WO2007000051A1 - Archival data disc storage case - Google Patents

Archival data disc storage case Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007000051A1
WO2007000051A1 PCT/CA2006/001070 CA2006001070W WO2007000051A1 WO 2007000051 A1 WO2007000051 A1 WO 2007000051A1 CA 2006001070 W CA2006001070 W CA 2006001070W WO 2007000051 A1 WO2007000051 A1 WO 2007000051A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
disc
mounting device
storage case
mounting
support member
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CA2006/001070
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Frédéric LAPOINTE
Original Assignee
Stil Design
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Stil Design filed Critical Stil Design
Priority to US11/994,204 priority Critical patent/US20090223842A1/en
Priority to CA002611351A priority patent/CA2611351A1/en
Publication of WO2007000051A1 publication Critical patent/WO2007000051A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G11—INFORMATION STORAGE
    • G11B—INFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
    • G11B33/00—Constructional parts, details or accessories not provided for in the other groups of this subclass
    • G11B33/02—Cabinets; Cases; Stands; Disposition of apparatus therein or thereon
    • G11B33/04—Cabinets; Cases; Stands; Disposition of apparatus therein or thereon modified to store record carriers
    • G11B33/0405—Cabinets; Cases; Stands; Disposition of apparatus therein or thereon modified to store record carriers for storing discs
    • G11B33/0411—Single disc boxes
    • G11B33/0422—Single disc boxes for discs without cartridge
    • G11B33/0427—Single disc boxes for discs without cartridge comprising centre hole locking means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/44—Clasp, clip, support-clamp, or required component thereof
    • Y10T24/44017—Clasp, clip, support-clamp, or required component thereof with specific mounting means for attaching to rigid or semirigid supporting structure or structure-to-be-secured

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to storage cases. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present invention is concerned with archival and storage cases for media or data discs such as, for example CD, CDROM, DVD, DVDROM, DVDRAM and VCD.
  • a hooking device is usually provided to interconnect with the central aperture of the disc to removably and securely mount the data disc inside the case.
  • Conventional hooking devices are provided with a central button that is depressed when the user wishes to remove the data disc from the storage case. Upon depression of the button, hooks are moves away from the periphery of the central aperture to allow the data disc to be removed from the storage case.
  • United States Patent Application 2003/0052024 published on March 20 th , 2003 teaches a case for holding a data or media disc.
  • This case includes a central disc engaging portion having a pair of inwardly extending cantilevered arms with disc engaging means at their free ends for engaging the disc. When the disc engaging means are depressed the disc is released.
  • a problem with conventional hooking assemblies is the possibility to inadvertently depress the button of the hooking assembly, and thereby release the data disc, which could lead to the lost or the damage of the data disc.
  • Another problem with conventional hooking devices is that they fail in offering a good balance between providing a good grip on the CD when secured inside the case and easily releasing the CD when the central button is depressed by causing minimal manipulation to the CD.
  • Yet another problem is that the data receiving surface of the disc may be damaged via contact with the supporting tray.
  • the disc is not supported and/or not maintained in position.
  • An object of the present invention is therefore to provide an archival and storage case for data disc.
  • a storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof
  • the storage case comprising a tray for receiving the media disc, the tray comprising a disc-mounting device for mounting the media disc thereto about the hole, the disc-mounting device being adapted to be displaced between a disc-engaging position and a disc-releasing position and at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position.
  • a disc mounting device for a storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof, the disc storage case comprising a tray adapted to receive the disc mounting device, the disc-mounting device comprising: a mounting element assembly for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole thereof thereby mounting the media disc to the disc mounting device and being adapted to be displaced between a disc engaging position and the disc releasing position; and at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when the disc mounting elements are displaced to the disc-releasing position, wherein the disc mounting device is adapted to be mounted to the tray with the media disc being mounted thereto thereby mounting the media disc to the tray.
  • the disc support member comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position.
  • the disc support member is so independent of the disc mounting device as not to be displaced therewith when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position.
  • the disc-mounting device comprises a mounting element assembly for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole thereof and an actuator mounted to the mounting element assembly for displacing the mounting element assembly between the disc engaging position and the disc releasing position.
  • the mounting element assembly comprises a first mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to the tray and a second mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to the tray.
  • the first and second mounting elements are oppositely positioned.
  • the first and second mounting elements comprise a respective arcuate configuration.
  • the first mounting element comprises a first support mounted at one end to the tray and having a first mounting member at an opposite end, the second mounting element comprising a second support mounted at one end to the tray and having a second mounting member at an opposite end.
  • the first and second supports comprise respective spacing members to space the media disc at a distance from the tray when the media disc is mounted to the disc mounting device.
  • the spacing members are so configured as to space the data receiving surface from the tray.
  • the spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from a given fist or second support.
  • each of the spacing members is mounted near the one end of a respective first and second support.
  • the first and second mounting members are adjacently positioned relative to each other.
  • the first and second supports comprise a respective arcuate configuration.
  • the actuator is adapted to so act on said first and second supports as to displace said first and second mounting members from said disc-engaging and said disc-releasing positions. In an embodiment, the actuator is adapted to so deform said first and second supports as to displace the mounting members from the disc-engaging position to the disc-releasing position when exerting a sufficient pressure thereon. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted between the first and second mounting members. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted between the first and second mounting members. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted between the first and second mounting members. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted to each first and second support member via links. In an embodiment, the actuator comprises a push button.
  • the first and second mounting members comprise respective first and second hook members.
  • each of the hook members comprises a hook wall, the hook wall having one end mounted to a given first or second support and an opposite end comprising a projection.
  • the projection of each first and second hook members projects in the direction of the first and second support respectively.
  • the projections of the first and second hook members project at opposite directions relative to each other.
  • the projection and the hook wall of a given first and second hook member define an obtuse angle therebewteen.
  • the disc support member is positioned between the first and the second mounting elements.
  • the disc support member is mounted at one to the tray and comprises an opposite free end.
  • the disc support member comprises a substantially free body between the one end and the free end.
  • the disc support member comprises a reinforcing element.
  • the reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib on the underside of the disc support member.
  • the disc support member comprises an arcuate configuration.
  • the free end comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc- releasing position.
  • the protruding member comprises a wall, the disc support comprising a wall support.
  • the wall support is mounted at one end thereof to the tray, the wall being mounted to the free end of the wall support.
  • the wall support comprises an arcuate configuration.
  • the wall defines an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface of the actuator.
  • the tray further comprises an additional disc support member.
  • the additional disc support member comprises one end mounted to the tray and an opposite free end.
  • the additional disc support member comprises a substantially free body between the one end and the free end.
  • the additional disc support member comprises a reinforcing element.
  • the reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib mounted to the underside of the additional disc support member.
  • the additional disc support member comprises a spacing member for spacing the disc from the tray.
  • the spacing member is adapted to space the data receiving surface of the media disc at a distance from the tray.
  • the spacing member is positioned near the one end of the additional disc support member.
