US20110018405A1

US20110018405A1 - Personal storage valet system and method of compact storage utilizing unused door, stile or other small space

Info

Publication number: US20110018405A1
Application number: US12/460,887
Authority: US
Inventors: Marcia Esquenazi
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-07-24
Filing date: 2009-07-24
Publication date: 2011-01-27

Abstract

A system and method of compact storage comprising modular, flexible, storage components designed to utilize unused space found behind bathroom doors, bedroom doors, inside closet doors, or inside partitions by its semi recessed or recessed installation. The system transforms valuable but unused space in homes, apartments, and offices into useful organized storage units, in existing or new construction. Components are available in various dimensions. Structural weight is carried by perforated vertical panels of the box, providing multiple locations for accessories to either hang from bracket mounted bars or be removably secured with fasteners such as spring-loaded pins. Wall hung units may be surfaced mounted, recessed, or semi recessed in a typical four inch partition. The system's ease of mounting accessories readily permits reconfiguration when desired.

Description

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to a provisional United States patent application filed Jul. 23, 2008 under application Ser. No. 61/135,833.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure is generally to organizers for storage such as adjustable and flexible component systems for closets and other installations of the like.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Closet organizer systems and other storage systems consisting of flexible components are known. Most of these systems consist of horizontal rails with variable widths which support vertical, perforated standards. Mounting brackets are supported by the standards and accessories are supported by the brackets. These systems provide adjustable organizers with flexible installations.
Typical closet organizer systems and other storage systems are specifically designed to be installed inside closet rooms or exposed in the open. These conventional systems do not make use of minimal available but unused space found behind doors, on doors or inside partitions, between framing studs, whether the components are surface mounted, recessed, or semi-recessed.
Therefore it would be desirable to have a modular storage system of components optionally dimensioned for use in these interstitial or unused but valuable spaces. It would be ideal were such a system structurally strong enough to hold clothes, goods, including jewelry and beverages, but also lightweight and reconfigurable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Objects, elements, accessories and advantages of this invention are revealed in the descriptions below and referenced drawings:

FIG. 1 is an elevational front view of an illustrative “Bathroom” embodiment of full height box of FIG. 23, including in this configuration one each of the optional medicine cabinet, towel rod and clothes hamper modules.

FIG. 2 is an elevational front view of an “Adjustable Shelf” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23.

FIG. 3 is an elevational front view of a “Hanging Hook” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23 with a hanging bar option and “O” ring hook for hanging objects therefrom.

FIG. 4 is an elevational front view of a “Shoe Holder” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23 including multiple shoe-hanging accessories.

FIG. 5 is an elevational front view of a “Suit/Coat Holder & Shelf” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23 including optional bar and clothes-hook hanger.

FIG. 6 is an elevational front view of a “Jacket Holder & Shelf” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23 including one optional shelf and two optional hanging bars and brackets with hooks.

FIG. 7 is an elevational front view of an “Ironing Board & Shelf” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23 including one optional shelf and one optional hanging bar and two optional brackets with ironing board hooks.

FIG. 8 is an elevational front view of a “Men's Valet” embodiment of the full height box, including one optional lighting fixture, one optional hanging bar with two brackets and six optional tie-hanging hooks, one optional stationary flat mirror, one optional jewelry case, three multiple hanging bars from each of which hang one multiple shoe storage accessory.

FIG. 9 is an elevational front view of a “Woman's Valet” embodiment of the full height box, including one optional lighting fixture, one optional movable mirror with double-sided and magnifying options and optional articulating arm, one optional stationary flat mirror, one optional jewelry case, optional divided make-up storage bins, and three multiple hanging bars from each of which hang one multiple shoe storage accessory.

FIG. 10 is an elevational front view of a “Shadow Box” embodiment of the full height box, including two optional lighting fixtures and two optional shelves.

FIG. 11 is an elevational front view of an alternative “Wine Bottle & Glass Holder” embodiment of the half height box of FIG. 24, including one optional lighting fixture, one optional flat mirror, one optional hanging bar with two brackets holding one optional wine holder tower, and one optional wine glass holder module.

