US20090020661A1

US20090020661A1 - Attachment system

Info

Publication number: US20090020661A1
Application number: US11/986,898
Authority: US
Inventors: Joseph E. Ludwig; James G. Prete
Original assignee: Intigral Inc
Current assignee: Intigral Inc
Priority date: 2007-07-20
Filing date: 2007-11-27
Publication date: 2009-01-22

Abstract

An improved method for holding a cushioning media on a glass transportation cart. The holding arrangement and method can allow for easy replacement of the cushioning media and extend the operational lifespan of the cushioning media.

Description

The present invention claims priority on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/961,315 filed Jul. 20, 2007 entitled “Attachment System,” which is incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention is directed to transport devices, and particularly to transport devices that carry fragile materials, and even more particularly to a glass transportation cart that is used to transport glass panes, assembled glass units, IGU's, framed glass, glass window frames, etc. The glass transportation cart of the present invention includes an arrangement and method for holding a cushioning media on the glass transportation cart, which arrangement and method for holding does not require the use of traditional fasteners or adhesives, thereby protecting the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. in the glass transportation cart from accidental contact with hard substances and subsequent breakage. The holding arrangement and method for holding also can be designed to allow for easy replacement of the cushioning media.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Glass transportation carts have traditionally been used to transport glass to the customers. All of these carts have some sort of cushioning material attached to them to provide separation of the glass from the cart and to insulate the glass from the vibration of the cart as the glass is transported on the cart.
A common cushioning material that is used on glass transportation carts is Homasote. The standard method of attaching Homasote to the glass transportation cart is to use mechanical fasteners (e.g., nails, staples, rivets, screws, etc.) and/or adhesives. One or more of these methods of attachment are used by each of the major cart manufacturers (e.g., GED, HMS, ESCP, Gregory Manufacturing and Bromer).
Each of these attachment methods for Homasote has its inherent drawbacks. The adhesive, when used, tends to not wick into the Homasote, thus only provides a light surface bond between the Homasote and the cart. Given the nature of Homasote, this bond is short lived because the material of the Homasote flakes away at the bond surface, thus the Homasote disengages from the cart after a short period of use. The mechanical fasteners, when used, generally fail in one or two ways. Homasote is formed of an absorbent material. As such, the Homasote can absorb moisture during use, which moisture absorption can cause the Homasote to expand and then contract when the Homasote is exposed to wet and dry environments. The repeated expansion and contraction of the Homasote can result in the mechanical fastener being pulled off and/or loosened from the Homasote. When the mechanical fastener is pulled partially out of the Homasote, there is an increased chance the mechanical fastener will contact the glass panes, glass frames, etc. on the cart, thus potentially causing damage or breakage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. while the glass panes, glass frames, etc. are being transported on the cart. Another failure mode for mechanical fasteners is that the location of the mechanical fastener provides only local support to the Homasote; generally at the location that the mechanical fastener secures the Homasote to the cart. As such, as the glass panes, glass frames, etc. are dragged across the surface of the Homasote as the glass panes, glass frames, etc. are inserted onto and/or removed from the cart, the drag force on the Homasote surface creates bending moments in the Homasote, which bending moments can lead to the shearing of the Homasote and the ultimate disengagement of the Homasote from the cart. Historically, users attempted to overcome this second mode of failure by increasing the number of mechanical fasteners; however, the increased number of mechanical fasteners increased the likelihood of glass/metal contact with the mechanical fasteners. When either or both of the attachment methods fail, the glass panes, glass frames, etc. on the cart is exposed to a more hazardous environment during transport, thereby resulting in a higher tendency of breakage or damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. The use of Homasote on glass transportation carts has resulted in a large and ongoing expense of both material and labor to keep the Homasote in a serviceable condition on the glass transportation carts.
There have been attempts by manufacturers to find alternatives to the use of Homasote on glass transportation carts. One alternative material is the use of a plastic material. There have been some attempts to substitute a UHMW plastic strip for the Homasote. The plastic strip is generally more cut-resistant to glass than Homasote; however, it was found that sealants commonly used on glass frames have a tendency to adhere to the plastic surface when the glass frames were placed in the carts. As such, some of the glass frames were difficult to remove from the cart and/or resulted in damage or breakage to the glass frame when removed from the cart. Consequently, even though the plastic material was more durable material than Homasote, and was also found to better adhere to the cart as compared to Homasote, the use of the plastic strip caused increased damage to the glass frames when the glass frames were removed from the cart. The ability of the Homasote to flake off when adhesive from a glass frame adheres to the top surface of the Homasote enables the glass frame to be easily removed from a cart using Homasote without damaging the glass frame.
Some manufacturers have attempted to use mechanical fasteners to secure Homasote to the top surface of the plastic strip that was in turn secured to the cart. Such an arrangement resulted in added cost, and also resumed the high maintenance costs of Homasote repairs, and also increased the risk of the mechanical fasteners contacting the glass panes, glass frames, etc. and damaging the glass panes, glass frames, etc. on the cart.
On some glass transportation carts, there is an upright side frame upon which the glass panes, glass frames, etc. are leaned against during transport of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. on the cart. Traditionally, Homasote was used on the upright side frame of these carts to prevent damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. The traditional methods of securing Homasote were used to secure the Homasote on the upright side frame of the cart. Because the forces exerted on the upright side frame of the cart were generally less than the forces on the base of the cart when glass panes, glass frames, etc. were inserted and removed from the cart, the shearing off of the Homasote was less of a problem. However, some manufacturers attempted to use plastic strips in the place of Homasote. As with use of the plastic strip on the base of the cart, the plastic strips on the upright side frame of the cart resulted in the glass frames sticking to the plastic strips. Silicone tape was used on the surface of the plastic strip to prevent or reduce the sticking problem. Since less force was applied to the upright side frame of the cart, the silicone tape was believed to be durable enough for use on the cart. However, it was found that the sharp edges of the glass frames resulted in the tape being cut and damaged.
In view of the current state of the art of glass transportation carts, there is a need for an improved glass transportation cart that includes a fastening arrangement for Homasote that overcomes the problem of prior glass transportation carts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to glass transportation carts that are used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. The glass transportation cart of the present invention includes an improved attachment arrangement for a cushioning media (e.g., Homasote, etc.) used on the glass transportation cart. The glass transportation cart of the present invention may also include an improved stacking arrangement for multiple glass transportation carts; however, this is not required. The improved attachment arrangement for the cushioning media is generally designed to reduce the incidence of shearing of the cushioning media. The improved attachment arrangement of the present invention is also generally designed to reduce the incidence of damage or breakage of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart that can result from contact of the attachment arrangement with the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. when the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. are positioned on and/or removed from the glass transportation cart. The improved attachment arrangement of the present invention is also generally designed to attach the cushioning media by an arrangement that does not require traditional fasteners or adhesives; however, this is not required. The improved attachment arrangement of the present invention is also generally designed to allow for easy replacement of the cushioning media; however, this is not required.
In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the improved attachment arrangement of the present invention includes a hook arrangement. The hook arrangement is particularly directed to securing a cushioning media (e.g., Homasote, etc.) to a glass transportation cart that has an upright side frame on a dual frame cart; however, it can be appreciated that the hook arrangement can be used to secure the cushioning media to other locations on the dual frame cart and/or on other types of glass transportation carts. The hook arrangement is designed to provide an efficient and effective arrangement to hang the cushioning media on one or more regions of the glass transportation cart. The hook arrangement is designed to secure the cushioning media to the glass transportation cart in a manner that limits or prevents contact of the hook arrangement with one or more glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the glass transportation cart. As such, by at least partially isolating the hooking arrangement from the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart, the incidence of damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart by the hook arrangement is significantly reduced. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the hook arrangement is in the form of a specially configured hook. The front portion of the hook includes an insertion section that is designed to be inserted into and/or penetrate into the cushioning media (e.g., Homasote, plastic, rubber, foam, wood, etc.). The insertion section of the hook can include a sharpened end portion to facilitate in the insertion into the cushioning media; however, this is not required. The hook is generally designed such that the insertion section engages a bottom region of the cushioning media so that the hook at least partially supports the weight of the cushioning media at the bottom region of the cushioning media; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the thickness of the insertion section is less than about 50% the thickness of the cushioning media. In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the thickness of the insertion section is less than about 30% the thickness of the cushioning media. In one non-limiting example, the thickness of the cushioning media is about 0.2-1.5 inches, and generally about 0.25-0.5 inches and the thickness of the insertion section is about 0.05-0.1 inches; however, it can be appreciated that other thickness of the cushioning media and/or the insertion section can be used. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the insertion section is designed and has a thickness such that when the insertion section is at least partially inserted into the cushioning media, the insertion section is located closer to the back wall of the cushioning media than to the front wall of the cushioning media. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the insertion section is designed and has a length such that when the insertion section is inserted into the cushioning media, the insertion section does not extend through the full width of the cushioning media, thus the end of the insertion section is located inside the cushioning media. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the hook includes a front transition section that connects the bottom of the insertion section to the bottom of the intermediate section of the hook. The front transition section can be curved in shape; however, this is not required. The intermediate section of the hook is designed to extend along the back face of the cushioning media when the insertion section engages the cushioning media. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the intermediate section has a length such that the intermediate section extends at least 50% the width of the cushioning media when the insertion section is fully inserted in the cushioning media. In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the intermediate section has a length such that the intermediate section extends at least 75% of the width of the cushioning media when the insertion section is fully inserted in the cushioning media. In one non-limiting example, at least about 40% of the length of the insertion section is generally parallel to a portion of the intermediate section; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the hook includes a back transition section that connects the top of the intermediate section of the hook to the top of the arm section of the hook. The back transition section can be curved in shape; however, this is not required. The arm section of the hook is designed to secure the hook to the glass transportation cart. The arm section is designed to extend downwardly from the front transition section. The length of the arm section is generally less than the length of the intermediate section; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting example, the length of the arm section is no more than about 85% the length of the intermediate section. In another and/or alternative non-limiting example, at least about 30% the length of the arm section is generally parallel to a portion of the intermediate section; however, this is not required. A portion of the arm section can include a tension arrangement; however, this is not required. Generally, the tension arrangement, when used, is positioned at or near the bottom end of the arm section; however, this is not required. The tension arrangement is generally designed to facilitate in maintaining the hook on the glass transportation cart. The hook is generally formed of a durable material (e.g., metal, plastic, etc.). In one non-limiting application of the hook of the present invention, there is provided a dual frame glass transportation cart having an upright side frame. Mounted in spaced relationship to the front face of the upright side frame is a durable strip of material (e.g., metal strip, plastic strip, etc.). The spaced relationship between the front face of the upright side frame and the durable strip forms a slot that enables the arm section of the hook to be inserted therein. The durable strip can be mounted to the upright side frame of the glass transportation cart in a variety of ways (e.g., bolt, nail, screw, rivet, adhesive, etc.). As can be appreciated, many other arrangements can be used to form a slot or opening for the arm section of the hook (e.g., the upright side frame of the glass transportation cart can include openings and/or slots designed to receive the arm section; the upright side frame and/or connected strip can include openings, slots, ribs, etc. so as to form openings or slots for the arm section, etc.). The tension arrangement on the arm section includes an elbow portion that causes friction between the arm section and the slot between the mounted durable strip and upright side frame of the glass transportation cart so as to hold the arm section of the hook in the slot. As can be appreciated, the arm portion can have many other shapes and configurations that are used to secure the arm section in the slot. The arm section is positioned in the slot until the back transition section engages the top of the durable strip. A cushioning media such as a strip of Homasote can be inserted onto the insertion portion of the hook prior to or after the arm section of the hook is inserted into the slot. The hook is designed such that the back surface of the strip of cushioning media is generally parallel to the front face of the durable strip; however, this is not required. The arrangement for the novel hook enables the cushioning media to be easily secured to the upright side frame of the glass transportation cart. The arrangement for the novel hook also enables the cushioning media to be easily removed from the glass transportation cart. The removal of the cushioning media from the glass transportation cart can be accomplished by simply removing the arm section from the slot that is formed between the durable strip and upright side frame of the glass transportation cart, and/or by removing the cushioning media from the insertion section on the hook.