  • the spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from the additional disc support member.
  • the additional disc mounting element comprises an arcuate configuration. In an embodiment, it is the disc mounting device which comprises this additional disc support member.
  • the mounting device comprises the disc support member. In an embodiment, the mounting device further comprises an additional disc support member. In an embodiment, the mounting device comprises a first and a second mounting element. In an embodiment, the first and second mounting elements are oppositely disposed, each of the disc support member and the additional disc support member being positioned between the first and second mounting elements and being oppositely disposed relative to each other.
  • each one of the first mounting element, the second mounting element, the disc support member, and the additional disc support member comprises a respective one end mounted to the tray, a respective substantially free body extending from the tray towards and a respective opposite end.
  • the disc mounting device comprises a substantially circular periphery mounted to the tray, the substantially circular periphery comprising each respective one end of each one of the first mounting element, the second mounting element, the disc support member, and the additional disc support member wherein, the first mounting element, the second mounting element, the disc support member, and the additional disc support member respectively radially extend from the periphery towards a centre of the disc mounting device, each respective opposite end being positioned about the centre.
  • the actuator is positioned at the centre, the actuator being mounted to the first and second mounting elements, each respective opposite end of the disc support member and the additional disc support member being a free end.
  • the first and second mounting elements comprise a respective first support member and a second support member, the first and second support members comprising a respective one end mounted to the tray.
  • at least one of the disc support members and the additional disc support members comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position.
  • the protruding member comprises an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface defined by the actuator.
  • the disc mounting device comprises a separate body mountable to the tray.
  • the tray comprises an opening, the disc mounting device being mountable within the tray opening.
  • the disc mounting device is integrally mounted to the tray.
  • the disc mounting device comprises a media disc mounting side and an opposite rear side configured to receive a removable cover.
  • the removable cover comprises a generally circular configuration.
  • the removable cover and the opposite rear side comprise respective mutually engaging mating elements.
  • the removable cover engaging elements comprise projections and the opposite rear side engaging elements comprise corresponding apertures.
  • the cover is adapted to receive a tracking and/or identification device.
  • the tracking and/or identification device comprises a device selected from the group consisting of: a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
  • the storage case further comprises a storage case moveably mounted to the tray and moveable between closed and opened positions.
  • the storage case cover is hinged to the tray.
  • the storage case cover comprises a projection for engaging a notch provided by the tray when the storage case cover is in the closed position.
  • the storage case cover comprises a receiving space on the outer face thereof.
  • the receiving space is configured to receive an item selected from the group consisting of a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
  • the present invention is concerned with an archival and storage case for data discs that is provided with a dome-shaped hooking device that is easy to mold and that is provided with a removable underside cover allowing a microchip, a RFID (Radio Frequency Identification
  • the hooking device may further include a wall so configured and sized as to reduce the risks of accidental removal of the data disc from the archival and storage case.
  • the archival and storage case for data discs may further include color coding for tagging and tracking purposes.
  • the terms "media disc” and “data disc” are interchangeable and include without limitation a CD, a CDROM, a DVD, a DVDROM, a DVDRAM a VCD ands the like as is understood in the art.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a storage case according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a top perspective view of the disc mounting device of the storage case of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 is a bottom perspective view of the disc mounting device
  • Figure 4 is a top plan view of the disc mounting device
  • Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the disc mounting device without a data disc therein;
  • Figure 6 is a side elevation view of the disc mounting device shown with a data disc hooked thereto;
  • Figure 7 is a side elevation sectional view of the disc mounting device shown during the removal of the data disc therefrom;
  • Figure 8 is an exploded top perspective view of the storage case of Figure 1 with the underside cover removed;
  • Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of the storage case of Figure 1 with the underside cover installed;
  • Figure 10 is a perspective view of the storage case of Figure
  • Figure 11 is a sectional perspective view of the storage case of Figure 1 , showing a cover closing arrangement.
  • FIG. 1 of the appended drawings illustrates, in a perspective view, a storage case 10 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.
  • the conventional features of the storage case 10 include a rectangular tray 12 and a rectangular cover 14 hinged to the tray 12.
  • the tray 12 includes a disc mounting device such as a central hooking device 16 used to releasably maintain a media or data disc 18 securely therein.
  • a disc mounting device such as a central hooking device 16 used to releasably maintain a media or data disc 18 securely therein.
  • the storage case 10 contains many other features, aesthetic or functional, that are not relevant to the present disclosure. These features will therefore not be discussed in detail herein.
  • the hooking device 16 includes a mounting element assembly 17 including a first mounting element 19 and a second mounting element 21.
  • the first and second mounting elements 19 and 21 respectively include a first mounting member 20 and a second mounting member 22 in the form of hooks.
  • the first and second hooks 20 and 22 are mounted to the tray 12 via respective arcuate first and second supports 24 and 26.
  • the first and second hook supports 24 and 26 have one end mounted to the tray 12 and a free end having a respective hook 20 or 22.
  • the first and second supports 24 and 26 have a substantially free body that can be moved or deformed as will be explained herein.
  • An actuator such as a push or release button 28 is mounted to the first and second mounting elements 19 and 21.
  • the release button 28 is mounted to both hooks 20 and 22 via respective links 30 and 32.
  • the disc mounting device also includes a disc support member 33 (see Figure 2).
  • the disc support member 33 includes protruding member 34 for engaging the media disc 18 about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device 16 thereby maintaining the media disc 18 in position when the disc mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position as will be described herein.
  • the protruding member 34 is in the form of a wall mounted to the free end of an arcuate wall support 36 that is mounted to the tray 12 at another end thereof.
  • the disc mounting device 16 also includes an additional disc support member 38 such as an arcuate member 38 which completes the dome shape of the hooking device 16.
  • spacing members 40 which act as disc supports are provided at the center of the external periphery of the arcuate supports and members 24, 26, 36 and 38. Apertures 42 are provided near each spacing member 40. The purpose of these spacing members 40 and apertures 42 will be described hereinbelow. [0050] As can be better seen from Figure 4, the various arcuate support and members 24, 26, 36 and 38 are separated by a generally H-shape channel, providing these supports and members 24, 26, 36 and 38 with substantially free bodies thereby allowing independent movement thereof.
  • each hook 20 and 22 includes a hook wall 44 and a projection 46 defining, with the hook wall 44, an obtuse angle.
  • the wall 34 defines an upper surface that is higher than the release button 28.
  • the underside of the arcuate wall support 36 includes a generally U-shaped reinforcing element such as rib 48.
  • the arcuate shape of the hook supports 24 and 26 allows the attached release push button 28 to be depressed without damage to the hooking device 16 and imparts a biasing action to return the release button 28 to its position shown in Figures 2 to 5 when the pressure is removed therefrom.
  • the hooking device 16 is shown herein as being integral with the tray 12. However, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art, the hooking device 16 could be separate from the tray 12 and inserted in an aperture therein (not shown).
  • Figure 6 illustrates the hooking device 16 when a data disc
  • the data receiving surface of the disc 18 is much less likely to be damaged while the data disc 18 is in the archival and storage case 10.
