Storage rack system for totes

Abstract

A storage rack assembly is provided that includes a shelf panel having a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may be coupled to one another and form an opening therebetween. The storage rack assembly may include an aperture formed in the shelf panel, a pole configured to be received by the aperture, a top cap configured to be received by the aperture, and a foot assembly configured to be received by the aperture.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 772,904, filed on Mar. 17, 2025. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present technology relates to storage rack systems and, more particularly, to modular storage rack systems having support members configured to suspend storage containers.INTRODUCTION

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Storage racks and organizational systems are useful in both residential and commercial settings as efficient systems used for maximizing storage space while allowing for easy access to stored items. Storage solutions often involve fixed shelving units that lack adaptability to different storage needs and spatial constraints. These storage solutions often rely on placing items directly onto shelves and / or stacking items directly on top of one another, leading to an inefficient use of vertical space and difficulty accessing stored items, such as items stored toward the back of a deep shelf or on the bottom of a stack. Storage systems that do not include fixed shelving units may require significant assembly time and specialized tools.

[0005] Certain storage systems may also lack modularity and may be challenging to expand and / / or reconfigure. These limitations may result in a user needing to purchase entirely new storage systems as storage requirements evolve or increase, leading to unnecessary cost and excessive waste. Additionally, storage systems often inefficiently occupy substantial floor space and may not be configured to effectively combine with other storage systems to form larger, integrated storage solutions. The limited efficiency and adaptability of these storage systems may also result in storage solutions that do not meet the storage needs of a user.

[0006] Certain storage systems furthermore may not accommodate containers of different sizes, as the storage systems may be built with fixed dimensions and rigid configurations, contributing to a lack of versatility. Fixed configurations may also result in wasted space between shelves and, as a result, inefficient use of an available storage area. Such storage systems may lack proper support structures to securely hold storage containers in place and may require heavy, excessive material for the shelf components and additional components.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a continuing need for a versatile storage rack system that may be easily assembled and reconfigured without tools. Desirably, such a storage system may provide secure support for various container sizes, provide modular expansion capabilities, and incorporate features that allow for efficient space utilization while facilitating easy access to all stored items.SUMMARY

[0008] In concordance with the instant disclosure, a versatile storage rack system that is easily assembled and reconfigured without tools, provides secure support for various container sizes, provides modular expansion capabilities, and incorporates features that allow for efficient space utilization while facilitating easy access to all stored items, has surprisingly been discovered. The present technology includes articles of manufacture, systems, and processes that relate to customizable storage rack systems having modular components for suspending and organizing storage totes in a customizable configuration.

[0009] In certain embodiments, a storage rack assembly may include a shelf panel having a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may be coupled to one another and form an opening therebetween. The storage rack assembly may include an aperture formed in the shelf panel, a pole configured to be received by the aperture, a top cap configured to be received by the aperture, and a foot assembly configured to be received by the aperture.

[0010] In certain embodiments, a kit for a storage rack assembly may include a plurality of shelf panels. Each shelf panel may have a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The second panel member may be coupled to each of the first panel member and the third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may define an opening. A cross member may extend from the first panel member to the third panel member. A first portion of the cross member may be disposed adjacent each of the first panel member and the third panel member, and a second portion of the cross member may be spaced apart from the first panel member and the third panel member. A plurality of interlocking slots may be formed in an outer edge of the shelf panel. A plurality of apertures may be formed in the shelf panel. The plurality of apertures may include an upper receiving portion, a lower receiving portion, and an aperture lip disposed between the upper receiving portion and the lower receiving portion. The kit for a storage rack assembly may include a first set of poles. Each pole of the first set of poles may have a first length and may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures. A second set of poles may be included. Each pole of the second set of poles may have a second length and may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures. A plurality top caps may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures, and a plurality of foot assemblies may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures.

[0011] In certain embodiments, a method of assembling a storage rack includes a step of providing a storage rack assembly. The storage rack assembly may include a plurality of shelf panels. Each shelf panel may have a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may be coupled to one another and may form an opening therebetween. The storage rack assembly may include a plurality of apertures formed in each shelf panel, a plurality of poles configured to be received by the plurality of apertures, a plurality of top caps configured to be received by the plurality of apertures, a plurality of foot assemblies configured to be received by the plurality of apertures, and a plurality of interlocking slots formed adjacent an outer edge of each shelf panel. The method of assembling a storage rack may include a step of inserting an end of each pole into an aperture of each shelf panel, a step of inserting a top cap into an aperture of an uppermost shelf panel, and a step of inserting a foot assembly into an aperture of a bottommost shelf panel. A step of including sliding a storage tote into the opening of at least one shelf panel may also be included.

[0012] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0013] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof;

[0017] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a shelf panel of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a shelf divider of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a top front perspective view of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a top rear perspective view thereof;

[0022] FIG. 9 is a top plan view thereof;

[0023] FIG. 10 is a top front perspective view of a shelf panel of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 11 is an exploded top rear perspective view thereof;

[0025] FIG. 12 is a top front perspective view of a shelf panel of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 13 is an exploded top rear perspective view thereof;

[0027] FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of a plurality of storage rack assemblies, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of a plurality of storage rack assemblies, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a section thereof;

[0030] FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of an interlocking component of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly including a plurality of storage totes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly including a plurality of storage totes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly including a plurality of storage totes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a top cap of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0036] FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of a foot assembly of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 24 is a top perspective view thereof;

[0038] FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of a wheeled foot assembly of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of a foot assembly of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0041] FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram of a kit for a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0042] FIG. 29 is a diagram of a method of assembling a storage rack assembly.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture, and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing the broadest scope of the technology. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and / or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and / or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

[0044] Although the open-ended term “comprising,” as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that may be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein.

[0045] As referred to herein, disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter may define endpoints for a range of values that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1–10, or 2–9, or 3–8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1–9, 1–8, 1–3, 1–2, 2–10, 2–8, 2–3, 3–10, 3–9, and so on.

[0046] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,”“engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,”“directly engaged to,”“directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,”“adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0047] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,”“second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0048] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,”“outer,”“beneath,”“below,”“lower,”“above,”“upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0049] The present technology improves upon storage systems by providing a customizable storage rack system that enables tool-free construction, adjustable spacing between and within shelf panels, and secure suspension of storage totes having variable sizes from integrated shelf panel sections. The present technology further enhances storage capabilities through modular connectivity features that allow multiple racks to be joined together in side-by-side and back-to-back configurations, creating expandable storage solutions than may be tailored to specific space requirements and storage needs. Additionally, the present technology advances storage efficiency through a cross member that facilitates containers slidingly suspended from a shelf panel of the storage system while providing enhanced structural integrity to the storage system.

[0050] With reference to FIGS. 1-27, a storage rack assembly 100 is provided. A kit 200 including at least one storage rack assembly 100 and a method 300 of assembling at least one storage rack assembly 100 are also provided, with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29, respectively. Advantageously, the storage rack assembly 100, the kit 200, and the method 300, are designed to facilitate tool-free and easy assembly for customizable storage solutions. The storage rack assembly 100 may include at least one shelf panel 120. The storage rack assembly 100 may further include at least one pole 140, top cap 150, and foot assembly 160. In certain embodiments, the storage rack assembly 100 may include at least one storage tote 110 configured to be slidingly received and supported by the shelf panel 120 of the storage rack assembly 100 in a suspended manner.

[0051] The storage rack assembly 100 may be formed from lightweight plastic material, such as a polyolefin including a polypropylene plastic material by a molding process such as injection molding. One of ordinary skill in the art may form the storage rack assembly 100 in any suitable material, including other thermoplastic materials such as polyethylene, and non-thermoplastic materials such as foam or metal, as examples, within the scope of the present disclosure, ensuring consistent quality and durability. Any suitable process or processes may be employed to form the storage rack assembly 100.

[0052] With reference to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-4, the shelf panel 120 may include a first panel member 121, a second panel member 122, a third panel member 123, and a cross member 124. The cross member 124 may include and / or define a receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120, which may be configured to receive the storage tote 110 for suspension during insertion of the storage tote 110 on the shelf panel 120. More particularly, the receiving portion 119 may be configured to receive and position an upper lip 111 or flange of the storage tote 110 therethrough, as shown in FIGS. 18-20. One or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 may be removably coupled to one another to define an opening 125 centrally located with respect to the shelf panel 120. As an example, each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may be removably coupled to the second panel member 122, as shown in FIGS. 10-13. It should be appreciated that one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 may be integrally formed together to define the opening 125 centrally located with respect to the shelf panel 120, according to certain embodiments.

[0053] At least a portion of each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, such as an upper surface 126 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may lie on a first plane (not shown). At least a portion of the upper surface 126 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and third panel member 123 may also include a textured upper surface 133. The textured upper surface 133 may include detents or protuberances, as examples, configured to maintain a desired position of the storage tote 110 during insertion and storage / use. At least a portion of the upper surface 126 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may include a relatively uninterrupted, smooth upper surface 134. Advantageously, the smooth upper surface 134 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may be configured to contact the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 and facilitate the smooth sliding of the storage tote 110 in and out of the receiving portion 119 and the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that the textured upper surface 133 may be configured to secure the storage tote in a desired position with respect to one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123.

[0054] Each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may be an elongate member and may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration. Each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may have a rectangular cross sectional shape, as an example. The first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may include support ribs 131 disposed on a bottom surface 132 of the shelf panel 120 to enhance the structural integrity of the shelf panel 120, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0055] When the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 is inserted through the receiving portion 119, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may abut and rest on the smooth upper surface 134 of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, thereby facilitating a sliding of the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 along each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. The upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be positioned adjacent to, abut, slide on, and / or rest on the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120 after complete insertion of the shelf panel 120 and during use. It should be appreciated that, upon complete insertion of the storage tote 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120, one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may be configured to support the weight of the storage tote 110.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the shelf panel 120 may include at least one aperture 128 disposed therethrough. In certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include apertures 128 disposed adjacent each corner 135 of the shelf panel 120 and / or adjacent one or more sections of the shelf panel 120 where any two of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 come together. Each aperture 128 may be configured to receive a pole 140 having a desired length and configured to couple one shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120 during assembly of the storage rack assembly 100. Each aperture 128 may be any suitable shape, size, and configuration, as determined by a skilled artisan, such as a polygonal shape. In certain embodiments, each aperture 128 may be rectangular in shape and configured to receive a pole 140 having a rectangular cross-section. One of ordinary skill in the art may select any suitable shape, size, and configuration for the aperture 128 within the scope of the present disclosure. The aperture 128 may be configured to receive the top cap 150 and / or the foot assembly 160, as described herein.

