WO2022119566A1

WO2022119566A1 - Tool for housing items in an organized manner in either a closed configuration providing security or an open configuration providing access

Info

Publication number: WO2022119566A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/062876
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ashley Piszek
Original assignee: Ashley Piszek
Priority date: 2020-12-02
Filing date: 2020-12-02
Publication date: 2022-06-09

Abstract

A tool for holding and organizing various items that may typically be found in a woman's purse including beauty items (e.g., makeup, cosmetics, applicators, nail polish) and non-beauty items (e.g., travel size essential oils, itch relief stick, small roll of antacid). The tool includes first and second frame members separated by first and second axis. Receptacles are configured to receive items and are mounted to and configured to rotate with respect to first and second axis between open and closed positions. Receptacles include retention tabs to enable expansion to receive items and to provide pressure on items to secure items therein. A lid is secured to second frame member with a rod to enable lid to pivot between a closed configuration where lid extends across first and second frame members to an open configuration. A latching mechanism is utilized to secure lid in a closed configuration.

Description

TOOL FOR HOUSING ITEMS IN AN ORGANIZED MANNER IN EITHER A CLOSED CONFIGURATION PROVIDING SECURITY OR AN OPEN CONFIGURATION PROVIDING ACCESS

BACKGROUND

Makeup and cosmetic items and accessories differ vastly in size and shape, making them difficult to travel with and store. Moreover, most users desire versatility in being prepared with different types of makeup, cosmetics, applicators, and associated complementary products. As such, a true makeup and cosmetics kit is not easy to transport without sacrificing a large amount of space in a personal bag or purse, or having to carry a separate case to fit everything.

In addition, makeup and cosmetics products and accessories are difficult to organize in bags, purses, or carrying cases. Most bags and purses will not have the sufficient capacity or adequate compartments to cohesively organize makeup items, and are not likely to be able to fit all of the items a user may wish to carry without sacrificing organization completely. On the other hand, most carrying cases constitute formless pouches or contain standardized compartments that do not provide a specific place for each item, nor facilitate the locating of any particular item by a user speedily. Accordingly, makeup and cosmetics essentials become scattered in uniform-less containers, making such items difficult and slow to access and use, especially on the go. Moreover, some items may open if allowed free movement and thus leak all over the bag, case or purse they are carried in.

Furthermore, other items may typically be carried in a purse that one may desire to be organized and have easy access to. These items may include, but are not limited to, nail polish, sanitizer, moisturizer, essential oils, itch relief stick and a roll of antacid. Many of these items also may open if allowed free movement.

What is needed is a tool for storing, organizing, and transporting various items, including makeup, cosmetics, accessories, and other items that avoids the burdens of carrying separate cases, and facilitates ease and speed of access to desired items, as well as allows for versatility and portability for travel.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGs. 1 A-D illustrate perspective views of an example tool holding makeup, cosmetics, and/or applicators therefor in various configurations, according to one embodiment;

FIGs. 2A-B illustrate perspective views of an example tool in open and closed configurations respectively, according to one embodiment;

FIGs. 3 A-B illustrate top views of an example tool in open and closed configurations respectively, according to one embodiment;

FIGs. 4A-B illustrate side views of an example tool in open and closed configurations respectively, according to one embodiment;

FIGs. 5 A-B illustrate front views of an example tool in open and closed configurations respectively, according to one embodiment;

FIGs. 6A-B illustrate back views of an example tool in open and closed configurations respectively;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a combination frame member and floor to be utilized in an example tool, according to one embodiment; and

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of an example tool showing how the various components are put together, according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A tool capable of holding a plurality of items in either a closed or an open configuration is depicted and described herein. The tool may be used to hold various items that may typically be found in a woman’s purse including beauty items (e.g., makeup, cosmetics, applicators, nail polish) and non-beauty items (e.g., travel size essential oils, itch relief stick, small roll of antacid). When in a closed configuration, the items housed therein may be located in close proximity to one another (e.g., side by side) so the tool has a compact form. When a user desires to access one or more items, the tool may enable one or more items to be moved away from the other items (e.g., rotated outward) so they may be accessed by the user. The tool may include a plurality of receptacles for housing the items. The receptacles may be located on one or more pivot points to enable the receptacles to be moved between a closed and an open configuration.

FIGs. 1A-D illustrate various perspective views of an example tool 100 holding items (e.g., makeup, cosmetics, applicators) 155, 165, 175, 185. The tool 100 may include

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) frame members 110, 120 running along a first and second side thereof (e.g., front and back). The frame members 110, 120 may be connected to each other, a defined distance apart from each other, at each side thereof by a first and second axes 130, 140 (e.g., left and right). Each axis 130, 140 may include one or more rotatable receptacles (2 illustrated on each axis) 150,

160, 170, 180 connected thereto. The tool 100 may be configured to be opened and closed by rotating the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 around an associated one of the axes 130, 140.

