SULLIVAN, Benjamin Stephen (PO Box 1542, Toodyay, Western Australia 6566, AU)
SYMONS, James Calvin (187 Mulgul Road, Malaga, Western Australia 6090, AU)
NOONAN, Patrick John (116 Mullaloo Drive, Kallaroo, Western Australia 6025, AU)
SHAWCROSS, David (14 Royal Melbourne Avenue, Connolly, Western Australia 6027, AU)
SULLIVAN, Benjamin Stephen (PO Box 1542, Toodyay, Western Australia 6566, AU)
SYMONS, James Calvin (187 Mulgul Road, Malaga, Western Australia 6090, AU)
NOONAN, Patrick John (116 Mullaloo Drive, Kallaroo, Western Australia 6025, AU)
| The Claim Defining the Invention is as Follows: 1. A storage locker unit adapted to cooperate with at least one other such storage locker unit to form a storage locker assembly, the storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber, one side comprising access means having an open condition providing access to the chamber through the side and a closed condition precluding access to the chamber through the side, the access means being operable for movement between the open and closed conditions when the side is outwardly facing within the storage locker assembly regardless of the orientation of the storage locker unit within the storage locker assembly. 2. The storage locker unit according to claim 1 wherein the body comprises six sides, wherein said one side comprises a first side and wherein the first side is disposed between opposed second and third sides. 3. The storage locker unit according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the body is adapted for oriented in a first configuration in which the second and third sides of the body provide vertical sides of the storage locker unit or in a second configuration in which the second and third sides of the body provide top and bottom sides of the storage locker unit. 4. The storage locker unit according to claim 1 , 2 or 3 wherein the enclosed chamber is divided into a plurality of storage compartments. 5. The storage locker unit according to claim 4 wherein the enclosed chamber is divided into the storage compartments by partitions within the enclosed chamber. 6. The storage locker unit according to claim 5 wherein the partitions function as horizontal shelving when the storage locker unit is in one orientation and as vertical dividers when the storage locker unit is in another orientation. - - 7. The storage locker unit according to claim 5 or 6 wherein the partitions are closely spaced to configure the storage compartments as slots. 8. The storage locker unit according to any one of 4 to 7 wherein the access means is configured to provide access to each storage compartment individually without providing access to the other compartments. 9. The storage locker unit according to any one of 4 to 8 wherein the access means comprises a plurality of doors, one corresponding to each compartment. 1O.The storage locker unit according to claim 9 wherein each door is moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions. 11. The storage locker unit according to claim 10 wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side. 12.The storage locker unit according to claim 11 wherein each door is pivotally mounted by an indented hinge. 13.The storage locker unit according to any one of claims 9 to 12 wherein each door is provided with a lock for selectively locking the door in the closed condition. 14.The storage locker unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the body is configured to provide ventilation to the storage compartments 15.The storage locker unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the body is configured to define a further chamber. 16.The storage locker unit according to claim 15 wherein the further chamber is adapted to accommodate cabling for supply of electrical power to the storage compartments. 17.The storage locker unit according to claim 15 or 16 wherein the further chamber is adapted to provide a passage for delivery of ventilation air to the storage compartments. 18.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of storage compartments, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the storage compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door when in the open condition is disposed laterally away from said one side. 19.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side. 20.A storage locker unit adapted to cooperate with at least one other such storage locker unit to form a storage locker assembly for secure storage of portable electrical devices such as laptop computers, the storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments each configured to receive one of the devices, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, wherein each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions when said one side is outwardly facing within the storage locker assembly regardless of the orientation of the storage locker unit within the storage locker assembly, and wherein the open condition of each door is laterally away from said one side. 21. A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment being configured for secure storage of a small portable device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means for securely locking that door with the locking mechanism protected in a lock cavity. 22.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment being configured for secure storage of a small portable device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means for securing the locker storage unit to an adjacent locker storage unit or to another fixed surface such as a solid wall or floor via multiple corner apertures in order to achieve security of the locker storage unit itself. 23.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment being configured for secure storage of a small portable device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means - - for providing electrical power to the small portable devices stored in the compartments. 24.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment being configured for secure storage of a small portable device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means for passing electrical power from one storage locker unit to another through a secure and safe electrical cavity. 25.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment being configured for secure storage of a small portable device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means for providing ventilation, either natural or forced to the small portable devices stored in the compartments. 26.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of compartments, each compartment being configured for secure storage of a small portable device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means for passing forced ventilation to one or more locker storage units through a ventilation cavity. 27.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defines an interior divided into first and second enclosed chambers separated by an internal wall, the first enclosed chamber being divided into a plurality of storage compartments, each storage compartment being configured for secure storage of a portable electrical device, and a plurality of internal ports in the internal wall for communication between the second chamber and each storage compartment. 28.The storage locker unit according to claim 27 further comprising closure means for selectively closing one or more of the internal ports, either partially or fully. 