Protective Rail System for Display Units

Abstract

A protective assembly includes a box tube member with an inner channel and a lower slot, a channel member configured to slide over the box tube member, and a sliding mounting member configured to slide within the inner channel of the box tube member. The sliding mounting member includes a lower opening and an upper threaded opening. The assembly also includes a support leg having a first end portion, an intermediate portion, and a second end portion. The first end portion of the support leg has a threaded end and is configured to be inserted through the lower slot and through an opening of the sliding mounting member and screw into the upper threaded opening of the sliding mounting member. The intermediate portion of the leg has at least one flat engagement surface for engaging a fastening tool.

Claims

1. A protective assembly, comprising: a box tube member including an inner channel and a lower slot; a channel member configured to slide over the box tube member; a sliding mounting member configured to slide within the inner channel of the box tube member, wherein the sliding mounting member includes a lower opening and an upper threaded opening; a support leg having a first end portion, an intermediate portion, and a second end portion; wherein the first end portion of the support leg has a threaded end and wherein the first end portion is configured to be inserted through the lower slot and through an opening of the sliding mounting member and screw into the upper threaded opening of the sliding mounting member; and wherein the intermediate portion of the support leg has at least one flat engagement surface for engaging a fastening tool.

2. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the box tube member includes two or more lower slots.

3. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the channel member is configured as a box rail.

4. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the sliding mounting member includes a funneling portion with a concave inner surface encircling the upper threaded opening.

5. The protective assembly according to claim 1, further comprising an insert configured to be installed in a floor, wherein the second end portion of the support leg is configured to be inserted into the insert.

6. The protective assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a protective cap configured to be attached to an end of the box tube member, wherein the protective cap includes an insert portion that mates with the inner channel of the box tube member.

7. The protective assembly according to claim 6, wherein the protective cap includes an outer flange that covers an outer edge of the box tube member.

8. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate portion of the support leg has a polygonal cross-sectional shape.

9. The protective assembly according to claim 8, wherein the polygonal cross-sectional shape is hexagonal.

10. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the channel member is secured to the box tube member using fasteners.

11. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the channel member includes an embossed pattern on its outward facing surfaces.

12. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the lower slot of the box tube member extends only partially along a length of the box tube member.

13. The protective assembly according to claim 1, wherein the sliding mounting member is adjustable to multiple positions within the inner channel of the box tube member.

14. A method of installing a protective assembly, comprising: providing a box tube member including an inner channel and a lower slot; sliding a channel member over the box tube member; inserting a sliding mounting member into the inner channel of the box tube member; inserting a first end portion of a support leg through the lower slot of the box tube member and through a lower opening of the sliding mounting member; screwing a threaded end of the first end portion of the support leg into an upper threaded opening of the sliding mounting member; adjusting a position of the sliding mounting member within the inner channel of the box tube member; and securing a second end portion of the support leg to a floor.

15. The method of installing the protective assembly according to claim 14, further comprising attaching a protective cap to an end of the box tube member.

16. The method of installing the protective assembly according to claim 14, wherein adjusting the position of the sliding mounting member comprises sliding the sliding mounting member along the inner channel of the box tube member to align the support leg with an insert installed in the floor.

17. The method of installing the protective assembly according to claim 14, further comprising engaging an intermediate portion of the support leg with a fastening tool to screw the threaded end of the first end portion into the upper threaded opening of the sliding mounting member.

18. A protective system, comprising: a first rail assembly; a second rail assembly oriented perpendicular to the first rail assembly; a corner assembly connecting the first rail assembly to the second rail assembly; wherein each of the first rail assembly and the second rail assembly comprise: a box tube member including an inner channel and a lower slot; a channel member configured to slide over the box tube member; a sliding mounting member configured to slide within the inner channel of the box tube member; a support leg having a first end portion configured to connect to the sliding mounting member and a second end portion configured to be secured to a floor; wherein the corner assembly comprises: a first short rail connected to the floor; a second short rail connected to the floor and oriented perpendicular to the first short rail, wherein the first short rail and the second short rail are both shorter than rails of the first rail assembly and of the second rail assembly; a corner member having two arms extending perpendicularly, each arm including an insert portion configured to insert into the inner channel of a corresponding short rail.

