KR20140093745A - Improved key holder - Google Patents

Abstract

Claims 1. A customizable key holder for storing one or more keys, the key holder comprising: two separate outer plates capable of storing at least one key between outer plates; And at least one detachable locking pin utilizing a locking mechanism to secure at least one key between the outer plates; The key holder further comprising one or two interchangeable outer cover plates formed to individualize the key holder; At least one of the interchangeable sheathing covers provides storage space for the accessory elements.

Description

Improved key holder {IMPROVED KEY HOLDER}

The present invention relates to an individual convenience apparatus, more particularly to a key and small personal item management system.

Perhaps after the invention of locks and keys, the use of key rings was the standard most common and simple way of storing and fixing the various individual keys.

Alternative management schemes for rows of keys that damage a tackless bag provided by a simple key ring by a certain form of storage enclosure are known. For example, an initial patent by Dodson, US 1,793, 594, discloses an example of a key embedded device. At least one drawback of the Dawson device and other options is that the means of mounting and disengaging the key from the key holder is inconvenient. This is, for example, a device in which the keys are still pulled out of the constrained pouch mounted on the key ring.

Another drawback of conventional key holders is that they are limited to the storage of one or more keys, so that typically small personal items are stored in the user's pocket unlimitedly.

The term " comprising (and its grammatical variations) " is used herein to mean "having" or " including "

The above description of the prior art in the context of the present invention is to admit that the information described is part of the prior art which is cited or is part of the usual general knowledge of an ordinary technician familiar with the art in this field no.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome these drawbacks or at least to ameliorate some of the drawbacks.

A key-holder according to one preferred form of the invention comprises two outer plates for holding keys between the outer plates and one or more detachable locking pins or bolts, preferably using a rotary locking mechanism for fixing the storage keys One or more small springs that provide resistance to the keys, and preferably one or two detachable outer covers for individualization, promotion, trademark, key-set labeling, and the like.

In one aspect, the one or more sheaths, which may be plastic, metal or aluminum structures, constitute an extruded shape and have one or more holes located at each end, wherein at least one hole in at least one end of the one or two holes And may have a special shape that can be integrally secured by detachable rotary locking pins or bolts. The plate can be a flat extrusion section and can provide a platform for storing one or more keys in the most efficient form and also provides a removable accessory cover attachment and a base platform for attachment attachment.

In one preferred embodiment, detachable accessory covers of plastic, metal or aluminum construction provide a user's personalization, promotions, trademarks, etc. in a visual design similar to a cellular phone cover on the outside edge.

These detachable accessory covers also provide a feature that internally embeds one or more functional devices or articles of the following non-limiting examples in the cover; Mirrors, LED torches, alarm transmitters, USB devices, retractable lanyards, and more.

Another exterior plate of plastic, metal or aluminum construction, which may be a self-detachable accessory cover, forms one or more openings located at each end, at least one opening in the at least one end of which is a rotational locking pin or bolt And has a diameter that allows it to pass therethrough. These exterior plates also have the opportunity to display their own personality, promotions, trademarks, key-set labels, etc., on their outer perimeter.

In a preferred form, the separable pin or bolt of the plastic, metal or aluminum construction is of a diameter that is capable of penetrating the hole at the top of the key (s) using a rotary locking mechanism, So that they can be fastened. It is also possible to construct a lift rotation auxiliary handle that can be folded into a flat position when not in use.

In a preferred form, the springs can be round coil compression springs or flat wrinkle compression spring plates and include a diameter through which a rotatable locking pin or bolt can pass, and the outer plate or detachment pin or bolt head and the closest Resistance is applied to the alignment key surface.

In one form, detachable accessory covers, which may be plastic, metal or aluminum structures, may obscure the shapes associated with integrating the detachable locking pin (s) or bolt (s) with the primary extruded sheathing.

These covers can provide unprecedented opportunities for product surface areas for user personalities, promotions, trademarks, key-set labeling, etc., specifically on the outside skirt (s).

Thus, in a first broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a key holder for storage of one or more keys; The key holder comprising at least one accessory compartment; The one or more accessory compartments are formed by attaching a selected one of a plurality of interchangeable covers to a structural member of the key holder.

Preferably, the key holder comprises two said accessory compartments; The accessory compartments are each formed by the selected interchangeable covers attached to opposing structural members of the key holder.

