Modular storage system

Abstract

The utility model provides a modularized storage system which comprises a modularized storage container, a first tray and a second tray. A modular storage container includes a housing, an interior compartment defined by the housing, and a lid coupled to the housing. The first tray is positioned within the interior compartment, the first tray including a channel defined by a bottom surface. The second tray is positioned within the interior compartment, the second tray including a rod configured to be received within the channel of the first tray, the rod defining a pivot axis. The first tray is pivotable about the pivot axis with respect to the second tray, and wherein the first tray and the second tray are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 560,365, filed March 1, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model generally relates to the field of tool storage systems and related devices. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a device including a working surface and a coupling mechanism that detachably connects the device to another device or container, such as another device or container in a modular storage system. Background Technology

[0004] Tool storage units are frequently used for transporting tools and tool accessories. Some storage units are designed to integrate with other components to separate and support tools, such as pallets. Pallets provide pivoting movement when combined with other storage pallets to allow access to lower pallets. Utility Model Content

[0005] One embodiment of this utility model relates to a modular storage system. The modular storage system includes a modular storage container. The modular storage container includes a housing, an internal compartment defined by the housing, and a lid connected to the housing. The modular storage system also includes a first tray and a second tray. The first tray is positioned within the internal compartment and includes a channel defined by a bottom surface. The second tray is positioned within the internal compartment and includes a rod configured to be received within the channel of the first tray. The rod defines a pivot axis. The first tray is pivotable about the pivot axis regarding the second tray. The first and second trays are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories.

[0006] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a modular storage system. The modular storage system includes a modular storage container. The modular storage container includes a housing, a cavity defined by the housing, and a lid coupled to the housing. The modular storage system also includes a first tray and a second tray. The first tray is positioned within the cavity, and the second tray is positioned within the cavity below the first tray. The first and second trays are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories. The first and second trays are pivotally engaged such that the first tray can move between a first storage position and a second open position, in which the tools or accessories supported by the second tray are inaccessible, and in the second open position, the tools or accessories supported by the second tray are accessible.

[0007] Another embodiment of this utility model relates to a modular storage system. The modular storage system includes a utility module. The utility module includes a housing and an internal compartment defined by the housing. The modular storage system also includes a first tray and a second tray. The first tray is positioned within the internal compartment, and the second tray is positioned below the first tray within the internal compartment. The first and second trays are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories. The first and second trays are pivotally engaged. The modular storage system also includes a third tray positioned within the internal compartment and a fourth tray positioned below the third tray within the internal compartment. The third and fourth trays are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories. The third and fourth trays are pivotally engaged.

[0008] The first tray further includes a first channel defined by a bottom surface, wherein the second tray further includes a first rod received within the first channel of the first tray, the first rod defining a first pivot axis, wherein the third tray further includes a second channel defined by a bottom surface, and wherein the fourth tray further includes a second rod received within the second channel of the third tray, the second rod defining a second pivot axis.

[0009] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or will be recognized by practice of the embodiments as described in the written description and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

[0010] The accompanying drawings are included to provide 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 the principles and operation of the various embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0011] This application will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of a tool storage device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 1 A bottom-view perspective view of a tool storage device.

[0014] Figure 3 It includes, according to exemplary embodiments Figure 1 A modular storage system for tool storage devices.

[0015] Figure 4 It is based on the exemplary implementation method and Figure 1 A perspective view of a tool tray positioned together with a tool storage device.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a tool storage device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the tool tray is in a closed storage position.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a tool storage device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the tool tray is in an open and accessible position.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a tool storage device according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the tool tray is in an open and accessible position.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a stacked tool tray according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a partial exploded view of the tool tray according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 10 It is according to the exemplary implementation along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a stacked tool tray taken from line 10-10.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a tool storage device according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 12 Stacked according to exemplary embodiments Figure 11 A 3D view of the tool tray.

[0024] Figure 13 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 12 A partial exploded view of the tool tray.

[0025] Figure 14 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 13 A bottom-view perspective of the tool tray. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, various embodiments of a movable tray for use with a modular system, according to exemplary embodiments, are shown. The movable tray is configured for storage and / or organization within a modular storage unit. As will generally be understood, stackable storage accessories (such as trays, boxes, etc.) provide ample storage, but often leave some tools in hard-to-reach locations. The applicant has developed a tool tray configured to engage with each other such that the upper tray is pivotable, allowing a user to access tools stored in the lower tray. In various specific embodiments, the lower tray includes a rod configured to pivotally engage with a channel or cutout in the bottom surface of the upper tray. In this way, all tools in both stacked trays are easily accessible without removing the trays from the modular storage unit, saving time and improving the efficiency of workers searching their toolboxes.

