EP1504854A2 - Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage - Google Patents

Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1504854A2
EP1504854A2 EP04254353A EP04254353A EP1504854A2 EP 1504854 A2 EP1504854 A2 EP 1504854A2 EP 04254353 A EP04254353 A EP 04254353A EP 04254353 A EP04254353 A EP 04254353A EP 1504854 A2 EP1504854 A2 EP 1504854A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
index
frame structure
rack
cover part
frame
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP04254353A
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German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP1504854A3 (fr
Inventor
Yuhong Wang
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TG Tools United Co
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TG Tools United Co
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by TG Tools United Co filed Critical TG Tools United Co
Publication of EP1504854A2 publication Critical patent/EP1504854A2/fr
Publication of EP1504854A3 publication Critical patent/EP1504854A3/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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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
    • B25H3/003—Holders for drill bits or the like

Definitions

  • the present invention is directed to article containers, such as are used for containing articles such as drill bits (for example, high speed, masonry, wood, general use bits, etc.), driver bits, other power tool and hand tool accessories and the like.
  • articles such as drill bits (for example, high speed, masonry, wood, general use bits, etc.), driver bits, other power tool and hand tool accessories and the like.
  • Containers for packaging, storage and display of tools particularly small tool items, such as drill bits, saw blades, bolt- and screwdriver bits, sockets and the like are known.
  • Some such containers are formed as a hinged plastic or metal two-piece hinged case, that is held closed by a resilient plastic or metal latch that is simply bent back to release a detent, and permit the two parts of the two-piece hinged case to be pivoted away from one another, to open like a book.
  • the parts of the two-piece hinged case may have approximately the same dimensions, but be formed as essentially mirror images of each other, except for the latch structure.
  • positions for holding parts may be formed directly into the inner surfaces, in the form of pairs of prongs that are spaced apart and sized, so that each part position is formed to hold a specific drill bit (or other part) having a specific diameter or nominal size. That is, a bit of a particular size is pressed between the respective prongs (usually concave toward one another) of the respective pairs and snap-fitted in.
  • elongated slots of different lengths and widths may be formed directly into the inside surfaces of the two-piece hinged case parts.
  • molded or stamped non-moving inserts that have specifically sized slots formed in them, may be positioned into the interior spaces of the two-piece hinged case parts.
  • One such drill bit holder is sold by DeWalt® under the name New Guaranteed ToughTM Case.
  • a bar or block (usually called an "index") may be fitted into the bottom portion of one or both parts of the two-piece hinged case.
  • the index may have a number of blind bores or combinations of bores and aligned slots formed into it, again having different diameters, and possibly different depths as well, to receive tool parts (e.g., drill bits) of different size.
  • the index is often formed as a single piece that may be blow or injection molded (if plastic) or stamped (if made of thin metal). Often, the sizes (or other information) of the tools that are to be held in the index are printed or stamped into the front or back of the index, lined up with the locations of the respective tools.
  • the index may be fixed in place, such as by gluing or welding, simple friction or snap-fit.
  • the index is provided at the opposite ends with male or female dovetail components that interfit with counterpart female or male dovetail components formed into the inside surfaces of the side walls of the two-piece hinged case part.
  • One such drill bit holder is made and sold by Blu-Mol under the mark "Armor-Case”.
  • the cases are fixed both in the sense that only specifically sized bits can be held in the cases, and in the sense that because the indexes (if provided) do not move, there is some limitation to the accessibility of the tool bits.
  • the index may be provided with bumps that project from the ends of the index, that are received, e.g., in a snap-fit manner, in corresponding recesses, bores or slots formed in the inside walls of the two-piece hinged case part.
  • the index must be bent or deformed in order to fit into the receiving recesses, bores or slots.
  • These recesses, bores or slots may be provided in one or a number of pairs, so that the from a hook, such as on a store shelf or in a workshop.
  • These cases may also be fabricated from metal, plastic or a combination of metal and plastic.
  • Such bottom-hinged cases usually include an index that is pivotably connected to both parts, often using the axis of pivoting of the two parts also as the axis of pivoting for the index, and held in place by wire and metal rivets.
  • the index is forced or at least prompted to pivot away from one or both case parts. This results in the index being moved to an angular position somewhere between the two case parts.
  • a hook or wire may connect one of the case parts to the index, to both prompt movement of the index and hold the index in place once the case has been opened.
