Patent Description:
A controlled environment (such as a clean room) is an area or environment in which the level of contaminants or particles is controlled, such as by filtering particulate matter from air that enters the room. Controlled environments have low levels of contaminants or particles, and are used to manufacture certain products and conduct research. These controlled environments are used to ensure that organic and inorganic contaminants from the outside environments do not compromise the goods or equipment being manufactured or utilized. However, it can be difficult to transport into the controlled environment, the various items (such as supplies, raw materials, etc.) that are needed in the controlled environment to assist in the manufacture, without contaminating the controlled environment or otherwise introducing particles into the controlled environment.

Clean rooms can also use such features as positive pressure and humidity controls to optimize the environment for the task for which they have been designed. Clean rooms can have a variety of sizes, and can also have an airlock or staging area formed outside of the entry point. The airlock or staging area sequesters the air inside the clean room from the outside environment. Clean rooms are currently classified using filtration criteria that examines the number and size of particles admitted in a given air volume. Known clean room standards in the United States include US FED 209E classes, ISO <NUM>-<NUM> classes, and ISO <NUM>-<NUM> classes. Other countries may use separate standards or guidelines.

Autoclaving is one technique for cleaning the goods and equipment that are transported into the controlled environment. An autoclave is a device that is used to sterilize goods and equipment through the use of pressure and/or heat in the form of steam or superheated water. Autoclaving can also be carried out in a vacuum. Autoclaves can have a variety of sizes, depending on the media to be sterilized. Because the goods and equipment in the autoclave are subjected to high levels of heat, pressure, and moisture, any media subjected to such treatment must be able to withstand both.

Clean room personnel will often use supply transport devices, such as carts, to transport items to/from a clean room. However, the cart cannot enter the clean room because the wheels attract dirt that would introduce undesirable particles into the clean room. Consequently, personnel must stop the cart outside the clean room entry point (or inside the staging area), then manually transfer trays and/or goods from the cart to inside the sterile environment. A second cart can sometimes be provided inside the clean room, and the goods can be transferred to/from the cart located inside the clean room to/from the cart located outside the clean room. This transfer is necessary to ensure that the cart situated outside the clean environment does not enter and contaminate the sterile clean room. However, such conventional, manual transfers between environments involves a number of risks and difficulties including: (<NUM>) the possibility that goods will be dropped or spilled; (<NUM>) the possibility that accidental handling of the goods will compromise sterility; (<NUM>) the need for additional individuals to assist in the transfer and transport of goods; and (<NUM>) can be time-consuming and labor intensive.

Additionally, the transfer of carts requires that there be a means of storing carts, either within or outside of the clean room environment, when they are not in use. <CIT> discloses a storage system where storage units are mounted on movable carriages of a stationary base frame. <CIT> discloses an oven with a compartment that receives trays from a dolly. <CIT> discloses a cart with a removable wheel base that can slidably receive a frame and that can be locked thereto.

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a transport that can be used by a single operator to transport goods and equipment. Another object of the present invention is to provide a transport device that can be moved from an uncontrolled environment (e.g., outside a clean room) to inside a controlled environment (e.g., a clean room), and to transport goods from an uncontrolled environment to inside a clean room environment. It is a further object of the invention to provide a cart that has a removable wheel base, such that a single operator can replace the non-sterile wheel base with a sterile wheel base as goods or equipment are transported between an uncontrolled environment and a controlled environment, while preventing the non-sterile wheel base from entering the controlled environment. It is yet another object of the invention to provide a cart that can, in its entirety, withstand the heat and pressure of standard industry autoclaves.

According to the invention, these objects are solved by a combination as defined in claim <NUM>.

One aspect of the invention relates to a storage/supports means, such as a stationary platform, for a supply transport device, such as a cart, that can be used to store or support such a device either inside of or outside of a clean room when not in use.

Accordingly, a stationary platform in conjunction with a supply transport device is provided as defined by the claims.

The invention further provides a storage and transport system which includes the stationary platform and supply storage device as defined by the claims.

Disclosed is also a wheel base assembly for transporting a supply transport device. The wheel base assembly includes a wheel base having a top surface, a bottom surface, and two opposing ends, wherein the top surface of the wheel base assembly supports the supply transport device, a plurality of wheels coupled to the bottom surface of the wheel base, a trough-shaped base coupled to at least one of the two opposing ends of the wheel base, and at least one cleaning device positioned within the trough-shaped base, wherein the at least one cleaning device extends vertically above the top surface of the wheel base.

These and other objects of the invention, as well as many of the intended advantages thereof, will become more readily apparent when reference is made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

In describing a preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. Several preferred embodiments of the invention are described for illustrative purposes, it being understood that the invention may be embodied in other forms not specifically shown in the drawings, and that the invention is as defined by the claims.

<FIG> and <FIG> show a transport device such as a cart <NUM> of the invention in accordance with a non-limiting illustrative embodiment. The cart <NUM> generally includes a main body or frame <NUM>, a wheel base assembly <NUM>, and a locking mechanism <NUM> for releasably locking the main body <NUM> to the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The cart <NUM> is generally shown as having an elongated, rectangular shape. The entire cart <NUM>, including the frame <NUM>, the wheel base <NUM>, and the locking mechanism <NUM>, are made of a material that can withstand the moisture, heat, and pressure necessary for the entire cart <NUM> to be able to be autoclaved. Such materials may include, but are not limited to, metals and metal alloys such as nickel, aluminum or stainless steel, resilient plastics such as polypropylene, and Pyrex type glass.

As shown, the main frame or body <NUM> is a rectangular, unitary piece that defines a front transverse side or end <NUM>, a rear transverse side or end <NUM> and two longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. The main body <NUM> has one or more horizontally-extending shelves that are each connected to and supported by four vertical support posts <NUM>. Three shelves are provided in the embodiment shown, including a bottom shelf <NUM>, center shelf <NUM> and top shelf <NUM>. Each of the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> carries various items, such as goods and/or equipment. However, it is understood that in this and alternative embodiments of the invention may have a variable number of shelves and support posts <NUM>, though preferably at least one bottom shelf <NUM> is provided. Each of the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can have downwardly-turned edges that form side walls <NUM>, which provide further support for the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can also have upward turned sides that prevent the items being transported from sliding off the shelves.

The main body <NUM> also includes an elongated handle <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can be a round elongated tube that ends the entire width of the cart <NUM>. The handle <NUM> is connected at the rear end <NUM> of the cart <NUM> by supports at the two outer sides <NUM>, <NUM>. The handle <NUM> is spaced apart from the rear end <NUM> and parallel to the rear end <NUM> to form a gap <NUM> between the handle <NUM> and the rear end <NUM> of the cart <NUM>. The handle <NUM> can be substantially at the top of the cart <NUM> and level with or raised up from (by the supports) the top shelf <NUM>.

Guide wheel assemblies <NUM> are positioned along the downwardly-turned side walls <NUM> of the bottom shelf <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, four guide wheel assemblies <NUM> are positioned along the longitudinal side walls <NUM>, spaced apart from each other. Referring to <FIG>, the wheel assemblies have a wheel <NUM> and an axle <NUM>. The axle <NUM> can be a rod that extends through an opening in the side wall <NUM> and is fastened to the side wall <NUM> on the opposite side of the wall <NUM>, such as by a bolt or the like. Or, the axle <NUM> can extend the entire width of the cart <NUM> so that one axle <NUM> has two wheels <NUM> fixed at opposite sides <NUM> of the cart <NUM>. The guide wheel <NUM> is relatively wide, and is rotatably fixed to the axle <NUM> so that the guide wheel <NUM> rotates freely about the axle <NUM>. The guide wheels <NUM> extend slightly below the side walls <NUM>, so that they support the weight of the main body <NUM> when slidably received on the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The wheels <NUM> rotate in a direction that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main body <NUM>, i.e., forward/backwards. Thus, the guide wheels <NUM> rotate when the main body <NUM> is slidably received and removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The axis of rotation for each of the rolling-wheels <NUM> is perpendicular to the side wall <NUM> and to the axle <NUM>. Though four guide wheel assemblies <NUM> are shown, any suitable number of guide wheel assemblies can be utilized, including one or more.

As further shown in <FIG>, the wheel base assembly <NUM> includes wheel assemblies <NUM>, two parallel, longitudinal guiderails <NUM>, a lock opening <NUM> located at both ends of the wheel base <NUM>, and a platform <NUM>. The wheel assemblies <NUM> include a wheel frame and wheel rotatably coupled with the wheel frame. The wheel frame is connected to the bottom of the platform <NUM>, such that a wheel assembly <NUM> is provided at each of the four corners of the cart <NUM> so that the cart <NUM> can be easily pushed and pulled by the user. At least one of the wheel assemblies <NUM> has a wheel lock mechanism <NUM> (<FIG>) that prevents movement of the cart <NUM>. In one embodiment, one or more of the wheel assemblies <NUM> are swivel mounted so that each of the wheel assemblies <NUM> can rotate three hundred and sixty degrees (<NUM>°) about its longitudinal axis so that the cart <NUM> can be pushed or pulled in any direction.