[0057] Each aperture 128 may include an upper receiving portion 136 and a lower receiving portion 137. The upper receiving portion 136 may be separated from the lower receiving portion 137 by an aperture lip 138. The aperture lip 138 may circumscribe the entirety of the aperture 128 or a portion of the aperture 128. The upper receiving portion 136, the lower receiving portion 137, and the aperture lip 138 of the aperture 128 may define the aperture 128 and may be integrally formed with one another or coupled to one another, as determined by one of skill in the art.

[0058] The aperture 128 may be configured to receive the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160. The aperture lip 138 may abut an end of the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160 when the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160 is received in the aperture 128, thereby militating against the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160 sliding out of a desired position during use. It should be understood that the aperture 128 may be configured to receive two components where a first component may be received in the upper receiving portion 136, and a second component may be received in the lower receiving portion 137. As an example, the upper receiving portion 136 of an aperture 128 may receive the top cap 150, and the lower receiving portion 137 may receive the pole 140. In another example, the upper receiving portion 136 may receive the pole 140 and the lower receiving portion 137 may receive the foot assembly 160. In another example, the upper receiving portion 136 may receive a pole 140, and the lower receiving portion 137 may receive another pole 140. It should be further appreciated that the aperture 128 may include the upper receiving portion 136 and a lower receiving portion 137 and may not include the aperture lip 138, thereby allowing a component such as a pole 140 to slide through the aperture 128, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0059] In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 10-13, the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may be removably coupled to the second panel member 122. Each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may include an inserting end 101 having an aperture 128 disposed therein. The inserting end 101 of the first panel member 121 may extend outwardly and may be configured to be received in a hollow interior portion (not shown) of the second panel member 122 at a first end 102 of the second panel member 122, and the inserting end 101 of the third panel member 123 may extend outwardly and may be configured to be received in a hollow interior portion (not shown) of the second panel member 122 at a second end 103 of the second panel member 122. An opening 104 having a cross-sectional shape that is generally the same as a cross-sectional shape of the aperture 128 may be disposed at each of the first end 102 of the second panel member 122 and the second end 103 of the second panel member 122 and may be configured to align with the corresponding aperture 128 when each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 is coupled to the second panel member 122.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the second panel member 122 may include a first inserting end 105 including an aperture 128 disposed at the first end 102 of the second panel member 122 and configured to be received by the first panel member 121. A second inserting end 106 may be disposed at the second end 103 of the second panel member 122 and configured to be received by the third panel member 123. The first inserting end 105 and the second inserting end 106 may be configured to be inserted into a hollow interior 107 of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, respectively. The first panel member 121 may include a first opening 108 having a cross-sectional shape that is generally the same as a cross-sectional shape of the aperture 128 disposed at the first end 102 of the second panel member 122. The first opening 108 may be configured to align with the aperture 128 disposed at the first end 102 of the second panel member 122 when the first panel member 121 is coupled to the second panel member 122. The third panel member 123 may include a second opening 109 having a cross-sectional shape that is generally the same as a cross-sectional shape of the aperture 128 disposed at the second end 103 of the second panel member 122. The second opening 109 may be configured to align with the aperture 128 disposed at the second end 103 of the second panel member 122 when the third panel member 123 is coupled to the second panel member 122.

[0061] The shelf panel 120 may also include an interlocking slot 130. The interlocking slot 130 may be formed in or adjacent an outer edge 139 of the shelf panel 120. The interlocking slot 130 may be utilized to couple one shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120 using an interlocking component 171 selectively and removably disposed in the interlocking slot 130 of each shelf panel 120, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The interlocking component 171 may include a first interlocking section 172 configured to be received in the interlocking slot 130 of one shelf panel 120 and a second interlocking section 173 configured to be received in the interlocking slot 130 of another shelf panel 120 when the shelf panels 120 are positioned adjacent one another. The shelf panel 120 may include two interlocking slots 130 formed in the outer edge 139 of each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120, thereby providing a total of six interlocking slots 130 in the shelf panel 120 configured for coupling the shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120. One of ordinary skill in the art may select any number and suitable configuration for the interlocking slots 130 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0062] The interlocking components 171 may be configured to be received in the interlocking slots 130 of adjacent shelf panels 120, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The interlocking components 171 may enable multiple storage rack assemblies to be coupled in each of a side-by-side and a back-to-back configuration, thereby creating expandable storage configurations. In certain embodiments, the interlocking components 171 may have a substantially bow-tie cross-section and may be configured to couple one shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120.

[0063] The cross member 124 may be configured to extend between the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. A first portion 112 of the cross member 124 may lie in the first plane and may be disposed adjacent each of the first panel member 121 and third panel member 123. A second portion 112 of the cross member 124 may be spaced apart from and / or elevated with respect to the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. In certain embodiments, the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 may be disposed in a second plane (not shown). The second plane may be parallel to the first plane and positioned above the first plane.

[0064] Each of a first supporting wall 127 and a second supporting wall 129 may be disposed between and extend from the first portion 112 of the cross member 124 and the second portion 113 of the cross member 124, as shown in FIG. 4. The first supporting wall 127 and the second supporting wall 129 may be disposed adjacent the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, respectively, and each of the first supporting wall 127 and the second supporting wall 129 may be configured to support the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 disposed in the second plane.

[0065] Each of the first portion 112 and the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 may be integrally formed with the first supporting wall 127 and the second supporting wall 129. The first portion 112, the second portion 113, the first supporting wall 127, and the second supporting wall 129 may define a portion or all of the receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120 adjacent the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. The cross member 124 may be configured to facilitate a sliding insertion of the storage tote 110 into the receiving portion 119 and the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120 while enhancing the structural integrity of the shelf panel 120. The cross member 124 may be an elongate member and may be positioned substantially parallel to the second panel member 122 and substantially perpendicular to each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. The first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 may define a polygonal shape of the opening 125 and / or the shelf panel 120. The shelf panel 120 including the opening 125 may be any suitable shape, size, and configuration, such as substantially rectangular, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0066] The cross member may include a substantially uninterrupted, smooth surface 151. Advantageously, the cross member 124 may enhance the structural integrity of the storage rack assembly 100 as the shelf panel 120 is utilized to suspend the storage tote 110 and hold the weight of the storage tote 110. The cross member 124 may include support ribs 131 disposed on the bottom surface 132, thereby enhancing the structural integrity of the cross member 124 and the shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include the first panel member 121 the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, and may not include the cross member 124, and shown in FIGS. 10-13. The cross member 124 may provide strength to the shelf panel 120 and may be included and / or not included in selected shelf panels 120 as desired, for example, based on user requirements, desired load carrying capacity, and / or materials selected to form each shelf panel 120, as examples.

[0067] With reference to FIG. 4, the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may each include a first ramp 114 and a second ramp 116, respectively. The first ramp 114 may be defined by an angled section of a first ramp surface 115 of the first panel member 121, and the second ramp 116 may be defined by an angled section of a second ramp surface 117 of the third panel member 123. The first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116 each may be disposed adjacent the receiving portion 119 of the cross member 124, such that the receiving portion 119 may guide the storage tote 110 onto each of the first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116. The first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116 may be configured to facilitate the sliding of the storage tote 110 up onto each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, and into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120.

[0068] The pole 140 may be elongate and may be configured for insertion into the aperture 128 of the shelf panel 120. In certain embodiments, the pole 140 may have an insertion section (not shown) disposed at one of both of the ends of the pole 140 configured to fit in the aperture 128. A plurality of poles 140 including a plurality of identical poles 140 and / or a plurality of poles 140 having various lengths may be included, thereby enabling a user to customize the vertical spacing between shelf panels 120 to accommodate storage totes 110 having different sizes. The storage rack assembly 100 may include four poles 140, eight poles 140, twelve poles 140, or sixteen poles 140, as examples, according to various embodiments. Four poles 140 may be used to couple two shelf panels 120 to one another by disposing a first end of each pole 140 in the aperture 128 of one shelf panel 120 and a second end of each pole 140 in the aperture 128 of another shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that the poles 140 may be configured to provide any desired spacing between two successive shelf panels 120, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0069] The pole 140 may support the weight of the storage tote 110 suspended from the shelf panel 120 of the storage rack assembly 100 and may transfer the load to a surface on which the storage rack assembly 100 rests, such as the ground or the floor. The length of the pole 140 may be selected to provide a desired distance between successive shelf panels 120. The poles 140 between two successive shelf panels 120 may be a different length than the poles 140 between another two successive shelf panels 120 to provide a customized space between each set of shelf panels 120 and accommodate storage totes 110 having various sizes. It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the poles 140 may be substantially the same length. One of ordinary skill in the art may configure the poles 140 as desired within the scope of the present disclosure to accommodate the storage needs of the user.

