BR112015013696B1 - PUSH MECHANISM AND PUSH MECHANISM GUIDE, MERCHANDISE DISPLAY SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING MERCHANDISE - Google Patents

Abstract

product management display system with railless pusher mechanisms. The present invention relates to a product management display system for marketing a product on a shelf that includes at least one tray that has a rounded front portion and that defines a plurality of openings and that has two sides. a lip may extend above the front rounded portion of the at least one tray. a front shelf can extend in front of the lip. the at least one tray may include a divider extending upward from either side and a front wall. the front wall may include a top wall, a bottom wall and two side legs. the front wall, the bottom wall, and the two side legs may form a wall opening and the front wall may include a plurality of projections configured to mate with the plurality of openings on the tray.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE ON RELATED REQUEST

[001] This application is a continuation in part of United States Application Number 13/564,575, filed August 1, 2012, which claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application Numbers 61/530,736 filed September 2, 2011 , 61/542,473 filed October 3, 2011, and 61/553,545 filed October 31, 2011, and is a continuation in part of United States Application Number 12/639,656 filed December 16, 2009, and granted as US Patent Number. 8,322,544, which is a continuation application in part of United States Application Number 12/357,860 filed January 22, 2009, and granted as US Patent Number 8,453,850, which is a continuation application in part of United States Application Number 11/760,196 filed June 8, 2007, and granted as US Patent Number 8,312,999, which is a continuation application in part of United States Application Number 11/411,761 filed April 25, 2006, and granted as US Patent Number. 7,823,734, which claims the benefit of United States Interim Application Numbers 60/716,362 filed September 12, 2005 and 60/734,692 filed November 8, 2005. This application also claims the benefit of United States Interim Application Number 61/735,831 filed December 11, 2012. All of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[002] Exemplary embodiments of the invention generally relate to a shelf assembly for use in marketing products and more specifically to a shelf assembly that has improved mechanisms for displaying and pushing products onto the shelves.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[003] It is known that retail and wholesale stores, such as convenience stores, pharmacies, grocery stores, discount stores and the like, require a large amount of shelf both to store products and display the products to consumers. In product display, it is desirable that the product on the shelves is situated towards the front of the shelf so that the product is visible and accessible to consumers. In the case of coolers or coolers that are used to store and display such products as soft drinks, energy drinks, bottled water, and other bottled or canned beverages, it is desirable that these products also be situated towards the front of the shelf and visible and accessible for consumers.

[004] To perform this product placement, known systems may include sloping trays or bottoms that through gravity will cause the product to move toward the front of the shelf. Many of these systems include bottoms or shelves made of a plastic material such as polypropylene which due to its low coefficient of friction allows the product to easily slide along the bottom or sloped surface. However, over time, these surfaces can become clogged with debris or sticky substances that inhibit the product from sliding properly, sometimes causing several products to tip over thus blocking additional product from moving to the front of the shelf.

[005] Other systems include using a pusher system to push product toward the front of the shelf as the product in front of the shelf is removed. Known pusher systems are typically mounted on a track and include a pusher paddle and a spiral spring to force the product forward. Occasionally, as the system is used, and over time, the lane becomes clogged with dirt or sticky materials that impair proper operation of the pusher system within the lane. Furthermore, depending on the size, shape and weight of the product to be marketed, known pusher paddles may occasionally tip over or bend backwards, thereby causing a jam of the pusher mechanism within the lane. In these situations, the pusher mechanism cannot properly push the product towards the front of the shelf.

[006] An exemplary modality is directed towards an improvement over existing marketing systems by providing a trackless pusher system that works with gravity-fed merchandise systems (i.e., tilted shelves or trays) and non-powered merchandise system. gravity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[007] An exemplary modality is directed at a product management display system to market products on a shelf. This embodiment includes using a trackless pusher mechanism that moves along a surface on which the product is placed. The trackless system overcomes the known problems by using tracks to grip and guide known pusher mechanisms. It should be understood, however, that the teachings of this embodiment can be used with systems that include tracks for mounting a pusher mechanism or the like.

[008] The pusher mechanism may include a pusher paddle and a bottom that extends forward of the pusher paddle. A flat spiral spring or other tensioning element may be operatively connected behind the pusher blade and extend through the bottom of the pusher mechanism and towards the front of the shelf. Alternatively, the flat coil spring or tensioning element may extend through the divider to the front of the shelf assembly. With this configuration, the pusher blade is prevented from tipping over or bending backwards during operation.

[009] An exemplary modality also includes the use of a push mechanism with the marketing of products on shelves or horizontal or non-tilted surfaces, as well as gravity-fed systems, or systems that use gravity as a mechanism to force the product into the shelf front direction.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pusher paddle can define a concave pushing surface for pushing cylindrical products, such as soda bottles or cans, and keep the paddle centered on the track and behind of product. Alternatively, the pusher blade may define a flat pushing surface which may further include on its upper edge a curved rib or similar structure which may also be used to push cylindrical products.

[0011] According to another exemplary illustrative embodiment of the invention, the bottom of the pusher mechanism may include a serrated or indented portion for aligning the pusher mechanism with respect to the spiral spring. Also, the bottom of the system may also include a notch or cutaway portion for receiving and mounting a flat end of the spiral spring on the bottom. A spring tip can be placed over the end of the coil spring to mount the coil spring to the bottom of the system. Alternatively, the end of the coil spring can mount on the assembly divider.

[0012] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, an adapter for a product management display system may be positioned on a bottom surface of the display system. The adapter may include a flat surface such as at least two ribs that extend outward from the flat surface and across the flat surface in a substantially parallel fashion. A coil spring may be positioned between the parallel extending ribs. With this configuration, the product to be marketed can rest on the ribs, rather than directly on the coil spring, to improve forward movement of certain types of product, such as beverage cans.

[0013] In yet another alternative aspect, a mounting member may be used to mount the end of the coil spring to the bottom of the system. For those systems that include spaced slide rails that are joined together by connecting ribs, the mounting member can be snap-mounted or otherwise mounted over the bottom and between the slide rails.

[0014] In yet another alternative aspect, the trackless pusher system is retrofitted into an existing shelf assembly. This allows placement of the trackless pusher system on an existing racking system as a cost-effective alternative to purchasing the entire trackless pusher assembly.

[0015] In another exemplary embodiment, the spiral spring can be mounted on the retainer. One end of the coil spring can be directly mounted on the retainer or alternatively the end can be mounted on the retainer via an adaptor. The adapter may have a curved portion which is received in a correspondingly formed curved slot in the retainer to secure the end of the spring to the display assembly.

[0016] In another exemplary embodiment, the trays can be secured via a dovetail connection to form a shelf assembly. Furthermore, the dividers can be adjusted so that the width of the product rows can be adapted to receive products of different sizes.

[0017] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the product management display system may be arranged in a stackable arrangement. The assembly may be provided with a first tray and a second tray each having a first wall and a second wall. The first and second trays are each adapted to receive a pusher mechanism, and a retainer mechanism. First and second spacers are mounted on the first and second trays to stack the first and second trays on top of one another. The first and second spacers may be provided with a plurality of retainers, and the first tray and second tray may each be provided with a plurality of correspondingly formed sockets to receive the plurality of retainers.

[0018] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the product management display system may include at least one tray having a rounded front portion and defining a plurality of openings and having two sides. A lip may extend upward from the rounded front portion of at least one tray. A front shelf can extend to the front of the lip. The at least one tray may include a divider that extends upward on each of the two sides and a front wall. The front wall can include a top wall, a bottom wall, and two side legs. The front wall, the bottom wall, and the two side legs can form a wall opening and the front wall can include a plurality of projections configured to mate with the plurality of openings in the tray.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 shows an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 shows an isometric view of an exemplary pusher mechanism mounted on an exemplary product tray or channel of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 3 shows another isometric view of the system in Figure 2 with a product placed inside the system.

[0022] Figure 4 shows another isometric view of the system in Figure 2 with multiple products placed within the system.

[0023] Figure 5 shows an isometric rear view of the system in Figure 4.

[0024] Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the tray or product channel of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 7 shows an exemplary tip for one end of a coil spring that can be used with the product management display system of the invention.

[0026] Figure 8 shows an exemplary tip of Figure 7 being mounted on a tray or product channel.

[0027] Figure 9 shows the exemplary tip of Figure 7 being mounted on one end of a spiral spring.

[0028] Figure 10 shows the exemplary tip of Figure 7 mounted on one end of a spiral spring.

[0029] Figure 11 presents an isometric view of an alternative exemplary modality of a product management display system of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 12 presents another isometric view of the system in Figure 11.

[0031] Figure 13 shows a front view of the system in Figure 11.

[0032] Figure 14 shows a top view of the system of Figure 11.

[0033] Figure 15 presents a rear view of the system of Figure 11.

[0034] Figure 16 shows an isometric view of an adapter that can be used with the invention.

[0035] Figure 17 shows a front view of the adapter of Figure 16.

[0036] Figure 18 shows an exemplary installation of the adapter of the invention.

[0037] Figure 19 shows an isometric view of an installed adapter of the invention.

[0038] Figure 20 shows a front view of an installed adapter of the invention.

[0039] Figure 21 presents an isometric view of an alternative exemplary modality of a product management display system of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 22 shows an isometric bottom view of an exemplary mounting member that can be used to mount the end of the coil spring to the bottom of the display system.

[0041] Figure 23 shows an isometric top view of the mounting member of Figure 22.

[0042] Figure 24 shows the exemplary mounting member of Figure 22 mounted on the end of the spiral spring with the spiral spring mounted on an exemplary pusher paddle.

[0043] Figure 25 shows another view of the exemplary mounting member of Figure 22 mounted on the end of the spiral spring with the spiral spring mounted on an exemplary pusher paddle.

[0044] Figure 26 shows the exemplary mounting member of Figure 22 with the attached spiral spring being mounted to the bottom of the system.

