Storage and shipping rack for material slabs

Abstract

A rack for the transportation and storage of one or more slabs, such as slabs made of porcelain stoneware, natural stone, composite or engineered stone products, glass, metal, cementitious panels, and / or other materials. The rack may include a frame structure that provides improved safety for both storage and transport environment, and improved strength and longevity. The rack may be releasably connected to one or more other racks to improve the shipping and storage efficiency.

Description

STORAGE AND SHIPPING RACK FOR MATERIAL SLABSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 512,907, filed July 10, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure generally relates to a storage and shipping rack for material slabs, including a rack configured to provide both vertical and horizontal storage and transport solutions, and that is stackable.BACKGROUND

[0003] Slabs may be made from porcelain stoneware, natural stone, composite or engineered stone products, as well as other fragile sheets or slabs of materials such as glass, metal, cementitious panels, and others.

[0004] Conventional storage and transportation techniques provide inefficient configurations with limited life cycles. For example, conventional solutions may include A-frame packaging where two slabs are positioned on respective sides of the A-frame. A-frames are extremely inefficient for the transportation of the slabs, utilizing only 25-30% (and commonly less) of the weight capacity of shipping (e.g., maritime) containers. Further, A-frames are unable to be stacked vertically, which limits both warehouse or other storage configurations, as well as the ability to vertically stack during shipping. A- frames are commonly manufactured from wood, which provides a limited lifecycle for reuse, and are commonly used for only a single shipment. Other techniques may include bundle packaging that bundles several slabs together with minimal materials (e.g., wood). Such bundles are susceptible to failure, risking the safety of handlers and damage to the slabs. Further, bundle packaging is unable to be transported without additional structural supports, and generally requires a crane to transport within warehouse operations. Like A-frame structures, bundle packaging has a limited lifecycle and generally limited to a single shipment.

[0005] Conventional techniques may also include horizontal wooden crates. Given the horizontal arrangement, such crates are prone to product damage. Further, like vertical structures, horizontal crates are also unable to take advantage of the full capacity of maritime containers resulting in efficient packaging, and have limited lifecycles.

[0006] Consequently, conventional storage and transportation solutions provide inefficient storage capacities, are costly and have very limited lifecycles, and are insufficient in protecting the slabs transported and stored therein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS / FIGURES

[0007] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the description, and further serve to explain the principles of the disclosure and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the techniques discussed herein.

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure having a material slab stored therein.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a front-perspective view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 1, without the material slab.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates a back-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a top-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a front-elevational view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure, including a material slab stored therein.

[0014] FIG. 7 illustrates a front-elevational view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 6, without the material slab.

[0015] FIG. 8 illustrates a back-elevational view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure, including a material slab stored therein.

[0017] FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 9, without the material slab.

[0018] FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 illustrates a right-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure including a material slab stored therein, where the left-side elevational view is a mirror image.

[0020] FIG. 13 illustrates a front-elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly, with the material slab stored therein in a first rack being transparently represented for additional clarity, and with a cross-sectional line A-A shown.

[0021] FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken along A-A as shown in FIG 13 of the assembly of shipping and storage racks according to the disclosure, each rack including a material slab stored therein, with the first material slab being transparently represented.

[0022] FIG. 15 is an enlarged partial view of the section illustrated in FIG. 14, according to the disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 13, each rack including a material slab stored therein, with the first material slab being transparently represented.

[0024] FIG. 17 illustrates a right-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 13, each rack including a material slab stored therein, with the first material slab being transparently represented. The left-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0025] FIG. 18 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 13 according to the disclosure, each rack including a material slab stored therein, with the first material slab being transparently represented.

[0026] FIG. 19 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure, having the support arm removed.

[0027] FIG. 20 illustrates a front-perspective view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 19, having a material slab stored therein.

[0028] FIG. 21 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 19. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0029] FIG. 22 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 20. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0030] FIG. 23 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack of FIG. 19, having portions of the rack removed.

[0031] FIG. 24 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 23. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0032] FIG. 25 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack of FIG. 20, having portions of the rack removed.

[0033] FIG. 26 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 25. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0034] FIG. 27 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 28 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0036] FIG. 29 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27, with the support arm in an alternative position. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0037] FIG. 30 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27, with the support arm in an alternative position and having a material slab stored therein. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0038] FIG. 31 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27, with the support arm in an alternative position. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0039] FIGS. 32A-32B illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27, showing various positions of the support arm. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0040] FIG. 33 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27, with the support arm in an alternative position and contacting the material slab stored therein. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0041] FIG. 34 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 27, with the support arm in an alternative position and contacting the material slab stored therein, and portions of the rack removed. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0042] FIGS. 35-36 illustrate left-side elevational views of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 34, with multiple material slabs stored therein and engaging the support arm. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0043] FIG. 37 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of storage racks according to FIG. 20, each rack including a material slab stored therein, and the individual storage racks of the assembly being secured together with one or more fasteners.

[0044] FIG. 38 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 37. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0045] FIG. 39 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembly of shipping and storage racks of FIG. 38 according to the disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 40 is an enlarged partial view of the section illustrated in FIG. 39, according to the disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 41 illustrates a front-perspective view of a storage rack assembly including shipping and storage racks of FIG. 20.

[0048] FIG. 42 illustrates a left-side elevational view of the shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 41. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0049] FIG. 43 is an enlarged partial view of the section illustrated in FIG. 42, according to the disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 44 illustrates a front-perspective view of a storage rack assembly including shipping and storage racks of FIG. 20.

[0051] FIG. 45 illustrates a left-side elevational view of the shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 44. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0052] FIG. 46 illustrates perspective view of a storage rack of FIG. 20 being carried by a forklift according to the disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 47 illustrates a left-side elevational view of FIG. 46.

[0054] FIG. 48 illustrates perspective view of a storage rack of FIG. 20 being carried by a forklift according to the disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 49 illustrates a left-side elevational view of FIG. 48.

[0056] FIG. 50 illustrates perspective view of a storage rack of FIG. 20 being carried by a forklift according to the disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 51 illustrates a left-side elevational view of FIG. 50.

[0058] FIG. 52 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage racks of FIG. 20 being lifted by a lifting system.

[0059] FIG. 53 illustrates a left-side elevational view of FIG. 52. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0060] FIG. 54 illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack of FIG. 20, showing example tip-over forces.

[0061] FIGS. 55-56 illustrate left-side elevational views of a storage rack assembly including shipping and storage racks of FIG. 20, showing example tip-over forces.

[0062] FIG. 57 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure having a material slab stored therein.

[0063] FIG. 58 illustrates a front-elevational view of a shipping and storage rack according to the disclosure, including a material slab stored therein.

[0064] FIG. 59 illustrates a front-perspective view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 57, without the material slab.

[0065] FIG. 60 illustrates a front-elevational view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 58, without the material slab.

[0066] FIG. 61 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack of FIG. 59, having a front portion of the rack removed.

[0067] FIG. 62 illustrates a front-elevational view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 61.

[0068] FIG. 63 illustrates a front-elevational view of the front portion of the rack removed from the rack shown in FIG. 61.

[0069] FIG. 64 illustrates a front-perspective view of the front portion of the rack of FIG. 63.

[0070] FIG. 65 illustrates a front-elevational view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 62 with a material slab stored therein.

[0071] FIG. 66 illustrates a front-perspective view of the rack of FIG. 65.

[0072] FIG. 67 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of storage racks according to FIG. 57, each rack including a material slab stored therein, and the individual storage racks of the assembly being secured together with one or more fasteners.

