US20030184199A1

US20030184199A1 - Partitioning structure

Info

Publication number: US20030184199A1
Application number: US10/400,883
Authority: US
Inventors: Jovi Jananji
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-03-29
Filing date: 2003-03-28
Publication date: 2003-10-02
Also published as: CA2378624A1

Abstract

A partitioning structure used with the supporting structures such as drawers so as to allow division of the drawer into organizing compartments. The partitioning structure includes panels secured together by securing components. Each panel is provided with a plurality of grooves used for facilitating the cutting of the panels at a customized length and allowing the releasable insertion thereinto of corresponding tongues extending from the securing components.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the general field of organizing items and is particularly concerned with a partitioning structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There exists a variety of situations and applications wherein it is desirable to store items in an organized manner for various reasons. One such reason is to facilitate the retrieval of individual items when needed. Examples of items which can be organized include cooking utensils and cutlery, articles of clothing such as stockings, underwear, and other pieces of clothing, bathroom accessories, professional and recreational implements such as carpenter or dentist tools, fisherman lures, writing implements, office supplies and the like.

Various storage organizers have been devised to offer a solution to this problem. One solution involves the use of a storage organizer including a frame, or housing, into which are inserted a number of drawers. Some storage organizers typically include a handle connected to a top surface thereof, which makes it possible to carry the organizer from place to place. Other conventional storage organizers include cabinets, dressers, desks, or other similar types of furniture having drawers that can be pulled out while the furniture remains stationary.

Generally, without some type of organizer in the drawer, items are merely thrown into the drawer (or some other enclosed place) and the user must take the time to rummage through the various items in the drawer to find one particular item. Furthermore, opening and closing of the drawer causes relative motion between the items in the drawer and the drawer itself.

Accordingly, there exists a long felt need for structures to organize drawers and other similar enclosures so that the different items can be segregated allowing particular items to be quickly and easily retrieved from the drawer. In order to segregate and organize items that are stored in drawers as well as other enclosures, various structures have been proposed.

One approach to organizing a drawer has been to place boxes of different sizes within the drawer. This approach provides one or more compartments within the drawer in which items can be segregated. Disadvantagely, merely placing boxes in the drawer is often considered unsatisfactory since the boxes do not typically fit precisely within the drawer and slide around therein. Furthermore, the boxes often leave unused drawer space.

Another approach has attempted to overcome the disadvantages of placing boxes in the drawer. This approach typically provides one or more box-like structures, which may be independently formed or formed as unitary structures, which are cut to substantially fit precisely within the drawer. Disadvantageously, many users do not want to bother with cutting the box structure or have difficulty making accurate cuts which are necessary to provide a precise fit within the drawer, or cuts which are cosmetically pleasing. Moreover, once the box structure is cut, the structure will likely not precisely fit into another drawer of different dimensions and likely cannot be altered to provide a different arrangement even in the same drawer.

Some prior art segregating systems utilize insertable, elongated, channel-shaped trays.

Typically, such trays are produced in a variety of heights or depths for use with different-depth drawers. This requires a relatively large inventory of parts. Also, prior partition trays have typically been provided in lengths to match the front-to-back length of the specific drawer. This also requires a large inventory of partition lengths to accommodate different lengths of drawers.

Some drawers are originally manufactured with fixed drawer dividers. However, systems of this nature cannot be reconfigured for different needs. Alternatively, it has been proposed to provide one or more boards which can be inserted into pairs of slots formed on opposite sides of the drawer to divide the drawer into two or more areas extending the width of the drawer.

Unfortunately, the number of such boards and slots is usually limited, so that the number of separate areas that can be created is equally limited. Furthermore, typically, such boards and slots make no provision for lateral separation.

Still others have proposed grates typically having a generally rectangular configuration to accommodate a given number of items. However, such prior art grates typically occupy the same amount of drawer space, regardless of the amount of items stored therein. Thus, unless the grate is substantially full, a considerable amount of drawer space is occupied unnecessarily by the grate itself.

In an attempt to overcome these shortcomings of relatively fixed prior art organizers, the prior art has also shown some examples of “custom”, or “adjustable”, organizers. Disadvantages associated with such prior art adjustable organizers include that they typically require cutting of material and are difficult to install. Also, they are typically characterized by their inability to utilize the entire enclosure. For example, they generally occupy only the lower-space portion of the drawer, leaving a substantial upper-space portion unused.

Prior art adjustable organizers are also often characterized by their lack of a locking mechanism. As a result, such organizers are generally not well suited for situations wherein reorientation and arrangement of the organizer is different or inconvenient. For example, after opening and closing a drawer several times, the organizer must be repositioned or reoriented. When the drawer is used often there may be a lot of movement that causes the organizer to lose its set positioning. Such movement may include picking the organizer up, for example to access areas of the drawers behind or otherwise adjacent to the organizer, or action created by the movement of the drawer to access the items stored in the organizer.

Furthermore, certain known organizers allow for some degree of adjustability but the methods for allowing their configuration involves inefficient steps. Even if adjustable, prior art organizers are frequently not used as intended because of their inconvenience, and, therefore the benefit of adjustability is not realized by the user.