Preferably, the interchangeable covers comprise a generally elongated shell open at the bottom thereof; The shell is generally arcuate in cross-section and is rounded at its outer ends.

Advantageously, said interchangeable covers comprise a generally elongate shell with a closure on the underside for storing the article when said cover is detached from said structural member of said key holder.

Preferably said at least one key is stored between said structural members; The structural members comprising a storage enclosure facing the base enclosure; Wherein the base outer plate and the storage outer plate are interconnected by locking pins when assembled for use; Each said locking pin being operable between a first locking position and a second releasing position; The at least one key is threaded into the shaft portion of the locking pin.

Preferably, the base enclosure comprises a substantially planar long plate; Holes are provided adjacent opposite ends of the base enclosure; Each of the locking pins passes through the hole when the key holder is assembled for use.

Preferably, the storage enclosure comprises a substantially planar long plate; Corresponding holes are provided in the storage enclosure adjacent to opposite ends of the storage enclosure; Said corresponding holes being aligned with the holes of said base sheathing; Each of the locking pins passes through the holes when the key holder is assembled for use.

Preferably, each of said apertures of said storage enclosure comprises engaging elements; The coupling elements engage complementary coupling elements of the locking pins when the key holder is assembled for use.

Preferably, the complementary engaging elements are provided at the ends of the shaft portion of each locking pin remote from the head portion.

Preferably, the head portion is larger in diameter than the shaft portion; Wherein the head portion is provided with a grasping element; The gripping member is operable between a position protruding outward with respect to the head portion and a retracted position where the gripping member is located in contact with the base enclosure.

Preferably, the spring means disposed between the base outer plate and the storage enclosure limits free movement of one or more keys stored on the shaft portion of the locking pins; The spring means restricts the keys to their enclosed position.

Preferably, the detachable accessory cover side of the storage enclosure is provided with a storage structure along opposite edges of the storage enclosure; The storage structure allows attachment of the complementary coupling structure of the removable accessory cover.

Preferably, the interchangeable cover provides a storage space for storing a personal article or function mechanism in a certain volume of space provided by the interchangeable cover.

Preferably, the outer surfaces of the interchangeable cover and the base skin plate provide indicia and labels.

Preferably, the detachable cover and the base enclosure are provided with a monochrome company label.

Preferably, the interchangeable cover and the base sheath are provided with a range of colors, materials, and finishes and textures.

Preferably, the locking pins are provided with a range of lengths suitable for a predetermined key storage performance.

Preferably, washers or discs are stored on the locking pins between the outer plates; The discs or washers are interchangeable with keys.

Preferably, small accessory tools of similar size to the keys are screwed onto the locking pins and stored between the outer plates.

In yet another broad form of the invention, a method is provided for customizing a key holder, comprising:

(a) providing at least one surface from which indicia can be written,

(b) providing at least one structural member formed to attach the interchangeable covers.

Advantageously, said interchangeable covers comprise a plurality of selectable covers; Each of the covers forms a storage space between the inner surface of the cover and the outer plate of the key holder.

In yet another broad form of the invention, a method of storing one or more keys in a key holder is provided, the method comprising:

(a) activating a gripping element of one or more locking pins of the key holder to separate the locking pin from a hole in the storage enclosure of the key holder,

(b) retracting said locking pin from said storage enclosure,

(c) turning or bending the base plate of the key holder from alignment with the storage enclosure,

(d) passing the shaft portion of the locking pin through the hole of the at least one key,

(e) re-aligning said retainer plate and said base sheathing,

(f) re-engaging the locking pin with the hole of the storage enclosure.

Thus, in another broad form of the invention there is provided a customizable key holder for storing one or more keys; Wherein the key holder comprises two separate outer plates for storing the one or more keys between the outer plates; And one or more detachable locking pins utilizing a locking mechanism for locking one or more keys between the outer plates; The key holder further comprising one or two interchangeable covers formed to individualize the key holder; One or more interchangeable sheathing covers provide a storage space for the accessory elements.

Preferably, the interchangeable sheathing cover generally comprises a long shell.

Preferably, the shell is open at its bottom.

Preferably, the interchangeable sheathing cover is machined at its outer ends to conveniently conform to the user's hand when attached for use with the sheathing and is formed as a generally elongate body with a generally arcuate cross-section.

Preferably, the storage space incorporates an electronic mechanism.

