CA2267546C - Tool cases with pivotable holders - Google Patents
Tool cases with pivotable holders Download PDFInfo
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- CA2267546C CA2267546C CA 2267546 CA2267546A CA2267546C CA 2267546 C CA2267546 C CA 2267546C CA 2267546 CA2267546 CA 2267546 CA 2267546 A CA2267546 A CA 2267546A CA 2267546 C CA2267546 C CA 2267546C
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- lid
- pivotable component
- component holder
- holders
- pivotable
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Abstract
The case is generally upright, and has at least one item holder rotatably mounted therein, for rotation between a storage position and an access position. In the storage position, each holder is oriented parallel or close to parallel to the main plane of the case, to minimize space requirements. In the access position, each holder is oriented at an angle to the main plane of the case, such that the items angle outwardly from the case for easier access. Where two or more rotatable holders are used in the case, they preferably are ganged together, such that they rotate in unison. With the lid of the case open, or upon opening or removal of the lid, the item holders are able to rotate or be rotated to the access position. In some embodiments, they may rotate to the access position automatically upon opening of the lid, either by gravity or by virtue of a spring. In other embodiments, gravity may keep the holders in the storage position until they are manually moved to the access position, where they may then remain by gravity. In still other embodiments, the holders may be configured to rotate to the access position by gravity or by a spring, but may be prevented from doing so by a releasable catch or by a detent or the like. Once in the access position, the holders may be rotated back to their storage positions and retained there by gravity or a catch or detent or the like, or in some embodiments may only be returned and retained in their storage positions by closing the lid.
Description
TOOL CASES WITH PIVOTABLE HOLDERS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to tool containers or cases, particularly ones used for sale and/or storage of items such as sockets, bits, drills and/or other tool components, accessories and miscellaneous items, for use with corresponding tools such as socket wrenches, screwdrivers, drills, small power tools, etc., which may or may not be sold and/or stored in the same case. Such cases include those commonly referred to as gift cases, tool cases or accessory cases, which may act as point-of-purchase holders and/or which may serve as permanent holders.
Cases of this general type are well known, and typically include an open box portion and a lid hinged to the box portion, with a clip, a clasp or the like to hold the lid closed. Various means are provided within such cases for holding tools, tool components and/or accessories, such as those mentioned in the preceding paragraph, hereinafter simply referred to as "items" or "the items", for convenience.
Most cases of this type are configured to be stacked horizontally or to be hung vertically at the point of sale, but to be opened when lying on a horizontal surface, although some may be configured to hang on the wall or to sit generally upright.
Many such cases have multiple storage recesses or compartments forthe items. When such recesses or compartments are oriented such that the items are oriented parallel or close to parallel to the main plane of the case, it can be difficult to remove the items. Angling the recesses or compartments so that the items are oriented at an angle to the main plane of the case makes the items more accessible, but normally takes up much more space, and therefore normally requires a larger case than is desirable.
There is a need for an improved case which would provide for a typical point of sale display, which would be capable of hanging vertically or standing vertically or somewhat inclined, and which would provide easy access to items without wasted space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of the preceding, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved case for items such as tools, tool components and accessories, etc.
as referred to above, configured for generally upright orientation. By "generally upright", what is meant is that the main plane of the case is intended to be vertical, or somewhat inclined or angled back from the vertical as illustrated in the following description of the preferred embodiment, as opposed to being horizontal or nearly horizontal. By "main plane", what is meant is the plane to which most elements of the case are closest, i.e.
normally a plane parallel to and midway between the front and back of the case.
To improve access to the items in the case, the case has at least one and preferably several holders which are rotatably mounted therein, for rotation between a storage position and an access position. Each holder may have multiple recesses to accommodate multiple small items, or perhaps only one or two recesses for only one or two larger items.
In the access position, the holders are oriented at an angle to the main plane of the case, such that the items angle outwardly from the case for easier access.
In the storage position, each holder is more aligned with the main plane of the case, for example oriented parallel or close to parallel to the main plane, to minimize space requirements.
