Modular Systems and Components

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/565,663 filed on Mar. 15, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of modular systems. The present invention relates specifically to components and utility modules within various modular systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a rear face defined by the housing opposite the front face, a lower surface, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, the plurality of locking elements configured to detachably and rigidly couple the housing to a second utility module and a third utility module, and a channel defined by the lower surface. The channel includes a first end at the front face and an opposing second end at the rear face. The channel is configured to receive a side wall extending upward from the second utility module and a side wall extending upward from the third utility module.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a first corner extending from the front face, the first corner comprising at least two ribs extending from the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, the plurality of locking elements configured to detachably and rigidly couple the housing to a second utility module, and a corner wall slidably engaged with the at least two ribs. The corner wall defines at least one aperture configured to detachably couple to an accessory.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a first utility module and a second utility module. The first utility module includes a first housing, a front face defined by the first housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, a handle pivotally coupled to the front face of the first housing, and a recess defined by the front face of the first housing below the handle. The second utility module includes a second housing, a lid pivotally coupled to the second housing, a female coupler defined by the lid, at least one of the plurality of locking elements engages with the female couple to detachably and rigidly couple the first utility module to the second utility module, and a locking latch configured to secure the lid in a closed position. The locking latch actuates between a locked position and an unlocked position. The recess is configured to receive the locking latch when the locking latch is actuating from the locked position to the unlocked position while the first utility module is coupled to the second utility module.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, a latch coupled to the locking elements and slidably coupled to the housing at an opening in the front face, and a gasket. The plurality of locking elements are configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module. The gasket interfaces with the housing to seal the opening. In various embodiments, a periphery of the gasket is disposed behind the opening. The gasket is configured to limit or prevent foreign objects, such as debris, from entering the housing through the opening and compromising the functionality of the utility module, such as by interfering with the latch sliding with respect to the housing.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, a latch actuator coupled to the housing, and an arm coupled to the latch actuator and the locking elements. The plurality of locking elements are configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module. The latch actuator slidably actuates the arm with respect to the housing to retract and extend the locking elements with respect to the housing. The housing includes a plurality of distinct support elements that support the arm. Upper surfaces of the support elements interface with the lower surface of the arm to support the arm.

In a specific embodiment, the housing includes at least seven distinct support elements that support the arm. In a specific embodiment, less than 50% of the lower surface of the arm interfaces with the upper surfaces of the support elements. In a specific embodiment, less than 10% of the lower surface of the arm interfaces with the upper surfaces of the support elements.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, the plurality of locking elements configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module, a latch actuator rotatably coupled to the housing, a link pivotally coupled to the latch actuator, and an arm. The arm is pivotally coupled to the link and coupled to the locking elements. Rotation of the latch actuator in a first direction causes the arm to slide with respect to the housing in a second direction, and the arm sliding with respect to the housing in the second direction causes the locking elements to retract towards the housing.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, the plurality of locking elements configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module, a latch actuator rotatably coupled to the housing, the latch actuator including first teeth, and an arm slidably engaged with the housing. The arm includes second teeth. The first teeth are engaged with the second teeth such that rotation of the latch actuator in a first direction causes the arm to slide with respect to the housing in a second direction, which causes the locking elements to retract towards the housing.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility system including a first utility module and a second utility module. The first utility module includes a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, a handle pivotally coupled to the front face of the housing, and a recess defined by the front face of the housing below the handle. The second utility module includes a housing, a lid pivotally coupled to the housing, a female coupler defined by the lid, and a locking latch configured to secure the lid in a closed position. At least one of the plurality of locking elements engages with the female couple to detachably couple the first utility module to the housing of the second utility module. The locking latch actuates between a locked position, in which the lid is secured in a closed position, and an unlocked position, in which the lid is not restricted by the locking latch from being opened. The recess is configured to receive the locking latch when the locking latch is actuating from the locked position to the unlocked position while the first utility module is coupled to the second utility module.

