EP1368203B1

EP1368203B1 - Storage device

Info

Publication number: EP1368203B1
Application number: EP01959336A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ross O. Youngs; George W. Manzke; Roger J. Gerdeman; James L. Weatherford
Original assignee: Univenture Inc
Current assignee: Univenture Inc
Priority date: 2001-03-13
Filing date: 2001-07-31
Publication date: 2005-11-16
Anticipated expiration: 2021-07-31
Also published as: WO2002072366A1; EP1368203A1; DE60115101T2; ES2248372T3; DE60115101D1; ATE309918T1

Abstract

A storage device (800, 900, 1000) for retaining one or more sheet items (12) for access by a user. In one embodiment, the storage device (800, 900, 1000) includes a storage device cover (16) having at least front and rear panels (18, 20). One or more first binding members (32) are associated with the storage device cover (16) and extend through apertures (14) formed in the sheet items (12) to register the sheet items relative to the cover (16). One or more second binding members (38) are hingedly connected to the storage device cover (16) and preferably operate independently of the front and rear panels (18, 20) of the cover (16) to engage the first binding members (32). Retained sheet items (12) are able to be moved from a first position lying generally parallel with the rear panel (20) to a second position distant therefrom.

Description

Field of the Invention

This present invention relates generally to storage devices and, more particulary, to a storage device for retaining one or more sheet items for access by a user.

Background of the invention

Storage devices for sheet materials such as paper or plastic film exist in a variety of shapes and constructions. One representative storage device is the ring binder (see for example GB-A-2 232 639), containing a front cover, back cover and spine, which encloses a two or three ring binding element which can be opened to introduce punched paper or similar sheet-like material and then reclosed. These binders are relatively expensive to manufacture because of both the cost of the binder mechanism and the labor to secure this mechanism onto the binder cover. In addition, the metal binder rings, particularly in larger dimensions, tend to become misaligned with use. As a result, over time the stored sheets do not turn freely over the rings, and can occasionally become ripped from the misaligned metal.

Another known binder device for punched sheets uses spaced flexible metal straps which are secured to a binder cover. These metal straps are in turn fed through holes punched in paper or similar sheet-like material and then secured in place by feeding the straps through holes in a separate upper plate and attaching the straps to the plate. This binder device does not permit the punched sheets to freely rotate in the metal straps. Rather, the sheets are maintained in a single orientation. With repeated opening and closing of the binder mechanism the metal straps become bent and do not attach as efficiently to the plate.

Yet another binding device incorporates a releasable tensioned plate secured to a binder cover which permits insertion of the sheets to be stored followed by tightening of the tensioning device. This binding device does not require prior hole punching of the sheets. Nonetheless, the device is susceptible to loosening, resulting in loss of sheets from the binding device. If the quantity of sheets becomes too large, it is possible for sheets near the center to fall out of the device even with the stack under tension. Also, the sheets are only maintainable in a single orientation; they cannot rotate relative to the tensioned plate.

Each of the above binder device designs permits the storage of a variable number of pages. Nonetheless, these designs incorporate binding mechanisms which require relatively complex manufacturing steps and the expenditure of labor in installing these mechanisms into a binder, as well as having deficiencies in effectively storing sheet materials.

There remains a need for a binder device which will effectively store a variable number of pages and will retain all stored pages, yet at the same time provide easy access to individual pages. It is also preferred that this type of binding device be produced inexpensively and be able to be used and reused with little risk of damage to the device or the stored sheets.

Summary of The Invention

The present invention is directed to a storage device for retaining a plurality of sheet items according to claim 1 for access by a user. The storage device includes a storage device cover having at least front and rear panels. First binding members, preferably in the form of spaced rigid or semi-rigid posts, are connected to the storage device cover and are operable to extend at least partially through the sheet items to register the sheet items relative to the storage device cover.

Second binding members, preferably in the form of elongated tongue members, are hingedly connected to the storage device cover and are preferably operable to move independently of the front and rear panels and into engagement with the first binding members. The first and second binding members form elongated binder straps upon which the sheet items are free to travel. The storage device of the present Invention provides temporary or permanent storage of the retained sheet Items, and is configured In a manner to permit the retained sheet Items to move from a first position lying generally parallel with the front and rear panels of the device to a second position distant therefrom.

Depending on the composition of the manufacturing material, the storage device of the invention may be constructed as a unitary molded piece. Alternately, the various components may be separately secured to the cover of the storage device, as by use of adhesives, by welding, by fastening means, or by other known bonding or attaching techniques.