In preferred embodiments, to minimize space requirements, any holders which are in the access position must be rotated to their storage positions in order for the lid to close. With the holders in the access position, the lid could not be closed, unless excessive space was wasted beneath the lid. If any holders are in the access position, the action of closing the lid moves them to the storage position, by contacting one or more of the holders, or one or more items in the holders. In alternative embodiments, which are less preferable, it could be possible to close the lid without rotating the holders to their storage positions.
Another aspect of the invention is that where two or more rotatable holders are used in the case, they preferably are ganged together, such that they rotate in unison. If rotated to their storage positions by closing of the lid as in the preferred embodiment, the lid thus could act on any individual holder or item(s) in any individual holder.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to tool containers or cases, particularly ones used for sale and/or storage of items such as sockets, bits, drills and/or other tool components, accessories and miscellaneous items, for use with corresponding tools such as socket wrenches, screwdrivers, drills, small power tools, etc., which may or may not be sold and/or stored in the same case. Such cases include those commonly referred to as gift cases, tool cases or accessory cases, which may act as point-of-purchase holders and/or which may serve as permanent holders.
Cases of this general type are well known, and typically include an open box portion and a lid hinged to the box portion, with a clip, a clasp or the like to hold the lid closed. Various means are provided within such cases for holding tools, tool components and/or accessories, such as those mentioned in the preceding paragraph, hereinafter simply referred to as "items" or "the items", for convenience.
Most cases of this type are configured to be stacked horizontally or to be hung vertically at the point of sale, but to be opened when lying on a horizontal surface, although some may be configured to hang on the wall or to sit generally upright.
Many such cases have multiple storage recesses or compartments forthe items. When such recesses or compartments are oriented such that the items are oriented parallel or close to parallel to the main plane of the case, it can be difficult to remove the items. Angling the recesses or compartments so that the items are oriented at an angle to the main plane of the case makes the items more accessible, but normally takes up much more space, and therefore normally requires a larger case than is desirable.
There is a need for an improved case which would provide for a typical point of sale display, which would be capable of hanging vertically or standing vertically or somewhat inclined, and which would provide easy access to items without wasted space.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of the preceding, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved case for items such as tools, tool components and accessories, etc.
as referred to above, configured for generally upright orientation. By "generally upright", what is meant is that the main plane of the case is intended to be vertical, or somewhat inclined or angled back from the vertical as illustrated in the following description of the preferred embodiment, as opposed to being horizontal or nearly horizontal. By "main plane", what is meant is the plane to which most elements of the case are closest, i.e.
normally a plane parallel to and midway between the front and back of the case.
To improve access to the items in the case, the case has at least one and preferably several holders which are rotatably mounted therein, for rotation between a storage position and an access position. Each holder may have multiple recesses to accommodate multiple small items, or perhaps only one or two recesses for only one or two larger items.
In the access position, the holders are oriented at an angle to the main plane of the case, such that the items angle outwardly from the case for easier access.
In the storage position, each holder is more aligned with the main plane of the case, for example oriented parallel or close to parallel to the main plane, to minimize space requirements.
In preferred embodiments, to minimize space requirements, any holders which are in the access position must be rotated to their storage positions in order for the lid to close. With the holders in the access position, the lid could not be closed, unless excessive space was wasted beneath the lid. If any holders are in the access position, the action of closing the lid moves them to the storage position, by contacting one or more of the holders, or one or more items in the holders. In alternative embodiments, which are less preferable, it could be possible to close the lid without rotating the holders to their storage positions.
Another aspect of the invention is that where two or more rotatable holders are used in the case, they preferably are ganged together, such that they rotate in unison. If rotated to their storage positions by closing of the lid as in the preferred embodiment, the lid thus could act on any individual holder or item(s) in any individual holder.
-2-In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising an element extending from said lid so as to contact a cam to rotate said cam, said cam being connected to a first pivotable component holder via an actuation bar, said element urging each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising an element extending from said lid so as to contact a first one of at least two pivotable component holders, said element being shaped so as to gradually rotate each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes, said pivotable component holders being ganged with said first pivotable component holder by ganging means.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said -2a-actuation means comprising a clip removably mounted on a linkage arm between said lid and a body of said container, said clip having an angled surface positioned to contact a first pivotable component holder and being shaped so as to gradually rotate each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising a tab extending from a first pivotable component holder so as to be contacted by a portion of said lid when said lid closes, said contact rotating each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, multiple pivotable component holders mounted in at least one removable tray, said actuation means urging each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided A tool container having at least one tool holding position therein and at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position, said tool container having actuation means responsive to placement of a tool in said tool holding position, said actuation means urging each said pivotable component holder to said storage position as said tool is placed in said tool holding position.