  • the gap separating the surface of the disc 18 and the tray 12 makes it easier for the user to grab the disc 18 while pressing the release button 28.
  • the release button 28 When the user wishes to remove the media or data disc 18 from the tray 12, the release button 28 is pressed downwardly, with sufficient pressure, as illustrated in Figure 7. This downward movement of the release button 28 causes the deformation of the arcuate hook supports 24 and 26 that, in turn, cause the projections 46 of the hooks 20 and 22 to move inward, allowing the data disc 18 to be removed.
  • Figures 1 to 6 show the disc mounting device 16 in the disc-engaging position while Figure 7 shows the disc mounting device in the disc-releasing position.
  • the disc support member 33 acts as a support to the disc 18 when the hooking device 16 is in the disc releasing position. As such, the disc 18 falls on the disc support member 33 or is maintained at the same distance from the tray 12 thereby.
  • the foregoing can also be accomplished by the additional disc support member 38 or by the spacing member 40.
  • the protruding member 34 acts to maintain the disc 18 in place when the hooks 20 and 22 are displaced to the disc releasing position.
  • the disc support member 33, the additional support member 38, the protruding member 34 and the spacing member 40 of the members 33 and 38 are all dependent of the disc mounting device 16 so as not to be displaced therewith when the disc mounting device 16 is displaced in the disc releasing position.
  • Figure 8 and 9 of the appended drawings illustrate a removable cover 52 that may be mounted to the underside of the hooking device 16.
  • the cover 52 is generally circular and includes four projections 54 configured and sized to enter the apertures 42 to removably maintain the cover 52 to the hooking device 16.
  • the projections 54 and the apertures 42 act as mutually engaging elements.
  • a tracking and/or identification device can be secured to the cover 52 before it is mounted to the hooking device 16 to provide tracking and identification capabilities to the storage case 10.
  • a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag or other technologies such as color coding can be used.
  • Figure 10 illustrates the storage case 10 in a closed position.
  • Figure 11 shows a cover closing arrangement 58 comprising a projection 60, provided on the cover 14, configured and sized to engage a notch 62, provided on the tray 12, when the cover 14 is closed.
  • the storage case 10 includes two such cover closing arrangements such as 58.
  • the disc mounting device 16 is shown have a circular shape yet of course it may be provided in a variety of suitable geometric shapes.
  • the disc mounting device may include a variety of different types of disc mounting assemblies 17. These disc mounting assemblies may have more than two mounting elements 19 and 21 , which may be configured in various ways in order for the disc 18 to mounted thereon about its central hole.
  • the hooks 20 and 22 can also be provided in various shapes and sizes having one more differently configured projections 46 and one or more hook walls 44 of various configurations as well.
  • the supports 24 and 26 may be provided in a variety of suitable configurations so as to be biased towards the disc engaging position and moveable towards the disc releasing position. Of course a plurality of supports having a plurality of hooks can also be contemplated by the person having skill in the art.
  • the mounting elements 17 and 21 may be provided with other mounting members other than hooks, such as clips, shoulders or stoppers as will be understood by a person skilled in the art. In this way, the mounting members of the invention can be brought closer together or moved upwardly or downwardly depending on the design structure so as to release the disc 18 therefrom.
  • the disc mounting device need not include an actuator and as such the mounting assembly 17 may be directly engaged by the user for displacement thereof to the disc releasing position.
  • the actuator 28 may be provided in various shapes and sizes.
  • the actuator 28 may be mounted to the various mounting elements, mounting element supports and mounting members of the invention in a variety of suitable ways for providing the user with the ability to act thereon so as to move the disc mounting device 16 to the disc releasing position.
  • the actuator need not protrude the central hole of the disc, as such, the disc is sufficiently distance from the tray as to allow a long member therebetween with a lever at the free end thereof in order to allow the user to act the on the disc mounting device so as to be displace it to the disc releasing position.
  • the disc support member 33 of the invention may be provided in various shapes or sizes.
  • the disc support member may be a resilient and deformable embossment having a variety of geometric configurations.
  • the disc support member may be a spring biased member.
  • the disc support member may be a resilient cantilevered member.
  • the disc support member may include a variety of protruding members such as a wall 34, a hook and the like for maintaining the media disc in position as described herein.
  • a variety and plurality of additional disc support members 38 can also be provided within the context of the present invention. Each of the additional disc support members 38 may include a protruding member 34.
  • the disc mounting device 16 which includes the disc support member 33 and the additional disc support member 38.
  • the tray 12 which includes the disc support member 33 and the additional disc support member 38.
  • Various spacing members such as disc supports 40 can be provided at various positions on the tray 12 or the disc mounting device 12 so as to space the data receiving surface of the disc 18 away from the tray 12 without touching this data receiving surface.
  • the disc support member 33 is a spacing member 40.

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  • Packaging For Recording Disks (AREA)

Abstract

A storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof. The storage case includes a tray for receiving the media disc. The tray comprises a disc-mounting device for mounting the media disc thereto about the hole. The disc-mounting device is adapted to be displaced between a disc-engaging position and a disc-releasing position. The tray also includes at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position. The disc mounting device can be either integrally mounted to the tray or be a separate body mountable thereto. The disc mounting member may also include the disc support member. The disc support member is not displaced along with the disc mounting member.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTION
ARCHIVAL DATA DISC STORAGE CASE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to storage cases. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present invention is concerned with archival and storage cases for media or data discs such as, for example CD, CDROM, DVD, DVDROM, DVDRAM and VCD.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Storage cases for data discs are well known in the art. They are primarily used to protect data discs from damage during transport and/or storage and to adequately preserve them for archival. Indeed, archival and storage containers are required to protect these renewed assets. Optical disc media will play its part in the marketplace, along with many other storage media.
[0003] To prevent the data disc from moving when inserted in the storage case when the storage case is closed, a hooking device is usually provided to interconnect with the central aperture of the disc to removably and securely mount the data disc inside the case. Conventional hooking devices are provided with a central button that is depressed when the user wishes to remove the data disc from the storage case. Upon depression of the button, hooks are moves away from the periphery of the central aperture to allow the data disc to be removed from the storage case.
[0004] For example, United States Patent Application 2003/0052024 published on March 20th, 2003 teaches a case for holding a data or media disc. This case includes a central disc engaging portion having a pair of inwardly extending cantilevered arms with disc engaging means at their free ends for engaging the disc. When the disc engaging means are depressed the disc is released.
[0005] A problem with conventional hooking assemblies is the possibility to inadvertently depress the button of the hooking assembly, and thereby release the data disc, which could lead to the lost or the damage of the data disc. Another problem with conventional hooking devices is that they fail in offering a good balance between providing a good grip on the CD when secured inside the case and easily releasing the CD when the central button is depressed by causing minimal manipulation to the CD. Yet another problem is that the data receiving surface of the disc may be damaged via contact with the supporting tray. Yet a further problem is that when depressing the push button, the disc is not supported and/or not maintained in position.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0006] An object of the present invention is therefore to provide an archival and storage case for data disc.
