Storage element, storage system, shelving system and method for assembling a storage element
The storage element's innovative connection mechanism with hook elements and recesses on the mounting rail addresses the challenge of efficiently storing varied objects by offering a robust, adaptable, and space-saving solution with easy assembly and disassembly.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LTW INTRALOGISTICS
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-23
AI Technical Summary
Existing storage systems face challenges in providing efficient, space-saving, and adaptable solutions with high load-bearing capacity for objects of varying sizes and weights, while ensuring easy and secure connection to mounting rails.
A storage element with a connection area featuring opposing hook elements and a stop surface, allowing for a two-sided positive-locking connection to a mounting rail, enabling adjustable positioning and robust mounting through a combination of hook elements and recesses on the rail.
The solution provides a stable, cost-effective, and easily adaptable storage system that can securely hold large and heavy objects, with a simple and ergonomic assembly process, ensuring reliable connection and disconnection.
Smart Images
Figure EP2026051101_23072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] LTW Intralogistics GmbH P18502WO
[0002] Storage element, storage system, racking system and method for assembling a storage element
[0003] DESCRIPTION:
[0004] The invention relates to a storage element for storing at least one object, in particular one or more tires, for example in a rack. Such a storage element can also be called a support element or shelf. The invention further relates to a storage system with a storage element, a racking system with a storage system, and a method for assembling a storage element.
[0005] Storage systems are known for storing objects, in which individual storage elements can be arranged in different positions relative to one another. In this way, the position of each storage element can be adapted to the shape and size of the object being stored. For example, the storage elements for small objects can be positioned closer together, while for larger objects the distance between the storage elements can be greater. The storage elements can be, for example, support elements, shelves, storage boxes, or similar items. A fundamental requirement for such storage systems is that the connection between a storage element and the other components of the storage system has a sufficiently high load-bearing capacity to safely store the object.Furthermore, the components of the storage system must be designed so that the position of the individual storage elements can be changed quickly and easily. US 11,199,332 B2 describes a storage system in which load-bearing shelf arms are attached to a horizontally running rail. The position of the shelf arms relative to the rail is adjustable. The shelf arms are designed so that, on the one hand, they engage positively with a hook in a recess in the rail and, on the other hand, can be clamped at an individually adjustable position via a screw connection and thus fixed in that position.
[0006] US Patent 8,182,056 B2 describes a storage system for a refrigerator in which storage elements can be positively connected to a horizontally running rail. A portion of each storage element engages the upper edge of the rail. The relative horizontal position of each storage element to the rail is adjustable.
[0007] US 5,403,083 A also describes a storage system for a refrigerator. In this storage system, each storage element has hooks that engage securely in a recess in a horizontally running rail. The position of each storage element is continuously adjustable in the horizontal direction relative to the rail.
[0008] The object of the invention is to propose solutions for the efficient and space-saving storage of objects. These solutions should provide high load-bearing capacity for the safe storage of the objects, as well as easy adaptability to different object sizes.
[0009] This problem is solved by a storage element with the features of claim 1, by a storage system with the features of claim 6, by a racking system with the features of claim 14, and by a method with the features of claim 15. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims. The storage element according to the invention comprises a storage area which is provided for receiving at least one object to be stored. For this purpose, the storage area has at least one storage surface. This storage surface can, for example, be formed by a flat surface. However, it is also possible that the storage surface has a complex shape and is, for example, adapted to the shape of an object to be stored.Preferably, the bearing surface is horizontally oriented in the application, that is, in a case where the bearing element is connected to other components of a bearing system.
[0010] The bearing element according to the invention further comprises a connection area which is connected to the bearing area. The connection area is provided for connecting the bearing element to a mounting rail of a bearing system. The connection area extends along a longitudinal direction. This longitudinal direction preferably runs along the longest dimension of the bearing element and is preferably horizontally oriented in the application. The longitudinal direction can be oriented parallel to the bearing surface. The connection area comprises a stop surface which is arranged on the side of the connection area opposite the bearing area. The stop surface is designed to bear against a mounting rail, at least partially, when connected to a bearing system. For this purpose, the stop surface can be flat.However, it is also possible for the stop surfaces to be curved or to have differently shaped sections. The stop surface is oriented at an angle to the bearing surface, which is preferably different from 0°. In a simple embodiment, the bearing surface and the stop surfaces can be flat and oriented at a 90° angle to each other.
[0011] The connection area comprises at least two hook elements, which are positioned opposite each other and project beyond the stop surface in a direction perpendicular to it. The hook elements are designed to grip a mounting rail of a bearing system from two opposite sides. For this purpose, an undercut is located between each hook element and the adjacent or neighboring portion of the stop surface, into which a portion of the mounting rail can be inserted during connection. To facilitate this insertion, each undercut is open towards the opposite hook element. Each hook element grips a portion of the stop surface located at its edge. Preferably, a surface located in the undercut and a portion of the stop surface are directly opposite each other in a direction perpendicular to the stop surface.Each hook element extends only over a portion of the total length of the connection area in the longitudinal direction. This means that each hook element is shorter than the total length of the connection area. Consequently, there are also sections along the total length of the connection area where no hook element is located. This allows the connection area to be brought together with a mounting rail in a direction perpendicular to the stop surface and positively locked to the mounting rail by a movement along its longitudinal direction. Details of this connection are described in connection with the bearing system according to the invention.