19. The protective system according to claim 18, wherein the corner member is secured to the first short rail and the second short rail using bolts.

20. The protective system according to claim 18, wherein the first rail assembly and the second rail assembly are removable from their respective support legs to allow maintenance access to an area protected by the protective system.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.

[0011] Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a refrigerated display case with a protective system, according to an embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of a protective assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an assembled protective assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a lower side of a portion of a protective assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a channel member and a box tube member, according to an embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a protective assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 illustrate perspective views of a sliding mounting member, according to an embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 illustrate perspective views of a tube member, according to an embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a support leg, according to an embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic view of a floor insert, according to an embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 illustrate perspective views of a protective cap, according to an embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a corner assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of a corner assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a corner member, according to an embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a protective assembly, according to an embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0027] The embodiments provide systems and methods that facilitate protection of retail display units, including refrigerated cases, through adjustable and modular rail assemblies. The systems and methods use sliding mounting members within box tube members to allow for flexible positioning of support legs, and employ channel members that slide over the box tube members to create a robust protective barrier.

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a refrigerated display case 100 surrounded by a protective system that may be implemented using the adjustable rail assemblies described herein. The display case 100 is protected by multiple protective assemblies along its front and sides, including a first protective assembly 102 and a second protective assembly 104 along its front. These protective assemblies are positioned at the base of the display case 100 to provide impact protection.

[0029] Each protective assembly may comprise a rail 110 that runs parallel to the base of the display case 100. The rails 110 may be supported by legs 120 that extend from the rails 110 to the floor 150, anchoring the protective assemblies in place. The support legs 120 may be spaced at intervals along the length of the rails 110.

[0030] In some aspects, the protective system may include one or more corner assemblies that continuously connect perpendicularly oriented rails of adjacent protective assemblies. For example, a corner assembly 130 may connect the first protective assembly 102 at the front of case 100 with another protective assembly 132 running along a side of case 100.

[0031] The protective assemblies, comprising the rails 110 and support legs 120, form a barrier around the base of the refrigerated display case 100. This barrier may be designed to absorb impacts and protect the case from damage caused by carts, cleaning equipment, or other objects in a retail environment.

[0032] The configuration shown in FIG. 1 provides context for understanding the various components and assemblies that will be described in greater detail throughout this specification. The subsequent figures and descriptions will elaborate on the structure, assembly, and functionality of the individual components that make up the protective system illustrated in this overview.

[0033] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a protective assembly 200 in exploded and assembled views, respectively. FIG. 2 shows the individual components of the assembly in a disassembled state, while FIG. 3 depicts the same assembly fully assembled.

[0034] Referring now to FIGS. 2-3, the protective assembly 200 comprises several key components that work together to form a robust and adjustable protective barrier. The main structural elements include a channel member 210 and a box tube member 220. The channel member 210 is designed to slide over the box tube member 220, creating a double-layered protective rail.

[0035] The assembly features two support legs, a first support leg 232 and a second support leg 234, which are responsible for anchoring the protective assembly 200 to the floor. These support legs connect to the main rail structure through sliding mounting members. A first sliding mounting member 242 and a second sliding mounting member 244 are configured to move within the inner channel of the box tube member 220, allowing for flexible positioning of the support legs along the length of the rail.

[0036] To provide a finished appearance and additional protection, the protective assembly 200 includes end caps. A first protective cap 252 and a second protective cap 254 are designed to cover the ends of the box tube member 220 and channel member 210. These protective caps may also serve to prevent debris from entering the assembly and provide a smooth surface at the ends of the rail.