-2b-In use, the case is intended to be oriented generally upright, as defined above. Preferably, it is self-supporting, so that it can sit generally upright on a workbench, for example, and/or it can have mounting holes or other means to enable it to be hung on a wall or toolrack.
Different embodiments provide a variety of options as to how the case can operate. For example, in some embodiments, when the lid of the case is opened or not present, the pivot points for the holders may be positioned such that gravity keeps the holders in their storage positions until they are rotated to their access positions. Once the holders are in the access position, they preferably remain there by gravity.
Alternatively, the holders may rotate to the access position automatically upon opening of the lid, either by gravity or by virtue of a spring, and may be returnable to their storage positions only by closing the lid.
As another alternative, the holders may be biased to rotate to the access position by gravity or by a spring, but may be prevented from doing so by releasable retention means such as catch or detent arrangement or the like. The user would release the retention means when wanting to have the holders move to the access position, and could move the holders back to the storage position and re-engage the retention means at any desired time.
In yet another embodiment, there may be enough friction provided that the holders stay in whatever position they are placed.
In all embodiments, closing the lid preferably causes any holders which are in the access position to be rotated back to the storage position.
Preferably, there are multiple holders, and preferably they are ganged together via at least one gang bar such that the ganged holders move together.
Furtherfeatures of the invention will be described orwill become apparent in the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the case, with the lid open and the tool holders in their access position;
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising an element extending from said lid so as to contact a first one of at least two pivotable component holders, said element being shaped so as to gradually rotate each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes, said pivotable component holders being ganged with said first pivotable component holder by ganging means.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said -2a-actuation means comprising a clip removably mounted on a linkage arm between said lid and a body of said container, said clip having an angled surface positioned to contact a first pivotable component holder and being shaped so as to gradually rotate each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising a tab extending from a first pivotable component holder so as to be contacted by a portion of said lid when said lid closes, said contact rotating each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided a tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, multiple pivotable component holders mounted in at least one removable tray, said actuation means urging each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
In another aspect, there is provided A tool container having at least one tool holding position therein and at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position, said tool container having actuation means responsive to placement of a tool in said tool holding position, said actuation means urging each said pivotable component holder to said storage position as said tool is placed in said tool holding position.
-2b-In use, the case is intended to be oriented generally upright, as defined above. Preferably, it is self-supporting, so that it can sit generally upright on a workbench, for example, and/or it can have mounting holes or other means to enable it to be hung on a wall or toolrack.
Different embodiments provide a variety of options as to how the case can operate. For example, in some embodiments, when the lid of the case is opened or not present, the pivot points for the holders may be positioned such that gravity keeps the holders in their storage positions until they are rotated to their access positions. Once the holders are in the access position, they preferably remain there by gravity.
Alternatively, the holders may rotate to the access position automatically upon opening of the lid, either by gravity or by virtue of a spring, and may be returnable to their storage positions only by closing the lid.
As another alternative, the holders may be biased to rotate to the access position by gravity or by a spring, but may be prevented from doing so by releasable retention means such as catch or detent arrangement or the like. The user would release the retention means when wanting to have the holders move to the access position, and could move the holders back to the storage position and re-engage the retention means at any desired time.
In yet another embodiment, there may be enough friction provided that the holders stay in whatever position they are placed.
In all embodiments, closing the lid preferably causes any holders which are in the access position to be rotated back to the storage position.
Preferably, there are multiple holders, and preferably they are ganged together via at least one gang bar such that the ganged holders move together.
