Pressing device for applying a compressive force to products of a product display device, shelf unit and product display device

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressing device (1; 1'; 1'') for applying a compressive force (F) to products (400) of a product display device (200). The pressing device (1; 1'; 1'') comprises a pressing part (2) for transferring the compressive force (F) to the products (400). The pressing device (1; 1'; 1'') also comprises a mass body (M1; M2), which has a predefined mass, in order to apply a defined weight force, which brings about the compressive force (F). Furthermore, the pressing device (1; 1'; 1'') comprises a support part (6; 6'; 6''; 6'''), which supports the mass body (M1; M2) and which is designed to be movably connected to an inclined surface (40) supporting the products (400) in order to allow movement of the pressing device (1; 1'; 1''; 1''') along the inclined surface (40). The invention also relates to an assembly, comprising: a shelf element (50; 50'), which has a supporting surface (55) for products (400); and a pressing device (1; 1'; 1'') for applying a compressive force (F) to the products (400). The invention further relates to a shelf unit (100; 100'; 100''), to a product display device (200), to a use of a dimensionally stable transport and / or storage container, to a use of a pourable and / or flowable material, to a use of a construction material containing cement, to a method for producing a pressing device (1'''), and to an extruded plastic profiled element for producing the support part (6; 6'; 6''; 6''') of a pressing device (1; 1'; 1''; 1''').

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pressing device for exerting a pressing force against goods in a merchandise display device. The invention further relates to a shelf unit and a merchandise display device.

[0002] In merchandise display systems, such as shelving, similar items are often arranged in a row on shelves. To prevent gaps from forming when one or more items are removed, the row is typically clamped between a shelf stop and a pressure-applying device. The shelf stop is usually fixed at the front of the shelf, while the pressure-applying device can move along the shelf and presses down on the items at the back of the row. When one or more items are removed from the row, for example, because a customer wants to purchase them, the resulting gap is closed by the items at the back sliding down. This sliding down occurs automatically due to the pressure exerted by the pressure-applying device.

[0003] One possible design for the pushing device utilizes its own weight to generate the pushing force. For this purpose, the shelf must be positioned at an angle, for example, by having the front end of the shelf, with its product stop, be lower than the rear end, with its pushing device. A pushing device constructed according to this principle is described in DE 10 2014 101 755 A1. This pushing device uses the weight of a rolling element that runs along the shelf to cause products to slide forward. The pushing device is mounted on the shelf and is held in a track, for example, by product dividers arranged laterally to the products stacked in a row.

[0004] Other prior art documents include US 6 234 328 B1, US 2015 / 129521A1, US 3 3 780 873 A and US 2012 / 118840 A1.

[0005] It is an object of the invention to provide at least one alternative design for a pressing device of the type mentioned above. Furthermore, a shelf unit and a merchandise display device suitable for use with such a pressing device are to be proposed.

[0006] The problem is solved by a pressing device having the features of claim 1. Furthermore, to solve the problem, an arrangement having the features of claim 10, a shelf unit having the features of claim 12, a merchandise presentation device having the features of claim 13, and a plastic profile having the features of claim 14 are proposed.

[0007] A basic pressing device for exerting a pressing force against goods in a merchandise display device comprises a pressing element for transmitting the pressing force to the goods. Furthermore, the pressing device includes a mass element having a predetermined mass to exert a defined weight force, thereby producing the pressing force.

[0008] The pressing device further comprises a support element that carries the pressing element and, in particular, the pressing part. This support element is designed to be movably connected to an inclined surface supporting the goods, in order to allow movement of the pressing device, especially the pressing part and / or the pressing element, along the inclined surface. This gives the support element multiple functions. Firstly, it acts as a support for the pressing element and / or the pressing part. Secondly, the support element serves to connect to the inclined surface, enabling a movable connection with the inclined surface or a component having the inclined surface. This movable connection, via the support element, creates the conditions for exerting a pressing force on the goods from the weight of the pressing device itself, and in particular from the weight force exerted by the pressing element.

[0009] In one embodiment, the mass body comprises or is formed from a base body, and the base body is provided with at least one cavity into which a predetermined quantity of a pourable and / or flowable material is filled to generate a defined weight force. This provides a means of easily adjusting the weight of the mass body to the desired target value. By using the pourable or flowable material, precise metering of the quantity to be filled is facilitated. The pourable and / or flowable material is understood to be, in particular, a material that is pourable and / or flowable at least at the time of filling the cavity.

[0010] For example, the material filled into the cavity of the base body is sand-like. Alternatively, the material filled into the cavity of the base body may be a liquid. The filled material may also contain or consist of a liquid and sand. The filled material can be one that is commercially available and / or relatively large, and therefore relatively inexpensive. This is the case, for example, if the material is quartz sand or tap water.

[0011] In one embodiment, the base body includes a filling opening that forms an inlet to the cavity. This facilitates filling and / or emptying of the cavity of the base body. For example, the filling opening allows for refilling with the pourable and / or flowable material, as well as for the subsequent removal of, for example, a portion of the pourable and / or flowable material. This makes it possible to adjust the weight of the base body or the mass body to a different value by adding or removing a specific quantity of the pourable and / or flowable material. In particular, the filling opening is located in an upper region of the base body. This prevents material from leaking out when the pressure device is erected on the inclined surface. For example, the filling opening is arranged on the base body opposite the support part.

[0012] To prevent material from escaping through the filling opening, one embodiment provides a cover element that closes or can close the filling opening. For example, the cover element is mounted on the filling opening and preferably closes it completely. The cover element can be a screw cap. The filling opening, in particular its rim, is designed accordingly as a screw-on rim. Alternatively, the cover element can be a clamping cap. The filling opening, in particular its rim, is designed accordingly as a clamping rim. The cover element can be made of or contain metal. Alternatively, the cover element can be made of or contain plastic.