Preferably, the storage space incorporates a mirror, LED torch, alarm transmitter, or USB device.

Preferably, the one or more interchangeable outer cover plates are provided with a closure for storing the stored article when the at least one of the interchangeable outer cover covers is detached from one of the outer plates of the key holder. do.

Preferably, the two separate outer plates include a storage enclosure opposite the base enclosure; Wherein the base enclosure and the storage enclosure are interconnected by the locking pins when assembled for use; Each said locking pin being operable between a first locking position and a second releasing position; The at least one key is threaded into the shaft portion of the locking pin.

Preferably, the fins can be detached from the outer plates without a detaching tool.

Preferably, the outer surfaces of the interchangeable sheathing covers provide indicia and labels.

Preferably, the at least one outer surface of the interchangeable sheathing covers comprises a covering element comprising either a slip-on cover, an adhesive film or a sticker.

Preferably, the at least one of the interchangeable sheathing covers is provided with a range of colors, materials, finishes and textures.

Advantageously, small accessory tools of similar size to the keys can be screwed into the locking pins and stored between the outer plates.

In still a further broad form of the invention, a method of customizing a key holder is provided; The key holder comprising a pair of separate outer plates for storing one or more keys between the outer plates; The method includes providing at least one interchangeable sheathing cover and shaping the at least one interchangeable sheathing cover as a shell configured to store the accessory element.

Advantageously, said at least one interchangeable sheathing cover can fill in the indicia.

Preferably, the method further comprises the step of providing at least one of the paired outer plates as a base platform formed to attach the interchangeable outer plate cover; The interchangeable sheathing cover is selected from a plurality of interchangeable sheathing covers.

Preferably, the pair of separate outer plates are interconnected by locking pins in use.

Preferably, the interchangeable sheathing cover forms a storage space or a built-in space between the inner surface of the cover and one of the pair of separate sheathing plates forming the pair of key holders.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of an assembled advanced key holder according to the invention,
Figure 2 is a bottom view of the key holder of Figure 1,
Figure 3 is a first side view of the storage enclosure of the key holder of Figures 1 and 2,
Figure 4 is a second side view of the storage enclosure of Figure 3,
Figure 4A is a view of the cut end of the storage enclosure of Figures 3 and 4,
Figure 5 is a partial cutaway end view of the assembled key holder of Figure 1,
Figures 6 and 7 are a bottom view and a side view of the key holder during use,
Figure 8 is a side view of a further preferred embodiment of the present invention,
Figure 9 is a side view of a further preferred embodiment for implementing electronic and microchip technology in a cover plate cover.

The key holder of one preferred embodiment of the present invention is configured to store one or more keys in a partially enclosing casing. The casing is configured to facilitate access to the key for use, and is configured to add or remove a key from the holder. Preferably, it is hand-shaped and generally has a rounded edge at the outer end of the elongate body, and is free of sharp projections.

Additionally, the key holder may include a surface suitable for displaying written or attached indicia, such as company logos and promotional materials. Moreover, the structure of the key holder casing can be configured to provide one or more small accessory compartments for storing small articles. These could include, for example, cosmetics, pocket knives, mirrors, torches, alarm transmitters, MP3 players, lighters or USB memory sticks.

The accessory compartment of the key holder of the preferred form of the invention is formed by the addition of an interchangeable cover which attaches to the basic main structural member of the key holder. The covers provide a storage space and are formed to provide aesthetic appeal of the key holder through the simplicity of the design.

Interchangeable covers may be provided in a range of colors and styles, and may include a logo and promotional material as described above, or an indicia and logo that promotes personalized information. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the interchangeable covers of the key holder and the marked or added markings provide for the customization and customization of the key holder.

desirable Examples

Referring to FIG. 1, a key holder 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes two primary structural members; A base sheathing plate 12 and an opposing storage sheathing 14. The interchangeable accessory compartment cover (15) is removably attached to at least the storage enclosure (14). The base sheathing 12 and the storage sheathing 14 are interconnected when assembled for use by the two locking pins 16 and 18 in the preferred arrangement. It should be understood that the lengths of these pins can be chosen according to the desired degree of key storage.

The key holder of this embodiment may be provided with a number of washers and disks that are similar in thickness to the keys and sufficient to fill the space between the base and the storage enclosure. These disks can be replaced with keys as needed.

