US20010040072A1 - Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20010040072A1 US20010040072A1 US09/809,119 US80911901A US2001040072A1 US 20010040072 A1 US20010040072 A1 US 20010040072A1 US 80911901 A US80911901 A US 80911901A US 2001040072 A1 US2001040072 A1 US 2001040072A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cart
- dock
- stop
- trough
- face
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60T—VEHICLE BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEMS OR PARTS THEREOF; BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEMS OR PARTS THEREOF, IN GENERAL; ARRANGEMENT OF BRAKING ELEMENTS ON VEHICLES IN GENERAL; PORTABLE DEVICES FOR PREVENTING UNWANTED MOVEMENT OF VEHICLES; VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS TO FACILITATE COOLING OF BRAKES
- B60T3/00—Portable devices for preventing unwanted movement of vehicles, e.g. chocks
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/04—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement
- B62B5/049—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement locking against movement by contacting the floor or a wall
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
- G06Q30/0207—Discounts or incentives, e.g. coupons or rebates
- G06Q30/0222—During e-commerce, i.e. online transactions
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q99/00—Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B3/00—Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor
- B62B3/14—Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor characterised by provisions for nesting or stacking, e.g. shopping trolleys
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49947—Assembling or joining by applying separate fastener
- Y10T29/49959—Nonresilient fastener
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart.
- the parking areas of many establishments are often quite large and the distance from the check-out area of the establishment to a customer's car may be quite far.
- the retail establishment permits the customer to utilize the cart for this purpose. After purchasing their goods, customers may push the loaded cart from the establishment over a parking area to their car. The customer then unloads the goods from the cart.
- the unattended or “runaway” cart as such carts are often referred to may roll away and be lost by the retail establishment, at great cost to the establishment. Moreover, the carts may cause injury and damage. For example, the cart may roll into a vehicle parked in the parking lot and damage it. The carts may also roll into moving traffic or into pedestrians, also causing damage and injury. Because of the rather high incidence of damage caused by unattended carts, but not wishing to take away the convenience of providing the carts to customers, many establishments post signs warning that damage from run-away and unattended carts may cause damage and stating that the establishment is not responsible for damage thereby. Nonetheless, retailers often have many claims filed against them every year arising from runaway cart damage and injury.
- the apparatus comprising the cart return normally comprises a tubular aluminum or other metal structure.
- the structure may be quite large and relatively expensive.
- the cart return areas normally consume several parking spaces in the parking area. Because of the size and cost, an establishment may only provide one or two cart returns in their parking area.
- Some security devices have been proposed to prevent customers from removing carts from the area of an establishment. Some of these devices are arranged to lock one or more wheels of the cart. Such devices are intended to prevent the theft or negligent removal of carts and are not useful in solving the above-stated problem.
- these devices generally are arranged to “trigger” when the cart reaches an outer perimeter beyond which the customer is not permitted to travel with the cart. It is not feasible to arrange such a device to trigger once a cart is left unattended at any particular point in a parking lot to prevent the cart from rolling away once unattended. Once the lock is triggered, store/owner personnel must reset the lock in order for the cart to be useful.
- the cart securing structure includes a first stop and a second stop having a trough positioned therebetween for accepting at least one wheel of the cart between the first and second stop.
- the first stop has a first face sloping upwardly from the bottom surface over which a wheel of the cart may be rolled and a second face sloping downwardly towards the trough for engaging the wheel of the cart to prevent the cart from rolling away.
- the second stop has a first surface sloping upwardly from the trough for engaging a wheel of the cart to prevent the cart from rolling away.
- the cart securing structure includes a cover associated with the front face of a first stop.
- the cart securing structure may also include side members and/or upwardly extending markers.
- One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method of securing a cart securing structure of the invention to a support surface.
- the method comprises bolting the structure to the support surface.
- the structure may include one or more bores through which a fastener may pass for this purpose.
- the structure is secured to the support surface with adhesive.
- the structure may include one or more outwardly extending pins for orienting the structure.
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1 with a face cover thereof removed;
- FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5( a ) illustrates an anchor useful in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a shopping cart dock in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 is a side view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 9( a ) illustrates an anchor useful in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 9( b ) illustrates a bolt useful with the anchor illustrated in FIG. 9( a ) in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a shopping cart dock in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11 is a side view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 10;
- FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 10;
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment cart dock in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 14 is a side view of the cart dock illustrated in FIG. 13.
- the present invention is an apparatus and method for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart.
- a wheeled device such as a shopping cart.
- the apparatus of the invention comprises a cart dock and a method of use which are particularly adapted to securing a wheeled cart.
- Such carts are well known.
- carts known as “shopping carts” found at groceries and similar retailers comprise a frame structure supporting a basket in which goods may be placed.
- the frame is generally constructed of metal, while the basket may be constructed of metal or plastic.
- the frame structure is rollably supported by four (4) wheels 41 (one of which is illustrated in FIG. 2).
- the four wheels are arranged with two (2) wheels provided at a front portion of the cart and two (2) wheels provided at a rear portion of the cart.
- the front wheels are generally pivotally mounted for steering the cart.
- the apparatus of the present invention is useful with flatbed and other carts.
- Such carts are commonly found at lumber yards and the like.
- These carts may have front and rear wheels separated by a much larger distance than the above-described carts.
- the wheels of these carts may also be larger.
- These carts may include additional front and/or rear wheels (such as three front wheels) or even additional wheels at other locations.
- the front face 30 of the first stop 26 comprises a surface which slopes and/or angles upwardly from the bottom surface 22 .
- the intersection of the bottom surface 22 with the front face 30 of the first stop 26 defines a leading edge 38 .
- the leading edge 38 is positioned near a support surface when the cart dock 20 is mounted for use.
- the front face 30 is sloped rearwardly towards the second stop 28 for accommodating the rolling of a shopping cart wheel 41 upwardly the front face 30 . In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 1, the front face 30 is curved.
- the first stop 26 has an apex 40 formed between the front face 30 and rear face 32 .
- the apex 40 is preferably somewhat rounded to facilitate the rolling of a wheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover.
- the rear face 32 is positioned generally opposite the front face 30 and slopes downwardly from the apex 40 .
- the slope and shape of the rear face 32 is selected to make difficult the passage of a wheel 41 of a shopping cart in the direction towards the front face 30 .
- the first stop 26 is configured to easily permit a wheel 41 of a shopping cart to be rolled over the front face 30 towards the rear face 32 , but to generally prevent movement of the wheels in the reverse direction.
- the rear face 32 of the first stop 26 is somewhat concave, defining a recessed area 42 for accepting a portion of a wheel 41 of a shopping cart.
- the front face 34 of the second stop 28 is also arranged to make difficult the rolling of a wheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover.
- the front face 34 rises upwardly and has a slope and shape somewhat similar to the rear face 32 of the first stop 26 .
- the second stop 28 has an apex 44 formed between the front face 34 and rear face 36 .
- the apex 44 is preferably somewhat rounded to facilitate the rolling of a wheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover.
- the rear face 36 of the second stop 28 is generally located opposite the first face 34 and slopes downwardly from the apex 44 .
- the rear face 36 comprises a generally vertically extending wall.
- the rear face 36 may be sloped at other than a ninety (90) degree angle.
- a trough 46 is defined between the first stop 26 and the second stop 28 .
- the top surface 24 of the dock 20 is closer to the bottom surface 22 than the apex 40 of the first stop 26 and the apex 44 of the second stop 28 .
- the trough 46 preferably has a width or distance between the front face 34 of the second stop 28 and the rear face 32 of the first stop 26 to permit placement of a wheel 41 of a shopping cart therein.
- the dock 20 has the following dimensions: height of the apex 40 from the bottom surface 22 , approximately three (3) inches; height of the apex 44 from the bottom surface 22 , approximately one and one-half (1.5) inches; and the distance between the first and second stops 26 , 28 approximately eight (8) inches.
- the width of the dock 20 from end 47 a to end 47 b is sufficient to accommodate both the front and/or back wheels 41 of a shopping cart.
- the width of the dock 20 may be about twenty (20) inches.
