CA2402788C - Case with split panels - Google Patents
Case with split panels Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2402788C CA2402788C CA002402788A CA2402788A CA2402788C CA 2402788 C CA2402788 C CA 2402788C CA 002402788 A CA002402788 A CA 002402788A CA 2402788 A CA2402788 A CA 2402788A CA 2402788 C CA2402788 C CA 2402788C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- case
- panel sections
- box portion
- sections
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25H—WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT, e.g. FOR MARKING-OUT WORK; STORAGE MEANS FOR WORKSHOPS
- B25H3/00—Storage means or arrangements for workshops facilitating access to, or handling of, work tools or instruments
- B25H3/02—Boxes
- B25H3/021—Boxes comprising a number of connected storage elements
- B25H3/023—Boxes comprising a number of connected storage elements movable relative to one another for access to their interiors
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)
- Package Specialized In Special Use (AREA)
- Toys (AREA)
Abstract
The case has a box portion (1) and a lid (2), with panel sections (10, 12, 12', 35, 38) cooperatively configured to fit across the box portion, the panel sections being configured to accommodate articles such as tools and/or tool components, hobby items, craft kits, toys, etc.. The panel sections may or may not be secured to each other, and may or may not be on the same level relative to each other. There may be two such panel sections, or a number of panel sections. The panel sections may include an opening to accommodate a storage compartment (5) which projects upwardly from the bottom of the case and is accessible from the bottom of the case. In one embodiment, a lower one of the panel sections (35) has above it at least one smaller panel section (38) which is slidably mounted relative thereto.
Description
CASE WITH SPLIT PANELS
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention relates to a case for storing articles, particularly of the type used to display a tool set at the point of sale, and to subsequently store the tool set.
Such tool cases are commonly referred to as "gift cases".
BACKGROUND ART
For convenience, reference will be made to tools, tool components and tool cases throughout this specification. However, it should be clearly understood that the case could be used for other small articles such as hobby kits, craft kits, toys, etc.
Use of the word "tools" is thus for convenience and is not intended to be limiting.
Cases of the general type are well known, and typically include a base in the form of an open-topped box, and a lid hinged or otherwise mated with the box portion, with a clip or other means to retain the lid in the closed position.
For convenience, these main components will hereinafter be referred to as the base and the lid. The case typically provides recesses to accommodate various tools and components, such as, for example, a screwdriver and various bits therefor, these recesses typically being provided in a panel positioned across the top of the base. The lid frequently has a transparent face, or may be entirely transparent, so that the tools can be seen when the case is closed.
At present, the tendency is to use a unique case for each tool set.
However, this results in incurring the costs of a new mold whenever a new tool set is produced for the market. There is a need for a more universal tool case, which can accommodate many different tool set configurations, to reduce these mold costs and to provide greater flexibility in general.
One solution to this problem has been to mold one tool case with a lid and an open base which can be fitted with a panel to hold different tools and components, such as screwdriver bits and sockets. Therefore, the tool case can be made from the same mold and adapted to hold various tools by fitting the tool case with a different panel.
However, this solution does not offer sufficient flexibility. In a larger version of a tool case, it is often desirable to have the ability to not only exchange an entire panel (i.e. entire contents of a tool case), but also exchange only a section of a panel. This is particularly advantageous in a larger tool case because of the larger surface available. In this way, one panel section could accommodate, for example, a screwdriver and a complete set of bits or a ratchet and a complete set of sockets, while several other panel sections could be manufactured to provide various options for the rest of the tool case.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide an improved tool case, which provides greater flexibility in the tools which it may be adapted to hold at the point of sale.
Thus in the invention, the tool case is adapted to receive one or more panels or panel sections. These sections may or may not be secured to each other, and may or may not be removable.
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention relates to a case for storing articles, particularly of the type used to display a tool set at the point of sale, and to subsequently store the tool set.
Such tool cases are commonly referred to as "gift cases".
