palette

Abstract

A platform including a deck, the deck providing a product support surface for supporting an article thereon. The deck is defined by a plurality of sidewalls extending from a peripheral edge of the product support surface. The platform further includes attachment features disposed along one or more of the sidewalls. The attachment features include an inner slot and an outer recess. The inner slot and the outer recess are disposed adjacent to one another and separated by a divider. The inner slot includes one or more inwardly directed protrusions, and the outer recess includes one or more outwardly directed protrusions. The protrusions extend from the divider and are configured to engage corresponding protrusion-engagement features of an article supported by the product support surface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a platform, a pallet, a pallet display assembly, and a quarter-size display. [Background technology]

[0002] Pallets for use in shipping products from one location to another and as store display pallets are well known. Such pallets may come in a variety of sizes, such as full-size pallets, half-size pallets, and quarter-size pallets. Examples of such pallets include a platform with pallet supports that may include legs, skids, and wheels. The wheels may be incorporated into a dolly, which may also be referred to as a wheeled pallet. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is desirable to be able to incorporate various features into pallets, however, to effectively incorporate such features may require modifications to existing pallet designs.

[0004] There is a need to overcome one or more of the drawbacks associated with existing pallets. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a platform comprising a deck, the deck having a product support surface for supporting an article thereon; The deck is defined by a plurality of side walls extending from a peripheral edge of the product support surface; the platform further comprises mounting features disposed along one or more of the side walls; the mounting feature includes an internal slot and an external recess; The inner slot and the outer recess are disposed adjacent to each other and separated by a divider; the inner slot comprises one or more inward protrusions; the outer recess includes one or more outward protrusions; The protrusions extend from the divider and are configured to engage corresponding protrusion engagement features on an article supported by the product support surface; The platform is provided.

[0006] The inner slot and the outer recess being adjacent to each other can also be described as being directly opposite each other. That is, the inner slot and the outer recess can be aligned with a line perpendicular to the edge of the product support surface. Each sidewall can be said to extend longitudinally. Adjacent to each other is intended to mean the same longitudinal position relative to or along the sidewall.

[0007] The interior slot and exterior recess can be said to be recessed into the product support surface.

[0008] The mounting features may be said to be located along or aligned with the sidewalls.

[0009] The inner slot and the outer recess being separated by a divider can also be described as the inner slot and the outer recess being at least partially defined by the divider.

[0010] The divider may comprise a wall. The divider may be described as rib-like. The divider may have a substantially uniform thickness. The top surface of the divider may at least partially define the product support surface. That is, at least a portion of the top surface of the divider may be flush with the product support surface.

[0011] The inward direction refers to the direction from the sidewall toward the center point of the product support surface (i.e., across the product support surface, toward the center of the product support surface). The outward direction refers to the direction from the center point of the product support surface toward the sidewall (i.e., across the product support surface, away from the center of the product support surface).

[0012] At least a portion of the protrusion may protrude perpendicularly from the divider.

[0013] The protruding engagement feature may be a tab with a hole or aperture punched therein. The protruding engagement feature may be a connecting flap. The protruding engagement feature may also be described as a fastening means.

[0014] An advantage of locating both the inner slot and the outer recess adjacent to one another is that an item supported by the product support surface can be configured to use either the inner slot or the outer recess as an attachment means. This provides greater design flexibility compared to other configurations that do not incorporate such aligned features. For example, when connecting a display to a platform using an inward protrusion that engages a tab, the tab can be hidden from view because it is offset from the edge of the display's base and is hidden by the base during use. However, this may be offset by the need to insert the tab more precisely into the inner slot (because both the tab and the inner slot are offset). In contrast, when connecting a display using an outward protrusion that engages a tab, insertion can be quicker and does not require as much precision as a connection with an inward protrusion. Thus, the outward protrusion can be used in an automatic or semi-automatic insertion process, while the tab can remain visible or exposed during use. In short, these alternatives offer their own advantages and by aligning both with each other, the designer can use the connection that is best suited for the display or more generally for the item in question.

[0015] The mounting feature may be located at the midpoint of the sidewall.

[0016] The platform may include a plurality of mounting features, at least one mounting feature located along each of the four side walls of the deck.

[0017] The mounting features may be substantially identical mounting features.The deck may be generally rectangular.

[0018] The deck may be generally rectangular, with two side walls being short side walls and two side walls being long side walls.

[0019] A plurality of mounting features may be disposed along each of the two long side walls and one mounting feature may be disposed along each of the two short side walls.

[0020] The mounting features disposed along each of the two short side walls may be located at the midpoint of each of the two short side walls.

[0021] The plurality of mounting feature configurations disposed along each of the two long side walls may include two mounting feature configurations, which may be located at approximately 25% and approximately 75% of the length of the long side walls, respectively.

[0022] By "attachment features are located at approximately 25% and approximately 75% of the length of the long side wall," it is intended to mean that if the length of the long side wall is divided into two equal sections, the attachment features would be located at the midpoint of each of the two sections. In other words, if the length of the long side wall is divided into four sections, the attachment features would be located at the intersection between the first and second sections and the third and fourth sections.