The platform <NUM> is sized and shaped to cooperatively receive and mate with the main body <NUM>. Accordingly, the platform <NUM> is a flat, rectangular, elongated, thin sheet having a traverse rear end <NUM>, a transverse front end <NUM> and two longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. The platform <NUM> has a flat top surface <NUM> that is a single continuous sheet. However, the platform <NUM> can be comprised of one or more elongated slats that extend the full length of the wheel base assembly <NUM> from the front end <NUM> to the rear end <NUM>. The platform <NUM> and wheel base assembly <NUM> are relatively low to the ground (<NUM>-<NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM> inches), depending on the size of the wheels) to provide a stable base upon which the main body <NUM> can be fixed. Accordingly, the wheel base assembly <NUM> does not contain any unnecessary elements that might increase its height. So, the wheel base assembly <NUM> essentially has the wheels and the platform <NUM>, with the wheels attached to the bottom side or surface of the platform <NUM>.

Guiderails <NUM> are provided at each of the longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, and are elongated members that extend the entire length of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The guiderails <NUM> are best shown in <FIG>. Each guiderail <NUM> has an upright portion <NUM>, inwardly turned member <NUM>, and an inner guide edge <NUM>. The upright portion <NUM> extends perpendicularly upward from the flat top surface <NUM> and forms the outer edge of the guiderails <NUM> as well as the outermost edge of the longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. The inwardly turned member <NUM> extends perpendicularly inwardly with respect to the wheel base assembly <NUM> so that the inwardly turned member <NUM> is substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM>. The top surface <NUM>, upright portion <NUM> and inwardly turned portion <NUM> are metal (such as steel) walls that form a general U-shape turned on its side. A channel <NUM> is formed between the inwardly turned member <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the platform.

As shown, the upright portion <NUM> spaces the inwardly turned portion <NUM> apart from the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> so that the guide edge <NUM> is aligned of the top of the rolling-wheel guide assemblies <NUM> that are attached to the side wall <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The guide wheels <NUM> slide along the guiderails <NUM> (longitudinally) as the wheels <NUM> rotate. The rolling-wheel guides <NUM> support, transport, and guide the main body <NUM> to slide along the platform <NUM>, and allow the wheel base assembly <NUM> to slide beneath the main body <NUM>. The rolling-wheel guides <NUM> allow the main body <NUM> to slidably engage the wheel base assembly <NUM> in a longitudinal direction. It will be appreciated, however, that the main body <NUM> and wheel base assembly <NUM> can be configured so that the main body <NUM> slidably engages the wheel base assembly in a side-to-side fashion in a transverse direction.

The guide wheel assemblies <NUM> prevent the main body <NUM> from coming free of the wheel base assembly <NUM> during use, and to guide the main body <NUM> when slidably received or removed from a wheel base assembly <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wheels <NUM> extend downward slightly below the bottom of the side wall <NUM>. Accordingly, the wheels <NUM> slide on the top surface <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The wheels <NUM> are further received in the channel <NUM> formed between the top inwardly-turned portion <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM>. The top member <NUM> forms a ledge that prevents the wheels <NUM> from coming free. The top member <NUM> retains the wheels <NUM> in the channel <NUM> and the wheels <NUM> can only slide forward and backward on the top surface <NUM> of the platform. Thus, the main body <NUM> cannot come free of the wheel base assembly <NUM> by being lifted upward with respect to the wheel base assembly <NUM>, such as if the cart <NUM> were to tip or be lifted by the users. Rather, the main body <NUM> can only be separated from the wheel base assembly <NUM> by unlocking the lock mechanism <NUM> and sliding the main body <NUM> forward or backward so that the wheels <NUM> come out of the ends of the channels <NUM>.

It is noted that the guiderails <NUM> need not be aligned with the downwardly-turned sides <NUM>, but instead can just cooperatively engage the vertical posts <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The guiderails <NUM> can be formed, for instance, by bending the sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the platform <NUM>, so that the guiderails are integral with the platform <NUM>. The front and rear corners <NUM> of the guiderails <NUM> are beveled to guide the main body <NUM> inwardly to between the inner edges <NUM> of the two guiderails <NUM> as the main body <NUM> initially slides onto the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In addition, the wheels <NUM> need not support the weight of the main body <NUM>, but rather can be positioned above the bottom edge of the side walls <NUM>. In this manner, the side walls <NUM> would slide on the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> and the wheels <NUM> would guide the main body <NUM> and prevent the main body <NUM> from separating from the wheel base assembly <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, further detail of the locking mechanism <NUM> is shown. The locking mechanism <NUM> includes a vertical rod <NUM>, a release knob <NUM>, an upper stop <NUM>, a lower stop <NUM>, a spring <NUM>, and an upper guide hole <NUM>. The vertical rod <NUM> extends the entire height of the main body <NUM>. A handle such as a knob <NUM> is positioned at a proximal end of the rod <NUM>. The vertical rod <NUM> is coupled with the main body <NUM> of the cart <NUM> at the rear end <NUM> of the cart <NUM>. The rod <NUM> is slidably fastened to the main body <NUM> by an upper support member <NUM> and a lower support member <NUM>. The upper support member <NUM> is fixedly attached at the top portion of the main body <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the upper support member <NUM> is fastened to the upper shelf <NUM> (such as the side wall <NUM> of the upper shelf <NUM>) and can also be fastened to the inside of the handle <NUM>. The upper support member <NUM> can be positioned in the gap <NUM> between the handle <NUM> and the top shelf <NUM>. The lower support member <NUM> is fixedly attached at the bottom portion of the main body <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the lower support member <NUM> is fastened to the lower shelf <NUM>, such as the side wall <NUM> of the lower shelf <NUM>.

The upper support member <NUM> has a central opening or upper through-hole <NUM> and the lower support member <NUM> has a central opening or lower through-hole <NUM>. The upper and lower through-holes <NUM>, <NUM> are slightly larger than the diameter of the rod <NUM> so that the rod <NUM> snugly fits in the holes <NUM>, <NUM>. Accordingly, the rod <NUM> is received in the upper and lower through-holes <NUM>, <NUM>. The holes <NUM>, <NUM> are large enough so that the rod <NUM> can freely slide up and down within the holes <NUM>, <NUM>, but not too large to allow the rod <NUM> to wiggle.

The upper stop member <NUM> is provided about a top portion of the rod <NUM> and is fixedly attached to rod <NUM>. The upper stop member <NUM> is positioned below the upper support member <NUM> a sufficient distance to permit the spring <NUM> to be provided between the upper stop member <NUM> and the upper support member <NUM>. Accordingly, the spring <NUM> is positioned about the rod <NUM> between the bottom surface of the upper support member <NUM> and the top surface of the upper stop member <NUM>. The spring <NUM> has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the upper hole <NUM>, but smaller than the width of the upper support member <NUM>. The diameter of the spring <NUM> is also smaller than the diameter of the upper stop member <NUM>. The spring <NUM> is slightly compressed so it pushes outwardly against the bottom surface of the upper support member <NUM> and the top surface of the upper stop member <NUM>.

Thus, the upper stop <NUM> is fixed to the rod <NUM> and the rod <NUM> slides within the upper support member <NUM>, which is fixedly attached to the main body <NUM>. The outwardly-biased spring <NUM> pushes the rod <NUM> downwardly (by virtue of pushing downward on upper stop member <NUM> which is fixed to rod <NUM>) so that a distal end portion <NUM> of the rod <NUM> is forced downward to engage into the lock opening <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The lower stop member <NUM> is fixedly coupled to the rod <NUM> at the bottom portion of the rod <NUM>, and prevents the rod <NUM> from extending too far downward within the openings <NUM>, <NUM> and hitting the ground or otherwise interfering with operation of the cart <NUM>.

When the rod <NUM> is received in the lock opening <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, the cart <NUM> is in a locked position, whereby the wheel base assembly <NUM> is locked to the main body <NUM>. In the locked position, the main body <NUM> remains fixed to the wheel base assembly <NUM> by the cooperative engagement of the locking mechanism <NUM> in the lock opening <NUM>, as well as by the bottom portion (the bottom shelf <NUM> and/or support posts <NUM>) being positioned between the guiderail members <NUM>. Accordingly the wheel base assembly <NUM> will move together with the main body <NUM> as the user pushes/pulls the cart handle <NUM>.

