Articulating Modular Storage System

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present invention relates generally to an articulating modular storage system or apparatus. Specifically, the storage system or apparatus of the present invention may function as an adjustable storage system or apparatus that is connected to a ceiling, wall or floor to provide functional storage whereby the user may adjust the storage system by both raising, lowering, and inclining the storage system. Further, the height profile may be adjusted to provide a lower or higher profile of the present device. Additionally, the storage system or apparatus may be made of robust materials such as metals or any other sustainable materials.

BACKGROUND

Storage solutions play a vital role in keeping belongings organized and protected. For example, inside the garage, you'll typically find shelves, cabinets, pegboards, and bins, all aimed at maximizing space and ensuring tools, seasonal items, and household supplies are neatly arranged. These storage options not only help maintain a tidy space but also make it easier to access items when needed while safeguarding them from potential damage or misplacement. By utilizing an interior or exterior storage device effectively, spaces can remain clutter-free, allowing for smoother navigation, more efficient use of space and a more ergonomic workflow, ultimately enhancing the overall usability of the space.

Methods for storage in the market today (i.e. cabinets, buckets, storage containers, and/or shelving) lead to the hindrance of optimal storage space. Currently, there exists a need in commercial, industrial, and residential spaces for a storage system or apparatus that can be functionally adjusted to not only carry multiple items at multiple heights and can be inclined at an angle to not only enable the user to comfortably retrieve or store articles but also secure the articles while retrieving them from this storage system or apparatus.

Provision of traditional storage devices offers versatility and efficiency in creating space within a room. By allowing users to customize the placement and configuration of shelves, hooks, or bins, these devices maximize vertical storage potential while adapting to changing needs. Use of such devices, apparatus or system enables the utilization of underutilized wall space, freeing up valuable floor area for other purposes. Moreover, its'removable nature facilitates easy reorganization or relocation as needed, ensuring optimal space management and organization. This flexibility makes them invaluable in optimizing storage solutions and enhancing the functionality of any space.

While certain advancements have been made to overcome the inadequacies of an adjustable storage device in highly dynamic situations, it remains evident that considerable failings remain in storage solutions, especially over time, while ensuring peak functionality across all manner of uses. It is in light of the above shortcomings, inventors seek to provide a viable solution over previous failed attempts to address the long felt need for an adjustable articulating storage device system or apparatus, and method of using thereof, that adequately serves the need of creating a versatile storage solution capable of seamlessly adapting to various environments. Through innovative design and engineering, the inventor aims to offer a solution that not only addresses current limitations but also anticipates future challenges. By incorporating features such as modular components and robust materials, this articulated storage system or apparatus ensures that users can confidently rely on their storage infrastructure across many implements and in a variety of use scenarios.

While inventors have set forth the best mode or modes contemplated of carrying out the present invention known to the inventor such to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the present invention, the preferred embodiments are, however, not intended to be limited to the present disclosure, but, on the contrary, are included in a non-limiting sense apt to alterations and modifications, based primarily materials, sizes and placement points falling within the scope and spirit of the disclosure as provided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to a storage rack apparatus that may include of any of the following: a base plate, support arms; rack center element; transverse support members, gas springs or similar mechanism, or some combination thereof. This storage rack can be used to store articles inside or outside, in residential, commercial, or industrial facilities.

The base plate may run coplanar with to the surface against which it is anchored. This surface may be in the interior or exterior and includes but is not limited to a ceiling or wall. Optimal security may be provided when the base plate is anchored against any surface mentioned herein. The base plate may be anchored by different mechanisms, including but not limited to drywall anchors, bolts, screws of different sizes and shapes, etc.

The base plate may be of different lengths, wherein the plates' length may be equal to, less than, or greater than the size of the plate's width.

The rack center element is elongated, with a length greater than its width, and comprises at least two parallel rods connected by cross-members at its ends. When closed, it lies flat on the base plate and locks the rack in place. Furthermore, the rack center element may be connected to the base plate via a retractable mechanism, whereby the mechanism may manually or automatically be pulled back or retracted when needed, providing flexibility in the system's configuration.

