Patent Description:
Shelving systems and the like may be used in the food service industry to hold and/or display food items (e.g., pre-packaged food items or prepared food items) that are ready to be picked up and/or delivered to a customer, for example. In some shelving systems, a heating source (e.g., an overhead warmer, heat lamps, etc.) may be used to keep the food items warm until the food is picked up by or delivered to the customer. Such shelving systems may not be readily adaptable to different food items and/or difficult to service (e.g., clean, repair, etc.), for example. Furthermore, such shelving systems are not modular (e.g., cannot reconfigure the shelving system, move shelves, or add or subtract shelves).

The present disclosure provides a shelving and/or storage system that includes one or more self-contained, heated shelves that are adjustable along posts of the shelving and/or storage system, which improves serviceability, functionality and adaptability of the shelving system.

Relevant products may be seen in <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

The invention relates to the storage system according to claim <NUM>. The storage system provides a self-contained, heated shelf for warming food items. The shelf includes a shelf body defining an interior space and comprising a support surface configured to support the food items. In addition, a heating system is disposed substantially within the interior space of the shelf body, the heating system configured to generate heat to increase the temperature of the support surface to a desired temperature above an ambient temperature. A power control is also included. The shelf body further includes an upper panel and a lower panel attached to the upper panel and enclosing the interior space of the body, an upper side of the upper panel comprises the support surface.

The heating system has a heating circuit including a heating element in a heat transfer relationship with the upper panel of the shelf body and a temperature control device. The heating element is electrically connected to the temperature control device. The heating element is supported within the interior space of the shelf body and is offset a distance from the upper panel so that heat generated by the heating element is transferred to the upper panel primarily by way of radiant heat transfer.

The temperature control device for the heated shelf is configured to enable or interrupt electrical power to the heating element. The temperature control device includes a thermostat electrically connected to heating element that has a temperature sensor probe disposed in the interior space of the shelf body, a thermostat switch and a user control configured to establish a temperature setting of the thermostat comprising a desired temperature for the support surface.

The temperature sensor probe is in thermal communication with the upper panel of the shelf body and configured to detect the temperature of the support surface and provide a signal response to the thermostat switch. The thermostat switch is configured to receive the signal response from the temperature sensor probe and to OPEN or CLOSE based upon the temperature setting of the thermostat.

The heating circuit can also include a temperature sensitive fuse disposed between the thermostat and the heating element and in thermal communication with the upper panel of the shelf body. The temperature sensitive fuse is configured to OPEN if the temperature of the support surface increases beyond a predetermined threshold temperature and interrupt power to the heating element.

The power control can have a power switch attached at a sidewall of the shelf body and extending through an opening in the sidewall. A power cord extending through an opening formed near a periphery of the lower panel of the shelf body can also be included.

The shelf body is generally rectangular and has four corners. A corner mounting structure is located at each of the four corners of the shelf body and comprises a bracket including an aperture extending therethrough and having a conically-shaped inner surface configured to enable the shelf to be attached to a support.

In still another aspect of the disclosure, a storage system is provided having at least four support posts, each support post extending vertically along a longitudinal axis. At least four mounting collars are included, one mounting collar attached to each support post. Each mounting collar has a conical outer surface. At least one heated shelf is supported by the support posts, and the inner surface of the aperture of each corner bracket engages the outer surface of a corresponding mounting collar to support the heated shelf at a vertical location on the support posts. The heated shelf can be positioned at a first one of a plurality of vertical locations along the support posts and be repositioned to a second one of a plurality of vertical locations along the support posts. Further, a plurality of heated shelves can be supported by the support posts and each of the plurality of heated shelves can be individually adjusted (i.e., positioned and repositioned vertically) on the support posts.

The storage system can also include a compartment at least partially enclosing the support surface of the at least one heated shelf. The compartment can have a plurality of walls including a first side wall and a second side wall, at least one door and a closed unheated shelf. The first side wall is located at a first lateral side of the heated shelf and is attached to first and second support posts, and a second side wall is located at a second lateral side of the heated shelf and is attached to third and fourth support posts. At least one door can be a front door located adjacent to a front side of the heated shelf, and the front door can be located adjacent to at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall. The front door can be located adjacent to the support surface of the heated shelf. The unheated shelf can be supported by the support posts at a vertical location above the support surface of the heated shelf and be located adjacent to an upper end of the first side wall and an upper end of the second side wall.

Additionally, a back wall can be located adjacent to a rear side of the heated shelf and attached to the second and fourth second support posts and located adjacent to an upper end of the back wall. Alternatively or in addition, a rear door can be located adjacent to a rear side of the heated shelf and at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall, and the support surface of the heated shelf.

In a still further aspect of the disclosure, one or more divider wall(s) can be positioned within the compartment to separate the compartment into at least a first region and a second region. The divider wall can be attached to the unheated shelf.

In another form, the present disclosure provides a storage system that includes a plurality of posts and a heated shelf. The plurality of posts includes a front right post, a front left post, a rear right post and a rear left post. The heated shelf is connected to and supported by the plurality of posts and is configured to support packaged food items thereon. The heated shelf is adjustable along the posts (i.e., vertically up and down along the longitudinal axes of the posts) and includes a body, a heating assembly and a temperature control device. The body includes a plurality of panels fixed to each other and cooperating to define a cavity. The heating assembly is disposed within the cavity of the body and is configured to transfer heat to an upper panel of the plurality of panels of the body on which the food item(s) are disposed. The temperature control device is associated with one of the panels of the body and is thermally coupled to the heating assembly. The temperature control device is at least partially externally located relative to the heated shelf and is operable to control a temperature of the heated shelf.

