WO2025004040A1

WO2025004040A1 - Utility module, fixture assembly, and a mobile carrier unit

Info

Publication number: WO2025004040A1
Application number: PCT/IL2024/050627
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yaron Brunner; Uri Parizer
Original assignee: Keter Home and Garden Products Ltd
Current assignee: Keter Home and Garden Products Ltd
Priority date: 2023-06-28
Filing date: 2024-06-27
Publication date: 2025-01-02
Anticipated expiration: 2025-12-28
Also published as: CN121398937A; IL325395A

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a utility module, a fixture assembly, and a mobile carrier unit for supporting the utility module, each comprising: one or more elongated bars (1002a) connectable to a support structure (W); a plurality of female connectors (1012) defined in one of the one or more elongated bars (1002a) and a body (102) of the at least one utility module (100); and one or more male connectors configured in other one of the one or more elongated bars (1002a) and the body (102) of the at least one utility module (100), wherein, the plurality of female connectors (1012) being configured to releasably receive at least one of the one or more male connectors to detachably support the at least one utility module (100).

Description

UTILITY MODULE, FIXTURE ASSEMBLY, AND A MOBILE CARRIER UNIT

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is directed to a utility module. The disclosure is further concerned with a fixture assembly for detachably supporting the utility module.

The term “utility module ” is used hereinafter in its broad meaning and is meant to denote a variety of articles such as, storage containers, travel luggage, tool caddy or boxes, organisers, compacted work benches, cable storage, tools including hand tools, power generators, and power sources, communication modules, carrying platforms, locomotion platforms, etc.

BACKGROUND

WO2017191628 relates to a utility module and a utility assembly including more than one utility module. The utility module includes a body, lid pivotally coupled to the body and locking latch disposed in register with a locking latch arresting location. The disclosure also discloses a mobile carrier unit comprising at least one carrier engagement surface, compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with an engagement surface of a utility module to detachably support the utility module. The carrier engagement surface includes one or more depressed locking locations each configured with a locking rib and at least one locking latch arresting location, configured for engagement with the engagement surface of a utility module that comprises at least one locking latch and one or more projecting portions, each projecting portion being configured with a locking tongue, or at least one locking latch and one or more projecting portions each configured with a locking tongue for engagement with said first engagement surface of a utility module that comprises one or more depressed locking locations, each depressed locking locations configured with a locking rib and at least one locking latch arresting location.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

A first aspect of the disclosure concerns a fixture assembly configured for detachably receiving and supporting a utility module. In an implementation of the disclosure, the fixture assembly may be a stationary. In another implementation of the present disclosure, the fixture assembly may be a movable or mobile. Each of the implementation will be elucidated in detail in the forthcoming paragraphs of the disclosure. The stationary assembly is referred to as a fixture assembly and the mobile mounting assembly is referred to as a mobile carrier unit.

The fixture assembly of the disclosure detachably supports at least one utility module. The fixture assembly includes one or more elongated bars connectable to a support structure, a plurality of female connectors defined in one of the one or more elongated bars and a body of the at least one utility module, one or more male connectors being configured in other one of the one or more elongated bars and the body of the at least one utility module, wherein the plurality of female connectors being configured to releasably receive at least one of the one or more male connectors to detachably support the at least one utility module.

The term ‘at least one utility module’ as used herein denotes any utility module that may be detachably secured to the fixture assembly. The at least one utility module may comprise one utility module, two utility modules, three utility modules or even more based on the requirement and configuration of the fixture assembly.

According to certain aspects, each of the one or more elongated bars being defined by a body having a rear surface, a front surface, a wall structure extending between the rear surface and the front surface.

According to some aspects, the plurality of female connectors is defined along the front surface of the one or more elongated bars, the plurality of female connectors may extend substantially perpendicularly to the wall structure from the front surface defining a cradle.

According to certain aspects, the fixture assembly includes at least one clamping bracket configured on either ends of the one or more elongated bars, and optionally at a substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars. In an implementation, each of the at least one clamping bracket being configured at a substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars. Each of the at least one clamping bracket being defined with one or more connecting provisions to secure the one or more elongated bars to the support structure. The at least one clamping bracket is defined with the one or more connecting provisions to receive fastening elements.

The one or more elongated bars of the disclosure is at least one of a twin configuration having two elongated bars, and a triplet configuration having three elongated bars. A locking unit is operatively associated with at least one of the one or more elongated bars, wherein the locking unit includes a glide rail movably accommodated in the at least one of the one or more elongated bars, the glide rail operable between a lock condition and an unlock condition relative to the at least one of the one or more elongated bars to selectively lock and unlock the at least one utility module. In some aspects the locking unit includes at least one of a key-based mechanism, a spring-biased mechanism, and a rotary mechanism configured to displace the glide rail between the lock condition and the unlock condition. According to an example, the glide rail is defined with a plurality of inverted female connectors corresponding to the plurality of female connectors on the one or more elongated bars, wherein the unlock condition the plurality of inverted female connectors displace away from the plurality of female connectors and wherein in the lock condition the plurality of inverted female connectors displace towards the plurality of female connectors, wherein the one or more male connectors is at least one of a hinge rod, a rod, and an inverted hook.

Another aspect of the disclosure concerns about the utility assembly, the utility assembly includes at least one utility module, a fixture assembly being configured to detachably support the at least one utility module. The fixture assembly includes one or more elongated bars connectable to a support structure, a plurality of female connectors defined in one of the one or more elongated bars and a body of the at least one utility module, one or more male connectors configured in the other one of the one or more elongated bars and the body of the at least one utility module, wherein, the plurality of female connectors being configured to releasably receive at least one of the one or more male connectors to detachably support the at least one utility module.

Another aspect of the disclosure concerns about a mobile carrier unit. The mobile carrier unit having a carrier frame defining an engagement surface compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module, the carrier frame having a base frame, a pair of vertical frame extending from the base frame, and a cross member extending between the pair of vertical frames, the carrier frame having a plurality of first female connectors defined on the cross member, the plurality of first female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of the one or more male connectors configured in at least one utility module, the at least one of the one or more male connectors disposed in register with each of the plurality of first female connectors to detachably support the at least one utility module.

The mobile carrier unit includes a locking module configured on the base frame, the locking module being adapted to selectively engage and disengage with a locking member of the at least one utility module. The locking member being engaged with the locking module to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame, the locking member being disengaged to release the at least one utility module from the carrier frame, wherein the locking member is a bar or a latch configured to the body of the at least one utility module and the locking module is defined with a slot to receive the bar or the latch, and the locking module comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the bar or the latch. According to some aspects, the carrier frame includes a pair of telescopic columns, each having a multi-stage telescopic section adjustable between varying height, one end of each of the pair of telescopic columns is ingressed into the carrier frame and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle, the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between an extended condition and a retracted condition, wherein the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between the extended condition and the retracted condition by a switch, the switch is disposed on the cross member and is operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section.

Certain other aspects disclose about a release lever configured on the base frame, the release lever is operatively coupled to the locking module and operable to disengage the at least one utility module from the carrier frame. In an implementation, the release lever is a manual lever. In another implementation, the release lever is a foot operated lever.

The base frame of the carrier frame according to the above aspect is coupled with a locomoting arrangement.

According to exemplary configuration of the above aspect, the mobile carrier unit further includes a plurality of second female connectors configured on the multi-stage telescopic section, the plurality of second female connectors being adapted to receive the at least one male connector of one or more male connectors of other one of the at least one utility module.

According to another aspect the disclosure is concerned about a mobile carrier unit. The mobile carrier unit includes a carrier frame defining an engagement surface compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module, the carrier frame having a base frame, a pair of vertical frame extending from the base frame, and a cross member extending between the pair of vertical frames, the carrier frame having a slide rail configured on and oriented along a length of each of the pair of vertical frames, a plurality of first female connectors defined on the cross member, the plurality of first female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of the one or more male connectors configured in at least one utility module, the at least one of the one or more male connectors disposed in register with each of the plurality of first female connectors.

In some examples of the above aspect, the plurality of first female connectors is lockably disposed relative to the slide rail.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, a mobile carrier unit is elucidated. The mobile carrier unit includes a carrier frame defining an engagement surface compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module, the carrier frame having a base frame, a pair of vertical frames extending from the base frame, and at least one cross member having a bottom cross member and a top cross member extending between the pair of vertical frames, the carrier frame having one or both of: a plurality of female connectors defined on one of the bottom cross member and the top cross member, the plurality of first female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors of the at least one utility module, the at least one of the one or more male connectors being disposed in register with each of the plurality of female connectors; a plurality of auxiliary female connectors movably configured on other one of the top cross member and the bottom cross member, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors being configured to be selectively displaceable between a stowed condition and an open condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors of the at least one utility module in open condition, the one or more male connectors being disposed in register with each of the plurality of auxiliary female connectors.

According to exemplary configuration of the above aspect the mobile carrier unit includes a foot lever configured on the base frame, the foot lever is operatively coupled to the locking module, the foot lever is operable to disengage the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame.

According to exemplary configuration of the above aspect the mobile carrier unit includes an operating lever disposed on the top cross member and operatively coupled to the plurality of auxiliary female connectors, the operative lever is operable to displace the plurality of auxiliary female connectors between the stowed condition, in the stowed condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors is ingressed into the other one of the bottom cross member and the top cross member of the at least one cross member, in the open condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors extend outwardly from the top cross member.

According to exemplary configuration of the above aspect, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors are pivotally coupled to the other one of the bottom cross member and the top cross member through a guide rod, and wherein at least one at least one of the plurality of auxiliary female connectors or the guide rod is coupled to a pull lever, the pull lever is operable to displace the plurality of auxiliary female connectors to the stowed condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors is spring biased towards the stowed condition.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a rear face of the utility module comprises at a connectivity bar extending along at least a top portion thereof, and one or more arresting members at a bottom portion thereof; said connectivity bar being engageable by one or more locking modules of a carrier unit, and said one or more arresting members being engageable by male couplers projecting from the carrier unit at a bottom portion of the carrier unit.

The connectivity bar can be an axle of a lid of the utility module, or a frame bar articulated to said utility module, wherein the connectivity bar can be a continuous bar or an interrupted bar. The arrangement is such that said connectivity bar is exposed along intermittent portions thereof designated.

The locking modules of the utility module can comprise a static U-shaped engaging member configurable for receiving the connectivity bar, and a dynamic locking hook pivotable between a first, open position at which a path through an opening of the U-shaped engaging member is uninterrupted, and a second, closed position at which the locking hook extends along said path and blocks the opening of the engaging member. The locking hooks are biased into their second, normally closed position.

The one or more locking modules are disposed coaxially.

The dynamic locking hook can be pivotally displaceable about an axis parallel with a longitudinal axis of the connectivity bar. The path through the U-shaped engaging member can extend normal to a pivot axis of the locking hook.

The connectivity bar being accessible for partial embracing engagement by said locking hooks of the carrier unit at least from a top and front portion thereof.

The locking hooks can be made of metal.

