U.S. patent application number 10/704395 was filed with the patent office on 2004-09-09 for media storage disk box.
This patent application is currently assigned to Encore Holdings Limited. Invention is credited to Choi, King Yeung, Kwong, Kwok Keung.
Application Number | 20040173481 10/704395 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32928032 |
Filed Date | 2004-09-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040173481 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Choi, King Yeung ; et
al. |
September 9, 2004 |
Media storage disk box
Abstract
A media storage disk box comprising formed as a unitary plastic
body, a first base panel, a second base panel and a spine panel
intermediate of the first base panel and the second base panel,
wherein formed intermediate of the first base panel and said second
base panel is a hinge defining an axis of rotation the hinge
allowing movement of the first base panel relative to the second
base panel between a closed condition to and an open condition to
provide to allow access to the enclosure of the box. The first base
panel and second base panel are of a complementary size to, in the
closed condition, provide perimeter to perimeter engagement of the
first and second base panels. A sheet metal cover is affixed to and
overlaying the first base panel to the non enclosure side of the
first base panel.
Inventors: |
Choi, King Yeung; (Hong
Kong, HK) ; Kwong, Kwok Keung; (Hong Kong,
HK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OSTROLENK FABER GERB & SOFFEN
1180 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS
NEW YORK
NY
100368403
|
Assignee: |
Encore Holdings Limited
|
Family ID: |
32928032 |
Appl. No.: |
10/704395 |
Filed: |
November 6, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/308.1 ;
G9B/33.011 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11B 33/0427
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/308.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 085/57 |
Claims
1. A media storage disk box comprising: a first metal cover
pivotally engaged to a second metal cover to be movable between i.
a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which a mounting
region to support a media storage disk is located ii. an open
condition to provide access to said enclosure, and a hinge of a
plastic material affixed to said first metal cover and to said
second metal cover, said hinge including at least one flexible
region defining an axis of rotation for pivotal movement of said
first metal cover with said second metal cover between said open
and closed condition an extension panel integrally formed with said
hinge, said extension panel affixed to said first metal cover and
disposed to the enclosure side thereof, said extension panel
including and presented to the enclosure side thereof a means to
releasably affix a media storage disk.
2. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
hinge has disposed therefrom extension panels from each side to the
axis of rotation, each extension panel being affixed to a
respective first and second metal covers.
3. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
hinge includes a spine intermediate of said first metal cover and
said second metal cover, said spine providing two flexible regions
each defining an axis of rotation extending parallel with the
spine.
4. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
hinge includes a spine intermediate of said first metal cover and
said second metal cover, said spine providing two flexible regions
each defining an axis of rotation extending parallel with the spine
wherein said extension panel is disposed from said spine extending
from one of said axis of rotation.
5. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
hinge includes a spine intermediate of said first metal cover and
said second metal cover, said spine providing two flexible regions
each defining an axis of rotation extending parallel with the spine
wherein two extension panels are disposed from said spine, each
extending from a respective said axis of rotation.
6. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
extension panel is affixed to said first metal cover in an
interlocking relationship defined by a folded region of said first
metal cover.
7. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 5 wherein each said
extension panel is affixed with a respective metal cover by an
interlocking relationship defined by a folded region of said
respective metal cover.
8. A media storage disk box as claimed claim 1 wherein said
extension panel is substantially co-extensive with said first metal
cover.
9. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 5 wherein both said
extension panels are substantially co-extensive with its respective
metal cover.
10. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
extension panel is substantially co-extensive with said first metal
cover, wherein said means to releasably affix includes a rosette to
locate at a central aperture of said media storage disk.
11. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 6 wherein both
said extension panels are substantially co-extensive with its
respective metal cover and each present at their distal most from
said hinge edge, means to mutually interlock to allow said box to
be releasably retained in said closed condition.
12. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 1 wherein said
extension panel includes perimeter wall upstands projecting from a
base to the enclosure disposed side of said base and at perimeter
sides of said extension panel save for where said extension panel
is connected to said hinge.
13. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 12 wherein said
first metal cover includes perimeter flanges projecting from at
least part of the perimeter of said first metal cover and locating
with the outward to said enclosure facing perimeter walls of said
extension panel.
14. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 6 wherein each
said extension panels include perimeter wall upstands projecting
from a base to the enclosure disposed side of said base and at
perimeter sides of said extension panel save for where said
extension panel is connected to said hinge.
15. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 14 wherein said
second metal cover includes perimeter flanges projecting from at
least part of the perimeter of said second metal cover and locating
with the outward to said enclosure facing perimeter walls of said
second mentioned extension panel.
16. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 3 wherein said
spine has affixed to be disposed from a non enclosure disposed side
thereof a metal spine panel.
17. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 16 wherein said
metal spine panel is substantially coextensive with said spine.
18. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 16 wherein said
metal panel is clipped to said spine at the longitudinally disposed
ends of said spine.
19. A media storage disk box comprising: a first metal cover
pivotally engaged to a second cover to be movable between a. an
open condition to provide access to a media storage disk mounting
region disposed from one of said first metal cover and second
cover, and b. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within
which said mounting region is located a hinge of a plastic material
affixed to said first metal cover and to said second cover, said
hinge defining an axis of rotation for pivotal movement of said
first metal cover with said second cover.
20. A media storage disk box comprising: a first metal cover
pivotally engaged by a hinge to a second cover to be movable
between i. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which
a mounting region to support a media storage disk is located, and
ii. an open condition to provide access to said enclosure, said
hinge forming part of a unitary moulded plastic base structure
which includes a first extension panel affixed to the enclosure
side of said first metal cover, said hinge defining at least one
axis of rotation for pivotal movement of said first metal cover
with said second cover and wherein said extension panel is disposed
to one of said at least one axis of rotation said first said
extension panel being substantially coextensive with said first
metal cover.
21. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 20 wherein said
second cover is part of said unitary moulded plastic base
structure.
22. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 21 wherein said
second cover defines to the enclosure side thereof said mounting
region including a rosette to realisably affix to the central
aperture of a said disk.
23. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 20 wherein said
second cover is a second metal cover and wherein a second extension
panel formed part of said unitary moulded plastic base structure,
is disposed from the other side of said hinge and affixed to the
enclosure side of said second-metal cover.
24. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 23 wherein said
second extension panel defines to the enclosure side thereof said
mounting region including a rosette to releasably affix to the
central aperture of a said disk.
25. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 20 wherein said
first metal cover and said extension panel are of a quadrilateral
perimeter, said first metal cover folded to affix to at least part
of the perimeter of all of the four sides of said first extension
panel.
26. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 23 wherein said
second metal cover and said second extension panel are of a
quadrilateral perimeter, said second metal cover folded to affix to
at least part of the perimeter of all of the four sides of said
second extension panel.
27. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 20 wherein first
extension panel includes a base panel having perimeter walls
upstanding from the enclosure disposed side of said base panel,
said perimeter walls in said closed condition locating with said
second cover.
28. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 20 wherein first
extension panel includes a base panel having perimeter walls
upstanding from the enclosure disposed side of said base panel and
to the exterior to the enclosure side of at least part of said
perimeter walls, is affixed said first metal cover.
29. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 23 wherein second
extension panel includes a base panel having perimeter walls
upstanding from the enclosure disposed side of said base panel and
to the exterior to the enclosure side of at least part of said
perimeter walls, is affixed said second metal cover.
30. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 23 wherein second
extension panel includes a base panel having perimeter walls
upstanding from the enclosure disposed side of said base panel and
to the exterior to the enclosure side of at least part of said
perimeter walls, is affixed said second metal cover and wherein
first extension panel includes a base panel having perimeter walls
upstanding from the enclosure disposed side of said base panel and
to the exterior to the enclosure side of at least part of said
perimeter walls, is affixed said first metal cover and wherein in
said closed condition, the free edges of at least some of said
perimeter wall of said first extension panel and the free edge of
at least some of said perimeter wall of said second extension panel
abut each other.
31. A media storage disk box comprising: formed as a unitary
plastic body, a first base panel, a second base panel and a spine
panel intermediate of said first base panel and said second base
panel, wherein formed intermediate of said first base panel and
said spine panel is a first hinge defining a first axis of rotation
and between said second base panel and said spine panel is a second
hinge defining a second axis of rotation parallel to said first
axis of rotation, said hinges allowing movement of said first base
panel relative to said second base panel between i. a closed
condition to provide an enclosure within which a mounting region to
support a media storage disk is located ii. an open condition to
provide to allow access to said enclosure, said first base panel
and second base panel are of a complementary size to, in said
closed condition, provide perimeter to perimeter engagement of said
first and second base panels a first sheet metal cover is affixed
to and overlaying the first base panel to the non enclosure side of
said first base panel.
32. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 31 wherein a
second sheet metal cover is affixed to and overlaying the second
base panel to the non enclosure side of said second base panel.
33. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 31 wherein a third
sheet metal cover is affixed to and overlaying the hinge panel to
the non enclosure side of said hinge panel.
34. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 32 wherein said
first base panel presents to the enclosure side thereof said
mounting region.
35. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 32 wherein said
second base panel presents to the enclosure side thereof said
mounting region.
36. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 31 wherein said
first base panel includes a planar base panel from which and to the
enclosure side thereof is provided perimeter walls upstanding from
said planar base panel to, in said closed condition engage with the
second base panels and clipped about, and to the outwardly directed
surfaces of at least part of said perimeter walls of, said first
base panel are complementary upstanding perimeter walls.
37. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 31 wherein a. a
second sheet metal cover is affixed to and overlaying the second
base panel to the non enclosure side of said second base panel and
wherein b. said first base panel includes a planar base panel from
which and to the enclosure side thereof is provided perimeter walls
upstanding from said planar base panel and clipped about, and to
the outwardly directed surfaces of at least part of said perimeter
walls of, said first base panel are complementary upstanding
perimeter walls and wherein c. said second base panel includes a
planar base panel from which and to the enclosure side thereof is
provided perimeter walls upstanding from said planar base panel to
in said closed condition engage with the upstanding walls of said
first base panels and clipped about, and to the outwardly directed
surfaces of at least part of said perimeter walls of, said second
base panel are complementary upstanding perimeter walls of said
second sheet metal cover.
38. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 36 wherein said
complementary upstanding perimeter walls of said first sheet metal
panel are provided to at least part of diametrically opposed
perimeter regions of said first sheet metal panel.
39. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 37 wherein said
complementary upstanding perimeter walls of said first sheet metal
panel are provided to at least part of diametrically opposed
perimeter regions of said first sheet metal panel and wherein said
complementary upstanding perimeter walls of said second sheet metal
panel are provided to at least part of diametrically opposed
perimeter regions of said second sheet metal panel.
40. A media storage disk box as claimed in claim 31 wherein said
first base panel is quadrilateral in plan shape and said second
base panel is quadrilateral in plan shape said hinge panel being
provided intermediate of complementary perimeter edges of said
first and second base panels, and wherein said hinge panel is of a
length shorter than said complementary perimeter edges of said
first and second base panels.
41. A media storage disk box comprising: formed as a unitary
plastic body, a first base panel, a second base panel and a hinge
formed intermediate of said first base panel and said second base
panel, said hinge allowing movement of said first base panel
relative to said second base panel between i. a closed condition to
provide an enclosure within which a mounting region to support a
media storage disk is located ii. an open condition to provide to
allow access to said enclosure, said first base panel and second
base panel are of a complementary size to, in said closed
condition, provide perimeter to perimeter engagement of said first
and second base panels a first sheet metal cover is affixed to and
overlaying the first base panel to the non enclosure side of said
first base panel.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a media storage disk box
such as for example those commonly used in the storage of CD Roms,
DVDs, music CDs or similar.
BACKGROUND
[0002] A box or case to retain a CD or DVD are the common form by
which such goods are normally sold. A box has the ability to carry
product information and advertising whilst simultaneously providing
protection to the disk. In a normal form of such a box the box
consists of a base panel and a cover panel which are movable
relative to each other. The configuration is of a kind to provide a
wallet like enclosure within which a disk can be stored. Such a box
or case will also normally include a mounting region with which a
disk can be mounted. The movement of the base and cover panels can
be such as to provide an enclosure to securely locate the disk
within the enclosure yet allow for the cover to move relative to
the base and allow for access to be gained to the enclosure to
allow for the removal of the disk from the box. In the most common
form the box itself does not present the product branding,
advertising and product information. Normally a paper sleeve is
engaged with the box, the paper sleeve providing such indicia.
Accordingly the boxes which are manufactured to carry the disks are
normally of a generic kind and the boxes are customised by the
engagement of a paper sleeve carrying the graphics and indicia
corresponding to the disk which is to be retained within the box.
Besides appropriate selection of the indicia or graphics provided
by a paper sleeve, no real significant other ways of distinguishing
the box from other boxes is able to be achieved. The paper sleeve
is normally that portion which is the most obvious means of drawing
attention to the box but beyond the selection of colours and
graphic styles, no other differentiating features are conveniently
incorporated with known boxes. In a consumer market to which DVDs
and CDs are directed, it is important to allow for distinguishing
features to be provided by the box to attract a consumer and
encourage them to purchase that particular product. There has
accordingly been a need to provide different forms of visual appeal
for DVD or CD to be boxed for such purposes.