[0023] Advantageously, when the platform is a half pallet platform, the provision of attachment features as described above allows two quarter pallet displays to be connected to the half pallet. This is because at least three attachment features are provided at each end of the platform in locations similar to the attachment points on the quarter pallet. That is, the footprint occupied by the attachment features is generally similar to the footprint occupied by the attachment points on two adjacent quarter pallets. In other words, the distribution of attachment features on the half pallet platform generally maps to the distribution of attachment points on the quarter pallets.

[0024] The divider may include a wall having a recess.

[0025] The recess may be generally trapezoidal, i.e., the top width of the recess is greater than the bottom width of the recess.

[0026] The recess may define a gap between the product support surface and the divider, i.e., the recess reduces the height of the wall relative to the product support surface over at least a portion of the wall. The recess may be said to be located at the top of the wall. The recess may be said to be located at the center of the top of the wall.

[0027] The recess may define multiple portions of the wall that lie in the plane of the product support surface.

[0028] The plurality of portions may be two portions. The portion of the wall that lies in the plane of the product support surface may also be described as the portion that at least partially defines the product support surface.

[0029] Advantageously, recesses can be incorporated without significantly reducing the support provided by the product support surface. That is, because these portions lie within the plane of the product support surface, an item placed on the product support surface is also supported by these portions. Thus, these portions provide support for the item in areas where the item would otherwise not be supported (due to the absence of the product support surface in those areas).

[0030] The platform may be a half pallet platform.

[0031] Half pallet platform refers to a platform that is part of a half pallet. The dimensions of a half pallet platform may be 800mm x 600mm (excluding the thickness of the platform).

[0032] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pallet, comprising: a platform according to the first aspect of the present invention; one or more pallet supports connected to the platform; A pallet comprising:

[0033] Examples of pallet supports include legs, wheels, and skids.

[0034] The pallet support or supports may be separate components so that the pallet is modular. Alternatively, the pallet supports may be integrally formed with the platform.

[0035] The pallet may include a platform and three skids connected to the platform, the skids extending along the short sides of the platform.

[0036] The pallet may be a quarter pallet.

[0037] The quarter pallet may be an AU, EU, or US quarter pallet. If the pallet is a quarter pallet, all of the attachment features may be located along the midpoint of the side walls. An attachment feature may be located along the midpoint of each side wall.

[0038] The pallet may be a 1 / 6 pallet.

[0039] A 1 / 6 pallet refers to a pallet that is 1 / 6 the size of a standard full-size pallet. A 1 / 6 pallet can be an AU1 / 6 pallet.

[0040] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pallet display assembly comprising: a half pallet having a deck with a product support surface; Two quarter-size displays connected to the deck, A pallet display assembly is provided, including:

[0041] Quarter size display is intended to mean a display designed for use with a quarter pallet, i.e., a quarter pallet display. For example, a quarter size display may be intended for use with a quarter pallet having a footprint of 400mm x 600mm.

[0042] The half pallet may be an EU half pallet, i.e. the deck may be 800mm x 600mm.

[0043] The use of two quarter-pallet displays on the product support surface of a half pallet advantageously allows two displays to be used on a single pallet. This allows, for example, twice the amount of merchandise and products placed on the display to be moved, stored, and displayed using the half pallet. Furthermore, this particular size assembly is beneficial because quarter-pallet platforms are popular in retail environments, meaning there are many existing display designs available. Therefore, the use of a half pallet in the claimed manner, i.e., to support two quarter-pallet displays, allows the half pallet to be used with existing quarter-pallet displays. This may be particularly desirable in larger retail environments, where it is desirable to have multiple quarter-pallet displays adjacent to one another. This can now be achieved using a single half pallet, whereas previously requiring the use of two quarter pallets. The associated efficiency gains include the ability for a single half pallet to serve the functions of two individual quarter pallets.

[0044] The two quarter size displays can be said to engage directly with the half pallet. The two quarter size displays can be said to engage with mounting features on the half pallet, specifically mounting features on the deck. The protruding engagement features on the quarter size displays can be said to engage with mounting features on the half pallet. The two quarter size displays can be said to be connected to a product support surface.

[0045] The deck can be said to define a product support surface.

[0046] The half pallet may comprise a half pallet platform according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0047] The half pallet includes one or more mounting feature configurations and the quarter size display includes one or more protrusion engagement features that can engage with respective protrusions of the one or more mounting feature configurations.

[0048] The protrusions may be either inwardly or outwardly facing. Each attachment feature may engage with a respective protrusion engagement feature.

[0049] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a quarter size display for a pallet, comprising: a structure for supporting product thereon, the structure comprising a base configured to engage a product support surface of the pallet; a plurality of projection engagement features extending from the base and configured to engage corresponding outward projections on the pallet, the projection engagement features being disposed along each midpoint of at least three sides of the base; A quarter-size display is provided, comprising:

[0050] The base may be rectangular. The dimensions of the base may be approximately 400 mm x 600 mm.