BACKGROUND ART
For convenience, reference will be made to tools, tool components and tool cases throughout this specification. However, it should be clearly understood that the case could be used for other small articles such as hobby kits, craft kits, toys, etc.
Use of the word "tools" is thus for convenience and is not intended to be limiting.
Cases of the general type are well known, and typically include a base in the form of an open-topped box, and a lid hinged or otherwise mated with the box portion, with a clip or other means to retain the lid in the closed position.
For convenience, these main components will hereinafter be referred to as the base and the lid. The case typically provides recesses to accommodate various tools and components, such as, for example, a screwdriver and various bits therefor, these recesses typically being provided in a panel positioned across the top of the base. The lid frequently has a transparent face, or may be entirely transparent, so that the tools can be seen when the case is closed.
At present, the tendency is to use a unique case for each tool set.
However, this results in incurring the costs of a new mold whenever a new tool set is produced for the market. There is a need for a more universal tool case, which can accommodate many different tool set configurations, to reduce these mold costs and to provide greater flexibility in general.
One solution to this problem has been to mold one tool case with a lid and an open base which can be fitted with a panel to hold different tools and components, such as screwdriver bits and sockets. Therefore, the tool case can be made from the same mold and adapted to hold various tools by fitting the tool case with a different panel.
However, this solution does not offer sufficient flexibility. In a larger version of a tool case, it is often desirable to have the ability to not only exchange an entire panel (i.e. entire contents of a tool case), but also exchange only a section of a panel. This is particularly advantageous in a larger tool case because of the larger surface available. In this way, one panel section could accommodate, for example, a screwdriver and a complete set of bits or a ratchet and a complete set of sockets, while several other panel sections could be manufactured to provide various options for the rest of the tool case.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide an improved tool case, which provides greater flexibility in the tools which it may be adapted to hold at the point of sale.
Thus in the invention, the tool case is adapted to receive one or more panels or panel sections. These sections may or may not be secured to each other, and may or may not be removable.
-2-In embodiments where the panel sections are secured to each other, this may be accomplished by any suitable means. One example would be by inserting a male dovetail tab molded to at least one side of a first panel section into a corresponding female dovetail recess defined within an adjacent side of a second panel section.
Many alternative positioning and securing means could be used for the panels or panel sections.
The panel sections may all be in the same plane, or may be "stepped" or even stacked, as will be described in greater detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings of a tool case, for example, in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view from above and to one side of the tool case (with recesses molded in the panel sections to retain tools and components not being shown);
Fig. 2 is a perspective view from below and to one side of the tool case;
Fig. 3 is a perspective view looking down on the top of the tool case with the lid open (again with recesses molded in the panel sections to retain tools and components not being shown);
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A;
Fig. 5 is an exploded cut away view detailing means of securing of one panel section to another;
Many alternative positioning and securing means could be used for the panels or panel sections.
The panel sections may all be in the same plane, or may be "stepped" or even stacked, as will be described in greater detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings of a tool case, for example, in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view from above and to one side of the tool case (with recesses molded in the panel sections to retain tools and components not being shown);
Fig. 2 is a perspective view from below and to one side of the tool case;
Fig. 3 is a perspective view looking down on the top of the tool case with the lid open (again with recesses molded in the panel sections to retain tools and components not being shown);
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A;
Fig. 5 is an exploded cut away view detailing means of securing of one panel section to another;
-3-Fig. 6 is an exploded view of the tool case (again with recesses molded in the panel sections to retain tools and components not being shown);
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the tool case along line B-B;
Fig. 8 is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of the invention detailing the tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 9 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the invention detailing alternative tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 10 is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of the invention detailing other alternative tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 11 is a plan view of yet another alternative embodiment of the invention detailing yet other alternative tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment where the panel sections are not connected to each other, but are cooperatively shaped to form the shape of a single larger panel;
Fig. 13 is a plan view of the panel sections of Fig. 12, showing a typical tool layout;
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative base, with an open bottom portion to receive a snap-in secondary storage means;
Fig. 15 is a perspective view of two panel sections which fit within the Fig.
