Bag Rack and Method of Using Same

Abstract

A bag rack for packaging and dispensing items. The bag rack may include a base portion including a substantially horizontal base plate; and a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, the horizontal plate may be configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon, wherein the horizontal plate may extend out over and may be substantially parallel to the base plate.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is related and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.: 63 / 760,300, filed on Feb. 19, 2025, the application of which is incorporate herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The subject matter relates generally to packaging and more particularly to a bag rack and method of using the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] In, for example, a grocery or food deli application in which food is preprocessed, precooked, or otherwise prepared for sale, there may be certain inefficiencies in packaging the prepared food items. For example, for a somewhat large food item, such as a precooked rotisserie chicken, it may be difficult for one person to hold open a storage bag and at the same time load the food item into the bag. Consequently, it may require two people to package the food item. for example, one person to hold open the storage bag while another person places the food item in the bag. Therefore, more efficient approaches are needed with respect to packaging food items that are preprocessed, precooked, or otherwise prepared for sale.SUMMARY

[0004] In one embodiment, a bag rack for packaging and dispensing items is provided. The bag rack may include a base portion including a substantially horizontal base plate; and a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, the horizontal plate may be configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon, wherein the horizontal plate may extend out over and may be substantially parallel to the base plate. The horizontal plate may further include a front lip at a free end thereof, the front lip extending upwardly from the horizontal plate at an angle relative to the horizontal plate. The front lip may be positioned at an angle in the range of about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees relative to the horizontal plate. The hanger portion may further include a stop tab extending upwardly from a top portion of the vertical plate, the stop tab may be configured to provide a boundary preventing the plurality of storage bags from sliding off a rear end of the horizontal plate. The base plate may include a rear notch from which the vertical plate of the hanger portion may project upwardly. The horizontal base plate may include a plurality of support members attached thereto, wherein the support members may be configured to support the bag rack upon a surface. The support members may be configured for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack to the surface. The support members may be attached to the horizontal base plate via a plurality of support member attachment points. The plurality of support member attachment points may each comprise a support member opening configured to receive a portion of a corresponding support member. Each of the support member openings may include a wide portion intersecting with a narrow portion, the wide portion may be configured to initially receive an upper latch portion of the corresponding support member, and the narrow portion may be configured to receive and lock a neck portion of the corresponding support member therein. The plurality of support members may include suction cup foot members. Each suction cup foot member may include an upper latch portion connected to a suction cup portion via a neck portion.

[0005] In another embodiment, a method of packaging items using a bag rack is provided. The method may include providing a bag rack including a base portion and a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, wherein the substantially horizontal plate may be configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon. The method may further include hanging one or more storage bags on the hanger portion of the bag rack by engaging a handle cutout of each storage bag with the horizontal plate of the hanger portion; opening a frontmost storage bag of the one or more storage bags hung on the bag rack; placing one or more items into the frontmost storage bag while the frontmost storage bag is hanging on the bag rack; and removing the filled storage bag from the hanger portion of the bag rack. The method may further include closing a resealable opening of the filled storage bag after removing the filled storage bag from the bag rack. The frontmost storage bag may include opening a resealable opening of the frontmost storage bag and further may include holding the resealable opening in an open position while placing the one or more items into the storage bag. The base portion of the bag rack may include a substantially horizontal base plate having a plurality of support member attachment points. The method may further include securing a plurality of support members to the support member attachment points of the base plate; and positioning the bag rack on a work surface with the plurality of support members engaging the work surface to stabilize the bag rack. Securing the plurality of support members may include inserting an upper latch portion of each support member through a wide portion of a corresponding support member opening in the base plate; and sliding a neck portion of each support member laterally into a narrow portion of the corresponding support member opening to lock each support member to the base plate. The one or more items may include food items, and wherein the storage bags may include resealable plastic storage bags. The hanger portion may further include a front lip at a free end of the horizontal plate and a stop tab at an opposite end of the horizontal plate, and wherein hanging the one or more storage bags may include positioning each storage bag between the front lip and the stop tab.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a method of assembling a bag rack and packaging food items therewith is provided. The method may include providing a bag rack including a base plate, a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base plate, and a plurality of support members. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate coupled to the base plate and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to an upper portion of the vertical plate. The method may further include assembling the bag rack by securing each of the plurality of support members to the base plate at corresponding support member openings, wherein securing may include inserting an upper latch portion of each support member through a wide portion of the corresponding support member opening and sliding a neck portion of each support member into a narrow portion of the corresponding support member opening. The method may further include positioning the assembled bag rack on a work surface; hanging a plurality of storage bags on the horizontal plate of the hanger portion; opening a frontmost storage bag of the plurality of storage bags; placing one or more food items into the frontmost storage bag; removing the filled storage bag from the hanger portion; and closing a resealable opening of the filled storage bag to secure the one or more food items therein. The plurality of support members may include suction cup foot members, and wherein positioning the assembled bag rack on the work surface may include engaging suction cups of the suction cup foot members with the work surface to stabilize the bag rack during packaging operations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Having thus described the subject matter in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 illustrate a front perspective view and back perspective view, respectively, of an example of a bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an example of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 holding multiple storage bags, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 absent its suction cup foot members, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a side and perspective view of an example of the suction cup foot members of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0012] FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10 illustrate a front view, a back view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0013] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 illustrate a side view and a top view, respectively, of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and showing non-limiting example dimensions thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. and

[0014] FIG. 13 illustrates various views of an example of a closer tool for closing storage bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0015] FIG. 14 illustrates a flow diagram of an example method of using the bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the subject matter are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0017] In some embodiments, the subject matter provides a bag rack and method of using the same. For example, a bag rack for and method of packaging food items into storage bags and then dispensing the packaged food items.