[0073] FIG. 68A illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 67. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0074] FIG. 68B illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the assembly of shipping and storage racks of FIG. 68 A according to the disclosure, taken at 71.

[0075] FIG. 69 illustrates a front-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of storage racks according to FIG. 57, each rack including a material slab stored therein.

[0076] FIG. 70A illustrates a front elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 69.

[0077] FIG. 70B illustrates a left-side elevational view of a shipping and storage rack assembly of FIG. 69. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0078] FIG. 70C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembly of shipping and storage racks of FIG. 70A according to the disclosure, taken along A-A.

[0079] FIG. 71 is an enlarged partial view of the section illustrated in FIG. 68B, according to the disclosure.

[0080] FIG. 72 is an enlarged partial view of the section illustrated in FIG. 70C, according to the disclosure.

[0081] FIG. 73 illustrates a front-perspective view of a nested assembly of rear portions of shipping and storage racks according to FIG. 61.

[0082] FIG. 74 illustrates a left-side elevational view of the nested assembly of rear portions of shipping and storage racks according to FIG. 73. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0083] FIG. 75 illustrates a front-perspective view of a nested assembly of front portions of shipping and storage racks according to FIG. 64.

[0084] FIG. 76 illustrates a left-side elevational view of the nested assembly of rear portions of shipping and storage racks according to FIG. 75. The right-side elevational view being a mirror image.

[0085] FIG. 77 illustrates a rear-perspective view of a shipping and storage rack of FIG. 57 being lifted by a forklift using a lifting system according to the disclosure.

[0086] FIG. 78 illustrates a left-side elevational view of the shipping and storage rack being lifted in FIG. 77.

[0087] FIG. 79 illustrates a front-perspective view of the shipping and storage rack of FIG. 77 being lifted.

[0088] The present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings that show, by way of illustration, exemplary details in which the disclosure may be practiced. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various designs, including structures, systems, and methods, may be practiced without these specific details. The description and representation herein are the common means used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure.

[0090] The present disclosure provides an advantageous solution to improve the transportation and storage of slabs, including, for example, slabs made of porcelain stoneware, natural stone, composite or engineered stone products, glass, metal, cementitious panels, and / orother materials. The disclosure is not limited to theses exemplary slab material(s) and the rack according to the disclosure may be used for other types of slabs or other objects of similar dimensions.

[0091] A shipping and storage rack 100, 1900, 5700 according to the disclosure provides a storage and transport technique with improved safety for both storage and transport environments. The rack 100, 1900, 5700 may be constructed from metal or metal alloys, which provides improved strength and longevity. In one or more aspects, the rack may be constructed from steel or a steel alloy. Such construction advantageously provides a storage and transport solution that is reusable and is environmentally sustainable.

[0092] The rack 100, 1900, 5700 may be stacked with one or more other racks (e.g., 100.1 and 100. 2 shown in FIGS. 14, 16-18; as well as in FIGS. 37-45 and 55-56; and in FIGS. 67-70C) in an interlocking configuration to form a rack assembly. For example, the racks 100, 1900, 5700 in a vertical position may be stacked and interlocked with one or more other vertically positioned racks. In this configuration, the racks 100, 1900, 5700 may be stacked in the horizontal direction (e.g. side-by-side). In this example, the frontside of the vertically-positioned rack may engage a backside of another vertically- positioned rack. When in the horizontal arrangement (e.g. FIG. 16), the backside of the rack becomes the bottom side and the frontside becomes the top of the rack, as the rack is rotated 90 degrees. In the horizontal arrangement, the horizontal racks are stackable in the vertical direction, where a second rack 100.2 is stacked onto a first rack 100.1, including the bottom of the second rack being disposed on and engaging the top side of the first (lower) rack. With this stackable configuration, the rack according to aspects of the disclosure provide improved storage efficient that uses more vertical cube space in intermodal freight containers (e.g., maritime, train, semitruck, or other containers).

[0093] The rack 100 will be described with respect for FIGS. 1-18. The rack 1900 according to exemplary embodiments will be described with respect for FIGS. 19-56. The rack 5700 according to exemplary embodiments will be described with respect for FIGS. 57-79. Turning to FIGS. 1 and 2, a front perspective view of the rack 100 is shown. FIG. 1 illustrates the rack 100 supporting a slab 102, where FIG. 2 omits the slab 102 for added clarity. The slab 102 may represent a single slab, or two or more slabs (e.g., see FIG. 36) having a collective thickness represented by slab 102 in the drawings.

[0094] The rack 100 may include a first lateral frame 104 and a second lateral frame 106 that are connected together by a first cross member 112, second cross member 114, and third cross member 202. The rack 100 may include an interior area that is defined bythe lateral frames 104, 106 and the cross members 112, 114, and 202. The interior area may be configured to receive, hold, and / or support a slab 102 therein. The various components of the rack 100 may be connected together using one or more fasteners and / or fastening means, such as screws, bolts, rivets, welds, or the like. The connection of two or more components may be removably connected together (e.g. by one or more removable fasteners). The rack 100 may include removable connections, fixed / permanent connections, or a combination of both removable and fixed connections.

[0095] The first lateral frame 104 may be formed by frame members 108, which include a first post 108.1 and second post 108.3 that extend parallel to each other, where first ends of the first and second posts 108.1, 108.3 are connected together by an upper connecting member 108.2, and second ends of the first and second posts 108.1, 108.3 are connected together by a lower connecting member 108.4. In this configuration, the posts 108.1,108.3 and the connecting members 108.2, 108.4 form a rectangular lateral frame 104. For example, the posts 108.1, 108.3 may be connected to the connecting members 108.2, 108.4 in a perpendicular arrangement. The first (lower) ends of the first and second posts 108.1, 108.3 may each include a foot 132.1 and 132.2, respectively. The first (rear) ends of the connecting members 108.2, 108.4 may each include a rear foot116.1 and 116.2, respectively. The frame members 108.1 and 108.2 may be further secured together by angle member 211.1 that is configured to provide additional structural support.

[0096] Similarly, the second lateral frame 106 may be formed by frame members 110, which include a first post 110.1 and second post 110.3 that extend parallel to each other, where first ends of the first and second posts 110.1, 110.3 are connected together by an upper connecting member 110.2, and second ends of the first and second posts 110.1, 110.3 are connected together by a lower connecting member 108.4. In this configuration, the posts 110.1, 110.3 and the connecting members 110.2, 110.4 form a rectangular lateral frame 106. For example, the posts 110.1, 110.3 may be connected to the connecting members 110.2, 110.4 in a perpendicular arrangement. The frame members 110.1 and110.2 may be further secured together by angle member 211.2 that is configured to provide additional structural support. The first (lower) ends of the first and second posts110.1. 110.3 may each include a foot 133.1 and 133.2, respectively. The first (rear) ends of the connecting members 110.2, 110.4 may each include a rear foot 120.1 and 120.2, respectively. When the rack 100 is arranged in the vertical arrangement as shown inFIGS. 1-3, 6-8, 12-14, 17, 18, the feet 132, 133 support the rack 100 in the upright arrangement. When the rack 100 is arranged in the horizontal arrangement as shown in, for example, FIGS. 4, 5, and 9-11, the rear feet 116, 120 support the rack 100. As discussed in more detail below, the rear feet 116, 120 may be configured to receive and interlock with plugs 118, 122 of another rack 100 to stack two or more racks together. Similarly, as discussed in more detail below, the feet 132, 133 may be configured to receive and interlock with plugs 1940 of another rack 1900 to stack two or more racks together.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment, the first lateral frame 104 and the second lateral frame 106 may be configured such that respective portions may be removably connected to together to form the corresponding frames. This configuration advantageously allows for the interior area to be selectively secured by the first lateral frame 104 and the second lateral frame 106.