[0070] The storage rack assembly 100 may include the top cap 150. The top cap 150 may include an outer portion 152 and an inner portion 154, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The outer portion 152 may form a ledge 153 circumscribing the inner portion 154. The inner portion 154 may be configured to be received through the upper receiving portion 136 of the aperture 128 formed in the shelf panel 120 and cooperate with the upper receiving portion 136 through a friction fit, a snap fit, or any other suitable connecting mechanism. More specifically, the top cap 150 may be inserted through the upper receiving portion 136 of the aperture 128 of an uppermost shelf panel 174 and the ledge 153 may abut the upper surface 126 of the shelf panel 120 and substantially cover the aperture 128. Additionally, the inner portion 154 may be disposed within the upper receiving portion 136 of the aperture 128 to facilitate a friction fit between the top cap 150 and the aperture 128, thereby securing the top cap 150 in place with respect to the shelf panel 120. In certain embodiments, the inner portion 154 of the top cap 150 may be configured with ribs, detents, protuberances, and the like to facilitate retaining the top cap 150 within the aperture 128 of the shelf panel 120 and / or to enhance the structural integrity of the top cap 150 and the shelf panel 120. Advantageously, the top cap 150 may cover the aperture 128 in the uppermost shelf panel 174 of the storage rack assembly 100. One of ordinary skill in the art may select any suitable top cap 150 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0071] With reference to FIGS. 23, 24, 26 and 27, the foot assembly 160 may include a foot 166. In certain embodiments, the foot assembly 160 may include the foot 166 and a foot adjuster 167, thereby providing a means of adjusting a height of the storage rack assembly 100. The foot adjuster 167 may include a foot insert portion 168 and a threaded element 169. The foot 166 may include a threaded opening 170 configured to threadably receive and engage with the threaded element 169 of the foot adjuster 167. The foot insert portion 168 of the foot adjuster 167 may be configured to cooperate with the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 of a bottommost shelf panel 175 in the storage rack assembly 100. The foot insert portion 168 may be received in the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 using a friction fit, snap fit, or any other suitable connecting mechanism. The threaded element 169 may be configured to threadably couple to the threaded opening 170 of the foot 166. Desirably, the foot adjuster 167 may allow the user to customize the leveling and height of the storage rack assembly 100 on a surface such as the ground by increasing or reducing a length of the foot assembly 160. It should be appreciated that the foot 166 and / or the foot adjuster 167 may include ribs, detents, protuberances, and the like to facilitate retaining the foot adjuster 167 within the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 and to enhance the structural integrity of the foot assembly 160 and the storage rack assembly 100, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the foot assembly 160 may be a wheeled foot 161, as shown in FIG. 25. In certain more particular embodiments, the storage rack assembly 100 may include four wheeled feet 161 configured to be received through the apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175. Each wheeled foot 161 may include a wheel 162 having a lock 163 and a connecting end 164 attached to a top portion 165 of the wheel 162. The connecting end 164 may be configured to be received in the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 using a friction fit or any other suitable connecting mechanism, as determined by a skilled artisan. As an example, the connecting end 164 may have a rectangular shape configured to cooperate with the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128. The connecting end 164 may be any suitable shape, size, and configuration compatible with the aperture 128. The wheel 162 may allow the storage rack assembly 100 to be easily transported and / or rolled to a desired location. The lock 163 may be activated to militate against a rotation of the wheel 162 and facilitate maintaining the storage rack assembly 100 in a desired location. The wheeled foot 161 may include a threaded fastener utilized as an axle to secure the wheel and lock 163 to the wheeled foot 161. The lock 163 may be configured to restrict movement of the wheel 162 when the lock 163 is engaged. One of ordinary skill in the art may select a suitable foot assembly 160 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0073] The storage rack assembly 100 may also include a wall securing mechanism (not shown) that may be used to secure the storage rack assembly 100 to a wall for additional stability and storage capabilities. As an example, wall brackets may be utilized. The wall brackets may be generally U-shaped including tabs with apertures and the wall brackets may be used to couple the storage rack assembly 100 to a wall. The wall brackets may surround a portion of the outer periphery of the poles 140 to secure the storage rack assembly 100 to a wall or other supporting structure. The poles 140 may be inserted through the open portion of U-shaped wall bracket and fasteners may be inserted through the apertures of the wall bracket to secure the storage rack assembly 100 to the wall. It should be appreciated that one of ordinary skill in the art may select any suitable wall securing mechanism having any desired configuration and connecting mechanism within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0074] With reference to FIGS. 18-20, the storage rack assembly 100 may be assembled utilizing the shelf panels 120, poles 140, top caps 150, and foot assemblies 160. The user may select poles 140 having various lengths to assemble the storage rack assembly 100, identical poles 140, or any combination thereof. Four poles 140 of substantially the same length may be used to join two successive shelf panels 120 by disposing an end of each pole 140 in an aperture 128 of each of the two successive shelf panels 120. The poles 140 may be configured to provide a desired spacing between two successive shelf panels 120. The top caps 150 may be placed in the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174 to cover the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174. More specifically, the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174 may receive top caps 150 in the upper receiving portions 136 of each aperture 128 and poles 140 in the lower receiving portions 137. The apertures 128 of the shelf panel 120 positioned below the uppermost shelf panel 174 may be configured to receive the poles 140 coupled to the uppermost shelf panel 174 in each of the upper receiving portions 136 of the apertures and additional poles 140 in the lower receiving portions 137 of the apertures 128, thereby coupling the uppermost shelf panel 174 with the shelf panel 120 positioned below the uppermost shelf panel 120 and configuring the shelf panel 120 positioned below the uppermost shelf panel 174 to be coupled to another shelf panel 120. The apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 may receive poles 140 in the upper receiving portion 136 of the apertures 128 and may receive either the wheeled feet 161 or the foot assemblies 160 in the lower receiving portion 137 of the apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175. The apertures 128 of the shelf panel 120 positioned above the bottommost shelf panel 175 may receive the poles 140 coupled to the bottommost shelf panel 175 the lower receiving portions 137 of the apertures 128 and additional poles 140 in the upper receiving portions 136, thereby coupling the bottommost shelf panel 175 with the shelf panel 120 positioned above the bottommost shelf panel 175 and configuring the shelf panel 120 positioned above the bottommost shelf panel 175 to be coupled to another shelf panel 120.

[0075] The storage tote 110 may be slidingly received through the receiving portion 119 of the cross member 124, and the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120 may be configured to support the weight of the storage tote 110 when the storage tote 110 is loaded onto the first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116, and suspended in the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. More specifically, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may rest on the smooth upper surface 134 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and / or the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120 to suspend the storage tote 110 from the shelf panel 120 within the opening 125. Advantageously, and as shown in FIG. 18-20, the shelf panel 120 may be configured to support a plurality of storage totes 110 received through the receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120, thereby allowing more than one storage tote 110 to be suspended from a single shelf panel 120 and enhancing storage capabilities. It should be appreciated that the storage tote 110 may include a lid (not shown), as desired.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include a shelf divider 118 configured to removably couple to the shelf panel 120. The shelf divider 118 may be elongate and have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, as an example. It should be appreciated that any suitable shape, size, and configuration may be employed, as determined by one of skill in the art. The shelf divider 118 may include support ribs 143 disposed on a bottom surface 144 of the shelf divider 118 to provide structural integrity for the shelf divider 118 and the shelf panel 120 during use. A first end 176 of the shelf divider 118 may include a first connecting element 177, such as a flange, extending outwardly from the shelf divider 118. The first connecting element 177 may be configured to removably couple to the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120. A second end 178 of the shelf divider 118 positioned opposite the first end 176 of the shelf divider 118 may include a second connecting element 179 extending outwardly from the shelf divider 118. The second connecting element 179 may be configured to removably couple the shelf divider 118 to the cross member 124 of the shelf panel 120.

[0077] The first connecting element 177 and the second connecting element 179 may be integrally formed with the shelf divider 118 or coupled thereto. In certain embodiments, the first connecting element 177 may be configured to removably couple to the upper surface 126 of the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120, thereby positioning an upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 to lie on the first plane. The first connecting element 177 may be configured to be positioned adjacent to, disposed on or in the upper surface 126 of the second panel member122, or rest on a portion of the upper surface 126 of the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120, as examples. The upper surface 126 of the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120 may include a recessed receiving portion 145 configured to receive a protrusion 146 disposed on the bottom surface 144 of the shelf divider 118 at or adjacent the first connecting element 117.

[0078] The second connecting element 179 may include a divider supporting wall 180 integrally formed with the shelf divider 118 at a first end 181 of the second connecting element 179. The divider supporting wall 180 may extend upwardly from the shelf divider 118 and may include a hook portion 182 disposed at a second end 183 of the second connecting element 179. The hook portion 182 may be configured to removably couple to the cross member 124 in the second plane positioned above the first plane. The hook portion 182 may have any suitable shape and configuration such as a U-shape configuration, as an example. The hook portion 182 may define a recessed area 184 of the second connecting element 179 having a shape that is substantially the same as a cross-sectional shape of the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 of the shelf panel 120. Each of the first connecting element 177, the second connecting element 179, and the divider supporting wall 180 may have a relatively smooth and uninterrupted surface, according to certain embodiments.

[0079] The shelf divider 118 may include a central receiving portion 147 configured to work in combination with the receiving portion 119 and direct the storage tote 110 to be slidingly received through the receiving portion 119 and the central receiving portion 147 for suspension of the storage tote 110 within the opening 125 or a portion of the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. The shelf divider 118 may include a third ramp 185 disposed on a first side 186 of the shelf divider 118 adjacent the second end 183 of the shelf divider 118 and a fourth ramp 187 disposed on a second side 188 of the shelf divider 118 adjacent the second end 183 of the shelf divider 118. The third ramp 185 and the fourth ramp 187 may be disposed adjacent the central receiving portion 147 and may be positioned adjacent the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120, respectively. The third ramp 185 in combination with the first ramp 114 of first panel member 121, the fourth ramp 187 in combination with the second ramp 116 of the third panel member 123, the receiving portion 119, and the central receiving portion 147 may facilitate the sliding of one or more storage totes 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120.

[0080] At least a portion of the upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 may lie on the first plane, and at least a portion of the upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 may include a textured upper surface 133. The textured upper surface 133 may include detents or protuberances, as determined by one of skill in the art. At least a portion of the upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 may include a smooth upper surface 134. Advantageously, the upper lip 111 of one or more storage totes 110 may contact the smooth upper surface 134 of the shelf divider 118 to facilitate the sliding of the storage totes 110 in and out of the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120 on either side or both sides of the shelf divider 118. At least a portion of the second connecting element 179 of the shelf divider 118, such as the hook portion 182, may lie in the second plane. It should be appreciated that the shelf divider 118 may be integrally formed with the shelf panel 120 in certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. As an example, the shelf divider 118 may be integrally formed with the cross member 124 and the second panel member 122.