[0003] Accordingly the present invention is directed to a media
storage disk box which provides a different visual appeal visible
from exterior of the box to those boxes as hereinbefore described
or to at least provide the public with a useful choice
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Accordingly it is an object of the present invention to
provide a media storage disk box comprising:
[0005] a first metal cover pivotally engaged to a second metal
cover to be movable between
[0006] i. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which a
mounting region to support a media storage disk is located
[0007] ii. an open condition to provide access to said enclosure,
and
[0008] a hinge of a plastic material affixed to said first metal
cover and to said second metal cover, said hinge including at least
one flexible region defining an axis of rotation for pivotal
movement of said first metal cover with said second metal cover
between said open and closed condition
[0009] an extension panel integrally formed with said hinge, said
extension panel affixed to said first metal cover and disposed to
the enclosure side thereof, said extension panel including and
presented to the enclosure side thereof a means to releasably affix
a media storage disk.
[0010] Preferably said hinge has disposed therefrom extension
panels from each side to the axis of rotation, each extension panel
being affixed to a respective first and second metal covers.
[0011] Preferably said hinge includes a spine intermediate of said
first metal cover and said second metal cover, said spine providing
two flexible regions each defining an axis of rotation extending
parallel with the spine.
[0012] Preferably said hinge includes a spine intermediate of said
first metal cover and said second metal cover, said spine providing
two flexible regions each defining an axis of rotation extending
parallel with the spine wherein said extension panel is disposed
from said spine extending from one of said axis of rotation.
[0013] Preferably said hinge includes a spine intermediate of said
first metal cover and said second metal cover, said spine providing
two flexible regions each defining an axis of rotation extending
parallel with the spine wherein two extension panels are disposed
from said spine, each extending from a respective said axis of
rotation.
[0014] Preferably said extension panel is affixed to said first
metal cover in an interlocking relationship defined by a folded
region of said first metal cover.
[0015] Preferably each said extension panel is affixed with a
respective metal cover by an interlocking relationship defined by a
folded region of said respective metal cover.
[0016] Preferably said extension panel is substantially
co-extensive with said first metal cover.
[0017] Preferably both said extension panels are substantially
co-extensive with its respective metal cover.
[0018] Preferably said extension panel is substantially
co-extensive with said first metal cover, wherein said means to
releasably affix includes a rosette to locate at a central aperture
of said media storage disk.
[0019] Preferably both said extension panels are substantially
co-extensive with its respective metal cover and each present at
their distal most from said hinge edge, means to mutually interlock
to allow said box to be releasably retained in said closed
condition.
[0020] Preferably said extension panel includes perimeter wall
upstands projecting from a base to the enclosure disposed side of
said base and at perimeter sides of said extension panel save for
where said extension panel is connected to said hinge.
[0021] Preferably said first metal cover includes perimeter flanges
projecting from at least part of the perimeter of said first metal
cover and locating with the outward to said enclosure facing
perimeter walls of said extension panel.
[0022] Preferably each said extension panels include perimeter wall
upstands projecting from a base to the enclosure disposed side of
said base and at perimeter sides of said extension panel save for
where said extension panel is connected to said hinge.
[0023] Preferably said second metal cover includes perimeter
flanges projecting from at least part of the perimeter of said
second metal cover and locating with the outward to said enclosure
facing perimeter walls of said second mentioned extension
panel.
[0024] Preferably said spine has affixed to be disposed from a non
enclosure disposed side thereof a metal spine panel.
[0025] Preferably said metal spine panel is substantially
coextensive with said spine.
[0026] Preferably said metal panel is clipped to said spine at the
longitudinally disposed ends of said spine.
[0027] In a second aspect the present invention consists in a media
storage disk box comprising:
[0028] a first metal cover pivotally engaged to a second cover to
be movable between
[0029] a. an open condition to provide access to a media storage
disk mounting region disposed from one of said first metal cover
and second cover, and
[0030] b. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which
said mounting region is located
[0031] a hinge of a plastic material affixed to said first metal
cover and to said second cover, said hinge defining an axis of
rotation for pivotal movement of said first metal cover with said
second cover.
[0032] In a further aspect the present invention consists in a
media storage disk box comprising:
[0033] a first metal cover pivotally engaged by a hinge to a second
cover to be movable between
[0034] i. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which a
mounting region to support a media storage disk is located, and
[0035] ii. an open condition to provide access to said
enclosure,
[0036] said hinge forming part of a unitary moulded plastic base
structure which includes a first extension panel affixed to the
enclosure side of said first metal cover, said hinge defining at
least one axis of rotation for pivotal movement of said first metal
cover with said second cover and wherein said extension panel is
disposed to one of said at least one axis of rotation
[0037] said first said extension panel being substantially
coextensive with said first metal cover.
[0038] Preferably said second cover is part of said unitary moulded
plastic base structure.