The above and other objects and advantages of the present Invention shall be made apparent from the accompanying drawings and the description thereof.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated In and constitute a part of this specification. Illustrate embodiments of the Invention and, together with a general description of the Invention given above, and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

Fig. 1 is a top plan view of a storage device hot in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of Fig. 1 showing the storage device In an open position and illustrating an elongated tongue member moving Into engagement with a post member of the storage device;

Fig. 3 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing the storage device in an open position and illustrating the elongated tongue member engaged with the post member to form a binder strap;

Fig. 4 is a view similar to Fig. 3, showing the storage device in a closed position;

Fig. 5A is a partial side elevational view illustrating the elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5B is a view similar to Fig 5A illustrating the elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5C is a view similar to Fig 5A illustrating the elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with an another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 6 is a partial plan view showing the storage device of Fig. 1 and illustrating the elongated tongue member in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the storage device shown In Fig. 1 in the closed position;

Fig. 8A is a view similar to Fig. 1 showing a storage device not in accordance with the present invention:

Fig. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8B-8B of Fig. 8A showing the storage device in a closed position;

Fig. 8C is an enlargement of the circled area of Fig. 8B;

Fig. 9A is a partial side elevational view showing an elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 9B is a view similar to Fig. 9A showing the elongated tongue member engaged with the post member to form a binder strap;

Fig. 10A is a view similar to Fig. 9B showing an elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10B is an enlargement of the circled area of Fig. 10A;

Fig. 10C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10C-10C of Fig. 10B;

Fig. 11A is a partial plan view of a storage device Including a resilient clip in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11B-11B of Fig. 11A;

Fig. 11C is a view similar to Fig. 11A showing a resilient clip in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 11D is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11D-11D of Fig. 11C;

Fig 12A is a side elevational view of a storage device including supporting feet adapted to engage a support surface;

Fig. 12B is view taken along line 12B-12B of Fig. 12A;

Fig. 13A is a view similar to Fig. 9A showing an elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with an yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 13B is a view similar to Fig. 9B showing the elongated tongue member engaged with the post member to form a binder strap;

Fig. 14A and 14B are views similar to Figs. 9A and 9B, respectively, showing an elongated tongue member end post member in accordance with still yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 15A and 15B are views similar to Figs. 9A and 9B, respectively, showing an elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 16A and 16B are views similar to Figs. 9A and 9B, respectively, showing an elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with a yet further alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 17A and 17B are views similar to Figs. 9A and 9B, respectively, showing an elongated tongue member and post member in accordance with e still yet further alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 17C is a partial elevational view of the elongated tongue member and post member shown in Fig. 17A;

Fig. 18A is a partial side elevational view showing an elongated tongue member, post member and protuberance formed on a panel in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 18B is a view similar to Fig. 18A showing the elongated tongue member engaged with the post member to form a binder strap, and the protuberance operatively engaging the post member;

Figs. 19A and 19B are similar to Figs. 18A and 18B, respectively, showing an elongated tongue member, post member and protuberance formed on a panel in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 20A is a view similar to Fig. 1 showing a storage device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 20B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20B-20B of Fig. 20A;

Fig. 20C is a view similar to Fig. 20B, showing sheet items stored in the storage device;

Fig. 20D is view similar to Fig. 8B, showing the storage device of Figs. 20A-20C in a folded and closed position;

Fig. 21A is a view similar to Fig. 20A showing a storage device in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 21B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 21B-21B of Fig. 21A;

Fig. 21C is a view similar to Fig. 21B, showing sheet items stored in the storage device:

Fig. 21D is view similar to Fig. 8B, showing the storage device of Figs. 21A-21C in a folded and closed position:

Fig. 22A is a partial cross-sectional view of a post member in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 22B is a partial elevational view of the post member shown in Fig. 22A;

Fig. 23A is a partial cross-sectional view showing a post member and a post insert member disassembled;

Fig. 23B is a view similar to Fig. 23A showing the post member and the post insert member assembled;

Fig.24 is a view similar to Fig. 4 showing a sheet item of increased thickness stored in the storage device.

Detailed Description of the Preferred embodiment

With reference to the figures, and to Fig. 1 in particular, a storage device 10 not in accordance with the principles of the present invention is shown for retaining one or more sheet items 12 shown in phantom within the storage device 10. Sheet items 12 are preferably hole punched to include apertures 14 that permit the sheet items 12 to be registered and retained within the storage device 10 as will be described in detail below. While sheet items 12 are illustrated in Fig. 1 as comprising a storage container for a compact disc, it is contemplated that a storage device of the present invention is readily adoptable to retain other types of sheet items that are customarily stored in a binder system, including photo album sheets, recipe cards and plastic or paper sheets for example, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Storage device 10 includes a storage device cover 16 that is preferably integrally molded or formed from a resiliently flexible synthetic plastic material such as polypropylene, although other materials including polyethylene polymer, polyvinyl chloride polymer, polyethylene terephthatate polymer, and metal are contemplated as well. Acceptable materials are capable of being formed into the requisite shape and have sufficient durability to withstand repeated opening and closing of both the storage device cover 16 and the binding mechanisms to be described in detail below.