At an arrested position a rear portion of the connectivity bar is embraced by about 180° by the engaging member and by about 180 ° by the locking hook.

According to a particular design, at a locked position the base of said U-shaped path and the locking hook compliment each other to a circular arresting space for snug accommodating the connectivity bar.

The locking module can comprise several parallely disposed engaging member with one or more locking hook therebetween. According to a particular configuration, the engaging member cab be bifurcated with each of two arms comprising a U-shaped path and a locking hook disposed between said arms.

The arresting members comprise an upwardly projecting arresting wall engageable by downwardly facing male couplers of the carrier unit. The arresting members can be a depression at a back face of the utility module with the arresting wall upwardly extending from a bottom portion of the depression. The male couplers can be static arms downwardly projecting at front portion of the carrier unit, and having a generally U-shape arresting portion engageable with the arresting wall of the arresting members.

The male couplers can be disposed at a bottom end portion of side bars of the of the carrier unit.

At an assembled position, when the utility module is engaged with the carrying unit, load of the utility module is born by the locking modules, wherein the male couplers attract a bottom of the utility module towards the carrying unit and prevent it from swing about the connectivity bar.

The locking hook of the locking modules can be biased into the second, closed position at which the locking hook extends along said path and blocks the opening of the engaging member. According to a specific example biasing of the locking modules is facilitated by biasing springs.

A front portion of the locking hook can be chamfered such that upon encountering the connectivity bar it momentarily displaces into the first, open position, so as to facilitate displacement of the connectivity bar along the path into the U-shaped engaging member. The arrangement is such that the connectivity bar snaps into the locking engagement with the locking modules.

The locking hook of the one or more locking modules are fixed to a common rod, which in turn is manipulable by an activation knob, whereby operating the activation knob entails simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hook into the first, open position. Release of the activation knob results in pivotal displacement of the locking hook into the second, closed position, under biasing effect of the springs.

According to one embodiment, the activation knob can be a press-knob configurable for depressing the common rod which in turn entails pivotal displacement of the locking hooks. The press-knob can be articulated with the common rod directly or via a connecting link.

According to another embodiment, the activation knob can be a foot-pedal articulable by a connecting link to the common rod, whereby depressing the foot-pedal entails pivotal displacement of the locking hooks.

When the carrier unit and the utility module are at an upright position, a bottom end of the male couplers of the carrier unit extends below a top edge of the arresting wall of the arresting members. The arrangement is such that the male couplers can engage the arresting wall only upon tilting the carrier unit such that the bottom end of the male couplers extend above a top edge of the arresting wall of the arresting members. Engagement of a utility module with a carrier unit takes place by positioning the utility module with its back facing in front of the carrier unit, tilting the carrier unit such that bottom end of the male couplers extend above a top edge of the arresting wall of the arresting members, progressing the carrier unit towards the utility module and positioning the male couplers within the depression at a back face of the utility module. Then, the carrier unit is returned back to its normally extending, upright position, whereupon the arresting portion of the male couplers engage with the arresting wall of the arresting members, and simultaneously the connectivity bar snaps into engagement with locking modules of a carrier unit.

Disengagement of the utility module from the carrier unit is facilitated by activating the activation knob resulting in simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hooks into their first, open position, whereupon the carrier unit can be tilted backwards such that the and the connectivity bar can be detached from locking modules and the male couplers withdrawn from the arresting wall of the arresting members.

The carrier unit can comprise a carrying and manipulating handle.

The carrying and manipulating handle can be a telescopic assembly comprising two or more telescopically displaceable segments, said handle being manipulable between a contracted position and at least one extended position, and wherein the telescopic assembly comprises a push-lever for controlled telescopic displacement of the telescopic segments.

A top portion of the handle can comprise one or more horizontally disposed connecting bars.

The handle can comprise at a top portion thereof, one or more utility module suspending hooks projecting at a front face thereof, and configurable for suspending engagement with a connectivity bar of the utility module. Accordingly, a secondary utility module can be suspended articulated above a primary utility module engaged at a bottom portion of the carrier unit.

One or more auxiliary utility modules can be articulated over the primary utility module.

The utility module can be an L-cart conversion unit, said unit comprising a frame member and a cargo plate, said frame member having a connectivity bar extending along at least a top portion thereof, and at least a pair of arresting members at a bottom portion thereof; said connectivity bar being engageable by respective locking modules of the carrier unit, and said arresting members being engageable by the male couplers projecting of the carrier unit;

The cargo plate can be pivotally secured to the frame member and disposable between a stowed position at which it extends against the frame member, and an operative position at which it is pivotally displaced at about 90° at an L-shape, and wherein the conversion unit comprises a restricting mechanism for restricting pivotal displacement of the plate member beyond its operative position.

Any one or more of the following features, designs, and configurations, can be implemented in the fixture assembly, a utility module the mobile carrier unit, according to the present disclosure, individually or in various combinations thereof:

• The utility module can be a soft-shell container with at least a rigid face portion configured with a male/female coupler.

• At least one utility module is a container module, and the utility assembly is a container assembly or a tool caddy.

• The utility module can be a variety of modules, e.g. a power source (generator, power bank, etc.), a vacuum unit, a compressor, a light bank, an L-=cart, etc.

• A tool caddy can be configured with a handle (e.g. telescopic).

• The container module is compartmented and optionally configured with sub-containers and sub-compartments.

• The support structure can be any element or object and by different arrangements, fixedly or detachably.

• The mobile carrier unit is coupled with locomoting arrangement.

• The support structure can be any surface on a cargo unit for a utility vehicle, for attaching one or more utility modules to the vehicle.

• Examples of the utility modules can be any one or more of a cooler box, a workpiece grip, a power supply (e.g. power bank, generator), hand tools, power tools, a locomotive platform (e.g. a work dolly), powered or not, a tactical unit (e.g. military gear, scientific equipment, communications equipment, personal gear, outdoor gear, etc).

• The utility module can comprise one or more arresting members.

• The one or more arresting members of the utility module can be evenly disposed over the back wall thereof.

• The carrier unit comprises a locomotive frame, which according to a particular example comprises a set of wheels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of nonlimiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig- 1 illustrates an exemplary schematic view of a fixture assembly for detachably supporting at least one utility module, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig- 2 illustrates a schematic side view of the fixture assembly of Figure. 1;

Fig- 3 illustrates an magnified view of a portion of the fixture assembly of Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 illustrates a sectional view of the fixture assembly about axis A-A;

Figs. 5 and 6a illustrates a schematic perspective views of a utility assembly including at least one utility module, and the fixture assembly of Fig. 1, in accordance with one aspect of the disclosure;

Fig. 6b illustrates another aspect of the utility assembly including female connector on the at least one utility module and the male connector in the one or more channel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 7 illustrates a sectional side view of the utility assembly of Figs. 5 and 6, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure;

Figs. 8 and 9 illustrates a perspective view of the utility assembly including two or more utility modules mounted to the fixture assembly;

Fig. 10a illustrates a perspective view of a mobile carrier unit, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 10b illustrates a perspective view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig. 10a with a portion enlarged;

Fig. 11 illustrates an exemplary front view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig. 10a;

Figs. 12a and 12b illustrates a perspective view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig. 10a with an extended multi-stage telescopic section and various locomoting arrangement, in accordance with the aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig. 10a with the at least one utility module;

Fig. 14a illustrates a perspective view of a mobile carrier unit having adjustable a female connector, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 14b illustrates a front view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig.14a having a plurality of female connectors adjustable configured on a carrier frame; Figs. 15a, 15b and 15c illustrates a perspective view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig. 14a configurable to accommodate different sizes of container, in accordance with the aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a mobile carrier unit depicting auxiliary female connectors in a stowed condition, in accordance with yet another aspect of the present disclosure;

Fig. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the mobile carrier unit of Figure. 16 depicting the auxiliary female connectors in an open condition;

Figs. 18a, 18b, and 18c illustrates a perspective view of the auxiliary female connectors in the stowed condition, and the open condition, respectively;

Fig. 18d illustrates a side view of the auxiliary female connectors in the open condition;

Figs. 19a to 19c illustrates a perspective view of the mobile carrier unit of Fig. 14a depicting the mobile container in various conditions, in accordance with the yet another aspect of the present disclosure;

Figs 20a and 20b illustrates a perspective and side view of a portion of the utility module with a portion of the mobile carrier unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figs. 21 illustrates a rear perspective view of the utility module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 22a is a front perspective view of a utility assembly comprising a carrier unit with a utility module articulated thereto;

Fig. 22b is a rear perspective view of the utility assembly of Fig. 22a;

Fig. 23a is a back, top perspective view of the utility module , being a container, seen in Fig. 22b.

Fig. 23b is section along line 23b - 23b in Fig. 23a;

Fig. 24a is a front perspective view of the carrier unit, being a hand-truck, seen in Fig. 22a;

Fig. 24b is a back perspective view of the carrier unit of Fig. 24a;

Fig. 25a is an enlargement of the portion marked 25a in Fig. 24a;

Fig. 25b is an enlargement of the portion marked 25b in Fig. 24a;

Fig. 26a is section along line 26a - 26a in Fig. 22b;

Fig. 26b is an enlargement of the portion marked 26b in Fig. 26a;

Fig. 27a is a back perspective view of a utility assembly, comprising a modified carrier unit, with a utility module articulated thereto;

Fig. 27b is section along line 27b - 27b in Fig. 27a;

Fig. 27c is an enlargement of the portion marked 27c in Fig. 27c; Figs. 28a and 28b are front perspective views illustrating consecutive steps of engaging/di sengaging the utility module with the carrier unit;

Figs. 29a and 29b are local sections through U-shaped engaging member of a locking module, at respective engaged, disengages positions, corresponding with Figs. 28a and 28b, respectively;

Figs. 30a and 30b are local sections through locking hooks of a locking module, at respective engaged, disengages positions, corresponding with Figs. 28a and 28b, respectively;

Figs. 31a to 31c are perspective views of a locking module at respective disengaged and unlocked position, engaged and unlocked position and engaged locked position, respectively;

Figs. 32a to 32c are planar sectioned side views through along lines 32a - 32a, 32b - 32b, and 32c - 32c, in Figs. 3 la to 31c, respectively;

Figs. 33a and 33b are local planar section views through an arresting wall of the engaging members, at pre-engaged and engaged positions, corresponding with Figs. 28a and 28b, respectively;

Figs. 34a and 34b are perspective views of Figs. 33a and 33b, respectively;

Fig. 35a is a front perspective view of a utility assembly according to an example of the disclosure, comprising a carrier unit, a primary utility module, an auxiliary utility module and a secondary utility module;

Fig. 35b is an exploded view showing a top portion of a handle of the carrier unit and the secondary utility module detached therefrom;

Figs. 36a and 36b are front perspective views of a utility assembly according to another example of the disclosure, the utility unit being an L-cart conversion unit, with a cargo plate at a stowed position and at an operative position, respectively;

Figs. 37a and 37b are a front perspective view and a back perspective view of the L-cart conversion unit at its deployed, operative position;

Figs. 38a and 38b are a front perspective view and a back perspective view of the L-cart conversion unit at its folded, stowed position;

Figs. 39a and 39b are local sections along lines 39a - 39a, and 39b - 39b, respectively, in Fig. 36b;

Fig. 40a is a section along line 40a - 40a in Fig. 22a, exposing a handle retraction mechanism;

Fig. 40b is an enlargement of the portion marked 40b in Fig. 40a; and

Fig. 41 is an example of a utility module according to the disclosure, being a vacuum generator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference is first being made to Figs. 1 to 9, directed to a first configuration of a fixture assembly 1000. For sake of convenience the utility modules are exemplified as containers. It is however appreciated that the utility modules can be of any type, shape, or size, as discussed hereinabove and as will be exemplified below. The utility module according to the aspects of the present disclosure, namely the container is generally designated with reference numeral 100 and 200 [indicating various sizes of containers]. Whilst in several of the following drawings containers have been used for exemplifying utility modules according to different aspects of the disclosure, it should however be noted that these are mere examples and the term “utility module” should be understood in its broad sense, including, without limitation, containers, tool boxes, organisers, transportation dollies, racks and mounts, tools, pieces of equipment and machinery. In the following description, Figs, is depicted as Figs./Fig. and may be alternatively used.