[0039] Preferably said second cover defines to the enclosure side
thereof said mounting region including a rosette to realisably
affix to the central aperture of a said disk.
[0040] Preferably said second cover is a second metal cover and
wherein a second extension panel formed part of said unitary
moulded plastic base structure, is disposed from the other side of
said hinge and affixed to the enclosure side of said second metal
cover.
[0041] Preferably said second extension panel defines to the
enclosure side thereof said mounting region including a rosette to
releasably affix to the central aperture of a said disk.
[0042] Preferably said first metal cover and said extension panel
are of a quadrilateral perimeter, said first metal cover folded to
affix to at least part of the perimeter of all of the four sides of
said first extension panel.
[0043] Preferably said second metal cover and said second extension
panel are of a quadrilateral perimeter, said second metal cover
folded to affix to at least part of the perimeter of all of the
four sides of said second extension panel.
[0044] Preferably said first extension panel includes a base panel
having perimeter walls upstanding from the enclosure disposed side
of said base panel, said perimeter walls in said closed condition
locating with said second cover.
[0045] Preferably said first extension panel includes a base panel
having perimeter walls upstanding from the enclosure disposed side
of said base panel and to the exterior to the enclosure side of at
least part of said perimeter walls, is affixed said first metal
cover.
[0046] Preferably said second extension panel includes a base panel
having perimeter walls upstanding from the enclosure disposed side
of said base panel and to the exterior to the enclosure side of at
least part of said perimeter walls, is affixed said second metal
cover.
[0047] Preferably said second extension panel includes a base panel
having perimeter walls upstanding from the enclosure disposed side
of said base panel and to the exterior to the enclosure side of at
least part of said perimeter walls, is affixed said second metal
cover and wherein first extension panel includes a base panel
having perimeter walls upstanding from the enclosure disposed side
of said base panel and to the exterior to the enclosure side of at
least part of said perimeter walls, is affixed said first metal
cover and wherein in said closed condition, the free edges of at
least some of said perimeter wall of said first extension panel and
the free edge of at least some of said perimeter wall of said
second extension panel abut each other.
[0048] In a further aspect the present invention consists in a
media storage disk box comprising:
[0049] formed as a unitary plastic body, a first base panel, a
second base panel and a spine panel intermediate of said first base
panel and said second base panel, wherein formed intermediate of
said first base panel and said spine panel is a first hinge
defining a first axis of rotation and between said second base
panel and said spine panel is a second hinge defining a second axis
of rotation parallel to said first axis of rotation, said hinges
allowing movement of said first base panel relative to said second
base panel between
[0050] i. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which a
mounting region to support a media storage disk is located
[0051] ii. an open condition to provide to allow access to said
enclosure,
[0052] said first base panel and second base panel are of a
complementary size to, in said closed condition, provide perimeter
to perimeter engagement of said first and second base panels
[0053] a first sheet metal cover is affixed to and overlaying the
first base panel to the non enclosure side of said first base
panel.
[0054] Preferably a second sheet metal cover is affixed to and
overlaying the second base panel to the non enclosure side of said
second base panel.
[0055] Preferably a third sheet metal cover is affixed to and
overlaying the hinge panel to the non enclosure side of said hinge
panel.
[0056] Preferably said first base panel presents to the enclosure
side thereof said mounting region.
[0057] Preferably said second base panel presents to the enclosure
side thereof said mounting region.
[0058] Preferably said first base panel includes a planar base
panel from which and to the enclosure side thereof is provided
perimeter walls upstanding from said planar base panel to, in said
closed condition engage with the second base panels and clipped
about, and to the outwardly directed surfaces of at least part of
said perimeter walls of, said first base panel are complementary
upstanding perimeter walls.
[0059] Preferably wherein,
[0060] a. a second sheet metal cover is affixed to and overlaying
the second base panel to the non enclosure side of said second base
panel and wherein
[0061] b. said first base panel includes a planar base panel from
which and to the enclosure side thereof is provided perimeter walls
upstanding from said planar base panel and clipped about, and to
the outwardly directed surfaces of at least part of said perimeter
walls of, said first base panel are complementary upstanding
perimeter walls and wherein
[0062] c. said second base panel includes a planar base panel from
which and to the enclosure side thereof is provided perimeter walls
upstanding from said planar base panel to in said closed condition
engage with the upstanding walls of said first base panels and
clipped about, and to the outwardly directed surfaces of at least
part of said perimeter walls of, said second base panel are
complementary upstanding perimeter walls of said second sheet metal
cover.