Furtherfeatures of the invention will be described orwill become apparent in the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the case, with the lid open and the tool holders in their access position;
-3-Fig. 2 is a perspective view with the lid closed;
Fig. 3 is a front view, with the lid closed;
Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective, showing the main components of the case;
Figs. 5A-5E are sequential side cross-sectional views, starting with the case closed in Fig. 5A, leading to the lid being fully open and the case being supported by it in Fig. 5E;
Figs. 6A and 6B are side cross-sectional views, Fig. 6A showing the tool holders in the storage position, and Fig. 6B showing the tools holders in the access position;
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the catch which holds the lid closed;
Fig. 8 is a front view of just one example of an alternative holder layout;
Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 8 alternative embodiment;
Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the base, showing a spring used to bias the holders towards the access position;
Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of one of the holders, showing a possible detent arrangement; and Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment, showing an optional fold-down bin in the front of the lower rotatable holder.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The case of the invention includes a main box portion or "base" 1 and a lid 2 hinged to the base, for example by two circular openings 3 on the lid which fit over circular projections 4 on the base. A clip 47 or other suitable securing means holds the lid shut. The base typically is blow molded or injection molded. One or more areas may be provided with holders for various items as aforesaid, either integral with the base, or on panels or other holders which are attached to the base. One or more of those holders attached to the base may be pivotable holders 10, which are rotatable between a storage position and an access position as explained above.
Various items 12 as aforesaid may be stored in recesses 13 in the pivotable holders 10. Each pivotable holder may have a number of item-holding clips,
Fig. 3 is a front view, with the lid closed;
Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective, showing the main components of the case;
Figs. 5A-5E are sequential side cross-sectional views, starting with the case closed in Fig. 5A, leading to the lid being fully open and the case being supported by it in Fig. 5E;
Figs. 6A and 6B are side cross-sectional views, Fig. 6A showing the tool holders in the storage position, and Fig. 6B showing the tools holders in the access position;
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the catch which holds the lid closed;
Fig. 8 is a front view of just one example of an alternative holder layout;
Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 8 alternative embodiment;
Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the base, showing a spring used to bias the holders towards the access position;
Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of one of the holders, showing a possible detent arrangement; and Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment, showing an optional fold-down bin in the front of the lower rotatable holder.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The case of the invention includes a main box portion or "base" 1 and a lid 2 hinged to the base, for example by two circular openings 3 on the lid which fit over circular projections 4 on the base. A clip 47 or other suitable securing means holds the lid shut. The base typically is blow molded or injection molded. One or more areas may be provided with holders for various items as aforesaid, either integral with the base, or on panels or other holders which are attached to the base. One or more of those holders attached to the base may be pivotable holders 10, which are rotatable between a storage position and an access position as explained above.
Various items 12 as aforesaid may be stored in recesses 13 in the pivotable holders 10. Each pivotable holder may have a number of item-holding clips,
-4-posts, recesses or other suitable means for holding the items, or may simply be a small bin or number of bins.
Each pivotable item holder 10 is mounted between side walls 14, via pivot pins 16 engaging in suitable holes or recesses. The side walls 14 may be the wall of the base itself, or as best seen in Fig. 4, there may be a module 17 which has two side walls 14, the module snapping into the base between an outside wall of the base and an intermediate wall 15.
In the preferred embodiment, there are several pivotable holders 10, at least some and preferably all of which are ganged together via a gang bar 18, so that when one is rotated, they all rotate. The gang bar connects the pivotable holders via gang pins 20 on the holders which fit into holes 22 in the gang bar (or bars, since one could be provided at either end of the holders if desired). The preferred embodiment also includes a particularly large pivotable holder 100 which is pivotally mounted between the side walls of the base, across the bottom of the base.
As explained in the above summary of the invention, different embodiments provide a variety of options as to how the case can operate. Thus depending on the preferred configuration for any particular case, the pivot pins 16 may be positioned so that the holders rotate or do not rotate by gravity from one position to the other, as desired. Thus in some embodiments, when the lid of the case is opened or not present, the pivot points for the holders may be positioned such that gravity keeps the holders in their storage positions until they are rotated to their access positions, and then once they are in the access position, the pivot points may be such that the holders remain there by gravity.