[0045] Figure 27 shows the exemplary mounting member of Figure 22 installed at the bottom of the system.

[0046] Figure 28 shows an isometric view of an alternative exemplary modality of a product management display system of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 29 shows an enlarged isometric view of the tray of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 28.

[0048] Figure 29A presents a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 28 illustrating a first method of attachment.

[0049] Figure 29B presents a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 28 illustrating a second method of attachment.

[0050] Figure 30 shows an enlarged isometric view of the embodiment of Figure 28 illustrating a rivet securing the spring to the tray.

[0051] Figure 31 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of Figure 28 being mounted on a pre-existing wire shelf.

[0052] Figure 32 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of Figure 28 mounted on a pre-existing wire shelf.

[0053] Figure 33 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0054] Figure 34 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0055] Figure 35 shows an isometric view of an exemplary modality of an adapter.

[0056] Figure 36 shows an isometric view of an exemplary modality of a retainer.

[0057] Figure 37 presents a side view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0058] Figure 38 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0059] Figure 39 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0060] Figure 40 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0061] Figure 41A presents a side sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a divider.

[0062] Figure 41B presents a front view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0063] Figure 41C presents an enlarged view of a section of Figure 41B.

[0064] Figure 41D presents a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a divider.

[0065] Figure 42 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0066] Figure 43 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the display system.

[0067] Figure 44 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of a product management display system.

[0068] Figure 45 presents another isometric view of an exemplary modality of a product management display system with a product in the system.

[0069] Figure 46 presents a top view of another exemplary modality of a product management display system with a product in the system.

[0070] Figure 47 presents an isometric rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system with a product in the system.

[0071] Figure 48 shows an isometric view of an exemplary modality of the pusher mechanism mounted on a divider.

[0072] Figure 49 shows another isometric view of the divider and pusher mechanism being mounted on the product management display system.

[0073] Figure 50 presents an isometric view of yet another exemplary modality of the product management display system.

[0074] Figure 51 presents another isometric view of the exemplary modality of the product management display system of Figure 50 without the product.

[0075] Figure 52 shows an exploded isometric view of the exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of Figure 50.

[0076] Figure 53 presents an isometric view of yet another exemplary modality of the product management display system.

[0077] Figure 54 shows an isometric view of an exemplary pusher spring attachment to a shelf of the product management display system of Figure 53.

[0078] Figure 55 shows an exemplary isometric view of attaching the pusher spring to a shelf of the product management display system of Figure 53.

[0079] Figure 56 shows an exemplary isometric view of attaching the pusher spring to a shelf of the product management display system of Figure 53.

[0080] Figure 57 shows an exemplary isometric view of attaching the pusher spring to a shelf of the product management display system of Figure 53.

[0081] Figure 58 presents an isometric view of an exemplary modality of a product management display system and its aspects.

[0082] Figures 59A-C show isometric views of modalities of the product management display system of Figure 58.

[0083] Figure 60 presents an isometric view of a modality of the product management display system of Figure 58.

[0084] Figure 61 presents an isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[0085] Figure 62 shows a partial top view of the embodiment shown in Figure 61.

[0086] Figure 63 shows a partial rear view of the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0087] Figure 64 presents a front view of the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0088] Figure 65 shows another perspective view of the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0089] Figure 66 presents another top view of the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0090] Figure 67 shows another perspective view of the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0091] Figure 68 shows another perspective view of the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0092] Figure 69 shows a bottom view of a tray that can be used in conjunction with the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0093] Figure 70 shows a side perspective view of the tray of Figure 69 in use with the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0094] Figure 71 shows a rear view of the tray in Figure 69.

[0095] Figure 72 shows another side perspective view of the tray of Figure 69 in use with the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0096] Figure 73 shows a top perspective view of the tray of Figure 69 in use with the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0097] Figure 74 shows another side perspective view of the tray of Figure 69 in use with the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0098] Figure 75 shows another top perspective view of the tray of Figure 69 in use with the modality shown in Figure 61.

[0099] Figure 76 shows a side perspective view of the tray of Figure 69.

[00100] Figure 77 shows another side perspective view of the tray of Figure 69.

[00101] Figure 78 shows a front perspective view of the tray of Figure 69.

[00102] Figure 79 presents a rear perspective view of the tray of Figure 69.

[00103] Figure 80A presents an isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00104] Figure 80B presents an exploded isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00105] Figure 81A presents an isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00106] Figure 81B presents an exploded isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00107] Figure 82A presents an isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00108] Figure 82B presents an exploded isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00109] Figure 82C presents an isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00110] Figure 82D presents an exploded isometric view of a modality of a product management display system.

[00111] Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the construction details and arrangement of components shown in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other modalities and of being practiced or executed in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and are not to be considered limiting. The use of "including" and "comprising" and their variations is intended to cover the items listed below and their equivalents as well as additional items and their equivalents. Furthermore, the use of the term "assembling", "assembled", or "assembling" is broadly meant to include any technique or method for assembling, fastening, joining or coupling one part to another, either directly or indirectly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF MODALITIES

[00112] The invention can be embodied in various forms. Referring to the figures in which like numbers indicate like elements, an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment is shown in Figure 1 . Exemplary marketing system 10 includes a product delivery tray 12 on which an exemplary trackless pusher mechanism 14 is mounted. As described in more detail below, pusher mechanism 14 will mount within tray 12 and slide along the surface of the tray without the use of tracks, rails, or guides typically used to contain a conventional pusher mechanism on the tray or tray bottom. The pusher mechanism defines a pusher paddle and a pusher bottom that extends toward the pusher paddle. A coil spring can extend through the bottom of the pusher and operatively connect to the tray in a forward position on the tray. In one aspect of the invention, the product to be marketed can be placed inside the tray in front of the pusher paddle and can rest on the pusher bottom as well as the spiral spring. With this configuration, the weight of the product will prevent the pusher paddle from tipping over to ensure proper product push. In addition, problems associated with debris or sticky materials that impair the efficiency of pusher systems using tracks, rails or guides have been eliminated. Other aspects, embodiments and features of the invention and its teachings are presented in more detail below.

[00113] The exemplar tray 12 may define a surface 16 and one or more dividing panels or dividers 18 to separate the tray into numerous rows for placing products. In an alternative aspect, tray 12 can be a shelf or any other surface on which products can be placed for sale. The surface 16 can be a solid surface or a surface defining a plurality of spaced apart openings 20 separated by a plurality of support ribs 22. The openings 20 and ribs 22 provide a surface that allows the slidable movement of products placed on this surface. and also allows liquids and dirt to pass through the openings 20 so that they do not accumulate on the surface 16. The surface 16 can be made of any suitable material that allows the sliding movement of products over the surface 16. Other surface configurations or background are known and can be used as the principles of the invention.

[00114] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the surface 16 may define a rounded end portion 24 which includes a notch or cutout portion 26. The end portion 24 may be rounded to match the shape of the product being placed on the tray. For example, the end portion 24 shown is rounded or defines a semi-circular shape to match the outline of a bottle or can that can be placed within the tray and over the end portion 24. Other end portion shapes can be used with the invention depending on the product to be marketed.

[00115] The notch 26 can be used to receive and mount one end 29 of a spiral spring 30 or similar tensioning element. Slot 26 can define opposite slanted edge surfaces 32 that are joined by edge 34. Edge 34 is preferably centered across the width of the row of products formed in tray 12 and extends perpendicular to the length of the tray. This configuration will center spiral spring 30 with respect to tray 12 and allow the spring to extend substantially parallel to the length of the tray. In other words, the displayed edge 34 of the notch 26 will allow the spring 30 to extend along the length of the tray 12 at or near the center of the row of products formed by the tray. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the location and configuration of the notch may vary depending on the desired spring placement.

[00116] The spiral spring 30 may define an end 29 that is configured to be placed through the notch 26 and over the edge 34. In one aspect, the end 29 of the spiral spring may be V-shaped and function as a hook so that end 29 will wrap around edge 34 with an end portion 29 of the spiral spring extending under end portion 24 of surface 16. This configuration allows for easy installation of the spiral spring onto the tray.

[00117] In another aspect, and referring to Figure 7, a spring tip 60 may be added to end 29 of spring 30 to assist with mounting the spring in the system. Spring tip 60 can define numerous shapes and configurations depending on the tray configuration and the surface on which the spring tip needs to grip. Spring tip 60 may be permanently attached to end 29 of coil spring 30 or it may be detachable to allow interchange or replacement of spring tip 60. Spring tip 60 may be made of plastic and may define one or more openings. . Aperture 61 can be used to receive end 29 of coil spring 30. A second aperture 63 can be used to receive a tongue or corresponding mounting member 65 extending from surface 16 of tray 12, as discussed below. With this configuration, end 29 of coil spring 30 can be operatively connected to tray 12.

[00118] In another aspect, the end 29 of the spiral spring may snap-mount within an opening formed in the surface 16, or it may otherwise be inserted and secured in a hole or opening or in the tray, thereby securing the end 29 of the spiral spring 30 in position.

[00119] Referring back to Figure 1, dividers 18 may also be used to separate the product into rows. Dividers 18 extend substantially above surface 16 and as illustrated in Figure 1, may be positioned on opposite sides of surface 16. Alternatively, dividers 18 may be positioned in any desired position on tray 12 or surface 16. 18 can be formed as a unitary structure with surface 16, or dividers 18 can be detachable to provide additional flexibility with the system. Dividers can be attached to a front or rear rail depending on the system. Dividers 18 can define numerous configurations and can extend upward any desired distance to provide the desired height of dividers between rows of products to be marketed. This height can be adjustable by adding divider extenders or similar.