- Such a width is common for shopping carts provided at grocery stores.
- the width of the dock 20 may be about thirty (30) inches.
- the greater width dock 20 may be advantageous in accommodating flat-bed and similar high capacity carts provided at some establishments, such as lumber yards.
- One or more mounting elements are provided for securing the cart dock 20 to a mounting or support surface.
- the support surface may comprise an asphalt or cement parking lot or any of a variety of other surfaces where a cart is used and where it is desirable to secure the cart.
- the mounting elements may comprise anchors 50 and bolts 52 .
- the anchors 50 are placed in bores in the support surface.
- the bolts 52 then engage one or more portions of the dock 20 and an anchor 50 , securing the dock 20 to the support surface.
- the cart dock 20 has nine (9) bores provided therein through which a bolt 52 or similar threaded fastener may extend.
- Three (3) bores 54 a are provided in spaced relation through the trough 46 portion of the dock 20 near the second stop 28 .
- Three (3) bores 54 b are provided in recessed areas 57 provided in the front face 30 of the first stop 26 .
- Three (3) bores 54 c are provided in association with key-ways 56 provided in the bottom surface 22 of the dock 20 generally beneath the first stop 26 .
- the cart dock 20 may be constructed in a variety of manners and from a variety of materials.
- the dock 20 is constructed of a durable, weather-resistant material and a material which has a “memory” in that it retains it shape. Because of the use environment of the dock 20 , the dock 20 may be driven upon by vehicles. It is desirable for the dock 20 to be flexible enough to yield and both not break or cause damage to a vehicle, and at the same time return to its original shape to function effectively.
- the dock 20 may be injection molded of a polypropylene or similar material.
- the dock 20 may be made hollow to reduce its weight and cost.
- one or more ribs or reinforcing structure may be provided (such as inside the hollow areas of the dock 20 ) for strengthening it.
- the dock 20 may be made to reflect and/or transmit light.
- a reflective and/or light emitting material such as a coating, may be provided on the dock 20 .
- the material may be added to or comprise a part of the material which forms the dock 20 (i.e. such as added into plastic when molded).
- the dock 20 may be made in a variety of colors.
- the front face 30 may have an inset or depressed area for accepting the cover 48 .
- This arrangement has the advantage of inlaying or insetting the cover 48 into the surface 30 in a manner which aids in protecting the cover 48 (such as by preventing the cover 48 from being caught in the wheels 41 of a cart).
- a method of mounting the cart dock 20 there is provided a method of mounting the cart dock 20 .
- bores are provided in the support surface. The bores may be drilled or may be provided when the surface is constructed (such as when pouring concrete).
- An anchor 50 is provided in each bore.
- a bolt 52 is connected to each anchor 50 associated with the three bores 54 c .
- the dock 20 is placed on the surface with these three bolts 52 extending through the bores 54 c of the key-way 56 .
- the dock 20 is then moved horizontally, sliding the bolts 52 along the slot portion of the key-ways 56 so that these three bolts 52 engage the slots of the key ways 56 .
- Bolts 52 are then passed through the bores 54 a , 54 b (from the top side of the cart dock 20 ) into the associated anchors 50 .
- the dock 20 may include side members 58 .
- the side members 58 may comprise thin plate-like members which are attached to each end 47 a , 47 b of the dock 20 .
- the side members 58 may be removable attachable, such as with snaps, screws or other means well known to those of skill in the art.
- the dock 20 may also be constructed with the side members 58 as integral (such as during a molding process). In general, the side members 58 are arranged to prevent the wheels 41 of a cart from rolling out of the trough 46 along its length (i.e. at ends 47 a , 47 b ).
- the side members 58 may be especially useful when a dock 20 is used on a support surface which is sloped in a direction parallel to a length of the dock 20 from end 47 a to end 47 b.
- the dock 20 may include one or more upwardly extending markers 60 .
- Each marker 60 may comprise a flexible plastic, fiberglass or similar pole.
- Each marker 60 may be constructed of a variety of materials and be of a variety of sizes.
- Each marker 60 may be arranged to be press fit into a bore provided in the top surface 24 of the dock 20 .
- the markers 60 may be useful in identifying the location of the cart dock 20 , such as when a layer of snow covers the cart dock. To make the markers 60 more visible, they may be constructed from or have a reflective material associated therewith.
- the means for securing the cart dock 20 to a support surface may comprise other than the anchors 50 and bolts 52 .
- other threaded fasteners such as screws (such as when the dock 20 is being secured to a wooden support surface) may be used.
- the cart dock 20 may be staked to the support surface.
- One or more spikes or similar elements may be arranged to protrude from the bottom surface 22 of the dock 20 and be driven into the support surface.
- the cart dock 20 may be glued or otherwise adhered to the surface. In this arrangement, no bores need to be provided through the body of the cart dock 20 for the fasteners.
- the dock 20 as described above has many advantages.
- the cart dock 20 is effective in retaining an unattended shopping cart in a fixed position. Unlike cart “corrals,” the wheels of the cart are engaged and prevent the cart from rolling away. Unlike wheel locks, the cart is simply unsecured by rolling its wheels out of engagement with the cart dock 20 .
- a cart dock 20 can be associated with many, if not every, parking space of a parking lot (i.e. such as a front left or right corner of each marked parking spot). In this manner, a cart dock 20 is conveniently provided next to every cart user's cart. This increases the likelihood that a cart user will return the cart to the cart dock 20 and render it secure. Numerous cart docks 20 can be provided at less cost than a single cart “corral” of the prior art.
- Cart docks 20 can be placed in alignment at the front corner of each parking spot and in such a manner constitute visual “dividers” for the lot. This makes it easier for a customer to navigate the parking lot and may reduce the possibility of customers driving randomly through parking lots and causing accidents with vehicles operated within the marked lanes. As may be appreciated, many drivers do not follow parking lot painted markings. However, such drivers may be less inclined to cross the painted markings and drive randomly if such also causes them to have to drive over one or more cart docks 20 .
- the embodiment of the cart dock 20 illustrated in FIG. 1 where the trough 46 extends from end 47 a to end 47 b has the advantage that water and other material and debris is not retained or trapped in the dock 20 . As may be appreciated, this is advantageous since it is undesirable for the cart wheels to be placed into standing water and the like. Further, the water could become stagnant and contaminated. In the arrangement of the invention where the trough 46 does not extend from end to end 47 a , 47 b or side members 58 are provided, it is desirable to provide one or more drains or outlets through which water and other material may be routed away from the dock 20 .
- the stops 26 , 28 and trough 46 are longitudinally extending from end to end 47 a , 47 b of the dock 20 .
- the stops 26 , 28 and trough 46 generally define planar, solid uninterrupted surfaces for contacting the wheels 41 of a cart (preferably, the recessed areas 57 are narrower than the width of the wheel of a cart).
- the elongate nature of the stops 26 , 28 and trough 46 makes it easy for the user to dock a cart, since the user does not have to “line-up” the wheel of the cart with a specific area of the dock 20 .
- the user may roll a cart into engagement with the dock 20 anywhere along its length. In fact, a user may secure a cart by engaging just one (1) of the wheels of a cart.
- a user can secure a cart by engaging the rear wheel(s) of the cart instead of the front wheel(s). Further, though not desirable (since the cart may then protrude into a portion of an adjoining parking space or the like) a user may secure a cart by rolling the wheel(s) 41 of a cart over the second stop 28 and into engagement with the trough 46 .
- the dock 120 has a single stop 126 .
- the stop 126 has a front face 130 and a rear face 132 .
- the single stop 126 is preferably shaped similar to the first stop 26 of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1.
- the front face 130 is sloped and arranged to permit the wheel(s) of a cart to be rolled thereover.
- the rear face 132 is arranged to engage the wheel of a cart to prevent it from rolling.
- the dock 120 includes two rows of bores 154 b , 154 c for mounting the dock 120 to a support surface with anchors 150 and bolts 154 .
- the dock 120 also includes a removable cover 148 .
- the cart dock 120 of this embodiment of the invention may be similarly sized as the cart dock 20 illustrated in FIG. 1.