FIG. 12 is an elevational front view of a “Wine Glass Holder (only)” embodiment of the half height box, including one optional lighting fixture, and four optional wine glass holder modules.

FIG. 13 is an elevational front view of a “Cascading Clothes Hanging” embodiment of the full height box of FIG. 23, including two optional hanging bar and bracket, and one optional cascading multiple hanging module.

FIG. 14 is an elevational front view of a “Pants Storage” embodiment of the full height box, including three optional hanging bars and a multiple pants-hanging module hung from each hanging bar.

FIG. 15 is an elevational front view of a “Skirt Storage” embodiment of the full height box, including three optional hanging bars and a multiple skirt hanging modules hung from each hanging bar.

FIG. 16 is an elevational front view of a “Hospital/Guest/Dorm” embodiment of the full height box, including one optional lighting fixture, one optional movable mirror with optional articulating arm, one stationary mirror, one optional hanging bar, optional make up storage bins, and one optional flip-down covered clothes storage suit case, the interior of which is shown in the inset.

FIG. 17 is an elevational front view illustrating a flush door module in the system.

FIG. 18 is an elevational front view illustrating a “multi light” door module in the system.

FIG. 19 is an elevational front view illustrating a coil vertical door and housing elements in the system.

FIG. 20 is an elevational front view illustrating coil horizontal door and housing elements in the system.

FIG. 21 is an elevational front view illustrating a single light door module in the system.

FIG. 22 is an elevational front view illustrating a standard poster metal or surface for covering elements in the system.

FIGS. 23, 24 and 25 are cross-sectional front views illustrating the system's boxes in variable size of height, width and depth (full, half, and quarter boxes, respectively, are shown).

FIGS. 26 and 27 are elevational front views illustrating the system's shelves in variable sizes.

FIG. 28 is an elevational front view showing one illustrative embodiment of hanging bars or rods.

FIG. 29 is an elevational front view illustrating a second illustrative embodiment of a hanging bars or rods.

FIG. 30 is an elevational front view illustrating a third illustrative embodiment of hanging bars or rods.

FIG. 31 is an elevational front view illustrating a bracket for supporting hanging bars or rods. The circled connector portion is enlarged in FIG. 31A immediately below.

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a dirty clothes hamper module.

FIG. 33 is a bottom view illustrating a towel bar embodiment with a supporting shelf.

FIG. 34 is an elevational front view illustrating a second towel bar embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a medicine cabinet.

FIG. 36 is an elevational front view of a single-pronged “O” hook disposed on a hanging bar. An enlarged “O” hook of this configuration is enlarged in FIG. 36A.

FIG. 37 is a view of the system's cascading belt hooks secured in a hanging bar.

FIG. 38 is a view of the system's cascading necktie hooks secured in a hanging bar. A cascading necktie holder hook is illustrated in FIG. 38A.

FIG. 39 illustrates another “O” hook arrangement on a hanging bar.

FIG. 40 is a front view illustrating a shoe storage module.

FIG. 41 is a front view illustrating a miscellaneous see-through storage module.

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a direct lighting module.

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a direct/indirect lighting module.

FIG. 44 is a view illustrating a bin storage module adapted for make-up.

FIG. 45 is a front view illustrating a peg board module.

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a jewelry storage module. A jewelry module cover for this module is depicted in FIG. 46A.

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a second jewelry storage module. A jewelry module cover for this module is depicted in FIG. 47A.

FIG. 48 is an elevational front view illustrating a movable mirror with an optional articulating arm.

FIG. 49 is an elevational front view illustrating a corkboard module.

FIG. 50 is an elevational front view illustrating a stationary mirror and frame module.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view illustrating a wine-holder tower module.

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view illustrating multiple wineglass or stem glass holder modules.

FIG. 53 is an elevational front view illustrating a cascading multiple hanging module.

FIG. 54 is an elevational front view illustrating a cascading men's and women's pants hanging module.