The present invention recognizes a long-felt need to increase versatility and adjustability of prior art organizers so that objects of varying sizes and shapes placed therein can be securely retained depending upon need. Also, there is a long-felt need to be able to conveniently adjust an organizer during use to accommodate a variety of objects. Accordingly, there exists generally a long-felt need for an improved partitioning structure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a partitioning structure for partitioning a volume of space contained within a receptacle, the partitioning structure comprising: a panel, the panel defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by the panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of the panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein; a securing component for securing the panel to a supporting structure, the securing component including a base leg and a pair of securing legs extending from the base leg so as to be in a substantially spaced relationship relative to each other; one of the securing legs having a tongue protruding therefrom, the tongue being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into the panel groove when an insertable portion of the panel is inserted between the securing legs; the securing component being also provided with a securing means for securing the securing component to the supporting structure.

In accordance with the present invention, there is also provided a securing component for securing together a pair of panels, each of the panels defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by the panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of the panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein, the securing component allowing the panels to be secured in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of the panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of the pane! surfaces of the other one of the panels, the securing component comprising: a substantially “cross”-shaped main base leg, the base main leg defining a main base leg peripheral edge; a main securing leg extending substantially perpendicularly from the main base leg peripheral edge; the main securing leg having a tongue protruding therefrom, the tongue being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into the groove when an insertable portion of the panel is inserted between opposite sections of the main securing leg.

In accordance with the present invention, there is further provided a securing component for securing together a pair of panels, each of the panels defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by the panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of the panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein, the securing component allowing the panels to be secured in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of the panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of the panel surfaces of the other one of the panels,. the securing component comprising: a substantially “T”-shaped main base leg, the main base leg defining a main base leg peripheral edge; a main securing leg extending substantially perpendicularly from the main base leg peripheral edge; the main securing leg having a tongue protruding therefrom, the tongue being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into the groove when an insertable portion of the panel is inserted between opposite sections of the main securing leg.

In accordance with the present invention there is still yet further provided a securing component for securing together a pair of panels, each of the panels defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by the panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of the panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein, the securing component allowing the panels to be secured in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of the panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of the panel surfaces of the other one of the panels, the securing component comprising: a pair of substantially “L”-shaped main base legs, each of the main base legs defining a main base leg peripheral edge; a main securing leg extending substantially perpendicularly between the main base leg peripheral edges; the main securing leg having a tongue protruding therefrom, the tongue being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into the groove when an insertable portion of the panel is inserted between opposite sections of the main securing leg.

Advantages of the present invention include that the proposed organizer is designed so as to be conveniently adjusted to fit into containers of varying sizes and shapes and easily partitioned into a number of inner compartments of different sizes and shapes.

Also, the proposed partitioning structure is designed so as to facilitate adjustment of the size and shape thereof together with adjustment of various compartments therein. The proposed partitioning structure is designed so as to allow customization of its configuration with a set of quick and economical steps, without requiring special tooling or manual dexterity.

The proposed partitioning structure is designed so as to be three-dimensionally adjustable to better suit the requirements of the location in which it is placed.

The proposed portioning system also typically provides means for securing or locking the partitioning structure to existing walls of the enclosure in which it is used so as to prevent relative movement between the partitioning structure and the enclosure. Also, in situations wherein the partitioning structure is secured to a wall of the enclosure, the structure used for securing the partitioning structure to the enclosure is designed so as to facilitate withdrawal of the partitioning structure from the enclosure through a set of quick and economical steps, without requiring special tooling or manual dexterity.

The proposed partitioning structure typically includes securing components that allow for securing of the partitioning walls firmly and yet adjustably. The securing components are designed so as to occupy but a small space and so as to be of neat appearance.