The proximal end of the rod <NUM> and the knob <NUM> extend up above the top surface of the top shelf <NUM> and the cart handle <NUM>. The knob <NUM> is located so that the operator of the cart <NUM> is able to easily reach and operate the wheel base locking mechanism <NUM> while still gripping the handle <NUM>.

The user can lift up on the knob <NUM> in the direction Y against the bias of the spring <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. This action causes the distal end portion <NUM> of the rod <NUM> to withdraw from the locking hole <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In this position, the cart <NUM> is in an unlocked state or position, whereby the wheel base assembly <NUM> is no longer locked to the main body <NUM>. The guiderails <NUM> still prevent the main body <NUM> from move transversely or laterally with respect to the wheel base assembly <NUM>. However, the main body <NUM> can slide in a longitudinal direction X (<FIG>, <FIG>). More specifically, the bottom surface of the bottom shelf <NUM> slides along the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM>. Because both surfaces are smooth metal, the main body <NUM> can slide without too much difficulty, even when items are loaded on the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, although element <NUM> is referred to as a shelf, it is a flat and sturdy plate that is sufficiently rigid to permit the main body <NUM> to slide on the platform <NUM>. The platform <NUM> is also a flat and sturdy plate that is sufficiently rigid to allow the main body <NUM> to slide on its top surface <NUM>.

The rod <NUM> cannot be pulled up high enough such that the distal end portion <NUM> comes out of the opening <NUM> in the lower support member <NUM>. The rod <NUM> is prevented from moving upward when the spring <NUM> is fully compressed between the upper stop member <NUM> and the upper support member <NUM>. In addition, the lower support member <NUM> can be made taller, or an additional stop member can optionally be provided on the rod <NUM> (such as at the distal end <NUM>) to limit the upward movement of the rod <NUM>. Still further, another support member with a through-hole that receives the rod <NUM> can be affixed to the main body <NUM> (such as the middle shelf <NUM>) to prevent upward movement of the lower stop member <NUM> or another stop member (not shown).

Turning to <FIG>, operation of the cart <NUM> is shown. In this non-limiting illustrative example, the cart <NUM> is moved from an uncontrolled environment <NUM> (e.g., outside a clean room) to a controlled environment <NUM> (e.g., inside a clean room) by a single operator. The border or boundary <NUM> is shown separating the controlled environment <NUM> and uncontrolled environment <NUM>. The boundary <NUM> can be, for instance, the entrance to an airlock located outside a clean room. Or, the boundary <NUM> can be inside the airlock and outside the entrance to the clean room. Or, the boundary <NUM> can be between two clean rooms having different particulate levels. For instance, the cart <NUM> can be moving from an ISO <NUM>-<NUM> class clean room to an ISO <NUM>-<NUM> class clean room. Items (such as goods, product and/or equipment) can be carried on the shelves <NUM> of the cart <NUM>. These items may be sterile and exposed or sealed inside sealed packaging such as bags. <FIG> illustrate an operator transporting those items into a clean room or other controlled environment without contamination to the items or to the controlled environment.

Starting with <FIG>, the cart <NUM> is located in the uncontrolled environment <NUM> and is brought to the boundary <NUM>. The cart <NUM> includes both a main body <NUM> and a first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>, as shown in the fully assembled embodiments of <FIG>. At the same time, a second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> is located on the other side of the boundary <NUM>, inside the controlled environment <NUM>. Accordingly, there are two wheel base assemblies <NUM>: a first assembly <NUM><NUM> that is attached to the main body <NUM> in the uncontrolled environment <NUM>, and a second assembly <NUM><NUM> that is by itself in the controlled environment <NUM>. The wheels <NUM> on the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> are in the locked position, so that the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> cannot move.

At this point, the operator pushes the cart <NUM> using the handle <NUM> up to the boundary line <NUM>, so that the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> comes into contact with the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>. The user then locks the wheels <NUM> of the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> so that the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> cannot move. The first and second wheel base assemblies <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> are identical, so their respective platforms <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> are the same height as one another. The user aligns the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> with the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> so that the sides <NUM>, <NUM> substantially align with each other. A guide member can optionally be provided on the front end <NUM> of the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> and/or the rear end <NUM> of the second wheel base assembly to (individually or jointly) assist the user in aligning the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> with the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>.

Accordingly, the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> is aligned with the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>, and the main body <NUM> (together with any items it is carrying) is ready to be moved from the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> to the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>. Accordingly, the user lifts up on the knob <NUM> of the locking mechanism <NUM> (<FIG>) against the force of the spring <NUM>, which withdraws the distal end portion <NUM> from the first lock opening <NUM><NUM>, thereby unlocking the main body <NUM> from the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>. The extent to which the operator may lift the knob <NUM> is limited by the upper stop <NUM>, which compresses the spring <NUM> to its mechanical limit between the upper stop <NUM> and the surface of the upper support member <NUM> surrounding the upper guide hole <NUM>.

In the unlocked position, the user can push on the handle <NUM> so that the main body <NUM> slides along the top surface <NUM><NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> and onto the top surface <NUM><NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. As the main body <NUM> is slid onto the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>, the first and second guiderails <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> guide the main body <NUM> in the longitudinal direction X (<FIG>). The support posts <NUM> may come into contact with the beveled corners <NUM> of the second guiderail <NUM><NUM>, and the beveled corners <NUM> direct the main body <NUM> to come within the second guiderails <NUM><NUM>. Once the main body <NUM> is pushed slightly off the first wheel base assembly <NUM>, the rod <NUM> is no longer aligned with the lock opening <NUM>, so the user can release the knob <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> will be pushed back down by the force of the spring <NUM>, and will ride along the top surfaces <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> of the respective platforms <NUM>. A catch can be optionally provided to hold the knob in the upright position so that the user need not hold it.

The user continues to push on the handle <NUM> until the main body <NUM> is fully positioned on the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> inside the controlled environment <NUM>. Because the wheels on the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> are locked, the wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> remains stationary and does not move as the main body is being slid onto it. Here, it is noted that although both the first and second wheel bases <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> are locked, only the second wheel base <NUM><NUM> needs to be locked. However, the first wheel base <NUM><NUM> can also be locked to further prevent motion of the first wheel base <NUM><NUM> during the transfer operation. And, the first wheel base <NUM><NUM> will then be locked and ready to accept the main body <NUM> again when the user exits the controlled environment <NUM>. Once the main body <NUM> is fully received on the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>, the rod <NUM> will be aligned (by the inner edges <NUM> of the guiderails <NUM><NUM>) with the lock opening <NUM><NUM> and will automatically enter the lock opening <NUM><NUM> under the outward (downward) force of the spring <NUM>.

At that point, the main body <NUM> is locked to the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> (with the sterile wheels) inside the controlled environment <NUM>, and the first wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> (with the unsterile wheels) remains in the uncontrolled environment <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wheels of the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM> can then be unlocked by the user, and the cart <NUM> (with the main body <NUM> and the second wheel base assembly <NUM><NUM>) can be maneuvered inside the clean room <NUM> so that the items can be delivered to the appropriate location inside the clean room <NUM>. It is noted that during the transfer operation of <FIG>, the items remain on the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the cart <NUM> and need not be removed. In addition, the main body <NUM> never touches the ground, but instead moves directly from the first platform surface <NUM><NUM> to the second platform surface <NUM><NUM>.

The process described can also be executed identically in reverse, i.e., when the cart <NUM> travels from the controlled environment <NUM> to the uncontrolled environment <NUM>. At all times, however, the sterile and non-sterile wheel bases remain sequestered in their respective environments, preventing any cross-contamination of particulate matter while the cart <NUM> moves between these environments. The wheel bases are substantially identical so that they are exchangeable with one another and the frame <NUM> can be readily moved from one wheel base assembly to another without having to reconfigure the main body <NUM>. In addition, openings <NUM> are located at both the front and rear ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the wheel base assemblies <NUM>, so that the main body <NUM> can be placed on the wheel base assembly <NUM> from either direction.

Thus, the cart <NUM> enables items to be carried on the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Those items remain on the shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> as the cart <NUM> is moved between an uncontrolled environment and a controlled environment. In this way, a user need not manually remove the items from the cart to bring the items into the clean room, while leaving the cart outside of the clean room. And, the wheels that are used in the uncontrolled environment do not enter the controlled environment. Rather, the wheels used in the controlled environment remain inside the controlled environment and do not leave the controlled environment. Accordingly, the cart wheels are not introducing particles into the controlled environment.