[0037] The lower ends of the support legs are secured to the floor using floor inserts. A first floor insert 262 and a second floor insert 264 are shown, which may be installed in the floor to receive and anchor the support legs. In the scenario of FIG. 1, for example, first floor insert 262 and second floor insert 264 would be placed within cylindrical openings within floor 150. Moreover, at least some of first floor insert 262 and second floor insert 264 would not be visible once placed within openings in the floor, with the exception, perhaps of the flanges of each floor insert.

[0038] In the assembled state shown in FIG. 3, the components come together to form a cohesive protective barrier. The channel member 210 encases the box tube member 220, creating a sturdy rail structure. The support legs extend from the rail to the floor, providing stability and impact resistance. The protective caps seal the ends of the rail, completing the assembly.

[0039] This modular design allows for easy installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the protective assembly 200. The sliding mounting members enable the support legs to be positioned as needed along the length of the rail, accommodating various installation requirements or obstacles in the retail environment. The ability to disassemble the protective assembly 200 also facilitates access to the protected display case or other equipment when necessary for maintenance or repairs.

[0040] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a lower side of a portion of protective assembly 200, demonstrating how the support leg 232 attaches to the sliding mounting member 242 through the bottom of the channel member 210 and a corresponding lower slot 280 of the box tube member 220. This configuration allows for a secure connection between the support leg and the rail structure while maintaining adjustability.

[0041] In this view, the channel member 210 is shown encasing the box tube member 220, with the slot 550 of the channel member 210 aligned with the lower slot 280 of the box tube member 220. The first support leg 232 passes through both of these aligned slots, connecting to the first sliding mounting member 242 inside the box tube member 220.

[0042] The design of this assembly allows for significant flexibility in positioning the support legs. With the support leg installed, the sliding mounting member 242 may be moved to any position along the length of the box tube member 220 that aligns with the lower slot 280 through which the leg is inserted. This adjustability enables installers to optimize the placement of support legs based on specific installation requirements or to avoid obstacles in the retail environment.

[0043] The ability to adjust the position of the support legs may provide several advantages. It allows for customization of the protective assembly to fit various display case sizes and configurations. Additionally, it may facilitate the avoidance of floor obstructions or utilities that might interfere with leg placement. This flexibility can be particularly useful in retrofit installations where existing floor conditions may dictate support leg positioning.

[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates an isometric view of a protective assembly comprising a channel member 210 and a box tube member 220. The channel member 210 is configured to slide over the box tube member 220, forming a protective rail structure with enhanced strength and impact resistance.

[0045] The channel member 210 has a generally U-shaped cross-section, including an upper wall 540, a first side wall 542, and a second side wall 544. The lower edges of the side walls feature inwardly extending flanges: a first flange 546 and a second flange 548. These flanges create a slot 550 that runs along the length of the channel member 210, allowing for the insertion of support legs. In some embodiments, channel member 210 is configured as a box rail.

[0046] The box tube member 220 has a rectangular cross-section, comprising an upper wall 560, a first side wall 562, a second side wall 564, and a lower wall 566. The lower wall 566 includes a series of lower slots 510, which are separated by connecting portions 520. These slots align with the slot 550 of the channel member 210 when assembled.

[0047] When assembled, the channel member 210 slides over the box tube member 220, with the inner surfaces of the channel member's walls in close contact with the outer surfaces of the box tube member's walls, as seen in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 6. This configuration creates a double-walled structure that may provide increased strength and impact resistance compared to a single-walled design.

[0048] The slot 550 of the channel member 210 aligns with the lower slots 510 of the box tube member 220, creating passages for the insertion of support legs. The connecting portions 520 between the lower slots 510 may provide additional structural integrity to the box tube member 220.

[0049] In some aspects, the channel member 210 and box tube member 220 may be permanently attached using fasteners 502. Exemplary fasteners include, but are not limited to: rivets, bolts, nails, and screws. This attachment may occur at various points along the length of the assembly, potentially through pre-drilled holes in both members. Permanent attachment may enhance the overall rigidity and durability of the protective rail assembly. In other embodiments, channel member 210 and box tube member 220 may be welding together, for example, at welding points corresponding to the locations of fasteners 502 in FIG. 5.