  • Such cases are used to package and sell drill bits sold by MIBRO® .
  • the indexes can fall out when the cases are opened.
  • the indexes may be configured to pivot, but once out of their recessed positions, there is nothing to hold the index in its elevated position, so that the index tends to fall back into the case part from which it has been pivoted.
  • the interlocking of the index to the movements of the case parts constrains the movement and positioning of the index to a single specific position, when the case has been opened to its in-use position.
  • the present invention seeks to provide for an article container, and system having advantages over known such article containers and systems. from a hook, such as on a store shelf or in a workshop. These cases may also be fabricated from metal, plastic or a combination of metal and plastic.
  • Such bottom-hinged cases usually include an index that is pivotably connected to both parts, often using the axis of pivoting of the two parts also as the axis of pivoting for the index, and held in place by wire and metal rivets.
  • the index is forced or at least prompted to pivot away from one or both case parts. This results in the index being moved to an angular position somewhere between the two case parts.
  • a hook or wire may connect one of the case parts to the index, to both prompt movement of the index and hold the index in place once the case has been opened.
  • Such cases are used to package and sell drill bits sold by MIBRO® .
  • the indexes can fall out when the cases are opened.
  • the indexes may be configured to pivot, but once out of their recessed positions, there is nothing to hold the index in its elevated position, so that the index tends to fall back into the case part from which it has been pivoted.
  • the interlocking of the index to the movements of the case parts constrains the movement and positioning of the index to a single specific position, when the case has been opened to its in-use position.
  • the present invention seeks to provide for an article container, and system having advantages over known such article containers and systems.
  • the present invention comprises, in part, a packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles.
  • a case is provided having at least one case section that defines an interior volume for receiving articles.
  • At least one index is pivotably mounted in the at least one case section, the at least one index being pivotably movable between a stowed position within the at least one case section, and a deployed position.
  • the at least one index is operably configured to receive and retain an end of at least one article.
  • a frame structure is pivotably mounted to the index.
  • the packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles preferably further comprises rotation control structure interconnecting the frame structure and the index, operably configured to enable at least a portion of the frame structure to remain in a first position relative to the index until a force greater than a predetermined amount is applied, prompting the portion of the frame structure to move to one of a plurality of possible second positions relative to the index, and to further enable the portion of the frame structure to remain in the one of a plurality of second positions upon removal of the force.
  • the at least one index preferably comprises a rack having structure formed thereon for receiving and retaining at least one article; a first index cover part having interior structures therein configured for positioning and receiving the rack in juxtaposed position against the first index cover part; and a second index cover part configured to matingly join the first index cover part to capture the rack between the first index cover part and the second index cover part.
  • the frame structure preferably comprises a first web of material, having first and second free ends, which are spaced apart and configured to be connected to the index, such that the frame structure is configured to pivot between a first position wherein the first web of material encloses an area in which at least one article would be retained by the index, and a plurality of other positions relative to the index wherein the frame structure is pivoted away from the area in which the at least one article would be retained by the index.
  • the first web of material preferably is connected directly to the index, and the rotational control structure is disposed between mating surfaces of the first web of material and the index.
  • At least one intermediate frame structure formed from at least one second web of material may be provided, and the rotational control structure may also be disposed between one of mating surfaces of the first web of material and the index; and mating surfaces of the first web of material and the at least one intermediate frame structure.
  • the frame structure is preferably selected from a plurality of frame structures having different shapes and configurations for defining different shapes and areas of spaces between the webs of the frame structures and the index, when each of the frame structures is mounted on the index.
  • the frame structure preferably includes at least one surface which engages with a corresponding mating surface of the at least one index
  • the rotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structures disposed on the at least one surface of the frame structure and the corresponding mating surface of the at least one index.
  • the packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles may further comprise structure for rotatably mounting the at least one index within the at least one case section, comprising apertures disposed in opposing ends of the at least one index; pivot pins, operably configured to be insertingly received and retained within the apertures; and structures within the at least one case section defining opposed slots for receiving the pivot pins.
  • the rack is preferably selected from a plurality of racks, each rack being operably configured to be mounted within the at least one index, each rack having a different structure for engaging and releasably retaining an end of at least one article, for a variety of combinations of articles.
  • the frame structure is selected from a plurality of frame structures, each frame structure being operably configured to be pivotably mounted onto the at least one index.