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an attachment arrangement that includes a base portion and two side walls that form a channel used to at least partially secure a cushioning media therein. One of the major problems associated with prior art attachment arrangements for Homasote was that the use in the prior art attachment arrangements provided only localized support for the Homasote. As such, the Homasote was thus only held in place where the prior art fastener is located. As glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. were dragged over the surface of the Homasote, the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. pulled on and created a bending moment on the Homasote. This bending moment could cause shearing of the Homasote, thereby resulting in the Homasote being pulled off the glass transportation cart. The weight of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. and/or the vibration caused by the movement of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the top surface of the Homasote caused the prior art fasteners to become loose and/or run-out or lift out from the Homasote. Such movement of the prior art fasteners resulted in increasing the incidence of contact of the fasteners with the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which contact could result in damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. and/or cause the Homasote to premature release from the glass transportation cart. The attachment arrangement of the present invention overcomes these past problems associated with prior art fasteners. The attachment arrangement can be formed of a variety of materials (e.g., metal, plastic, composite material, etc.). Typically, the attachment arrangement is formed of non-corrosive materials (e.g., galvanized steel, tin-plated steel, stainless steel, plastic, brass, aluminum, painted materials, sealed materials, etc.); however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the attachment arrangement of the present invention includes a channel that is designed to support the cushioning media along at least a majority of the longitudinal length of the cushioning media that is exposed to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc.; thereby inhibiting or preventing the shearing of the cushioning media when the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. are inserted on and/or removed from the glass transportation cart. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the attachment arrangement that includes a rail having a channel is designed to support the cushioning media along at least about 60% of the longitudinal length of the cushioning media. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the attachment arrangement that includes a rail having a channel is designed to support the cushioning media along at least about 80% of the longitudinal length of the cushioning media. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the attachment arrangement that includes a rail having a channel is designed to support the cushioning media along at least about 90% of the longitudinal length of the cushioning media. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the rail includes two side walls that at least partially form a channel. The channel can have a generally U-shaped, cross-sectional shape; however, this is not required. The size and shape of the two side walls are generally the same along the longitudinal length of the rail; however, this is not required. The two side walls extend generally perpendicular to the plane of the base portion of the rail; however, this is not required. If one or more of the side walls are not extending generally perpendicular to the plane of the base portion, one or both of the side walls can be angled inwardly into the channel and/or outwardly from the channel at an angle of about 1-40°. In another and/or alternative one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the side walls have a height that is less than the thickness of the cushioning media so as to limit or prevent contact of the top surface of the side walls with the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the glass transportation cart. Generally, the height of each side wall is less than about 90% the thickness of the cushioning media, typically less than about 70% the thickness of the cushioning media, more typically less than about 50% of the thickness of the cushioning media, and even more typically about 5-35% of the thickness of the cushioning media. In still another and/or alternative one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the base portion of the rail can include one or more teeth, barbs and/or other or additional non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces; however, the use of non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces is not required. The use of the non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces, when used, can be used to inhibit movement of the cushioning media in the channel of the rail. As can be appreciated, an adhesive alternatively or additionally can be used to inhibit movement of the cushioning media in the channel of the rail. The height of the non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces, when used, is generally less than the height of the side walls. In one non-limiting example, the height of the non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces, when used, is less than about 90% of the height of the side walls. In another non-limiting example, the height of the non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces, when used, is less than about 80% of the height of the side walls. In still another non-limiting example, the height of the non-smooth and/or gripping surfaces, when used, is less than about 70% of the height of the side walls. In yet another and/or alternative one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the base portion and/or one or more of the side walls of the rail can have a generally flat surface; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, a majority of the upper face of the base portion that is designed to face the cushioning media lies in the same flat planar plane. In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, a majority of the inside face of the side walls that are designed to face the cushioning media lie in the same flat planar plane. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, one or both side walls can include one or more opening, slots, and/or non-smooth surfaces on one or more portions of the side wall; however, this is not required. In still yet another and/or alternative one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the spacing of the two side walls from one another can be less than the width of the cushioning media, equal to the width of the cushioning media, and/or greater than the width of the cushioning media along one or more portions of the longitudinal length of the attachment arrangement. In one non-limiting example, the spacing of the inner surface of the two side walls from one another is equal to the width of the cushioning media. In another non-limiting example, the spacing of the inner surface of the two side walls from one another is up to about 99.99% of the width of the cushioning media. In still another non-limiting example, the spacing of the inner surface of the two side walls from one another is up to about 99.95% of the width of the cushioning media. In still another non-limiting example, the spacing of inner surface of the two side walls from one another is about 90-99.95% of the width of the cushioning media. In yet another non-limiting example, the spacing of the inner surface of the two side walls from one another is about 95-99.9% of the width of the cushioning media. In still yet another non-limiting example, the spacing of the inner surface of the two side walls from one another is about 97.5-99.5% of the width of the cushioning media. In still yet another and/or alternative one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the rail can be secured to the glass transportation cart and/or to another material that is in turn directly or indirectly connected to the cart in a variety of ways. For example, the following non-limiting connectors can be used individually or in some combination to secure the rail: adhesive, clamp, wire, solder, weld, mechanical fastener (e.g., rivet, bolt, nail, screw, staple, rope, string, Velcro, etc.), etc. The rail can be designed to be removably connected to the glass transportation cart or permanently connected to the glass transportation cart. The base portion of the rail can include one or more slots and/or openings. The one or more openings and/or slots can be used to secure the rail to the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. One or more rails can be used to secure the cushioning media along the longitudinal length of the cushioning media to the glass transportation cart.
In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an attachment arrangement that includes a rail that has a base portion and two side walls that form a channel that is used to at least partially secure a cushioning media therein, which one or both of the side walls include a non-planar wall configuration. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, one or both of the side walls has a cross-sectional shape that enables one or both side walls to at least partially retract when the cushioning media is inserted into the channel. Many different cross-sectional shapes of the one or both side walls can be used to accomplish this side wall feature (e.g., C-shaped cross-sectional shape, V-shaped cross-sectional shape, 7-shaped cross-sectional shape, U-shaped cross-sectional shape, L-shaped cross-sectional shaped, J-shaped cross-sectional shape, etc.). The one or both side walls can also be designed to at least partially spring back during and/or after the cushioning media has been inserted in the channel; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, at least one of the side walls has a generally C-shaped configuration. Various types of C-shaped configurations can be used for one or both side walls. The C-shaped configuration and/or other cross-sectional shapes of one or more of the side walls can be used to facilitate in better maintaining the cushioning media in the channel. When the cushioning media is inserted into the channel, and the distance between the top or front edges of the two side walls is less than the width of the cushioning media, the insertion of the cushioning media into the channel will cause the one or more C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls to slightly spring backward to enable the cushioning media to be inserted into the channel. Once the cushioning media is inserted into the channel, one or both of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls will attempt to spring back into place resulting in the top or front edges of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls to dig slightly into one or both sides of the cushioning media. The springing back of the one or more C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls also can create a downward force on the cushioning media to facilitate in causing the cushioning media to move further into the channel. The front edge or lip of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls also provides lateral support to the cushioning media that is positioned in the channel. One or more of these effects of the springing back of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls facilitate in securing the cushioning media in the channel. The one or two C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls can result in the cushioning media being able to be pushed and inserted into the channel, yet still inhibit or prevent the cushioning media from being easily lifted out of the channel. The “spring effect” of the one or more C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls allows the one or two side walls to move apart from one another when the cushioning media is inserted into the channel, and also causes the front edge of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall to spring back and then grab into the side of the cushioning media to thereby facilitate in securing the cushioning media in the channel. Any force applied to the cushioning media which tries to pull the cushioning media up and out of the channel causes the front edges of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls to bite deeper into the side of the cushioning media, thereby further securing the cushioning media in the channel. The C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped profile of one or both of the side walls also provided an easy way for the cushioning media to be pushed out along the longitudinal length of the channel when replacing and/or removing the cushioning media from the channel. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, when both side walls include a C-shape and/or other cross-sectional shape, the size and shape of the two side walls are generally the same along the longitudinal length of the attachment arrangement; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the height of the one or both side walls that include a C-shape and/or other cross-sectional shape is generally less than the thickness of the cushioning media. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the height of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall is less than about 95% of the thickness of the cushioning media. In another one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the height of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall is less than about 90% the thickness of the cushioning media. In still another non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the height of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall is less than about 75% the thickness of the cushioning media. In yet another non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the height of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall is less than about 60% the thickness of the cushioning media. In still yet another non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the height of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall is less than about 50% the thickness of the cushioning media. In another non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the height of the C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side wall is about 5-35% the thickness of the cushioning media. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the spacing of the top edges of the two side walls from one another can be less than the width of the cushioning media, equal to the width of the cushioning media, and/or greater than the width of the cushioning media along one or more portions of the longitudinal length of the side walls. In one non-limiting example, the spacing of the top or front edges of the two side walls from one another is equal to the width of the cushioning media. In another non-limiting example, the spacing of the top of front edges of the two side walls from one another is up to about 99.99% the width of the cushioning media. In still another non-limiting example, the spacing of the top or front edges of the two side walls from one another is up to about 99.95% the width of the cushioning media. In still another non-limiting example, the spacing of the top or front edges of the two side walls from one another is about 90-99.95% the width of the cushioning media. In yet another non-limiting example, the spacing of the top or front edges of the two side walls from one another is about 95-99.9% the width of the cushioning media. In still yet another non-limiting example, the spacing of the top or front edges of the two side walls from one another is about 97.5-99.5% the width of the cushioning media.
In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an attachment arrangement that includes a rail having a base portion and two side walls that form a channel for at least partially securing a cushioning media therein, which one or both of the side walls include one or more slots so that the side wall is at least partially segmented along the longitudinal length of the side wall. The one or more slots, when used, allow the side wall to accommodate more variation along the width of the cushioning media. The slots can have the same or different size, configuration and/or spacing from one another. When both side walls include one or more slots, the slots on the two side walls can have the same or different size, configuration, spacing from one another, and/or location along the length of the side wall; however, this is not required.
Several non-limiting features of the attachment arrangement that include a rail that having a channel are as follows:

- No mechanical fasteners (staples/nails) are used to hold the cushioning media in place. This feature inhibits or prevents glass/metal contact which is common when the fasteners work loose from the cushioning media. As such, the incidence of damage or breakage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart is reduced.
- No other known cart manufacturer uses the attachment arrangement of the present invention.
- The cushioning media can be installed without tools.
- The strip of cushioning media can be quickly and easily replaced when damaged without tools, thus reducing repair time and labor requirements.
- The attachment arrangement can accommodate different thicknesses of cushioning media without changes to the attachment arrangement.
- The attachment arrangement can accommodate different hardnesses of cushioning media without changes to the attachment arrangement.
- The attachment arrangement can accommodate physical changes in the cushioning media (e.g., swelling and/or contraction of cushioning media due to moisture content changes in the cushioning media, etc.) without loss of holding strength of the attachment arrangement to the cushioning media.
- The attachment arrangement can provide excellent lateral support for the edges of the strip of cushioning media, thereby reducing strip breakage which can result in timely repairs.
- The attachment arrangement can be made of a non-corroding or corrosion-resistant material.
- The attachment arrangement can have a simple, lightweight, and/or inexpensive design.
- The attachment arrangement has a low profile that reduces or prevents incidences of contact with the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart.
- The inherent “spring design” of the one or more C-shaped and/or other cross-sectional shaped side walls holds the cushioning media in place and inhibits or prevents the cushioning media from being lifted from the channel in the rail when the glass panes, glass frames, etc. are moved onto and/or off of the glass transportation cart and/or are lifted out of the glass transportation cart.
- The attachment arrangement can be used on a wide variety of different types and/or sizes of glass transportation carts.
- The attachment arrangement can be connected to the glass transportation cart using a variety of connection arrangements (e.g., adhesive, nail, screw, rivet, bolt, solder, welding, etc.).
- The attachment arrangement can be connected vertically, horizontally, or at some other orientation on the glass transportation cart and still hold and support the cushioning media without having to modify the attachment arrangement.