[0050] The geometries of the channel member 210 and box tube member 220 are designed to complement each other, creating a snug fit when assembled. This tight fit may help to distribute impact forces across both members, potentially increasing the overall strength of the protective rail assembly.

[0051] FIGS. 7-10 illustrate various views of components related to the sliding mounting member, which is a key element in the adjustable rail assembly system.

[0052] FIGS. 7 and 8 provide isometric views of a first sliding mounting member 242 from different angles. The first sliding mounting member 242 comprises a tube portion 700, which forms the main body of the component. At the top of the tube portion 700, a threaded socket 702 is visible, featuring internal threading 704. This threaded socket 702 is designed to receive and securely hold the threaded end of a support leg.

[0053] Surrounding the threaded socket 702 is a funnel portion 706. This funnel portion 706 has a concave shape that tapers inward towards the threaded socket 702. The funnel portion 706 may serve to guide the support leg into proper alignment with the threaded socket 702 during assembly, potentially facilitating easier installation.

[0054] FIGS. 9 and 10 show only the tube portion 700 of the sliding mounting member, without showing the threaded socket or funnel portion. Tube portion 700 includes a top wall, a first side wall, a second side wall and a lower wall that may interface with the upper wall 560, the first side wall 562, the second side wall 564, and the lower wall 566, respectively, of box tube member 220. Thus, it may be appreciated, that tube portion 700 has an approximately rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0055] In FIGS. 9 and 10, the tube portion 700 is shown with an upper opening 900 and a lower opening 902. The upper opening 900 may correspond to the location where the threaded socket would be positioned in the complete sliding mounting member. The lower opening 902 may allow for the passage of a support leg through the sliding mounting member. When assembled, a support leg contacts sliding mounting member 242 at both the threaded socket/upper opening and the lower opening, providing increased structural integrity for the connection. Specifically, the use of an upper and lower opening prevents the support leg from being titled off of the axis of the threaded socket, limiting the degree to which this connection may be deformed and also helping to ensure the threaded end of the support leg is properly aligned with the threaded socket when the two are connected and disconnected.

[0056] The tube portion 700, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, may be configured to slide smoothly within the inner channel of the box tube member while providing a stable base for the threaded socket and funnel portion. This design may allow for adjustable positioning of the support legs along the length of the protective rail assembly.

[0057] In some aspects, the threaded socket may be aligned with the upper opening 900. The threaded socket may be integrally formed with the tube portion 700 in some cases, while in others, it may be formed separately and attached, for example, via welding.

[0058] Similarly, the funnel portion may be aligned with the upper opening 900. It may be integrally formed with the tube portion 700 in some instances, or it could be formed separately and attached to the tube portion 700, such as through welding.

[0059] The design of the sliding mounting member, as illustrated in these figures, may allow for secure attachment of the support legs while providing flexibility in their positioning along the length of the protective rail assembly. This adjustability may facilitate customization of the protective assembly to fit various installation requirements and overcome potential obstacles in the retail environment.

[0060] FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of a first support leg 232, which is a component of the protective assembly. The first support leg 232 comprises three main sections: a first end portion 1102, an intermediate portion 1104, and a second end portion 1106.

[0061] The first end portion 1102 features a threaded end 1120. This threaded end 1120 may be designed to engage with the threaded socket of a sliding mounting member, such as the threaded socket 702 shown in FIG. 7. The threaded connection may allow for secure attachment of the support leg to the rail assembly while also facilitating easy installation and removal.

[0062] The intermediate portion 1104 of the first support leg 232 includes at least one flat engagement surface 1130. In some cases, intermediate portion 1104 includes multiple flat engagement surfaces and has a polygonal cross-sectional shape. These flat engagement surfaces 1130 may allow for the use of a fastening tool, such as a wrench, to rotate the support leg during installation or removal. This feature may enhance the ease of assembly and disassembly of the protective rail system.

[0063] The second end portion 1106 is shown as a cylindrical section. This cylindrical shape may be designed to fit into a floor insert, such as the first floor insert 262 shown in FIG. 12. The cylindrical shape of the second end portion 1106 may allow for smooth insertion into the floor insert and may provide stability once installed.