In some configurations of the storage system of the above paragraph, the storage system further includes a power switch associated with one of panels of the body and operable between an OFF mode to prevent the heated shelf from being heated and an ON mode allowing the heated shelf to be heated.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the heating assembly includes at least one heating element, a diffuser plate, a bottom cover and an insulation material. The diffuser plate is thermally coupled to the heating element and to the upper panel of the plurality of panels. The diffuser plate uniformly distributes heat from the heating element to the upper panel. The bottom cover is coupled to the body. The insulation material is disposed between the heating element and the bottom cover to restrict heat transfer from the heating element to the bottom cover.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the heating element is a heating coil.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the storage system further includes a plurality of heated shelves connected to and supported by the plurality of posts. Each heated shelf is independently adjustable along the plurality of posts and includes a body and a heating assembly. The body includes a plurality of panels fixed to each other and cooperating to define a cavity. The heating assembly is disposed within the cavity of the body and is configured to transfer heat to an upper panel of the plurality of panels of the body on which food item(s) are disposed. The temperature control device is associated with one of the panels of the body and thermally coupled to the heating assembly. The temperature control device is at least partially externally located relative to the heated shelf and operable to control a temperature of the heated shelf.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the storage system further includes a power switch associated with one of the panels of each heated shelf and is operable between an OFF mode to prevent the heated shelf from being heated and an ON mode allowing the heated shelf to be heated.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the heating assembly of each heated shelf includes at least one heating element, a diffuser plate, a bottom cover and an insulation material. The diffuser plate is thermally coupled to the at least one heating element and to the upper panel of the plurality of panels. The diffuser plate uniformly distributes heat from the heating element to the upper panel. The bottom cover is coupled to the body. The insulation material is disposed between the heating element and the bottom cover to restrict heat transfer from the at least one heating element to the bottom cover.

In another form, the present disclosure provides a storage system that includes a plurality of posts, a first post housing, a second post housing, a heated shelf and a door assembly. The plurality of posts includes a front right post, a front left post, a rear right post and a rear left post. The first post housing is coupled to two posts of the plurality of posts and at least partially houses the two posts therein. The second post housing is coupled to another two posts of the plurality of posts and at least partially houses the other two posts therein. The heated shelf is connected to and supported by the plurality of posts and is configured to support food item(s) thereon. The heated shelf is adjustable along the plurality of posts and includes a body, a heating assembly and a temperature control device. The body includes a plurality of panels fixed to each other and cooperating to define a cavity. The heating assembly is disposed within the cavity of the body and is configured to transfer heat to an upper panel of the plurality of panels of the body on which food item(s) are disposed. The temperature control device is associated with the heated shelf and is operable to control a temperature of the heated shelf. The door assembly is coupled to the heated shelf and cooperates with the first post housing, the second post housing and the heated shelf to define a compartment for the food item(s). The door assembly selectively provides access to the compartment.

In some configurations of the storage system of the above paragraph, the storage system further includes a top shelf that is coupled to an end of the first and second post housings. The top shelf at least partially defines the compartment and is unheated.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the storage system further includes a divider coupled to a middle portion of the top shelf and positioned within the compartment. The divider separates the compartment into a first region and a second region.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the door assembly includes a first door support, a second door support, a first door and a second door. The first door support is coupled to the heated shelf and includes a first lower track and a second lower track. The second door support is coupled to the top shelf and includes a first upper track and a second upper track. The first door has a lower end slidably received in the first lower track and an upper end slidably received in the first upper track. The first door is operable between an open position in which the first region of the compartment is accessible and a closed position in which the first region of the compartment is inaccessible. The second door has a lower end slidably received in the second lower track and an upper end slidably received in the second upper track. The second door is operable between an open position in which the second region of the compartment is accessible and a closed position in which the second region of the compartment is in accessible.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the heating assembly includes at least one heating element, a diffuser plate, a bottom cover and an insulation material. The diffuser plate is thermally coupled to the at least one heating element and to the upper panel of the plurality of panels. The diffuser plate uniformly distributes heat from the heating element to the upper panel. The bottom cover is coupled to the body. The insulation material is disposed between the heating element and the bottom cover to restrict heat transfer from the at least one heating element to the bottom cover.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the storage system further includes another heated shelf connected to and supported by the plurality of posts and configured to support food item(s) thereon. The other heated shelf at least partially defines the compartment and is independently adjustable along the plurality of posts. The other heated shelf includes a body, a heating assembly and a temperature control device. The body includes a plurality of panels fixed to each other and cooperating to define a cavity. The heating assembly is disposed within the cavity of the body and is configured to transfer heat to an upper panel of the plurality of panels of the body on which food items are disposed. The temperature control device is associated with the heated shelf and is operable to control a temperature of another heated shelf.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, wherein the storage system further includes a divider coupled to a middle portion of the bottom cover of the heating assembly and positioned within the compartment. The divider being spaced apart from the heated shelf and separating the compartment into a first region and a second region.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the door assembly includes a first door support, a second door support, a first door and a second door. The first door support is coupled to the heated shelf and includes a first lower track and a second lower track. The second door support is coupled to the other heated shelf and includes a first upper track and a second upper track. The first door has a lower end slidably received in the first lower track and an upper end slidably received in the first upper track. The first door is operable between an open position in which the first region of the compartment is accessible and a closed position in which the first region of the compartment is inaccessible. The second door has a lower end slidably received in the second lower track and an upper end slidably received in the second upper track. The second door is operable between an open position in which the second region of the compartment is accessible and a closed position in which the second region of the compartment is in accessible.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the storage system further includes a first power switch associated with the body of the heated shelf and operable between an OFF mode to prevent the heated shelf from being heated and an ON mode allowing the heated shelf to be heated. A second power switch is associated with the body of the other heated shelf and is operable independently of the first power switch between an OFF mode to prevent the other heated shelf from being heated and an ON mode allowing the other heated shelf to be heated.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, a first power cord operatively connected to the first power switch extends through one of the first and second post housings and is hidden from view. A second power cord operatively connected to the second power switch extends through one of the first and second post housings and is hidden from view.