  • At least one retaining pin is operably positioned in the at least one case section, for releasably engaging and retaining at least one of the frame structure and the at least one index when the at least one index is disposed in its stowed position.
  • the present invention is also directed in part to a system for packaging, storing and displaying articles.
  • a case is provided, having at least one case section that defines a volume for receiving articles.
  • At least one pair of first and second index cover parts are also provided, as is a plurality of racks, each rack being operably configured to be mounted between and received within a joined pair of first and second index cover parts to form at least one index, each rack having a different structure for engaging and releasably retaining an end of at least one article, for a variety of combinations of articles.
  • Each such formed index is operably configured to be mounted in the at least one case section, for pivotable movement between a stowed position within the at least one case section, and a deployed position.
  • a plurality of frame structures is provided, each frame structure being operably configured to be pivotably mounted onto the at least one index.
  • a case may be selectively fabricated to receive and retain articles in a customized manner, by specifically selecting among the pluralities of racks and frame structures for a rack and a frame structure that corresponds to a particular group of articles to be received and retained within the case.
  • the system further comprises rotation control structure interconnecting the frame structure and the index, operably configured to enable at least a portion of the frame structure to remain in a first position relative to the index until a force greater than a predetermined amount is applied, prompting the portion of the frame structure to move to one of a plurality of second positions relative to the index, and to further enable the portion of the frame structure to remain in the one of a plurality of second positions upon removal of the force.
  • each first index cover part has interior structures therein configured for positioning and receiving the rack in juxtaposed position thereto; and each second index cover part is configured to matingly join a respective first index cover part to capture a rack between the first index cover part and the second index cover part.
  • the present invention is also directed to a method for making apparatus for packaging, storing and displaying articles, comprising the steps of:
  • the method preferably further comprises the step of: providing rotation control structure interconnecting the frame structure and the index, operably configured to enable at least a portion of the frame structure to remain in a first position relative to the index until a force greater than a predetermined amount is applied, prompting the portion of the frame structure to move to one of a plurality of second positions relative to the index, and to further enable the portion of the frame structure to remain in the one of a plurality of second positions upon removal of the force.
  • each first index cover part has interior structures therein configured for positioning and receiving the rack in juxtaposed position thereto; and each second index cover part is configured to matingly join a respective first index cover part to capture a rack between the first index cover part and the second index cover part.
  • the present invention is also directed to a holder for packaging, storing and displaying articles.
  • An index is provided, having positioned therewithin a rack which is operably configured to engage and releasably retain an end of at least one article.
  • a frame structure is pivotably mounted to the index.
  • Rotation control structure interconnects the frame structure and the index, for providing resistance to relative rotation between the frame structure and the index, until a torsional force is applied between the frame structure and the index which is in excess of a predetermined amount of torsional force is exerted, whereupon relative pivoting to is enabled, and whereupon removal of the torsional force, in excess of a predetermined amount of torsional force, the frame structure and the index will remain in position relative to each other.
  • the at least one index comprises a first index cover part having interior structures therein configured for guiding and receiving the rack; a second index cover part configured to matingly join the first index cover part to capture the rack between the first index cover part and the second index cover part.
  • the frame structure preferably further comprises a web of material, one end of which is connected to and extends from one end of the at least one index for a predetermined distance, across the width of the at least one index and proceeds at the other end of the web, to the other end of the index, to form a loop which encloses a defined space between the frame structure and the index, within which the articles received by the index are to be positioned.
  • the frame structure is preferably selected from a plurality of frame structures having different shapes and configurations for defining different shapes and areas of spaces between the webs of the frame structures and the index, when each of the frame structures is mounted on the index.
  • the frame structure preferably includes at least one surface which engages with a corresponding mating surface of the at least one index, and the rotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structures disposed on the at least one surface of the frame structure and the corresponding mating surface of the at least one index.
  • the present invention is also directed to an index for packaging, storing and displaying articles, comprising a rack, operably configured to receive and retain an end of at least one article; a first index cover part, having interior structures therein configured for positioning and receiving the rack; and a second index cover part configured to matingly join the first index cover part to capture the rack between the first index cover part and the second index cover part.
  • At least one pair of barbed prong structures is disposed on one of the first and second index cover parts; with at least one notch defined on the other of the first and second index parts, for receiving and interlockingly engaging said one of the first and second index cover parts, for maintaining the first and second index cover parts in juxtaposed assembled configuration with the rack captured therebetween.