[0018] In some embodiments, the bag rack and method provide a bag rack including a substantially horizontal base portion supporting a substantially vertical hanger portion and wherein the base portion may include foot members, such as suction cups.

[0019] In some embodiments, the bag rack and method provide a bag rack for holding multiple storage bags (e.g., deli bags) for packaging food items (e.g., rotisserie chicken) therein and then dispensing the packaged food items.

[0020] Further, a method of using the bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items is provided.

[0021] While the bag rack and method are described hereinbelow in the context of packaging food items, the bag rack and method is not limited to packaging food items only. The presently disclosed bag rack and method may be used for packaging any type of item.

[0022] Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is a front perspective view and back perspective view, respectively, of an example of a bag rack 100 for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0023] In this example, the bag rack 100 may include a substantially horizontal base portion 110 supporting a hanger portion 130. Further, the base portion 110 may be supported via an arrangement of foot / support members, such as, but not limited to, rubber suction cup foot members 150.

[0024] In one example, the base portion 110 may include a base plate 112 from with the hanger portion 130 projects upward. In one embodiment the base plate 112 may have a rear notch 114 from with the hanger portion 130 projects upward. In one non-limiting example, the base plate 112 may be substantially square or rectangular in shape. Further, the base plate 112 may include an arrangement of multiple foot attachment points, for example foot openings 116, for attaching multiple foot members, such as the rubber suction cup foot members 150. In this example, four foot openings 116 for receiving four rubber suction cup foot members 150 is provided at base plate 112. One at each corner.

[0025] More details of the suction cup foot members 150 are shown below in FIG. 5. Foot members 150 may be any suitable mechanism for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack 100 to a surface and may be any type of foot or support member, such as, but not limited rubber anti-skid feet / supports.

[0026] In one example, a substantially vertical plate 132 of the hanger portion 130 projects upward from the base plate 112 of the base portion 110. That is, the lower end of the vertical plate 132 projects upward from the base plate 112. The hanger portion 130 may further include a substantially horizontal plate 134. For example, one end of the horizontal plate 134 may be coupled in an angled fashion, e.g., substantially orthogonal, to an upper portion of the vertical plate 132. In this example, the horizontal plate 134 of the hanger portion 130 may be substantially parallel to the base plate 112 of the base portion 110. Further, the free end of the horizontal plate 134 may include a front lip 136 that is bent slightly upward from the horizontal plate 134. In one example, horizontal plate 134 may have an overall length l2 (including front lip 136) of about 5.5 inches, a length l3 (without front lip 136) of about 4.8 inches, and a width w2 of about 2.1 inches. In one example, front lip 136 may be positioned at an angle al in the range of about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees relative to the horizontal plate 134, and in one non-limiting example about 135 degrees. Further, a stop tab 138 may extend upward from a top portion of the vertical plate 132. In one example, stop tab 138 may extend upward from the top portion of the vertical plate 132 a height h3 of about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, horizontal plate 134 may include a stop opening 140. In one example, this may be formed as a result of forming the stop tab 138.

[0027] The horizontal plate 134 of the hanger portion 130 is the portion of the bag rack 100 on which multiple storage bags 190 may be hung. Accordingly, the front lip 136 at the free end of the horizontal plate 134 and the stop tab 138 at the opposite end of the horizontal plate 134 provide boundaries between which the storage bags may hang. An example of the bag rack 100 holding multiple storage bags 190 is shown below in FIG. 3. The base portion 110 and the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100 may be formed of any material that is suitably strong to support the size and weight of storage bags and any content thereof. Materials, such as, but not limited to, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum) and plastic.

[0028] Referring now to FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 holding multiple storage bags 190, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, multiple storage bags 190 may be hung on the horizontal plate 134 of the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100 in preparation for packaging food items therein.

[0029] The storage bags 190 may, for example, be plastic resealable storage bags, such as plastic resealable deli bags. Each of the storage bags 190 may include a storage pouch 192 for holding, for example, food items. Storage bags 190 may include a resealable opening 194 and may provide access to an interior of storage pouch 192. In one example, resealable opening 194 may be a zipper type (e.g., Ziploc®) of resealable opening.

[0030] Further, each of the storage bags 190 may include a carry handle cutout 196 in an upper portion 198 of the storage bag 190. Upper portion 198 may be above resealable opening 194.

[0031] Carry handle cutout 196 may be, for example, an elongated opening along the top portion of the storage bag 190 that may be engaged with the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100. Alternatively, hanger portion 130 may engage with a separate opening instead of carry handle cutout 196 for hanging the storage bags 190 thereon. In one non-limiting example, carry handle cutout 196 may be about 3.25 inches long and about 0.5 inches wide (or high). However, it is contemplated that dimensions of carry handle cutout 196 may vary depending on the type and / or size the storage bag 190. By way of example only, a food item (e.g., a rotisserie chicken) may be placed inside storage pouch 192 of the frontmost the storage bag 190 that is hanging on the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100. Once the filled storage bag 190 is removed from the bag rack 100, carry handle cutout 196 may be used for carrying the filled storage bag 190.