As discussed and shown above, a single locking mechanism <NUM> is provided that is mostly located on the main body <NUM> and only an opening <NUM> is needed on the wheel base assembly <NUM>. However, any suitable number and configurations can be provided. For instance, multiple locking mechanisms can be provided, located at one or more sides <NUM>, <NUM> or ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the main body frame <NUM>. And, the locking mechanism can include a fastener or mating locking mechanism on the wheel base assembly that cooperatively engages a locking mechanism on the main body <NUM>. Still further, the locking mechanism <NUM> need not have a long rod <NUM>, but can have a short rod with the knob just above the bottom shelf <NUM> so that the user must bend down to lift the knob.

In addition, the invention is shown as having a bottom shelf <NUM> that slides on the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM>, so that any items on the shelf <NUM> are moved onto the new wheel base assembly. However, other variations can be provided. As mentioned above, the platform <NUM> can be slats or the like. And, instead of a bottom shelf <NUM>, the posts <NUM> can have wheels. Or, elongated longitudinal supports can be provided with roller bearings that engage mating roller bearings on the wheel base assembly (such that guiderails are not needed).

Another feature of the invention is that the entire cart <NUM> is made of materials that can be autoclaved. Thus, the entire cart <NUM> and any items it carries, can be placed in an autoclave and sterilized. Still further variations of the cart <NUM> can be provided within the scope of the claims. Although the invention is described as having a wheel base assembly <NUM> that is completely separate from the main body <NUM>, other embodiments of the invention can be provided within the claims. For instance, the main body <NUM> can have multiple sets of interchangeable wheels, so that one set of wheels is used in the clean environment and one set of wheels is used outside the clean environment. The wheels can be separately removable so that each wheel is replaced one at a time, or the two front wheels and two rear wheels can each be coupled together so that the front wheels can be replaced at one time and the rear wheels can be replaced at one time. Or the wheels can remain fixed to the main body and operated by a lever to raise one set of wheels and lower the other set of wheels. For instance, a wheel assembly can have two wheels each fixed to a pivot plate that pivots between one of the wheels being lower and the other wheel raised.

Another feature of the invention is illustrated in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the invention includes a wheel base transport cart or rack <NUM> that may be used to store and/or transport one or more wheel base assemblies <NUM> to and retain in an autoclave. The rack <NUM> is generally formed of a bottom portion <NUM> and at least one handle assembly <NUM>. The bottom portion <NUM> may be formed of a flat, rectangular, elongated, plate that has an upper surface <NUM> and a bottom surface <NUM>. The bottom portion <NUM> of the rack <NUM> is sized and configured to accommodate multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM> and to allow it to fit within an autoclave. The handle assembly <NUM> may be formed of poles or rods <NUM> and a handle <NUM>. The poles <NUM> may extend perpendicularly (as shown in <FIG>) or at an angle from the upper surface <NUM> of an end <NUM> of the bottom portion <NUM>. The poles <NUM> and the handle <NUM> are formed integrally with or attached to each other. As shown in <FIG>, the handle <NUM> is formed integrally with the poles <NUM> and extends at an angle from the top of the poles <NUM>. The handle <NUM> allows a user to push the rack <NUM>.

According to one embodiment, the bottom portion <NUM> and handle assembly <NUM> (including handle <NUM> and poles <NUM>) are formed of material which may be autoclaved, including, but not limited to, metals and metal alloys such as nickel, aluminum, or stainless steel, resilient plastics such as polypropylene, and Pyrex®-type glass (i.e., low-thermal-expansion borosilicate glass). Thus, the entire rack <NUM> (and any wheel base assemblies <NUM> being held by the rack <NUM>) may be autoclaved.

As shown in <FIG>, the rack <NUM> includes a plurality of poles or posts <NUM> extending upwardly from the upper surface <NUM> of the bottom portion <NUM> of the rack <NUM>. The posts may be formed integrally with the bottom portion <NUM> of the rack <NUM>, or they may be coupled to the upper surface <NUM> of the bottom portion <NUM> by pins, screws, or the like. The posts <NUM> may have a circular cross-sectional shape or may have any other cross-sectional shape that allows them to securely hold the wheel base assemblies <NUM> and fit within the channels <NUM> of the guiderails <NUM>, such as a square, oval or octagonal cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the posts <NUM> are configured in pairs along a length (L<NUM>) of the bottom portion <NUM> of the rack <NUM> with each pair in a row that extends transverse across the rack <NUM>. Each post <NUM> of the pair is spaced apart from the other post <NUM> such that a first post <NUM> of a pair engages a channel <NUM> of the guiderail <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> on one longitudinal side <NUM>, while the other of the posts <NUM> of the pair engages the channel <NUM> of the guiderail <NUM> on the other longitudinal side <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The posts <NUM> have a height that is sufficient to securely hold the wheel base assemblies <NUM> in place, such as at least half the length (L<NUM>) of the wheel base assembly <NUM>.

While <FIG> depicts a total of twelve posts <NUM> to accommodate six wheel base assemblies <NUM>, the invention is not particularly limited to any number of posts <NUM>. The rack <NUM> is designed to allow for the autoclaving of multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM> at a time, so a plurality of posts <NUM> is preferred. Like the bottom portion <NUM> and handle assembly <NUM> of the rack <NUM>, the posts <NUM> are also formed of materials which may be autoclaved, such as those discussed herein.

The posts <NUM> are configured to hold each of the wheel base assemblies <NUM> in a vertical position on the rack <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the posts <NUM> are positioned within the channels <NUM> of the longitudinal guiderails <NUM> of either longitudinal side <NUM>, <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, such that the flat top surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the wheel base assembly <NUM> is oriented perpendicularly to the bottom portion <NUM> of the rack <NUM>. The posts <NUM> have a cross-sectional size and shape that allows them to fit within the channels <NUM> snugly, so as to secure the wheel base assemblies <NUM> in place, without having to force the wheel base assemblies <NUM> down into the posts <NUM>. The wheel base assemblies <NUM> should be secure enough that they may be moved around on the rack <NUM> without tipping or falling off. As shown in <FIG>, each guiderail <NUM> is formed of an inwardly turned member <NUM> that engages the post <NUM> and prevents the wheel base assembly <NUM> from moving forward or backward on the rack <NUM>, and an upright portion <NUM> that engages the post <NUM> and prevents the wheel base assembly <NUM> from moving side-to-side on the rack <NUM>. In this way, the wheel base assemblies <NUM> are prevented from moving forward or backward or side-to-side on the rack <NUM> so that they do not come free.

The wheel base assemblies <NUM> are arranged vertically on the rack <NUM> so that the rack <NUM> may accommodate multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) without requiring a rack <NUM> that is too large to be easily moveable by the user or to fit within an autoclave. The wheel base assemblies <NUM> are positioned on the rack <NUM> parallel to one another in a stacked relationship. In operation, the user will slide each of the wheel base assemblies <NUM> down onto the rack <NUM> by aligning the openings of the channels <NUM> of the guiderails <NUM> on each longitudinal side <NUM>, <NUM> with two adjacent posts <NUM>. The posts <NUM> may be guided down into the channels <NUM> by the beveled front and rear corners <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the guiderails <NUM>. The top of the posts <NUM> can also be rounded or tapered to further guide the wheel base assembly <NUM> onto the posts <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wheels <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> may face the handle assembly <NUM> of the rack, but they may also be oriented to face in the opposite direction.

The rack <NUM> may include a plurality of wheels <NUM> coupled to the bottom surface <NUM> of the bottom portion <NUM>, so that the rack <NUM> may be physically moved from one location to another, such as from an outside environment into an autoclave or clean room environment. The wheels <NUM> may be positioned at each corner of the bottom surface <NUM> of the bottom portion <NUM> to ensure stability of the rack <NUM>.

In this way, the rack <NUM> is sized and configured to store, hold and transport multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM>, so as to efficiently autoclave multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM> simultaneously. However, the rack <NUM> may also be sized and configured to transport other devices for simultaneously autoclaving.

Turning to <FIG>, a rack <NUM> is shown in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention. The cart or rack <NUM> may be used to store and/or transport one or more wheel base assemblies <NUM> to and retain in an autoclave. The rack <NUM> is sized and configured to accommodate multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM> and to allow it to fit within an autoclave. According to one embodiment, the entire rack <NUM> are formed of material which may be autoclaved, including, but not limited to, metals and metal alloys such as nickel, aluminum, or stainless steel, resilient plastics such as polypropylene, and Pyrex®-type glass (i.e., low-thermal-expansion borosilicate glass). Thus, the entire rack <NUM> can be autoclaved, together with any wheel base assemblies <NUM> being held by the rack <NUM>.