Another embodiment of the invention relates a utility module including a housing, an upper face defined by the housing, a front wall extending upward from the upper face, a rear wall extending upward from the upper face, and a female coupler defined by the rear wall. The upper face defines opposing edges that extend linearly between the front wall and the rear wall, the edges are below the female coupler, and the female coupler is configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a rear face defined by the housing opposite the front face, a bottom face, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, the plurality of locking elements configured to couple the housing to a second utility module and a third utility module, and a channel defined by the bottom face. The channel includes a first end at the front face and an opposing second end at the rear face. The channel is configured to receive a side wall extending upward from the second utility module and a side wall extending upward from the third utility module.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a lid pivotally coupled to the housing, a protrusion extending upward from the lid, and a latch pivotally coupled to the housing. The latch is configured to detachably engage with the protrusion to lock the lid in a closed position with respect to the housing. The latch includes a body extending upward from the housing, an arm extending laterally from the body, and a projection that extends from the arm downward towards the housing. The projection engages with the protrusion to bias the latch from disengaging with the protrusion, and, in a specific embodiment, the projection extends at least 0.09 inches from the arm. In specific embodiments, the latch includes at least two hinges.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, an upper face defined by the housing, a front wall extending upward from the upper face, a rear wall extending upward from the upper face, side walls extending upward from the upper face and between the front wall and the rear wall, a first female coupler defined by the rear wall, a central wall extending between the side walls, and a second female coupler defined by the central wall. The first female coupler is configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module. The second female coupler is configured to detachably couple the housing to the second utility module.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, an upper face defined by the housing, a front wall extending upward from the upper face, a rear wall extending upward from the upper face, side walls extending upward from the upper face and between the front wall and the rear wall, and a recess between the rear wall and one of the side walls. The recess is coplanar with the upper face.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a utility module including a housing, a front face defined by the housing, a first corner, the first corner including at least two ribs extending from the housing, a plurality of locking elements retractably extending from the front face, the plurality of locking elements configured to detachably couple the housing to a second utility module, a latch coupled to the locking elements and slidably coupled to the housing at an opening in the front face, and a corner wall slidably engaged with the at least two ribs. The corner wall defines at least one aperture configured to detachably couple to an accessory. In specific embodiments, the utility module includes a fastener that rigidly couples the corner wall to the first corner behind the ribs.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or recognized by practicing the embodiments as described in the written description and/or shown in the accompany drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments. In addition, alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be generally recited in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view from above of a utility module in a modular system, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a component to be used with the utility module of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view from below of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view from below of the utility module of FIG. 3, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a portion of the utility module of FIG. 3, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of a portion of the utility module of FIG. 3, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the utility module of FIG. 3 coupled to another utility module, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of the utility module of FIG. 3 coupled to another utility module, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a portion of the utility module of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the utility module of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a front view of the utility module of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a portion of the utility module of FIG. 9, according to an

exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the utility module of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portion of the utility module of FIG. 15, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of the utility module of FIG. 15, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a portion of the utility module of FIG. 15, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a portion of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19B is a front perspective view of the utility module of FIG. 19A, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19C is a rear perspective view of the utility module of FIG. 19A, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a cross-section view of the utility module of FIG. 19A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a schematic front view of the utility module of FIG. 21 with other utility modules, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective view of two utility module in the modular system of FIG. 23, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a cross-section view of a portion of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a cross-section view of the utility module of FIG. 25, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a cross-section view of a utility module in the modular system of FIG. 25, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a schematic perspective view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a schematic top view of a utility module in the modular system of FIG. 28, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a schematic perspective view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a utility module in a modular system, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 32 is an exploded perspective view of the utility module of FIG. 31, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a cross-section view from above of the utility module of FIG. 31, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments of utility modules are provided for use within one or more modular systems. Various embodiments described herein relate to coupling systems that provide for improved coupling functionality. Various embodiments described herein relate to coupling systems that provide flexible coupling options, such as between different sized utility modules being configured to rigidly couple together.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, various aspects of utility module 110 are provided. In general, utility module 110 includes a gasket that protects foreign objects from entering utility module 110 and interfering with the operation of components of utility module 110, as compared to utility modules that do not include such protection.

Utility module 110 includes housing 120, which defines front face 122. Locking elements 124 are slidably coupled to housing 120 such that locking elements 124 extend and retract out of recesses 126. Locking elements 124 are configured to detachably and rigidly couple utility module 110 to other utility modules, such as to the top of other utility modules. In particular, locking elements 124 slidably engage and disengage with one or more recesses located on the top of the other utility modules.