14 base;
Fig. 16 is a cross-section of Fig. 15;
Figs. 17 and 18 are perspective views of four and six panel sections respectively, which fit within the Fig. 14 base;
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the tool case along line B-B;
Fig. 8 is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of the invention detailing the tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 9 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the invention detailing alternative tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 10 is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of the invention detailing other alternative tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 11 is a plan view of yet another alternative embodiment of the invention detailing yet other alternative tools to be retained within the panel sections;
Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment where the panel sections are not connected to each other, but are cooperatively shaped to form the shape of a single larger panel;
Fig. 13 is a plan view of the panel sections of Fig. 12, showing a typical tool layout;
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative base, with an open bottom portion to receive a snap-in secondary storage means;
Fig. 15 is a perspective view of two panel sections which fit within the Fig.
14 base;
Fig. 16 is a cross-section of Fig. 15;
Figs. 17 and 18 are perspective views of four and six panel sections respectively, which fit within the Fig. 14 base;
-4-
5 PCT/CA00/00341 Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a two-tiered arrangement, where there are two panel sections at different levels;
Fig. 20 is a view similar to Fig. 19, showing a third panel section which is movable along a track to selectively expose one portion or another of the panel section beneath it;
Fig. 21 is a cross-section of one version of Fig. 20, where a vertical connector panel is in one piece with the upper of the two panel sections;
Fig. 22 is a cross-section of an alternative version of Fig. 20, where the vertical connector panel is a separate piece;
Figs. 23 - 26 are perspective views of further alternative panel section configurations;
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention where the base of the tool case has an elevated molded storage compartment and an empty portion that can accept panel sections;
Fig. 28 is an elevation view showing two cooperative panels which are hinged to the box portion of the case;
Fig. 29 is a cross-section of the box portion of the case, showing grooves to accept a slide-in panel;
Fig. 30 is an example of a case with two slide-in panels;
Fig. 31 is an elevation view showing the grooves into which the panels slide;
Fig. 32 is a plan view of an embodiment having rotatable holders for tool components such as drill bits on one side, adjacent a partial panel which has other means such as compartments for carrying components;
Figs. 33A and 33B are side views, showing the rotatability of the holders;
Fig. 34 is a plan view showing a partial panel, and external compartments along one side of the case;
Fig. 35 is a corresponding side view of the case of Fig. 34;
Fig. 36 is a plan view showing an embodiment similar to that of Fig. 32, with stacked components along one side, which fit in divider/support elements in a slotted panel section;
Fig. 37 shows the Fig. 36 case closed;
Fig. 38 shows an exploded view of the Fig. 36 case;
Fig. 39 shows one panel section which could be fixed or sliding, for example, and an adjacent panel section which swivels to expose multiple compartments underneath it, created by dividers;
Fig. 40 is just another example of a possible configuration, with tools carried on one panel section, tool components on the adjacent panel section, and a compartment under the tool component panel section, accessible from the bottom of the case;
Fig. 41 is an example of a panel section within a panel section; and Fig. 42 is a cross-section of Fig. 41.