The rack <NUM> has a frame with a base frame portion <NUM>, top frame portion <NUM>, and four side support poles <NUM>. The bottom and top frame portions <NUM>, <NUM> can each be formed by four elongated support members that are connected together in a square shape having an open center. Thus, the top frame portion <NUM> has a front support member 704a, rear support member 704c, and side support members 704b, 704d. Alternatively, the bottom and/or top frame portions <NUM>, <NUM> can be solid plates.

As best shown in <FIG>, the top frame portion <NUM> can be smaller than the bottom frame portion <NUM>, and the side support poles <NUM> can extend substantially vertically upward and angled inward slightly to connect each corner of the bottom frame portion <NUM> to the respective corner of the top frame portion <NUM>. The wider base frame portion <NUM> provides greater stability, and the smaller top frame portion <NUM> allows for easier insertion and removal of the wheel base assemblies <NUM>. The support poles <NUM> forms an internal space having a front opening 707a and a rear opening 707b.

As shown in <FIG>, one or more hooks <NUM> are provided. The hooks <NUM> are coupled to the bottom of the top frame portion <NUM>. In one embodiment, a plurality of hooks <NUM> are coupled to the front and rear support members 704a, c, and are spaced from one another so that a wheel base assembly <NUM> can fit between the neighboring hooks <NUM>. Each hook <NUM> on the front support member 704a are aligned with a respective hook <NUM> on the rear support member 704c, to form a respective pair. The hooks <NUM> can have a general J-shape so they extend downward from the supports 704a, 704c, then curve back upward and form an upwardly turned lip <NUM>. The hooks <NUM> extend substantially parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the front and rear supports 704a, 704c.

In this manner, one or more wheel base assemblies <NUM> can be releasable engaged with the cart <NUM> by hanging each wheel base assembly on a respective pair of hooks <NUM>. More specifically, the hooks <NUM> can releasably engage one of the guiderails <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, so that the assembly <NUM> hangs vertically sideways. The hooks <NUM> hook onto the inwardly turned top member <NUM> so that the inner guide edge <NUM> rests on the hook <NUM>. When the wheel base assembly <NUM> is positioned on the hooks <NUM>, the hook lip <NUM> extends upward into the guide channel <NUM>, so that the wheel base assembly <NUM> cannot be removed without the user lifting the wheel base assembly upward to come over the lip <NUM>.

Thus, the rack <NUM> holds multiple wheel base assemblies <NUM> at one time, with the wheel base assemblies <NUM> extending substantially parallel to one another, and perpendicularly on the rack relative to the bottom frame portion. As shown in <FIG>, the wheel base assemblies <NUM> are between the two sides of the rack <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wheel base assemblies <NUM> extend outward beyond the front and rear of the cart <NUM> so that the assemblies <NUM> can be grasped by a user and easily hanged and removed from the hooks <NUM>. In operation, the user grabs an assembly <NUM> about the guiderail <NUM> and can insert his fingers into the channel <NUM>. The user then inserts the assembly <NUM> in through the front or rear opening 707a, b of the rack between the respective front or rear support poles <NUM>, then lifts the assembly <NUM> over the lip <NUM> and lets the assembly down onto the hook <NUM>. The process is reversed to remove the assembly <NUM> from the rack <NUM>.

The rack <NUM> may include a plurality of wheels <NUM> coupled to the bottom surface of the bottom frame portion <NUM>, so that the rack <NUM> may be physically moved from one location to another, such as from an outside environment into an autoclave or clean room environment. The wheels <NUM> may be positioned at each corner of the bottom frame portion <NUM> to ensure stability of the rack <NUM>. The user can pull and/or push the rack <NUM> by grabbing one of the support members 704a, b, c, d.

Another feature of the invention is illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, a supply transport/storage cart <NUM> (the "supply cart <NUM>") may be used to transport and store cans, bottles, or other bulky or uniquely-shaped supplies to and from a clean room environment. The supply cart <NUM> may utilize the wheel base assembly <NUM> set forth herein to allow it to be moved from one location to another, but the body of the supply cart <NUM> is different than those embodiments illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The main body <NUM> of the supply cart <NUM> is a rectangular, unitary piece that defines a front transverse side or end <NUM>, a rear transverse side or end <NUM> and two opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> so as to form a frame. The body <NUM> has four corner vertical support posts <NUM> that extend upwards from the wheel base assembly <NUM>, although any number of support posts <NUM> may be used. In one embodiment, the vertical support posts <NUM> extend upwards from a bottom surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The bottom surface <NUM> may be a substantially flat surface that extends between each of the vertical support posts <NUM>. In yet a different embodiment, the body <NUM> may have no bottom surface <NUM>, such that it is simply formed as a frame having the vertical support posts <NUM> connected by horizontal cross members, as discussed below.

In one embodiment, the main body <NUM> further includes guide wheel assemblies (not shown) at a base of the main body <NUM>, such as guide wheel assemblies <NUM>, that allow the main body <NUM> to be slidably received and removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In an embodiment where the body <NUM> includes the bottom surface <NUM>, the guide wheel assemblies may be aligned along an outer edge (not shown) of the bottom surface <NUM>. In an embodiment where the body <NUM> includes no bottom surface <NUM>, the guide wheel assemblies may be coupled to bottom cross bars (not shown) that extends between the vertical support posts <NUM> from the front end <NUM> to the rear end <NUM>.

The supply cart <NUM> may be received on and removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM> in the same manner as cart <NUM> and as illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the body <NUM> is sized and shaped to cooperatively receive and mate with the wheel base assembly <NUM> via the mechanisms set forth herein with respect to cart <NUM>, including the locking mechanism <NUM> which releasably locks the body <NUM> to the wheel base assembly <NUM>. If the body <NUM> includes the bottom surface <NUM>, the bottom surface <NUM> is slidably received on the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. Otherwise, the bottom cross bars may be sturdy enough that they slide over the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> and support the supply cart <NUM> thereon.

In an alternative embodiment, the body <NUM> of the supply cart <NUM> is formed integrally with the wheel base assembly <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> further includes a plurality of horizontal cross members <NUM> that extend between each of the vertical support posts <NUM> at different heights so as to form side rails. As illustrated in <FIG>, the body <NUM> has a total of twelve horizontal cross members <NUM>, although any number of horizontal cross members <NUM> may be used for a particular application. In this embodiment, four horizontal cross members 814a extend between the four vertical support posts <NUM> to form a rectangular shape directly above the wheel base assembly <NUM>. Another four horizontal cross members 814b extend between the four vertical support posts <NUM> to form another rectangular shape directly above the four horizontal cross members 814a. In this way, cans, bottles, or other supplies may be placed on the bottom surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the supply cart <NUM> and are held in place by the horizontal cross members 814a, 814b so that they do not fall off the supply cart <NUM>.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, the horizontal cross members 814a, 814b form a hinged door (not shown) at the rear end <NUM> of the supply cart <NUM>. In another embodiment, the hinged door may be formed at the front end <NUM> or either side <NUM>, <NUM>.

Four additional horizontal cross members 814c, 814d extend between two of the vertical support posts <NUM>, such that cross members 814d are directly above cross members 814c. In this way, taller cans, bottles, and other supplies may be held in place on the wheel base assembly <NUM> without falling off the front transverse end <NUM> and rear transverse end <NUM> of the supply cart <NUM>. In one embodiment, cans, for example, can be tied to cross members 814c, 814d, to keep them in place. A handle similar to handle <NUM> may be used to allow the user to push the supply cart <NUM>. In another embodiment, the user may push the supply cart <NUM> by handle <NUM>, discussed more fully below with respect to <FIG>. In yet another embodiment, the user may push or pull the supply cart <NUM> using horizontal cross members 814c, 814d.

The supply cart <NUM> is preferably formed of a material that can withstand the moisture, heat, and pressure necessary for the entire supply cart <NUM> to be able to be autoclaved. Such materials include, but are not limited to, metals and metal alloys such as nickel, aluminum, or stainless steel, resilient plastics such as polypropylene, and Pyrex type glass.

Another feature of the invention is illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, a tray transport/storage cart <NUM> (the "tray cart <NUM>") may be used to transport flat trays to and from a clean room environment or store flat trays inside or outside of a clean room. The tray cart <NUM> may utilize the wheel base assembly <NUM> set forth herein to allow it to be moved from one location to another, but the body of the tray cart <NUM> is different than those embodiments illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>and <FIG>.