Referring to Fig.1, a fixture assembly 1000 for detachably supporting at least one utility module 100. The fixture assembly 1000 includes one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The said one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be connectable to a support structure W [shown in Fig. 2 and 5], Although, the orientation of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c is depicted to be vertical in the corresponding figures, the same can be oriented horizontally with minor modifications to achieve the desired result of receiving and supporting the at least one utility module 100. The elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may also be arranged arcuately and/or circularly to receive and support various configurations of the utility module 100 without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The support structure may be at least one of a wall, a cart, and body of a vehicle. The one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be secured to the support structure by a mechanical or thermal joining methods, in an example, the one or more elongated bars may be secured to the support structure through fastening elements. In an implementation, at least one clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be configured on either ends optionally in the intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The at least one clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may facilitate fixing of the at one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c to the support structure. Said at least one clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be defined with one or connecting provisions 1010 to receive the fastening elements. In an implementation, the clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may also be configured at a substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In another implementation, the clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be configured at the substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and also at the either ends of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

The provision of the clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be dependent on but not limiting to the length of each of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be defined to have a body having a rear surface RS, a front surface FS, a wall structure WS extending between the rear surface and the front surface. In an implementation, the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may include a rear surface, and a wall structure extending substantially perpendicularly and forwardly to the rear surface. The fixture assembly 1000 may be configured to releasably receive and support at least one of the utility module 100. The features of the fixture assembly 1000 to releasably receive the at least one of the utility module 100 is described hereinafter.

The utility module 100, in some examples a container 100 includes a rigid body 102 and a cover/lid pivotally articulated thereto at a top back edge thereof. The cover/the lid may be pivotally articulate to thereto the top back edge through a hinge rod. The container 100 of the disclosure is configured with complete connectivity features, facilitating it to be articulated over another utility module 100.

Referring again to Figs. 1 to 6, the fixture assembly 1000 includes a plurality of female connectors 1012 defined in one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and a body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. Likewise, one or more male connectors may be configured in other one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. In an exemplary implementation, the plurality of female connectors 1012 may be defined in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c, and the one or more male connectors 104 [refer Fig. 21] may be configured in the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. In an other exemplary implementation, the plurality of female connectors 1012 may be defined in a top edge of the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100 and the one or more male connectors 104 may be configured in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The plurality of female connectors 1012 defined on the body 102 and the one or more male connectors on the one or more bars on the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c is depicted in Fig. 6b. For the sake of convenience and for understanding, the following is described depicting the plurality of female connectors 1012 defined in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and the one or more male connectors 104 configured in the body 102 of each of the at least one utility module 100. As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the plurality of female connectors 1012 may be defined along the front face of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The plurality of female connectors 1012 may extend substantially perpendicularly to the wall structure from the front surface defining a cradle. The plurality of female connectors 1012 may resemble a hook/a elongated depression as evident from Fig. 2. The plurality of female connectors 1012 may be opening for receiving or admitting the one or more male connectors 104 of the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The one or more male connectors 104 may be at least one of a hinge rod, a rod, or an inverted hook that may be capable of being accommodatable in the plurality of female connectors 1012. The one or more male connectors 104 may slide into the cradle defined by the corresponding female connector of the plurality of female connectors 1012. Thus, the one or more male connectors 104 configured in the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100 is releasably received by the plurality of female connectors 1012 in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

In an example implementation, the fixture assembly 1000 may function with a singular elongated bar. The singular elongated bar may be defined with the plurality of female connectors which may be oriented along the length and adapted to releasably receive the at least one utility module 100. In another implementation, the fixture assembly 1000 may be configured with a twin configuration having two elongated bars i.e., 1002a/1002b, 1002b/1002c, 1002a/1002c and the like evident from Fig. 8. The one or more male connectors 104 of the at least one utility module 100 may be supported by the two elongated bars of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In yet another implementation, the fixture assembly 1000 may be configured with a triplet configuration having three elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c as apparent from Figs 5. 6 and 9. The one or more male connectors 104 may be received in all the three elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Although, only singular, twin, triplet configuration of the fixture assembly 1000 is described, the configuration may include a series of the elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c in various combinations and positioned next to each other and configured to receive the one or more utility module 100.

Referring now to Fig. 3, the fixture assembly 1000 may further include a locking unit 1006 that may be operatively associated with at least one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In an example implementation, the locking unit 1006 may be provided in one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In another implementation, the locking unit 1006 may be provided in two of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In yet another implementation, the locking unit 1006 may be operatively associated with each of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The locking unit 1006 may include a glide rail 1004 movably accommodatable in the at least one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. As described, the locking unit 1006 may be provided with one or two or three elongated bars of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. Likewise, the components of the locking unit 1006 may also be provided in the corresponding elongated bar of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

As shown in Fig.3, the glide rail 1004 may be movably accommodatable in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and may be adapted to selectively lock and unlock the at least one utility module 100. The glide rail 1004 may be displaceable within the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c between a locked condition and an unlock condition relative to the corresponding female connectors in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In an example configuration, the glide rail 1004 is configured in a middle elongated bar out of the one or more elongated bars. The glide rail 1004 may be defined with a plurality of inverted female connectors corresponding to the plurality of female connectors 1012 on the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In the unlock condition, the plurality of inverted female connectors displace away from the plurality of female connectors 1012 extending the space between the inverted female connectors and the female connectors in the elongated bar. In the lock condition, the plurality of inverted female connectors displace towards the plurality of female connectors 1012 to close the space between the inverted female connectors and the female connectors. The glide rail 1004 may be displaceable between the lock condition and the unlock condition by a locking mechanism associated with the locking unit 1006. As per example configurations, the locking mechanism is at least one of a key based mechanism, a spring based mechanism, and a rotary knob mechanism configured to displace the glide rail 1004 [apparent between the lock condition and the unlock condition. Upon disposing the one or more male connectors 104 in register with the plurality of female connectors 1012, the locking unit 1006 may be operated to displace the glide rail 1004 to the lock condition to lock the at least one utility module 100 relative to the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. Likewise, the locking unit 1006 may be operated to displace the glide rail 1004 to the unlock condition to release the at least one utility module 100 from the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

Referring to Figs. 5 to 9, another aspect or implementation of the present disclosure discloses about a utility assembly 5000 for detachably supporting at least one utility module 100. The utility assembly 5000 includes at least one utility module 100. The utility module 100, namely the container 100 comprises a rigid body 102 and a cover/lid pivotally articulated thereto at a top back edge thereof. The cover/the lid may be pivotally articulate to thereto the top back edge through a hinge rod. In an exemplary configuration, wherein the utility module 100 is not provided with a lid, the hinge rod may still be inserted at the top back edge without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The container 100 of the disclosure is configured with complete connectivity features, facilitating it to be articulated over another utility module 100.

The utility assembly 5000 further includes the fixture assembly 1000 which includes one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The said one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be connectable to a support structure W], The support structure may be at least one of a wall, a cart, and body of a vehicle. The one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be secured to the support structure by fastening elements. In an implementation, at least one clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be configured on either ends of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The at least one clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may facilitate fixing of the at one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c to the support structure. Said at least one clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be defined with one or connecting provisions 1010 to receive the fastening elements. In an implementation, the clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may also be configured at a substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In another implementation, the clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be configured at the substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and also at the either ends of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The provision ofthe clamping bracket 1008a, 1008b may be dependent on but not limiting to the length of each of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

The one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be defined to have a body having a rear surface, a front surface, a wall structure extending between the rear surface and the front surface. In an implementation, the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may include a rear surface, and a wall structure extending substantially perpendicularly and forwardly to the rear surface. The term of approximation such as “substantially” when used in reference to physical characteristics in the present disclosure, should be understood to contemplate a range of deviations that would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to operate satisfactorily for a corresponding use, function, purpose, or the like. The term “substantially” is a descriptive term commonly used in disclosures to avoid a strict numerical boundary to the specified parameter. The term “substantially” should be read in conjunction with the terms “perpendicular”, “central”, “circular”, “along a radius”, “vertical”, “conforming” etc. The fixture assembly 1000 may be configured to releasably receive at least one of the utility module 100. The features of the fixture assembly 1000 to releasably receive the at least one of the utility module 100 is described hereinafter.

The fixture assembly 1000 includes a plurality of female connectors 1012 defined in one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and a body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. Likewise, one or more male connectors may be configured in other one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. In an exemplary implementation, the plurality of female connectors 1012 may be defined in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c, and the one or more male connectors 104 may be configured in the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. In another exemplary implementation, the plurality of female connectors 1012 may be defined in atop edge of the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100 and the one or more male connectors 104 may be configured in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. For the sake of convenience and for understanding, the following is described depicting the plurality of female connectors 1012 defined in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and the one or more male connectors 104 configured in the body 102 of each of the at least one utility module 100.

As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the plurality of female connectors 1012 may be defined along the front face of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The plurality of female connectors 1012 may extend substantially perpendicularly to the wall structure from the front surface defining a cradle. The plurality of female connectors 1012 may resemble a hook/a elongated depression as evident from Fig. 2. The plurality of female connectors 1012 may be opening for receiving or admitting the one or more male connectors 104 of the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The one or more male connectors 104 may be at least one of a hinge rod, a rod, or an inverted hook that may be capable of being accommodatable in the plurality of female connectors 1012. The one or more male connectors 104 may slide into the cradle defined by the corresponding female connector of the plurality of female connectors 1012. Thus, the one or more male connectors 104 configured in the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100 is releasably received by the plurality of female connectors 1012 in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

In an exemplary implementation, the fixture assembly 1000 may function with a singular elongated bar. The singular elongated bar may be defined with the plurality of female connectors which may be oriented along the length and adapted to releasably receive the at least one utility module 100. In another implementation, the fixture assembly 1000 may be configured with a twin configuration having two elongated bars i.e., 1002a/1002b, 1002b/1002c, 1002a/1002c and the like evident from Fig. 8. The one or more male connectors 104 of the at least one utility module 100 may be supported by the two elongated bars of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In yet another implementation, the fixture assembly 1000 may be configured with a triplet configuration having three elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c as apparent from Figs 5. 6 and 9. The one or more male connectors 104 may be received in all the three elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Although, only singular, twin, triplet configuration of the fixture assembly 1000 is described, the configuration may include a series of the elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c in various combinations and positioned next to each other and configured to receive the one or more utility module 100.

