TRANSPORT RACK FOR TRANSPORTING PANELS, USE OF SUCH A TRANSPORT RACK AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

Abstract

 A transport rack comprises a bottom frame (4), a foldable rear wall (6), a first tiltable rear post (8), a second tiltable rear post (10), a loose first front post (12) and a loose second front post (14). Dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack (200) are selected in such a way that the transport rack is able to switch between an unfolded load configuration and a collapsed storage configuration. The rear wall (6) comprises a lower part (6a) and an upper part (6b), wherein the upper part (6b) of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended on the lower part (6a) of the rear wall in one or more upper suspensions (22), and the lower part (6a) of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended in one or more lower suspensions (24) at the bottom (20) of the bottom frame at a rear part (26) thereof.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates in general to the field of transporting panels, such as glass panes or windows.

[0002] More specifically the present invention relates in a first aspect to a transport rack for transporting flat panels.

[0003] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a use of a transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0004] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for transportation of flat panels.

Background of the invention

[0005] In relation to transportation of of various items, it has been well known for decades to use various types of transport racks, which comprise a bottom corresponding to a pallet. By using such systems, it is easy with a forklift or a pallet jack to move around the goods to be transported.

[0006] With regard to transportation of glass panels, such as panes or windows, it is preferred to transport these in an essentially upright condition, as vibrations that may occur during transport implies less risk of damaging the glass in such products when the products are arranged upright.

[0007] For this purpose, various types of pallets are known, which comprise a fixed inclined wall. The glass panels to be transported are arranged upright on these pallets in such a way that they rest against the inclined wall. This ensures safe transportation of the glass panels and at the same time easy manageability of the individual panels is attained, as it is easy to grab these and load these onto the pallet or unload these from the pallet.

[0008] However, as the inclined wall is having a not insignificant extension in the vertical direction, these known transport pallets implies the disadvantage that they occupy quite a large volume of space during storage. The fixed inclined wall also implies that these transport pallets cannot be stacked, irrespective whether they are loaded with glass panels or whether they have been unloaded from glass panels.

[0009] To partially overcome this problem, however, certain solutions are known.

[0010] One such solution is described in EP 2 266 884 A1. This document describes a pallet for transporting panels for televisions or the like. The pallet comprises a first set of two first opposing sides and a second set of two opposing sides. The first set of opposing sides can be folded and the second set of two opposing sides can then be folded onto and over the first set of folded, opposing sides. Hereby the pallet in its collapsed state occupies less space in a storage situation. However, this type of pallet does not seem suitable for being stacked in its collapsed state. Conversely, this document shows that the pallet in its non-collapsed state may be stacked.

[0011] Another solution is described in JP S4935237 B1. This document describes a transport rack comprising a bottom frame, two loose front posts, which are arranged in receiving means therefor, and two loose rear posts, which are arranged in receiving means therefor, and which also comprises a fold-down rear wall, which appears in an embodiment which does not allow folding thereof. JP S4935237 B1 does not describe that the two loose, front posts or that the two loose, rear posts are suspended in a bracket so that they can be tilted down when the transport rack is to be brought into its storage configuration.

[0012] Accordingly, a need exists for a transport pallet, which exhibits greater flexibility in terms of taking up space in a storage situation.

[0013] It is an objective of the present invention to provide technology that satisfies this need.

Brief description of the invention

[0014] Accordingly, the first aspect of the invention relates to a transport rack for transportation of flat panels, wherein the transport rack in the orientation intended for use, comprises:

• a bottom frame;
• a foldable rear wall;
• a first tiltable rear post;
• a second tiltable rear post;
• a loose, first front post; and
• a loose, second front post;

wherein the bottom frame is having an extension in a width direction and in a depth direction and comprises a front edge and a rear edge;

wherein the bottom frame comprises a bottom;

wherein the first tiltable rear post is being pivotally mounted in a first post suspension in a first holding element thereof at a first rear corner of the bottom frame;

wherein the second tiltable rear post is being pivotally mounted in a second post suspension in a second holding element thereof at a second rear corner of the bottom frame;

wherein the bottom frame at a first front corner comprises a first receiving organ for the loose, first front post;

wherein the bottom frame at a second front corner comprises a second receiving organ for the loose, second front post;

wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack are selected in such a way that the transport rack is configured to be able to switch between a load configuration and a storage configuration and vice versa, wherein the transport rack in its storage configuration is collapsed, and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is being unfolded;

characterized in that the rear wall comprises a lower part and an upper part, wherein the upper part of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended on the lower part of the rear wall in one or more upper suspensions, and wherein the lower part of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended in one or more lower suspensions at the bottom of the bottom frame at a rear part thereof;

and in that the first post suspension is defining a pivot axis, which is essentially parallel to the depth direction of the transport rack, and wherein the second post suspension is defining a pivot axis, which is essentially parallel to the depth direction of the transport rack, thereby enabling the tiltable post to pivot around this pivot axis;

and in that the pivot axis of the first post suspension and the pivot axis of the second post suspension are arranged at different height levels, thereby enabling the first tiltable rear post and the second tiltable rear post to rest on top of each other in the storage configuration of the transport rack.

[0015] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a use of a transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention for transportation of one or more products.

[0016] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for transportation of flat panels comprising the steps:

i) provision of a transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention;

ii) bringing the transport rack into its load configuration:

ii) loading one or more panels onto the transport rack in such a way that the first of these rests on the bottom and up against the unfolded rear wall of the transport rack and in such a way that panels, which are subsequently loaded onto the transport rack, rest up against this first panel:

iii) optionally strapping the panels loaded onto the transport rack to the transport rack;

iv) transportation of the transport rack and thus transportation of the panels loaded onto the transport rack.

[0017] With the invention in its various aspects, greater flexibility is achieved for a transport rack, both in terms of the possibility of minimizing the space that a transport rack takes up in a non-load situation, and in terms of the possibility of stacking two or more transport racks in a load configuration as well as in a storage situation.

Brief description of the figures

[0018] 

Fig. 1 is a figure which in a perspective view shows a transport rack according to the present invention in its load configuration.

Fig. 2 is a figure which in a perspective view shows the transport rack of Fig. 1 in its storage configuration.

Fig. 3a - 3d are figures which in perspective views illustrate the unfolding of the transport rack of Fig. 2 into its load configuration.

Fig. 4a - 4c are figures which in perspective views show sections of the tiltable feature of the tiltable rear posts of the transport rack.

Fig. 5 is a figure which in a perspective view shows a section of the operation of the upper suspension of the rear wall.

Fig. 6 is a figure which in a perspective view shows a section of the operation of the lower suspension of the rear wall.

