Importance

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Abstract

An extension and retraction system for an article of furniture, such as a storage unit, includes a mounting structure for securement to the storage unit, a base arrangement for mounting to a floor or other supporting surface, and a cantilever-type extension and retraction arrangement interposed between the mounting structure and the base arrangement. The extension and retraction arrangement is in the form of a plurality of slide assemblies, each of which includes a stationary inner guide member mounted to the base arrangement mounted to each stationary guide member for telescoping inward and outward movement. Each extension member is connected to the mounting structure, and exertion of a pull-out or push-in force on the article of furniture is transferred through the mounting structure to cause extension and retraction of the extension members, to provide movement of the article of furniture between an extended position and a retracted position. The extension and retraction system is particularly well suited for applications such as high density shelving or storage, in which a number of similarly constructed units are assembled in a closely spaced relationship, such that movement of one of the units to an extended position provides access to the contents of the unit. The number of slide assemblies may be varied according to the load requirements for the article of furniture, to provide flexibility in manufacture and installation while maintaining the same basic design for the extension and retraction system.

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First Claim