[0012] This embodiment of the bearing element according to the invention has the advantage that it can be easily connected to other components of a bearing system, for example, a mounting rail, whereby the relative position of the bearing element to the other components of the bearing system is adjustable and adaptable to the size of an object to be stored. The provision of two opposing hook elements, which enable a two-sided positive-locking connection when connected to other components of the bearing system, means that the bearing element according to the invention can be securely connected to the other components of the bearing system and is therefore also suitable for storing large and heavy objects.In one embodiment of the bearing system, the two hook elements are positioned opposite each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and / or more than two hook elements are present. A first set of hook elements is arranged side by side longitudinally at a distance from each other, and a second set of hook elements, with at least a portion of the contact surface between them, is arranged opposite the first set of hook elements. In this embodiment, the two hook elements can be directly opposite each other. When the bearing element is loaded by an object placed on the bearing area, a direct force flow exists between the positive-locking connections of the opposing hook elements and the mounting rail. This direct force flow results in a particularly robust mounting of the bearing element.It is advantageous to have more than two hook elements, wherein a first set of these hook elements, preferably with gaps between them, are arranged on the same side of the connection area, and a second set of these hook elements are arranged opposite the first set on the connection area. The presence of more than two hook elements distributes the weight forces of an object acting on a support element across multiple attachment points on the mounting rail. This allows for increased load-bearing capacity of the connection between the support element and the mounting rail. When more than two hook elements are provided, two of these hook elements are preferably arranged in pairs directly opposite each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
[0013] In a further embodiment, a portion of the hook elements, which faces the stop surface with respect to the undercut, projects beyond the stop surface in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and parallel to the adjacent or neighboring portion of the stop surface. In this embodiment, a portion of the hook elements is located on the side of the undercut opposite the stop surface. When connected to a mounting rail, this portion engages an edge of that mounting rail. This portion of the hook elements projects beyond the stop surface in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and parallel to the stop surface. This portion preferably points towards the opposite hook element.This ensures that the undercut is engaged by both the stop surface and this section of the hook elements. This guarantees secure guidance of the mounting rail in the connection area.
[0014] In one embodiment, the connection area has at least one projection that extends beyond at least a portion of the stop surface, particularly in that the projection is arranged between the hook elements. In this embodiment, the bearing element comprises at least one projection for adjusting the position of the bearing element when connected to a mounting rail. The projection is designed to extend beyond at least a portion of the stop surface. Specifically, the projection extends beyond the stop surface on the side opposite the bearing area. Preferably, the projection is arranged at a distance from the hook elements on the stop surface. For example, the projection can be arranged between the hook elements on the stop surface.The projection can have different geometries when viewed from above, for example, a square or rectangular cross-section. It is also possible for several projections to be provided, preferably spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the bearing element.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the stop surface is flat, and the at least two hook elements are positioned opposite each other in a vertical direction oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The stop surface is oriented parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal and vertical directions. In this embodiment, the stop surface is flat and can, for example, have a rectangular shape. The stop surface extends along the longitudinal direction and has a height in a vertical direction oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The at least two hook elements are directly opposite each other in this vertical direction. Preferably, several pairs of hook elements are provided, spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction and positioned opposite each other in pairs in the vertical direction.In this embodiment, the connection area with the stop surface and the hook elements is particularly easy to manufacture and offers a large contact surface when connected to a mounting rail. It is, of course, also possible for the stop surfaces to have a shape other than flat. For example, the stop surface can be formed, at least partially, by a cylindrical surface curved about an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the stop surface can also have a more complex shape and various sub-areas, such as flat sub-areas, curved sub-areas, and transition areas between these areas. Preferably, the shape of the stop surface is adapted to the shape of a mounting rail of a bearing system. The stop surface preferably forms the negative shape of at least a sub-area of the mounting rail.
[0016] The object of the invention is further achieved by a storage system for storing at least one object comprising: at least one storage element according to one of the previously described embodiments, at least one mounting rail extending along a direction of extension, wherein the mounting rail has at least two recesses penetrating the mounting rail and arranged on opposite edges of the mounting rail, wherein the recesses are each open to one of the edges, wherein in a connected state the stop surface rests at least partially against the mounting rail and the hook elements each engage one of the edges, wherein one edge is arranged in an undercut of a hook element, and wherein the hook elements and the recesses are arranged laterally offset from one another in the longitudinal direction and / or in the direction of extension.wherein in an assembly state the hook elements and the recesses are arranged in alignment with each other in the longitudinal direction and / or in the extension direction and the hook elements can be inserted into and passed through the recesses, wherein the bearing system can be converted from the assembly state to the connection state and vice versa by a displacement of the bearing element relative to the fastening rail in the longitudinal direction and / or extension direction.