[0051] A product can also be described as a commodity. A product can also be referred to as an item displayed on a display.

[0052] When the protrusion engagement feature is a tab of some kind, it may incorporate a generally square or rectangular aperture, i.e., the aperture may be or include a geometric shape having two pairs of generally parallel sides, which aperture geometries have been found to be particularly effective when used with outwardly directed protrusions.

[0053] The two quarter size displays may include a quarter size display according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0054] Both quarter size displays may be according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0055] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0056] [Figure 1a] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a half pallet according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1b is an enlarged perspective view of the mounting features of the half pallet of FIG. 1a. [Figure 1c] FIG. 1c is an enlarged plan view of the mounting feature shown in FIG. 1b. [Figure 1d] FIG. 1c is an enlarged perspective cutaway view of the mounting feature shown in FIG. 1b. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of two quarter-size displays on a half pallet according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pallet display assembly with two quarter-size displays on a half pallet. [Figure 4a] 1 is a perspective view of a quarter pallet according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4b] FIG. 4b is a plan view of the quarter pallet shown in FIG. 4a. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] This application relates to three main concepts. The first concept relates to a novel design of a platform that incorporates mounting features into one or more of its side walls. The second concept relates to a pallet display assembly that incorporates two quarter-size displays into a single half-pallet. The third concept relates to the quarter-size display.

[0058] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a pallet 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Pallet 100 includes a platform 102 and three skids 104a-104c. In other embodiments, the pallet may be formed from a single homogenous body (i.e., a quarter pallet).

[0060] Platform 102 comprises a deck 106, the thickness of which is shown in FIG. 1a. Deck 106 comprises a product support surface 108. Product support surface 108 is for supporting articles thereon. Examples of articles include merchandise, products, and displays, or combinations thereof. Product support surface 108 further comprises an array 109 of diamond cutouts. The array can be used to provide drainage, for branding purposes, and can also be used in mounting articles such as displays on deck 106, as will be described in more detail below.

[0061] The platform 102 further comprises a plurality of blocks 111 (only one of which is visible in FIG. 1a). The blocks 111 may be located between the deck 106 and the skids 104a-104c. The blocks 111 may be formed integrally with the deck 106.

[0062] The deck 106 is defined by a plurality of side walls 110a-110d that extend from the peripheral (e.g., outer) edges of the product support surface 108.

[0063] The pallet 100 shown in FIG. 1a is a half pallet. The deck 106, in the illustrated embodiment, is also generally rectangular. Thus, the deck 106 has two short sides and two long sides. The short sides correspond to side walls 110b, 110d, while the long sides correspond to side walls 110a and 110c. As can be seen from FIG. 1a, the deck 106 incorporates several different features for drainage and to adapt the pallet 100 to a variety of specific uses. Two such uses include use of the pallet 100 as a display pallet (i.e., a display is supported by the product support surface 108) and use as a slave pallet (i.e., other pallets are stacked on the product support surface 108).

[0064] For purposes of this concept, features of particular interest are the various mounting features, specifically the mounting feature arrangements located along sidewalls 110a-110d. One such mounting feature is circled and labeled 112 in Figure 1a. Figure 1b is an enlarged view of mounting feature arrangement 112 shown in Figure 1a.

[0065] 1b, the mounting feature arrangement 112 comprises two main features: an outer recess 114 and an inner slot 116. The inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 are so named because they are located near the sidewall 110a of the deck 106. Specifically, the outer recess 114 is referred to as an outer feature because it is closer to the sidewall 110a than the inner slot 116.

[0066] The inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 are adjacent to one another in that they are directly opposite one another. That is, the inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 are aligned with a line perpendicular to the edge of the product support surface 108. An example of such a line across the product support surface 108 is shown in FIG. 1b and is labeled 117. Furthermore, the inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 are separated by a divider 118. The divider 118 may be described as a wall, rib, or web that extends at least partially across the product support surface 108. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the divider 118 may be in the plane of the product support surface 108. That is, the divider 118 may at least partially define the product support surface 108. The inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 may also be said to be at least partially defined by the divider 118. The inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 can be said to be directly opposite each other about the divider 118 .

[0067] The outer recess 114 includes one or more protrusions 120a-120c. In the illustrated configuration, the outer recess 114 includes three wedge-shaped protrusions 120a-120c. The wedge-shaped protrusions are so named because they are generally triangular and their protrusion increases along the product support surface 108 in a direction away from the center of the product support surface 108. The protrusions 120a-120c are outward protrusions. That is, the protrusions 120a-120c protrude away from a center point on the product support surface 108. The three wedge-shaped protrusions 120a-120c are configured to engage with corresponding protrusion-engagement features on an item, such as a display, supported by the product support surface 108. In other words, the protrusions 120a-120c can be used to grip, engage, or secure an item supported on the product support surface 108. The protruding engagement features of the article may be, for example, perforated tabs or connecting flaps. Thus, the protrusions 120a-120c can securely hold and secure the protruding engagement features within the outer recess 114. Consequently, the article of which the protruding engagement features are a part is also secured on or against the product support surface 108. When the protruding engagement features are some types of tabs, they may incorporate generally square or rectangular holes. That is, the holes may be or include a geometric shape with two pairs of generally parallel sides. Such hole geometries have been found to be particularly effective when used with outwardly directed protrusions, as discussed above.