[0013] The cavity may be provided with a seal to retain the filled material within it, particularly to fix it in place. This prevents any redistribution of the material within the cavity. The seal can be a coating applied to the material, thus forming a protective layer over the filled material. For example, the coating could be a layer of wax.

[0014] In one embodiment, the base body is preferably a dimensionally stable container, in particular a commercially available container. This facilitates cost-effective manufacturing of the dispensing device, as containers already used for other purposes can be utilized. Such a container can be a bottle, a can, a bucket, or a canister. The container can be open or closed. The closure can be made of metal or have metal components. It can also be made of plastic or have plastic components. For example, the base body could be a transport container or a transport box for low-viscosity liquids, such as paints.

[0015] According to a further or different embodiment, the mass body has a preferably pre-formed base body, which is, for example, made of or comprises a hardened concrete material. In particular, the concrete material is used to achieve, and especially to adjust, the predetermined mass of the mass body in order to generate the defined weight force. The hardened concrete material is, in particular, fully cured concrete. The use of concrete material facilitates the production of the mass body in a technically simple and cost-effective manner.

[0016] In the present disclosure, the term "concrete material" refers in particular to a material comprising at least one binder and at least one aggregate, which has been mixed, for example, with the addition of liquid, together with the at least one binder and the at least one aggregate. In particular, the concrete material is largely dried or completely dried material. The concrete material may be concrete, which is used, for example, as a building material for the construction of structures or buildings.

[0017] It is specifically intended that the concrete material comprises cement and aggregate. For example, the cement serves as a binder and the aggregate as a filler. The aggregate is, for example, a sand-like material such as quartz sand. The cement and / or the aggregate are mass-produced goods used in large quantities in the construction industry and are therefore readily available at low cost.

[0018] It is further specified that the cement must be present in a ratio of 1:2 to 1:4 relative to the aggregate. For example, the ratio may be 1:3 or essentially 1:3. When stating the ratio, the first number refers to the proportion of cement and the second to the proportion of aggregate. Practical tests have shown that concrete with this cement-to-aggregate ratio meets the required strength and long-term durability, even when used in shelving systems in refrigerated or deep-freeze areas.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the base body is surface-treated to prevent the ingress of moisture or other foreign substances. The surface treatment is intended to make the base body hydrophobic on its surface or to provide a hydrophobic protective layer, which can be achieved, for example, by a sealant.

[0020] It is also possible for the mass body to have an impregnation that partially or completely surrounds the base body, preventing the penetration of moisture or other foreign substances into the base body and ensuring that the surface of the base body remains vapor-permeable. Because the surface of the base body remains vapor-permeable, any residual moisture can escape to the environment, for example, when the base body is manufactured by primary forming, such as with the concrete material described above. At the same time, the impregnation counteracts mold growth, as the surface can be hydrophobic due to the impregnation.

[0021] Suitable impregnating agents include, for example, silicate-based impregnating agents. Such impregnations have been shown to possess favorable properties for achieving the intended effect on the surface of the base material. The impregnation can be applied to the base material by dipping and / or spraying.

[0022] Surface treatment allows the base material to be pigmented. This makes it possible for the base material to acquire a color that differs from its original color.

[0023] Another embodiment involves attaching the support part to the base body. For example, the support part is attached to the base body by adhesive. Double-sided adhesive tape can be used for this purpose. This measure also aims to make the pressing device as cost-effective as possible. For example, the support part has a contact surface via which it is attached to the base body, in particular to the bottom of the base body.

[0024] For example, an adhesive is used. For instance, the contact surface and a counter-contact surface of the mass body and / or the base body are designed as adhesive surfaces, and the carrier part and the mass body and / or the base body are attached to each other using the adhesive. For example, the adhesive is a one-component plastic adhesive. This measure also aims to enable a cost-effective and, in particular, permanently durable connection between the carrier part and the base body.

[0025] The support component can be a plastic part, in particular made of or containing a plastic or plastic material. For example, the support component can be a single piece, in particular manufactured from a single piece and / or molded in one piece. In principle, the support component can also be integrally molded onto the base body.

[0026] In the pressing device, the support element is configured to perform a translational movement along the inclined surface. This results in a movement pattern that can be implemented in a technically simple manner. For example, the translational movement can be achieved by the support element sliding relative to the inclined surface, particularly along the inclined surface.

[0027] It is therefore provided that the support element has a sliding surface to allow it to slide on the inclined surface or to facilitate sliding on the inclined surface. Preferably, the support element contains or consists of a material with favorable sliding properties. For example, the support element is made of or contains polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It has also proven advantageous if the support element consists of or contains polyethylene (PE), in particular high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In addition to the favorable sliding properties, this also gives the support element high stability.

[0028] The support element can further have local protrusions arranged on a contact surface to allow the support element to be placed onto the inclined surface, and in particular to slide on the inclined surface. The free ends of the protrusions can form the sliding surface described above. For example, the local protrusions are formed by the crests of a wave-like surface structure. Additionally or alternatively, the protrusions can be formed by ribs or similar features. For example, the ribs are elongated and extend along their length in the direction of movement of the support element relative to the inclined surface.

[0029] In the pressing device, the support part includes a slide to form a linear guide with a profile rail having an inclined surface. The slide has two spaced-apart guide surfaces for lateral guidance of the profile rail. For example, the guide surfaces are formed on opposite legs of the slide. A sliding surface, in particular the sliding surface described above, is arranged between the guide surfaces, over which the slide can slide on the inclined surface. Furthermore, a locking surface is provided, for example, on at least one of the legs, to secure the slide against detaching from the profile rail in a direction orthogonal to the inclined surface, and in particular against lifting off the inclined surface. For example, the at least one locking surface is formed by a section of material encompassing the profile rail.

[0030] In another embodiment, the pressed part is formed on the base body, in particular integrally molded onto the base body. This facilitates the simple manufacture of the pressed part, since the pressed part is provided by the base body. For example, the pressed part is formed by a wall section of the ingot body or the base body.