Front face 122 of housing 120 includes opening 130. Latch 132 is coupled to locking elements 124 and slidably coupled to housing 120 at opening 130 in front face 122. A user interfaces with latch actuator 136 to slide latch 132 with respect to housing 120 along axis 134 to actuate locking elements 124 between being extended and retracted.

In various embodiments, utility module 110 includes gasket 140 disposed within opening 130. Gasket 140 interfaces with housing 120 to seal opening 130, thereby reducing and/or minimizing the opportunity for debris to enter housing 120 through opening 130, which protects components of utility module 110 (e.g., latch 132) from being damaged or interfered with by debris. In various embodiments, periphery 142 of gasket 140 is disposed behind opening 130 so that gasket 140 interfaces with the portion of housing 120 surrounding opening 130 such that gasket 140 acts to seal opening 130.

Referring to FIGS. 3-8, various aspects of utility module 160 are provided. In general, utility module 160 provides a reduced frictional resistance to a user actuating the locking elements between being locked and unlocked, such as via a reduced sliding friction to a latch bar coupled to the locking elements, as compared to utility modules in which the latch bar slides along a large flat surface.

Utility module 160 includes housing 170, which defines front face 172. Locking elements 124 are slidably coupled to housing 170 such that locking elements 124 extend from and retract towards housing 170. Locking elements 124 are configured to detachably and rigidly couple utility module 160 to other utility modules, such as to the top of other utility modules. In particular, locking elements 124 slidably engage and disengage with one or more recesses located on the top of the other utility modules.

Utility module 160 includes a latch structure, shown as latch bar 184, slidably engaged with housing 170 within cavity 174 defined by housing 170. Latch bar 184 includes an upper portion 183 extending upward away from side portion 185 towards a top of the housing 170, and side portion 185 extending laterally from upper portion 183 towards locking elements 124. Latch actuator 136 extends from upper portion 183 such that latch actuator 136 protrudes from opening 130 (see FIG. 1). In use, a user manipulates an actuator, such as latch actuator 136, to slide latch bar 184 in direction 186 or direction 190. When the user manipulates the latch actuator to slide latch bar 184 in direction 186, locking elements 124 move in direction 178 to extend from housing 170. When the user manipulates the latch actuator to slide latch bar 184 in direction 190, locking elements 124 move in direction 182 to retract towards and/or into housing 170.

To reduce frictional resistance between housing 170 and latch bar 184 when latch bar 184 is sliding with respect to housing 170, housing 170 includes a plurality of distinct support elements 192 that interface with latch bar 184, such as at least seven support elements 192. The support elements 192 include upper surfaces 194 that collectively interface with lower surface 188 of side portion 185 of latch bar 184, as latch bar 184 is sliding with respect to housing 170. In general, upper surfaces 194 include a small contact surface area with latch bar 184. This small contact surface area is believed to reduce sliding friction with latch bar 184, thereby facilitating movement of latch bar 184 to lock and unlock locking elements 124. Because the collective area of upper surfaces 194 of support elements 192 is less than if side portion 185 of latch bar 184 was sliding on a large flat surface, the resistance imposed on side portion 185 of latch bar 184 by friction when sliding with respect to housing 170 is reduced. In a specific embodiment, less than 50% of the length 191 of side portion 185 of latch bar 184 engages upper surfaces 194 at any one time. In more specific embodiments, less than 30% and more specifically less than 10% of the length 191 of side portion 185 of latch bar 184 engages upper surfaces 194 at any one time. In a specific embodiment, less than 50% of the lower surface of side portion 185 of latch bar 184, such as less than 50% of the area of the lower surface of side portion 185 of latch bar 184 interfaces with the upper surfaces of the plurality of distinct support elements 192.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, when latch bar 184 slides in direction 190, projection 187 extends from latch bar 184 within cavity 180 to slide locking element 124 in direction 182. As a result, locking element 124 is retracted towards housing 170, thereby permitting the housing 170 to be decoupled from a utility module to which housing 170 had been coupled when latch bar 184 slides in direction 190 shown in FIG. 6.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8, utility module 160 is coupled to lower device 198 via locking element 124 engaging with female coupler 199 of lower device 198. To decouple utility module 160 and lower device 198, locking element 124 is retracted (FIG. 8), e.g., via movement of latch 132 by interaction with latch actuator 136 as discussed above, thereby permitting utility module 160 to be decoupled from lower device 198.