Still furthermore, the proposed partitioning structure is designed so as to be manufacturable through conventional forms of manufacturing using conventional and relatively inexpensive components so as to provide a partitioning structure that will be economically feasible, long-lasting and relatively trouble-free in operation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be disclosed, by way of example, in reference to the following drawings in which [0027]
FIG. 1: in a perspective view illustrates a partitioning structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the partitioning structure being shown mounted within a conventional drawer; [0028]
FIG. 2: in a perspective view illustrates a partitioning panel part of a partitioning structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0029]
FIG. 3: in a partial front elevational view with sections taken out illustrates part of the partitioning panel shown in FIG. 2; [0030]
FIG. 4: in a transversal cross-sectional view taken along [0031] arrows 4 4 of FIG. 2 illustrates the cross-sectional configuration of the partitioning panel shown in FIGS. 2 and 3;
FIG. 5: in a perspective view illustrates a T-shaped securing component typically used for securing a pair of partitioning panels together so that the latter define a pair of right-angles therebetween; [0032]
FIG. 5[0033] a: in a bottom view illustrates some of the features of the T-shaped securing component shown in FIG. 5;
FIG. 5[0034] b: in a side elevational view illustrates some of the features of the T-shaped securing component shown in FIGS. 5 and 5a;
FIG. 5[0035] c: in a top view illustrates some of the features of the T-shaped securing components shown in FIGS. 5, 5a, and 5 b;
FIG. 6: in a perspective view illustrates a cross-shaped securing component typically used for securing together three partitioning panels so that the latter form four right angles therebetween; [0036]
FIG. 6[0037] a: in a bottom view illustrates some of the features of the cross-shaped securing component shown in FIG. 6;
FIG. 6[0038] b: in a side elevational view illustrates some of the features of the cross-shaped securing component shown in FIGS. 6 and 6a;
FIG. 6[0039] c: in a top view illustrates some of the features of the cross-shaped securing component shown in FIGS. 6, 6a and 6 b;
FIG. 7: in a perspective view illustrates an end-securing component typically used for securing an end-section of a partitioning panel to a supporting structure such as the peripheral wall of a drawer or the like; [0040]
FIG. 7[0041] a: in a front view illustrates some of the features of the end-securing component shown in FIG. 7;
FIG. 7[0042] b: in a side elevational view illustrates some of the features of the end-securing component shown in FIGS. 7 and 7a;
FIG. 7[0043] c: in a top view illustrates some of the features of the end-securing component shown in FIGS. 7, 7a and 7 b;
FIG. 7[0044] d: in a partial perspective view with sections taken out illustrates some of the features of the end-securing component shown in FIGS. 7, 7a, 7 b and 7 c;
FIG. 8: in a partial perspective view with sections taken out illustrates three partitioning panels about to be secured together using a cross-shaped securing component such as shown in FIGS. 6 through 6[0045] c;
FIG. 9: in a partial side elevational view with sections taken out illustrates a cross-shaped securing component such as shown in FIG. 8 secured to a partitioning panel; [0046]
FIG. 10: in a partial cross-sectional view taken along [0047] arrows 10 10 of FIG. 9 illustrates the relationship between tongue and groove components used for securing the securing component to the partitioning panels;
FIG. 11: in a perspective view illustrates a corner-securing component typically used for securing a pair of partitioning panels in a substantially perpendicular end-to-end relationship relative to each other when the partitioning structure is used without a peripheral supporting structure; [0048]
FIG. 11[0049] a: in a front elevational view illustrates some of the features of the corner-securing component shown in FIG. 11;
FIG. 11[0050] b: in a side elevational view illustrates some of the features of the corner-securing component shown in FIGS. 11 and 11a;
FIG. 11[0051] c: in a top view illustrates some of the features of the corner-securing component such as shown in FIGS. 11, 11a and 1lb; and,
FIG. 12: in a perspective view illustrates four partitioning panels secured together by corner securing components so as to form a peripheral wall of a partitioning structure.[0052]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a [0053] partitioning structure 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The partitioning structure 10 is shown mounted within the inner volume of a conventional drawer 12. It should however be understood that the partitioning structure 10 could be used in various other contexts such as for partitioning a volume of space contained within various other types of receptacles or containers without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, FIG. 1 illustrates the partitioning structure mounted in a specific configuration. It should be understood that the partitioning structure 10 could be used in any suitable configuration without departing from the scope of the present invention.
The [0054] partitioning structure 10 includes at least one panel 14 for forming a compartment within the drawer 12. The partitioning structure 10 also includes at least one securing component 58, 76, 88 or 98 for securing at least one panel 14 to a supporting structure such as the peripheral wall 16 of the drawer 12 or another panel 14. Typically, the partitioning structure 10 includes a plurality of panels 14 secured by a corresponding plurality of securing components 58, 76, 88 or 98 for forming a plurality of compartments 18 within the drawer 12.
As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 2, each [0055] panel 14 typically defines a pair of opposed panel transversal edges 20, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges 22 and a pair of opposed panel surfaces 24 (only one of which is shown in FIG. 2) delimited by the panel transversal and longitudinal edges 20 and 22.
At least one and preferably both panel surfaces [0056] 24 are provided with at least one and preferably a plurality of panel grooves 26 formed therein. Typically, the panel grooves 26 are positioned in a predetermined space relationship relative to each other. Typically, the panel grooves 26 extend in a substantially parallel relationship relative to each other and to the panel transversal edges 20. When both panel surfaces 24 are provided with a plurality of grooves 26 formed therein, the panel grooves 26 formed in one of the panel surfaces 24 are typically substantially in register with the panel grooves formed on the other one of the panel surfaces 24.
Typically, each of the [0057] panel grooves 26 defines a pair of opposed groove longitudinal ends 28. As illustrated more specifically in FIGS. 3 and 4, at least one and preferably both groove longitudinal ends 28 are spaced from a corresponding one of the panel longitudinal edges 22 by a groove-to-edge distance 30. It should be understood that although the groove-to-edge distance 30 is shown throughout the figures as being similar adjacent to each panel longitudinal edges 22, the groove-to-edge distance 30 adjacent to each longitudinal edge 22 could vary from the other groove-to-edge distance 30 without departing from the scope of the present invention.
