SPACER APPARATUS FOR BUCKETS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This application claims benefit from currently pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/743,339 titled “Spacer Apparatus for Buckets” and having a filing date of Jan. 9, 2025, all of which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002]This invention relates to storage and organization apparatuses, and more specifically to a spacer apparatus designed for creating a space between two or more stacked buckets.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003]In the field of storage and organization, the use of buckets is widespread due to their versatility and convenience. Buckets are widely used in various commercial, industrial, and residential settings for storing, transporting, and organizing materials. Common applications include paint storage, construction supplies, food service, janitorial operations, and general-purpose storage. In many environments, space constraints necessitate vertical stacking of multiple buckets to maximize storage efficiency and maintain an organized workspace

[0004]However, conventional bucket stacking presents several significant challenges that limit efficiency and create practical problems for users. When buckets are stacked directly on top of one another without any separation mechanism, they tend to nest tightly together. This tight nesting occurs because the tapered design of most buckets, which facilitates their own stacking when empty, causes the upper bucket to settle deeply into the lower bucket when stacked. Tightly stacked buckets severely limit air circulation around and between the containers. This lack of ventilation can be particularly problematic when buckets contain materials that benefit from airflow, such as certain chemicals, paints, or organic materials. Poor air circulation can lead to moisture accumulation, accelerated material degradation, unpleasant odors, and potential health and safety concerns in enclosed storage areas.

[0005]To address this issue, various solutions have been proposed in the past. One such solution involves the use of spacers or separators that are placed between the buckets to prevent them from becoming nested. However, these spacers often lack stability and can easily dislodge, leading to the buckets becoming nested once again. Furthermore, these spacers are typically separate from the buckets themselves, which increases the risk of them being misplaced or lost. Another approach involves the use of buckets with built-in spacers or protrusions on their outer surfaces. While this design can prevent the buckets from becoming nested, it also increases the overall size and bulk of the buckets, which can be problematic for storage and transportation. Additionally, these built-in spacers or protrusions can interfere with the user's ability to handle and manipulate the buckets, particularly when the buckets are filled with heavy materials. In some designs, the spacers are integrated into the bottom of the buckets. However, this design can limit the usable space within the buckets and can also make the buckets unstable when they are stacked. Furthermore, these integrated spacers can be difficult to manufacture and can increase the overall cost of the buckets.

[0006]In light of these challenges, there is a need for a spacer apparatus that can effectively create a space between two or more stacked buckets, while also being stable, easy to use, and cost-effective to manufacture. The apparatus should also be designed in such a way that it does not significantly increase the overall size and bulk of the buckets, does not interfere with the user's ability to handle and manipulate the buckets, and does not limit the usable space within the buckets.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007]The invention described herein provides a spacer apparatus designed to create a space between two or more stacked buckets. Each bucket has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the spacer apparatus can maintain separation between vertically stacked buckets. The spacer apparatus can include a central body having a top surface and a bottom surface. At least two legs can extend from the bottom surface of the central body, where each leg has a foot at its distal end. At least one tab can partially extend from the top surface of the central body.

[0008]In certain embodiments, each leg can have a height between 4.20 and 4.45 inches. The at least one tab can have a height between 0.05 and 0.125 inches. The legs can be configured to contact the inner surface of a first bucket, while the tabs can engage with the outer surface of a second bucket stacked above it, thereby creating the desired space between the first and second buckets. Each leg can have an aperture, which can be rectangular in shape. The legs can be spaced 10.25 inches apart from adjacent legs, providing a stable support area within the bucket. The tab can be rectangular in shape, and the central body can include a square opening in the top surface.

[0009]The central body and the legs can be composed of plastic or metal material. When plastic material is used, the apparatus can allow for color variation. The apertures in the legs and the opening in the central body can be dimensioned to reduce the overall weight of the apparatus without compromising its structural integrity. The legs can be evenly spaced and equally sized to allow even distribution of the bucket's weight across the apparatus. Each leg can have an interior surface and an exterior surface, with a rib extending from the interior surface to reinforce the structural strength of the legs. The tab and each foot can have a textured surface to improve grip and engagement with the bucket surfaces.

