U.S. patent application number 09/731780 was filed with the patent office on 2002-03-14 for rolling containers assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to 500 GROUP INC.. Invention is credited to Bozak, John A., Ham, Sookhyun, Tiramani, Paolo B..
Application Number | 20020030425 09/731780 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26689583 |
Filed Date | 2002-03-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020030425 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tiramani, Paolo B. ; et
al. |
March 14, 2002 |
Rolling containers assembly
Abstract
A rolling containers assembly including (a) a base cabinet
including wheels and a pulling handle for locomoting the rolling
containers assembly; and (b) at least one additional cabinet being
removably connectable on top of the base cabinet.
Inventors: |
Tiramani, Paolo B.;
(Greenwich, CT) ; Ham, Sookhyun; (Stamford,
CT) ; Bozak, John A.; (Greenwich, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PILLSBURY WINTHROP LLP
1600 TYSONS BOULEVARD
MCLEAN
VA
22102
US
|
Assignee: |
500 GROUP INC.
|
Family ID: |
26689583 |
Appl. No.: |
09/731780 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09731780 |
Dec 8, 2000 |
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09433352 |
Nov 4, 1999 |
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6176559 |
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09433352 |
Nov 4, 1999 |
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09017197 |
Feb 2, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
312/108 ;
280/47.19; 280/47.26; 280/47.35; 312/237; 312/244; 312/249.8;
312/902 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25H 3/023 20130101;
B25H 3/00 20130101; B65H 75/403 20130101; B25H 3/026 20130101; Y10S
312/902 20130101; B65H 2701/533 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
312/108 ;
312/902; 312/237; 312/244; 312/249.8; 280/47.19; 280/47.26;
280/47.35 |
International
Class: |
A47B 087/02; B62B
001/26 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A rolling containers assembly for storing working tools
comprising: (a) a base cabinet including wheels and a pulling
handle for locomoting the rolling containers assembly; and (b) at
least one additional cabinet being removably connectable on top of
said base cabinet.
2. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said handle
is extendible.
3 . The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said at
least one additional cabinet is selected from the group consisting
of a drawers assembly and a toolcase.
4. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said base
cabinet includes a reel.
5. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said at
least one additional cabinet is a modular unit.
6. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said at
least one additional cabinet snaps onto said base cabinet.
7. The rolling containers assembly of claim 3, wherein said
toolcase includes a case and an openable cover.
8. The rolling containers assembly of claim 7, wherein said cover
is formed with an external groove usable in supporting rectangular
and round objects.
9. The rolling containers assembly of claim 8, wherein said groove
is asymmetrical in cross section.
10. The rolling containers assembly of claim 8, wherein said groove
is formed between a first wall and a second wall of said cover
deployed in a V shape, said first wall is deployed 63.+-.15 degrees
with respect to said cover, said second wall is deployed 27.+-.15
degrees with respect to said cover, whereas said first and second
walls are deployed 90 degrees with respect to one another.
11. The rolling containers assembly of claim 8, wherein said groove
is formed with grip ribs on at least a section thereof.
12. The rolling containers assembly of claim 7, wherein said cover
is formed with underlying strengthening ribs.
13. The rolling containers assembly of claim 12, wherein said
underlying strengthening ribs are deployed crosswise with respect
to one another and obliquely with respect to an edge of said cover,
such that triangle shapes are formed along said edge.
14. The rolling containers assembly of claim 13, wherein said
underlying strengthening ribs are deployed 90 degrees crosswise
with respect to one another and 45 degrees with respect to an edge
of said cover.
15. The rolling containers assembly of claim 13, wherein said cover
is formed with external protrusions deployed above said underlying
strengthening ribs, said external protrusions serve for at least
partially disguising sink marks associated with said ribs.
16. The rolling containers assembly of claim 16, wherein said
external protrusions have a diamond shape.
18. The rolling containers assembly of claim 7, wherein said cover
includes a carrying handle.
19. The rolling containers assembly of claim 7, wherein said
carrying handle is foldable.
20. The rolling containers assembly of claim 7, wherein said
toolcase includes at least one latch for securing said cover to
said case when closed.