FIG. 55 is an elevational front view illustrating a cascading women's skirts-hanging module.

FIG. 56 is an elevational front view illustrating the system's clothes storage suit case.

FIG. 57 is an elevational front view illustrating a clothes storage suit case pocket accessory.

FIG. 58 is an elevational front view illustrating the clothes storage suit case luggage fasteners.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A modular storage system adapted to compact spaces comprising a box including two rails, two perforated panels, a back wall forming an interior, and a solid or coiled door. There are fastening means for securing at least one of a plurality of specially adapted accessory storage modules in the interior and exterior doors. The box and accessory modules are scalable to adapt to valuable but unused small living or working areas typically found behind doors, in stiles or between framing studs. The accessories are semi-permanently or releasably attached to facilitate reconfiguration of the storage system.
A method of storage in small spaces with steps including the installation of a box including two rails, two perforated panels, a back wall and a door in an unused compact living or working areas, configuring the box by attaching at least one accessory module in the interior and selecting an appropriate swing or coiled door for the area selected.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosures consist of a modular and flexible organizer storage system. This system preferably utilizes between approximately four and eight inches (10 and 21 cm.) in depth of space. These areas of installation are adapted for locations behind swing doors, fastened to the inside of closet doors, or inside partitions. A typical partition is four inches which allows for the box system to be installed surface mounted, recessed, or semi-recessed. It is suitable for installation in existing or new construction. This invention maximizes valuable unused space in homes, apartments, and offices and transforms the unused space into useful organized storage space.
The system's components include variable sizes of boxes, variable sizes of doors, and numerous accessories. The system's structural weight is carried by perforated vertical panels of the box. The boxes are mounted to existing or new partitions. The accessories are semi-permanently secured to the weight carrying perforated vertical panels in at least two preferred ways: one, with horizontal bars mounted to brackets which attach to perforated vertical panels; two, directly secured to the perforated vertical panels with spring loaded pins. The securement means may also be permanent or removable, threadable, press-fit, snap-fit, detent, bolted, taped or secured with adhesive or other semi-permanent fastener or means known in the art of sufficient torsion or strength to carry typical weight of the clothing, jewelry, or other items (e.g., libations) herein described.
The versatility of the storage system allows the consumer to customize storage units to suit individual needs. As such, there are many variations of the components herein depicted. The flexibility of the system is derived from the weight carrying vertical panels which provide multiple locations for accessories to either hang from bracket mounted horizontal bars or be secure directly secured, preferably with spring loaded pins. The ease of mounting accessories to the box's vertical panels allow for the ease of changes at any time. The box is constructed of two vertical weight carrying panels, two horizontal rails, and a back wall panel. It may be fabricated of natural or artificial wood products, composites, lightweight metals, rigid polymers, paperboard, sheetrock, laminates, insulated panels or other suitable materials known in the art, These may be treated for water-resistance. The box can be assembled with the minimum of skills and tools. Various doors of different sizes, materials and styles can be applied to the boxes. The system provides numerous accessories.
This disclosure should be read such that modules and accessories referenced are deemed optional and variable in configuration; that is, one or more given modules or accessories or combination thereof describe particular embodiments. The terms modules, accessories, components or elements may be used interchangeably. It is not essential that all or even any accessory be employed in a given embodiment according to the current disclosure. The following embodiments are illustrative of the current disclosure.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a full height box 7 is shown in a standard configuration comprising two rails 7A, two perforated vertical panels 7B, and a back wall 7C. A medicine cabinet module 14 is secured to the vertical structure of the box. The securement for medicine cabinet 14 is preferably semi-permanent and removable. This preference applies to all modules and accessories for ease of removal and reconfiguration, unless otherwise noted. A towel bar 13 is secured to vertical structure 7B of the box 7. A dirty clothes hamper 12 is also secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7.