  • the present invention can therefore advantageously provide a packaging, storage and display case for holding small tool parts, that is capable of adaptation to accommodate different combinations of tools of different sizes.
  • the present invention can therefore advantageously provide a packaging, storage and display case for holding small parts, that is provided with an index that is capable of being moved to a variety of different positions, and held in any such different position.
  • the present invention can advantageously provide a packaging, storage and display case for holding small parts, that is provided with an index that can be moved between stowed and deployed positions repeatedly, while reliably maintaining the selected stowed positions.
  • the present invention can advantageously provide a system of packaging, storage and display components that provides for enhanced flexibility in packaging and storage of individual tool parts.
  • packaging shipping and display cases of the present invention may preferably be formed from plastic materials, formed by any suitable method such as injection- or blow-molding, it is to be understood that any suitable material may be used, such as thin, resilient metal.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a packaging, shipping and display case ("tool case” for short) 100 in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
  • Tool case 100 includes two-piece hinged case parts 102 and 104, with index 106 with frame part 108, and index 110 with frame parts 112 and 114.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates perspective exploded views of indexes 106 and 110, which may be identical (as illustrated in this application), but which may have some structural differences (not relating to the principles of the present invention), as dictated by the requirements of any particular application.
  • Index 106 includes index cover part 116, rack 118, and index cover part 120.
  • Index cover part 116 has formed thereon ratchet structure 122 (to be described in further detail herein), with a similar structure located at the opposite end of index cover part 116.
  • Rack 118 is preferably insertably received in index cover part 116, in slots that run along the inner surface of index cover part 116, from one side to the other (as shown on the inside of index cover part 124), or alternatively just in the inside surfaces of the sides (not shown).
  • Index cover part 116 and index cover part 120 are preferably held together with a snap-fit, as may be accomplished by resilient barbs 130, preferably located on both ends of the inside surface of index cover part 120, which may be configured to engage pegs 134, 136.
  • Index cover part 118 also includes openings 121 at opposite ends.
  • Rack 118 is formed as two parallel “horizontal” webs 123, 125 that are connected by one or more "vertical” webs (not shown in Fig. 2).
  • a plurality of apertures of various diameters are formed in the webs, with the diameters of the apertures in web 123 having like sized counterparts in web 125.
  • stirrup structures e.g., stirrup 127) may be provided, so that the tools (e.g., drill bits) do not “bottom out” in index 106, but are instead elevated above the bottom of index 106, for the purpose, for example of causing the top ends of the tools to present a particular desired profile.
  • the vertical webs which connect the horizontal webs are shown in the side elevations in the aforementioned Figs.
  • Index 110 includes index cover part 124, rack 126 and index cover part 128.
  • Ratchet structure 130 is preferably located at both ends of index cover part 124, as are openings 138.
  • Rack 126 is likewise insertably received in index cover part 124, in suitably formed slots on the inside surface thereof.
  • Index cover part 128 is preferably joined to index cover part 124 by barbs 140 that engage pegs positioned similarly to pegs 134, 136.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates index 106 fully assembled
  • Fig. 4 illustrates index 110 in the last stage of assembly
  • Fig. 5 is an end perspective view of index 110, showing ratchet structure 130
  • Fig. 6 is a top, perspective view of index 110, showing the top portion of rack 126, and the apertures which are configured, in this embodiment, to receive the shanks of tool bits (e.g., drill bits) of progressively increasing diameter.
  • tool bits e.g., drill bits
  • Fig. 7 illustrates an exploded view of index 106 with its frame part 108, and index 110 with its frame parts 112 and 114.
  • Frame part 108 which may be of any desired shape has formed thereon ratchet structures 150 on inwardly facing surfaces of frame part 108, each of which is configured to cooperate with a corresponding ratchet structure 122, as will be described later.
  • ratchet structures 152 on inwardly facing surfaces of frame part 112 will cooperate with corresponding ratchet structures 130 on index 110
  • ratchet structures 154 on inwardly facing surfaces of frame part 112 will cooperate with corresponding ratchet structures 156 on outwardly facing surfaces of frame part 115.
  • Frame part 108 is essentially a web of plastic material that forms a loop from one end to the other to define the space (when the frame part is "flat" with the index) in which the tool bits are enclosed.