In some configurations of the storage system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the storage system further includes a power strip placed on a ground surface and hidden from view from outside the storage system. The first and second power cords are electrically coupled to the power strip.

In yet another form, the present disclosure provides a shelving system that includes a plurality of support posts, a first post housing, a second post housing, a plurality of heated shelves and a plurality of dividers. Each support post extends vertically along a longitudinal axis. The plurality of posts includes at least four posts comprising a front right post, a front left post, a rear right post and a rear left post. The first post housing is coupled to the front right post and the rear right post of the plurality of posts and encases the front right post and the rear right post therein. The second post housing is coupled to the front left post and the rear left post of the plurality of posts and encases the front left post and the rear left post therein. The plurality of heated shelves are removably connected to and supported by the plurality of support posts and cooperate with each other to define a respective compartment. The plurality of heated shelves comprises an upper surface configured to support packaged food thereon. Each heated shelf is independently adjustable vertically along the longitudinal axes of the plurality of posts and includes a body, a heating assembly, a thermostat and a power switch. The body includes a plurality of panels that cooperate to define a cavity. The plurality of panels includes a thermally-conductive upper panel on which the food is configured to be disposed. The upper panel comprises the upper surface and an interior surface. The heating assembly is disposed within the cavity of the body and is located against the interior surface of the upper panel of the plurality of panels of the body. The thermostat is associated with one of the panels of the body and thermally coupled to the heating assembly. The thermostat is operable to control a temperature of the heated shelf. The power switch is associated with one of the panels of the body and operable between an OFF mode to prevent the heated shelf from being heated and an ON mode allowing the heated shelf to be heated. Each divider is disposed within a respective compartment and coupled to a respective heated shelf such that the divider divides the compartment into a first region and a second region.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by the scope of the appended claims.

Referring now to the figures, and particularly <FIG>, a heated shelf assembly <NUM> is disclosed and is shown herein to be configured for use as a self-contained, standalone, heated counter-top platform for food and the like (e.g., a warmer) or for inclusion as an adjustable/reconfigurable heated shelf in an open and/or closed shelving and/or storage system for food and the like. Additionally, the figures show various shelving and/or storage systems including one or more adjustable, self-contained, heated shelf assemblies as shown in <FIG>. For example, <FIG> shows an open shelving system <NUM> including adjustable, heated shelves. <FIG> shows a closed-end shelving system <NUM> including adjustable heated shelves. <FIG> and <FIG> show a closed, cabinet-style shelving system <NUM> with sliding doors including adjustable heated shelves within the cabinet enclosure. <FIG> and <FIG> show a combination open and cabinet-style shelving system <NUM> having sliding doors and including adjustable heated shelves. <FIG> shows a perspective view of a workstation <NUM> including an open shelving system and an adjustable heated shelf. <FIG> shows another workstation <NUM>, this workstation including a closed, cabinet-style shelving system with hinged doors and an adjustable heated shelf within the cabinet enclosure. <FIG> shows a standalone closed, cabinet-style shelving system <NUM> having hinged doors and an adjustable heated shelf within the cabinet enclosure.

With reference to <FIG>, a heated shelf assembly <NUM> not according to the present disclosure is shown. In general, the heated shelf assembly <NUM> includes a body <NUM> providing a support surface <NUM> on which food items may be disposed for warming/keeping warm, a heating system <NUM> substantially disposed within the body <NUM> for heating the support surface <NUM>, and a power control <NUM> for the heating system <NUM> (best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>).

The shelf body <NUM> is generally rectangular-shaped having a length L, a width (or depth) W, a height (or thickness) H and four corners. The body <NUM> may have an upper panel <NUM>, a lower panel <NUM>, a plurality of sidewalls <NUM> and a plurality of corner mounting structures <NUM>. The upper panel <NUM> and the lower panel <NUM> define, respectively, upper and lower boundaries of the body <NUM>, and opposing front, rear, left and right sidewalls <NUM> (which may or may not be integral with the upper panel <NUM>) extend around the perimeter of the body <NUM> and define side boundaries of the body <NUM>. The upper and lower panels <NUM>, <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM> cooperate to define a hollow, interior space of the body <NUM>. An upper side of the upper panel <NUM> serves as the support surface <NUM> on which food items may be disposed for heating or maintaining the food items at a desired warming temperature.

The lower panel <NUM> may be attached to the upper panel and/or sidewalls <NUM> (e.g., via fasteners). For example, flange portions 24a of each of the sidewalls <NUM> (see <FIG>) may extend inwardly and at least partially overlap the lower panel <NUM> to allow the lower panel <NUM> to be attached to the sidewalls <NUM> with fasteners.