[0007] Other objects, advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading of the following non- restrictive description of illustrative embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention there is provided a storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof, the storage case comprising a tray for receiving the media disc, the tray comprising a disc-mounting device for mounting the media disc thereto about the hole, the disc-mounting device being adapted to be displaced between a disc-engaging position and a disc-releasing position and at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a disc mounting device for a storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof, the disc storage case comprising a tray adapted to receive the disc mounting device, the disc-mounting device comprising: a mounting element assembly for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole thereof thereby mounting the media disc to the disc mounting device and being adapted to be displaced between a disc engaging position and the disc releasing position; and at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when the disc mounting elements are displaced to the disc-releasing position, wherein the disc mounting device is adapted to be mounted to the tray with the media disc being mounted thereto thereby mounting the media disc to the tray.
[0010] In an embodiment, the disc support member comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position.
[0011] In an embodiment, the disc support member is so independent of the disc mounting device as not to be displaced therewith when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position. [0012] In an embodiment, the disc-mounting device comprises a mounting element assembly for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole thereof and an actuator mounted to the mounting element assembly for displacing the mounting element assembly between the disc engaging position and the disc releasing position.
[0013] In an embodiment, the mounting element assembly comprises a first mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to the tray and a second mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to the tray. In an embodiment, the first and second mounting elements are oppositely positioned. In an embodiment, the first and second mounting elements comprise a respective arcuate configuration. In an embodiment, the first mounting element comprises a first support mounted at one end to the tray and having a first mounting member at an opposite end, the second mounting element comprising a second support mounted at one end to the tray and having a second mounting member at an opposite end.
[0014] In an embodiment, the first and second supports comprise respective spacing members to space the media disc at a distance from the tray when the media disc is mounted to the disc mounting device. In an embodiment, the spacing members are so configured as to space the data receiving surface from the tray. In an embodiment, the spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from a given fist or second support. In an embodiment, each of the spacing members is mounted near the one end of a respective first and second support. In an embodiment, the first and second mounting members are adjacently positioned relative to each other. In an embodiment, the first and second supports comprise a respective arcuate configuration. [0015] In an embodiment, the actuator is adapted to so act on said first and second supports as to displace said first and second mounting members from said disc-engaging and said disc-releasing positions. In an embodiment, the actuator is adapted to so deform said first and second supports as to displace the mounting members from the disc-engaging position to the disc-releasing position when exerting a sufficient pressure thereon. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted between the first and second mounting members. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted between the first and second mounting members. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted between the first and second mounting members. In an embodiment, the actuator is mounted to each first and second support member via links. In an embodiment, the actuator comprises a push button.
[0016] In an embodiment, the first and second mounting members comprise respective first and second hook members. In an embodiment, each of the hook members comprises a hook wall, the hook wall having one end mounted to a given first or second support and an opposite end comprising a projection. In an embodiment, the projection of each first and second hook members projects in the direction of the first and second support respectively. In an embodiment, the projections of the first and second hook members project at opposite directions relative to each other. In an embodiment, the projection and the hook wall of a given first and second hook member define an obtuse angle therebewteen.
[0017] In an embodiment, the disc support member is positioned between the first and the second mounting elements. In an embodiment, the disc support member is mounted at one to the tray and comprises an opposite free end. In an embodiment, the disc support member comprises a substantially free body between the one end and the free end. In an embodiment, the disc support member comprises a reinforcing element. In an embodiment, the reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib on the underside of the disc support member. In an embodiment, the disc support member comprises an arcuate configuration. In an embodiment, the free end comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc- releasing position. In an embodiment, the protruding member comprises a wall, the disc support comprising a wall support. In an embodiment, the wall support is mounted at one end thereof to the tray, the wall being mounted to the free end of the wall support. In an embodiment, the wall support comprises an arcuate configuration. In an embodiment, the wall defines an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface of the actuator.
[0018] In an embodiment, the tray further comprises an additional disc support member. In an embodiment, the additional disc support member comprises one end mounted to the tray and an opposite free end. In an embodiment, the additional disc support member comprises a substantially free body between the one end and the free end. In an embodiment, the additional disc support member comprises a reinforcing element. In an embodiment, the reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib mounted to the underside of the additional disc support member. In an embodiment, the additional disc support member comprises a spacing member for spacing the disc from the tray. In an embodiment, the spacing member is adapted to space the data receiving surface of the media disc at a distance from the tray. In an embodiment, the spacing member is positioned near the one end of the additional disc support member. In an embodiment, the spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from the additional disc support member. In an embodiment, the additional disc mounting element comprises an arcuate configuration. In an embodiment, it is the disc mounting device which comprises this additional disc support member. [0019] In an embodiment, the mounting device comprises the disc support member. In an embodiment, the mounting device further comprises an additional disc support member. In an embodiment, the mounting device comprises a first and a second mounting element. In an embodiment, the first and second mounting elements are oppositely disposed, each of the disc support member and the additional disc support member being positioned between the first and second mounting elements and being oppositely disposed relative to each other. In an embodiment, each one of the first mounting element, the second mounting element, the disc support member, and the additional disc support member comprises a respective one end mounted to the tray, a respective substantially free body extending from the tray towards and a respective opposite end. In an embodiment, the disc mounting device comprises a substantially circular periphery mounted to the tray, the substantially circular periphery comprising each respective one end of each one of the first mounting element, the second mounting element, the disc support member, and the additional disc support member wherein, the first mounting element, the second mounting element, the disc support member, and the additional disc support member respectively radially extend from the periphery towards a centre of the disc mounting device, each respective opposite end being positioned about the centre. In an embodiment, the actuator is positioned at the centre, the actuator being mounted to the first and second mounting elements, each respective opposite end of the disc support member and the additional disc support member being a free end. In an embodiment, the first and second mounting elements comprise a respective first support member and a second support member, the first and second support members comprising a respective one end mounted to the tray. In an embodiment, at least one of the disc support members and the additional disc support members comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when the disc-mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position. In an embodiment, the protruding member comprises an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface defined by the actuator.
[0020] In an embodiment, the disc mounting device comprises a separate body mountable to the tray. In an embodiment, the tray comprises an opening, the disc mounting device being mountable within the tray opening.
[0021] In an embodiment, the disc mounting device is integrally mounted to the tray.