[0068] Although three protrusions 120a-120c are illustrated, other numbers of protrusions may be used. For example, more or fewer protrusions may alternatively be incorporated. All of the protrusions 120a-120c may engage with, for example, a single hole or aperture that is part of the protrusion engagement feature. Alternatively, each protrusion 120a-120c may engage with a respective hole or aperture.

[0069] Similar to the outer recess 114, the inner slot 116 includes a protrusion 122 extending from the divider 118. However, the protrusion 122 projects inward (i.e., toward the center point of the product support surface 108). In this case, the protrusion 122 is a tongue, more preferably an at least partially spherical tongue. Similarly, the protrusion 122 is configured to engage with a protrusion-engaging feature on an item, such as a display, supported by the product support surface 108. If the protrusion-engaging feature is some type of tab, it may incorporate an at least partially arcuate hole. The hole may be described as partially spherical or hemispherical. At least partially arcuate holes have been found to be advantageous when used with inward protrusions, as discussed above. The inner slot 116 may be generally rectangular, optionally including arcuate sides, and is recessed below the product support surface 108. Further details regarding the inner slot 116 are provided below.

[0070] As previously mentioned, the divider 118 can be said to at least partially define the interior slot 116 and the exterior recess 114. Additionally, the divider 118, in the illustrated configuration, includes a wall 119 having a recess 121. The wall 119 has a uniform thickness, and protrusions 120a-120c, 122 extend from the wall 119. The recess 121 is generally trapezoidal, defining two portions 123a, 123b of the wall 119 that lie in the plane of the product support surface 108. Between the two portions 123a, 123b is an upper width of the recess 121, generally indicated by arrow 125. The lower width of the recess is labeled 127. The lower and upper widths of the recess 121 can be thought of as analogous to the parallel sides of a trapezoid.

[0071] The presence of portions 123a, 123b is advantageous because it provides greater support for any item placed on product support surface 108. Specifically, without these portions 123a, 123b, a larger cavity would exist between inner slot 116 and outer recess 114 where the item would not be supported by product support surface 108. Stated another way, it is advantageous to remove as little of product support surface 108 as possible so as not to adversely affect support for the item. This can be achieved by providing recess 117 that defines portions 123a, 123b that lie in the plane of product support surface 108. Otherwise, the lack of support from product support surface 108 could result in damage or undue deformation of the item.

[0072] Mounting features 112 allow point-of-sale (POS) displays, typically made of cardboard, to be attached to pallet 100. The POS displays may be pre-loaded with merchandise or products so that a loaded pallet can be placed on the store floor (for example) without the need to manually restock shelves. Mounting features 112 also provide a convenient and user-friendly way to disassemble the pallet display assembly by removing the displays from the pallet when no longer needed.

[0073] An advantage provided by locating both the inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 adjacent to one another is that items supported by the product support surface 108 can be configured to use either the inner slot 116 or the outer recess 114 as an attachment means. This provides greater design flexibility compared to other configurations that do not incorporate such aligned features. An additional advantage of this configuration is that connection options, such as tabs for attaching a POS display, can be located in a position that provides the best protection for the POS display. In other words, the risk of damage to the POS display can be reduced.

[0074] The use of inner slots 116 or outer recesses 114 can provide various aesthetic and functional advantages as desired by the designer and / or as required by the display environment. For example, if the designer wants to hide a protruding engagement feature, such as a tab, the designer can utilize inner slots 116 (i.e., design the tab to fit into inner slot 116). If the designer wants the protruding engagement feature to be easily accessible, the designer can utilize outer recesses 114 instead.

[0075] The inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 may provide attachment or connection to the protruding engagement features with similar efficiency and resistance to one another, that is, the inner slot 116 and the outer recess 114 may provide similar performance during use, but may differ from one another for aesthetic and / or ergonomic purposes.

[0076] In the example shown in FIG. 1a, there are six mounting features 112 disposed along the side walls 110a-110d of the deck 106. Specifically, two mounting features 112 are disposed along the long sides 110a-110c, and one mounting feature 112 is disposed along the short sides 110b-110d. That is, at least one mounting feature 112 is disposed along each side wall 110a-110d. Features 112 are disposed along an axis of symmetry along each short side 110b-110d, and are disposed equidistant from the central skid 104b along the long sides 110a-110c. This configuration of mounting features therefore provides at least one axis of symmetry across the deck 106. The distribution or location of the components 112 on the long sides 110a, 110c can also be described as the components being located at approximately 25% and approximately 75% of the length of the long sides 110a, 110c.