[0032] The bag rack 100 may be designed to hold multiple storage bags 190 in preparation for packaging food items therein. The physical size of the bag rack 100 may be scaled to handle storage bags 190 of any capacity (by volume or weight). In one non-limiting example, the bag rack 100 may be sized to handle 2-quart capacity storage bags 190. In another example, the bag rack 100 may be sized to handle 1-gallon capacity storage bags 190, and so on. One non-limiting example of the dimensions of the bag rack 100 is shown below in FIGS. 11-13. However, the dimensions may be more or less than that shown in FIGS. 11-13.

[0033] Referring now to FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 absent its foot members 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 shows an example of foot openings 116 of the base plate 112, in this example, foot openings 116 may include a wide portion 118 intersecting with a narrow portion 120. Initially, the wide portion 118 of the foot openings 116 may receive a top end of the suction cup foot member 150. Then, the top end of the suction cup foot member 150 slides into and locks into the narrow portion 120 of the foot opening 116.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of four suction cup foot members 150 of the bag rack 100. Additionally, FIG. 5 shows an expanded side view of one rubber suction cup foot member 150 that includes an upper latch portion 152 connected via a neck portion 154. To install into the foot opening 116 of the base plate 112, the upper latch portion 152 of the rubber suction cup foot member 150 may be fitted through the wide portion 118 of the foot opening 116 until the neck portion 154 is reached. This allows the neck portion 154 of the rubber suction cup foot member 150 to slide laterally into the narrow portion 120 of the foot opening 116. Thereby, locking the rubber suction cup foot member 150 into the foot opening 116. Locking occurs because the upper latch portion 152 of the rubber suction cup foot member 150 is larger than the narrow portion 120 of the foot opening 116. Again, foot members 150 may be any suitable mechanism for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack 100 to a surface, and may be any type of foot or support member, such as, but not limited rubber anti-skid feet / supports, and may or may not engage with the base plate 112 in a similar manner as describe above for the rubber suction cup foot members 150.

[0035] Referring now to FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10 is a front view, a back view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Again, with the bag rack 100 including the base portion 110, the hanger portion 130, and the four rubber suction cup foot members 150.

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 is a side view and a top view, respectively, of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. In one non-limiting example, the base portion 110 of the bag rack 100 may have a length l1 of about 7 inches and a width w1 of about 7 inches. Also, the overall height h1 of the bag rack 100 (including the rubber suction cup foot members 150) may be about 9 inches, and in one example the height h2 of the bag rack 100 (not including the rubber suction cup foot members 150) may be about 8.5 inches. Further, in this example, the bag rack 100 may be formed of 14-gauge metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum).

[0037] Again, the physical size of the bag rack 100 may be scaled to handle storage bags 190 of any capacity (by volume or weight), such as, for example, 2-quart capacity storage bags 190, 1-gallon capacity storage bags 190, and so on.

[0038] Referring now to FIG. 13 are various views of an example of a closer tool 200 for a closing a storage bag 190, along resealable opening 194, such as a zipper type (e.g., Ziploc®) closure mechanism. Closer tool 200 may include a top bar / grip handle 205 and closure bars 210 extending downward from, and perpendicular to, top bar / grip handle 205. Closure bars 210 (210a and 210b) may be substantially parallel with and spaced apart from one another to form a gap 215. In one example, closure bars 210 may be connected at their first end to the top bar / grip handle 205. In one embodiment, a spacer 220 may be positioned between the closure bars 210 at a top portion thereof. Closure bars 210 may be connected at their first end at a point between an end of and a middle point of the top bar / grip handle 205.

[0039] In operation, for example, once the storage bag 190 has been loaded with its contents, one end of the resealable opening 194 of the storage bag 190 may be placed in the gap 215 between closure bars 210a and 210b. The user may then hold the closer tool 200 by the top bar / grip handle 205 and slide the closer tool 200 along the length of the resealable opening 194. Whereby, as the resealable opening 194 passes between the closure bars 210a and 210b the zipper type closure mechanism of the resealable opening 194 is sealed closed. In an alternative embodiment, the user may hold the closer tool 200 still, position an end of the resealable opening 194 between closure bars 210a and 210b, and pull the resealable opening 194 through the closure bars 210a and 210b. Whereby, as the resealable opening 194 is pulled between the closure bars 210a and 210b the zipper type closure mechanism of the resealable opening 194 is sealed closed. The resealable opening 194 of the storage bag 190 may be closed using any other suitable technique and / or mechanism including, for example, by hand.

[0040] Referring now to FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 300 of using the bag rack 100 for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Together, the bag rack 100, the storage bags 190, and method 300 provide an example of a food dispensing system. Method 300 may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0041] At a step 310, a bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items is provided. For example, the bag rack 100 as described in FIG. 1 through FIG. 12 may be provided for packaging and dispensing food items.

[0042] At a step 315, one or more storage bags are hung on the bag rack. For example, one or more storage bags 190 may be hung on the bag rack 100 by sliding the carry handle cutouts 196 onto the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0043] At a step 320, the frontmost the storage bag on the bag rack is opened. For example, the user may open resealable opening 194 of the frontmost storage bag 190 on the bag rack 100, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0044] At a step 325, the storage bag 190 is held open by hand or propped open. For example, the storage bag 190 as shown in FIG. 3 may be held open by hand or propped open with some kind of propping tool (not shown).