[0017] The storage system according to the invention comprises at least one storage element and at least one mounting rail. In an assembly state of the storage system, the storage element can be connected to or detached from the mounting rail. In a connected state, however, the storage element is positively connected to the mounting rail, thereby creating a load-bearing connection between the two components and allowing at least one object to be stored on the storage element.
[0018] The mounting rail extends along a direction that, in the connected state, is oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction of the bearing element. The mounting rail includes at least two recesses arranged on opposite edges, which are open towards the edges. The recesses penetrate the mounting rail and are shaped and dimensioned such that, in the assembled state, the hook elements of the bearing element can be guided through the recesses in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface.
[0019] In the connected state, a positive-locking connection exists between the bearing element and the mounting rail perpendicular to the direction of extension or longitudinal direction. In this connected state, the stop surface rests against the mounting rail, and the at least two hook elements each engage an edge of the mounting rail. Each edge of the mounting rail is positioned within an undercut of a hook element. To ensure a secure positive lock perpendicular to the direction of extension, the hook elements of the bearing element and the recesses of the mounting rail are laterally offset from each other in the longitudinal direction when connected.
[0020] The assembled state of the bearing system differs from the connected state in the relative position of the bearing element to the mounting rail. In the assembled state, the bearing element and the mounting rail are oriented such that the hook elements and the recesses are aligned. This allows the hook elements to be inserted into and through the recesses. Conversely, the hook elements can be pulled out of the recesses. A load-bearing connection between the bearing element and the mounting rail is established by bringing the contact surfaces against the mounting rail in the assembled state. Subsequently, the bearing element is moved relative to the mounting rail along its extension and / or longitudinal direction, so that the hook elements and the recesses are laterally offset from each other.This achieves the connection state in which the bearing element and the mounting rail are securely connected to each other.
[0021] The storage system according to the invention has the advantage that the storage element can be connected to the mounting rail quickly and easily. For this connection, an insertion movement perpendicular to the stop surface followed by a displacement along the extension or longitudinal direction is sufficient. A particularly advantageous feature is that, with a suitably designed mounting rail, the storage element can be individually connected to the mounting rail at various positions. In this way, the storage system according to the invention can be easily adapted to objects of different sizes and weights to be stored. Both the mounting rail and the storage element are designed to be simple and robust, and thus stable and cost-effective to manufacture.In one embodiment of the bearing system, a positive fit exists between the hook elements and the mounting rail in the connected state, perpendicular to the longitudinal and extension directions. A linear degree of freedom exists between the hook elements and the mounting rail in both the longitudinal and extension directions. In the connected state, a positive fit exists between the hook elements and the two edges of the mounting rail. This positive fit acts in all directions perpendicular to the longitudinal and extension directions. Because two opposing hook elements are provided, each positively engaging an edge, the positive-locking connection between the bearing element and the mounting rail can absorb forces in the vertical direction, forces in the horizontal direction, and moments about an axis parallel to the extension and longitudinal directions.However, this leaves a linear degree of freedom for the movement of the bearing element relative to the mounting rail along its direction of extension. This degree of freedom is advantageously used for mounting and dismounting the bearing element on the mounting rail.
[0022] In a further embodiment, the bearing element has more than two hook elements arranged longitudinally side by side at a distance from each other, and the mounting rail has more than two recesses arranged longitudinally side by side at a distance from each other, wherein the width of the hook elements in the longitudinal direction is smaller than the width of the recesses in the longitudinal direction, and in the assembled state, each hook element and recess are opposite each other and aligned. In this embodiment, the guide element comprises several hook elements, and the mounting rail has correspondingly several recesses. In this way, positive-locking connections between the mounting rail and the connection area of the bearing element can be established at various points, thereby increasing the load-bearing capacity of the connection.It is particularly advantageous if the length of the mounting rail in the direction of extension is greater, especially more than twice the length of the bearing element in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, the mounting rail has more recesses than a bearing element has hook elements. In this way, the bearing element can be connected to the mounting rail at various positions in the direction of extension. This further improves the adaptability of the bearing system to the objects to be stored.
[0023] In a further embodiment, the mounting rail comprises at least one recess that at least partially penetrates the mounting rail, and the connection area of the bearing element has at least one projection that extends over at least a portion of the stop surface. The recess has a length in the longitudinal direction that is greater than the longitudinal length of the projection. In the assembly state, the projection can be inserted into the recess, and in the inserted state, the projection is displaceable within the recess when the bearing system is transferred into the connected state, particularly along the longitudinal and longitudinal directions. In this embodiment, the mounting rail comprises at least one recess that interacts with a projection of the bearing element. The recess is formed by a depression or opening in the mounting rail.The length of the recess in the longitudinal direction is greater than the length of the projection in the longitudinal direction. This allows the projection to be displaced within the recess along its longitudinal direction. The width of the projection perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is less than the width of the recess perpendicular to its longitudinal direction. This allows the projection to be inserted into the recess, at least partially. When the stop surface rests against the mounting rail, the projection is thus displaceable within the recess and serves to provide tactile feedback indicating that the connection has been established when the bearing element is moved relative to the mounting rail.A particular advantage of this embodiment is that a user of the storage system can reliably recognize that the connection state has been reached and that a load-bearing connection exists between the storage element and the mounting rail.