A mounting structure <NUM> is located at each of the four corners of the rectangular body <NUM>. The mounting structures comprise corner brackets 26a that enable the shelf <NUM> to be attached to a vertical support post <NUM> when the shelf is used in a shelving or storage system (see, e.g., <FIG>), or to attach a support foot <NUM> (e.g., <FIG>) when used as a standalone, counter-top warming platform. The corner brackets can be similar or the same to those disclosed in <CIT>.

The exterior surfaces of the shelf body <NUM>, including the upper panel <NUM>, lower panel <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM>, may be made of a material that is corrosion resistant, facilitates easy cleaning and is suitable for use in a foodservice environment. One such material is Type <NUM> stainless steel. Additionally, the corner mounting structures <NUM> of the shelf may be made from metal and include a durable, epoxy coated exterior surface finish. Preferably, all of the surfaces of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> enable easy cleaning and, where possible, include a finish which inhibits bacteria growth.

The heating system <NUM> of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> is best seen at <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>. The heating system <NUM> is disposed substantially within the interior space of the body <NUM>. The heating system <NUM> operates to generate the heat that increases the temperature of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> (and, specifically, the support surface <NUM> of the upper panel <NUM>) to a desired temperature above the ambient temperature (e.g., up to about <NUM>°F (<NUM>)). The heating system <NUM> can comprise a heating circuit 16a that can include one or a plurality of heating elements <NUM> (e.g., a heater coil(s)) and a temperature control device <NUM>. The heating element(s) <NUM> and temperature control device <NUM> can be electrically connected to one another and to the power control <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, a temperature control device <NUM> is included and is operable to control a temperature setting for the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. As shown, the temperature control device <NUM> can include an adjustable thermostat <NUM> having a user accessible control dial <NUM> for setting a desired temperature for the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. The temperature control device <NUM> is operably electrically connected to the heating element(s) <NUM> of the heating system <NUM>. Thus, the temperature control device <NUM> is operable to allow or interrupt electrical power to the heating element(s) <NUM>.

The adjustable thermostat <NUM> can include a temperature probe <NUM> and a thermostat switch <NUM>. As is known in the art, the temperature probe <NUM> detects the ambient temperature of its location and provides a signal response (e.g., a pressure change) to the thermostat switch <NUM>. The thermostat switch <NUM>, in turn, reacts to the signal response to OPEN or CLOSE as appropriate and based upon a temperature setting for the adjustable thermostat <NUM>. For example, as is well known, when the temperature probe <NUM> detects an ambient temperature at or above the temperature setting of the thermostat <NUM>, the thermostat switch <NUM> is caused to OPEN and thereby interrupt electrical power to the heating element(s) <NUM> of the heating system <NUM> notwithstanding that the heated shelf assembly <NUM> may be in an ON mode of operation.

The temperature probe <NUM> is typically disposed entirely within the interior space of the body <NUM> of the shelf assembly <NUM>. As seen in <FIG>, for example, the temperature probe <NUM> can be mounted at an interior side of the upper panel <NUM>, such as by a clamp <NUM> and a fastener <NUM>. In an operable position, the temperature probe <NUM> is in thermal communication with the upper panel <NUM> of the body <NUM>. As depicted, the temperature probe <NUM> can lie adjacent to or to abut the inner surface 20a of the upper panel <NUM> of the body <NUM> to achieve good thermal conductivity with the upper panel <NUM> to the temperature probe <NUM>.

The thermostat switch <NUM> can be at least partially externally located relative to a sidewall <NUM> heated shelf assembly <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a body portion 36a of the thermostat switch <NUM> may be located or secured to an interior side of a panel <NUM> or sidewall <NUM> of the body <NUM>, while the control dial <NUM> of the thermostat switch <NUM> may be externally located relative to the body <NUM> so that the control dial <NUM> is easily visible and accessible to a user of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. The control dial <NUM> may be attached to a post 36b of the thermostat switch <NUM> that extends through an opening 24b formed in the sidewall <NUM>. The post 36b can, e.g., rotate to adjust the temperature sensitivity of the thermostat switch <NUM>. Based on, e.g., the rotational position or setting of the control dial <NUM>, the temperature at which the thermostat switch <NUM> will OPEN and CLOSE can be made to vary. A user of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> may then conveniently adjust the control dial <NUM> to set a temperature at which the heated shelf assembly <NUM> is to be heated when the heated shelf assembly <NUM> is in an ON mode of operation.

In some configurations, a thermostat cover may be provided to shroud the control dial <NUM> and thereby prevent unintended temperature changes to the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the thermostat cover may shroud the power switch <NUM> such that a user does not accidently switch the heated shelf assembly <NUM> from the ON mode of operation to the OFF mode of operation.

It should be understood, however, that the particular location and position of the thermostat probe <NUM> and thermostat switch <NUM> may be modified for some configurations of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, and it may be desirable to locate the adjustable thermostat <NUM> at a position in the heated shelf assembly <NUM> other than as shown. Moreover, it may be preferred to locate the temperature control device <NUM> near or in proximity to a power switch <NUM> of the power control <NUM>.

It should also be understood that the temperature control device <NUM> may incorporate an adjustable thermostat having a digital (rather than analog) control and/or incorporating other types of temperature probes (e.g., a thermistor). Additionally or alternatively, the temperature control device <NUM> may incorporate a thermostat operable according to a fixed (rather than adjustable) temperature setting.