[0045] At a step 330, food item(s) or any other types of item(s) are placed into the storage bag that is hanging on the bag rack. For example, food item(s) or any other types of item(s) may be placed into the storage bag 190 that is hanging on the bag rack 100. The placement of the item(s) into the storage bag 190 is made easy because the design of the bag rack 100 allows the edge of resealable opening 194 to be pulled forward easily. In particular, the front edge of resealable opening 194 is pulled forward, allowing for a wide opening and easy access to storage pouch 192 of storage bags 190. Thereby, making loading the storage bag 190 more easy and more efficient than current methods. Loading the storage bag 190 may also be facilitated by holding the resealable opening 194 propped wide open with some kind or propping tool (not shown).

[0046] At a step 335, the filled storage bag is removed from the bag rack. For example, the filled storage bag 190 may be removed from the bag rack 100. That is, carry handle cutout 196 of the filled storage bag 190 may be slipped off of and away from the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100.

[0047] At a step 340, the resealable opening of the storage bag is closed, thereby securing the contents of the storage bag. For example, the resealable opening 194 of the storage bag 190 may be closed by hand or other mechanism, such as, for example, a closer tool 200, slide, or any other suitable mechanism and / or technique, thereby securing the contents of the storage bag 190 (see FIGS. 3 and 13).

[0048] In summary and referring now to FIG. 1 through FIG. 14, in some embodiments, the bag rack 100 enables method 200 of packaging food items into storage bags and then dispensing the packaged food items. For example, the bag rack 100 and method 300 provide a mechanism for holding multiple storage bags 190 (e.g., deli bags) for packaging food items (e.g., rotisserie chicken) therein and then dispensing the packaged food items.

[0049] Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a,”“an,” and “the” refer to “one or more” when used in this application, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a subject” includes a plurality of subjects, unless the context clearly is to the contrary (e.g., a plurality of subjects), and so forth.

[0050] The terms “comprise,”“comprises,”“comprising,”“include,”“includes,” and “including,” are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that may be substituted or added to the listed items.

[0051] Terms like “preferably,”“commonly,” and “typically” are not utilized herein to limit the scope of the claimed embodiments or to imply that certain features are critical or essential to the structure or function of the claimed embodiments. These terms are intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] The term “substantially” is utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation and to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[0053] Various modifications and variations of the disclosed methods, compositions and uses of the invention will be apparent to the skilled person without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the subject matter has been disclosed in connection with specific preferred aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that the subject matter as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific aspects or embodiments.

[0054] For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, sizes, dimensions, proportions, shapes, formulations, parameters, percentages, quantities, characteristics, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, the term “about,” when referring to a value can be meant to encompass variations of, in some embodiments ±100%, in some embodiments ±50%, in some embodiments ±20%, in some embodiments ±10%, in some embodiments ±5%, in some embodiments ±1%, in some embodiments ±0.5%, and in some embodiments ±0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods or employ the disclosed compositions.

[0055] Further, the term “about” when used in connection with one or more numbers or numerical ranges, should be understood to refer to all such numbers, including all numbers in a range and modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers, e.g., whole integers, including fractions thereof, subsumed within that range (for example, the recitation of 1 to 5 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as fractions thereof, e.g., 1.5, 2.25, 3.75, 4.1, and the like) and any range within that range.

[0056] Although the foregoing subject matter has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]The subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the subject matter are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0017]In some em...

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is related and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.: 63 / 760,300, filed on Feb. 19, 2025, the application of which is incorporate herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The subject matter relates generally to packaging and more particularly to a bag rack and method of using the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] In, for example, a grocery or food deli application in which food is preprocessed, precooked, or otherwise prepared for sale, there may be certain inefficiencies in packaging the prepared food items. For example, for a somewhat large food item, such as a precooked rotisserie chicken, it may be difficult for one person to hold open a storage bag and at the same time load the food item into the bag. Consequently, it may require two people to package the food item. for example, one person to hold open the storage bag while another person places the food item in the bag. Therefore, more efficient approaches are needed with respect to packaging food items that are preprocessed, precooked, or otherwise prepared for sale.SUMMARY

[0004] In one embodiment, a bag rack for packaging and dispensing items is provided. The bag rack may include a base portion including a substantially horizontal base plate; and a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, the horizontal plate may be configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon, wherein the horizontal plate may extend out over and may be substantially parallel to the base plate. The horizontal plate may further include a front lip at a free end thereof, the front lip extending upwardly from the horizontal plate at an angle relative to the horizontal plate. The front lip may be positioned at an angle in the range of about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees relative to the horizontal plate. The hanger portion may further include a stop tab extending upwardly from a top portion of the vertical plate, the stop tab may be configured to provide a boundary preventing the plurality of storage bags from sliding off a rear end of the horizontal plate. The base plate may include a rear notch from which the vertical plate of the hanger portion may project upwardly. The horizontal base plate may include a plurality of support members attached thereto, wherein the support members may be configured to support the bag rack upon a surface. The support members may be configured for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack to the surface. The support members may be attached to the horizontal base plate via a plurality of support member attachment points. The plurality of support member attachment points may each comprise a support member opening configured to receive a portion of a corresponding support member. Each of the support member openings may include a wide portion intersecting with a narrow portion, the wide portion may be configured to initially receive an upper latch portion of the corresponding support member, and the narrow portion may be configured to receive and lock a neck portion of the corresponding support member therein. The plurality of support members may include suction cup foot members. Each suction cup foot member may include an upper latch portion connected to a suction cup portion via a neck portion.