[0081] When the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 is inserted through the receiving portion 119 and the central receiving portion 147 of the shelf panel 120, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may rest on the shelf divider 118 and one of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, thereby facilitating a sliding of the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 along the shelf divider 118 and the first panel member 121 or the third panel member 123. Upon complete insertion of the storage tote 110, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may abut and / or rest on the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120. Upon complete insertion of the storage tote 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120, the shelf divider 118, one of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, and / or the second panel member 122 may support the weight of the storage tote 110. It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the shelf divider 118 may be placed anywhere along the cross member 124 and the second panel member 122 to accommodate storage totes 110 of variable sizes. It should also be appreciated that the cross member 124 may include a cross member receiving portion 149, such as a ledge, as an example, configured to receive and / or secure the hook portion 182 of the shelf divider 118 in a desired location, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0082] The shelf divider 118 may advantageously enhance the structural integrity of the storage rack assembly 100 and the shelf panels 120 utilized to suspend and hold the weight of storage totes 110. Additionally, the shelf divider 118 may allow the user to store additional storage totes 110 on each shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that the shelf divider 118 may be included or not included in selected ones or all shelf panels 120 as desired, for example, based on user requirements, desired load carrying capacity, and materials and configurations selected to form the storage rack assembly 100.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include a railing 189 integrally formed with or coupled to an inner wall 190 of one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the shelf divider 118, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The railing 189 may define the opening 125 centrally located with respect to the shelf panel 120 and configured to receive the storage tote 110 during use. The railing 189 may extend along the inner wall 190 of one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, according to certain embodiments that do not include the shelf divider 118, and the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be configured to rest on an upper surface 191 of the railing 189 adjacent one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 during use. In certain embodiments, the railing 189 may extend along the inner wall 190 of each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, and the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be configured to rest on the upper surface 191 of the railing 189 adjacent each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 during use. The inner wall 190 of the second panel member 122 may provide a backstop for the storage tote 110. In certain embodiments, the railing 189 may extend along the inner wall 190 of each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, and the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be configured to rest on the upper surface 191 of the railing 189 adjacent each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 during use.

[0084] In certain embodiments having the shelf divider 118 either removably coupled to or integrally formed with the shelf panel 120, a first railing 192 may extend along the inner wall 190 of one or more of the first panel member 121, a portion of the second panel member 122, and the first side 186 of the shelf divider 118. A second railing 193 may extend along the inner wall 190 of one or more of the third panel member 123, a portion of the second panel member 122, and the second side 188 of the shelf divider 118, thereby allowing a plurality of storage totes 110 to be stored on the shelf panel 120, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0085] The upper surface 191 of the railing 189 may be configured to lie on a third plane (not shown) positioned below each of the first plane and the second plane. The third plane may be parallel to the first plane and the second plane. The railing 189 or a portion of the railing 189 may include a relatively uninterrupted, smooth surface 194 configured to allow the storage tote 110 to easily slide on and along the railing 189 during insertion of the storage tote 110. The upper surface 191 may be configured to contact the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 and facilitate the smooth sliding of the storage tote 110 in and out of the receiving portion 119, the central receiving portion 147, and the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. The railing 189 may be an elongate member and may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration, as determined by one of skill in the art. In certain embodiments, the railing 189 may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, as an example. The railing 189 may include support ribs 131 disposed on the bottom surface 132 to provide structural integrity for the shelf panel 120.

[0086] With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the railing 189 may have a railing ramp 195 configured as an angled portion extending from the upper surface 191 of the railing 189 to a front surface 196 of the railing 189. The railing ramp 195 may be positioned adjacent the receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120 and / or may form a portion of the receiving portion 119. The shelf panel 120 may include a plurality of railing ramps 195. As an example, the shelf panel 120 may include a first railing ramp 197 disposed adjacent the first panel member 121 and the cross member 124 and a second railing ramp 198 disposed adjacent the third panel member 123 and the cross member 124. It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments including the shelf divider 118, one or more third railing ramps 199 may be disposed adjacent the shelf divider 118. The railing ramp 195 may be configured to facilitate the sliding of the storage tote 110 up and onto the railing 189, the storage tote 110 further guided by one or more of the receiving portion 119, the central receiving portion 147, the textured upper surface 133, the smooth upper surface 134, the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, the cross member 124, and the shelf divider 118 upon insertion onto the railing 189 and into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120.

[0087] With reference to FIG. 28, in certain embodiments, a kit 200 for a storage rack assembly 100 may include a plurality of shelf panels 201, as described herein. The kit 200 may also include a first set of poles 202, where each pole 140 included in the first set of poles 202 may include a first length 203. The kit 200 may also include a second set of poles 204 where each pole 140 may include a second length 205. It should be appreciated that any number of sets of poles having variable and / or identical lengths may be included in the kit 200, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0088] The kit 200 may include top caps 150 configured to be disposed in the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174 of the plurality of shelf panels 201. The kit 200 may further include foot assemblies 160 configured to be disposed in the apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 of the plurality of shelf panels 201. The kit 200 may also include instructional materials 206 for assembly for the user to follow. The different lengths 203, 205 of each of the first set of poles 202 and the second set of poles 204, respectively, may allow the user to customize the space between each successive shelf panel 120 of the plurality of shelf panels 201. The kit 200 may include one or more shelf dividers 118. It should be appreciated that the kit 200 may include a plurality of storage rack assemblies 100 and may include one or more interlocking components 171.

[0089] It should be further appreciated that the kit 200 may include a variety of different poles 140, foot assemblies 160, and shelf panels 120. As examples, shelf panels 120 without shelf dividers 118, shelf panels 120 including integrally formed shelf dividers 118, shelf panels 120 including removable shelf dividers 118, shelf panels 120 without railings 189, shelf panels 120 including railings 189, and any combination thereof may be included in the kit 200. In certain more particular embodiments, the kit 200 may include the uppermost shelf panel 174, a bottommost shelf panel 175, at least one additional shelf panel 120 configured to be positioned between the uppermost shelf panel 174 and the bottommost shelf panel 175, poles 140, top caps 150, and foot assemblies 160. In certain embodiments, the kit 200 may include an uppermost shelf panel 174, a bottommost shelf panel 175, two additional shelf panels 120, four shelf dividers 118, sixteen poles 140, four top caps 150-, and four-foot assemblies 160, as an example. In certain embodiments, the kit 200 may include a plurality of storage totes 110. It should be appreciated that the kit 200 may include more than one storage rack assembly 100, as desired.

[0090] A method 300 of assembling a storage rack assembly 100 is further provided, as shown in FIG. 29. The method 300 may include a step 302 of providing the storage rack assembly 100, as described herein. The method 300 may include a step 304 of inserting each end of a pole 140 into a corresponding aperture 128 of one of two successive shelf panels 120, such that two successive shelf panels 120 are arranged one on top of another and spaced apart by the pole 140. A step 306 may include inserting a top cap 150 into an aperture 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174. The method 300 may also include a step 308 of inserting a foot assembly 160 into an aperture 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 and a step 310 of sliding the storage tote 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. Additional steps relating to selecting a desired length of the poles 140, selecting a desired foot assembly 160, selecting and installing a desired number of shelf dividers 118, and selecting and installing a desired number and configuration of storage totes 110 may be included in the method 300. Additional steps may relate to determining a desired configuration of a plurality of storage rack assemblies 100 and coupling one storage rack assembly 100 to another storage rack assembly 100 using one or more interlocking components 171. It should be appreciated that steps may be omitted, added, and / or repeated, as determined by one of skill in the art.

[0091] The storage rack assembly 100 may advantageously provide a tool-free assembly design with modular connectivity and an efficient suspension mechanism. The storage rack assembly 100 may militate against the need for specialized tools during assembly while enabling the user to easily modify and expand storage configurations as needed using the interlocking components 171 configured to couple a plurality of storage rack assemblies 100 in a side-by-side and / or back-to-back configuration. The variable lengths of the poles 140 may facilitate customization of vertical spacing between shelf panels 120 to accommodate storage totes 110 having a variety of sizes, thereby maximizing space utilization. The cross member 124 may provide enhanced support for the storage totes 110 and optimal accessibility. Inclusion of one or more shelf dividers 118 into the storage rack assembly 100 can be used to vary the size, shape, and / or number of storage totes 110 accommodated thereby. The modularity of the storage rack assembly 100 in combination with the suspension of the storage totes 110 using the upper lip 111 thereof may create an efficient storage solution that optimizes use of both vertical and horizontal space while ensuring the storage totes 110 remain easily accessible.

[0092] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions and methods can be made within the scope of the present technology, with substantially similar results.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0043]The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture, and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 772,904, filed on Mar. 17, 2025. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present technology relates to storage rack systems and, more particularly, to modular storage rack systems having support members configured to suspend storage containers.INTRODUCTION

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Storage racks and organizational systems are useful in both residential and commercial settings as efficient systems used for maximizing storage space while allowing for easy access to stored items. Storage solutions often involve fixed shelving units that lack adaptability to different storage needs and spatial constraints. These storage solutions often rely on placing items directly onto shelves and / or stacking items directly on top of one another, leading to an inefficient use of vertical space and difficulty accessing stored items, such as items stored toward the back of a deep shelf or on the bottom of a stack. Storage systems that do not include fixed shelving units may require significant assembly time and specialized tools.

[0005] Certain storage systems may also lack modularity and may be challenging to expand and / / or reconfigure. These limitations may result in a user needing to purchase entirely new storage systems as storage requirements evolve or increase, leading to unnecessary cost and excessive waste. Additionally, storage systems often inefficiently occupy substantial floor space and may not be configured to effectively combine with other storage systems to form larger, integrated storage solutions. The limited efficiency and adaptability of these storage systems may also result in storage solutions that do not meet the storage needs of a user.

[0006] Certain storage systems furthermore may not accommodate containers of different sizes, as the storage systems may be built with fixed dimensions and rigid configurations, contributing to a lack of versatility. Fixed configurations may also result in wasted space between shelves and, as a result, inefficient use of an available storage area. Such storage systems may lack proper support structures to securely hold storage containers in place and may require heavy, excessive material for the shelf components and additional components.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a continuing need for a versatile storage rack system that may be easily assembled and reconfigured without tools. Desirably, such a storage system may provide secure support for various container sizes, provide modular expansion capabilities, and incorporate features that allow for efficient space utilization while facilitating easy access to all stored items.SUMMARY

[0008] In concordance with the instant disclosure, a versatile storage rack system that is easily assembled and reconfigured without tools, provides secure support for various container sizes, provides modular expansion capabilities, and incorporates features that allow for efficient space utilization while facilitating easy access to all stored items, has surprisingly been discovered. The present technology includes articles of manufacture, systems, and processes that relate to customizable storage rack systems having modular components for suspending and organizing storage totes in a customizable configuration.

[0009] In certain embodiments, a storage rack assembly may include a shelf panel having a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may be coupled to one another and form an opening therebetween. The storage rack assembly may include an aperture formed in the shelf panel, a pole configured to be received by the aperture, a top cap configured to be received by the aperture, and a foot assembly configured to be received by the aperture.