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved flat bed movable cart that is designed to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. The flat bed movable cart has a main frame having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of wheels. The top surface of the main frame is generally parallel to a ground surface upon which the wheels roll upon; however, this is not required. The flat bed movable cart generally has two or more wheels. In one non-limiting configuration, the flat bed movable cart includes four wheels that are generally positioned on or about the four corners of the frame. As can be appreciated, the wheels can be positioned on or about other locations on the frame. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, at least one wheel is generally pivotally mounted to the frame so that the flat bed cart can be easily turned when being moved on the ground surface; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the main frame has a generally rectangular shape, however, it can be appreciated that other frame shapes can be used. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the main frame includes a plurality of spacer bars that are positioned across the width of the main frame; however, this is not required. The spacer bars, when used, allow broken glass to easily fall to a ground surface. As such, when glass inadvertently breaks, the glass falls to the floor and does not accumulate on the top surface of the flat bed cart. This spacer bar arrangement for the main frame makes the cleanup of the glass much easier. This spacer bar arrangement for the main frame also enables continued use of the flat bed cart for transport of the remaining glass without having to unload the remaining glass and then clean the broken glass off of the top surface of the flat bed cart. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more spacer bars on the main frame can be designed such that the top surface and/or bottom surface of the one or more spacer bars are generally parallel to the ground surface when the flat bed cart is positioned on a ground surface; however, this is not required.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved dual frame movable cart that is designed to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. The dual frame cart includes a main frame and an upright side frame. The main frame includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of wheels. The top surface of the main frame is generally in a parallel relationship to a ground surface upon which the wheels roll upon; however, this is not required. The dual frame cart generally has two or more wheels. In one non-limiting configuration, the dual frame cart includes four wheels that are generally positioned on or about the four corners of the main frame. As can be appreciated, the wheels can be positioned on or about other locations on the main frame. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, at least one wheel is generally pivotally mounted to the main frame so that the dual frame cart can be easily turned when being moved on the ground surface; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the main frame has a generally rectangular shape, shape; however, it can be appreciated that other frame shapes can be used. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the main frame includes a plurality of spacer bars that are positioned across the longitudinal length of the main frame; however, this is not required. The spacer bars, when used, allow broken glass to easily fall to a ground surface. As such, when glass inadvertently breaks, the glass falls to the floor and does not accumulate on the top surface of the dual frame cart. This spacer bar arrangement for the main frame makes the cleanup of the glass much easier. This spacer bar arrangement for the main frame also enables continued use of the dual frame cart for transport of the remaining glass without having to unload the remaining glass and then clean the broken glass off of the top surface of the dual frame cart. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a plurality of spacer bars on the main frame are mounted in generally a parallel relationship to one another; however, this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a plurality of spacer bars on the main frame are mounted so that the top surface and/or bottom surface of the spacer bars lie in generally the same plane as one another; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more spacer bars on the main frame can be designed to such that the top surface and/or bottom surface of the one or more spacer bars are generally in a nonparallel relationship to the ground surface when the dual frame cart is positioned on a ground surface; however, this is not required. In one aspect of this embodiment, the one or more spacer bars angle downwardly from one side of the main frame to the other side of the main frame that has the upright side frame connected or interconnected thereto. In one non-limiting arrangement, the one or more spacer bars angle downwardly at a generally uniform angle; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, a plurality of spacer bars angle downwardly at generally the same angle; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, a plurality of spacer bars angle downwardly at an angle of about 0.5-45°. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, a plurality of spacer bars angle downwardly at an angle of about 1-40°. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, a plurality of spacer bars angle downwardly at an angle of about 5-20°; however, other smaller or greater angles can be used in the dual frame cart. The angular orientation of the space bars on the main frame result in the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the dual frame cart to tilt toward the upright side frame of the dual frame cart. This angular positioning of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. facilitates in maintaining the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. in the dual frame cart when the dual frame cart is moved. The angular positioning of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. also enables the dual frame cart to face in any direction in a truck or other type of transport vehicle. As such, the angular positioning of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. in the dual frame cart inhibits or prevents sliding of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. off the dual frame cart and/or rotation or flipping of the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. in the dual frame cart during movement of the dual frame cart. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the upright side frame includes a front face and a back face. In one non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the upright side frame has a generally rectangular shape, shape; however, it can be appreciated that other frame shapes can be used. In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of this embodiment, the upright side frame includes a plurality of spacer bars that are positioned across the longitudinal length of the upright side frame; however, this is not required. The spacer bars, when used, allow broken glass to easily fall to a ground surface. As such, when glass inadvertently breaks, the glass falls to the floor and does not accumulate on the upright side frame of the dual frame cart. This spacer bar arrangement for the upright side frame makes the cleanup of the glass much easier. This spacer bar arrangement for the upright side frame also enables continued use of the dual frame cart for transport of the remaining glass without having to unload the remaining glass and then clean the broken glass off of the dual frame cart. In one non-limiting arrangement, the spacer bars on the upright side frame are mounted in generally a parallel relationship to one another; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, the spacer bars on the upright side frame are mounted so that the top surface and/or bottom surface of the spacer bars lie in generally the same plane as one another; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the angular relationship between the top surface of one or more spacer bars on the main frame and the top surface of one or more spacer bars on the upright side frame is about 70-120°, typically about 80-100°, and more typically about 90°.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart include one or more spacer mounting arrangements that are used to mount one or more glass separators on the glass transportation cart. The spacer mounting arrangements can be designed to releasably secure the glass separators to the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, one or more spacer mounting arrangements are positioned in and/or secured to one or more spacer bars on the main frame of the flat bed cart or dual frame cart. As can be appreciated, one or more spacer mounting arrangements can be positioned on and/or secured to one or more other or additional locations on the flat bed cart or dual frame cart. In one non-limiting configuration, the one or more spacer mounting arrangements are designed to mount one or more of the glass separators at an angle of about 45-90° relative to the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars on a flat bed cart, typically at an angle of about 60-90° relative to the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars on a flat bed cart, and more typically at an angle of about 80-90° relative to the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars on a flat bed cart. In another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the invention, one or more glass separators are secured to both the main frame and upright side frame of the dual frame cart by a spacer mounting arrangement. The one or more glass separators can be mounted so as to be releasably connected to the main frame and upright side frame of the dual frame cart or be permanently connected to the main frame and upright side frame of the dual frame cart. In one non-limiting configuration, the one or more glass separators are mounted on the dual frame cart at an angle of about 5-80° relative to the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars on the main frame, typically at an angle of about 15-70° relative to the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars on the main frame, and more typically at an angle of about 30-50° relative to the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars on the main frame. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the cross-section of the spacer mounting arrangement is generally selected to have a similar cross-sectional shape to the base portion of the glass separator when the spacer mounting arrangement is designed to at least telescopically receive at least a portion of a glass separator; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, one or more of the spacer mounting arrangements have a generally circular cross-sectional shape; however, it can be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes can be used. In another and/or additional non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more glass separators have a rod-shape configuration; however, it can be appreciated that one or more of the glass separators can have other forms. The glass separators are generally formed of a durable material (e.g., plastic, steel, plastic coated steel, etc.). The glass separators can also or alternatively be formed of a material and/or include a coating material that is used to reduce damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the top surface of the one or more spacer mounting arrangements is positioned below the level of the top surface of the cushioning media so that the spacer mounting arrangements do not contact the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the glass transportation cart.
In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes one or more gates at the front and/or back end of the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. The use of one or more gates is generally on the flat bed cart; however, it can be appreciated that one or more gates can be used on a dual frame cart. The one or more gates can be used to reduce damage to glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the top surface of the glass transportation cart by providing additional space between the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart at one or both ends of the glass transportation cart. The front end of the one or more gates can include a shock absorbing material; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more gates can be designed to slide and/or be repositioned on the main frame of the glass transportation cart so as to lengthen the top surface of the glass transportation cart to thereby accommodate longer glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. In one non-limiting configuration of the glass transportation cart, the main frame and/or upright side frame of the glass transportation cart includes one or more gate cavities to telescopically receive at least a portion of the gate; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more gates can include a locking arrangement (e.g., pin, clip, bolt, latch, etc.) used to secure and/or lock the one or more of the gates in position on the main frame and/or upright side frame of the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more gates can be used to stack two or more glass transportation carts on top of one another to facilitate in the storage and/or transport of a plurality of glass transportation carts. When the one or more gates are used for stacking the glass transportation carts, one or more of the glass transportation carts include one or more gate mounting arrangements. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more gate mounting arrangements are generally positioned on the main frame portion of the frame; however, it can be appreciated that the one or more gate mounting arrangement can be also or alternatively positioned on one or more of the spacer bars of the main frame. In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the cross-section of the gate mounting arrangement is generally selected to have a similar cross-sectional shape to the base portion of the one or more gates; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, one or more of the gate mounting arrangements have a generally polygonal cross-sectional shape (e.g., rectangular, square, etc.); however, it can be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes can be used. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the top surface of the one or more gate mounting arrangements is positioned below the level of the top surface of the cushioning media on the main frame so that the gate mounting arrangements do not contact the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more gate mounting arrangements can include a locking arrangement (e.g., pin, clip, bolt, latch, etc.) used to secure and/or lock the one or more of the gates in position in the gate mounting arrangement; however, this is not required.
In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes one or more guide mount arrangements designed to mount and/or connect to a safety indicator and/or pull pole. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the safety indicator, when used, is designed to draw attention to the glass transportation cart so as to reduce or prevent incidences whereby an individual bumps into, trips over, etc. the glass transportation cart. The safety indicator, when used, is designed to draw attention to the cart so as to a) reduce or prevent incidences whereby an individual is injured by the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. located on the transportation cart, and/or b) reduce or prevent incidences whereby an individual damages the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. located on the glass transportation cart. The safety indicator can take on many forms such as, but not limited to, poles, flags and poles, etc. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the pull pole, when used, is designed to facilitate in the movement of the glass transportation cart. As can be appreciated, the pull pole and safety indicator can be the same; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more guide mounting arrangements are generally positioned on the outer surface or edge of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the one or more guide mounting arrangements can be also or alternatively positioned on other locations on the main frame of the glass transportation cart. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the cross-section of one or more of the guide mounting arrangements are generally selected to have a similar cross-sectional shape to the base portion of the one or more safety indicators and/or pull poles; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, one or more of the guide mounting arrangements have a generally circular or polygonal cross-sectional shape (e.g., rectangular, square, etc.); however, it can be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes can be used. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the top surface of one or more guide mounting arrangements is positioned below the level of the top surface of the cushioning media on the main frame so that the guide mounting arrangements do not contact the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more guide mounting arrangements can include a locking arrangement (e.g., pin, clip, bolt, latch, etc.) used to secure and/or lock the one or more of the safety indicators and/or pull poles in position in the guide mounting arrangement; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more guide mounting arrangements can be designed to facilitate in lifting the glass transportation cart by a fork lift and/or other type of mechanical lifter; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more guide mounting arrangements can be designed to facilitate in connecting the glass transportation cart in a transport vehicle so as to facilitate in the transport of the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the one or more guide mounting arrangements can be designed to facilitate in connecting the glass transportation cart to a storage facility so as to facilitate in the storage of the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required.
In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes one or more information receptacles. The information receptacles, when used, can hold information regarding the glass transportation cart, the contents on the glass transportation cart, and/or shipping information regarding the glass transportation cart and/or the contents on the glass transportation cart. As can be appreciated, other or additional information can be stored in the one or more information receptacles. The information stored in the information receptacles can be electronic and/or non-electronic information (e.g., paper information and/or instructions, etc.).
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes a side bumper arrangement. The use of a side bumper arrangement is generally used on the dual frame cart; however, it can be appreciated that the side bumper arrangement can be used on the flat bed cart. The side bumper arrangement can be positioned on one or both sides of the main frame of the glass transportation cart. The side bumper arrangement can be used to reduce damage to glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the top surface of the glass transportation cart by providing additional space between the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on one or both sides of the glass transportation cart. The side bumper arrangement can include a shock absorbing material; however, this is not required.
In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes one or more handles that can be used to position and move the glass transportation cart. The use of one or more handles is generally used on the dual frame cart; however, it can be appreciated that one or more handles can be used on the flat bed cart. The one or more handles are generally positioned on the upright side frame of the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required.
In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a dual frame glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which dual frame cart includes one or more support arrangements connected between the main frame and the upright side frame; however, this is not required. The one or more support arrangements are designed to provide structural strength and/or rigidity to the dual frame cart. The one or more support arrangements are generally secured to the main frame and the upright back by use of a screw, weld, rivet, bolt, clamp, slot, etc.; however, it can be appreciated that other or additional securing arrangements can be used. In one non-limiting configuration, the one or more support arrangements can be, but are not limited to, rods or poles. In another and/or alternative non-limiting configuration, the one or more support arrangements can be formed of a material and/or include a coating material to reduce damage to the glass in the cart; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting configuration, the one or more support arrangements are secured to the front and/or back end of the glass transportation cart; however, it can be appreciated that the one or more support arrangements can also or alternatively be positioned at some location between the front and back ends of the cart. The one or more support arrangements can be used to facilitate in separating glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are located on the glass transportation cart; however, this is not required.
In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a dual frame glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which the upright side frame of the dual frame cart includes a stacking arrangement that enables two or more dual frame carts to be stacked on top of one another. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the upright side frame includes at least one mounting surface that protrudes above the top side of the upright side frame. One or more of the mounting surfaces can be designed to be at least partially telescopically inserted into stack mounting arrangements located on the main frame or upright side frame of another dual frame cart when one dual frame cart is stacked upon another dual frame cart. Alternatively, one or more of the mounting surfaces can be designed to at least partially telescopically receive in at least a portion of a stack mounting arrangements that located on the main frame of another dual frame cart when one dual frame cart is stacked upon another dual frame cart. In one non-limiting configuration, the upright side frame includes two mounting surfaces. The top portion of at least one of the mounting surfaces has a generally semispherical shape; however, it will be appreciated that many different shapes can be used. In another and/or alternative non-limiting configuration, the main frame includes at least one stack mounting arrangement located on each side of the main frame of the dual frame cart. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, stacking gate can be used to facilitate in stacking of two or more dual frame carts. The stacking gate, when used, is generally designed to be connected to the main frame on the opposite side from the upright side frame; however, this is not required. The stacking gate is generally designed to be used with the one or more mounting surfaces on the upright side frame so as to stack two or more dual frame carts. In one non-limiting configuration, the bottom portion of the stacking gate is designed to be connected to one or more gate mounting arrangements located on the main frame. The top portion of the stacking gate, which can be, but is not required to be, similar to the mounting surfaces on the upright side frame, can be designed to be at least partially telescopically inserted into stack mounting arrangements located on the main frame or upright side frame of another dual frame cart when one dual frame cart is stacked upon another dual frame cart. Alternatively, the top portion of the stacking gate can be designed to at least partially telescopically receive at least a portion of a stack mounting arrangement that is located on the main frame of the dual frame cart when one dual frame cart is stacked upon another dual frame cart. In one non-limiting configuration, a top portion of the stacking gate includes two mounting surfaces. At least one of the mounting surfaces on the top portion of the stacking gate has a generally semispherical shape; however, it will be appreciated that many different shapes can be used. In another and/or alternative non-limiting configuration, the upright side frame can include one or more brackets or other type mounting system to hold or store the stacking gate when the stacking gate is not in use; however, this is not required. When the upright frame includes one or more brackets or other type mounting system for the stacking gate, the one or more brackets or other type mounting system is generally located on the outer surface of the upright side frame; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the stacking gate can be stored in other manners on the upright side frame and/or be stored on the main frame. When the stacking gate is secured by a bracket or other means to the dual frame cart, the bracket or other means is generally designed so that the stacking gate can be easily connected to, hung and/or secured to the bracket or other means, and is also generally designed so that the stacking gate can be easily removed from the bracket or other means. In still yet another non-limiting configuration, the stacking gate can be secured to the gate mounting attachments located on the main frame or spacer bars of the main frame to limit or prevent damage to glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are located in the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. The stacking gate, when used in this fashion, can function similarly to a safety indicator and/or pull pole as previously described above; however, this is not required. The stacking gate, when used in this fashion, can also or alternatively prevent glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are located in the dual frame cart from inadvertently siding off the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, at least two stack mounting arrangements are located on each side of the main frame of the dual frame cart. The one or more stack mounting arrangements are designed to engage with one or more mounting surfaces on the upright side frame and/or the top portion of a stacking gate so as to facilitate in the stacking of at least two dual frame carts. The stack mounting arrangements are generally located diametrically apart from one another on each side of the main frame; however, this is not required. The stack mounting arrangements are generally secured to the outer surface of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that one or more of the stack mounting arrangements can be secured to an inside surface of the main frame and/or be secured to one or more spacer bars on the main frame. Generally, a plurality of the stack mounting arrangements have the same size and same shape; however, this is not required. One or more of the stack mounting arrangements are generally oriented such that the top surface of the stack mounting arrangement is flush with or positioned below the top surface of the main frame and/or top surface of the spacer bars so as to limit or prevent contact of the stack mounting arrangement with glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are located on the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. One or more of the stack mounting arrangements can be oriented such that the bottom surface of the stack mounting arrangement is flush with or positioned below the bottom surface of the main frame.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes a cushioning media on the top surface of one or more of the spacer bars. The cushioning media is used to reduce damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc.
The glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. are transported on the glass transportation cart, and/or moved on and/or off of the glass transportation cart. The cushioning material can be formed of a variety of materials such as, but not limited to, Homasote, plastic strip, rubber strip, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the cushioning media can be secured to one or more spacer bars by use of one or more of the attachment arrangements for cushioning media of the present invention; however, it will be appreciated that the cushioning media can be secured to one or more spacer bars by the use of conventional attachment arrangements (e.g., adhesive, staples, nails, rivets, screws, bolts, etc.).
In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided an improved configuration for a glass transportation cart used to transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc., which glass transportation cart includes a radio frequency identification tag and/or another or additional type of electronic device that transmits a signal that can be received by a receiving unit to provide the location information, content information, etc. regarding the glass transportation cart. On non-limiting arrangement for use of RFID on the glass transportation cart is disclosed in United States Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0023126, which is incorporated herein.
One non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that is easier to clean when glass breaks while on the glass transportation cart.
Still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that can safely transport glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc.
Yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that can be expanded to accommodate large glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc.
Still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that can be stacked on one or more other glass transportation carts.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that has one or more safety features to reduce damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the glass transportation cart and/or to reduce injury to persons using the glass transportation cart and/or are moving about the glass transportation cart.
Still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that includes a cushioning media to reduce damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are inserted on the glass transportation cart, removed from the glass transportation cart and/or transported on the glass transportation cart.
Yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that includes one or more arrangements that enable the glass transportation cart to be easily and/or conveniently moved by a user.
Still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that is in the form of a flat bed cart.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that is in the form of a dual frame cart.
Still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that causes the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are loaded in the glass transportation cart to be in a tilted position so as to inhibit or prevent the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. from inadvertently moving out of the glass transportation cart.
Yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that includes a storage and/or mounting arrangement for stacking elements for the glass transportation cart.
Still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved glass transportation cart that includes an information retainer to provide information about the glass transportation cart, contents of the glass transportation cart, etc.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is to provide an improved attachment arrangement used to mount a cushioning media on a glass transportation cart.
These and other objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and following the description taken together with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference may now be made to the drawings which illustrate various preferred embodiments that the invention may take in physical form and in certain parts and arrangement of parts wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a side elevation view of a flat bed glass transportation cart in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a side view of a plurality of a flat bed glass transportation cart in a stacked arrangement;

