U.S. patent application number 11/078756 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-22 for expandable file system for paper sheets.
Invention is credited to Frankeny, Richard F..
Application Number | 20050205449 11/078756 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34985055 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050205449 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Frankeny, Richard F. |
September 22, 2005 |
Expandable file system for paper sheets
Abstract
A file system for paper sheets is formed using separable (or
separable and expandable) linked according pockets. The file system
has two sets of bilateral pockets. The file system is substantially
rectangular in cross section but is configured to match the
characteristics of the paper sheets for which it is intended. The
file system is adaptable as a stand-alone unit with stiffened end
pieces such that its pockets can be linearly separated (or
separated and expanded) for access to the pockets. The file system
is adaptable to fit into a desk drawer or to have lockable side
pieces for holding the file linearly open or fanned open. The file
system is adaptable to use hanging members such that the file may
be optionally used as a group of hanging files.
Inventors: |
Frankeny, Richard F.; (Cedar
Park, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Richard F. Frankeny
Winstead Sechrest & Minick P.C.
P.O. Box 50784
Dallas
TX
75201
US
|
Family ID: |
34985055 |
Appl. No.: |
11/078756 |
Filed: |
March 11, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60554322 |
Mar 18, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
206/425 ;
206/214; 206/232; 206/308.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B42F 7/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/425 ;
206/214; 206/232; 206/308.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 085/57 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A file system for planar media comprising: a plurality of
accordion pockets disposed between a first pocket with an exposed
first planar surface and an end pocket with an exposed second
planar surface, wherein the plurality of accordion pockets have a
first and second set of pockets with first and second laterally
opposing pocket openings, respectively; a first planar stiffener
coupled to the first planar surface and having a top edge adjacent
to the first pocket openings, a bottom edge adjacent to the second
pocket openings and first and second side edges substantially
orthogonal to the top and bottom edges of the first planar
stiffener; and a second planar stiffener coupled to the second
planar surface and having a top edge adjacent to the first pocket
openings, a bottom edge adjacent to the second pocket openings and
first and second side edges substantially orthogonal to the top and
bottom edges of the second planar stiffener, wherein laterally
translating the first and second planar stiffeners apart likewise
laterally separates the plurality of accordion pockets exposing the
first pocket openings for storing planar media or accessing stored
planar media.
2. The file system of claim 1, wherein the first and second planar
stiffeners are configured to remain separated when laterally
translated apart to separate the plurality of accordion pocket with
the first and second pocket openings.
3. The file system of claim 2, wherein laterally translating the
second planar stiffener apart a set spacing from the first planar
stiffener causes the plurality of accordion pockets to laterally
separate and rotating the second planar stiffener, when translated,
from a vertical position towards a horizontal position causes a
portion of the plurality of accordion pockets to rotate such that a
portion of the first pocket openings additionally separate and a
portion of the second pocket openings laterally opposed to the
first pocket openings rotate together.
4. The file system of claim 1 further comprising two or more
hanging elements, each hanging element inserted under a common
folded edge of two adjacent pockets of the plurality of accordion
pockets with like opening orientation, wherein coupling the two or
more hanging elements over spaced apart parallel rails holds all of
the pockets of the file system suspended from the parallel rails
and allows the accordion pockets to be separated for access by
sliding the hanging elements along the parallel rails.
5. The file system of claim 4, wherein the two or more hanging
elements are coupled to spaced apart parallel rails installed in a
desk drawer, the desk drawer having a front side adapted to couple
to the first stiffener and the second stiffener is adapted to be
moveably positioned a lateral set spacing from the first stiffener
to expose the first pocket openings for access.
6. The file system of claim 5, wherein the second stiffener is
adapted to couple to the back of the desk drawer to separate the
first pockets of the plurality of accordion pockets at a
predetermined spacing.
7. The file system of claim 1, wherein the first and second
stiffeners are adapted with handle features for grasping the first
and second stiffeners to pick up the plurality of accordion pockets
while keeping the first and second pocket openings compressed
together and closed.