21. The rolling containers assembly of claim 3, wherein said
toolcase includes front sides and back, said sides taper toward
said back.
22. The rolling containers assembly of claim 21, wherein said front
is curved.
23. The rolling containers assembly of claim 3, wherein said
toolcase includes a tray deployable within said case.
24. The rolling containers assembly of claim 23 , wherein said tray
includes a tray-handle.
25. The rolling containers assembly of claim 23, wherein toolcase
includes a foldable carrying handle having side arms, said tray
includes a tray-handle, said tray-handle nests between said side
aims of said carrying handle of said cover.
26. The rolling containers assembly of claim 3, wherein said
drawers assembly includes a casing and at least one translating
drawer translatably engaged by said casing.
27. The rolling containers assembly of claim 26, wherein said at
least one drawer translates over rails connected to said
casing.
28. The rolling containers assembly of claim 26, wherein all of
said at least one drawer are securable close via a single securing
member.
29. The rolling containers assembly of claim 26, wherein said
handle is extendible, said single securing member is attached to
said handle, such that when said handle is retracted said securing
member secured all of said at least one drawer closed.
30. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said base
cabinet includes a casing to which said handle and said wheels are
engaged and a flipping bin.
31. The rolling containers assembly of claim 30, wherein said
flipping bin is rotatable with respect to said casing and has an
upper opening.
32. The rolling containers assembly of claim 30, wherein said
casing is formed with an upper rim, said rim is supplemented with
holes which serve for attaching strings for effecting carriage of
desired items on said top of said base cabinet when said at least
one additional cabinet is removed.
33. The rolling containers assembly of claim 30, wherein said
handle is formed with additional holes which further serve for
attaching strings for effecting the carriage of the desired items
on said top of said base cabinet when said at least one additional
cabinet is removed.
34. The rolling containers assembly of claim 30, wherein said base
cabinet includes a reel rotatably attached to said casing.
35. The rolling containers assembly of claim 30, wherein said reel
is removable.
36. The rolling containers assembly of claim 30, wherein said
casing is supplemented with at least two elastic bands designed for
engagina desired items along a side thereof.
37. The rolling containers assembly of claim 31, wherein said
flipping bin is rotatably connected to said casing via a hinge
located such that said bin opens when reaches beyond a center of
gravity point and closes when is before said center of gravity
point.
38. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said
pulling handle is detachable.
39. The rolling containers assembly of claim 1, wherein said at
least one additional cabinet is selected from the group consisting
of a clamshell style case and carousel organizer.
40. A rolling containers assembly for storing working tools
comprising: (a) a base cabinet including wheels for locomoting the
rolling containers assembly; and (b) at least one additional
cabinet being removably connectable on top of said base cabinet,
said at least one additional cabinet including a pulling handle for
effecting said locomotion.
41. The rolling containers assembly of claim 40, wherein said at
least one additional cabinet is selected from the group consisting
of a clamshell style case and carousel organizer.
Description
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a rolling containers
assembly and, more particularly, to a vertically deployed modular
rolling workshop having a retractable/extendible handle, which is
easily assembled/disassembled.
[0002] Working in situ requires a plurality of working tools to be
brought to the working location.
[0003] Conventional tool boxes are typically used for that purpose,
however, their locomotion as individual pieces is inconvenient.
[0004] There is thus a widely recognized need for, and it would be
highly advantageous to have, a modular rolling workshop devoid of
the above limitation.
[0005] Additional advantages of the modular rolling workshop
according to the present invention are described with respect to
its specific embodiments hereinbelow.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to the present invention there is provided a
rolling containers assembly for storing working tools.
[0007] According to further features in preferred embodiments of
the invention described below, the rolling containers assembly
comprising (a) a base cabinet including wheels and a pulling handle
for locomoting the rolling containers assembly; and (b) at least
one additional cabinet being removably connectable on top of the
base cabinet.
[0008] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the handle is extendible.
[0009] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the at least one additional cabinet is
selected from the group consisting of a drawers assembly and a
toolcase.
[0010] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the base cabinet includes a reel.
[0011] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the at least one additional cabinet is a
modular unit.
[0012] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the at least one additional cabinet snaps
onto the base cabinet.