[00120] Located in front of tray 12 and extending between dividers 18 may be one or more product retaining members 44. Product retaining members 44 serve as a retaining wall or front bar to secure product within the tray 12 and to prevent product from falling out of tray 12. These members are also configured to allow easy removal of the furthest product positioned within tray 12. Product retaining member 44 may be one or more product retaining ribs. curved shape as shown in Figure 1. These illustrated retaining ribs can extend from one divider to another divider thereby joining the dividers together. The retaining ribs may also extend partially between the dividers, as also shown in Figure 1 as rib 46, to also help retain product within the tray. Alternatively, and as shown in Figure 6 the product retaining member 44 may be a curved shaped solid retaining wall 48 extending between dividers. The retaining wall 48 may be transparent or semi-transparent to allow viewing of the product on the shelf. In another aspect, retaining wall 48 may also partially extend between dividers 18. In yet another embodiment shown in Figures 11-15, retaining wall 100 may be secured to the surface of the tray and not connect to the dividers. In this embodiment, retaining wall 100 may form an opening 102 defined by an upper member 104, opposing, curved side walls 106 which further define an angled edge 108, and a bottom member 110. The side walls 106 may also be straight and no curves depending on the system. The end of the coil spring can also be snap-mounted into bottom 110 or otherwise secured to the tray using any of the techniques described herein. One of skill in the art will readily appreciate that there are numerous possible shapes and configurations for the product holding member 44 and that the configurations shown are merely exemplary embodiments of these numerous configurations.

[00121] Referring back to Figure 1, the exemplary trackless pusher mechanism 14 defines a pusher paddle 50 and a pusher bottom 52. The pusher paddle 50 and the pusher bottom 52 may be formed as a single unitary structure or they can be separate structures that are joined together using known techniques. Furthermore, the pusher blade 50 and the pusher bottom 52 may be made of any suitable known plastic or metallic material. The pusher blade and pusher bottom can be reinforced using any known reinforcement technique.

[00122] In one aspect, the pusher paddle 50 forms a curved shaped pusher surface or face 54 that is configured to match the shape of the product to be marketed, such as plastic bottles or cans containing a beverage, as shown. in Figures 3-5. The curved shaped pusher surface 54 allows the pusher to remain centrally aligned with the last product on the tray. This configuration reduces friction and drag between the pusher and divider walls. In an alternative aspect, the pusher surface or face can be a flat surface. In yet another aspect, the flat pusher surface may be accompanied by a curved shaped rib that is positioned near or on top of the pusher blade and which can be used to center and align the product on the tray, in a manner similar to curved shaped pusher surface 54 shown in Figure 1. The curved shaped rib may define other shapes and configurations that allow cylindrical or similarly shaped products to be properly pushed into the tray. Advertisements, product identification or other product information can be placed on the pusher surface 54.

[00123] Positioned behind the pusher surface or face 54 may be one or more support members 58, such as ribs, walls, or gussets. The support members 58 are configured to support the pusher surface 54 and further connect the pusher blade 50 to the pusher bottom 52. As can be seen in Figure 5, positioned between the support members 58 is the spiral spring 30, and more specifically the spiral end 57 which is used to urge the pusher paddle 50 forward and along the tray 12, as understood in the art. Any technique used to operatively connect the coil spring to the pusher blade 50 can be used with the invention.

[00124] As shown in Figure 1, the pusher bottom 52 may be positioned below the pusher blade 50 and may extend forward from the pusher surface 54 of the pusher blade. The pusher bottom 52 can extend any predetermined distance and at any predetermined angle. For example, pusher bottom 52 may extend substantially perpendicular to pusher surface 54. In the exemplary embodiment, pusher bottom 52 may extend a sufficient distance to allow a product, such as a single bottle or can, to be placed. on the pusher background. In another aspect, the pusher bottom 52 may be configured to allow more than one product to be placed on the pusher bottom. The pusher bottom 52 may define any shape, including the round shape shown, and may define any product retention features on the surface of the pusher bottom, such as ribs, walls, or the like, to further secure the product over the pusher bottom.

[00125] As seen in Figure 2, pusher bottom 52 may define elongated channel, groove or recessed portion 59 that is sized, shaped and configured to seat spiral spring 30. In exemplary embodiment, channel or groove 59 may extend through the bottom 52 and in a substantially perpendicular manner to the pusher blade 50. In an alternative aspect, the groove or channel may extend partially or through the entire pusher bottom 52, as shown in Figure 19. Such a configuration allows proper alignment and positioning of the pusher paddle 50 within the tray. Slot 59 can define a depth that matches or exceeds the thickness of the spiral spring 30. With this configuration, the spiral spring 30 will rest on or below the pusher bottom surface so that the product will not rest directly on the spiral spring, when Instead, the product will rest on the pusher bottom surface. As shown in Figure 19, the pusher bottom can include holes and openings through which debris or other items can pass. Alternatively, the bottom can be a solid surface.

[00126] In an alternative aspect of the invention, as shown in Figures 16-20, an adapter 180 may be positioned on the surface 16. Referring to Figures 16 and 17, the adapter 180 may include one or more raised ribs 182 over which a product can support. The raised ribs 182 may extend longitudinally along the length of the adapter 180. The adapter 180 may be a flat extrusion of plastic material (or any other suitable material) that defines a flat surface 184 with the one or more ribs 182 extending outwardly of the flat surface 184. Adapter 180 may define a rounded end 185 and include a notch or cutaway portion 186 through which or transversely which the coil spring may extend. The rounded end 185 can be configured to match the shape of the product that is placed on the tray. Other shapes of end 185, notch 186 and adapter 180 can be used with the invention depending on the product being marketed. Adapter 180 may be a separate, insertable piece or, alternatively, a formed piece integrated with surface 16.

[00127] Referring to Figure 18, adapter 180 can be easily insertable over surface 16 and between dividers 18. Referring to Figure 19, once adapter 180 is installed, pusher mechanism 14 can be positioned on top of the adapter 180 and can slide freely through the ribs 182 of the adapter 180. The coil spring 30 can extend in a parallel fashion between the ribs 182 and can rest on or below the top surface of the ribs 182, as more clearly shown in Figure 20. With this configuration, the product to be marketed can rest on, and slide along, the ribs 182 and not the spiral spring 30.

[00128] In an alternative aspect, the ribs 182 may be a raised strand or raised strands, or a series of fingers that can be used to facilitate movement of the product over the surface 16. In yet another alternative embodiment, the ribs 182 may be product moving members, such as sliders, or one or more rollers or bearing members that allow product to roll through the bearing members and toward the front of the product display system. Exemplary roller assemblies include those shown and described in United States Application Serial Number 11/257,718 filed October 25, 2005 and assigned to RTC Industries, Inc., which application is incorporated herein by reference. As would be appreciated by those skilled in the art, there are many possible techniques that can be used with the pusher mechanisms described to facilitate movement of the product over the shelf or bottom.

[00129] The underside of the pusher bottom 52 may be a smooth flat surface that will slide freely along the surface 16. Alternatively, and similar to the above, the pusher bottom 52 may include cords, sliders, rollers or the like that will allow the pusher bottom slides along the surface, but raises the pusher bottom above the surface 16. In another alternative embodiment, the underside of the pusher bottom may be configured with rail mounting members to allow mounting the pusher to a track or trail, as understood in the art.

[00130] The pusher bottom further defines a notch or cutout portion 62 through which the spiral spring 30 will pass. The end 29 of the spiral spring 30 will pass through the notch 62 and through the notch 26 of the surface 16 and will mount on the tray using any of the techniques described above.

[00131] In use, as pusher mechanism 14 is forced back onto tray 12, end 29 of spiral spring 30 will be held in position as described above and spiraled end 57 of spring 30 will begin to unwind behind pusher paddle 50 If pusher 14 is allowed to move forward within tray 14, such as when product is removed from the front of tray, coiled end 57 of spring 30 will curl and force pusher paddle 50 forward into tray 12, by this way forcing the product towards the front of the tray.

[00132] In an alternative embodiment, the spiral spring 30 may extend below and under the pusher bottom 52 as opposed to above and through the pusher bottom, as shown in the figures. With this configuration, slot 59 and notch 62 may not be needed.

[00133] Coil spring 30 may be any tensioning element including, without limitation, a flat coil spring commonly used with pusher systems. The present invention can utilize one or more coil springs to urge pusher mechanism 14 forward depending on the desired application. The coil tension of spring 30 may also vary depending on the specific application.

[00134] Referring to Figure 2, trackless pusher mechanism 14 is shown mounted on tray 12. As illustrated, pusher mechanism 14 mounts within tray 12 between dividers 18. End 29 of coil spring 30 extends through notch in pusher bottom and mounts on the tray as described above. In use, pusher mechanism 14 will slide along surface 16 of tray 12 without the use of tracks, rails, or guides. As shown in Figure 2, pusher mechanism 14 is shown in a forward position.

[00135] Referring to Figure 3, pusher mechanism 14 is shown marketing a product 70 in marketing system 10. The product is prevented from tipping off the tray by the product retaining member 44. The product 70 may be any product to be marketed including the bottle of soda presented. As shown in this figure, the product 70 rests on the pusher bottom 52 and the spiral spring 30 and extends under the product. The weight of the product on the bottom 52 and the positioning of the product through the spring 30 prevents the paddle 50 from tipping into the tray 12.

[00136] Referring to Figure 4, the pusher mechanism 14 is shown marketing multiple products 70 in the marketing system 10. As shown in this figure, the product near the pusher blade 50 rests on the pusher bottom 52 and the spiral spring 30 which extends over the product. The other products will rest on the 30 spiral spring that will extend under these products. Alternatively, the adapter 180 may be positioned in the system in which case the product may rest on the ribs 182 of the adapter opposite the coil spring. Again, the weight of the product on the pusher bottom 52 and the positioning of the products via the spring 30 prevent the paddle 50 from tipping over into the tray. In use, as a product is removed from the front of the tray near the product holding member 44, the pusher mechanism 14 (via the bias of the spiral spring 30) will push the remaining product forward into the tray 12 until the product further contact the product holding member 44. As additional product is removed, the pusher mechanism 14 will continue to push the remaining product toward the product holding member 44.