[0098] For example, the first lateral frame 104 may be configured so that frame member 108.2 may be removably connected to frame member 108.3 by one or more fasteners 111 and that frame member 108.1 may be removably connected to frame member 108.4 by one or more fasteners 111. In this configuration, the frame members 108.1 and 108.2 may be removably or fixedly connected together, and form an L- shaped portion of the lateral frame 104. Similarly, the second lateral frame 106 may be configured so that frame member 110.2 may be removably connected to frame member 110.3 by one or more fasteners 111 and that frame member 110.1 may be removably connected to frame member 110.4 by one or more fasteners 111. In this configuration, the frame members 110.1 and 110.2 may be removably or fixedly connected together, and form an L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106. As illustrated in FIGS. 23-26 and 34-36, the L-shaped portion of the first lateral frame 104 and the L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106 have been removed to facilitate access to the interior area and allow the slab(s) 102 stored therein to be more easily removed. The support arm 124 may be additionally removed in one or more aspects. Alternatively, the support arm 124 may be connected to prevent the slab(s) 102 from tipping over and falling out of the rack 1900 (see FIG. 35).

[0099] As shown in FIG. 19, the L-shaped portion of the first lateral frame 104 may be configured to engage and be removably secured in receiving bracket 1934 of frame member 108.3. The receiving bracket 1934 may include side portions 1935 having hole 2304 (FIG. 23) configured to accept the fastener 111. The frame member 108.1 mayinclude a similar receiving bracket 1936 that is configured to engage and removably secure to frame member 108.4. The receiving bracket 1936 may include side portions 1937 having hole configured to accept the fastener 111. In this example, the fasteners 111 are configured to pass through the side portions 1935, 1937 and the respective frame members 108.2, 108.4.

[0100] Similarly, the L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106 may be configured to engage and be removably secured in receiving bracket 1934 of frame member 110.3. The receiving bracket 1934 may include side portions 1935 having hole 2304 (FIG. 23) configured to accept the fastener 111. The frame member 110.1 may include a similar receiving bracket 1936 that is configured to engage and removably secure to frame member 108.4. The receiving bracket 1936 may include side portions 1937 having hole configured to accept the fastener 111. In this example, the fasteners 111 are configured to pass through the side portions 1935, 1937 and the respective frame members 110.2, 110.4. Although discussion of the removably L-shaped portions of the frames 104, 106 are discussed with respect to FIG. 19, the rack 100 may be similarly configured in one or more embodiments such that portions of the rack 100 may be selectively removable.

[0101] As shown in the drawings, the rack 1900 is an embodiment of the rack 100 and includes similar components. However, the feet 132, 133 of the rack 1900 may further include a respective foot pad 1902, 1903 and the frame members 108.2, 110.2 may include one or more plugs 1940. Additionally, or alternatively, the rack 1900 may include a differently configured lift point. For example, rack 1900 may include lift points 1930, 1931 that are configured to facilitate the stacking further racks 1900 to form a vertical rack assembly utilizing the plugs 1940 as discussed below. It should be appreciated that the features of rack 1900 may be embodied in rack 100, and vice versa.

[0102] The first (upper) ends of the first lateral frame 104 and a second lateral frame 106 may be connected together by first cross member 112. The first cross member 112 may be perpendicular to the first lateral frame 104 (frame members 108) and a second lateral frame 106 (frame members 110). The first (upper) ends of the first lateral frame 104 and a second lateral frame 106 may further include lift points 131 and 130, respectively. The lift points 130, 131 may be configured for lifting and moving the rack 100. For example, lift points 130, 131 may be configured to receive and / or connect to a cable (e.g., from a crane), and / or configured to receive a fork of a fork lift.

[0103] The second (lower) ends of the first lateral frame 104 and a second lateral frame 106 may be connected together by second cross member 114. The second cross member114 may be perpendicular to the first lateral frame 104 (frame members 108) and a second lateral frame 106 (frame members 110). The second cross member 114 may be formed from frame members 114.1 to 114.7 as shown in FIG. 2.

[0104] In an aspect of the disclosure, the second cross member 114 is configured as a lower frame formed by cross framing members 114.1 and 114.2 that extend parallel to each other between the first and second lateral frames 104 and 106. First ends of the crossframing members 114.1 and 114.2 may be connected by connecting member 114.3. The connecting member 114.3 (and / or first ends of the cross-framing members 114.1 and / or 114.2) may be connected to the first lateral frame 104. The second ends of the crossframing members 114.1 and 114.2 opposite the respective first ends may be connected by connecting member 114.4. The connecting member 114.4 (and / or the second ends cross framing members 114.1 and / or 114.2) may be connected to the second lateral frame 106. In this configuration, the first and second ends of the second cross member 114 are opposite each other and are connected to the first and second lateral frames 104, 106, respectively. The second cross member 114 may include one or more joist members 114.5, 114.6, 114.7. In one or more aspects, the joist members 114.5 to 114.7 may extend perpendicular to the cross-framing members 114.1 and 114.2, and parallel to the connecting members 114.3 and 114.4. The joist members 114.5 to 114.7 may be included to provide additional structural support for the rack 100, and to support the slab 102. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 (and in FIG. 18 with the transparently illustrated slab 102), the joist members 114.5 to 114.7, the connecting members 114.3, 114.4, and the lower connecting members 104.4 and 108.4 support the underside of the slab 102 when the rack 100 is arranged in the vertical arrangement.

[0105] In an aspect of the disclosure, the third cross member 202 is configured as a rear frame formed by cross beams (e.g. cross members) 206.1 and 206.2 that extend parallel to each other between the first and second lateral frames 104 and 106. First ends of the cross beams 206.1 and 206.2 may be connected to angled support beam (e.g. angled support member) 204.1. The angled support beam 204.1 may be included within the first lateral frame 104. The angled support beam 204.1 may be angled with respect to first and second posts 108.1, 108.3 such that the third cross member 202 is angled with respect to the first and second posts 108.1, 108.3. A first (e.g., upper) end of the angled support beam 204.1 may be connected to the second post 108.3 and / or the upper connecting member 108.2, while the second (e.g., lower), opposite end of the angled support beam 204.1 may be connected to the lower connecting member 108.3.

[0106] Similarly, the angled support beam 204.2 may be angled with respect to first and second posts 110.1, 110.3 such that the third cross member 202 is angled with respect to the first and second posts 110.1, 110.3. The angled support beam 204.2 may be included within the second lateral frame 106. A first (e.g., upper) end of the angled support beam 204.2 may be connected to the second post 110.3 and / or the upper connecting member 110.2, while the second (e.g., lower), opposite end of the angled support beam 204.2 may be connected to the lower connecting member 110.4.

[0107] With reference to FIG. 12, the second post 108.3 (110.3) and the angled support beam 204.1 (204.2) may be arranged to form an angle a. In an aspect of the disclosure, the angle a may be, for example, 0-25°. In one or more aspects, the angle a may be, for example, 1-10°, 2-8°, 3-6°, or 4-5°. In an exemplary aspect, the angle a may be 4°, but the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0108] The first and first and second lateral frames 104 and 106 may each include a lower inclined support 212, which may be positioned at an angle (e.g., form an inclined surface) with respect to the respective lower connecting member 108.4, 110.4. The lower inclined supports 212 may form an inclined support surface configured to support a slab 102 within the rack 100 at an incline. In one or more aspects, the lower inclined supports 212 and the second cross member 114 may jointly form the inclined support surface (e.g., a bottom support plane). The lower inclined supports 212 and / or the second cross member 114 may be inclined at an angle 5 (see FIG. 12). The angle 5 is with respect to the connecting members 108.4, 110.4 (e.g., with respect to the horizontal direction when the rack 100 is in the vertical orientation).