The rack center element may be engaged to the end of the support arms that extend downward from the base plate. These support arms have one end that is fixedly attached to the base plate while the other end of the support arms is connected to the rack center element. The rack center element may be hingedly attached to the first support arm at one end. The other end of the rack center element may be reversibly attached at the other end to the second support arm. Additionally, the rack center element supports at least two transverse support members, contributing to the overall structure and functionality of the storage system. This configuration allows for the rack center element and support arms to be released from the second end, enabling the rack center element to angle downward to accommodate attached articles on the transverse support members supported therefrom. Once released, the rack center with the transverse support arms is inclined at an angle ranging from zero degrees to 90 degrees. Preferably, the rack center with the transverse support members is inclined at 45 degrees to allow loading and unloading of articles from the transverse support members.

The transverse support members may have plurality of grooved indentations, basket hookups, hooks, pegs, hangers, or any other means depending on the article to be stored. These articles may include but are not limited to those that are rod shaped, cylindrical, angular, square, rectangular or a combination thereof. Some examples of these articles include but may not be limited to skis, canoes, bikes, fishing rods, cleaning tools, or gardening tools,

Additionally, the support arms comprise an external support arm that is attached to the base plate and an internal support arm that is attached to the rack center element, The internal and external support arms further comprise corresponding apertures to adjust the distance of the rack center from the base plate and a denton pin or push button or similar mechanism to secure the height of the system or apparatus once the desired height is obtained. This design allows for adjustable configuration and adaptability in the means of storage.

The storage rack apparatus may be operated manually or powered by electricity, solar, or battery, or combination thereof. Once unlocked, the rack center element is released from the support and the transverse support members is released Other embodiments pertaining to the anchoring of the storage rack apparatus include being anchored to a ceiling, wall, or floor.

Other embodiments pertain to the storage rack apparatus wherein the support arms may be spring loaded, air compression, joints, coiled spring, gas-enabled strut, elastic cordage, hydraulic pistons, magnetic locks, motorized actuators, ratcheting mechanisms, telescopic rods or a combination thereof.

Other embodiments pertain to the storage rack apparatus wherein the apparatus has hooks, clamps, dividers, hanging organizers, magnetic strips or a combination thereof.

Other embodiments pertain to the storage rack apparatus wherein the items are protected by foam inserts, enclosed box or both when stored in the storage rack apparatus to ensure security and prevent damage.

These and other embodiments, features and advantages will be apparent in the following detailed description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows the frontal view of the storage rack apparatus.

FIG. 2 shows the top view of the storage rack apparatus.

FIG. 3 shows the side view of the storage apparatus.

FIG. 4 shows an enlarged view of the support arms of the storage apparatus.

FIG. 5 shows the storage apparatus when closed or in a raised position.

FIG. 6 shows the storage apparatus where the rack center element is lowered.

FIG. 7 shows the storage apparatus where the rack center element is released from the second support arm and is inclined at an angle in downward direction.