29.The storage locker unit according to claim 28 wherein closure means comprises an insert adapted to be received within the respective port. 3O.The storage locker unit according to claim 29 wherein the insert comprise an outer portion, an inner portion, and an intermediate portion between the outer and inner portions, the outer portion being configured to be received within the port for engagement with the peripheral edge thereof, the inner portion being selectively removable to provide a central aperture, and the intermediate portion being selectively removable either wholly or in part to provide an enlarged aperture. 31.A storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defines a plurality of storage compartments, each storage compartment being configured for secure storage of a portable electrical device, and an electric circuit for providing electrical power to the storage compartments, the electric circuit comprising cabling, a power inlet configured as a male connector plug, and power outlets arranged in a daisy chain configuration there being one power outlet corresponding to each storage compartment. 32.The storage locker unit according to claim 31 wherein the power outlets have individual switches. 33.The storage locker unit according to claim 31 or 32 wherein the electric circuit comprises a chain socket extension lead. 34.The storage locker unit according to 31 , 32 or 33 wherein the body defines an interior divided into first and second enclosed chambers separated by an internal wall, the first enclosed chamber being divided into the plurality of storage compartments, and the cabling of the electric circuit being accommodated in the second enclosed chamber. 35.A connector for securely interconnecting multiple storage locker units according to any one of the preceding claims 36.A pedestal for a storage locker unit according to any one of the preceding claims 37. A pedestal according to claim 28 comprising, a fan or blower for forced ventilation of one or more storage locker units. 38. A storage locker assembly comprising a plurality of storage locker units according to any one of the preceding claims. 39. The storage locker assembly according to claim 38 further comprising means for passing electrical power from one storage locker unit to another. 40. The storage locker assembly according to claim 38 or 39 further comprising means for passing forced ventilation air to the locker storage units. 41. A storage locker unit substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 2.A storage locker assembly substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. |
This invention relates to a storage locker unit and an assembly of such storage locker units. The invention has been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, for the secure storage and electrical charging of portable electrical devices such as small portable computers including laptop computers and notebook computers.
Background Art
The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.
The use of small portable devices, and in particular laptop and notebook computers, is becoming increasingly common in educational and office environments.
It is also becoming increasingly difficult to ensure the security of small portable devices while retaining accessibility and usability. Further, there is often a need for secure storage of small portable devices with provision for electrical charging as necessary while stored. In educational environments such as schools, storage lockers are often provided for students for secure storage of books, equipment and personal effects. Such lockers are not, however, conducive to secure storage of small portable devices including laptop computers and notebook computers. Furthermore, the lockers are not configured to facilitate electrical charging of the devices during storage, nor do they possess the ability to dissipate any heat generated from the electrical charging process should this occur.
Furthermore, providing convenient and non-conflicting access to individual lockers is made more difficult because traditional solutions require all the access doors to be present on the same face. Lockers are traditionally installed in corridors with a solid wall at the rear. The majority of lockers do not inherently permit a different and simultaneous access by the users for a given arrangement of locker doors.
Finally, the most significant challenge for the security and charging of portable devices has been achieving an economic solution in the context of commonly available low cost, low quality and low security traditional lockers.
It is against this background that the present invention was developed. Disclosure of the Invention
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker unit adapted to cooperate with at least one other such storage locker unit to form a storage locker assembly, the storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber, one side comprising access means having an open condition providing access to the chamber through the side and a closed condition precluding access to the chamber through said one side, the access means being operable for movement between the open and closed conditions when said one side is outwardly facing within the storage locker assembly regardless of the orientation of the storage locker unit within the storage locker assembly.
The storage locker assembly may comprise a plurality of storage locker units disposed in any suitable arrangement. The storage locker units may.-for example, be stacked one upon another, disposed in side-by-side relation in a row, or arranged in an array involving rows of storage locker units one upon another. Regardless of the arrangement, said one side of each locker is outwardly facing within the assembly; that is, said one side does not confront any side of an adjacent storage locker unit in the assembly. In this way, said one side is exposed so that the access means provided thereby is accessible to a user. The body may comprise six sides, wherein said one side comprises a first side and wherein the first side is disposed between opposed second and third sides.
The storage locker unit may be oriented in a first configuration in which the second and third sides of the body provide vertical sides of the storage locker unit or in a second configuration in which the second and third sides of the body provide top and bottom sides of the storage locker unit.
The enclosed chamber may be divided into a plurality of storage compartments. The enclosed chamber may be divided into the storage compartments by partitions within the enclosed chamber. The partitions may function as horizontal shelving when the storage locker unit is in one orientation and as vertical dividers when the storage locker unit is in another orientation.
Preferably the partitions are closely spaced to configure the storage compartments as slots.
The access means may be configured to provide access to each storage compartment individually without providing access to the other compartments. The access means may comprise a plurality of doors, one corresponding to each compartment.
Preferably, each door is moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions.
Preferably, each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side. This ensures that the open door is not - - disposed between the compartment and the user to impede access to the open compartment. Each door may be pivotally mounted by an indented hinge.
Preferably, each door is provided with a lock for selectively locking the door in the closed condition. The lock may be of any appropriate form, including a mechanically-operated lock or an electronically-operated lock.
The lock may comprise a locking mechanism protected in a lock cavity.
Preferably, the body is configured to provide ventilation to the storage compartments
The body may define a further chamber. The further chamber may accommodate cabling for supply of electrical power to the storage compartments.