Alternatively, the pivot points may be selected such that the holders may rotate or tend to rotate by gravity to the access position automatically upon opening of the lid. Or, as shown in Fig. 10, a leaf spring 58 or some other suitable spring arrangement could be used to rotate ortend to rotate the holders to the access position.
If the holders are biased to rotate to the access position by gravity or by a spring, in some embodiments they may be prevented from doing so by releasable retention means such as a catch or detent arrangement or the like. This is particularly desirable if it is intended that the lid of the case will be removed, as for permanent wall hanging via wall mounting holes 80. The releaseable retention means could be a
Each pivotable item holder 10 is mounted between side walls 14, via pivot pins 16 engaging in suitable holes or recesses. The side walls 14 may be the wall of the base itself, or as best seen in Fig. 4, there may be a module 17 which has two side walls 14, the module snapping into the base between an outside wall of the base and an intermediate wall 15.
In the preferred embodiment, there are several pivotable holders 10, at least some and preferably all of which are ganged together via a gang bar 18, so that when one is rotated, they all rotate. The gang bar connects the pivotable holders via gang pins 20 on the holders which fit into holes 22 in the gang bar (or bars, since one could be provided at either end of the holders if desired). The preferred embodiment also includes a particularly large pivotable holder 100 which is pivotally mounted between the side walls of the base, across the bottom of the base.
As explained in the above summary of the invention, different embodiments provide a variety of options as to how the case can operate. Thus depending on the preferred configuration for any particular case, the pivot pins 16 may be positioned so that the holders rotate or do not rotate by gravity from one position to the other, as desired. Thus in some embodiments, when the lid of the case is opened or not present, the pivot points for the holders may be positioned such that gravity keeps the holders in their storage positions until they are rotated to their access positions, and then once they are in the access position, the pivot points may be such that the holders remain there by gravity.
Alternatively, the pivot points may be selected such that the holders may rotate or tend to rotate by gravity to the access position automatically upon opening of the lid. Or, as shown in Fig. 10, a leaf spring 58 or some other suitable spring arrangement could be used to rotate ortend to rotate the holders to the access position.
If the holders are biased to rotate to the access position by gravity or by a spring, in some embodiments they may be prevented from doing so by releasable retention means such as a catch or detent arrangement or the like. This is particularly desirable if it is intended that the lid of the case will be removed, as for permanent wall hanging via wall mounting holes 80. The releaseable retention means could be a
-5-special catch 47, for example. This catch includes a lower tongue portion 48 which engages a resilient tongue 46 projecting forwardly from the underside of the top of the base, and a lip 49 which catches a projection 50 to keep the case closed. When the lid is opened or removed, the tongue portion 48 releases the resilient tongue 46, which allows a catch 51 to latch onto a projection 45 from the uppermost holder 10, thereby preventing the holders from rotating to their access positions. The user can manually lift the resilient tongue to disengage the catch 51 from the projection 45, thereby allowing the holders to rotate to the access position. Fig. 6A shows the holders locked in their storage positions accordingly, and Fig. 6B shows the situation after the catch 51 has been disengaged to allow rotation of the holders to their access positions.
As a possibly simpler alternative retention means, a detent recess 56 may be provided in one of the side walls adjacent a rotatable holder, and the rotatable holder may have a projection 57 which pops into the detent recess to prevent rotation. A slight manual rotation force is sufficient to pop the projection out of the detent recess, to permit rotation. Obviously, any other conventional retention means could be used as well.
The user would release the retention means when wanting to have the holders move to the access position, and could move the holders back to the storage position and re-engage the retention means at any desired time.
In all embodiments, once rotated to their access positions, the item holders preferably should stay there by gravity or by a spring, although it is conceivable that another catch or detent arrangement, or other retention means, could be used to keep them in their access positions if they otherwise would want to return to their storage positions.
As an alternative, as mentioned above, there may be enough friction provided that the holders stay in whatever position they are placed. This friction could be provided by any suitable means, such as a slightly tight fit between the holders 10 and the sidewalls 14, or by a tight fit of the pivot pins 16.