Referring to FIGS. 9-14, various aspects of utility module 210 are provided. Utility module 210 is substantially the same as utility module 110 or utility module 160 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 210 includes a rotating latch actuator that Applicant believes may be more resistant to jamming due to debris, as compared to a linear sliding latch actuator.

Utility module 210 includes housing 220, which defines front face 222. Locking elements 124 are slidably coupled to housing 220 to detachably and rigidly couple utility module 210 to other objects, such as other utility modules.

A user actuates a latch actuator, shown as knob 228, which is rotatably coupled to housing 220, to slide arm 226 with respect to housing 220, which results in locking elements 124 being extended and retracted from housing 220. Knob 228 is coupled to arm 226 via link 230, which is pivotally coupled to knob 228. Arm 226 is pivotally coupled to link 230. Applicant believes that providing a rotating knob 228 to actuate arm 226 improves performance of utility module 210 by reducing the likelihood of the knob 228 getting stuck compared to latch actuators that slide, for example because, unlike latch actuators that slide, the knob 228 is not moved over an area that may include debris, which may slow or stop the latch actuator from moving.

In use, when knob 228 is rotated in the clockwise direction in the orientation of FIG. 9, arm 226 slides to the left with respect to housing 220 in the orientation of FIG. 9, thereby extending locking elements 124 from housing 220 (FIGS. 9-11), thereby coupling utility module 210 to another utility module. When knob 228 is rotated in the counter-clockwise direction in the orientation of FIG. 12 (e.g., direction 232), arm 226 slides to the right with respect to housing 220 in the orientation of FIG. 12 (e.g., direction 234), thereby retracting locking elements 124 towards housing 220 (FIGS. 12-14), thereby permitting utility module 210 to be decoupled from another utility module.

Referring to FIGS. 15-18, various aspects of utility module 260 are provided. Utility module 260 is substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160 or utility module 210 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 260 includes a rotating latch actuator that Applicant believes may be more resistant to jamming due to debris, as compared to a linear sliding latch actuator.

Utility module 260 includes housing 270, which defines front face 272. Locking elements 124 are slidably coupled to housing 270 to detachably and rigidly couple utility module 260 to other objects, such as other utility modules.

A user actuates a latch actuator, shown as knob 280, which is rotatably coupled to housing 270, to slide bar 276 with respect to housing 270, which results in locking elements 124 being extended and retracted from housing 270. Teeth 278 of bar 276 are engaged with teeth 282 of knob 280 to transfer the rotation of knob 280 into the sliding of bar 276.

In use, when knob 280 is rotated in the clockwise direction in the orientation of FIG. 15, bar 276 slides to the left with respect to housing 270 in FIG. 15, thereby extending locking elements 124 in direction 288 from housing 270 (FIGS. 15-16), thereby coupling utility module 210 to another utility module. When knob 280 is rotated in the counter-clockwise direction in the orientation of FIG. 17 (e.g., direction 284), bar 276 slides to the right with respect to housing 270 in the orientation of FIG. 17 (e.g., direction 286), thereby retracting locking elements 124 in direction 290 towards housing 270 (FIGS. 17-18), thereby permitting the housing 270 to be decoupled from a utility module to which housing 270 had been coupled.

Referring to FIGS. 19-20, various aspects of utility system 310 including first utility module 340 and second utility module 318 are provided. Second utility module 318 and first utility module 340 are substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210 or utility module 260 except for the differences discussed herein. Further, second utility module 318 and first utility module 340 are exactly the same as each other, with the only difference being configuration, in particular that first utility module 340 is placed on top of second utility module 318.

In general, utility module 340 includes a recess 344 within the housing 341, such as below the handle 342, that facilitates and/or permits the lid 332 on a utility module 318 below utility module 340 to be unlocked, thereby permitting a user to open the lid 332 of the utility module 318 below utility module 340, as compared to utility modules that do not include such a recess to facilitate opening the lid of a lower utility module.