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Referring to the drawings, Figs. 1 and 2 show the case, which in this case is a tool case. The tool case includes a preferably plastic box portion 1 and a preferably transparent lid 2 hinged to the box portion, for example, by two hinges 3. A
plastic clip
Fig. 20 is a view similar to Fig. 19, showing a third panel section which is movable along a track to selectively expose one portion or another of the panel section beneath it;
Fig. 21 is a cross-section of one version of Fig. 20, where a vertical connector panel is in one piece with the upper of the two panel sections;
Fig. 22 is a cross-section of an alternative version of Fig. 20, where the vertical connector panel is a separate piece;
Figs. 23 - 26 are perspective views of further alternative panel section configurations;
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention where the base of the tool case has an elevated molded storage compartment and an empty portion that can accept panel sections;
Fig. 28 is an elevation view showing two cooperative panels which are hinged to the box portion of the case;
Fig. 29 is a cross-section of the box portion of the case, showing grooves to accept a slide-in panel;
Fig. 30 is an example of a case with two slide-in panels;
Fig. 31 is an elevation view showing the grooves into which the panels slide;
Fig. 32 is a plan view of an embodiment having rotatable holders for tool components such as drill bits on one side, adjacent a partial panel which has other means such as compartments for carrying components;
Figs. 33A and 33B are side views, showing the rotatability of the holders;
Fig. 34 is a plan view showing a partial panel, and external compartments along one side of the case;
Fig. 35 is a corresponding side view of the case of Fig. 34;
Fig. 36 is a plan view showing an embodiment similar to that of Fig. 32, with stacked components along one side, which fit in divider/support elements in a slotted panel section;
Fig. 37 shows the Fig. 36 case closed;
Fig. 38 shows an exploded view of the Fig. 36 case;
Fig. 39 shows one panel section which could be fixed or sliding, for example, and an adjacent panel section which swivels to expose multiple compartments underneath it, created by dividers;
Fig. 40 is just another example of a possible configuration, with tools carried on one panel section, tool components on the adjacent panel section, and a compartment under the tool component panel section, accessible from the bottom of the case;
Fig. 41 is an example of a panel section within a panel section; and Fig. 42 is a cross-section of Fig. 41.
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Referring to the drawings, Figs. 1 and 2 show the case, which in this case is a tool case. The tool case includes a preferably plastic box portion 1 and a preferably transparent lid 2 hinged to the box portion, for example, by two hinges 3. A
plastic clip
-6-4 secures the lid to the box portion in a conventional fashion, although any other suitable means to secure the lid could be used.
Figs. 2 and 7 show a generally rectangular molded storage compartment defined within the bottom surface of the box portion. The storage compartment is accessed via a door 6 hinged to the box portion at one end by two hinges 7 and secured to the box portion at the other end by a conventional clasp 8.
Fig. 3 shows the preferred embodiment of the invention where two plastic panel sections are secured within the box portion. A first panel section 12 is located toward the right side of the box portion and a second panel section 10 with a molded handle 11 extending therefrom is located toward the left side of the box portion. A
number of shapes are molded within the panel sections to accommodate a specific tool or a component, such as a screwdriver bit or a socket. In the interest of clarity, the shapes molded in the panels are not shown in some of the accompanying drawings.
Obviously, the handle 11 does not have to extend from one of the panel sections, but could extend from the body of the case, i.e. from the box portion 1.
Alternatively, there could be no handle at all.
Figs. 3 to 5 show that the panel sections may be secured to each other by inserting a male dovetail tab 21 projecting from preferably each edge of the first panel section 12 into a corresponding female dovetail recess 22 defined within each edge of the second panel section 10. However, any other suitable means of securing the panel sections to each other may be used, or the panels may not be secured to each other at all. When the two panel sections are joined to each other in the manner described herein, they in effect may form a single panel covering the open top of the box portion 1.
Figs. 2 and 7 show a generally rectangular molded storage compartment defined within the bottom surface of the box portion. The storage compartment is accessed via a door 6 hinged to the box portion at one end by two hinges 7 and secured to the box portion at the other end by a conventional clasp 8.
Fig. 3 shows the preferred embodiment of the invention where two plastic panel sections are secured within the box portion. A first panel section 12 is located toward the right side of the box portion and a second panel section 10 with a molded handle 11 extending therefrom is located toward the left side of the box portion. A
number of shapes are molded within the panel sections to accommodate a specific tool or a component, such as a screwdriver bit or a socket. In the interest of clarity, the shapes molded in the panels are not shown in some of the accompanying drawings.