The base sheath 12 preferably includes a substantially planar extruded long plate having apertures 20 and 22 near opposite ends of the base sheath 12.

When the key holder 10 is assembled for use, the locking pins 16 and 18 can penetrate these holes. Each locking pin 16 and 18 can operate between a first locking position (as shown in Figures 1 and 2) and a second releasing position.

The base sheath 12 may be a stretchable material so as to be easily accessible for easy rotation of the keys stored in the use position as shown in FIGS. To accommodate this stretch, the holes 20 and 22 may be in the form of slots.

The storage enclosure 14 may also include a substantially elongated enclosure and is of a size similar to that of the base enclosure 12. It is also possible to have corresponding holes 24 and 26 adjacent opposite ends of the plate. These holes are aligned with the holes 20 and 22 of the base enclosure 12 when the key holder 10 is assembled for use.

3, 4 and 5, the holes 24 and 26 are formed by locking elements formed to engage complementary engaging elements 30 of the locking pins 16 and 18, And corresponding protruding elements 28.

With particular reference to Figure 5, each locking pin 16,18 includes a shaft portion 36 and a head portion 38 of greater diameter than the shaft portion. The diameter of the shaft portion 36 is selected to be smaller than the normal diameters of these holes provided in the keys and by these means the keys can be combined in the key ring or suspended by, for example, a hook.

At the end of the shaft portion 36 remote from the head portion 38, there is provided a complementary engaging means as described above. In a preferred arrangement, the engagement means 30 of the locking pins comprise an annular groove 32 with slots 34 between the outer ends of the pins and the annular groove. In a preferred arrangement, the coupling elements 30 of the locking pins include annular grooves 32 having slots 34 between the outer ends of the pins and the annular groove. These longitudinally corresponding slots 34 correspond to the protruding elements 28.

With this arrangement, when the slots 34 are rotated to align with the projecting elements 28, the locking pins can be inserted into the holes 26, 28. When the pin is rotated by 90 degrees, it is engaged with the projecting element of the groove 32, whereby the locking pins can be fixed to the storage enclosure 14. [

The head portion 38 is provided with a gripping element 40 operable between a position protruding outward with respect to the head portion 38 and a retracted position as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, as shown in Fig. In this latter position, the holding element 40 abuts the surface of the base sheath 12. Preferably, the gripping element 40 is in the form of a semi-circular ring which is rotatably attached to the head portion and is provided with a pressing means (not shown) facing the retracted position.

Preferably, the holder 10 is provided with spring means disposed between the base sheathing 12 and the storage sheathing 14, which presses the keys stored between the plates abutting the base sheathing 12, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > position. ≪ / RTI > 6, the spring means is located in the form of a light coil compression spring which is located around the locking pin shaft and which serves to prevent the ratcheting of the keys 48, as well as to prevent rotation from the holder when not in use to be. Preferably, the springs 17 are exclusive in that they are attached to the storage enclosure 14 at the base.

4, 4A, and 5, a second or opposite side of the storage enclosure 14 is provided with a lip-shaped slot 42 along opposite edges for attachment of a removable accessory compartment cover 15, Is provided.

Preferably, the detachable accessory compartment cover 15 forms a shell that is open at the lower side and has a complementary engagement structure that can be clipped or slidably coupled to the lip-shaped slots 42 along its lower opposite edges It is made of semi-rigid material.

Instead, the detachable accessory compartment may include a sliding closure (not shown) at the base of the shell for storage in the compartment when the closure is released from the coupling structure 42.

Preferably, the shell of the detachable accessory compartment cover 15 is generally formed such that the profile is arcuate and the outer end is rounded to grip comfortably by hand. The shell provides a storage space between the inner surface of the detachable accessory cover and the second or opposing edges of the storage enclosure 14. [

In the alternative preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 8, the base enclosure and the storage enclosure are respectively shown in Fig. 5 formed to releasably store similar accessory covers to provide two accessory compartments on their outwardly facing surfaces The same coupling structure is provided.

Typically, the key holder of the present invention will be provided with an initial or default accessory cover or covers. The default cover may or may not have a mark. The participating retail stores may provide a range of any interchangeable covers that conform to the cover storage elements of the key holder.

In yet other preferred embodiments, any of the covers may be in the form of an elastically stretchable casing made of, for example, a cover that may be laid down over an initially installed default cover or covers.