FIG. 2 shows full height box 7 in an embodiment incorporating multiple shelves 10, in this embodiment six shelves. Shelves 10A or 10B (see FIGS. 26 and 27) or customized sizes in this or other embodiments may be employed depending upon the dimension of box selected; e.g., full height 7, half height 8 (not shown) or quarter height 9 (not shown), or any intermediate or larger or smaller configurations thereof including a shelf. Partial shelves (not shown) that do not attach to both vertical panels 7B but to one vertical panel 7B and to another structure or module may also be employed. In this embodiment, shelves 10 are each secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7.
FIG. 3 shows full height box 7. One shelf 10A is secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7. One hanging bar 11A is secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multiple “O” ring hooks 15A are hung from the bar for mops, brooms, hats and other items.
FIG. 4 shows a full height box 7 including one shelf 10A secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multiple hanging bars 11A are secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multiple shoe storage accessories 16A are hung from each bar 11A.
FIG. 5 shows full height box 7 including one shelf 10A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One hanging 11A is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One “O” clothes hook hanger 15A is hung from bar 11A.
FIG. 6 shows full height box 7, including shelf 10A and two hanging bars 11A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One “O” clothes hook hanger 15A is hung from upper bar 11A and five hangers 15A are hung from the lower bar 11A.
FIG. 7 shows full height box 7, including one shelf 10A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One hanging bar 11A is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Two “O” ironing board hooks 15E are hung from bar 11A.
FIG. 8 shows full height box 7, including one direct lighting fixture 17A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One hanging bars 11C is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multiple necktie hanging hooks 15C are hung from bar 11C. One stationary mirror 23 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One jewelry case 20B is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multiple hanging bars # 11 A, and two bracket, # 11D, each are secured to the vertical structure of the box. Multiple shoe storage accessories, # 16 A, are hung from the hanging bars, # 11 A.
FIG. 9 shows a “Woman's Valet” embodiment of full height box 7, including one lighting fixture 17A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One movable mirror 21 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Mirror 21 is preferably both double-sided and magnifying. One stationary flat mirror 23 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One hanging bar 11A is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multi-compartment make-up storage bin 18 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One jewelry case 20A and one jewelry case 20B is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Dashed lines represent covering flaps (not shown). Multiple hanging bars 11A are secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7. Multiple storage accessories 16A are hung from hanging bars 11A.
FIG. 10 shows full height box 7 in a “Shadow Box” configuration, including two direct lighting modules 17A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One direct lighting module 17A is disposed at the top of box 7 illuminating in a downward direction. Another direct lighting module 17A is disposed at the bottom of box 7 illuminating in an upward orientation. Direct/indirect lighting module 17B is secured therebetween to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Two shelves 10 are secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7. In this embodiment the lower direct lighting module 17A serves as a shelf. It can be seen that all interior compartments may thus be illuminated and objects placed upon shelves 10 and lighting module 17A may cast shadows for aesthetic effect.