The heating element(s) <NUM> can comprise one or plurality of resistance-type heating coil(s) that are configured to generate heat. The heating element(s) <NUM> is electrically connected to the temperature control device <NUM> and to the power control <NUM>, each of which can interrupt electrical power to the heating element(s) <NUM> in certain circumstances.

The heating element(s) <NUM> is in a heat transfer relationship with the upper panel <NUM> of the body <NUM> and is operable to heat the support surface <NUM> upon which food items may be placed. As best understood from <FIG> and <FIG>, the heating element(s) <NUM> is disposed on and/or attached to an upper side 42a of a tray <NUM> that is positioned in the interior space intermediate the upper and lower panels <NUM>, <NUM> of the body. The tray <NUM> may have a generally rectangular shape and be dimensioned to support the heating element(s) <NUM> and/or to closely match the shape and size (e.g., width and length) of the support surface <NUM>. The tray <NUM> may include a peripheral wall or a flange 42b about at least a portion of its perimeter to help locate the tray <NUM> within the interior space of the body <NUM>. As such, the tray <NUM> effectively suspends the heating element(s) <NUM> within the interior space of the body <NUM> of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> and spaced at a distance D offset from the upper panel <NUM> and is not in direct contact with the inner surface 20a of the upper panel <NUM>. In this manner, the heat generated by the heating element(s) <NUM> is transferred to the upper panel <NUM> primarily by way of radiant heat transfer. The distance D can be generally between about one-third to about one-half the height H of the shelf body <NUM>.

The tray <NUM> may be made of a metal (e.g., aluminum or stainless steel). Therefore, the tray <NUM> can act as a diffuser of the heat generated by the heating element(s) <NUM>. The tray <NUM> can promote uniform radiation of the heat from the heating element(s) <NUM> to the upper panel <NUM> and support surface <NUM> of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. This promotes a more even distribution of heat on the support surface <NUM> and helps to minimize or eliminate the occurrence of localized "hot spots" in the heated shelf assembly <NUM>.

The tray <NUM> also can shield other components from the heating element(s) <NUM> and provide some thermal insulation around the heating elements <NUM>. Further, the heated shelf assembly <NUM> can include a thermal insulator (e.g., a foam insulation panel) that is disposed between the tray <NUM> and the lower panel <NUM> of the shelf body <NUM>. The insulator could help to more efficiently direct the heat generated by the heating element(s) <NUM> to the support surface <NUM> and shield other portions of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> from the heating element(s) <NUM>.

The power control <NUM> can include a power switch <NUM> and power cord <NUM> that can be electrically connected to a power source (e.g., the power cord can be plugged into a standard power outlet). Additionally, the power control <NUM> could optionally include a multi-plug power strip for managing the power cords <NUM> from multiple heated shelf assemblies <NUM> (or other appliances) and provide a single power cord connection for plugging into a power outlet.

The power switch <NUM> can be a multi-position (e.g., two or more) rocker or toggle switch as is well-known in the art. The power switch <NUM> can be electrically connected to the temperature control device <NUM> and to the heating element(s) <NUM>. The power switch <NUM> includes ON and OFF positions (i.e., to enable or disable electrical power to the heating system <NUM>) which correspond to ON and OFF modes of operation of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>.

Like the temperature control dial <NUM>, the power switch <NUM> may be disposed on a panel <NUM> or sidewall <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Preferably the power switch <NUM> may be at least partially externally located relative to the body <NUM> so that the power switch <NUM> is easily visible and accessible to a user of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> and in close proximity to the temperature control dial <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the power switch <NUM> may be attached at a sidewall <NUM> of the body <NUM> and extend through an opening 24c formed in the sidewall <NUM> such that a user of the heated shelf assembly <NUM> may conveniently operate the heated shelf assembly <NUM> between ON and OFF modes of operation. It should be understood that the particular location and position of the power switch <NUM> may be modified for some configurations of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, and it may be desired to locate the power switch <NUM> on another panel of the body <NUM> other than as shown.

As seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the power cord <NUM> may extend through an opening 22a formed near or at a periphery of the lower panel <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. The power cord <NUM> could be a permanently mounted <NUM> foot (<NUM>) long cord with a NEMA <NUM>-15P plug end.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary heating circuit 16a of the heating system. As shown, the heating circuit 16a can include the power cord <NUM>, the power switch <NUM>, an adjustable thermostat <NUM> and a heating coil <NUM>. In addition, the heating circuit 16a can include a temperature sensitive switch or thermal cutoff device (TCO) <NUM> interposed between the thermostat <NUM> and the heating coil <NUM>. The temperature sensitive switch <NUM> is well-known and can function as a thermal fuse in the heating circuit 16a. For example, if the thermostat <NUM> fails to function properly and the temperature of the support surface <NUM> increases beyond a desired threshold (e.g., greater than about <NUM>°F), the temperature sensitive switch <NUM> can OPEN and interrupt the heating circuit 16a and cut off power to the heating coil <NUM>.

As best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the temperature sensitive switch <NUM> can be attached in close proximity to or can abut the interior (i.e., lower) surface 20a of the upper panel <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. The temperature sensitive switch <NUM> can be mounted with a bracket 50a and fastener 50b.

<FIG> shows an alternative heating circuit 16a' that can be employed in the heating system <NUM> of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>. Depending on various design considerations (e.g., including the dimensions of the heated shelf assembly and the desired temperature to which the heated shelf assembly may be heated), an alternative heating circuit including two (<FIG>), three, four or more electrically parallel arranged heating coils may be included in the heating circuit. Further, it can be appreciated that a single heated shelf assembly could also include a plurality of the individual heating circuits 16a such as shown in <FIG>. Still further, it is contemplated that a heating circuit 16a, 16a' may be configured to individually heat one or more portions of the support surface of the heated shelf assembly) independent of others.