8. The file system of claim 1 further comprising: a locking member
moveably coupled to a first feature on the first side of the first
planar stiffener; and a second feature on first side of the second
planar stiffener for engaging the locking member and holding the
first planar stiffener a lateral set spacing from the second planar
stiffener when the plurality of accordion pockets are laterally
separated.
9. The file system of claim 8, wherein the first feature on the
first side of the first planar stiffener is a first capped pin
disposed substantially at a center position of the first side
between the top and bottom edge of the first stiffener and the
locking member is coupled to the first side of the first planar
stiffener by fitting the first capped pin into a slot running a
length of the locking member such that the locking member rotates
about the first capped pin and translates by sliding the slot over
the first capped pin.
10. The file system of claim 9, wherein the second feature on the
first side of the second planar stiffener is second capped pin that
is coupled to the locking member by a first notch opening at an end
of the locking member.
11. The file system of claim 10, wherein the first planar stiffener
comprises a third capped pin disposed near the top edge of the
first planar stiffener and the locking member is stored when not
used by coupling the locking member to the third capped pin with a
second notch opening laterally opposed to the first notch
opening.
12. The file system of claim 10, wherein the second planar
stiffener is rotated about the second capped pin when the second
capped pin is coupled to the locking member thereby causing a
portion of the first pocket openings of the first pockets to rotate
open and the locking member to form an angle relative to the first
planar stiffener holding the first pocket in a rotated open
position.
13. The file system of claim 4, wherein the two or more hanging
elements are coupled to spaced apart parallel rails installed in an
adjustable file space in a desk drawer with a front side of the
adjustable file space adapted to couple to the first stiffener and
a moveable partition adapted to couple to the second stiffener,
wherein the moveable partition is translated to increase the file
space thereby separating the plurality of accordion pockets
accordingly exposing the first pocket openings for access.
14. The file system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of accordion
pockets laterally separate and expand when the second planar
stiffener is laterally translated from the first planar
stiffener.
15. The file system of claim 4, further comprising a strap element
extending from a first top edge of the first accordion pocket with
one of the first pocket openings across the second pocket openings
to a second top edge of the last accordion pocket with one of the
first pocket openings, a first end of the strap element threaded
through a first guide loop at the first top edge thereby forming a
first handle loop and a second end of the strap element threaded
through a second guide loop at the second top edge thereby forming
a second handle loop, wherein the first end is coupled back onto
the strap element with a first sliding element and the second end
is coupled back onto the strap element with a second sliding
element.
16. The file system of claim 15, wherein the first and second
sliding elements translate to the first and second top edges
respectively when the first and second stiffeners are moved
laterally apart to separate the first and second accordion
pockets.
17. The file system of claim 16, wherein excess length of the strap
element resulting when the first and second stiffeners are moved
laterally together compressing the first and second accordion
pockets is transferred to the first and second handle loops and the
first and second sliding elements are moved towards the bottom
edges of the first accordion pockets to further take up any of the
excess length of the strap not forming the first and second loop
handles.
18. The file system of claim 8 further comprising: a second locking
member moveably coupled to a first feature on the second side of
the first planar stiffener; and a second feature on the second side
of the second planar stiffener for engaging the second locking
member and holding the first planar stiffener a lateral set spacing
from the second planar stiffener when the plurality of accordion
pockets are laterally separated.
19. A file system for planar media comprising: a container having a
bottom, a back side, first and second sides, a top lid, and a front
side adapted to couple to the top lid and to hingedly coupled to
the bottom side forming a hinged edge such that the front side
pivots and rotates away from the first and second sides when the
front side is decoupled from the top lid; and a plurality of
accordion pockets having first and second pockets with respective
laterally opposing first and second pocket openings, the accordion
pockets disposed between a first pocket with an exposed first
planar surface and an end pocket with an exposed second planar
surface, wherein the first planar surface of the first pocket is
coupled to the back side of the box and the second planar surface
of the end pocket is coupled to the front side of the box laterally
separating the first and second pocket openings.
20. The file system of claim 18, wherein a portion of the first
pockets are rotated when the front side is decoupled from the top
lid and rotated about the hinged edge thereby additionally
separating the first pocket openings of a portion of the first
pockets and closing the second pocket openings of a portion of the
second pockets laterally opposed to the portion of the first
pockets.