In all embodiments, the pivotable holders 10 and 100 are not connected to the lid 2. However, when the lid is rotated towards the closed position, if any of the holders are in the access position, then preferably the lid comes into contact with at least one of the holders, or an item or items in at least one of the holders, to force it
As a possibly simpler alternative retention means, a detent recess 56 may be provided in one of the side walls adjacent a rotatable holder, and the rotatable holder may have a projection 57 which pops into the detent recess to prevent rotation. A slight manual rotation force is sufficient to pop the projection out of the detent recess, to permit rotation. Obviously, any other conventional retention means could be used as well.
The user would release the retention means when wanting to have the holders move to the access position, and could move the holders back to the storage position and re-engage the retention means at any desired time.
In all embodiments, once rotated to their access positions, the item holders preferably should stay there by gravity or by a spring, although it is conceivable that another catch or detent arrangement, or other retention means, could be used to keep them in their access positions if they otherwise would want to return to their storage positions.
As an alternative, as mentioned above, there may be enough friction provided that the holders stay in whatever position they are placed. This friction could be provided by any suitable means, such as a slightly tight fit between the holders 10 and the sidewalls 14, or by a tight fit of the pivot pins 16.
In all embodiments, the pivotable holders 10 and 100 are not connected to the lid 2. However, when the lid is rotated towards the closed position, if any of the holders are in the access position, then preferably the lid comes into contact with at least one of the holders, or an item or items in at least one of the holders, to force it
-6-towards its storage position. Since the holders preferably are ganged together, they thus all move towards their storage positions. Alternatively, the lid could come into contact with separate holders or items in separate holders individually, to move the holders to their storage positions.
If there is a large lower holder 100 as illustrated, then preferably it is provided with a tab 40 which can be readily used to pull open the holders or to push them closed. The tab serves another convenient purpose, which is to be acted on by the lid 2 when the lid is being closed, so as to rotate the holder 100 and any ganged holders to their storage positions. If desired, as shown in Fig. 12, the large holder 100 could have a fold-down bin 102 recessed into the front thereof, to provide a small storage area which can be accessed without opening the lid 2.
The preferred embodiment of the invention provides a means for having the case stand on its own, generally upright, angled somewhat back from the vertical.
As shown best in Figs. 5A-5E, when the lid 2 is rotated fully open, to past 270 degrees from its closed position, its recessed edge 60 supports the back wall of the base 1, thereby acting as a stand to support the base in a slightly reclined position.
When the lid is moved towards the closed position, the edge 60 comes into contact with the tab 40 to move the large holder 100 to its storage position, with the other holders following by virtue of being ganged. The surface of the lid 2 aligns with the outer surface of the large holder 100, such that visually the outer surface of the large holder becomes part of the cover. The large holder 100 cannot be opened in this position, because the tab 40 is trapped behind the lid.
The preferred embodiment preferably also permits hanging on a wall or toolrack, via mounting holes 80 in the back wall of the case. When hanging the case on the wall, the lid 2 can be left in place, or the user may prefer to remove it, simply by flexing the lid slightly to disengage the circular openings 3 on the lid from the circular projections 4 on the base.
It should be clearly understood that it is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific preferred embodiments described above. Thus there will be many variations which will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
If there is a large lower holder 100 as illustrated, then preferably it is provided with a tab 40 which can be readily used to pull open the holders or to push them closed. The tab serves another convenient purpose, which is to be acted on by the lid 2 when the lid is being closed, so as to rotate the holder 100 and any ganged holders to their storage positions. If desired, as shown in Fig. 12, the large holder 100 could have a fold-down bin 102 recessed into the front thereof, to provide a small storage area which can be accessed without opening the lid 2.
The preferred embodiment of the invention provides a means for having the case stand on its own, generally upright, angled somewhat back from the vertical.
As shown best in Figs. 5A-5E, when the lid 2 is rotated fully open, to past 270 degrees from its closed position, its recessed edge 60 supports the back wall of the base 1, thereby acting as a stand to support the base in a slightly reclined position.
When the lid is moved towards the closed position, the edge 60 comes into contact with the tab 40 to move the large holder 100 to its storage position, with the other holders following by virtue of being ganged. The surface of the lid 2 aligns with the outer surface of the large holder 100, such that visually the outer surface of the large holder becomes part of the cover. The large holder 100 cannot be opened in this position, because the tab 40 is trapped behind the lid.