Fig. 7a - 7d are figures which in perspective views show sections of the operation of the rear wall lock for the transport rack.

Fig. 8 is a figure which in a perspective view illustrates two transport racks according to the first aspect of the invention, which in their load configuration each are loaded with a number of panels, and which are stacked on top of each other.

Fig. 9 is a figure which in a perspective view illustrates nine transport racks according to the first aspect of the invention, which in their storage configuration are stacked on top of each other.

Detailed description of the invention

The first aspect of the invention

[0019] According to the first aspect the invention provides a transport rack 200 for transportation of flat panels 2, wherein the transport rack in the orientation intended for use, comprises:

• a bottom frame 4;
• a foldable rear wall 6;
• a first tiltable rear post 8;
• a second tiltable rear post 10;
• a loose, first front post 12; and
• a loose, second front post 14;

wherein the bottom frame 4 is having an extension in a width direction X and in a depth direction Y and comprises a front edge 16 and a rear edge 18;

wherein the bottom frame 4 comprises a bottom 20;

wherein the first tiltable rear post 8 is being pivotally mounted in a first post suspension 28 in a first holding element 30 thereof at a first rear corner 32 of the bottom frame 4;

wherein the second tiltable rear post 10 is being pivotally mounted in a second post suspension 34 in a second holding element 36 thereof at a second rear corner 38 of the bottom frame 4;

wherein the bottom frame 4 at a first front corner 40 comprises a first receiving organ 42 for the loose, first front post 12;

wherein the bottom frame 4 at a second front corner 44 comprises a second receiving organ 46 for the loose, second front post 14;

wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack 200 are selected in such a way that the transport rack is configured to be able to switch between a load configuration and a storage configuration and vice versa, wherein the transport rack in its storage configuration is being collapsed, and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is being unfolded;

characterized in that the rear wall 6 comprises a lower part 6a and an upper part 6b, wherein the upper part 6b of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended on the lower part 6a of the rear wall in one or more upper suspensions 22, and wherein the lower part 6a of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended in one or more lower suspensions 24 at the bottom 20 of the bottom frame at a rear part 26 thereof;

and in that the first post suspension 28 is defining a pivot axis A3, which is essentially parallel to the depth direction Y of the transport rack, and wherein the second post suspension 34 is defining a pivot axis A4, which is essentially parallel to the depth direction Y of the transport rack, thereby enabling the tiltable post 8, 10 to pivot around this pivot axis A3,A4;

and in that the pivot axis A3 of the first post suspension 28 and the pivot axis A4 of the second post suspension 34 are arranged at different height levels, thereby enabling the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 to rest on top of each other in the storage configuration of the transport rack.

[0020] As the transport rack can be folded, great space saving is achieved when storing in non-load situations, including during empty return transportation.

[0021] With the transport rack, is attained that the tiltable posts 8,10 can be tilted up and down in a direction corresponding to the width direction (X-direction), and that stable resting positions can be achieved for the two tiltable, rear posts, when the rack is in its storage configuration.

[0022] The two loose front posts 12,14 enable, when loading panels onto the transport rack, to remove these front posts, thereby creating space at the rack to maneuver the panels into position so that they will rest up against the fold-down rear wall 6.

[0023] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the bottom frame 4 at its underside 48 and at the positions of the two rear posts 8, 10 and at positions of the front receiving organs 42,46 comprises a downwardly pointing funnel-shaped stacking guide 50.

[0024] These funnel-shaped stacking guides make it possible to stack two or more identical transport racks on top of each other.

[0025] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the one or more upper suspensions 22 of the rear wall 6 is/are defining a pivot axis A1, which is essentially parallel to the width direction X of the transport rack; and the one or more lower suspensions 24 of the rear wall 6 is/are defining a pivot axis A2, which is essentially parallel to the width direction X of the transport rack.

[0026] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the one or more upper suspensions 22 comprises a bolt 23 having an axial direction, wherein the bolt 23 is pivotally connecting the lower part 6a of the rear wall 6 with the upper part 6b of the rear wall 6, wherein the axial direction of the bolt 23 is being parallel to the pivot axis A1 and/or wherein the one or more lower suspensions 24 comprises a bolt 25 having an axial direction, wherein the bolt 25 pivotally is connecting the lower part 6a of the rear wall 6 with the bottom frame 4 or bottom 20 of the transport rack, wherein the axial direction of the bolt 25 is being parallel to the pivot axis A2.

[0027] This allows the lower part 6a and upper part 6b of the rear wall to be folded in a direction corresponding to the depth direction Y-direction, i.e. over the bottom 20 of the transport rack.

[0028] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the first post suspension 28 and/or the second post suspension 34 comprises a bolt 35, which is being connected to the post suspension 28,34 and to the tiltable rear post 8,10, wherein the axial direction of the bolt 35 is defining the pivot axis A3,A4.

[0029] This easily ensures the tiltable feature for the two rear posts 8,10.

[0030] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the bottom 20 comprises one, two, three or more beams 20a,20b,20c,20d,20e, which are being arranged in a longitudinal extension, which is essentially parallel to the width direction X of the transport rack; and/or the bottom comprises one, two, three or more beams 20f,20g, which are being arranged in a longitudinal extension, which is essentially perpendicular to the width direction X of the transport rack.

[0031] Hereby, increased strength for the transport rack 200 and improved support for the items, such as panels, to be transported on the rack is attained.

[0032] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the bottom 20 is having a downward slope in a direction from the front edge 16 of the bottom frame to the rear edge 18 of the bottom frame.

[0033] This makes it easier to get all loaded panels to rest up against the fold-down rear wall.

[0034] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the rear wall 6 in its load configuration is having a rearward slope.

[0035] Hereby, loaded panels 2 can temporarily rest by themselves up against the rear wall 6 without tipping over in a situation where the transport rack 200 is being loaded with panels 2.

[0036] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the total extension of the rear wall 6 in the vertical direction, in the load configuration of the transport rack, and measured from the bottom 20, is selected from the ranges 60 - 230 cm, such as 70 - 220 cm, for example 80 - 210 cm, such as 90 - 200 cm, for example 100 - 190 cm, e.g. 110 - 180 cm, such as 120 - 170 cm, e.g. 130 - 160 cm or 140 - 150 cm.

[0037] These dimensions have proven suitable for the purpose of transporting glass panels.

[0038] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the bottom frame 4 of the transport rack is having an extension in the width direction X, which is selected from the ranges 80 - 250 cm, such as 90 - 240 cm, for example 100 - 230 cm, such as 110 - 220 cm, e.g. 120 - 210 cm, such as 130 - 200 cm, such as 140 - 190 cm, for example 150 - 180 cm or 160 - 170 cm.

[0039] These dimensions have proven suitable for the purpose of transporting glass panels.