Storage device cover 16 includes a front panel 18 hingedly connected to a rear panel 20, and preferably includes a spine panel 22 disposed intermediate the front and

rear panels

18, 20 to which the front and

rear panels

18, 20 are connected. Front panel 18 is preferably configured to overlie substantially each entire sheet item 12, and rear panel 20 is preferably configured to underlie substantially each entire sheet item 12. The front and

rear panels

18, 20 are preferably hingedly connected to opposite elongated sides of the spine panel 22 through living hinges 24a, 24b, respectively, formed in the storage device cover 16. Living hinges 24a, 24b are preferably elongated reduced thickness areas formed in the storage device cover 16 through conventional techniques that permit the front and

rear panels

18, 20 to be readily folded by hand at the living hinges 24a, 24b, but may also comprise creased or score lines (not shown) or any other type of flexible formation as known in the art. Storage device cover 16 is operable to be folded from an open position as shown most clearly in Figs. 1-3, to a closed position as shown most clearly in Figs. 4 and 7.

In the open position of storage device cover 16, the front panel 18, rear panel 20 and spine panel 22 may be supported on a support surface (not shown) with each of the

panels

18, 20, 22 lying in a generally common plane. Alternatively, in the closed position of storage device cover 16, the front panel 18 and rear panel 20 are superimposed in generally parallel planes, while the spine panel 22 lies in a plane generally transverse to the planes defined by the front and

rear panels

18, 20.

As best understood with reference to Figs. 1, 2-4 and 7, storage device cover 16 preferably includes a substantially continuous flange wall 26 extending upwardly from an inner surface 28 of the storage device 10 proximate marginal edges of the storage device cover 16. Flange wall 26 is preferably integrally molded or formed with storage device cover 16 during formation of the storage device 10. Upon folding of the storage device cover 16 to the closed position as shown In Fig. 7, the flange wall 26, front panel 18, rear panel 20, and spine panel 22 are adapted to form a dosed chamber 30 (Fig. 4) within the storage device 10 in which the sheet items 12 are stored.

Referring now to Figs. 1-4, storage device 10 includes one or more binding mechanisms 32, preferably in the form of spaced rigid or semi-rigid posts as illustrated in the figures, that are operable to extend completely through the apertures 14 formed in the sheet items 12 to register the sheet items 12 relative to the storage device cover 16. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 24, the posts 32 may extend only at least partially through the sheet item 12 when the sheet item 12 has a substantial thickness. The posts 32 extend away from the inner surface 28 of the storage device 10, and may be integrally formed with the storage device cover 16 during formation of the storage device 10, or may alternatively be attached to the storage device cover 16 by the use of adhesives, by welding, by fastening means, or by other known bonding or attaching techniques. For example, as shown in Figs 22A and 22B, each post 32 may comprise an insert having an annular collar 33a and a protuberance 33b. The post 32 is inserted within an aperture 33c formed in one of the panels, such as rear panel 20 for example as shown in Figs. 22A and 22B, so that a portion of the panel 20 is captured between the annular collar 33a and the protuberance 33b to retain the post 32 within aperture 33c. Of course, other mechanical structures for retaining the post 32 in the aperture 33c are possible.

Preferably, the posts 32 extend upwardly from the rear panel 20 so that the sheet items 12 may be readily placed on or removed from the posts 32 when the storage device cover 16 is unfolded to the open position as shown in Figs. 2 and 3. Posts 32 preferably extend generally perpendicularly to the rear panel 20, although it is contemplated that the posts 32 may angle slightly inwardly toward the spine panel 22 along their entire lengths or at least proximate their remote ends 34 as described in detail below. Preferably, posts 32 terminate in the remote ends 34 below the front panel 18 when the storage device cover 16 is folded to the closed position, as best understood with reference to Fig. 4.

Still referring to Figs. 1-4, posts 32 are preferably formed as hollow, tubular members that terminate proximate their remote ends 34 in connection members 36, preferably In the form of female receptacles. Alternatively, posts 32 may be solid along a substantial part of their respective lengths and terminate proximate their remote ends 34 in the female receptacles 36. While posts 32 are illustrated as being generally circular in cross-sectional shape, it will be appreciated that posts 32 may have other cross-sectional shapes and dimensions that permit the posts 32 to extend completely through the apertures 14 formed in sheet items 12.