[0013] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the toolcase includes a case and an openable
cover.
[0014] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the cover is formed with an external groove
usable in supporting rectangular and round objects.
[0015] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the groove is asymmetrical in cross
section.
[0016] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the groove is formed between a first wall and
a second wall of the cover deployed in a V shape, the first wall is
deployed 63+15 degrees with respect to the cover, the second wall
is deployed 27+15 degrees with respect to the cover, whereas the
first and second walls are deployed 90 degrees with respect to one
another.
[0017] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the groove is formed with glip ribs on at
least a section thereof.
[0018] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the cover is formed with underlying
strengthening ribs.
[0019] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the underlying strengthening ribs are
deployed crosswise with respect to one another and obliquely with
respect to an edge of the cover, such that triangle shapes are
formed along the edge.
[0020] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the underlying, strengthening ribs are
deployed 90 degrees crosswise with respect to one another and 45
degrees with respect to an edge of the cover.
[0021] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the cover is formed with external protrusions
deployed above the underlying strengthening ribs, the external
protrusions serve for at least partially disguising sink marks
associated with the ribs.
[0022] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the external protrusions have a diamond
shape.
[0023] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the cover includes a carrying handle.
[0024] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the carrying handle is foldable.
[0025] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the toolcase includes at least one latch for
securing the cover to the case when closed.
[0026] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the toolcase includes front sides and back
the sides taper toward the back.
[0027] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the front is curved.
[0028] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the toolcase includes a tray deployable
within the case.
[0029] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the tray includes a tray-handle.
[0030] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments toolcase includes a foldable carying handle
having side arms, the tray includes a tray-handle, the tray-handle
nests between the side arms of the carying handle of the cover.
[0031] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the drawers assembly includes a casing and at
least one translating drawer translatably engaged by the
casing.
[0032] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the at least one drawer translates over rails
connected to the casing.
[0033] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments all of the at least one drawer are securable
close via a single securing member.
[0034] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the handle is extendible, the single securing
member is attached to the handle, such that when the handle is
retracted the securing member secured all of the at least one
drawer closed.
[0035] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the base cabinet includes a casing to which
the handle and the wheels are engaged and a flipping bin.
[0036] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the flipping bin is rotatable with respect to
the casing and has an upper opening.
[0037] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the casing is formed with an upper rim the
rim is supplemented with holes which serve for attaching strings
for effecting carriage of desired items on the top of the base
cabinet when the at least one additional cabinet is removed.
[0038] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the handle is formed with additional holes
which further serve for attaching strings for effecting the
carriage of the desired items on the top of the base cabinet when
the at least one additional cabinet is removed.
[0039] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the base- cabinet includes a reel rotatably
attached to the casing.
[0040] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the reel is removable.
[0041] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the casing is supplemented with at least two
elastic bands designed for engaging desired items along a side
thereof
[0042] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the flipping bin is rotatably connected to
the casing via a hinge located such that the bin opens when reaches
beyond a center of gravity point and closes when is before the
center of gravity point.
[0043] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the pulling handle is detachable.
[0044] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the at least one additional cabinet is
selected from the group consisting of a clamshell style case and
carousel organizer.
[0045] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments provided is a rolling containers assembly for
storing working tools comprising (a) a base cabinet including
wheels for locomoting the rolling containers assembly; and (b) at
least one additional cabinet being removably connectable on top of
the base cabinet, the at least one additional cabinet including a
pulling handle for effecting the locomotion.
[0046] According to still further features in the described
preferred embodiments the at least one additional cabinet is
selected from the group consisting of a clamshell style case and
carousel organizer.
[0047] The present invention successfully addresses the
shortcomings of the presently known configurations by providing a
modular rolling containers assembly featuring a
retractable/extendible back handle. Additional advantages of the
present invention are described hereinunder.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] The invention herein described, by way of example only, with
reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0049] FIG. 1 is a perceptive front view of a rolling containers
assembly according to the present invention;
[0050] FIGS. 2 and 3 are perceptive rear views of the rolling
containers assembly shown in FIG. 1;
[0051] FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective front views of a toolcase and
a drawers assembly of the rolling containers assembly according to
the present invention;
[0052] FIG. 6 is a perspective rear view of the toolcase and
drawers assembly of FIGS. 4 and 5;
[0053] FIG. 7 is a perspective front view of a base cabinet of the
rolling containers assembly according to the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 8 is a perspective rear view of the base cabinet of
FIG. 7;
[0055] FIG. 9 is a perspective front view of the base cabinet and
the drawers assembly of the rolling containers assembly according
to the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a reel of the rolling
containers assembly according to the present invention;
[0057] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the reel of FIG.