FIG. 2A is a front elevation view of a dual frame glass transportation cart in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2B is a front view of the dual frame glass transportation cart of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a front view of two dual frame glass transportation carts in a stacked arrangement;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the main frame portion of the dual frame glass transportation cart of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the upright side frame portion of the dual frame glass transportation cart of FIG. 2A and illustrates a novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the upright side frame portion of the dual frame glass transportation cart of FIG. 2A and illustrates another novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the upright side frame portion of the dual frame glass transportation cart of FIG. 2A and illustrates another novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is front view of the novel attachment arrangement of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a frame portion of a glass transportation cart which illustrates another novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate the forces exerted by a glass insulating unit on a cushioning media when a glass transportation cart transports the glass insulating unit to various locations;

FIG. 11 illustrates one type of damage that can occur to cushioning media by a glass insulating unit when the cushioning media is secure to a glass transportation cart by prior art attachment arrangements;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of a frame portion of a glass transportation cart which illustrates another novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged end view of a portion of an upright side frame of a dual frame glass transportation cart which illustrates the attachment arrangement for cushioning media of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged end view of a portion of a main frame of a glass transportation cart which illustrates the attachment arrangement for cushioning media of FIG. 12;

FIGS. 15-17 illustrate one non-limiting method of inserting a cushioning media onto the attachment arrangement of FIG. 12;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of another novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged end view of a portion of a frame of a glass transportation cart which illustrates the attachment arrangement for cushioning media of FIG. 18; and,