Obviously, the handle 11 does not have to extend from one of the panel sections, but could extend from the body of the case, i.e. from the box portion 1.
Alternatively, there could be no handle at all.
Figs. 3 to 5 show that the panel sections may be secured to each other by inserting a male dovetail tab 21 projecting from preferably each edge of the first panel section 12 into a corresponding female dovetail recess 22 defined within each edge of the second panel section 10. However, any other suitable means of securing the panel sections to each other may be used, or the panels may not be secured to each other at all. When the two panel sections are joined to each other in the manner described herein, they in effect may form a single panel covering the open top of the box portion 1.
-7-The panel sections are mounted to the box portion by any suitable means, such as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, where posts 13 protruding from the bottom surface of the panel sections are inserted into corresponding female openings projecting upwardly from the bottom of the box portion 1. Clearly, a wide variety of alternative embodiments varying the locations ofthe posts and the female openings will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such alternatives are within the scope of this invention. The panel sections are secured to the box portion by, for example, two conventional plastic catches 14 projecting downwardly from the edge of the first panel section 12 and the edge of the second panel section 10 facing the front and rear ends of the box portion, respectively. As the panel sections are inserted into the box portion the catches snap onto corresponding molded ridges 16 projecting outwardly from the front and rear ends of the box portion, securing the panel sections within the box portion. However, any other suitable method of securing the panel sections, such as tabs, adhesives, hinges 17 (as shown in Fig. 28) or ultrasonic welding may be used and is within the scope of this invention. Fig. 29, for example, shows grooves 19 in the wall of the box portion 1, to receive a slide-in panel.
The securing of the panel sections could be of a permanent nature, as with ultrasonic welding, or it could be temporary, i.e. the panel sections could be removable. Another alternative is as shown in Fig. 28, where the panel sections 12 and 12' are "permanently" secured, but via hinges which provide access to,storage space 23 provided beneath the panels in the box portion. This additional storage space could be provided with divider walls if desired, for more efficient storage of small items.
Figs. 9 to 11 show three alternative configurations of the panel sections, to retain different types of tools and components. However, it should be clear that a _g_ wide variety of other embodiments could be used, to accommodate myriad tool types and related components. To accommodate these various combinations of tools and components, the number and shape of the panel sections can likewise be varied.
The available surface area may be subdivided diagonally, linearly, or by a combination thereof to yield two, three, four, or more panel sections. If desired, each panel section may be color-coded to represent various quality levels, configurations, sizes and types of tool or components (metric vs. English units, for example).
There are also many possible variations on the size and shape of the panel sections, as well as the methods of securing them to each other (if any), all of which are contemplated as being within the scope of the invention.
For example, Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment where the panel sections are not connected to each other, but are cooperatively shaped to form the shape of a single larger panel, Fig. 13 is a plan view of the panel sections of Fig. 12, showing a typical tool layout, as in Fig. 8.
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative base, with an open bottom portion 30 to receive a snap-in secondary storage means (such as a snap-in drawer unit, for example, accessible from underneath the case).
Fig. 15 is a perspective view of two panel sections which fit within the Fig.
14 base, one of the panel sections including an optional opening 31 for the snap-in secondary storage means to extend through, if desired, to provide such secondary storage means with greater depth.
Fig. 16 is a cross-section of Fig. 15, showing a tongue 32 and groove 33 connection between the two panels, although it should be clear that the panels are not necessarily connected to each other.
_g_ Figs. 17 and 18 are perspective views of four and six panel sections 35 respectively, which fit within the Fig. 14 base.
Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a two-tiered arrangement, where there are two panel sections 35 and 35' at different levels, with a vertical connector panel 36 between them.
Fig. 20 is a view similar to Fig. 19, showing a third panel section 38 which is movable along a track such as the groove 33, to selectively expose one portion or another of the panel section 35' beneath it;
Fig. 21 is a cross-section of one version of Fig. 20, where the vertical connector panel 36 is in one piece with the upper of the two panel sections.