Further referring to Figs. 1-4, storage device 10 includes one or more binding members 38, preferably in the form of elongated tongue members as illustrated in the figures, that are hingedly connected to the storage device cover 16. The hinged connection of the tongue members 38 to the storage device cover 16 may take many forms, including mere folding of the storage device cover 16 material that permits the tongue members 38 to be folded by hand relative to the storage device cover 16. Preferably, tongue members 38 are integrally molded or formed with storage device cover 16 during formation of the storage device 10. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the tongue members 38 may be cut from the storage device cover 16 after formation of the storage device 10 through conventional cutting techniques, while maintaining a hinged connection with the storage device cover 16 at one end of the tongue members 38. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), tongue members 38 may be attached to the storage device cover 16 by the use of adhesives, by welding, by fastening means, or by other known bonding or attaching techniques.

Preferably, tongue members 38 are hingedly connected at one end 40 to the storage device cover through living hinge 42 that is coextensive with living hinge 24b, as best understood with reference to Figs. 1-4. In this exemplary embodiment, the tongue members 38 extend from living hinge 42 transversely through the spine panel 22 and partially transversely through the front panel 18. Of course, other hinge connections and arrangements of the tongue members 38 are possible.

Preferably, each of the tongue members 38 includes at least one living hinge 44 extending generally transverse to the longitudinal length of the tongue members 38. Living hinges 44 may be coextensive with living hinge 24a, as best understood with reference to Figs. 1-4. The living hinges 44 permit the tongue members 38 to be folded into

multiple segment components

46a, 46b, as best understood with reference to Figs. 2-4. Each of the

multiple components

46a, 46b preferably Includes a substantially linear component along its respective length. Tongue members 38 have a cross-sectional width that is less that the diameter of apertures 14 formed in sheet items 12 for purposes to be described in detail below.

Still referring to Figs. 1-4, the hinged connections of tongue members 38 with the storage device cover 16 permit the tongue members 38 to be moved into engagement with the posts 32 to form elongated binder straps, indicated generally at 48, upon which the sheet items 12 are free to travel. Binder straps 48 are preferably generally defined by the combined lengths of posts 32 and tongue members 38, and are operable to permit the sheet items 12 to be moved along the binder straps 48 from a first position lying generally parallel with the rear panel 20 to a second position lying generally parallel with the front panel 18, as best understood with reference to Fig. 3.

Preferably, tongue members 38 are operable to move independently of the front panel 18 and the rear panel 20 so that engagement of the tongue members 38 with the posts 32 may be maintained when the storage device cover 16 is unfolded to the open position. Upon engagement of the tongue members 38 with the posts 32, segment components 46a of tongue members 38 preferably extend generally perpendicular to the rear panel 20, while segment components 46b extend generally parallel to the rear panel 20 in the open and closed positions of storage device cover 16.

Preferably, in the closed position of storage device cover 16, segment components 46a of tongue members 38 lie generally in the plane defined by spine panel 22, while segment component 46b lies generally in the plane defined by front panel 18. In this way, generally continuous outer surfaces 50 are formed on the storage device 10.

In one embodiment of the present invention as best understood with reference to Fig. 7, an overlay 52 may be attached to the storage device cover 16. The overlay 52 may be transparent to form one or more pockets 54 adjacent the outer surfaces 50. The pockets 54 are adapted to receive indicia bearing sheets 56 that may identify the contents of storage device 10 and also conceal any interruptions in the front panel 18 and spine panel 20. Alternatively, the overlay 52 may include graphics or printed identification material; or may be semi- or non-transparent to conceal the outer surfaces 50 of the storage device cover 16.

As shown In Fig. 6, breakable webs 68 may be provided to connect the tongue members 38 to the front panel 18 or spine panel 22, or both, so that during folding of the storage device cover 16, the tongue members 38 will automatically engage the posts 32. However, when the storage device cover 16 is first opened by the user, the webs 58 will break to allow the front panel 18 and spine panel 20 to be unfolded, while permitting the engagement of the tongue members 38 and posts 32 to be maintained.

As best understood with reference to Figs. 2-4, each of the tongue members 38 terminates proximate one end in a connection member 60, preferably in the form of a generally cylindrical male plug body. Plug bodies 60 may be integrally molded or formed with the tongue members 38, or may be alternatively attached to the tongue members 38 by the use of adhesives, by welding, by fastening means, or by other known bonding or attaching techniques. Each plug body 60 is configured to be received in the female receptacles 36 so that an engagement may be established between the tongue members 38 and the posts 32 to form the binder straps 48.