[0005] In another embodiment, a method of packaging items using a bag rack is provided. The method may include providing a bag rack including a base portion and a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, wherein the substantially horizontal plate may be configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon. The method may further include hanging one or more storage bags on the hanger portion of the bag rack by engaging a handle cutout of each storage bag with the horizontal plate of the hanger portion; opening a frontmost storage bag of the one or more storage bags hung on the bag rack; placing one or more items into the frontmost storage bag while the frontmost storage bag is hanging on the bag rack; and removing the filled storage bag from the hanger portion of the bag rack. The method may further include closing a resealable opening of the filled storage bag after removing the filled storage bag from the bag rack. The frontmost storage bag may include opening a resealable opening of the frontmost storage bag and further may include holding the resealable opening in an open position while placing the one or more items into the storage bag. The base portion of the bag rack may include a substantially horizontal base plate having a plurality of support member attachment points. The method may further include securing a plurality of support members to the support member attachment points of the base plate; and positioning the bag rack on a work surface with the plurality of support members engaging the work surface to stabilize the bag rack. Securing the plurality of support members may include inserting an upper latch portion of each support member through a wide portion of a corresponding support member opening in the base plate; and sliding a neck portion of each support member laterally into a narrow portion of the corresponding support member opening to lock each support member to the base plate. The one or more items may include food items, and wherein the storage bags may include resealable plastic storage bags. The hanger portion may further include a front lip at a free end of the horizontal plate and a stop tab at an opposite end of the horizontal plate, and wherein hanging the one or more storage bags may include positioning each storage bag between the front lip and the stop tab.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a method of assembling a bag rack and packaging food items therewith is provided. The method may include providing a bag rack including a base plate, a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base plate, and a plurality of support members. The hanger portion may include a substantially vertical plate coupled to the base plate and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to an upper portion of the vertical plate. The method may further include assembling the bag rack by securing each of the plurality of support members to the base plate at corresponding support member openings, wherein securing may include inserting an upper latch portion of each support member through a wide portion of the corresponding support member opening and sliding a neck portion of each support member into a narrow portion of the corresponding support member opening. The method may further include positioning the assembled bag rack on a work surface; hanging a plurality of storage bags on the horizontal plate of the hanger portion; opening a frontmost storage bag of the plurality of storage bags; placing one or more food items into the frontmost storage bag; removing the filled storage bag from the hanger portion; and closing a resealable opening of the filled storage bag to secure the one or more food items therein. The plurality of support members may include suction cup foot members, and wherein positioning the assembled bag rack on the work surface may include engaging suction cups of the suction cup foot members with the work surface to stabilize the bag rack during packaging operations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Having thus described the subject matter in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 illustrate a front perspective view and back perspective view, respectively, of an example of a bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an example of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 holding multiple storage bags, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 absent its suction cup foot members, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a side and perspective view of an example of the suction cup foot members of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0012] FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10 illustrate a front view, a back view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0013] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 illustrate a side view and a top view, respectively, of the bag rack shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and showing non-limiting example dimensions thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. and

[0014] FIG. 13 illustrates various views of an example of a closer tool for closing storage bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0015] FIG. 14 illustrates a flow diagram of an example method of using the bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the subject matter are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0017] In some embodiments, the subject matter provides a bag rack and method of using the same. For example, a bag rack for and method of packaging food items into storage bags and then dispensing the packaged food items.

[0018] In some embodiments, the bag rack and method provide a bag rack including a substantially horizontal base portion supporting a substantially vertical hanger portion and wherein the base portion may include foot members, such as suction cups.

[0019] In some embodiments, the bag rack and method provide a bag rack for holding multiple storage bags (e.g., deli bags) for packaging food items (e.g., rotisserie chicken) therein and then dispensing the packaged food items.

[0020] Further, a method of using the bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items is provided.

[0021] While the bag rack and method are described hereinbelow in the context of packaging food items, the bag rack and method is not limited to packaging food items only. The presently disclosed bag rack and method may be used for packaging any type of item.

[0022] Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is a front perspective view and back perspective view, respectively, of an example of a bag rack 100 for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0023] In this example, the bag rack 100 may include a substantially horizontal base portion 110 supporting a hanger portion 130. Further, the base portion 110 may be supported via an arrangement of foot / support members, such as, but not limited to, rubber suction cup foot members 150.

[0024] In one example, the base portion 110 may include a base plate 112 from with the hanger portion 130 projects upward. In one embodiment the base plate 112 may have a rear notch 114 from with the hanger portion 130 projects upward. In one non-limiting example, the base plate 112 may be substantially square or rectangular in shape. Further, the base plate 112 may include an arrangement of multiple foot attachment points, for example foot openings 116, for attaching multiple foot members, such as the rubber suction cup foot members 150. In this example, four foot openings 116 for receiving four rubber suction cup foot members 150 is provided at base plate 112. One at each corner.

[0025] More details of the suction cup foot members 150 are shown below in FIG. 5. Foot members 150 may be any suitable mechanism for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack 100 to a surface and may be any type of foot or support member, such as, but not limited rubber anti-skid feet / supports.