[0077] Incorporating multiple mounting features also allows a POS display to be secured on multiple sides, preferably all sides. This reduces the risk of damage to the POS display during handling, storage, and transportation. The combination of a pallet and its attached display is sometimes referred to as a Retail Ready Solution (RRP). The use of multiple mounting features also allows the pallet to be used for a variety of display applications within the store, such as replenishment and merchandising, to name two examples.

[0078] By providing six mounting features as shown in Figure 1a, the mounting features are provided in locations that closely replicate the location of a quarter pallet. When the platform is a half pallet platform, the distribution of mounting features advantageously allows two quarter size displays to be directly connected to the half pallet platform, as described in more detail below.

[0079] Returning to FIG. 1b, the outer recesses 114 can be described as vertically disposed, inwardly recessed slots. Each outer recess 114 has an open top for receiving a protruding engagement feature extending downward from an item supported by the product support surface 108. The outwardly facing protrusions 120a-120c can be a set of engagement teeth or members extending laterally across the short width of the slot, i.e., perpendicular to the respective sidewalls 110a-110d (and thus outward relative to the product support surface). In FIG. 1b, the wedge-shaped protrusions 120a-120c are shown as having tapered sides (the surfaces that protrude outward) and flat bottoms (the surfaces that face away from the product support surface 108), so that they resemble sawtooth in the vertical plane when viewed parallel to the longitudinal length of the slot. In this example, there are three wedge-shaped protrusions 120a-120c. However, fewer or more protrusions may be provided. A single protrusion may also be provided.

[0080] The recess of outer recess 114 relative to sidewall 110a defines gap 134. Gap 134 can receive the edge of the protrusion engagement feature. Gap 134 allows the protrusion engagement feature to be positioned within outer recess 114 and gripped or held both laterally and vertically. Protrusions 120a-120c then also hold the protrusion engagement feature vertically, thus providing secure fixation of the protrusion engagement feature when inserted into outer recess 114, yet still allowing the protrusion engagement feature to be easily removed, for example by withdrawing laterally, if necessary.

[0081] Instead of the wedge shape of wedge-shaped protrusions 120a-120c, other shapes may be provided, including rounded members. Flat bottoms are also not required (for both inner slots 116 and outer recesses 114), but a flat bottom (or lowermost outward-facing portion) can help provide a secure location for gripping a protrusion engagement feature, especially if that protrusion engagement feature has a hole for receiving the tooth, member, element, point, or protrusion. The tooth, member, element, point, or protrusion can grip a downwardly extending protrusion engagement feature or engage with such a hole, if provided, to further secure the item to the pallet.

[0082] The outer recess 114 may be recessed approximately 4 mm relative to the sidewall 110 a, and therefore can accommodate protruding engagement features made from sheet material (e.g., corrugated cardboard) up to 4 mm thick without crushing the corrugations at their edges. Thicker boards can also be accommodated, but they will be broken up as needed. While wider widths may be preferred for certain applications, 4 mm is preferred for most applications.

[0083] A recessed shelf 130 is also shown in FIG. 1b. As indicated, the recessed shelf 130 is recessed relative to the product support surface 108. The recessed shelf 130 is supported by a plurality of ribs, one of which is labeled 129a in FIG. 1b. The recessed shelf at least partially defines the interior slot 116. Further details regarding the recessed shelf 130 are provided in connection with FIG. 1c.

[0084] Turning to Figure 1c, a top view of the mounting feature 112 is shown. The opposing nature of the internal slot 116 and external recess 114 is also shown in Figure 1c.

[0085] 1c, the inner slot 116, when viewed in plan, is defined by peripheral walls 124a, 124b, a flat side 126, and a set of knobby or arcuate sides 128. The inner slot 116 also has a protrusion 122 associated with the protrusion engagement feature for interacting with the protrusion engagement feature when the protrusion engagement feature is inserted.

[0086] Protrusion 122 can be described as a recessed protrusion in the form of a rounded or partially spherical member. Protrusion 122 is oriented with the rounded side facing generally upward (i.e., away from the skid) and has a flat bottom facing downward (i.e., toward the skid). Protrusion 122 faces inward. Figure 1d shows protrusion 122 in a cutaway perspective view.

[0087] Returning to FIG. 1c, inner slot 116 includes an additional member 131 extending from the underside of shelf 134. Additional member 131 is formed on a wall of inner slot 116 opposite the wall of protrusion 122. Additional member 131 projects beyond arcuate side 128 toward protrusion 122. Additional member 131 may be a tapered or angled leg. Additional member 131 is vertically aligned with tip 122a of protrusion 122 but has a free end 133 that extends toward a plane that is at a height below tip 122a. During use, protrusion-engagement features on the underside of an article placed on product support surface 108 will extend into inner slot 116, bend around protrusion 122, and abut additional member 131, thus being held in place within inner slot 116.

[0088] If the protrusion engagement feature has a properly positioned hole, the hole can engage and lock with the protrusion 122 or the additional member 131 .

