Display systems and methods

Abstract

Display systems. One version includes a frame having a wall section and a foot section; a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section; a first display item attached to the board system; and a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame. Other versions are included. Methods, one version of which includes assembling a display system that includes a frame having a wall section and a foot section; a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section; a first display item attached to the board system; and a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame. The version also includes raising the display system by adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly; transporting the display system to a store where it will be displayed; and lowering the first retractable wheel assembly in the store by adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly. Other versions are included.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/438,729, filed Jan. 8, 2003, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/498,164, filed Aug. 27, 2003. The entire contents of both provisional applications are expressly incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to devices and methods for displaying items. More specifically, the invention relates to devices, such as frames having one or more retractable wheel assemblies, that can be assembled in a modular fashion and used to display items.

2. Description of Related Art

Display systems are used to provide customers with an idea of what the items being displayed will look like when installed in their home, apartment, or office. Retail stores have used display systems to showcase different domestic and commercial environments, such as kitchens, bathrooms, washrooms, and offices.

Display systems have been constructed on-site (i.e., on the floor of the store where they were used). Such construction is time-consuming, noisy, and generally disruptive. An attempt has been made to increase the extent to which the display system was constructed off-site in order to cut down on on-site construction time. Those display systems consisted of metal frames having wall and foot sections that met at approximately right angles, SINTRA plastic attached to those sections, and display items attached to the SINTRA plastic. The display systems were constructed off-site, transported to the store, loaded onto dollies and rolled to the chosen site for the display. Many workers were then needed to remove the pre-constructed display systems and position them in the correct locations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present display systems are modular in nature. They can be formed from any one or more of the present frames. They are easy to maneuver from one location to the next. The one or more modules that make up the present display systems also are easy to assemble as a result of the use of one or more of the present retractable wheel assemblies. One of the advantages provided by the present display systems is the savings in store down-time that would otherwise be required for on-site construction.

One embodiment of the present display systems includes a frame having a wall section and a foot section; a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section; a first display item attached to the board system; and a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame. Other embodiments of the present display systems are disclosed below.

One embodiment of the present methods includes assembling a display system that includes a frame having a wall section and a foot section; a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section; a first display item attached to the board system; and a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame. The embodiment also includes raising the display system by adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly; transporting the display system to a site (e.g., a store) where it will be displayed; and lowering the first retractable wheel assembly in the site by adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly. Other embodiments of the present methods are disclosed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings demonstrate certain aspects of the present display systems. The drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation, and they use like references to indicate similar elements.

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view, showing a group of frames that can be attached to form one of the present display systems.

FIG. 2 is a front view of one of the present frames.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of one of the details circled in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of another of the details circled in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the frames shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 6-8 are enlarged views of details circled in FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one of the present pin connectors.

FIG. 10 is a top view of one of the present foot sections that can be used as part of one of the present frames in forming one of the present display systems; one version of the present retractable wheel assemblies is shown attached to the depicted foot section.

FIG. 11 is a top view of another of the present foot sections that can be used as part of one of the present frames in forming one of the present display systems; one version of the present retractable wheel assemblies is shown attached to the depicted foot section.

FIG. 12 is a front view of one of the present retractable wheel assemblies that includes a cam element, and more specifically two cam elements.

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the retractable wheel assembly shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a combination front and end view of the cam elements shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIG. 15A is a front view of any one of the cam element mounting plates shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIG. 15B is a top view of the cam element mounting plate shown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15C is a right side view of the cam element mounting plate shown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a combined end and bottom view of any one of the side support plates shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIG. 17 is an end view of the outside plate shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIG. 18 is an end view of the caster support plate shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIGS. 19A-19C are a series of views that show how the cam elements of the retractable wheel assembly shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 can be operated to raise and lower the assembly.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of part of one of the present frames, showing how one board system can be attached to the wall section of the frame, and how another board system can be attached to the foot section of the frame.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of one of the present display systems that includes at least one frame to which at least one display item has been attached.

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of one of the present end caps.

FIG. 22B is an end view of the end cap shown in FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23 is a front view of a portion of one of the present molding sections in contact with a top portion of two of the present board systems.

FIG. 24 is a top view of an end portion of one of the present molding sections.

FIG. 25 is a top view of another portion of one of the present molding sections.

FIG. 26 is a partial front view of one of the present frames to which a kick plate with openings has been attached.

FIG. 27 is a front view of one of the present retractable wheel assemblies that includes a jack element.

FIG. 28 is a bottom view of the retractable wheel assembly shown in FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the retractable wheel assembly shown in FIG. 27 attached to the foot section of one of the present frames, only a portion of which is shown.

FIG. 30 is a side view of one of the present frames to which a pushing bar has been attached.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the display system shown in FIG. 21 that also includes multiple molding sections and detachable end caps.

FIG. 32 shows a junction box attached to support bars of one of the present frames.

FIGS. 33A and 33B show retracted and extended positions, respectively, of one embodiment of the present retractable wheel assemblies.

FIG. 34 is a top view of one of the present display systems having frames to which multiple retractable wheel assemblies of the type illustrated in FIGS. 33A and 33B have been attached.

FIG. 35 is a partial perspective view of a corner of one of the present frames, showing use of the present bonding straps.

FIG. 36 is a partial perspective view of one of the present bottom bars to which one of the present angled pieces useful for securing a shim has been attached.

FIG. 37 is a top view of one embodiment of the present display systems.

FIG. 38 is a partial top view, showing how a 1-inch spacer and a “C” clamp may be used consistently with the present methods and display systems.

FIG. 39 is a top view of the display system shown in FIG. 37, and highlights only suitable shim locations.

FIG. 40 is a perspective of one embodiment of the present display systems, a frame of which includes a foot section to which a display item has been attached.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, an apparatus, system, or method that “comprises,” “has,” “contains,” or “includes” one or more elements or steps possesses those one or more steps or elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps or elements.

Thus, and by way of example, a display system “comprising” a frame having a wall section and a foot section; a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section; a first display item attached to the board system; and a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame has, but is not limited to only having, the recited elements. That is, the system possesses at least the recited elements, but also covers other elements that are not expressly recited. For example, the display system also covers a second retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame.

Furthermore, individual elements of an apparatus or system, and individual steps of a method, are to be interpreted the same way. That is, an element that calls for “a frame having a wall section and a foot section” is a frame that includes at least a wall section and a foot section, but that also covers, for example, frames having a wall section and a foot section, where the wall section includes a main wall section and a side wall section. Thus, provided the frame has at least a wall section and a foot section, the frame can also include other unrecited features.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a number of frames that can be used consistently with the present display systems. The arrangement shown in FIG. 1 can be used to display different aspects of a single type of environment, like a kitchen. Alternatively, different environments—such as a kitchen and bathroom combination, or a kitchen, bathroom, and washroom combination—could be displayed using the arrangement shown in FIG. 1. Other environments in other combinations could also be displayed.

Frame 100 in FIG. 1 is one of the frames of the present display systems. Frame 100 includes a wall section, generally designated as 50. Wall section 50 includes main wall section 52 and side wall section 54, which meet at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. “Approximately” is defined as at least close to a given value (e.g., preferably within 10% of, more preferably within 1% of, and most preferably within 0.1% of). Thus, “approximately 90 degrees” and “approximately perpendicular” as used in this document include any angle from 81 to 99 degrees, including 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, and 99 degrees, as well as any derivative of any angle between 81 and 99 degrees.

Main wall section 52 is shown as having nine vertically-oriented support bars 53 and two horizontally-oriented support bars 55. The horizontally-oriented support bar 55 that is oriented at the top of vertically-oriented support bars 53 may be described as a “top” bar, and the horizontally-oriented support bar 55 that is oriented at the bottom of vertically-oriented support bars 53 may be described as a “bottom” bar. The vertically-oriented support bars 53 that are positioned at the sides of main wall section 52 may be described as “side” bars. Bars 53 are spaced apart from each other and form a plane that is perpendicular to the floor. For a ten foot long section, for example, bars 53 may be spaced eighteen inches apart on center. Bars 53 may be 2-inches by 1-inch in dimension (see FIGS. 3 and 4 for how they can be oriented relative to bars 55), and can be made of 11-gauge steel. The height of frame 100 can be 102 inches, and bars 55 may be 2-inches by 2-inches in dimension (see FIGS. 3 and 4 for how they can be oriented relative to bars 53), and can be made of 11-gauge steel.