[00137] Referring to Figure 5, a rear view of the pusher mechanism 14 shows the pusher mechanism 14 marketing multiple products 70 in the marketing system 10. Again, the product near the pusher paddle 50 rests on the pusher bottom 52 and the spiral spring 30 which extends under the product. The other products will rest on the spiral spring that will extend under these products. Alternatively, the adapter 180 may be positioned in the system in which case the product may rest on the ribs 182 of the adapter opposite the coil spring. As a product is removed from the front of the tray near the product holding member 44, the coiled end 57 of the spring 30 will force the pusher paddle 50 of the pusher mechanism 14 forward into the tray 12 until the product is further forward. contact the product retaining member 44. As seen in this figure, the spiral end 57 may be positioned between two support members 58. The support members will retain the spiral spring between these members. As can be seen from this figure, the pusher bottom 52 can also extend under the support members 58.

[00138] Referring to Figure 6, an alternative embodiment of the pusher tray is shown. With this embodiment, multiple trays 12 can be formed into a single set of multiple trays 80. The multiple trays can have a common bottom with dividers 18 extending upward from the bottom to create the multiple trays or rows. In this embodiment, the product holding member 44 can be a solid member that extends between two dividers, as discussed above. One or more of the multi-tray assemblies 80 may be coupled or joined together in a side-by-side fashion using any known technique, including staples, dovetails, fasteners, or the like. With this configuration, numerous product lines can be provided for the marketing of numerous products.

[00139] As stated above, the trackless pusher mechanism 14 can be used with gravity fed systems, that is, systems that have product trays or channels that are mounted on an incline to allow gravity to assist with marketing of product. Alternatively, the trackless pusher mechanism 14 can be used with systems that are mounted in a non-tilted or horizontal mode where gravity will provide little or no assistance with marketing the product. Trackless pusher mechanism 14 can also be used to push products in various ways.

[00140] Figure 7 shows an exemplary tip 60 for the end 29 of a spiral spring 30 that can be used with the marketing system 10. As illustrated, the tip 60 defines an opening 61 for receiving the end 29 of the spiral spring and an opening 63 for mounting on the surface 16 of the tray. As can be seen in Figure 7, in one aspect of an alternative embodiment, extending under the surface 16 may be a tongue or mounting member 65 which may be configured to mate the opening 63 and to snap-mount the point 60 thereover. tongue 65 and so on the surface 16.

[00141] Referring to Figure 8, the exemplary tip 60 of Figure 7 is shown being mounted to the tongue or mounting member 65. The tongue 65 may include an elongated outwardly extending rib 67 that is used to snap-mount the tip 60 over the tongue 65. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other techniques can be used to mount the tip 60 to the surface 16 and that the technique presented is merely an exemplary modality of such a technique.

[00142] Referring to Figure 9, the exemplary tip 60 is shown fully mounted in a snap-on mode to surface 16, and more specifically to end portion 24 of the surface of tray 12. Also shown is the mounting of end 29 of the spiral spring. 30 in the opening 61 of the tip 60. As shown in Figure 9, the end 29 of the spiral spring can be inserted into the opening 61. The opening 61 is configured to receive the end 29 of the spiral spring and hold the end 29 in position, and also permit removal of the end 29 of the spiral spring from the opening 61 in those circumstances where it is desirable to disconnect the spiral spring from the tip to allow removal of the pusher mechanism 14 from the system.

[00143] Referring to Figure 10 there is shown the end 29 of the spiral spring fully mounted on the exemplary tip 60. As illustrated in this Figure, the spiral spring 30 is now operatively connected to the surface 16 of the tray 12. As a result, the pusher mechanism 14 is now mounted on tray 12.

[00144] Referring to Figures 21-27 an alternative technique for mounting the end 29 of the coil spring 30 in the merchandise display system is shown. A mounting member 130 can be used to mount the end 29 of the coil spring to the bottom 131 of the system. For those systems that include spaced slide rails 132 that are joined together by connecting ribs 134 (Figures 26-27), the mounting member 130 may snap-mount on the or otherwise bottom-mounted 131 and between the slide rails. 132. The mounting member will thus hold the end of the coil spring in place and at the bottom of the system.

[00145] Referring to Figures 22-23, mounting member 130 may include one or more legs 136 on one or more sides of member 130. The legs may be configured to snap-mount on the underside of rails 132 to thereby keep the mounting member 130 at the bottom of the system. Legs 136 may include leg ends 137 that define L-shaped or sloped surfaces that are configured to contact the underside of rail 132 and prevent mounting member 130 from being lifted from the bottom, except for intentional flexing of the legs to outside the underside of the rail 132. The legs 136 may contact the connecting ribs 134 which will prevent sliding movement of the mounting member 130 relative to the bottom. Referring to Figure 26, mounting member 130 is shown being mounted to the bottom of the system and more specifically to the rails. Figure 27 illustrates that mounting member 130 remains in position as pusher blade 141 is pushed away from the front of the system. Mounting member 130 can be connected to this type of system bottom 131 using other techniques. For example, a separate mounting clip, one or more fasteners, adhesives, or other techniques can be used to secure mounting member 130 to bottom 131.

[00146] Referring to Figures 22-23, the mounting member 130 may also include a hole or opening or slot 138 that will receive the end 29 of the spring. The spring can be mounted using any of the techniques described herein, or other techniques. The configuration of the opening 138 and the mounting member 130 will hold the spring in position on the mounting member 130, similar to the technique described above.

The mounting member 130 may also include slide ribs 139 on a top surface which allows product placed thereon to more easily slide through the mounting member after the mounting member is installed in the bottom of the system. Mounting member 130 may also include an elongated flat body 140 that extends forward to the location of legs 136 to provide stability for mounting member 130 after it is mounted to the bottom of the system.

[00148] Referring to Figures 24-25 and 27, the pusher blade or pusher mechanism 141 may include a pusher face 143 configured to match the shape of the product it pushes against. As illustrated, pusher face 143 may be curved in shape to match the shape of a bottle or cylindrical object. The pusher blade 141 may also include a pusher bottom 145 similar to the pusher bottom configurations described above. The pusher bottom 145 may further include a spring sleeve 147 that receives the coil spring 30 to defend and protect the spring. Spring sleeve 147 may extend partially or fully through pusher bottom 145 and in the direction of spring 30. Spring sleeve 147 may have a relatively short height and a flat surface 149 to allow the product to rest thereon without tipping over. or significant slope of the product.

The pusher blade 141 may be positioned over the top of the bottom 131 to slide over the top surface, as described above. The pusher paddle may be positioned between two product divider walls 153 which are joined together by a product retaining member 155. Additional product retaining members 157 may extend outside of the product dividers.

[00150] Referring to Figures 28 and 29, yet another alternative technique for mounting the end 29 of the coil spring 30 in the merchandise display system is shown. In this embodiment, end 29 is riveted to tray 216.

[00151] Referring to Figures 28-32 in an alternative embodiment, the trackless pusher system may be adapted to an existing shelf assembly 230 which may have product dividers already installed. For example, in one embodiment, the trackless pusher system can be adapted to an existing wire shelf assembly. Referring to Figures 30-32, a tray or adapter 216 may have a slide bottom 222 which may be sized for a single lane of shelf 234 or sized for an entire shelf width. The slide bottom 222 may include several raised ribs 224 which help to reduce friction for products marketed on the tray 216. It should be understood that one or more raised ribs 224 can be used with the slide bottom 222. Alternatively, the slide bottom 222 may be a flat, flat surface without raised ribs. Tray or adapter 216 may be configured similar to adapter 180 in Figure 16.

[00152] As shown in Figures 28 and 30, the end 29 of the coil spring 30 can be riveted, through a rivet 229, to the front end 228 of the tray 216, or it can be secured by any other fastening technique. Tray 216 can be retained on the shelf by any attachment technique suitable for the specific shelf. In one embodiment, and as illustrated in Figures 29-32, tray 216 may include one or more outwardly extending fingers or sockets 220 which may engage one or more individual wires 232 of shelf 234 to retain tray 216 over the shelf 234. The fingers or snaps 220 may extend longitudinally along the length of the tray 216, or they may be spaced apart along the length of the tray. Fittings 220 can be used to snap-mount tray 216 to existing wire shelf. As shown in Figures 29A and 29B, fittings 220A and 220B can define numerous configurations that allow tray 216 to be snap-mounted to the shelf. The embodiment shown in Figures 28-32 allows placement of the trackless pusher system into an existing shelving system, such as a wire shelving system, as a cost-effective alternative to the entire trackless pusher assembly. It should be understood that with this embodiment, any pusher mechanism described herein can be utilized.

[00153] As shown in Figures 33 and 44, in another exemplary modality, the display management system comprises one or more pusher mechanisms 286, one or more dividers 266, one or more trays 306, and one or more retainers 250 The 286 pusher mechanisms can be formed of a 287 pusher paddle and a 288 pusher bottom. The product is placed on the 288 pusher bottom and guided to the front of the display management system through the dividers 266 and the paddle pusher mechanism 287. Coil spring 30 tensions pusher mechanism 286 toward retainer 250 so that product moves to the front of the system.

[00154] In an exemplary embodiment, shown in Figure 33, coil spring 30 may be mounted on retainer 250. Alternatively, coil spring 30 may be mounted on divider 266 (also shown in Figures 48 and 49). Coil spring 30 may be directly mounted to retainer 250, as shown in Figure 33, or it may be mounted to retainer 250 through a separate adapter 252 as shown in Figure 34.