As shown in Figs. 2-3, the male plug bodies 60 may include a cylindrical wall 62 that is adapted to frictionally engage a cylindrical inner wall 64 of the posts 32. in this way, a releasable connection or engagement may be established between the tongue members 38 and the posts 32. Each tongue member 38 may include a radius 66 formed above the connection member 60 that, in combination with a cylindrical outer wall 68 of the posts 32, forms a smooth transition area on the binder straps 48 for moving the sheet items 12 from the posts 32 to travel along the tongue members 38. it is contemplated that angling of the posts 32 at an acute angle relative to one or both of the front and rear panels 18. 20, or forming an arcuate portion at least partially along the lengths of the posts 32, may facilitate engagement of the tongue members 38 with the posts 32, as well as assist in smooth movement of the sheet items 12 along the binder straps 48 as they travel between the posts 32 to the tongue members 38.

For example, as shown in Figs 15A and 15B, it is contemplated that the posts 32 may be formed with an arcuate shape at least partially along their lengths to assist in movement of the sheet items 12 along the binder straps 48. Alternatively, as shown in Figs. 16A-16B, 17A-17B and 22A, the posts 32 may form an acute angle with one or both of the front and

rear panels

18, 20, depending on the location of the posts 32, to assist in movement of the sheet items 12 along the binder straps 48. It is contemplated that the posts 32 may be molded at the acute angle during formation of the storage device 10 as shown in Figs. 16A-16B. Alternatively, the posts 32 may be molded to extend generally transverse to one or both of the front and

rear panels

18, 20, and the posts 32 may then be post-processed into the acute angle while the material of the storage device 10 is still In a compliant state following the molding process. As shown In Figs. 17A-17C it is further contemplated that the posts 32 may be flexibly connected to one or both of the front and

rear panels

18, 20 through a connecting web 89 that allows the posts 32 to assume the acute angle relative to one or both of the front and rear panels 18. 20. As shown in the embodiment of Figs. 22A-22B, the posts 32 may be molded at an acute angle relative to the annular collar 33a so that the posts 32 extend at an acute angle relative to one or both of the front and

rear panels

18, 20 when the posts 32 are received in the apertures 33c as described in detail above.

Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 5A, connection members 60 of the tongue members 38 may comprise flared annular rings 70 that have a diameter that is slightly larger then the diameter of the female receptacles 36. As the flared annular rings 70 are inserted into the female receptacles 36, a releasable connection or engagement is established between the tongue members 38 and the posts 32 as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Preferably, the annular rings 70 are integrally molded or formed with the tongue members, although it is contemplated that the annular rings 70 could be formed on a plastic or rubber grommet (not shown) that is attached to a post (not shown) formed on the remote end of the tongue members 38.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention as shown in Fig. 5B, each tongue member 38 includes a female receptacle 72 formed on a remote end that includes a radially inwardly directed annular ring 74. Each post 32 is formed with two or more flange members 76 that terminate in barbs 78 having abrupt shoulders 80. As the remote ends of the flange members 76 are inserted into the female receptacles 72, the barbs 78 travel past the radially inwardly directed annular ring 74, and the abrupt shoulders 80 engage and are retained by the annular ring 74. The flange members 76 are manually compressible toward each other to permit the abrupt shoulders 80 to be disengaged from the annular shoulder 74. in this way, a locking engagement may be established between the tongue members 38 and posts 32.

As shown In the alternative embodiment of Fig. 5C, each tongue member 38 includes a radially outwardly directed annular ring 82 formed on a remote end. Each post 32 is formed with a radially inwardly directed annular ring 84 that is adapted to form a "snap fit" when the annular ring 82 of the tongue members 38 travels past the annular ring 84 of the posts 32. In this way, audible and tactile indications are provided to the user that an engagement has been established between the tongue members 38 and posts 32.

It is contemplated that the binder straps 48 may be made to have a variable length upon engagement of the post members 32 with the elongated tongue members 38. For example, as shown in the embodiment of Figs. 13A-13B, each post 32 may include several radially Inwardly directed annular rings 84 spaced along the length of the post 32. The radially outwardly directed annular ring 82 formed on the remote end of each tongue member 38 is adapted to form a "snap fit" with any one of the radially inwardly directed annular rings 84 of the posts 32. It will be appreciated that the length of the binder straps 48 may be adjusted by changing the depth of insertion of the tongue member 38 into the posts 32. As shown in Figs. 14A-14B, it is contemplated in an alternative embodiment that each post 32 may be provided with a single radially inwardly directed annular ring 84, while the remote end of each tongue member 38 may be provided with several radially outwardly directed annular rings 82 to permit the length of the binder straps 48 to be adjusted. Of course, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other mechanical structures are possible to permit the length of the binder straps 48 to be adjusted.