Any suitable number of vertically-oriented support bars and/or horizontally-oriented support bars can be used to create a wall section (e.g., a main or a side wall section) of one of the present display systems. For example, FIG. 2 shows frame 200 (another of the present frames), which has a wall section 150 that includes eight bars 53 and two bars 55. Spaces A between certain of the bars 53 can be 11 inches and spaces B between certain other bars 53 can be 18 inches. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the detail circled at the upper left corner of frame 200, and shows one manner in which bars 53 and bars 55 of the present frames, and more specifically of the present wall sections, can be arranged.

The foot section of frame 200 is not visible in FIG. 2 because the figure is a front view that is not in perspective. However, an enlarged view of the detail circled at the lower left corner of frame 200 shows one manner in which the bars that form foot section 160, which meets wall section 150 at an angle of approximately 90 degrees, can be arranged. Foot section 160 is formed by, or includes, horizontally-oriented support bar 55, front foot section support bar 57, and mid foot section support bars 59. Front foot section support bar 57 and mid foot section support bars 59 can be made from the same material, and have the same size, as bars 53. The depth D of foot section 160 can be 20 inches. Mid foot section support bars 59 can be spaced apart from each other in the same manner as bars 53 are spaced apart from each other in FIG. 2.

The bars shown in FIGS. 1-4 can be attached to form frames 100 and 200 using any suitable manner of connection. Although welding is preferred, other connection methods are possible, such as using bolts or screws. All of the bars that make up all of the wall and foot sections of the present frames can be attached in the same fashion.

Returning to FIG. 1, frame 100 also includes foot section 60. Foot section 60 extends from side wall section 54 to the opposite end of main wall section 52. Foot section 60 meets wall section 50 at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. More specifically, foot section 60 meets both main wall section 52 and side wall section 54 at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

Foot section 60 includes a bar 55, front foot section support bar 57, and multiple mid foot section support bars 59. Foot section 60 also includes foot section extension 62, which is formed by, and includes, back foot section extension support bar 63, front foot section extension support bar 65, side foot section extension support bars 67, and mid foot section extension support bar 69. Bars 59, 63, 65, 67, and 69 can be made from the same material, and have the same size, as bars 53. The length of side foot section extension support bars 67 can be 36.5 inches. The length of mid foot section support bars 59 can be 17 inches. The lengths of front foot section extension support bar 65 and mid foot section extension support bar 69 can be 18 inches.

Continuing with FIG. 1, side wall section 54 includes two horizontally-oriented side wall support bars 71 and three bars 53. The length of horizontally-oriented side wall support bars 71 can be 26.5 inches. The total height of frame 100 shown in FIG. 1 can be the same as the height of frame 200 shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 1 depicts a number of other frames that can be attached, directly or indirectly, to frame 100. Frame 300 is oriented to back up against frame 100. Frame 300 has a wall section designated generally as 350. Wall section 350 includes main wall section 352 and side wall section 356, which meet at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. Frame 300 also includes foot section 360, which meets wall section 350 at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. More specifically, foot section 360 meets both main wall section 352 and side wall section 354 at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

FIG. 1 also depicts frame 400, which is oriented to attach to frame 100 on the foot section extension side of frame 100. Frame 400 includes wall section 450 and foot section 460, which meet at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

FIG. 1 also depicts frame 500, which is oriented to back up against frame 400 and attach to frame 100 at the right-most bar 53 of main wall section 52 (the term “right” is relative and non-limiting, and is meant to identify the bar 53 of main wall section 52 that is farthest from side wall section 54 as depicted in FIG. 1). Frame 500 includes wall section 550 and foot section 560, which meet at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

FIG. 1 also depicts frame 600, which is oriented to back up against the side wall sections 54 and 354 of frames 100 and 300, respectively. Frame 600 includes wall section 650.

The bars from which frames 300, 400, 500, and 600 can be made are the same bars from which frame 100 or frame 200 can be made. In order to make FIG. 1 more clear, most of the element numbers associated with those bars have been omitted.

As shown in FIG. 1, the foot section of a given frame can be offset from a nearby wall section side edge. This can be done with the present display systems to allow kick plates that are ultimately attached to the systems to hide the foot section of the frames. An example of such an offset is shown in FIG. 1. Labeled mid foot section support bar 59 of foot section 460 is offset from edge 455 of wall section 450 of frame 400. Foot sections 560 and 360 are offset in the same fashion, although the edges of the wall sections from which they are offset are not labeled.

FIG. 5 is an exploded top view of the arrangement of frames shown in FIG. 1. Certain details in FIG. 5 are circled and shown in combined form (i.e., the frames are attached to each other) in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8.

The frames shown in FIGS. 1 and 5 can be attached to each other in a number of different ways. The bars in the frames can be provided with bolt or screw holes, and the frames can be bolted or screwed together after being positioned as desired. Pin connectors are another alternative. As shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, the top open ends of certain vertically-oriented support bars are positioned near one another when the frames are assembled. A pin connector, such as pin connector 70 shown in FIG. 9, can be used to attach different frames together by placing the pin arms 72 of the pin connector into the open ends of the support bars. The present pin connectors can be constructed from solid or hollow pieces of material that are configured to have two or more pin arms. The pin arms can be sized to fit within the hollow space of the open ended support bars. One manner of constructing a pin connector is to take an appropriately sized metal bar, cut pin arms out of the bar, and then connect the pin arms together—such as by welding—to form a pin connector.

One or more retractable wheel assemblies can be attached to the present frames (and more specifically to one of the present foot sections of the present frames) in forming the present display systems. A retractable wheel assembly is defined as an assembly that includes one or more retractable wheels. The wheels may take any suitable form, such as casters that rotate about a vertically-oriented axis (such as could be found on an office chair). The retractable nature of the wheel can be achieved through, for example, the use of a cam element or a jack element. The wheels need not be attached directly to the mechanism that makes them retractable, as is the case with the embodiments shown in the present figures. The mechanism by which the wheel or wheels are retractable can provide for a fully extended position but no extended positions intermediate a fully extended position and the fully retracted position (such as retractable wheel assembly 10 described below). Alternatively, the mechanism can provide for multiple extended positions (e.g., a fully extended position, and one or more extended positions intermediate that fully extended position and a fully retracted position; such as retractable wheel assembly 410 described below).

FIGS. 10 and 11 show examples of retractable wheel assemblies attached to certain of the present frames. In particular, FIG. 10 is a top view showing retractable wheel assemblies 10 attached to foot section 15, which can be part of one of the present frames. Details concerning and the operation of retractable wheel assemblies 10 will be shown and discussed below.

As shown in FIG. 10, foot section 15 includes multiple horizontally-oriented support bars 55, multiple front foot section support bars 57, and multiple mid foot section support bars 59. Foot section support bar 69 may be a mid foot section support bar (such as 59), or it may be only the top half of such a mid foot section support bar. Foot section 15 also includes a diagonal foot section support bar 51, which can be made from the same material and have the same dimensions as bars 57 and 59, but cut at an angle as shown in FIG. 10. Dimension 15A may be 67½ inches, dimension 15B may be 33 inches, dimension 15C may be 5¼ inches, dimension 15D may be 3 inches, dimension 15E may be 13 inches, dimension 15F may be 27 inches, and dimension 15G may be 51{fraction (1/16)} inches.