FIG. 11 shows a half height box 8 including two rails 8A, two perforated vertical panels 8B, and a back wall 8C. Lighting fixture 17A is secured to vertical structure 8B of box 8. Stationary mirror 23 is secured to the vertical structure of the box. One hanging bar # 11 A and two brackets, #11 D, is secured to vertical structure 8B of box 8. Wine holder tower 24 is supported from hanging bar 11A. Wine glass holder module 25C is secured to vertical structure 8B of box 8.
FIG. 12 shows half height box 8, including one lighting module 17A secured to vertical structure 8B of box 8. One stationary mirror 23 is secured to vertical structure 8B of box 8. Four wineglass holder modules 25C are secured to vertical structure 8B of box 8 with retractable pins (not shown).
FIG. 13 shows full height box 7, including two hanging bar 11 A secured to the vertical structure 7B of box 7. One cascading multiple hanging module (26), is hung from hanging bar 11A for storage of blouses, shirts, or suits.
FIG. 14 shows full height box 7, including three hanging bars 11A and two brackets each, #11 D, are secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. A multiple pant hanging module 27 is hung from the hanging bar 11A for storage of pants, slacks and other garments or items.
FIG. 15 shows full height box 7, including three hanging bars 11A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. A multiple skirt hanging module 28 is hung from hanging bar 11A for storage of skirts, dresses and other garments or items.
FIG. 16 shows full height box 7, including one direct lighting module 17A secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One moveable mirror 21 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One stationary mirror 23 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. Hanging bar 11A and make-up storage bin 18 are secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. One flip-down clothes-storage suit case 29 is secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7. FIG. 16A shows an inside view of suit case 29 includes storage accessory 30, which may be fabricated of a mesh material as shown, and three adjustable fasteners 31, preferably elastic. Hanging bar 11A includes “O” ring 15A for hanging storage. Mini shoe storage accessory 16A is hung from hanging bars 11A. Mini dirty clothes hamper 12 A is secured with spring loaded pins (not shown). Shelves 10A or 10B are secured to vertical structure 7B of box 7 with spring loaded pins (not shown).
FIG. 17 illustrates a first door module, flush door 1. Door 1 is hinged 1B, with door knob 1A, pull, handle or other grasping means.
FIG. 18 illustrates a second door module, multi-light door 2. Multi-light door 2 is hinged 2B, including frame 2D and multiple lights 2C of glass or translucent plastic, and a door knob 2A, pull, handle or other grasping means.
FIG. 19 illustrates a third door module, coil-vertical door 3 with housing. Coil-vertical door 3 includes a single vertical coil into a vertical housing 3B, with door knob 3A, pull, handle or other grasping means.
FIG. 20 illustrates a fourth door module, coil-horizontal door 4 with housing. Coil-horizontal door 4 is a dual horizontal coil terminating in horizontal housing 4B, with door knobs 4A, pulls, handles or other grasping means. The embodiment shown has two opposing door 4 halves, opening and upwardly and downwardly to meet in the approximate middle, but may comprise only one horizontal coil.
FIG. 21 discloses a fifth door module, single-light door 5. Single-light door 5 is hinged 5B, including frame and single light 5C of glass or translucent plastic, and door knob 5A pull, handle or other grasping means.
FIG. 22 discloses a standard poster metal surface 6, typically 22 inches by 28 inches (approximately 55 cm. by 71 cm.) for covering the surface of components in the system Surface 6 may be a hinged, flush door. Frame 6B may encompass a metal enhanced portion 6C suitable for securing accessories to the face with magnets, and/or an area 6A suitable for Velcro, corkboard or other fastenable materials may optionally be employed for securement of items and accessories
FIGS. 23, 24 and 25 illustrate the variable sizes of boxes 7, 8 and 9 in height and width. Boxes 7, 8 and 9 may also vary as desired in depth (not shown). Boxes 7, 8 and 9 are referred to herein as the “full box” (FIG. 23), the “half-box” (FIG. 24) and the “quarter box” (FIG. 25). Full box 7 includes two perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, two horizontal rails 7A and back panel wall 7C. Half box 8 includes two perforated weight carrying vertical panels 8B, two horizontal rails 8A and back panel wall 8C. Quarter box 9 includes two perforated weight carrying vertical panels 9B, two horizontal rails 9A and back panel wall 9C. The perforated vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B support hanging bars, brackets and spring loaded pins (not shown). An advantage of this arrangement is that boxes 7, 8 and 9 and variants thereof can be assembled by a user with minimum of skills and tools.
FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate optionally detachable shelves 10A and 10B in variable depth. It may be seen that 10A is not as deep as 10B; however, shelves 10 may be fabricated in any suitable dimension, length or width to fit a given space. Partial width shelves (not shown) can fill part of a box's interior to accommodate other modules or accessories in the same plane. Shelves 10 are attached to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B with spring loaded pins (not shown).
FIG. 28 illustrates a first hanging bar embodiment 11A. Hanging bar 11A is supported by bracket 11D of FIG. 31 and secured to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B of FIGS. 23, 24 and 25. Hanging bar 11A may be fabricated of metal, PVC, other rigid polymer or other material employed in the art for personal storage functions.
FIG. 29 illustrates a second hanging bar embodiment 11B. Hanging bar 11B includes an affixed bar and buttons 11B-1. Hanging bar 11B is supported by bracket 11D of FIG. 31 and secured to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B of FIGS. 23, 24 and 25. Hanging bar 11B may be fabricated of metal, PVC, other rigid polymer or other material employed in the art for personal storage functions.
FIG. 30 illustrates a third hanging bar embodiment 11C. Hanging bar 11C, includes a hinge release 11C-1 and may include an affixed bar and buttons as in 11B-1 of FIG. 29. Hanging bar 11C is supported by bracket 11D of FIG. 31 and secured to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B of FIGS. 23, 24 and 25. Hanging bar 11C may be fabricated of metal, PVC, other rigid polymer or other material employed in the art for personal storage functions.
FIG. 31 illustrates a bracket 11D for support of hanging bars 11A, 11B and 11C. The circled portion of bracket 11D is enlarged in FIG. 31A immediately below. Bracket 11D is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B with pins/spring-pins 11E as best seen in FIG. 31A. Bracket 11D and pins 11E may be fabricated of metal, PVC, other rigid polymer or other material employed in the art for personal storage functions.
FIG. 32 illustrates a dirty clothes hamper 12. Dirty clothes hamper (12) has a frame of horizontal members 12A and vertical members 12B in the orientation shown. It may include a removable laundry bag 12E and pivot hinge door 12C. The removable laundry bag 12E may be mesh for breathability and light weight. Dirty clothes hamper 12 is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B or an accessory or module (not shown) with spring loaded pins 12F.
FIG. 33 illustrates a first towel bars assembly 13. This cylindrical? towel bar (13A-1 is attached to brackets (not shown) depending from towel shelf 13A-2 and secured to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B or an accessory or module (not shown) with spring loaded pins 13A-3.
FIG. 34 illustrates a second towel bar 13B without a shelf. Single towel bar 13B is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B or an accessory or module (not shown) with spring loaded pins 13B-1.
FIG. 35 illustrates a medicine cabinet. Medicine cabinet (14) has a frame of horizontal members 14A and vertical members 14B in the orientation shown. It includes a hinged swing mirror door 14C, removable and adjustable interior shelves (not shown). Medicine cabinet 14 is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B or an accessory or module (not shown) with spring loaded pins 14D.
FIGS. 36 and 36A illustrate a first single-pronged “O” hook 15A. “O” hooks 15A are dimensioned such that the aperture may be inserted into hanging bar 11A. “O” hooks 15A are suitable for hanging mops and brooms, articles of clothing and other articles. FIG. 36 shows a typical deployment of multiple, evenly spaced “O” hooks 15A.
FIG. 37 illustrates cascading belt hooks 15B. The cascading hooks (15B) are inserted into the hanging bar 11C. Hooks 15B may be releasably, threadably or otherwise secured, including by a an “O” ring for use with hanging bar 11A. These cascading hooks 15B are suitable for belts hung from multiple prongs in a uniform and accessible arrangement.
FIG. 38 illustrates cascading necktie holder hooks 15C. Cascading necktie hooks 15C are inserted into the hanging bar 11C. As shown, hooks 15C may be linked or ganged for economy of space.
FIG. 39 illustrates another “O” hook 15D. The second “O” hook members (15D) are shown inserted into hanging bar 11A. These second “O” hook members (15D) are adapted for hanging ironing boards.