Fig. 22 is a cross-section of an alternative version of Fig. 20, where the vertical connector panel 36 is a separate piece.
Figs. 23 - 26 are perspective views of further alternative panel section configurations. In Fig. 23, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into two sections, i.e. there are in effect four separate panel sections. In Fig.
24, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into three sections, i.e. there are six separate panel sections. In Fig. 25, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into two sections, and there is a sliding panel section 38, i.e. there are five separate panel sections. In Fig. 26, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into three sections, and there are two complementary sliding panel sections 38 and 38', i.e. there eight separate panel sections.
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an alternative base, with a portion 40 thereof being an elevated molded storage compartment. In this embodiment, the storage compartment extends the length of the base and an empty portion of the base adjacent to the storage compartment receives panel sections (not shown, but in a similar fashion as discussed above) to complete the surface. The top surface of the panel sections may be flush or stepped with the top surface of the compartment. The top surface of the compartment may be adapted (not shown) to receive tools while additional tools may be stored within the compartment.
Obviously these are examples only, and many other similar configurations are possible. It will thus be appreciated that the above description relates to the preferred embodiments by way of example only. Many variations on the invention will be obvious to those knowledgeable in the field, and such obvious variations are within the scope of the invention as described and claimed, whether or not expressly described.
For example, some further variations are as follows:
Fig. 30 is an example of a case with two slide-in panels. The panels could be of different colours, if desired. Or one panel could be fixed and the other could be slidable (for example to expose divided or undivided storage compartments underneath.
Perhaps only one panel section could be functional, and the other could be used to display a logo or other information such as product instructions.
Fig. 31 is an elevation view showing the grooves into which the panels slide.
Fig. 32 is a plan view of an embodiment having rotatable holders or slide trays for tool components such as drill bits on one side, adjacent a partial panel which has other means such as compartments for carrying components. Figs. 33A and are side views, showing the rotatability of the holders via tracks.
Figs. 34 and 35 show a case with a partial panel, and external compartments 160 along one side of the case.
Fig. 36 is a plan view showing an embodiment similar to that of Fig. 32, with stacked components along one side, which fit in divider/support elements in a slotted panel section, as can be seen most clearly from Figs. 37 and 38.
Fig. 39 shows one panel section which could be fixed or sliding, for example, and an adjacent panel section which swivels to expose a single compartment, or preferably multiple compartments created by dividers.
Fig. 40 shows another example of a possible configuration, with tools carried on one panel section, tool components on the adjacent panel section, and a compartment under the tool component panel section, accessible from the bottom of the case.
Figs. 41 and 42 show an example of a panel section within a panel section. Again the tool component portion, since it requires less depth, can accommodate a compartment underneath it, accessible from the bottom of the case.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
The invention provides an improved tool case which is configured to provide maximum flexibility in selection of panels or panel sections to be inserted therein.
The securing of the panel sections could be of a permanent nature, as with ultrasonic welding, or it could be temporary, i.e. the panel sections could be removable. Another alternative is as shown in Fig. 28, where the panel sections 12 and 12' are "permanently" secured, but via hinges which provide access to,storage space 23 provided beneath the panels in the box portion. This additional storage space could be provided with divider walls if desired, for more efficient storage of small items.
Figs. 9 to 11 show three alternative configurations of the panel sections, to retain different types of tools and components. However, it should be clear that a _g_ wide variety of other embodiments could be used, to accommodate myriad tool types and related components. To accommodate these various combinations of tools and components, the number and shape of the panel sections can likewise be varied.
The available surface area may be subdivided diagonally, linearly, or by a combination thereof to yield two, three, four, or more panel sections. If desired, each panel section may be color-coded to represent various quality levels, configurations, sizes and types of tool or components (metric vs. English units, for example).