[0027] Furthermore, in various specific designs, the upper tray supports tools of different sizes, such as a set of wrenches. The upper tray includes multiple channels extending along the longitudinal axis of the tool tray, wherein the channels are configured to support the tool set. However, there may be multiple tools that are too long to be stored in the channels aligned with the tray. The applicant has designed the lower tray to include multiple recesses or channels extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the tray. The applicant has found that the angled storage of the lower tray provides the ability to store large tools or wrenches that cannot be stored in the channels aligned with the tray. Therefore, the applicant believes that the combination of the trays (i.e., the upper tray and the lower tray) allows for the storage of entire tool sets, including relatively long tools, and / or the storage of various tools of various sizes and / or lengths.

[0028] Reference Figures 1 to 3 This illustrates various aspects of a utility module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. The utility module or tool storage device 10 includes a cover 14 coupled to a housing 12. In various specific embodiments, the cover 14 is pivotally coupled to the housing 12 defining an internal storage cavity or compartment 32 (see, for example...). Figure 4 ).

[0029] In various embodiments, utility module 10 includes one or more coupling engagements, such as a first plurality of coupling members shown as a concave coupling 20 and a second plurality of coupling members shown as a convex coupling 22 (see, for example, 24, 26), compatible with the coupling mechanism described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2018 / 044629, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. It should be understood that the various embodiments described herein utilize the concave couplings, convex couplings, and / or latches described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2018 / 044629.

[0030] The cover 14 includes an upper surface 16, and the housing 12 includes an opposite lower surface 18 facing away from the upper surface 16. One or more concave connectors 20 extend from and / or are located in the upper surface 16 of the utility module 10, and one or more convex connectors 22 configured to engage the concave connectors 20 extend from the lower surface 18 of the utility module 10.

[0031] The utility module 10 includes a latch 24 and a latch recess 26, the latch 24 and latch recess 26 being configured to engage with each other to secure the utility module 10 to other objects and / or the utility module 10. When one or more utility modules 10 are stacked, a convex connector 22 engages with a concave connector 20 of another utility module. The utility modules 10 and / or other modular storage containers, devices, and / or units together form a tool storage system 30.

[0032] Reference Figure 4 One or more storage trays 34, 36, which can be used with utility module 10, are positioned within compartment 32. A first tool support tray or upper tool support tray 34 is stacked or positioned above a second tool support tray or lower tool support tray 36. The upper tray 34 is configured to support a plurality of tools, shown as a wrench 38. The lower tray 36 is similarly configured to support a plurality of tools and / or tool accessories.

[0033] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The movement of the upper tray 34 relative to the lower tray 36 is shown. The pivoting movement of the upper tray 34 in the upward direction (e.g., away from the lower tray 36) is shown by arrow 39. Similarly, the pivoting movement of the upper tray 34 in the downward direction (e.g., toward the lower tray 36) is shown by arrow 41.

[0034] like Figure 5 As shown, when trays 34 and 36 are in the first storage position, the upper tray 34 is stacked on top of the lower tray 36, making any tools supported on the lower tray 36 inaccessible. When the upper tray 34 pivots in the upward direction 39, the upper tray 34 moves to the second open position. In the open position, the tool shown as a wrench 43 supported by the lower tray 36 becomes visible and / or accessible to the user. In other words, trays 34 and 36 remain positioned within the utility module 10 in both the storage and open positions. This contrasts with many storage trays that fold or unfold to a size larger than the utility module and / or storage cavity.

[0035] Reference Figure 8Details of an upper tray 34 and a lower tray 36 in a stacked orientation according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. The upper tray 34 and the lower tray 36 each extend along a longitudinal axis or major axis 40 in a first direction and along a transverse axis or minor axis 42. The upper tray 34 pivots about a pivot axis 37 that extends in an orientation parallel to the transverse axis 42.