  • a bracing web if desired, may be extended across frame part 108.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates how frame part 108 fits onto index 106.
  • the ends of frame part 108 being resilient, are preferably spaced apart such a distance that they need to be sprung outwardly slightly, to ride over the surfaces of ratchet structures 122, and snap into place. The cooperation of the ratchet structures on index 106 and frame part 108 will be described herein.
  • Fig. 9 illustrates indexes 106 and 110, with frame parts 108, 112 and 114 in place.
  • Fig. 10 illustrates how frame part 108 can pivot relative to index 106.
  • index 106 To the left of index 106 is a schematic illustration of how ratchet structures 122 and 150 engage.
  • Each of ratchet structures 122 and 150 include a plurality of radially extending ridges that are triangular in cross-section. Being resiliently sprung, the ends of frame part 108 will upon application of sufficient force, move outwardly, so that the respective ridges on each of ratchet structures 122 and 150 will ride up over one another, and return into the next successive "notch" between adjacent ridges, in the known manner of ratchet-type structures.
  • Frame part 108 is (as is the corresponding frame structure for index 110) provided to serve several functions. It provides a structure for grasping for enabling index 106 to be pivoted out of two-piece hinged case part 102. It also provides a limit to the movement of the tools in their respective receiving bores in the index, so that during transportation or other general movement of the case, the tools are prompted to remain in the index and not become dislodged.
  • the frame part also provides a way to shield the upper ends of the tool bits (not shown), to prevent inadvertent contact with the ends of the bits which can result in both dulling of the bits, as well as injury to persons.
  • the frame part when the frame part is pivoted back toward the interior wall of the two-piece hinged case part 102, it acts as described herein, as a stand for holding the index 106 up in a variety of possible angles relative to the horizontal (when two-piece hinged case 102 is lying open on a horizontal surface) or to the vertical, when the case is open and upright (the frame could also be pivoted outwardly and downwardly to provide support for the index from the front).
  • the index and its corresponding frame structure are removed from or otherwise used outside of a case (as discussed elsewhere herein)
  • the frame structure can be used to support the index at an oblique angle to a horizontal surface such as a table or bench top, or to suspend the index, such as by a pegboard or similar method. All of the foregoing functions are provided, while at the same time, not obscuring visibility of the tools, when the case is opened (or if closed, if a window is provided in the case).
  • Fig. 11 illustrates how frame part 112 can pivot relative to index 110, and how frame part 114 can pivot relative to frame part 112.
  • the ratchet operation between ratchet structures 130 and 152, and between 154 and 156, illustrated schematically to the left of index 110, is the same as described with respect to the ratchet structures 122 and 150, relative to the structure of Fig. 10.
  • the "lower" ends of frame part 112 will be sprung outwardly and snapped over the ratchet structures of index 110, while the ends of frame part 114 will be sprung inwardly to fit between the "upper" ends of frame part 112.
  • Pivot pins 160 are inserted into apertures 121, 136 of indexes 106, 110.
  • Each pivot pin 160 includes resilient barbs at one end and a conical outer end. These conical outer ends are configured to be slidingly received in trapezoidal slots 160 (see Fig. 38) that are formed by pairs of ridges extending inwardly from the inside surfaces of the two-piece hinged case parts.
  • the fit should be tight enough to provide for sufficient friction to prevent indexes 106, 110 from falling out, upon opening of the case, and may be sufficiently tight to provide enough force to keep an index at an elevated pivoted position out of case parts 102, 104, but not so tight as to make pivoting of indexes 106, 110 relative to the two-piece hinged case parts difficult.
  • ratchet structures as described herein could be provided in the interfacing surfaces between the index and the case surfaces, to provide additional rotational positioning control, to enable the index to be placed in any of a plurality of temporary positions and held there, during use.
  • Fig. 14 shows how index 106 is capable of pivoting relative to two-piece hinged case part 102.
  • Fig. 15 shows how the index 106 and frame part 108 can be made to lie flat in two-piece hinged case part 102.
  • Fig. 16 shows index 106 and frame part 108 lying flat, while index 110 and frame parts 112, 114 are standing upright in two-piece hinged case part 104. Pivoting of frame part 108 relative to index 106 is shown in Fig. 17, while in Fig. 18, it is shown how by appropriate positioning of frame part 108 relative to index 106, index 106 can be supported at an oblique angle relative to the back wall of two-piece hinged case part 102.