FIG. 40 illustrates the system's shoe storage module 16A. Shoe storage modules 16A are inserted onto the hanging bar 11A through channel or passageway 16A-1. Channel 16A-1 is sewn or formed at the upper portion of the module 16A of a dimension suitable to accommodating bar 11A. Shoe storage module 16A may be fabricated of a mesh-type fabric attached to a rear wall 16A-2. Shoe storage module 16A accommodates varying sizes of door width and may be fabricated in a “mini” version as depicted in FIG. 16.
FIG. 41 illustrates a miscellaneous see-through storage module 16B. Miscellaneous storage modules 16B include a cover flap 16B-3. Miscellaneous storage module 16A may be fabricated of a mesh-type fabric attached to a rear wall 16B-2. Miscellaneous storage modules 16A are, inserted onto hanging bar 11A through channel or passageway 16B-1. Channel 16B-1 is sewn or formed at the upper portion of the module 16B of a dimension suitable to accommodating bar 11A.
FIG. 42 illustrates a direct lighting fixture 17A with the lighting fixture in a vertically downward orientation Power cords (not shown) may be routed internally, in a groove, or rearwardly to as not to be obvious, or may be battery powered. It is adapted to low heat lamps with a flush lens covering recesses 17A-2 to use surface 17A-4 as a shelf. Direct lighting module 17A can be installed horizontally with the light recesses 17A-2 oriented vertically downward as shown for use as a shelf or at the top of box 7, 8 or 9, or upward for down and/or up lighting, respectively. The up lighting orientation (not shown) is also suitable to be used as shelving on surface 17A-3. Direct lighting fixture 17A is secured to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B with spring loaded pins 17A-1.
FIG. 43 illustrates combination direct/indirect lighting fixture 17B. Direct/indirect module 17B is suitable to be used as shelving. It is adapted to low heat lamps with flush lenses covering recesses 17B-2 to use either surface 17B-3 or 17B-4 as a shelf. Lighting fixture 17B is secured to perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B with spring loaded pins 17B-1.
FIG. 44 illustrates modular bin storage unit 18A. The modular bin storage unit 18A may include removable internal dividers (not shown) that can be used for the storage of such items as women's make up, toiletries and other small items. These modular bin storage units 18A accommodate varying sizes of door width. The modular bin storage units (18A) are inserted into the hanging bar 11B (not shown) through channel or passageway 18B. Channel 18B is formed at the upper portion of the module 18A of a dimension suitable to accommodating bar 11C.
FIG. 45 illustrates peg board module 19. Peg board 19 contains a plurality of holes 19B dimensioned and uniformly spaced for reception of at least one standard, commercially available peg-board hook (not shown). Peg board 19 can be used for the storage and hanging display of small tools and other small items. Peg boards 19 accommodate varying sizes of door width. The peg boards units (19) may be inserted into the hanging bar 11A or 11C through channel 19A which is appropriately dimensioned.
FIGS. 46 and 46A disclose a first jewelry storage case and cover 20A. The jewelry storage case 20A has multiple hooks, holes, slots and other storage options depicted as 20A-4 through 20A-8 for various jewelry such as rings, bracelets, watches, necklaces and other pieces. Case 20A includes a flap 20A-3 with horizontal 20A-1 and vertical sides 20A-2 to provide a covered opening for access to storage. The jewelry case 20A is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B or 9B with spring loaded pins (not shown).
FIGS. 47 and 4A disclose a second jewelry storage case and cover 20B in an alternative compact configuration to 20A. Jewelry storage case 20B also has multiple hooks, holes, slots and other storage options depicted as 20B-4 through 20B-8 for various jewelry such as rings, bracelets, watches, necklaces and other pieces. Case 20B includes a flap 20B-3 with horizontal 20B-1 and vertical sides 20B-2 to provide a covered opening for access to storage. The jewelry case 20B is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B or 9B with spring loaded pins (not shown).
FIG. 48 disclose a movable mirror 21 with an optional articulating arm 21C. This mirrored surface 21A may be double sided. It may also be magnifying. Movable mirror 21 is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B with spring loaded pins 21B at the base.
FIG. 49 discloses a cork board 22 The corkboard (22) is attachable with pins 22B or any fastener, such as magnets to the metal enhanced box's door 6 (not shown)