[0022] In an embodiment, the disc mounting device comprises a media disc mounting side and an opposite rear side configured to receive a removable cover. In an embodiment, the removable cover comprises a generally circular configuration. In an embodiment, the removable cover and the opposite rear side comprise respective mutually engaging mating elements. In an embodiment, the removable cover engaging elements comprise projections and the opposite rear side engaging elements comprise corresponding apertures. In an embodiment, the cover is adapted to receive a tracking and/or identification device. In an embodiment, the tracking and/or identification device comprises a device selected from the group consisting of: a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
[0023] In an embodiment, the storage case further comprises a storage case moveably mounted to the tray and moveable between closed and opened positions. In an embodiment, the storage case cover is hinged to the tray. In an embodiment, the storage case cover comprises a projection for engaging a notch provided by the tray when the storage case cover is in the closed position. In an embodiment, the storage case cover comprises a receiving space on the outer face thereof. In an embodiment, the receiving space is configured to receive an item selected from the group consisting of a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
[0024] In an embodiment, the present invention is concerned with an archival and storage case for data discs that is provided with a dome-shaped hooking device that is easy to mold and that is provided with a removable underside cover allowing a microchip, a RFID (Radio Frequency Identification
Device), a magnet strip or any other similar tracking device to easily be mounted to the storage case. The hooking device may further include a wall so configured and sized as to reduce the risks of accidental removal of the data disc from the archival and storage case. The archival and storage case for data discs may further include color coding for tagging and tracking purposes.
[0025] It should be understood that all the features of the various previously defined embodiments of either aspect of the invention as defined above can be combined in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0026] The terms "media disc" and "data disc" are interchangeable and include without limitation a CD, a CDROM, a DVD, a DVDROM, a DVDRAM a VCD ands the like as is understood in the art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] In the appended drawings:
[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a storage case according to an embodiment of the present invention; [0029] Figure 2 is a top perspective view of the disc mounting device of the storage case of Figure 1 ;
[0030] Figure 3 is a bottom perspective view of the disc mounting device;
[0031] Figure 4 is a top plan view of the disc mounting device;
[0032] Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the disc mounting device without a data disc therein;
[0033] Figure 6 is a side elevation view of the disc mounting device shown with a data disc hooked thereto;
[0034] Figure 7 is a side elevation sectional view of the disc mounting device shown during the removal of the data disc therefrom;
[0035] Figure 8 is an exploded top perspective view of the storage case of Figure 1 with the underside cover removed;
[0036] Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of the storage case of Figure 1 with the underside cover installed;
[0037] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the storage case of Figure
1 , shown in a closed position; and
[0038] Figure 11 is a sectional perspective view of the storage case of Figure 1 , showing a cover closing arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT
[0039] With reference to the appended, an illustrative embodiment of the invention will now be described for the purpose of exemplifying the invention and not limiting the scope thereof.
[0040] Figure 1 of the appended drawings illustrates, in a perspective view, a storage case 10 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. The conventional features of the storage case 10 include a rectangular tray 12 and a rectangular cover 14 hinged to the tray 12.
[0041] The tray 12 includes a disc mounting device such as a central hooking device 16 used to releasably maintain a media or data disc 18 securely therein.
[0042] It is to be noted that the storage case 10 contains many other features, aesthetic or functional, that are not relevant to the present disclosure. These features will therefore not be discussed in detail herein.
[0043] Turning now more specifically to Figures 2 to 5, the disc mounting or hooking device 16 will be described.
[0044] With reference to Figure 2, the hooking device 16 includes a mounting element assembly 17 including a first mounting element 19 and a second mounting element 21.
[0045] The first and second mounting elements 19 and 21 respectively include a first mounting member 20 and a second mounting member 22 in the form of hooks. The first and second hooks 20 and 22 are mounted to the tray 12 via respective arcuate first and second supports 24 and 26. As shown, the first and second hook supports 24 and 26 have one end mounted to the tray 12 and a free end having a respective hook 20 or 22. The first and second supports 24 and 26 have a substantially free body that can be moved or deformed as will be explained herein.
[0046] An actuator such as a push or release button 28 is mounted to the first and second mounting elements 19 and 21. In this case, the release button 28 is mounted to both hooks 20 and 22 via respective links 30 and 32.
[0047] The disc mounting device also includes a disc support member 33 (see Figure 2). The disc support member 33 includes protruding member 34 for engaging the media disc 18 about the hole thereof when mounted to the disc mounting device 16 thereby maintaining the media disc 18 in position when the disc mounting device is displaced to the disc-releasing position as will be described herein. The protruding member 34 is in the form of a wall mounted to the free end of an arcuate wall support 36 that is mounted to the tray 12 at another end thereof.
[0048] The disc mounting device 16 also includes an additional disc support member 38 such as an arcuate member 38 which completes the dome shape of the hooking device 16.
[0049] Four spacing members 40 which act as disc supports are provided at the center of the external periphery of the arcuate supports and members 24, 26, 36 and 38. Apertures 42 are provided near each spacing member 40. The purpose of these spacing members 40 and apertures 42 will be described hereinbelow. [0050] As can be better seen from Figure 4, the various arcuate support and members 24, 26, 36 and 38 are separated by a generally H-shape channel, providing these supports and members 24, 26, 36 and 38 with substantially free bodies thereby allowing independent movement thereof.
[0051] Turning now briefly to Figure 5 of the appended drawings, each hook 20 and 22 includes a hook wall 44 and a projection 46 defining, with the hook wall 44, an obtuse angle.
[0052] The wall 34 defines an upper surface that is higher than the release button 28. As can be better seen from Figure 3, the underside of the arcuate wall support 36 includes a generally U-shaped reinforcing element such as rib 48.
[0053] The arcuate shape of the hook supports 24 and 26 allows the attached release push button 28 to be depressed without damage to the hooking device 16 and imparts a biasing action to return the release button 28 to its position shown in Figures 2 to 5 when the pressure is removed therefrom.
[0054] The hooking device 16 is shown herein as being integral with the tray 12. However, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art, the hooking device 16 could be separate from the tray 12 and inserted in an aperture therein (not shown).
[0055] Turning now to Figures 6 and 7 of the appended drawings, the operation of the hooking device 16 will be described.
[0056] Figure 6 illustrates the hooking device 16 when a data disc
18 is mounted thereto. As can be seen from this figure, the distance between the walls 44 is slightly smaller than the central opening 50 of the disc 18. The projections 46 securely maintain the data disc 18 to the tray 12.
[0057] As can also be seen from this figure, the spacing members
40 support the disc 18 and space the media disc 18 at a distance from the tray 12 thereby preventing the data receiving surface thereof from touching the tray
12. Accordingly, the data receiving surface of the disc 18 is much less likely to be damaged while the data disc 18 is in the archival and storage case 10.
Furthermore, the gap separating the surface of the disc 18 and the tray 12 makes it easier for the user to grab the disc 18 while pressing the release button 28.
[0058] When the user wishes to remove the media or data disc 18 from the tray 12, the release button 28 is pressed downwardly, with sufficient pressure, as illustrated in Figure 7. This downward movement of the release button 28 causes the deformation of the arcuate hook supports 24 and 26 that, in turn, cause the projections 46 of the hooks 20 and 22 to move inward, allowing the data disc 18 to be removed.
[0059] Hence, Figures 1 to 6 show the disc mounting device 16 in the disc-engaging position while Figure 7 shows the disc mounting device in the disc-releasing position.