[0063] Preferably said complementary upstanding perimeter walls of
said first sheet metal panel are provided to at least part of
diametrically opposed perimeter regions of said first sheet metal
panel.
[0064] Preferably said complementary upstanding perimeter walls of
said first sheet metal panel are provided to at least part of
diametrically opposed perimeter regions of said first sheet metal
panel and wherein said complementary upstanding perimeter walls of
said second sheet metal panel are provided to at least part of
diametrically opposed perimeter regions of said second sheet metal
panel.
[0065] Preferably said first base panel is quadrilateral in plan
shape and said second base panel is quadrilateral in plan shape
said hinge panel being provided intermediate of complementary
perimeter edges of said first and second base panels, and wherein
said hinge panel is of a length shorter than said complementary
perimeter edges of said first and second base panels.
[0066] In a further aspect the present invention consists in a
media storage disk box comprising:
[0067] formed as a unitary plastic body, a first base panel, a
second base panel and a hinge formed intermediate of said first
base panel and said second base panel, said hinge allowing movement
of said first base panel relative to said second base panel
between
[0068] i. a closed condition to provide an enclosure within which a
mounting region to support a media storage disk is located
[0069] ii. an open condition to provide to allow access to said
enclosure,
[0070] said first base panel and second base panel are of a
complementary size to, in said closed condition, provide perimeter
to perimeter engagement of said first and second base panels
[0071] a first sheet metal cover is affixed to and overlaying the
first base panel to the non enclosure side of said first base
panel.
[0072] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the
parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the
specification of the application, individually or collectively, and
any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements
or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which
have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates,
such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if
individually set forth.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0073] A preferred form of the present invention will now be
described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0074] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a media storage disk box showing
the enclosure side of the two panels of the box,
[0075] FIG. 2A is a view of the same storage box as per FIG. 1 but
wherein the sheet metal tabs of the spine panel have been folded
over to be captured with the spine,
[0076] FIG. 2B is a side view of the box of FIG. 2A,
[0077] FIG. 3 is an end view of the box of FIG. 2A,
[0078] FIG. 4 is a sectional view through section AA of FIG.
2A,
[0079] FIG. 5 is a sectional view in direction BB of FIG. 2A,
[0080] FIG. 6 is a sectional view through section CC of FIG.
2A,
[0081] FIG. 7 is a sectional view through section DD of FIG.
2A,
[0082] FIG. 8 is a side view of the box of FIG. 1 but wherein the
box is in a closed condition,
[0083] FIG. 9 is a close up sectional view of the mounting region
of a panel of the box of FIG. 1,
[0084] FIG. 10 is an enlarged drawing of FIG. 2B,
[0085] FIG. 11 is an end view of the sheet metal cover for one of
the panels of the box,
[0086] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the panel of FIG. 11,
[0087] FIG. 13A is a sectional view of the other of the sheet metal
covers of the other panel of the box,
[0088] FIG. 13B is a plan view of one of the sheet metal
covers,
[0089] FIG. 14A is an end view of such panel,
[0090] FIG. 14B is a plan view of the other of the sheet metal
covers,
[0091] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the sheet metal spine cover,
[0092] FIG. 16 is an end view of FIG. 13B,
[0093] FIG. 17 is an end view of FIG. 14B,
[0094] FIG. 18 is a side view of FIG. 15,
[0095] FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of FIG. 15,
[0096] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of region H of FIG. 13B,
[0097] FIG. 21 is a close up view of region B of FIG. 11,
[0098] FIG. 22 is a close up view of region C of FIG. 11,
[0099] FIG. 23 is a close up view of region D of FIG. 12, and
[0100] FIG. 24 is a close up view of region E of FIG. 12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0101] With reference to FIG. 1, the box may generally be defined
by a unitarily formed plastic body 1 which consists of first panel
2 and a second panel 3. The first and second panels are generally
planar panels however relief details are or can be provided
thereto. The first and second panels are preferably of a
complimentary size and shape such that when they are in an
overlapping condition (a box closed condition) the perimeter of the
first and second panels are commensurate with each other. The first
and second panels are connected to each other via a hinge 4. The
hinge 4 is for example a hinge panel which (being integrally formed
with the first and second panels 2, 3) is positioned intermediate
of the first and second panels 2, 3. The hinge 4 may define axes of
rotation XX and YY which allows for each of the first and second
panels 2, 3 to move relative to the hinge panel 4 and relative to
each other. In the most preferred form and with reference to FIG.
1, the unitary plastic body 1 provides the two hinges intermediate
of the hinge panel 4 and a respective first and second panel 2, 3.
