Expandable storage and dispensing system

Abstract

Two embodiments of a modular storage and dispensing rack for dispensing articles are disclosed. The first embodiment is a rack with a top and bottom shelf, while the second embodiment is a rack with only one shelf. The shelves normally have between five and nine discrete tray modules, wherein the tray modules are fixed in a side-by-side relationship to form the shelves. The tray modules each have a top side for storing articles and a bottom side having saddles that are designed to receive connecting members. The first embodiment has connecting members fabricated from square steel tubing. These connecting members pass through the saddles of the tray modules in opposite directions and overlap. The overlapping connecting members are fixed relative to the tray modules so that the tray modules remain fixed in a side-by-side relationship to form a shelf. The top shelf is supported above the bottom shelf with spacing members fabricated from square tubing. The second embodiment utilizes tie bars to fix the tray modules in a side-by-side relationship to form a shelf. The tie bars pass through the saddles of the tray modules and are fixed relative to the tray modules to that the tray modules are fixed in a side-by-side relationship. Each tie bar has weakened areas which facilitate portions of the bar to be broken off, so that the length of the tie bar will correspond to the number of tray modules forming the shelf.