[0040] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the bottom frame 4 of the transport rack is having an extension in the depth direction Y, which is selected from the ranges 60 - 150 cm, such as 70 - 140 cm, for example 80 - 130, such as 90 - 120 cm or 100 - 110 cm.

[0041] These dimensions have proven suitable for the purpose of transporting glass panels.

[0042] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the transport rack comprises a first post lock 52, which is being configured to be able to lock the first tiltable rear post 8 in its upright state; and wherein the transport rack comprises a second post lock 54, which is being configured to be able to lock the second tiltable rear post 10 in its upright state.

[0043] Thereby good structural integrity for the transport rack in its load configuration is attained.

[0044] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the post lock 52,54 comprises a locking pawl 53 pivotally mounted on the tiltable rear post 8,10, and which is being configured to be able to engage with a recess 59 in the holding element 30,36, when the tiltable rear post 8, 10 is in its upright state.

[0045] This type of lock is simple in design, yet sufficient for the intended purpose of locking the rear posts in their respective upright positions.

[0046] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the transport rack comprises a first rear wall lock 56, which is configured to be able to lock the rear wall 6, when this is in its raised state, to the first tiltable rear post 8, when this is in its raised state; and wherein the transport rack comprises a second rear wall lock 58, which is being configured to be able to lock the rear wall 6, when this is in its raised state, to the second tiltable rear post 10, when this is in its raised state.

[0047] This provides good structural integrity for the transport rack in its load configuration.

[0048] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the rear wall lock 56,58 comprises a locking mechanism 76 having one or more locking pawls 78, such as one or more lock pawls 78, which are spring-loaded with a spring 80 and which are configured to be able to be displaced in a direction, which is essentially parallel with the width direction X, wherein the locking mechanism is being arranged on the first tiltable rear post 8 and/or on the second tiltable rear post 10 and wherein an element 7 of the rear wall 6 comprises one or more holes 82, each of which is being configured to be able to accommodate a locking pawl 78 of the locking mechanism 76 of the tiltable rear post 8, 10, when this post 8,10 is in its upright state.

[0049] This type of lock is simple in design, yet sufficient for the intended purpose of locking the fold-down rear wall to the rear posts, when these are in their respective upright states.

[0050] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack 200 are selected in such a way that in the load configuration of the transport rack, the top part 60 of the two tiltable rear posts 8,10 essentially are arranged at the same vertical level as the top part 62 of the two loose front posts 12,14, when these are mounted in the respective receiving organs 42,46 thereof.

[0051] Hereby it is possible to stack two identical transport racks on top of each other, when these racks or just the lower one are in load configuration.

[0052] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the bottom frame 4 at its underside 48 comprises two or more, such as four fork guides 66 for guiding and receiving two forks of a pallet jack or a forklift.

[0053] This makes it easy for e.g. a forklift to lift a transport rack 200 according to the invention.

[0054] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, one or more of the fork guides 66, such as any of the fork guides 66 is/are defining a ring-shaped element to ensure that the transport rack will not be able to tip off the forks of a forklift in a sideways direction.

[0055] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the first holding element 30 of the first tiltable rear post 8 is defining a first rear, upward projection 68, when this first tiltable rear post 8 has been tilted down; and the second holding element 36 of the second tiltable rear post 10 is defining a second rear, upward projection 70, when this second tiltable rear post 10 has been tilted down; and the first receiving organ 42 for the first front post 12 is defining a first front, upward projection 72; and the second receiving organ 46 for the second front post 14 is defining a second front, upward projection 74.

[0056] This makes it possible for a corresponding transport rack to be stacked on top of the transport rack 200, when the transport rack is in its storage configuration.

[0057] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the first receiving organ 42 of the first front post 12 comprises a hollow tube; and the second receiving organ 46 of the second front post 14 comprises a hollow tube.

[0058] These hollow tubes will in an easy way be able to receive a loose, front post, when the transport rack is to be brought from its storage situation to its load configuration.

[0059] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the transport rack comprises one or more retaining elements 82, such as two retaining elements, for retaining the two loose, front posts 12,14, when the transport rack is in its storage configuration.

[0060] In an embodiment of this embodiment, each retaining element is in the form of an L-shaped bracket, which is arranged at the rear of the foldable rear wall 6,6b.

[0061] This makes it easy to mount the two loose, front posts 12,14 to the transport rack, when it has been brought into its storage configuration.

[0062] In an embodiment of the transport rack 200, the transport rack 200 additionally comprises one or more lines, elastic bands or the like for securing the two loose, front posts 12,14 to the retaining elements 82.

[0063] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, the individual parts of the transport rack are being made from aluminum or an aluminum alloy, or of steel.

[0064] These materials are relatively inexpensive and easy to connect with each other, such as by welding. In addition, such materials have sufficient strength for the intended purpose.

[0065] In an embodiment of the transport rack according to the first aspect of the invention, dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack are selected in such a way that the transport rack in its storage configuration is configured to be in a state, wherein the rear wall 6,6a,6b is being folded around its one or more lower suspensions 24 and around its one or more upper suspensions 22, wherein the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 are tilted down, wherein the loose first front post 12 is removed from the first receiving organ 42, and wherein the loose second front post 14 is removed from the second receiving organ 46; and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is configured to be in a state, wherein the rear wall 6,6a,6b is unfolded around its lower suspension 24 and around its upper suspension 22, wherein the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 are tilted up, and wherein the loose, first front post 12 is being arranged in the first receiving organ 42 and wherein the loose, second front post 14 is being arranged in the second receiving organ 46.

The second aspect of the invention

[0066] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a use of a transport rack 200 according to to the first aspect of the invention for transportation of one or more products.

[0067] In an embodiment of the use according to the second aspect of the invention, the product to be transported is a flat panel 2, such as a glass pane or a window.

The third aspect of the invention

[0068] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for transportation of flat panels comprising the steps of:

i) provision of a transport rack 200 according to the first aspect of the present invention;

ii) bringing the transport rack 200 into its load configuration:

ii) loading one or more panels 2 onto the transport rack in such a way that the first of these rests on the bottom 20 and up against the unfolded rear wall 6 of the transport rack and in such a way that panels, which are subsequently loaded onto the transport rack, rest up against this first panel:

iii) optionally strapping the panels loaded onto the transport rack 200 to the transport rack;

iv) transportation of the transport rack 200 and thus transportation of the panels loaded onto the transport rack.

[0069] In an embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, the method additionally comprises the steps:

v) removal of the panels loaded onto the transport rack 200;

vi) bringing the transport rack 200 into its storage configuration;

vii) optionally providing return transportation of the transport rack 200 in its storage configuration.