There are also many possible variations on the size and shape of the panel sections, as well as the methods of securing them to each other (if any), all of which are contemplated as being within the scope of the invention.
For example, Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment where the panel sections are not connected to each other, but are cooperatively shaped to form the shape of a single larger panel, Fig. 13 is a plan view of the panel sections of Fig. 12, showing a typical tool layout, as in Fig. 8.
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative base, with an open bottom portion 30 to receive a snap-in secondary storage means (such as a snap-in drawer unit, for example, accessible from underneath the case).
Fig. 15 is a perspective view of two panel sections which fit within the Fig.
14 base, one of the panel sections including an optional opening 31 for the snap-in secondary storage means to extend through, if desired, to provide such secondary storage means with greater depth.
Fig. 16 is a cross-section of Fig. 15, showing a tongue 32 and groove 33 connection between the two panels, although it should be clear that the panels are not necessarily connected to each other.
_g_ Figs. 17 and 18 are perspective views of four and six panel sections 35 respectively, which fit within the Fig. 14 base.
Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a two-tiered arrangement, where there are two panel sections 35 and 35' at different levels, with a vertical connector panel 36 between them.
Fig. 20 is a view similar to Fig. 19, showing a third panel section 38 which is movable along a track such as the groove 33, to selectively expose one portion or another of the panel section 35' beneath it;
Fig. 21 is a cross-section of one version of Fig. 20, where the vertical connector panel 36 is in one piece with the upper of the two panel sections.
Fig. 22 is a cross-section of an alternative version of Fig. 20, where the vertical connector panel 36 is a separate piece.
Figs. 23 - 26 are perspective views of further alternative panel section configurations. In Fig. 23, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into two sections, i.e. there are in effect four separate panel sections. In Fig.
24, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into three sections, i.e. there are six separate panel sections. In Fig. 25, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into two sections, and there is a sliding panel section 38, i.e. there are five separate panel sections. In Fig. 26, the upper and lower panel sections 35 and 35' are each divided into three sections, and there are two complementary sliding panel sections 38 and 38', i.e. there eight separate panel sections.
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an alternative base, with a portion 40 thereof being an elevated molded storage compartment. In this embodiment, the storage compartment extends the length of the base and an empty portion of the base adjacent to the storage compartment receives panel sections (not shown, but in a similar fashion as discussed above) to complete the surface. The top surface of the panel sections may be flush or stepped with the top surface of the compartment. The top surface of the compartment may be adapted (not shown) to receive tools while additional tools may be stored within the compartment.
Obviously these are examples only, and many other similar configurations are possible. It will thus be appreciated that the above description relates to the preferred embodiments by way of example only. Many variations on the invention will be obvious to those knowledgeable in the field, and such obvious variations are within the scope of the invention as described and claimed, whether or not expressly described.
For example, some further variations are as follows:
Fig. 30 is an example of a case with two slide-in panels. The panels could be of different colours, if desired. Or one panel could be fixed and the other could be slidable (for example to expose divided or undivided storage compartments underneath.
Perhaps only one panel section could be functional, and the other could be used to display a logo or other information such as product instructions.
Fig. 31 is an elevation view showing the grooves into which the panels slide.
Fig. 32 is a plan view of an embodiment having rotatable holders or slide trays for tool components such as drill bits on one side, adjacent a partial panel which has other means such as compartments for carrying components. Figs. 33A and are side views, showing the rotatability of the holders via tracks.
Figs. 34 and 35 show a case with a partial panel, and external compartments 160 along one side of the case.
Fig. 36 is a plan view showing an embodiment similar to that of Fig. 32, with stacked components along one side, which fit in divider/support elements in a slotted panel section, as can be seen most clearly from Figs. 37 and 38.
Fig. 39 shows one panel section which could be fixed or sliding, for example, and an adjacent panel section which swivels to expose a single compartment, or preferably multiple compartments created by dividers.
