Patent attributes
A modular storage and dispensing assembly for storing and selectively dispensing objects, such as cans, includes a plurality of panels and a connector assembly for connecting adjacently disposed panels such that a chute is formed between each of the adjacently disposed panels. A rail assembly is provided in each chute for defining a travel path through the chute. The rail assembly includes an upper rail and a lower rail, each being supported by adjacently disposed panels such that the upper rails in the chute are spatially disposed and in a facing relationship and the lower rails in the chute are also spatially disposed and in a facing relationship. The upper rails each have a first end and a second end and are sloped in a downward direction from their first end to their respective second ends. The lower rails each have an arcuate shaped second end, the lower rails and their arcuate second ends being disposed a distance from the upper rails such that objects moving along the travel path of the chute are provided with a smooth transition from the upper rails to the lower rails. The modular storage and dispensing assembly also is provided with a stop assembly for restraining an object therein while permitting the object to be removed therefrom.