[0109] The first and first and second lateral frames 104 and 106 may each include an upper inclined support 113, which may be positioned at an angle (e.g., form an inclined surface) with respect to the respective upper connecting member 108.2, 110.2. The upper inclined supports 113 may form an inclined support surface configured to support slab 102 (e.g. top edge) within the rack 100 at an incline. In one or more aspects, the upper inclined supports 113 form an inclined support surface (e.g., a top support plane). The upper inclined supports 113 may be inclined at an angle P (see FIG. 12). The angle P is with respect to the connecting members 108.2, 110.2 (e.g., with respect to the horizontal direction when the rack 100 is in the vertical orientation).

[0110] With reference to FIG. 12, in one or more aspects, the angles a and 5 may be equal so that the second the angled support beam 204 is perpendicular to the lower inclined support 212. In one or more aspects, the angles a, p, and 5 may be equal so that theangled support beam 204 is perpendicular to the lower inclined support 212 and the upper inclined support 113.

[0111] The third cross member 202 may define a rear support plane, the lower inclined support 212 may define a bottom support plane, and the upper inclined support 113 may define a top support plane. In one or more aspects, the rear support plane is perpendicular to the top support plane and the bottom support plane, where the top support plane and the bottom support plane extend parallel to each other. In one or more aspects, the second cross member 114 may be angled with respect to the connecting members 108.4, 110.4 such that both the second cross member 114 and the lower inclined supports 212 lie in the bottom support plane, which supports the bottom edge of the slab 102.

[0112] In one or more aspects, the third cross member 202 may include one or more diagonal members 208 that extend between and connect to opposite comers of the third cross member. In one or more aspects, two diagonal members 208.1 and 208.2 are included and configured in an X-shape. A plate 210 may be connected at the intersection of the two diagonal members 208.1 and 208.2 for additional support.

[0113] In one or more aspects, the rack 100 may include a support arm 124 that may be connected to and extend from the second cross member 114 by locking mechanism 128. In an exemplary embodiment, the support arm 124 may be removably fastened to the rack 100 at support arm mount 135 (FIG. 19) using the locking mechanism 128. For example, the support arm 124 may be inserted into the locking mechanism 128, which is configured to selectively fasten the support arm 124 to the rack 100 at the mount 135 when the locking mechanism 128 is in a locked configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, a locking pin 129 may be inserted into the locking mechanism 128 to secure the locking mechanism 128 and support arm 124 to the mount 135. When in an unlocked configuration, the support arm 124 may be removed from the locking mechanism 128.

[0114] In an exemplary embodiment, the support arm 124 may rotate about the locking mechanism 128 to selectively position the support arm 124 with respect the slab receiving area. For example, the support arm 124 may selectively rotate towards and away from the third cross member 202. The locking mechanism 128 may be configured to selectively lock the support arm 124 in one or more positions. FIGS. 29-32B show the support arm 124 in various positions. In FIGS. 32A-32B, multiple positions are illustrated, with the support arm 124 at additional positions being shown in phantomlines. As shown in FIG. 31, the angular position of the support arm 124 with respect to the angled support beam 204.1 and second post 108.3.

[0115] When in an installed / inserted configuration, a distal end 126 of the support arm may be positioned adjacent to a slab 102 supported within the rack 100, 1900. The support arm 124 may be configured to secure the slab 102 within the rack 100, 1900 so as to reduce movement of the slab 102, hold the slab 102 within the rack 100, and / or prevent the slab 102 (or one or more thinner slabs represented by slab 102) from falling forward and out of the rack 100, 1900. The support arm 124 advantageously provides increased safety by preventing the slab 102 from tipping forward and / or of the rack 100, 1900. This is especially advantageous when the removable framing members have been removed to expose the interior section of the rack 100 and the slab(s) 102 stored therein (see FIGS. 23-26 and 34-36). The distal end 126 may also be referred to as a support pad 126 that is configured to engage and support the slab 102. The support pad 126 may rotate with respect to the support arm 124 and about fastener 127. As shown in FIGS 27-36, the support pad 126 may rotate such that the engagement surface 2802 (FIG. 28) of the support pad 126 angularly corresponds to a surface of the slab 102. As will be appreciated, the angularly arrangement changes based on the position of the support arm 124, position of the slab 102, and / or the relative positions of the support arm 124 and slab 102.

[0116] Although the drawings show the distal end 126 being spaced from the slab 102, in one or more aspects, the support arm 124 may be configured to engage and support the slab 102 such that the distal end 126 (e.g. engagement surface 2802) is brought towards (and / or into contact with) the slab 102 supported within the rack 100, such as shown in FIGS. 30.

[0117] As shown in FIGs 14-18, the rack 100 may be stacked with one or more other racks (e.g., 100.1 and 100. 2) in an interlocking configuration to form a rack assembly. The vertically orientated racks 100 may be interlocked in a vertical arranged rack assembly or horizontally positioned racks 100 may be vertically stacked. With this stackable configuration, the racks 100 according to aspects of the disclosure provide improved storage efficient that uses more vertical cube space in intermodal freight containers (e.g., maritime, train, semitruck, or other containers). As similarly shown in FIGS. 37- 45 and 55-56, multiple racks 1900 may be stacked together to form a rack assembly.

[0118] In one or more aspects, the rear feet 116, 120 of a second rack 100.2 may be configured to receive and interlock with plugs 118, 122 of a first rack 100.1 to interlock two ormore racks 100 together in mating connection. For example, as shown in the cross- sectional view in FIG. 14 and the enlarged portion 15 shown in FIG. 15, the feet 116 of the second rack 100.2 may include a cavity or receptacle 302 that is configured to receive a corresponding plug 118 of the first rack 100.1 to form a mating connection that interlocks the racks 100 together. The plug 118 may include a tapered and / or beveled projection and the cavity / receptacle 302 may be configured with a complementary shaped tapered receiving space having one or more tapered and / or beveled surfaces 304. For example, the tapered projection of the plug 118 may be inserted into the completely shaped cavity / receptacle 302 in a mating connection to interlock the racks 100 together. In one or more aspects, the feet 116 and 120 may be similarly configured with similar cavities / receptacles 302. The plugs 118 and 122 may be similarly configured with similar tapered projections. In one or more aspects, corresponding plug-cavity pairs may be differently configured so that two or more racks 100 may be connected together only in a one or more particular arrangements. FIGS. 37-45 show similar rack assemblies formed by racks 1900.

[0119] In one or more aspects, the vertically arranged racks 1900 (as well as rack 100) may be vertically stacked with one or more other racks in an interlocking configuration to form a rack assembly. For example, as shown in FIGS. 41-43, sets of horizontally interlocked racks 1900 may be vertically stacked to for a pyramid-like rack assembly. As shown in FIG. 42, and enlarged in FIG. 43, the rack 1900 may include one or more plugs 1940 projecting outward from the top surface of the frame members 108 and 110. The plugs 1940 are configured to engage and interlock with corresponding upright feet 132, 133 of the rack 1900 stacked thereon. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view in FIG. 42 and the enlarged portion 43 shown in FIG. 43, the foot 132.2 may include a cavity or receptacle 4302 that is configured to receive a corresponding plug 1940 of an underlying rack 1900 to form a mating connection that interlocks the racks 1900 together. Similarly, the foot 132.1 of a horizontally adjoining rack 1900 may include a cavity or receptacle 4302 that is configured to receive a corresponding plug 1940 of a corresponding underlying rack 1900 to form a mating connection that interlocks the racks 1900 together. In one or more aspects, the feet 133 may be similarly configured with similar cavities / receptacles 4302 to engage plugs 1940 projecting from frame member 110.2. In an exemplary embodiment, the plug 1940 may include a tapered and / or beveled projection and the cavity / receptacle 4302 may be configured with a complementary shaped receiving space having one or more tapered and / or beveledsurfaces. The mating connection established by the plug-receptacle pairs interlock the racks 1900 together. In one or more aspects, corresponding plug-cavity pairs may be differently configured so that two or more racks 1900 may be connected together only in a one or more particular arrangements.