In still another preferred embodiment, any cover may be a polymeric film having a self-adhesive surface that is protected prior to use by the release protective layer.

As described above, the optional covers are not only provided with a range of different colors and textures, but may also include company logos, promotional and personal indicia. As such, for example, the cover may be provided with a color or logo of a preferred spokes team, or a preferred famous figure image.

The optional interchangeable covers may be provided with an outwardly facing side of the base enclosure for embodiments only provided for a single compartment, not just an accessory compartment for the key holder.

The key holder 10 of the present invention can be made of a suitable material including a metal and a polymer material.

It will be appreciated that while the above description is centered on retaining keys between the outer plates of the key holder, other useful articles of similar size to the key may conveniently be stored within the holder. Thus, small accessory tools such as, for example, scissors, nail files, pen knife blades or suspension hooks can be screwed onto the locking pins.

Additional modifications and improvements may be included within the outer cover plates, including microchip technology. 9, this technique may include a power supply / battery charging device 60 for charging an external device, such as a cellular phone 61, via a cable 62. The technique may also include a microprocessor-based device 63 that communicates with the transmitter 64 to store the cellular phone and wireless communication, thereby enhancing or supplementing the performance of the cellular phone. In one example, at least some of the functionality of the smartphone may be included within the microprocessor-based device 63 so that the mobile phone 65 may be smaller at a certain performance level. In a more specific form, the microprocessor-based device 63 may include all the functionality of a mobile phone sufficient for the key holder to function as a mobile phone. In its special form, it includes short range communication capabilities such as Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC), so it can communicate with headsets, point-of-sale facilities, and so on. The microprocessor-based device 63 may also include GPS or similar location characteristics. Whereby the device can act, for example, as an emergency locator. The device 63 may also act to provide a cryptographic characteristic that is used to stabilize the financial transaction. The shell 15 may also include an encrypted microchip device 66 to stabilize financial transactions or to stabilize door access, Other electronic devices may include a laser pointer, an acoustic speaker, and a missing key locator. As previously described, non-electronic devices that may be embedded within the shell may additionally include cosmetics, mirrors, pens, and most other miniature products for personal use.

By way of non-limiting example, electronic and non-electronic items that may be embedded within a shell include the following items:

o i Pad / i Phone / i Pod Accessories,

o IT repair cables / Cisco console cables used in retail equipment,

o portable sewing kit,

o Mobile phone / i-pad / spare battery General plug-in charger,

o Miniaturized cameras,

o Universal remote control,

o Micro tools,

o Multipurpose cable (such as a cold USB cable),

o Cosmetics,

o cologne liquid container, hand sanitizer,

o Pocket knives,

o Tools - Compact stud finders, laser measuring instruments,

o Mirrors,

o Torch, flash, etc.,

o Alarm transmitter,

o Key Locator,

o MP3 player,

o Lighters,

o USB storage device,

o shrinkable lanyard,

o Retractable spring hooks,

o Belt clips,

o RSA security token,

o a random number generator used for two factor authentication with LED display,

o Flotation mechanism / expansion mechanism,

o Microchip ID technology, such as access door chips, swipe card chips, vehicle activation certification chips, exercise club ID chips,

o Storage of medicines, tablets,

o Small personal items storage - Money notes, cigarettes, cigars,

o Small tools (screwdriver),

o Pen / Highlighter / ruler,

o tape means,

o Bubble tube spirit level,

o Clock / calendar with alarm clock,

o Portable device signal antenna (booster),

o Laser pointer and presentation remote control,

o Bluetooth remote control for Bluetooth operating device,

o Mobile phone stand,

o Hi-Definition Bluetooth hands-free speakerphone for mobile phones,

o Photo electronic display (LCD / LED),

o Small radio transmitters / receivers,

o book light,

o Magnet attachment for refrigerator,

o Bottle openers,

o Cork Screw,

o third party interfacing performance attachments (such as Swiss Army Knife attachments)

o 3G modem with SIM performance,

o toiletries,

o Toothbrush,

o Tampon Holder,

o Personal distress alarm / panic device,

o Tracking equipment,

o Small portable speakers,

o Lint remover,

o Comb,

o Recorders,

o Compass,

o An electronic multipurpose instrument with interchangeable software (ie, an interface)

o Bluetooth speakerphone,

o Press office,

o Shrinkable magnifying glass,

o A small Bluetooth touchpad (as an alternative to a mouse or trackpad)

o Storage of electronic and microchip technology within the sheathing cover (within the sheathing plate cover).