[0070] For better illustration of the present invention, reference is made to the figures, wherein Fig. 1 is a figure which in a perspective view shows a transport rack according to the present invention in its load configuration.

[0071] Fig 1 shows a transport rack 200 in its unfolded load configuration. It is seen that the transport rack comprises: a bottom frame 4; a foldable rear wall 6; a first tiltable rear post 8; a second tiltable rear post 10; a loose, first front post 12 and a loose, second front post 14.

[0072] The bottom frame 4 has an extension in a width direction X and in a depth direction Y and comprises a front edge 16, a rear edge 18 and a bottom 20.

[0073] The rear wall 6 of the transport rack comprises a lower part 6a and an upper part 6b, and the upper part 6b of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended on the lower part 6a of the rear wall in three upper suspensions 22, and the lower part 6a of the rear wall is pivotally suspended in three lower suspensions 24 at the bottom 20 of the bottom frame at a rear part 26 thereof.

[0074] In respect of the transport rack, the first tiltable rear post 8 is pivotally mounted in a first post suspension 28 in a first holding element 30 therefor at a first rear corner 32 of the bottom frame 4, and the second tiltable rear post 10 is pivotally mounted in a second post suspension 34 in a second holding element 36 therefor at a second rear corner 38 of the bottom frame 4.

[0075] It is seen that the bottom frame 4 at a first front corner 40 comprises a first receiving organ 42 for the loose, first front post 12, and that the bottom frame 4 at a second front corner 44 comprises a second receiving organ 46 for the loose, second front post 14.

[0076] In Fig. 1, the two loose front posts 12,14 are arranged in these receiving organs 42,46.

[0077] It is seen in Fig. 1 that dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack 200 are selected in such a way that when the transport rack is in its load configuration (as in Fig. 1) the top part 60 of the two tiltable rear posts 8,10 essentially are arranged at the same vertical level as the top part 62 of the two front loose posts 12,14.

[0078] It is also seen in Fig. 1 that the bottom frame 4 of the transport rack at its underside 48 and at the positions for the two rear posts 8,10 and at positions for the front receiving organs 42,46 comprises a downwardly pointing funnel-shaped stacking guide 50.

[0079] These features together enable the transport rack 200 to be stacked on top of a corresponding transport rack 200, when both racks are in their load configuration. This is illustrated in Fig. 8.

[0080] Fig. 1 shows that the transport rack 200 at the underside 48 of the bottom frame 4 comprises four fork guides 66 for guiding and receiving two forks of a pallet jack or a forklift.

[0081] These fork guides 66 define a ring-shaped element for ensuring that the transport rack will not be able to tip over from the forks in a sideways direction.

[0082] Dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack 200 are also selected in such a way that the transport rack is configured to be able to switch between a load configuration and a storage configuration and vice versa, wherein the transport rack in its storage configuration is being collapsed, and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is being unfolded.

[0083] Fig. 2 is a figure which in perspective view shows the transport rack in Fig. 1 in its storage configuration.

[0084] It is seen in Fig. 2 that the first tiltable post 8 and the second tiltable post 10 are tilted down relative to the corresponding respective holding element 30,36. The post 8 is tilted around a pivot axis A3 and the post is tilted around a pivot axis A4. The pivot axes A3 and A4 are essentially parallel to the depth direction Y

[0085] Fig. 2 shows that the pivot axis A3 of the first post suspension 28 and the pivot axis A4 of the second post suspension 34 are arranged at different height levels. This enables the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 to rest on top of each other in the storage configuration of the transport rack.

[0086] Fig. 2 also shows that the rear wall 6 is folded down around its suspensions 22,24 and thereby rests on the bottom frame 4.

[0087] In Fig. 2, the two loose front posts 12,14 are lifted from their respective receiving organs 42,46 and arranged on top of the rack.

[0088] It is easily acknowledged that the transport rack 200 in its storage configuration, as shown in Fig. 2, occupies considerably less space than in its load configuration, as illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0089] Fig. 2 also shows that a first holding element 30 for the first tiltable rear post 8 is defining a first rear, upward projection 68, and that a second holding element 36 for the second tiltable rear post 10 is defining a second rear, upward projection 70; and that the first receiving organ 42 for the first front post 12 is defining a first front, upward projection 72; and that the second receiving organ 46 for the second front post 14 defines a second front, upward projection 74. This allows a corresponding transport rack to be stacked on top of the transport rack 200, when the transport rack is in its storage configuration. This situation is illustrated in Fig. 9.

[0090] The first receiving organ 42 for the first front post 12 and the second receiving organ 46 for the second front post 14 comprise a hollow tube.

[0091] Fig. 2 also shows that the transport rack 200 comprises two retention elements 82 for retaining the two loose, front posts 12,14, when the transport rack is in its storage configuration.

[0092] Each retention element is in the form of an L-shaped bracket, which is arranged at the back of the fold-down rear wall 6.

[0093] During use, the two loose, front posts 12,14 can be secured to the retention elements 82 of the transport rack 200 with one or more lines, elastic bands or the like (not shown in Fig. 2).

[0094] Fig. 3a - 3d are figures which in perspective views illustrate the unfolding of the transport rack in Fig. 2 to its load configuration.

[0095] Fig. 3a shows the transport rack in its storage situation, wherein the transport rack is in a state where the rear wall 6,6a,6b is folded around its lower suspensions 24 and around its upper suspensions 22, where the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 are tilted down, where the loose first front post 12 is removed from the first receiving organ 42, and where the loose second front post 14 is removed from the second receiving organ 46. this situation corresponds to the situation shown in Fig. 2

[0096] Fig. 3b shows a situation where the loose first front post 12 and the loose second front post 14 are arranged in their respective receiving organs 42,44 of the bottom frame 4, and where the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 are on their way to being erected to their respective upright positions.

[0097] Fig. 3c shows a situation where the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 are fully erected to their respective upright positions. In this situation, the rear wall 6,6a,6b will clear the tiltable rear posts 8,10 when being erected. Fig. 3c also shows that the first tiltable rear post 8 comprises a first rear wall lock 56, and that the second tiltable rear post 10 comprises a second rear wall lock 58. These locks 56,58 are intended to lock the rear wall 6,6a,6b to the tiltable rear posts 8,10 as explained in further detail below.

[0098] Fig. 3d shows the transport rack in its load configuration. In this configuration, the transport rack accordingly is in a state where the rear wall 6,6a,6b is unfolded around its lower suspension 24 and around its upper suspension 22, wherein the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 have been erected, where the rear wall 6,6a,6b is locked to the rear posts 8,10, and where the loose, first front post 12 is arranged in the first receiving organ 42 and where the loose, second front post 14 is arranged in the second receiving organ 46.