[0024] It is provided that, during the transition from the assembled state to the connected state, the projection abuts one side of the recess in the direction of extension, thus defining the attainment of the connected state, in particular whereby a portion of the projection rests against one side of the recess in the direction of extension during the connected state. In the connected state, a portion of the projection rests against one side of the recess. This contact prevents any further relative movement of the bearing element to the mounting rail, and the connected state is clearly and tangibly defined. Conversely, upon reaching the assembled state, the projection rests against the opposite side of the recess in the direction of extension. This contact again tangibly defines the relative position of the bearing element to the mounting rail at which the assembled state is reached. The assembly or...Disassembly of the storage element from the mounting rail is thus clearly guided, virtually eliminating incorrect operation of the storage system. This significantly improves the safety of the storage system.
[0025] In a further embodiment, the length of the recess in the direction of extension is at least twice as long as the length of a cutout in the direction of extension, and / or the length of the recess in the direction of extension is at least twice as long as the length of the projection in the longitudinal direction. The combination of projection and recess interacts with the combination of hook elements and cutouts. The projection and the recess are dimensioned such that they are suitable for adjusting the relative position between the hook element and the cutout in both the connected and assembled states. It has proven advantageous for the length of the recess in the direction of extension to be at least twice as long as the length of a cutout.This ensures that if the projection shifts within the recess when it is engaged on one side, the hook element completely engages one edge, and when it is engaged on the opposite side, the hook element is aligned with the recess. Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the length of the recess in the longitudinal direction is at least twice the length of the projection. This allows the projection to be shifted within the recess over twice its length, which is beneficial for a secure adjustment of the connection and assembly state between the hook elements and the recesses.
[0026] In a further embodiment, the mounting rail comprises more than one recess, and the connection area of the bearing element has more than one projection, wherein, in the assembled state, each projection can be inserted into a recess. In this embodiment, several combinations of projections and recesses are provided in the bearing system. These combinations interact and ensure, to a particularly high degree, reliable detection of when the connection or assembly state has been reached.
[0027] In one embodiment, the storage system comprises several storage elements that are connected or connectable to the mounting rail, wherein the length of the mounting rail in the direction of extension is at least as long as the sum of the lengths of the storage elements in the longitudinal direction, and in particular, wherein each storage element can be connected to the mounting rail at different positions in the direction of extension. In this embodiment, the storage system comprises at least several storage elements that can be adjusted to a significantly longer mounting rail. This allows the relative position of the storage element to the mounting rail to be adapted to the size of the objects to be stored. Furthermore, it is possible for the storage system to also have several mounting rails, which can, for example, be arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart.
[0028] The object of the invention is also achieved by a racking system for storing at least one object comprising: at least one storage system according to one of the previously described embodiments, at least one rack post which extends substantially in a vertical direction, wherein the fastening rail of the storage system is connected to the rack post, in particular wherein the extension direction of the fastening rail is substantially horizontally oriented.
[0029] The racking system according to the invention comprises, in addition to a storage system according to one of the previously described embodiments, at least one rack upright connected to the mounting rail. Preferably, several rack uprights are provided, which are connected to one or more mounting rails at a distance from each other. More preferably, the racking system comprises more than one storage element. The storage elements can be individually positioned relative to the mounting rail(s). In this way, the racking system can be easily and reliably adapted to different sizes of items to be stored, for example, tires. As previously described in connection with the storage system, the storage elements are easy to assemble, and in the connected state, there is a particularly strong connection between the storage element and the mounting rail.
[0030] The object of the invention is finally achieved by a method for mounting a bearing element on a mounting rail of a bearing system according to one of the previously described embodiments, the method comprising the following process steps:
[0031] A) Aligning the stop surface of the bearing element parallel to the mounting rail, whereby the longitudinal direction of the bearing element is oriented parallel to the extension direction of the mounting rail, B) Inserting and guiding the hook elements of the bearing element into / through the recesses of the mounting rail in the assembled state of the bearing system until the stop surface rests at least partially against the mounting rail,
[0032] C) Transition of the bearing system into the connected state, whereby the bearing element is moved relative to the mounting rail in the longitudinal direction and / or extension direction until the hook elements engage an edge of the mounting rail along their entire length in the longitudinal direction.
[0033] The method according to the invention serves to attach a bearing element to a mounting rail. A bearing system according to one of the previously described embodiments is used to carry out the method. The method is preferably carried out in the described sequence of process steps A) to C). The method according to the invention can also be carried out in reverse order of the process steps to disassemble a bearing system from a mounting rail.
[0034] In the first process step A), the bearing element is aligned relative to the mounting rail. For this purpose, the stop surface is oriented parallel to the mounting rail, with its longitudinal direction being parallel to its extension direction. In process step A), there is still a gap between the stop surface and the mounting rail.