The further chamber may provide a passage for delivery of ventilation air to the storage compartments.
Where there is a plurality of storage locker units assembled to form a storage locker assembly, the further chambers of at least some of the locker units may cooperate to form a duct for delivery of ventilation air to the storage compartments in the various storage locker units.
Means may be provided for securing the locker storage unit to an adjacent locker storage unit or to another fixed surface such as a solid wall or floor. Multiple corner apertures may be provided in the body for this purpose in order to achieve security of the locker storage unit itself.
According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of storage compartments, one side comprising^ - o - plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the storage compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door when in the open condition is disposed laterally away from said one side. According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker unit adapted to cooperate with at least one other such storage locker unit to form a storage locker assembly for secure storage of portable electrical devices such as laptop computers, the storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of storage compartments each configured to receive one of the devices, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the storage compartments to provide access thereto, wherein each door is moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions when said one side is outwardly facing within the storage locker assembly regardless of the orientation of the storage locker unit within the storage locker assembly, and wherein the open condition of each door is laterally away from said one side.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defining an enclosed chamber divided into a plurality of storage compartments, each storage compartment being configured for secure storage of a portable electrical device such as a laptop computer, one side comprising a plurality of doors each corresponding to a respective one of the storage compartments to provide access thereto, each door being moveable pivotally between open and closed conditions, wherein each door is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees so as to swing laterally away from said one side into the open condition, and means for providing electrical power to the portable electrical devices stored in the compartments.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker assembly comprising a plurality of storage locker units according to any one of the preceding aspects of the invention. - D -
The storage locker assembly may have means for passing electrical power from one storage locker unit to another through a secure and safe electrical cavity formed therein.
The storage locker assembly may have means for passing forced ventilation air to the locker storage units through a ventilation cavity formed therein.
A pedestal may be provided for supporting the storage locker unit or the storage locker assembly. The pedestal may comprise means such as a fan or blower for forced ventilation of one or more of the storage locker units.
The storage locker unit according to the invention presents a very compact arrangement that is highly secure and provides electrical charging capability for portable laptop computers. The storage locker unit is principally intended for small electrical devices in the first instance and is a complimentary and supplementary economic solution for traditional low cost, low quality and low security traditional lockers. The storage locker unit is thus particularly, although not exclusively, suitable for use alongside or in-conjunction with existing lockers that do not inherently provide secure storage and electrical charging for portable devices.
According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defines an interior divided into first and second enclosed chambers separated by an internal wall, the first enclosed chamber being divided into a plurality of storage compartments, each storage compartment being configured for secure storage of a portable electrical device, and a plurality of internal ports in the internal wall for communication between the second chamber and each storage compartment. The internal ports optionally provide access ports for cabling and also ventilation of the storage compartments. Closure means may be provided for selectively closing one or more of the internal ports, either partially or fully.
The closure means may comprise an insert (such as a grommet) adapted to be received within the respective port. The insert may comprise an outer portion, an inner portion, and an intermediate portion between the outer and inner portions, the outer portion being configured to be received within the port for engagement with the peripheral edge thereof, the inner portion being selectively removable to provide a central aperture, and the intermediate portion being selectively removable either wholly or in part to provide an enlarged aperture.
Typically, the central aperture provides an opening through which one or more cables can pass, and the enlarged aperture does the same as well as providing an increased flow area for ventilation.
The intermediate portion may be configured as a plurality of segments each of which is selectively removable or rupturable to form at least part of the enlarged aperture.
According to a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided a storage locker unit comprising a body having a plurality of sides, the body defines a plurality of storage compartments, each storage compartment being configured for secure storage of a portable electrical device, and an electric circuit for providing electrical power to the storage compartments, the electric circuit comprising cabling, a power inlet configured as a male connector plug, and power outlets arranged in a daisy chain configuration there being one power outlet corresponding to each storage compartment. Preferably, the power outlets have individual switches, typically conventional on/off rocker switches. Preferably, the electric circuit comprises a chain socket extension lead.
Preferably, the body defines an interior divided into first and second enclosed chambers separated by an internal wall, the first enclosed chamber being divided into the plurality of storage compartments, and the cabling of the electric circuit being accommodated in the second enclosed chamber.
Brief Description of the Drawings
The invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of several specific embodiments thereof, as shown in the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a storage locker unit according to the first embodiment, shown in one orientation;
Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 except that the storage locker unit is shown in another orientation;
Figure 3 is a view of the storage locker unit in the orientation shown in Figure 1 but in a locked condition;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the storage locker unit in the orientation shown in Figure 1 with locker doors in an open condition and certain parts removed to reveal internal features;
Figure 5 is a further perspective view somewhat similar to Figure 4, illustrating in particular electrical componentry;
Figure 7 is a fragmentary perspective view showing the locker doors in the closed condition; Figure 8 is a view similar to Figure 7 except that one locker door is shown in the open condition;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of the outer side of one of the locker doors;
Figure 10 is a perspective view of the inner side of the locker door shown in Figure 9;
Figure 11 is a perspective view of one side of a closure for ports in the storage locker unit;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of the other side of the closure; Figure 13 is a view of one side of the closure; Figure 14 is a view of the other side of the closure;
Figure 15 is a side view of the closure.