FIG. 11 is a top view showing retractable wheel assemblies 10 attached to foot section 17, which can be part of one of the present frames. As shown in FIG. 11, foot section 17 includes multiple horizontally-oriented support bars 55, a front foot section support bar 57, and multiple mid foot section support bars 59. Dimension 17A may be 98¾ inches, dimension 17B may be 33 inches, dimension 17C may be 5 inches, dimension 17D may be 27⅛ inches, dimension 17E may be 39{fraction (13/16)} inches, dimension 17F may be 61⅞ inches, dimension 17G may be 74{fraction (9/16)} inches, and dimension 17H may be 89 inches.

FIG. 12 shows an elevational view of one embodiment of the present retractable wheel assemblies 10. Retractable wheel assembly 10 includes a cam element; more specifically, it includes two cam elements 4. Cam elements 4 each include bars 7, which in the embodiment shown, total three in number. The bars can be welded together, as shown below. One bar 7 (the outermost bar) on each cam element 4 is provided with a cam element adjustment feature 8, which is one embodiment of the present adjustment features. In the embodiment shown, cam element adjustment feature 8 is a female hex-head opening, which is configured to accept a male hex head for the purpose of adjustment. The hex-head opening could be shaped in any other suitable fashion—such as a slot (like a slot in the head of a screw), a crossed configuration (such as one would find on a “phillips” screwdriver), etc. Alternatively, a male element of any suitable shape could be used for cam element adjustment feature 8 instead of a female opening.

The embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10 shown in FIG. 12 also includes outside plate 2, side support plates 3, caster support plate 5, caster wheel assembly 6 (the other caster wheel assembly is not visible in this figure, like certain other components of the embodiment), caster support bar 9 (the other caster support bar is not visible in this figure), and cam element mounting plates 11 (there are two other such mounting plates on the other side of the retractable wheel assembly that are not visible in the figure). Portions of cam elements 4, caster support plate 5 and caster support bar 9 are shown in dashed lines because they are hidden from view by cam element mounting plates 11.

Caster support plate 5 has two end segments 19 that extend inwardly from bends near the ends of caster support plate 5. End segments 19 are the portions of caster support plate 5 that contact an inner lip (described below as an angled end segment) of each cam element mounting plate 11, as shown and described below. Caster wheel assembly 6 includes a caster wheel 21 that is rotatably pinned to a caster wheel mounting fork 23. Caster wheel mounting fork 23 can be attached to caster wheel assembly plate 25 using any suitable means that will allow caster wheel mounting fork 23, and thus caster wheel 21, to rotate around (like the caster wheels on an office chair, for example). Such a connection style may be described as a pivotal connection. Ball bearings are useful in this regard. Caster wheel assembly plate 25 is in turn attached to caster support plate 5 using any suitable means, such as by welds 24.

Each cam element mounting plate 11 includes a cam element support opening 13, through which the bar 7 that includes cam element adjustment feature 8 extends. In the embodiment shown, cam element support openings 13 are rectangular in shape, although any suitable shape may be used. The bar 7 that includes cam element adjustment feature 8 is longer than the other bars 7 of each cam element 4. The extra length is used so that the ends of the “longer” bar (each end of which can be provided with a cam element adjustment feature like the one shown in the FIG. 12) extend through cam element support opening 13, and a portion of that bar rests and is supported by the cam element support opening. The cam elements 4 can rotate because only cam element support opening 13 is used to support them in the embodiment shown.

Side support plates 3 may be attached to outside plate 2 using any suitable means. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, they may be attached using welds 15. Cam element mounting plates 11 also may be attached to outside plate 2 using any suitable means. For example, they may be attached using welds 17. Dimension 10A may be 3⅞ inches.

FIG. 13 is a view of the bottom of the embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10 shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 13 shows that two caster support bars 9 may be attached to the cam element contact segments 27 of caster support plate 5 using welds 28, or any other suitable attachment means. Caster support bars 9 function to provide structural support to caster support plate 5, helping to maintain the shape of caster support plate 5 while retractable wheel assembly 10 is under load. This figure also shows the ends of the “longer” bar 7 of cam elements 4, protruding beyond the outer surface of cam element mounting plates 11. Also visible in this figure are the angled end segments 29 of cam element mounting plates 11, and bottom segments 26 of side support plates 3. Side support plates 3 can be attached to outside plate 2 in such a way that bottom segments 26 contact the ground when caster wheels 21 are in their fully retracted position. As a result, there is more surface area contacting the ground than there would be if only the edges of outside plate 2 contacted the ground when caster wheels 21 are in their fully retracted position. More friction between the display system and the ground therefore exists, and the display system is less likely to shift around. Openings 39 may be provided in bottom segments 26 of side support plates 3 (as shown in FIG. 13) for applications that have been prepared to withstand certain seismic disturbances. Bolts can be placed through openings 39 to bolt retractable wheel assembly 10, and thus any display system of which it forms a part, to the ground. The bolts may also be placed through complimentary openings formed in the base of any board attached to any frame (e.g., a foot section of a frame) to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached.

Dimension 10B may be 1⅝ inches, and may be the same for both ends of the embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10 shown in FIG. 13. Dimension 10C may be adjusted to fit the depth of the foot section of the frame to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached. Dimension 10D may be ¾ inches, and, like dimension 10B, may be the same for both ends. Dimension 10E may be 5 to 6 inches, and, like dimensions 10B and 10D, may be the same for both ends.

Although two caster wheels 21 are shown as part of the embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10 shown in FIG. 13, other numbers of caster wheels may be used under appropriate circumstances. Thus, one, three, four, five, six, or more wheels may be used, provided the elements of the embodiment of the retractable wheel assembly shown in FIG. 13 are reconfigured, where appropriate, to account for factors such as: the load the wheels will be under; the height of extension required; etc.

Turning next to exemplary dimensions of certain features of the embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, bars 9 may be 11-gauge steel that is 1-inch by 1-inch. The outer diameter of bars 7 included in cam elements 4 may be 0.84 inches in diameter, schedule 40 ½-gauge carbon steel pipe. The three bars 7 of a given cam element 4 may be welded together using welds 31 as shown in FIG. 14. An extension 32 may be added to the ends of the longer bar 7 (such as a threaded insert or the like), and secured using any suitable means (e.g., a thread or threads, or by welding). For cam element adjustment feature 8, any suitable structure may be either attached to extension 32, or extension 32 may serve the function of a cam element adjustment feature. One version of such a feature is a ⅝-11 by 1 socket head cap screw that may be attached to each extension 32 using any suitable means, such as welding.

Continuing with exemplary dimensions, FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C show front, top, and side views, respectively, of one embodiment of the present cam element mounting plates 11. Exemplary values for the dimensions referenced in these drawings are: 11A—2⅝ inches; 11B—⅞ inches; 11C—1⅜ inches; 11D—4 inches; 11E—{fraction (29/32)} inches; 11F—4⅛ inches; 11G—2⅝ inches; 11H—{fraction (13/16)}; 11I—80 degrees. Mounting plates 11 may be made from 11-gauge steel (e.g., carbon steel). FIG. 16 shows both an end and a bottom view of side support plates 3. Exemplary values for the dimensions referenced in this figure are: 3A—⅞ inches; 3B—2 inches; 3C—2 inches; 3D—adjustable to fit the depth of the foot section of the frame to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached.

FIG. 17 is a side view of outside plate 2. Exemplary values for dimensions 2A and 2B, respectively, are 10{fraction (7/16)} inches and 3¾ inches. The version of outside plate 2 shown in the figures is symmetrical about an axis running the length of outside plate 2. That length (i.e., dimension 10C shown in FIG. 13) can be adjusted to fit the depth of the foot section of the frame to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached. FIG. 18 is a side view of caster support plate 5, which, like outside plate 2, also is symmetrical about its longitudinal axis. As a result, only half of the dimensions are shown. Exemplary values for those dimensions are: 5A—10 inches; 5B—2⅞ inches; 5C—⅞ inches; 5D—¾ inches; 5E—½ inches. The length of caster support plate 5 is adjustable, like lengths for other of the retractable wheel assembly features discussed above, and may be determined after deciding on a suitable length for outside plate 2, and in view of dimension 10B. Both plates shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 can be made from 11-gauge carbon steel.