  • Fig. 18 also shows the pivoting of frame part 112 relative to index 110, and of frame part 114 relative to frame part 112.
  • retaining pins 162 may be inserted if desired (Fig. 19), into trapezoidal slots 164 (see also Fig. 38) in two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104.
  • Each retaining pin 162 has one or more side surfaces that are roughened, for example by small barbed projections 163, as shown in schematic form in Fig.
  • Each retaining pin 162 has a hook 166 that is resilient, and configured to engage adjacent portions of any frame part that passes it, to help hold the indexes and their respective frame parts in place, until affirmatively pulled up and out into their deployed positions. For example, when an index is being pushed down into its case part 102, 104, as the frame part 165 pushes down on hook 166, hook 166 is pushed downward and inwardly, as shown by the arrow in Fig. 43. Once the frame part (shown in broken lines as 165) passes the position of pushed in hook 166, hook 166 is free to resiliently return to its unbent position, preventing frame part 165 from passing hook 166.
  • a frame part 165 and hook 166 there is sufficient vertical and lateral spacing between a frame part 165 and hook 166, so that when it is desired to flip up the index associated with frame part 165, hook 166 is simply pushed down and held in place, while frame part 165 is lifted up, causing its associated index to be likewise pivoted up.
  • retaining pins 162 are shown as being inserted into case parts 102, 104, it is to be understood that retaining pins 162 could also be integrally formed into case parts 102, 104, either as separate pieces that are later affixed in place, or as projections monolithically formed on case parts 102, 104.
  • pins 162 are shown as engaging only frame parts, it is to be understood that pins could also be positioned to releasably engage indexes 106, 110 directly.
  • Fig. 20 shows case 100 partially closed.
  • Figs. 21 - 25 illustrate index cover part 116 (124) which may be identical as illustrated or which may have structural' differences not directed to the principles of the invention, which has formed thereon ratchet structures 122 (130) (shown somewhat schematically in Fig. 24), and apertures 121 (138).
  • Figs. 21 and 25 particularly illustrate slots 123, 125 located on the inside surface of index cover part 106 (110) that are to receive the side edges of racks 118, 126.
  • Figs. 23 and 25 particularly illustrate pegs 134, 136 that are engaged by barbs 132 (140) (which, as illustrated may be identical, or which may have other configurations as desired).
  • Figs. 26 - 29 illustrate index cover part 120 (128) which may be identical as illustrated or which may have structural differences not directed to the principles of the invention, which includes barbs 132 (140) (which, as illustrated may be identical, or which may have other configurations as desired) which are configured to engage pegs 134, 136 of index cover part 116 (124).
  • Figs. 30 - 32 illustrate a frame part 114' that is analogous to frame parts 108 and 114 of Figs. 1 - 21, having ratchet structures 156'.
  • pivot pin 160 incorporating resilient barbs 162, which deflect when the conical end of a pivot pin 160 is pushed into an aperture 121 (138), and snap back once the barbs have been pushed into the interior region of each index cover part 116 (124).
  • Figs. 35A - 35C illustrate another pivot pin, having a split front end, and a conical base or foot.
  • Figs. 35D - 35F illustrate a pivot pin, having a domed split front end, and a pyramidal base or foot (which can lock into the trapezoidal slot) so that rotation of an index occurs between the contact surface between the index and the pin, and not between the pin and the slot surfaces).
  • Figs. 35G - 35I illustrate a pin having a pyramidal basic that is bowtie-shaped in plan. In each pin construction the shaft and front end of the pins are bodies of revolution preferably having circular (although other cross-sections are contemplated) cross-sections that are split, to permit snap-fit insertion into the apertures in the ends of the indexes.
  • Figs. 36, 37 illustrate an alternative configuration of an interior for a two-piece hinged case part, which is provided with more slots for receiving the end of pivot pins and/or other insertable components, such as retaining pins.
  • Figs. 38, 39 illustrate in further detail the configuration of the interior for two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104, showing slots 160 for receiving the pivot pins for the indexes, and slots 164 for receiving the retaining pins of Figs. 42 - 44.
  • Figs. 40 - 41 illustrate an alternative configuration for an interior for the two-piece hinged case parts, having proportions slightly different from the interiors for two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104.