[0010]In alternative embodiments, the apparatus can include at least two joints that allow the legs to fold. These joints can connect the legs to the central body and can be configured to allow the legs to fold outward, enabling the apparatus to be substantially flat for storage or shipping purposes. The invention also encompasses a method of storing buckets. The method can include providing the spacer apparatus described above, placing the apparatus in a first bucket, and stacking a second bucket in the first bucket on top of the apparatus, thereby maintaining separation between the stacked buckets.

[0011]Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description of the invention. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts. The inventors are fully aware that they can be their own lexicographers if desired. The inventors expressly elect, as their own lexicographers, to use only the plain and ordinary meaning of terms in the specification and claims unless they clearly state otherwise and then further, expressly set forth the “special” definition of that term and explain how it differs from the plain and ordinary meaning. Absent such clear statements of intent to apply a “special” definition, it is the inventors'intent and desire that the simple, plain and ordinary meaning to the terms be applied to the interpretation of the specification and claims. Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description of the invention.

[0012]The inventors are also aware of the normal precepts of English grammar. Thus, if a noun, term, or phrase is intended to be further characterized, specified, or narrowed in some way, then such noun, term, or phrase will expressly include additional adjectives, descriptive terms, or other modifiers in accordance with the normal precepts of English grammar. Absent the use of such adjectives, descriptive terms, or modifiers, it is the intent that such nouns, terms, or phrases be given their plain, and ordinary English meaning to those skilled in the applicable arts as set forth above.

[0013]Further, the inventors are fully informed of the standards and application of the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f). Thus, the use of the words “function,” “means” or “step” in the Detailed Description or Description of the Drawings or claims is not intended to somehow indicate a desire to invoke the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f), to define the invention. To the contrary, if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) are sought to be invoked to define the inventions, the claims will specifically and expressly state the exact phrases “means for” or “step for, and will also recite the word “function” (i.e., will state “means for performing the function of . . . ”), without also reciting in such phrases any structure, material or act in support of the function. Thus, even when the claims recite a “means for performing the function of . . . ” or “step for performing the function of. . . ,” if the claims also recite any structure, material or acts in support of that means or step, or that perform the recited function, then it is the clear intention of the inventors not to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f). Moreover, even if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) are invoked to define the claimed inventions, it is intended that the inventions not be limited only to the specific structure, material or acts that are described in the preferred embodiments, but in addition, include any and all structures, materials or acts that perform the claimed function as described in alternative embodiments or forms of the invention, or that are well known present or later-developed, equivalent structures, material or acts for performing the claimed function.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014]A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description when considered in connection with the following illustrative figures. In the figures, like reference numbers refer to like elements or acts throughout the figures.

[0015]FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of the spacer apparatus for a bucket in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0016]FIG. 2 shows a front view of the spacer apparatus for buckets in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0017]FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the spacer apparatus for the bucket in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0018]FIG. 4 shows a top view of the spacer apparatus for the bucket in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0019]FIG. 5a shows a side view of the spacer apparatus for the bucket installed between two buckets in accordance to one or more embodiments;

[0020]FIG. 5b shows a cross-sectional view of the spacer apparatus for the bucket installed between two buckets in accordance to one or more embodiments.

[0021]Elements and acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence or embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022]In the following description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the invention. It will be understood, however, by those skilled in the relevant arts, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, known structures and devices are shown or discussed more generally to avoid obscuring the invention. In many cases, a description of the operation is sufficient to enable one to implement the various forms of the invention, particularly when the operation is to be implemented in software. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative configurations, devices, and technologies to which the disclosed inventions may be applied. The full scope of the inventions is not limited to the examples that are described below.

[0023]Referring to FIG. 1-FIG. 5a, a spacer apparatus is shown generally at 10 and can create a space between two or more stacked buckets 60 wherein the buckets can have an inner surface 68, an outer surface 62, a bucket top surface 64 and a bucket bottom surface 66. The bucket 60 can be a 5-gallon bucket, 2-gallon bucket, 7-gallon bucket, or the like. The spacer apparatus 10 can comprise a central body 18 having a top surface 20 and a bottom surface 22 wherein the central body can have a thickness. The central body 18 may include an opening 26 that can extend from the top surface 20 and the bottom surface 20, which can be designed to reduce weight without compromising the structural integrity of the apparatus wherein the opening 26 can be such as, for example, square, circular, hexagonal or the like. The opening 26 can be indent within the central body 18 or can go all the way through the central body 18. The central body 18 can provide the structural integrity and serving as the primary support between the buckets. The central body 18 can be made of such as, for example, plastic, metal, composite, carbon fiber, ceramic, or the like.