[0035] In a second process step B), the hook elements of the bearing element are inserted into the recesses of the mounting rail. This is achieved by shifting the bearing element relative to the mounting rail along its longitudinal axis, creating a mounting position in which the hook elements and the recesses are aligned. Process step B) is carried out until the stop surface rests against the mounting rail. In this state, the hook elements already protrude through the recesses in the mounting rail. In a third process step C), the bearing system is moved into the connected state. Here, the bearing element is shifted longitudinally relative to the mounting rail. This disrupts the alignment of the hook elements with the recesses, so that the hook elements are laterally offset from the recesses and each engages an edge of the mounting rail.Procedure step C) is completed when the hook elements grip an edge of the mounting rail along their entire length.
[0036] The method according to the invention is easy to carry out and results in a storage system that is efficient and space-saving, adapted to the objects to be stored. In the assembled state, the storage element and the mounting rail can be aligned relative to each other in a simple, ergonomic manner. The transition from the assembled state to the connected state is possible by a simple linear movement and results in a very strong connection between the storage element and the mounting rail.
[0037] The advantages, advantageous designs, and effects mentioned above for the storage element also apply to the storage system, the racking system, and the method according to the invention. Conversely, the same applies: advantages, advantageous designs, and effects explained above in connection with the storage system, the racking system, and the method according to the invention also apply to the storage element according to the invention.
[0038] The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those subsequently mentioned in the figure description and / or shown in the figures alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments that are not explicitly shown or explained in the figures, but which can be derived and generated from the explained embodiments by separate combinations of features, are also to be considered as encompassed and disclosed by the invention.
[0039] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the following description of preferred embodiments, and the drawings. These show:
[0040] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a shelving system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0041] Figure 2 shows a top view of the stop surface of a bearing element according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0042] Figure 3 shows a top view of a mounting rail of a storage system according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0043] Figure 4 shows a partially cut-away side view of the shelving system from Figure 1.
[0044] Figure 5 shows a top view of a shelving system according to an embodiment of the invention in the connected state, and
[0045] Figure 6 shows a top view of a shelving system according to an embodiment of the invention in the assembled state.
[0046] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a racking system 1000 according to an embodiment of the invention. The racking system 1000 shown comprises a storage system 100 and a rack upright 1001. The storage system 100, in turn, comprises two storage elements 1, which are arranged side by side and connected to a mounting rail 101. The rack upright 1001 extends vertically and is connected to the mounting rail 101. The mounting rail 101 extends along a direction ER, which is horizontally oriented in the illustrated embodiment. Preferably, several rack uprights 1001 are provided in a racking system 1000 according to the invention, which are connected to one or more mounting rails 101.
[0047] Each of the two bearing elements 1 comprises a bearing area 11, which, in the illustration, points rearward. The bearing area 11, in turn, comprises a bearing surface 12, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is planar. The bearing surface 12 is designed for the storage of at least one object, in particular a tire. Each bearing element 1 further comprises a connecting area 13, which, in the illustration, points forward and is connected to the bearing area 11. In the illustrated embodiment, each bearing element 1 is formed in one piece as a plastic part, with the bearing area 11 and the connecting area 13 each forming a sub-area of a single-piece bearing element 1. The connecting area 13 extends along a longitudinal direction L, which, in the illustration, is oriented horizontally. The connecting area 13 is positively connected to the mounting rail 101.Each storage element 1 can be easily connected to and disconnected from the connecting rail 101. This allows the relative position of each storage element 1 to the connecting rail 101 and to the other components of the racking system 1000 to be varied and adjusted.
[0048] Figure 2 shows a top view of the stop surface 14 of a bearing element 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. The stop surface 14 is hidden in Figure 1 because it rests against the mounting rail 101 from behind. In Figure 2, the bearing area 11 of the bearing element 1 is not visible because it is concealed behind the connecting area 13 shown in the foreground.
[0049] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the stop surface 14 is rectangular and flat and is aligned parallel to the plane of the drawing. In this embodiment, the connection area 13 comprises several hook elements 15, which are arranged adjacent to the stop surface 14. The hook elements 15 are arranged in pairs opposite each other, with a portion of the stop surface 14 located between each pair of hook elements 15. The hook elements 15 project beyond the stop surface 14 from the plane of the drawing. Between each hook element 15 and the stop surface 14 is an undercut H, which can be seen in Figure 4. The undercut H is open in the direction of the opposite hook element 15. Each of the hook elements 15 extends in the longitudinal direction L only over a portion of the total length of the connection area 13.The hook elements 15 are arranged at constant intervals along the longitudinal direction L in the illustrated embodiment. As already described in connection with Figure 1, the bearing element 1 extends along a longitudinal direction L. A vertical direction HR is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and runs parallel to the planar stop surface 14. Each pair of hook elements 15 faces each other in the vertical direction HR. Each hook element 15 has a partial area, shown in the foreground of the illustration, which faces the stop surface 14 with respect to the undercut H in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction L and the vertical direction HR. This partial area projects beyond the adjacent stop surface 14 and, in the illustrated top view, extends into it. In this way, this partial area of the hook elements 15 engages a partial area of the stop surface 14.
[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing element 1 also includes a projection 16, which is arranged in the vertical direction HR in the center of the stop surface 14 and which projects out of the plane of the drawing beyond the stop surface 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 16 has a square cross-section.