The axes of rotation XX and YY are provided as a consequence of a
change in the wall thickness of the unitary plastic body 1. Such a
change in the wall thickness where the thickness is reduced,
provides a region about which the components of the unitary plastic
body can rotate relative to each other. In an alternative form of
the present invention it may be that the hinge 4 defines merely one
axis of rotation being an axis of rotation to allow for mutual
rotation of the first and second panels 2, 3 relative to each
other. The hinge itself may in such a configuration form part of
the first and second panels of the unitary plastic body 1. However
in the most preferred form the hinge 4 is a separate panel to the
first and second panels 2, 3 and as such provides a spine or at
least part of a spine to the box. The first and second panels 2, 3
are each independently movable relative to the spine provided by
the hinge according to the configuration of FIG. 1.
[0102] In the most preferred form the first and second panels are
in plan shape of a quadrilateral perimeter. As can be seen in FIG.
1 the box is in a substantial part defined by the first and second
panels which are of a rectangular perimeter shape. The spine is
provided intermediate of the first and second panels juxtaposed to
two major sides of the rectangular form of each of the panels 2, 3.
However in an alternative condition the spine may be provided along
two of the minor sides of the rectangular perimeter form of each of
the panels 2, 3. The relationship of the two panels 2, 3 is such
that by rotation about the pivot axis or axes XX, YY, the perimeter
regions of each of the two panels 2, 3 become engaged with each
other to define within the perimeter and within the major surfaces
of the panels 2, 3 and enclosure. With reference to FIG. 8, the box
is shown in a closed condition.
[0103] The first panel 2 has provided on the enclosure facing side
thereof a disk mounting region 7. The disk mounting region 7 may
include disk peripheral relief 8 and also include a mounting means
9 which is for example a rosette style mounting to engage with the
central aperture of a disk in a manner to be releasable therefrom.
The enclosure side of the second panel 3 may include relief details
such as clips 10 which may be provided for the purposes of
releasably affixing to the enclosure side surface of the second
panel, an information booklet.
[0104] Provided to at least one of the first and second panels 2, 3
and to the side thereof (opposite to the enclosure facing side), is
a sheet metal cover 12. The sheet metal cover 12 is preferably
co-extensive with the non enclosure facing side of the plastic
panel. The sheet metal cover as for example shown in FIG. 14B is
also of a rectangular form and is affixed to one of the plastic
panels 2 or 3. In the most preferred form both plastic panels 2, 3
have engaged to the non enclosure facing side thereof such as sheet
metal cover. The sheet metal cover is affixed with the plastic
panel in a manner to be permanently retained therewith. In the most
preferred form the sheet metal cover also locates over at least a
substantial part of the perimeter of each of the panels 2, 3. The
sheet metal cover is preferably substantially planar as far as its
location adjacent the major surface of the plastic panel 2 or 3,
but includes perimeter upstanding wall sections 13 which locate
about corresponding upstanding walls 15 of the perimeter of the
plastic panel 2, 3. As such, the perimeter upstanding wall sections
13 of the sheet metal covers enclose about a substantial part of
the exterior to the enclosure directed surfaces of each of the
plastic panels 2, 3. Upstanding walls 15 are however preferably not
provided by the plastic panels 2, 3 at the region where the plastic
panels are juxtaposed with the spine or hinge 4. As a consequence
and likewise, no upstanding perimeter wall sections 13 of the sheet
metal panels are provided in regions corresponding to such
juxtaposed to the spine regions of the plastic panels. It is indeed
as a consequence of the upstanding wall sections 13 of the sheet
metal panels by which the sheet metal panels become engaged and
affixed to a respective plastic panel 2, 3. With reference to FIG.
14B the upstanding peripheral wall upstands 13 of a sheet metal
panel extend at least in part about the perimeter of the sheet
metal panel at each of the four sides thereof. As can be seen in
FIG. 14B such peripheral upstanding wall sections 13 are not
provided to the sheet metal panel at region 18 being the region
corresponding to where the sheet metal cover is provided adjacent
the spine 4. However short sections at the end of each of the ends
of that edge at where the spine is provided (e.g. the ends 19) such
upstanding wall sections are provided. As can be seen in FIG. 2,
the spine 4 is not of a length equal to the major side length of
the rectangular shaped plastic panels 2, 3. Indeed the spine 4 is
of a length shorter than the major sides of the panel such as to
allow for the end regions 19 of such a major side to be free from
engagement with the spine 4.