In use of the storage device 10, the storage device cover 16 is unfolded to the open position as shown in Fig. 1 so that one or more sheet items 12 may be inserted onto the posts 32 to register the sheet items 12 relative to the storage device cover 16. The tongue members 38 are folded at living hinges 42, 44 to be brought into engagement with the posts 32 to form the binder straps 48. At this point, the sheet items 12 are free to travel on the binder straps 48 from a first position lying generally parallel with the rear panel 20 to a second position lying generally parallel with the front panel 18, as best understood with reference to Fig. 3. When access to the sheet items 12 is no longer required, the storage device cover 16 is folded to the closed position as shown in Fig. 7 to close the storage chamber 30 of the storage device 10. When one or more sheet Items 12 are to be added or removed from the storage device 10, the engagement between each tongue member 38 and post 32 is released to permit materials to be added to or removed from the posts 32.

It will be appreciated that the storage device 10 can be manufactured in many different sizes to accommodate different storage applications for various sheet items 12. For example, storage device 10 may be manufactured as a one inch to three inch (1"-3") (2.54 - 7.62 cm) binder for storing conventional 8-1/2" x 11" (21.59 x 27.94 cm) sheets of paper. To maintain structural rigidity of the posts 32 during transport of the binder and its associated materials, it is contemplated that the posts 32 may include rigid post inserts 86, shown in Figs. 23A-23B, that are inserted into and retained within the posts 32. The post Inserts 86 are preferably made of metal or other suitable material and include outwardly directed barbs 88 that are adapted to engage the inner walls of the posts 32 to secure the post inserts 86 within the posts 32. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the posts 32 may be at least partially filled with a suitable liquid materiel, either during or following the molding process, that then hardens to add structural rigidity to the posts 32.

Alternatively, as shown in Figs 18A-18B, it is contemplated that the storage device cover 16 may include one or more protuberances, such as at 90, that are adapted to operatively engage and support the posts 32 when the storage device 10 is folded to a closed position as shown in Fig. 18B. As shown in Figs. 18A-18B, each protuberance 90 may comprise a pair of parallel walls 92 (one shown) and a transverse wall 94 that engage a portion of the tongue member 38 when the storage device 10 is folded to a closed position, and thereby operatively engage and support each post 32. Alternatively, as shown in Figs. 19A-19B. protuberances 96 may be formed on the storage device cover 16 that engage respective recesses 98 formed in the tongue members 38 when the storage device 10 is folded to a closed position as shown in Fig. 19B, thereby operatively engaging and supporting the posts 32.

Referring now to Figs. 8A-8C, a storage device 200 not in accordance with the principles of the present invention is shown, where like numerals represent like parts to the embodiment of storage device 10 illustrated in Figs. 1-7. Storage device 200 differs from storage device 10 predominantly in the movement of posts 32 inwardly toward the living hinge 24b, and in the connection of the tongue members 38 to the rear panel 20. More particularly, as shown in Figs 8A and 8B, the tongue members 38 are connected to the rear panel 20 so that the tongue members 38 are operable to move independently of the front and

rear panels

18, 20 into folding engagement with the respective posts 32. Preferably, the tongue members 38 are connected to the rear panel 20 through respective living hinges 202. although other connections that permit folding of the tongue members 38 are possible as well as described in detail with reference to Figs. 1-7.

In use of storage device 200, the storage device cover 16 is unfolded to the open position as shown in Fig. 8A so that one or more sheet items 12 may be inserted onto the posts 32 to register the sheet items 12 relative to the storage device cover 16. The tongue members 38 are folded at living hinges 202 to be brought into engagement with the posts 32 to form the binder straps 48. At this point, the sheet items 12 are free to travel on the binder straps 48 from a first position lying generally parallel with the front panel 18, indicated by sheet Item 12e illustrated in phantom in Fig. 8A, to a second position lying generally parallel to the rear panel 20, indicated by sheet item 12b illustrated in phantom in Fig. 8A. After the sheet items 12 are moved along the binder straps 48 from the posts 32 to the tongue members 38, the storage device cover 16 may be closed, as shown in Fig. 8B. Thereafter, when the storage device cover 16 is opened, the sheet items 12 are free to travel from a first position lying generally parallel with the rear panel 20 to a second position lying generally parallel with the front panel 18, generally similar In operation to storage device 10 of Figs. 1-7. When one or more sheet items 12 are to be added or removed from the storage device 200, the engagement between each tongue member 38 end post 32 is released to permit materials to be added to or removed from the posts 32 or tongue members 38.