FIG. 20 is a front elevation view of another novel attachment arrangement for cushioning media in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention only and not for the purpose of limiting same, FIG. 1A illustrates a novel flat bed movable glass transportation cart 100 in accordance with the present invention. The flat bed cart 100 includes a main frame 110 that has a top surface 112, a bottom surface 114, two outside side surfaces 116, 118, two inside side surfaces 120, 122, a front end surface 124, and a back end surface 126. The main frame has a generally rectangular shape; however, it can be appreciated that other frame shapes can be used. The main frame 110 is formed of two side rails 130, 132 and two end rails 134, 136. The main frame can be formed of a variety of durable materials (e.g., metal, composite materials, plastic, reinforced plastic, etc.). Four wheels 140 are mounted to the frame 110 to enable the frame to be moved over a ground surface G. The wheels are mounted on the frame and the frame is configured such that the top surface 112 of the frame is generally parallel to the ground surface G upon when the wheels 140 are in contact with the ground. The four wheels are illustrated as positioned on the four corners of main frame 110; however, this is not required. At least one wheel is generally pivotally mounted to the frame so that the flat bed cart can be easily turned when being moved on ground surface G.
Main frame 110 includes a plurality of spacer bars 150 that extend across the width of the main frame. The spacer bars are illustrated as positioned about the same distance from one another along the longitudinal axis of the main frame of the flat bed cart; however, this is not required. The spacer bars can have the same shape and size; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the spacer bars can have different cross-sectional shapes. The spacer bars are generally made of the same material as the main frame; however, this is not required. The spacer bars 150 are spaced from one another so as to allow broken glass to easily fall to a ground surface. As such, when glass inadvertently breaks, the glass falls to the ground surface and does not stay on the top surface 112 of the flat bed cart. This novel arrangement makes cleanup of broken glass much easier. This novel arrangement also enables continued use of the flat bed cart for transport of the remaining glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that is still located on the flat bed cart without having to unload the remaining glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. and then clean the broken glass off of the top surface of the flat bed cart.
A plurality of spacer mounting arrangements 160 are mounted on a plurality of spacer bars 150. The spacer mounting arrangements are illustrated as in the form of cylindrically shaped tubes that have a generally circular opening, and a generally cylindrical cavity. As can be appreciated, the spacer mounting arrangements can have other shapes. The spacer mounting arrangements are designed to support glass separators 170. The glass separators are illustrated as having a rod-like shape; however, it can be appreciated that the glass separators can have other shapes. The glass separators can be formed of a material and/or include a coating material to reduce damage to the glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the flat bed cart; however, this is not required. The glass separators are generally designed to be releasably secured to the spacer mounting arrangement; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, a plurality of glass separators are inserted into the spacer mounting arrangements so as to separate glass frames F and/or other glass objects that are located on the flat bed cart so as to inhibit or prevent the glass frames, etc. from contacting one another while on the flat bed cart, thereby reducing the incidence of damage to the glass frames, etc. while on the flat bed cart.
The flat bed cart is illustrated as including two stacking gates 180 that are positioned at the front and back of the main frame. The use of the stacking gates is optional. The stacking gates are illustrated as including two legs 182, 184 and a cross bar 186 attached therebetween. Each of the stacking gates is illustrated as slidably extendable along the longitudinal axis of the main frame; however, this is not required. The two legs of the stacking gate are illustrated as telescopically received in a gate cavity 190. The gate cavity has a generally tubular configuration with an opening and cavity that is designed to enable the legs of the stacking gate to slide into the cavity. The stacking gates are generally locked or otherwise secured in the gate cavity by use of a mechanical securing arrangement; however, this is not required. When the stacking gates are positioned in the gate cavity, the front end of the gate cavity can function as an abutment or bumper that can be used to reduce damage to glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned in the flat bed cart. The front ends of the stacking gates can include a shock absorbing material, not shown; however, this is not required. The ability to slide the stacking gate along the longitudinal axis of the main frame of the flat bed cart can be used to provide additional space at the ends of the flat bed cart to accommodate larger glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that are positioned on the flat bed cart.
A cushioning media 200 is illustrated as attached to the top surface of the spacer bars. The cushioning media is designed to function as a sliding and cushioning system used to reduce damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. as the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. are positioned on the main frame, removed from the main frame, and/or transported on the flat bed cart. The cushioning media can be formed of many different materials such as, but not limited to, Homasote, plastic strip, rubber strip, etc. One type of material that works well with the flat bed cart of the present invention is Homasote. The cushioning media can be mounted to the spacer bars by a variety of arrangements. As will be discussed in more detail below, several novel attachment arrangements in accordance with the present invention can be used to secure the cushioning media to the spacer bars.
The flat bed cart 100 can include one or more guide mount arrangements 210 on the main frame; however, this is not required. The guide mount arrangements are designed to support a pull pole 230 and/or safety indicator. The guide mount arrangements are secure to the outside side surfaces 116, 118 of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the guide mount arrangement can be located in other or additional locations on the main frame. The guide mount arrangements are illustrated as generally tubular shaped and having a circular opening and a generally cylindrically shaped cavity; however, it can be appreciated that the guide mount arrangement can have other configurations. The guide mounting arrangements are illustrated as secured at or near the corners of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the guide mounting arrangements can be located at other or additional locations on the main frame. Pull pole 230 can be used by a user to move and direct the flat bed cart to various locations. The pull pole can also or alternatively be used to inhibit another glass transportation cart, person, etc. from bumping the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the flat bed cart. The pull pole is illustrated as having a rod-like shape; however, it will be appreciated that the pull pole can have other shapes.
The main frame can also include a plurality of gate mounting arrangements 220; however, this is not required. The gate mounting arrangements are used to support stacking gates 180 in a manner to enable a plurality of flat bed carts to be stacked together as illustrated in FIG. 1B. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the gate mounting arrangements are secured to the inside side surfaces 120, 122 of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the gate mounting arrangement can be located in other or additional locations on the main frame. The gate mounting arrangements are illustrated as generally cuboid-shaped and have a generally square opening designed to telescopically receive a portion of one leg of the stacking gate; however, it can be appreciated that the gate mounting arrangement can have other configurations. The gate mounting arrangements are illustrated as secured at a location spaced from the corners of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the gate mounting arrangements can be located at other or additional locations on the main frame. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the interior of the cavity of the gate mounting arrangement can include a stop flange 222 or other device or another type of internal configuration (e.g., narrowing of the cavity, etc.) that prevents the leg of the stacking gate from sliding fully through the cavity of the gate mounting arrangement; however, this is not required. Referring to FIG. 1B, three flat bed carts 100 are shown to be stacked on top of one another. Four of the stacking gates 180 from the bottom two flat bed carts have been removed from gate cavities 190 on the front and back portions of the main frame and repositioned in the gate mounting arrangements 220 on the two lower flat bed carts.
Referring again to FIG. 1A, the outside surface of the main frame can include a connector 240 that can be used to facilitate in connecting the flat bed cart in a transport vehicle; however, this is not required. Although not shown, the main frame of the flat bed cart can include an information receptacle; however, this is not required.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 3, there is illustrated a dual frame glass transportation cart 300 in accordance with the present invention. The dual frame cart 300 includes a main frame 310 that includes a top surface 312, a bottom surface 314, two outside side surfaces 316, 318, two inside side surfaces 320, 322, a front end surface 324, and a back end surface 326. The main frame has a generally rectangular shape; however, it can be appreciated that other frame shapes can be used. The main frame 310 is formed of two side rails 330, 332 and two end rails 334, 336. The main frame can be formed of a variety of durable materials (e.g., metal, composite materials, plastic, reinforced plastic, etc.). Four wheels 340 are mounted to main frame 310 to enable the main frame to be moved over a ground surface G. The wheels are mounted on the main frame and the main frame is configured in a manner such that the top surface 312 of the frame is generally parallel to the ground surface G when wheels 340 are in contact with the ground. The four wheels are illustrated as positioned on the four corners of main frame 310; however, this is not required. At least one wheel is generally pivotally mounted to the main frame so that the dual frame cart can be easily turned when being moved on ground surface G.
Main frame 310 includes a plurality of spacer bars 350 that extend across the longitudinal length of the main frame. The spacer bars are illustrated as positioned about the same distance from one another along the longitudinal axis of the main frame of the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. The spacer bars can have the same shape and size; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the spacer bars can have different cross-sectional shapes. The spacer bars are generally made of the same material as the main frame; however, this is not required. The spacer bars 350 are spaced from one another so as to allow broken glass to easily fall to a ground surface. As such, when glass inadvertently breaks, the glass falls to the ground surface and does not stay on the top surface 312 of the dual frame cart. This novel arrangement makes cleanup of broken glass much easier. This novel arrangement also enables continued use of the dual frame cart for transport of the remaining glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that is still located on the dual frame cart without having to unload the remaining glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. and then clean the broken glass off of the top surface of the dual frame cart.
The dual frame cart includes an upright side frame 500 that is connected to one side of main frame 310. The upright side frame can be connected to the main frame in a variety of ways (e.g., bolts, rivets, screws, weld, solder, adhesive, hinge, pins, etc.). The upright side frame includes a top surface 502, a bottom surface 504, two outside side surfaces 506, 508, two inside side surfaces 510, 512, a front surface 514, and a back surface 516. The upright side frame has a generally rectangular shape; however, it can be appreciated that other frame shapes can be used. The upright side frame 500 is formed of two side rails 520, 522 and a plurality of spacer bars 530 connected therebetween. The upright side can be formed of a variety of durable materials (e.g., metal, composite materials, plastic, reinforced plastic, etc.). The upright side frame and the main frame can be formed of the same materials; however, this is not required.
The plurality of spacer bars 530 that extend across the longitudinal length of the upright side frame are illustrated as positioned about the same distance from one another; however, this is not required. The spacer bars can have the same shape and size; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the spacer bars can have generally the same cross-sectional shape. The spacer bars are generally made of the same material as the upright side frame; however, this is not required. The spacer bars 530 are spaced from one another so as to allow broken glass to easily fall to a ground surface. As such, when glass inadvertently breaks, the glass falls to the ground surface and does not accumulate on the upright side frame of the dual frame cart. This novel arrangement makes cleanup of broken glass much easier. This novel arrangement of the upright side frame enables continued use of the dual frame cart for transport of the remaining glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. that is still located on the dual frame cart without having to unload the remaining glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. and then clean the broken glass off of the surfaces of the dual frame cart.
At least one reinforcement bar 360 can be connected between the main frame and the upright side frame to provide added structural integrity and rigidity to the dual frame cart. The reinforcement members, when used, are generally secured at or near the front and/or back ends of the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. The reinforcement bars can be formed of a material and/or include a coating material to reduce damage to the glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the reinforcement bar is secure to a spacer bar on the main frame and a spacer bar on the upright side frame. Many different types of connections can be used to secure the reinforcement bar to one or more spacer bars and/or to one or more portions of the main frame and/or upright side frame (e.g., weld, solder, bolt, screw, rivet, adhesive, pin, hinge, etc.).
A plurality of glass separators 370 are illustrated as connected between the main frame and the upright side frame. The glass separators are illustrated as having a rod-like shape; however, it can be appreciated that the glass separators can have other shapes. The glass separators can be formed of a material and/or include a coating material to reduce damage to the glass, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the dual frame cart; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the glass separators are secured to a spacer bar on the main frame and a spacer bar on the upright side frame. Many different types of connections can be used to secure the spacer bars to one or more spacer bars and/or to one or more portions of the main frame and/or upright side frame (e.g., weld, solder, bolt, screw, rivet, adhesive, pin, hinge, etc.). As illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3, a plurality of glass separators are used to separate glass frames F and/or other glass objects that are located on the dual frame cart so as to inhibit or prevent the glass frames, etc. from contacting one another while on the dual frame cart, thereby reducing the incidence of damage to the glass flames, etc. while on the dual frame cart. As illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of reinforcement bars 360 can also be used in conjunction with a plurality of glass separators 370 to separate glass frames F and/or other glass objects that are located on the dual frame cart. When this arrangement is used, a plurality of reinforcement bars 360 and a plurality of glass separators 370 are lined up with on another along the width of the main frame as illustrated in FIG. 3. In one non-limiting configuration, the same number of reinforcement bars 360 and glass separators 370 are used in the dual frame cart. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the slope angle of the reinforcement bars 360 relative to the top surface of the main frame is less than the slope angle of the glass separators 360 relative to the top surface of the main frame; however, this is not required.
Referring now to 2A-C and 3, the spacer bars on the main frame are mounted such that the top surfaces of the spacer bars angle downwardly toward the side of the main frame upon which the upright side frame is mounted. In addition, the spacer bars are mounted progressively lower on the main frame the closer the spacer bar is mounted to the side of the main frame upon which the upright side frame is mounted. As best illustrated in FIG. 3, the upright side frame is tilted backwardly from a fully upright position. The angle of tilt of the upright side frame is selected such that the angle formed between the top surface of the spacer bars on the main frame and the top surface of the spacer bars of the upright side frame is about 90°; however, other angles can be formed. The angled relationship of the spacer bars on the main frame in conjunction with the backward tilting of the upright side frame on the dual frame cart results in the glass frames F on the dual frame cart being tilt toward the upright side frame when the glass frames F are placed in the dual frame cart. This angular relationship facilitates in maintaining the glass frames in the dual frame cart when the glass frames are being transported in the dual frame cart. As such, the angular relationship inhibits sliding of the glass frames off the dual frame cart and/or rotation or flipping of the glass frame in the dual frame cart as the dual frame cart transports the glass frames. The tilt angle relative to the top surface of the main frame is at least about 2°, generally less than about 60°, and typically about 410-105°; however, other tilt angles can be used.