10;
[0058] FIG. 12 is a front view of the rolling containers assembly
according to the present invention demonstrating its
modularity;
[0059] FIGS. 13a and 13b are front and side views of the toolcase
of the rolling container assembly according to the present
invention, demonstrating an asymmetric groove formed in its
cover;
[0060] FIGS. 14a and 14b are cross sections of two prior art
symmetric 5 grooves formed in toolcase covers;
[0061] FIGS. 15a and 15b are cross sections demonstrating the
ability of the asymmetric groove according to the present invention
to support rectangular and round objects, respectively;
[0062] FIG. 16 is a top view of the cover of the toolcase of the
rolling containers assembly according to the present invention;
[0063] FIGS. 17a and 17b are comparative schematic depictions of a
prior art rib arrangement and a rib arrangement used to strengthen
the cover of the toolcase according to the present invention,
respectively;
[0064] FIGS. 18a and 18b are front views of the toolcase of the
rolling containers assembly according to the present invention
demonstrating the addition of a Logo pad;
[0065] FIGS. 19a and 19b are side views of a prior art tray
arrangement and a tray arrangement of the toolcase according to the
present invention, respectively;
[0066] FIG. 20 is a side view of the tray and cover of the toolcase
of the rolling containers assembly according to the present
invention;
[0067] FIGS. 21a, 21b and 21c are schematic cross sectional views
of two prior art tray handles, and a tray handle according to the
present invention;
[0068] FIG. 22a, 22b and 22c are top and side views of the tray
handle and side view of the tray of the toolcase of the rolling
containers assembly according to the present invention;
[0069] FIG. 23 is a side view of the drawers assembly of the
rolling containers assembly according to the present invention;
[0070] FIG. 24 is a side view of the base cabinet of the rolling
containers assembly according to the present invention,
demonstrating options to attach strings onto the base cabinet;
[0071] FIG. 25 is a side view of the rolling containers assembly
according to the present invention, demonstrating the attachment of
a working tool thereon via bands;
[0072] FIGS. 26a and 26b are side views of a backplate of the reel
of the rolling containers assembly according to the present
invention in locked and unlocked positions;
[0073] FIGS. 27, 28 and 29 are perspective views of another
embodiment of the rolling containers assembly according to the
present invention;
[0074] FIGS. 30a and 30b are perspective views of an organizer of
the rolling containers assembly according to its second
embodiment;
[0075] FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of the rolling
containers assembly according to its second embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0076] The present invention is of a rolling containers assembly
which can be used as a rolling workshop. Specifically, the present
invention can be used to assist workers, such as, but not limited
to, construction workers, fishermen, repairmen, etc., to cany their
working tools in an organized fashion.
[0077] The principles and operation of a rolling containers
assembly according to the present invention may be better
understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying
descriptions.
[0078] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention
in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited
in its application to the details of construction and the
arrangement of the components set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is
capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out
in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology
and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description
and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0079] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-26b illustrate some
preferred embodiments of a rolling containers assembly according to
the present invention, which is referred to hereinbelow
interchangeably as rolling containers assembly 50 or assembly
50.
[0080] Thus, rolling containers assembly 50 serves for storing
working tools and includes a base cabinet 52. At its lower aft end
base cabinet 52 is supplemented with a pair of wheels 54. At its
aft base cabinet 52 includes a pulling handle 56. Wheels 54 and
handle 56 serve for locomoting assembly 50.
[0081] Pulling handle 56 is shaped sized and designed to assist a
user to pull assembly 50. For example, its upper part is designed
to comfortably accept the hand of the user, and is therefore
supplemented with four finger accepting recessions 51.