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a plurality of storage locker units according to the first embodiment stacked one upon another to provide a storage locker assembly; Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of the storage locker unit according to the first embodiment and a pedestal upon which is can rest;
Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of the pedestal;
Figure 19 is a perspective view of a storage locker assembly supported on the pedestal, the storage locker assembly comprising a plurality of storage locker units according to the first embodiment arranged in one orientation; Figure 20 is an exploded perspective view of the arrangement shown in Figure 19;
Figure 21 is a view similar to Figure 19 but with the storage locker units arranged in another orientation; Figure 22 is also a view similar to Figure 19 but with the storage locker units arranged in several orientations;
Figure 23 is also a view similar to Figure 19 but with the storage locker units arranged in several orientations and several locker doors shown in an open condition;; Figure 24 is a perspective view of one form of connector for interconnecting storage locker units according to the first embodiment;
Figure 25 is a perspective view of another form of connector for interconnecting storage locker units according to the first embodiment;
Figure 26 is a perspective view of a storage locker unit according to the second embodiment, with certain parts removed to reveal internal features;
Figure 27 is a perspective view of a plurality of storage locker units according to the second embodiment stacked one upon another to provide a storage locker assembly, with the storage locker assembly shown supported on a pedestal and certain parts of the storage locker units removed to reveal internal features;;
Figure 28 is an exploded perspective view of a plurality of storage locker units according to the second embodiment stacked one upon another to provide a storage locker assembly, with the storage locker assembly shown supported on a pedestal; Figure 29 is a perspective view of a storage locker unit according to the third embodiment;
Figure 30 is a front view of the storage locker unit shown in Figure 29;
Figure 29 is a perspective view of a storage locker unit according to the third embodiment;
Figure 30 is a front view of the storage locker unit shown in Figure 29;
Figure 31 is a view similar to Figure 29 but with a locker door removed to reveal internal features;
Figure 32 is a fragmentary perspective view of the arrangement shown in Figure 31, illustrating in particular the locking mechanism for the locker doors;
Figure 33 is a perspective view of a storage locker unit according to the fourth embodiment;
Figure 34 is a front view of the storage locker unit shown in Figure 33; Figure 35 is a perspective view of a storage locker unit according to the fifth embodiment; and
Figure 36 is a front view of the storage locker unit shown in Figure 35 Best Mode(s) for Carrying Out the Invention
Referring to Figures 1 to 25 of the drawings, there is shown a storage locker unit 10 according to the first embodiment which has been devised particularly for secured storage of small portable devices including laptop computers and notebook computers in educational institutions such as schools. The storage locker 10 can, however, be used in other environments such as commercial offices where it can be located under-desk in the same way a small filing cabinet is used, and for other storage applications if so desired.
The storage locker unit 10 according to the embodiment incorporates a plurality of main storage compartments 11 each configured to receive a small portable device (not shown) and to provide access to electrical power for charging of the battery of the small portable device while stored.
The storage locker unit 10 can be used by itself or in conjunction with one or more other such units to provide a storage locker assembly as will be described later. The storage locker unit 10 according to the embodiment comprises a body 20 of sheet metal construction. The body 20 is of generally square construction and has six sides, being a first side 21 , a second side 22, a third side 23, a fourth side 24, a fifth side 25 and a sixth side 26. The six sides are congruent; that is, they are all of the same size and shape. As will be explained in more detail later, the storage locker unit 10 can be used in various orientations. One orientation is that shown in Figure 1 in which the fourth side 24 provides the top 27 of the storage locker unit and the fifth side 25 provides the bottom 28. Another orientation is that shown in Figure 2 in which the third side 23 provides the top 27 of the storage locker unit and the second side 22 provides the bottom 28.
The body defines an interior 30 divided into first and second enclosed chambers 31 , 32. In the arrangement shown, the interior 30 is divided into the first and second chambers 31 , 32 by a first internal wall 33 extending between the fourth and fifth sides 24, 25. The first chamber 31 is divided into the main storage compartments 11 by partitions 37. The partitions 37 comprise panels 39 extending between the second side 22 and the internal wall 33. As can be seen in the drawings, the ■ I o ■ partitions 37 are closely spaced and the storage compartments 11 are consequently configured as slots 41 arranged to receive and store the small portable devices (not shown).
The interior 30 of the body includes a second internal wall 43 which is parallel to the first external wall 33 and which is accommodated within the first chamber 31. The second internal wall 43 extends from the sixth side 26 of the body 20 towards the first side 21 but terminates inwardly thereof at edge 45.