[0099] In the situation shown in Fig. 3d, the first tiltable rear post 8 and the second tiltable rear post 10 are also locked in their upright state and the foldable rear wall 6,6a,6b is locked to the rear wall locks 56,58.

[0100] Fig. 4a - 4c are figures which in perspective views show sections of the tiltable features of the tiltable rear posts of the transport rack.

[0101] Fig. 4a - 4c show that the post suspension 28,34 defines a pivot axis A3,A4 (which is essentially parallel to the depth direction Y of the transport rack), and that the tiltable post 8,10 accordingly may pivot around this pivot axis A3,A4.

[0102] The first and second post suspensions 28,34 comprises a bolt 35, which is attached to the post suspension 28,34 and to the tiltable rear post 8,10, the axial direction of the bolt 35 defining the pivot axis A3,A4.

[0103] As shown in Fig. 4a - 4c, the post 8,10 accordingly may pivot relative to the post suspension 28,34.

[0104] Fig. 4a - 4c also show that the transport rack comprises a post lock 52,54, which is being configured to be able to lock the tiltable rear post 8,10 in its upright state.

[0105] As can be seen, the post lock 52,54 comprises a locking pawl 53, which is rotatably mounted on the tiltable rear post 8,10 and is configured to be able to engage with a recess 59 in the holding element 30,36, when the tiltable rear post 8,10 is in its upright state.

[0106] Fig. 5 is a figure which in perspective view shows in section, the operation of the upper suspension of the rear wall.

[0107] Fig. 5 shows that an upper suspension 22 for the rear wall 6 is defining a pivot axis A1. The pivot axis A1 is essentially parallel to the width direction X of the transport rack. It can be seen that the upper suspension 22 comprises a bolt 23 having an axial direction, where the bolt 23 is connecting the lower part 6a of the rear wall 6 with the upper part 6b of the rear wall 6, the axial direction of the bolt 23 being parallel to the pivot axis A1. Accordingly, the lower part 6a of the rear wall 6 can pivot relative to the upper part 6b of the rear wall 6.

[0108] Fig. 6 is a figure which in a perspective view shows the operation of the lower suspension of the rear wall.

[0109] Fig. 6 shows that a lower suspension 24 of the rear wall 6 is defining a pivot axis A2. The pivot axis A2 is essentially parallel to the width direction X of the transport rack. It is seen that the lower suspension 24 comprises a bolt 25 having an axial direction, wherein the bolt 25 is connecting the lower part 6a of the rear wall 6 with the bottom frame 4 or bottom 20 of the transport rack, the axial direction of the bolt 25 being parallel to the pivot axis A2. Accordingly, the lower part 6a of the rear wall 6 may pivot relative to the bottom frame 4 of the transport rack.

[0110] Fig. 7a - 7d are figures which in perspective views show sections of the operation of the rear wall lock of the transport rack.

[0111] Fig. 7a shows a first rear wall lock 56, which is being attached to the first tiltable, rear post 8, and Fig. 7b shows a second rear wall lock 58, which is being attached to the second tiltable, rear post 10.

[0112] The rear wall locks 56,58 are configured to be able to lock the rear wall 6, when it is in its raised state, to a tiltable rear post 8,10, when it is in its raised state.

[0113] It is seen in fig. 7a and 7b, that the rear wall lock 56,58 comprises a locking mechanism 76 with locking pawls 78, which are spring-loaded with a spring 80 and which are configured to be able to shift in a direction that is essentially parallel with the width direction X. The locking pawl can be actuated with the handle 57.

[0114] The locking mechanism 76 is arranged on the first tiltable rear post 8 and on the second tiltable rear post 10 as illustrated in Fig. 7a and 7b.

[0115] An element 7 of the rear wall 6 comprises holes 82. This is illustrated in Fig. 7c.

[0116] The holes 82 each are configured to be able to accommodate a locking pawl 78 of the locking mechanism 76 for the tiltable rear post 8, 10, when this post 8,10 is in its upright state. This situation is shown in Fig. 7d. Here it is seen that the element 7 of the rear wall 6 has been locked by the locking pawls 78 of the locking mechanism 76, which is arranged on the first tiltable, rear post 8. By grabbing and pulling the handle 57, the locking mechanism 76 can be unlocked so that the rear wall 6 is released from its the locking configuration.

[0117] Fig. 8 is a figure which in a perspective view illustrates two transport racks according to the first aspect of the invention, which in their load configuration each are loaded with a number of panels, and which are stacked on top of each other.

[0118] Fig. 9 is a figure which in a perspective view illustrates nine transport racks according to the first aspect of the invention, which in their storage configuration are stacked on top of each other.

[0119] It is easily acknowledged that an extraordinarily large space saving is attained when the transport racks can be folded to their respective storage configurations.

[0120] The present invention may be defined according to one or more of the following Clauses:

Clause 1. A transport rack (200) for transportation of flat panels (2), wherein the transport rack in the orientation intended for use, comprises:

• a bottom frame (4);
• a foldable rear wall (6);
• a first tiltable rear post (8);
• a second tiltable rear post (10);
• a loose, first front post (12); and
• a loose, second front post (14);

wherein the bottom frame (4) is having an extension in a width direction (X) and in a depth direction (Y) and comprises a front edge (16) and a rear edge (18);

wherein the bottom frame (4) comprises a bottom (20);

wherein the first tiltable rear post (8) is being pivotally mounted in a first post suspension (28) in a first holding element (30) thereof at a first rear corner (32) of the bottom frame (4);

wherein the second tiltable rear post (10) is being pivotally mounted in a second post suspension (34) in a second holding element (36) thereof at a second rear corner (38) of the bottom frame (4);

wherein the bottom frame (4) at a first front corner (40) comprises a first receiving organ (42) for the loose, first front post (12);

wherein the bottom frame (4) at a second front corner (44) comprises a second receiving organ (46) for the loose, second front post (14);

wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack (200) are selected in such a way that the transport rack is configured to be able to switch between a load configuration and a storage configuration and vice versa, wherein the transport rack in its storage configuration is collapsed, and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is being unfolded;

characterized in that the rear wall (6) comprises a lower part (6a) and an upper part (6b), wherein the upper part (6b) of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended on the lower part (6a) of the rear wall in one or more upper suspensions (22), and wherein the lower part (6a) of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended in one or more lower suspensions (24) at the bottom (20) of the bottom frame at a rear part (26) thereof.

Clause 2. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 1, wherein the bottom frame (4) at its underside (48) and at the positions of the two rear posts (8, 10) and at positions of the front receiving organs (42,46) comprises a downwardly pointing funnel-shaped stacking guide (50).