First utility module 340 includes first housing 341, a front face 343 defined by the first housing 341, a plurality of locking elements 345 retractably extending from the front face 343, a handle 342 pivotally coupled to the front face 343 of the first housing 341, and a recess 344 defined by the front face 343 of the first housing 341 below the handle 342. Second utility module 318 includes a second housing 320, a lid 332 pivotally coupled to the second housing 320, a female coupler 337 defined by the lid 332, wherein at least one of the plurality of locking elements 345 engages with the female coupler 337 (e.g., a female coupler 337 at the front of lid 332) to detachably and rigidly couple the first utility module 340 to the second utility module 318, and a locking latch 330 configured to secure the lid 332 in a closed position. Locking latch 330 actuates between a locked position and an unlocked position. Recess 344 is configured to receive the locking latch 330 when the locking latch 330 is actuating from the locked position to the unlocked position while the first utility module 340 is coupled to the second utility module 318.

Second utility module 318 includes front face 322 defined by housing 320. Handle 324 is pivotally coupled to front face 322 of housing 320. Handle 324 extends length 326 towards bottom of housing 320, thereby leaving recess 328 below handle 324 and above lower edge 334 of front face 322. Utility module 318 includes a plurality of locking elements 339 retractably extending from front face 322, which are the same as locking elements 345 extending from front face 343 of utility module 340.

As will be explained, recess 328 of utility module 318 and recess 344 of utility module 340 permit provide the space for movement of a lid latch between locked and unlocked positions such that a lid of a lower utility module is permitted to be unlocked and opened, even when another utility module is coupled on top of the lid of the lower utility module. As a result, a user can open the lid of the lower utility module and access the contents of the lower utility module even when an upper utility module is coupled to the lid of the lower utility module.

Second utility module 318 is the same as first utility module 340, except that second utility module 318 is coupled to the top of first utility module 340. First utility module 340 includes handle 342 and recess 344 below handle 342.

Utility module 318 includes a locking latch, shown as toggle locking latch 330. Toggle locking latch 330 is coupled to front face 322 above handle 324 and includes a hooked engagement end 336 that engages lid 332. In use, toggle locking latch 330 of second utility module 318 is permitted to actuate from the closed to the open position (see FIG. 20), thereby unlocking lid 332 of utility module 318, because recess 344 below handle 342 of utility module 340 provides space for toggle locking latch 330 to move. In particular, as can be seen in FIG. 20, when toggle locking latch 330 is actuating from the locked position to the unlocked position, the toggle locking latch 330 is moved through recess 344. Thus, if utility module 340 did not include recess 344 and that volume was occupied by handle 342 and/or the housing of utility module 340, the toggle locking latch 330 would interface against the handle 342 and/or the housing of utility module 340, which would interfere with or even prevent the toggle locking latch 330 from being unlocked, thereby preventing the user from opening lid 332 and accessing the contents of utility module 318.

Handle 342 actuates between an extended position and a retracted position with respect to the first housing 341, and the recess 344 defines a first surface 346 that is planar with a second surface 347 that interfaces with the handle 342 when the handle 342 is in the retracted position. In various embodiments, no portion of the first housing 341 is directly vertically below the recess 344. In various embodiments, handle 342 defines a first width 348 and the recess 344 defines a second width 349 that is at least half the first width 348.

In various embodiments, locking latch 330 can be extended to interface with the handle 342. In various embodiments, the locking latch 330 is a toggle locking latch.

In various embodiments, first utility module 340 includes a second lid pivotally coupled to the first housing 341 and a second locking latch configured to secure the second lid in a closed position. In various embodiments, the handle 342 defines a first width 348 and the recess 344 defines a second width 349 that is at least three fourths the first width 348.

Referring to FIGS. 21-22, various aspects of utility module 360 are provided. Utility module 360 is substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210, utility module 260 or utility module 318 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 360 includes an upper surface and walls that facilitate coupling the utility module 360 below other utility modules, as compared to other utility modules that include sidewalls extending upward from the upper surface.

Utility module 360 includes housing 370, which defines upper face 372. Utility module 360 includes front wall 374 and rear wall 376 extending upward from upper face 372. Female coupler 384 is defined by rear wall 376, and female coupler 384 is configured to detachably couple housing 370 to a second utility module. Upper face 372 defines opposing edges 378 that extend between front wall 374 and rear wall 376 and that are below the female coupler 384. In various embodiments opposing edges 378 of upper face 372 extend entirely linearly from front wall 374 to rear wall 376.