[0031] The base body can have a rectangular cross-section, for example, polygonal, particularly square. In principle, the base body can also have a round cross-section, particularly circular or oval. For example, the base body may be cylindrical and / or conical in its longitudinal direction. If the base body serves to hold the pourable and / or flowable material described above, it may be made of plastic or metal, or have a metal composition. For example, the base body may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or tinplate, or have a metal composition.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the mass element has a height and the support element a length, whereby the height and length should be in a specific ratio to each other to achieve favorable force transmission to the goods. It has been found that the length-to-height ratio should be in the range of 1:1.2 to 1:3, with a corresponding ratio to be applied depending on the size of the goods. Within this ratio range, the length of the support element relative to the height of the mass element counteracts any tendency of the pressing device to tilt on the profile rail.

[0033] The height of the mass body refers specifically to its extension from the end facing the support part to its opposite upper end. The length of the support part refers specifically to its extension in the direction of movement of the pressing device.

[0034] One aspect of the invention relates to an arrangement comprising a shelf element having a support surface for goods and a pressing device for exerting a pressing force against the goods. The pressing device can be one of the embodiments of a pressing device described above. In this case, the support surface is the inclined surface described above; that is, the support surface is inclined.

[0035] Alternatively, the pressing device can also be one whose generated pressing force is independent of its own weight and therefore does not require an inclined contact surface. To generate a pressing force acting on the goods, this pressing device utilizes at least one elastically deformable deformation element, which is designed to release energy stored through elastic deformation as a pressing force on the goods. For example, the deformation element is a mechanical, particularly metallic, spring element, whose restoring force constitutes the pressing force on the goods.

[0036] The arrangement is designed as a profile rail and is configured, with respect to its longitudinal extent, to place goods in a row, one behind the other, on the support surface. In cross-section, the shelf element comprises a top and a bottom surface, with the support surface being assigned to the top surface. The bottom surface has a web extending longitudinally along at least one of the longitudinal ends of the shelf element, allowing it to be inserted into at least one recess of a shelf frame. The arrangement further includes a pressing device comprising a pressing element for transmitting the pressing force to the goods and a support element for the pressing element. This support element is movably connected to the shelf element to allow movement of the pressing element and the base body along the support surface.

[0037] Such an arrangement facilitates the modular construction of a shelf unit for a merchandise display device, such as a shelving unit, particularly the assembly of the individual modules. The shelf element serves a dual function. Firstly, it provides a surface on which merchandise can be placed, arranged in a row. Secondly, it acts as a support for the push-button mechanism. Easy assembly of this shelf element is facilitated by its slotted design, allowing for simple insertion.

[0038] The shelf element may be designed so that its underside has a rib at one of its longitudinal ends, extending lengthwise along the shelf element to be inserted into at least one recess of a shelf frame. Alternatively, the ribs may be formed as a section of a common, continuous rib. This reinforces the shelf element against forces acting perpendicular to its longitudinal direction.

[0039] In one embodiment, the shelf element, viewed in cross-section, has legs projecting laterally outwards from the at least one web. These legs serve as lateral guide surfaces, which correspond to counter-guide surfaces of the support part of the pressing device, thus forming a linear guide. This allows the pressing element of the pressing device to move along the longitudinal extension of the shelf element, causing the goods to slide down. This prevents any tilting of the pressing device when the pressing element moves during the goods' sliding process.

[0040] It is further provided that the support part of the pressing device has at least one securing surface which interacts with the underside of the shelf element and secures the pressing part against movement perpendicular to the mounting surface of the shelf element, i.e., against lifting the pressing part from the mounting surface of the shelf element. This provides a measure to securely hold the pressing device on the shelf element, particularly when the shelf element is installed on the shelf frame.

[0041] In order to move the pressing part of the pressing device in a longitudinal direction along the shelf element and to secure it against movement perpendicular to the mounting surface, it is provided, for example, that the legs of the shelf element extending laterally from the web are encompassed by the support part of the pressing device, forming a linear guide.

[0042] Furthermore, the support part of the pressing device is designed to have a slide which, together with the shelf element, forms the linear guide. The slide has at least two spaced-apart guide surfaces for lateral guidance of the profile rail. For example, the free ends of the legs each form the lateral guide surface for the profile rail.

[0043] It is advantageous for the shelf element to have a T-shaped cross-section, i.e., a T-profile, with at least one web forming one leg of the shelf element. This measure aims to implement the shelf element in a technically simple manner. For example, the T-profile is an equilateral T-profile. This means, in particular, that the at least one web divides the area of ​​the support surface into two legs of equal or substantially equal size. The shelf element can also have an L-shaped cross-section. For example, one leg of the L-profile then forms the at least one web, and the other leg has the support surface.

[0044] Furthermore, it is advantageous for the shelf element to be a metal part, particularly one made from an extruded part. For example, the shelf element could be made of or consist of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Alternatively, the shelf element could be a plastic part manufactured by extrusion. Another option would be a hybrid component, made of plastic and featuring, for example, a metallic reinforcement layer.

[0045] According to a further aspect of the invention, a shelf unit for a merchandise display device is provided. The shelf unit comprises a shelf frame with a front frame part, a rear frame part, and at least one, preferably two, side frame parts, which are preferably connected in a ring structure, wherein the front frame part and / or the rear frame part has at least one, preferably several or a plurality of insertion recesses. The shelf unit further comprises at least one, preferably several or a plurality of shelf elements, which have a surface for placing merchandise and are associated at their ends with the front frame part on one side and the rear frame part on the other. The shelf unit also comprises at least one, preferably several or a plurality of pressure devices for exerting a pressure force against the merchandise.

[0046] In the shelf unit, at least one of the shelf elements and at least one of the push-button devices are arranged and designed as described above. Furthermore, it is provided that the at least one shelf element is inserted with its at least one web into one of the insertion recesses of the shelf frame.