- the cart dock 120 may also be mounted to a support surface in a variety of configurations and be configured and constructed from and in the variety of manners described with respect to the cart dock 20 .
- the cart dock 120 may include side members and/or markers as described above, as well as a front cover 148 .
- cart dock 120 In a method of use of this embodiment cart dock 120 , a user rolls one or more wheels of a cart upwardly along the front face 130 of the stop 126 . The user rolls the one or more wheels over the apex 140 and permits the one or more wheels to engage the rear face 132 of the stop 126 . Once engaged, the cart is secured.
- This embodiment of the cart dock 120 may be less expensive and complex to manufacture. Because of its reduced size and weight, this embodiment dock 120 may also be less expensive to ship.
- FIGS. 10 - 12 Another embodiment of a cart dock 220 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 10 - 12 .
- This embodiment cart dock 220 is similar in many respects to the cart dock 20 in overall configuration and method of use.
- the cart dock 220 includes a body having a bottom surface 222 , top surface 224 , first stop 226 and second stop 228 .
- a first or front surface 230 of the first stop 226 comprises a surface having a fixed, single slope (i.e. not curved, but flat angled).
- the second or rear surface 232 of the first stop 226 comprises a generally vertically extending ledge.
- the front or first surface 234 of the second stop 228 comprises a generally vertically extending ledge or wall.
- the cart dock 220 includes means for securing the body to a support surface.
- the means comprises one or more pins 260 which extend from the bottom surface of the body. As illustrated, there are four pins 260 , one pin each provided at a corner of the body. Each pin 260 is preferably tapered and extends about one-half to three (0.5 to 3) or more inches outwardly from the body.
- this embodiment cart dock 220 is secured to a support surface with an adhesive.
- the adhesive may comprise a hot-set latex/asphalt type adhesive.
- other adhesive materials may be used, including glues and the like. It is also possible to secure this embodiment cart dock 220 to a surface with other than adhesive, such as described above.
- the bottom surface 222 includes a number of ribs 262 .
- the ribs 262 may comprise elements which provide reinforcement for the body when the body is molded and partially hollow.
- the spaced arrangement of the ribs 262 creates recessed areas therebetween in which adhesive may flow, providing better adhesion of the dock 220 .
- the ribs 262 preferably extend outwardly sufficient to create recessed areas.
- the bottom surface 222 may include one or more pads 266 for providing solid support for the body. As illustrated, the flat pads 266 are provided adjacent the pins 260 and in one or more areas between the pins.
- the cart dock 120 may be similar configured to the cart dock 220 , such as by having a generally planar sloping front face, one or more pins extending outwardly for use in securing the dock 120 or the like.
- bores are preferably provided in the support surface, the bores sized to accept the pins 260 .
- the bores may be provided with a drill or the like using a template of the pin positions.
- the adhesive may then be placed on the support surface and the bottom surface 222 of the body.
- the pins 260 of the cart dock 220 are then inserted into the bores, properly positioning the cart dock 220 in the desired location and adhering it to the support surface.
- one or more bores 264 may be provided in or through the top surface 224 of the cart dock 220 for mating engagement with the pins 260 of an adjacent cart dock 220 .
- the bores 264 are preferably arranged to accept the pins 260 of a cart dock 220 which is positioned thereabove. In this manner, the cart docks 220 may be stacked vertically in a manner which reduces the total vertical stacking height.
- one or more drain holes, slots or the like may be provided through the pins 260 .
- the stacking bores 264 may be arranged to accept a marker (see FIG. 2).
- the depth and size of the bores 264 may vary dependent upon the desired stacking heights, sizes of the pins 260 and markers and other factors which will be appreciated to those of skill in the art.
- An advantage of this embodiment cart dock 220 is that a flat face cover (not shown, but similar to cover 48 illustrated in FIG. 1) may be provided for positioning on the front face 230 of the first stop 226 . As illustrated, small bores 268 may be provided for accepting pins or other protrusions (not shown) of the cover. This permits covers to be selectively attached and removed. Because the cover may be constructed flat, its manufacture may be simplified, as may be printing on it.
- FIGS. 13 and 14 Another embodiment of a cart dock 320 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14.
- This embodiment cart dock 320 has many similar features to the cart docks described above, and some additional features.
- the cart dock 320 again comprises a body which includes or defines spaced first and second stops 326 , 328 .
- the first stop 326 defines a front face 330 and a rear face 332 .
- the front and rear faces 330 , 332 are both generally planar and slope at generally the same angle with respect to horizontal.
- a portion of the trough 346 comprises a void or aperture between the first and second stops 326 , 328 in the dock 320 .
- the aperture extends entirely through the dock 320 from the top surface through to the bottom surface.
- a lower surface of this portion of the trough 346 is actually defined by a support surface on which the dock 320 is positioned rather than a surface of the dock 320 itself.
- first and second side walls 358 a, 358 b extend between the first stop 326 and the second stop 328 .
- the side walls 358 a,b have a variety of functions, including connecting the portions of the body defining the first and second stops 326 , 328 .
- the side walls 358 a,b each extend upwardly generally vertically.
- one or more cut-outs or recesses 359 are provided in a lower or bottom surface 322 of the dock 320 . These cut-outs 359 define passageways under the dock 320 allowing water and other material to flow between a support surface and the dock 320 . As illustrated, one or more cut-outs 359 may extend under the side walls 358 a,b thus defining a pathway from the open interior of the trough 346 to the exterior of the dock 320 . As also illustrated, one or more cut-outs 359 may extend longitudinally under the first stop 326 from end-to-end. Cut-outs 359 may also be provided which extend under the first and second stops 326 , 328 from the aperture to a point exterior to the dock 320 .
- a recessed area 331 is provided in the front face 330 of the first stop 326 .
- the recessed area 331 comprises a slightly depressed area.
- the recessed area 331 is generally rectangular in shape similar to the front face 330 , but is slightly smaller in dimension.
- the recessed area 331 is adapted to receive a placard, sign or the like therein. It is desirable that the placard or the like have a thickness about the same as the depth of the recessed area 33 1 , such that when the placard is placed therein, the front face 330 including the placard is generally smooth and contiguous.
- Use of the cart dock 320 is similar to the use of the cart dock 20 illustrated in FIG. 1.
- One particular advantage of the cart dock 320 of this embodiment relates to the construction of the trough 346 . Because the trough 346 in part is defined by a void in the dock 320 , the amount of material necessary to construct the cart dock 320 is reduced. This reduces the cost of manufacture and shipping of the dock 320 . At the same time, the effectiveness of the dock 320 in retaining a cart is not reduced.
- Another advantage of the cart dock 320 is that water, oil and the like is not trapped in the trough 346 . Instead, these materials are directed to the support surface and then under the dock 320 through the cut-outs 359 to the exterior of the dock 320 .
- the cart dock 320 is preferably has sufficient length to engage both the front or both of the rear wheels of a cart at the same time.
- a user rolls the wheels of the cart over the first stop 326 and into the trough 346 .
- the wheels of the cart are retained in the trough 346 between the first and second stops 326 , 328 .
- the wheels of the cart will rest upon the support surface while positioned in the trough 346 . Movement of the wheels along and out of the trough 346 at the ends of the dock 320 is prevented by the side walls 358 a,b.
- a unique aspect of the cart dock of the present invention is the ability of the cart dock to be used as an advertising platform as well as a useful cart restraining device.
- the cart docks are adapted to be located in parking lots and similar locations where they are readily visible to customers. The cart docks are visible to customers parking their cars, walking through the parking lot or securing a cart. Because of the number of cart docks which may be located in a single parking lot, the total advertising or information exposure to these customers is tremendous.
- the cart dock of the invention includes one or more surfaces particularly suited to placement of this information.
- the front face of the first stop of the cart dock has a substantial horizontal dimension for presenting text (whether imprinted directly thereon or associated with replaceable placards or the like).
- the angle of the front face of the stop is such that the face is directed upwardly and outwardly towards a customer or other reader, and thus readily visible whether the customer is driving a car or walking.