At least one and preferably all of the [0058] panel grooves 26 typically have a substantially V-shaped configuration defining an inwardly positioned groove apex 32 and a pair of groove walls 34 diverging away from each other in a direction leading generally outwardly away from the groove apex 32. When the grooves 26 of opposed panel surfaces 24 are substantially in registered with each other, the groove apexes 32 of opposite panel grooves 26 are spaced from each other by a panel core section 36. It should be understood that the panel grooves 26 could have other configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention.
As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 4, each [0059] panel 14 defines a corresponding panel thickness 38. Each panel groove 26 defines a corresponding groove depth 40 between the corresponding groove apexes 32 and a corresponding one of the panel surfaces 24. Typically, although by no means exclusively, the groove depth 40 has a value of about ¼ that of the panel thickness 38. It should be understood that the groove depth 40 could vary without departing from the scope of the present invention.
As illustrated more specifically in FIG. 3, each [0060] panel 14 defines a corresponding panel height 42 between the panel longitudinal edges 22. Typically, although by no means exclusively, the groove-to-edge distance 30 has a value substantially in the range of {fraction (1/20)} that of the panel height 42. It should be understood that the ratio between the groove-to-edge distance 30 and the panel height 42 could vary without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, typically, either one or both of the panel transversal and/or longitudinal edges 20, 22 may be provided with a generally rounded intersection 44 with the corresponding panel surface 24.
As shown in FIG. 1, the [0061] partitioning structure 10 also includes a securing component 58, 76, 88 or 98 for securing the panels 14 to a supporting structure such as other panel 14, peripheral wall 16 of the drawer 12 or other suitable structure. As shown more specifically in FIGS. 5 through 12, various configurations of securing components 58, 76, 88 or 98 can be used. A common denominator to most securing components 58, 76, 88 or 98 in accordance with the present invention is that each securing component 58, 76, 88 or 98 includes a base leg 46 and a pair of securing legs 48 extending from the base leg 46 so as to be in a substantially spaced relationship relative to each other.
At least one, and preferably both, securing [0062] legs 48 have a tongue 50 protruding therefrom. The tongues 50 are configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into at least one of the panel grooves 26 when an insertable portion (indicated by the reference numeral 52 in FIG. 9) of the panel 14 is inserted between the securing legs 48. Each tongue 50 is typically spaced from the corresponding base leg 50 46 by a tongue-to-base leg distance 60. The groove-to-edge distance 30 is typically substantially similar to the tongue-to-base leg distance 60.
Each securing [0063] component 58, 76, 88 or 98 is also provided with a securing means for securing the securing component 58, 76, 88 or 98 to the supporting structure. The configuration of the securing means will vary depending on the type of securing component 58, 76, 88 or 98.
At least one, and preferably both, securing [0064] legs 48 are pivotal relative to the base leg 46 between a leg initial configuration wherein the securing legs 48 are spaced by an initial spacing distance 54 and a leg pivoted configuration (not shown) wherein the securing legs 48 are spaced by a pivoted distance from each other.
The pivoted distance is greater than the initial distance and the partitioning structure is typically provided with a leg biasing means for biasing the securing [0065] legs 48 towards the leg initial configuration. Typically, the leg biasing means includes one, and preferably both, securing legs 48 extending from the base leg 46 so as to define a hinge elbow 56 therebetween. Each hinge elbow 56 is typically made out of a substantially resiliently deformable material.
Each securing [0066] leg 48 defines a leg free edge 62 located opposite the base leg 46. Each securing leg 48 also defines a leg first spacing edge 64 and a leg second spacing edge 66 both extending between the base leg 46 and a corresponding leg free edge 62 respectively on opposite sides of a corresponding securing leg 48. The T-shaped securing structure 58 also defines an attachment section including an attachment to channel 68 extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the securing legs 48 and having a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
As shown more specifically in FIGS. 9 and 10, each [0067] tongue 50 typically has a generally elongated, rectangular configuration and a substantially semi disc-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 5 through 5[0068] c, there is shown in greater detail a substantially T-shaped securing component 58. The securing means part of the T-shaped securing component 58 typically includes a means for securing to the T-shaped securing component 58 another panel 14 so that the panels 14 stand in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other while one of the panel transversal edges 20 is in a substantially proximal relationship with one of the panel surfaces 24 part of the other panel 14.
The [0069] attachment channel 68 typically includes a pair of first attachment legs 70 extending from the leg first spacing edges 64 in a direction substantially opposite to each other. The attachment channel 68 also includes a second attachment leg 72 extending in a substantially parallel and space relationship relative to the pair of first attachment legs 70. The attachment channel 68 further includes an attachment base 74 extending between the pair of first attachment legs 70 and the second attachment legs 74 in a substantially co-planar relationship with the base leg 46.
Typically, either one of the first or [0070] second attachment legs 70, 72 is provided with an attachment tongue 50 protruding outwardly from its interior surface. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5 through 5c, a pair of attachment tongues 50 extends from an inner surface of the second attachment leg 72.
In other words, the T-shaped [0071] securing component 58 may be seen as having as having a substantially T-shaped main base leg that includes the base leg 46 and the attachment base 74 merging integrally into each other. This main base leg defines a leg peripheral edge from which a main securing leg extends substantially perpendicularly.
The main securing leg is defined as the combination of the securing [0072] legs 48, the first attachment legs 70 and the second attachment legs 72. The main securing leg has at least one tongue and typically four tongues 50 protruding therefrom. At least one of the tongues 50 of the main securing leg is configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into a corresponding groove 26 while an insertable portion 52 of a corresponding panel 14 is inserted between opposite sections of the main securing leg such as the securing legs 48.
Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 6 through 6[0073] c there is shown a cross-shaped securing component 76. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8, the cross-shape securing component is typically used for securing a set of panels 14 together so that they together form four right angles. Hence, the securing means of the securing component 76 typically includes a means for securing to the securing component 76 other panels 14 so that the panels 14 extend in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other so as to form a substantially cross-shaped configuration.
The attachment section of the securing [0074] component 76 typically includes a substantially T-shaped attachment channel 78 extending from the leg first spacing edges 64. The attachment channel 78 typically has a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
The [0075] attachment channel 78 typically includes a pair of first attachment legs 80 extending from the leg first spacing edges 64 in a direction substantially opposite to each other. The attachment channel 78 also includes a second pair of attachment legs 82 extending in a substantially parallel in space relationship relative to the pair of first attachment legs 80.
The [0076] attachment channel 78 further includes a third pair of attachment legs 84 extending from the second pair of attachment legs 82 in a substantially co-planar relationship relative to the securing legs 48. The attachment channel 76 further includes an attachment base 86 extending between the first, second and third pairs of attachment legs 80, 82, and 84 in a substantially co-planar relationship relative to the base leg 46.
Either one of the first, second or third pairs of [0077] attachment legs 80, 82 or 84 is provided with an attachment tongue 50 protruding outwardly from one of its interior surfaces. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 through 6 b the second and third pairs of attachment legs 82, 84 are provided with tongues 50 protruding outwardly from their respective interior surfaces.
In other words, the [0078] cross-shaped securing component 76 may be seen as including a substantially cross-shaped main base leg including the base leg 46 merged integrally with the attachment base 86. The main base leg defines a main base leg peripheral edge from which a main securing leg extends substantially perpendicularly.
The main securing leg includes the securing [0079] legs 48 and the first, second and third pairs of attachment legs 80, 82 and 84. The main securing leg has at least one and preferably a set of tongues 50 protruding therefrom. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, at least some of the tongues 50 are configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into a corresponding groove 26 when an insertable portion 52 of the panel 14 is inserted between opposite sections of the main securing leg.
Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 11 through 12, there is shown a so-called corner-securing [0080] component 88. As shown more specifically in FIG. 12, the corner-securing component 88 is adapted to be used in situations wherein panels 14 define a partitioning structure peripheral wall. For example, the corner securing components 88 may be used in situations wherein partitioning structure is mounted on a supporting structure deprived of peripheral walls such as a shelf or the like.
The securing means of the [0081] corner securing component 88 hence includes a means for securing to the corner securing component 88 another panel so that the panels 14 extend in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of the panel transversal edges 20 in a substantially proximal relationship with one of the panel transversal edges 20 of another panel 14.
The [0082] corner securing structure 88 typically has a substantially L-shaped configuration. The attachment section of the corner securing structure 88 typically includes an attachment channel 90 extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the securing legs 48 and having a substantially rectangular-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
Contrary to the “T” and cross-shaped securing [0083] components 58, 76 the corner securing component 88 typically includes a second base leg 46′ located opposite to the first base leg 46. The securing legs 48 extending generally perpendicularly therebetween.
The [0084] attachment channel 90 typically includes a first attachment leg 92 extending substantially perpendicularly from the leg first spacing edge 64. The attachment channel 90 also includes a second attachment leg 94 extending in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship relative to the first attachment leg 92. The second attachment leg 94 is typically longer than the first attachment leg 92.
The [0085] attachment channel 90 further includes a third attachment leg 96 extending integrally from the other leg first spacing edge 64 in a co-planar relationship relative to a corresponding and adjacent securing leg 48 and in a perpendicular relationship relative to the second attachment leg 94. The attachment channel 90 further includes an attachment base 98 extending between the first, second and third attachment legs 92, 94 and 96 in substantially co-planar relationship relative to the base leg 46. In the embodiments shown throughout the figures, the attachment channel includes another attachment base 98′ located generally opposite to the attachment base 98.
Either one of the first, second or [0086] third attachment legs 92, 94 or 96 is provided with an attachment tongue protruding outwardly from one of its interior surfaces. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 through 12, the first and second attachment legs 92, 94 are provided with attachment tongues 50 protruding upwardly from their corresponding interior surface.
In other words, the corner-securing [0087] component 88 may be seen as including a pair of substantially L-shaped main base legs. Each main base leg including a corresponding base leg 46, 46′ merging integrally with a corresponding attachment base 98, 98′. Each of the main base legs defines a corresponding main base leg peripheral edge from which a main securing leg extends substantially perpendicularly. The main securing leg including the main securing legs 48 and the first, second and third attachment legs 92, 94 and 96.
The main securing leg has at least one and preferably a set of [0088] tongues 50 protruding therefrom. At least some of the tongues 50 being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into a corresponding groove 26 when an insertable portion 52 of a corresponding panel 14 is inserted between opposite sections of the main securing leg.
Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 7 through 7[0089] d, there is shown an end-securing component 98. As shown in FIG. 1, the end securing component 98 is typically used for securing the end section of a panel 14 located adjacent to the transversal peripheral edge 20 to a receptacle wall such as the lateral wall 16 of the drawer 12. The securing means of the end securing component 98 hence typically includes a means for securing the end securing components 98 to a receptacle wall part of the receptacle so that the corresponding panel 14 extends in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the receptacle wall with one of the panel transversal edges 20 in a substantially proximal relationship relative to the receptacle wall 16.
The attachment section of the [0090] end securing components 98 typically includes an attachment flange 100 extending from at least one and preferably both leg first spacing edges 64 in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the securing legs 48. Typically, both attachment flanges 100 extend laterally and outwardly from the securing legs 48.