A cushioning media 380 is illustrated as attached to the top surface of the spacer bars that are located on both the main frame and the upright side frame. The cushioning media is designed to function as a sliding and cushioning system used to reduce damage to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. as the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. are positioned on the main frame, removed from the main frame, and/or transported on the dual frame cart. The cushioning media can be formed of many different materials such as, but not limited to, Homasote, plastic strip, rubber strip, etc. One type of material that works well with the dual frame cart of the present invention is Homasote. The cushioning media can be mounted to the spacer bars by a variety of arrangements. As will be discussed in more detail below, several novel attachment arrangements in accordance with the present invention can be used to secure the cushioning media to the spacer bars.
The dual frame cart 300 can include one or more guide mount arrangements 390 on the main frame; however, this is not required. The guide mount arrangements are designed to support a pull pole 400 and/or safety indicator. The guide mount arrangements are secure to the outside side surfaces of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the guide mount arrangement can be located in other or additional locations on the main frame. The guide mount arrangements are illustrated as generally tubular shaped and having a circular opening and having a generally cylindrically shaped cavity; however, it can be appreciated that the guide mount arrangement can have other configurations. The guide mounting arrangements are illustrated as secured at or near the corners of the main frame; however, it can be appreciated that the guide mounting arrangements can be located at other or additional locations on the main frame. Pull pole 400 can be used by a user to move and direct the dual frame cart to various locations. The pull pole can also or alternatively be used to inhibit another cart, person, etc. from bumping the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. on the dual frame cart. The pull pole is illustrated as having a rod-like shape; however, it will be appreciated that the pull pole can have other shapes.
The upright frame 500 can include one or more pull handles 420 that can be used by a user to move and direct the dual frame cart to various locations. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the pull handle, when used, can be located on one or both side rails 520, 522 of the upright side frame. The handles can be connected to the upright side frame in a variety of ways. As can be appreciated, one or more handles can be connected to the main frame; however, this is not required.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A-C, connected to the outside surface 316 of rail 330 is a bumper arrangement 430. The bumper arrangement includes two legs 432, 434 that are secured to the outside surface 316 of rail 330. The two legs can be connected to the outside surface of rail 330 in a variety of ways (e.g., weld, solder, bolt, screw, rivet, adhesive, pin, etc.). A bumper rail 436 is secured to the other end of the two legs 432, 434. The bumper arrangement can be used to reduce damage to glass frames F that are positioned on the dual frame cart by providing additional space between the glass frames on the outer side surface of the dual frame cart. The side bumper arrangement can include a shock absorbing material; however, this is not required. Although not shown, the main frame and/or the upright side frame of the dual frame cart can include an information receptacle; however, this is not required.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A-C, the dual frame cart can include an arrangement to enable two or more dual frame carts to be stacked on top of one another. The stacking arrangement, when used, can include a set of stacking rails 440, 450 that are secured to the upright side frame and main frame. Connected between the set of stacking rails is a support bar 460. The support bar is used to provide structural strength and rigidity to the stacking arrangement. As best illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the bottom of each stacking rail is secured to the outside surface 318 of side rail 332 of the main frame. The top of each stacking rail is secured to a top rail that is connected between side rails 520, 522 of the upright side frame. The manner in which the stacking rails are secured to the upright side frame and the main frame are non-limiting. Generally a weld is used to secure the stacking rails to the upright side frame and the main frame. The top of each stacking rail includes a connection extension 442, 452. The bottom of each stacking rail includes an extension opening 444, 454. As illustrated in FIG. 2C, the connection extension on one dual frame cart is designed to be inserted into the extension opening of another dual frame cart when two dual frame carts are stacked on top of one another.
Referring to FIGS. 2B and 2C, at least one stacking gate support 470 is secured to support bar 460. The stacking gate support is designed to support a stacking gate 480 when the stacking gate is not in use as illustrated in FIG. 2B. The stacking gate support has a generally L-shape configuration; however, it will be appreciated that other shapes can be used.
The stacking gate 480 includes two posts 482, 484 and a connection bar 486 connected therebetween. At each end of the post is a connection extension 488, 490. The connection extensions are designed to be insertable into an opening 496, 498 of gate mounts 492, 494 as best illustrated in FIG. 2C. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, gate mounts 492, 494 are secured to the outside surface 316 of rail 330. Generally, the two gate mounts are positioned directly across from stacking rails 440, 450; however, this is not required. The interior cavity of the gate mounts can include an obstruction to limit the distance the connection extension can be inserted into the cavity of the gate mounts; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2C, the shape of the two posts on the stacking gate and the shape of the gate mounts can be used to limit the distance the connection extension can be inserted into the cavity of the gate mounts; however, this is not required.
Referring now to FIG. 4, there is illustrated one non-limiting attachment arrangement for a cushioning media 380 (e.g., Homasote, etc.). The attachment arrangement is designed to connect a strip of cushioning media to a spacer bar on the upright side frame of a dual frame cart; however, it can be appreciated that the attachment arrangement can also or alternatively be used to connect the strip of cushioning media to a spacer bar on the main frame of a dual frame cart or a flat bed cart. The attachment arrangement is in the form of a specially configured hook 600. The front portion 610 of hook 600 includes an insertion section 612 that is designed to be inserted into and/or penetrate the cushioning media. The insertion section 612 can include a sharpened end portion to facilitate in the insertion into the cushioning media; however, this is not required. The hook is generally designed such that the insertion section engages a bottom region 382 of the cushioning media so that the hook at least partially supports the weight of the cushioning media at the bottom region of the cushioning media when the cushioning media is positioned on the upright side frame; however, this is not required. The insertion section of the hook has a length such that when the insertion section is inserted into the cushioning media, the insertion section does not extend completely through the cushioning media; however, this is not required. The hook includes a front transition section 620 that connects the bottom of the insertion section to the bottom of the intermediate section 630 of the hook. The front transition section can have a curved shape; however, this is not required. The intermediate section 630 of the hook is designed to extend up along the back face 384 of the cushioning media. Generally, at least a portion of the insertion section is generally parallel to a portion of the intermediate section; however, this is not required. The hook includes a back transition section 640 that connects the top of the intermediate section of the hook to the top of the arm section 650 of the hook. The back transition section can be curved in shape; however, this is not required. The arm section 650 of the hook is designed to secure the hook to the glass transportation cart. A portion of the arm section can include a tension arrangement 660; however, this is not required. Generally, the tension arrangement is positioned at or near the bottom end of the arm section; however, this is not required. The tension arrangement is generally designed to facilitate in maintaining the hook on the glass transportation cart. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the tension section is a bent portion on the end of the arm section. The hook has a generally S-shape; however, this is not required. Several non-limiting the alternative hook configurations are illustrated in FIGS. 5-7.
Referring again to FIG. 4, a durable strip of material 670 (e.g., metal strip, plastic strip, etc.) is shown to be connected to spacer bar 530 in a spaced relationship from the spacer bar so that a gap 680 exists between the front face of the space bar and the back face of the durable strip. The durable strip is shown to be connected to the spacer bar by at least one screw 690; however, it can be appreciated that the durable strip can be connected to the spacer bar in other or additional ways. Gap 680 has a width to allow the arm section of the hook to be inserted therein. The tension arrangement 660 on the arm section is designed to be slightly compressed in the gap so as to help secure the hook in the gap. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the arm section is inserted in the gap until the back transition section 640 engages the top of the durable strip 670; however, this is not required. The hook enables the cushioning media to be easily secured to the upright side frame of the glass transportation cart. The hook also enables the cushioning media to be easily removed from the upright side frame of the glass transportation cart. As such, the replacement of the cushioning media is significantly simplified by use of hook 600.
As mentioned above, additional non-limiting hook configurations are illustrated in FIGS. 5-7. FIGS. 5 and 6 also illustrate the use of hook 600 to secure the cushioning media to the spacer bars on the main frame of a flat bed cart or a dual frame cart. Although hook 600 can be used to secure the cushioning media to the main frame of a flat bed cart or a dual frame cart, the larger forces that are exerted by the glass panes, glass frame, etc. that are situated on the main frame of the flat bed cart or a dual frame cart can cause the cushioning media to potentially prematurely release from the main frame.
Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 12-20, there is illustrated another type of attachment arrangement that can be used to connect a strip of cushioning media to a spacer bar on the upright side frame of a dual frame cart, and/or a spacer bar on the main frame of a dual frame cart or a flat bed cart. The connection arrangement is in the form of a rail 700 that has a channel designed to at least partially receive a portion of the cushioning media.
One of the major problems of most of the prior art attachment arrangements for Homasote is that such attachment arrangements provide only localized support to the strip of Homasote. As such, the strip of Homasote is only held in localized regions where the prior art fastener S (e.g., staple, nail, rivet, etc.) are located. When a glass frame F is dragged over the surface of the Homasote, as illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, the glass frame shifts and/or vibrates. As such, during transport of the glass frame on the cart, and/or when the glass frame is pulled off of and/or is inserted onto the glass transportation cart, the movement and vibration of the glass frame creates a bending moment on the cushioning media as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 11. This bending moment eventually results in the shearing B of the Homasote at or near the location of the prior art fastener S as illustrated in FIG. 11, thereby resulting in the Homasote prematurely releasing from and/or falling off the glass transportation cart.
The attachment arrangements disclosed in FIGS. 8 and 12-20 are designed to support at least a majority of the longitudinal length of the cushioning media that is exposed to the glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc.; thereby inhibiting or preventing the shearing of the cushioning media when glass panes, glass frames, etc. glass panes, assembled glass units, IGUs, framed glass, etc. are insert and/or removed from the glass transportation cart, and/or are transported on the glass transportation cart.
Referring now to FIG. 8, the attachment arrangement is the form of a rail 700 that includes a base 710 and two side walls 720, 730 that form a channel C. The channel has a generally U-shaped configuration; however, this is not required. The size and shape of the two side walls 720, 730 are generally the same along the longitudinal length of the rail; however, this is not required. The two side walls extend generally perpendicular to the plane of base 710; however, this is not required. The base is shown to be generally flat; however, this is not required. The side walls are also illustrated as planar; however, this is not required. The side walls 720, 730 have a height that is less than the thickness of the cushioning media 380 so that the top edge of each side wall is positioned below the top surface 386 of the cushioning media when the cushioning media is fully positioned in channel C. The spacing of the inner surface 722, 732 of the two side walls from one another can be less than the width of the cushioning media, equal to the width of the cushioning media, and/or greater than the width of the cushioning media along one or more portions of the longitudinal length of rail 700. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the spacing of the inner surface 722, 732 of the two side walls from one another is slightly greater than the width of the cushioning media.
The cushioning media can be secured in the channel of the rail in a variety of ways (e.g., adhesive, friction connection, mechanical connection, etc.). As illustrated in FIG. 8, a plurality of teeth or barbs 740 are positioned on the top surface 712 of the base. The barbs are used to inhibit movement of the cushioning media in the channel. As can be appreciated, an adhesive can be used in conjunction with the barbs to secure the cushioning media in the channel; however, this is not required. The height of the barbs is shown to be less than the height of the side walls and the thickness of the cushioning media. The bottom surface 714 of the base can be secured to the glass transportation cart and/or to another material that is in turn is directed or indirectly connected to the glass transportation cart in a variety of ways. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the rail is shown to be directly connected to the spacer bar.
Referring now to FIGS. 12-17, there is illustrated another non-limiting configuration of the attachment arrangement in the form of rail 700. Rail 700 includes a base 710 and two side walls 720, 730 that form a channel C. The two side walls 720, 730 have a curved configuration that results in a generally C-shaped configuration. Various types of C-shaped configurations can be used for one or both side walls. The C-shaped configuration of the side walls can be used to facilitate in better maintaining the cushioning media in the channel of the rail 700. As illustrated in FIGS. 12-14, the front edge of the side walls slightly penetrates into the sides of the cushioning media, thereby securing the cushioning media in channel C. As illustrated in FIGS. 15-17, when the cushioning media is inserted into channel C, and the distance between the top or front edges of the two side walls is less than the width of the cushioning media. As such, the insertion of the cushioning media into the channel will cause the one or more C-shaped walls to slightly spring backward as illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 16 to allow the cushioning media to be inserted into the channel C. Once the cushioning media is inserted into the channel, one or both of the C-shaped walls will attempt to spring back as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 17, thereby resulting in the front edge of the C-shaped walls to dig slightly into one or both sides of the cushioning media. The springing back of the one or more C-shaped walls also creates a downward force on the cushioning media to facilitate in causing the cushioning media to move further into the channel C of rail 700. The front edge of the C-shaped side walls also provides lateral support to the cushioning media that is positioned in channel C. The design of the C-shaped side walls allows the cushioning media to be pushed out from the channel along the longitudinal axis of the channel when the cushioning media needs to be replaced, yet inhibits or prevents the cushioning media from being easily lifted out of the channel. Any force applied to the cushioning media which tries to pull the cushioning media up and out of the channel causes the front edges of the C-shaped side walls to bite deeper into the side of the cushioning media, thereby further preventing the cushioning media from being lifted out from the channel.
FIG. 12 illustrates rail 700 being secured to a spacer bar 350 on the main frame of a flat bed cart or a dual frame cart. FIG. 13 illustrates rail 700 being secured to a spacer bar 530 on the upright side frame of a dual frame cart. FIG. 14 illustrates rail 700 being mounted on a durable strip 670, which in turn is mounted on a spacer bar 530 on the upright side frame of a dual frame cart. As can be appreciated, FIGS. 12-14 illustrate non-limiting arrangements for securing rail 700 to a glass transportation cart.
Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, another configuration for rail 700 is illustrated wherein side walls 720, 730 have a different C-shaped configuration from the side walls illustrated in FIGS. 12-17. As can be appreciated, side walls 720, 730 can have other types of C-shaped configurations. The top surface 712 of base 710 includes a plurality of barbs 740. These barbs can have the same or similar features as the barbs illustrated in FIG. 8; however, this is not required. The barbs are illustrated as having a three and two barb staggered pattern; however, it can be appreciated that other barb patterns can be used. Base 710 includes a connection opening 760 that can be used to secure the rail to spacer bar 350 by a screw 750 and/or other type of mechanical connector (e.g., rivet, nail, bolt, etc.).
Referring now to FIG. 20, another configuration for rail 700 is illustrated wherein side walls 720, 730 includes a plurality of slots 770 so that the side walls are at least partially segmented along the longitudinal length of the side walls. The one or more slots, when used, allow the side walls to accommodate more variation of width along the longitudinal length of the cushioning media. The slots can have the same or different size, configuration and/or spacing from one another. The slots on both side walls can have the same or different size, configuration, spacing from one another, and/or location along the length of the side wall; however, this is not required.
It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made in the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

