontal axis 112. In various embodiments, this arrangement helps with tolerance stack-up and allows for the exclusion of bends and material thickness from the stack-up.

[0056] Referring to Figure 12 , the tolerance from the first cleat to the lower second cleat is + / - 1.5 mm, and the tolerance from the first cleat to the lower third cleat is + / - 2.0 mm.

[0057] Figure 13 A flowchart of a method 300 for forming a support platform 110 according to the present disclosure is provided. In a first step 301 of the method 300, a piece and / or sheet of metal is positioned on a mold or die. In particular embodiments, the sheet of metal is a 2.5 mm thick steel sheet. In particular, the sheet of metal is positioned on the mold such that the outer edge of the sheet of metal is aligned with the mold for stamping.

[0058] In a second step 302 of the method 300, a first punch is used to apply a force to the sheet of metal that, in a blanking operation, creates a cut along the outer edge of the sheet of metal to form a workpiece or panel 130, 131, 140. In particular embodiments, the first punch is used to cut along the entire outer edge of the sheet of metal. The shape of the mold determines the shape of the workpiece.

[0059] In a third step 303 of the method 300, a second punch is used to apply a force to the workpiece, thereby cutting one or more apertures 136, 146 in the workpiece 130, 131, 140. In particular embodiments, the second punch applies a force to cut a plurality of apertures 136, 146 that at least partially define a female coupler 160. In various particular embodiments, the second punch applies a force to cut a plurality of apertures 136, 146 that at least partially define female couplers 160 in a row (i.e., along the horizontal axis 112) and / or a column (i.e., along the vertical axis 114). In particular embodiments, each aperture 136, 146 includes at least one protrusion 186, 188, 190 that extends from the panel 130, 131, 140 into the space of the aperture.

[0060] In various implementations, the second punch cuts a plurality of apertures 136, 146 that at least partially define the female coupler 160 and a plurality of latching recesses 137. In such implementations, the plurality of latching recesses 137 are positioned in a row along the faceplate 130, 131, 140 (i.e., along the horizontal axis 112). The latching recesses 137 are configured to receive a latch extending from a utility module. In various implementations, the second punch applies a force to cut the plurality of apertures 136, 146 that at least partially define the female coupler 160, the plurality of latching recesses 137, and a plurality of holes. As will be discussed below, the holes can be used to couple the faceplate 130, 131, 140 to the back support 120.

[0061] In a fourth step 304 of the method 300, one or more of the protrusions 186, 188, 190 extending into the open space from the faceplate 130, 131, 140 into the aperture 136, 146 that at least partially define the female coupler 160 are bent using a die. In particular, the one or more protrusions 186, 188, 190 are bent downward at an angle relative to the upper surface of the faceplate 130, 131, 140. In specific implementations, the protrusions 186, 188, 190 are bent from the upper, outwardly facing surface of the faceplate 130, 131, 140 at an angle between 30 degrees and 90 degrees, specifically between 40 degrees and 80 degrees, and more specifically between 50 degrees and 70 degrees. In such implementations, the protrusions 186, 188, 190 are bent at an angle of approximately 60 degrees (i.e., 60 degrees ± 5 degrees).

[0062] In a fifth step 305 of the method 300, the back support 120 is coupled to the faceplate 130, 131, 140. In particular, the upper surface of the back support 120 is coupled to the rear surface of the faceplate 130, 131, 140 such that the recessed surface 164 of the back support 120 defines the pocket 174 with the rear wall 166, the front wall 172, the first side wall 168, and the second side wall 170 of the faceplate 130, 131, 140. In specific implementations, the faceplate 130, 131, 140 is welded to the back support 120. In such implementations, holes are punched in the faceplate 130, 131, 140 at desired locations to allow for welding.

[0063] Prior to coupling the back support 120 to the faceplate 130, 131, 140, the back support 120 is aligned beneath the plurality of apertures 136, 146 arranged in a row. Aligning the back support 120 ensures that the back support 120 does not come into contact or engagement with an adjacent back support coupled to the same faceplate 130, 131, 140 or an adjacent faceplate 130, 131, 140.