As described above, the outer sheath 12 may include a flexible material that forms the slot holes through which the locking fins pass to allow the storage sheath to bend outwardly and to access the storage keys .

The key holder 10 of the embodiments of the present invention provides convenient storage for many keys, such as those shown in FIGS. In the embodiments described above and shown in the figures, the holder provides two stacked keys 50 and 52 that are threaded to the respective locking pins 16 and 18.

In order to add a key to the holder, the locking pin to which the key is to be attached is relaxed by rotating the gripping element and retracting the locking pin from the storage enclosure. The base sheath is then pivoted or bent out of alignment with the storage enclosure to access the released locking pin. The base sheath 12 is then pivoted or bent and rearranged, and the locking pins are restored to the storage enclosure 14.

As described above, the storage space provided by the detachable cover portion 15 can be used to store small personal items such as, for example, mirrors, LED torches, alarm transmitters, USB devices, retractable fasteners and coins.

The foregoing has described only certain embodiments of the present invention and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art can be readily carried out without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (43)

A customizable key holder for storing one or more keys, comprising:
Said key holder comprising: two separate outer sheaths for holding said one or more keys therebetween;
And at least one detachable locking pin utilizing a locking mechanism for locking said at least one key between said outer sheathing;
Wherein the key holder comprises one or more interchangeable outer cover plates formed to align the key holder;
At least one of said interchangeable outer cover plates providing a storage space for accessory elements. 2. The key holder of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable sheathing cover comprises a generally elongated shell. The key holder according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the shell is opened at the bottom. The interchangeable sheathing plate cover according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interchangeable sheathing plate is rounded at its outer ends so as to conveniently fit into the user's hand when mounted for use with the sheathing, A key holder formed of an elongated body. The key holder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage space stores an electronic device. 5. The key holder according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage space stores any one of a mirror, an LED torch, an alarm transmitter, or a USB device. Wherein one or more of the interchangeable sheathing covers when the one or more of the interchangeable sheathing covers are detached from one of the sheathing of the keyholder comprises an item A key holder with a closure for storage. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two separate outer enclosures comprise a storage enclosure opposite the base enclosure; The base enclosure and the opposing storage enclosure are interconnected by the locking pin when assembled for use; Each said locking pin being operable between a first locking position and a second locking position; Wherein the one or more keys are threaded into the shaft portion of the locking pin. 9. The key holder of claim 8, wherein the pins are detachable from the outer sheaths without a detaching tool. The key holder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer surface of the interchangeable sheathing cover provides images, indicia or labeling. 20. A key holder as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer surface of the at least one cover plate comprises a covering element comprising one of a slip-on cover, an adhesive film or a sticker. The key holder according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one of the interchangeable outer cover plates is provided in a range of colors, materials, finishes and textures. 7. A key holder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein small accessory tools of similar size to the keys are screwed onto the locking pins and stored between the outer sheathing plates. 7. A key holder as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising a microprocessor-based device for performing on-board computations to add functionality. A method for customizing a key holder comprising a pair of separate outer enclosures for storing one or more keys between outer plates, the method comprising:
(a) providing one or more interchangeable outer sheathing covers;
(b) shaping said at least one interchangeable outer sheathing cover as a shell suitable for storage of the accessory element. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein indicia are written on the one or more interchangeable outer sheathing covers. 17. The method of claim 15, 16 or 17, wherein the method further comprises providing at least one of the pair of outer sheathing plates as a base platform configured to mount the interchangeable outer sheathing cover; Wherein the interchangeable outer enclosure cover is selected from a plurality of interchangeable enclosure covers. 18. A method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the pair of separate outer sheathing plates are interconnected in use by a locking pin. 19. A method as claimed in any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the interchangeable outer cover plate covers a storage space or a built-in space between the inner surface of the cover and one of the pair of separate outer cover plates of the key holder Lt; / RTI > A key holder for storing one or more keys;
The key holder including one or more accessory compartments;