[0120] Turning to FIGS. 37-38, two or more racks 1900 may be further secured together by one or more fasteners. For example, the rack assembly may be further secured by one or more straps 3702. As shown in FIGS. 37-38, a first strap 3702.1 is positioned around the feet 132, 133 of the racks 1900 and a second strap 3702 is positioned around feet 116, 120, and plugs 118, 122. As will be appreciated, the disclosure is not limited to strap configurations and other fasteners are possible as alternative or additional fastening means.

[0121] Turning to FIGS. 46-51, the rack 1900 (and / or rack 100) may be moved and / or positioned using a mechanical device or vehicle, such as a forklift 4600. The rack 100, 1900 may be picked up by the forks of the forklift 4600 in a vertical arrangement as shown in FIGS. 46-47 and / or in a horizontal arrangement as shown in FIGS. 48-51. FIGS. 48-49 show the rack 1900 being lifted such that the larger dimension of the slab 102 therein extends perpendicular to the forks of the forklift 4600. FIGS. 50-51 show the rack 1900 being lifted such that the larger dimension of the slab 102 therein extends parallel to the forks of the forklift 4600. Although not shown, a rack assembly of two or more racks 1900 may be lifted by the forklift 4600 in one or more aspects.

[0122] FIGS. 52-53 show the rack 1900 being lifted using a lift system 5200 and lift points 1930, 1931. In an exemplary embodiment, the lift system 5200 includes a lift point extension 5202 extending between and connected to lift points 1930 and 1931 by fasteners 5206. The lift point extension 5202 may be engaged by a hook 5204 of a hoist, crane, or the like to lift the rack 1900. In other aspects, the lift point extension 5202 may be engaged by the forks of the forklift 4600 to be lifted by the forklift 4600. In another aspect, respective hooks 5204 of a hoist, crane, etc. may be connected to the lift points 1930 and 1931, or multiple hoists, cranes, etc. with individual hooks 5204 may be used. Although not shown, rack 100 may be similarly lifted by lift points 130, 131.

[0123] FIGS. 54-56 illustrate racks and rack assemblies according to one or more exemplary embodiments, and example forces required to tip over an individual rack 1900 (FIG. 54), a rack assembly including two connected racks 1900 (FIG. 55), and a rackassembly including three connected racks 1900. In these examples, the rack(s) 1900 are vertically arranged.

[0124] In an exemplary embodiment, as discussed with respect to FIGS. 19 and 57, the first lateral frame 104 and the second lateral frame 106 may be configured such that respective portions may be removably connected to together to form the corresponding frames / racks. This configuration advantageously allows for the interior area to be selectively secured by the first lateral frame 104 and the second lateral frame 106.

[0125] For example, the first lateral frame 104 may be configured so that frame member 108.2 may be removably connected to frame member 108.3 by one or more fasteners 111 and that frame member 108.1 may be removably connected to frame member 108.4 by one or more fasteners 111. In this configuration, the frame members 108.1 and 108.2 may be removably or fixedly connected together, and form an L- shaped portion of the lateral frame 104. Similarly, the second lateral frame 106 may be configured so that frame member 110.2 may be removably connected to frame member 110.3 by one or more fasteners 111 and that frame member 110.1 may be removably connected to frame member 110.4 by one or more fasteners 111. In this configuration, the frame members 110.1 and 110.2 may be removably or fixedly connected together, and form an L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106. As illustrated in FIGS. 61-66, the L-shaped portion of the first lateral frame 104 connected to the L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106 via the members 112 and 5702 have been removed to facilitate access to the interior area and allow the slab(s) 102 stored therein to be more easily removed. The L-shaped portion of the first lateral frame 104 connected to the L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106 via the members 112 and 5702 forms an upper portion 6300. As shown in FIGS. 75-76, two or more upper portions 6300 may be stacked or otherwise arranged together. The upper portions 6300 may be stacked or arranged in a nested arrangement. Similarly, bottom portions 6100 may be stacked or otherwise arranged together, such as in a nested arrangement. The nested arrangement reduces the overall area of the arrangement, which is advantageous for storage and / or shipping of the portions 6100, 6300.

[0126] As shown in FIGS. 57, 59, 61, and 62, the L-shaped portion of the first lateral frame 104 may be configured to engage and be removably secured in receiving bracket 1934 (FIG. 61) of frame member 108.3 of the bottom frame portion 6100. The receiving bracket 1934 may include side portions 1935 having hole 2304 (FIG. 61) configured to accept fastener 111. As shown in FIG. 63-64, the frame member 108.1 may include asimilar receiving bracket 1936 that is configured to engage and removably secure to frame member 108.4. The receiving bracket 1936 may include side portions 1937 having hole configured to accept the fastener 111. In this example, the fasteners 111 are configured to pass through the side portions 1935, 1937 and the respective frame members 108.2, 108.4.

[0127] Similarly, the L-shaped portion of the second lateral frame 106 may be configured to engage and be removably secured in receiving bracket 1934 of frame member 110.3 of the bottom frame portion 6100. The receiving bracket 1934 may include side portions 1935 having hole 2304 (FIG. 23) configured to accept the fastener 111. The frame member 110.1 may include a similar receiving bracket 1936 that is configured to engage and removably secure to frame member 108.4. The receiving bracket 1936 may include side portions 1937 having hole configured to accept the fastener 111. In this example, the fasteners 111 are configured to pass through the side portions 1935, 1937 and the respective frame members 110.2, 110.4. The bottom portion 6100 may include one or more feet 5732, 5733, 5734. For example, as shown in FIG. 61, the bottom portion 6100 may be supported by three pairs of feet 5732, 5733, 5734. Feet 5732.1, 5733.1, and 5734.1 may be connected to member 114.1 while feet 5732.2, 5733.2, and 5734.2 may be connected to member 114.2. Each of the feet 5732, 5733, 5734 may include two extensions whose bottom ends are connected to a foot plate or pad that extends between the corresponding bottom ends. One or more of the foot plates / pads may include an angled tab (e.g., foot 5732, 5733) at one or more ends, which may be similar to tab 5710.

[0128] As shown in the drawings, the rack 5700 is an embodiment of the rack 100 and / or 1900, and includes similar components. The frame members 108.2, 110.2 may include one or more plugs 5718.1 and 5722.1, respectively. The plugs 5718 and / or 5722 may have a pyramid shape formed by four angled structures that form a central apex point at their intersection, as shown in, for example, FIGS. 59-60.

[0129] The rear feet 5716 and 5720 of the frame members 108.2, 108.4, 110.2, 110.4 may include receptacles adapted to accept the plugs 5718.1, 5718.2, 5722.1 and 5722.2 when a rack 5700 is stacked with / on another rack 5700 to form a rack assembly as discussed below and shown in FIG. 67-72 . It should be appreciated that one or more of the features of rack 1900 and / or rack 100 may be embodied in rack 5700, and vice versa.