- businesses employing the cart dock not only address the problems associated with the carts but can provide information to their customers.
- This information such as advertising, can be used to generate a revenue stream or increase a revenue stream.
- a business having cart docks located in their parking lot may lease advertising space to other businesses, thus generating a new stream of revenue.
- a business may also advertise on their own cart docks, thus increasing the revenue generated by consumers at their own business.
Abstract
A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a body having a bottom surface for engaging a support surface and a top surface defining at least one first stop having a first face and a second face, the first face sloping upwardly from the bottom surface towards the rear face and defining a leading edge positioned near the support surface, an apex provided between the first and second faces, the second face sloping downwardly from the apex, and at least one securing element for securing the cart securing structure to the support surface. In use, the wheels of a cart are rolled over the sloping first face into engagement with the second face. In another embodiment of the invention, the body defines first and second stops having a trough positioned therebetween and the wheels of a cart are rolled over a sloping surface of the first stop into engagement with the trough.
Description
- The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart.
- When shopping at a retail establishment, a customer often wishes to obtain or purchase a number of goods. The customer may not be able to carry all of the goods to the check-out area or to their car. In order to alleviate this problem, many retail establishments provide shopping baskets or carts. A problem with baskets is that the customer still must carry the basket while shopping. If the customer shops for a long period of time or if a number of goods are purchased, the customer may find it uncomfortable if not impossible to carry the basket and goods.
- Wheeled shopping carts provide a storage area for the goods a customer wishes to purchase and makes it easy for the customer to transport the goods. A customer pushes the cart about the establishment, placing goods in the cart along the way. Ultimately, the customer pushes the cart to a check-out or purchase point. Once the goods have been paid for, the customer normally still needs a convenient means to transport the goods from the establishment, such as to their car or home.
- The parking areas of many establishments are often quite large and the distance from the check-out area of the establishment to a customer's car may be quite far. Usually, the retail establishment permits the customer to utilize the cart for this purpose. After purchasing their goods, customers may push the loaded cart from the establishment over a parking area to their car. The customer then unloads the goods from the cart.
- A problem now arises in that the cart is located outside of the establishment. Most customers are unwilling to push the now empty cart back into the retail establishment, and thus the cart is left in the parking area. Because the cart is wheeled, once left unattended the cart may roll about the parking lot. Wind and gravity may cause the cart to roll at various speeds and in a variety of directions.
- The unattended or “runaway” cart as such carts are often referred to may roll away and be lost by the retail establishment, at great cost to the establishment. Moreover, the carts may cause injury and damage. For example, the cart may roll into a vehicle parked in the parking lot and damage it. The carts may also roll into moving traffic or into pedestrians, also causing damage and injury. Because of the rather high incidence of damage caused by unattended carts, but not wishing to take away the convenience of providing the carts to customers, many establishments post signs warning that damage from run-away and unattended carts may cause damage and stating that the establishment is not responsible for damage thereby. Nonetheless, retailers often have many claims filed against them every year arising from runaway cart damage and injury.
- As one attempt to alleviate the above-stated problems, some establishments have created cart return areas in their parking areas. These areas generally comprise an area closed on two or more sides by fence-like structures. It is intended that once a customer is done using a cart, the customer will roll the cart to one of the semi-enclosed cart return areas.
- There are several problems with this attempted solution. The apparatus comprising the cart return normally comprises a tubular aluminum or other metal structure. The structure may be quite large and relatively expensive. The cart return areas normally consume several parking spaces in the parking area. Because of the size and cost, an establishment may only provide one or two cart returns in their parking area.
- Because of the limited number of cart returns and the likelihood that a cart return may still be a significant distance from a customer's car, many customers still do not return their carts. In addition, the configuration of the cart return does not ensure that those carts which are returned are secured. The semi-enclosed nature of the return permits customers to push the carts into the return area. The carts are generally secured by being prevented from rolling away by engaging a portion (such as a long horizontal rail) of the cart return structure. Because one or more portions of the cart return are open and the wheels of the returned carts are not engaged, one or more carts may still roll out of the cart return area and into the main area of the parking lot.
- Some security devices have been proposed to prevent customers from removing carts from the area of an establishment. Some of these devices are arranged to lock one or more wheels of the cart. Such devices are intended to prevent the theft or negligent removal of carts and are not useful in solving the above-stated problem. First, these devices generally are arranged to “trigger” when the cart reaches an outer perimeter beyond which the customer is not permitted to travel with the cart. It is not feasible to arrange such a device to trigger once a cart is left unattended at any particular point in a parking lot to prevent the cart from rolling away once unattended. Once the lock is triggered, store/owner personnel must reset the lock in order for the cart to be useful. It is also not feasible to have an arrangement where once a cart is left unattended, such as in a parking lot after use, a lock is triggered which must be reset in order for the cart to be reused. This arrangement would cause substantial time and money loss in resetting the locks.
- A method and apparatus for securing a cart which overcomes the above-stated problems is desired.
- The present invention is a method and apparatus for securing a shopping or similar wheeled cart.
- In accordance with one embodiment of the invention there is provided a cart securing structure for securing a cart having at least one wheel. The cart securing structure comprises a body having a bottom surface for engaging a support surface and a top surface defining at least one first stop having a first face and a second face. The first face slopes upwardly from the bottom surface towards the rear face and defines a leading edge positioned near the support surface. The stop includes an apex provided between the first and second faces, the second face sloping downwardly from the apex. At least one securing element is provided for securing the cart securing structure to a support surface.
- In a method of use, one or more wheels of a cart are rolled upwardly along the sloping first face of the stop. The one or more wheels are rolled over the apex and into engagement with the second face, preventing the cart from rolling away once unattended.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the invention the cart securing structure includes a first stop and a second stop having a trough positioned therebetween for accepting at least one wheel of the cart between the first and second stop. The first stop has a first face sloping upwardly from the bottom surface over which a wheel of the cart may be rolled and a second face sloping downwardly towards the trough for engaging the wheel of the cart to prevent the cart from rolling away. The second stop has a first surface sloping upwardly from the trough for engaging a wheel of the cart to prevent the cart from rolling away.
- In accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention, the cart securing structure includes a cover associated with the front face of a first stop. The cart securing structure may also include side members and/or upwardly extending markers.
- One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method of securing a cart securing structure of the invention to a support surface. In one method, the method comprises bolting the structure to the support surface. The structure may include one or more bores through which a fastener may pass for this purpose. In another method, the structure is secured to the support surface with adhesive. The structure may include one or more outwardly extending pins for orienting the structure.
- Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention over the prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shopping cart dock in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1 with a face cover thereof removed;
- FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5(a) illustrates an anchor useful in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5(b) illustrates a bolt useful with the anchor illustrated in FIG. 5(a)in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a shopping cart dock in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 7 is a side view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 9(a) illustrates an anchor useful in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 9(b) illustrates a bolt useful with the anchor illustrated in FIG. 9(a) in mounting the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 6;
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a shopping cart dock in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 11 is a side view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 10;
- FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the shopping cart dock illustrated in FIG. 10;
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment cart dock in accordance with the invention; and
- FIG. 14 is a side view of the cart dock illustrated in FIG. 13.
- The present invention is an apparatus and method for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
- In general, the apparatus of the invention comprises a cart dock and a method of use which are particularly adapted to securing a wheeled cart. Such carts are well known. In general, carts known as “shopping carts” found at groceries and similar retailers comprise a frame structure supporting a basket in which goods may be placed. The frame is generally constructed of metal, while the basket may be constructed of metal or plastic. The frame structure is rollably supported by four (4) wheels41 (one of which is illustrated in FIG. 2). The four wheels are arranged with two (2) wheels provided at a front portion of the cart and two (2) wheels provided at a rear portion of the cart. The front wheels are generally pivotally mounted for steering the cart. The front wheels are generally spaced about 8-11 inches apart, while the rear wheels are generally spaced about 18-21 inches apart. Each wheel generally comprises a rubber tire mounted on a metal hub, the overall diameter of each wheel generally being about 5 inches. Generally, the front wheels are located along a common axis, as are the rear wheels.