FIGS. 19A-19C are a series of views showing how the embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10 shown in the present figures works. Specifically, these views show cam elements 4 being adjusted to cause the retractable wheel assembly, and more specifically the wheels of the retractable wheel assembly, to move between the fully retracted position shown in FIG. 19A and the fully extended position shown in FIG. 19C. The cam element mounting plates 11 that would otherwise be nearest the viewer in these figures have been removed to make viewing the operation of the cam elements easier. Certain other features (such as welds) and certain element numbers have been omitted to allow focus on the interaction between end segments 9 of caster support plate 5 and angled end segments 29 of rear cam element mounting plates 11.

FIG. 19A shows an embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 10, and more specifically caster wheel 21, in a fully retracted position. In practice, both bottom segments 26 of side support plates 3 and caster wheels 21 (only one of which is shown in this figure) would be in contact with the ground (e.g., floor). FIG. 19B shows what happens as left cam element 4 is rotated clockwise (e.g., adjusted) and right cam element 4 is rotated counterclockwise (e.g., adjusted) (such rotation can be achieved with any appropriate tool): the contact between the innermost bars of the cam elements against the top of caster support plate 5 causes outside plate 2 and everything attached to it to rise. As a result, caster wheels 21 stay in contact with the ground, and the remainder of retractable wheel assembly not attached to caster wheels 21 in some fashion rises off the ground. At this point, end segments 9 of caster support plate 5 are not yet in contact with angled end segments 29 of rear cam element mounting plates 11. At the point at which cam elements 4 are rotated 90 degrees (not shown), end segments 9 of caster support plate 5 are in contact with and depress (to some extent) angled end segments 29 of rear cam element mounting plates 11. That is, dimension 11I shown in FIG. 15C increases in value as a result of such a position of cam elements 4. In FIG. 19C, cam elements 4 have been rotated as far as they can be rotated, and end segments 9 are no longer depressing angled end segments 29; angled end segments 29 have “sprung back,” and end segments 9 are resting against them. Caster wheels 21 will stay in this position (the position of cam elements 4 have effectively “locked” them in this position) until cam elements 4 are forcibly rotated in the opposite direction. Because cam elements 4 have been rotated slightly more than 90 degrees, the weight of the display system to which this retractable wheel assembly can be attached would only serve to increase that angle (although the presence of cam element mounting plates 11 and outside plate 2 prevents that from happening) and keep the position of caster wheels 21 locked into place.

Although cam elements 4 have been shown as 3 bars attached to each other, any other suitable configuration may be used. For example, a solid or hollow piece of material could be used, provided the end that would contact caster support plate 5 during operation is sufficiently smooth or rounded. Similarly, such a piece of material need not be as long as bars 7 of the cam elements shown in these figures. Caster support plate 5 and cam element mounting plates 11—especially end segments 9 and angled end segments 29—could be shaped differently than is shown in these figures and achieve the same purpose. That purpose is to create a “sticking point” in the cam rotation process such that movement of the cam elements beyond that point will lock them into place.

The present retractable wheel assemblies can be attached to the present frames (e.g., to the foot section of a frame) through welding. For example, at least a portion of the edges of outside plate 2 of retractable wheel assembly 10 (see FIG. 13) can be welded to one or more of the bars that may be used to form the present frames, such as horizontally-oriented support bar 55 and front foot section front support bar 57 as shown in FIG. 10.

One or more boards may be attached to the present frames in forming the present display systems. Specifically, the present board systems include one or more such boards. Those boards systems may be attached to the wall and foot sections of the present frames. Materials suitable for use as the one or more boards of the present board systems include medium density fiberboard (“MDF”). The thickness of the material used for the present board systems can vary to conform to the load requirements of a given application. One suitable thickness that will be useful in many applications is ½ inches. Another suitable thickness is ¾ inches.

FIG. 20 shows an example of board systems that are attached to one of the present frames. FIG. 20 shows a partial view of one of the present frames 40, which includes foot section 42 and wall section 45, which are attached to each other and meet at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. Also shown in this figure is a version of the present retractable wheel assemblies that includes a jack element, and that will be discussed in more detail below. Board system 43 is attached to wall section 45. Board system 43, in this embodiment, includes multiple boards 44, although one large board could have been used instead. Boards 44 can be attached to wall section 45 using screws, bolts, or any other suitable attachment means. For example, one or more holes can be drilled (or otherwise provided in) the bars (hidden by the boards) of wall section 45, and screws can be used to attach boards 45 to those bars. The screws can be started from the side of the boards to which one or more display items can be attached, or from the side nearest the bars of wall section 45.

Continuing with FIG. 20, board system 46 is attached to foot section 42. Board system 46, in this embodiment, includes multiple boards 47, although one large board could have been used instead. Boards 47 can be attached to foot section 42, and more specifically to the bars of foot section 42, in the same way that boards 44 can be attached to wall section 45.

Display items can be attached to the present board systems (e.g., to one or more of the one or more boards making up the board system in question) in forming the present display systems. The board or boards of the board systems may be painted prior to attaching any display items. Examples of “display items” include cabinets (including stock, custom and semi-custom cabinets, and overhead or base cabinets for, by way of example, the kitchen or bathroom); shelves; drawers; vanities; countertops (including natural and synthetic countertops for, by way of example, the kitchen or bathroom); hardware for use on drawers or cabinets doors or the like, which hardware can be by itself or attached to another piece of material so that multiple pieces of hardware are displayed together; tubs; showers; toilets; sinks; faucets (including those for the tub, shower, and sink); shower heads; and appliances, like stoves, ovens, ranges, microwaves, washers, dryers, dish washers, and refrigerators. “Display items” do not include bolts, screws, or other attachment mechanisms used to attach the present board systems to the present frames.

FIG. 21 shows one of the present display systems formed from multiple frames that have been attached together. Board systems have been attached to the frames, and display items have been attached to the board systems. Specifically, display system 250 is depicted in FIG. 21. Display items 252, which represent upper cabinets in generic box form, are attached to wall sections 254 and 256. Display item 251, which represents a vent for a stove in generic box form, is attached to wall section 256. Display item 253, which represents in generic box form a lower set of drawers and cabinets covered with a countertop, is attached to wall section 256. Display item 253 also rests on a foot section that meets wall section 256 at approximately 90 degrees, and that is hidden from view in this figure. Alternatively, display item 253 could be attached exclusively to the hidden foot section. Display item 257, which represents in generic box form a kitchen sink and surrounding base cabinets, is attached to wall section 254, and rests on a foot section hidden by kick plate 258. The hidden foot section meets wall section 254 at approximately 90 degrees. Alternatively, display item 257 could be attached exclusively to the foot section. Display item 259, which represents in generic box form a pull-out set of drawers, is attached to wall section 256 and rests on the hidden foot section.

Display items can be attached to the present board systems using screws, bolts and nuts, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. For example, display items can be attached using screws to the board system or systems that are attached to the foot sections of the present display systems. Display items can be attached using metal bolts to the board system or systems that are attached to the wall sections of the present display systems.

Even though multiple display items are shown attached to a single wall section in FIG. 21, the present display systems can include a single frame with a single wall section to which a single display item is attached, provided at least one retractable wheel assembly is also attached to the frame.

After the present wall and foot sections have been created, the present frames assembled, one or more of the present retractable wheel assemblies attached to the foot sections, the present board systems attached to the wall and/or foot sections, and one or more of the present display items attached to one or more board systems, the frames, which can be described as “modules,” can be rolled together and attached to each other using, for example, the present pin connectors. To cover the ends of the sides of the frames that are attached to each other (and, more specifically, to cover the side bars of those frames), end caps may be used. An example of a suitable end cap is shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B. End cap 275 can be made from any suitable material, such as wood, MDF, or a polymeric material (e.g., plastic), and have any suitable thickness, such as ½ inches or ¾ inches. Exemplary values for the dimensions shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B are: 275A—101⅛ inches; 275B—7{fraction (9/16)} inches; 275C—6{fraction (1/16)} inches; and 275D—2 inches.