As shown in Figs. 8B and 8C, when access to the sheet items 12 is no longer required, the storage device cover 16 may be folded to a closed position to close the storage chamber 30 of the storage device 200. To releasably retain the storage device cover 16 in the closed position, a locking device 204 is provided on the flange wall 26 which is applicable to the embodiments of

storage devices

10 and 200. The locking device 204 includes one or more tabs 208 supported by the flange wall 26a of the front panel 18 that are in registry with channels 208 supported on flange wall 26b of the rear panel 20, although the tabs 206 and channels 208 could be reversed. Each tab 206 includes a recess 210 (Fig. 8C) that is adapted to receive a detent 212 that extends from the flange wall 26b toward the recess 210. Each channel 208 is preferably formed by the flange wall 26b and a flexible tab 214 that is spaced from and generally parallel with the flange wall 26b. Each channel 208 is configured to releasably capture the tab 206 between the detent 212 and the flexible tab 214 (Fig. 8C) to releasably retain the storage device cover 16 in the closed position. Recesses may be provided on respective outer surfaces of the

flange walls

26a, 26b that are configured to receive a user's fingers to facilitate opening of the storage device cover 16. Of course, other locking device structures that are operable to releasably retain the storage device cover in the closed position are possible.

With reference now to Figs. 9A and 9B, an alternative embodiment of the binding members 38 is shown. In this embodiment, the binding members 38 are preferably in the form of elongated tongue members (one shown) that are flexible at least partially along their length so that the tongue members may be folded into engagement with the posts 32. In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, the tongue members 38 may include a reduced thickness area, indicated generally at 400, that permits the tongue member 38 to be folded into an arcuate shape as shown in Fig. 9B, thereby eliminating the transverse living hinges 44 as described in detail above.

Another alternative embodiment of binding member 38, preferably in the form of an elongated tongue member, is shown in Figs. 10A-10C. in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, the tongue member 38 Includes

multiple segment components

500a, 500b and 500c that are formed by the transverse living hinges 44. To provide a generally smooth transition of a sheet item (not shown) along the tongue member 38 so that the sheet item does not snag or catch near the areas of the living hinges 44, the segment component 500b includes a rib 502 and the

segment components

500a, 500c, each include a channel 504. In this way, the rib 502 of segment component 500b is received In the respective channels 504 of

segments components

500a, 500c, so there is no gap or recess formed by the living hinges 44 that may otherwise snag or catch a sheet item as it moves along the tongue member 36. Of course, the locations of the rib 502 and channels 504 may be reversed, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that other structures are possible that will permit essentially snag-free movement of the sheet items on the tongue member 38.

As shown in Figs. 11A-11D, and applicable to all embodiments of the

storage devices

10 and 200, various resilient clip structures 600 (Figs. 11A and 11B) and 602 (Figs. 11C and 11D) may be incorporated into one or more of the panels 18, 20 (front panel 18 shown) of the various storage devices. For example, resilient clip 600 includes a leg 604 and a transverse resilient leg 606 that are configured to releasably secure a sheet item, booklet or similar generally flat item (not shown) between the resilient leg 606 and one of the

panels

18, 20 as will be readily appreciated by those skilled In the art. Alternatively, resilient clip 602 includes a pair of spaced apart, parallel resilient legs 608 that are configured to releasably secure a writing instrument or similar generally round item (not shown) between the resilient legs 608 as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. Of course, other resilient clip structures are possible for releasably securing items to the storage device cover 16.

As shown In Figs. 12A and 12B, the storage device cover 16 preferably includes a plurality of support feet 700 that are integrally molded on outer surfaces of the flange wall 26 and adapted to engage a support surface 702. For example, the support feet 700 may have a tear drop configuration, and are molded so that the outermost surfaces of the support feet 700 engage the support surface 702. In this way, the storage devices of the present invention may be readily stored on edge, as shown in Fig. 12A.

Referring now to Figs. 20A-20D, a storage device 800 In accordance with the present invention is shown, where like numerals represent like parts. Storage device 800 differs from the storage device 10 of Figs. 1-7 predominantly In the combined connection of posts 32 and tongue members 38 to both the front and

rear panels

18, 20 so that two separate stacks of sheet items 12, identified as sheet item stacks 802a and 802b in Figs. 20C-20D, may be formed. When the storage device 800 is open, as shown in Figs. 20A-20C, the sheet Items 12. in stacks 802a and 802b are free to travel along the binder straps 48 from first positions lying generally parallel to the front and

rear panels

18, 20, respectively, to second positions distant therefrom. To accommodate for the additional thickness of the sheet items 12 in the storage device 800, the spine panel 22 of storage device 800 is wider than the spine panel 22 of storage device 10 so that the two stacks 802a and 802b are superimposed when the storage device 800 is folded to a closed position, as shown in Fig. 20D. Storage device 800 includes an end panel 806 that is hingedly connected to an elongated side of the rear panel 20 through living hinge 808. As shown in Fig. 20D, the end panel 806 engages the front panel 18 to retain the storage device 800 in the closed position.