[0130] The first (upper) ends of the first lateral frame 104 and a second lateral frame 106 of the rack 5700 may be connected together by first cross members 112 and / or 5702. Thefirst cross members 112 and / or 5702 may be perpendicular to the first lateral frame 104 (frame members 108) and a second lateral frame 106 (frame members 110). The frame members 108.1 and / or 110.1 may include one or more bracing projections 5704 extending (e.g., perpendicular) from the frame members 108.1 and / or 110.1 and towards the interior area of the rack 5700 and one or more slabs 102 housed therein. The bracing projection(s) 5704 may be adapted to engage the slab(s) 102 and secure and hold the slab(s) 102 within the interior of the rack 5700. Similarly, the frame members 108.3 and / or 110.3 may include one or more bracing projections 5908, 5910 extending (e.g., perpendicular) from the frame members 108.3 and / or 110.3 and towards the interior area of the rack 5700 and one or more slabs 102 housed therein. The bracing projection(s) 5908, 5910 may be adapted to engage the slab(s) 102 and secure and hold the slab(s) 102 within the interior of the rack 5700.

[0131] The second (lower) ends of the first lateral frame 104 and a second lateral frame 106 may be connected together by second cross member 114 and / or third cross member 5906 (and angled members 204). For example, cross member 114. 1 may be connected to and between frames 104 and 106. In one or more aspects, the cross member 114.2 is not directly connected to members 108.4 and / or 110.4, and is indirectly connected via frame members 5714.1 and 204.2, and 5714.6 and 204.1, as shown in FIG. 61. The second cross member 114 may be perpendicular to the first lateral frame 104 (frame members 108) and a second lateral frame 106 (frame members 110). The second cross member 114 may be formed from frame members 114.1, 114.2, and 5714.1-5714.6 as shown in FIG. 61. The frame members 5714.1-5714.6 may be perpendicular to the frame members 114.1 and 114.2. A first end of the members 5714 engaging the frame member 114.1 may at least partially sit on an upper surface of the frame member 114.1 to provide that the first end is positioned higher than the second, opposite end of the members 5714. This arrangement creates a slanted bottom portion of the interior area adapted to cause slab(s) 102 to be angularly arranged in the interior area (with respect to the horizontal plane) when the slab(s) 102 are supported at their underside(s) when the rack 5700 is arranged in the vertical arrangement. The first ends of the member(s) 5714 may have a cutout portion 5715 (e.g., rabbet recess / groove) adapted to at least partially receive the member 114.1 , as shown in, for example, FIG. 61 (e.g., see member 5714.2).

[0132] In an aspect of the disclosure, the third cross member 5906 is configured as a rear frame formed by cross beams (e.g. cross members) 5906.1, 5906.2, and / or 5906.3 that extendparallel to each other between the first and second lateral frames 104 and 106. The third cross member 5906 may also include angled members 5906.4 and / or 5906.5. Member 5906.4 may be connected between member 114.2 and member 5906.3 and angled support beam (e.g. angled support member) 204.2. Similarly, member 5906.5 may be connected between member 114.2 and members 5906.3 and angled support beam (e.g. angled support member) 204.1. The angled support beam 204.1 may be included within the first lateral frame 104. The angled support beam 204.1 may be angled with respect to first and second posts 108.1, 108.3 such that the third cross member 5906 is angled with respect to the first and second posts 108.1, 108.3. A first (e.g., upper) end of the angled support beam 204.1 may be connected to the second post 108.3 and / or the upper connecting member 108.2, while the second (e.g., lower), opposite end of the angled support beam 204.1 may be connected to the lower connecting member 108.3.

[0133] Similarly, the angled support beam 204.2 may be angled with respect to first and second posts 110.1, 110.3 such that the third cross member 5906 is angled with respect to the first and second posts 110.1, 110.3. The angled support beam 204.2 may be included within the second lateral frame 106. A first (e.g., upper) end of the angled support beam 204.2 may be connected to the second post 110.3 and / or the upper connecting member 110.2, while the second (e.g., lower), opposite end of the angled support beam 204.2 may be connected to the lower connecting member 110.4. The third cross member 5906 and angled supports beams 204.1, 204.2 may be arranged perpendicular to the frame members 5714.1-5714.6.

[0134] The third cross members 5906, 204.1, and 204.2 may define a rear support plane, and the lower inclined frame members 5714.1-5714.6 and frame members 114.1 and 114.2 may define a bottom support plane. In one or more aspects, the rear support plane is perpendicular to the bottom support plane. In one or more aspects, the second cross members 114 and inclined frame members 5714.1-5714.6 may be angled with respect to the connecting members 108.4, 110.4 such that both the second cross members 114 and the inclined frame members 5714.1-5714.6 lie in the bottom support plane, which supports the bottom edge of the slab 102.

[0135] As shown in FIGS. 67-72, the rack 5700 may be stacked with one or more other racks (e.g., 5700.1 and 5700. 2) in an interlocking configuration to form a rack assembly. The vertically orientated racks 5700 may be interlocked in a vertical arranged rack assembly or horizontally positioned racks 5700may be vertically stacked. With this stackable configuration, the racks 5700according to aspects of the disclosure provide improvedstorage efficient that uses more vertical cube space in intermodal freight containers (e.g., maritime, train, semitruck, or other containers).

[0136] In one or more aspects, the rear feet 5716, 5720 of a second rack 5700.2 may be configured to receive and interlock with plugs 5718, 5722 of a first rack 5700.1 to interlock two or more racks 5700 together in mating connection. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view in FIG. 68B and the enlarged portion 71 shown in FIG. 71, the foot 5716.1 of the second rack 5700.2 may include a cavity or receptacle 7102 that is configured to receive a corresponding plug 5718.1 of the first rack 5700.1 to form a mating connection that interlocks the racks 5700 together. The plug 5718.1 may include a tapered and / or beveled projection (e.g., pyramid- shaped) and the cavity / receptacle 7102 may be configured with a complementary shaped tapered receiving space having one or more tapered and / or beveled surfaces 7104. For example, the tapered projection of the plug 5718.1may be inserted into the completely shaped cavity / receptacle 7102 in a mating connection to interlock the racks 5700 together. In one or more aspects, the feet 5716 and 5720 may be similarly configured with similar cavities / receptacles 7102. The plugs 5718 and 5722 may be similarly configured with similar tapered projections. In one or more aspects, corresponding plug-cavity pairs may be differently configured so that two or more racks 5700 may be connected together only in a one or more particular arrangements.

[0137] In one or more aspects, the vertically arranged racks 5700 (as well as racks 100, 1900) may be vertically stacked with one or more other racks in an interlocking configuration to form a rack assembly. For example, as shown in FIGS. 69-70C, sets of horizontally interlocked racks 5700 may be vertically stacked to for a pyramid-like rack assembly. As shown in FIG. 70C, and enlarged in FIG. 72, the rack 5700 may include one or more tabs 5710 projecting outward from the (e.g., top surface of the) frame members 108 and 110. The tab(s) 5710 are configured to engage and interlock with members 114.1 and / or 114.2 of the rack 5700 stacked thereon. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view in FIG. 70C and the enlarged portion 72 shown in FIG. 72, the member 114.1 of a first upper rack 5700.1 engages a first tab 5710 of rack 5700.3 and the member 204.1 of a second rack 5700.2 engages a second tab 5710 of the rack 5700.3 to interlock or otherwise secure the racks 5700 together. In an exemplary embodiment, the tab(s) 5710 may include a tapered and / or beveled projection, which may extend at an angle from the frame members 108 and 110.