[0051] Figure 3 shows a top view of a mounting rail 101 of a bearing system 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. The mounting rail 101 is shown in Figure 3 in a top view relative to Figure 1 from the front. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting rail 101 is planar and rectangular and extends along the direction of extension ER. The mounting rail 101 includes several recesses 1011 that completely penetrate the mounting rail 101. The recesses 1011 are arranged on opposite edges 1012 and are each open to one of these edges 1012. In the illustrated embodiment, the recesses 1011 are rectangular in the illustrated top view. The recesses 1011 of the mounting rail 101 are arranged in the same relative position to each other as the hook elements 15 of the bearing element 1 from Figure 2.In this way, it is possible to insert the hook elements 15 of the bearing element 1 through the recesses 1011 of the mounting rail 101 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, or to guide them through the mounting rail 101. The recesses 1011 are arranged in pairs opposite each other. The width of the hook elements 15 in the longitudinal direction L in Figure 2 is smaller than the width of the recesses 1011 in the extension direction ER in Figure 3. This ensures that the hook elements 15 can be inserted into the recesses 1011 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in Figure 3.
[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting rail 101 includes a recess 1013 that completely penetrates the mounting rail 101 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. The recess 1013 is rectangular and extends with its longer side along the direction of extension ER. The recess 1013 is designed to receive a projection 16 of the bearing element 1 when the mounting rail 101 is connected to it. The recess 1013 interacts with the projection 16 to define the connection state and / or the assembly state in a bearing system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the recess 1013 in the direction of extension ER is at least twice the length of the projection 16 in the longitudinal direction L in Figure 2.In the illustrated embodiment, the width of the mounting rail 101 between the two edges 1012 perpendicular to the extension direction ER corresponds to the width of the stop surfaces 14 in the vertical direction HR in Figure 2.
[0053] Figure 4 shows a partially cutaway side view of the racking system 1000 from Figure 1. The side view in Figure 4 is taken from a direction parallel to the extension direction ER, from the front right relative to Figure 1. The storage element 1 and the mounting rail 101, shown at the front right in Figure 1, are cut in a plane that passes through two opposing hook elements 15. The undercuts H of the opposing hook elements 15 are visible in Figure 4. The undercuts H are open in the direction of the opposite hook element 15. Furthermore, the undercuts H are open in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L, which corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the drawing plane in Figure 4.
[0054] In the connection state shown in Figure 4, the stop surface 14 rests against the mounting rail 101 from the right. The hook elements 15 each engage one of the edges 1012 of the mounting rail 101. Each edge 1012 is arranged in an undercut H of a hook element 15. In this way, a positive fit exists between the bearing element 1 and the mounting rail 101 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L or perpendicular to the extension direction ER. However, a linear degree of freedom exists between the hook elements 15 and the mounting rail 101 in the longitudinal direction L or in the extension direction ER, so that the bearing element 1 can be displaced along the longitudinal direction L relative to the mounting rail 101.
[0055] Figure 4 shows that the projection 16 of the bearing element 1 is inserted into the recess 1013 of the mounting rail 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 16 extends beyond the mounting rail 101 on the side opposite the stop surface 14. Because the length of the recess 1013 in the extension direction ER is greater than the length of the projection 16 in the longitudinal direction L, the projection 16 can be moved within the recess 1013 in the longitudinal direction L or extension direction ER. The positive locking between two opposing hook elements 15 and two opposing edges 1012 of the mounting rail 101 creates a particularly strong, positive-locking connection between the bearing element 1 and the mounting rail 101.The combination of the projection 16 and the recess 1013 ensures easy and secure mounting of the bearing element 1 on the mounting rail 101.
[0056] Figure 5 shows a top view of a racking system 1000 according to an embodiment of the invention in its connected state. In conjunction with Figures 5 and 6, the connected state and the assembly state of an embodiment of a storage system 100 are described. In Figures 5 and 6, the racking system 1000 with a storage system 100 from Figure 1 is shown in a top view of the mounting rail 101. The storage elements 1 are located mostly behind the connecting rail 101 in Figures 5 and 6. Where not described in connection with Figures 5 and 6, reference is made to the description for Figures 1 to 3, which applies equally to Figures 5 and 6 for identical components or features.
[0057] In the connection state shown in Figure 5, the bearing element 1 shown on the right is firmly connected to the mounting rail 101, so that at least one object can be placed on the bearing element 1 for storage. In the connection state shown, the stop surface 14 of the bearing element 1 rests against the mounting rail 101 from behind. The hook elements 15 each engage one of the edges 1012 of the mounting rail 101 and are positively connected to it in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. Each edge 1012 is arranged in an undercut H of a hook element 15. The recesses 1011 and the hook elements 15 are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction L and in the extension direction ER. The connection state shown in Figure 5 is illustrated in a sectional side view in Figure 4.In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing element 1 shown on the right comprises several projections 16, and the mounting rail 101 comprises several recesses 1013 corresponding to the projections 16. In the connected state, each of the projections 16 extending through the recess 1013 abuts on the left side against one side of the recess 1013 in the direction of extension ER. This abutment defines the achievement of the connected state. This abutment allows a person attaching a bearing element 1 to a mounting rail 101 to tactilely perceive this achievement of the connected state.The length of the displacement of the projections 16 in the recesses 1013 is selected such that when the projections 16 abut on one side, the hook elements 15 are arranged laterally offset from the recesses 1011, thus ensuring a secure positive fit between the bearing element 1 and the mounting rail 101. To transfer the bearing element 1 from the connected state shown in Figure 5 to the assembled state shown in Figure 6, the bearing element 1 shown on the right is moved to the right along the extension direction ER until the projections 16 abut on the right side of the recesses 1013.