[0010] In certain embodiments, a kit for a storage rack assembly may include a plurality of shelf panels. Each shelf panel may have a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The second panel member may be coupled to each of the first panel member and the third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may define an opening. A cross member may extend from the first panel member to the third panel member. A first portion of the cross member may be disposed adjacent each of the first panel member and the third panel member, and a second portion of the cross member may be spaced apart from the first panel member and the third panel member. A plurality of interlocking slots may be formed in an outer edge of the shelf panel. A plurality of apertures may be formed in the shelf panel. The plurality of apertures may include an upper receiving portion, a lower receiving portion, and an aperture lip disposed between the upper receiving portion and the lower receiving portion. The kit for a storage rack assembly may include a first set of poles. Each pole of the first set of poles may have a first length and may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures. A second set of poles may be included. Each pole of the second set of poles may have a second length and may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures. A plurality top caps may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures, and a plurality of foot assemblies may be configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures.

[0011] In certain embodiments, a method of assembling a storage rack includes a step of providing a storage rack assembly. The storage rack assembly may include a plurality of shelf panels. Each shelf panel may have a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member. The first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member may be coupled to one another and may form an opening therebetween. The storage rack assembly may include a plurality of apertures formed in each shelf panel, a plurality of poles configured to be received by the plurality of apertures, a plurality of top caps configured to be received by the plurality of apertures, a plurality of foot assemblies configured to be received by the plurality of apertures, and a plurality of interlocking slots formed adjacent an outer edge of each shelf panel. The method of assembling a storage rack may include a step of inserting an end of each pole into an aperture of each shelf panel, a step of inserting a top cap into an aperture of an uppermost shelf panel, and a step of inserting a foot assembly into an aperture of a bottommost shelf panel. A step of including sliding a storage tote into the opening of at least one shelf panel may also be included.

[0012] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0013] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof;

[0017] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a shelf panel of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a shelf divider of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a top front perspective view of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a top rear perspective view thereof;

[0022] FIG. 9 is a top plan view thereof;

[0023] FIG. 10 is a top front perspective view of a shelf panel of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 11 is an exploded top rear perspective view thereof;

[0025] FIG. 12 is a top front perspective view of a shelf panel of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 13 is an exploded top rear perspective view thereof;

[0027] FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of a plurality of storage rack assemblies, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of a plurality of storage rack assemblies, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a section thereof;

[0030] FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of an interlocking component of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly including a plurality of storage totes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly including a plurality of storage totes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of a storage rack assembly including a plurality of storage totes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a top cap of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0036] FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of a foot assembly of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 24 is a top perspective view thereof;

[0038] FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of a wheeled foot assembly of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of a foot assembly of a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0041] FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram of a kit for a storage rack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0042] FIG. 29 is a diagram of a method of assembling a storage rack assembly.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture, and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing the broadest scope of the technology. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and / or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and / or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

[0044] Although the open-ended term “comprising,” as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that may be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein.

[0045] As referred to herein, disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter may define endpoints for a range of values that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1–10, or 2–9, or 3–8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1–9, 1–8, 1–3, 1–2, 2–10, 2–8, 2–3, 3–10, 3–9, and so on.

[0046] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,”“engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,”“directly engaged to,”“directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,”“adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0047] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,”“second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0048] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,”“outer,”“beneath,”“below,”“lower,”“above,”“upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0049] The present technology improves upon storage systems by providing a customizable storage rack system that enables tool-free construction, adjustable spacing between and within shelf panels, and secure suspension of storage totes having variable sizes from integrated shelf panel sections. The present technology further enhances storage capabilities through modular connectivity features that allow multiple racks to be joined together in side-by-side and back-to-back configurations, creating expandable storage solutions than may be tailored to specific space requirements and storage needs. Additionally, the present technology advances storage efficiency through a cross member that facilitates containers slidingly suspended from a shelf panel of the storage system while providing enhanced structural integrity to the storage system.

[0050] With reference to FIGS. 1-27, a storage rack assembly 100 is provided. A kit 200 including at least one storage rack assembly 100 and a method 300 of assembling at least one storage rack assembly 100 are also provided, with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29, respectively. Advantageously, the storage rack assembly 100, the kit 200, and the method 300, are designed to facilitate tool-free and easy assembly for customizable storage solutions. The storage rack assembly 100 may include at least one shelf panel 120. The storage rack assembly 100 may further include at least one pole 140, top cap 150, and foot assembly 160. In certain embodiments, the storage rack assembly 100 may include at least one storage tote 110 configured to be slidingly received and supported by the shelf panel 120 of the storage rack assembly 100 in a suspended manner.

[0051] The storage rack assembly 100 may be formed from lightweight plastic material, such as a polyolefin including a polypropylene plastic material by a molding process such as injection molding. One of ordinary skill in the art may form the storage rack assembly 100 in any suitable material, including other thermoplastic materials such as polyethylene, and non-thermoplastic materials such as foam or metal, as examples, within the scope of the present disclosure, ensuring consistent quality and durability. Any suitable process or processes may be employed to form the storage rack assembly 100.

[0052] With reference to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-4, the shelf panel 120 may include a first panel member 121, a second panel member 122, a third panel member 123, and a cross member 124. The cross member 124 may include and / or define a receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120, which may be configured to receive the storage tote 110 for suspension during insertion of the storage tote 110 on the shelf panel 120. More particularly, the receiving portion 119 may be configured to receive and position an upper lip 111 or flange of the storage tote 110 therethrough, as shown in FIGS. 18-20. One or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 may be removably coupled to one another to define an opening 125 centrally located with respect to the shelf panel 120. As an example, each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may be removably coupled to the second panel member 122, as shown in FIGS. 10-13. It should be appreciated that one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 may be integrally formed together to define the opening 125 centrally located with respect to the shelf panel 120, according to certain embodiments.

[0053] At least a portion of each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, such as an upper surface 126 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may lie on a first plane (not shown). At least a portion of the upper surface 126 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and third panel member 123 may also include a textured upper surface 133. The textured upper surface 133 may include detents or protuberances, as examples, configured to maintain a desired position of the storage tote 110 during insertion and storage / use. At least a portion of the upper surface 126 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may include a relatively uninterrupted, smooth upper surface 134. Advantageously, the smooth upper surface 134 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may be configured to contact the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 and facilitate the smooth sliding of the storage tote 110 in and out of the receiving portion 119 and the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that the textured upper surface 133 may be configured to secure the storage tote in a desired position with respect to one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123.

[0054] Each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may be an elongate member and may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration. Each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may have a rectangular cross sectional shape, as an example. The first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may include support ribs 131 disposed on a bottom surface 132 of the shelf panel 120 to enhance the structural integrity of the shelf panel 120, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0055] When the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 is inserted through the receiving portion 119, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may abut and rest on the smooth upper surface 134 of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, thereby facilitating a sliding of the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 along each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. The upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be positioned adjacent to, abut, slide on, and / or rest on the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120 after complete insertion of the shelf panel 120 and during use. It should be appreciated that, upon complete insertion of the storage tote 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120, one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 may be configured to support the weight of the storage tote 110.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the shelf panel 120 may include at least one aperture 128 disposed therethrough. In certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include apertures 128 disposed adjacent each corner 135 of the shelf panel 120 and / or adjacent one or more sections of the shelf panel 120 where any two of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 come together. Each aperture 128 may be configured to receive a pole 140 having a desired length and configured to couple one shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120 during assembly of the storage rack assembly 100. Each aperture 128 may be any suitable shape, size, and configuration, as determined by a skilled artisan, such as a polygonal shape. In certain embodiments, each aperture 128 may be rectangular in shape and configured to receive a pole 140 having a rectangular cross-section. One of ordinary skill in the art may select any suitable shape, size, and configuration for the aperture 128 within the scope of the present disclosure. The aperture 128 may be configured to receive the top cap 150 and / or the foot assembly 160, as described herein.

[0057] Each aperture 128 may include an upper receiving portion 136 and a lower receiving portion 137. The upper receiving portion 136 may be separated from the lower receiving portion 137 by an aperture lip 138. The aperture lip 138 may circumscribe the entirety of the aperture 128 or a portion of the aperture 128. The upper receiving portion 136, the lower receiving portion 137, and the aperture lip 138 of the aperture 128 may define the aperture 128 and may be integrally formed with one another or coupled to one another, as determined by one of skill in the art.

[0058] The aperture 128 may be configured to receive the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160. The aperture lip 138 may abut an end of the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160 when the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160 is received in the aperture 128, thereby militating against the pole 140, the top cap 150, and / or the foot assembly 160 sliding out of a desired position during use. It should be understood that the aperture 128 may be configured to receive two components where a first component may be received in the upper receiving portion 136, and a second component may be received in the lower receiving portion 137. As an example, the upper receiving portion 136 of an aperture 128 may receive the top cap 150, and the lower receiving portion 137 may receive the pole 140. In another example, the upper receiving portion 136 may receive the pole 140 and the lower receiving portion 137 may receive the foot assembly 160. In another example, the upper receiving portion 136 may receive a pole 140, and the lower receiving portion 137 may receive another pole 140. It should be further appreciated that the aperture 128 may include the upper receiving portion 136 and a lower receiving portion 137 and may not include the aperture lip 138, thereby allowing a component such as a pole 140 to slide through the aperture 128, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0059] In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 10-13, the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may be removably coupled to the second panel member 122. Each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may include an inserting end 101 having an aperture 128 disposed therein. The inserting end 101 of the first panel member 121 may extend outwardly and may be configured to be received in a hollow interior portion (not shown) of the second panel member 122 at a first end 102 of the second panel member 122, and the inserting end 101 of the third panel member 123 may extend outwardly and may be configured to be received in a hollow interior portion (not shown) of the second panel member 122 at a second end 103 of the second panel member 122. An opening 104 having a cross-sectional shape that is generally the same as a cross-sectional shape of the aperture 128 may be disposed at each of the first end 102 of the second panel member 122 and the second end 103 of the second panel member 122 and may be configured to align with the corresponding aperture 128 when each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 is coupled to the second panel member 122.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the second panel member 122 may include a first inserting end 105 including an aperture 128 disposed at the first end 102 of the second panel member 122 and configured to be received by the first panel member 121. A second inserting end 106 may be disposed at the second end 103 of the second panel member 122 and configured to be received by the third panel member 123. The first inserting end 105 and the second inserting end 106 may be configured to be inserted into a hollow interior 107 of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, respectively. The first panel member 121 may include a first opening 108 having a cross-sectional shape that is generally the same as a cross-sectional shape of the aperture 128 disposed at the first end 102 of the second panel member 122. The first opening 108 may be configured to align with the aperture 128 disposed at the first end 102 of the second panel member 122 when the first panel member 121 is coupled to the second panel member 122. The third panel member 123 may include a second opening 109 having a cross-sectional shape that is generally the same as a cross-sectional shape of the aperture 128 disposed at the second end 103 of the second panel member 122. The second opening 109 may be configured to align with the aperture 128 disposed at the second end 103 of the second panel member 122 when the third panel member 123 is coupled to the second panel member 122.