Typically, each [0091] attachment.flange 100 is provided with an attachment flange tongue 102 protruding outwardly therefrom. In the embodiment shown throughout the figures, the flange tongues 102 have a substantially semi-disc shaped configuration. It should be understood that the flange tongues 102 could have other configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention.
A flange-to-supporting wall attachment is typically provided for attaching the [0092] attachment flange 100 to the supporting wall such as the peripheral wall 16 of the drawer 12. In one embodiment of the invention, the flange-to-supporting wall attachment means includes an adhesive substance (not shown) positioned on a portion of at least one of the attachment flanges 100. It should be understood that other flange-to-supporting wall attachment means such as adhesive tape, miniature hook and loop fibres, nails, screws, rivets or the like could be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Typically, the [0093] base leg 46 is moveably attached to the securing legs 48 for movement between a base open configuration (not shown) wherein at least part of the base leg 46 is spaced from the securing legs 48 and a base closed configuration shown throughout the figures wherein the base leg 46 is in contact with the securing legs 48 in a substantially perpendicular relationship therewith.
Typically, the [0094] base leg 46 defines a base leg first and edge 104 and an opposed base leg second end 106. The base leg 46 is typically pivotally attached to the securing legs 48 for pivotal movement substantially about the base leg first and edge 104 between the base open configuration (not shown) wherein the base second and edge is spaced from the securing legs 48 with the base leg 46 in a substantially angled relationship with the securing legs 48 and a base closed configuration shown throughout the figures wherein the base second and edge 106 is in contact with the securing legs 48 and the base leg 46 is in substantially perpendicular relationship relative to the securing legs 48.
Typically, the end-securing [0095] component 98 further includes a base flange 108 extending outwardly from the securing legs 48 adjacent to the base first and edge 104. The base flange 108 is typically provided with a flange aperture 110 extending therethrough preceding the base leg 46 when the latter is in the base open configuration. The flange aperture 110 hence allows the base leg 46 to clear the channel formed by the securing legs 48 in order to allow slightable movement into and out of the channel formed by the securing legs 48 from a direction generally parallel thereto.
Typically, the [0096] end securing components 98 further include a releasable locking means for releasably locking the base leg 46 and the base open configuration.
The releasable locking means typically includes securing and base [0097] leg locking lips 112, 114 extending respectively from adjacent sections of the securing and base legs 48, 46. The securing and base leg locking lips 112, 114 are configured and sized so as to matingly cooperate with each other for snapping and buttoning locking the base leg 46 in closed configuration shown in FIGS. 7 through 7d.
Optionally, the releasable locking means further includes [0098] aperture tongues 116 extending inwardly toward each other from a position located adjacent to the intersection between the flange aperture 110 and the base leg first and end 104. The base leg and first and the end 104 is configured and sized to the corresponding recess sections 118 for a buttoningly contacting the tongue apertures 116 in both the open and closed configuration of the base leg 46 so as to releasably lock the latter in both the open and closed configuration.
Optionally, the [0099] base leg 46 is further provided with a prehension tongue 120 extending outwardly from the base leg second end 106 to facilitate the manipulation of the base leg 46 when the latter is pivoted between the open and closed configuration.
In use, the [0100] partitioning structure 10 is typically positioned within any suitable receptacle, container or supporting structure. When the receptacle or container such as the drawer 12 have a peripheral wall such as the drawer peripheral wall 16, the partitioning structure is typically secured to the peripheral wall using the end securing components 98.
In turn, the [0101] end securing components 98 are secured to the peripheral walls such as the drawer peripheral wall 16 using suitable attachment means such as layer of adhesive material. Even though the end securing components 98 may be secured to the peripheral wall 16 using permanent or semi-permanent securing means the remainder of the partitioning structure may easily be withdrawn or retracted from the receptacle such as the drawer 12 by pivoting the base wall 46 towards the open configuration and the sliding panel 14 inserted between the securing walls 48 upwardly.
The [0102] panel grooves 26 are adapted to be used both for releasably securing the tongues of the various securing components 58, 76 and 98 as well as for facilitating the severing of the panels 14 at user customized length. Typically, the panels 14 are severed to a suitable length depending on the configuration and size of the drawer 12 or other receptacle and in the configuration and size of the compartments 18 formed by the partitioning structure 10.
Typically, the [0103] panels 14 are cut using a suitable cutting implement such as an “Exact-O”-type (a trademark) knife by running the blade of the cutting knife along a panel groove 26. The substantially V-shape cross-sectional configuration of the panel grooves 26 facilitates guiding and centering of the blade of the cutting implement so as to increase the probability of forming a neat cut. The thickness of the core section 36 is sized so as to favour a neat cut without compromising on the structural integrity of the panels 14. The length of the edge-to-groove distance 30 is also determined so as to increase the probability of forming a neat cut without reducing the structural integrity of the panels 14.
[0104] Various panels 14 are assembled together using the various types of securing components 58, 76, 88 and 98. The corner securing components 88 are typically used for forming a peripheral wall formed out of panels 14 such as shown in FIG. 12 in situations wherein the partitioning structure is mounted on a supporting structure deprived of lateral walls.
Regardless of the type of securing [0105] component 58, 76, 88 or 98 being used, the securing components 58, 76, 88 or 98 are typically initially positioned over adjacent panels 14 such as shown in FIG. 8. The securing component 58, 76, 88 or 98 is then lowered onto the corresponding panels 14 while the insertion section 52 is slightably inserted between corresponding securing legs 48.
The substantially resilient nature of the material preferably used for forming the securing [0106] components 58, 76, 88 or 98 allows the securing legs 48 to bend outwardly as the tongues 50 slide on the panel outer surface 24 and the region of the edge-to-panel groove distance 30. Once the tongues 50 reach corresponding grooves 26, the securing walls 46 resiliently spring back to their original configuration allowing the tongues 50 to be lockingly inserted within the corresponding grooves 26. The angle of the section 28 facilitates withdrawal of the tongues 50 from the grooves 26 when needed.