[0036] The upper tray 34 includes a plurality of channels or sections 54 configured to receive and support tools such as wrenches 38. In various embodiments, each channel 54 is sized to receive a single wrench. In various embodiments, the upper tray 34 includes one or more markings 55 to indicate the size of the wrench 38 located within each channel 54. Each channel 54 extends along and / or is aligned with a longitudinal axis or long axis 40.

[0037] Reference Figure 9 Details of the engagement components of an upper tray 34 and a lower tray 36 according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. The lower tray 34 includes a protrusion or rod 44 configured to engage the upper tray 34 in a pivotal manner. The rod 44 extends along the rear edge 46 of the lower tray 36 and is oriented along a transverse axis 42. In other words, the protrusion or rod 44 extends along a short axis or transverse axis 42 of the lower tray 34. When the lower tray 36 is stacked with the upper tray 34, the rod 44 is received in a channel or cutout 50 in the upper tray 34. The cutout 50 is defined in the bottom or downward-facing surface 48 of the upper tray 34. The cutout 50 is located near the rear edge 51 and is similarly oriented along the transverse axis 42.

[0038] As previously described, trays 34 and 36 remain positioned within utility module 10 in both the storage and open positions. In various embodiments, lever 44 or the lower tray is positioned within utility module 10 and / or storage compartment 32 in the pivoted or open position. In various specific embodiments, lever 44 or the lower tray remains fully positioned within utility module 10 and / or storage compartment 32 in the open or pivoted position. In various specific embodiments, pivot axis 37 is positioned within utility module 10 and / or storage compartment 32 in the open or pivoted position. In specific embodiments, pivot axis 37 is fully positioned within utility module 10 and / or storage compartment 32 in the open or pivoted position. As will generally be understood, this pivoting of the upper tray 34 allows easy access to the lower tray 36 without requiring the upper tray 34 to be removed from utility module 10.

[0039] The lower tray 36 includes a plurality of storage channels or sections 52 configured to receive and support tools such as a wrench 43. Each channel 52 extends along a longitudinal axis 53. The channels 52 and the longitudinal axis 53 are oriented at an angle relative to the transverse axis 42 and the longitudinal axis 40. In various embodiments, the longitudinal axis 53 is oriented at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees about the transverse axis 42. In various embodiments, the longitudinal axis 53 is oriented at an angle between 30 and 80 degrees, specifically between 45 and 75 degrees, and more specifically between 55 and 70 degrees about the transverse axis 42. In one embodiment, the longitudinal axis 53 is oriented at an angle of approximately 64 degrees (e.g., 64 degrees plus or minus 5 degrees) about the transverse axis 42.

[0040] When the tray 36 is positioned within the housing 12, the channel 52 and the longitudinal axis 53 of the channel extend in the direction between the opposite corners 35 of the housing 12 (see example). Figure 7 As previously stated, the applicant believes that the angle of the channel 52 allows for the storage of longer tools, such as wrenches 43, which would be too long to be mounted on the tray if positioned in an orientation aligned with the longitudinal axis 40. The lower tray 36 also includes one or more recessed compartments 56. In a specific embodiment, the recessed compartments 56 are positioned on opposite sides of the plurality of channels 52. The recessed compartments 56 are configured to receive and support smaller tools, accessories, and / or tool attachments 58 (e.g., fasteners, washers, etc.).

[0041] Reference Figure 10 It shows along Figure 8 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the upper tray 34 and lower tray 36 taken by line 10-10. As can be seen, the rod 44 of the lower tray 36 is seated within a cutout 50 of the upper tray 34 to allow the upper tray 34 to pivot relative to the lower tray 36. The rod 44 is received within an elongated opening 47 shown as the cutout 50 of the upper tray 34, such that the rod 44 and / or the lower tray 36 can be removably connected to the cutout 50 and / or the upper tray 34. When the upper tray 34 is engaged with the lower tray 36, the elongated opening 47 extends along the pivot axis 37 and the transverse axis 42.

[0042] The cutout 50 is also defined by one or more engagement surfaces 49 that engage the abutment rod 44 during pivoting of the upper tray 34. In various embodiments, the engagement surfaces 49 are curved. In a particular embodiment, the engagement surfaces 49 have a shape that is recessed relative to the lower tray 36. As will be understood, the elongated opening 47 and the engagement surfaces 49 not only allow the upper tray 34 to pivot relative to the lower tray 36, but also allow the upper tray 34 to be lifted upward (e.g., in a generally vertical direction) when needed to remove the upper tray 34 from the housing 12.