[0061] The shelf panel 120 may also include an interlocking slot 130. The interlocking slot 130 may be formed in or adjacent an outer edge 139 of the shelf panel 120. The interlocking slot 130 may be utilized to couple one shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120 using an interlocking component 171 selectively and removably disposed in the interlocking slot 130 of each shelf panel 120, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The interlocking component 171 may include a first interlocking section 172 configured to be received in the interlocking slot 130 of one shelf panel 120 and a second interlocking section 173 configured to be received in the interlocking slot 130 of another shelf panel 120 when the shelf panels 120 are positioned adjacent one another. The shelf panel 120 may include two interlocking slots 130 formed in the outer edge 139 of each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120, thereby providing a total of six interlocking slots 130 in the shelf panel 120 configured for coupling the shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120. One of ordinary skill in the art may select any number and suitable configuration for the interlocking slots 130 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0062] The interlocking components 171 may be configured to be received in the interlocking slots 130 of adjacent shelf panels 120, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The interlocking components 171 may enable multiple storage rack assemblies to be coupled in each of a side-by-side and a back-to-back configuration, thereby creating expandable storage configurations. In certain embodiments, the interlocking components 171 may have a substantially bow-tie cross-section and may be configured to couple one shelf panel 120 to another shelf panel 120.

[0063] The cross member 124 may be configured to extend between the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. A first portion 112 of the cross member 124 may lie in the first plane and may be disposed adjacent each of the first panel member 121 and third panel member 123. A second portion 112 of the cross member 124 may be spaced apart from and / or elevated with respect to the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. In certain embodiments, the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 may be disposed in a second plane (not shown). The second plane may be parallel to the first plane and positioned above the first plane.

[0064] Each of a first supporting wall 127 and a second supporting wall 129 may be disposed between and extend from the first portion 112 of the cross member 124 and the second portion 113 of the cross member 124, as shown in FIG. 4. The first supporting wall 127 and the second supporting wall 129 may be disposed adjacent the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, respectively, and each of the first supporting wall 127 and the second supporting wall 129 may be configured to support the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 disposed in the second plane.

[0065] Each of the first portion 112 and the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 may be integrally formed with the first supporting wall 127 and the second supporting wall 129. The first portion 112, the second portion 113, the first supporting wall 127, and the second supporting wall 129 may define a portion or all of the receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120 adjacent the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. The cross member 124 may be configured to facilitate a sliding insertion of the storage tote 110 into the receiving portion 119 and the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120 while enhancing the structural integrity of the shelf panel 120. The cross member 124 may be an elongate member and may be positioned substantially parallel to the second panel member 122 and substantially perpendicular to each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123. The first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the cross member 124 may define a polygonal shape of the opening 125 and / or the shelf panel 120. The shelf panel 120 including the opening 125 may be any suitable shape, size, and configuration, such as substantially rectangular, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0066] The cross member may include a substantially uninterrupted, smooth surface 151. Advantageously, the cross member 124 may enhance the structural integrity of the storage rack assembly 100 as the shelf panel 120 is utilized to suspend the storage tote 110 and hold the weight of the storage tote 110. The cross member 124 may include support ribs 131 disposed on the bottom surface 132, thereby enhancing the structural integrity of the cross member 124 and the shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include the first panel member 121 the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, and may not include the cross member 124, and shown in FIGS. 10-13. The cross member 124 may provide strength to the shelf panel 120 and may be included and / or not included in selected shelf panels 120 as desired, for example, based on user requirements, desired load carrying capacity, and / or materials selected to form each shelf panel 120, as examples.

[0067] With reference to FIG. 4, the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 may each include a first ramp 114 and a second ramp 116, respectively. The first ramp 114 may be defined by an angled section of a first ramp surface 115 of the first panel member 121, and the second ramp 116 may be defined by an angled section of a second ramp surface 117 of the third panel member 123. The first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116 each may be disposed adjacent the receiving portion 119 of the cross member 124, such that the receiving portion 119 may guide the storage tote 110 onto each of the first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116. The first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116 may be configured to facilitate the sliding of the storage tote 110 up onto each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, and into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120.

[0068] The pole 140 may be elongate and may be configured for insertion into the aperture 128 of the shelf panel 120. In certain embodiments, the pole 140 may have an insertion section (not shown) disposed at one of both of the ends of the pole 140 configured to fit in the aperture 128. A plurality of poles 140 including a plurality of identical poles 140 and / or a plurality of poles 140 having various lengths may be included, thereby enabling a user to customize the vertical spacing between shelf panels 120 to accommodate storage totes 110 having different sizes. The storage rack assembly 100 may include four poles 140, eight poles 140, twelve poles 140, or sixteen poles 140, as examples, according to various embodiments. Four poles 140 may be used to couple two shelf panels 120 to one another by disposing a first end of each pole 140 in the aperture 128 of one shelf panel 120 and a second end of each pole 140 in the aperture 128 of another shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that the poles 140 may be configured to provide any desired spacing between two successive shelf panels 120, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0069] The pole 140 may support the weight of the storage tote 110 suspended from the shelf panel 120 of the storage rack assembly 100 and may transfer the load to a surface on which the storage rack assembly 100 rests, such as the ground or the floor. The length of the pole 140 may be selected to provide a desired distance between successive shelf panels 120. The poles 140 between two successive shelf panels 120 may be a different length than the poles 140 between another two successive shelf panels 120 to provide a customized space between each set of shelf panels 120 and accommodate storage totes 110 having various sizes. It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the poles 140 may be substantially the same length. One of ordinary skill in the art may configure the poles 140 as desired within the scope of the present disclosure to accommodate the storage needs of the user.

[0070] The storage rack assembly 100 may include the top cap 150. The top cap 150 may include an outer portion 152 and an inner portion 154, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The outer portion 152 may form a ledge 153 circumscribing the inner portion 154. The inner portion 154 may be configured to be received through the upper receiving portion 136 of the aperture 128 formed in the shelf panel 120 and cooperate with the upper receiving portion 136 through a friction fit, a snap fit, or any other suitable connecting mechanism. More specifically, the top cap 150 may be inserted through the upper receiving portion 136 of the aperture 128 of an uppermost shelf panel 174 and the ledge 153 may abut the upper surface 126 of the shelf panel 120 and substantially cover the aperture 128. Additionally, the inner portion 154 may be disposed within the upper receiving portion 136 of the aperture 128 to facilitate a friction fit between the top cap 150 and the aperture 128, thereby securing the top cap 150 in place with respect to the shelf panel 120. In certain embodiments, the inner portion 154 of the top cap 150 may be configured with ribs, detents, protuberances, and the like to facilitate retaining the top cap 150 within the aperture 128 of the shelf panel 120 and / or to enhance the structural integrity of the top cap 150 and the shelf panel 120. Advantageously, the top cap 150 may cover the aperture 128 in the uppermost shelf panel 174 of the storage rack assembly 100. One of ordinary skill in the art may select any suitable top cap 150 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0071] With reference to FIGS. 23, 24, 26 and 27, the foot assembly 160 may include a foot 166. In certain embodiments, the foot assembly 160 may include the foot 166 and a foot adjuster 167, thereby providing a means of adjusting a height of the storage rack assembly 100. The foot adjuster 167 may include a foot insert portion 168 and a threaded element 169. The foot 166 may include a threaded opening 170 configured to threadably receive and engage with the threaded element 169 of the foot adjuster 167. The foot insert portion 168 of the foot adjuster 167 may be configured to cooperate with the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 of a bottommost shelf panel 175 in the storage rack assembly 100. The foot insert portion 168 may be received in the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 using a friction fit, snap fit, or any other suitable connecting mechanism. The threaded element 169 may be configured to threadably couple to the threaded opening 170 of the foot 166. Desirably, the foot adjuster 167 may allow the user to customize the leveling and height of the storage rack assembly 100 on a surface such as the ground by increasing or reducing a length of the foot assembly 160. It should be appreciated that the foot 166 and / or the foot adjuster 167 may include ribs, detents, protuberances, and the like to facilitate retaining the foot adjuster 167 within the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 and to enhance the structural integrity of the foot assembly 160 and the storage rack assembly 100, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the foot assembly 160 may be a wheeled foot 161, as shown in FIG. 25. In certain more particular embodiments, the storage rack assembly 100 may include four wheeled feet 161 configured to be received through the apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175. Each wheeled foot 161 may include a wheel 162 having a lock 163 and a connecting end 164 attached to a top portion 165 of the wheel 162. The connecting end 164 may be configured to be received in the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 using a friction fit or any other suitable connecting mechanism, as determined by a skilled artisan. As an example, the connecting end 164 may have a rectangular shape configured to cooperate with the lower receiving portion 137 of the aperture 128. The connecting end 164 may be any suitable shape, size, and configuration compatible with the aperture 128. The wheel 162 may allow the storage rack assembly 100 to be easily transported and / or rolled to a desired location. The lock 163 may be activated to militate against a rotation of the wheel 162 and facilitate maintaining the storage rack assembly 100 in a desired location. The wheeled foot 161 may include a threaded fastener utilized as an axle to secure the wheel and lock 163 to the wheeled foot 161. The lock 163 may be configured to restrict movement of the wheel 162 when the lock 163 is engaged. One of ordinary skill in the art may select a suitable foot assembly 160 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0073] The storage rack assembly 100 may also include a wall securing mechanism (not shown) that may be used to secure the storage rack assembly 100 to a wall for additional stability and storage capabilities. As an example, wall brackets may be utilized. The wall brackets may be generally U-shaped including tabs with apertures and the wall brackets may be used to couple the storage rack assembly 100 to a wall. The wall brackets may surround a portion of the outer periphery of the poles 140 to secure the storage rack assembly 100 to a wall or other supporting structure. The poles 140 may be inserted through the open portion of U-shaped wall bracket and fasteners may be inserted through the apertures of the wall bracket to secure the storage rack assembly 100 to the wall. It should be appreciated that one of ordinary skill in the art may select any suitable wall securing mechanism having any desired configuration and connecting mechanism within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0074] With reference to FIGS. 18-20, the storage rack assembly 100 may be assembled utilizing the shelf panels 120, poles 140, top caps 150, and foot assemblies 160. The user may select poles 140 having various lengths to assemble the storage rack assembly 100, identical poles 140, or any combination thereof. Four poles 140 of substantially the same length may be used to join two successive shelf panels 120 by disposing an end of each pole 140 in an aperture 128 of each of the two successive shelf panels 120. The poles 140 may be configured to provide a desired spacing between two successive shelf panels 120. The top caps 150 may be placed in the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174 to cover the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174. More specifically, the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174 may receive top caps 150 in the upper receiving portions 136 of each aperture 128 and poles 140 in the lower receiving portions 137. The apertures 128 of the shelf panel 120 positioned below the uppermost shelf panel 174 may be configured to receive the poles 140 coupled to the uppermost shelf panel 174 in each of the upper receiving portions 136 of the apertures and additional poles 140 in the lower receiving portions 137 of the apertures 128, thereby coupling the uppermost shelf panel 174 with the shelf panel 120 positioned below the uppermost shelf panel 120 and configuring the shelf panel 120 positioned below the uppermost shelf panel 174 to be coupled to another shelf panel 120. The apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 may receive poles 140 in the upper receiving portion 136 of the apertures 128 and may receive either the wheeled feet 161 or the foot assemblies 160 in the lower receiving portion 137 of the apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175. The apertures 128 of the shelf panel 120 positioned above the bottommost shelf panel 175 may receive the poles 140 coupled to the bottommost shelf panel 175 the lower receiving portions 137 of the apertures 128 and additional poles 140 in the upper receiving portions 136, thereby coupling the bottommost shelf panel 175 with the shelf panel 120 positioned above the bottommost shelf panel 175 and configuring the shelf panel 120 positioned above the bottommost shelf panel 175 to be coupled to another shelf panel 120.