When the storage locker unit 10 is in the orientation shown in Figure 1 , the slots 41 extend horizontally. Thus the panels 39 are disposed generally horizontally and function as shelves 42 on which the small portable devices can rest in their normal position. In this arrangement, the bottom wall 28 defined by the fifth side 25 of the body 20 provides the shelf 42a for the lowermost storage compartment 11. Further, the second internal wall 43 defines a secondary compartment 46 within each main storage compartment 11 towards the rear thereof on which items may be stored. The secondary compartment 46 may be particularly useful for storing a battery charging unit for charging the battery of a portable computer device stored on the shelf 42 within the compartment
When the storage locker unit 10 is in the orientation shown in Figure 2, the slots 41 extend vertically. Thus the panels 39 are disposed generally vertically and function as side walls, with the bottom wall 28 defined by the second side 22 of the body 20 providing a base on which the small portable devices can rest on their edges. The base may be adapted to minimise the risk of any damage to the small portable devices upon insertion and removal; for example, the base may be provided with a support surface which affords protection and facilitates sliding movement for insertion and removal of the devices. In one arrangement the base may comprise soft felt, and in another arrangement the base may comprise a roller mechanism such as rotating rubber rollers. - -
The first side 21 of the body 20 is configured as a plurality of hinged doors 50, each corresponding to a respective one of the storage compartments 11 to provide access to the storage compartment. Each door 50 is pivotally mounted on a hinge 51 for pivotal movement between open and closed conditions. The hinge 51 for each door 50 comprises an indented hinge, with the door 50 being disposed inwardly of the hinge, as best seen in Figures 7 and 8. With this arrangement, each door 50 is moveable pivotally through 180 degrees between the closed condition as shown in Figure 7 and an open condition as shown in Figure 8. In this way, each door 50, when in the open condition, extends laterally away from the first side 21 of the body 20. When the storage locker unit 10 is in the orientation shown in Figure 1 , each open door extends sidewards away from the first side 21, as illustrated in Figure 8. When the storage locker unit 10 is in the orientation shown in Figure 2, each open door extends downwardly away from the first side 21 , as illustrated in Figure 16. This ensures that the open door 50 is not disposed between the compartment 50 and the user to impede access to the open compartment.
Each hinge 51 comprises a hinge barrel 53 mounted on the door and a hinge pin 55. The hinge barrel 53 is attached to the hinged edge of the door by fasteners 56 extending through mounting holes (not shown) in the hinged door 50, as best seen in Figures 9 and 10. In this embodiment, the hinge barrel 53 is configured as an extrusion, typically of aluminium, and the fasteners 56 comprise screws. The fasteners 56 are a clearance fit within the mounting holes in the hinged door 50, with the mounting holes being sized to provide a wide tolerance to permit adjustment of the position of the door, as may be necessary. Typically, the mounting holes comprise three holes, being a central hole and two outer holes. The central hole is a tighter tolerance hole sufficient to allow the door to rotate only, while the two outer holes are each a looser tolerance hole sufficient to allow the door to have opening clearances adjusted relative to adjacent doors. - -
The hinge pin 55 for each door 50 is defined by a common shaft 57; that is, the common shaft 57 provides the hinge pins 55 for all of the hinges 51.
A lock 60 is associated with each door 50 for selectively locking it in the closed condition. In this embodiment, each lock 60 comprises a lock pin 61 mounted on the body 20 and a lock aperture 63 provided in the door adjacent the free end thereof, the arrangement being that the lock post 61 is received in the lock aperture 63 when the door is in the closed condition. The lock pin 61 has a transverse hole 65 adjacent its outer end to receive a locking element 67 such as a padlock to lock and retain the door in the closed condition. Each lock pin 61 is mounted on a support panel 34 and secured at the inner side thereof by a lock nut 62, as shown in Figure 5. In this way, the lock nut 62 is concealed and protected behind the support panel 34. The lock nut contains a nylon material such that the nut remains securely in place on the lock pin 61 even if the lock pin aperture 63 is forced through multiple 360 degree rotations. With this arrangement, the support panel 34 cooperates with adjacent parts of the body 20 to define a lock cavity in which the lock nuts 62 for the lock pins 61 are accommodated.
The second enclosed chamber 32 is disposed between the third side 23 of the body 20 and the first internal wall 33. The second chamber 32 accommodates electrical componentry 71 of an electric circuit 73 for providing electrical power for charging of the batteries of small portable devices stored in the storage compartments 11. In the arrangement shown, the electrical componentry 71 comprises a chain socket extension lead 72 comprising cable 75, a power inlet configured as a male connector plug 76 at one end of the cable 75, and power outlets 77 and 79 arranged in a daisy chain configuration along the cable 75, as best seen in Figures 4 and 5. The outlets 77, 79 have individual switches, typically conventional on/off rocker switches. There is one power outlet 79 corresponding to each storage compartment 11 and the daisy chain power outlet 77. Each power outlet 79 opens onto its respective storage compartment 11 to - - receive the male plug of the power pack of the small portable device stored in the compartment.
The use of the chain socket extension lead 72 is particularly advantageous, as it allows the electrical circuitry to be installed in the storage locker unit 10 without requiring the services of a qualified electrician.
The body 20 includes ports 80 for access for cabling and also for ventilation transference at various locations. The ports 80 are of a size which permits a power plug attached to the end of an electrical cable to be passed therethrough.
The ports 80 include external ports 81 formed in the sides of the body and interior ports 82 formed in the first internal wall 33. The external ports 81 may be selectively used for ventilation and for cable access, as will be explained later. The internal ports 82 provide for communication between the enclosed second chamber 32 and each storage compartment 11.