[00155] As shown in Figure 35, adapter 252 has a wall 254 proximate to a first end 256. The first end 256 has a curved portion 262, which curves upward. The intermediate portion of adapter 252 may be provided with a curved slot 260 which is adapted to receive a correspondingly shaped spring end (not shown).

[00156] The spiral spring 30 at one end may be secured to the intermediate portion of the adapter 252. In an exemplary embodiment, the curved slot 260 corresponds in shape and size to the first spring end. In addition, the first spring end of the coil spring 30 can be crimped or bent to provide additional attachment. Nevertheless, any sufficient attachment method can be used to attach the first spring end of the coil spring 30 to the adapter 252.

[00157] In an exemplary embodiment, shown in Figures 36 and 37, the retainer 250 has a curved slot 284 that corresponds in shape and size to the curved portion 262 of the adapter 252. The curved slot 284 extends the length of the retainer to allow for positioning Unlimited range of adapter 252 along the length of retainer 250.

[00158] To secure the first spring end of the coil spring 30 to the 250, the curved portion 262 of the adapter 252 is placed within the curved slot 284 of the retainer 250. The curved slot 284 secures the adapter 252 and the first spring end of the coil spring 30 on retainer 250 and provides quick and easy mounting of the display system. Wall 254 provides additional stability in the connection between retainer 250 and adapter 252. Other methods, however, can be used to secure adapter 252 and/or the first spring end of coil spring 30 to retainer 250.

[00159] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 33 and 44 the spiral spring 30 of the pusher blade 287 may be mounted directly in front of the tray 306. The first spring end 290 of the spiral spring 30 is provided with a curved portion. The curved, downwardly curved portion of pusher bottom 288 and is adapted to be received within a recess 316 (shown in Figure 33) defined by a lip 318 of the front surface of supply tray 306 and retainer 250. A surface vertically oriented of retainer 250 and lip 318 are spaced apart such that a gap is formed between the vertically oriented surface and the leading edge of lip 250. To secure coil spring 30 and pusher mechanism 286 together, the first spring end 290 is inserted into the gap formed between the vertically oriented surface of retainer 250 and the leading edge of lip 318 and placed within recess 316 formed by lip 318 of supply tray 306 and retainer 250.

[00160] In another exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 38, 39, 48 and 49, the spiral spring 30 can be directly mounted on a divider 266. Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment the spiral spring 30 can be mounted perpendicular to the pusher bottom 288 so that the axis around which the spiral spring 30 is wound is perpendicular to the pusher bottom 288. This orientation has the benefit of preventing the pusher blade from tipping backwards. The first spring end 290 may be provided with an inclined portion 292 and a tip portion 296. In an exemplary embodiment, the inclined portion 292 may be bent perpendicular to the spiral spring body 294. The divider may be provided with a slit 298 which is adapted to receive the tip portion 296 of the first spring end 290.

[00161] To secure the coil spring to the divider, the nose portion 296 is inserted into the slot 298. Since the tip portion 296 is fully inserted into the slot 298, the angled portion 292 engages the slot 298 in order to secure the first spring end 290 on divider 266.

[00162] As shown in Figure 33, several pusher mechanism designs can be implemented. Pusher paddle 287 can be formed flat to accommodate a correspondingly shaped product. Alternatively, pusher blade 286 may have a first curved end and a second flat end. This serves to accommodate a variety of cylindrical products having a variety of diameters of different sizes and to facilitate the operation of the pusher mechanism 286. During operation, the product in the pusher mechanism 286 and the first curved end together force the pusher mechanism against the divider 266 such that spiral spring 30 remains flat against divider 266 securing first end of spring 290 while in tension or operation. This allows for smoother operation of the pusher mechanism and ensures that product is properly dispensed as users remove product from the system.

[00163] In another exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 40-41D, the distance between dividers 266 can be adjusted to accommodate containers of different sizes. Dividers 266 may be provided with connecting portions 272. Connecting portions 272 may be provided with a first elongated inclined surface 268 and a second elongate inclined surface 270. In addition, connecting portions 272 may be provided with a plurality of projections 274. As shown in Figure 41B, the rails can be formed from teeth 278 that have face surfaces 280 and flank surfaces 282.

[00164] When assembled, as shown in Figure 41C, the connecting portions 272 are received between teeth 278 of the rails. In addition, the elongated inclined surfaces 268 and 270 and the projections 274 are wedged between the 278. Also as shown in Figure 41C, the elongated inclined surfaces 268 and 270 engage the face surfaces 280, and the projections 274 engage the lower surfaces of the teeth 278. Flank surfaces 282 contact connecting portion 272.

[00165] In an exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 42, the trays 306 are provided with rapid swallow connections. A first side 308 of trays 306 is provided with tongues 312 adapted to mount into grooves 314 located on a second side 310 of trays 306. To connect the trays, grooves 314 are aligned with tongues 312 so that tongues 312 are firmly secured within grooves 314.

[00166] In an exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 43, trays 306 are configured to receive retainer 250 at a front end. The retainer may be provided with rectangular holes 300, and the retainer is provided with correspondingly shaped and sized projections 302. To secure retainer 250 to tray 306, projections 302 mount within holes 300 to lock the retainer in place over tray 306 .

[00167] As shown in Figures 45-47, after the product management display system is assembled, the product is loaded into the system. By adjusting the 266 dividers a wide variety of product sizes and shapes can be loaded into the system. As shown in Figures 46 and 47, spiral spring 30 in conjunction with pusher paddle 287 push product toward retainer 250. As a user removes a product from the system, pusher paddle 287 pushes the remaining product so that the product slides along the bottom 264 into the retainer 250. This ensures that the entire product remains in front of the display system.

[00168] As shown in Figures 50-52, product management display system 400 can be arranged so that trays 402, 404 can be stacked on top of one another. This embodiment can generally consist of a first tray 402, a second tray 404, a first spacer 406, and a second spacer 408.

[00169] The trays 402, 404 are each arranged to house the product to be supplied. The first tray 402 and the second tray 404 may each be provided with a transparent retainer 410, a pusher mechanism 412, a first and second guide wall, and a spiral spring 414.

[00170] The pusher mechanism 414 is arranged in a manner similar to the arrangements discussed above, so that it slides the product along the surface of the trays 402, 404 while the product is removed. In addition, any of the alternative pusher mechanism arrangements discussed above can be implemented in a stackable tray arrangement.

[00171] To provide easy assembly and disassembly, the stackable product management display system may be provided with a dovetail connection or any other suitable connection, such as a snap mount connection, screw-thread connection , or a rivet connection. The first and second trays are provided with retainers 416 for mounting the first and second spacers 406, 408 to the first and second trays 402, 404. Each of the first and second trays 402, 404 may be provided with sockets 418 on their respective surfaces for receiving the correspondingly formed retainers 416 located on the first and second spacers 406, 408.

[00172] To assemble the stackable product management display system, the retainers 416 located on the first and second spacers 406, 408 are placed within the correspondingly formed sockets 418 on the external surfaces of the first and second trays 402, 404 in a locking arrangement. This provides a stackable arrangement that can be implemented in conjunction with any of the modalities discussed above.

[00173] In another exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 53-57, a pusher paddle 500 may be mounted directly on a shelf 508 and secured to the shelf by the end of the spiral spring 504. The pusher paddle 500 will slide along and on top of the shelf surface. One or more dividers 502 defining a T-shaped configuration may be positioned proximate the pusher blade 500. In an alternative aspect, the base of the divider 502 may be positioned over the shelf such that the base is located under the shovel. pusher 500. With this configuration, the pusher paddle 500 can slide along the base of the divider. If dividers 502 are positioned far enough away from paddle 500, paddle 500 will slide directly over the surface of shelf 508. Dividers 502 can define numerous configurations including those described herein and can be secured to the shelf using any known technique, including push pins , rivets, fasteners, adhesives and the like.

[00174] In one aspect, the end 510 of the spiral spring 504 is positioned within a hole or opening 506 located on the shelf 508. The end 510 may define a spring tip which may further define any suitable configuration that allows the end springs pass into hole 506 and remain locked in hole. For example, the end spring tip 510 may define a hook-shaped configuration that allows the end 510 to wrap around the edges of the hole 506. Alternatively, the spring tip may define one or more handles that hook over the edges of the hole. hole 506. Still other spring tip configurations are possible.

[00175] As shown in Figure 54, to further secure spring 504 to shelf 508, a fastener 512, pin, rivet, or the like may be used. This fastener 512 will provide a second spaced apart anchor point for the spring that will hold the spring in the desired alignment during full operation of spring 504 as paddle 500 moves back and forth over shelf 508. It will be appreciated that depending on shelf type and from the number and spacing of holes on the shelf, even more anchor points are possible.

Referring to Figures 55-57, an exemplary assembly technique for mounting spring 504 of paddle 500 over a shelf is shown. As shown in Figure 55, end 510 of spring 504 is inserted into hole 506 on the shelf. End 510 may define a spring tip as described herein to secure end 510 to the edges of bore 506. As shown in Figure 56, spring 504, which in this embodiment includes a rivet or shank 514, is lowered over the shelf so that the rivet or shank 514 mounts into another hole 506 located on the shelf. This rivet or shank provides another anchor point for the spring. As shown in Figures 56 and 57, spring 504 may define an opening 516 to receive yet another rivet or shank 518 to further secure spring 504 to the shelf. With these multiple anchor points, spring 504 will be attached to the shelf, and thus the paddle will be secured to the shelf. Also, with these multiple anchor points, the spring will retain the desired alignment during full spring operation as the paddle moves back and forth over the shelf. It should be understood that other anchoring techniques are possible to secure the end of spring 504 to the shelf, including any of the techniques described herein, or a combination of the techniques described herein. It should be appreciated that if a shelf does not have pre-existing holes that could be used to anchor spring 504, one or more holes could be drilled in the shelf at desired locations.