Fig. 40 shows another example of a possible configuration, with tools carried on one panel section, tool components on the adjacent panel section, and a compartment under the tool component panel section, accessible from the bottom of the case.
Figs. 41 and 42 show an example of a panel section within a panel section. Again the tool component portion, since it requires less depth, can accommodate a compartment underneath it, accessible from the bottom of the case.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
The invention provides an improved tool case which is configured to provide maximum flexibility in selection of panels or panel sections to be inserted therein.
Claims (8)
1. A tool case comprising a box portion having an open top, and a lid securable onto said box portion, comprising at least one panel or panel section mounted within said box portion and having means for accommodating articles, no one said panel or panel section spanning the entire open top, where at least one of said panel sections is hinged to said box portion of said case so as to be pivotable upwardly therefrom.
2. A case as recited in claim 1, where there are two said panel sections hinged to said box portion adjacent opposite edges of said box portion, so as to fold down towards each other.
3. A case as recited in claim 1 or claim 2, where storage space is provided beneath at least one said panel section hinged to said box portion.
4. A case as recited in claim 3, where said storage space is accessible via an opening through said panel section.
5. A case as recited in any one of claims 1-4, characterized by a plurality of panel sections cooperatively spanning the entire open top of the box portion.
6. A case as recited in any one of claims 1-5, where the bottom surface of said box portion is recessed to define a storage compartment, said storage compartment being accessed from the underside of said box portion.
7. A case as recited in claim 6, where said storage compartment projects upwardly at least as far as the position of at least one of said panel sections, said at least one panel sections being provided with a corresponding aperture for said storage compartment.
8. A case as recited in any one of claims 1-7, where there are at least two panel sections at different levels relative to each other.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/CA2000/000341 WO2001074545A1 (en) | 2000-03-31 | 2000-03-31 | Case with split panels |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2402788A1 CA2402788A1 (en) | 2001-10-11 |
| CA2402788C true CA2402788C (en) | 2006-06-13 |
Family
ID=4143050
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002402788A Expired - Lifetime CA2402788C (en) | 2000-03-31 | 2000-03-31 | Case with split panels |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1268137A1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU2000235471A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2402788C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2001074545A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7322470B2 (en) | 2004-09-30 | 2008-01-29 | Black & Decker Inc. | Tool container |
| US7246704B2 (en) | 2004-10-04 | 2007-07-24 | Black & Decker Inc. | Tool and accessory container with inner grid system |
| US8646600B2 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2014-02-11 | The Plastic Forming Company, Inc. | Blow-molded tool kit |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE7835076U1 (en) * | 1979-04-12 | Hans Mesenhoeller Kg, 5630 Remscheid | Sales box for screwing tools | |
| US5271501A (en) * | 1993-02-12 | 1993-12-21 | Tung I Enterprise Co., Ltd. | Toolbox |
| US5526929A (en) * | 1995-03-30 | 1996-06-18 | Wei; Yong L. | Tool box with a cover, a base and a plate disposed between the cover and the base |
| DE29618465U1 (en) * | 1996-10-23 | 1996-12-19 | Knoblauch, Georg, 89537 Giengen | Tool cassette for elongated tools |
| EP1007291B1 (en) * | 1997-04-11 | 2002-07-17 | Maxtech Inc. | Tool case with externally-accessible compartments |
| US6755302B1 (en) * | 1998-08-14 | 2004-06-29 | Black & Decker Inc. | Tool container |
-
2000
- 2000-03-31 EP EP00913990A patent/EP1268137A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2000-03-31 CA CA002402788A patent/CA2402788C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2000-03-31 AU AU2000235471A patent/AU2000235471A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-03-31 WO PCT/CA2000/000341 patent/WO2001074545A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2001074545A1 (en) | 2001-10-11 |
| AU2000235471A1 (en) | 2001-10-15 |
| EP1268137A1 (en) | 2003-01-02 |
| CA2402788A1 (en) | 2001-10-11 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20200331 |
|
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20200331 |