The electrical componentry 71 may be configured so that the power supply to each storage locker unit can be switched on progressively, thereby avoiding a spiked load condition which might otherwise arise if power was delivered simultaneously to all stored small portable devices stored in the storage compartments 11.
The body 20 is configured to provide ventilation to the storage compartments 11 for dispersal of heat generated during charging of the small portable devices stored in the compartments.
The ventilation configuration comprises vents provided by the external ports 81 and also vents provided by perforations 84 formed in the sides of the body 20. Further, the ventilation configuration comprises vents provided by the internal ports 82, as well as vents provided by perforations 86 within internal parts of the body 20. Still further, the ventilation configuration comprises vents provided by perforations 87 in the doors 50. The ventilation comprises in the first instance natural ventilation. For certain applications, the natural ventilation may also be supplemented by forced ventilation. The forced ventilation comprises ventilation air delivered under pressure to the second compartment 32, as will be explained in more detail later. Further ventilation is provided through natural conduction of the body 20 of the storage locker to the ambient air and surrounding surfaces in contact with the body 20.
The storage locker unit 10 according to the first embodiment may be used as a stand-alone single unit or in conjunction with one or more other such units to provide a storage locker assembly.
In cases where the storage locker unit 10 is used in conjunction with one or more other such units to provide a storage locker assembly, the chain socket extension leads 72 of the various storage locker units can be simply connected one to another to provide electrical power to the units. Specifically, the power inlet connector plug 76 at one end of the lead 72 of one storage locker unit 10 is connected into the daisy chain power outlet 77 of the lead 72 of a neighbouring storage locker unit in the assembly.
Figures 16 and 19 to 23 illustrate a storage locker assembly 90 comprising a plurality of storage locker units 10 according to the embodiment stacked one upon another. The orientation of each the storage locker unit 10 within the storage locker assembly 90 is variable, according to the requirements of a particular application. By way of example, in one arrangement all storage locker units 10 may be oriented so that the slots 41 defined by the storage compartments 11 extend vertically, with the doors 50 swinging vertically about a horizontal pivot axis. Such an arrangement is illustrated in Figures 16 and 21. In another arrangement all storage locker units 10 may be oriented so that the slots 41 defined by the storage compartments 11 extend horizontally, with the doors 50 swinging horizontally about a vertical pivot axis. Such an arrangement is - - illustrated in Figure 19. In yet another arrangement some storage locker units 10 may be oriented so that the slots 41 defined by the storage compartments 11 extend horizontally and other storage locker units 10 may be oriented so that the slots 41 defined by the storage compartments 11 extend vertically. Furthermore it is possible that storage locker units 10 may be rotated horizontally relative to one another in increments of 90 degrees. Such an arrangement is illustrated in Figures 22 and 23.
It is a feature of the storage locker unit 10 according to the first embodiment that it can be deployed in the various orientations. The is possible because the six sides of the body 20 are of the same size and shape and have aligned fixing holes in each of the corners, enabling storage locker units 10 to be stacked one upon another in any desired orientation without affecting the orientation of the adjacent storage locker units in the stack.
It is also a particular feature of the storage locker unit 10 according to the first embodiment that when the storage locker unit is within a storage locker assembly
90 and oriented so that the slots 41 extend vertically, the doors 50 can swing downwardly into the open position without being impeded by the particular storage locker unit 10 immediately below it. This is illustrated in Figure 16 where it can be seen that door 50a of storage locker unit 10a is in the open condition without being impeded by storage locker unit 10b immediately below. This is accomplished because the hinges 51 are indented, as described previously.
When storage locker units 10 are stacked one upon another, it is desirable to secure the stacked units together. Connectors 91 are provided for this purpose. Each connector 91 comprises a rectangular connector frame 93 which is configured to conform to the periphery of the sides of the body 20 and which defines an open interior 94. The connector frame 93 includes connector elements 95 at the corners thereof. The connectors 91 are inteφosed between adjacent storage locker units 10 in the stacked assembly 90. In connecting two storage locker units 10 together, the connector elements 95 of the respective connector 91 are fastened to the top wall 27 of the lower storage locker unit 10 and also fastened to the bottom wall 28 of the upper storage locker unit 10. In the arrangement shown in Figure 24, the connector elements 95 at each corner comprise an upper nut assembly 96 and a lower nut assembly 97 configured to receive threaded bolts (not shown) which pass through the storage locker units to secure the storage locker units to the connector 91. In another arrangement, which is shown in Figure 25, each upper nut assembly 96 may have a threaded spigot 98 installed therein. The presence of the spigots 98 is advantageous as they facilitate alignment of the connector frame 93 with the respective storage locker unit 10. The storage locker units 10 can then be secured to the threaded spigots 98 using nuts threaded onto the spigots from within the storage locker unit. In yet another arrangement, the spigots 98 may be welded in position on the connector frame 93.