FIG. 1 A illustrates the tool 100 in a closed configuration where the receptacles 150,

160. 170. 180 are in the same plane as (e.g., parallel to) the frame members 110, 120 (and axes 130, 140). The tool 100 may be opened when one or more of the receptacles 150, 160,

170. 180 are not in the same plane as (e.g., are not parallel to, extend up from, are perpendicular to) the frame members 110, 120. FIG. IB illustrates the tool 100 in an open configuration where the receptacles 150, 160 are rotated upward to be substantially perpendicular to the right axis 130. FIGs. 1C-D illustrate the tool 100 in an open configuration where all of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are not in the same plane as the frame members 110, 120 (e.g., are rotated greater than 90 degrees to appropriate axes 130, 140)

The frame members 110, 120 may be made out of plastic. Alternatively, the frame members 110, 120 may be made of various other materials including, but not limited to, metal, wood and composites. The dimensions (e.g., length, width, height) of the frame members 110, 120 may vary depending on the number and type of items to be stored within the tool 100. The frame members 110, 120 may be substantially straight and may run parallel to each other but are not intended to be limited thereto. For example, the frame members 110, 120 may be shaped (e.g., curved).

According to one embodiment, the first and the second axes 130, 140 may be a screw, rod, bolt or any other kind of cylindrical member the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be mounted to and may rotate around. The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may have holes (not visible) formed therein that the axes 130, 140 traverse therethrough and enable rotating therearound. The frame members 110, 120 may also have holes (not separately identified) formed therein and the axes 130, 140 may traverse therethrough. The axes 130, 140 may be secured therein using, for example, a nut, pin or the like (not separately identified).

The axis 130 may be, for example, a screw that traverses through the frame member 110, the receptacles 150, 160 and the frame member 120 and then may be secured in place behind the frame member 120 using, for example, a nut. Alternatively, the axis 130 may traverse through the frame member 120, the receptacles 160, 150 and the frame member 110

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) and then be secured in place in front of the frame member 110. Likewise, axis 140 may be, for example, a screw that traverses through the frame member 110, the receptacles 170, 180 and the frame member 120 and then may be secured in place behind the frame member 120 using, for example, a nut. Alternatively, the axis 140 may traverse through the frame member 120, the receptacles 180, 170 and the frame member 110 and then be secured in place in front of the frame member 110. The frame members 110, 120 may include recessed portions (not separately identified) for receiving the screws and/or nuts so they do not protrude from the frame members 110, 120. According to one embodiment, one of the frame members 110, 120 may include a preset nut so that the screw can be secured thereto and a separate free-standing nut is not required.

The axes 130, 140 may be made of metal. Alternatively, the axes 130, 140 may be made of other materials (e.g., plastic, composites) that are capable of securing the frame members 110, 120 together and capable of having the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 rotate therearound. The dimensions (e.g., length, diameter) of the axes 130, 140 may vary depending on the number and type of items to be stored in the tool 100. As illustrated, the axes 130, 140 may be straight pieces and run parallel to each other but are not intended to be limited thereto.

The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may include a base (not separately identified) that includes a hole (not visible) formed therethrough to allow the axes 130, 140 to pass therethrough so that the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are secured thereto and can rotate therearound. The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be configured to rotate around the appropriate axes 130, 140 independently or in tandem with one another. Each of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be configured to have the same maximum angle of rotation, different maximum angles of rotation, or the same maximum angle of rotation per each axis 130, 140.

The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may have an outward facing opening (not readily visible since the items 155, 165, 175, 185 are secured therein) extending from the base that enables the items 155, 165, 175, 185 to be received therein. According to one embodiment, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are organized so that the receptacles 150, 160 on the axis 130 and the receptacles 170, 180 on the axis 140 do not align with one another. This embodiment enables items 155, 165, 175, 185 secured in the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 to extend substantially an entire length of the tool 100 (as illustrated, items 155, 175, 185 extend substantially the entire length of the tool 100 while item 165 extends over half way).