[0138] Turning to FIGS. 67-68A, two or more racks 5700 may be further secured together by one or more fasteners. For example, the rack assembly may be further secured by one or more straps 3702. As shown in FIGS. 67-68A, a first strap 3702.1 is positioned around the feet 5732, 5733, 5734 of the racks 5700 and a second strap 3702.2 is positioned around members 108.1 and 108.3, and members 110.1 and 110.3 at their ends which engage members 108.2 and 110.2, respectively. The strap 3702.2 may be positioned adjacent to and below the feet 5716.1 and 5720.1, and the plugs 5718.1 and 5722.1. As will be appreciated, the disclosure is not limited to strap configurations and other fasteners are possible as alternative or additional fastening means.

[0139] Turning to FIGS. 77-79, the rack 5700 may be moved and / or positioned using a mechanical device or vehicle, such as a forklift 4600. The rack 5700 may be picked up by the forks of the forklift 4600 in a vertical arrangement and / or in a horizontal arrangement. Although not shown, a rack assembly of two or more racks 5700 may be lifted by the forklift 4600 in one or more aspects.

[0140] A rack 5700 may be lifted using a lift system 7700 adapted to engage and connect to the rack 5700. In an exemplary embodiment, the lift system 7700 includes lift point holes 7706, 7708 adapted to allow the forks of the forklift 4600 to be inserted therein (and passed through). The lift system 7700 may include connection points 7702, 7704 adapted to engage and connect to the rack 5700. The connection points 7702, 7704 may be hooks that are adapted to engage and hook under members 108.2 and 110.2. In another aspect, a hoist, crane, etc. may be connected to the lifting system 7700, such as at holes 7706, 7708.Examples

[0141] Example 1 is a storage and shipping rack for a slab, comprising: first and second lateral frames; a first cross member connecting a first end of the first lateral frame to a first end of the second lateral frame; a second cross member connecting a second end of the first lateral frame to a second end of the second lateral frame, the second end of the first lateral frame being opposite the first end of the first lateral frame, and the second end of the second lateral frame being opposite the first end of the second lateral frame; and a third cross member connecting the first and the second lateral frames, the third cross member extending between the respective first ends of the first and the second lateral frames and the respective second ends of the first and the second lateral frames and defining a first support plane, wherein the first support plane is perpendicular to asecond support plane defined by the second cross member, the first lateral frame, the second lateral frame, and the first, the second, and the third cross members defining a receiving area configured to receive and support one or more slabs.

[0142] Example 2 is the rack of Example 1, further comprising a removable support arm configured to selectively positioned with respect to the third cross member to vary a distance between a distal end of the support arm and the first support plane and engage the one or more slabs receivable within the receiving area to secure the one or more slabs in the receiving area.

[0143] Example 3 is the rack of any of Examples 1-2, wherein the first lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the first lateral frame and the second lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the backsides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a backside of the rack.

[0144] Example 4 is the rack of any of Examples 1-3, wherein the first lateral frame further comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the first lateral frame opposite a backside of the first lateral frame, and the second lateral frame comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the second lateral frame opposite a backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the front sides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a frontside of the rack.

[0145] Example 5 is the rack of any of Examples 3-4, wherein the at least one foot the first lateral frame and / or the at least one foot of the second lateral frame comprises a receptacle in a bottom surface of the respective at least one foot, the receptacle being configured to engage another rack to interlock the rack with the other rack.

[0146] Example 6 is the rack of any of Examples 4-5, wherein the at least one plug includes a tapered projection that is configured to engage another rack to interlock the rack with the other rack.

[0147] Example 7 is the rack of Example 1, wherein: the first lateral frame comprises: at least one foot having a receptacle and extending from a backside of the first lateral frame, and at least one plug extending from a front side of the first lateral frame opposite the backside of the first lateral frame; and the second lateral frame comprises: at least one foot having a receptacle and extending from a backside of the second lateral frame, and at least one plug extending from a frontside of the second lateral frame opposite the backside of the first lateral frame, the backsides of the first and the second lateral framesdefining a backside of the rack and the front sides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a frontside of the rack.

[0148] Example 8 is the rack of Example 7, wherein the respective at least one plug is configured to engage in a mating connection with a receptacle of a corresponding foot of another rack to interlock the rack and that other rack together.

[0149] Example 9 is the rack of any of Examples 7-8, wherein the respective at least one receptible is configured to engage in a mating connection with a plug of another rack to interlock the rack and that other rack together.

[0150] Example 10 is the rack of any of Examples 7-9, wherein the respective at least one plug and the respective respectable of the at least one foot are complementary shaped.

[0151] Example 11 is the rack of Example 10, wherein the respective at least one plug and the respective respectable of the at least one foot are commentary components of a tapered interlock.

[0152] Example 12 is a rack system comprising: a first rack; and a second rack configured to selectively connect to the first rack, wherein the first rack and / or the second rack is configured according to any of Examples 1-11.

[0153] Example 13 is a storage and shipping rack for a slab, comprising: first and second lateral frames; a first cross member connecting an end of the first lateral frame to an end of the second lateral frame and defining a first support plane; and a second cross member connecting the first and the second lateral frames and defining a second support plane, the first support plane being perpendicular to the second support plane, wherein the first and the second lateral frames extend in a first direction, the second support plane forming an angled incline with respect to the first direction, the first lateral frame, the second lateral frame, and the first and second cross members defining a receiving area configured to receive and support one or more slabs.

[0154] Example 14 is the rack of Example 13, further comprising a first cross member connecting another end of the first lateral frame to another end of the second lateral frame, the other end of the first lateral frame being opposite the end of the first lateral frame, and the other end of the second lateral frame being opposite the end of the second lateral frame.

[0155] Example 15 is the rack of any of Examples 13-14, wherein the first and the second lateral frames extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the first support plane forming an angled incline with respect to the second direction.

[0156] Example 16 is the rack of any of Examples 13-15, wherein the first lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the first lateral frame and the second lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the backsides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a backside of the rack.

[0157] Example 17 is the rack of Example 16, wherein the first lateral frame further comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the first lateral frame opposite the backside of the first lateral frame, and the second lateral frame comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the second lateral frame opposite the backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the front sides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a frontside of the rack.

[0158] Example 18 is the rack of any of Examples 16-17, wherein the at least one foot the first lateral frame and / or the at least one foot of the second lateral frame comprises a receptacle in a bottom surface of the respective at least one foot, the receptacle being configured to engage a plug of another rack to interlock the rack with the other rack.

[0159] Example 19 is the rack of any of Examples 13-18, wherein: the first lateral frame comprises a first plurality of frame members, a first frame member of the first plurality of frame members being removably connected to another of the first plurality of frame members to selectively open and close the receiving area; and the second lateral frame comprises a second plurality of frame members, a second frame member of the second plurality of frame members being removably connected to the other of the second plurality of frame members to selectively open and close the receiving area.

[0160] Example 20 is the rack of Example 19, wherein the first frame member and the second frame member are L- shaped and configured to engage adjacent and perpendicular sides of the one or more slabs.

[0161] Example 21 is a rack system comprising: a first rack; and a second rack configured to selectively connect to the first rack, wherein the first rack and / or the second rack is configured according to any of Examples 13-20.

[0162] Example 22 is a rack as shown and described.

[0163] Example 23 is a rack assembly as shown and described.Conclusion

[0164] The aforementioned description will so fully reveal the general nature of the implementation of the disclosure that others can, by applying knowledge within theskill of the art, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific implementations without undue experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed implementations, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

[0165] Each implementation described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every implementation may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same implementation. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an implementation, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other implementations whether or not explicitly described.

[0166] The exemplary implementations described herein are provided for illustrative purposes, and are not limiting. Other implementations are possible, and modifications may be made to the exemplary implementations. Therefore, the specification is not meant to limit the disclosure. Rather, the scope of the disclosure is defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

[0167] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures, unless otherwise noted.