<FIG> show an embodiment of a heated shelf assembly <NUM>' according to the disclosure. For clarity, some common components of the shelf assembly <NUM>' have been omitted (e.g., in <FIG>). Additionally, the exploded view of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>' of <FIG> is shown in an inverted orientation. In the heated shelf assembly <NUM>', the heating system <NUM>' can include one or more heating element(s) <NUM>' in a heat transfer relationship with the upper panel <NUM>' of the body <NUM>'. In this embodiment, however, the heat generated by the heating element(s) <NUM>' transfers to the upper panel <NUM>' of the body <NUM>' and support surface <NUM>' of the shelf assembly <NUM>' primarily by way of conduction. That is, the heating element <NUM>' may be configured to be in direct thermal contact with the upper panel <NUM>' of the body <NUM>'.

Alternatively, an optional diffuser plate <NUM>' may be included in the heating system <NUM>' and interposed between the heating element(s) <NUM>' and the interior (lower) surface 20a' of the upper panel <NUM>'. In such a configuration, an upper surface 42a' of the diffuser plate may be attached to the interior (lower) surface 20a' of the upper panel <NUM>' and the heating element(s) <NUM>' may be attached to an opposite, lower side 42c' of the diffuser plate <NUM>'. The diffuser plate <NUM>' may have a generally rectangular shape and be dimensioned to closely match the width and length of the support surface <NUM>'. The diffuser plate <NUM>' may be made of a metal material (e.g., aluminum or stainless steel) and may serve to efficiently and more uniformly distribute the heat conducted from the heating element(s) <NUM>' to the upper panel <NUM>' and support surface <NUM>'.

Still further, as best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the heated shelf assembly <NUM>' can include a thermal insulator <NUM>' (e.g., a foam insulation panel) that is disposed between the heating element(s) <NUM>' and the lower panel <NUM>' of the shelf body <NUM>'. The insulator <NUM>' can help to more efficiently direct the heat generated by the heating element(s) <NUM>' to the support surface <NUM>' and away from the bottom of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>'.

With reference to <FIG>, various shelving and/or storage systems <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> incorporating the heated shelf assembly as disclosed herein are illustrated. The various shelving and/or storage systems may be used to store or display food items, such as pre-prepared and/or packaged food items, for example. In this way, the storage systems can be used for a variety of food service applications, such as prepaid self-service carryout orders, grab-and-go orders, and take out or delivery order staging.

The shelving and/or storage systems may generally include a support structure or frame <NUM> and one or more heated shelf assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>' adjustably and/or reconfigurably supported by the support structure <NUM> (e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). A housing enclosing the support structure <NUM> may also be incorporated (e.g., <FIG>). Further, one or more compartments can be included and be defined by the one or more heated shelf assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', the housing and a corresponding one or more door assemblies that can be closed or opened to limit or provide access to the compartments (e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). It should also be understood that the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' may combined with other known shelving and/or storage systems (e.g., InterMetro Super Erecta® shelving systems) to create standalone heated holding cabinets (e.g., <FIG>), storage devices with an integrated heated holding cabinet (e.g., <FIG>), and/or workstations with a heated shelf (<FIG>) or an integrated heated holding cabinet (e.g., <FIG>). It should also be understood that, in some configurations, the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' may be used as a standalone heated counter-top unit (i.e., disposed on a work surface and supported by feet, e.g., <FIG>).

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the support structure <NUM> can include a plurality of elongated vertical support members or support posts <NUM>, including a front right post 104a, a front left post 104b, a rear right post 104c and a rear left post 104d. As understood from <FIG> and <FIG>, each support post <NUM> may be a cylindrically shaped column extending vertically along a longitudinal axis X from a lower end <NUM> to an upper end <NUM>. The lower end <NUM> is operable to be positioned on and supported by a support surface (e.g., a floor). The lower end <NUM> may include a cap or foot <NUM> (e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>) to facilitate stability on the support surface. In some configurations, the lower end <NUM> may be positioned on and supported by a work surface <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>).

Each support post <NUM> may include a plurality of annular grooves <NUM> formed in a cylindrical outer surface <NUM> of the support post <NUM>. The annular grooves <NUM> can be positioned along the longitudinal axis X of the support post <NUM> from the lower end <NUM> to the upper end <NUM> with adjacent annular grooves <NUM> being vertically spaced apart from one another a predetermined distance (e.g., <NUM> inch).

The support posts <NUM> in cooperation with the corner brackets 26a, 26a' of the heated shelf assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>' enable the heated shelf assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>' to be incorporated into the shelving and/or storage systems <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In this respect, the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' can be mounted to the support posts <NUM> in a manner similar to the shelves described in <CIT>. Referring to <FIG>, mounting collars <NUM> (i.e., split sleeves) are configured to assemble onto the support posts <NUM>. When assembled, an interior rib(s) <NUM> of the mounting collar <NUM> engages one or more annular grooves <NUM> in the support post <NUM> to fix the mounting collar <NUM> in a vertical location on the support post <NUM>. The mounting collar <NUM> has a conically-shaped exterior surface <NUM>. The corner brackets 26a, 26a' can each include an opening or aperture 26b, 26b' having a correspondingly shaped inner conical surface 26c, 26c' that is cooperable with the exterior surface <NUM> of the mounting collar <NUM>. As such, the apertures 26b, 26b' of the corner brackets 26a, 26a' can engage the exterior surfaces of the mounting collars <NUM> along the longitudinal axis X of the support posts <NUM> (i.e., in the vertical direction) and securely attach the shelf <NUM>, <NUM>' to the support posts <NUM>. Even after the shelf <NUM>, <NUM>' is attached to the support posts <NUM>, the position of the shelf <NUM>, <NUM>' can be changed, for example, by repositioning the mounting collars <NUM> along the support posts <NUM>. Further, the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' can be reconfigured by adding or removing shelves <NUM>, <NUM>' by adding or removing mounting collars <NUM> to the support posts <NUM>.