FIG. 50 discloses a stationary mirror for the “Men's Dressing Valet” (FIG. 8) or “Women's Dressing Valet” (FIG. 9) configurations. Stationary mirror 23 is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B with spring loaded pins (not shown) disposed on sides 23A or 23B as required. Reflective surface 23C is preferably flat but may be magnified or decorated as by beveling or etching.
FIG. 51 illustrates a wine holder tower 24. This wine holder tower 24 holds wine bottles by the neck (not shown) in a plurality of appropriately dimensioned apertures 24B. In the embodiment shown it may contain up to ten conventional 750 ml. or other volume bottles of wine, half from each side. The wine holder tower 24 is inserted onto hanging bar 11A (not shown)
FIG. 52 discloses wine or stem glass holders 25 in exemplary two-channel 25A, four-channel 25B and six-channel 25C embodiments. Wine glass holders 25 are variable in length and hold varying quantities of wine stemware (not shown). The stem glass holders 25 are secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B and 9B with spring loaded pins 25A-1, 25B-1 and 25C-1.
FIG. 53 discloses a cascading multiple hanging module 26. The cascading multiple hanging module 26 has attached bar 26D and buttons 26C along two of the vertical sides. The buttons 26C may be staggered. The top of the cascading multiple hanging module 26A optionally pivots in a range up to and including 180 degrees. The cascading multiple hanging module 26 is inserted onto hanging bar 11A of FIG. 28.
FIG. 54 discloses a cascading men's and women's pants hanging module 27. The cascading pants hanging module 27B preferably has three tiers 27B (which may be sectioned) supported by rails 27A. The cascading pant hanging module 27 is inserted onto hanging bar 11A of FIG. 28.
FIG. 55 discloses a cascading women's skirts-hanging module 28. Cascading skirt hanging module 28 has a frame 28A ideally supporting three tiers 28B with catch or stop elements 28C. The cascading skirt hanging module 28 is inserted into hanging bar 11A of FIG. 28.
FIG. 56 discloses a clothes storage suit case 29. The clothes storage suit case 29 allows multiple storage options for various clothing items such as blouses, shirts, skirts, pants or other garments and goods. It is secured by a flap or cover 29A with catch or pull 29B. The inside of the clothes storage suit case 29 may include multiple pocket accessories 3 snap-in pockets 30B attached to a support line or backing 30A and snapped with fasteners 30C. Pockets 30B are typically fabricated of mesh. Clothes storage suit case 29 opens for access to the stored contents as depicted by the dashed lines, preferably with a vertical opening. The outside surface 29C of clothes storage suit case 29 has an optional mirror finish (not shown). The system's clothes storage suit case 29 is secured to the perforated weight carrying vertical panels 7B, 8B or 9B with spring loaded pins (not shown).
FIG. 57 discloses a clothes storage suit case pocket accessory 30. The pocket accessory 30B is preferably fabricated of mesh. The pocket accessory (30) is secured to the system's clothes storage suit case snap-in pockets 30B attached to a support line or backing 30A and snapped with fasteners 30C.
FIG. 58 discloses a clothes storage suit case luggage securement arrangement 31. The luggage fasteners 31B are preferably fabricated of an elastic or other resilient or stretching material, although snaps or adjustable length straps may be also be employed that connect with a mating or buckle mechanism 31C and 31D. The luggage fastener arrangement 31 are semi-permanently secured to the system's clothes storage suit case 29 with metal studs (not shown).
Persons skilled in the art will further recognize that the foregoing embodiments are illustrative and not limiting. This disclosure may be practiced with other embodiments and variations can be adapted to particular circumstances and material. Although certain embodiments and examples are necessarily chosen in describing and claiming the above disclosure, these should not inhibit broader or related applications without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A modular storage system adapted to compact spaces comprising:

a. a box including two rails, two perforated panels, a back wall forming an interior,

b. a door,

c. fastening means for securing at least one accessory module in said interior,

d. wherein said box is scalable and said at least one accessory modules are scalable.

2. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one accessory module is releasably attached.

3. A method of storage in small spaces comprising:

a. installing a box including two rails, two perforated panels, a back wall and a door in an unused area,

b. configuring said box by attaching at least one accessory module in an interior formed by said box.