Each connector 91 disposed between adjacent storage locker units 10 in the stacked assembly 90 establishes a space 99 between the storage locker units 10. The space 99 corresponds to the open interior 94 of the rectangular connector frame 93 and is bounded by the underside of the upper storage locker unit, the upper side of the lower storage locker unit, and the rectangular connector frame 93. The space 99 provides an access way for cabling passing between the two adjacent storage locker units and also for ventilation air flowing between the two adjacent storage locker units.
Depending upon the orientation of the various storage locker units 10 in the stacked assembly 90, the storage locker units may each have a respective external port 81 opening onto the space 99. With this arrangement, the cable 75 of the chain socket extension lead 72 associated with one storage locker unit may emerge from the respective port 81 associated with that storage locker unit, pass through the space 99, and enter the other storage locker unit thorough its respective port 81 opening onto the space. In this way, the cable 75 weaves between the two storage locker units 10. In certain configurations of the stacked assembly 90, the ports 81 opening onto the space 99 will be aligned vertically, thereby permitting the cable 75 to pass directly through the space 99 from one port 81 to the other port 81. In certain other configurations of the stacked assembly 90, the ports 81 will be offset with respect to each other but nevertheless still opening onto the space 99, thereby permitting the cable 75 to weave through the space between the two ports 81.
In this embodiment, the external ports 81 and the internal ports 82 can be selectively closed, either partly or wholly, using closure means 100 as illustrated in Figures 11 to 15. The closure means 100 are shown in position in the internal ports 82 in Figure 4. a.
The closure means 100 comprise an insert 101 configured as a grommet adapted to be received within the respective port 81 , 82. The insert 101 comprises a body 102 formed of resiliently flexible material such as rubber or other appropriate elastomeric material. The body 102 has an outer portion 103, an inner portion 104, and an intermediate portion 105 between the outer and inner portion.
The outer portion 103 is configured to be received within the respective port 81 , 82 for engagement with the peripheral edge thereof. Specifically, the outer portion 103 comprises a peripheral rib 106 incorporating a circumferential channel 107 into which the peripheral edge of the respective port 81 , 82 can be received.
The inner portion 104 is selectively removable to provide a central aperture for cabling access.
The intermediate portion 105 is selectively removable, either wholly or in part, to provide an enlarged aperture. The enlarged aperture may provide for cable access (particular for cabling fitted with full-sized power plugs) and well as providing an increased flow area for ventilation. In the arrangement illustrated, the intermediate portion 105 is configured as a plurality of segments 108 each of which is selectively removable or rupturable to form at least part of the enlarged aperture. Lines of weakening 109 are incorporated in the body 102 to define the segments 108 as well as the inner portion 104. The lines of weakening 109 comprise zones of thinner cross-section formed in the body 102.
The storage locker unit 10 according to the embodiment can also be used in conjunction with a pedestal 110, as shown in Figures 17 and 19 to 23. The pedestal 110 can be used with a storage locker unit 10 operating as a stand-alone single unit (as shown in Figure 17), and also with a storage locker assembly 90 involving a plurality of storage locker units 10 in a stacked condition (as shown in Figures 19 to 23).
The pedestal 110 can provide a raised base for the stand alone storage locker unit 10 or the storage locker assembly 90,as the case may be. The pedestal 110 may also be adapted to provide forced ventilation to the storage locker unit 10 or the storage locker assembly 90.
The pedestal 110 comprises a base structure 111 defining an upper end 112 upon which a storage locker unit 10 can be securely located. The upper end 112 is open, as shown in the drawings. The base structure 111 defines an interior cavity 113. The rear 114 of the pedestal 110 has an aperture 116 (shown in Figure 18 only) opening onto the interior cavity 113, the purpose of which will be explained later.
In the arrangement shown in the drawings, the interior cavity 113 is separated by an inclined interior wall 115 into an upper zone 117 and a lower zone 119. The lower zone 119 communicated with the exterior of the pedestal through a vent 121. The vent 121 is incorporated in a door 123 which provides access into the interior cavity 113. The vent may optionally have a dust filter fitted to the back of the door 123. The interior wall 115 has an opening 125 which is adapted to accommodate a fan or blower 126 for drawing air from the lower zone 119 and delivering it under pressure into the upper zone 117. The air under pressure within the upper zone 117 flows through the open upper end 112 and into the storage locker unit 10 resting thereon to provide forced ventilation thereto. Where the storage locker unit 10 resting on the pedestal 110 comprises the lowermost unit of a storage locker assembly 90, the forced ventilation air can flow upwardly progressively through the stacked storage locker units 10 to provide ventilation to the various storage compartments 11. Vents provided by ports 81 , 82 in the various storage locker units 10 within the storage locker assembly 90 cooperate to provide a flow path for the forced ventilation air. In particular, the second chambers 32 in the various storage locker units 10 cooperate to provide a duct within the storage locker assembly 90 for the passage of forced ventilation air, with aligned vents 81 in the bodies 20 of adjacent storage locker units 10, providing communication for flow of forced ventilation therebetween. Ventilation air flows from the duct into each storage compartment 11 through the vents 82, 86.
