Patent ID: 6431378
Filing Date: 2002-08-13
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A push-back storage rack for storing individual storage units comprising:a frame defining at least one storage bay having a depth sufficient to accommodate a plurality of separate storage units; a track-mounted carriage assembly mounted in the bay, the carriage assembly comprising a plurality of longitudinally spaced storage unit support elements mounted on wheels and connected together end-to-end for pivotal movement about a transverse horizontal axis, the support elements being interconnected by non-collapsible connectors, such that when a rearward support element is pushed toward a forward support element, the spacing between the support elements is maintained as the rearward support element pushes the forward support element forward; and a track that movably supports and guides the support elements, the track being formed and mounted so as to guide the support elements for movement between a front and a rear portion of the bay on an upper track section, and to direct at least a forwardmost support element downwardly and then rearwardly in the bay in an inverted position on a lower track section as the support elements are moved forwardly at a front end of the upper track section, the forwardmost support element thereafter being pulled forwardly and then upwardly to the upper track section as a rearmost support element is pushed rearwardly on the upper track section, the upper and lower sections including wheel support surfaces positioned under the wheels for vertical support thereof, the upper and lower track sections being interconnected by a front section, the front section constraining movement of the support elements to a generally arcuate path between the wheel support surfaces of the upper and lower track sections when the support elements traverse forwardly and downwardly from the front of the upper track section to the front of the lower track section, the front section having inner and outer portions, the inner portion engaging inner sides of the support elements, the outer portion engaging outer sides of the support elements at sufficient positions along the front section to cause the support elements to remain in substantial engagement with the inner portion of the track front section and not move forwardly off the track when the support elements are pushed forwardly through the front section by rearward support elements as the support elements travel forwardly from the upper section to the lower section.