As a result of edges 378 being below female coupler 384, utility module 360 can be stacked next to another utility module 360 above utility module 380 and below utility module 382 (FIG. 22). In particular, utility module 360 does not include side walls extending upward from upper face 372 that would interfere with utility module 382 being coupled to the top of two utility modules 360 next to each other. For comparison, if utility module 360 included side walls extending upward from upper face 372, similar to sidewalls extending upward from the top of utility module 110 (see FIG. 1), then side walls of utility module 360 would interface against the bottom of utility module 382, thereby preventing utility module 382 from being coupled to the top of two utility modules 360 that are side-by-side (e.g., see FIG. 22).

Referring to FIGS. 23-24 various aspects of utility module 410 are provided. Utility module 410 is substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210, utility module 260, utility module 318, utility module 340 or utility module 360 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 410 includes a lower surface with a channel that facilitates coupling the utility module 410 above other utility modules, such as utility module 110, as compared to other utility modules that include a lower surface without such a channel.

Housing 420 defines channel 424 that extends within lower surface 422 from front face 426 of utility module 410 to the rear face 428 of utility module 410. Channel 424 permits utility module 410 to be stacked to the top of lower units 430, such as a second and third utility module, that are below utility module 410. In particular, side walls 434 extending upward from upper face 432 of lower units 430 are received within channel 424, and as a result utility module 410 can be coupled to the top of two lower units 430 next to each other.

Utility module 410 includes housing 420, front face 426 defined by housing 420, a rear face 428 defined by the housing 420 opposite the front face 426, a lower surface 422, a plurality of locking elements 441 retractably extending from the front face 426, and a channel 424 defined by the lower surface 422. The plurality of locking elements 441 are configured to detachably and rigidly couple the housing 420 to a second utility module 444 and a third utility module 445. Channel 424 includes a first end 442 at the front face 426 and an opposing second end 443 at the rear face 428. Channel 424 is configured to receive a side wall 434 extending upward from the second utility module 444 and a side wall 434 extending upward from the third utility module 445 when housing 420 is coupled to second utility module 444 and third utility module 445.

Channel 424 is centrally located on the lower surface 422. Channel 424 includes opposing side surfaces 446 extending upward from the lower surface 422 and towards each other. Channel 424 includes a horizontal flat surface 447 extending between the opposing side surfaces 446. In various embodiments, the plurality of locking elements 441 extend from the front face 426 on each side 448, 449 of the channel 424, such as at least one locking element 441 extending from housing 420 on first side 448 of channel 424 and at least one locking element 441 extending from housing 420 on second side 449 of channel 424.

Housing 420 defines a first width 435 perpendicular to the front face 426, and the second utility module 444 defines a second width 436 perpendicular to the front face 426, and the second width 436 is approximately one-half the second width 435, such as being within 10% of one-half the second width 435, or more specifically within 5%, or even more specifically within 1% of one-half the second width 435. In various embodiments, third utility module 445 defines a third width 437 perpendicular to the front face 426, and the third width 437 is approximately one-half the first width 435. Channel 424 extends uninterrupted between the first end 442 and the second end 443.

Referring to FIGS. 25-27, various aspects of utility module 460 are provided. Utility module 460 is substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210, utility module 260, utility module 318, utility module 340, utility module 360 or utility module 410 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 460 includes an improved structure to lock the lid in the closed position, as compared to other utility modules that include a lid locking structure that is shorter and/or that does not include as long of a locking projection that engages against a projection extending upward from the lid.

Utility module 460 includes housing 470 and lid 472 pivotally coupled to the top of housing 470. Lid 472 includes projection 474 extending upward away from housing 470. Latch 476 includes body 492 extending upward from housing 470, arm 494 extending laterally from body 492, and locking projection 478 that extends from arm 494 downward towards housing 470. Locking projection 478 engages with projection 474 of lid 472 to bias latch 476 from disengaging with the locking projection 478. In various embodiments the projection extends at least 0.09 inches below arm 494, and more specifically 0.1 inches.