[0047] The shelf unit combines several functions in a single system. For example, the shelf unit allows items placed on one of the shelf elements to slide down if a gap is created by removing one or more items. For this purpose, the shelf unit has at least one push-fit device. The shelf unit also specifies an embodiment for a modular system design.

[0048] In one embodiment, a product stop is assigned to the front frame section, serving as a front stop for the row of goods. Additionally, a product divider can be arranged between adjacent base elements, acting as a lateral boundary for the row of goods. The product divider can have its longitudinal ends connected to the front frame section on one side and the rear frame section on the other, and one of its longitudinal ends can be inserted into one of the recesses. For example, the product divider can be inserted into one of the recesses at each of its longitudinal ends, with one recess located on the front frame section and the other on the rear frame section.

[0049] According to a further aspect of the invention, a product presentation device is provided. The product presentation device comprises at least one embodiment and / or configuration of the pressing device described above, and / or at least one embodiment and / or configuration of the arrangement described above, and / or at least one embodiment and / or configuration of the shelf unit described above. It may be provided that the surface on which the products are placed in the product presentation device is an inclined surface, for example, the inclined surface described above.

[0050] According to a further aspect of the invention, an extruded plastic profile is provided for manufacturing the support part of the aforementioned pressing device. The plastic profile has a plate-shaped upper part which has angled material sections on opposite sides, through which a slot-shaped passage is formed to create a recess for a shelf element.

[0051] Such a plastic profile can be cut to a predetermined length, which can then be used as a support element in the pressing device described above. For example, the plastic profile is made of, or contains, a material such as HDPE, PE, or PTFE.

[0052] Further details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of at least one embodiment with reference to the drawing.

[0053] They show: Fig. 1 shows a possible embodiment of a merchandise presentation device with a shelf element for placing merchandise and a pressing device for exerting a pressing force against the merchandise in a perspective view; Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of a pressing device and a shelf element in a perspective view; Figs. 3 and 4 show yet another embodiment of a pressing device in different perspective views; Fig. 5 shows a possible embodiment of a support part for the pressing devices. Figure 1 , 2 and 3 in perspective view, Fig. 6 the support part of the Figure 5 In a sectional view, Fig. 7 shows another possible embodiment of a support part for the pressing devices of the Figure 1 , 2 and 3 in perspective view, Fig. 8 the support part of the Figure 7In a sectional view, Fig. 9 shows a possible embodiment of a shelf unit with several shelf elements and their respective push-button devices in a perspective view, Fig. 10 shows the shelf unit of the Figure 9 in a sectional view from one side, Fig. 11 the shelf unit according to the Figure 9 as a section in the area of ​​one of the pressing devices in a perspective view from above, Fig. 12 the shelf unit according to the Figure 9 as a section in the area of ​​one of the pressing devices in a perspective view from below, Figs. 13 and 14; a further embodiment of a pressing device in different perspective views, Fig. 15; another possible embodiment of a support part for the pressing devices of the Figure 1 , 2 , 3 and 13 in perspective view and Fig. 16 the support part of the Figure 15 in a sectional view.

[0054] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows – in a schematic representation and in a detail – a possible embodiment of a merchandise display device 200, in particular a shelf or shelving system. The merchandise display device 200 comprises a front 210 and a back 220 and a shelf unit 100 arranged between them. The shelf unit 100 is designed to support several or a plurality of goods 400, which are shown by way of example in the Figure 1 are shown.

[0055] Preferably, the merchandise display device 200 has at least one, preferably several, vertical supports 230 to which the merchandise display device 200 is attached. For example, the vertical supports 230 are placed at one end, for example via a base, on a support surface 300, for example a substrate or floor. Preferably, the vertical supports 230 are connected to each other via cross braces 240.

[0056] Preferably, the shelf unit 100 comprises a shelf frame 60. The shelf frame 60 has, for example, a front frame part 61, a rear frame part 62, and at least one, preferably two, side frame parts 63, wherein the frame parts 61, 62, 63 are connected to form a ring structure. Preferably, the front frame part 61 is assigned to or facing the front 210 and the rear frame part 62 is assigned to or facing the rear 220 of the merchandise presentation device 200. Figure 1 Due to the depiction in a section, only one of the side frame parts 63 and only two of the vertical supports 230 are visible.

[0057] Preferably, the front frame part 61 and / or the rear frame part 62 has at least one, in particular several or a plurality of insertion recesses 65, 66. The insertion recesses 65, 66 are, for example, slot-shaped, with the longitudinal extent of the slot-shaped insertion recesses 65, 66 running parallel or substantially parallel to the side frame parts 63, 64. The insertion recesses 65, 66 serve to fasten functional parts of the shelf unit 100, which are described in more detail below by way of example.

[0058] As in the Figure 1 As can be seen, the goods 400 shown there are placed on a mounting surface 55 of a shelf element 50. Preferably, the shelf element 55 is elongated. Preferably, the shelf element 50 has its longitudinal ends 56.1, 56.2 ( Figure 2) attached, in particular fastened, on the one hand to the front frame part 61 and on the other hand to the rear frame part 62.

[0059] For example, the mounting surface 55 can be arranged at an angle. The mounting surface 55 then forms an inclined surface 40. The inclined surface 40 is oriented such that the front frame part 61 is lower than the rear frame part 62, so that the inclined surface 40 extends diagonally downwards towards the front frame part 61. For example, the inclined position of the mounting surface 55 can be achieved by placing the entire shelf unit 100 at an angle and mounting it in this inclined position on the vertical supports 230.

[0060] Preferably, the goods 400 are placed one behind the other in a row on the mounting surface 55, and preferably the row of goods 400 extends in the longitudinal direction of the shelf element 50. To prevent the foremost goods 410 in the row from falling out, a goods stop 70 is preferably assigned to the front frame part 61, which is formed, for example, by a strip projecting upwards from the front frame part 61.