[0058] Figure 6 shows a top view of a racking system 1000 according to an embodiment of the invention in its assembled state. Figure 6 depicts the embodiment of a racking system 1000 from Figure 5 after it has been transferred to the assembled state. In the assembled state shown in Figure 6, the hook elements 15 of the support element 1 shown on the right and the recesses 1011 of the mounting rail 101 are congruent with each other in the extension direction ER and in the longitudinal direction L, respectively. In the assembled state, the hook elements 15 are thus aligned with each recess 1011. In this way, the hook elements 15 can be inserted into the recesses and guided through them in one direction out of the plane of the drawing. Conversely, to separate the support element 1 from the mounting rail 101, the hook elements 15 can be pulled out to the rear through the recesses 1011.Starting from a separate state of bearing element 1 and mounting rail 101, the bearing element 1 shown on the right can be attached to the mounting rail 101 from behind. In the illustrated assembly state, the hook elements 15 do not engage the opposite edges 1012 of the mounting rail 101, since the hook elements 15 and the edges 1012 are not aligned perfectly outside the recesses 1011. In the illustrated assembly state, the positive locking between the hook elements 15 and the edges 1012 is therefore eliminated, allowing the bearing element 1 to be moved towards or away from the connecting rail 101.Because the hook elements 15 do not extend along the entire length of the connection area 13 in the longitudinal direction L, and the recesses 1011 do not extend along the entire length of the mounting rail 101 in the extension direction ER, it is possible to bring the storage element 1 into contact with or detach from the mounting rail 101 at various positions. Thus, a complex threading or unthreading process is not required when connecting or detaching the storage element 1 from the mounting rail 101 along its entire length. The storage system 1 according to the invention can therefore be easily and conveniently modified, whereby the position of the storage elements 1 can be adapted to the size and shape of the objects to be stored.
[0059] In the assembly state shown in Figure 6, the projections 16 of the bearing element 1 abut the corresponding recesses 1013 on the right side in the extension direction ER. This abutment, in turn, enables haptic recognition of the assembly state. As soon as the projections 16 abut the recesses 1013 on the right side, it is clearly indicated to a user of the bearing system 100 that the assembly state has been reached and that the bearing element 1 can be separated from the connecting rail 101 in a direction perpendicular to it. REFERENCE SYMBOL LIST:
[0060] I Storage element II Storage area 12 Storage surface
[0061] 13 Connection area 14 Stop surface
[0062] 15 hook elements
[0063] 16 lead
[0064] 100 Storage system 101 Connecting rail 1011 Recess
[0065] 1012 edge
[0066] 1013 Exclusion
[0067] 1000 shelving system
[0068] 1001 shelf posts
[0069] ER direction of extension HR direction of altitude
[0070] H Undercut L Longitudinal direction
Claims
27 REQUIREMENTS:
1. Storage element (1 ) for storing at least one item in a storage system (100), comprising: a storage area (11), wherein the storage area (11) comprises at least one storage surface (12) which is intended for the storage of the at least one item, a connection area (13) which is connected to the bearing area (11) and which is provided for connection to a mounting rail (101) of the bearing system (100), wherein the connection area (13) extends along a longitudinal direction (L) and the connection area (13) comprises a stop surface (14) which is oriented at least partially at an angle to the bearing surface (12) and the stop surface (14) is arranged on the side of the connection area (13) opposite the bearing area (11), wherein the connecting area (13) comprises at least two hook elements (15) which are arranged adjacent to or near the stop surface (14) and which are opposite each other with at least a partial area of the stop surface (14) between them, wherein each hook element (15) projects beyond the adjacent or neighboring partial area of the stop surface (14) in a direction perpendicular to this partial area, wherein an undercut (H) is located between the hook element (15) and the adjacent or neighboring partial area of the stop surface (14), wherein this undercut (H) is open in the direction of the opposite hook element (15), and wherein each hook element (15) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) only over a partial area of the total length of the connection area (13) in the longitudinal direction (L).
2. Bearing element (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the two hook elements (15) are opposite each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and / or more than two hook elements (15) are provided, wherein a first part of the hook elements (15) are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (L) with a distance between them and a second part of the hook elements (15), with at least a partial area of the stop surface (14) between them, is arranged opposite the first part of the hook elements (15).
3. Bearing element (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a partial area of the hook elements (15), which is opposite the stop surface (14) with respect to the back-division (H), projects in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and parallel to the adjacent or neighboring partial area of the stop surface (14) beyond the adjacent or neighboring partial area of the stop surface (14).
4. Bearing element (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the connection area (13) has at least one projection (16) which projects over at least a partial area of the stop surface (14), in particular wherein the projection (16) is arranged between the hook elements (15).