The main body <NUM> of the tray cart <NUM> is a rectangular, unitary piece that defines a front transverse side or end <NUM>, a rear transverse side or end <NUM> and two opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> so as to form a frame. In one embodiment, the main body <NUM> includes cross members that extend along the base of the longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. Each of these cross members may include guide wheel assemblies (not shown), such as guide wheel assemblies <NUM>, that allow the main body <NUM> to be slidably received and removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In another embodiment, the main body <NUM> includes a bottom surface <NUM>. The bottom surface <NUM> may be a substantially flat surface that extends from the front end <NUM> to the rear end <NUM> of the body <NUM>.

The tray cart <NUM> may be received on and removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM> in the same manner as cart <NUM> and as illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the body <NUM> is sized and shaped to cooperatively receive and mate with the wheel base assembly <NUM> via the mechanisms set forth herein with respect to cart <NUM>, including the locking mechanism <NUM> which releasably locks the body <NUM> to the wheel base assembly <NUM>. If the body <NUM> includes the bottom surface <NUM>, the bottom surface <NUM> is slidably received on the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In an embodiment where the body <NUM> includes no bottom surface <NUM>, the cross members may be sturdy enough that they slide over the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> and support the tray cart <NUM> thereon.

In an alternative embodiment, the body <NUM> of the tray cart <NUM> is formed integrally with the wheel base assembly <NUM>.

The body <NUM> is generally formed of at least one elongated tray-receiving structure <NUM> extending between each of the longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> and vertically upwards from the wheel base assembly <NUM>. If the body <NUM> includes a bottom surface <NUM>, each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> extends vertically upwards from the bottom surface <NUM> and are joined thereto. In one embodiment, the main body <NUM> preferably includes at least three elongated tray-receiving structures <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> has a rectangular shape. Each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> may be joined by a rectangular top joining member <NUM>, such that each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> is secured together. If the body <NUM> includes the bottom surface <NUM>, each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> is secured together at the bottom surface <NUM> as well. If there is no bottom surface <NUM>, each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> may be further joined by a rectangular bottom joining member.

The tray-receiving structures <NUM> include a plurality of opposing perpendicularly-extending lips <NUM>, which function as a tray support. Each opposing lip <NUM> is positioned at the same height along the height of the tray-receiving structure <NUM> such that the trays, when placed on each of the opposing ledges or lips <NUM>, are positioned evenly and generally parallel to the ground. In this way, each set of opposing lips <NUM> creates a slot <NUM> for the tray to be placed. The trays may be kept in the slots <NUM> so that they can be stored or transported via the tray cart <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the opposing lips <NUM> are arranged such that they create a plurality of stacked slots <NUM>. In one embodiment, each of the tray-receiving structures <NUM> has at least eight (<NUM>) slots <NUM>, such that the entire tray cart <NUM> can hold at least <NUM> trays at one time, but any number of tray-receiving structures <NUM> and slots <NUM> may be used for a particular sized tray cart <NUM>.

A handle similar to handle <NUM> may be used to allow the user to push the tray cart <NUM>. In another embodiment, the user may push the tray cart <NUM> by handle <NUM>, discussed more fully below with respect to <FIG>. In yet another embodiment, the tray cart <NUM> may include a handle <NUM> at the rear end <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG>) or at end front end <NUM>.

Similar to the supply cart <NUM>, the tray cart <NUM> is preferably formed of a material that can withstand the moisture, heat, and pressure necessary for the entire supply cart <NUM> to be able to be autoclaved. Such materials include, but are not limited to, metals and metal alloys such as nickel, aluminum, or stainless steel, resilient plastics such as polypropylene, and Pyrex type glass.

Each of the supply cart <NUM> and tray cart <NUM> are examples of types of carts that may be used together with the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The common feature between each of these designs is that each preferably includes a bottom surface (<NUM>, <NUM>) that is slidably received on the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In this way, the wheel base assembly <NUM> can be used to transport a variety of different types of carts and the carts may be easily swapped out or exchanged for other types of carts. Additionally, other types of carts having other main body designs may also utilize the wheel base assembly <NUM> of the invention. It is further contemplated that other mechanisms for locking the carts to the wheel base assembly <NUM> may be utilized, including pins, screws, and other known coupling mechanisms.

Another feature of the invention is illustrated in <FIG>. A wheel and braking mechanism <NUM> (the "braking mechanism <NUM>") may be incorporated together with the wheel base assembly <NUM> for use with any of the carts disclosed herein, including cart <NUM> (<FIG>), supply cart <NUM> (<FIG>) and tray cart <NUM> (<FIG>), or with the wheel base transport cart or rack <NUM>. The braking mechanism <NUM> may be used with other types of carts separate from the carts of <FIG>.

The braking mechanism <NUM> may be formed integrally with the wheel base assembly <NUM> or wheel base transport rack <NUM>, or it may be fitted to the wheel base assembly <NUM> or wheel base transport rack <NUM> after their manufacture. If the latter method is used, the braking mechanism <NUM> may be coupled to the wheel base assembly <NUM> or wheel base transport rack <NUM> in the place of the wheel assemblies <NUM> or wheels <NUM>, respectively. The embodiments disclosed in <FIG>can be used together with or as an alternative to the wheel lock mechanism <NUM> of <FIG>.

As illustrated in <FIG> (prior art), the braking mechanism <NUM> generally includes a wheel <NUM>, a swivel caster <NUM>, a platform <NUM>, and a stop brake <NUM>. The wheel <NUM> is coupled to the swivel caster <NUM>, which in turn is coupled to a bottom surface of platform <NUM>, which in turn may be coupled to the wheel base assembly <NUM> or wheel base transport rack <NUM> via a top surface of the platform.

The stop brake <NUM> is formed of an L-shaped body having a first end <NUM> and a second opposing end <NUM>. When in an "open" position, the first end <NUM> is parallel with the platform <NUM>, and the second end <NUM> is perpendicular to the top surface <NUM> of the platform <NUM>. When the stop brake <NUM> is rotated into a "closed" position, the second end <NUM> of the stop brake <NUM> activates a stopping mechanism (not shown) that applies a force against the wheel <NUM> so as to stop the wheel <NUM> from being able to rotate, such as by frictional forces. As such, when in the closed position, the stop brake <NUM> restricts or prohibits the wheel <NUM> from rotating so as to lock it in place, and the wheel base assembly <NUM> or wheel base transport rack <NUM> is therefore stopped from any further movement. When the stop brake is rotated into its open position, the second end <NUM> deactivates the stopping mechanism (not shown) to allow the wheel <NUM> to freely rotate, thus allowing the wheel base assembly <NUM> or wheel base transport rack <NUM> to be moved again.

To control the operation of the stop brake <NUM>, a control or actuation mechanism <NUM> is provided, as illustrated in the cutaway of <FIG>. In this Figure, the braking mechanism <NUM> is illustrated for use with the wheel base assembly <NUM>, but the braking mechanism <NUM> may be used together with any wheel base assembly, cart, or rack disclosed herein, or any cart or transport device having a wheel assembly. The actuation mechanism <NUM> generally includes a horizontal bar <NUM> and an inverted, U-shaped handle <NUM>. In one embodiment, the horizontal bar <NUM> has a generally circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the handle <NUM> need not be U-shaped, but may take any shape that is able to be gripped by a user.

In this embodiment, the horizontal bar <NUM> is positioned at an end (such as the traverse rear end <NUM> or transverse front end <NUM>) of the wheel base assembly <NUM> and extends between each side (such as longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>) of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The U-shaped handle <NUM> extends from a surface of the horizontal bar <NUM> vertically upwards, preferably to a comfortable height that allows a user to grab the handle <NUM> to move the wheel base assembly <NUM>, but not too high that it obstructs the user being able to pull / push the cart <NUM> by holding onto the body frame <NUM>. The user can optionally grab the handle <NUM> to pull / push the cart <NUM>, though preferably grabs the body frame <NUM> and only uses the handle <NUM> for braking. In one embodiment, the U-shaped handle <NUM> is formed integrally with the horizontal bar <NUM>. In another embodiment, the handle <NUM> is coupled to the horizontal bar <NUM> using any known attachment methods, such as by welding or with bolts or screws.

The horizontal bar <NUM> is coupled to the first end <NUM> of the stop brake <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In one embodiment, the horizontal bar <NUM> is welded to the first end <NUM> of the stop brake <NUM>. The horizontal bar <NUM> is linear and substantially parallel to the end of the rear end <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, and is set back from the rear end <NUM> so that rotation of the bar <NUM> is unobstructed. In operation, when a user lowers the handle <NUM> toward the floor, it causes the horizontal bar <NUM> to rotate the stop brake <NUM> between the open and closed positions discussed above. Thus, when the handle <NUM> is lowered, the second end <NUM> of the stop brake <NUM> activates the stopping mechanism which applies a force against the wheel <NUM> so as to stop the wheel <NUM> from being able to rotate. When the handle <NUM> is raised back up, the second end <NUM> of the stop brake <NUM> deactivates the stopping mechanism to allow the wheel <NUM> to freely rotate again.