The preferred embodiment preferably also permits hanging on a wall or toolrack, via mounting holes 80 in the back wall of the case. When hanging the case on the wall, the lid 2 can be left in place, or the user may prefer to remove it, simply by flexing the lid slightly to disengage the circular openings 3 on the lid from the circular projections 4 on the base.
It should be clearly understood that it is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific preferred embodiments described above. Thus there will be many variations which will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
-7-
Claims (16)
1. A tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising an element extending from said lid so as to contact a cam to rotate said cam, said cam being connected to a first pivotable component holder via an actuation bar, said element urging each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
2. A tool container as recited in claim 1, comprising at least two pivotable component holders, ganged with said first pivotable component holder by ganging means.
3. A tool container as recited in claim 2, where said ganging means is a gang bar connecting said pivotable component holders.
4. A tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising an element extending from said lid so as to contact a first one of at least two pivotable component holders, said element being shaped so as to gradually rotate each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes, said pivotable component holders being ganged with said first pivotable component holder by ganging means.
5. A tool container as recited in claim 4, where said ganging means is a gang bar connecting said pivotable component holders.
6. A tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising a clip removably mounted on a linkage arm between said lid and a body of said container, said clip having an angled surface positioned to contact a first pivotable component holder and being shaped so as to gradually rotate each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
7. A tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, said actuation means comprising a tab extending from a first pivotable component holder so as to be contacted by a portion of said lid when said lid closes, said contact rotating each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
8. A tool container as recited in claim 1, further characterized by manual locking means for locking each said pivotable component holder in said storage position notwithstanding said lid not being closed.
9. A tool container, having a base and a lid connected thereto for movement between open and closed positions, said base having at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position when said lid is open, said tool container having actuation means responsive to closing of said lid, said lid not directly connected to any said pivotable component holder, said actuation means being configured so as to contact a first said pivotable component holder as said lid closes so as to gradually rotate said first pivotable component holder to its storage position, multiple pivotable component holders mounted in at least one removable tray, said actuation means urging each said pivotable component holder to its storage position as said lid closes.
10. A tool container as recited in claim 9, further comprising manual locking means for locking said pivotable component holders in said storage position within each said removable trays.
11. A tool container having at least one tool holding position therein and at least one pivotable component holder pivotally mounted therein for pivoting movement between a storage position and an access position, each said pivotable component holder being biased towards said access position, said tool container having actuation means responsive to placement of a tool in said tool holding position, said actuation means urging each said pivotable component holder to said storage position as said tool is placed in said tool holding position.
12. A tool container as recited in claim 11, where said actuation means comprises a cam positioned in said tool holding position so as to be rotated by said tool when said tool is placed in said tool holding position, said cam being connected to a first pivotable component holder via an actuation bar, rotation of said cam producing rotation of said first pivotable component holder.
13. A tool container as recited in claim 12 comprising at least two pivotable component holders, ganged with said first pivotable component holder by ganging means.
14. A tool container as recited in claim 13, where said ganging means is a gang bar connecting said pivotable component holders.
15. A tool container as recited in claim 11 where said at least one pivotable component holder is manually pivotable between said storage position and said access position.
16. A tool container as recited in any one of claims 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 or 11, where a locking means prevents said component holder from pivoting until said locking means is manipulated by a user
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/058,454 | 1998-04-10 | ||
| US09/058,454 US5893457A (en) | 1998-04-10 | 1998-04-10 | Tool box |
| US09/129,768 | 1998-08-06 | ||
| US09/129,768 US6105770A (en) | 1997-08-08 | 1998-08-06 | Tool container with pivotable component holder |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2267546A1 CA2267546A1 (en) | 1999-10-10 |
| CA2267546C true CA2267546C (en) | 2008-03-18 |
Family
ID=29714509
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2267546 Expired - Fee Related CA2267546C (en) | 1998-04-10 | 1999-03-30 | Tool cases with pivotable holders |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2267546C (en) |
-
1999
- 1999-03-30 CA CA 2267546 patent/CA2267546C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2267546A1 (en) | 1999-10-10 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20180403 |