Referring to Fig. 3, the fixture assembly 1000 may further include a locking unit 1006 that may be operatively associated with at least one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In an exemplary implementation, the locking unit 1006 may be provided in one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In another implementation, the locking unit 1006 may be provided in two of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In yet another implementation, the locking unit 1006 may be operatively associated with each of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. The locking unit 1006 may include a glide rail 1004 movably accommodatable in the at least one of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. As described, the locking unit 1006 may be provided with one or two or three elongated bars of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. Likewise, the components of the locking unit 1006 may also be provided in the corresponding elongated bar of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

As shown in Fig. 3, the glide rail 1004 may be movably accommodatable in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c and may be adapted to selectively lock and unlock the at least one utility module 100. The glide rail 1004 may be displaceable within the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c between a locked condition and an unlock condition relative to the corresponding female connectors in the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In an example configuration, the glide rail 1004 is configured in a middle elongated bar out of the one or more elongated bars.

The glide rail 1004 may be defined with a plurality of inverted female connectors corresponding to the plurality of female connectors 1012 on the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. In the unlock condition, the plurality of inverted female connectors displace away from the plurality of female connectors 1012 extending the space between the inverted female connectors and the female connectors in the elongated bar. In the lock condition, the plurality of inverted female connectors displace towards the plurality of female connectors 1012 to close the space between the inverted female connectors and the female connectors. The glide rail 1004 may be displaceable between the lock condition and the unlock condition by a locking mechanism associated with the locking unit 1006. As per exemplary configuration, the locking mechanism is at least one of a key based mechanism, a spring based mechanism, and a rotary knob mechanism configured to displace the glide rail 1004 between the lock condition and the unlock condition. Upon disposing the one or more male connectors 104 in register with the plurality of female connectors 1012, the locking unit 1006 may be operated to displace the glide rail 1004 to the lock condition to lock the at least one utility module 100 relative to the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c. Likewise, the locking unit 1006 may be operated to displace the glide rail 1004 to the unlock condition to release the at least one utility module 100 from the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

As evident from Fig. 5, the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be adapted to receive a utility box 100 which may be substantially bigger in size when compared to the Fig. 6. The fixture assembly 1000 including the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be configured to receive utility modules 100 of varying dimensions. Also, the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c may be adapted to releasably receive more that one utility module 100 as apparent from Fig. 8 each stackable one above another along the length of the one or more elongated bars 1002a, 1002b, 1002c.

Further attention is now directed to Figs. 10a to 20b showing a mobile mounting and carrying assembly in accordance with various implementations or configurations. The mobile mounting and carrying assembly may be referred to as a mobile carrier unit and will be used henceforth. Figs. 10a to 13 shows a first configuration of the mobile carrier unit designated by reference numeral 2000. Figs. Mato 15c illustrates a second configuration of the mobile carrier unit designated by reference numeral 3000. Figs. 16 to 20b demonstrates a third configuration of the mobile carrier unit designated by reference numeral 4000. Each of the configuration will be now elucidated in detail in the forthcoming embodiments. The term “carrier unit” as used herein denotes any kind of propelled cart configured for detachably attaching and carrying load. The carrier unit may be a hand cart, a mobile tool cart, a mobile workshop, travelling luggage cart, a trolley, etc.

Referring to Figs. 10a to 13, the mobile carrier unit according to the first configuration is depicted and designated by reference numeral 2000 in the corresponding figures. The mobile carrier unit 2000 of the present disclosure includes a carrier frame 2002. The carrier frame 2002 may extend with a defined length, width and height. The dimension of the carrier frame 2002 may vary based on the application of the mobile carrier unit 2000 and may be manufactured accordingly. In one aspect, the carrier frame 2002 may be a hollow frame adapted to receive accommodate one or more components not described in detail herein for the sake of brevity and as to not to deviate from the aspects of the present disclosure. In other aspect, the carrier frame 2002 may be a solid frame. The carrier frame 2002 be defined with a base frame 2002a, a pair of vertical frames 2002b extending from the base frame 2002a. The pair of vertical frames 2002b may extend upwardly at either ends of the base frame 2002a as apparent from Fig. 10a. In an implementation, the carrier frame 2002 may further include a cross member 2002c. Said cross member 2002c may extend between the pair of vertical frames 2002b proximal to the free end i.e., the end of the pair of vertical frame 2002b opposite to the end in juncture with the base frame 2002a. In an implementation, the base frame 2002a may be provided with a locomoting arrangement 2016, 2018 as apparent from Figs 10a to 12b. The locomoting arrangement 2016, 2018 may be operatively coupled to either ends of the base frame 2002a to provide locomotion to the carrier frame 2002. The locomoting arrangement 2016, 2018 may be but not limiting to a wheel, a stair climber wheel and the like. In some examples, locomoting arrangement may be a motorised or propelled arrangement.

The configuration of the carrier member 2002 defines an engagement surface compatible interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module 100. The engagement surface may be defined with a multiple carrier engaging elements on the surface and designated for interlocking receiving the at least one utility module 100. The carrier engaging elements defined on the engagement surface is referred to as a plurality of first female connectors 2010a and is evident in Fig. 10b. The plurality of first female connectors 2010a may be defined and oriented along the cross member 2002c and partially on each of the pair of vertical members 2002b. In an implementation, the plurality of first female connectors 2010a may be a locking protrusion extending from the surface and orienting upwardly resembling an inverted hook. The plurality of first female connectors 2010a may be adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors configured in the at least one utility module 100. As apparent from Fig. 13, the at least one utility module 100 may be secured to the mobile carrier unit 2000 by disposing the one or more male connectors 104 in register with each of the plurality of first female connectors 2010a. The mobile carrier unit 2000 of the first configuration may be adapted to receive the at least one utility module 100 of standard size. For example, the mobile carrier unit 2000 of the first configuration may be adapted to receive a substantially large utility module say for reference an XL module. The configuration of the at least one utility module 100 may vary as evident from Fig.13 (a), (b) and (c) with the standard size being standardized to that of the XL module.

The at least one utility module 100 may be locked relative to the carrier frame 2002 by a locking module 2014. The locking module 2014 may be configured on a base frame 2002a and may be configured to releasably receive a locking member LM [refer Fig. 21] configured in the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 2014 may be disposed on a surface of the base frame 2002a facing the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 2014 may be adapted to selectively engage and disengage with the locking member LM. The locking member LM may be a bar or a latch configured to the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 2014 is defined with a slot to receive the bar or the latch. The locking module 2014 comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the locking member. The locking member LM may be engaged with the locking module 2014 to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module 100 relative to the carrier frame 2002. The locking member LM 2020 may be disengaged to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 2002. In the present disclosure, the type of locking module is not described as any locking module capable of performing the prescribed operation may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In an implementation, the mobile carrier unit 2000 includes a release lever 2012 [refer Fig.10b and 11] which may be configured on the base frame 2002a. The release lever 2012 may be operatively coupled to the locking module 2014 configured on the base frame 2002a.The release lever 2012 may be operable to disengage the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 2002. In an embodiment, the release lever 2012 may be a lever that may be operated manually to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 2002. In another embodiment, the release lever 2012 may be a foot operated lever that may be operated by foot to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier member 2002. The release lever 2012 may be operated i.e., pressed to displace the locking mechanism [evident in FIG.10b] of the locking module 2014 away from the locking member LM of the at least one utility module 100. Thereby releasing the at least one utility module 100 to from the carrier frame 2002. In an implementation, the release lever 2012 may be operated electronically including sensor biased operation, or a remotely operated module adapted to disengage the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 2002.

In an example implementation, the carrier frame 2002 of the present disclosure may include a pair of telescopic columns. One end of each of the pair of telescopic columns is ingressed into the carrier frame 2002 and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle 2006. In an embodiment, each of the pair of telescopic columns may have a multi-stage telescopic section 2004. The multi-stage telescopic section 2004 may be adjustable between varying height. The multi-stage telescopic section 2004 may be operable between an extended condition E [apparent from Fig. 12a] and a retracted condition R as apparent from Figs 10a to 11. The telescopic section 2004 may be operated between the extended condition E and the retracted condition R by a switch 2008. In an implementation, the switch 2008 may be disposed on the cross member 2002c of the carrier frame 2002. The switch 2008 may be operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section 2004 and may be operated to displace the multistage telescopic section 2004 between the extended condition E and the retracted condition.

In an implementation, the handle 2006 configured on the multi-stage telescopic section 2004 may be provided with a plurality of second female connectors 2010b. The plurality of second female connectors 2010b may be adapted to receive the at least one male connector of one or more male connectors 104 of the at least one utility module 100.

Now referring to Figs. 14a to 15c the second configuration of the mobile carrier unit is depicted and designated by reference numeral 3000 in the corresponding figures. The mobile carrier unit 3000 of the second configuration includes a carrier frame 3002. The carrier frame 3002 may extend with a defined length, width and height. The dimension of the carrier frame 3002 may vary based on the application of the mobile carrier unit 3000 and may be manufactured accordingly. In one aspect, the carrier frame 3002 may be a hollow frame adapted to receive accommodate one or more components not described in detail herein for the sake of brevity and as to not to deviate from the aspects of the present disclosure. In other aspect, the carrier frame 3002 may be a solid frame without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The carrier frame 3002 be defined with a base frame 3002a, a pair of vertical frames 3002b extending from the base frame 3002a. The pair of vertical frames 3002b may extend upwardly at either ends of the base frame 3002a as apparent from Fig. 14a. In an implementation, the carrier frame 3002 may further include a cross member 3002c [refer Fig. 14a], Said cross member 3002c may extend between the pair of vertical frames 3002b proximal to the free end i.e., the end of the pair of vertical frame 3002b opposite to the end in juncture with the base frame 3002a. In an implementation, the base frame 3002a may be provided with a locomoting arrangement 3016, 3018 as apparent from Figs 14a to 15c. The locomoting arrangement 3016, 3018 may be operatively coupled to either ends of the base frame 3002a to provide locomotion to the carrier frame 3002. The locomoting arrangement 3016, 3018 may be but not limiting to a wheel, a stair climber wheel and the like. In some examples, locomoting arrangement may be a motorised or propelled arrangement.