As set forth above, the braking mechanism <NUM> may be used together with any of the carts or racks disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the already-existing wheels on a wheel base assembly <NUM>, for example, may be replaced with the wheel and braking mechanism <NUM>. In addition, the braking mechanism <NUM> can be used with any convention cart, such as a single-piece cart that does not have a separate wheel base assembly <NUM>. Still in further embodiments of the invention, while the braking mechanism (including the handle <NUM>) is shown and described as being attached to the base <NUM>, it can be instead attached to the frame <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, the locking mechanism <NUM> is located at one end of the cart <NUM> and the handle <NUM> is located at an opposite end of the cart <NUM>. However, the locking mechanism <NUM> and handle <NUM> can both be located at the same end as each other, or one or both of those can be located at any of the four sides of the cart.

A stationary platform <NUM> may be used in conjunction with a supply transport device, such as the main body <NUM> of cart <NUM>, rack <NUM>, rack <NUM>, supply cart <NUM>, and/or tray cart <NUM>, and the wheel base assembly <NUM> disclosed herein. As illustrated in <FIG>, a supply transport device <NUM> similar to the main body <NUM> of cart <NUM> is used (hereinafter, the "transport device <NUM>"). In this embodiment, the transport device <NUM> may be slidably removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM> onto the stationary platform <NUM> for temporary holding or storage.

Looking to <FIG>, the stationary platform <NUM> (hereinafter, the "platform <NUM>") has a generally rectangular shape.

The platform <NUM> is formed of a frame <NUM> having a top surface <NUM> on which the transport device <NUM> is placed. As set forth in <FIG>, the frame <NUM> has two longitudinal sides <NUM> and <NUM> and two opposing ends <NUM> and <NUM>. At least one cross member <NUM> is provided as part of the frame <NUM> to provide additional support to the transport device <NUM>. The cross member <NUM> is preferably a bar-shaped member and extends perpendicularly between each of the longitudinal sides <NUM> and <NUM>. Although not illustrated, additional cross members may extend perpendicularly between each of the opposing ends <NUM> and <NUM> to provide additional support. The longitudinal sides <NUM> and <NUM>, opposing ends <NUM> and <NUM>, and cross member(s) <NUM> thus form a rectangular structure having openings <NUM> formed in the interior thereof. The openings <NUM> provide more contact surface exposure of the transport device <NUM> where the platform <NUM> is used during a cleaning process, such as being placed inside an autoclaving device. In this way, when the transport device <NUM> is positioned on the platform <NUM> in the autoclaving device, more of its surface area is exposed to provide for better sterilization.

The frame <NUM> is generally supported by a plurality of legs <NUM>. In <FIG>, the frame <NUM> is supported by six legs <NUM>, although any number of legs useful for a particular application or needed to support a particular size and style of cart may be used. For example, the frame <NUM> may be support by four legs <NUM> at each corner. In <FIG>, one leg <NUM> is positioned at each of the corners of the frame <NUM>, at the opposing ends of each longitudinal side <NUM> and <NUM>. Two additional legs <NUM> are positioned at the opposing ends of the cross member <NUM> to provide additional support. Each of the plurality of legs <NUM> is connected to one of the longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the opposing ends <NUM>, <NUM>, and extends from a bottom surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM> downward, so as to engage the floor. The legs <NUM> may have any cross-sectional shape known to provide good support for heavy objects. As illustrated in <FIG>, each of the legs <NUM> has a generally square cross shape. While not limited to such an embodiment, the legs <NUM> may have a length of about <NUM> (<NUM> inches) or less, preferably about <NUM> (<NUM> inches) or less. This keeps the platform <NUM> sufficiently elevated off of the ground so as to avoid being contaminated by any dirt or debris that are on the ground.

The frame <NUM> further includes at least two side rails <NUM> extending along each of the longitudinal sides <NUM> and <NUM>. The side rails <NUM> each have an upright portion <NUM>, an inwardly turned member <NUM> and an inner guide edge <NUM>. The upright portion <NUM> extends perpendicularly upward from the top surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and forms the outer edge of the side rails <NUM>. The inwardly turned member <NUM> extends perpendicularly inwardly with respect to the upright portion <NUM>, so that the inwardly turned member <NUM> is substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the top surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. In this way, a channel <NUM> is formed between the inwardly turned member <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM>.

As shown, the upright portion <NUM> spaces the inwardly turned member <NUM> apart from the top surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM> so that the inner guide edge <NUM> may be aligned with rolling wheel guide assemblies (such as wheel guide assemblies <NUM> of <FIG>) that may be attached to the main body of the transport device <NUM>. In this way, the inner guide edge <NUM> allows the transport device <NUM> to be slidably removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM> and on to the platform <NUM>. The inner guide edge <NUM> also ensures that, one positioned on the platform <NUM>, the transport device <NUM> is not able to slide horizontally relative to the sides <NUM> and <NUM> of the frame <NUM> to prevent it from falling off of the platform <NUM>. Additionally, at least one stop tab <NUM> may be positioned at one end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> to stop the transport device <NUM> from moving any further forward once placed on the platform <NUM>. Alternatively, the frame <NUM> may be designed without any stop tabs <NUM>, such that the transport device <NUM> may be slidably transferred onto (and/or removed from) the platform <NUM> at end <NUM> and slidably removed from (and/or transferred onto) the platform <NUM> at end <NUM>.

At least one of the opposing ends <NUM> and <NUM> of the frame <NUM> includes a hole <NUM>. The hole <NUM> engages a locking mechanism on the cart, such as locking mechanism <NUM> (see <FIG>), for releasably locking the transport device <NUM> to the platform <NUM>. Specifically, looking to <FIG>, the locking mechanism <NUM> includes a locking rod <NUM>. Once placed on the platform <NUM>, the locking rod <NUM> is lowered using a release knob <NUM>, such that the distal end <NUM> of the locking rod <NUM> engages the hole <NUM>, thereby locking the transport device <NUM> in place. This helps to further ensure that the transport device <NUM> is held in place on the platform <NUM>.

In use, as illustrated in <FIG>, the transport device <NUM> is transported to one end <NUM> of the platform <NUM> using the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The transverse front end <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> is aligned with the end <NUM> of the platform <NUM> such that they are in contact. Once the transport device <NUM> is unlocked from the wheel base assembly <NUM>, it is slid from the wheel base assembly <NUM> onto the platform <NUM>. Once the end of the transport device <NUM> engages the stop tab(s) <NUM>, the release knob <NUM> is lowered, thus lowering the locking rod <NUM> into hole <NUM> to lock the transport device <NUM> into place on the platform <NUM>. The wheel base assembly <NUM> may then be transported away from the platform for further use.

Referring back to <FIG>, the side rails <NUM> on the frame <NUM> of the platform <NUM> help to guide the transport device <NUM> onto the platform <NUM> when it is slidably removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM>. Using <FIG> and <FIG> as an example, the guide wheels <NUM> of the transport device <NUM> rotate along the guiderails <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> as the transport device <NUM> is removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM> using handle <NUM>. The guide wheel assemblies <NUM> support, transport, and guide the transport device <NUM> as it slides along the platform <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, and allow the wheel base assembly <NUM> to slide beneath the transport device <NUM>. As the transport device <NUM> slides onto the platform <NUM>, the guide wheels <NUM> engage the inner guide edge <NUM> of the side rails <NUM>.

Specifically, the guide wheels <NUM> are positioned in the channel <NUM> to ensure that the transport device <NUM> is centered on the platform <NUM> and held in place. Once the transport device <NUM> is slid all the way onto the platform <NUM> and aligned with end <NUM>, the end of the transport device <NUM> comes into contact with stop tab <NUM> to ensure that the transport device <NUM> is not pushed any further over the end <NUM>. As detailed above, the locking mechanism <NUM> is then activated to engage the hole <NUM> to lock the transport device <NUM> in place. Likewise, a stop tab can be provided on the top surface of the wheel base assembly <NUM> to prevent the transport device <NUM> extending off of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. As best shown in <FIG>, a stop tab is provided at the top surface along the rear edge of the proximal transverse end closest to the handle. In one embodiment shown, the stop tab can be provided at the rear end at or close to a longitudinal side. However, more than one stop tab can be provided along the rear edge. Thus, the transport device <NUM> can slide onto the top surface of the wheel base assembly <NUM> and comes into contact with the stop tab to ensure that the transport device <NUM> is not pushed any further over the rear edge of the wheel base assembly <NUM>.