[0061] The inclined position of the support surface 55 and the arrangement of the goods 400 in a single row enable the removal of one or more goods 400 to cause the remaining goods 400 to slide down, thus closing any gap in the row created by the removed goods. A pushing device 1 is preferably provided to assist and / or initiate this sliding down. For example, the pushing device 1 pushes against the rearmost goods 420 in the row, thereby exerting a pressing force F against the goods 400. The pushing device 1 utilizes its own weight, which, due to the inclined position of the support surface 55, has a force component that is parallel or substantially parallel to the support surface 55 and thus constitutes the pressing force F.Preferably, the pressing device 1 is connected to the shelf element 50 in such a way that the pressing device 1 can be moved freely at least in the longitudinal direction of the shelf element 50, so that the pressing device 1 can move along with the sliding goods.

[0062] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 1 The goods 400 are arranged between one of the side frame parts 63 and a divider 80, which serves as the lateral boundary for the row of goods 400. The divider 80 can be designed as a bracket. Preferably, the divider 80 is connected, in particular fastened, at its longitudinal ends 81.1, 81.2 to the front frame part 61 and to the rear frame part 62. Preferably, the longitudinal ends 81.1, 81.2 are inserted into one of the insertion recesses 65 of the front frame part 61 and / or into one of the insertion recesses 66 of the rear frame part 62.

[0063] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a possible embodiment of a pressing device 1' and a possible embodiment of a shelf element 50'. The pressing device 1' and the shelf element 50' are, for example, used in the shelf unit 100 of the merchandise presentation device 200 according to the Figure 1 usable. Components of the pressing device 1' and / or the shelf element 50' of the Figure 2 , which with the pressing device 1 and / or the shelf element 50 of the Figure 1 Items that are identical or functionally equivalent are marked with the same reference numerals. Therefore, reference is made to the description of the pressing device 1 or the shelf element 50 according to the Figure 1 referred.

[0064] The pressing device 1' comprises a pressing part 2 for transmitting the pressing force F to the goods 400 ( Figure 1The pressing device 1' further comprises a mass body M1, which has a predetermined mass in order to exert a defined weight force, thereby producing the pressure force F. For this purpose, the mass body M1 can have a base body 3 with at least one cavity 4, which is located in the partial section of the Figure 2 As can be seen, a predetermined quantity of a pourable and / or flowable material 5, such as sand, is preferably filled into the cavity 4 to generate the defined weight force. Preferably, the base body 3 has a filling opening 7, which forms an inlet into the cavity 4. A cover element 8 is also preferably provided to close the filling opening 7. For example, the cavity 4 also has a seal 9 to retain the filled material within the cavity 4.

[0065] The pressing device 1' further comprises a support element 6 that carries the pressing part 2 and the base body 3. The support element 6 is designed to be movably connected to the shelf element 50' to allow movement of the pressing part 2 and the base body 3 along the contact surface 55 of the shelf element 50'. The support element 6 and the shelf element 50' form a linear guide to move the support element 6 along the contact surface 55 of the shelf element 50'. The support element 6 has a slide 11 for this purpose.

[0066] Preferably, the pressure element 2 is formed by a wall section 10 of the base body 3. For example, the base body 3 has a pressure surface for transmitting the pressure force F. For example, the base body 3 is a dimensionally stable container. The dimensionally stable container can be a commercially available transport and / or storage container, which is used, for example, for storing and / or transporting liquids and / or bulk materials. Preferably, the container has a rectangular cross-section, for example, square, with the filling opening 7 and the associated lid element 8 preferably located at its upper end.

[0067] The shelf element 50' is a profile rail 52. For example, the shelf element 50' is a metal part and is made, for example, from an extruded part. Preferably, the shelf element 50' is an aluminum part and consists of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, or comprises aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Preferably, the shelf element 50' is configured, with respect to its longitudinal extent, to place goods in a row one behind the other on its support surface 55.

[0068] In cross-section, the shelf element 50' has a top surface 53 and a bottom surface 54, the top surface 53 being associated with the mounting surface 55, and the bottom surface 54 having a web 57.1 or 57.2 extending longitudinally along the shelf element 50' in the region of at least one of its longitudinal ends 56.1, 56.2, preferably in the region of the respective longitudinal end 56.1, 56.2. Preferably, the respective web 57.1 or 57.2 is formed as a section of a common, for example continuous, web 57. The web 57 forms an insertion section at the longitudinal ends 56.1, 56.2 of the shelf element 50', through which the shelf element 50' can be inserted into one of the insertion recesses 65 and / or into one of the insertion recesses 66 of the shelf frame 60.

[0069] Preferably, the contact surface 55 is formed by two legs 58.1, 58.2 projecting laterally outwards from the web 57. Preferably, the web 57 forms a further leg 58.3 of the shelf element 50'. For example, the shelf element 50' has a T-shaped cross-section. Preferably, the contact surface 55 has favorable sliding properties to facilitate sliding of the support part 6 of the pressing device 1' on the contact surface 55 of the shelf element 50'. For this purpose, the contact surface 55 can be formed on a sliding layer 59, which is applied as a coating to the upper surface 53 of the shelf element 50'.

[0070] Figures 3 and 4 show another possible embodiment of a pressing device 1", which is used in the shelf unit 100 of the merchandise presentation device 200 according to the Figure 1 can be used. Components of the pressing device 1", which are connected to the pressing device 1 of the Figure 1and / or the pressing device 1' of the Figure 2 Devices that are identical or functionally equivalent are marked with the same reference numerals. In this respect, reference is made to the description of the push-button device 1 or the push-button device 1'.

[0071] In the pressing device 1", the base body 3 is formed by a metallic container. This container is, for example, a commercially available transport and / or storage container for paints or similar liquids. For example, the container is made of or has tinplate. Preferably, the container is cylindrical and has a substantially horizontal end section on its upper surface, into which a filling opening 7' is provided for filling the pourable and / or flowable material 5. The filling opening 7' can be closed or is closed by a corresponding cover element 8'.