21. The file system of claim 18, wherein the top lid is hingedly
coupled to the back side forming a hinged edge and has a lip that
extends over an edge of the front side for coupling to the front
side when the front side is rotated closed and in contact with the
first and second sides.
22. A file system for planar media comprising: a container having a
bottom side, a back side, first and second sides couple to and
orthogonal to the bottom side, a top lid hingedly coupled to the
back side, and a front side adapted to couple to the top lid and to
hingedly and detachably coupled to the bottom side with a hinge
element such that the front side pivots on the hinge element and
rotates away from the first and second sides when the front side is
decoupled from the top lid and the front side is laterally moveable
from the top lid, the first and second sides, and the bottom when
decoupled from the top lid and detached from the bottom; and a
plurality of accordion pockets having a first and second pockets
with respective laterally opposing first and second pocket
openings, the accordion pockets disposed between a first pocket
with an exposed first planar surface and an end pocket with an
exposed second planar surface, wherein the first planar surface of
the first pocket is coupled to the back side of the container and
the second planar surface of the end pocket is coupled to the front
side of the container laterally separating the first and second
pocket openings providing storage room in each of the accordion
pockets.
23. The file system of claim 22, wherein one set of the laterally
opposing accordion pocket openings are accessible for storing or
retrieving paper planar media by decoupling the top lid from the
front side and rotating the top lid about the hinge edge.
24. The file system of claim 22, wherein the accordion pockets are
further separated by decoupling the top lid from the front side,
detaching the front side from the hinge element of the bottom side
and laterally translating the front side away from the top side,
the first and second sides.
25. The file system of claim 22, wherein the front side pivots and
rotates about the hinge element when decoupled from the top side
further separating in an arc a portion of one set of the accordion
pocket openings disposed towards the front side.
Description
PRIORITY BENEFIT AND CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to the following commonly owned
copending U.S. Patent Application:
[0002] Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/554,322, entitled
"Expandable File System for Paper Sheets", filed Mar. 18, 2004, and
claims the benefit of its earlier filing date under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e).
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present invention relates in general to systems for
storing, retrieving, and transporting sheets of paper or paper like
material.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0004] Expandable files are used to store and retrieve paper sheets
and may be found in a variety of size configurations. Prior art
paper files are constructed with a bellows or according like folded
piece covering both sides and the bottom of the file. This
configuration allows the files to have limited expansion capability
wherein the opening to the divided sections expand while the bottom
section compresses. Because the side pieces are made separate from
the divider pieces, these files are difficult to manufacture and do
not lend themselves to variable configurations within one
design.
[0005] There is, therefore, a need for an expandable file system
for storing, accessing, and transporting sheets of paper or paper
like material in pockets wherein the pockets are separated or
separated and expanded without requiring the bottom of the pockets
holding the paper sheets to compress. There is also a need for an
expandable file system that allows the pockets to be separated
linearly, fanned open radially, or a combination of both in the
same file structure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] An expandable file system for paper sheets is constructed
using a separable or a separable and expandable accordion pocket
structures. These accordion pocket structures allow pocket openings
for filing the paper sheets to be bilateral in that two sets of
opposing pockets results from the configuration. The same action
that allows for the bilateral accordion pocket openings allows the
pockets to expand linearly by pulling the ends of a group of
pockets in a direction perpendicular to the pocket planar sides
separating or separating and expanding the bilateral pockets
simultaneously. These bilateral accordion pocket structures also
allow one set of bilateral pockets to be fanned open while
compressing or closing the opposing set of bilateral pockets. In
another embodiment of the file system, some of the bilateral
linearly separated (or separated and expanded) accordion pockets
and the remaining pockets may be fanned open while compressing
closed their corresponding opposing pockets. Embodiments of the
file system may be used with locking side pieces to hold the
pockets linearly separated (or separated and expanded) in a stand
alone fashion for accessing paper sheets stored within. This
embodiment may then be closed and one or two end flaps secured over
the opening(s) to secure stored paper sheets for transport.
