| A look at the past |
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In 1978, Gartung patented an adjustable wall-mounted shelf support system which consisted of a vertical slotted wall mounted support bar, known today as a ‘wall standard' and shelf support brackets that slipped onto the bar. The support brackets were different lengths to hold varying depth shelves. This system is easy to mount and very flexible in design. It can be utilized from floor to ceiling, or as a single shelf. The original system, although clever, did have some problems. The bars are unattractive and the combination of bars looks unfinished. Hence, this system has been used primarily as a utilitarian low cost system for garages, laundry rooms, and out of sight places for simple shelving where decor is not a consideration. Another major problem has been shelf instability. It has been possible to dislodge shelves from brackets and brackets from the mounting bar if accidentally hit from below. In the single slot version, simply loading one side too much can result in the shelf tipping; additionally brushing against it may knock the shelf and contents off. Overloading can cause the system to fail by torsion (twisting of the bracket) and all comes tumbling down, meaning breakables are always in jeopardy. |