Clause 3. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the one or more upper suspensions (22) of the rear wall (6) is/are defining a pivot axis (A1), which is essentially parallel to the width direction (X) of the transport rack; and wherein the one or more lower suspensions (24) of the rear wall (6) is/are defining a pivot axis (A2), which is essentially parallel to the width direction (X) of the transport rack.

Clause 4. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 3, wherein the one or more upper suspensions (22) comprise(s) a bolt (23) having an axial direction, wherein the bolt (23) is pivotally connecting the lower part (6a) of the rear wall (6) with the upper part (6b) of the rear wall (6), wherein the axial direction of the bolt (23) is being parallel to the pivot axis (A1) and/or wherein the one or more lower suspensions (24) comprise(s) a bolt (25) having an axial direction, wherein the bolt (25) pivotally is connecting the lower part (6a) of the rear wall (6) with the bottom frame (4) or bottom (20) of the transport rack, wherein the axial direction of the bolt (25) is being parallel to the pivot axis (A2).

Clause 5. A transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first post suspension (28) is defining a pivot axis (A3), which is essentially parallel to the depth direction (Y) of the transport rack, and wherein the second post suspension (34) is defining a pivot axis (A4), which is essentially parallel to the depth direction (Y) of the transport rack, thereby enabling the tiltable post (8,10) to pivot around this pivot axis (A3,A4).

Clause 6. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 5, wherein the pivot axis (A3) of the first post suspension (28) and the pivot axis (A4) of the second post suspension (34) are arranged at different height levels, thereby enabling the first tiltable rear post (8) and the second tiltable rear post (10) to rest on top of each other in the storage configuration of the transport rack.

Clause 7. A transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first post suspension (28) and/or the second post suspension (34) comprises a bolt (35), which is being connected to the post suspension (28,34) and to the tiltable rear post (8, 10), wherein the axial direction of the bolt (35) is defining the pivot axis (A3,A4).

Clause 8. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1-7, wherein the bottom (20) comprises one, two, three or more beams (20a,20b,20c,20d,20e), which are being arranged in a longitudinal extension, which is essentially parallel to the width direction (X) of the transport rack; and/or wherein the bottom comprises one, two, three or more beams (20f,20g), which are being arranged in a longitudinal extension, which is essentially perpendicular to the width direction (X) of the transport rack.

Clause 9. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1-8, wherein the bottom (20) is having a downward slope in a direction from the front edge (16) of the bottom frame to the rear edge (18) of the bottom frame.

Clause 10. A transport rack 200 according to any of the Clauses 1-9, wherein the rear wall (6) in its load configuration is having a rearward slope.

Clause 11. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 10, wherein the total extension of the rear wall (6) in the vertical direction, in the load configuration of the transport rack, and measured from the bottom (20), is selected from the ranges 60 - 230 cm, such as 70 - 220 cm, for example 80 - 210 cm, such as 90 - 200 cm, for example 100 - 190 cm, e.g. 110 - 180 cm, such as 120 - 170 cm, e.g. 130 - 160 cm or 140 - 150 cm.

Clause 12. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 11, wherein the bottom frame (4) of the transport rack is having an extension in the width direction (X), which is selected from the ranges 80 - 250 cm, such as 90 - 240 cm, for example 100 - 230 cm, such as 110 - 220 cm, e.g. 120 - 210 cm, such as 130 - 200 cm, such as 140 - 190 cm, for example 150 - 180 cm or 160 - 170 cm.

Clause 13. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 12, wherein the bottom frame (4) of the transport rack is having an extension in the depth direction (Y), which is selected from the ranges 60 - 150 cm, such as 70 - 140 cm, for example 80 - 130, such as 90 - 120 cm or 100 - 110 cm.

Clause 14. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 13, wherein the transport rack comprises a first post lock (52), which is being configured to be able to lock the first tiltable rear post (8) in its upright state; and wherein the transport rack comprises a second post lock (54), which is being configured to be able to lock the second tiltable rear post (10) in its upright state.

Clause 15. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 14, wherein the post lock (52,54) comprises a locking pawl (53) pivotally mounted on the tiltable rear post (8,10), and which is being configured to be able to engage with a recess (59) in the holding element (30,36), when the tiltable rear post (8,10) is in its upright state.

Clause 16. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 15, wherein the transport rack comprises a first rear wall lock (56), which is configured to be able to lock the rear wall (6), when this is in its raised state, to the first tiltable rear post (8), when this is in its raised state; and wherein the transport rack comprises a second rear wall lock (58), which is being configured to be able to lock the rear wall (6), when this is in its raised state, to the second tiltable rear post (10), when this is in its raised state.

Clause 17. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 16, wherein the rear wall lock (56,58) comprises a locking mechanism (76) having one or more locking pawls (78), such as one or more locking pawls (78), which are spring-loaded with a spring (80) and which are configured to be able to be displaced in a direction, which is essentially parallel with the width direction (X), wherein the locking mechanism is being arranged on the first tiltable rear post (8) and/or on the second tiltable rear post (10) and wherein an element (7) of the rear wall (6) comprises one or more holes (82), each of which is being configured to be able to accommodate a locking pawl (78) of the locking mechanism (76) of the tiltable rear post (8, 10), when this post (8, 10) is in its upright state.

Clause 18. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 17, wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack (200) are selected in such a way that in the load configuration of the transport rack, the top part (60) of the two tiltable rear posts (8, 10) essentially are arranged at the same vertical level as the top part (62) of the two loose front posts (12,14), when these are mounted in the respective receiving organs 42,46 thereof.

Clause 19. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 18, wherein the bottom frame (4) at its underside (48) comprises two or more, such as four fork guides (66) for guiding and receiving two forks of a pallet jack or a forklift.

Clause 20. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 19, wherein one or more of the fork guides (66), such as any of the fork guides (66) is/are defining a ring-shaped element to ensure that the transport rack will not be able to tip off the forks of a forklift in a sideways direction.

Clause 21. A transport rack 200 according to any of the Clauses 1 - 20, wherein the first holding element (30) of the first tiltable rear post (8) is defining a first rear, upward projection (68), when this first tiltable rear post (8) has been tilted down; and wherein the second holding element (36) of the second tiltable rear post (10) is defining a second rear, upward projection (70), when this second tiltable rear post (10) has been tilted down; and wherein the first receiving organ (42) for the first front post (12) is defining a first front, upward projection (72); and wherein the second receiving organ (46) for the second front post (14) is defining a second front, upward projection (74), thus enabling a corresponding transport rack to be stacked on top of the transport rack (200), when the transport rack is in its storage configuration.

Clause 22. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 21, wherein the first receiving organ (42) of the first front post (12) comprises a hollow tube; and wherein the second receiving organ (46) of the second front post (14) comprises a hollow tube.