  • Figs. 45 - 47, 48 - 50, 51 - 53 and 54 - 56 illustrate pairs of mating ratchet structures which could be used for any of the pairs of ratchet structures (122, 150; 130, 152; 154, 156) that have been identified herein.
  • the ratchet structures are complementary, and the respective structures can be mounted on or formed in either of the respective facing surfaces, in the index cover parts and frame parts.
  • the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on one of the mating surfaces, a "female" structure of twelve (although a higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 200, that are set in a recess 202, concentrically surrounding a bore or aperture 204.
  • Each of ribs 200 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferably increases in height and width, with distance from the center 206.
  • Each of ribs 210 likewise preferably has a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of corresponding ribs 200, which preferably increases in height and width, with distance from center 216. Ribs 200 and 210 will be preferably uniformly circumferentially spaced around their respective centers 206, 216, with ribs 210 being offset by, e.g., 15°. When the surfaces are mated, post 214 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 204, to help keep the surfaces aligned.
  • the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on one of the mating surfaces, a "male" structure of twelve (although a higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 300, that are set on a raised circular pedestal 302, concentrically surrounding a bore or aperture 304.
  • Each of ribs 300 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferably increases in height and width, with distance from the center 306.
  • Each of ribs 310 likewise preferably has a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of corresponding ribs 300, which preferably increases in height and width, with distance from center 316. Ribs 300 and 310 will be preferably uniformly circumferentially spaced around their respective centers 306, 316, with ribs 310 being offset by, e.g., 15°.
  • post 314 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 304, to help keep the mating surfaces aligned.
  • the ratcheting action is as described with respect to Figs. 45 - 47.
  • the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on one of the mating surfaces, a "male" structure of twelve (although a higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 400, that are set flat on the mating surface 402, concentrically surrounding a cylindrical post 404.
  • Each of ribs 400 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferably increases in height and width, with distance from the center 406.
  • Each of ribs 410 likewise preferably has a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of corresponding ribs 400, which preferably increases in height and width, with distance from center 416. Ribs 400 and 410 will be preferably uniformly circumferentially spaced around their respective centers 406, 416, with ribs 410 being offset by, e.g., 15°.
  • post 404 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 414, to help keep the mating surfaces aligned.
  • the ratcheting action is as described with respect to Figs. 45 - 47.
  • the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on one of the mating surfaces, a "female" structure of twelve (although a higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 500, that are set in a recess 502, concentrically surrounding a cylindrical post 504.
  • Each of ribs 500 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferably increases in height and width, with distance from the center 506.
  • Each of ribs 510 likewise preferably has a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of corresponding ribs 500, which preferably increases in height and width, with distance from center 516. Ribs 500 and 510 will be preferably uniformly circumferentially spaced around their respective centers 506, 516, with ribs 510 being offset by, e.g., 15°.
  • post 504 When the surfaces are mated, post 504 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 514, to help keep the surfaces aligned. The ratcheting action is as described with respect to Figs. 45 - 47.
  • Figs. 56A - 56C illustrate schematically that the particular configuration of the ratchet structure, including the number of radiating ridges (indicated by the radiating lines), whether the ridges extend completely or partially from the center to the outer periphery, and whether there may be more than one concentric feature (like a post or a bore) that may or may , not have ridges on it, can be widely varied by one of ordinary skill in the art, having the present disclosure before them, without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • the cross-sections preferably increase in height and width, with distance from the center of the ratchet surface to the periphery.
  • the cross-sectional shape of the ribs may be modified to, for example, semicircular shapes or semi-elliptical shapes, as may be desired. Also, because the ribs extend in complete circles, relative rotation of the components is only limited by any obstructions external to the ratchet structures. In the present invention, as can be seen from the other drawings, the range of pivoting movement is clearly quite large, being the substantial majority of a complete circle in each illustrated embodiment.
  • ratchet structures are preferred for providing rotational control of the frame parts relative to the indexes and to each other (in the case of multiple connected frame parts), it is contemplated that other (usually friction or interference-based) types of rotational control structures may be provided, that are based upon the principle that resistance (up to a certain torsional value) is exerted, so that the frame structure can be pivoted to a desired position, and reliably remain in that desired position, during normal use conditions, until moved again by the user.
  • Figs. 57A - 80 represent groups of illustrations of various types of frame parts, and associated racks, to be connected to and installed in, respectively, the index structure of Figs. 21 - 25.