- Of course, the particular dimensions of the carts and their arrangements may vary. For example, as described below, the apparatus of the present invention is useful with flatbed and other carts. Such carts are commonly found at lumber yards and the like. These carts may have front and rear wheels separated by a much larger distance than the above-described carts. The wheels of these carts may also be larger. These carts may include additional front and/or rear wheels (such as three front wheels) or even additional wheels at other locations.
- Referring first to FIG. 1, a first embodiment of a
cart dock 20 of the invention comprises a body having a bottom surface 22 (see FIG. 4) and atop surface 24. The body includes afirst stop 26 and asecond stop 28 spaced from one another. Thefirst stop 26 has a first or front face orsurface 30 and a second or rear face orsurface 32. Thesecond stop 28 has a first or front face orsurface 34 and a second or rear face orsurface 36. Thefront face 34 of thesecond stop 28 faces therear face 32 of thefirst stop 26. - The
front face 30 of thefirst stop 26 comprises a surface which slopes and/or angles upwardly from thebottom surface 22. The intersection of thebottom surface 22 with thefront face 30 of thefirst stop 26 defines aleading edge 38. Preferably, the leadingedge 38 is positioned near a support surface when thecart dock 20 is mounted for use. Thefront face 30 is sloped rearwardly towards thesecond stop 28 for accommodating the rolling of ashopping cart wheel 41 upwardly thefront face 30. In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 1, thefront face 30 is curved. - The
first stop 26 has an apex 40 formed between thefront face 30 andrear face 32. The apex 40 is preferably somewhat rounded to facilitate the rolling of awheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover. - The
rear face 32 is positioned generally opposite thefront face 30 and slopes downwardly from the apex 40. The slope and shape of therear face 32 is selected to make difficult the passage of awheel 41 of a shopping cart in the direction towards thefront face 30. In other words, thefirst stop 26 is configured to easily permit awheel 41 of a shopping cart to be rolled over thefront face 30 towards therear face 32, but to generally prevent movement of the wheels in the reverse direction. In this regard, in the arrangement illustrated, therear face 32 of thefirst stop 26 is somewhat concave, defining a recessedarea 42 for accepting a portion of awheel 41 of a shopping cart. In the arrangement illustrated, it is desirable for thefront face 30 to have a slope which is less than the slope of the rear face 32 (ex. averagefront face slope 60 degrees and average rear face slope of 80 degrees). - The
front face 34 of thesecond stop 28 is also arranged to make difficult the rolling of awheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover. In this regard, thefront face 34 rises upwardly and has a slope and shape somewhat similar to therear face 32 of thefirst stop 26. - The
second stop 28 has an apex 44 formed between thefront face 34 andrear face 36. The apex 44 is preferably somewhat rounded to facilitate the rolling of awheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover. - The
rear face 36 of thesecond stop 28 is generally located opposite thefirst face 34 and slopes downwardly from the apex 44. In the embodiment illustrated, therear face 36 comprises a generally vertically extending wall. Therear face 36 may be sloped at other than a ninety (90) degree angle. In general, it is preferable for therear face 36 to have a shape which deters a user from rolling awheel 41 of a shopping cart thereover in the - direction of thefirst stop 26. When therear face 36 is generally vertical, this is effectuated. - A
trough 46 is defined between thefirst stop 26 and thesecond stop 28. In the area of thetrough 46, thetop surface 24 of thedock 20 is closer to thebottom surface 22 than the apex 40 of thefirst stop 26 and the apex 44 of thesecond stop 28. Thetrough 46 preferably has a width or distance between thefront face 34 of thesecond stop 28 and therear face 32 of thefirst stop 26 to permit placement of awheel 41 of a shopping cart therein. - In the embodiment illustrated, the body has to opposing
ends 47a,b and bothstops trough 46 extend the length of the body fromend 47 a to end 47 b. This arrangement is desirable since it permits a user to push a cart into engagement with thedock 20 at any point along thedock 20. - In one or more embodiments, where the
wheel 41 of the shopping cart with which thedock 20 is to be used is approximately five (5) inches in diameter, thedock 20 has the following dimensions: height of the apex 40 from thebottom surface 22, approximately three (3) inches; height of the apex 44 from thebottom surface 22, approximately one and one-half (1.5) inches; and the distance between the first and second stops 26,28 approximately eight (8) inches. - Preferably the width of the
dock 20 fromend 47 a to end 47 b is sufficient to accommodate both the front and/orback wheels 41 of a shopping cart. For example, in the case where the front wheels of a shopping cart are spaced by about 8-11 inches, then the width of thedock 20 may be about twenty (20) inches. Such a width is common for shopping carts provided at grocery stores. In the case where the front wheels of a shopping cart are spaced by a greater distance, the width of thedock 20 may be about thirty (30) inches. Thegreater width dock 20 may be advantageous in accommodating flat-bed and similar high capacity carts provided at some establishments, such as lumber yards. - One or more mounting elements are provided for securing the
cart dock 20 to a mounting or support surface. The support surface may comprise an asphalt or cement parking lot or any of a variety of other surfaces where a cart is used and where it is desirable to secure the cart. - Referring to FIGS.5(a) and (b), when the
cart dock 20 is to be secured to a paved or other hard surface (such as concrete, rock, asphalt, tile or the like), the mounting elements may compriseanchors 50 andbolts 52. Theanchors 50 are placed in bores in the support surface. Thebolts 52 then engage one or more portions of thedock 20 and ananchor 50, securing thedock 20 to the support surface. - In the arrangement illustrated in FIGS.1-4, the
cart dock 20 has nine (9) bores provided therein through which abolt 52 or similar threaded fastener may extend. Three (3) bores 54 a are provided in spaced relation through thetrough 46 portion of thedock 20 near thesecond stop 28. Three (3) bores 54 b are provided in recessed areas 57 provided in thefront face 30 of thefirst stop 26. Three (3) bores 54 c are provided in association with key-ways 56 provided in thebottom surface 22 of thedock 20 generally beneath thefirst stop 26. - The
bores 54 a provided in thetrough 46 portion are generally cylindrical for passage of abolt 52 therethrough. The recessed areas 57 comprise narrow openings having a generally flat surface through which thebores 54 b extend. Each bore 54 c is associated with a key-way 56 having an adjoining narrow slot. - The
cart dock 20 may be constructed in a variety of manners and from a variety of materials. Preferably, thedock 20 is constructed of a durable, weather-resistant material and a material which has a “memory” in that it retains it shape. Because of the use environment of thedock 20, thedock 20 may be driven upon by vehicles. It is desirable for thedock 20 to be flexible enough to yield and both not break or cause damage to a vehicle, and at the same time return to its original shape to function effectively. In one or more embodiments, thedock 20 may be injection molded of a polypropylene or similar material. - If the
dock 20 is injection molded, thedock 20 may be made hollow to reduce its weight and cost. In such event, one or more ribs or reinforcing structure may be provided (such as inside the hollow areas of the dock 20) for strengthening it. - To make the
dock 20 readily visible at night, thedock 20 may be made to reflect and/or transmit light. In one arrangement, a reflective and/or light emitting material, such as a coating, may be provided on thedock 20. In another arrangement, the material may be added to or comprise a part of the material which forms the dock 20 (i.e. such as added into plastic when molded). Thedock 20 may be made in a variety of colors. - In one or more embodiments, the
cart dock 20 includes aface cover 48, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Thecover 48 is associated with thefront face 30 of thefirst stop 26. In one embodiment, thecover 48 comprises a relatively flexible synthetic material which is approximately the same size and shape as thefront face 30 of the first stop 26 (i.e. in this case, curved). As illustrated, thecover 48 may be removably mounted to thedock 20 with a tab which engages a small groove in thefront face 30 of thefirst stop 26. Thecover 48 may be removable attachable with hook and loop type fasteners, snaps, or other means well known to those of skill in the art. - In one or more arrangements, the
front face 30 may have an inset or depressed area for accepting thecover 48. This arrangement has the advantage of inlaying or insetting thecover 48 into thesurface 30 in a manner which aids in protecting the cover 48 (such as by preventing thecover 48 from being caught in thewheels 41 of a cart). - In one embodiment, the
cover 48 comprises a generally transparent material having a reflective or light transmitting material associated therewith (one such material is known as “day-glow”). In this manner, thecover 48 is illuminated at night or reflects light when a headlight of an automobile shines thereon, making thedock 20 readily visible. Thecover 48 may also have printing thereon. The printing may comprise advertising or instructions. Because thecover 48 is removable, new advertising or announcements may be provided on thedock 20 at various time intervals. - In accordance with one aspect of the invention there is provided a method of mounting the