The configuration of the carrier member 3002 defines an engagement surface compatible interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module 100/300. The engagement surface may be defined with a multiple carrier engaging elements on the surface and designated for interlocking receiving the at least one utility module 100/300. The carrier engaging elements defined on the engagement surface is referred to as a plurality of first female connectors 3010a and is evident in Fig. 14a and 14b. The plurality of first female connectors 3010a may be adjustably configured on the engagement surface. In an implementation, a slide rail 3008 may be configured on and oriented along a length of each of the pair of vertical frames 3002b. In an exemplary implementation, the slide rail 3008 may be configured on and oriented along a front face of each of the pair of vertical frames 3002b, and the front face is the face towards the utility module. The slide rail 3008 is apparent in the enlarged view depicted in Fig. 14a and 14b. The plurality of first female connectors 3010a may be defined and oriented along the length of the slide rail 3008. Said plurality of first female connectors 3010a may be traversable along the slide rail 3008 between one or more positions. In an implementation, the engagement surface may include only one first female connector 3010a [as apparent from Fig. 14a] that may be traversable on the slide rail 3008 provided on the each of the pair of vertical columns 3002b. The said first female connector 3010a may be adjustable between one or more positions along the slide rail 3008. The first female connector 3010a may be lockable at the one or more positions along the slide rail 3010a. Said configuration allows the engagement of the at least one utility module 100 of varying dimensions and configuration. For example, to attach a substantially large utility module [say for reference an XL module], the first female connector 3010a may be displaced to the top most position along the slide rail 3008 and may be locked at the top most position as apparent from Fig. 14a. The one or more male connectors 104 of the XL module may be engaged with the first female connector 3010a as apparent from Fig. 15b. In case, the mobile carrier unit 3000 may also be configured to accommodate a small sized and/or a medium sized utility module 100 as apparent from Figs. 15a and 15c. To accommodate the small and/or medium sized utility module 100, the first female connector 3010a may be adjusted accordingly on the slide rail 3008 and the one or more male connectors 104 of the utility module 100 may be engaged with the first female connector 3010a. The second configuration of the mobile carrier unit 3000 enables accommodating utility modules of various dimensions and configuration, by adjusting the position of the first female connector 3010a. In another implementation, the engagement surface of the carrier frame 3002 may include more than one first female connectors 3010a [as apparent from Fig. 14b] that may be accommodated taversably on the slide rail 3008 provided on the each of the pair of vertical columns 3002b. The said first female connectors 3010a may be adjustable between one or more positions along the slide rail 3008. The first female connectors 3010a as apparent in Fig 14b may be lockable at the one or more positions along the slide rail 3010a. Said configuration allows the engagement of the at least one utility module 100 of varying dimensions and configuration. The said configuration of the female connectors 3010a allows attachment of multiple stacking configuration of the utility modules 100. Thereby improving the versatility of the mobile carrier unit 3000.

The at least one utility module 100 may be locked relative to the carrier frame 3002 by a locking module 3014. The locking module 3014 may be configured on a base frame 3002a and may be configured to releasably receive a locking member LM [not shown explicitly] configured in the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 3014 may be disposed on a surface of the base frame 3002a facing the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 3014 may be adapted to selectively engage and disengage with the locking member LM. The locking member LM may be a bar or a latch configured to the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 3014 is defined with a slot to receive the bar or the latch. The locking module 3014 comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the locking member LM. The locking member LM may be engaged with the locking module 3014 to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module 100/400 relative to the carrier frame 3002. The locking member LM may be disengaged to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 3002. In the present disclosure, the type of locking module is not described as any locking module capable of performing the prescribed operation may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In an implementation, the mobile carrier unit 3000 includes a release lever 3012 [refer Fig.14a] which may be configured on the base frame 3002a. The release lever 3012 may be operatively coupled to the locking module 3014 configured on the base frame 3002a.The release lever 3012 may be operable to disengage the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 3002. In an embodiment, the release lever 3012 may be a lever that may be operated manually to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 3002. In another embodiment, the release lever 3012 may be a foot operated lever that may be operated by foot to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier member 3002. The release lever 3012 may be operated i.e., pressed to displace the locking mechanism [evident in FIG.10b] of the locking module 3014 away from the locking member LM of the at least one utility module 100. Thereby releasing the at least one utility module 100 to from the carrier frame 3002. In an implementation, the release lever 3012 may be operated electronically including sensor biased operation, or a remotely operated module adapted to disengage the at least one utility module 3014 from the carrier frame 3002.

In an exemplary implementation, the carrier frame 3002 of the present disclosure may include a pair of telescopic column. One end of each of the pair of telescopic columns is ingressed into the carrier frame 3002 and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle 3006. In an embodiment, each of the pair of telescopic columns may have a multi-stage telescopic section 3004. The multi-stage telescopic section 3004 may be adjustable between varying height. The multi-stage telescopic section 3004 may be operable between an extended condition E [apparent from Fig. 12a] and a retracted condition R as apparent from Figs 10a to 11. The telescopic section 3004 may be operated between the extended condition E and the retracted condition Rby a switch 3016. In an implementation, the switch 3016 may be disposed on the cross member 3002c of the carrier frame 3002. The switch 3016 may be operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section 3004 and may be operated to displace the multistage telescopic section 3004 between the extended condition E and the retracted condition R.

In an implementation, the handle 3006 configured on the multi-stage telescopic section 3004 may be provided with a plurality of second female connectors 3010b. The plurality of second female connectors 3010b may be adapted to receive the at least one male connector of one or more male connectors 104 of the at least one utility module 100.

Now drawing attention towards the third configuration of the mobile carrier unit which is depicted and designated by reference numeral 4000 in the corresponding figures. The following description is elucidated in conjunction with Figs. 16 to 20b. The mobile carrier unit 4000 of the present disclosure includes a carrier frame 4002. The carrier frame 4002 may extend with a defined length, width, and height. The dimension of the carrier frame 4002 may vary based on the application of the mobile carrier unit 4000 and may be manufactured accordingly. In an embodiment, the carrier frame 4002 may be a hollow frame adapted to receive accommodate one or more components not described in detail herein for the sake of brevity and as to not to deviate from the aspects of the present disclosure. The carrier frame 4002 be defined with a base frame 4002a, a pair of vertical frames 4002b extending from the base frame 4002a. The pair of vertical frames 4002b may extend upwardly at either ends of the base frame 4002a as apparent from Fig. 16. In an implementation, the carrier frame 4002 may further include at least one cross member 4020, 4022. The at least one cross member 4020, 4022 includes a bottom cross member 4020 and a top cross member 4022. The top cross member 4022 and the bottom cross member 4020 may extend between the pair of vertical frames 4002b proximal to the base frame 4002a, proximal to the free end i.e., the end of the pair of vertical frame 4002b opposite to the end in juncture with the base frame 4002a and/or at a substantially intermediate portion along the pair of vertical frames 4002b. In another implementation, the base frame 4002a and the bottom cross member 4020 may be integrated. While in other implementations, the base frame 4002a and the bottom cross member 4020 may be individually defined on the carrier frame 4002. In an implementation, the base frame 4002a may be provided with a locomoting arrangement 4012a, 4012b as apparent from Figs 14a to 15c. The locomoting arrangement 4012a, 4012b may be operatively coupled to either ends of the base frame 4002a to provide locomotion to the carrier frame 4002. The locomoting arrangement 4012a, 4012b may be but not limiting to a wheel [as apparent from Fig. 16], a stair climber wheel [as apparent from Fig. 19a] and the like. The locomoting arrangement may be a motorised or propelled arrangement.

The configuration of the carrier member 4002 defines an engagement surface compatible interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module 100. The engagement surface may be defined with a multiple carrier engaging elements on the surface and designated for interlocking receiving the at least one utility module 100. The carrier engaging elements defined on the engagement surface is referred to as a plurality of female connectors 4004 and a plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 and is evident in Fig. 16 and 17. The plurality of female connectors 4004 may be defined on one of the bottom cross member 4020 and/or the top cross member 4022. Further, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be movably configured on other one of the top cross member 4022 and the bottom cross member 4020. For convenience and understanding, the plurality of female connectors 4004 may be provided on the bottom cross member 4020 and the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be provided on the top cross member 4022.

The plurality of female connectors 4004 may be defined and oriented along the bottom cross member 4020 and partially on each of the pair of vertical members 4002b. In an implementation, the plurality of female connectors 4004 may be a locking protrusion extending from the surface and orienting upwardly resembling an inverted hook. The plurality of female connectors 4010 may be adapted to engage with at least on of one or more male connectors configured in the at least one utility module 100. As apparent from Fig. 19b, the at least one utility module 100 may be secured to the mobile carrier unit 4000 by disposing the one or more male connectors 104 in register with each of the plurality of female connectors 4020 oriented

T1 along the bottom cross member 4020. The mobile carrier unit 4000 of the first configuration may be adapted to receive the at least one utility module 100 of standard size. For example, the mobile carrier unit 4000 of the may be adapted to receive a substantially large utility module [say for reference an XL module]. The configuration of the at least one utility module 100 may vary as evident from Fig.13 (a), (b) and (c) with the standard size being standardized to that of the XL module. The one or more male connectors 104 of the XL module may be disposed in register with each of the plurality of female connectors 4004, thereby engaging with the carrier frame 4002. In case the, utility module 100 is bigger than the XL module [reference herein for sake of understanding as XXL module], the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be employed to attach the XXL module to the carrier frame 4002. The configuration of the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 is elucidated henceforth.

As apparent from Fig. 19c, to attach the XXL module to the mobile carrier unit 4000, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors are employed which is also evident from the sectional views in Figs. 20a and 20b in the corresponding figures. The plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be movably configured in the top cross member 4022. Said plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be displaceable between a stowed condition S and an open condition O. The plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be displaceable between the stowed condition S and the open condition O by an operating lever 4008. The operating lever 4008 may be disposed on a portion of the top cross member 4022. As shown in Figs. 18a, and 18b, the operating lever 4008 may be operatively coupled to the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 through a mechanism which is not explicitly in the present disclosure. The mechanism for operating the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be a mechanised, or may be an electronic actuation, or a combination of both. In an implementation, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be operated between the stowed condition S and the open condition O using a sensor based system or may also be operated remotely. The plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be pivotally coupled to the top cross member 4022 through guide rod. As shown in Fig. 18b, upon pressing the operating lever 4008 [as depicted by a downward arrow], the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may displace angularly from the stowed condition S to the open condition O about an axis B-B [refer Figs. 18a and 18c], In other words, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 displaces angularly about the rotational axis of the guide rod. In the open condition as show in Fig. 17 and 19a, the one or more male connectors 104 of the XXL module is disposed in register with each of the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006. In an implementation, the guide rod is coupled to a pull lever 4016 [refer Fig. 18b], The pull lever is operable to displace the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 back to the stowed condition S when not in use. As shown in Fig. 18d, when the pull lever 4016 is pulled in the direction of the arrow, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may angularly displace from the open condition O to the stowed condition S in which the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 is ingressed into the top cross member 4022. In another implementation, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors 4006 may be spring biased towards the stowed condition S.