5. Bearing element (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the stop surface (14) is planar and the at least two hook elements (15) are opposite each other in a vertical direction (HR) which is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the stop surface (14) is oriented parallel to a plane which is defined by the longitudinal direction (L) and the vertical direction (HR).
6. Storage system (100) for storing at least one item comprising: at least one bearing element (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, at least one mounting rail (101) which extends along a direction of extension (ER), wherein the mounting rail (101) has at least two recesses (1011) which penetrate the mounting rail (101) and which are arranged on opposite edges (1012) of the mounting rail (101), wherein the recesses (1011) are each open to one of the edges (1012), wherein in a connected state the stop surface (14) rests at least partially against the mounting rail (101) and the hook elements (15) each engage one of the edges (1012), wherein one edge (1012) is arranged in an undercut (H) of a hook element (15) and wherein the hook elements (15) and the recesses (1011) are arranged laterally offset from each other in the longitudinal direction (L) and / or in the extension direction (ER), wherein in an assembly state the hook elements (15) and the recesses (1011) are arranged in alignment with each other in the longitudinal direction (L) and / or in the extension direction (ER) and the hook elements (15) can be inserted into and passed through the recesses (1011), wherein the bearing system (100) can be converted from the assembly state to the connection state and vice versa by a displacement of the bearing element (1) relative to the mounting rail (101) in the longitudinal direction (L) and / or extension direction (ER).
7. Bearing system (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that in the connected state there is a positive locking between the hook elements (15) and the mounting rail (101) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and to the extension direction (ER), wherein there is a linear degree of freedom between the hook elements (15) and the mounting rail (101) in the longitudinal direction (L) and in the extension direction (ER).
8. Bearing system (100) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the bearing element (1) has more than two hook elements (15) which are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (L) with a distance from each other and the mounting rail (101) has more than two recesses (1011) which are arranged side by side with a distance from each other in the extension direction (ER), wherein the width of the hook elements (15) in the longitudinal direction (L) is smaller than the width of the recesses (1011) in the extension direction (ER) and in the assembly state each hook element (15) and recess (1011) are opposite each other and aligned with each other.
9. Bearing system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the mounting rail (101) comprises at least one recess (1013) which at least partially penetrates the mounting rail (101) and the connection area (13) of the bearing element (1) has at least one projection (16) which projects over at least a partial area of the stop surface (14), wherein the recess (1013) has a length in the extension direction (ER) that is greater than the length of the projection (16) in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein in the assembly state the projection (16) can be inserted into the recess (1013) and the projection (16) in the inserted state in the recess (1013) is displaceable when the bearing system (100) is transferred into the connection state, in particular along the longitudinal direction (L) and the extension direction (ER).
10. Bearing system (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that the projection (16) abuts on one side of the recess (1013) in the extension direction (ER) during the transition from the assembly state to the connection state, thereby defining the achievement of the connection state, in particular wherein a partial area of the projection (16) in the connection state rests on one side of the recess (1013) in the extension direction (ER).
11. Storage system (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the length of the recess (1013) in the extension direction31 (ER) is at least twice as long as the length of a recess (1011) in the extension direction (ER) and / or the length of the recess (1013) in the extension direction (ER) is at least twice as long as the length of the projection (16) in the longitudinal direction (L).
12. Bearing system (100) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the mounting rail (101) comprises more than one recess (1013) and the connection area (13) of the bearing element (1) has more than one projection (16), wherein in the assembly state one projection (16) can be inserted into each recess (1013).
13. Bearing system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 12, characterized in that the bearing system (100) comprises several bearing elements (1) which are connected or connectable to the mounting rail (101), wherein the length of the mounting rail (101) in the extension direction (ER) is at least as long as the sum of the lengths of the bearing elements (1) in the longitudinal direction (L), in particular wherein each bearing element (1) is connectable to the mounting rail (101) at different positions in the extension direction (ER).
14. Shelving system (1000) comprising for the storage of at least one item: at least one storage system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 13, at least one shelf post (1001) which extends essentially in a vertical direction, wherein the mounting rail (101) of the storage system (100) is connected to the shelf upright (1001), in particular wherein the extension direction (ER) of the mounting rail (101) is substantially horizontally oriented.32 15. Method for mounting a bearing element (1) on a mounting rail (101) of a bearing system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 13, the method comprising the method steps: A) Alignment of the stop surface (14) of the bearing element (1) parallel to the mounting rail (101), wherein the longitudinal direction (L) of the bearing element (1) is oriented parallel to the extension direction (ER) of the mounting rail (101), B) Insertion and passage of the hook elements (15) of the bearing element (1) into / through the recesses (1011) of the mounting rail (101) in the assembled state of the bearing system (100) until the stop surface (14) rests at least partially against the mounting rail (101), C) Transferring the bearing system (100) into the connected state, wherein the bearing element (1 ) is moved relative to the mounting rail (101) in the longitudinal direction (L) and / or extension direction (ER) until the hook elements (15) engage an edge (1012) of the mounting rail (101) over their entire length in the longitudinal direction (L).