[0105] Each of the sheet metal covers at its upstanding peripheral
wall includes a flange downturn 20. The flange downturn is an
extension from the upstanding peripheral wall 13 which is directed
both inwardly and downwardly back towards the major panel of the
metal cover 12. As a result a radiused surface 21 is presented
defining the distal edge of the upstanding wall 13. Such a downturn
is provided for both providing a safe and non-dangerous finish to
the sheet metal panel but also to provide a clipping feature to
allow for the sheet metal cover to clip with a respective plastic
panel. With reference to FIG. 10, corresponding clipping relief 22
is provided to the exterior side of the upstanding wall 15 of the
panel 2. Such clipping relief 22 presents a surface with which the
downturn 20 can engage. In a most preferred form a plurality of
such clipping relief features 22 are provided about the perimeter
of the upstanding wall 15 of the panel 2 and also for example from
the panel 3. Adhesive may in addition or alternatively be used.
[0106] As can be seen with reference to FIG. 10, such clipping
relief 22 is provided below the free edge 26 of the upstanding
walls 15 of the panel 2. With reference to FIG. 8, the
complimentary free edges 26 and 27 of the first and second panels
2, 3 are capable of engaging with each other when the box is in the
closed condition. Accordingly there is no contact that occurs
between the sheet metal covers of the first and second panels when
the box is in the closed condition and it is the free edges of the
upstanding walls 15 of the plastic panels 2, 3 which engage with
each other. Provided to the plastic covers may be detailing 28 and
29 provided for the purposes of allowing for the box in the closed
condition to be locked in the closed condition. The closure
features 28 and 29 are preferably locking components which interact
with each other to hold the box in the closed condition yet allow
for the box to be opened when desired. A tongue and groove-like
arrangement for the closure features 28 and 29 as for example shown
in FIG. 5 may be utilised. A handled or handle region 30 and 31 may
be provided to each of the first and second plastic panels 2, 3.
Such a handle region 30, 31 is preferably provided to allow for the
box to be grasped by a person and to allow for the first and second
panels to be moved from the closed condition to the locked
condition. The handled region may provide surface indents within
which fingers can be positioned to allow for the box to be
opened.
[0107] In the configuration of the box where a separate spine panel
4 is provided a sheet metal spine cover 35 may be located. With
reference to FIG. 15 such a sheet metal spine cover 35 is
preferably of a length to cover the entire length of the spine
panel 4. It is preferably also of a width covering a substantial
portion of the spine panel. The sheet metal spine cover 35 is
engaged with the spine 4 to the non enclosure facing side thereof.
Clipping tabs 36 are provided at each end of the sheet metal spine
cover 35 and such tabs can be folded to locate the sheet metal
spine cover to the spine 4. With reference to FIG. 1, the tabs 36
are shown in an unfolded state. The enclosure facing side of the
spine may include regions 38 which provide relief into which the
tab 36 can be folded. Such relief may be a surface indent to the
interior facing surface of the spine such that when the tab is
folded over, it is located within the rebate or receptacle region
defined on the interior surface of the spine 4. The tab 36 do not
protrude out from such a receptacle region 38. As a consequence of
such, the possibility of a snagging or catching of the tab 36 with
a foreign body can be avoided.
[0108] The plastic panel may also include and presented beyond the
free edge 26 and/or 27 of at least the first panel 2 and possibly
also the second panel 3, upstands 40. The upstands 40 are provided
to locate to the interior side of the upstanding wall 15 of the
other panel and to locate against the inwardly directed surface of
such upstanding wall 15 of the other panel to thereby provide
resistance to the sliding movement of the two panels relative to
each other. Whilst resistance to such sliding movement is provided
as a result of the integral formation of the two panels
incorporating the hinge, because the plastic material is of a
flexible nature the upstands 40 (in a direction parallel to the
substantially planar configuration of the box in its closed
condition) will resist the sliding movement. In a preferred form of
the invention it is only one of the panels 2, 3 which provide such
upstands and these may be provided in a form where there are a
plurality of such upstands provided about the perimeter of the
first or second panels 2, 3 or may alternatively be a continuous or
semi-continuous edge or lip presented from the free edge 26 of the
panel 2 or the free edge 27 of the panel 3.
[0109] The metal covers are made form a metal which can provide
high gloss characteristics. The metal covers may be printed with a
printing ink to provide graphics and product information to the
exterior side of the box. The fact that such printing inks are
provided to the exterior of the metal covers can allow for the high
gloss character to be taken advantage of. A metallic finish can be
obtained. Furthermore, the sheet metal may, during its forming
procedure, have provided regions of embossing to the major panel
regions thereof. The embossing can provide further enhancement
especially where such is provided to define an outline enhancement
to graphics subsequently printed there on.
* * * * *