It should, however, be understood that the above-described figures are not intended to limit the invention to any particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the provided figures are intended to cover all modifications, alternatives, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined within each claim's broadest reasonable interpretation consistent with the specification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention and methods of effectuating same are disclosed and described below. Yet, each and every possible dimension, arrangement, and configuration, within the limits of the specification, are not disclosed as various permutations are contemplated to be in the purview of those persons having skill in the art as the storage system size, shape and materials may dictate. It is therefore possible for those having skill in the art to practice the disclosed invention while observing that certain features and spatial arrangements are relative and capable of being amended and adapted with regard to the present invention that nonetheless accomplishes the remediation of one or more of the infirmities as outlined and discussed above in the field of storage system securing, placement and management. Additionally, the storage system of the present invention and its components may be sized (i.e. lengthened, shortened, enlarged, shrunken, and of variable widths) so long as the proportions are maintained and do not interfere with the intended functionality of the storage system and/or depart from the teachings of the present application as described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 1 the present invention, storage rack apparatus 10, comprises a base plate 20. The base plate 20 has a length that is greater than the width and it runs coplanar to the surface that it is anchored to. Running perpendicular to and descending from the base plate 20, are two support arms, namely the first support arm 30 and the second support arm 40. The first support arm 30 has a first end 31 that is fixed to the base plate 20, while the second end 32 of the first support arm 30 is attached via hinges 50a and 50b (collectively, “hinges 50”) and a support 110 to a rack center element 80a and 80b (collectively, “rack center element 80”). The second support arm 40 has a first end 41 that is fixed to the base plate 20 while the second end 42 is reversibly affixed to the rack center element 80 with the help of support 120. Also, present at the second end 42 is a locking mechanism, for example a bolt 60 that locks the rack center element 80 in a closed position (i.e. coplanar to the base plate 20). The rack center element 80 has length that is greater than the width and consists of at least two transverse support members 70a and 70b (collectively, “transverse support members 70”). The transverse support members 70 are coplanar to the rack center element 80 and base plate 20 and are attached to the rack center element 80. The storage rack apparatus 10 also comprises a retractable mechanism, for example, a gas spring 90, to connect the rack center element 80 with the base plate 20. The storage rack apparatus 10 may also comprise plurality of retractable mechanisms, such as the spring 100. The retractable mechanisms may be attached at various points between the base plate 20 and the rack center element 80 to provide support and assist in retractions.

FIG. 2 shows the storage rack apparatus 10 when viewed from the top. In addition to the base plate 20, one can see a detailed view of the rack center element 80. For instance, the rack center element 80 comprises two parallel rods 80a and 80b. The parallel rod 80a has first end 81 and the second end 82. Similarly, the parallel rod 80b has first end 83 and the second end 84. The first end 81 and first end 83 are connected by terminal cross member 110 while the second end 82 and second end 84 are connected by terminal cross member 120. The rack center element 80 is attached to the second end 32 of the first support arm 30 (not shown) by hinges 50. The transverse support members 70a and 70b are supported by frames 130a and 130b (collectively, “frame 130”), respectively on the rack center element. Additionally, also shown are the retractable mechanisms, gas springs 90a and 90b descending from the base plate 20 and connecting to the rack center elements 80a and 80b, respectively.

In FIG. 3, the storage rack apparatus 10 is shown sideways. Base plate 20 is seen on the top and descending from the base plate 20 are the two support arms: support arm 30 and support arm 40. The end of the support arm 30 that is fixed to the base plate 20 is support arm end 31 and the end of the support arm 30 that is hingedly attached to the rack center element 80 via terminal cross member 110 is support arm end 32. Similarly, the end of support arm 40 that is fixed to the base plate is 41 and the end of the support arm 40 that is reversibly affixed to rack center element 80 via terminal cross member 120 is support arm end 42. Close to support arm end 42 is the bolt 60. The support arm 30 and support arm 40 have apertures 140 and 150, respectively, to help in adjusting the height of the storage rack apparatus 10. There are two gas springs 90a and 90b that connect the rack center element 80a and 80b to base plate 20. Also seen are two frames 130a and 130b that connect the rack center element 80a and 80b and provide support to the transverse support members 70a and 70b.

FIG. 4 shows the different components of support arm 30. The support arm 30 comprises an external support arm 30a that is attached to base plate 10 at support arm end 31 and an internal support arm 30b that is hingedly attached to rack center element 80 via terminal cross member 110 at support arm end 32. Although not shown in this figure, support arm 40 comprises an external support arm 40a that is attached to base plate 10 at support arm end 41 and an internal support arm 40b that is reversibly affixed to rack center element 80 via terminal cross member 120 at support arm end 42.

FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG. 7 show the storage rack apparatus 10 in a closed or raised position, when the rack center element 80 is pulled downward, and when the rack center element 80 with the transverse support member 70a and 70b are released from the support arm end 42 of support arm 40, respectively. In FIG. 5, bolt 60 has locked the rack center element 80 in a closed position. All the components numbered in this figure are the same as described in the previous figures except for one variation. The support frames 130a and 130b to hold the transverse support member 70a and 70b in the previous figures were two short frames. However, the support frames are quadrilateral in shape and designated by 130a, 130b, 130c, and 130d. The transverse support members 70a and 70b are placed on frame 130b and 130d. Some other examples of placing these transverse support members could be on 130a and 130c. If there are more than two transverse support members, one can place them on three or four sides of the frame. The grooved indentations on transverse support members 70a and 70b are designated as 170a, 170b, . . . (collectively, “indentations 170”) for the receipt of cylindrical shaped articles. One can change the shape of these indentations to accommodate the article that one wants to store.

Additionally, gas spring 90 comprises base plate 91 and piston rod 92. In FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the gas spring 90 is in closed position and the piston rod 92 is not extended. In FIG. 6, the rack center element 80 is lowered and the height can be adjusted by locking the apertures 140 on external support arm 30a and internal support arm 30b and locking apertures 150 on external support arm 40a and internal support arm 40b by using detent pin 160 or push button (not shown). Once the desired height is achieved, one can release bolt 60 so that the rack center element 80 with the transverse support members 70a and 70b incline downward at an angle, ranging from zero degrees to 90 degrees, preferably 45 degrees, for one to load articles or unload previously stored articles.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In one preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a hingedly-retractable (connected/concatenate), storage rack apparatus, comprising:

• • a base plate, where the base plate has a length greater than its width, where the base plate runs coplanar with a surface to which the base plate will be adhered to, where the base plate is anchored to the surface;
  • two support arms, where the support arms run perpendicular to the base plate and descend therefrom, where the support arms have a first end and a second end, where the first and second support arms are fixed to the base plate at a first end, where the first support arm is hingedly-attached to a rack center element at a second end, where the second support arm is reversibly affixed to the rack center element at a second end;
  • the rack center element, where the rack center element has a length greater than its width, where the rack center element consists of two parallel rods connected by terminal cross-members at rack center elements first and second ends, where the rack center element exists coplanar to the base plate in a closed position, where the rack center element is hingedly attached to the first support arm at a first lower end, where the rack center element is reversibly attached at a second lower end, where the rack center elements support at least two transverse support members;
  • the transverse support members, where the transverse support members are coplanar with the rack center element and the base plate.

In another preferred embodiment, the transverse support members are hingedly attached to the first support arm and releasably fixed to the second support arm, where the rack center element and transverse support are releasable from a second end for angulation downward for receipt of attached articles or to load articles.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the rack center element and the transverse support members are hingedly attached to the first support arm and releasably fixed to the second support arm wherein the rack center element is connected to the base plate via retractable mechanism. Examples of the retractable mechanism include but are not limited to a coiled spring, gas-enabled strut, elastic cordage, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the retractable mechanisms may be attached at various points between the base plate and the rack center element so as to provide support and assist in retractions.

In still yet another preferred embodiment, the releasably fixed second support arm is connectedly securable to the second end via a latch, locking bolt, snap closure, clipping mechanism, detent pin, or similar structure or mechanism.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the transverse support members have two to a plurality of grooved indentations for receipt of cylindrical shaped articles. The indentations can vary in size and shape depending on the articles that will be stored in this storage apparatus. For example, the transverse support members may have indentations of uniform size and shape to store similar articles, or it may have indentations of mixed size and shape to allow storage of articles of varied shapes and sizes. In still yet another preferred embodiment, the plurality of grooved indentations for receipt of cylindrical shaped articles is capable of receiving foam inserts for retention and protection of cylindrical articles. In yet another embodiment, the base plate is adhered to a ceiling or a wall.

In further yet another preferred embodiment, the support arms consist of an internal and external support arm, which comprises: an external support arm attached to the base plate, an internal support arm attached to the rack center element, the internal and external arms have corresponding apertures, and a detent pin or a push button for locking the internal and external arms so as to adjust height position. It is understood that one may substitute the detent pin or push button with any mechanism that is able to lock the internal and external arms to adjust the height position.