cart dock 20. In accordance with the method, bores are provided in the support surface. The bores may be drilled or may be provided when the surface is constructed (such as when pouring concrete). Ananchor 50 is provided in each bore. Abolt 52 is connected to eachanchor 50 associated with the three bores 54 c. Thedock 20 is placed on the surface with these threebolts 52 extending through thebores 54 c of the key-way 56. Thedock 20 is then moved horizontally, sliding thebolts 52 along the slot portion of the key-ways 56 so that these threebolts 52 engage the slots of thekey ways 56.Bolts 52 are then passed through thebores cart dock 20. - In one or more embodiments, a
cart dock 20 is provided in association with individual parking stalls of a parking lot. For example, thedock 20 may be secured to the support surface at a front corner of each marked parking stall. - In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of using the
cart dock 20. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, when a user/customer has completed using a cart, the user pushes the cart to the dock 20 (such as at the front of their car at the front of the parking stall). The user pushes thefront wheels 41 of the cart up thefront face 30 of thefirst stop 26. Thewheels 41 roll over the apex 40 and into thetrough 46 between the first and second stops 26,28. At this time, the cart is secured and the customer need not attend to the cart further. Thefront wheels 41 of the cart are secured between the first and second stops 26,28. - Referring to FIG. 3, in one or more embodiments, the
dock 20 may includeside members 58. Theside members 58 may comprise thin plate-like members which are attached to each end 47 a,47 b of thedock 20. Theside members 58 may be removable attachable, such as with snaps, screws or other means well known to those of skill in the art. Thedock 20 may also be constructed with theside members 58 as integral (such as during a molding process). In general, theside members 58 are arranged to prevent thewheels 41 of a cart from rolling out of thetrough 46 along its length (i.e. at ends 47 a,47 b). Theside members 58 may be especially useful when adock 20 is used on a support surface which is sloped in a direction parallel to a length of thedock 20 fromend 47 a to end 47 b. - As also illustrated in FIG. 3, in one or more embodiments, the
dock 20 may include one or more upwardly extendingmarkers 60. Eachmarker 60 may comprise a flexible plastic, fiberglass or similar pole. Eachmarker 60 may be constructed of a variety of materials and be of a variety of sizes. Eachmarker 60 may be arranged to be press fit into a bore provided in thetop surface 24 of thedock 20. Themarkers 60 may be useful in identifying the location of thecart dock 20, such as when a layer of snow covers the cart dock. To make themarkers 60 more visible, they may be constructed from or have a reflective material associated therewith. - The
dock 20 may have other dimensions and shapes than described above. For example, if being used with carts having bigger diameter wheels, first and second stops 26,28 may be taller. When thedock 20 has sides, thedock 20 may be molded, generally having a block-like form with a slanted or sloped front surface leading to a top surface having a trough formed therein. The trough may be positioned between (i.e. not extending the full length between) opposing ends 47 a,b of thedock 20, thereby forming an enclosed area for retaining thewheels 41 of the cart. - The means for securing the
cart dock 20 to a support surface may comprise other than theanchors 50 andbolts 52. For example, other threaded fasteners such as screws (such as when thedock 20 is being secured to a wooden support surface) may be used. Thecart dock 20 may be staked to the support surface. One or more spikes or similar elements may be arranged to protrude from thebottom surface 22 of thedock 20 and be driven into the support surface. - As described in detail below with reference to the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.10-12, the
cart dock 20 may be glued or otherwise adhered to the surface. In this arrangement, no bores need to be provided through the body of thecart dock 20 for the fasteners. - If sufficiently weighted, the
cart dock 20 may be secured to the support surface with gravity. For example, thecart dock 20 may be filled with water. To improve the adherence of thecart dock 20 to the support surface, thebottom surface 22 may be specially configured. For example, thebottom surface 22 may have ridges or another high-friction configuration. - The
dock 20 as described above has many advantages. Thecart dock 20 is effective in retaining an unattended shopping cart in a fixed position. Unlike cart “corrals,” the wheels of the cart are engaged and prevent the cart from rolling away. Unlike wheel locks, the cart is simply unsecured by rolling its wheels out of engagement with thecart dock 20. - Because of its size and configuration, a
cart dock 20 can be associated with many, if not every, parking space of a parking lot (i.e. such as a front left or right corner of each marked parking spot). In this manner, acart dock 20 is conveniently provided next to every cart user's cart. This increases the likelihood that a cart user will return the cart to thecart dock 20 and render it secure.Numerous cart docks 20 can be provided at less cost than a single cart “corral” of the prior art. -
Cart docks 20 can be placed in alignment at the front corner of each parking spot and in such a manner constitute visual “dividers” for the lot. This makes it easier for a customer to navigate the parking lot and may reduce the possibility of customers driving randomly through parking lots and causing accidents with vehicles operated within the marked lanes. As may be appreciated, many drivers do not follow parking lot painted markings. However, such drivers may be less inclined to cross the painted markings and drive randomly if such also causes them to have to drive over one ormore cart docks 20. - Because of the ease of using the
cart dock 20, damage and injury caused by runaway unattended carts may be reduced. The reduced financial losses associated with lost carts and other damage and injury is beneficial to the establishment and may even pay for thecart docks 20. - The embodiment of the
cart dock 20 illustrated in FIG. 1 where thetrough 46 extends fromend 47 a to end 47 b has the advantage that water and other material and debris is not retained or trapped in thedock 20. As may be appreciated, this is advantageous since it is undesirable for the cart wheels to be placed into standing water and the like. Further, the water could become stagnant and contaminated. In the arrangement of the invention where thetrough 46 does not extend from end to end 47 a,47 b orside members 58 are provided, it is desirable to provide one or more drains or outlets through which water and other material may be routed away from thedock 20. - As illustrated, the
stops trough 46 are longitudinally extending from end to end 47 a,47 b of thedock 20. The stops 26,28 andtrough 46 generally define planar, solid uninterrupted surfaces for contacting thewheels 41 of a cart (preferably, the recessed areas 57 are narrower than the width of the wheel of a cart). The elongate nature of thestops trough 46, as stated above, makes it easy for the user to dock a cart, since the user does not have to “line-up” the wheel of the cart with a specific area of thedock 20. The user may roll a cart into engagement with thedock 20 anywhere along its length. In fact, a user may secure a cart by engaging just one (1) of the wheels of a cart. - A user can secure a cart by engaging the rear wheel(s) of the cart instead of the front wheel(s). Further, though not desirable (since the cart may then protrude into a portion of an adjoining parking space or the like) a user may secure a cart by rolling the wheel(s)41 of a cart over the
second stop 28 and into engagement with thetrough 46. - Referring to FIG. 6, a
dock 120 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention will be described. In accordance with this embodiment, thedock 120 has asingle stop 126. Thestop 126 has afront face 130 and a rear face 132. Thesingle stop 126 is preferably shaped similar to thefirst stop 26 of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. Thefront face 130 is sloped and arranged to permit the wheel(s) of a cart to be rolled thereover. The rear face 132 is arranged to engage the wheel of a cart to prevent it from rolling. - In this embodiment, the
dock 120 includes two rows ofbores dock 120 to a support surface withanchors 150 and bolts 154. Thedock 120 also includes aremovable cover 148. - The
cart dock 120 of this embodiment of the invention may be similarly sized as thecart dock 20 illustrated in FIG. 1. Thecart dock 120 may also be mounted to a support surface in a variety of configurations and be configured and constructed from and in the variety of manners described with respect to thecart dock 20. Thecart dock 120 may include side members and/or markers as described above, as well as afront cover 148. - In a method of use of this
embodiment cart dock 120, a user rolls one or more wheels of a cart upwardly along thefront face 130 of thestop 126. The user rolls the one or more wheels over the apex 140 and permits the one or more wheels to engage the rear face 132 of thestop 126. Once engaged, the cart is secured. - As may be appreciated, when a cart is to be secured on a very sloped surface, use of the
cart dock 20 is most effective in securing the cart since the one or more wheels of the cart are prevented from rolling in both the forward and reverse directions. If thecart dock 20 is used on a sloping surface, it is desirable to secure thecart dock 20 so that the rear face 132 of thestop 126 faces up the slope, and so gravity tends to pull the wheels of the cart into engagement with the rear face 132 of thestop 126. - This embodiment of the
cart dock 120 may be less expensive and complex to manufacture. Because of its reduced size and weight, thisembodiment dock 120 may also be less expensive to ship. - Another embodiment of a
cart dock 220 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 10-12. Thisembodiment cart dock 220 is similar in many respects to thecart dock 20 in overall configuration and method of use. - The
cart dock 220 includes a body having abottom surface 222,top surface 224,first stop 226 andsecond stop 228. In this embodiment of the invention, a first orfront surface 230 of thefirst stop 226 comprises a surface having a fixed, single slope (i.e. not curved, but flat angled). The second orrear surface 232 of thefirst stop 226 comprises a generally vertically extending ledge. Similarly, the front orfirst surface 234 of thesecond stop 228 comprises a generally vertically extending ledge or wall. - The