[0024]The central body 18 can have a peripheral edge configuration that can be, for example, smooth and continuous, scalloped, segmented, or featuring protrusions or indentations that correspond to specific bucket geometries. The outer perimeter of the central body 18 can have a dimension ranging from, for example, 3 inches to 15 inches in diameter or equivalent cross-sectional measurement, and more preferably from 5 inches to 12 inches, and still more preferably from 7 inches to 10 inches. The central body 18 can be dimensioned to fit within the interior diameter of standard buckets while maintaining clearance from the inner surface 68 ranging from, for example, 0.125 inches to 2 inches, and more preferably from 0.25 inches to 1 inch.

[0025]In other embodiments, the central body 18 can further have identification features such as, for example, embossed or debossed markings, labels, serial numbers, QR codes, RFID tags, or other tracking elements that enable inventory management, authentication, or quality control. The central body 18 can include measurement indicators or calibration markings that assist users in proper placement or stacking procedures. In advanced embodiments, the central body 18 can have smart technology elements such as, for example, embedded sensors for load monitoring, wireless communication modules for inventory tracking, or indicator lights for status communication.

[0026]In embodiments, the spacer apparatus 10 can further comprise at least two legs 12 that can extend from the bottom surface 22 of the central body 18. In the preferred embodiment, the spacer apparatus 10 can comprise four legs 12 forming an X-shape configuration wherein each leg can have a foot 14, and wherein the X-shape provides symmetrical load distribution across four quadrants of the apparatus. The four-leg X-shape configuration can have legs positioned at approximately 90-degree intervals around the central body 18, or can be positioned at asymmetrical intervals such as, for example, 85 degrees, 95 degrees, 88 degrees, and 92 degrees to accommodate non-uniform bucket geometries or to optimize contact with specific bucket designs. The X-shape configuration can have leg axes that intersect at the geometric center of the central body 18 or can have leg axes that are offset from the center to create asymmetric load distribution patterns suited for specialized applications.

[0027]In embodiments, each of the at least two legs can have an aperture wherein the aperture and the opening are dimensioned to reduce weight by 15% to 65%. The weight reduction achieved through the incorporation of apertures and openings can range from, for example, 15% to 65% compared to solid, non-apertured equivalents, and more preferably from 25% to 55%, and still more preferably from 30% to 45%. The apertures 24 in the legs 12 can be dimensioned such that the remaining material frame surrounding each aperture maintains minimum frame widths that can be sufficient to resist bending moments, shear forces, and local buckling. The minimum frame width can be expressed as a function of leg width, ranging from, for example, 15% to 45% of the total leg width, and more preferably from 20% to 40%, and still more preferably from 25% to 35%. For legs having widths of 2 inches, this corresponds to minimum frame widths of 0.30 inches to 0.90 inches, and more preferably 0.40 inches to 0.80 inches, and still more preferably 0.50 inches to 0.70 inches. The opening 26 can occupy, such as, for example, 15% to 75% of the central body cross-sectional area, and more preferably 25% to 65%, and still more preferably 35% to 55% of the area.

[0028]The apertures 24 and opening 26 can be positioned to avoid critical stress concentration regions such as, for example, the junctions where legs 12 attach to the central body 18, the junctions where feet 14 attach to legs 12, regions near external corners or edges, and regions subjected to maximum bending moments. The apertures can be positioned at distances from leg-body junctions ranging from, for example, 0.5 inches to 3 inches, and more preferably from 0.75 inches to 2.5 inches, and still more preferably from 1 inch to 2 inches. This separation distance can allow stress concentrations at the junctions to dissipate before encountering the stress concentrations associated with the aperture edges.