[0060] As described above the disc support member 33 acts as a support to the disc 18 when the hooking device 16 is in the disc releasing position. As such, the disc 18 falls on the disc support member 33 or is maintained at the same distance from the tray 12 thereby. Of course the foregoing can also be accomplished by the additional disc support member 38 or by the spacing member 40. Furthermore, the protruding member 34 acts to maintain the disc 18 in place when the hooks 20 and 22 are displaced to the disc releasing position. It should be noted that the disc support member 33, the additional support member 38, the protruding member 34 and the spacing member 40 of the members 33 and 38 are all dependent of the disc mounting device 16 so as not to be displaced therewith when the disc mounting device 16 is displaced in the disc releasing position.
[0061] One will note that since the wall 34 (Figure 2) is higher than the release button 28, the risk of unwanted removal of the disc 18 from the hooking device 16 is reduced. Furthermore, since reinforcing ribs 48 are provided on the undersurface of the arcuate wall support 36, the wall 34 is harder to push down, making the arrangement even more secure.
[0062] Figure 8 and 9 of the appended drawings illustrate a removable cover 52 that may be mounted to the underside of the hooking device 16. The cover 52 is generally circular and includes four projections 54 configured and sized to enter the apertures 42 to removably maintain the cover 52 to the hooking device 16. Hence, the projections 54 and the apertures 42 act as mutually engaging elements.
[0063] It is to be noted that a tracking and/or identification device can be secured to the cover 52 before it is mounted to the hooking device 16 to provide tracking and identification capabilities to the storage case 10. For example, a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag or other technologies such as color coding can be used.
[0064] Figure 10 illustrates the storage case 10 in a closed position.
One can see from this figure that a rectangular space 56 provided in the rectangular cover 14 may be used to provide color coding for tagging or tracking purposes and/or to provide other written information, such as a logo, for example. [0065] Finally, Figure 11 shows a cover closing arrangement 58 comprising a projection 60, provided on the cover 14, configured and sized to engage a notch 62, provided on the tray 12, when the cover 14 is closed.
[0066] It is to be noted that the storage case 10 includes two such cover closing arrangements such as 58.
[0067] Having now described an illustrative embodiment of the present invention other features of other non-limiting and non illustrated embodiments will be described herein as to further exemplify the invention. Of course, various embodiments have previously enumerated in the summary of the invention hereinabove, the following does not seek to limit any of those aforementioned embodiments but to merely describe certain features thereof.
[0068] The disc mounting device 16 is shown have a circular shape yet of course it may be provided in a variety of suitable geometric shapes.
[0069] The disc mounting device may include a variety of different types of disc mounting assemblies 17. These disc mounting assemblies may have more than two mounting elements 19 and 21 , which may be configured in various ways in order for the disc 18 to mounted thereon about its central hole.
The hooks 20 and 22 can also be provided in various shapes and sizes having one more differently configured projections 46 and one or more hook walls 44 of various configurations as well. The supports 24 and 26 may be provided in a variety of suitable configurations so as to be biased towards the disc engaging position and moveable towards the disc releasing position. Of course a plurality of supports having a plurality of hooks can also be contemplated by the person having skill in the art. The mounting elements 17 and 21 may be provided with other mounting members other than hooks, such as clips, shoulders or stoppers as will be understood by a person skilled in the art. In this way, the mounting members of the invention can be brought closer together or moved upwardly or downwardly depending on the design structure so as to release the disc 18 therefrom.
[0070] The disc mounting device need not include an actuator and as such the mounting assembly 17 may be directly engaged by the user for displacement thereof to the disc releasing position.
[0071] The actuator 28 may be provided in various shapes and sizes. The actuator 28 may be mounted to the various mounting elements, mounting element supports and mounting members of the invention in a variety of suitable ways for providing the user with the ability to act thereon so as to move the disc mounting device 16 to the disc releasing position. In another embodiment, the actuator need not protrude the central hole of the disc, as such, the disc is sufficiently distance from the tray as to allow a long member therebetween with a lever at the free end thereof in order to allow the user to act the on the disc mounting device so as to be displace it to the disc releasing position.
[0072] The disc support member 33 of the invention may be provided in various shapes or sizes. In one non-illustrated example, the disc support member may be a resilient and deformable embossment having a variety of geometric configurations. In another embodiment, the disc support member may be a spring biased member. Still in another embodiment, the disc support member may be a resilient cantilevered member. The disc support member may include a variety of protruding members such as a wall 34, a hook and the like for maintaining the media disc in position as described herein. [0073] A variety and plurality of additional disc support members 38 can also be provided within the context of the present invention. Each of the additional disc support members 38 may include a protruding member 34.
[0074] In one embodiment, it is the disc mounting device 16 which includes the disc support member 33 and the additional disc support member 38. In another embodiment, it is the tray 12 which includes the disc support member 33 and the additional disc support member 38.
[0075] Various spacing members such as disc supports 40 can be provided at various positions on the tray 12 or the disc mounting device 12 so as to space the data receiving surface of the disc 18 away from the tray 12 without touching this data receiving surface. In one embodiment, the disc support member 33 is a spacing member 40.
[0076] Again, the various features described herein can be combined in a variety of ways as can be contemplated by the skilled artisan so as to construct other embodiments within the scope of the invention.
[0077] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described hereinabove. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not limitation. In this way, the appended drawings are descriptive of an embodiment of the invention and constitute a supporting description to the claims. [0078] Hence, although the present invention has been described hereinabove by way of embodiments thereof, it can be modified, without departing from the spirit, scope and nature of the subject invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof, said storage case comprising a tray for receiving the media disc, said tray comprising a discmounting device for mounting the media disc thereto about the hole, said discmounting device being adapted to be displaced between a disc-engaging position and a disc-releasing position and at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
2. A storage case according to claim 1, wherein said disc support member comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to said disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
3. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein said disc support member is so independent of said disc mounting device as not to be displaced therewith when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
4. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said disc-mounting device comprises a mounting element assembly for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole thereof and an actuator mounted to said mounting element assembly for displacing said mounting element assembly between said disc engaging position and said disc releasing position.
5. A storage case according to claim 4, wherein said mounting element assembly comprises a first mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to said tray and a second mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to said tray.
6. A storage case according to claim 5, wherein said first and second mounting elements are oppositely positioned.
7. A storage case according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein said first and second mounting elements comprise a respective arcuate configuration.
8. A storage case according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein said first mounting element comprises a first support mounted at one end to said tray and having a first mounting member at an opposite end, said second mounting element comprising a second support mounted at one end to said tray and having a second mounting member at an opposite end.
9. A storage case according claim 8, wherein said first and second supports comprise respective spacing members to space the media disc at a distance from said tray when the media disc is mounted to said disc mounting device.
10. A storage case according to claim 9, wherein said spacing members are so configured as to space the data receiving surface from said tray.
11. A storage case according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein each said spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from a given said fist or second support.
12. A storage case according to any one of claims 9 to
11 , wherein each of said spacing members is mounted near said one end of a respective said first and second support.