[00177] With the embodiment shown in Figures 53-57, it can be appreciated that a trackless pusher shovel can be fitted directly over existing store shelves with very minimal effort or extra mounting parts. In addition, this mode is easily removable to allow repositioning of the pusher blade anywhere on the shelf to accommodate any size and type of product being marketed on the shelf. One of skill in the art will also appreciate that any of the pusher blades described herein can be mounted directly to the shelf using the techniques described herein, or using any combination of the techniques described herein.

[00178] In another embodiment, shown in Figures 58-60, a tray 12 includes a forward rounded portion 669. As illustrated in Figure 58, the tray 12 also includes a forward lip 670 that is located adjacent the front of the forward rounded portion 669. The forward lip 670 can be rounded and can extend perpendicularly in an upward direction from tray 12. The forward lip can have different heights and in one mode has a height of 12.7 mm (0.5 inches) from the tray. 12. The forward lip includes a raised edge or wall portion 671 at each side edge of the forward lip. The wall portions serve to close the side portions of the handle pocket which is described later.

[00179] The tray may also include a shelf 672 which is located immediately adjacent to and in a forward direction of the forward lip 670. The shelf 672 may be curved and may match the curvature of the forward lip 670. The shelf 672 includes a horizontal surface 674. The shelf 672 also includes protrusions 676 that are perpendicular to the horizontal surface 674 of the shelf 672. The shelf 672 and forward lip 670 add strength to the front portion of the pusher tray. Furthermore, the horizontal surface 674 of the shelf 672 serves to close the bottom portion of the identifier pocket which is described later.

[00180] In one embodiment, a front wall 100 includes a top wall 680 and a bottom wall 682. The top wall and the bottom wall are connected by two side legs 684. The top wall 680 and the bottom wall bottom 682 are curves. An opening 686 is defined by top wall 680, bottom wall 682 and side legs 684. This opening can be sized so that a product P will not fit through the opening. The top wall may also contain a contour from the top 688 of the top wall to the bottom 690 of the top wall. This contour helps in limiting or preventing scratches on the top wall. The contour also increases the strength of the top wall. The bottom wall includes a side wall 708 which in operation is adjacent to and may be in contact with the protrusion 676. The side legs include notches 698 in the bottom portion of the side legs 684. The notches assist in allowing the hooks 694 to be inserted into the openings 696. The front wall can be constructed of a transparent material that will not obstruct the view of the product P being marketed on trays 12.

[00181] A graphic pocket 692 is defined by (a) the bottom wall 682 of the front wall 100, (b) the curved portion of the lip 670, (c) the wall portions 671 at the lateral ends of the lip 670, and (d) ) the horizontal surface 674 of shelf 672. This graphic pocket is sized to contain a graphic strip or other advertisement. Since the graphic strip is placed inside pocket 692, it is protected from all sides other than the top.

[00182] The front wall further comprises two hooks 694. These hooks are configured to mount within openings 696 of tray 12. In one embodiment, to mount gains 694 within openings 696 the front wall is first rotated in the direction of the arrow " A" as shown in Figure 101 with the hooks 694 not in engagement with the openings 696. The hooks 694 are then initially inserted into the openings 696 while the hooks 694 are at an angle to the openings. The front wall is then rotated in the direction of arrow "B" until the front wall is in the position shown in Figure 102-B. In this position the upper portions 696 of the hooks 694 are parallel to the underside of the surface 16 of the tray shelf 12 and the hooks 694 are fully inserted through the openings 696. The hooks 694 are hereby mounted on the tray 12. In one embodiment, the The trailing edge 700 of the side legs 684 is adjacent to the leading edge 702 of the divider 18. The trailing edge 700 of the side legs 684 may be in contact with the leading edge 702 of the divider 18.

[00183] Figures 59A-C depict different mounting states of the front wall 100 and a graphic identifier 706. Figure 59A depicts the front wall 100 not mounted with the tray 12. Instead, the front wall 100 is shown elevated above the tray 12. Graphic identifier 706 is also shown in an unmounted state. Figure 59B depicts front wall 100 mounted with tray 12. In Figure 59B the graphic identifier 706 is not mounted. The descending arrows in Figure 59B show the direction the graphic identifier 706 will move to mount with the graphics pocket 692. Figure 59C depicts the graphic identifier 706 mounted within the graphics pocket 692. When multiple trays 12 are connected to each other, graphic identifier 706 can form a continuous or nearly continuous strip of display advertisement. Trays 12 can be formed individually and connected together, such as through a dovetail connection. In one embodiment, multiple trays can be formed as a unit to create a single unit to market numerous rows of products.

[00184] Figure 60 depicts a number of front walls 100 assembled with a number of trays 12. The almost continuous nature of the graphic advertisements of the graphic identifier 706 is seen in Figure 60. In addition, Figure 60 depicts product P being held on trays 12 and constrained by the front walls 100.

[00185] In another exemplary embodiment, which will be described in more detail below in Figures 61-79, a pusher mechanism for a merchandise display is configured to be placed inside a tray pre-loaded with packages. The pusher mechanism may include a first spring configured to tension the pusher mechanism and a pusher blade. The pusher paddle includes a guide panel that defines a guide panel plane, a first foldable panel that defines a first foldable panel plane, a second foldable panel that defines a second foldable panel plane. The pusher mechanism may include a second spring configured to tension the first foldable panel and the second foldable panel so that the first foldable panel plane and the second foldable panel plane are parallel to the plane of the guide panel. The first folding panel and the second folding panel are configured to pivot over the pusher mechanism. The first folding panel and the second folding panel are configured to move in a rearward direction of the pusher mechanism. The first folding panel and the second folding panel hinge on a first living hinge and a second living hinge. The first foldable panel and the second foldable panel each include a pair of guide members configured to guide a first end and a second end of the second spring. The pusher mechanism may include a post to receive the second spring, and a notch configured to receive a plate insert. The plate insert is configured to be secured to a shelf configured to receive packages.

[00186] The pusher mechanism may be part of a merchandise display system which includes a tray configured to receive packages and a perforated portion configured to provide an opening. The first collapsible panel and the second collapsible pusher mechanism panel allow the pusher mechanism to be placed into the opening in the tray. The first folding panel, the second folding panel and the guide panel form the pusher paddle and can be configured to provide a surface for tensioning the packages within the tray. The tray comprises a vertically extending wall and a horizontally extending wall, and the opening is located in the vertically extending wall. The horizontally extending wall may have a second opening configured to receive a bottom plate of the pusher mechanism.

[00187] In a relative embodiment, a method for displaying goods comprises: providing a tray configured to receive packages, the tray having a perforated portion configured to provide an opening, and providing a pusher mechanism. The pusher mechanism comprises a first spring configured to tension the pusher mechanism, a pusher blade comprising a guide panel which defines a guide panel plane, a first foldable panel which defines a first foldable panel plane, a second foldable panel which defines a folding panel second plane, and a second spring configured to tension the first folding panel and the second folding panel so that the folding panel first plane and the folding panel second plane are parallel to the guide panel plane . The first folding panel and the second folding panel are configured to pivot over the pusher mechanism.

[00188] The method further comprises configuring the first collapsible panel and the second collapsible panel of the pusher mechanism to pivot with respect to the guide panel to allow the pusher mechanism to be placed within the opening in the tray and the first collapsible panel, and configuring the second foldable panel and guide panel that form the pusher paddle to provide a surface for tensioning the packages. The method further comprises configuring the first collapsible panel and the second collapsible panel to move in a rearward direction of the pusher mechanism, configuring the first collapsible panel and the second collapsible panel to hinge over a first living hinge and a second living hinge, and providing the the first foldable panel and the second foldable panel with a pair of guide members configured to guide a first end and a second end of the second spring. The method further comprises providing a post to receive the second spring. The tray further comprises a vertically extending wall and a horizontally extending wall, and the opening is located in the vertically extending wall.

[00189] The embodiment shown in Figures 61-79 is similar to the embodiments described here where like reference numerals represent like components. However, in the embodiment shown in Figures 61-79, pusher mechanism 814 is formed with collapsible panels 815a, 815b for placing pusher mechanism 814 within a box 811 and tray assembly 812. In this embodiment, tray assembly 812 operates a guide mechanism for packages 870. In this embodiment, and as described in more detail below, packages 870 may be preloaded and transported within a box 811, which is configured to open at a bottom end portion for allowing the pusher mechanism 814 to be placed in contact with the packages 870 and the tray assembly 812 initially formed as part of the box 811 can be used to guide the packages 870 towards the front portion of the tray assembly and the shelf. In this way, the 870 packs are always pushed to the front of the shelf, provide a neater appearance for the consumer, and are easier for the consumer to use.

[00190] Figure 61 shows a perspective view of the pusher mechanism 814. Figure 62 shows a top view and Figure 63 shows a rear view. Pusher mechanism 814 comprises a first spiral spring 830, a guide panel 854, two foldable panels 815a, 815b, and a spiral spring housing 858. Together the guide panel 854 and the two foldable panels 815a, 815b form a surface of push to push 870 packages toward the front of a shelf. The first spiral spring 830 is configured to accumulate within the spiral spring housing 858 of the pusher mechanism 814. As shown in Figures 65 and 66, when tensioned a major portion of the first spiral spring 830 is allowed to unwind to a flat state perpendicular to the panel. guide 854 along push mechanism guide 847. Spiral spring 830 tensions push mechanism 814 toward a fixed panel 844. Figures 61 and 62 show the first spiral spring 830 of push mechanism 814 in a relaxed state. When packs 870 are loaded between pusher mechanism 814 and fixed panel 844, packs 870 are pushed against fixed panel 844. When the user removes the front pack from the shelf, the next pack will be tensioned against fixed panel 844.

[00191] In addition, the pusher mechanism 814 may be provided with a first spiral spring locking mechanism 845 830 to lock a first end of the pusher mechanism guide 847 and the pusher mechanism 814 in place over the pusher mechanism guide 847. The pusher mechanism guide 847 may be provided with a notch 847a to align the pusher mechanism 814 with an insert or front rail 849 (shown in Figures 67 and 68) that extends perpendicular to the pusher mechanism guide 847. The front rail 849 it can be attached to a shelf using any known fastening method such as fasteners, adhesives, etc.

[00192] The folding panels 815a, 815b provide a collapsible pusher mechanism 814. As shown in Figures 70 and 72, this feature allows the pusher mechanism 814 to occupy a smaller space initially through opening 823 of the box or tray assembly 812 during assembly of the pusher mechanism 814 to tray 812 and placement of tray 812 and packages 870 on the shelves for consumers. As shown in Figure 63, the pusher mechanism 814 is provided with two sharp hinges 807a, 807b which interconnect the guide panel 854 to the two foldable panels 815a, 815b. The living vertical hinges 807a, 807b provide the articulation of the folding panels 815a, 815b over the pusher mechanism 814.

[00193] As shown in Figure 61, the pusher mechanism 814 also includes a second spiral spring 813 which mounts on a second spiral spring post 821. The second spiral spring 813 tensions the foldable panels 815a, 815b so that each defined plane by folding panels 815a, 815b is tensioned parallel to a plane defined by guide panel 854.

[00194] As shown in Figure 63 each of the foldable panels 815a, 815b includes a pair of elongated guides 819 that provide guides for each of the ends 813a, 813b of the second coil spring 813. Thus, when the foldable panels 815a, 815b are set back and extended each end 813a, 813b is appropriately located and remains in contact over a rear portion of each of the foldable panels 815a, 815b. The guides assist the second coil spring 813 in tensioning the foldable panels 815a, 815b in a direction parallel to the guide panel 854.

[00195] As shown in Figures 70, 72, and 73 the folding panels 815a, 815b allow the pusher mechanism 814 to be placed within a vertically extending opening 823 over a rear portion of the tray 812 containing the packages 870. Once the pusher mechanism 814 is placed within the opening 823, the box provides a tray 812 for delivering the packages 870. Specifically, the pusher mechanism 814 is placed in contact with the packages 870 and tensions the packages 870 towards the front of the 812 tray for the consumer to pick up from the shelf (not shown).

[00196] Due to the collapsible panels 815a, 815b of the pusher mechanism 814, the opening 823 in the box 812 provided for the pusher mechanism can be formed smaller in size. Due to the smaller opening, the 811 box frame or 812 tray assembly is not structurally compromised as much because it still has sufficient frame to load and deliver the 870 packages on the shelf. Specifically as shown in Figures 66 and 72, the pusher mechanism 814 can fold along the sharp hinges 807a, 807b to occupy a smaller opening 823 formed by a perforated portion 825 in the box 812. Once the pusher mechanism 814 is placed in contact with the packs 870 inside the box 812, the second coil spring 813 then tensions the folding panels parallel to the guide panel 854. This provides a greater push surface area for tensioning the packs 870 towards the fixed panel 844 to achieve the appropriate amount of force on the 870 packs to force the packs toward the front of the 812 tray.

[00197] The 811 box may be provided with a top section (not shown). The 870 packages can then be placed inside the box 811 and the top section can then be removed exposing the 870 packages in the 812 tray assembly. The 812 tray assembly can be formed by a vertically extending wall 835 and a wall horizontally extending 837. The vertically extending wall 835 may be provided with guide portions 835a, 835b and the horizontally extending wall 837 may also be provided with guide portions 837a, 837b. Guide portions 835a, 835b, 837a, 837b help guide the 870 packages in the 812 tray assembly.

[00198] The perforated portion 825 provides a portion of the tray 812 for vertically extending opening 823 located on the vertically extending wall 835 and a slot opening 827 located on the horizontally extending wall 837 along the bottom portion of the tray 812 The vertically extending opening 823 provides a location for the pusher mechanism 814 to be brought into contact with the packs 870 so that the pusher mechanism 814 can tension the packs 870 toward the fixed panel 844, which may be located toward the front of a shelf displaying packages 870. The slit opening 827 along the bottom portion of the tray 812 provides an elongated slit for the bottom plate 833 of the pusher mechanism 814 to be displaced along the pusher mechanism guide 847. As shown in Figures 76-79 the perforated portion 825 can be removed from the tray 812. In addition, the perforated portion 825 and the vertically extending wall 835 may be provided with a predetermined opening 823b which provides a handle portion over the perforated portion 825 for the user to remove the perforated portion 825 from the box 812.

[00199] During operation packets 807 are loaded into box 811 which has a top portion (not shown). The user then removes the top portion of the box 811 to form the tray 812. The perforated portion 825 can then be removed from the tray 812 along the vertically extending wall 835 and the horizontally extending wall 837 to form the vertically extending opening 823 and the slot opening 827.

[00200] The user can then place the pusher mechanism 814 in contact with the packages 870. The user first aligns the tray 812 with the fixed panel 844. Then the user can fold the folding panels 815a, 815b of the pusher mechanism 814 inward to the along the sharp hinges 807a, 807b to position the pusher mechanism within the opening 823 in the tray 812. Once the user releases the folding panels 815a, 815b, the folding panels 815a, 815b are tensioned parallel with the guide panel 854. Together collapsible panels 815a, 815b and guide panel 854 are tensioned against packs 870 via pusher mechanism 814 and first spiral spring 830. Packs 870 are then forced towards fixed panel 814. Guide notch 847a of pusher mechanism 847 can then be placed in contact with the front rail 849, which can be fixed on a shelf. Once the consumer removes one of the 870 packs from the shelf, the remaining 870 packs are tensioned towards the fixed panel 844 and the 870 packs remain upright and appear tidy to the consumer.

[00201] In another embodiment, described in relation to Figures 80a and 80b, a merchandise display system comprises a first pusher mechanism having a first pusher blade, a first spring, and a first guide rail. The first pusher mechanism is configured to be tensioned by the first spring along a plane defined by the first guide rail. A second pusher mechanism includes a second pusher blade, a second spring, and a second guide rail. The second pusher mechanism is configured to be tensioned by the second spring along a plane defined by the second guide rail. The first guide rail and the second guide rail are configured to mount on a horizontally oriented shelf. Each plane of the first guide rail and the second guide rail extends perpendicular to a plane defined by the shelf. The first pusher mechanism and the second pusher mechanism extend a predetermined distance from the shelf.

[00202] As shown in Figures 80a and 80b, the merchandise display assembly 900 may include two pusher mechanisms 914 that push goods from either side. As shown in Figures 80a and 80b, merchandise display assembly 900 includes a front rail 944 and two side dividers 918. The two side dividers 918 provide a guide and support for the pusher mechanisms 914. pre-assembled to the two 918 side dividers via a spiral spring (not shown). The spiral springs can be attached to a front end of the dividers 918 so that the spiral spring tensions the pusher mechanisms 914 towards the front of the tray 912. The side dividers 918 can be secured to the shelf 970 using removable fasteners, rivets, adhesive, snap-on, or any other known suitable connections.

[00203] Although not shown, pusher mechanisms 914 may include a coil spring to tension the pusher mechanisms toward front rail 944. Pusher mechanisms 914 may also include a shovel 950 which contacts 970 products. Furthermore, pusher mechanisms 914 may be provided with a hinge (not shown) so that vanes 950 can rotate about a geometric axis parallel to a plane defined by dividers 918. Pusher mechanisms 914 may also be provided with rotatable extensions (not shown). Both hinges and swivel extensions provide 950 paddles that can be moved out of the way of 970 products while configuring the pusher mechanisms on a 908 shelf.

[00204] During use the products can be rearranged on the tray 912, which can be placed on a shelf 908. The side dividers 918 can then be adjusted on the shelf 908 according to the size of the tray 912. The shovel 950 can then be brought into contact with the last row of products 970. When the consumer selects a product from shelf 908 the pusher mechanisms 914 then tension the products 970 towards the front of tray 970.

[00205] In another embodiment described with respect to Figures 81A and 81B, a merchandise display system comprises a plurality of pusher mechanisms each including a guide, a spring, and a pusher paddle. The push mechanism guides include a pair of guide openings. The merchandise display system also has a pair of adjustable side portions. The adjustable side portions include alignment tubes that provide an adjustable length between the adjustable side portions. The alignment tubes are received within the pair of guide openings of the pusher mechanism guides.

[00206] The embodiment shown in the embodiment of Figures 81A and 81B is similar to the embodiment shown above in Figures 80A, 80B. However in this embodiment pusher guides or tracks 1018 are provided through and over the top of products 1070. Pusher tracks 1018 provide a guide and support for pusher mechanisms 1014. In this embodiment, merchandise display assembly 1000 may include multiple pusher mechanisms 1014 that have multiple 1050 paddles and multiple 1053 paddle extensions that push 1070 products through and over the top of the merchandise display.

[00207] As shown in Figures 81A and 81B, the merchandise display assembly 1000 may include two extendable side portions 1019. The two extendable side portions 1019 may be provided with a pair of male alignment tubes 1055a and a pair of female alignment tubes 1055b, which provide a variable length between the side portions 1019. Specifically, the male alignment tubes 1055a may be received by the female alignment tubes 1055b to provide a sliding fit between the extendable side portions 1019. pusher tracks 1018 may be provided with guide openings 1057 for receiving alignment tubes 1055a, 1055b. Alignment tubes 1055a, 1055b may be secured to guide apertures 1057 by any suitable fastening method to secure the position of side portions 1019 with respect to one another. In addition, side portions 1019 may be secured to shelf 1008 by any known suitable fastening method. Pusher mechanisms 1014 may come pre-assembled to pusher tracks 1018 via a spiral spring (not shown). The spiral springs can be attached to a forward end of the pusher tracks 1018 so that the spiral spring tensions the pusher mechanisms 1014 towards the front of the tray 1012. In addition, the pusher mechanisms 1014 can be secured to the paddle extensions. 1053 using any known fixation method.

[00208] Although not shown, pusher mechanisms 1014 may include a spiral spring to tension pusher mechanisms 1014 toward the front of tray 1012. Paddle extensions 1053 are configured to contact products 1070 and to push products 1070 in that direction. from the front of the tray 1012. In addition, the pusher mechanisms 1014 can be provided with hinges so that the paddles 1050 and the paddle extensions 1053 can rotate about a geometric axis parallel to the male and female alignment tubes 1055a, 1055b. The hinges provide 1050 paddles and 1053 paddle extensions that can be moved out of the way of the 1070 products while configuring the pusher mechanisms on a 1008 shelf.

[00209] During use the products 1070 can be pre-arranged on the tray 1012, which can be placed on a shelf 1008. The side portions 1019 can then be adjusted on the shelf 1008 according to the size of the tray 1012 , and the side portions 1019 can be secured with respect to each other in accordance with the size of the tray 1012. The paddle 1050 can then be placed in contact with the last row of products 1070. When the consumer selects a product from the shelf 1008 the mechanisms 1050 pushers then tension the remaining 1070 products toward the front of the 1012 tray.

[00210] In another embodiment described in relation to Figures 82a - 82d, a merchandise display system includes a pusher mechanism, a front rail and a rear rail. The pusher mechanism can include a pusher paddle, a pusher guide, and a spring. The pusher guide is configured to slide over the rear rail and is configured to extend over the products, and the pusher paddle is configured to tension the products towards the front rail.

[00211] The embodiment shown in Figures 82A-82D is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 80a, 80b. However, in this embodiment pusher guide 1118 extends over the top of products 1170. In this embodiment, merchandise display assembly 1100 may include a pusher mechanism 1114 that pushes products from the top of assembly 1100 or shelf 1108. As shown in Figures 82A and 82B, merchandise display assembly 1100 includes a front rail 1144a and a rear rail 1144b. Pusher guide 1118 provides a guide and support for pusher mechanism 1114. Pusher mechanism 1114 may come pre-assembled to pusher guide 1118 via a spiral spring (not shown). The spiral spring can be attached to a front end of the pusher guide so that the spiral spring tensions the pusher mechanism 1114 towards the front rail 1144a. Pusher guide 1118 is configured to slide along rear rail 1144b to adjust the location of products 1170 on shelf 1108.

[00212] Although not shown, pusher mechanism 1114 may include a coil spring to tension pusher mechanism 1114 toward front rail 1144a. Pusher mechanism 1114 may also include a paddle 1150 which contacts products 1170. In addition, pusher mechanism 1114 may be provided with a hinge so that paddle 1150 can rotate about a geometric axis parallel to rear rail 1144b. The hinge provides for a shovel 1150 that can be moved out of the way of the 1170 products while configuring the pusher mechanisms on a shelf 1108. Figures 82C and 82D show an alternative rear rail 1144b that can be used in conjunction with the mechanism. pusher 1118. In this arrangement the rear rail 1144b may be provided with a flange configured to rest on the shelf 1108.

[00213] During use the products can be pre-arranged on the tray 1112, which can be placed on a shelf 1108. The pusher mechanism 1118 can then be located on the shelf 1108 according to the size and orientation of the tray 1112 on the shelf. Paddle 1150 can then be brought into contact with the last row of products 1170. When the consumer selects a product from shelf 1108, pusher mechanism 1114 then tensions the remaining products 1170 toward the front of tray 1112.

[00214] Variations and modifications of the above are within the scope of the present invention. For example, one of skill in the art will understand that multiples of the described components can be used in stores and in various configurations. The present invention, therefore, should not be limited to a single system, nor to the vertical pusher configuration shown in the Figures, as the system is simply illustrative of the characteristics, teachings and principles of the invention. It is to be further understood that the invention described and defined herein extends to all alternative combinations of two or more individual features mentioned or evident from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute several alternative aspects of the present invention. The embodiments described herein explain the best known ways to practice the invention and will enable others skilled in the art to use the invention.

Claims (20)

1. Pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847) along which the pusher mechanism (814) can move, for a merchandise display system, the pusher mechanism (814) comprising: a shovel of pusher comprising a guide panel (854) defining a guide panel plane, a first spiral spring (830) configured to curl within a spiral spring housing (858) on the pusher blade and locked in place on the guide. of pusher mechanism (847) by a locking mechanism (845), so that the first spiral spring (830) can be tensioned between the pusher blade and the pusher mechanism guide (847) and allowed to unwind in a perpendicular direction. to the guide panel (854), wherein the first spiral spring (830) is configured to tension the pusher blade in a direction of the locking mechanism (845); characterized in that the pusher blade further comprises a first folding panel (815a) defining a first folding panel plane, a second folding panel (815b) defining a second folding panel plane, and a second spring (813) configured to tension the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) so that the first folding panel plane and the second folding panel plane are parallel to the panel plane. of guide; wherein the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) are configured to pivot over the guide panel (854). 2. Pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) are configured to move in a backward direction of the pusher mechanism (814). 3. Pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) hinge on a first living hinge (807a) and a second living hinge (807b), respectively. 4. Pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) each include a pair of guide members (819) configured to guide a first end (813a) and a second end (813b) of the second spring (813). The pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847) according to claim 1, further comprising a post (821) for receiving the second spring (813). 6. Pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847), according to claim 1, characterized in that the pusher mechanism guide (847) is provided with a notch (847a) configured to receive a front plate or rail insert (849). 7. Pusher mechanism (814) and pusher mechanism guide (847) according to claim 6, characterized in that the front plate or rail insert (849) is configured to be secured to a shelf configured for receive the packages. 8. Merchandise display system, comprising: a tray (812) configured to receive packages, the tray having a perforated portion (825) configured to provide an opening (823); a pusher mechanism (814) and a pusher mechanism guide (847) along which the pusher mechanism (814) is movable, the pusher mechanism (814) comprising: a pusher blade comprising a guide panel (854) defining a guide panel plane, and a first spiral spring (830) configured to wind into a spiral spring housing (858) on the pusher blade and locked in place over the pusher mechanism guide (847) by a spring mechanism. locking (845), so that the first coil spring (830) can be tensioned between the pusher blade and the pusher mechanism guide (847) and allowed to unwind in a direction perpendicular to the guide panel (854), wherein the first spiral spring (830) is configured to tension the pusher blade in a direction of the locking mechanism (845); characterized in that the pusher blade further comprises a first folding panel (815a) defining a first folding panel plane, a second folding panel defining a second folding panel plane, and a second spring ( 813) configured to tension the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) so that the first folding panel plane and the second folding panel are parallel to the guide panel plane; wherein the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) are configured to hinge over the guide panel (854); and the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) of the pusher mechanism (814) allow the pusher mechanism (814) to be placed into the opening in the tray (812) and the first folding panel (815a) ), the second folding panel (815b) and guide panel (854) forming the pusher blade provide a pushing surface. 9. Merchandise display system according to claim 8, characterized in that the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) are configured to move in a backward direction of the pusher mechanism (814). 10. Merchandise display system, according to claim 8, characterized in that the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) hinge on a first living hinge (807a) and a second live hinge (807b), respectively. Merchandise display system according to claim 8, characterized in that the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) each include a pair of guide members configured to guide a first end and a second end of the second spring (813). A merchandise display system, according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises a post (821) for receiving the second spring (813). 13. Merchandise display system according to claim 8, characterized in that the tray comprises a vertically extending wall (835) and a horizontally extending wall (837) and in which the opening (823) is located on the vertically extending wall (835). A merchandise display system according to claim 13, characterized in that the horizontally extending wall (837) comprises a second opening (827) configured to receive a bottom plate (833) of the push mechanism. - rador (814). 15. A method of displaying merchandise, said method comprising: providing a tray (812) configured to receive packages, the tray having a perforated portion configured to provide an opening (823); providing a pusher mechanism (814) and a pusher mechanism guide (847) along which the pusher mechanism (814) can move, the pusher mechanism (814) comprising: a pusher blade comprising a guide panel (854 ) defining a guide panel plane, and a first spiral spring (830) configured to wind within a spiral spring housing (858) on the pusher blade and locked in place over the pusher mechanism guide (847) by a locking mechanism (845), so that the first spiral spring (830) can be tensioned between the pusher blade and the pusher mechanism guide (847) and allowed to unwind in a direction perpendicular to the guide panel (854), wherein the first spiral spring (830) is configured to tension the pusher blade in a direction of the locking mechanism (845); characterized in that the pusher blade further comprises a first folding panel (815a) defining a first folding panel plane, a second folding panel (815b) defining a second folding panel plane, and a second spring (813) configured to tension the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) so that the first folding panel plane and the second folding panel plane are parallel to the panel plane. of guide; wherein the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) are configured to hinge over the guide panel (854); and the method comprises the steps of configuring the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) of the pusher mechanism (814) to pivot with respect to the guide panel (854) to enable the pusher mechanism (814) be placed into the opening in the tray (812) and the first folding panel (815a); and configuring the second fold panel (815b) and guide panel (854) that form the pusher blade to provide a push surface. The method of claim 15, further comprising configuring the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) to move in a rearward direction of the pusher mechanism (814). The method of claim 15, further comprising shaping the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) to hinge on a first live hinge (807a) and a second live hinge (807b), respectively. The method of claim 15, further comprising providing the first folding panel (815a) and the second folding panel (815b) with a pair of guide members configured to guide a first end and a second end. of the second spring (813). The method of claim 15, further comprising providing a post (821) for receiving the second spring (813). 20. The method of claim 15, characterized in that the tray (812) further comprises a vertically extending wall (837) and a horizontally extending wall (835) and wherein the opening (823) is located over the vertically extending wall (837).

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