[0029]In alternative embodiments, the apparatus can comprise three legs 12 arranged in a triangular configuration wherein the legs are positioned at approximately 120-degree intervals around the central body 18, providing stable three-point contact support. The triangular configuration can have equilateral spacing wherein all three legs are equally spaced or can have isosceles or scalene configurations wherein leg spacing varies to accommodate bucket geometries having non-circular cross-sections or asymmetric weight distributions. The three-leg configuration can be particularly advantageous for buckets having tapered sidewalls, as the three-point contact can better accommodate variations in bucket diameter while maintaining stable support.

[0030]In further alternative embodiments, the apparatus can comprise two legs 12 arranged in an opposed configuration wherein the legs extend from opposite sides of the central body 18 at approximately 180-degree separation. The two-leg opposed configuration can be oriented to align with specific bucket features such as, for example, handle attachment points, seam lines, reinforcement ribs on the bucket interior, or label placement areas. The two-leg configuration can provide support for lighter-duty applications while minimizing material usage and manufacturing costs. In certain two-leg embodiments, the legs 12 can have increased width dimensions compared to three-leg or four-leg configurations to compensate for the reduced number of support points and maintain equivalent load-bearing capacity.

[0031]In embodiments, the legs 12 can be spaced such as, for example, at least 5 inches to 15 inches apart, and even more preferably 8 inches to 12 inches apart and still even more preferably 10.25 inches apart from the adjacent legs, which can provide a support area on the bucket bottom surface 66. The legs 12 can extend angularly from the bottom surface 22 of the central body 18 at oblique angles relative to the central body plane, allowing for even distribution of the bucket's weight across the apparatus 10 and providing structural rigidity through triangulated geometry. The angle of leg extension can range from such as, for example, 15 degrees to 75 degrees relative to a horizontal plane parallel to the central body 18, and more preferably from 25 degrees to 65 degrees, and still more preferably from 35 degrees to 55 degrees, and most preferably from 40 degrees to 50 degrees. An angle of approximately 45 degrees can provide optimal balance between vertical load support and resistance to lateral forces.

[0032]In certain embodiments, all legs 12 can extend at substantially identical angles to provide symmetrical load distribution. In alternative embodiments, different legs 12 can extend at different angles to accommodate asymmetric bucket geometries, tapered bucket sidewalls, or to provide preferential load distribution in specific directions. The angular extension can be configured to position the feet 14 at elevations that are, for example, 3 inches to 8 inches below the bottom surface 22 of the central body 18, and more preferably from 4 inches to 6 inches, and still more preferably from 4.2 inches to 4.8 inches below the central body.

[0033]The angular extension of the legs 12 can create a frustoconical or pyramidal support structure wherein the footprint area at the level of the feet 14 is larger than the cross-sectional area of the central body 18, thereby increasing stability and resistance to tipping. The ratio of the footprint diameter (measured at the feet 14) to the central body diameter can range from, for example, 1.2:1 to 3:1, and more preferably from 1.4:1 to 2.5:1, and still more preferably from 1.5:1 to 2:1. This geometric relationship can provide progressively increasing stability as load increases, as the angular legs can better resist both axial compression and lateral displacement forces. The angled legs 12 can increase the base area of contact between the apparatus 10 and the bucket surfaces, distributing weight more evenly across a larger surface area and reducing the risk of tipping, shifting, or instability during bucket stacking, transportation, or storage operations.

[0034]In other embodiment, the legs 12 can have cross-sectional shapes such as, for example, radiused or rounded profiles, circular profiles, square profiles, polygonal profiles (such as hexagonal, octagonal), trapezoidal profiles, I-beam profiles, T-beam profiles, C-channel profiles, L-angle profiles, or other structural shapes commonly used in engineering applications. Circular cross-sections can have diameters ranging from, for example, 0.25 inches to 2 inches, and more preferably from 0.5 inches to 1.5 inches. I-beam or T-beam configurations can provide enhanced bending resistance with minimal material usage, having web heights ranging from 0.5 inches to 3 inches and flange widths ranging from 0.5 inches to 3 inches.