[0026] In one example, a substantially vertical plate 132 of the hanger portion 130 projects upward from the base plate 112 of the base portion 110. That is, the lower end of the vertical plate 132 projects upward from the base plate 112. The hanger portion 130 may further include a substantially horizontal plate 134. For example, one end of the horizontal plate 134 may be coupled in an angled fashion, e.g., substantially orthogonal, to an upper portion of the vertical plate 132. In this example, the horizontal plate 134 of the hanger portion 130 may be substantially parallel to the base plate 112 of the base portion 110. Further, the free end of the horizontal plate 134 may include a front lip 136 that is bent slightly upward from the horizontal plate 134. In one example, horizontal plate 134 may have an overall length l2 (including front lip 136) of about 5.5 inches, a length l3 (without front lip 136) of about 4.8 inches, and a width w2 of about 2.1 inches. In one example, front lip 136 may be positioned at an angle al in the range of about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees relative to the horizontal plate 134, and in one non-limiting example about 135 degrees. Further, a stop tab 138 may extend upward from a top portion of the vertical plate 132. In one example, stop tab 138 may extend upward from the top portion of the vertical plate 132 a height h3 of about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, horizontal plate 134 may include a stop opening 140. In one example, this may be formed as a result of forming the stop tab 138.

[0027] The horizontal plate 134 of the hanger portion 130 is the portion of the bag rack 100 on which multiple storage bags 190 may be hung. Accordingly, the front lip 136 at the free end of the horizontal plate 134 and the stop tab 138 at the opposite end of the horizontal plate 134 provide boundaries between which the storage bags may hang. An example of the bag rack 100 holding multiple storage bags 190 is shown below in FIG. 3. The base portion 110 and the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100 may be formed of any material that is suitably strong to support the size and weight of storage bags and any content thereof. Materials, such as, but not limited to, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum) and plastic.

[0028] Referring now to FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 holding multiple storage bags 190, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, multiple storage bags 190 may be hung on the horizontal plate 134 of the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100 in preparation for packaging food items therein.

[0029] The storage bags 190 may, for example, be plastic resealable storage bags, such as plastic resealable deli bags. Each of the storage bags 190 may include a storage pouch 192 for holding, for example, food items. Storage bags 190 may include a resealable opening 194 and may provide access to an interior of storage pouch 192. In one example, resealable opening 194 may be a zipper type (e.g., Ziploc®) of resealable opening.

[0030] Further, each of the storage bags 190 may include a carry handle cutout 196 in an upper portion 198 of the storage bag 190. Upper portion 198 may be above resealable opening 194.

[0031] Carry handle cutout 196 may be, for example, an elongated opening along the top portion of the storage bag 190 that may be engaged with the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100. Alternatively, hanger portion 130 may engage with a separate opening instead of carry handle cutout 196 for hanging the storage bags 190 thereon. In one non-limiting example, carry handle cutout 196 may be about 3.25 inches long and about 0.5 inches wide (or high). However, it is contemplated that dimensions of carry handle cutout 196 may vary depending on the type and / or size the storage bag 190. By way of example only, a food item (e.g., a rotisserie chicken) may be placed inside storage pouch 192 of the frontmost the storage bag 190 that is hanging on the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100. Once the filled storage bag 190 is removed from the bag rack 100, carry handle cutout 196 may be used for carrying the filled storage bag 190.

[0032] The bag rack 100 may be designed to hold multiple storage bags 190 in preparation for packaging food items therein. The physical size of the bag rack 100 may be scaled to handle storage bags 190 of any capacity (by volume or weight). In one non-limiting example, the bag rack 100 may be sized to handle 2-quart capacity storage bags 190. In another example, the bag rack 100 may be sized to handle 1-gallon capacity storage bags 190, and so on. One non-limiting example of the dimensions of the bag rack 100 is shown below in FIGS. 11-13. However, the dimensions may be more or less than that shown in FIGS. 11-13.

[0033] Referring now to FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 absent its foot members 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 shows an example of foot openings 116 of the base plate 112, in this example, foot openings 116 may include a wide portion 118 intersecting with a narrow portion 120. Initially, the wide portion 118 of the foot openings 116 may receive a top end of the suction cup foot member 150. Then, the top end of the suction cup foot member 150 slides into and locks into the narrow portion 120 of the foot opening 116.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of four suction cup foot members 150 of the bag rack 100. Additionally, FIG. 5 shows an expanded side view of one rubber suction cup foot member 150 that includes an upper latch portion 152 connected via a neck portion 154. To install into the foot opening 116 of the base plate 112, the upper latch portion 152 of the rubber suction cup foot member 150 may be fitted through the wide portion 118 of the foot opening 116 until the neck portion 154 is reached. This allows the neck portion 154 of the rubber suction cup foot member 150 to slide laterally into the narrow portion 120 of the foot opening 116. Thereby, locking the rubber suction cup foot member 150 into the foot opening 116. Locking occurs because the upper latch portion 152 of the rubber suction cup foot member 150 is larger than the narrow portion 120 of the foot opening 116. Again, foot members 150 may be any suitable mechanism for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack 100 to a surface, and may be any type of foot or support member, such as, but not limited rubber anti-skid feet / supports, and may or may not engage with the base plate 112 in a similar manner as describe above for the rubber suction cup foot members 150.

[0035] Referring now to FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10 is a front view, a back view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Again, with the bag rack 100 including the base portion 110, the hanger portion 130, and the four rubber suction cup foot members 150.

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 is a side view and a top view, respectively, of the bag rack 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. In one non-limiting example, the base portion 110 of the bag rack 100 may have a length l1 of about 7 inches and a width w1 of about 7 inches. Also, the overall height h1 of the bag rack 100 (including the rubber suction cup foot members 150) may be about 9 inches, and in one example the height h2 of the bag rack 100 (not including the rubber suction cup foot members 150) may be about 8.5 inches. Further, in this example, the bag rack 100 may be formed of 14-gauge metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum).

[0037] Again, the physical size of the bag rack 100 may be scaled to handle storage bags 190 of any capacity (by volume or weight), such as, for example, 2-quart capacity storage bags 190, 1-gallon capacity storage bags 190, and so on.