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) As illustrated, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are organized so that they alternate between the receptacles 150, 160 on the axis 130 and the receptacles 170, 180 on the axis 140 (the receptacle 170 is between the receptacles 150, 160 and the receptacle 160 is between the receptacles 170, 180). As such, the receptacles 150, 160 on the axis 130 do not abut one another and the receptacles 170, 180 on the axis 140 do not abut one another. The axes 130, 140 may include spacers 156, 166, 176, 186 to adequately define the spacing between, and the location of, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180. As illustrated, a spacer 156 is located between the receptacles 150, 160; a spacer 166 is located between the receptacle 160 and the frame member 120; a spacer 176 is located between the receptacle 170 and the frame member 110; and a spacer 186 is located between the receptacles 170, 180.

The spacers 156, 166, 176, 186 may simply be a base having a hole formed therein that enables the axes 130, 140 to traverse therethrough. According to one embodiment, the spacers 156, 166, 176, 186 may be part of appropriate receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 where the base is longer than the outward facing opening that extends therefrom to receive the items 155, 165, 175, 185. The location, size, number and configuration of the spacers 156, 166, 176, 186 are not limited to the illustrated embodiment. Rather, the location, size, number and configuration of the spacers 156, 166, 176, 186 may depend on the configuration of the tool 100 and accordingly may vary without departing from the current scope.

The tool 100 is not limited to the illustrated configuration for providing non-aligned receptacles. For example, the receptacles in the front of the tool could face one direction and the receptacles in the back of the tool could face the other direction without departing from the current scope. Furthermore, the tool 100 is not limited to an embodiment in which the receptacles on the axis 130 do not align with the receptacles on the axis 140. The tool 100 could include at least some receptacles that are aligned with one another and therefore could only hold shorter items without departing from the current scope. The tool 100 is also not limited to the same number (2 illustrated) of receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 on each axes 130, 140. Rather, one axis 130 or 140 could have more (e.g., 3) or possibly all (e.g., 4) of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 and the other axis 140 or 130 could have less (e.g., 1) or possibly none.

As illustrated, each of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are circular and each is holding an item 155, 165, 175, 185 having a circular base but is not intended to be limited thereto. Rather, one or more of the receptacles could be different shapes without departing from the current scope. The shape of the receptacles may be based on the types of items that they are configured to hold. Alternatively, the items may be designed to fit within the

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) receptacles. Each of the receptacles may have the same dimensions and size or the receptacles may vary in dimensions and/or size. The sizes of the receptacles may be based on the types of items that they are configured to hold. Alternatively, the items may be designed to fit within the receptacles.

The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be made out plastic. Alternatively, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be made of various other materials including, but not limited to, metal, wood and composites. The exact size, shape, location, number and configuration of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may vary without departing from the current scope.

According to one embodiment, the tool 100 may include a lid (top) 190. The lid 190 may be pivotally connected to an upper edge of the frame member 120. The lid 190 may be capable of pivoting between an open configuration (illustrated in FIGs. 1 A-D, 2A, 3A, 4A, 5 A, 6A) where the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 and the items 155, 165, 175, 185 secured therein are accessible and a closed configuration (illustrated in FIGs. 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B) where the lid 190 covers the tool 100 (extends from the frame member 120 to the frame member 110) and the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are not accessible from the top of the tool 100. The lid 190 may be capable of pivoting so as to be substantially perpendicular to the frame member 120 and possibly pivot further than that point. The configuration of the lid 190 may provide a maximum pivot point. The type of pivot point and the range of pivoting is in no way intended to be limited to any specific embodiment.

According to one embodiment, the lid 190 may be configured to receive an item 192 (e.g., a mirror) on an inner side thereof. A mirror 192 would enable a user to look at themselves when the lid 190 was in an open configuration. The user could use the mirror 192 to help them apply the items 155, 165, 175, 185 secured in the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 and/or other items that they may have. The mirror 192 may be secured to the inner side with, for example, Velcro ®, tape, sticky material, or other adhesive means. According to one embodiment, the lid 190 may include clips, tabs or the like to secure the mirror 192 in addition to, or in place of, an adhesive means such as those noted.

The lid 190 may be made out of plastic. Alternatively, the lid 190 may be made of various other materials including, but not limited to, metal, wood and composites. The dimensions (e.g., length, width, height) of the lid 190 may vary depending on size of the tool 100. As illustrated, the lid 190 has a rectangular shape but is in no way intended to be limited thereto.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) According to one embodiment, the tool 100 may include a floor (bottom) 200. The floor 200 may be configured to seal the bottom of the tool 100 so that the receptacles 150,

160, 170, 180 and the items 155, 165, 175, 185 secured therein are not accessible from below. The floor 200 may also prevent other things from inadvertently entering and/or getting caught in the tool 100.