cart dock 220 includes means for securing the body to a support surface. In this embodiment, the means comprises one ormore pins 260 which extend from the bottom surface of the body. As illustrated, there are fourpins 260, one pin each provided at a corner of the body. Eachpin 260 is preferably tapered and extends about one-half to three (0.5 to 3) or more inches outwardly from the body. - Preferably, this
embodiment cart dock 220 is secured to a support surface with an adhesive. When thecart dock 220 is to be secured to a concrete, asphalt or similar surface, the adhesive may comprise a hot-set latex/asphalt type adhesive. Of course, other adhesive materials may be used, including glues and the like. It is also possible to secure thisembodiment cart dock 220 to a surface with other than adhesive, such as described above. - In order to improve the adherence of the
cart dock 220 to the support surface, thebottom surface 222 includes a number ofribs 262. Theribs 262 may comprise elements which provide reinforcement for the body when the body is molded and partially hollow. The spaced arrangement of theribs 262 creates recessed areas therebetween in which adhesive may flow, providing better adhesion of thedock 220. In the area of thetrough 246, theribs 262 preferably extend outwardly sufficient to create recessed areas. - The
bottom surface 222 may include one ormore pads 266 for providing solid support for the body. As illustrated, theflat pads 266 are provided adjacent thepins 260 and in one or more areas between the pins. - It will be appreciated that the
cart dock 120 may be similar configured to thecart dock 220, such as by having a generally planar sloping front face, one or more pins extending outwardly for use in securing thedock 120 or the like. - In a method of securing this
embodiment cart dock 220, bores are preferably provided in the support surface, the bores sized to accept thepins 260. The bores may be provided with a drill or the like using a template of the pin positions. The adhesive may then be placed on the support surface and thebottom surface 222 of the body. Thepins 260 of thecart dock 220 are then inserted into the bores, properly positioning thecart dock 220 in the desired location and adhering it to the support surface. - In accordance with this method of securing the
dock 220 and its configuration, no recesses (for providing access to fastener insertion holes) need to be provided in the front face of thefirst stop 226. This makes construction of thedock 220 simpler and renders the front face a more contiguous surface over which cart wheels may be rolled. - In order to reduce the space occupied by multiple units of the
cart dock 220 when being shipped and/or stored, one ormore bores 264 may be provided in or through thetop surface 224 of thecart dock 220 for mating engagement with thepins 260 of anadjacent cart dock 220. Thebores 264 are preferably arranged to accept thepins 260 of acart dock 220 which is positioned thereabove. In this manner, thecart docks 220 may be stacked vertically in a manner which reduces the total vertical stacking height. In order to prevent water from filling thebores 264, one or more drain holes, slots or the like may be provided through thepins 260. - The stacking bores264 may be arranged to accept a marker (see FIG. 2). The depth and size of the
bores 264 may vary dependent upon the desired stacking heights, sizes of thepins 260 and markers and other factors which will be appreciated to those of skill in the art. - An advantage of this
embodiment cart dock 220 is that a flat face cover (not shown, but similar to cover 48 illustrated in FIG. 1) may be provided for positioning on thefront face 230 of thefirst stop 226. As illustrated,small bores 268 may be provided for accepting pins or other protrusions (not shown) of the cover. This permits covers to be selectively attached and removed. Because the cover may be constructed flat, its manufacture may be simplified, as may be printing on it. - Another embodiment of a
cart dock 320 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14. Thisembodiment cart dock 320 has many similar features to the cart docks described above, and some additional features. Thecart dock 320 again comprises a body which includes or defines spaced first andsecond stops first stop 326 defines afront face 330 and arear face 332. As best illustrated in FIG. 14, in this embodiment the front and rear faces 330,332 are both generally planar and slope at generally the same angle with respect to horizontal. - The
front face 330 slopes upwardly from aleading edge 338 to an apex 340. Therear face 332 slopes downwardly from the apex 340 to atrough 346. Thetrough 346 is again located between the first andsecond stops - In this embodiment, a portion of the
trough 346 comprises a void or aperture between the first andsecond stops dock 320. The aperture extends entirely through thedock 320 from the top surface through to the bottom surface. When placed on a support surface, a lower surface of this portion of thetrough 346 is actually defined by a support surface on which thedock 320 is positioned rather than a surface of thedock 320 itself. - As illustrated, first and
second side walls 358a,358b extend between thefirst stop 326 and thesecond stop 328. As detailed below, theside walls 358a,b have a variety of functions, including connecting the portions of the body defining the first andsecond stops side walls 358 a,b each extend upwardly generally vertically. - As illustrated, the
second stop 328 has afront face 334 and arear face 336. In one or more embodiments, the front and rear faces 334,336 are generally vertically extending surfaces. In one embodiment, the height of the apex 340 of thefirst stop 326 and the height of thesecond stop 328 are about 1.6 inches. Of course, the height of thestops - In one embodiment, one or more cut-outs or recesses359 are provided in a lower or
bottom surface 322 of thedock 320. These cut-outs 359 define passageways under thedock 320 allowing water and other material to flow between a support surface and thedock 320. As illustrated, one or more cut-outs 359 may extend under theside walls 358 a,b thus defining a pathway from the open interior of thetrough 346 to the exterior of thedock 320. As also illustrated, one or more cut-outs 359 may extend longitudinally under thefirst stop 326 from end-to-end. Cut-outs 359 may also be provided which extend under the first andsecond stops dock 320. - In similar fashion to the
cart dock 220 illustrated in FIG. 10, thecart dock 320 includes one or more pins orspikes 360 for use in securing thedock 320 to a support surface. Of course, other means of attaching or securing thedock 220 to a support surface may be provided. - In one embodiment, a recessed area331 is provided in the
front face 330 of thefirst stop 326. The recessed area 331 comprises a slightly depressed area. In one embodiment, the recessed area 331 is generally rectangular in shape similar to thefront face 330, but is slightly smaller in dimension. The recessed area 331 is adapted to receive a placard, sign or the like therein. It is desirable that the placard or the like have a thickness about the same as the depth of the recessed area 33 1, such that when the placard is placed therein, thefront face 330 including the placard is generally smooth and contiguous. As described above, such a placard may be of a variety of types, and include advertising or other messages, business or product logos, information, artwork and the like. As illustrated, thecart dock 20 is arranged to receive placards in a removable fashion, permitting their replacement or exchange. - Use of the
cart dock 320 is similar to the use of thecart dock 20 illustrated in FIG. 1. One particular advantage of thecart dock 320 of this embodiment relates to the construction of thetrough 346. Because thetrough 346 in part is defined by a void in thedock 320, the amount of material necessary to construct thecart dock 320 is reduced. This reduces the cost of manufacture and shipping of thedock 320. At the same time, the effectiveness of thedock 320 in retaining a cart is not reduced. - Another advantage of the
cart dock 320 is that water, oil and the like is not trapped in thetrough 346. Instead, these materials are directed to the support surface and then under thedock 320 through the cut-outs 359 to the exterior of thedock 320. - As in the prior embodiments, the
cart dock 320 is preferably has sufficient length to engage both the front or both of the rear wheels of a cart at the same time. In use, a user rolls the wheels of the cart over thefirst stop 326 and into thetrough 346. The wheels of the cart are retained in thetrough 346 between the first andsecond stops trough 346. Movement of the wheels along and out of thetrough 346 at the ends of thedock 320 is prevented by theside walls 358 a,b. - Depending upon the construction of the
dock 320, alip 361 is formed around the aperture which forms a portion of thetrough 346. As illustrated, the void is generally rectangular in shape. Thelip 361 is a ledge at the termination of the material forming thedock 320 and the aperture there through. Thelip 361 defines at least a portion of the perimeter of the aperture. In one embodiment, such as illustrated, thelip 361 extends inwardly from theside walls 358 a,b andsecond stop 328 defining a ledge or platform. Thelip 361 serves to increase the strength of thedock 320 and to prevent the bending and other movement of portions thereof relative to others. In addition, thelip 361 also serves as a small stop which inhibits movement of the wheels of a cart resting upon the support surface within thetrough 346. - A unique aspect of the cart dock of the present invention is the ability of the cart dock to be used as an advertising platform as well as a useful cart restraining device. As noted above, the cart docks are adapted to be located in parking lots and similar locations where they are readily visible to customers. The cart docks are visible to customers parking their cars, walking through the parking lot or securing a cart. Because of the number of cart docks which may be located in a single parking lot, the total advertising or information exposure to these customers is tremendous.