[0038] Referring now to FIG. 13 are various views of an example of a closer tool 200 for a closing a storage bag 190, along resealable opening 194, such as a zipper type (e.g., Ziploc®) closure mechanism. Closer tool 200 may include a top bar / grip handle 205 and closure bars 210 extending downward from, and perpendicular to, top bar / grip handle 205. Closure bars 210 (210a and 210b) may be substantially parallel with and spaced apart from one another to form a gap 215. In one example, closure bars 210 may be connected at their first end to the top bar / grip handle 205. In one embodiment, a spacer 220 may be positioned between the closure bars 210 at a top portion thereof. Closure bars 210 may be connected at their first end at a point between an end of and a middle point of the top bar / grip handle 205.

[0039] In operation, for example, once the storage bag 190 has been loaded with its contents, one end of the resealable opening 194 of the storage bag 190 may be placed in the gap 215 between closure bars 210a and 210b. The user may then hold the closer tool 200 by the top bar / grip handle 205 and slide the closer tool 200 along the length of the resealable opening 194. Whereby, as the resealable opening 194 passes between the closure bars 210a and 210b the zipper type closure mechanism of the resealable opening 194 is sealed closed. In an alternative embodiment, the user may hold the closer tool 200 still, position an end of the resealable opening 194 between closure bars 210a and 210b, and pull the resealable opening 194 through the closure bars 210a and 210b. Whereby, as the resealable opening 194 is pulled between the closure bars 210a and 210b the zipper type closure mechanism of the resealable opening 194 is sealed closed. The resealable opening 194 of the storage bag 190 may be closed using any other suitable technique and / or mechanism including, for example, by hand.

[0040] Referring now to FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 300 of using the bag rack 100 for packaging and dispensing food items, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Together, the bag rack 100, the storage bags 190, and method 300 provide an example of a food dispensing system. Method 300 may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0041] At a step 310, a bag rack for packaging and dispensing food items is provided. For example, the bag rack 100 as described in FIG. 1 through FIG. 12 may be provided for packaging and dispensing food items.

[0042] At a step 315, one or more storage bags are hung on the bag rack. For example, one or more storage bags 190 may be hung on the bag rack 100 by sliding the carry handle cutouts 196 onto the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0043] At a step 320, the frontmost the storage bag on the bag rack is opened. For example, the user may open resealable opening 194 of the frontmost storage bag 190 on the bag rack 100, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0044] At a step 325, the storage bag 190 is held open by hand or propped open. For example, the storage bag 190 as shown in FIG. 3 may be held open by hand or propped open with some kind of propping tool (not shown).

[0045] At a step 330, food item(s) or any other types of item(s) are placed into the storage bag that is hanging on the bag rack. For example, food item(s) or any other types of item(s) may be placed into the storage bag 190 that is hanging on the bag rack 100. The placement of the item(s) into the storage bag 190 is made easy because the design of the bag rack 100 allows the edge of resealable opening 194 to be pulled forward easily. In particular, the front edge of resealable opening 194 is pulled forward, allowing for a wide opening and easy access to storage pouch 192 of storage bags 190. Thereby, making loading the storage bag 190 more easy and more efficient than current methods. Loading the storage bag 190 may also be facilitated by holding the resealable opening 194 propped wide open with some kind or propping tool (not shown).

[0046] At a step 335, the filled storage bag is removed from the bag rack. For example, the filled storage bag 190 may be removed from the bag rack 100. That is, carry handle cutout 196 of the filled storage bag 190 may be slipped off of and away from the hanger portion 130 of the bag rack 100.

[0047] At a step 340, the resealable opening of the storage bag is closed, thereby securing the contents of the storage bag. For example, the resealable opening 194 of the storage bag 190 may be closed by hand or other mechanism, such as, for example, a closer tool 200, slide, or any other suitable mechanism and / or technique, thereby securing the contents of the storage bag 190 (see FIGS. 3 and 13).

[0048] In summary and referring now to FIG. 1 through FIG. 14, in some embodiments, the bag rack 100 enables method 200 of packaging food items into storage bags and then dispensing the packaged food items. For example, the bag rack 100 and method 300 provide a mechanism for holding multiple storage bags 190 (e.g., deli bags) for packaging food items (e.g., rotisserie chicken) therein and then dispensing the packaged food items.

[0049] Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a,”“an,” and “the” refer to “one or more” when used in this application, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a subject” includes a plurality of subjects, unless the context clearly is to the contrary (e.g., a plurality of subjects), and so forth.

[0050] The terms “comprise,”“comprises,”“comprising,”“include,”“includes,” and “including,” are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that may be substituted or added to the listed items.

[0051] Terms like “preferably,”“commonly,” and “typically” are not utilized herein to limit the scope of the claimed embodiments or to imply that certain features are critical or essential to the structure or function of the claimed embodiments. These terms are intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] The term “substantially” is utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation and to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[0053] Various modifications and variations of the disclosed methods, compositions and uses of the invention will be apparent to the skilled person without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the subject matter has been disclosed in connection with specific preferred aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that the subject matter as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific aspects or embodiments.

[0054] For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, sizes, dimensions, proportions, shapes, formulations, parameters, percentages, quantities, characteristics, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, the term “about,” when referring to a value can be meant to encompass variations of, in some embodiments ±100%, in some embodiments ±50%, in some embodiments ±20%, in some embodiments ±10%, in some embodiments ±5%, in some embodiments ±1%, in some embodiments ±0.5%, and in some embodiments ±0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods or employ the disclosed compositions.