[0043] Reference Figures 11 to 14 This illustrates various aspects of a utility module 110 according to another exemplary embodiment. Apart from the differences discussed herein, the utility module or tool storage device 110 is substantially the same as the utility module 10.

[0044] Compared to compartment 32 of utility module 10, compartment 132 of utility module 110 is relatively large. Therefore, utility module 110 can use more than two tool support trays. A first upper tray 134 and a first lower tray 136 are pivotally engaged. The first upper tray 134 is configured to support multiple tools, shown as a wrench 158. The first lower tray 136 is similarly configured to support multiple tools and / or tool accessories.

[0045] The second upper tray 138 or the third tray is pivotally engaged with the second lower tray 140 or the fourth tray. The second upper tray 138 is configured to support a plurality of tools, shown as a wrench 158. The second lower tray 140 is similarly configured to support a plurality of tools and / or tool accessories.

[0046] In various embodiments, the first upper tray 134 and the second upper tray 138 are oriented side-by-side within the compartment 132 such that the major axes of both the first upper tray 134 and the second upper tray 138 extend along the minor axis 142 of the utility module 110. In various embodiments, the first major axis of the first upper tray 134 is generally parallel (e.g., ±10 degrees parallel) to the second major axis of the second upper tray 138. In other words, in this orientation, the major axes of the first upper tray 134 and the second upper tray 138 are aligned with and / or extend along the minor axis 142 of the utility module 110.

[0047] In other words, in this orientation, the rear portions of the first upper tray 134 and the second upper tray 138 extend along the long axis of the utility module 110. As will generally be understood, in various other embodiments, the stacked trays may be positioned in different orientations based on the size and orientation of the compartments of the housing 112.

[0048] like Figures 13 to 14As shown, each lower tray 136, 140 includes rods 146, 148, respectively, to allow pivotal engagement with cutouts 150, 152 defined in the corresponding upper trays 134, 138. In a specific embodiment, when the first rod 146 of the first lower tray 136 is received within the first cutout 150 of the first upper tray 134, the first rod 146 defines a first pivot axis. Similarly, when the second rod 148 of the second lower tray 138 is received within the second cutout 152 of the second upper tray 136, the second rod 148 defines a second pivot axis. In this embodiment, the first pivot axis is aligned with the second pivot axis. In a specific embodiment, the first pivot axis is collinear with the second pivot axis (see, for example...). Figure 11 ).

[0049] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in detail, and it should be understood that this 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 used for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0050] Given this description, other modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description should be interpreted as illustrative only. The constructions and arrangements shown in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions of various elements, values ​​of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts or elements, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0051] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is not intended to interpret any method described herein as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, no particular order is intended to be inferred where a method claim does not actually describe the order in which its steps are followed, or where the claims or description do not otherwise specify that the steps are limited to a particular order. Furthermore, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more parts or elements and is not intended to be construed as meaning only one.

[0052] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "connection" refers to the direct or indirect engagement of two components with each other. This engagement can be inherently static or inherently movable. It can be achieved by integrally forming a single, monolithic body with the two components and any additional intermediate components, or by attaching the two components to each other or by attaching the two components and any additional components to each other. This engagement can be inherently permanent, or alternatively inherently removable or releasable. As used herein, a "rigid connection" refers to the connection of two components in such a manner that the components move together in a fixed positional relationship when subjected to forces.

[0053] Although the present application describes specific combinations of features in the appended claims, various embodiments of the invention relate to any combination of any features described herein, whether or not such combinations are currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this application or a future application. Any feature, element, or component of any exemplary embodiment discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any feature, element, or component of any other embodiment discussed above.

[0054] In various exemplary embodiments, relative dimensions including angles, lengths, and radii, as shown in the accompanying drawings, are drawn to scale. Actual measurements of the accompanying drawings will disclose the relative dimensions, angles, and scales of the various exemplary embodiments. The various exemplary embodiments extend to a wide range of absolute and relative dimensions, angles, and scales that can be determined from the accompanying drawings. The various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that can be determined from the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, actual dimensions not explicitly stated in this description can be determined by combining the scales of the dimensions measured in the accompanying drawings with the explicit dimensions stated in this description.