[0072] At its lower end, the container has a support element 6' that carries the container. The support element 6' is, like the support element 6 of the pressing device 1', according to the Figure 2 , set up to be movably connected to the mounting surface 55 of the shelf element 50' in order to allow movement of the push part 2 and the base body 3 along the mounting surface 55.

[0073] Figures 5 and 6 show the support part 6' in perspective view ( Figure 5 ) and in a sectional view ( Figure 6 Preferably, the support part 6' has a connection surface or contact surface 24 on its upper side, via which the connection with the base body 3 is established. Preferably, the base body 3 has a corresponding contact surface 28 ( Figure 4The contact surface 24 is preferably designed as an adhesive flange to attach the carrier part 6 to the base body 3 by means of adhesive bonding, for example using double-sided adhesive tape. In principle, the contact surface 24 can also be connected to the base body 3 using other joining techniques.

[0074] Preferably, the underside of the support part 6' is associated with a mounting surface 20, which, in the assembled state of the support part 6', faces the mounting surface 55 of the shelf element 50'. Preferably, the support part 6' has a plurality of local protrusions 21 on the mounting surface 20 in order to place or support the support part 6' on the mounting surface 55 of the shelf element 50'. The local protrusions 21 reduce the sliding surface area of ​​the mounting surface 55, thus facilitating any sliding of the support part 6' on the mounting surface 55 of the shelf element 50'. The protrusions 21 can be formed by the mounting surface 20 having a wave-like shape 22. The protrusions 21 are then formed by the crests or troughs of the wave-like shape 22. The waveform 22 can be part of a sliding coating to improve the sliding properties of the surface.

[0075] Figures 7 and 8show a possible embodiment of a carrier part 6", which is used in the pressing device 1" of the Figures 3 and 4 This may be the case. In contrast to the support part 6', the 6" support part... Figures 5 and 6 The protrusions 21 on the mounting side 20 are formed by several distributed ribs 23. Preferably, the ribs 23 extend with their longitudinal extent in the direction of movement of the support part 6" onto or along the shelf element 50', in case of slippage due to the removal of goods.

[0076] The support elements 6' and 6" each have spaced-apart guide surfaces 14, 15 to interact with counter-guide surfaces of the shelf element 50', forming a linear guide. Preferably, the guide surfaces 14, 15 are arranged transversely to the mounting side 20, and in particular perpendicularly to the mounting side 20. For example, the guide surfaces 14, 15 are each formed by material sections 18, 19 projecting laterally downwards from the underside.

[0077] For example, the material sections 18, 19 are each arranged on legs 12, 13, which project laterally outwards from a base body 29 having a contact surface 24. Preferably, the guide surfaces 14, 15 are arranged at a distance from each other to accommodate the shelf element 50' between them. For example, the counter-guide surfaces used by the shelf element 50' are formed by end faces of the shelf element 50', which are arranged transversely to the mounting surface 55 and extend longitudinally in the direction of the shelf element 50'.

[0078] The support section 6' or 6" is also secured against being lifted off the shelf element 50'. For this purpose, securing surfaces 16, 17 are provided, which are arranged at a distance from a sliding surface 27 of the support section 6' or 6" and parallel to it or substantially parallel to it. Preferably, the securing surfaces 16, 17 are formed on the material sections 18, 19. Preferably, the material sections 18, 19 are each designed such that, in the installed state of the support part 6' or 6" on the shelf element 50', they encompass the free ends of the legs 58.1, 58.2, in particular forming a insertion recess 30. The pressing device 1' is mounted on the shelf element 50' by sliding the support part 6' or 6" onto it from an end end 56.1 or 56.2 of the shelf element 50' in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the shelf element 50'.

[0079] The above-described design of the support part 6' or 6" with its guide surfaces 14, 15 and the material sections 18, 19 can also be used for the support part 6 of the Figure 2 The above-described design of the support part 6' or 6" with its securing surfaces 16, 17 can also be realized in the support part 6 of the Figure 2 to be realized.

[0080] In contrast to the support part 6' of the Figures 5 and 6 is in the case of the carrier part 6 of the pressing device 1' according to the Figure 2An embodiment is shown which comprises two spaced-apart parts 25, 26, between which the shelf element 50' can be inserted. For example, each of the parts 25, 26 is connected to the base body 3 via a contact surface provided on its upper side, for example by adhesive bonding. In the installed state of the pressing device 1' on the shelf element 50', each of the parts 25, 26 preferably rests on the mounting surface 55, wherein, for example, in the area between the parts 25, 26, the underside of the base body 3 is located at a distance from the mounting surface 55. For example, a gap is provided between the underside of the base body 3 and the mounting surface 55.

[0081] Figure 9 shows a shelf unit 100'' which is integrated into the merchandise display device 200 of the Figure 1can be installed. The shelf unit 100'' has the shelf frame 60 described above, with the front frame part 61, the rear frame part 62, and the side frame parts 63, wherein the front frame part 61 and the rear frame part 62 have a plurality of the insertion receptacles 65, 66 described above.

[0082] In the 100" shelf unit, a hinge element 68 or 69 can be mounted on each of the side frame sections 63. The hinge element 68 or 69 can be a telescopic hinge, allowing the 100" shelf unit to be slid out from an installed position to a refilling position. The shelf frame 60 can be tilted relative to the hinge elements 68, 69. For this purpose, a mechanism can be provided by the respective side frame section 63 and the associated hinge element 68, 69 to achieve stepless or stepped tilting to various angles.

[0083] In the 100" shelf unit, a plurality of the shelf elements 50' already described above are provided, which are spaced apart from each other between the side frame parts 63 and are each supported on one side by the front frame part 61 and on the other side by the rear frame part 62, preferably with their respective web 57 inserted into one of the insertion receptacles 65, 66 of the front frame part 61 or rear frame part 62.