[0055] Further, the term “about” when used in connection with one or more numbers or numerical ranges, should be understood to refer to all such numbers, including all numbers in a range and modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers, e.g., whole integers, including fractions thereof, subsumed within that range (for example, the recitation of 1 to 5 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as fractions thereof, e.g., 1.5, 2.25, 3.75, 4.1, and the like) and any range within that range.

[0056] Although the foregoing subject matter has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]The subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the subject matter are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0017]In some em...

Claims

1. A bag rack for packaging and dispensing items, comprising:a base portion comprising a substantially horizontal base plate; anda hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion, the hanger portion comprising:a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; anda substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, the horizontal plate configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon, wherein the horizontal plate extends out over and is substantially parallel to the base plate.

2. The bag rack of claim 1, wherein the horizontal plate further comprises a front lip at a free end thereof, the front lip extending upwardly from the horizontal plate at an angle relative to the horizontal plate.

3. The bag rack of claim 2, wherein the front lip is positioned at an angle in the range of about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees relative to the horizontal plate.

4. The bag rack of claim 1, wherein the hanger portion further comprises a stop tab extending upwardly from a top portion of the vertical plate, the stop tab configured to provide a boundary preventing the plurality of storage bags from sliding off a rear end of the horizontal plate.

5. The bag rack of claim 1, wherein the base plate comprises a rear notch from which the vertical plate of the hanger portion projects upwardly.

6. The bag rack of claim 1, wherein the horizontal base plate comprises a plurality of support members attached thereto, wherein the support members are configured to support the bag rack upon a surface.

7. The bag rack of claim 6, wherein the support members are configured for temporarily or permanently securing the bag rack to the surface.

8. The bag rack of claim 6, wherein the support members are attached to the horizontal base plate via a plurality of support member attachment points.

9. The bag rack of claim 8, wherein the plurality of support member attachment points each comprise a support member opening configured to receive a portion of a corresponding support member. The bag rack of claim 9, wherein each support member opening comprising a wide portion intersecting with a narrow portion, the wide portion configured to initially receive an upper latch portion of the corresponding support member and the narrow portion configured to receive and lock a neck portion of the corresponding support member therein.

11. The bag rack of claim 6, wherein the plurality of support members comprise suction cup foot members. The bag rack of claim 11, wherein each suction cup foot member comprises an upper latch portion connected to a suction cup portion via a neck portion.

13. A method of packaging items using a bag rack, the method comprising:providing a bag rack comprising a base portion and a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base portion, the hanger portion comprising a substantially vertical plate having a lower end coupled to the base plate and an upper end; and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to the upper end of the vertical plate in a substantially orthogonal configuration, wherein the substantially horizontal plate is configured to support a plurality of storage bags hung thereon;hanging one or more storage bags on the hanger portion of the bag rack by engaging a handle cutout of each storage bag with the horizontal plate of the hanger portion;opening a frontmost storage bag of the one or more storage bags hung on the bag rack;placing one or more items into the frontmost storage bag while the frontmost storage bag is hanging on the bag rack; andremoving the filled storage bag from the hanger portion of the bag rack. The method of claim 13, further comprising closing a resealable opening of the filled storage bag after removing the filled storage bag from the bag rack.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein opening the frontmost storage bag comprises opening a resealable opening of the frontmost storage bag, and further comprising holding the resealable opening in an open position while placing the one or more items into the storage bag. The method of claim 13, wherein the base portion of the bag rack comprises a substantially horizontal base plate having a plurality of support member attachment points, and further comprising:securing a plurality of support members to the support member attachment points of the base plate; andpositioning the bag rack on a work surface with the plurality of support members engaging the work surface to stabilize the bag rack.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein securing the plurality of support members comprises:inserting an upper latch portion of each support member through a wide portion of a corresponding support member opening in the base plate; andsliding a neck portion of each support member laterally into a narrow portion of the corresponding support member opening to lock each support member to the base plate.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the one or more items comprise food items, and wherein the storage bags comprise resealable plastic storage bags. The method of claim 13, wherein the hanger portion further comprises a front lip at a free end of the horizontal plate and a stop tab at an opposite end of the horizontal plate, and wherein hanging the one or more storage bags comprises positioning each storage bag between the front lip and the stop tab. A method of assembling a bag rack and packaging food items therewith, the method comprising:providing a bag rack comprising a base plate, a hanger portion projecting upwardly from the base plate, and a plurality of support members, the hanger portion comprising a substantially vertical plate coupled to the base plate and a substantially horizontal plate coupled to an upper portion of the vertical plate;assembling the bag rack by securing each of the plurality of support members to the base plate at corresponding support member openings, wherein securing comprises inserting an upper latch portion of each support member through a wide portion of the corresponding support member opening and sliding a neck portion of each support member into a narrow portion of the corresponding support member opening;positioning the assembled bag rack on a work surface;hanging a plurality of storage bags on the horizontal plate of the hanger portion;opening a frontmost storage bag of the plurality of storage bags;placing one or more food items into the frontmost storage bag;removing the filled storage bag from the hanger portion; andclosing a resealable opening of the filled storage bag to secure the one or more food items therein.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the plurality of support members comprise suction cup foot members, and wherein positioning the assembled bag rack on the work surface comprises engaging suction cups of the suction cup foot members with the work surface to stabilize the bag rack during packaging operations.

Images