Clause 23. A transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the transport rack comprises one or more retaining elements (82), such as two retaining elements, for retaining the two loose, front posts (12,14), when the transport rack is in its storage configuration.

Clause 24. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 23, wherein each retaining element is in the form of an L-shaped bracket, which is arranged at the rear of the foldable rear wall (6,6b).

Clause 25. A transport rack (200) according to Clause 23 or 24, wherein the transport rack (200) additionally comprises one or more lines, elastic bands or the like for securing the two loose, front posts (12,14) to the retaining elements (82).

Clause 26. A transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 25, wherein the individual parts of the transport rack are being made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, or of steel.

Clause 27. A transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding Clauses, wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack are selected in such a way that the transport rack in its storage configuration is configured to be in a state, wherein the rear wall (6,6a,6b) is being folded around its one or more lower suspensions (24) and around its one or more upper suspensions (22), wherein the first tiltable rear post (8) and the second tiltable rear post (10) are tilted down, wherein the loose first front post (12) is removed from the first receiving organ (42), and wherein the loose second front post (14) is removed from the second receiving organ (46); and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is configured to be in a state, wherein the rear wall (6,6a,6b) is unfolded around its lower suspension (24) and around its upper suspension (22), wherein the first tiltable rear post (8) and the second tiltable rear post (10) are tilted up, and wherein the loose, first front post (12) is being arranged in the first receiving organ (42) and wherein the loose, second front post (14) is being arranged in the second receiving organ (46).

Clause 28. Use of a transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding Clauses for transportation of one or more products.

Clause 29. Use according to Clause 28, wherein the product to be transported is a flat panel (2), such as a glass pane or a window.

Clause 30. A method for transportation of flat panels comprising the steps:

i) provision of a transport rack (200) according to any of the Clauses 1 - 27;

ii) bringing the transport rack (200) into its load configuration:
ii) loading one or more panels (2) onto the transport rack in such a way that the first of these rests on the bottom (20) and up against the unfolded rear wall (6) of the transport rack and in such a way that panels, which are subsequently loaded onto the transport rack, rest up against this first panel:

iii) optionally strapping the panels loaded onto the transport rack (200) to the transport rack;

iv) transportation of the transport rack (200) and thus transportation of the panels loaded onto the transport rack.

Clause 31. A method according to Clause 30, wherein the method additionally comprises the steps:

v) removal of the panels loaded onto the transport rack (200);

vi) bringing the transport rack (200) into its storage configuration;

vii) optionally providing return transportation of the transport rack (200) in its storage configuration.

It should be understood that all features and achievements discussed above and in the appended claims in relation to one aspect of the present invention and embodiments thereof apply equally well to the other aspects of the present invention and embodiments thereof.

List of figure references

[0121] 

2

Panel to be transported

4

Bottom frame

6

Foldable rear wall

6a

Lower part of rear wall

6b

Upper part of rear wall

7

Element of foldable rear wall

8

First tiltable rear post

10

Second tiltable rear post

12

Loose, first front post

14

Loose, second front post

16

Front edge of bottom frame

18

Rear edge of bottom frame

20

Bottom of bottom frame

20a,20b

Beam of bottom

20c,20d

Beam of bottom

20e,20f,20g

Beam of bottom

22

Upper suspension for upper part of rear wall

23

Bolt of upper suspension

24

Lower suspension for lower part of rear wall

25

Bolt of lower suspension

26

Rear part of bottom of bottom frame

28

First post suspension for first tiltable rear post

30

First holding element for first post suspension for first tiltable rear post

32

First rear corner of bottom frame

34

Second post suspension for second tiltable rear post

35

Bolt for post suspension

36

Second holding element for second post suspension for second tiltable rear post

38

Second rear corner of bottom frame

40

First front corner of bottom frame

42

First receiving organ for loose first front post

44

Second front corner of bottom frame

46

Second receiving organ for loose second front post

48

Bottom side of bottom frame

50

Stacking guide

52

First post lock

53

Locking pawl

54

Second post lock

56

First rear wall lock

57

Handle for locking mechanism for rear wall lock

58

Second rear wall lock

59

Recess in holding element for tiltable rear post

60

Top part of tiltable rear posts

62

Top part of loose front posts

66

Fork guide for receiving a fork of a forklift or a pallet jack

68

First rear, upward projection of first holding element

70

Second rear, upward projection of the second holding element

72

First front, upward projection of first receiving organ for first front post

74

Second front, upward projection of second receiving organ for second front post

76

Locking mechanism

78

Locking pawl

80

Spring

82

Hole for receiving locking pawl

200

Transport rack

A1

Pivot axis for upper suspension

A2

Pivot axis for lower suspension

A3

Pivot axis for first post suspension

A4

Pivot axis for second post suspension

X

Width direction

Y

Depth direction

Claims

1. A transport rack (200) for transportation of flat panels (2), wherein the transport rack in the orientation intended for use, comprises:

- a bottom frame (4);

- a foldable rear wall (6);

- a first tiltable rear post (8);

- a second tiltable rear post (10);

- a loose, first front post (12); and

- a loose, second front post (14);

wherein the bottom frame (4) is having an extension in a width direction (X) and in a depth direction (Y) and comprises a front edge (16) and a rear edge (18);

wherein the bottom frame (4) comprises a bottom (20);

wherein the first tiltable rear post (8) is being pivotally mounted in a first post suspension (28) in a first holding element (30) thereof at a first rear corner (32) of the bottom frame (4);

wherein the second tiltable rear post (10) is being pivotally mounted in a second post suspension (34) in a second holding element (36) thereof at a second rear corner (38) of the bottom frame (4);

wherein the bottom frame (4) at a first front corner (40) comprises a first receiving organ (42) for the loose, first front post (12);

wherein the bottom frame (4) at a second front corner (44) comprises a second receiving organ (46) for the loose, second front post (14);

wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack (200) are selected in such a way that the transport rack is configured to be able to switch between a load configuration and a storage configuration and vice versa, wherein the transport rack in its storage configuration is collapsed, and wherein the transport rack in its load configuration is being unfolded;

characterized in that the rear wall (6) comprises a lower part (6a) and an upper part (6b), wherein the upper part (6b) of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended on the lower part (6a) of the rear wall in one or more upper suspensions (22), and wherein the lower part (6a) of the rear wall is being pivotally suspended in one or more lower suspensions (24) at the bottom (20) of the bottom frame at a rear part (26) thereof;

and in that the first post suspension (28) is defining a pivot axis (A3), which is essentially parallel to the depth direction (Y) of the transport rack, and wherein the second post suspension (34) is defining a pivot axis (A4), which is essentially parallel to the depth direction (Y) of the transport rack, thereby enabling the tiltable post (8, 10) to pivot around this pivot axis (A3,A4);

and in that the pivot axis (A3) of the first post suspension (28) and the pivot axis (A4) of the second post suspension (34) are arranged at different height levels, thereby enabling the first tiltable rear post (8) and the second tiltable rear post (10) to rest on top of each other in the storage configuration of the transport rack.