According to one embodiment, the floor 200 may be configured so that an inner surface thereof may receive one or more items (not illustrated). These items would be secured inside the tool 100 when the lid 190 was closed and would be accessible to a user when the lid 190 was open (and likely at least one of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 would also need to be rotated to an open/upward position). For example, the floor 200 may be configured to have an eye shadow pallet secured thereto. The item(s) may be secured to the inner side with, for example, Velcro ®, tape, sticky material, or other adhesive means. According to one embodiment, the floor 200 may include clips, tabs or the like to secure the item(s) in addition to, or in place of, an adhesive means such as those noted.

The floor 200 may be made out of plastic. Alternatively, the bottom 200 may be made of various other materials including, but not limited to, metal, wood and composites. The dimensions (e.g., length, width, height) of the floor 200 may vary depending on size of the tool 100. As illustrated, the floor 200 has a rectangular shape but is in no way intended to be limited thereto.

FIGs. 2A-6B illustrate various views of an example tool 100 without any items secured therein in open and closed configurations. The tool 100 may include frame members 110, 120, axes 130, 140, rotatable receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180, a lid 190 and a floor 200. The tool 100 may be configured so the lid 190 may pivot on the frame member 120 between a closed and an open configuration. When in a closed configuration, the receptacles 150,

160. 170. 180 will be housed within a body of the tool 100 formed between the frame members 110, 120 and the axes 130, 140 and the lid 190 will lay thereover. When in an open configuration, the lid 190 will be pivoted so as to extend upwards and possibly backwards from the frame member 120. When the lid 190 is open one or more of more of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be rotated upwards so that an item can be placed therewithin, or if an item was already secured therewith the item could be removed.

As illustrated the tool 100 includes two receptacles on each axis (150, 160 on 130;

170. 180 on 140) that are spaced apart from each other and not aligned with the receptacles on the other axis. The spacing between the receptacles on each axis may be provided by spacers 156, 166, 176, 186. The spacers 156, 166, 176, 186 may be separate parts that are

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) mounted on the appropriate axis 130, 140 or may be formed as part of the base of the appropriate receptacle 150, 160, 170, 180. The tool 100 is not limited to the illustrated number or arrangement of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180.

The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be configured as to be able to create tension on the items located therein to secure the items therein. As illustrated in the open configurations (FIGs. 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A), the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may include tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 formed along sides thereof to provide tension utilized to secure the items. The tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 may be located on opposite sides of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 (e.g., left and right; top and bottom). As illustrated, the tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 are located within openings (not separately identified) in the sides (e.g., left and right) of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180. Such an arrangement allows the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 to easily expand at those locations.

The tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 may have an arcuate tip that points away from the center of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 so that the tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 may move away from one another when an item is inserted therein. The tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 may then securely retain the item therein by creating tension on the items. The tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 may be secured to one end (e.g., base) of a respective receptacle 150, 160, 170, 180 and free from an opposite end (e.g., opening). The free end is best seen in FIGs. 5A, 6A. The free end may be biased so as to enter into the opening of the receptacle 150, 160, 170, 180 when no item is secured therein but flex outward an appropriate amount when an item is placed therein. The bias of the free end inward is utilized to secure an item therein. The tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 are in no way intended to be limited to the illustrated configuration.

The tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 are not limited in number, location or configuration to those illustrated. Rather, the number, location and configuration of the tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 could vary without departing from the current scope. The receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be formed with the tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182. Alternatively, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 and the tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 may be formed separate and connected together in some fashion.

The manner in which the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are configured to create tension on the items housed therein is not limited to the illustrated tensioning tabs 152, 162, 172, 182. Rather, the receptacles may be configured in various manners that enable the creation of tension and the retention of the items without departing from the current scope.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) For example, the receptacles may be made of flexible material, may have shaped/tapered sides, or the receptacles may be made of multiple pieces adjustably connected to one another.

According to one embodiment, the tool 100 may provide a means for securing the lid 190 in a closed configuration. As illustrated, the securing of the lid 190 may be provided by a locking tab 194 and a keeper 114. The locking tab 194 may be located on a non-pivoting, front, edge of the lid 190 extending past the front edge toward the frame member 110. The looking tab 194 may be a tab that extends from the front edge that included an opening therein (tab and opening not separately identified). The keeper 114 may be located on an upper edge of an outer surface of the frame member 110. The keeper 114 may be a protrusion from the outer surface. A portion of the outer surface around the protrusion may be recessed to provide easier access thereto and/or limit the size of the protrusion (protrusion and recess not separately identified). The locking tab 194 may engage the keeper 114 to secure the lid 190 closed (as best seen in FIG. 2B).