[0075] The storage tote 110 may be slidingly received through the receiving portion 119 of the cross member 124, and the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120 may be configured to support the weight of the storage tote 110 when the storage tote 110 is loaded onto the first ramp 114 and the second ramp 116, and suspended in the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. More specifically, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may rest on the smooth upper surface 134 of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and / or the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120 to suspend the storage tote 110 from the shelf panel 120 within the opening 125. Advantageously, and as shown in FIG. 18-20, the shelf panel 120 may be configured to support a plurality of storage totes 110 received through the receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120, thereby allowing more than one storage tote 110 to be suspended from a single shelf panel 120 and enhancing storage capabilities. It should be appreciated that the storage tote 110 may include a lid (not shown), as desired.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include a shelf divider 118 configured to removably couple to the shelf panel 120. The shelf divider 118 may be elongate and have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, as an example. It should be appreciated that any suitable shape, size, and configuration may be employed, as determined by one of skill in the art. The shelf divider 118 may include support ribs 143 disposed on a bottom surface 144 of the shelf divider 118 to provide structural integrity for the shelf divider 118 and the shelf panel 120 during use. A first end 176 of the shelf divider 118 may include a first connecting element 177, such as a flange, extending outwardly from the shelf divider 118. The first connecting element 177 may be configured to removably couple to the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120. A second end 178 of the shelf divider 118 positioned opposite the first end 176 of the shelf divider 118 may include a second connecting element 179 extending outwardly from the shelf divider 118. The second connecting element 179 may be configured to removably couple the shelf divider 118 to the cross member 124 of the shelf panel 120.

[0077] The first connecting element 177 and the second connecting element 179 may be integrally formed with the shelf divider 118 or coupled thereto. In certain embodiments, the first connecting element 177 may be configured to removably couple to the upper surface 126 of the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120, thereby positioning an upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 to lie on the first plane. The first connecting element 177 may be configured to be positioned adjacent to, disposed on or in the upper surface 126 of the second panel member122, or rest on a portion of the upper surface 126 of the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120, as examples. The upper surface 126 of the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120 may include a recessed receiving portion 145 configured to receive a protrusion 146 disposed on the bottom surface 144 of the shelf divider 118 at or adjacent the first connecting element 117.

[0078] The second connecting element 179 may include a divider supporting wall 180 integrally formed with the shelf divider 118 at a first end 181 of the second connecting element 179. The divider supporting wall 180 may extend upwardly from the shelf divider 118 and may include a hook portion 182 disposed at a second end 183 of the second connecting element 179. The hook portion 182 may be configured to removably couple to the cross member 124 in the second plane positioned above the first plane. The hook portion 182 may have any suitable shape and configuration such as a U-shape configuration, as an example. The hook portion 182 may define a recessed area 184 of the second connecting element 179 having a shape that is substantially the same as a cross-sectional shape of the second portion 113 of the cross member 124 of the shelf panel 120. Each of the first connecting element 177, the second connecting element 179, and the divider supporting wall 180 may have a relatively smooth and uninterrupted surface, according to certain embodiments.

[0079] The shelf divider 118 may include a central receiving portion 147 configured to work in combination with the receiving portion 119 and direct the storage tote 110 to be slidingly received through the receiving portion 119 and the central receiving portion 147 for suspension of the storage tote 110 within the opening 125 or a portion of the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. The shelf divider 118 may include a third ramp 185 disposed on a first side 186 of the shelf divider 118 adjacent the second end 183 of the shelf divider 118 and a fourth ramp 187 disposed on a second side 188 of the shelf divider 118 adjacent the second end 183 of the shelf divider 118. The third ramp 185 and the fourth ramp 187 may be disposed adjacent the central receiving portion 147 and may be positioned adjacent the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 of the shelf panel 120, respectively. The third ramp 185 in combination with the first ramp 114 of first panel member 121, the fourth ramp 187 in combination with the second ramp 116 of the third panel member 123, the receiving portion 119, and the central receiving portion 147 may facilitate the sliding of one or more storage totes 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120.

[0080] At least a portion of the upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 may lie on the first plane, and at least a portion of the upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 may include a textured upper surface 133. The textured upper surface 133 may include detents or protuberances, as determined by one of skill in the art. At least a portion of the upper surface 148 of the shelf divider 118 may include a smooth upper surface 134. Advantageously, the upper lip 111 of one or more storage totes 110 may contact the smooth upper surface 134 of the shelf divider 118 to facilitate the sliding of the storage totes 110 in and out of the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120 on either side or both sides of the shelf divider 118. At least a portion of the second connecting element 179 of the shelf divider 118, such as the hook portion 182, may lie in the second plane. It should be appreciated that the shelf divider 118 may be integrally formed with the shelf panel 120 in certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. As an example, the shelf divider 118 may be integrally formed with the cross member 124 and the second panel member 122.

[0081] When the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 is inserted through the receiving portion 119 and the central receiving portion 147 of the shelf panel 120, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may rest on the shelf divider 118 and one of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, thereby facilitating a sliding of the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 along the shelf divider 118 and the first panel member 121 or the third panel member 123. Upon complete insertion of the storage tote 110, the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may abut and / or rest on the second panel member 122 of the shelf panel 120. Upon complete insertion of the storage tote 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120, the shelf divider 118, one of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, and / or the second panel member 122 may support the weight of the storage tote 110. It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the shelf divider 118 may be placed anywhere along the cross member 124 and the second panel member 122 to accommodate storage totes 110 of variable sizes. It should also be appreciated that the cross member 124 may include a cross member receiving portion 149, such as a ledge, as an example, configured to receive and / or secure the hook portion 182 of the shelf divider 118 in a desired location, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0082] The shelf divider 118 may advantageously enhance the structural integrity of the storage rack assembly 100 and the shelf panels 120 utilized to suspend and hold the weight of storage totes 110. Additionally, the shelf divider 118 may allow the user to store additional storage totes 110 on each shelf panel 120. It should be appreciated that the shelf divider 118 may be included or not included in selected ones or all shelf panels 120 as desired, for example, based on user requirements, desired load carrying capacity, and materials and configurations selected to form the storage rack assembly 100.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the shelf panel 120 may include a railing 189 integrally formed with or coupled to an inner wall 190 of one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, and the shelf divider 118, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The railing 189 may define the opening 125 centrally located with respect to the shelf panel 120 and configured to receive the storage tote 110 during use. The railing 189 may extend along the inner wall 190 of one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, according to certain embodiments that do not include the shelf divider 118, and the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be configured to rest on an upper surface 191 of the railing 189 adjacent one or more of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 during use. In certain embodiments, the railing 189 may extend along the inner wall 190 of each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123, and the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be configured to rest on the upper surface 191 of the railing 189 adjacent each of the first panel member 121 and the third panel member 123 during use. The inner wall 190 of the second panel member 122 may provide a backstop for the storage tote 110. In certain embodiments, the railing 189 may extend along the inner wall 190 of each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123, and the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 may be configured to rest on the upper surface 191 of the railing 189 adjacent each of the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, and the third panel member 123 during use.

[0084] In certain embodiments having the shelf divider 118 either removably coupled to or integrally formed with the shelf panel 120, a first railing 192 may extend along the inner wall 190 of one or more of the first panel member 121, a portion of the second panel member 122, and the first side 186 of the shelf divider 118. A second railing 193 may extend along the inner wall 190 of one or more of the third panel member 123, a portion of the second panel member 122, and the second side 188 of the shelf divider 118, thereby allowing a plurality of storage totes 110 to be stored on the shelf panel 120, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0085] The upper surface 191 of the railing 189 may be configured to lie on a third plane (not shown) positioned below each of the first plane and the second plane. The third plane may be parallel to the first plane and the second plane. The railing 189 or a portion of the railing 189 may include a relatively uninterrupted, smooth surface 194 configured to allow the storage tote 110 to easily slide on and along the railing 189 during insertion of the storage tote 110. The upper surface 191 may be configured to contact the upper lip 111 of the storage tote 110 and facilitate the smooth sliding of the storage tote 110 in and out of the receiving portion 119, the central receiving portion 147, and the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. The railing 189 may be an elongate member and may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration, as determined by one of skill in the art. In certain embodiments, the railing 189 may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, as an example. The railing 189 may include support ribs 131 disposed on the bottom surface 132 to provide structural integrity for the shelf panel 120.