The present end caps can be attached to either or both of the frame ends they cover using any suitable attachment mechanism. For example, when the side bars are made from material containing iron, the end caps may be provided with magnets, such that they can be attached to one or more side bars using a magnetic force. Alternatively, screws may be used to secure an end cap to either a side bar or bars, or to a board or boards positioned near the bent or angled portions of the end cap. The embodiment of the present end caps shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B—end cap 275, includes end segments 277 that are oriented at approximately 90 degrees to main segment 279. As an alternative, end segments 277 can be eliminated. Because the present end caps can be attached to frame ends in a way that makes them easy to remove (such as by magnetic force, screws or bolts (e.g., by through bolting)), they can be described as detachable end caps.

Molding may be added to the present display systems. FIG. 23 shows molding section 260, which is in contact with a top portion of a board system. More specifically, molding section 260 is in contact with top portion 261 of board system 262, and with top portion 263 of board system 264. These two board systems are attached to the frames (and, more specifically, to the wall sections) of which bars 53 are a part. The space between the two bars 53 may be a 1-inch space created by an additional bar 53 that is sized as a 1-inch by 1-inch bar. Molding section 260 includes molding pieces 282, which are attached to molding section frame 284. Molding section frame 284 includes base 285, sides 286, and top 287. Base 285 includes an opening 288 (shown in dashed lines because it is hidden in this view) through which wiring or similar material may be run. Base 285, sides 286, and top 287 together define space 289, in which wiring for lighting or the like can be stored. Although not shown in this view, molding section 260 can also include molding pieces on its ends. However, a molding piece on the end nearest the viewer of FIG. 23 would obscure sides 286 and base 285, so it has been omitted from this figure.

Exemplary values for the dimensions of molding section 260 shown in FIG. 23 are: 260A—14{fraction (9/16)} inches; 260B—5⅝ inches; and 260C—¾ inches.

FIG. 24 is a top view of a portion of molding section 260. As FIG. 24 shows, top 287 can be formed from two pieces 290 (such as halves) configured to meet at any suitable joint. A bolt groove 292 may be provided in top 287, a portion of bolt groove 292 being positioned in each piece 290. Forming top 287 in two pieces may be done to account for tolerances that may be used to construct the present display systems. When two wall sections of two frames are backed up against each other and joined, the width of the two attached frames may be greater or less than what was expected. The two pieces of top 287 can be used to compensate for any such discrepancy. A bolt 294 can be placed in bolt groove 292 and used to tighten the two pieces 290 together. The bolt may be a ¼-inch round threaded bolt with a 1¼-inch by ½-inch by {fraction (3/16)}-inch washer at each end of the bolt. Exemplary values for the dimensions shown in FIG. 24 are: 287A—2 inches; and 287B—2½ inches. Thus, when one of the present molding sections—such as molding section 260—is used with the present display systems, the base and sides of the molding section may be positioned over the bars and board systems of two or more attached frames such that the base of the molding section is in contact with the tops of the bars and board systems in question and the sides of the molding section are in contact with at least the board systems in question (as shown in FIG. 23).

The present molding sections may be as long as necessary to fit the application. FIG. 25 is another top view of a portion of top 287 of one of the present molding sections, and shows that an opening 296 may be provided in top 287. As shown, a portion of opening 296 may be provided in each of pieces 290. Wiring may be threaded through opening 296. The present molding sections may be made from any suitable material, including MDF, wood, or a polymeric material (e.g., plastic).

A junction box may be attached to the present frames (and more specifically to the bars of the present frames), using any suitable attachment means, including nails, screws, bolts, welds, etc. This is shown generically in FIG. 32, which depicts (in generic form) junction box 301 attached to support bars 53 of a frame that is not shown in complete form. The junction box may be attached near the top of a given frame, and screws may be placed through only the wall of the junction box nearest the bars. Advantageously, the junction box may be used in wiring one of the present display systems to provide lighting in one or more of the display items (e.g., cabinets) attached to one or more of the frames of a given display system. Furthermore, a pre-wired harness may be used to hold any wiring that is used with one of the present display systems. The harness (not shown) may be connected to the back, top portion of a frame (or to the same portion on one or both frames in display systems that have 2 frames back-to-back), using any suitable means. The harness may comprise corrugated conduit suited to holding electrical wiring, and further may be configured such that it complies with applicable UL standards.

The present retractable wheel assemblies can be adjusted to extend and retract the wheels, so that the present frames can be moved around and then stabilized after their final position has been reached. Kick plates (also referred to as toe kicks in relation to cabinetry) may be attached to the present frames, and more specifically to the present foot sections. Openings, or cutouts, can be provided in those kick plates to expose the adjustment features (such as cam element adjustment feature 8 shown, for example, in FIG. 12) of the present retractable wheel assemblies. For example, FIG. 26 shows a kick plate 310 that has been attached to a foot section of one of the present frames 305. Cutouts, or openings, 311 have been provided in kick plate 310, exposing cam element adjustment features 8 of a retractable wheel assembly that is hidden from view by kick plate 310. Similar cutouts, or openings, may be provided to expose the adjustment features of all of the retractable wheel assemblies attached to the frame. The display system of which frame 305 is a part can be raised and lowered by accessing those retractable wheel assemblies through the cutouts, and adjusting the retractable wheel assemblies as desired. A board system 43 has been attached to the wall section of frame 305, the wall section being hidden from view by board system 43.

FIG. 27 is a front view of another of the present retractable wheel assemblies. Unlike retractable wheel assembly 10 shown, for example, in FIGS. 12 and 13, retractable wheel assembly 410 shown in FIG. 27 is capable of multiple extended positions intermediate a fully extended position and a fully retracted position. This is achieved through the use of a jack element.

Retractable wheel assembly 410 includes a caster support plate 412 to which caster wheel assemblies 414 are attached. Caster support plate includes two caster support portions 409 and a base portion 407. Caster wheel assemblies 414 (only two of which are shown in this figure) include two caster wheels 415 that are rotatably pinned to caster wheel mounting forks 416. Caster wheel mounting forks 416 can be attached to caster wheel assembly plates 417 using any suitable means that will allow caster wheel mounting forks 416, and thus caster wheels 415, to rotate around (like the caster wheels on an office chair, for example). Such a connection style may be described as a pivotal connection. Ball bearings are useful in this regard. Caster wheel assembly plates 417 are in turn attached to caster support plate 412 using any suitable means, such as welds.

Continuing with FIG. 27, retractable wheel assembly 410 also includes stopping bars 418, the operation of which will be explained below. Jack element 421 is attached to both caster support plate 412 and to mounting plate 423. Jack element 421, in this embodiment, is a scissor jack. Typical examples of scissor jacks are those provided with cars and that can be used in replacing a flat tire. Jack element 421 includes jack element adjustment feature 425, an embodiment of the present adjustment features. Jack element adjustment feature 425 is a female hex-head opening, which is configured to accept a male hex head for the purpose of adjustment. The hex-head opening could be shaped in any other suitable fashion—such as a slot (like a slot in the head of a screw), a crossed configuration (such as one would find on a “phillips” screwdriver), etc. Alternatively, a male element of any suitable shape could be used for jack element adjustment feature 425 instead of a female opening. Base 424 of jack element 421 can be attached to caster support plate 412 in any suitable fashion, such as through the use of welds. Top 426 can be attached to mounting plate 423 in the same way. The front portion 427 of mounting plate 423 includes an opening 428 (shaped, in this embodiment, like an arch) through which jack element adjustment feature 425 can be accessed.

FIG. 28 is a bottom view of retractable wheel assembly 410, and shows that a total of four caster wheel assemblies 414, and thus 8 caster wheels 415, may be attached to caster support plate 412 in this embodiment. This figure also shows that stopping bars 418 extend beyond the outside edge of caster support plate 412. Stopping bars 418 are provided with overhang 430. Overhang 430 should be sufficient in length such that stopping bars 418 extend over the bars making up the outer boundary of the foot section to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached. FIG. 28 also shows that jack element 421 includes a threaded rod 432 that when turned causes the scissor jack to expand and contract vertically, as do the threaded rods of typical scissor jacks. Front portions 433 and rear portion 434 of mounting plate 423 can be attached to the foot section of the frame to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached. More specifically, these portions can be attached to the bars that define such a foot section. The attachment may be made by welding, or any other suitable means.