As illustrated, only a single locking tab 194 and keeper 114 are utilized and are both located at a center of the lid 190 and frame member 110 respectively. However, the number and location is in no way intended to be limited thereby. Rather, the number and location of the locking tabs 194 and keepers 114 could vary without departing from the current scope. For example, the locking tab 194 could be located on the frame member 110 and the keeper 114 could be located on the lid 190. In fact, the securing mechanism is not limited to the use of a locking tab 194 and keeper 114 but could be various other types of securing mechanisms (e.g., clips, latches, snaps, connectors) without departing from the current scope.

According to one embodiment, the lid 190 may include a connection tab 196 extending outward and downward from a back edge thereof for assisting in connecting the lid 190 to the frame member 120 in a pivoting arrangement. The frame member 120 may include a recessed portion 126 along an upper edge thereof for receiving the connection tab 196. According to one embodiment, the connection tab 196 may include a channel (not separately identified) capable of receiving a rod 210 therethrough. The frame member 120 may also include channels 128 on each side of the recessed portion 126 for receiving the rod 210. The rod 210 traversing through the channel in the connection tab 196 and being secured within the channels 128 on each side thereof provides the pivot mechanism.

According to one embodiment, the floor 200 may include sidewalls 202, 204 to limit or block any opening between the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 and the floor 200 as to limit exposure to the tool 100. The sidewalls 202, 204 may be located directly under the respective axis 130, 140 or may be inward or outward thereof.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) FIGs. 2A-B illustrate perspective views of the example tool 100 in open and closed configurations respectively. In the open configuration (FIG. 2A), the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are all rotated outwards and the openings for receiving the items therein are clearly visible. In addition, some of the openings in the sides of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are visible along with some of the retention tabs 172, 182 (ones that will face the bottom in a closed configuration). The sidewalls 202, 204 are visible below the respective axes 130, 140 and respective receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180. The locking tab 194 is clearly shown extending downward from a front edge of the lid 190. The keeper 114 is clearly visible as including a recessed portion and a protrusion therewithin the recessed portion.

In the closed configuration (FIG. 2B), the locking tab 194 and the keeper 114 are illustrated being engaged. The head of a screw utilized for the axes 130, 140 can be seen recessed within the front frame member 110. In addition, the embodiment illustrated includes the lid 190 having a top surface with wording located thereon. The wording may be molded with the lid 190 and may either protrude from the lid or be recessed in the lid. Alternatively, the wording may be provided after the lid 190 is formed and may be, for example, engraved, etched, marked, printed and/or painted. The lid 190 is not limited to the illustrated wording, or the style, size, or location of the wording. In fact, the lid 190 is not limited to wording, as the wording could be replaced with different designs, without departing from the current scope.

FIGs. 3 A-B illustrate top views of the example tool 100 in open and closed configurations respectively. In the open configuration (FIG. 3 A), the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are all rotated outwards and the openings for receiving the items therein are clearly visible. In addition, the openings in the sides of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 and the retention tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 that will face the bottom in a closed configuration are visible. In addition, the recessed portion 126 and the connection tab 196 that provide the pivoting of the top 190 with respect to the frame member 120 are visible.

In the closed configuration (FIG. 3B), the wording on the lid 190 is visible and the locking tab 194 extending over the frame member 110 and the engagement with the keeper 114 is illustrated. In addition, the recessed portion 126 and the connection tab 196 that provide the pivoting of the top 190 with respect to the frame member 120 are visible.

FIGs. 4A-B illustrate side views of the example tool 100 in open and closed configurations respectively. In the open configuration (FIG. 4A), the lid 190 is pivoted open and the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are all rotated outwards with the openings of the receptacles 150, 160 being visible as they are pointed towards the page and the openings of

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) the receptacles 170, 180 not being visible as they are pointed away from the page. The retention tabs 152, 162 facing upwards in a closed configuration and the tabs 172, 182 facing downwards in a closed configuration are also visible. The rod 210 providing the pivoting of the lid 190 is also visible.

In the closed configuration (FIG. 4B), the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are all rotated inwards and the lid 190 is pivoted, via the rod 210, closed. The base (and the spacers 156, 166 if separate components) of the receptacles 150, 160 are visible but the openings are not as they are pointing away from the page. The openings in the receptacles 170, 180 are visible as they are pointing toward the page.

FIGs. 5A-B illustrate front views of the example tool 100 in open and closed configurations respectively. In the open configuration (FIG. 5A), the lid 190 is pivoted open and the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 are all rotated outwards. The ends of the retention tabs 152, 162, 172, 182 abutting the openings are visible not being attached to the receptacles

150. 160. 170. 180 so as to enable flexing outward. In the closed configuration (FIG. 5B), the locking tab 194 and the keeper 114 are illustrated being engaged. The head of a screw utilized for the axes 130, 140 can be seen recessed within the front frame member 110.

FIGs. 6A-B illustrate back views of the example tool 100 in open and closed configurations respectively. In the open configuration (FIG. 6A), the lid 190 is pivoted open toward the page so the markings (e.g., words) formed thereon are visible. The receptacles

160. 170. 180 are all rotated outwards (receptacle 150 not visible as it is behind receptacle 160) The ends of the retention tabs 162, 172, 182 abutting the openings are visible not being attached to the receptacles 160, 170, 180 so as to enable flexing outward. In the closed configuration (FIG. 6B), the recessed portion 126 is visible receiving the connection tab 196 and being secured together using the rod 210. The nuts utilized to secure the axes 130, 140 in place can be seen recessed within the frame member 120.

According to one embodiment, the back frame member 120 and the floor 200 may be an integrated part (as opposed to separate parts). Such an arrangement eliminates the need to secure the floor 200 to the frame member 120 and provides a more sturdy floor 200.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a combination frame member and floor 300 to be utilized in an example tool 100. The combined device 300 includes a frame member 120 and a floor 200 molded together as a single piece. The combined device 300 includes side walls 202, 204 on the floor 200 and connected to the frame member 120. The side walls 202, 204 may seal the tool 100 (e.g., block any opening between the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 (not illustrated) and the floor 200) and secure any items that may be received on an inner

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) surface of the floor 200 within the tool 100. As illustrated, the sidewalls 202, 204 are located below holes 122, 124 in the frame member 120 where the axes 130, 140 will traverse through.

As illustrated, the hole 122 includes a wide opening for enabling the axis 130 (not illustrated) to pass therethrough as well as receive an end of the receptacle 160 having a smaller opening (not illustrated) therein. The hole 124 includes a narrower opening that extends outward therefrom. The narrower opening is to enable the axis 140 (not illustrated) to pass therethrough and the extended perimeter of the opening is to be received by an opening of the receptacle 180 (not illustrated). This configuration will be discussed in more detail in relation to FIG. 8.

The frame member 120 includes a recessed portion 126 in a center thereof to receive the connection tab 196 (not illustrated) of the lid 190 (not illustrated). Extending from the sides of the recessed portion 126 are channels 128 for receiving the rod 210 (not illustrated). The channels 128 may be formed as part of the internal grid structure of the frame member 120. The grid structure may enable the size and weight (and accordingly amount of material required to make) of the frame member 120 to be reduced while providing the necessary structural integrity. It should be noted that the front frame member 110 may also include a grid structure.

The front frame member 110 may include a groove (not illustrated) formed traversing along a lower edge thereof for receiving the bottom 200. Alternatively, or in addition, the front frame member 110 may include grooves for receiving the sidewalls 202, 204. The bottom 200 and/or sidewalls 202, 204 are located in the groove(s) and are then secured in place when the axes (screws) 130, 140 are used to secure the tool 100 together.

The front frame member 110 may include holes (not illustrated) for allowing the axes 130, 140 to traverse therethrough. The holes in the frame member 110 may be reversed from the holes 122, 124 in the frame member 120. That is, the hole for receiving axis 130 may include a smaller hole that extends outward to enable the axis 130 (not illustrated) to pass therethrough and the extended perimeter of the opening to be received by an opening of the receptacle 150. Likewise, the hole for receiving the axis 140 may include a wide opening for enabling the axis 140 (not illustrated) to pass therethrough as well as to receive a smaller opening of the receptacle 170 (not illustrated) therein.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of an example tool 100 showing how the various components are put together. The axes 130, 140 are screws that pass through the front frame member 110, the appropriate receptacles 150, 160 or 170, 180 and the back frame member

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) 120 and are then secured with the nuts 132, 142. As illustrated, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 include a portion for receiving the items (not illustrated) and a base for receiving the appropriate axes 130, 140 as well as a spacer 156, 166, 176, 186 (186 not visible) for separating the receiving portion.

In order to connect the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 together and to the frame members 110, 120, the base of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 includes a smaller opening extending from one end thereof that can be received within an opening in the other end of next receptacle or wider opening in frame members 110, 120. As illustrated, the smaller opening is located on side opposite the spacers 156, 166, 176, 186. On the axis 130, the extended perimeter opening in the frame member 110 is received in the spacer 156 (wider opening) of the receptacle 150. The small extended opening of the receptacle 150 is then received in the spacer 166. The small extended opening of the receptacle 160 is then received in the opening 122 in the frame. On the axis 140, the small extended opening 178 of the receptacle 170 is received in the hole in the frame member 110. The small extended opening 188 of the receptacle 180 is then received in the spacer 176. The extended perimeter opening 124 in the frame member 120 is received in the spacer 186.