Claims

1. A modular storage system characterized by, include: Modular storage container, the modular storage container comprising: case; Internal compartments, the internal compartments being defined by the housing; and A cover, which is attached to the housing; A first tray, positioned within the internal compartment, includes a channel defined by a bottom surface; A second tray, positioned within the internal compartment, includes a rod configured to be received within the channel of the first tray, the rod defining a pivot axis; wherein the first tray is pivotable about the pivot axis about the second tray, and wherein the first tray and the second tray are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories.

2. The modular storage system of claim 1, wherein, The rod extends along the rear edge of the second tray and is oriented along the short axis of the second tray.

3. The modular storage system of claim 1, wherein, The first tray is positioned between the lid and the second tray.

4. The modular storage system of claim 1, wherein, The channel of the first tray further includes one or more engagement surfaces that engage against the rod when the first tray pivots.

5. The modular storage system of claim 4, wherein, Each of the one or more mating surfaces has a shape that is recessed relative to the second tray.

6. The modular storage system of claim 1, wherein, The channel of the first tray defines an elongated opening, wherein, when the first tray is engaged with the second tray, the elongated opening extends along the short axis of the second tray.

7. The modular storage system of claim 1, wherein, The second tray further includes a storage channel extending along the longitudinal axis of the channel, wherein the longitudinal axis of the channel extends at an angle relative to the minor axis and the major axis of the second tray, and wherein the storage channel is configured as a support tool or accessory.

8. The modular storage system of claim 7, wherein, The longitudinal axis of the channel is oriented at an angle between 55 and 70 degrees relative to the short axis of the second tray.

9. A modular storage system characterized in that, include: Modular storage container, the modular storage container comprising: case; Cavity, the cavity being defined by the housing; and A cover, which is attached to the housing; A first tray, the first tray being positioned within the cavity; The second tray is positioned below the first tray within the cavity, wherein the first tray and the second tray are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories; The first tray and the second tray are pivotally engaged, allowing the first tray to move between a first storage position and a second open position, in which the tools or accessories supported by the second tray are inaccessible, and in the second open position, the tools or accessories supported by the second tray are accessible.

10. The modular storage system of claim 9, wherein, When the first tray moves to the second open position, the first tray moves away from the second tray and toward the lid of the modular storage container.

11. The modular storage system of claim 9, wherein, The second tray also includes a protrusion extending along the rear edge of the second tray, wherein the protrusion defines a pivot axis.

12. The modular storage system of claim 11, wherein, The first tray further includes a channel defined in the downward-facing surface of the first tray, wherein the channel is located near the rear edge of the first tray.

13. The modular storage system of claim 11, wherein, When the second tray is in the open position, the protrusion is positioned within the cavity of the housing.

14. The modular storage system of claim 9, wherein, The first tray also includes a plurality of segments extending along the long axis of the first tray, wherein the plurality of segments are configured as support tools or accessories.

15. The modular storage system of claim 14, wherein, The second tray also includes a plurality of segments extending at an angle relative to the short axis and the long axis of the second tray, wherein the plurality of segments are configured as support tools or accessories.

16. A modular storage system, characterized in that, include: The utility module includes: Casing; and An internal compartment, the internal compartment being defined by the shell; The first tray is positioned within the internal compartment; The second tray is positioned below the first tray within the internal compartment, wherein the first tray and the second tray are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories, and wherein the first tray and the second tray are pivotally engaged. The third tray is positioned within the internal compartment; A fourth tray is positioned below the third tray within the internal compartment, wherein the third tray and the fourth tray are each configured to support a plurality of tools or accessories, and wherein the third tray and the fourth tray are pivotally engaged.

17. The modular storage system of claim 16, wherein, The first tray includes a first long axis, and the third tray includes a second long axis, wherein the first long axis is substantially parallel to the second long axis.

18. The modular storage system of claim 17, wherein, The first long axis of the first tray and the second long axis of the third tray each extend along the short axis of the utility module.

19. The modular storage system of claim 16, wherein, The first tray further includes a first channel defined by a bottom surface, wherein the second tray further includes a first rod received within the first channel of the first tray, the first rod defining a first pivot axis, wherein the third tray further includes a second channel defined by a bottom surface, and wherein the fourth tray further includes a second rod received within the second channel of the third tray, the second rod defining a second pivot axis.

20. The modular storage system of claim 19, wherein, The first pivot axis is collinear with the second pivot axis.

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