FIG. 29 shows that attachment, and is a perspective view of a portion of one of the present frames that includes a foot section to which retractable wheel assembly 410 has been attached. The portion of the wall section that is depicted includes vertically-oriented support bars 53 attached to a horizontally-oriented support bar 55. The portion of the foot section that is depicted includes horizontally-oriented support bar 55 and front foot section support bar 57. Retractable wheel assembly 410, and more specifically mounting plate 423, is attached to the portion of the foot section shown in the figure. Front portions 433 of mounting plate 423 are attached to front foot section support bar 57 of the portion of the foot section shown, and rear portion 434 is attached to horizontally-oriented support bar 55 of the portion of the foot and wall section shown. As the jack element is adjusted so as to extend caster wheels 415, caster wheels 415 will eventually contact the ground. The frame to which retractable wheel assembly 410 is attached will then begin to rise off the ground. The frame will continue to rise as the jack element is adjusted, but will cease to rise when bars 55 and 57 come into contact with stopping bars 418. The position of the frame can be raised to and will remain at any suitable height between a fully retracted position and the fully extended position (where stopping bars 418 contact the foot section). In the fully retracted position, both base portion 407 of retractable wheel assembly 410 and caster wheels 415 can be configured to be elevated off the ground.

Any mechanism that performs the function of stopping bars 418 may be used instead of stopping bars 418. For example, metal stopping tabs (not shown) that do not span the length of caster support portions 409 (unlike the embodiment of stopping bars 418 shown in FIGS. 28 and 29) may be secured, such as by welding, to caster support portions 409. The metal stopping tabs may be attached at any suitable location on caster support portions 409. The tabs should extend beyond lateral edges 411 of caster support portions 409 by a sufficient overhang 430 such that they extend over the bars making up the outer boundary of the foot section to which the retractable wheel assembly is attached.

Based on this disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that retractable wheel assemblies other than the embodiments of retractable wheel assemblies 10 and 410 shown in the figures may be used consistently with the present display systems and methods. For example, FIGS. 32 and 33 depict a retracted position and an extended position, respectively, of retractable wheel assembly 800. Retractable wheel assembly 800 includes one or more castors 810 that are connected to a strongback 820 that is supported by multiple strongback support plates 830. In the embodiment of retractable wheel assembly 800 shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B, strongback 820 is horizontally oriented, and strongback support plates 830 are vertically oriented. Although only two strongback support plates are shown, more can be used, such as four. Strongback 820 and strongback support plates 830 define castor well 840. Each castor 810 may be connected to a lead screw 850 that can be turned to raise and lower the castor. An access opening may be cut in the bottom of the display item (e.g., a base cabinet) that is connected to the frame to which a retractable wheel assembly 800 is attached, in order to access the lead screw 850 and adjust the same in order to raise and lower the castor. A small motor (not shown) could be used to drive each lead screw 850. Alternatively, lead screw 850 could be connected to a U-joint (not shown) that facilitates the attachment of a rotary tool to raise and lower castor 810.

FIG. 34 is a top view of three frames 100 that each may be part of a separate display system, that together may be part of a single display system, or any combination in between. The figure shows locations where retractable wheel assemblies 800 may be attached to the frames and, more particularly, to the foot sections 60 of the frames.

The present methods involve assembling one of the present display systems, raising the assembled display system by adjusting the retractable wheel assembly or assemblies that are part of the system, transporting the display system to the location or site (e.g., a store, warehouse, manufactured home, apartment, residential home, condominium, commercial building, etc.) where it will be displayed, and lowering the retractable wheel assembly or assemblies in the location by adjusting them. Prior to the transporting, one or more of the boards that are attached to one or more of the frames of the display system can be painted. Some of the painting that is desired may be completed after the transporting is complete. The transportation process may involve pushing the display system onto a truck or a trailer using a loading station, lifts, and/or ramps. The inventors have found that transportation is facilitated by using diagonally-oriented bars that are attached to both the wall section and the foot section of a given frame of a display system. One example of such a bar is shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 30 shows pushing bar 700 attached to frame 200, which includes wall section 150 and foot section 160 arranged approximately perpendicular to one another. Pushing bar 700 is attached to vertically-oriented support bar 53 and to mid foot section support bar 59 using fasteners 702, which can be screws, bolts, or any other suitable attachment means. One or more pushing bars may be attached to each side of a given frame in the manner shown generally in FIG. 30. The location of the attachment to the wall and foot sections of the frame in question can be adjusted to best suit the height of the sections and the height of the person or persons pushing the frame.

Although not shown, in order to prevent the present frames having a foot section and a wall section from tipping backwards (away from the foot section), a hinged bar system may be used. The hinged bar system may include one or more anti-tipping bars that are attached using hinges to one or more of the vertically-oriented support bars 53 of a given frame. The anti-tipping bars may extend down from the vertically-oriented support bars at an angle of approximately 30 degrees with respect to the vertically-oriented support bars (other angles, such as 60 degrees, can be used in appropriate circumstances). The anti-tipping bars may be hinged along their lengths, such that the hinge can initially break and the hinged point can initially move away from the vertically-oriented support bars; however, those hinged points can be configured such that they do not bend back the other direction (i.e., such that it is not possible for the hinged point to initially move toward the vertically-oriented support bars). At the point where the anti-tipping bars touch the floor, another hinge can be provided, and a portion of the bar can be configured to rest on the floor, with the end of the bar abutting the bottom of the frame (thus forming a pseudo triangle with the wall section of the frame). This abutment may further stabilize the frame, and prevent it from tipping backwards. Furthermore, the hinging of the anti-tipping bars may allow them to fold up into the recesses between adjacent vertically oriented supported bars if and when that particular frame is backed up to another frame, in back-to-back fashion. When the two frames are backed against each other in this manner, there will no longer be a use for the anti-tipping bars because any potential for tipping backwards will be eliminated.

FIG. 31 shows a perspective view of display system 250 (see FIG. 21), which, in this embodiment, includes everything shown in FIG. 21 and molding sections 260 contacting the frames shown in FIG. 31 in the manner described above with respect to FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG. 31 also shows detachable end caps 275 covering the sides of the frames that are attached to each other in the figure, the covering taking place in the manner described above with respect to FIGS. 22A and 22B. FIG. 31 also shows kick plate 258 provided with cutouts 311 through which the adjustment features of the retractable wheel assemblies attached to the hidden foot section can be accessed.

Multiple display systems can be attached to each other as part of the present methods, either prior to or after transportation. Furthermore, some of the present display systems include multiple frames that are attached to each other. In certain embodiments of the present methods, a frame that includes a wall section and a foot section may be assembled as a display system prior to transportation. Other frames may be transported with that display system and attached to that display system on-site after transportation is complete. Tools and supplies that may be useful in completing the installation of a transported display system include: a tape measure; masking tape; a brad nailer to attach any loose trim pieces, including kick plates, portions of cabinets, and the like; caulking guns to finish putting molding sections in contact with the top portions of the boards systems; screw guns to re-attach base corner cabinets and the ends of molding sections; a 6-foot level; and clean cotton gloves.

Bonding straps may be used to secure adjacent bars together (beyond the securing effects of the mechanism used to attach them together—such as welding) and to stabilize the present frames of the present display systems. FIG. 35 shows an example of how the present bonding straps—which may be rectangular pieces of sturdy material (e.g., steel)—may be used. FIG. 35 is a partial perspective view, depicting a corner of one embodiment of frame 100. This figure shows that two horizontally-oriented support bars 55 may be stacked on top of each other at the bottom of the frame, as opposed to using only one such bar (see FIG. 1). The bottom-most such bar 55 may be 2-inches by 2-inches, and the bar 55 stacked on top of it may be 1-inch by 2-inches. Furthermore, this figure also shows that multiple 2-by-2 horizontally-oriented support bars 55 may be connected together in end-to-end fashion along the bottom of the frame. Although not shown, multiple 1-by-2 horizontally-oriented support bars 55 may be connected together in the same fashion.