[0084] The push-button device 1" described above is attached to the respective shelf element 50' or to at least some of the shelf elements 50'. Figures 3 and 4provided. Additionally or alternatively, the push devices 1 and / or 1' can also be provided there. Additionally or alternatively, the shelf elements 50 can also be provided there. By way of example, the push devices 1" are shown in the area of ​​the rear end of the shelf unit 100", i.e., in the area of ​​the rear frame part 62. If the contact surfaces 55 of the shelf elements 1" are tilted, the push devices 1" would automatically slide forward from this rear position.

[0085] Preferably, a product stop, for example of the type described above, is provided on the front frame section 61. Preferably, the product stop extends continuously between the side frame sections 63. A functional strip 71 can also be provided on the front frame section 61, which can, for example, be used as a holder for price tags. A product divider 80' is provided between each adjacent shelf element; this divider can be, for example, a flat surface, and in particular made of a flat profile or sheet metal part. Preferably, the product dividers 80' are inserted at their ends into one of the insertion recesses 65 and / or into one of the insertion recesses 66 of the front frame section 61 or the rear frame section 62.

[0086] Defined sliding tracks for goods are formed by the product dividers 80' and the side frame parts 63. Goods can be placed in a row, one behind the other, onto the designated support surface of at least one shelf element 50'. The goods are then located between the product stop 70 and the associated push-button device 1". It is also possible to have more than one shelf element 50' between the product dividers 80'. For example, at least two such shelf elements 50' can be provided.

[0087] Figure 10 Figure 1 shows the arrangement and design of the shelf unit 100" in a side view, with one of the side frame parts 63 and the associated hinge element 68 omitted. Figures 11 and 12Each shows a section in the area of ​​one of the pressing devices 1", which is connected to the associated shelf element 50', wherein, for example, at least one of the pressing devices 1" is arranged on the associated shelf element 50' in the form of the linear guide described above, and in particular is held.

[0088] Figure 13 and 14 show another possible embodiment of a pressing device 1‴, which is used in the shelf unit 100 of the merchandise presentation device 200 according to the Figure 1 usable. Components of the pressing device 1‴, which are connected to the pressing device 1 of the Figure 1 and / or the pressing device 1' of the Figure 2 and / or the pressing device 1" of the Figure 3 Devices that are identical or functionally equivalent are marked with the same reference numerals. In this respect, reference is made to the description of the pressing device 1, the pressing device 1', or the pressing device 1" respectively.

[0089] The pressing device 1‴ of the Figure 13 and 14 This differs from pressing device 1, pressing device 1', and pressing device 1" among other things, in that a mass body M2 is provided which has a base body 3‴, wherein the base body 3‴ is preferably produced by primary forming. Preferably, the base body 3‴ is formed from or comprises a hardened concrete material. Preferably, the concrete material comprises cement and an aggregate, such as quartz sand. Preferably, the cement is provided in a ratio of between 1:2 and 1:4 to the aggregate. For example, the ratio is approximately 1:3, where one part cement is present compared to three parts aggregate.

[0090] To protect the base body 3‴ from mold growth, the base body 3‴ is preferably surface-treated. Preferably, this involves an impregnation that partially or completely surrounds the base body 3‴, which on the one hand prevents the penetration of moisture or other foreign substances into the base body 3‴ and on the other hand allows the surface of the base body 3‴ to remain vapor-permeable. The vapor-permeable surface ensures that any residual moisture in the concrete material from the manufacturing process can dry out.

[0091] Preferably, the mass body M2 or the base body 3‴ is designed as a hexahedron. For example, the mass body M2 or the base body 3‴ has a cube shape or an elongated cube shape, in which the four opposing base faces are rectangular. The opposing base faces have a height H, which extends from the underside, i.e., the side with the counter-contact surface 28, to a free upper end. Preferably, the height H has a ratio of 1:1.2 to 1:3 with respect to the length L of the support part 6‴, where the length L refers to the extent of the support part 6‴ in the direction of movement of the pressing device 1‴. Figure 14 ).

[0092] For example, in a cube-shaped base body 3‴, the ratio between the length L and the height H is 1 to 1.5. Preferably, the ratio between the length L and the height H in the solid body M2 with rectangular opposite sides is 1 to 2.

[0093] Figures 15 and 16 show the carrier part 6‴ of the pressing device 1‴ of the Figure 14In standalone configuration. In contrast to support part 6' and support part 6", the base body 29 of support part 6‴ is designed without a raised contact surface. In support part 6‴, the contact surface 24 is formed on the upper surface of the base body 29, which preferably lies continuously in one plane. Support part 6‴ preferably has a sliding surface 27' which is straight or substantially straight. Support part 6‴ is preferably a one-piece molded plastic part. Support part 6‴ is preferably formed by or has a sliding material, at least in the area of ​​the sliding surface 27'. For example, such a material is HDPE.

[0094] The key values ​​for the areas mentioned in this description also include the key values ​​themselves for the respective area. Furthermore, any individual values ​​contained within the named areas are also included. Reference symbol list

[0095] 1 Pushing device 1' Pushing device 1" Pushing device 1‴ Pushing device 2 Pushing part 3 Base body 3‴ Base body 4 Cavity 5 Material 6 Support part 6' Support part 6" Support part 6‴ Support part 7 Filling opening 7' Filling opening 8 Cover element 8' Cover element 9 Seal 10 Wall section 11 Slide 12 Leg 13 Leg 14 Guide surface 15 Guide surface 16 Locking surface 17 Locking surface 18 Material section 19 Material section 20 Mounting side 21 Raises 22 Wave shape 23 Ribs 24 Contact surface 25 Part 26 Part 27 Sliding surface 27' Sliding surface 28 Counter-contact surface 29 Base body 30 Insertion receptacle 40 sloping surface 50 Shelf element 50' Shelf element 52 Profile rail 53 Top 54 Bottom 55 Mounting surface 56.1 End 56.2 End 57 Web 57.1 Web 57.2 Web 58.1 Leg 58.2 Leg 58.3 Leg 59 Slip layer 60 Shelf frame 61 Front frame part 62 Rear frame part 63 Side frame parts 65 Insertion slots 66 Insertion slots 68 Hinge element 69 Hinge element 70 Shopping stopper 71 Function bar 80 product divider 80' product divider 81.1 End 81.2 End 100 shelf unit 100" shelf unit 200 Merchandise display device 210 Front 220 Back 230 Vertical supports 240 Cross braces 300 footprint 400 Goods 410 First goods 420 Last goods FPressure force M1Mass body M2Mass body HHeight LLength