[0035]In embodiments, the angled legs 12 can increase the base area of contact, distributing weight more evenly and reducing the risk of tipping from bucket to bucket. The at least two legs 12 and foot 14 can have a thickness and a width. The at least two legs 12 can be shaped like a rectangle with angled ends 30 increasing the contact surface area between the bottom or top surface of the bucket or can be such as, for example, radiused, circular, square, polygonal, or the like. The foot 14 can be flat or angled and can have a textured surface allowing the apparatus to grip onto and adjust to different bucket bottom surfaces which may have cement, paint or other contaminants on the bottom surface.

[0036]In embodiments, the central body 18 and the at least two legs 12 can be manufactured as a monolithic one-piece structure through processes such as, for example, injection molding, compression molding, transfer molding, thermoforming, rotational molding, blow molding, casting (including die casting, investment casting, sand casting), forging, stamping, machining (including CNC milling, turning, EDM), or additive manufacturing (including fused deposition modeling, selective laser sintering, stereolithography, multi-jet fusion, binder jetting). In other embodiments, the central body 18 and the at least two legs 12 can be manufactured as separate components and subsequently joined through assembly processes. Assembly methods for multi-piece construction can include, such as, for example, mechanical fastening (using screws, bolts, rivets, pins, clips, snap-fits), adhesive bonding (using epoxies, cyanoacrylates, polyurethanes, acrylics), welding (including ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, laser welding, resistance welding for plastics; TIG, MIG, or resistance welding for metals), brazing, soldering, or hybrid combinations of multiple joining methods. In other embodiments, the junction between the legs 12 and the central body 18 can have reinforcing elements such as, for example, gussets, brackets, sleeve bearings, bushings, or insert molded threaded fasteners that enhance joint strength and prevent loosening or separation during use.

[0037]In embodiments, the at least two legs 12 can be made from the same material as the central body 18 or can made from, such as, for example, plastic, metal, composite, carbon fiber, ceramic, or the like wherein when plastic material is used, the apparatus can allow for color variation. The color variation can be achieved through pigmentation or dyeing processes during manufacturing, enabling production in colors such as red, blue, green, yellow, black, white, or custom colors, wherein different colors can such as, for example, facilitate organizational systems, visual identification of load capacities, size differentiation, industry-specific color-coding protocols or the like. The central body 18 and the at least two legs 12 can be made from one piece or can be made from multiple pieces. In certain embodiments, the spacer apparatus 10 can comprise a reinforcement system for the at least two legs 12, wherein each leg comprises an integrated reinforcement rib extending from the interior surface of the leg to the inner surface of the central body 18. The reinforcement ribs can provide additional load-bearing capacity and resistance to lateral forces, thereby increasing the overall stability of the apparatus during use under various load conditions.

[0038]In embodiments, the foot 14 can be configured as a planar or substantially planar surface that contacts the bucket surface or can have three-dimensional contours. The foot 14 can be flat, meaning it lies in a single plane and provides uniform contact pressure across its entire area. In alternative embodiments, the foot 14 can be angled relative to the leg axis to better conform to angled bucket surfaces or tapered bucket sidewalls. The foot angle relative to the leg axis can range from, for example, 0 degrees (flat, perpendicular to leg) to 45 degrees, and more preferably from 5 degrees to 35 degrees, and still more preferably from 10 degrees to 25 degrees.

[0039]In other embodiments, the foot 14 can have a textured surface configured to enhance friction and grip characteristics, allowing the apparatus to grip onto bucket surfaces and adjust to different bucket bottom surface conditions which may have surface contaminants such as cement residue, paint, adhesive residues, dirt, oil, grease, rust, oxidation, or other materials. The textured surface can comprise features such as, for example, raised ridges, recessed grooves, dimples, knurling, cross-hatching, diamond patterns, pyramid structures, hemispherical protrusions, concentric circles, radial patterns, or random texturing. The texture features can have dimensions such as, for example, heights or depths ranging from 0.005 inches to 0.125 inches, and more preferably from 0.010 inches to 0.075 inches, and spacing between features ranging from 0.020 inches to 0.500 inches.