[0086] With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the railing 189 may have a railing ramp 195 configured as an angled portion extending from the upper surface 191 of the railing 189 to a front surface 196 of the railing 189. The railing ramp 195 may be positioned adjacent the receiving portion 119 of the shelf panel 120 and / or may form a portion of the receiving portion 119. The shelf panel 120 may include a plurality of railing ramps 195. As an example, the shelf panel 120 may include a first railing ramp 197 disposed adjacent the first panel member 121 and the cross member 124 and a second railing ramp 198 disposed adjacent the third panel member 123 and the cross member 124. It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments including the shelf divider 118, one or more third railing ramps 199 may be disposed adjacent the shelf divider 118. The railing ramp 195 may be configured to facilitate the sliding of the storage tote 110 up and onto the railing 189, the storage tote 110 further guided by one or more of the receiving portion 119, the central receiving portion 147, the textured upper surface 133, the smooth upper surface 134, the first panel member 121, the second panel member 122, the third panel member 123, the cross member 124, and the shelf divider 118 upon insertion onto the railing 189 and into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120.

[0087] With reference to FIG. 28, in certain embodiments, a kit 200 for a storage rack assembly 100 may include a plurality of shelf panels 201, as described herein. The kit 200 may also include a first set of poles 202, where each pole 140 included in the first set of poles 202 may include a first length 203. The kit 200 may also include a second set of poles 204 where each pole 140 may include a second length 205. It should be appreciated that any number of sets of poles having variable and / or identical lengths may be included in the kit 200, as determined by a skilled artisan.

[0088] The kit 200 may include top caps 150 configured to be disposed in the apertures 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174 of the plurality of shelf panels 201. The kit 200 may further include foot assemblies 160 configured to be disposed in the apertures 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 of the plurality of shelf panels 201. The kit 200 may also include instructional materials 206 for assembly for the user to follow. The different lengths 203, 205 of each of the first set of poles 202 and the second set of poles 204, respectively, may allow the user to customize the space between each successive shelf panel 120 of the plurality of shelf panels 201. The kit 200 may include one or more shelf dividers 118. It should be appreciated that the kit 200 may include a plurality of storage rack assemblies 100 and may include one or more interlocking components 171.

[0089] It should be further appreciated that the kit 200 may include a variety of different poles 140, foot assemblies 160, and shelf panels 120. As examples, shelf panels 120 without shelf dividers 118, shelf panels 120 including integrally formed shelf dividers 118, shelf panels 120 including removable shelf dividers 118, shelf panels 120 without railings 189, shelf panels 120 including railings 189, and any combination thereof may be included in the kit 200. In certain more particular embodiments, the kit 200 may include the uppermost shelf panel 174, a bottommost shelf panel 175, at least one additional shelf panel 120 configured to be positioned between the uppermost shelf panel 174 and the bottommost shelf panel 175, poles 140, top caps 150, and foot assemblies 160. In certain embodiments, the kit 200 may include an uppermost shelf panel 174, a bottommost shelf panel 175, two additional shelf panels 120, four shelf dividers 118, sixteen poles 140, four top caps 150-, and four-foot assemblies 160, as an example. In certain embodiments, the kit 200 may include a plurality of storage totes 110. It should be appreciated that the kit 200 may include more than one storage rack assembly 100, as desired.

[0090] A method 300 of assembling a storage rack assembly 100 is further provided, as shown in FIG. 29. The method 300 may include a step 302 of providing the storage rack assembly 100, as described herein. The method 300 may include a step 304 of inserting each end of a pole 140 into a corresponding aperture 128 of one of two successive shelf panels 120, such that two successive shelf panels 120 are arranged one on top of another and spaced apart by the pole 140. A step 306 may include inserting a top cap 150 into an aperture 128 of the uppermost shelf panel 174. The method 300 may also include a step 308 of inserting a foot assembly 160 into an aperture 128 of the bottommost shelf panel 175 and a step 310 of sliding the storage tote 110 into the opening 125 of the shelf panel 120. Additional steps relating to selecting a desired length of the poles 140, selecting a desired foot assembly 160, selecting and installing a desired number of shelf dividers 118, and selecting and installing a desired number and configuration of storage totes 110 may be included in the method 300. Additional steps may relate to determining a desired configuration of a plurality of storage rack assemblies 100 and coupling one storage rack assembly 100 to another storage rack assembly 100 using one or more interlocking components 171. It should be appreciated that steps may be omitted, added, and / or repeated, as determined by one of skill in the art.

[0091] The storage rack assembly 100 may advantageously provide a tool-free assembly design with modular connectivity and an efficient suspension mechanism. The storage rack assembly 100 may militate against the need for specialized tools during assembly while enabling the user to easily modify and expand storage configurations as needed using the interlocking components 171 configured to couple a plurality of storage rack assemblies 100 in a side-by-side and / or back-to-back configuration. The variable lengths of the poles 140 may facilitate customization of vertical spacing between shelf panels 120 to accommodate storage totes 110 having a variety of sizes, thereby maximizing space utilization. The cross member 124 may provide enhanced support for the storage totes 110 and optimal accessibility. Inclusion of one or more shelf dividers 118 into the storage rack assembly 100 can be used to vary the size, shape, and / or number of storage totes 110 accommodated thereby. The modularity of the storage rack assembly 100 in combination with the suspension of the storage totes 110 using the upper lip 111 thereof may create an efficient storage solution that optimizes use of both vertical and horizontal space while ensuring the storage totes 110 remain easily accessible.

[0092] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions and methods can be made within the scope of the present technology, with substantially similar results.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0043]The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture, and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word ...

Claims

1. A storage rack assembly, comprising:a shelf panel having a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member, the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member coupled to one another and forming an opening therebetween;an aperture formed in the shelf panel;a pole configured to be received by the aperture;a top cap configured to be received by the aperture; anda foot assembly configured to be received by the aperture.

2. The storage rack assembly of claim 1, wherein:a cross member is coupled to the first panel member and the third panel member, andthe first panel member, the second panel member, the third panel member, and the cross member are coupled to one another and form the opening therebetween.

3. The storage rack assembly of claim 2, wherein:an upper surface of the first panel member, an upper surface of the second panel member, and an upper surface of the third panel member lie on a first plane, anda first portion of the cross member lies on the first plane, and a second portion of the cross member lies on a second plane, the second plane parallel to and positioned above the first plane.

4. The storage rack assembly of claim 1, wherein the aperture includes an upper receiving portion, a lower receiving portion, and an aperture lip disposed between the upper receiving portion and the lower receiving portion.

5. The storage rack assembly of claim 1, wherein an interlocking slot is formed in an outer edge of at least one of the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member.

6. The storage rack assembly of claim 1, wherein the storage rack assembly includes a shelf divider configured to be removably coupled to the cross member and the second panel member of the shelf panel.

7. The storage rack assembly of claim 3, wherein:the cross member includes a first supporting wall extending from the first portion of the cross member to the second portion of the cross member at a first end of the cross member adjacent the first panel member and a second supporting wall extending from the first portion of the cross member to the second portion of the cross member at a second end of the cross member adjacent the third panel member, andthe first supporting wall and the second supporting wall are configured to support the second portion of the cross member.

8. The storage rack assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member includes a textured upper surface.

9. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein the storage rack assembly includes a shelf divider integrally formed with the cross member and the second panel member of the shelf panel.

10. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein the first panel member includes a first ramp, and the third panel member includes a second ramp.

11. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein a railing is formed on an inner wall of one or more of the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member.

12. The storage assembly of claim 11, wherein the railing includes a railing ramp.

13. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein:each of the first panel member and the third panel member is configured to be removably coupled to the second panel member, andthe first panel member includes a first inserting end and the third panel member includes a second inserting end, each of the first inserting end and the second inserting end configured to be received the second panel member.

14. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein the second panel member includes a first inserting end disposed at a first end of the second panel member and configured to be received by the first panel member and a second inserting end disposed at a second end of the second panel member and configured to be received by the third panel member.

15. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein the storage assembly includes an uppermost shelf panel, a bottommost shelf panel, and at least one shelf panel configured to be disposed therebetween, the uppermost shelf panel including a first aperture configured to receive each of the top cap and a first pole, the bottommost shelf panel including a second aperture configured to receive each of the foot assembly and a second pole, and the at least one shelf panel disposed therebetween including a third aperture configured to receive at least one of the first pole and the second pole.

16. The storage assembly of claim 1, wherein the first panel member and the third panel member are configured to receive an upper lip of a storage tote.

17. A kit for a storage rack assembly, comprising:a plurality of shelf panels, each shelf panel havinga first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member, the second panel member coupled to each of the first panel member and the third panel member, the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member defining an opening,a cross member extending from the first panel member to the third panel member, a first portion of the cross member disposed adjacent each of the first panel member and the third panel member and a second portion of the cross member spaced apart from the first panel member and the third panel member,a plurality of interlocking slots formed in an outer edge of the shelf panel, anda plurality of apertures formed in the shelf panel, the plurality of apertures including an upper receiving portion, a lower receiving portion, and an aperture lip disposed between the upper receiving portion and the lower receiving portion;a first set of poles, each pole of the first set of poles having a first length and configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures;a second set of poles, each pole of the second set of poles having a second length and configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures;a plurality top caps configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures; anda plurality of foot assemblies configured to be disposed in the plurality of apertures.

18. The kit for a storage rack assembly of claim 17, further including at least one storage tote configured to be slidably suspended from the shelf panel of the plurality of shelf panels.

19. The kit for a storage rack assembly of claim 17, further including a plurality of interlocking components, each interlocking component of the plurality of interlocking components configured to be received in an interlocking slot formed in an outer edge of at least one of the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member of the shelf panel.

20. A method of assembling a storage rack, comprising: providing a storage rack assembly including: a plurality of shelf panels, each shelf panel having a first panel member, a second panel member, and a third panel member, the first panel member, the second panel member, and the third panel member coupled to one another and forming an opening therebetween;a plurality of apertures formed in each shelf panel;a plurality of poles configured to be received by the plurality of apertures;a plurality of top caps configured to be received by the plurality of apertures;a plurality of foot assemblies configured to be received by the plurality of apertures; anda plurality of interlocking slots formed adjacent an outer edge of each shelf panel,inserting an end of each pole into an aperture of each shelf panel;inserting a top cap into an aperture of an uppermost shelf panel;inserting a foot assembly into an aperture of a bottommost shelf panel; andsliding a storage tote into the opening of at least one shelf panel.

Images