The at least one utility module 100 may be locked relative to the carrier frame 4002 by a locking module 4014. The locking module 4014 may be configured on a base frame 4002a and may be configured to releasably receive a locking member LM defined in the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 4014 may be disposed on a surface of the base frame 4002a facing the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 4014 may be adapted to selectively engage and disengage with the locking member LM. The locking member LM may be a bar or a latch configured to the body 102 of the at least one utility module 100. The locking module 4014 is defined with a slot to receive the bar or the latch. The locking module 4014 comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the locking member LM. The locking member LM may be engaged with the locking module 4014 to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module 100 relative to the carrier frame 4002. The locking member LM may be disengaged to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 4002. In the present disclosure, the type of locking module is not described as any locking module capable of performing the prescribed operation may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In an implementation, the mobile carrier unit 4000 includes a foot lever 4026 [refer Fig. 20a] which may be configured on the base frame 4002a. The foot lever 4026 may be operatively coupled to the locking module 4014 configured on the base frame 4002a. The foot lever 4026 may be operable to disengage the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 4002. In an embodiment, the foot lever 4026 may be a lever that may be operated manually to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 4002. In another embodiment, the foot lever 4026 may be a foot operated lever that may be operated by foot to release the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier member 4002. The foot lever 4026 may be operated i.e., pressed to displace the locking mechanism of the locking module 4014 away from the locking member LM of the at least one utility module 100. Thereby releasing the at least one utility module 100 to from the carrier frame 4002. In an implementation, the foot lever 4026 may be operated electronically including sensor biased operation, or a remotely operated module adapted to disengage the at least one utility module 100 from the carrier frame 4002.

In an exemplary implementation, the carrier frame 4002 of the present disclosure may include a pair of telescopic column. One end of each of the pair of telescopic columns is ingressed into the carrier frame 4002 and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle 4006. In an embodiment, each of the pair of telescopic columns may have a multi-stage telescopic section 4024. The multi-stage telescopic section 4024 may be adjustable between varying height. The multi-stage telescopic section 4024 may be operable between an extended condition E [apparent from Fig. 19c] and a retracted condition R as apparent from Fig 19. b. The telescopic section 4024 may be operated between the extended condition E and the retracted condition R by a switch [not shown explicitly]. In an implementation, the switch may be disposed on the at least one cross member 4020, 4022 of the carrier frame 4002. The switch may be operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section 4024 and may be operated to displace the multi-stage telescopic section 4024 between the extended condition E and the retracted condition R.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference has been made to specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language has been used to describe the same. For instance in the description, the plurality of female connectors are considered to be defined on the carrier frame [in particular the on the cross member] and in some cases on the handle of the mobile carrier unit and the one or more male connectors are defined on the body of the at least one utility module. It should be appreciated that similar configuration of the engagement members i.e., the plurality of female connectors and the one or more male connectors can be interchangeably provided. That is the plurality of female connectors may be provided over the body of the at least one utility module and the one or more male connectors may be configured in the carrier frame of the mobile carrier unit. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated methods, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

Further attention is now directed to Figures 22a to 42, directed to different embodiments of the disclosure.

Figs. 22a and 22b illustrate a utility assembly according to another example of the present disclosure, generally designated 6000, comprising a carrier unit generally designated 6002 and a utility module generally designated 6004. The utility module 6004 of the present example is a container, e.g. a toolbox or the like. However, it is appreciated that the utility module according to the disclosure can be a wide variety of modules, including, but not limited to power units, transportation carts, etc.

Utility module 6004 has 6a body 6006 with upright sidewalls, and a lid 6010 pivotally articulated at a top portion of a back wall 6012 by a connectivity bar (lid axle) 6016, wherein said connectivity bar 6016 is exposed along intermittent portions thereof.

Further noted, said back wall 6012 comprises at a bottom portion thereof a pair of arresting members 6018, which at the present example are disposed at bottom side portions thereof (though it is appreciated that also a single arresting member can be configured, or any one or more such arresting members). The arresting members 6018 are a depression at the back wall 6012, with an upwardly projecting arresting wall 6020 (Fig. 23b), wherein a top edge of said arresting wall 6020 extends at height hl above a bottom (floor engaging) surface thereof 6021 (seen best in Figs. 33a to 34b).

Turning now to Figs. 24a to 25b, the carrier unit generally designated 6002 comprises a bottom, locomotive frame 6030 (i.e. comprising a pair of wheels 6032) articulated with a carrying and manipulating handle 6034. In the presently illustrated example the handle 6034 is a telescopic assembly comprising two (or more) telescopically displaceable segments manipulable between a contracted position (not shown) and at least one extended position, and wherein the telescopic assembly comprises a push-lever 6036 for controlled telescopic displacement of the telescopic segments (as will be discussed hereinafter with reference to Figs. 40a and 40b.

Locomotive frame 6030 of the carrier unit 6002 comprises a bridge member 6038 extending between parallelly disposed legs 6039 of handle 6034, with three locking modules 6040 at a front face of said bridge member 6038. The locking modules 6040 comprise bifurcate engaging members 6044, each formed with a U-shaped path 6048 having a front-facing opening (best seen in Figs. 29a and 29b), and further comprising a locking hook 6050 disposed between said members (arms) 6040. In the present example at least the locking hooks 6050 are made of metal.

The locking hooks 6050 are pivotable about a common axis 6054 and are spring biased by coiled spring 6058 (Fig. 32c) between a first, open position (Figs. 31b and 32b), at which a path P through said opening of the U-shaped engaging member is uninterrupted, and a second, closed position (Figs. 31c and 32c; upon pivotal displacing in a counter clockwise direction) at which the locking hook 6050 extends along said path P and blocks the opening of the engaging member 6040. The locking hooks 6050 of the one or more locking modules 6040 are fixed to a common rod 6060, which in turn is connected via a connecting link 6064 to a biased activation push-knob, whereby operating the activation push-knob 6068 entails simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hooks 6050 into the first, open position. Release of the activation push-knob 6068 results in spontaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hooks 6050 back into the second, normally closed position, under biasing effect of the springs 6058.

When the locking hooks 6050 are at their second, closed position, they are configurable for embracing the connectivity bar 6016, at least at a front portion thereof, hence arresting it within an arresting space LC, whereby a rear portion of the connectivity bar 6016 is embraced by about 180° by the engaging member, and by about 180° by the locking hook 6050(best seen in Fig. 32c).

It is further noted that a front portion 6070 of the locking hooks 6050 is chamfered such that upon encountering the connectivity bar 6016 (as it displaces along path P), it momentarily displaces into the first, open position, so as to facilitate displacement of the connectivity bar 6016 along the path P into the U-shaped engaging member. The arrangement is such that the connectivity bar snaps into the locking engagement with the locking modules 6040.

Reverting to the locomotive frame 6030 of carrier unit 6002, and as can be seen best in Figs. 24a, 25b, 33a to 34b and 39b, at respective bottom side end portions of the frame 6030 there is a male coupler 6080 projecting forwards from the frame 6030. Said male couplers 6080 are static arms downwardly projecting and having a generally U-shape arresting portion 6084 engageable with the arresting wall 6020 of the arresting members 6018. It is seen that at an upright position of the carrier unit 6002 a bottom end 6088 of the male couplers 6080 of the carrier unit extends below a top edge of the arresting wall 6020 of the arresting members 6018, i.e. at height h2, wherein hl>h2. Hence, the arrangement is such that acan engage the arresting wall 6020 only upon tilting the carrier unit 6002 such that the bottom end 6088 of the male couplers 6080 extend above the top edge of the arresting wall 6020 of the arresting members 6018.

Also noted, the male couplers 6080 are shaped and sized for receiving within the depression of arresting members 6018, and wherein the arresting wall 6020 is engageable within U-shape arresting portion 6084.

As discussed above, the locking hooks 6050 of the locking modules 6040are fixed to the common rod 6060 which in turn is linked to the press-type activation knob 6068 directly or by link 6064. Pressing the activation knob 6068 entails simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hooks 6050 into the first, open position, and release of the activation knob 6068 results in pivotal displacement of the locking hook into the second, closed position, under biasing effect of the springs 6058.

According to another embodiment, depicted in Figs. 27a to 27c, the activation knob is a foot-pedal 6090 articulable by a connecting link 6092 to the common rod 6060, whereby depressing the foot-pedal 6090 entails pivotal displacement of the locking hooks 6050.

Engagement of a utility module 6004 with a carrier unit 6002 takes place by positioning the utility module 6004with its back wall 6012 facing in front of the carrier unit 6002, tilting the carrier unit backwards (Fig. 28b) such that bottom end 6088 of the male couplers 6080 extend above height hl, namely above the top edge of the arresting wall 6020 of the arresting members 6018. Then, the carrier unit 6002 is advanced towards the utility module 6004 and the male couplers 6080 are introduced into the depression 6018 at a back face 6012 of the utility module (Figs. 33a and 34a). Then, the carrier unit 6002 is returned back to its normally extending, upright position (Fig. 28a), whereupon the arresting portion 6084 of the male couplers 6080 engages with the arresting wall 6020 of the arresting members 6018 (Figs. 33b and 34b). Simultaneously the connectivity bar 6016 encounters the chamfered front portion 6070 of the locking hooks 6050 (Figs. 31a and 32a), resulting in momentarily displacement of the locking hooks 6050 in a clockwise direction i.e. into the first, open position (Figs. 31b and 32b) facilitating snapingly displacement of the connectivity bar 6016 along path P into the arresting space LC, into engagement with locking modules 6040 of a carrier unit (Figs.31c and 32c). it is appreciated that engagement of the utility module with the carrier unit does not require activating the activation knob, as the locking modules 6040 are automatically activated during articulation of the utility module.

However, disengagement of the utility module from the carrier unit requires activating the activation knob (either the press-type activation knob 6068 or the foot-pedal 6090), resulting in simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hooks 6050(in a clockwise direction) into their first, open position, whereupon the carrier unit 6002 can be tilted backwards such that the connectivity bar 6016 can be detached from locking modules 6040 and the male couplers 6080 withdrawn from the arresting wall 6020 of the arresting members 6018.

Turning now to Figs. 35a and 35b, an embodiment of a utility assembly 6000’ is illustrated, said utility assembly comprising a carrier unit generally designated 6002’ wherein the handle comprises at a top portion thereof a cross bar 6003, with one or more (two in the present example) utility module suspending hooks 6009 projecting at a front face thereof of said bar 6003, and configurable for suspending engagement with a connectivity bar 6016’ of a secondary utility module 6007. Accordingly, the secondary utility module 6007 can be suspended articulated above a primary utility module 6004.

Seen in Fig. 35b, the assembly comprises the carrier unit 6002’, a utility module 6004 articulated to the carrier unit as discussed hereinabove, wherein said container (utility module 6004) now constitutes a primary utility module, and an auxiliary utility module 6005 articulated to a lid of the primary utility module 6004, with a secondary utility module, namely container 6007 articulated to the cross bar 6003.

With further reference now made to Figs. 36b to 39b, there is illustrated a different utility module, in the form of an L-cart conversion unit generally designated 7000 articulable to the carrier unit 6002 which was discussed hereinabove with reference to the previous drawings.

Said L-cart conversion unit 7000 comprises a frame member 7004 and a cargo plate 7006 pivotally articulated thereto, wherein the frame member 7004 has a connectivity bar segment 7010 extending at a top portion thereof, and a pair of arresting members 7014 at a bottom portion thereof. The cargo plate 7006 is pivotally secured at a bottom portion of the frame member 7004 and is disposable between a stowed position (Figs38a and 38b) at which it extends against the frame member 7010, and an operative position (Figs. 37a and 37b) at which it is pivotally displaced at about 90° at an L-shape.