13. A storage case according to any one of claims 8 to
12, wherein said actuator is adapted to so act on said first and second supports as to displace said first and second mounting members from said disc- engaging and said disc-releasing positions.
14. A storage case according to claim 13, wherein said actuator is adapted to so deform said first and second supports as to displace said mounting members from said disc-engaging position to said disc-releasing position when exerting a sufficient pressure thereon.
15. A storage case according to any one of claims 8 to
14, wherein said first and second mounting members are adjacently positioned relative to each other.
16. A storage case according to any one of claims 8 to
15, wherein said first and second supports comprise a respective arcuate configuration.
17. A storage case according to any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein said first and second mounting members comprise respective first and second hook members.
18. A storage case according to claim 17, wherein each of said hook members comprises a hook wall, said hook wall having one end mounted to a given said first or said second support and an opposite end comprising a projection.
19. A storage case according to claim 18, wherein said projection of each said first and second hook members projects in the direction of said first and second support respectively.
20. A storage case according to any one of claims 18 or
19, wherein said projections of said first and second hook members project at opposite directions relative to each other.
21. A storage case according to any one of claims 18 to
20, wherein said projection and said hook wall of a given said first and second hook member define an obtuse angle therebewteen.
22. A storage case according to any one of claims 8 to
21 , wherein said actuator is mounted between said first and second mounting members.
23. A storage case according to any one of claims 8 to 22, wherein said actuator is mounted to each said first and second support member via links.
24. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein said actuator comprises a push button.
25. A storage case according to claim 5, wherein said disc support member is positioned between said first and said second mounting elements.
26. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein said disc support member is mounted at one to said tray and comprises an opposite free end.
27. A storage case according to claim 26, wherein said disc support member comprises a substantially free body between said one end and said free end.
28. A storage case according to claim 27, wherein said disc support member comprises a reinforcing element.
29. A storage case according to claim 28, wherein said reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib on the underside of said disc support member.
30. A storage case according to any one of claims 26 to
29, wherein said disc support member comprises an arcuate configuration.
31. A storage case according to any one of claims 26 or
30, wherein said free end comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to said disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
32. A storage case according to claim 31 , wherein said protruding member comprises a wall, said disc support comprising a wall support.
33. A storage case according to claim 32, wherein said wall support is mounted at one end thereof to said tray, said wall being mounted to said free end of said wall support.
34. A storage case according to any one of claims 32 or
33, wherein said wall support comprises an arcuate configuration.
35. A storage case according to any one of claims 31 to
34, wherein said wall defines an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface of said actuator.
36. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein said tray further comprises an additional disc support member.
37. A storage case according to claim 36, wherein said additional disc support member comprises one end mounted to said tray and an opposite free end.
38. A storage case according to claim 37, wherein said additional disc support member comprises a substantially free body between said one end and said free end.
39. A storage case according to claim 38, wherein said additional disc support member comprises a reinforcing element.
40. A storage case according to claim 39, wherein said reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib mounted to the underside of said additional disc support member.
41. A storage case according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein said additional disc support member comprises a spacing member for spacing the disc from said tray.
42. A storage case according to claim 41 , said spacing member is adapted to space the data receiving surface of the media disc at a distance from said tray.
43. A storage case according to any one of claims 41 or
42, wherein said spacing member is positioned near said one end of said additional disc support member.
44. A storage case according to any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein said spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from said additional disc support member.
45. A storage case according to any one of claims 36 to 44, wherein said additional disc mounting element comprises an arcuate configuration.
46. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said mounting device comprises said disc support member.
47. A storage case according to claim 46, wherein said mounting device further comprises an additional disc support member.
48. A storage case according to claim 47, wherein said mounting device comprises a first and a second mounting element.
49. A storage case according to claim 48, wherein said first and second mounting elements are oppositely disposed, each of said disc support member and said additional disc support member being positioned between said first and second mounting elements and being oppositely disposed relative to each other.
50. A storage case according to claim 49, wherein each one of said first mounting element, said second mounting element, said disc support member, and said additional disc support member comprises a respective one end mounted to said tray, a respective substantially free body extending from said tray towards and a respective opposite end.
51. A storage case according to claim 50, wherein said disc mounting device comprises a substantially circular periphery mounted to said tray, said substantially circular periphery comprising each said respective one end of each one of said first mounting element, said second mounting element, said disc support member, and said additional disc support member wherein, said first mounting element, said second mounting element, said disc support member, and said additional disc support member respectively radially extend from said periphery towards a centre of said disc mounting device, each respective said opposite end being positioned about said centre.
52. A storage case according to claim 51 , wherein said actuator is positioned at said centre, said actuator being mounted to said first and second mounting elements, each said respective opposite end of said disc support member and said additional disc support member being a free end.
53. A storage case according to any one of claims 48 to
52, wherein said first and second mounting elements comprise a respective first support member and a second support member, said first and second support members comprising a respective said one end mounted to said tray.
54. A storage case according to any one of claims 48 to
53, wherein at least one of said disc support members and said additional disc support members comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to said disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
55. A storage case according to claim 54, wherein said protruding member comprises an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface defined by said actuator.
56. A storage case according to claims 1 to 55, wherein said disc mounting device comprises a separate body mountable to said tray.
57. A storage case according to claim 56, wherein said tray comprises an opening, said disc mounting device being mountable within said tray opening.
58. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to 57, wherein said disc mounting device comprises a media disc mounting side and an opposite rear side configured to receive a removable cover.
59. A storage case according to claim 58, wherein said removable cover comprises a generally circular configuration.
60. A storage case according to any one of claims 58 or 59, wherein said removable cover and said opposite rear side comprise respective mutually engaging mating elements.
61. A storage case according to claim 60, wherein said removable cover engaging elements comprise projections and said opposite rear side engaging elements comprise corresponding apertures.
62. A storage case according to any one of claims 58 to 61 , wherein said cover is adapted to receive a tracking and/or identification device.
63. A storage case according to claim 62, wherein said tracking and/or identification device comprises a device selected from the group consisting of: a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
64. A storage case according to any one of claims 1 to
63, further comprising a storage case moveably mounted to said tray and moveable between closed and opened positions.
65. A storage case according to claim 64, wherein said storage case cover is hinged to said tray.
66. A storage case according to any one of claims 64 or
65, wherein said storage case cover comprises a projection for engaging a notch provided by said tray when said storage case cover is in said closed position.
67. A storage case according to any one of claims 64 to
66, wherein said storage case cover comprises a receiving space on the outer face thereof.
68. A storage case according to claim 67, wherein said receiving space is configured to receive an item selected from the group consisting of a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
69. A disc mounting device for a storage case for a media disc having a data receiving surface and defining a hole inwardly thereof, the disc storage case comprising a tray adapted to receive said disc mounting device, said disc-mounting device comprising: a mounting element assembly for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole thereof thereby mounting the media disc to said disc mounting device and being adapted to be displaced between a disc engaging position and said disc releasing position; and at least one disc support member for supporting the media disc when said disc mounting elements are displaced to said disc- releasing position, wherein said disc mounting device is adapted to be mounted to the tray with the media disc being mounted thereto thereby mounting the media disc to the tray.