The smaller extended holes 158, 168, 178, 188 are not limited to being on the side opposite the spacers 156, 166, 176, 186. For example, if small extended holes 158, 168, 178, 188 were on the opposite side (spacer 156, 166, 176, 188 side) of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 would be placed in opposite direction so receptacle 150 abutted the frame member 110 and receptacle 180 abutted frame member 120 (like illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-D). Furthermore, the connection of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment (smaller extending holes).

The connection tab 196 extending from the lid 190 includes a channel formed therethrough. The connection tab 196 is to be received in the recessed portion 126 of the frame member 120 so that the channel in the connection tab 196 aligns with the channels 128 extending from each side of the recessed portion 126. The rod 210 then secures the lid 190 to the frame member 120 and enables pivoting of the lid 190.

The tool is not limited to the absolute or relative dimensions, scale, or types of constituent materials described herein or depicted in the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, scale, materials, and other descriptive choices made in the description and the accompanying drawings are merely descriptive and do not serve to limit the apparatus to those choices. Furthermore, the tool is in no way intended to be limited to the specific

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) embodiments described above. Rather, various different embodiments could fall within the intended scope of the invention.

For example, according to one embodiment, one or more of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be configured to include a tab (not illustrated) extending from, for example, a base thereof to provide an additional surface upon which pressure can be exerted to assist in rotating the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 around the axes 130, 140 (opening or closing the tool 100). The tabs may extend upward in a closed configuration when they are outside of the cover 190 or may extend outward from a respective axis 130, 140 (perpendicular to or at an angle with relation thereto). The tabs may have the same style, location, orientation and configuration for each of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 or may vary.

According to one embodiment, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may have some means (not illustrated) for securing items 155, 165, 175, 185 therein. For example, the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may include magnets, Velcro®, tape, sticky material or other adhesive means for assisting in securing the items 155, 165, 175, 185 therein. The items 155, 165, 175, 185 may include a magnet, Velcro®, tape, sticky material or other adhesive means in addition to or in place of the securing means in the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180.

According to one embodiment, one or more of the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 may be spring loaded with respect to the appropriate axes 130, 140 to assist in rotating the receptacles 150, 160, 170, 180 (e.g., opening and/or closing the tool 100).

Although the invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent that the invention is not limited thereto as various changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope. Reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described therein is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” appearing in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

The various embodiments are intended to be protected broadly within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. A tool for holding and organizing items, the tool comprising a first frame member; a second frame member having a floor secured to a lower edge thereof; a first axis located between and connected to a first side of the first frame member and a first side of the second frame member; a second axis located between and connected to a second side of the first frame member and a second side of the second frame member; a plurality of receptacles mounted to and configured to rotate with respect to at least one of the first axis and the second axis, wherein the plurality of receptacles are configured to receive the items, wherein the plurality of receptacles are configured to move between a closed position and an open position, wherein the plurality of receptacles include retention tabs for securing the items therein; a lid to pivot between an open position and a closed position; and a rod to pivotally connect the lid to the second frame member.

2. The tool of claim 1, wherein the plurality of receptacles include a base for securing to the first axis or the second axis and an opening extending away from the base to receive the item therein.

3. The tool of claim 2, wherein the base of the plurality of receptacles includes a first end and a second end that is smaller than the first end, wherein a first end of a first receptacle is to receive a second end of a second receptacle that is adjacent to the first receptacle.

4. The tool of claim 1, wherein a first subset of the plurality of receptacles are mounted to the first axis and a second subset of the plurality of receptacles are mounted to the second axis.

5. The tool of claim 4, wherein the first subset of the plurality of receptacles do not align with the second subset of the plurality of receptacles.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

6. The tool of claim 4, wherein the first subset of the plurality of receptacles do not abut one another and the second subset of the plurality of receptacles do not abut one another.

7. The tool of claim 1, wherein the lid is configured to extend from the second frame member to the first frame member when in the closed position and further comprising a latching mechanism to secure the lid in a closed position.

8. The tool of claim 7, wherein the latching mechanism includes a locking tab on the lid and a keeper on the first frame member.