One or more bonding straps 95 may be attached to abutting bars 55, such that one portion of bonding strap 95 overlaps one abutting bar 55, and another portion of bonding strap 95 overlaps the other abutting bar 55. Holes may be drilled into bars 55—or any bars to which a bonding strap 95 will be attached—and the bonding strap can be attached to the bars using any suitable fastening mechanism, such as metal screws, bolts, nuts and bolts, rivets, or the like. In instances in which a bonding strap may be attached to two bars and then removed without damaging, or otherwise impairing the utility of, the bars or the bonding strap, the attachment between the bonding strap and the bars may be described as a “removable” attachment.

FIG. 35 also shows that bonding straps 95 that are used to further secure together bars that are oriented in side-by-side fashion (e.g., vertically-oriented support bars 53) can be slanted at approximately 45° angles relative to the bars. Further, those angled bonding straps 95 may also alternate directions, as shown. As a result of the alternating directions, two such angled bonding straps 95 may be not parallel to each other and, more particularly, may be oriented at approximately a right angle to each other. For vertically-oriented support bars 53 that are approximately 99 inches in height, the angled bonding straps 95 shown in FIG. 35 may be located approximately 7 inches from the top and from the bottom of bars 53. Bonding straps 95 may be made from any suitably sturdy material, such as 10-gauge steel, and exemplary dimensions for bonding straps 95 include: 1 inch in width, 3 inches long, and ¼ inches thick.

In another embodiment, bonding straps 95 may be connected to side-by-side bars (e.g., bars arranged beside each other) such that the straps are oriented at approximately right angles to the side-by-side bars.

For frames that include foot sections at right angles to each other—such that the frame resembles an “L” shape—the present bonding straps may be installed off-site (e.g., at the factory). In another embodiment, those bonding straps may be installed on-location. For other types of frames, the bonding straps that are used may be installed off-site or on-location.

Shims may be used to help level the present display systems on unlevel floors. Based on this disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the shims that may be used to help level the present frames and display systems may be made from any suitably sturdy material—such as metal or wood—and may have any suitable form—such as a rectangular strip. One or more shims may be secured to one or more of the horizontally-oriented bars (e.g., bar 55) located at the bottom of a given frame. The shims may be secured to such bars using angled pieces that would otherwise contact the floor. FIG. 36 shows an example of how an angled piece 92 may be used to secure a shim 96 to a horizontally oriented support bar 55. Angled piece 92 includes two portions 93 and 97 that are oriented at approximately 90 degrees to each other. Portion 93, which may be described as a vertically-oriented portion, includes a slot 98 through which a bolt 99 may be placed and used to secure angled piece 92, and therefore shim 96, to bar 55. Slot 98 allows the angled piece 92 to be adjusted in the directions of reversible arrow 91 to accommodate any suitable number of shims 96. Angled pieces 92 may be made from 10-gauge steel, and exemplary dimensions of angled piece 92 include: 1 inch wide, by 4 inches long, by ¼ inches thick; portion 93 may be approximately 2 inches long and portion 97 may be approximately 2 inches long. In instances in which an angled piece can be attached to a bar (e.g., bar 55) and then removed without damaging, or otherwise impairing the utility of, the bar or the angled piece, the attachment between the angled piece and the bar may be described as a “removable” attachment.

Leveling the present frames and using bonding straps to better secure parts of the present frames together (and to better secure frames to each other in some instances) will help to minimize gaps between display items, such as cabinets, and best ensure that the present end caps and molding sections fit properly. An example of how different frames may be attached together to form one of the present display systems—and then leveled using shims and stabilized using bonding straps—will now be discussed.

FIG. 37 shows an example of one of the present display systems 250 that includes 6 different modules, or frames, that have been connected together. Each of the frames 100 includes a foot section 60 and a wall section 50. Display items 252 are shown in generic outline form attached to the frames, and the bars that make up the frames and the boards attached to the wall sections of the frames, are visible through the generically-outlined display items (some display items have not been numbered for clarity). To assemble display system 250, frames AA, BB, CC, and DD may be rolled into position and aligned generally as shown in FIG. 37. One-inch spaces may be left between adjacent wall sections 50.

One manner of creating 1-inch spaces is to use a 1-inch thick block of material (e.g., wood) and one or more “C” clamps. FIG. 38 shows how extensions 101, which may be made from the same material as the present bars, may be secured to vertically-oriented support bars 53 in any suitable fashion—such as with nuts and bolts—that allows them to later be removed. A 1-inch thick piece of wood 103 may be placed between the two extensions 101, and “C” clamp 105 may be used to tighten extensions 101 together, and achieve a 1-inch gap between the adjacent wall sections shown in the figure.

Continuing with FIG. 37, bonding straps and pin connectors (not shown) then may be used at the locations identified by the letter “S.” The pin connectors may be used first, and the bonding straps second. The bonding straps may be used to secure vertically-oriented support bars that are in side-by-side relationship with each other in the manner shown in FIG. 35. Bonding straps (not shown) may be secured as shown in FIG. 35 to the bottom horizontally-oriented support bars, both those that abut in end-to-end fashion and those that are stacked in side-by-side relationship. Frames AA, BB, CC, and DD may then be lowered to the ground by retracting the retractable wheel assemblies that are used.

Next, shims then may be attached to the frames as needed, in the manner shown in FIG. 36. Exemplary shim 96 locations are highlighted in FIG. 39, where only the shims are numbered for clarity. Levels may be used to complete the shim step.

Frames EE and FF may then be rolled into position, leaving adequate work room between them and the previously connected frames. “C” clamps and 1-inch thick pieces of wood may be used to bring frames EE and FF one inch from each other as described above. Bonding straps and pin connectors (not shown) may be used as described above at the locations marked with the letter “S.” Frame 600, which includes wall section 650, may be secured to frame FF using bonding straps and pin connectors.

Next, connected frames EE and FF (and frame 600) may be rolled into position with connected frames AA, BB, CC, and DD, leaving approximately a 6-inch gap between the two groups of frames. Frames EE, FF, and 600 then may be lowered to the floor by retracting the retractable wheel assemblies that are used.

Frames EE, FF, and 600 may then be shimmed at the locations highlighted generically in FIG. 39. When shimming any of the present frames, including those shown in FIG. 37, one can use shims (and a level) to achieve vertically-oriented support bars (e.g., bars 53) that are vertically plumb. Vertically plumb vertically-oriented support bars will best ensure that the present molding sections and end caps fit properly when used. When such support bars are out-of-plumb, stress on such molding sections and end caps may result that may be detrimental.

Next, frames EE, FF, and 60 may be pushed closer to frames AA, BB, CC, and DD. Frames EE and DD may be brought into 1-inch alignment using a 1-inch spacer and “C” clamps in the manner discussed above. Pin connectors with 4 pins may be used where possible to connect the two sets of frames together. Bonding straps (not shown) also may be used to connect frames EE and DD together at location “S.”

The present display systems, which may be characterized as modular display systems, have many uses beyond displaying display items for potential purchasers. For example, the present display systems may be used in the planning and construction of a segment or segments of a living or working space. For example, one of the present methods involves providing a party (such as a builder, or an employee or agent of the builder, or a party working with a builder) with a database (either in hard copy or electronic form) of display items suited for the segment the party is interested in planning and constructing. The work in question might include a party with an interest in planning and constructing all or a portion of a kitchen, bathroom, or office (e.g., home office) as part of a single site or multi-unit plan.

The display items in the database could be depicted as part of one or more of the present display items, as part of one or more of the present display items minus the present retractable wheel assemblies, or in some other suitable fashion that allows the party to see the options for the segment he or she is planning. Another step may include identifying a delivery schedule with the party concerning the display items he or she wishes to use in the segment in question. One version of this identification includes identifying a production critical path to coordinate display item delivery with the party's schedule (e.g., planning and/or construction schedule).