Claims

1. An attachment arrangement to releasably secure a cushioning media to the glass transportation cart, said attachment arrangement including a rail having a base portion, two side walls extending upwardly from said base portion to form a channel between the two side walls, said channel designed to at least partially support the cushioning media along at least a majority of a longitudinal length of the cushioning media that is positioned in said channel.

2. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said cushioning media includes Homasote, cardboard, chip board, paper, plastic, rubber, foam, wood, or combinations thereof.

3. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said channel has a generally U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

4. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 2, wherein said channel has a generally U-shaped cross-sectional shape.

5. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said two side walls have generally the same height and cross-sectional shape along a majority of a longitudinal length of said rail.

6. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 4, wherein said two side walls have generally the same height and cross-sectional shape along a majority of a longitudinal length of said rail.

7. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said two side walls is generally perpendicular to a plane of said base portion of said rail.

8. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 6, wherein at least one of said two side walls is generally perpendicular to a plane of said base portion of said rail.

9. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said two side walls is connected to a side edge of said base portion of said rail.

10. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 8, wherein at least one of said two side walls is connected to a side edge of said base portion of said rail.

11. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said two side walls have a height that is less than a thickness of the cushioning media.

12. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 10, wherein said two side walls have a height that is less than a thickness of the cushioning media.

13. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said base portion of said rail can includes at least one non-smooth surface designed to interact with a bottom surface of the cushioning media when said cushioning media is positioned in said channel, said non-smooth surface including at least one tooth, barb, rib, bump, or combinations thereof, a maximum height of said non-smooth surface less than a height of at least one of said side walls.

14. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 12, wherein said base portion of said rail can includes at least one non-smooth surface designed to interact with a bottom surface of the cushioning media when said cushioning media is positioned in said channel, said non-smooth surface including at least one tooth, barb, rib, bump, or combinations thereof, a maximum height of said non-smooth surface less than a height of at least one of said side walls.

15. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein a majority of an upper face of said base portion that faces the cushioning media positioned in said channel lies in a flat planar plane.

16. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 14, wherein a majority of an upper face of said base portion that faces the cushioning media positioned in said channel lies in a flat planar plane.

17. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein a majority of an inner face of at least one of said side walls that faces the cushioning media positioned in said channel lies in a flat planar plane.

18. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 16, wherein a majority of an inner face of at least one of said side walls that faces the cushioning media positioned in said channel lies in a flat planar plane.

19. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said base portion includes at least one connection opening, slot, or combination thereof that is used to at least partially secure said rail to the glass transportation cart.

20. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 18, wherein said base portion includes at least one connection opening, slot, or combination thereof that is used to at least partially secure said rail to the glass transportation cart.

21. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said side walls includes at least one opening, slot, or combination thereof to increase the flexibility of said at least one side wall along a longitudinal length of said at least one side wall.

22. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 20, wherein at least one of said side walls includes at least one opening, slot, or combination thereof to increase the flexibility of said at least one side wall along a longitudinal length of said at least one side wall.

23. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein a minimum spacing formed between inside surfaces of said two side walls is less than a width of the cushioning media, equal to a width of the cushioning media, greater than a width of the cushioning media, or combinations thereof along a longitudinal length of said rail.

24. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 22, wherein a minimum spacing formed between inside surfaces of said two side walls is less than a width of the cushioning media, equal to a width of the cushioning media, greater than a width of the cushioning media, or combinations thereof along a longitudinal length of said rail.

25. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 23, wherein a minimum spacing formed between inside surfaces of said two side walls is less than a width of the cushioning media along a majority of a longitudinal length of said rail.

26. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 24, wherein a minimum spacing formed between inside surfaces of said two side walls is less than a width of the cushioning media along a majority of a longitudinal length of said rail.

27. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said two side walls a generally C-shaped cross-sectional shape, V-shaped cross-sectional shape, 7-shaped cross-sectional shape, U-shaped cross-sectional shape, L-shaped cross-sectional shaped, or J-shaped cross-sectional shape C-shaped cross-sectional shape.

28. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 26, wherein at least one of said two side walls is a generally C-shaped cross-sectional shape, V-shaped cross-sectional shape, 7-shaped cross-sectional shape, U-shaped cross-sectional shape, L-shaped cross-sectional shaped, or J-shaped cross-sectional shape C-shaped cross-sectional shape.

29. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said two side walls is not perpendicular to a plane of said base portion of said rail.

30. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 28, wherein at least one of said two side walls is not perpendicular to a plane of said base portion of said rail.

31. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of said two side walls is not perpendicular to a plane of said base portion of said rail.

32. The attachment arrangement as defined in claim 28, wherein at least one of said two side walls is not perpendicular to a plane of said base portion of said rail.

33. A method for securing a cushioning media a glass transportation cart so that the cushioning media is support along at least a majority of a base of the cushioning media, said method comprising:

a. providing an attachment arrangement, said attachment arrangement including a rail having a base portion, two side walls extending upwardly from said base portion to form a channel between the two side walls, said channel designed to at least partially support the cushioning media along at least a majority of a longitudinal length of the cushioning media that is positioned in said channel;

b. securing said rail to the glass transportation cart;

c. inserting said cushioning media into said channel, said cushioning media having a thickness that is greater than a height of said two side walls.

34. The method as defined in claim 33, wherein said two side walls have a generally C-shaped cross-sectional shape and a minimum spacing formed between inside surfaces of said two side walls is less than a width of said cushioning media along a majority of a longitudinal length of said rail, said insertion step causing a portion of at least one side wall to spring back as said cushioning media is inserted into said channel, a front edge of at least one C-shaped side wall at least partially springs back and engages a side of said cushioning media during insertion of said cushioning media into said channel, after insertion of said cushioning media into said channel, or combinations thereof.