70. A disc mounting device according to claim 69, wherein said disc support member comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to said disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
71. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 or 70, wherein said disc support member is so independent of said disc mounting device as not to be displaced therewith when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
72. A disc mounting device according to anyone of claims 69 to 71 , further comprising an actuator mounted to said mounting element assembly for displacing said mounting element assembly between said disc engaging position and said disc releasing position.
73. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 to 72, wherein said mounting element assembly comprises a first mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to said disc mounting device and a second mounting element for releasably engaging the media disc about the hole and being mounted at one end thereof to said disc mounting device.
74. A disc mounting device according to claim 73, wherein said first and second mounting elements are oppositely positioned.
75. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 73 or 74, wherein said first and second mounting elements comprise a respective arcuate configuration.
76. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 73 to 75, wherein said first mounting element comprises a first support mounted at one end to said disc mounting device and having a first mounting member at an opposite end, said second mounting element comprising a second support mounted at one end to said disc mounting device and having a second mounting member at an opposite end.
77. A disc mounting device according to claim 76, wherein said first and second supports comprise respective spacing members to space the media disc at a distance from said tray when the media disc is mounted to said disc mounting device.
78. A disc mounting device according to claim 77, wherein said spacing members are so configured as to space the data receiving surface of the media disc from the tray when said disc mounting device is mounted thereto.
79. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 77 or 78, wherein each said spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from a given said fist or second support.
80. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 77 to 79, wherein each of said spacing members is mounted near said one end of a respective said first and second support.
81. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 76 to 80, wherein said actuator is adapted to so act on said first and second supports as to displace said first and second mounting members from said disc-engaging and said disc-releasing positions.
82. A disc mounting device according to claim 81 , wherein said actuator is adapted to so deform said first and second supports as to displace said mounting members from said disc-engaging position to said disc-releasing position when exerting a sufficient pressure thereon.
83. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 76 to 82, wherein said first and second mounting members are adjacently positioned relative to each other.
84. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 76 to 83, wherein said first and second supports comprise a respective arcuate configuration.
85. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 76 to 84, wherein said first and second mounting members comprise respective first and second hook members.
86. A disc mounting device according to claim 85, wherein each one of said hook members comprises a respective hook wall, said hook wall having one end mounted to a given said first or said second support and an opposite end comprising a projection.
87. A disc mounting device according to claim 86, wherein said projection of each said first and second hook members projects in the direction of said first and second support respectively.
88. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 86 or 87, wherein said projections of said first and second hook members project at opposite directions relative to one another.
89. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 86 to 88, wherein said projection and said hook wall of a given said first and second hook member define an obtuse angle therebewteen.
90. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 76 to 89, wherein said actuator is mounted between said first and second mounting members.
91. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 76 to 90, wherein said actuator is mounted to each said first and second support member via links.
92. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 72 to 91, wherein said actuator comprises a push button.
93. A disc mounting device according to claim 92, wherein said push button comprises a generally circular configuration.
94. A disc mounting device according to anyone of claims 73 to 93, wherein said disc support member is positioned between said first and said second mounting elements.
95. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 to 90, wherein said disc support member is mounted at one to said disc mounting device and comprises an opposite free end.
96. A disc mounting device according to claim 95, wherein said disc support member comprises a substantially free body between said one end and said free end.
97. A disc mounting device according to claim 96, wherein said disc support member comprises a reinforcing element.
98. A disc mounting device according to claim 97, wherein said reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib on the underside of said disc support member.
99. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 95 to 98, wherein said disc support member comprises an arcuate configuration.
100. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 95 to 99, wherein said free end comprises a protruding member for engaging the media disc about the hole thereof when mounted to said disc mounting device thereby maintaining the media disc in position when said disc-mounting device is displaced to said disc-releasing position.
101. A disc mounting device according to claim 100, wherein said protruding member comprises a wall and said disc support member comprises a wall support.
102. A disc mounting device according to claim 101 , wherein said wall support is mounted at one end thereof to said disc mounting device, said wall being mounted to another opposite end of said wall support.
103. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 101 or 102, wherein said wall support comprises an arcuate configuration.
104. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 100 to 103, wherein said wall defines an upper surface that is higher than the upper surface of said actuator.
105. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 to 104, further comprising an additional disc support member.
106. A disc mounting device according to claim 105, wherein said additional disc support member comprises one end mounted to said disc mounting device and an opposite free end.
107. A disc mounting device according to claim 106, wherein said additional disc support member comprises a substantially free body between said one end and said free end.
108. A disc mounting device according to claim 107, wherein said additional disc support member comprises a reinforcing element.
109. A disc mounting device according to claim 108, wherein said reinforcing element comprises a reinforcing rib mounted to the underside of said additional disc support member.
110. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 105 to 109, wherein said additional disc support member comprises a spacing member for spacing the disc from the tray when said disc mounting device is mounted thereto.
111. A disc mounting device according to claim 110, wherein said spacing member is adapted to space the data receiving surface of the media disc at a distance from the tray.
112. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 110 or 111 , wherein said spacing member is positioned near said one end of said additional disc support member.
113. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 110 to 112, wherein said spacing member comprises a protrusion upwardly extending from said additional disc support member.
114. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 105 to 113, wherein said additional disc mounting element comprises an arcuate configuration.
115. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 to 114, further comprising a media disc mounting side and an opposite rear side configured to receive removable cover.
116. A disc mounting device according to claim 115, wherein said removable cover comprises a generally circular configuration.
117. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 115 or 116, wherein said removable cover and said opposite rear side comprise respective mutually engaging mating elements.
118. A disc mounting device according to claim 117, wherein said removable cover engaging elements comprise projections and said opposite rear side engaging elements comprise corresponding apertures.
119. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 115 to 118, wherein said cover is adapted to receive a tracking and/or identification device.
120. A disc mounting device according to claim 119, wherein said tracking and/or identification device comprises a device selected from the group consisting of: a microchip, a RFID tag, a magnetic tag, a color coding, an insignia, and any combination thereof.
121. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 to 120, wherein the tray includes an opening, said disc mounting device being mountable within said tray opening.
122. A disc mounting device according to any one of claims 69 to 121 , wherein said disc mounting device is integrally mounted to the tray.
PCT/CA2006/001070 2005-06-28 2006-06-28 Archival data disc storage case WO2007000051A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

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US11/994,204 US20090223842A1 (en) 2005-06-28 2006-06-28 Archival data disc storage case
CA002611351A CA2611351A1 (en) 2005-06-28 2006-06-28 Archival data disc storage case

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US69424305P 2005-06-28 2005-06-28
US60/694,243 2005-06-28

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WO2007000051A1 true WO2007000051A1 (en) 2007-01-04

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US (1) US20090223842A1 (en)
CA (1) CA2611351A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2007000051A1 (en)

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