[0064] The overall design of the first support leg 232 combines these elements to create a component that may be easily installed, adjusted, and removed as needed within the protective assembly system. The threaded end 1120 may allow for secure attachment to the sliding mounting member, while the flat engagement surfaces 1130 on the intermediate portion 1104 may facilitate the installation process. The cylindrical second end portion 1106 may provide a stable connection to the floor.

[0065] In some aspects, the different portions of the support leg may be made from the same material, while in other aspects, different materials may be used for different portions to optimize strength, weight, or other characteristics. The support leg may be designed to withstand significant forces, both vertical forces from the weight of the rail assembly and horizontal forces from potential impacts.

[0066] The design of the first support leg 232 may contribute to the overall adjustability and modularity of the protective rail system. By allowing for easy installation and removal, the support leg design may facilitate the repositioning of the entire rail assembly as needed in a retail environment.

[0067] FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of a first floor insert 262, which is a component of the protective assembly. The first floor insert 262 comprises an insert opening 1202, an insert flange 1204, and an insert body 1206. The insert body 1206 is cylindrical in shape and extends downward, designed to be inserted into a hole in the floor. The insert flange 1204 is a circular, flat extension that protrudes outward from the top of the insert body 1206, providing a stable surface that rests on top of the floor when installed. The insert opening 1202 is located at the center of the insert flange 1204 and extends through the insert body 1206, designed to receive the second end portion of a support leg.

[0068] The floor insert may serve multiple functions within the protective assembly system. In some aspects, it may facilitate a tight fit between the support leg and the floor, enhancing the stability of the entire assembly. The insert opening 1202 may be sized to closely match the diameter of the support leg's second end portion, potentially reducing wobble or movement at the base of the assembly.

[0069] Additionally, the floor insert may function to dampen forces transmitted between the floor and the assembly. In some cases, this dampening effect may help to reduce the likelihood of damage to the floor, such as cracking in cement surfaces. The insert body 1206 may be made of a material with some degree of flexibility or shock-absorbing properties. This material choice may allow the floor insert to absorb and distribute some of the forces that would otherwise be directly transmitted to the floor.

[0070] The insert flange 1204 may also play a role in force distribution. In some aspects, the wider diameter of the flange compared to the insert body may help to spread the load over a larger surface area of the floor. This distribution of forces may further contribute to reducing the risk of localized stress and potential damage to the floor surface.

[0071] The use of floor inserts may also provide advantages in terms of installation and maintenance of the protective assembly. In some aspects, it may allow for easier removal and reinstallation of the support legs without causing damage to the floor. This feature may be particularly beneficial in environments where the layout of protected equipment needs to be changed frequently or where periodic access to the floor beneath the protective assembly is required.

[0072] FIG. 18 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of protective assembly 200 in which support leg 232 is connected to sliding mounting member 242, which sits within the rail comprised of both channel member 210 and box tube member 220. As seen in FIG. 18, first end portion 1102 of support leg 232 extends through both openings in sliding mounting member 242 and the threaded end 1120 is connected to threaded socket 702. Additionally, second end portion 1106 extends within floor insert flange 1200, which is disposed in a corresponding hole within floor 1800.

[0073] Intermediate portion 1104 of support leg 232 is exposed between the rail and floor 1800.

[0074] This configuration provides improved strength for the connection between support leg 232 and box tube member 220. In particular, support leg 232 is secured to sliding mounting member 242 at its threaded end 1120 and also first end portion 1102 extends through a lower opening of sliding mounting member 242.

[0075] Because support leg has two points of contact with sliding mounting member 242, the attachment point may be less prone to failure compared to designs where a leg may be welded at a single point to a rail. Specifically, a blunt force applied to the rail would be transferred between the sliding mounting member 242 and the support leg 232 at these two points, reducing the tendency for the support leg 232 to rotate or bend at or near the attachment point, which could lead to failure.