Consequently, each heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' may be independently adjustable vertically along the support posts <NUM> without affecting the vertical position any other shelf (heated or otherwise) that may be included in the shelving or storage system. In this way, the functionality and usability of the shelving and/or storage systems <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, 700incorporating the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' are more adaptable to a variety of storage needs or use situations thereby improving the flexibility of the systems. Further, in addition to vertical adjustment, each of the heated shelf assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>' can be separately removed from service in the systems (e.g., for replacement, repair, maintenance, cleaning or to reconfigure the system).

In some implementations of the shelving and/or storage systems, the support structure <NUM> around the heated shelving assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' can be at least partially enclosed to create a compartment, cabinet or the like, e.g. as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, multiple wall panel assemblies <NUM>, doors <NUM> and a closed-panel (i.e., not a wire shelf), unheated upper shelf <NUM> can be attached to the support posts <NUM> to enclose a space and create a compartment (e.g., a cabinet) <NUM> around the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>'. As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, left and right side panel assemblies 124a, 124b can each include an inner panel <NUM> and an outer panel <NUM>. The inner panel <NUM> includes a planar center wall 132a portion and opposing end walls 132b that extend generally perpendicularly from the center wall portion 132a and forming <NUM>° flanges at opposite lateral sides of the center wall portion 132a. One or more spring clips 132c (e.g., broom clips) can also be included on the center wall portion 132a laterally inward of the opposing end walls 132b. The outer panel <NUM> also includes a planar center wall portion 134a and opposing end walls 134b extending generally perpendicularly from the center wall portion 134a and forming opposed lateral flanges at opposite lateral sides of the center wall portion 134a. The opposed lateral flanges of the outer panel define L-shaped channels. Additionally, the outer panel <NUM> includes an upper wall 134d extending generally perpendicularly from the center wall portion 134a forming a <NUM>° flange extending from an upper edge of the center wall portion 134a. One or more spring clips 134c are also included on the center wall portion 134a and laterally inward of the opposing end walls 134b.

As can be understood from the figures, the inner and outer panels <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to attach to the support posts <NUM> of the shelving and/or storage system in, e.g., a nested relationship. The inner panel <NUM> can be attached to respective front and rear support posts <NUM> (e.g., via the spring clips) from a first (e.g., interior) side of the support posts <NUM>. The outer panel <NUM> can then be attached to the respective front and rear support posts <NUM> from a second (e.g., exterior) side. As shown, the inner panel <NUM> can be nested within the outer panel <NUM> such that the respective flanges each respectively cover the support posts <NUM> to provide a smooth and aesthetically pleasing appearance to the cabinet <NUM>.

Additionally, the inner and outer panels <NUM>, <NUM> of the left and right side panel assemblies 124a, 124b can define an interior air space between the panels <NUM>, <NUM> that can provide thermal insulation to the compartment <NUM>. Still further, the interior air space can be filled with a thermal insulation material (e.g., a foam insulation) to provide even greater thermal insulation to the compartment <NUM>. The wall panel assemblies' interior space can also provide a controlled routing path for and encase the power cord(s) <NUM>, <NUM>' of the heated shelf assembly(ies) <NUM>, <NUM>'.

The wall panel assemblies <NUM> may be made from, e.g., stainless steel to facilitate easy cleaning, which is important in the food service industry, for example.

The front and/or the rear of the compartment <NUM> can be enclosed by one or more doors <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the compartment <NUM> can include two horizontal sliding doors 126a. The doors 126a can be rectangular panels that ride in opposing horizontally-oriented and vertically-spaced upper and lower supports (i.e., tracks) <NUM> that are affixed to front and/or rear sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>' of the heated shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>'. Each of the doors 126a can be received (e.g., in the direction of arrow A in <FIG>) in opposing upper and lower grooves 136a, 136b formed in the tracks <NUM>. For example, a first door 126a can be received in opposing first upper and first lower grooves 136a, 136b and a second door 136a, 136b can be received in opposing second upper and second lower grooves 136a, 136b. The first and second upper and lower grooves 136a, 136b can be offset so that the first and second doors 126a lie adjacent to one another in different planes. The first and second doors 126a can then slide in the track <NUM> independently of one another and in an overlapping manner without interfering or abutting. Each of the first and second doors 126a can move from an OPEN position to a CLOSED position independent of the other. The doors 126a can also include a handle(s) <NUM> or another interface feature to allow a user to slide the doors 126a along the tracks <NUM> to open and close access to the compartment <NUM>. It is noted that, alternatively, the sliding doors 126a can be installed by inserting the door 126a into the upper groove 136a of the upper track <NUM>, and then dropping the door 126a into the lower groove 136b of the lower track <NUM> (e.g., there is enough clearance in the upper grooves 136a to enable this type of installation).