[0082] Rolling containers assembly 50 further includes at least one
additional cabinet 58. Additional cabinet 58 is removably
connectable on top of base cabinet 52.
[0083] As further detailed hereinbelow, according to a prefered
embodiment of the invention handle 56 is
extendible/retractable.
[0084] As further detailed hereinbelow, according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, additional
cabinet(s) 58 include, for example, a drawers assembly 60 and/or a
toolcase 62.
[0085] As further detailed hereinbelow, according to another
prefered embodiment of the present invention base cabinet 52 is
supplemented with a reel 64.
[0086] As best seen in FIG. 12 additional containers 58 are
preferably designed modular, such that any combination thereof is
deployable over base cabinet 52 or as a standalone configuration.
Thus, for example, a plurality of drawer assemblies 62 may be
snapped together as an independent drawers tower system with
keyholes 63 formed in the rear for wall mounting.
[0087] Connecting any of additional cabinet(s) 58 to base cabinet
52 preferably involves snapping. To this end, base cabinet 52 and
the additional cabinet(s) 58 are designed snappable to one another,
and, to this end, are supplemented with snapping mechanisms 66,
which preferably also serve as side claw latches for providing
extra stability.
[0088] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention
toolcase 62 includes a case 68 and an openable cover 70. Cover 70
is preferably fabricated featuring an external groove 72. Groove 72
is usable in supporting rectangular 74 and/or round 76 objects
(FIGS. 15a-b). Groove 72 is preferably asymmetrical in cross
section. Preferably, groove 72 is formed as a recess residing
between a first wall 78 and a second wall 80 of cover 70. Walls 78
and 80 are deployed in a V shape.
[0089] As best seen in FIGS. 15a-b, first wall 78 is deployed 63+15
degrees with respect to cover 70, second wall 80 is deployed 27+15
degrees with respect to cover 70, whereas first 78 and second 80
walls are deployed 90 degrees with respect to one another.
[0090] Groove 72 is designed to facilitate cutting desired object.
Grooves are known in the art for some time and serve to facilitate
cutting round objects. However, all prior a it grooves, as shown in
FIGS. 14a and 14b, traditionally have symmetric cross sections.
[0091] As specifically shown in FIGS. 15a-b, groove 72, on the
other hand, is selected asymmetrical. Groove's 72 architecture is
specifically designed to allow cutting both rectangular wood and
round pipe elements. To this end, the asymmetry of about 63/27
degrees is preferably selected. This asymmetry dictates that
groove's 72 shortest side is more than half shorter than groove's
72 longest side, allowing a 2".times.4"wood size to be cut in a
stable manner without excess slippage.
[0092] The 63/27 degrees feature has been experimentally shown to
be the most useful angle for this sort of work, however, it is
feasible that for other applications other asymmetric dimensions
would prove more adapted.
[0093] Therefore, according to the present invention groove 72 may
have any asymmetrical or symmetrical design.
[0094] As best seen in FIG. 16, groove 72 is preferably formed with
grip ribs 82 on at least a section thereof. Grip ribs 82 are
preferably arranged on the outer edges of groove 72. Grip ribs 82
are designed to provide friction and thereby to minimize the
vibration of the material being cut, which tends to vibrate in
concert with the saw.
[0095] As best seen in FIGS. 16 and 17a-b, cover 70 is preferably
formed with underlying strengthening ribs 84. Underlying
strengthening ribs 84 are preferably deployed crosswise with
respect to one another and obliquely with respect to an edge 86 of
cover 70, such that triangular shapes 88 are formed along edge
86.
[0096] Preferably underlying strengthening ribs are deployed 90
degrees crosswise with respect to one another and 45 degrees with
respect to edge 86 of cover 70.
[0097] As best seen in FIG. 16, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention cover 70 is formed with external
protrusions 90. Protrusions 90 are deployed above, parallel to,
underlying strengthening ribs 84 and serve for at least partially
disguising sink marks associated with ribs 84. External protrusions
84 are preferably acquired a diamond shape .diamond-solid. .
[0098] It has been recent practice to heavily rib the underside of
plastic toolcase covers to withstand the weight of the average
person, who typically will use them as defacto step tools. The
"sink marks" that show on the top surface of such covers is
noticeable and disguised typically with some sort of decoration
running in the same direction of the ribbing.