[0089] In use, the protrusion engagement feature of the article is inserted into the internal slot 116. The protrusion engagement feature is configured with a hole that fits over the protrusion 122 to "snap" the connecting engagement feature into place. The diameter of the hole in the protrusion engagement feature may be the same as the diameter of the protrusion 122, or if a resilient material is used for the protrusion engagement feature, it may be slightly smaller than the diameter of the protrusion 122 to promote a tight fit.

[0090] In the variation of the mounting feature 112 shown in FIG. 1c, the additional member 131 may be omitted. This may be particularly beneficial if the additional member 131, specifically its free end 133, is not accessible from the underside of the deck 106 (see FIG. 1a). For reference, the additional member 131 shown in FIG. 1c is accessible from the underside of the deck 106. This is because the mounting feature 112 is one of the features located along the long side (corresponding to side walls 110a, 110c) of the deck 106 (see FIG. 1a). As also shown in FIG. 1a, the skids 104a-104c do not interfere with or obscure the underside of the deck 106 near the mounting feature 112 (or other mounting features located along side wall 110a). Thus, the additional member 131 is accessible from the underside of the deck 106. This is in contrast to the mounting features located at the short ends of the deck 106 (corresponding to side walls 110b, 110d) where the corresponding additional members, if any, are obscured by the blocks 111.

[0091] Access to the further member 131 from below the deck 106 is particularly important when, for example, an adapter (not shown) is connected to the deck 106 using the further member 131. In such cases, it may be necessary to disconnect or release a portion of the adapter by bending it over the further member 131. To facilitate disconnecting or connecting such an adapter, access to the further member 131 from below the deck 106 may be required. If such access is not available, it may be advantageous to omit the further member 131 entirely from the mounting feature.

[0092] Notwithstanding the above, it will be understood that all of the mounting features may otherwise share the same geometric shape. All of the mounting features may each incorporate additional members.

[0093] FIG. 1c also shows two legs 135a, 135b extending from the underside of shelf 130. Legs 135a, 135b protrude across inner slot 116 and engage wall 119, which is part of divider 118. Legs 135a, 135b are L-shaped, as better shown in FIG. 1d. Legs 135a, 135b provide a cushioning function in that protruding engagement features, such as tabs, that disengage from an item when the item is removed from the platform are "captured" by legs 135a, 135b. That is, if legs 135a, 135b were not present, disengaging protruding engagement features could fall through the platform. Instead, these features are held or captured by legs 135a, 135b for easy disposal.

[0094] FIG. 1d is a perspective cutaway view of a portion of platform 102 shown in FIG. 1c taken along section line 137 shown in FIG. 1c.

[0095] The top 122b of the projection 122 is shown to be generally aligned with the recess shelf 130. The shelf 130 has a thickness therebelow that is integral with a further member 131 that is disposed so as to extend perpendicular to the leading edge 132 of the shelf, toward but below the projection 122. As shown, the leading edge 132 forms part of the arcuate side 128 and is therefore curved to define the curved shape of the inner slot 116 to facilitate fitting the projection engagement feature in place.

[0096] Also shown is one of the L-shaped legs 135a, which extends from the underside of shelf 130 across inner slot 116 and engages wall 119 (not shown in FIG. 1d).

[0097] The inner slots 116 in the illustrated embodiment are recessed relative to the product support surface 108, but in other embodiments, they may be flush with the product support surface 108. Similarly, the illustrated protrusions 122 are recessed relative to the product support surface 108, but in other embodiments, the protrusions 122 may be flush with the product support surface 108.

[0098] Although a particular shape of the inner slot 116 is shown, any other shape of the slot may be used. For example, the slot may be curved or non-rectangular. Similarly, although a particular shape of the protrusion 122 is illustrated, the protrusion may have any shape suitable for fitting within the aperture of the protrusion-engagement feature.

[0099] In Figure 1d, both the leading edge 132 of the inner slot 116 and the rib 129a are chamfered to guide the protruding engagement feature towards and into the inner slot 116.

[0100] 1d shows how the top surfaces of both outward protrusions 120a-120c and protrusion 122 are generally aligned with the lower width 127 of recess 117. Furthermore, both sets of protrusions generally extend away from wall 119, with the extent of this distance increasing toward the underside of deck 106. Advantageously, recess 117 thus guides the protrusion-engaging features toward either set of protrusions, reducing the risk of the protrusion-engaging features adhering to wall 119. Instead, the protrusion-engaging features are smoothly guided over the narrow or thin end of either outward protrusions 120a-120c or inward protrusion 122 until the protrusions and holes or apertures are sufficiently engaged, as can occur when the aperture or aperture extends beyond the bottom surface or underside of the protrusion.

[0101] 2 and 3, a further aspect (i.e., second concept) of the present invention relates to the use of two quarter-size displays 200, 202 on a single half pallet 204. The half pallet 204 may include a platform and skids as described in connection with the pallet 100 shown in Figures 1a-1d.