[0076] As seen in FIG. 18, in some embodiments, upper wall 560 of box tube member 220 may rest on top of sliding mounting member 242. Specifically, in some cases, upper wall 560 may rest on threaded socket 702 of sliding mounting member 242. While threaded socket 702 extends/projects from an upper wall 1830 of sliding mounting member 242, in other embodiments threaded socket 702 may be flush with the upper wall 1830 of sliding mounting member 242 such that upper wall 560 of box tube member 220 rests on top of the entire upper wall 1830 of sliding mounting member 242.

[0077] In different embodiments, different portions of support leg 232 could have different lengths. In one exemplary embodiment, first end portion 1102 has a length approximately in a range between 2 and 4 inches, intermediate portion 1104 has a length approximately in a range between 3 and 6 inches, and second end portion 1106 has a length approximately in a range between 2 and 4 inches.

[0078] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate perspective views of a first protective cap 252, which may be used in the protective assembly. The first protective cap 252 may serve to cover and protect the ends of the box tube member and channel member, potentially providing a finished appearance and preventing debris from entering the assembly.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 13, the first protective cap 252 may comprise an insert portion 1302 and an outer flange 1304. The insert portion 1302 may be designed to mate with the inner channel of the box tube member. This configuration may allow for a secure fit and proper alignment of the protective cap with the rail assembly. The outer flange 1304 may extend outward from the insert portion 1302 and may be configured to cover the outer edges of both the box tube member and channel member when installed. This design may provide a smooth, finished appearance to the end of the assembly while also offering additional protection against impacts or debris.

[0080] A threaded opening 1306 located on the top surface of the insert portion 1302 is visible in the view of FIG. 14. The threaded opening 1306 may be designed to receive a bolt or other fastener for securing the first protective cap 252 to the box tube member. As an example, FIG. 4 shows a bolt 253 inserted into protective cap 252. In some cases, bolt 253 may be inserted through a corresponding opening in a lower wall of the box tube member so that bolt 253 secures protective cap 252 in place along the box tube member. In other cases, bolt 253 may be secured through an opening or slot of another portion of the box tube member and/or the channel member. This feature may allow for easy installation and removal of the protective cap, which may be beneficial for maintenance or reconfiguration of the protective assembly.

[0081] The first protective cap 252 may have a generally rectangular shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the box tube member and channel member. This matching geometry may ensure a proper fit and alignment with the rail assembly. The insert portion 1302 may be sized to fit snugly within the inner channel of the box tube member, potentially providing stability and preventing unwanted movement of the cap.

[0082] In some aspects, the material used for the first protective cap 252 may be chosen for its durability and impact resistance. The cap may be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to, various plastics, metals, or composite materials. The choice of material may depend on factors such as the expected environmental conditions, the level of impact resistance required, and aesthetic considerations.

[0083] The design of the first protective cap 252 may contribute to the overall functionality and appearance of the protective assembly. By covering the ends of the rail assembly, it may prevent debris from entering the inner channels of the box tube member and channel member, potentially reducing maintenance requirements and extending the lifespan of the assembly. Additionally, the smooth, finished appearance provided by the outer flange 1304 may enhance the aesthetic appeal of the protective assembly in retail environments.

[0084] FIG. 15 illustrates an isometric view of a corner assembly 1500 for a protective rail system. The corner assembly 1500 may comprise a corner member 1502, a first short rail assembly 1510, and a second short rail assembly 1512. The corner member 1502 may be positioned at the intersection of the first short rail assembly 1510 and the second short rail assembly 1512, connecting them at a right angle.

[0085] The first short rail assembly 1510 and the second short rail assembly 1512 may be substantially identical in structure but oriented perpendicular to each other. Each short rail assembly may comprise a box-like structure with a rectangular cross-section. These rail assemblies may be supported by cylindrical legs that extend downward, potentially for anchoring the assembly to a floor surface.

[0086] In some aspects, the corner assembly 1500 may be designed to provide continuous protection around corners, bridging the gap between two perpendicular protective rail sections. The structure may allow for a robust connection at the corner while maintaining the protective function of the rail system. This design may be particularly useful in retail environments where display cases or other equipment may be arranged in L-shaped configurations.