The method may also include conducting segment measurements. For example, one or more persons could visit the site of the proposed work and take measurements (such as laser measurements using hand-held technology). Those persons could then upload the measurement data to a manufacturing site (such as a pre-fabrication manufacturing site) so that the appropriate personnel and/or equipment can begin processing the measurements to ensure that the available display items (including appliances) and the like are suitably dimensioned. The uploading process can also trigger the order and/or manufacturing process.

After reviewing the database, the method may also include providing the party with the opportunity to place and/or revise an order for one or more display items and/or arrangements of display items, which may or may not be a part of one or more of the present display systems.

After ordering, the method may also include a delivery step. For example, a display system such as one described above would be transported to the location of interest and then lowered. After delivery, the method may also include an installation step. For example, the method may include—before or after the lowering—making electrical connections. For example, the display system could include cabinetry wired with lighting, and that wiring could be connected to the main power supply as part of the installation. The method may also include making plumbing connections. For example, the display system could include a sink. The plumbing for the sink could be connected to the main plumbing system as part of the installation. Another part of the installation could include securing the display system or systems to the structure of the location in question. For example, the method may include attaching the system to a horizontal and/or vertical substrate. The substrate may, for example, include metal studs, wood studs, and/or drywall (e.g., sheetrock). If a connection is to be made to studs of some kind, a suitable material for the board system or systems of the display system would be sheetrock alone or with a solid wood-based sheet product to secure the display system in place and best ensure its integrity over time.

After installation of the display system or systems, the method may also include a finishing step. Finishing may include painting any unpainted aspects of the installed display system or systems, and repairing any aspects of the display system or systems that were damaged during the transportation and/or installation. Finishing may also include installing any countertops that were not otherwise conducive to pre-installation placement on the display system or systems. A carpenter, such as a single-finish carpenter, could be used to perform the finishing step.

The present display systems are not limited in size or scope to the exemplary display systems described above. For example, while the present display systems have been generally described with reference to modular systems useful for displaying a particular style of display items (such as those found in the bathroom, kitchen, or sink, etc.), it should be understood that the present display systems may be constructed to feature many different styles of display items, using one or more modules. Furthermore, all the products that could otherwise be displayed on a given isle of, for example, a home improvement store using traditional display systems could be displayed using one of the present display systems.

It should be understood that the present frames, wall and foot sections, retractable wheel assemblies, and display systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims. For example, any suitably sized bars can be used to create any of the present wall and/or foot sections of the present frames. Furthermore, the present display systems may be constructed from any frame that includes a wall and foot section, or from any combination of frames, provided at least one of which includes a wall and foot section.

Any suitable material can be used for the boards of the present boards systems, provided the material is sturdy enough, in conjunction with the frame to which it is attached, to support the one or more display items attached to it.

Furthermore, mechanisms for adjusting the height of the present retractable wheel assemblies may be used as alternatives to those shown and described above. For example, hydraulic lifts and cylinders that use compressed air are alternatives.

As another example, certain of the present frames may be provided with a foot section, but no wall section. Such frames will be suitable for displaying display items that may be secured to foot sections rather than, or in addition to, wall sections. FIG. 40 illustrates a frame 900 that includes a foot section 960 and retractable wheel assemblies 10 (only one of which is visible) attached to frame 900 and, more particularly, to foot section 960. Sink 915 (one type of display item) is attached to a rectangular pedestal 925 that is attached to frame 900 and, more particularly, to foot section 960 of frame 900. Other embodiments may employ a pedestal that is higher or lower than what is shown in FIG. 40 to best display what is being sold.

When needed, the present display systems may be configured to ensure compliance with applicable seismic codes. Using the exemplary dimensions provided above to construct certain of the present frames of the present display systems (e.g., the display system shown in FIGS. 2-4) is one manner of achieving compliance with the following specifications: code: 1997 UBC/1998 CBC, Zone 4, Na=1.5; steel: ASTM A570, Fy=50,000 psi; bolts: ASTM A307; welds: ⅛ inch minimum thickness, E70XX; anchors: slab, ⅜ inch diameter×2½ inch minimum embedment hilt KWIKBOLT II wedge type anchors, ICBo #4627 used every 60 inches; slab: 5 inches×2,500 psi; soil: 1,000 psf.

Claims

1. A display system comprising:

a frame having a wall section and a foot section;

a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section;

a first display item attached to the board system; and

a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame.

2. The display system of claim 1, further comprising:

a second retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame.

3. The display system of claim 2, where the first and second retractable wheel assemblies each include at least two wheels.

4. The display system of claim 3, where the first and second retractable wheel assemblies each include a cam element.

5. The display system of claim 3, where the first and second retractable wheel assemblies each include a jack element.

6. The display system of claim 3, where the first and second retractable wheel assemblies are attached to the foot section.

7. The display system of claim 6, where the wall section includes a main wall section and a side wall section, and the main and side wall sections meet each other at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

8. The display system of claim 6, where the board system includes one or more boards, and the display system further comprises:

a second display item attached to the board system.

9. The display system of claim 1, where a first board system is attached to the wall section, and a second board system is attached to the foot section.

10. The display system of claim 1, where the foot section includes bottom bars, and an angled piece removably attached to one of the bottom bars, the angled piece being configured to secure one or more shims to the foot section.

11. The display system of claim 1, where the foot section includes stacked bottom bars, and a bonding strap removably attached to the stacked bottom bars.

12. The display system of claim 1, where the first retractable wheel assembly includes at least two wheels.

13. The display system of claim 1, where the frame includes a top bar and two side bars, and the display system further comprises:

a first end cap covering a portion of one of the two side bars.

14. The display system of claim 13, further comprising:

a second end cap covering a portion of the other of the two side bars.

15. The display system of claim 1, where the wall section of the frame includes two side bars arranged beside each other, and a bonding strap removably attached to the two side bars.

16. The display system of claim 1, further comprising:

a molding section in contact with a top portion of the board system, the molding section having a base with an opening.

17. The display system of 1, further comprising a junction box attached to the frame.

18. The display system of claim 1, further comprising:

a module attached to the frame, the module including: a second frame having a wall section; a second frame board system being attached to the wall section of the second frame; a second display item attached to the second frame board system; and a second retractable wheel assembly attached to the second frame.

19. The display system of claim 18, further comprising:

a third retractable wheel assembly attached to the second frame.

20. The display system of claim 18, where the second frame also includes a foot section, both the frame and the second frame include a top bar and two side bars, and the wall section of the second frame is attached to the wall section of the frame with at least one pin connector.

21. The display system of claim 20, further comprising:

an end cap covering a portion of a side bar from each of the frames.

22. A method comprising:

assembling a display system that includes: a frame having a wall section and a foot section; a board system attached to either the wall section or the foot section; a first display item attached to the board system; and a first retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame;

raising the display system by adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly;

transporting the display system to a store where it will be displayed; and

lowering the first retractable wheel assembly in the store by adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

using a shim to level the display system.

24. The method of claim 22, where the foot section includes two stacked bottom bars, and the method further comprises:

attaching a bonding strap to the two stacked bottom bars.

25. The method of claim 22, where the wall section includes two side bars arranged beside each other, and the method further comprises:

attaching a bonding strap to the two side bars.

26. The method of claim 22, where the display system includes a second retractable wheel assembly attached to the frame, and the raising includes raising the display system by adjusting the first and second retractable wheel assemblies.

27. The method of claim 26, where the lowering includes lowering the display system in the store by adjusting the first and second retractable wheel assemblies.

28. The method of claim 22, where the frame of the display system also includes a kick plate attached to the foot section, the kick plate having a cutout, and the raising including raising the display system by accessing the first retractable wheel assembly through the cutout and adjusting the first retractable wheel assembly.

29. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

attaching a second display system to the display system at the store.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising:

attaching a detachable side cap to portions of both display systems at the store.