Where the storage locker unit 10, or the storage locker assembly 90, supported on the pedestal 110 does not require forced ventilation, the inclined interior wall 115 and associated fan or blower may be omitted from the pedestal. The pedestal 110 also contains provision to feed a common supply of electrical power to one or more locker storage units 10. The aperture 116 at the rear of the base structure 111 permits the pedestal 110 to be pushed over an external electrical power outlet fixed on an adjoining wall. The pedestal 110 contains a power board clamp 116 in which a power board (not shown) may be clipped in. The power board is then plugged into the external electrical power outlet. A cabling port in the inclined interior wall allows one or more power cables 75 from one or more locker storage units 10 to pass through and plug into the power board. The door 123 of the pedestal 110 provides convenient access to press the reset button on the power board should any overload occur. The storage locker unit 10 according to the embodiment can be installed in any one of various configurations, according to the requirements of a particular installation. By way of example, the storage locker unit 10 can be installed on a bench, under a bench, on a wall or in a storage locker assembly as previously described. Other installation configurations are, of course, also possible.
The internal ports 82 can function as air distribution holes for ventilation and also as access holes for cabling, such as mains power cabling and computer network cabling such as Ethernet/LAN cabling.
The internal ports 82 allow regulation of forced air delivered to the storage compartments 11. Specifically, the ports 82 can be selectively closed, either partly or wholly, to regulate the flow of forced air from the second chamber 32 into the storage compartments 11.
In this embodiment, the ports 82 can be selectively closed, either partly or wholly, using the closure means 100 as previously described and illustrated in Figures 11 to 15.
Referring now to Figures 26, 27 and 28, there is shown a storage locker unit 200 according to a second embodiment. The storage locker unit 200 according to the second embodiment is similar in many respects to the storage locker unit 10 according to the first embodiment and so similar reference numerals are used to identify similar parts.
Referring now in particular to Figure 26, the storage locker unit 200 according to a second embodiment has provision to accommodate an optional stand-alone individual unit ventilation system 201 specifically dedicated to the storage compartments 11. The ventilation system 201 comprises a plurality of electrically powered ventilation fans 205, each dedicated specifically to a respective one of the compartments 11. The ventilation fans 205 are mounted within the second enclosed chamber 32 on the internal wall 33 and communicate with the storage compartments 11 through ventilation air delivery vents 207 formed in the internal wall 33. In the arrangement shown, the ventilation air delivery vents 207 comprise perforations 209 formed in the internal wall 33. Further, in the arrangement shown, the perforations 209 are arranged in a generally circular array.
In this embodiment, each ventilation fans 205 is powered by low-voltage DC electrical motor which receives electrical power from a mains supply through an appropriate converter. The use of ventilation fans 205 powered by DC electrical motor is particularly advantageous, as it allows the ventilation fans 205 and associated electrical circuitry to be installed in the storage locker unit 10 without requiring the services of a qualified electrician. Furthermore the use of low-voltage DC fans permits common use in different international countries which may have different mains supplies by simply using an appropriate converter again avoiding the server of a qualified electrician.
Figures 27 and 28 each depict a storage locker assembly 90 comprising a plurality of storage locker units 200 stacked one upon another. Referring now to Figures 29 to 32, there is shown a storage locker unit 300 according to a third embodiment. The storage locker unit 300 according to the third embodiment is similar in many respects to the storage locker unit 10 according to the first embodiment and so similar reference numerals are used to identify similar parts. In this embodiment, the lock 60 is associated with each door 50 for selectively locking it in the closed condition comprises a mechanical locking mechanism configured as a keyed cam lock 301. The keyed cam lock 301 comprises a locking cam 303 movable between locking and unlocking conditions through use of a key 305. The locking cam 303 is configured as a locking finger adapted to engage a catch 307 defined by the support panel 34 mounted on the body 20, as shown in Figure 32.
With the provision of the keyed cam lock 301 , there is no need for the lock pin 61 used with the first embodiment. In this embodiment the support panel utilises the - o - mounting holes of the lock pins it replaces and is thus retained to the locker unit 10 thereby. A mounting aperture (not shown) provided in the support panel 34 to accommodate the lock pin 61 is concealed by a cover element 311 which presents a face 313 to accommodate identification indicia 315 such as an identification number. The identification indicia 315 is so positioned that it is visible through the aperture 63 in the respective door 50 when the door is in the closed condition, as can be seen in Figure 32,
Referring now to Figures 33 and 34, there is shown a storage locker unit 400 according to a fourth embodiment. The storage locker unit 400 according to the fourth embodiment is similar in many respects to the storage locker unit 300 according to the third embodiment and so similar reference numerals are used to identify similar parts.
In this embodiment, the lock 60 is associated with each door 50 for selectively locking it in the closed condition comprises a combination lock 401 of known kind. Referring now to Figures 35 and 36, there is shown a storage locker unit 500 according to a fifth embodiment. The storage locker unit 500 according to the fifth embodiment is similar in many respects to the storage locker unit 300 according to the third embodiment and so similar reference numerals are used to identify similar parts. In this embodiment, the lock 60 is associated with each door 50 for selectively locking it in the closed condition comprises an electronic lock 501 of known kind, comprising a keypad entry system 503.
It should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the various embodiments described. By way of example, the lock 60 may be of any appropriate form and need not necessarily be of the type described in any of the embodiments. - ZO -
Various alterations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.