[0102] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of pallet display assembly 205, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of pallet display assembly 205.

[0103] As shown, quarter-size displays 200, 202 are positioned on a product support surface 206 of a half pallet 204. Each quarter-size display 200, 202 also includes a plurality of protruding engagement features in the form of tabs 208a, 208b, 210a, 210b (not visible in FIG. 2). Each of the plurality of tabs 208a, 208b, 210a is received by a corresponding mounting feature 212a-212f on the half pallet 204. The mounting features 212a-212f may be the same as the mounting feature 112 described in connection with the first concept (and shown in detail in FIGS. 1b-1d). Specific features of the mounting features are described in detail in connection with FIGS. 1b-1d.

[0104] Tabs 208a, 210a, aligned with the long sides of half pallet 204, are received by internal slots of mounting features 212a, 212f. Tabs 208a, 210a then engage with protrusions that form part of the internal slots. More specifically, holes in tabs 208a, 210a engage with protrusions (e.g., protrusion 122 in FIG. 1c). Tab 208b, aligned with the short side of half pallet 204, is received by internal slots of mounting feature 212e in the same manner as described above.

[0105] In the illustrated pallet display assembly 205, the quarter-size displays 200, 202 are identical. However, in other embodiments, two different quarter-size displays may be used. The illustrated quarter-size displays 200, 202 generally represent shelving components, with merchandise or products supported by the shelving components. However, it will be understood that other displays or a variety of displays may be used in other ways.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 2, quarter-size display 200 includes structure 211, which in the illustrated embodiment is a shelf component. Structure 211 includes base 213 configured to engage a product support surface of pallet 204. Base 213 is defined by four sides: two long sides (one of which is shown in FIG. 2 and labeled 213b) and two short sides (one of which is shown in FIG. 2 and labeled 213a). Tabs 208a, 208b extend from base 213. Specifically, tabs 208a, 208b extend from midpoints of the sides of base 213.

[0107] The use of two quarter-size displays on a half pallet is advantageous because two quarter-size displays, a common size display used in retail, can be stored, transported, and displayed using a single half pallet platform, reducing costs and increasing efficiency.

[0108] When quarter-size displays are used on a half pallet, three of the aforementioned mounting feature configurations can be used along three of the display's four sides. The final side of the display, specifically its protruding engagement features (e.g., tabs), can be threaded into the product support surface 206 using diamond cutouts in the product support surface. The diamond cutouts can be part of an array 209, as illustrated in FIG. 2. In a preferred configuration, this is the innermost diamond cutout in the array 209 (i.e., the cutout closest to the centerline of the half pallet 204), and is used to secure each display to that side of the half pallet 204. Stated another way, the two center cutouts in the array 209 are preferably used to at least partially secure each point-of-sale display to the half pallet 204.

[0109] Figures 4a and 4b are perspective and top views, respectively, of a quarter pallet 300. Pallet 300 incorporates mounting features as shown in Figures 1a-1d.

[0110] Pallet 300 comprises a platform 302, which in turn comprises a deck 304. Pallet 300 further comprises four legs, two of which are visible in Figure 4a and labeled 306a, 306b. Legs 306a, 306b are integrally formed with platform 302 such that pallet 300 is a single piece or body.

[0111] The deck 304 is defined by four side walls 308a-308d. The pallet 300 further includes four mounting features 310a-310d. The mounting features 310a-310d are identical to the mounting feature 112 described in connection with Figures 1a-1d. Accordingly, the mounting features 310a-310d will not be described in detail.

[0112] Each of the four mounting features 310a-310d is located along one of the side walls 308a-308d. Thus, there is a single mounting feature 310a-310d located along each of the side walls 308a-308d. Each mounting feature 310a-310d is located at the midpoint of each of the side walls 308a-308d. That is, the mounting features 310a-310d are located midway along the length of the side walls 308a-308d. Stated another way, the mounting features 310a-310d are located midway between each edge of the product support surface 312 defined by the deck 306.

[0113] Accordingly, Figures 4a and 4b illustrate further pallets incorporating mounting features.

[0114] The rectangular planar dimensions of platforms (commonly known as pallets), including but not limited to those conforming to ISO 6780:1003(E), are 1200 x 800 mm (commonly known as Euro size), 1200 x 1000 mm (commonly known as full size), 1219 x 1016 mm, or 1162 x 764 mm (AU size). Other standard sizes may be used in other parts of the world. The term "half pallet" refers to half the size of a standard pallet according to the particular standard used. Similarly, the term "quarter pallet" refers to one-quarter the size of a standard pallet according to the particular standard used. For example, if the standard used in a given region is 1200 x 800 mm, a half pallet has dimensions of 800 x 600 mm, and a quarter pallet has dimensions of 600 x 400 mm. These standard dimensions also apply to wheeled pallets, commonly known as dollies, also known as pallets on wheels or wheeled pallets.

[0115] A quarter-size display refers to a display designed for use with a quarter-size pallet or platform. For example, a euro-size quarter-size display may be designed for use with a quarter-pallet deck measuring 600 mm by 400 mm.