[0168] The terms “at least one” and “one or more” may be understood to include a numerical quantity greater than or equal to one (e.g., one, two, three, four, [...], etc.). The term “a plurality” may be understood to include a numerical quantity greater than or equal to two (e.g., two, three, four, five, [...], etc.).

[0169] The words “plural” and “multiple” in the description and in the claims expressly refer to a quantity greater than one. Accordingly, any phrases explicitly invoking the aforementioned words (e.g., “plural [elements]”, “multiple [elements]”) referring to a quantity of elements expressly refers to more than one of the said elements. The terms “group (of)”, “set (of)”, “collection (of)”, “series (of)”, “sequence (of)”, “grouping (of)”, etc., and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, refer to a quantityequal to or greater than one, i.e., one or more. The terms “proper subset”, “reduced subset”, and “lesser subset” refer to a subset of a set that is not equal to the set, illustratively, referring to a subset of a set that contains less elements than the set.

[0170] The phrase “at least one of’ with regard to a group of elements may be used herein to mean at least one element from the group consisting of the elements. The phrase “at least one of’ with regard to a group of elements may be used herein to mean a selection of: one of the listed elements, a plurality of one of the listed elements, a plurality of individual listed elements, or a plurality of a multiple of individual listed elements.Reference List100 rack102 slab104 First lateral frame106 Second lateral frame108 Frame member of first lateral frame110 Frame member of second lateral frame111 fastener112 First Cross member113 Upper inclined support114 Second Cross member116 foot118 plug120 foot122 plug124 Support arm126 Distal end of support art127 fastener128 locking mechanism129 locking pin130 Lift point131 Lift point132 Upright foot133 Upright foot135 Support arm mount202 Third cross member204 Angled support beam206 Cross beam208 Diagonal member210 plate211 angle member212 Lower inclined support302 Cavity or receptacle304 Beveled surface1900 rack1902 Foot pad1903 Foot pad1930 Lift point1931 Lift point1934 receiving bracket1935 Side portion of receiving bracket1936 receiving bracket1937 Side portion of receiving bracket1940 plug2304 hole2802 Engagement surface3702 Strap4302 cavity4600 forklift5200 lift system5202 hook5204 lift point extension5206 fastener5700 rack5702 Member5704 Bracing projection5710 Tab5714 Member5715 Cutout portion5716 Rear foot5718 Plug5720 Rear foot5722 Plug5732 Foot5733 Foot5734 Foot5906 Member5908 Bracing projection5910 Bracing projection6100 Bottom portion6300 Upper portion7102 Receptacle7104 Surface7700 Lifting system7702 Connection point (hook)7704 Connection point (hook)7706 Hole7708 Hole

Claims

CLAIMS1. A storage and shipping rack for a slab, comprising: first and second lateral frames; a first cross member connecting a first end of the first lateral frame to a first end of the second lateral frame; a second cross member connecting a second end of the first lateral frame to a second end of the second lateral frame, the second end of the first lateral frame being opposite the first end of the first lateral frame, and the second end of the second lateral frame being opposite the first end of the second lateral frame; and a third cross member connecting the first and the second lateral frames, the third cross member extending between the respective first ends of the first and the second lateral frames and the respective second ends of the first and the second lateral frames and defining a first support plane, wherein the first support plane is perpendicular to a second support plane defined by the second cross member, the first lateral frame, the second lateral frame, and the first, the second, and the third cross members defining a receiving area configured to receive and support one or more slabs.

2. The rack of claim 1, further comprising a removable support arm configured to be selectively positioned with respect to the third cross member to vary a distance between a distal end of the support arm and the first support plane and engage the one or more slabs receivable within the receiving area to secure the one or more slabs in the receiving area.

3. The rack of claim 1 , wherein the first lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the first lateral frame and the second lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the backsides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a backside of the rack.

4. The rack of any of claims 1-3, wherein the first lateral frame further comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the first lateral frame opposite a backside of the first lateral frame, and the second lateral frame comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the second lateral frame opposite a backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the front sides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a frontside of the rack.

5. The rack of claim 3, wherein the at least one foot the first lateral frame and / or the at least one foot of the second lateral frame comprises a receptacle in a bottom surface of the respective at least one foot, the receptacle being configured to engage another rack to interlock the rack with the other rack.

6. The rack of claim 4, wherein the at least one plug includes a tapered projection that is configured to engage another rack to interlock the rack with the other rack.

7. The rack of claim 1, wherein: the first lateral frame comprises: at least one foot having a receptacle and extending from a backside of the first lateral frame, and at least one plug extending from a front side of the first lateral frame opposite the backside of the first lateral frame; and the second lateral frame comprises: at least one foot having a receptacle and extending from a backside of the second lateral frame, and at least one plug extending from a frontside of the second lateral frame opposite the backside of the first lateral frame, the backsides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a backside of the rack and the front sides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a frontside of the rack.

8. The rack of claim 7, wherein the respective at least one plug is configured to engage in a mating connection with a receptacle of a corresponding foot of another rack to interlock the rack and that other rack together.

9. The rack of any of claims 7-8, wherein the respective at least one receptible is configured to engage in a mating connection with a plug of another rack to interlock the rack and that other rack together.

10. The rack of claim 7, wherein the respective at least one plug and the respective respectable of the at least one foot are complementary shaped.

11. The rack of claim 10, wherein the respective at least one plug and the respective respectable of the at least one foot are commentary components of a tapered interlock.

12. A rack system comprising: a first rack; anda second rack configured to selectively connect to the first rack, wherein the first rack and / or the second rack is configured according to any of claims 1-3, 7, 8, 10-11.

13. A storage and shipping rack for a slab, comprising: first and second lateral frames; a first cross member connecting an end of the first lateral frame to an end of the second lateral frame and defining a first support plane; and a second cross member connecting the first and the second lateral frames and defining a second support plane, the first support plane being perpendicular to the second support plane, wherein the first and the second lateral frames extend in a first direction, the second support plane forming an angled incline with respect to the first direction, the first lateral frame, the second lateral frame, and the first and second cross members defining a receiving area configured to receive and support one or more slabs.

14. The rack of claim 13, further comprising a first cross member connecting another end of the first lateral frame to another end of the second lateral frame, the other end of the first lateral frame being opposite the end of the first lateral frame, and the other end of the second lateral frame being opposite the end of the second lateral frame.

15. The rack of claim 13, wherein the first and the second lateral frames extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the first support plane forming an angled incline with respect to the second direction.

16. The rack of any of claims 13-15, wherein the first lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the first lateral frame and the second lateral frame comprises at least one foot extending from a backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the backsides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a backside of the rack.

17. The rack of claim 16, wherein the first lateral frame further comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the first lateral frame opposite the backside of the first lateral frame, and the second lateral frame comprises at least one plug extending from a front side of the second lateral frame opposite the backside of the second lateral frame, wherein the front sides of the first and the second lateral frames defining a frontside of the rack.

18. The rack of claim 17, wherein the at least one foot the first lateral frame and / or the at least one foot of the second lateral frame comprises a receptacle in a bottom surface of the respective at least one foot, the receptacle being configured to engage a plug of another rack to interlock the rack with the other rack.

19. The rack of any of claims 13-15, wherein: the first lateral frame comprises a first plurality of frame members, a first frame member of the first plurality of frame members being removably connected to another of the first plurality of frame members to selectively open and close the receiving area; and the second lateral frame comprises a second plurality of frame members, a second frame member of the second plurality of frame members being removably connected to the other of the second plurality of frame members to selectively open and close the receiving area.

20. The rack of claim 19, wherein the first frame member and the second frame member are L- shaped and configured to engage adjacent and perpendicular sides of the one or more slabs.

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