  • the structures of the rack and frame parts may be modified considerably, and if suitably dimensioned and provided with mating rotational control surfaces, swapped or interchanged as prompted by the requirements of a given application, to accommodate tool parts of various sizes and shapes, without departing from the scope of the invention, and the present invention is not limited to those particular embodiments illustrated herein.
  • the modular tool holding structure can be applied to other types of tool and part holding cases, such as general multi-part tool cases, in which other tools (both hand and/or power tools) are also contained in the same case, along with the index and frame structure.
  • One or more indexes may be accommodated in each side of a case, as space permits.
  • the case does not have to be a two-piece hinged case type or even a hinged type to accommodate or take advantage of the present invention.
  • a simple rectangular parallelepiped case having a snap or slide-on lid can also be adapted, so long as it has the interior structures (e.g., the pegs for defining the slots) for receiving the pivot pins of one or more indexes, and optionally for holding the retaining pins.
  • the interior structures e.g., the pegs for defining the slots
  • the packaging, storage and display apparatus and system of the present invention has many advantages for a manufacturer of goods such as tool and parts kits, as well as a private consumer, in that by being able to select from a variety of racks and a variety of frame structures, gives a manufacturer or individual consumer the flexibility to design and assemble a tool case, to the particular specifications of the particular manufacturer or individual consumer.
  • the movable and positionable frame structures permit the user of the tools to open the case and position the tools in a desired work orientation that is most suitable to the needs and/or tastes of the particular user.
  • a consumer may have a number of different index/frame structures holding different tool bits or parts, which different index/frame structures can be switched in and out of a case, as desired or required by the needs of the user.
  • the index can be removed from a case and set up as a free-standing index, out of its case, by moving the frame around to hold up the index.
  • the indexes of the preferred embodiment have solid, unbroken front and back parts, in part to provide a complete finished look, as well as to provide space for indicia indicating the sizes of the respective tools held in the index, if desired.
  • tool cases can be sold with selected indexes in them, and indexes and frames of various sizes can be sold separately, or in various combinations.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)
  • Basic Packing Technique (AREA)
EP04254353A 2003-08-07 2004-07-21 Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage Withdrawn EP1504854A3 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/636,972 US20050029140A1 (en) 2003-08-07 2003-08-07 Packaging, storage and display apparatus and system
US636972 2003-08-07

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1504854A2 true EP1504854A2 (fr) 2005-02-09
EP1504854A3 EP1504854A3 (fr) 2008-05-07

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EP04254353A Withdrawn EP1504854A3 (fr) 2003-08-07 2004-07-21 Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage

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US (2) US20050029140A1 (fr)
EP (1) EP1504854A3 (fr)
CA (1) CA2460878C (fr)

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EP1655113A2 (fr) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-10 TG Tools United Company Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage

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WO2007109606A2 (fr) * 2006-03-17 2007-09-27 Csp Technologies, Inc. Emballage primaire étanche à l'humidité pour un inhalateur de poudre sèche
US20080083633A1 (en) * 2006-09-26 2008-04-10 Simon Kao Toolbox
USD721231S1 (en) 2013-08-20 2015-01-20 Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation Accessory case
USD740559S1 (en) 2014-08-25 2015-10-13 Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation Accessory case
US9694489B2 (en) 2014-08-25 2017-07-04 Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation Tool bit case with modular components
US10449665B2 (en) * 2017-04-12 2019-10-22 Gregory R Ernst Bit organizer

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CH630837A5 (en) * 1977-06-22 1982-07-15 Koch Fa Carl Container for twist drills or the like
US5006066A (en) * 1989-02-17 1991-04-09 Rouse Melvin R Autoclavable dental burr holder
US5312250A (en) * 1992-12-02 1994-05-17 Ellman Alan G Dental tool holder
GB2381262A (en) * 2001-10-29 2003-04-30 Chang-Ying Chen Tool box

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1655113A2 (fr) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-10 TG Tools United Company Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage
EP1655113A3 (fr) * 2004-11-09 2008-01-23 TG Tools United Company Système et dispositif d'emballage, de stockage et d'affichage

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2460878A1 (fr) 2005-02-07
US20050126944A1 (en) 2005-06-16
EP1504854A3 (fr) 2008-05-07
US20050029140A1 (en) 2005-02-10
CA2460878C (fr) 2008-09-16

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