[0087] The corner assembly 1500 may integrate seamlessly with the other components of the protective rail system discussed earlier. For example, the short rail assemblies may be compatible with the sliding mounting members and support legs described above, allowing for adjustable positioning of the legs along the length of the corner assembly.

[0088] In some implementations, the corner member 1502 may be designed to accommodate the channel member and box tube member configuration described earlier. This may allow for consistent construction and appearance throughout the entire protective rail system, including corners.

[0089] The design of the corner assembly 1500 may contribute to the overall modularity and flexibility of the protective rail system. It may allow for the creation of custom layouts tailored to specific retail environments, potentially enhancing the system's ability to protect a wide variety of equipment configurations.

[0090] FIG. 16 shows a schematic exploded view of corner assembly 1500 in which the various parts of each rail assembly are also visible. As seen in FIG. 16, each short rail assembly includes substantially similar parts to the assemblies described above, including a channel member, a box tube member, a sliding mounting member, a support leg, a protective cap, and an insert.

[0091] FIG. 17 illustrates an isometric view of a corner member 1502, which may be a component of a protective assembly. The corner member 1502 may comprise a base portion 1700 and two perpendicular insert portions: a first corner insert portion 1702 and a second corner insert portion 1704.

[0092] The base portion 1700 may serve as the foundation of the corner member 1502. In some aspects, it may have a curved or rounded shape, which may help to deflect impacts and provide a smooth transition between the two perpendicular sides of the corner.

[0093] Extending from the base portion 1700 may be the first corner insert portion 1702 and the second corner insert portion 1704. These insert portions may be oriented at a right angle to each other, potentially forming an L-shape when viewed from above. The first corner insert portion 1702 and the second corner insert portion 1704 may be designed to be inserted into the inner channels of corresponding short rails in the protective assembly. The design of the corner member 1502 may allow it to connect two perpendicular rail assemblies, potentially creating a continuous protective barrier around corners.

[0094] The corner member 1502 may contribute to the modularity and flexibility of the protective rail system. It may allow for the creation of L-shaped or U-shaped configurations, adapting to various layout requirements in retail environments. The design may also facilitate the assembly process, potentially reducing installation time and complexity.

[0095] In some aspects, the corner member 1502 may be manufactured as a single piece, which may enhance its structural integrity and simplify the assembly process. Alternatively, it may be composed of multiple parts that are securely joined together, potentially allowing for easier replacement of individual components if damaged.

[0096] In other embodiments, rather than use a corner assembly, two perpendicular rails may be directly joined together using suitable cutting and welding at the ends of the channel members. Thus, in some cases, an L-shaped channel member may be formed and suitable box members and sliding mounting members inserted within each leg of the L-shaped channel member.

[0097] In some aspects, the components of the protective assembly may be constructed from various materials, each selected for its specific properties and suitability for the intended function. The choice of materials may contribute to the overall durability, functionality, and longevity of the protective system in retail environments.

[0098] The support legs may be made of stainless steel in some implementations. Stainless steel may offer resistance against rusting, which may occur in retail environments due to the use of water and cleaning agents on the floors. This resistance to corrosion may help maintain the structural integrity of the support legs over time, potentially reducing maintenance requirements and extending the lifespan of the protective assembly.

[0099] In some cases, the corner member may be comprised of an abrasion-resistant polyurethane. This material choice may provide a combination of durability and impact resistance, which may be beneficial for a component that may be subject to frequent impacts or collisions in a retail setting. The abrasion-resistant properties may help maintain the appearance and functionality of the corner member over extended periods of use.

[0100] The floor inserts may be made of a plastic material or rubber in some implementations. These materials may offer a degree of flexibility and shock-absorbing properties, which may help in dampening forces transmitted between the floor and the assembly. The use of plastic or rubber may also contribute to ease of installation and removal, potentially facilitating maintenance or reconfiguration of the protective assembly.