9. The tool of claim 1, wherein the lid includes a connection tab extending from a back edge of the lid; the connection tab includes a channel running therethrough; the second frame member includes a recessed portion for receiving the connection tab; the second frame member includes channels on each side of the recessed portion; and the rod traverses the channel in the connection tab and is secured in the channels on each side of the recessed portion to pivotally connect the lid and the second frame member.

10. The tool of claim 1, wherein the lid is configured to receive a mirror on an inner surface thereof, wherein the mirror can be utilized by a user of the tool when the lid is in the open configuration.

11. The tool of claim 1, wherein the floor is configured to receive an item on an inner surface thereof, wherein the item may be accessible to a user when at least some subset of the plurality of receptacles are in an open position.

12. The tool of claim 1, wherein the items include makeup, cosmetics, and applicators therefor.

13. A tool for holding and organizing items, the tool comprising a first frame member;

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) a second frame member having a floor secured to a lower edge thereof; a first axis located between and connected to a first side of the first frame member and a first side of the second frame member; a second axis located between and connected to a second side of the first frame member and a second side of the second frame member; a first plurality of receptacles, to receive the items, mounted to and configured to rotate with respect to the first axis between an open position and a closed position; and a second plurality of receptacles, to receive the items, mounted to and configured to rotate with respect to the second axis between an open position and a closed position; a lid; a rod to pivotally connect the lid to the second frame member, wherein the lid is configured to pivot between an open position and a closed position where the lid extends from the second frame member to the first frame member so the first and the second plurality of receptacles are not accessible; and a latching mechanism to secure the lid in a closed position.

14. The tool of claim 13, wherein the latching mechanism includes a locking tab on the lid and a keeper on the first frame member.

15. The tool of claim 13, wherein the lid includes a connection tab extending from a back edge of the lid; the connection tab includes a channel running therethrough; the second frame member includes a recessed portion for receiving the connection tab; the second frame member includes channels on each side of the recessed portion; and the rod traverses the channel in the connection tab and is secured in the channels on each side of the recessed portion to pivotally connect the lid and the second frame member.

16. The tool of claim 13, wherein the first and the second plurality of receptacles include retention tabs for securing the items therein.

17. The tool of claim 13, wherein the floor includes sidewalls in alignment with the first axis and the second axis.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

18. The tool of claim 13, wherein at least a subset of the first plurality of receptacles do not align with at least a subset of the second plurality of receptacles.

19. A tool for holding and organizing items, the tool comprising a first frame member having a first opening on a first side and a second opening on a second side; a second frame member having a first opening on a first side, a second opening on a second side, a recessed portion along a center of an upper edge, a first channel extending to a first side of the recessed portion, a second channel extending to a second side of the recessed portion, and a floor extending perpendicular from a lower edge thereof, wherein the floor includes a first sidewall extending perpendicular from the second frame member in alignment with the first opening and a second sidewall extending perpendicular from the second frame member in alignment with the second opening; a first axis located between the first frame member and the second frame member and connected to the first opening of the first frame member and the first opening of the second frame member; a second axis located between the first frame member and the second frame member and connected to the second opening of the first frame member and the second opening of the second frame member; a first plurality of receptacles including a base for securing to the first axis and an opening extending away from the base to receive the item therein, wherein the first plurality of receptacles are configured to rotate with respect to the first axis from a closed position substantially parallel to the first and the second frame members where the opening is substantially facing the second axis to an open position where the opening is extending upward, and wherein the first plurality of receptacles include retention tabs for securing the items therein; a second plurality of receptacles including a base for securing to the second axis and an opening extending away from the base to receive the item therein, wherein the second plurality of receptacles are configured to rotate with respect to the second axis from a closed position substantially parallel to the first and the second frame members where the opening is substantially facing the first axis to an open position where the opening is extending upward, and wherein the second plurality of receptacles include retention tabs for securing the items therein;

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) a lid including a connection tab extending from a back edge thereof, wherein the connection tab includes a channel running therethrough, wherein the connection tab is to be received in the recessed portion of the second frame member and the channel in the connection tab is to align with the first and the second channel of the second frame member; a rod to traverse the channel in the connection tab and be secured within the first and the second channel of the second frame member to pivotally connect the lid to the second frame member wherein the lid is configured to pivot between an open position and a closed position where the lid extends from the second frame member to the first frame member so the first and the second plurality of receptacles are not accessible; and a latching mechanism to secure the lid in a closed position.

20. The tool of claim 19, wherein the latching mechanism includes a locking tab on the lid and a keeper on the first frame member; and the base of the first and second plurality of receptacles include a first end and a second end that is smaller than the first end, wherein a first end of a first receptacle is to receive a second end of a second receptacle that is adjacent to the first receptacle.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)