Alternatively, independently operable hinged doors 126b can be incorporated to enclose the front and/or rear of the compartment <NUM> (e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). For example, the doors 126b can be pivotable between a closed position and an open position about a vertical axis Y. In one exemplary construction, the hinges <NUM> can be attached between the door 126b and a side wall panel assembly <NUM> of the shelving and/or storage system. For example, the door 126b can be attached by hinges <NUM> to the L-shaped flange of the side panel assembly <NUM>. Additionally, the hinges <NUM> can include slip hinges and allow the hinged doors 126b to be easily detached and removed from the storage system.

Moreover, the hinged doors 126b may include a closure feature to maintain the doors in a normally closed position. For example, the hinges may be spring-biased such that the bias must be overcome in order to swing the door from the closed to the open position. Upon removal of the opening force, then, the hinge causes the door to return to the closed position. In addition, or alternatively, the doors 126b may also incorporate a latching mechanism, such as a mechanical or magnetic closure element, which can maintain the door in a normally closed position.

Still further, in some configurations, the doors <NUM> can be pivotable between a closed position and an open position about a horizontal, rather than vertical, axis. In other configurations, a door assembly may be provided to include doors <NUM> that are both slidable and pivotable, e.g., folding doors, bi-fold doors, or accordion doors, etc. It should be understood that other doors that prevent access to the compartment when in a closed position and allow access to the compartment when in an open position are also contemplated.

Any or all of the doors can be entirely or partially transparent or opaque The doors can also possess a low heat conductivity rating and have thermally insulating properties. The doors can be made of glass, transparent or opaque plastic, or stainless steel. The door supports can also be made of a material having a low heat conductivity rating (e.g., plastic).

The door(s) can also further include one or a plurality of slots that are included along the upper portion and/or the lower portion of the door panel. In this way, the compartment can be vented as may be needed for particular food items (e.g., pizza).

Alternatively, a front side of the cabinet may be enclosed by doors while a rear side of the cabinet may be enclosed by a rear panel assembly similarly configured as the side panel assemblies <NUM>.

Still further, the dimensions of the enclosure components (e.g., the wall panel assemblies and/or doors) can vary to enclose one or a plurality of heated shelf assemblies which may be included in the shelving and/or storage system (e.g., <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>). For example, the vertical dimension of the outer panel or doors can span multiple, vertically-spaced heated shelves.

A closed, unheated upper shelf <NUM> serves to enclose an upper side of the compartment or cabinet <NUM>.

The power cord <NUM> may be substantially encased or housed within one of the right and left side panel assemblies 124a, 124b. For example, the power cord <NUM> runs from the heat shelf assembly <NUM>, <NUM>' through the one of the right and left side panel assemblies 124a, 124b to a power strip. In this way, the power cord is hidden from view and can be routed in along a predetermined path and internally to the storage system. When the power cord <NUM> is plugged into the power strip, the power switch may operate between the OFF mode and the ON mode.

In some configurations, one or more divider wall(s) <NUM> may be disposed inside the compartment <NUM> (<FIG>) and may extend substantially an entire width (i.e., depth) of the compartment <NUM>, thereby separating the compartment into at least a first region 130a and a second region 130b. Each region 130a, 130b may contain food items. The divider wall <NUM> may be made of a metal material (e.g., stainless steel). The divider <NUM> may not be attached to or can be insulated from the support surface <NUM> of the heated shelf assemby <NUM>, to thereby reduce or eliminate any heat transfer from the heated shelf assembly to the divider wall142. In some configurations, the divider wall <NUM> can be attached to the unheated upper shelf of the compartment <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A storage system (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
four support posts (<NUM>);
four mounting collars (<NUM>), one mounting collar attachable to each of the support posts, wherein each mounting collar comprises a conical outer surface (<NUM>);
a heated shelf (<NUM>') connected to and supported by the four support posts, the heated shelf configured to be adjustable along the support posts;
wherein the heated shelf comprises a heatable support surface (<NUM>, <NUM>') configured to support food items thereon,
wherein the heated shelf is generally rectangular and comprises four corners, wherein each corner comprises a bracket (<NUM>, 26a) including an aperture (26b) extending therethrough and having a conically-shaped inner surface (26c) configured to engage the conical outer surface of a respective mounting collar and enable the heated shelf to be attached to a support post;
wherein the heated shelf comprises:
a body (<NUM>, <NUM>') including a plurality of panels (<NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>') fixed to each other and cooperating to define an interior space including an upper panel (<NUM>, <NUM>') comprising the heatable support surface and a lower panel (<NUM>, <NUM>') attached to the upper panel;
a heating assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>') disposed within the interior space of the body and configured to transfer heat to the upper panel of the plurality of panels of the body; and
a temperature control device (<NUM>) associated with one of the panels of the body and electrically and thermally coupled to the heating assembly, the temperature control device at least partially externally located relative to the heated shelf and operable to control a temperature of the heatable support surface of the heated shelf;
wherein the heating assembly includes:
at least one heating element (<NUM>, <NUM>');
a diffuser plate (<NUM>') thermally coupled to the at least one heating element and to the upper panel of the plurality of panels, wherein the diffuser plate uniformly distributes heat from the at least one heating element to the upper panel primarily by conductive heat transfer; and
an insulation material (<NUM>') disposed between the at least one heating element and the lower panel configured to substantially reduce heat transfer from the at least one heating element to the lower panel.