Wherein said at least one accessory compartment is formed by attaching a selected one of a plurality of interchangeable covers to a structural member of said key holder. 21. The device of claim 20, wherein the key holder comprises two accessory compartments; Each of said accessory compartments being formed by selected said interchangeable covers attached to opposed structural elements of said key holder. 22. The method of claim 20 or 21, wherein the interchangeable covers comprise a generally elongated shell opening at the lower side; The shell is generally arcuate in cross-section and is curved at its outer ends. 22. A key holder according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the interchangeable covers generally comprise a closure member for storing a storage item when the cover is separated from the structural member of the key holder, generally at the bottom. 23. The method of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the at least one key is stored between the structural members;
The structural member comprising a storage enclosure facing the base enclosure;
The base enclosure and the storage enclosure being interconnected by locking pins when assembled for use;
Each said locking pin being operable between a first position and a second position; Wherein the at least one key is threaded into the shaft portion of the locking pin. 26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the base enclosure comprises a substantially flat elongated plate;
Wherein the base enclosure is provided with holes near opposite ends of the base enclosure;
Each of said locking pins passing through said hole when said key holder is assembled for use. 26. The storage enclosure of claim 24 or 25, wherein the storage enclosure comprises a substantially flat slender plate;
Wherein the storage enclosure is provided with corresponding holes close to opposite ends of the storage enclosure;
Said corresponding holes being aligned with said holes of said base sheathing;
Each of said locking pins passing through said holes when said key holder is assembled for use. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein each of the holes in the storage enclosure comprises engaging elements; Wherein the coupling element engages complementary engagement elements of the locking pins when the key holder is assembled for use. 28. The key holder of claim 27, wherein the complementary engaging elements are provided at the ends of the shaft portion of each of the locking pins remote from the head portion. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the head portion is larger in diameter than the shaft portion; Wherein the head portion is provided with a gripping element operable between a retracted position where the gripping element contacts the base outer sheath and a position protruding outward with respect to the head portion. 31. The apparatus according to any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein a spring or resilient means for applying a force between the base outer panel and the storage enclosure is stored in the shaft portion of the locking pins; Said spring means holding said key in their outer position. 32. A method as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the detachable accessory cover side of the storage enclosure is provided with a storage structure along opposing edges of the storage enclosure;
Wherein the storage structure accommodates the mounting of the detachable accessory cover, the complementary coupling structure. 32. The key holder according to any one of claims 20 to 31, wherein the interchangeable cover provides a storage space for storing a personal item or functional appliance within a space volume provided by the interchangeable cover. 33. A key holder as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 32, for providing markings and labeling of the interchangeable cover and the outer surfaces of the base enclosure. 32. The key holder according to any one of claims 24 to 32, wherein the detachable accessory cover and the base outer plate are provided with a range of mutual indicia. 35. The key holder according to any one of claims 24 to 34, wherein the interchangeable cover and the base enclosure are provided with a range of colors, materials, finishes and textures. 35. The key holder according to any one of claims 24 to 35, wherein the locking pins are provided in a certain length in order to satisfy a predetermined key storage performance. 37. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 36, wherein washers or discs are stored on the locking pins between the outer plates; Said discs or washers being replaceable with keys. 37. The key holder according to any one of claims 24 to 37, wherein small accessory tools of similar size to the keys are screwed to the locking pins and are retained between the outer plates. A method for customizing a key holder, the method comprising:
(a) providing at least one surface on which indicia can be written,
(b) providing at least one structural member for attachment of the interchangeable covers. 40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the interchangeable covers comprise a plurality of selectable covers; Each said cover forming a storage space between the inner surface of said cover and the outer plate of said key holder. CLAIMS 1. A method of storing one or more keys in a key holder, the method comprising:
(g) activating a gripping element of one or more locking pins of the key holder to separate the locking pin from a hole in the storage enclosure of the key holder,
(h) retracting said locking pin from said storage enclosure,
(i) turning or bending the base plate of the key holder from alignment with the storage enclosure,
(j) passing the shaft portion of the locking pin through the hole of the at least one key,
(k) re-aligning said retainer plate and said base sheathing,
(i) re-engaging the locking pin with the hole of the storage enclosure. 39. A method according to any one of claims 20 to 38, wherein the electronic microchip stores one or more keys in a key holder stored in interchangeable covers. 39. A key according to any one of claims 20 to 38, wherein the storage enclosure is bent outward to allow access to the storage keys, a key that may comprise a flexible material forming the slot holes through which the locking pins pass, A method of storing one or more keys in a holder.

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