The arrangement is such that the connectivity bar segment 7010 mimics a connectivity bar (lid axle of a container) 6016 previously discusses, and wherein the arresting members 7014 mimic the arresting wall 6020 of arresting members 6018. Accordingly, the L-cart conversion unit 7000 is connectable with the carrier unit 6002 in a similar manner, wherein connectivity bar segment 7010 is engageable with the locking modules 6040 of the carrier unit 6002 and arresting members 7014 are engageable by the arresting portion 6084 of the male couplers 6080, as discussed hereinbefore.

The conversion unit 7000 comprises a restricting mechanism (not seen) for restricting pivotal displacement of the plate member 7006 with respect to the frame member 7004, beyond its operative position.

As mentioned hereinabove, the handle 6034 assembly of carrier unit 6002 is an H- like shaped telescopic construction assembly, comprising two pairs of telescopically displaceable segments 7020a and 7020b, slidingly manipulable between a contracted position (not shown) and at least one extended position (Fig. 40a), wherein the telescopic assembly comprises a push-lever/button 6036 for controlled telescopic displacement of the telescopic segments 7020a through segments 7020b. Accordingly, bridge member 6038 of the handle assembly accommodates the push- lever/button 6036, comprising oppositely inclined surfaces 7036a and 7036b, with spring biased, axially opposed bars 7040a and 7040b having a respectively inclined surface, slidably displaceable about said inclined surfaces 7036a and 7036b. Opposite ends 7042a and 7042b of the bars 7040a and 7040b are selectively received within respective openings through the telescopic segments 7020a and 7020b, hence arresting the telescopic elements and preventing axial displacement of the segments 7020a with respect to segments 7020b. The arrangement is such that pushing the push button 6036 downwards entails corresponding axial contraction of the bars 7040a and 7040b, hence withdrawing the protruding ends 7042a and 7042b from the openings through the telescopic segments 7020a and 7020b, facilitating contraction/ expansion thereof.

Finally, Fig. 41 illustrates yet an example of a utility module generally designated 7100 articulated to a carrier unit 6002, similar to that disclosed hereinbefore. Uutility module 7100 of the current example is a vacuum unit, having the essential connectivity elements required for articulation with the carrier unit 6002, namely a connectivity bar 6016 at a top back portion thereof, and arresting members (not seen) at a back, bottom portion thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A fixture assembly for detachably supporting at least one utility module, the fixture assembly comprising: one or more elongated bars connectable to a support structure; a plurality of female connectors defined in one of the one or more elongated bars and a body of the at least one utility module; and one or more male connectors configured in other one of the one or more elongated bars and the body of the at least one utility module, wherein, the plurality of female connectors being configured to releasably receive at least one of the one or more male connectors to detachably support the at least one utility module.

2. The fixture assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more elongated bars being defined by a body having a rear surface, a front surface, a wall structure extending between the rear surface and the front surface.

3. The fixture assembly of claim 2, wherein the plurality of female connectors is defined along the front surface of the one or more elongated bars, the plurality of female connectors extending angularly to the wall structure from the front surface defining a cradle.

4. The fixture assembly of claim 1 comprises at least one clamping bracket being configured on either ends of the one or more elongated bars, each of the at least one clamping bracket being defined with one or more connecting provisions to secure the one or more elongated bars to the support structure.

5. The fixture assembly of claim 1 , wherein the support structure is at least one of a wall, a cart, and a body of a vehicle.

6. The fixture assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more elongated bars is at least one of a twin configuration having two elongated bars, and a triplet configuration having three elongated bars.

7. The fixture assembly of claim 1 comprises a locking unit operatively associated with at least one of the one or more elongated bars.

8. The fixture assembly of claim 7, wherein the locking unit includes a glide rail movably accommodated in the at least one of the one or more elongated bars, the glide rail operable between a lock condition and an unlock condition relative to the one or more elongated bars to selectively lock and unlock the at least one utility module.

9. The fixture assembly of claim 8, wherein the locking unit includes a locking mechanism associated with the glide rail, the locking mechanism includes at least one of a key-based mechanism, a spring-biased mechanism, and a rotary knob mechanism configured to displace the glide rail between the lock condition and the unlock condition.

10. The fixture assembly of claim 8, wherein the glide rail is defined with a plurality of inverted female connectors corresponding to the plurality of female connectors on the one or more elongated bars, wherein in the unlock condition the plurality of inverted female connectors displace away from the plurality of female connectors and wherein in the lock condition the plurality of inverted female connectors displace towards the plurality of female connectors.

11. The fixture assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more male connectors is at least one of a hinge rod, a rod, and an inverted hook.

12. The fixture assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one utility module is a container, a container assembly, a tool caddy, travel luggage, organisers, compacted work benches, cable storage, tools, communication modules, carrying platforms, locomotion platform.

13. A utility assembly, comprising: at least one utility module; and a fixture assembly being configured to detachably support the at least one utility module, the fixture assembly comprising: one or more elongated bars connectable to a support structure; a plurality of female connectors defined in one of the one or more elongated bars and a body of the at least one utility module; and one or more male connectors configured in other one of the one or more elongated bars and the body of the at least one utility module, wherein, the plurality of female connectors being configured to releasably receive at least one of the one or more male connectors to detachably support the at least one utility module.

14. The utility assembly of claim 13, wherein each of the one or more elongated bars being defined by a body having a rear surface, a front surface, a wall structure extending between the rear surface and the front surface.

15. The utility assembly of claim 14, wherein the plurality of female connectors is defined along the front surface of each of the one or more elongated bars, said plurality of female connectors extends angularly to the wall structure from the front surface defining a cradle.

16. The utility assembly of claim 14 comprises at least one clamping bracket is configured on either ends of the one or more elongated bars.

17. The utility assembly of claim 16, wherein the at least one clamping bracket is configured at a substantially intermediate portion of the one or more elongated bars.

18. The utility assembly of claim 16, wherein each of the at least one clamping bracket is defined with one or more connecting provisions to secure the one or more elongated bars to the support structure.

19. The utility assembly of claim 16, wherein the at least one clamping bracket is defined with the one or more connecting provisions to receive fastening elements.

20. The utility assembly of claim 13, wherein the support structure is at least one of a wall, a cart, and a body of a vehicle.

21. The utility assembly of claim 13, wherein the one or more elongated bars of the fixture assembly is at least one of a singular configuration having one elongated channe, a twin configuration having two elongated bars, and a triplet configuration having three elongated bars.

22. The utility assembly of claim 13 comprises a locking unit associated with the one or more elongated bars, the locking unit is operatively associated with one of the elongated channel of the one or more elongated bars.

23. The utility assembly of claim 22, wherein the locking unit includes a glide rail movably accommodated in the at least one of the one or more elongated bars, the glide rail operable between a lock condition and an unlock condition relative to the one or more elongated bars to selectively lock and unlock the at least one utility module.

24. The utility assembly of claim 22, wherein the locking unit includes at least one of a keybased mechanism, a spring-biased mechanism, and a rotary knob mechanism to displace the glide rail between the lock condition and the unlock condition.

25. The utility assembly of claim 23, wherein the glide rail is defined with a plurality of inverted female connectors corresponding to position of the plurality of female connectors on the one or more elongated bars, the plurality of inverted female connectors displace away from the plurality of female connectors to unlock the at least one utility module relative to the one or more elongated bars, the plurality of inverted female connectors displace towards the plurality of female connectors to lock the at least one utility module relative to the one or more elongated bars.

26. The utility assembly of claim 13, wherein the one or more male connectors is at least one of a rod, a hinge rod, and an inverted hook.

27. The utility assembly of claim 13, wherein the at least one utility module is a container, a container assembly, a tool caddy, travel luggage, organisers, compacted work benches, cable storage, tools, communication modules, carrying platforms, locomotion platform.

28. A mobile carrier unit comprising: a carrier frame defining an engagement surface compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module, the carrier frame having a base frame, a pair of vertical frames extending from the base frame, and a cross member extending between the pair of vertical frames, the carrier frame having: a plurality of first female connectors defined on the cross member, the plurality of first female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors configured in the at least one utility module, the at least one of the one or more male connectors disposed in register with each of the plurality of first female connectors.

29. The mobile carrier unit of claim 28 comprises a locking module configured on the base frame, the locking module being adapted to selectively engage and disengage with a locking member of the at least one utility module.

The mobile carrier unit of claim 28, wherein the locking member being engaged with the locking module to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame, the locking member being disengaged to release the at least one utility module from the carrier frame.

30. The mobile carrier unit of claim 29, wherein the locking member is a bar or a latch configured to the body of the at least one utility module and the locking module is defined with a slot to receive the bar or the latch, and wherein the locking module comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the bar or the latch.

31. The mobile carrier unit of claim 28, wherein the carrier frame includes a pair of telescopic columns, each having a multi-stage telescopic section adjustable between varying height, one end of each of the pair of telescopic columns is ingressed into the carrier frame and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle.

32. The mobile carrier unit of claim 32, wherein the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between an extended condition and a retracted condition.

33. The mobile carrier unit of claim 33, wherein the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between the extended condition and the retracted condition by a switch, the switch is disposed on the cross member and is operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section.

34. The mobile carrier unit of claim 29 comprises a release lever configured on the base frame, the release lever is operatively coupled to the locking module, and operable to disengage the at least one utility module from the carrier frame.

35. The mobile carrier unit of claim 35, wherein the release lever is a push lever.

36. The mobile carrier unit of claim 35, wherein the release lever is a foot operated lever.

37. The mobile carrier unit of claim 28, wherein base frame is coupled with a locomoting arrangement.

38. The mobile carrier unit of claim 32, comprises a plurality of second female connectors configured on the multi-stage telescopic section, the plurality of second female connectors being adapted to receive the at least one male connector of one or more male connectors of the at least one utility module.

39. A mobile carrier unit comprising: a carrier frame defining an engagement surface compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module, the carrier frame having a base frame, a pair of vertical frames extending from the base frame, and a cross member extending between the pair of vertical frames, the carrier frame having: a slide rail configured on and oriented along a length of each of the pair of vertical frames; and a plurality of first female connectors adjustably configured on the slide rail, the plurality of first female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors of the at least one utility module, the at least one of the one or more male connectors being disposed in register with each of the plurality of first female connectors.

40. The mobile carrier unit of claim 40 comprises a locking module configured on the base frame, the locking module being adapted to selectively engage and disengage with a locking member of the at least one utility module.

41. The mobile carrier unit of claim 40, wherein the locking member being engaged with the locking module to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame, the locking module being disengaged to release the at least one utility module from the carrier frame.

42. The mobile carrier unit of claim 41 , wherein the locking member is a bar or a latch configured on the body of the at least one utility module and the locking module is defined with a slot to receive the bar or the latch, wherein the locking module comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the bar or the latch.