[0040]In certain embodiments, the foot 14 can have elastomeric or compliant materials that deform to conform to irregular bucket surfaces, further enhancing grip and vibration damping characteristics. The elastomeric material can have a durometer hardness ranging from, such as, for example, Shore A 20 to Shore A 90, and more preferably from Shore A 40 to Shore A 80. The elastomeric material can comprise, for example, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone rubber, neoprene, EPDM rubber, or other compliant materials.

[0041]In other embodiments, the apparatus 10 can have a foldable configuration wherein the at least two legs 12 can be coupled to the central body 18 via articulating joints wherein the joints are positioned at the intersection of each leg and the central body, enabling controlled inward folding movement of the legs. The folding mechanism can maintain structural integrity in both deployed and folded configurations while providing compact storage capabilities when not in use. The joint can prevent unintended folding during operation while allowing deliberate actuation when reconfiguration is desired, ensuring reliable performance in both static and dynamic loading conditions.

[0042]In another embodiment, of the apparatus 10 can have adjustable leg that enable variable spacing between stacked containers and accommodate containers of different dimensions. The adjustable at least two legs 12 may be implemented through various mechanical configurations, including such as, for example, telescopic mechanisms featuring nested segments that extend and retract to achieve desired lengths, threaded adjustment systems allowing precise length control through rotational movement, ratchet mechanisms providing predetermined increment adjustments with secure positioning, snap-button mechanisms enabling rapid length adjustment with predefined position settings, and expandable insert systems that can be modified to achieve various extension lengths. These adjustment mechanisms are engineered to maintain precise positioning under load while providing sufficient range of motion to accommodate various container sizes.

[0043]The adjustable at least two legs 12 can have a locking mechanism to maintain selected positions during operation. The locking system may be implemented through various means, including such as, for example, locking pins that engage through aligned apertures in adjustable segments, snap connections featuring positive engagement between components, tension knobs that create frictional force to maintain position, magnetic locking systems utilizing permanent, electromagnetic forces, and button lock mechanisms providing quick-release capability with secure retention or the like. The locking system can prevent unintended movement or position changes during operation while allowing intentional adjustments when required. All components of the adjustment and locking systems are manufactured from materials selected for their durability, wear resistance, and ability to maintain dimensional stability under repeated use.

[0044]Each adjustable leg 12 can includes integrated calibration markings or indicators to facilitate precise and repeatable positioning, while the adjustment mechanisms are designed to operate smoothly while maintaining structural integrity throughout their range of motion. The locking system can have a redundant security feature to prevent unintended disengagement, ensuring reliable performance in various operating conditions. The adjustable leg can further be enhanced by the incorporation of anti-rotation features preventing unintended movement during adjustment, wear-resistant surfaces at points of mechanical interaction, environmental sealing to protect adjustment mechanisms, ergonomic activation controls for adjustment operations, and visual indicators confirming proper engagement of locking mechanisms.

[0045]In embodiments, the height of the legs 12 can be such as, for example, at least 3.5 to 6 inches, and even more preferably 4 to 5 inches and still more preferably 4.20 to at least 4.45 inches. The central body can further comprise at least one tab 28 which can partially extend from the top surface 20. The tab 28 can have a height of such as, for example, at least 0.05 to at least 0.125 inches, and more preferably at least 0.06 to at least 0.10 inches, and still more preferably at least 0.08 inches. The tabs 28 can be such as, for example, rectangular, square, circular, polygonal, or the like in shape. The tabs 28 and the foot 14 can have a textured surface wherein the textured surface enhances the grip and stability of the apparatus, minimizing slipping or movement during use. The textured surfaces can be implemented through patterns such as, for example, ridges, grooves, or raised elements, which improve friction and provide secure contact with bucket surfaces or other objects.