In still yet another preferred embodiment, the apertures of internal arms and apertures of external arms may be aligned as to adjust the distance from the rack center element to the base support as to increase or decrease height profile. In yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus can be raised, lowered, inclined, is height adjustable, or a combination thereof. In further yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus can be inclined at a 45 degree angle.

In another preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a method for storing articles in a hingedly-retractable (connected/concatenate) storage rack apparatus. This method comprises:

• • adjusting the height of the storage rack apparatus, where the storage rack apparatus comprises:
  • a base plate, two support arms, a rack center element, and at least two transverse support members, wherein the storage rack apparatus is anchored to a surface via the base plate, wherein the support arms run perpendicular to the base plate and descend therefrom, wherein the support arms have a first end and a second end, wherein the first and second support arms are fixed to the base plate at the first end, wherein the first support arm is hingedly attached to the rack center element at the second end, wherein the second support arm is releasably fixed to the rack center at the second end;
  • unsecuring a lock mechanism at a releasably fixed end of the storage rack apparatus, wherein the storage rack apparatus, where the unsecuring releases the rack center element and the transverse support members supported on the rack center element in a downward angulation to receive the articles or remove previously stored articles;
  • moving the releasably fixed end of the storage rack apparatus upwards towards the second end of the second support arm once the articles have been stored or removed such that the rack center element is coplanar to the base plate and is in closed position; and securing the lock mechanism on the second end of the second support arm.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the rack center element has a length greater than its width, the rack center element consists of two parallel rods connected by terminal cross-members at rack center elements first and second ends, the rack center element exists coplanar to the base plate in a closed position, the rack center element is hingedly attached to the first support arm at a first lower end, the rack center element being reversibly attached to the second support arm at a second lower level, the rack center element supports at least two transverse support members.

In further yet another preferred embodiment, the transverse support members are coplanar with the rack center element and the base plate. In yet another preferred embodiment, the rack center element and transverse support members are hingedly attached to the first support arm and releasably fixed to the second support arm, wherein the rack center element is connected to the base plate via a retractable mechanism. Examples of the retractable mechanism include but are not limited to a coiled spring, gas-enabled strut, elastic cordage or a combination thereof. Additionally, the retractable mechanisms may be attached at various points between the base plate and the rack center element so as to provide support and assist in retractions.

In still yet another preferred embodiment, the releasably fixed second support arm is connectedly securable to the second end via a latch, locking bolt, snap closure, clipping mechanism, detent pin or similar structure or mechanism.

In further yet another preferred embodiment, the transverse elements comprise two to a plurality of grooved indentations for receipt of cylindrical shaped articles. The indentations can vary in size and shape depending on the articles that will be stored in this storage apparatus. For example, the transverse support members may have indentations of uniform size and shape to store similar articles, or it may have indentations of mixed size and shape to allow storage of articles of varied shapes and sizes. In a preferred embodiment, the transverse elements can receive articles that are rod shaped, elongated, square, rectangular, angular, circular, or a combination thereof. One can use different means to load and/or secure the articles on the transverse elements including but not limited to using basket hook up. hooks, clamps, magnetic strips, cords, or a combination thereof. In yet another preferred embodiment, the plurality of grooved indentations for receipt of cylindrical shaped articles is capable of receiving foam inserts for retention and protection of cylindrical articles. One can use means similar to foam inserts, such as enclosed box to protect the articles when stored in this storage rack apparatus. In further yet another embodiment, the base plate is adherable to a ceiling or a wall.

In further another embodiment, the support arms consist of an internal and external support arm that comprises: an external support attached to the base plate, an internal support arm attached to the rack center element, the external and internal support arms have corresponding apertures, and a detent pin or push button for locking said internal and external support arms to increase and decrease height profile. It is understood that one may substitute the detent pin or push button with any mechanism that is able to lock the internal and external arms to adjust the height position.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the apertures of the internal support arms and apertures of external support arms may be aligned to adjust the distance from the rack center element to the base support so as to increase or decrease height profile. In still yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus can be raised, lowered, inclined, is height adjustable, or a combination thereof. In further yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus can be inclined at a 45-degree angle.