[0099] FIG. 16 shows a section of ribs 84 arrangement on the top
left end of cover 70. This ribbing preferably runs the entire
underside of cover 70. As already mentioned hereinabove ribbing 84
is preferably deployed at 45 degrees orientation with respect to
the edge of the cover. Thereby ribs 84 terminate in triangles 88
(FIG. 17b). The triangular termination around the relatively more
sensitive perimeter of the cover is measurably stronger than
traditional rectangular ribbing (FIG. 17a).
[0100] The preferred embodiment is aesthetically enabled by the
chosen diamond pattern that overlays the ribs on the top side of
the case (FIG. 16). Although such diamond patterns are a common
anti-slippage icon in the hardware steel industry, this is the
first time to have them introduced into the plastic industry to
serve as anti-slippage elements and at the same time for disguising
rib sinkage marks.
[0101] According to another prefered embodiment of the present
invention cover 70 includes a carying handle 92. Carrying handle 92
is preferably foldable into a recession 94 formed in cover 70 which
is sized and dimensioned for receiving handle 92 when folded.
[0102] According to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention toolcase 62 includes at least one latch 96 (two are
shown) for securing/locking cover 70 to case 68 when closed. Cover
70 is hingedly connected to case 68 via a hinge 98. Preferably, as
best seen in FIG. 16, toolcase 62 includes a front 100, sides 102
and back 104, wherein sides 102 taper toward back 104. Front 100 is
preferably curved.
[0103] As shown in FIGS. 18a-b, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention a Logo plate 106 is added between latches
96. Plate 106 is preferably a separate molded panel which is molded
at 90 degrees to the rest of the case, however it appears to be an
integral part of the case when assembled, rather than a separate
item.
[0104] According to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, and as specifically shown in FIGS. 19-22, toolcase 62
preferably includes a removable tray 108, deployable within case
68. Tray 108 preferably includes a tray-handle 110. Preferably, as
best seen in FIG. 19b, tray 17 handle 108 nests between side arms
110 of carrying handle 92 of cover 70.
[0105] Thus, in sharp contrast with the conventional configuration
shown in FIG. 19a, wherein the tray handle 110' resides below the
cover handle, thereby effectively lowering the tray in the case,
according to the present invention, the tray handle nests between
the vertical arms of the cover handle, rendering the tray about 20%
higher, gaining much requested additional room in the main
case.
[0106] Furthermore, with the handle residing directly underneath
the cover, it now acts as a load bearing member when a user stands
on the case, transmitting a partial load through the tray onto the
perimeter of the base. One additional benefit is that ribs which
are preferably deployed on the underside of the tray can be lighter
and use less material.
[0107] A common problem with plastic tray handle designs is how to
produce a solid feeling handle from both sides. Typically the
handle is open from the top (FIG. 21a), which functions well but is
not attractive, or the handle is open from the bottom (FIG. 2 b)
which looks good but can be painful to the hand.
[0108] According to the present invention, as specifically shown in
FIGS. 21c and 22a, an additional piece 112 is used to fill the area
of a handle open from the top by snapping piece 112 into the top
opening. Thereby, both functionality and aesthetic are achieved.
This solution offers both solid feeling and looks to the handle and
a good surface area for hand comfort.
[0109] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention drawers
assembly 60 includes a casing 114 and at least one translating
drawer 116 (two are shown) translatably engaged by casing 114.
Preferably, as shown in FIG. 23, drawer(s) 116, aided by reels 118,
translate over rails 120 which are connected to, or integrally
formed with, casing 114.
[0110] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, all of drawers 116 are securable close via a single
securing member 121 (best seen in FIG. 7), which engages securing
elements 122 attached to a the aft of drawers 116 and protrudes
through dedicated holes 124 formed in casing 114 (FIG. 6).
[0111] Preferably, single securing member 121 is attached to or
forms a part of handle 56, such that when handle 56 is retracted
securing member 121 simultaneously secures all of drawers 116
closed.
[0112] It is common for toolbox drawers to have locks on their
front side. Due to handle 56 of assembly 50 it is possible to have
the drawers secured/locked from behind.