[0064] When the back support 120 is coupled to the faceplates 130, 131, 140 to form the support platform 110, the support platform 110 includes a plurality of female couplers 160 defined by the back support 120 and the faceplates 130, 131, 140. Each of the female couplers 160 includes a recessed surface 164 defined by the back support 120, and an edge of each of the plurality of apertures 136, 146 of the faceplates includes a first rib 176 and a second rib 178. The first and second ribs 176, 178 extend above the recessed surface 164.

[0065] In various embodiments, the back support 120 is a stamped piece of metal. In particular embodiments, the back support is formed from steel. In various particular embodiments, the back support 120 is formed from a lower grade of steel than the steel used to form the faceplates 130, 131, 140. In particular embodiments, the thickness of the metal used to form the back support is less than the thickness of the sheet metal used to form the faceplates 130, 131, 140. In other words, in such embodiments, the thickness of the sheet metal used to form the back support 120 is less than 2.5 mm.

[0066] In particular embodiments, a third punch is used to apply force to the sheet metal to cut one or more apertures 136, 146 in the back support workpiece. In particular embodiments, the third punch applies force to cut a plurality of slots or apertures 122 in the sheet metal. In various embodiments, the third punch applies force to cut the apertures 122 in the back support workpiece arranged in the first and second rows 124, 126. Once the back support workpiece is bent into the desired shape, the faceplates 130, 131, 140 can be coupled to the fully formed back support 120.

[0067] It should be understood that the drawings are detailed illustrations of example embodiments, and it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description or illustrated in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0068] Other modifications and alternatives to the various aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those of skill in the art in light of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only. The structures and arrangements of the various example implementations shown are for purposes of illustrative clarity in regard to the described implementations. Although only a few implementations have been described in detail above, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed can include multiple sections or elements, the positions of elements can be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logic algorithm, or method steps can be varied or re-sequenced without materially affecting the material aspects of the subject matter described herein. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions can also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangements of the various example implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0069] Unless specifically stated otherwise, and as apparent from the preceding

[0070] Various implementations of the disclosure relate to any combination of any of the features, and any such combination of features can be claimed in the present application or in future applications. Any of the features, elements, or components of any of the example implementations discussed above can be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements, or components of any of the other implementations discussed above.

[0071] For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "coupled" means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining can be stationary in nature or movable in nature and the coupling of such members can be achieved with the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

[0072] While specific combinations of features within the claims of the application have been set forth as described herein, the various embodiments of the present invention are directed to any combination of the features described herein, whether currently claimed or not, and any such combination of features can be claimed in this application or in future applications. Any feature, element or component of any of the example embodiments discussed above can be used alone or in combination with any other feature, element or component of any of the other embodiments discussed above.

[0073] In various example embodiments, relative dimensions including angles, lengths and radii as shown in the drawings are drawn to scale. Actual measurements of the drawings will disclose relative dimensions, angles and proportions of various example embodiments. Various example embodiments extend around absolute dimensions and relative dimensions, angles and proportions that can be determined from the drawings. Various example embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the drawings. Furthermore, actual dimensions not explicitly stated in this specification can be determined by using the scale of the dimensions measured in the drawings in combination with explicit dimensions stated in this specification.

Claims

1. A support platform for modular storage utility modules, characterized by, The support platform comprises: a first back panel comprising a plurality of apertures configured to couple the first back panel to a wall; a first face panel coupled to the first back panel, the first face panel defining a plurality of apertures through which the first back panel is visible; and a first plurality of female couplers collectively defined by the first back panel and the first face panel, each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers comprising: a recessed surface defined by the first back panel; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first rib and the second rib each extend above the recessed surface, and each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers is configured to removably couple with a male coupler of a first utility module.

2. The support platform of claim 1, wherein, The first plurality of female couplers comprises a row of female couplers and a column of female couplers, the column of female couplers being perpendicular to the row of female couplers.

3. The support platform of claim 2, wherein, The support platform further comprises a plurality of rows of the first plurality of female couplers and a plurality of columns of the first plurality of female couplers.

4. The support platform of claim 1, wherein, Each female coupler of the first plurality of female couplers comprises: a back wall; a first side wall; a second side wall opposite the first side wall; and a front wall opposite the back wall; wherein the first rib extends from the back wall toward the front wall, and the first rib extends from the first side wall toward the second side wall, and wherein the second rib extends from the back wall toward the front wall, and the second rib extends from the second side wall toward the first side wall.