[0116] The pallet may be manufactured from plastic or from some other material.

[0117] Throughout this specification, inward refers to the direction from the sidewall toward the center point of the product support surface (i.e., across the product support surface, toward the center of the product support surface), and outward refers to the direction from the center of the product support surface toward the sidewall (i.e., across the product support surface, away from the center of the product support surface).

[0118] When the protrusion engagement feature is configured to engage an inward protrusion, the protrusion engagement feature may extend from a region of the base that is slightly offset from the edge of the base. That is, the protrusion engagement feature may not extend from the outermost edge of the base, but instead may extend from an inwardly recessed region of the base. This may facilitate alignment of the protrusion engagement feature with the internal slot.

[0119] The described and illustrated embodiments are to be considered as exemplary and not limiting in character, it being understood that only preferred embodiments have been shown and described, and that all changes and modifications that come within the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims are desired to be protected.

[0120] In the context of a claim, when words such as "a," "an," "at least one," or "at least a portion" are used before a feature, it is intended that there is no intention to limit the claim to only one such feature, unless the claim specifically states to the contrary. When the words "at least a portion" and / or "a portion" are used, an item may include part and / or the whole of an item, unless specifically stated to the contrary.

[0121] Optional and / or preferred features described herein may be used individually or in combination with one another where appropriate, particularly in the combinations set out in the accompanying claims. Optional and / or preferred features of each aspect or concept of the invention described herein may also be applied to any other aspect of the invention where appropriate.

Claims

1. A platform having a deck, the deck having a product support surface for supporting an article thereon; the deck is defined by a plurality of side walls extending from a peripheral edge of the product support surface; the platform further comprising a mounting feature disposed along at least one of the side walls; the mounting feature includes an internal slot and an external recess; the inner slot and the outer recess are disposed adjacent to one another and separated by a divider; the inner slot comprises one or more inward protrusions; the outer recess comprises one or more outward protrusions; the inward and outward protrusions extend from the divider and are configured to engage corresponding protrusion engagement features on an article supported by the product support surface; Platform.

2. The platform of claim 1 , wherein the mounting feature is located at a midpoint of the sidewall.

3. 3. The platform of claim 1, wherein the platform comprises a plurality of mounting features, at least one mounting feature disposed along each of four side walls of the deck.

4. A platform according to any preceding claim, wherein the deck is generally rectangular such that two side walls are short side walls and two side walls are long side walls.

5. The platform described in claim 3, wherein the deck is generally rectangular such that two side walls are short side walls and two side walls are long side walls, and two or more mounting feature components of the plurality of mounting feature components are positioned along each of the two long side walls, and at least one mounting feature component of the plurality of mounting feature components is positioned along each of the two short side walls.

6. 6. The platform of claim 5, wherein the two or more mounting features disposed along each of the two long side walls consist of only two mounting features, the two mounting features being located at approximately 25% and approximately 75% of the length of the long side walls, respectively.

7. The platform of any preceding claim, wherein the divider comprises a wall having a wall recess.

8. The platform of claim 7 , wherein the wall recess defines a plurality of portions of the wall that lie in the plane of the product support surface.

9. The platform according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the platform is a half-pallet platform.

10. A pallet, A platform according to any one of claims 1 to 9; one or more pallet supports connected to the platform; A pallet comprising:

11. 11. The pallet of claim 10, wherein the pallet is a quarter pallet.

12. 11. The pallet of claim 10, wherein the pallet is a 1 / 6 pallet.

13. 1. A pallet display assembly comprising: a half-pallet platform according to claim 9; two quarter-pallet size displays connected to the deck of the half-pallet platform by one or more of the mounting features; Including, Each of the quarter pallet size displays includes one or more protrusion engagement features that engage with respective inward or outward protrusions of one or more of the mounting features. Pallet display assembly.

14. 11. A quarter-pallet size display comprising the pallet of claim 10, a structure for supporting product thereon, comprising a base configured to engage the product support surface of the pallet; a plurality of protrusion engagement features extending from the base, each engaging with a corresponding one or more inwardly directed protrusions or a corresponding one or more outwardly directed protrusions of a respective mounting feature arrangement of the platform of the pallet; Equipped with the plurality of protruding engagement features are disposed along respective midpoints of at least three sides of the base; Quarter pallet size display.

15. 11. A quarter pallet size display for a pallet according to claim 10, comprising: a structure for supporting product thereon, comprising a base configured to engage the product support surface of the pallet; a plurality of protrusion engagement features extending from the base and configured to respectively engage with a corresponding one or more inwardly directed protrusions or a corresponding one or more outwardly directed protrusions of respective mounting features of the platform of the pallet; Equipped with each protrusion-engagement feature is in the form of a tab for receiving one or more inward protrusions or one or more outward protrusions; the plurality of protruding engagement features are disposed along respective midpoints of at least three sides of the base; Quarter pallet size display.

Images