[0113] In any case, drawers 116 are preferably supplemented with
opening handles 123. Handles 123 are preferably also designed to
secure/lock drawers 116 to casing 114 when closed.
[0114] A common problem associated with cabinets and drawers of any
construction is that the drawers have to remain to a significant
percentage within the casing of the product even in the extended
position to avoid falling out. The drawers assembly described
herein is notable for having cabinet rollers appended beyond the
extremity of the product. This feature allows the drawers to be
pulled out further than would otherwise be possible.
[0115] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
base cabinet 52 of rolling containers assembly 50 includes a casing
126 to which handle 56 and wheels 54 are engaged. Base cabinet 52
further includes a flipping bin 128. Casing 126 is formed with a
housing 127 for holding handle 56 when extended and for accepting
handle 56 when retracted. Thus, handle 56 is retractable into, and
extendible from, housing 127.
[0116] Casing 126 is formed having a base element 129. Base 129 is
designed to be in contact with the floor when assembly 50 is
positioned in its upright position. Wheels 54 are designed to have
substantially no or minimal contact with the floor when in the
upright position. Wheels 54 take firm contact with the floor only
when assembly 50 is in its locomoting position, as shown, for
example, in FIG. 24.
[0117] Flipping bin 128 is rotatable with respect to casing 126 and
has an upper opening 130. Casing 126 is preferably formed with an
upper rim 132. Rim 132 is supplemented with anchor holes 134 which
serve for attaching strings 136 (shown in FIG. 24) for effecting
carriage of desired items on top of base cabinet 52 when additional
cabinet(s) 58 are removed.
[0118] Handle 52 is preferably formed with additional holes 138
which further serve for attaching strings 136 for effecting the
carriage of bigger items on top of base cabinet 52.
[0119] Thus, the anchor holes situated fore and aft at the top of
the base cabinet allow the base cabinet and the handle to be used
as a separate dolly. This is particularly useful when additional
materials have to be carried to the working site.
[0120] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
reel 64 is a revolving electrical reel rotatably attached to casing
126, within a dedicated recession 140 formed therein, such that
reel 64 would not protrude from the general outline of base cabinet
52.
[0121] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
reel 64 is removable (disconnectable/detachable) film casing 126,
and may function as a standalone reel.
[0122] As specifically shown in FIG. 25, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention casing 126 is supplemented with
at least two elastic bands 142, designed for engaging desired long
items 144 (e.g., a saw) along a side 146 thereof.
[0123] According to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention flipping bin 128 is rotatably connected to casing 126 via
a hinge, marked by a broken line 146 in FIG. 7, located such that
bin 128 opens when reaches beyond a center of gravity point and
closes when is before the center of gravity point, such that bin
128 fully opens or closes when used. This feature of bin 128 is
effective also when load is loaded therein. Therefore, when used,
bin 128 remains open irrespective of its content load. Conversely
bin 128 remains closed even when not locked in the transportable
situation of assembly 50, shown, for example in FIG. 24.
[0124] However, according to a preferred embodiment of the
invention bin 128 is equipped with a front lock 148, which locks
bin 128 to casing 126.
[0125] Handle 56 is deployed on the back side of base cabinet 52
and is selected conventional in its design, as seen, for example,
in rolling luggage pieces, e.g., by SAMSONITE. However, such
handles have so far not been employed as described herein.
[0126] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, handle 56 is completely detachable film assembly 50 to
allow for separation of the components thereof for storage or
transportation in confined spaces i.e., closets or car trunks.
[0127] Handle 56 is attached/detached from base cabinet 52 via a
flexing member 150. Flexing members are well known in the art of
plastics and require no further description herein.
[0128] Reel 64 is finctionally notable for the following features.
First, as already mentioned hereinabove, it is removable from
casing 126 and may serve as a separate standalone reel, finctioning
independently of assembly 50. Reel 64 is locked onto its location
(recession 140) on casing 126 by a quarter turn locking mechanism
as further detailed hereinbelow.
[0129] Current reels for electric cables or other purposes (e.g.,
garden/pool hoses) share a common construction i.e., a reel
comprised of a hollow core and round flanges rotating about an
axle. Such reels are typically appended with legs arrangement or a
handle to improve functionality.