2. A transport rack (200) according to claim 1, wherein the bottom frame (4) at its underside (48) and at the positions of the two rear posts (8, 10) and at positions of the front receiving organs (42,46) comprises a downwardly pointing funnel-shaped stacking guide (50).

3. A transport rack (200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more upper suspensions (22) of the rear wall (6) is/are defining a pivot axis (A1), which is essentially parallel to the width direction (X) of the transport rack; and wherein the one or more lower suspensions (24) of the rear wall (6) is/are defining a pivot axis (A2), which is essentially parallel to the width direction (X) of the transport rack;
optionally wherein the one or more upper suspensions (22) comprise(s) a bolt (23) having an axial direction, wherein the bolt (23) is pivotally connecting the lower part (6a) of the rear wall (6) with the upper part (6b) of the rear wall (6), wherein the axial direction of the bolt (23) is being parallel to the pivot axis (A1) and/or wherein the one or more lower suspensions (24) comprise(s) a bolt (25) having an axial direction, wherein the bolt (25) pivotally is connecting the lower part (6a) of the rear wall (6) with the bottom frame (4) or bottom (20) of the transport rack, wherein the axial direction of the bolt (25) is being parallel to the pivot axis (A2).

4. A transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first post suspension (28) and/or the second post suspension (34) comprises a bolt (35), which is being connected to the post suspension (28,34) and to the tiltable rear post (8, 10), wherein the axial direction of the bolt (35) is defining the pivot axis (A3,A4).

5. A transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1-4, wherein the bottom (20) comprises one, two, three or more beams (20a,20b,20c,20d,20e), which are being arranged in a longitudinal extension, which is essentially parallel to the width direction (X) of the transport rack; and/or wherein the bottom comprises one, two, three or more beams (20f,20g), which are being arranged in a longitudinal extension, which is essentially perpendicular to the width direction (X) of the transport rack; and/or
wherein the bottom (20) is having a downward slope in a direction from the front edge (16) of the bottom frame to the rear edge (18) of the bottom frame.

6. A transport rack 200 according to any of the claims 1-5, wherein the rear wall (6) in its load configuration is having a rearward slope.

7. A transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1-6, wherein the transport rack comprises a first post lock (52), which is being configured to be able to lock the first tiltable rear post (8) in its upright state; and wherein the transport rack comprises a second post lock (54), which is being configured to be able to lock the second tiltable rear post (10) in its upright state; optionally wherein the post lock (52,54) comprises a locking pawl (53) pivotally mounted on the tiltable rear post (8, 10), and which is being configured to be able to engage with a recess (59) in the holding element (30,36), when the tiltable rear post (8,10) is in its upright state.

8. A transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1-7, wherein the transport rack comprises a first rear wall lock (56), which is configured to be able to lock the rear wall (6), when this is in its raised state, to the first tiltable rear post (8), when this is in its raised state; and wherein the transport rack comprises a second rear wall lock (58), which is being configured to be able to lock the rear wall (6), when this is in its raised state, to the second tiltable rear post (10), when this is in its raised state; optionally wherein the rear wall lock (56,58) comprises a locking mechanism (76) having one or more locking pawls (78), such as one or more locking pawls (78), which are spring-loaded with a spring (80) and which are configured to be able to be displaced in a direction, which is essentially parallel with the width direction (X), wherein the locking mechanism is being arranged on the first tiltable rear post (8) and/or on the second tiltable rear post (10) and wherein an element (7) of the rear wall (6) comprises one or more holes (82), each of which is being configured to be able to accommodate a locking pawl (78) of the locking mechanism (76) of the tiltable rear post (8, 10), when this post (8, 10) is in its upright state.

9. A transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1-8, wherein dimensions and geometries of the individual elements of the transport rack (200) are selected in such a way that in the load configuration of the transport rack, the top part (60) of the two tiltable rear posts (8,10) essentially are arranged at the same vertical level as the top part (62) of the two loose front posts (12,14), when these are mounted in the respective receiving organs 42,46 thereof.

10. A transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1-9, wherein the bottom frame (4) at its underside (48) comprises two or more, such as four fork guides (66) for guiding and receiving two forks of a pallet jack or a forklift; optionally wherein one or more of the fork guides (66), such as any of the fork guides (66) is/are defining a ring-shaped element to ensure that the transport rack will not be able to tip off the forks of a forklift in a sideways direction.

11. A transport rack 200 according to any of the claims 1 - 10, wherein the first holding element (30) of the first tiltable rear post (8) is defining a first rear, upward projection (68), when this first tiltable rear post (8) has been tilted down; and wherein the second holding element (36) of the second tiltable rear post (10) is defining a second rear, upward projection (70), when this second tiltable rear post (10) has been tilted down; and wherein the first receiving organ (42) for the first front post (12) is defining a first front, upward projection (72); and wherein the second receiving organ (46) for the second front post (14) is defining a second front, upward projection (74), thus enabling a corresponding transport rack to be stacked on top of the transport rack (200), when the transport rack is in its storage configuration.

12. A transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1 - 11, wherein the first receiving organ (42) of the first front post (12) comprises a hollow tube; and wherein the second receiving organ (46) of the second front post (14) comprises a hollow tube.

13. A transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the transport rack comprises one or more retaining elements (82), such as two retaining elements, for retaining the two loose, front posts (12,14), when the transport rack is in its storage configuration; optionally wherein each retaining element is in the form of an L-shaped bracket, which is arranged at the rear of the foldable rear wall (6,6b); and/or optionally wherein the transport rack (200) additionally comprises one or more lines, elastic bands or the like for securing the two loose, front posts (12,14) to the retaining elements (82).

14. Use of a transport rack (200) according to any of the preceding claims for transportation of one or more products.

15. A method for transportation of flat panels comprising the steps:

i) provision of a transport rack (200) according to any of the claims 1-13;

ii) bringing the transport rack (200) into its load configuration:
ii) loading one or more panels (2) onto the transport rack in such a way that the first of these rests on the bottom (20) and up against the unfolded rear wall (6) of the transport rack and in such a way that panels, which are subsequently loaded onto the transport rack, rest up against this first panel:

iii) optionally strapping the panels loaded onto the transport rack (200) to the transport rack;

iv) transportation of the transport rack (200) and thus transportation of the panels loaded onto the transport rack.

Drawing