When lid 472 is closed with respect to housing 470, latch 476 is pivoted towards lid 472 until locking projection 478 of latch 476 is engaged around projection 474. In various embodiments, latch 476 extends an increased distance from housing 470 compared to other products, thereby reducing the likelihood that latch 476 will decouple from lid 472 accidentally, such as when utility module 460 is dropped. In various embodiments, locking projection 478 of latch 476 extends an increased distance downward towards housing 470 (e.g., 0.1″ compared to 0.06″ in other units), thereby reducing the likelihood that latch 476 will decouple from lid 472 accidentally, such as when utility module 460 is dropped.

Referring to FIG. 27, utility module 480 is substantially the same as utility module 460 except for the differences discussed herein. In particular, latch 488 of utility module 480 is a double-jointed latch. In general, the double-jointed latch provides a more secure locking structure for the lid of utility module 480 compared to single-jointed latches.

Utility module 480 includes housing 482 and lid 484 pivotally coupled to the top of housing 482. Utility module 480 includes a latch 488 coupled to housing 482. Lid 484 includes projection 486 extending upward away from housing 482. When lid 484 is closed with respect to housing 482, latch 488 is pivoted towards lid 484 until lip 490 of latch 488 is engaged around projection 486.

Referring to FIGS. 28-29, various aspects of utility module 510 and utility module 530 are provided. Utility module 510 and utility module 530 are substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210, utility module 260, utility module 318, utility module 340, utility module 360, utility module 410 or utility module 460 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 510 and utility module 530 include one or more walls with female couplers, the walls extending upward from the upper surface between the front wall and the rear wall thereby providing more options for sizes of utility modules that can be coupled to the top of utility module 510 and/or utility module 530, as compared to utility modules that only include a front wall and a rear wall extending upward from the upper surface of the utility module.

Utility module 510 includes housing 512, which defines upper face 514. Utility module 510 includes front wall 524, rear wall 516, and side walls 526 extending upward from upper face 514. Utility module 510 further includes central wall 520 extending upward from upper face 514 between side walls 526 and parallel to front wall 524 and/or rear wall 516. Rear wall 516 includes female couplers 518 configured to receive locking elements (e.g., such as locking elements of other utility modules described in this disclosure). Central wall 520 includes female couplers 522 configured to receive locking elements (e.g., such as locking elements of utility modules in this disclosure).

Because utility module 510 includes central wall 520, which includes female couplers 522, other utility modules coupling to the top of utility module 510 can be half as deep compared to utility module 510 and still be rigidly coupled to utility module 510. For example, a utility module being coupled to the top of utility module 510 can couple to couplers in front wall 524 and central wall 520, and thus the utility module being coupled to the top of utility module 510 does not need to extend rear wall 516 to rigidly couple to utility module 510.

Referring to FIG. 29, various aspects of utility module 530 are shown via the provided schematic top view. Utility module 530 is the same as utility module 510 except that utility module 530 includes two central walls 538. In particular, utility module 530 includes front wall 542, rear wall 534, and side walls 546 extending upward from upper face 532. Utility module 530 further includes central walls 538 extending upward from upper face 532 between side walls 546 and parallel to front wall 542 and/or rear wall 534.

Rear wall 534 includes female couplers 536, central walls 538 include female couplers 540, and front wall 542 includes female couplers 544. Female couplers 536, 540, 544 are configured to receive locking elements (e.g., such as locking elements of other utility modules described in this disclosure).

Because utility module 530 includes central walls 538, which include female couplers 540, utility modules of varying depths can be coupled to the top of utility module 510. For example, utility modules coupled to the top of utility module 530 can be one-third the depth of utility module 530 and still be rigidly coupled to utility module 530, or utility modules coupled to the top of utility module 530 can be two-thirds the depth of utility module 530 and still be rigidly coupled to utility module 530.

Referring to FIG. 30, various aspects of utility module 560 are provided. Utility module 560 is substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210, utility module 260, utility module 318, utility module 340, utility module 360, utility module 410, utility module 460 or utility module 510 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 560 includes one or more drain openings to facilitate liquids, such as rainwater, not pooling at the top of utility module 560, as compared to utility modules that include front walls, rear walls, and side walls that are continuously connected with each other.

Utility module 560 includes housing 562, which defines upper face 564. Front wall 572, opposing rear wall 566, and side walls 570 extend upward from upper face 564. Front wall 572 and rear wall 566 each include one or more female couplers 568, which are configured to receive locking elements (e.g., such as locking elements of other utility modules described in this disclosure).