5. The support platform of claim 1, wherein, The support platform comprises: a second back panel comprising a plurality of apertures configured to couple the second back panel to the wall; a second face panel coupled to the second back panel, the second face panel defining a plurality of apertures through which the second back panel is visible; and a second plurality of female couplers collectively defined by the second back panel and the second face panel, each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers comprising: a recessed surface defined by the second back panel; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first rib and the second rib each extend above the recessed surface, and each female coupler of the second plurality of female couplers is configured to removably couple with a male coupler of the first utility module.

6. The support platform of claim 5, wherein, A top of the second face panel meets a bottom of the first face panel along a horizontal axis of the support platform.

7. The support platform of claim 6, wherein, The top of the second face panel comprises one or more recesses configured to receive and engage with one or more protrusions on the bottom of the first face panel.

8. The support platform of claim 5, wherein, A first horizontal axis of the first face panel is parallel to a second horizontal axis of the second face panel when the first face panel is coupled to the second face panel.

9. The support platform of claim 5, wherein, The support platform comprises: a third back panel including a plurality of apertures configured to couple the third back panel to the wall; a third face panel coupled to the third back panel, the third face panel defining a plurality of apertures through which the third back panel is visible; and a third plurality of female couplers collectively defined by the third back panel and the third face panel, each female coupler of the third plurality of female couplers including: a recessed surface defined by the third back panel; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first rib and the second rib each extend above the recessed surface, and each female coupler of the third plurality of female couplers is configured to removably couple with a male coupler of the first utility module; wherein the first face panel extends between a first outer edge and a second outer edge; wherein the third face panel extends between a first outer edge and a second outer edge; and wherein the first outer edge of the third face panel meets the second outer edge of the first face panel such that a first horizontal axis of the first face panel is collinear with a second horizontal axis of the third face panel.

10. The support platform of claim 1, wherein, The first face panel is a continuous piece of metal material, and the first plurality of female couplers are stamped out of the metal material.

11. A mounting structure characterized by comprising: The mounting structure includes: a back panel including: a first longitudinal sidewall; a second longitudinal sidewall opposite the first longitudinal sidewall; a recessed surface extending between the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall; and a plurality of apertures on the recessed surface configured to couple the back panel to a surface such that the mounting structure is supported by the surface; a face panel coupled to the back panel, the face panel defining a plurality of apertures; and a plurality of female couplers collectively defined by the back panel and the face panel, each female coupler of the plurality of female couplers including: a recessed surface defined by the back panel; a first rib; and a second rib; wherein the first rib and the second rib each extend above the back panel, and each female coupler of the plurality of female couplers is configured to engage with a male coupler of a first utility module.

12. The mounting structure according to claim 11, wherein The face panel extends between a first edge and a second edge, the second edge being opposite the first edge; and the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall extend between a first end of the back panel and a second end of the back panel; wherein the first edge of the face panel extends beyond the first end of the back panel; and wherein the second edge of the face panel extends beyond the second end of the back panel.

13. The mounting structure according to claim 11, wherein The plurality of female couplers are arranged in a first row and a second row, the first row and the second row extending along a horizontal axis of the face panel.

14. The mounting structure according to claim 13, wherein The back panel includes: a first back panel; and a second back panel; and wherein the first back panel is positioned behind the first row of the plurality of female couplers and the second back panel is positioned behind the second row of the plurality of female couplers.

15. The mounting structure according to claim 14, wherein a second longitudinal sidewall of the first back panel is parallel to a first longitudinal sidewall of the second back panel, and wherein a gap extends between the second longitudinal sidewall of the first back panel and the first longitudinal sidewall of the second back panel.

16. The mounting structure according to claim 11, wherein each female coupler of the plurality of female couplers comprises: a back wall; a first sidewall; a second sidewall opposite the first sidewall; and a front wall opposite the back wall; wherein the first rib extends from the back wall toward the front wall and the first rib extends from the first sidewall toward the second sidewall, and wherein the second rib extends from the back wall toward the front wall and the second rib extends from the second sidewall toward the first sidewall.

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