[0101] In some aspects, the rails, including the channel member and box tube member, may be made of high-strength materials such as steel. The use of steel may provide the necessary structural strength to withstand impacts and protect the equipment behind the rail assembly. The high strength of steel may allow for a robust protective barrier while potentially minimizing the overall size and weight of the assembly.

[0102] The choice of materials for each component may be influenced by factors such as the specific requirements of the retail environment, expected frequency and intensity of impacts, aesthetic considerations, and cost-effectiveness. In some implementations, different materials may be combined or treated to enhance their properties, such as applying protective coatings to improve corrosion resistance or using composite materials to optimize strength-to-weight ratios.

[0103] The installation of a protective assembly in front of a display case may involve several steps and components. In some aspects, the process may begin with determining the appropriate placement of the assembly relative to the display case. This may involve measuring the distance from the case and marking the floor where the assembly will be installed.

[0104] Once the placement is determined, the installation process may proceed as follows: [0105] 1. Floor insert installation: The installer may drill holes in the floor at the marked locations. These holes may be sized to accommodate the floor inserts. The floor inserts may then be inserted into these holes and secured, potentially using an adhesive or expansion mechanism. [0106] 2. Support leg installation: With the floor inserts placed in the ground, the support legs may be inserted into the floor inserts. This may include, in some cases, hammering or otherwise applying force to the support legs if the fit between the floor inserts and the support legs is especially tight. Optionally, the legs may slide in easily and may primarily be held in place by the weight of the rail once it has been attached. [0107] 3. Rail assembly: At some point prior to installation, the channel member may be slid over the box tube member until they are aligned at their respective ends. In some cases, the channel member may then be secured in place to the box tube member using rivets, or other suitable fasteners or fastening methods. [0108] 4. Insertion of sliding mounding members: two sliding mounting members may be inserted into the inner channel of the box tube member. In some cases, sliding mounting members may be positioned according to the relative positions of the support legs to which the rail will be installed. [0109] 5. Positioning the Rail on Support Legs: If the support legs are already installed into the ground, the rail may be lowered onto the support legs such that the support legs are inserted through the sliding mounting members. This includes sliding the first end portion of each support leg through the lower opening and the upper opening of the corresponding sliding mounting member. As already discussed, the funnel portion of the sliding mounting member may help guide the threaded end of the support leg through the upper opening and into the threaded socket. [0110] 6. Securing the Support Legs: To secure the support legs, a fastening tool such as a wrench may be placed on the intermediate portion of each support leg and rotated to screw the threaded end of the support leg into the corresponding threaded socket. Note that because the rail is positioning on two support legs the rail itself cannot rotate and so rotating the support leg in the appropriate rotational direction acts to screw the threaded end into the threaded socket.

[0111] Alternatively, rather than inserting the support legs into the floor inserts initially, the support legs may be attached to the rail and then inserted into the floor inserts by positioning the entire assembly. In this case, the positions of the sliding mounting members may be adjusted after the support legs have been secured to accommodate the necessary width between floor inserts in the floor.

[0112] A similar process to that discussed above may be used to remove the rail in order to allow access to the display unit, for example, allowing a technician access to a maintenance panel on the display unit. In particular, a user may use a fastening tool, such as a wrench, to rotate the support legs in the opposite rotational direction, thereby unthreading the threaded end of the support legs from the corresponding threaded socket in each sliding mounting member. Once the support legs have been completely unthreaded, the rail may be lifted off of the support legs, which may be left in place without interfering with access to the display unit.

[0113] Exemplary measurements for one or more components described herein are disclosed in the schematic drawings included in the attached Appendix, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. It may be appreciated that the exemplary dimensions shown in the drawings of the Appendix are not intended to be limiting and in other embodiments other dimensions may be used to accommodate the constraints of different retail environments and display units.

[0114] For each of the exemplary processes described above including multiple steps, it may be understood that in other embodiments some steps may be omitted and/or reordered. In some other embodiments, additional steps could also be possible.

[0115] While various embodiments of the invention have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting, and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.