Utility module 560 defines one or more recesses 574 configured to permit a liquid, such as water, rainwater, etc., to leave upper face 564. As shown, recesses 574 are spaces or gaps defined between vertical edges of rear wall 566 and side walls 570. Recesses 574 extend downward towards upper face 564 such that the lowermost end 576 of recesses 574 is coplanar with or below upper face 564. This arrangement provides a fluid communication path from upper face 564 through rear wall 566 and side walls 570 allowing a liquid, such as water, to flow off of upper face 564 to the exterior of utility module 560. By comparison, if utility module 560 did not include recesses 574, then a liquid would likely pool on upper face 564, trapped by front wall 572, rear wall 566, and side walls 570 on upper face 564. In various embodiments, recesses 574 are located between side walls 570 and rear wall 566, and in some embodiments recesses 574 are located between side walls 570 and front wall 572 and/or within side walls 570, rear wall 566, and/or front wall 572.

Referring to FIGS. 31-33, various aspects of utility module 610 are provided. Utility module 610 is substantially the same as utility module 110, utility module 160, utility module 210, utility module 260, utility module 318, utility module 340, utility module 360, utility module 410, utility module 460, utility module 510 or utility module 560 except for the differences discussed herein. In general, utility module 610 includes a reduced number of components, such as a reduced number of fasteners, thereby facilitating the manufacture of utility module 610, as compared to utility modules that include more components and/or fasteners than utility module 610.

Utility module 610 includes housing 612, front face 614 defined by housing 612, opposing rear face 618, side surfaces 616, a first corner 630 extending from the front face 614, the first corner 630 including at least two ribs 622 extending from the housing 612, a plurality of locking elements 640 retractably extending from the front face 614, the plurality of locking elements 640 configured to detachably and rigidly couple the housing 612 to a second utility module, and a corner wall 620 slidably engaged with the at least two ribs 622.

At each of corners 628 of housing 612, housing 612 includes ribs 622 that extend above recessed surface 638 of housing 612. Ribs 622 and recessed surface 638 collectively define channels 634. Channels 634 slidably receive corner walls 620, such as via corner walls 620 being slidably inserted into a top of channel 634 (see FIG. 32). When corner walls 620 are inserted within channels 634, ribs 622 prevent corner walls 620 from being laterally removed away from housing 612.

Corner walls 620 includes one or more apertures 626. Apertures 626 are configured to facilitate coupling objects, such as accessories, to housing 612 via corner walls 620. Corner walls 620 are secured to housing 612 via one or more fasteners, shown as fastener 624 (e.g., screws). Applicant believes that using a lower number of fasteners to secure corner walls 620, such as two or less, or four or less, reduces the complexity and expense to manufacture utility module 610.

In various embodiments, corner wall 620 includes a plurality of apertures 626 including the at least one aperture 626, the plurality of apertures 626 configured to detachably couple to an accessory 641, such as a hook. In various embodiments, the plurality of apertures 626 are arranged in a grid on the corner wall 620. In various embodiments, utility module 610 includes a fastener 624 to rigidly couple the corner wall 620 to the housing 612.

It should be understood that the figures illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, and it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only. The construction and arrangements, shown in the various exemplary embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that any particular order be inferred. In addition, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more component or element, and is not intended to be construed as meaning only one.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. As used herein, “rigidly coupled” refers to two components being coupled in a manner such that the components move together in a fixed positional relationship when acted upon by a force.

While the current application recites particular combinations of features in the claims appended hereto, various embodiments of the invention relate to any combination of any of the features described herein whether or not such combination is currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this or future applications. Any of the features, elements, or components of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements, or components of any of the other embodiments discussed above.

In various exemplary embodiments, the relative dimensions, including angles, lengths and radii, as shown in the Figures are to scale. Actual measurements of the Figures will disclose relative dimensions, angles and proportions of the various exemplary embodiments. Various exemplary embodiments extend to various ranges around the absolute and relative dimensions, angles and proportions that may be determined from the Figures. Various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that may be determined from the Figures. Further, actual dimensions not expressly set out in this description can be determined by using the ratios of dimensions measured in the Figures in combination with the express dimensions set out in this description.