- One unique aspect of the cart dock of the invention is that its body is uniquely adapted to presenting advertising or similar information. As detailed above and illustrated in the figures, the cart dock of the invention includes one or more surfaces particularly suited to placement of this information. In particular, the front face of the first stop of the cart dock has a substantial horizontal dimension for presenting text (whether imprinted directly thereon or associated with replaceable placards or the like). Moreover, the angle of the front face of the stop is such that the face is directed upwardly and outwardly towards a customer or other reader, and thus readily visible whether the customer is driving a car or walking.
- Because of this unique feature of the invention, businesses employing the cart dock not only address the problems associated with the carts but can provide information to their customers. This information, such as advertising, can be used to generate a revenue stream or increase a revenue stream. For example, a business having cart docks located in their parking lot may lease advertising space to other businesses, thus generating a new stream of revenue. A business may also advertise on their own cart docks, thus increasing the revenue generated by consumers at their own business.
- Thus, as one aspect of the invention there is a method of advertising comprising locating a cart (or similar device) restraining structure in association with a support surface, such as a parking lot. The method includes locating advertising or other information on a surface of the restraining structure. In one or more embodiments, the advertising or other information may be periodically changed (such as by replacing a removable placard or cover). In one embodiment, the method includes the step of selling or leasing the advertising space.
- Of course, a variety of the features of any of the
cart docks - It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
Claims (7)
1. A cart securing structure for securing a cart having at least two spaced wheels positioned along a common axis comprising:
a body having a bottom surface and a top surface, a first stop defining a portion of said top surface and a second stop defining a portion of said top surface, said first and second stops having a trough located there between, said trough including an aperture through said body from said top surface to said bottom surface, said aperture positioned between said first and second stops, said trough adapted to accept said at least two spaced wheels of said cart between said first and second stops, said first stop having a first face sloping upwardly over which said pair of wheels of said cart may be rolled and having a second face sloping downwardly towards said trough for engaging said at least two spaced wheels of said cart to prevent said cart from rolling away, said second stop having a first surface sloping upwardly from said trough for engaging said at least two spaced wheels of said cart to prevent said cart from rolling away, and first and second side walls extending between said first and second stops and defining first and second ends of said trough, said first and second side walls extending upwardly from said trough.
2. The cart securing structure in accordance with including at least one recess defined in said bottom surface of at least one of said first and second side walls of said body from said aperture to an exterior of said body
claim 1
3. The cart securing structure in accordance with wherein said first and second faces of said first stop extend at generally the same angle with respect to horizontal.
claim 1
4. The cart securing structure in accordance with including at least one recessed area in said first face of said first stop.
claim 1
5. The cart securing structure in accordance with including a lip extending inwardly from said first side wall, second side wall and second stop, said lip defining at least a portion of a perimeter of said aperture.
claim 1
6. The cart securing structure in accordance with including at least one spike extending downwardly from said bottom surface of said body.
claim 1
7. The cart securing structure in accordance with wherein said first and second faces of said first stop are generally planar.
claim 1
Priority Applications (7)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/809,119 US6386331B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2001-03-14 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US10/133,209 US6648103B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2002-04-26 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US10/699,580 US7070024B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2003-10-31 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US10/851,457 US7000737B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2004-05-21 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US11/360,023 US7490701B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2006-02-21 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US12/322,759 US7905327B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2009-02-05 | Method of disseminating advertising information via shopping cart securing structures |
US13/047,666 US8360206B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2011-03-14 | Shopping cart securing structures and method of securing shopping carts |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US39665899A | 1999-09-15 | 1999-09-15 | |
US09/809,119 US6386331B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2001-03-14 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US39665899A Continuation-In-Part | 1999-09-15 | 1999-09-15 |
Related Child Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/133,209 Continuation-In-Part US6648103B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2002-04-26 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US10/851,457 Continuation-In-Part US7000737B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2004-05-21 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20010040072A1 true US20010040072A1 (en) | 2001-11-15 |
US6386331B2 US6386331B2 (en) | 2002-05-14 |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US09/809,119 Expired - Lifetime US6386331B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2001-03-14 | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US12/322,759 Expired - Fee Related US7905327B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2009-02-05 | Method of disseminating advertising information via shopping cart securing structures |
US13/047,666 Expired - Fee Related US8360206B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2011-03-14 | Shopping cart securing structures and method of securing shopping carts |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US12/322,759 Expired - Fee Related US7905327B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2009-02-05 | Method of disseminating advertising information via shopping cart securing structures |
US13/047,666 Expired - Fee Related US8360206B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2011-03-14 | Shopping cart securing structures and method of securing shopping carts |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
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US (3) | US6386331B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1214234A4 (en) |
AU (1) | AU780729B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2001019651A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
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US6386331B2 (en) * | 1999-09-15 | 2002-05-14 | Ronald L. Scheffer | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US6648103B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2003-11-18 | Ronald Scheffer | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
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-
2000
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- 2000-09-14 AU AU75878/00A patent/AU780729B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2000-09-14 WO PCT/US2000/025496 patent/WO2001019651A1/en active IP Right Grant
-
2001
- 2001-03-14 US US09/809,119 patent/US6386331B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2009
- 2009-02-05 US US12/322,759 patent/US7905327B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2011
- 2011-03-14 US US13/047,666 patent/US8360206B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6386331B2 (en) * | 1999-09-15 | 2002-05-14 | Ronald L. Scheffer | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
US6648103B2 (en) | 1999-09-15 | 2003-11-18 | Ronald Scheffer | Method and apparatus for securing a shopping cart |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1214234A4 (en) | 2006-09-13 |
US6386331B2 (en) | 2002-05-14 |
US8360206B2 (en) | 2013-01-29 |
WO2001019651A1 (en) | 2001-03-22 |
EP1214234A1 (en) | 2002-06-19 |
AU7587800A (en) | 2001-04-17 |
AU780729B2 (en) | 2005-04-14 |
US20090150243A1 (en) | 2009-06-11 |
US7905327B2 (en) | 2011-03-15 |
US20110218942A1 (en) | 2011-09-08 |
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