Claims

1. Pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) for applying a compressive force (F) against products (400) of a product display device (200), comprising a pressing part (2) for transmitting the compressive force (F) to the products, and a mass body (M1; M2) having a predefined mass for applying a defined weight force by which the compressive force (F) is effected, and further comprising a support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6‴) carrying the mass body (M1; M2), which is configured to be movably connected to an inclined surface (40) carrying the products (400), in order to allow the movement of the pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) along the inclined surface (40), wherein the support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6‴) comprises a carriage (11) to form a linear guide with a shelf element (50; 50') having the inclined surface (40) and designed as a profile rail (52), comprising two guide surfaces (14, 15) spaced apart from one another for laterally guiding the profile rail (52), a sliding surface (27) arranged between the guide surfaces (14, 15) for sliding on the inclined surface (40) and two securing surfaces (16, 17) in order to secure the carriage (11) against detachment from the profile rail (52) in a direction orthogonal to the inclined surface (40), characterized in that the two guide surfaces (14, 15), the two securing surfaces (16, 17) and the sliding surface (27) form two U-shaped sections of the carriage (11), which are facing towards each other, in order to receive the profile rail (52).

2. Pressing device according to claim 1, wherein the mass body (M1) comprises a base body (3) with at least one cavity (4), in which a predetermined quantity of a pourable and / or flowable material (5) is filled in order to generate the defined weight force.

3. Pressing device according to claim 1, wherein the mass body (M2) comprises a primary-formed base body (3‴) which is formed from a solidified concrete material or comprises such a material.

4. Pressing device according to claim 3, wherein the base body (3‴) is surface-treated in order to prevent the penetration of moisture or other foreign substances.

5. Pressing device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the mass body (M2) has an impregnation partially or completely surrounding the base body (3‴), by means of which the penetration of moisture or other foreign substances into the base body (3‴) is prevented and, furthermore, the surface of the base body (3‴) remains open to diffusion.

6. Pressing device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support part (6'; 6") comprises local elevations (21) arranged on a set-down side (20) in order thereby to set down the support part (6) on the inclined surface (40).

7. Pressing device according to one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6‴) is fastened to the base body (3; 3‴).

8. Pressing device according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6‴) has a contact surface (24) and the mass body (M1; M2) and / or the base body (3; 3‴) has a counter-contact surface (28), which are formed as adhesive surfaces and via which the support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6‴) and the mass body (M1; M2) and / or the base body (3; 3‴) are fastened to one another by means of an adhesive.

9. Pressing device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6‴) is an integrally molded plastic part, which consists of a plastic material, in particular a PEHD, or comprises such a material.

10. Assembly comprising a shelf element (50; 50') having a set-down surface (55) for products (400) and comprising a pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the shelf element (50; 50') is formed as a profile rail (52) and is configured, in relation to the longitudinal extension of the shelf element (50; 50'), to set down the products (400) in a row one behind the other on the set-down surface (55), and the shelf element (50; 50'), as viewed in cross-section, comprises an upper side (53) and a lower side (54), wherein the set-down surface (55) is assigned to the upper side (53) and a bar (57.1; 57.2) is assigned to the lower side (54) in the region of at least one of the longitudinal ends (56.1, 56.2) of the shelf element (50), which bar extends in the longitudinal direction of the shelf element (50), in order to be inserted into at least one insertion receptacle (65; 66) of a shelf frame (60), wherein the support part (6; 6'; 6") of the pressing device (1; 1'; 1" ; 1‴) is movably connected to the shelf element (50; 50') in order to allow the movement of the pressing part (2) along the set-down surface (55).

11. Assembly according to claim 10, wherein, viewed in cross-section, the shelf element (50; 50') has legs (58.1, 58.2) projecting laterally outwardly from the at least one bar (57.1; 57.2), which are encompassed by the support part (6) of the pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴), forming a linear guide, in order to move the pressing part (2) of the pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) in a guided manner in the longitudinal extension of the shelf element (50; 50') and to secure it against movement transversely to the set-down surface (55).

12. Shelf unit (100; 100"), comprising a shelf frame (60) comprising a front frame part (61), a rear frame part (62) and at least one, preferably two, lateral frame parts (63), which are connected to form an annular structure, wherein the front frame part (61) and / or the rear frame part (62) has at least one, preferably several or a plurality of insertion receptacles (65, 66); at least one, preferably several or a plurality of shelf elements (50; 50'), which have a set-down surface (55) for products (400) and are assigned at the ends on one side to the front frame part (61) and on the other side to the rear frame part (62); at least one, preferably several or a plurality of pressing devices (1; 1'; 1") for applying a compressive force (F) against the products; wherein at least one of the shelf elements (50; 50') and at least one of the pressing devices (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) are present in an assembly according to claim 10 or 11 and are designed accordingly, and the at least one shelf element (50; 50') is inserted with the bar (57.1; 57.2) into one of the insertion receptacles (65, 66) of the shelf frame (60).

13. Product display device (200), comprising at least one pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1''') according to one of claims 1 to 9 and / or at least one assembly according to one of claims 10 to 11 and / or at least one shelf unit (100; 100") according to claim 12.

14. Extruded plastic profiled element for manufacturing the support part (6; 6'; 6"; 6''') of a pressing device (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) according to one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a plate-like upper part having material sections angled towards one another on opposite sides, through which a slot-like passage is formed in order to form an insertion receptacle (30) for a shelf element (50; 50').

Images