43. The mobile carrier unit of claim 40, wherein the carrier frame includes a pair of telescopic columns, each having a multi-stage telescopic section adjustable between varying height, one end of each of the pair of telescopic column is ingressed into the carrier frame and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle.

44. The mobile carrier unit of claim 44, wherein the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between an extended condition and a retracted condition.

45. The mobile carrier unit of claim 45, wherein the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between the extended condition and the retracted condition by a switch, the switch is disposed on the cross member and is operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section.

46. The mobile carrier unit of claim 43 comprises a release lever configured on the base frame, the release lever is operatively coupled to the locking module, the release lever is operable to disengage the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame.

47. The mobile carrier unit of claim 47, wherein the release lever is a push lever.

48. The mobile carrier unit of claim 47, wherein the release lever is foot operated lever.

49. The mobile carrier unit of claim 40, wherein base frame coupled with a locomoting arrangement.

50. The mobile carrier unit of claim 44, wherein the end of the multi-stage telescopic section proximal to the handle is defined with a plurality of second female connectors, the plurality of second female connectors being adapted to receive the at least one male connector of one or more male connectors of other one of the at least one utility module.

51. The mobile carrier unit of claim 44, wherein each of the plurality of first female connectors is lockably disposed relative to the slide rail.

52. A mobile carrier unit comprising: a carrier frame defining an engagement surface compatible for interlocking engagement in a detachable manner with at least one utility module, the carrier frame having a base frame, a pair of vertical frames extending from the base frame, and at least one cross member having a bottom cross member and a top cross member extending between the pair of vertical frames, the carrier frame having one or both of: a plurality of female connectors defined on one of the bottom cross member and the top cross member, the plurality of first female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors of the at least one utility module, the at least one of the one or more male connectors being disposed in register with each of the plurality of female connectors; and a plurality of auxiliary female connectors movably configured on other one of the top cross member and the bottom cross member, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors being configured to be selectively displaceable between a stowed condition and an open condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors being adapted to engage with at least one of one or more male connectors of the at least one utility module in the open condition, the one or more male connectors being disposed in register with each of the plurality of auxiliary female connectors.

53. The mobile carrier unit of claim 53 comprises a locking module configured on the base frame, the locking module being adapted to selectively engage and disengage with a locking member of the at least one utility module.

54. The mobile carrier unit of claim 54, wherein the locking member being engaged with the locking module to arrest the movement of the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame, the locking member being disengaged to release the at least one utility module from the carrier frame.

55. The mobile carrier unit of claim 54, wherein the locking member is a bar and/or a latch configured to the body of the at least one utility module and the locking module is defined with a slot to receive the bar and/or the latch, and wherein the locking module comprises a locking mechanism to releasably lock the bar and/or the latch.

56. The mobile carrier unit of claim 54, wherein the carrier frame includes a pair of telescopic column, each having a multi-stage telescopic section adjustable between varying height, one end of each of the pair of telescopic column is ingressed into the carrier frame and an end opposite to the one end is defined with a handle.

57. The mobile carrier unit of claim 57, wherein the multi-stage telescopic section is operable between an extended condition and a retracted condition by a switch, the switch is disposed on the at least one cross member and is operatively coupled to the multi-stage telescopic section.

58. The mobile carrier unit of claim 58 comprises a foot lever configured on the base frame, the foot lever is operatively coupled to the locking module, the foot lever is operable to disengage the at least one utility module relative to the carrier frame.

59. The mobile carrier unit of claim 53, wherein base frame is fitted with a locomoting arrangement.

60. The mobile carrier unit of claim 53 comprises an operating lever disposed on the top cross member and operatively coupled to the plurality of auxiliary female connectors, the operating lever is operable to displace the plurality of auxiliary female connectors between the stowed condition and the open condition.

61. The mobile carrier unit of claim 61, wherein in the stowed condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors is ingressed into the other one of the bottom cross member and the top cross member of the at least one cross member, in the open condition, the plurality of auxiliary female connectors extend outwardly from the top cross member.

62. The mobile carrier unit of claim 62, wherein the plurality of auxiliary female connectors are pivotally coupled to the other one of the bottom cross member and the top cross member through a guide rod, and wherein at least one of the plurality of auxiliary female connectors or the guide rod is coupled to a pull lever, the pull lever is operable to displace the plurality of auxiliary female connectors to the stowed condition.

63. The mobile carrier unit of claim 62, wherein the plurality of auxiliary female connectors is spring biased towards the stowed condition.

64. A utility assembly comprising a utility module and a carrier unit, a rear face of the utility module comprises at a connectivity bar extending along at least a top portion thereof, and one or more arresting members at a bottom portion thereof; said connectivity bar being engageable by one or more locking modules of a carrier unit, and said one or more arresting members being engageable by male couplers projecting from the carrier unit at a bottom portion of the carrier unit.

65. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the connectivity bar is an axle of a lid of the utility module, or a frame bar articulated to said utility module, wherein the connectivity bar can be a continuous bar or an interrupted bar.

66. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the locking modules of the utility module comprise a static U-shaped engaging member configurable for receiving the connectivity bar, and a dynamic locking hook pivotable between a first, open position at which a path through an opening of the U-shaped engaging member is uninterrupted, and a second, closed position at which the locking hook extends along said path and blocks the opening of the engaging member.

67. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the one or more locking modules are disposed coaxially.

68. The utility assembly of claim 67, wherein the dynamic locking hook is pivotally displaceable about an axis parallel with a longitudinal axis of the connectivity bar.

69. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the locking hooks are normally biased into the second, normally closed position.

70. The utility assembly of claim 67, wherein the path through the U-shaped engaging member extends normal to a pivot axis of the locking hook.

71. The utility assembly of claim 67, wherein the connectivity bar is accessible for partial embracing engagement by said locking hooks of the carrier unit at least from a top and front portion thereof.

72. The utility assembly of claim 67, wherein at an arrested position a rear portion of the connectivity bar is embraced by about 180° by the engaging member and by about 180° by the locking hook.

73. The utility assembly of claim 69, wherein at a locked position the base of said path and the locking hook compliment each other to a circular arresting space for snug accommodating the connectivity bar.

74. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the locking module comprises several parallely disposed engaging member with one or more locking hook therebetween.

75. A The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the engaging member is bifurcated with each of two arms comprising a U-shaped path and a locking hook disposed between said arms.

76. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the arresting members comprise an upwardly projecting arresting wall engageable by downwardly facing male couplers of the carrier unit.

77. The utility assembly of claim 77, wherein the arresting members are a depression at a back face of the utility module with the arresting wall upwardly extending from a bottom portion of the depression.

78. The utility assembly of claim 77, wherein the male couplers are static arms downwardly projecting from at front portion of the carrier unit, and having a generally U-shape arresting portion engageable with the arresting wall of the arresting members.

79. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the male couplers are disposed at a bottom end portion of side bars of the of the carrier unit.

80. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein at an assembled position, when the utility module is engaged with the carrying unit, load of the utility module is bom by the locking modules, wherein the male couplers attract a bottom of the utility module towards the carrying unit and prevent it from swing about the connectivity bar.

81. The utility assembly of claim 67, wherein the locking hook of the locking modules is biased into the second, closed position at which the locking hook extends along said path and blocks the opening of the engaging member.

82. The utility assembly of claim 82, wherein biasing of the locking modules is facilitated by biasing springs.

83. The utility assembly of claim 67, wherein a front portion of the locking hook is chamfered such that upon encountering the connectivity bar it momentarily displaces into the first, open position, so as to facilitate displacement of the connectivity bar along the path into the U-shaped engaging member.

84. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the arrangement is such that the connectivity bar snaps into the locking engagement with the locking modules.

85. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the locking hook of the one or more locking modules are fixed to a common rod, which in turn is manipulable by an activation knob, whereby operating the activation knob entails simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hook into the first, open position.

86. The utility assembly of claim 86, wherein release of the activation knob results in pivotal displacement of the locking hook into the second, closed position, under biasing effect of a biasing mechanism.

87. The utility assembly of claim 86, wherein the activation knob is a press-knob configurable for depressing the common rod which in turn entails pivotal displacement of the locking hooks.

88. T The utility assembly of claim 88, wherein the press-knob is articulated with the common rod directly or via a connecting link.

89. The utility assembly of claim 86, wherein the activation knob is a foot-pedal articulable by a connecting link to the common rod, whereby depressing the foot-pedal entails pivotal displacement of the locking hooks.

90. The utility assembly of claim 77, wherein when the carrier unit and the utility module are at an upright position, a bottom end of the male couplers of the carrier unit extends below a top edge of the arresting wall of the arresting members.

91. The utility assembly of claim 77, wherein the arrangement is such that the male couplers are engageable with the arresting wall only upon tilting the carrier unit such that the bottom end of the male couplers extend above a top edge of the arresting wall of the arresting members.

92. The utility assembly of claim 77, wherein engagement of a utility module with a carrier is facilitated by positioning the utility module with its back facing in front of the carrier unit, tilting the carrier unit such that bottom end of the male couplers extend above a top edge of the arresting wall of the arresting members, progressing the carrier unit towards the utility module and positioning the male couplers within the depression at a back face of the utility module, and then, the carrier unit is returned back to its normally extending, upright position, whereupon the arresting portion of the male couplers engage with the arresting wall of the arresting members, and simultaneously the connectivity bar snaps into engagement with locking modules of a carrier unit.

93. The utility assembly of claim 86, wherein ddisengagement of the utility module from the carrier unit is facilitated by activating the activation knob resulting in simultaneous pivotal displacement of the locking hooks into their first, open position, whereupon the carrier unit can be tilted backwards such that the and the connectivity bar can be detached from locking modules and the male couplers withdrawn from the arresting wall of the arresting members.

94. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the carrier unit comprises a carrying and manipulating handle.

95. The utility assembly of claim 95, wherein the carrying and manipulating handle is a telescopic assembly comprising two or more telescopically displaceable segments, said handle being manipulable between a contracted position and at least one extended position, and wherein the telescopic assembly comprises a push-lever for controlled telescopic displacement of the telescopic segments.

96. The utility assembly of claim 95, wherein a top portion of the handle comprises one or more horizontally disposed connecting bars.

97. The utility assembly of claim 95, wherein the handle comprises at a top portion thereof, one or more utility module suspending hooks projecting at a front face thereof, and configurable for suspending engagement with a connectivity bar of the utility module.

98. The utility assembly of claim 65, wherein the utility module is an L-cart conversion unit, said unit comprising a frame member and a cargo plate, said frame member having a connectivity bar extending along at least a top portion thereof, and at least a pair of arresting members at a bottom portion thereof; said connectivity bar being engageable by respective locking modules of the carrier unit, and said arresting members being engageable by the male couplers projecting of the carrier unit.

99. The utility assembly of claim 99, wherein the cargo plate is pivotally secured to the frame member and disposable between a stowed position at which it extends against the frame member, and an operative position at which it is pivotally displaced at about 90° at an L-shape, and wherein the conversion unit comprises a restricting mechanism for restricting pivotal displacement of the plate member beyond its operative position.