[0046]In embodiments, the spacer apparatus 10 can be dimensioned to establish predetermined spatial relationships between vertically stacked buckets. The apparatus 10 can engage with both the outer surface 62 and inner surface 68 of stacked buckets in a vertical stack configuration. This engagement is facilitated through a plurality of tabs 28 positioned on the top surface 20 of the central body 18, wherein the tabs are configured to engage with the outer surface 62 of a second bucket positioned above a first bucket. The at least two legs 12 and their associated foot members 14 extend from the bottom surface 22 of the central body 18 and are configured to contact the inner surface 68 of the first bucket, thereby positioning the central body 18 within the interior space of the first bucket. This dual-surface engagement pattern creates a stable stacking configuration wherein the tabs 28 prevent the upper bucket from fully nesting into the lower bucket by contacting its outer surface 62, while the legs 12 and feet 14 provide stable support by contacting the inner surface 68 of the lower bucket. This engagement pattern may be replicated for each subsequent bucket added to the vertical stack arrangement, ensuring consistent spacing throughout the entire stack.

[0047]The configuration described above can establish a controlled separation space 70 between adjacent buckets, effectively preventing bucket-to-bucket contact and subsequent sealing or adhesion between surfaces. This separation space 70 can be precisely controlled within specific dimensional parameters, ranging from such as, for example from 0.01 inches to 1.00 inches and even more preferred at least 0.03 inches to 0.75 inches, and still more preferred range of 0.05 inches to 0.10 inches, which can provide optimal balance between stack stability and space efficiency.

[0048]In other embodiments, the spacer apparatus 10 can be equipped with an integrated monitoring systems comprising various sensors. The monitoring components can include strain gauges for deformation monitoring, load cells for weight measurement, force-sensitive sensors for pressure detection, capacitive sensors for position and alignment monitoring, and resistive sensors for load distribution analysis. The monitoring systems can be configured to detect improper stacking configurations, monitor real-time load distribution, alert users when bucket weight limits are approached or exceeded, and provide continuous feedback regarding stack stability and alignment.

[0049]The sensor systems incorporated into these alternative embodiments are calibrated to specific parameters, including maximum allowable stack height, critical load thresholds, acceptable alignment tolerances, and dynamic load distribution patterns. To support these monitoring capabilities, the apparatus may include integrated power sources, data processing capabilities, alert mechanisms, communication interfaces for external monitoring systems, and data logging capabilities for tracking usage patterns and load history.

[0050]In the embodiments featuring the monitoring system, all components can be selected and configured to maintain operational integrity under various environmental conditions. These conditions include temperature variations, humidity fluctuations, vibration exposure, impact events, and chemical exposure consistent with intended use environments. The robust design of these monitoring systems ensures reliable performance across the full range of expected operating conditions while maintaining the primary spacing and support functions of the apparatus.

[0051]The spacer apparatus 10 can be specifically engineered for optimizing the vertical stacking configuration of buckets, particularly buckets. The apparatus demonstrates superior structural integrity and durability characteristics, enabling sustained performance across diverse storage and transportation environments. The spacer apparatus 10 facilitates the support of cumulative mass loads from vertically stacked buckets while maintaining precise inter-bucket spacing parameters. This controlled spacing serves multiple critical functions: primarily, it prevents the transmission of excessive compressive forces that could result in structural compromise of the stored buckets, including but not limited to plastic deformation, stress fracturing, or catastrophic failure. Furthermore, the spacing creates dedicated channels for atmospheric circulation, effectively mitigating the risk of condensation accumulation and associated moisture-related degradation. The apparatus incorporates ergonomic considerations, specifically designed to minimize the required extraction force when removing individual buckets from the vertical array.

[0052]The apparatus 10 can have materials specifically selected for their mechanical properties, including high yield strength, superior wear resistance, and exceptional fatigue life characteristics under cyclic loading conditions. These material properties ensure sustained performance integrity throughout extended operational cycles. The apparatus 10 can have support members, including load-bearing legs and stabilizing tabs, engineered to optimize force distribution and enhance frictional engagement wherein this configuration can prevent lateral displacement and rotational movement during both static storage and dynamic transport conditions.

[0053]In closing, it is to be understood that although aspects of the present specification are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these disclosed embodiments are only illustrative of the principles of the subject matter disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosed subject matter is in no way limited to a particular methodology, protocol, and/or reagent, etc., described herein. As such, various modifications or changes to or alternative configurations of the disclosed subject matter can be made in accordance with the teachings herein without departing from the spirit of the present specification. Lastly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined solely by the claims. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those precisely as shown and described.

[0054]Certain embodiments are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the methods and devices described herein. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.