In operation, the platform <NUM> is stationary. It can also be attached to a wall or floor. The transport device <NUM>, which is engaged with the wheel base assembly <NUM>, is rolled to the platform <NUM>. The transport device <NUM> is then slidably removed from the wheel base assembly <NUM> and onto the platform <NUM>. The wheel base assembly <NUM> may then be rolled away for further use.

The platform <NUM> may be placed inside of or outside of a clean room environment for temporary holding and/or storage of various carts, such as transport device <NUM>. The platform <NUM> and wheel base assembly <NUM> provide a system that allows for the temporary holding and storage, support, and transport of various carts in these environments.

Another aspect, as illustrated in <FIG>and <FIG>, relates to a cleaning apparatus, such as a cleaning device <NUM>, for use on a wheel base assembly as disclosed herein, such as wheel base assembly <NUM>. The cleaning device <NUM> can be used for scraping off or removing contaminants from the transport device <NUM> and/or for applying a disinfectant, such as an alcohol, to the transport device <NUM>. The cleaning device <NUM> provides a surface across which the transport device <NUM> slides when being transferred from the wheel base assembly <NUM> to the stationary platform <NUM> or vice versa. The cleaning device <NUM> contacts the bottom of the transport device <NUM> and removes any dirt or debris from the bottom of transport device <NUM>, or disinfects the bottom of the transport device <NUM>, as it is transferred onto or off of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In this way, contamination of the clean room environment may be minimized.

Referring to <FIG>, the cleaning device <NUM> is preferably attached to either the front end <NUM> or the rear end <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The cleaning device <NUM> should be attached to the end of the wheel base assembly <NUM> that is opposite the handle of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, so that it engages the transport device <NUM> as it is transferred onto the wheel base assembly <NUM>. As illustrated in the figures, the cleaning device <NUM> is attached to front end <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The front end <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM> includes a downwardly-projecting cross member <NUM> to which the cleaning device <NUM> is attached. The cross member <NUM> extends between the two longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment, the cross member <NUM> extends all the way between the sides <NUM>, <NUM> up to and adjacent the guiderails <NUM>. In this way, the entire bottom surface of the transport device <NUM> may be scraped as it is slidably transferred onto and off of the wheel base assembly <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may be semi-permanently attached to the cross member <NUM>, such as by nails, screws, bolts, or similar mechanical attachment means. In <FIG>, the cleaning device <NUM> is attached to the cross member <NUM> using screws <NUM>. While four screws <NUM> are illustrated, any number of screws <NUM> may be used to attach the cleaning device <NUM> to the cross member <NUM>. In another embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may be attached to the cross member <NUM> by welding, gluing, and other more permanent attachment means. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may be removably coupled to the cross member <NUM> so as to allow for cleaning of the cleaning device <NUM> components.

The cleaning device <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> is formed of a base <NUM> and two cleaning contacts <NUM>. However, the cleaning device <NUM> may include any number of bases <NUM> and cleaning contacts <NUM>. For example, the cleaning device <NUM> may be formed of one base <NUM> and one cleaning contact <NUM>, or one base <NUM> and more than two cleaning contacts <NUM>. In another embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may have more than one base <NUM> which together hold one cleaning contact <NUM>, or the cleaning device <NUM> may have more than one base <NUM> each of which holds one cleaning contact <NUM>. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may not have a base <NUM>, and the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> may be directly coupled to the cross member <NUM>. Alternatively, the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> may be formed integrally with the base <NUM> such that they are all one unitary piece.

The base <NUM> functions to hold each of the cleaning contacts <NUM> in place. The base <NUM> has a trough shape with a bottom surface <NUM> and two upwardly extending sides <NUM>, <NUM>, so as to sufficiently hold each of the cleaning contacts <NUM> in place. The cleaning contact(s) <NUM> sit within the base <NUM>, supported by the bottom surface <NUM> and each of the sides <NUM>, <NUM>. Preferably, the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> extend vertically above each of the sides <NUM>, <NUM>, such that a rounded, contacting portion <NUM> is exposed at the top surface of each of the cleaning contacts <NUM>. The contacting portion <NUM> contacts the bottom surface of the transport device <NUM> so as to remove dirt and debris therefrom as the transport device <NUM> slides across it. While the contacting portion <NUM> is illustrated with a rounded shape, any shape which would sufficiently scrape of the bottom of the transport device <NUM> may be used.

Each of the base <NUM> and the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> have through holes <NUM> extending through a horizontal thickness thereof which receive the screws <NUM>. These through holes <NUM> allow the entire cleaning device <NUM> to be secured to the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In use, the screws <NUM> are positioned in the through holes <NUM> and extend through the base <NUM> and each of the cleaning contacts <NUM> and into the cross member <NUM>. The screws <NUM> hold each of the cleaning contacts <NUM> to the base(s) <NUM>, and the coupled base <NUM> and cleaning contacts <NUM> to the cross member <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the base <NUM> is preferably formed of the same material as the rest of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, such as stainless steel. In one embodiment, the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> are formed of an elastically deformable material, such that they can adequately contact the bottom surface of the transport device <NUM>. In one embodiment, for example, the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> may be in the form of an applicator, such as a polyester sponge. The polyester sponge can be soaked with a cleaning agent/disinfectant, such as alcohol, before its use. In this way, when the transport device <NUM> slides over the polyester sponge, the bottom of the transport device <NUM> may be disinfected. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning contact(s) <NUM> may be formed as a scraper or a scraping device that is formed of a more rigid material, such as silicone or rubber, to remove dirt or debris from the bottom of the transport device <NUM> as the transport device <NUM> engages the cleaning contact(s) <NUM>. In one embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may have more than one cleaning contact <NUM>, such as an applicator (e.g., a polyester sponge) and a scraper used together.

The cleaning device <NUM> preferably extends vertically above the flat top surface <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, such that when the transport device <NUM> slides over the cleaning device <NUM>, enough pressure is applied by the cleaning device <NUM> to the bottom surface of the transport device <NUM> to remove any dirt or debris that may be adhered thereto, or to disinfect the transport device <NUM>. Although not limited to such an embodiment, the cleaning device <NUM> may extend at least about <NUM> (<NUM> inches) vertically above the flat top surface <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. The base <NUM> may be flush with or below the top surface <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. When the transport device <NUM> is positioned on the top surface <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>, it no longer rests on the cleaning contact <NUM> so as to not put any unnecessary pressure on the cleaning contact <NUM>. This also allows the user to service the cleaning contact <NUM> (such as by cleaning with an alcohol wipe if the cleaning contact <NUM> is formed of a more rigid material) when the transport device <NUM> is positioned on the top surface <NUM> of the wheel base assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, the base <NUM> and/or the cleaning contact <NUM> may be removably coupled to the cross member <NUM> to allow for their quick release so they can be removed for cleaning or replaced.

In yet another embodiment, a cleaning device <NUM> may also be attached to the stationary platform <NUM> in the same manner the cleaning device <NUM> is attached to the wheel base assembly <NUM>. In this way, dirt and debris on the bottom of the transport device <NUM> may be removed, or the transport device <NUM> disinfected, once when the transport device <NUM> is slidably removed from wheel base assembly <NUM>, and again when the transport device <NUM> is slidably transferred onto the stationary platform <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A combination of a stationary platform (<NUM>) in conjunction with a supply transport device (<NUM>), the stationary platform (<NUM>) being configured to support the supply transport device (<NUM>), the stationary platform (<NUM>) comprising:
a frame (<NUM>) having at least two longitudinal sides (<NUM>, <NUM>), a first end (<NUM>) and a second opposing end (<NUM>), and a top surface (<NUM>) and a bottom surface (<NUM>), the top surface (<NUM>) being configured for the supply transport device (<NUM>) to be placed thereon;
a plurality of legs (<NUM>) extending from the bottom surface (<NUM>) of the frame (<NUM>) configured to support the frame (<NUM>), and
at least one cross member extending perpendicularly between the at least two longitudinal sides (<NUM>, <NUM>) so that the at least two longitudinal sides (<NUM>, <NUM>), the first end (<NUM>) and the second opposing end (<NUM>) and the at least one cross member form a rectangular structure having openings (<NUM>) formed in the interior thereof, wherein
the stationary platform (<NUM>) slidably receives the supply transport device (<NUM>) on the top surface (<NUM>) of the frame (<NUM>), and
the first end (<NUM>) and/or the second opposing end (<NUM>) of the frame (<NUM>) has a hole (<NUM>) formed therein, configured to engaging a locking mechanism (<NUM>) on the supply transport device (<NUM>).