Referring now to Figs.21A-21D, a storage device 900 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown, where like numerals represent like parts . Storage device 900 differs from the storage device 200 of Figs. 8A-8C predominantly in the combined connection of posts 32 and tongue members 38 to both the front and

rear panels

18, 20 so that two separate stacks of sheet items 12, identified as sheet item stacks 902a and 902b in Figs. 21C-21D, may be formed. When the storage device 900 is open, as shown in Figs. 21A-21C, the sheet items 12 in

stacks

902a and 902b are free to travel along the binder straps 48 from first positions lying generally parallel to the front and

rear panels

18, 20, respectively, to second positions distant therefrom. To accommodate for the additional thickness of the sheet items 12 in the storage device 900, the spine panel 22 of storage device 900 Is wider than the spine panel 22 of storage device 200 so that the two

stacks

902a and 902b are superimposed when the storage device 900 is folded to a closed position, as shown In Fig. 21D.

While the present invention has been illustrated by a description of various embodiments and while these embodiments have been described in considerable detail, additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled In the art. For example, while forming the male plug bodies 60 on the tongue members 38, and forming the female receptades 36 on the posts 32 may be preferred, those skilled in the art will appreciate the multitude of other connection arrangements that could be formed on the tongue members 38 and posts 32 that will permit engagement of the components as desired to form the binder straps 48.

Claims

A storage device (800, 900) for retaining a plurality of sheet items, comprising a storage device cover (16) operable to move between open and closed positions and including a front panel (18), a rear panel (20) and a spine panel (22), characterized in that, at least one first binding member (32) is connected to each of said front and rear panels (18, 20) and is operable to extend at least partially through the plurality of sheet items (12) to register the sheet items relative to said respective front and rear panels (18, 20), and at least one second binding member (38) is connected to each of said front and rear panels (18, 20) and is operable to move independently of said front and rear panels into folding engagement with said first binding member (32) to form elongated binder straps (48) upon which the plurality of sheet items (12) are free to travel from a first position lying generally parallel with said front and rear panels (18, 20) to a second position distant therefrom.
The storage device of claim 1 further comprising a first living hinge (24a) joining said front panel (18) to one elongated side of said spine panel (22), and a second living hinge (24b) joining said rear panel (20) to the opposite elongated side of said spine panel (22).
The storage device of claim 2 further comprising an end panel (806) connected to one of said front and rear panels (18, 20).
The storage device of claim 3 further comprising a third living hinge (808) joining said end panel (806) to one elongated side of one of said front and rear panels (18, 20).
The storage device of any preceding claim further comprising a living hinge (42) associated with each of said second binding members (38) to permit said second binding members to be folded into engagement with said first binding members (32).
The storage device of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein each of said second binding members (38) has at least one living hinge (44) extending generally transverse to a longitudinal length thereof to permit said second binding members to be folded into multiple segment components (46a, 46b).
The storage device of claim 6 wherein each of said multiple segment components (46a, 46b) includes a substantially linear component along the respective lengths thereof.
The storage device of any preceding claim wherein each of the second binding members (38) is integral with said storage device cover (16).
The storage device of any preceding claim wherein each of said first binding members comprises a post member (32) extending away from one of said front and rear panels (18, 20).
The storage device of claim 9 wherein each of said post members (32) extends away from one of said front and rear panels at an acute angle.
The storage device of claim 9 wherein each of said post members (32) is at least partially arcuate in shape along its length.
The storage device of any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein each of said post members (32) is integral with said storage device cover (16).
The storage device of any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein each of said post members (32) is attached to one of said front and rear panels (18, 20).
The storage device of any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein each of said post members (32) is flexibly connected to one of said front and rear panels.
The storage device of claim 9 further comprising a post insert member (86) operable to be inserted into and retained within each of said post members (32).
The storage device of any preceding claim wherein each of said elongated binder straps (48) has a variable length.
The storage device of any preceding claim wherein each of said second binding members comprises an elongated tongue member (38).
The storage device of any preceding claim wherein one of said first and second binding members (32, 38) terminates in a female receptacle (36) and said other terminates in a male plug body (60), wherein said female receptacle (36) is adapted to receive said male plug body (60).
The storage device of claim 18 wherein said female receptacle (36) is releasably engageable with said male plug body (60).
The storage device of claim 18 wherein said female receptacle (36) is lockably engageable with said male plug body (60).