Claims

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive privilege or property is claimed are defined as follows:

1. A partitioning structure for partitioning a volume of space contained within a receptacle, said partitioning structure comprising:

a panel, said panel defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by said panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of said panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein;

a securing component for securing said panel to a supporting structure, said securing component including a base leg and a pair of securing legs extending from said base leg so as to be in a substantially spaced relationship relative to each other; one of said securing legs having a tongue protruding therefrom, said tongue being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into said panel groove when an insertable portion of said panel is inserted between said securing legs; said securing component being also provided with a securing means for securing said securing component to said supporting structure.

2. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein one of said panel surfaces has a plurality of panel grooves formed therein, said panel grooves being in a predetermined spaced relationship relative to each other.

3. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein both of said panel surfaces have a plurality of panel grooves formed therein, the panel grooves formed in one of said panel surfaces being substantially in register with the panel grooves formed on the other one of said panel surfaces.

4. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein one of said panel grooves has a substantially V-shaped configuration defining an inwardly positioned groove apex and a pair of groove walls diverging from each other in a direction leading outwardly away from said groove apex.

5. A partitioning structure as recited as recited in claim 1 wherein one of said panel surfaces has a plurality of panel grooves formed therein, said panel grooves being in a predetermined spaced relationship relative to each other; said panel grooves extending in a substantially parallel relationship relative to said panel transversal edges.

6. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 5 wherein each of said panel grooves defines a pair of opposed groove longitudinal ends, one of said panel grooves having one of said groove longitudinal ends spaced from a corresponding one of said panel longitudinal edges by a groove-to-edge distance; said tongue being spaced from said base leg by a tongue-to-base leg distance, said groove-to-edge distance being substantially similar to said tongue-to-base leg distance.

7. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein one of said securing legs is pivotable relative to said base leg between a leg initial configuration wherein said securing legs are spaced by an initial spacing distance and a leg pivoted configuration wherein said securing legs are spaced by a pivoted distance from each other, said pivoted distance being greater then said initial distance, said partitioning structure being provided with a leg biasing means for biasing said securing legs towards said leg initial configuration.

8. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 7 wherein said leg biasing means includes said one of said securing legs extends from said base leg so as to define a hinge elbow therebetween, said hinge elbow being made out of a substantially resiliently deformable material.

9. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said securing legs are pivotable relative to said base leg between a leg initial configuration wherein said securing legs are spaced by an initial spacing distance and a leg pivoted configuration wherein said securing legs are spaced by a pivoted distance from each other, said pivoted distance being greater then said initial distance, each of said securing legs extending integrally from said base leg so as to define a corresponding hinge elbow therebetween, said securing component being made out of a substantially resiliently deformable material.

10. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 both of said panel surfaces have a plurality of panel grooves formed therein, the panel grooves formed in one of said panel surfaces being substantially in register with the panel grooved formed on the other one of said panel surfaces; said panel grooves on each of said panel surfaces being in a predetermined spaced relationship relative to each other and extending in a substantially parallel relationship relative to said panel transversal edges; each of said panel grooves defining a pair of opposed groove longitudinal ends, each of said panel grooves having one of said groove longitudinal ends spaced from a corresponding one of said panel longitudinal edges by a groove-to edge distance; said tongue being spaced from said base leg by a tongue-to-base leg distance, said groove-to edge distance being substantially similar to said tongue-to-base leg distance.

11. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 10 wherein each of said panel grooves having both of said groove longitudinal ends spaced from a corresponding one of said panel longitudinal edges by said groove-to edge distance.

12. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 10 wherein said panel defines a panel thickness between said panel surfaces, each of said panel grooves defining a groove depth between said groove apex and a corresponding one of said panel surfaces, said groove depth having a value of about one quarter that of said panel thickness.

13. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 10 wherein said panel defines a panel height between said panel longitudinal edges, said groove-to-edge distance having a value of about {fraction (1/20)} that of said panel height.

14. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said securing means includes a means for securing to said securing component another panel so that said panels extend in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of said panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of said panel surfaces of the other one of said panels.

15. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 14 wherein said securing structure has a substantially “T”-shaped configuration, each of said securing legs defining a leg free edge located opposite said base leg; each of said securing legs also defining a leg first spacing edge and a leg second spacing edge both extending between said base leg and a corresponding leg free edge respectively on opposite sides of a corresponding securing legs; said securing structure defining an attachment section, said attachment section including an attachment channel extending from said leg first spacing edge, said attachment channel extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to said securing legs and having a substantially “U”-shaped cross-sectional configuration.

16. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 15 wherein said attachment channel includes a pair of first attachment legs extending from said leg first spacing edges in a direction substantially opposite to each other; said attachment channel also including a second attachment leg extending in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship relative to said pair of first attachment legs; said attachment channel further including an attachment base extending between said pair of first attachment leg and said second attachment leg in a substantially coplanar relationship relative to said base leg.

17. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 16 wherein either one of said first or second attachment legs is provided with an attachment tongue protruding outwardly from one of its interior surface.

18. A securing component for securing together a pair of panels, each of said panels defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by said panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of said panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein, said securing component allowing said panels to be secured in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of said panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of said panel surfaces of the other one of said panels, said securing component comprising:

a substantially “T”-shaped main base leg, said main base leg defining a main base leg peripheral edge;

a main securing leg extending substantially perpendicularly from said main base leg peripheral edge;

said main securing leg having a tongue protruding therefrom, said tongue being configured, sized and positioned so as to be insertable into said groove when an insertable portion of said panel is inserted between opposite sections of said main securing leg.

19. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said securing means includes a means for securing to said securing component other panels so that said panels extend in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other so as to form a substantially “cross”-shaped configuration.

20. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 19 wherein said securing structure has a substantially “cross”-shaped configuration, each of said securing legs defining a leg free edge located opposite said base leg; each of said securing legs also defining a leg first spacing edge and a leg second spacing edge both extending between said base leg and a corresponding leg free edge respectively on opposite sides of a corresponding securing legs; said securing structure defining an attachment section, said attachment section including a substantially “T”-shaped attachment channel extending from said leg first spacing edges, said attachment channel having a substantially “U”-shaped cross-sectional configuration.

21. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 20 wherein said attachment channel includes a pair of first attachment legs extending from said leg first spacing edges in a direction substantially opposite to each other; said attachment channel also including a second pair of attachment legs extending in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship relative to said pair of first attachment legs; said attachment channel further including a third pair of attachment legs extending from said second pair of attachment legs in a substantially coplanar relationship relative to said securing legs; said attachment channel further including an attachment base extending between said first, second and third pairs of attachment legs in a substantially coplanar relationship relative to said base leg.

22. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 21 wherein either one of said first, second or third pairs of attachment legs is provided with an attachment tongue protruding outwardly from one of its interior surface.

23. A securing component for securing together a pair of panels, each of said panels defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by said panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of said panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein, said securing component allowing said panels to be secured in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of said panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of said panel surfaces of the other one of said panels, said securing component comprising:

a substantially “cross”-shaped main base leg, said base main leg defining a main base leg peripheral edge;

24. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said securing means includes a means for securing to said securing component another panel so that said panels extend in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of said panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of said panel transversal edges of the other one of said panels.

25. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 24 wherein said securing structure has a substantially “L”-shaped configuration, each of said securing legs defining a leg free edge located opposite said base leg; each of said securing legs also defining a leg first spacing edge and a leg second spacing edge both extending between said base leg and a corresponding leg free edge respectively on opposite sides of a corresponding securing legs; said securing structure defining an attachment section, said attachment section including an attachment channel extending from said leg first spacing edges, said attachment channel extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to said securing legs and having a substantially “rectangular”-shaped cross-sectional configuration.

26. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 25 wherein said attachment channel includes a first attachment leg extending substantially perpendicularly from a leg first spacing edge; said attachment channel also including a second attachment leg extending in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship relative to said first attachment leg; said attachment channel further including a third attachment leg extending integrally from the other leg first spacing edges in a coplanar relationship relative to corresponding and adjacent securing legs; said attachment channel further including an attachment base extending between said first, second and third attachment legs in a substantially coplanar relationship relative to said base leg.

27. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 26 wherein either one of said first, second or third attachment legs is provided with an attachment tongue protruding outwardly from one of its interior surface.

28. A securing component for securing together a pair of panels, each of said panels defining a pair of opposed panel transversal edges, a pair of opposed panel longitudinal edges and a pair of opposed panel surfaces delimited by said panel transversal and longitudinal edges; one of said panel surfaces having a panel groove formed therein, said securing component allowing said panels to be secured in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to each other with one of said panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with one of said panel surfaces of the other one of said panels, said securing component comprising:

a pair of substantially “L”-shaped main base legs, each of said main base legs defining a main base leg peripheral edge;

a main securing leg extending substantially perpendicularly between said main base leg peripheral edges;

29. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 1 wherein said securing means includes a means for securing said securing component to a receptacle wall part of said receptacle so that said panel extends in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to said receptacle wall with one of said panel transversal edges in a substantially proximal relationship with said receptacle wall.

30. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 29 wherein each of said securing legs defines a leg free edge located opposite said base leg; each of said securing legs also defining a leg first spacing edge and a leg second spacing edge both extending between said base leg and a corresponding leg free edge respectively on opposite sides of a corresponding securing legs; said securing means defining an attachment section, said attachment section including an attachment flange extending from said leg first spacing edges, said attachment flange extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to said securing legs.

31. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 30 wherein said attachment section includes an attachment flange extending from leg first spacing edges, said attachment flange extending in a substantially perpendicular relationship relative to said securing legs.

32. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 31 wherein at least one of said attachment flanges is provided with an adhesive substance positioned on at least an adhesive section thereof.

33. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 29 wherein base leg is movably attached to said securing legs for movement between a base open configuration wherein at least part of said base leg is spaced from said securing legs and a base close configuration wherein said base leg is in contact with said securing legs and in a substantially perpendicular relationship therewith.

34. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 29 wherein base leg defines a base leg first end edge and an opposed base leg second end edge, said base leg being pivotally attached to said securing legs for pivotal movement substantially about said base leg first end edge between a base open configuration wherein said base second end edge is spaced from said securing legs with said base leg is in a substantially angled relationship with said securing legs and a base close configuration wherein base second end edge is in contact with said securing legs and said base leg is in a substantially perpendicular relationship with said securing legs.

35. A partitioning structure as recited in claim 34 further including a base flange extending outwardly from said securing legs adjacent said base first end edge, said base flange being provided with a flange aperture extending therethrough for receiving said base leg when the latter is in said base open configuration.