[0130] Reel 64 according to the present invention appears
traditional by intent, but its functionality is quite different
from the current art.
[0131] As best seen in FIGS. 10 and 11. reel 64 includes a front
round flange 152 which is affixed to a core 154 which revolves.
Reel 64 further includes a back flange 156 which is affixed to yet
another core 158 which does not revolve. Core 154 rotatably fits
inside core 158. Core 158 therefore acts as an axle for core 154
and flange 152 to revolve on. Functionality of such an arrangement
would be significantly impaired without a revolving back flange to
carry the weight of the cord and prevent friction. To this end,
front flange 152 and core 154 carry several (e.g., tluee or more)
paddles 160 deployed at the rear end of core 154.
[0132] When assembled paddles 160 lay against static back flange
156, rotating thereon. Paddles 160 effectively carry the weight of
the cord preventing spread and allowing the otherwise revolving
rear flange to act as a static mounting point.
[0133] As best seen in FIGS. 26a-b two protrusions 164 formed in
recession 140 of casing 126 are camming into corresponding holes
162 formed in backplate 156, serving to lock/unlock plate 156 to
assembly 50 by a quarter of a turn.
[0134] Back plate 156 is supplemented with a lever 166. Lever 166
is positioned such that when plate 156 is in its locked position,
lever is pulled over a dedicated protrusion 167 (best seen in FIG.
2), formed in casing 126, thereby securing reel 64 in its locked
position, such that inadvertent disconnection of reel 64 from base
cabinet 52 becomes practically impossible.
[0135] Reel 64 is preferably further supplemented with a revolving
handle 170 asymmetrically attached to front plate 152 for releasing
a cord engaged thereon.
[0136] FIGS. 27-31 show another embodiment of the rolling
containers assembly according to the present invention, which is
referred to hereinbelow as assembly 200.
[0137] Like assembly 50, assembly 200 includes a base cabinet 202
which is supplemented with wheels 204 for locomoting rolling
containers assembly 200.
[0138] Assembly 200 further includes at least one additional
cabinet 206 which is removably connectable (by snapping) on top 208
of base cabinet 202.
[0139] Additional cabinet 206 includes a pulling handle 210 for
effecting locomotion.
[0140] According to a preferred embodiment additional cabinet 208
is a clamshell style case 212 and/or a carousel organizer 214.
[0141] Carousel organizer 214 includes a revolving drawer 215 which
rotates radially about a fixed point and therefore allows for more
complete access of contents than a conventional drawer which is
required to remain partially in the container.
[0142] According to a preferred embodiment base cabinet 202
includes accessories 218 anchor points 220. Accessories 218 may be
of any type. Accessories 218 anchor points 220 serve as a custom
attachment feature present on base cabinet 202 which allows various
molded components with different finctionality to be attached
thereon to tune the product for specific purposes (e.g., fishing,
gardening, etc.). Other features of assembly 200 are similar to
those described hereinabove with respect to assembly 50.
[0143] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention all of
the components of the rolling containers assembly are injected
plastic components.
[0144] Thus, the present invention relates to improvements to
toolboxes for industrial and home/hobby applications.
[0145] The rolling containers assembly according to the present
invention is the first modular rolling workshop having a
retractable/extendible handle system.
[0146] Breaking the assembly into three vertically modular
components provides several finctional advantages.
[0147] First, the total weight is dividable for purposes of lifting
the assembly over steps, into car tunks, etc.
[0148] Second, the vertical configuration is ergonomically
practical when accessing the assembly's interior.
[0149] Third, when disassembled the assembly according to the
present invention is storable is small confinements, such as the
trunk of an average sedan.
[0150] Finally, the modular vertical nature of the rolling
containers assembly according to the present invention allows a
user to take "as much as he needs".
[0151] Thus, for small jobs the toolcase or the toolcase and the
drawers assembly can be deployed with the traditional side claw
latches.
[0152] In any case, when the toolcase and drawers assembly are
removed the remaining base cabinet and back handle transform into a
dolly for additional load carrying.
[0153] Although the invention has been described in conjunction
with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace
all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall
within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *