Convertible multifunctional shelving

Abstract

A convertible, multiple function shelf unit includes shelves which can be supported horizontally or on an incline and having opposed edge members extending from the shelf. When horizontal, these members define a trough-like configuration with apexes extending outwardly from shelf edges. When the shelf is inverted, these apexes fit over opposed and vertically spaced braces to support the shelf in an inclined position. The distance between the apexes is greater than the distance between the shelf edge inboard of the extended members to accommodate the greater distance between opposed support braces when respectively vertically spaced, as opposed to residing in the same horizontal plane to support a shelf in a horizontal position. A shelf comprises one shelf member or, alternatively, a plurality of independent shelf members. Accessory bins and screens are provided.

1 . A shelving apparatus having a shelf comprising:
 two opposed edges having inclined members extending outwardly from each opposed edge;   each inclined member having an outer flange at an angle thereto and defining therebetween an apex: and   a distance between said apexes being greater than a distance between said two opposed edges.   
     
     
         2 . Apparatus as in  claim 1  including opposed elongated braces oriented in a horizontal place to support said shelf in a horizontal orientation and moveable one above the other to support said shelf in an inclined orientation through engagement of said apexes. 
     
     
         3 . Apparatus as in  claim 2  wherein said shelf is perforated. 
     
     
         4 . Apparatus as in  claim 2  wherein said shelf is supported between four vertical support columns, said inclined members extending outwardly of at least two of said columns. 
     
     
         5 . Apparatus as in  claim 2  wherein when said shelf is inclined, said apexes are in supporting contact with said braces, one above the other. 
     
     
         6 . A shelving apparatus as in  claim 1  comprising at least two shelf levels, each level comprising a plurality of shelf components, each having a shelf surface. 
     
     
         7 . Apparatus as in  claim 6  wherein each shelf component is reversible between first and second positions. 
     
     
         8 . Apparatus as in  claim 7  wherein in one of said positions, said components define flush shelf edges and in another of said positions said components define upright lips along edges of said components. 
     
     
         9 . Apparatus as in  claim 6  further including a plurality of bins, wherein a rear flange of said bin is engaged with an outer flange of a shelf. 
     
     
         10 . Apparatus as in  claim 6  further including a screen being a rear flange, said rear flange in supported engagement with an outer flange of a shelf. 
     
     
         11 . Apparatus as in  claim 7  wherein said shelf components are independently oriented in a shelf level one from the other. 
     
     
         12 . Apparatus as in  claim 1  including a plurality of shelf levels and a plurality of shelf members in each shelf level. 
     
     
         13 . Apparatus as in  claim 12  wherein one of said shelf members in one shelf level inclined at an angle with respect to another shelf member in said one shelf level.