[0007] Other embodiments of the present invention use end pieces
configured to allow a files system to be inserted into a desk
drawer. In one embodiment, a group of linked bilateral accordion
pockets have cross members that allow the group of accordion
pockets to be hung on parallel rails like a Pendaflex.RTM. file. By
moving the end pieces with respect to each other, the bilateral
accordion pocket openings fan open for access. In this embodiment,
only one set of bilateral accordion pockets are used, the other
bilateral accordion pockets only facilitate the separation (or
separation and expansion) of the exposed pockets. In another
embodiment, the file system has bilateral accordion pockets with
two stiffened end pieces with features for attaching one of the end
pieces to the front of a desk drawer. The other end piece is
attached to a sliding panel that is coupled to the sides of the
drawer in such a way that the sliding panel is held upright while
sliding from a position near the front of the draw to a position
near the back of the drawer. In this manner, the file system may be
easily integrated within a desk drawer as a linked separable (or
separable and expandable) accordion pockets. If desired, the filing
system may be removed from the drawer as a unit for transport or
storage. A flap may be used to cover the accordion pocket openings
to secure stored paper sheets.
[0008] In another embodiment, where the accordion pocket assembly
of accordion is used in a file drawer, the accordion pocket
assembly has a strap element with first and second ends that extend
to and beyond the top edge of one stiffener side and the top edge
of the other stiffener side. The first and second ends are threaded
through guide pieces disposed at each of the top edges of the two
stiffener sides. The first and second ends are each coupled to a
sliding element that fits back over the strap element forming a
loop on each side that functions as a handle to lift the pocket
assembly out of the file drawer. The sliding element can be slid
towards the bottom of the stiffener to take up the slack while
holding the pocket assembly compressed. When the stiffeners are
moved apart, the accordion pockets of the pocket assembly are
expanded and separated as the sliding elements move towards the top
edges of the stiffeners providing the necessary excess strap.
[0009] In another embodiment, where the accordion pocket assembly
of accordion is used in a file drawer, the accordion pocket
assembly has strap element with first and second ends that extend
to and beyond the top edge of one stiffener side and the top edge
of the other stiffener side. The first and second ends are threaded
through guide pieces disposed at each of the top edges of the two
stiffener sides. The first and second ends are each coupled across
the pocket openings adjacent to the top edges of the stiffeners and
coupled to the opposing stiffeners forming a loop that functions as
a handle to lift the pocket assembly out of the file drawer. To
expand the accordion pocket assembly, the first and second ends are
decoupled from the corresponding opposing stiffeners forming excess
strap. When the stiffeners are moved apart, the accordion pockets
of the pocket assembly are expanded and separated as the excess
strap extends over the bottom of the accordion pocket assembly. The
first and second ends are configured so that the guides elements at
the top edges of the stiffeners catch the first and second ends of
the strap for top side access.
[0010] In yet another embodiment, a substantially rectangular
salesman type sample case is modified to make a portable expandable
filing system. In this embodiment, the at least one the sides of
the salesman type case (S-case) is configured to detach from the
base (bottom) of the salesman case. The other two or three sides
are rigid and attached to the base. An accordion pocket assemble
has an outside plane of a first pocket coupled to the detachable
side and an outside plane of a last pocket coupled to its directly
opposing side (fixed or also detachable). The top has a handle and
two latch elements for coupling to the two detachable sides. The
base also has a cylindrical bar element disposed to extend from the
edge of the base that couples to the detachable side(s). The
detachable side has a fork element for fitting over the cylindrical
bar element which keeps the detachable side from moving laterally
away from the base when engaged. The combination of the fork and
the cylindrical bar element functions as a hinge allowing the
detachable side to hinge open in an arc when the detachable side is
decoupled from the other elements of the S-case. The detachable
side has latch elements for coupling to the rigid sides with planes
orthogonal to the plane of the detachable side. Likewise the
detachable side has a latch element for coupling to the top. In
this manner, the top may be rotated open when the detachable side
is coupled to the two orthogonal plane rigid sides to access stored
planar media elements. The detachable side may be decoupled from
the top and the sides and lifted so the fork element disengages
from the cylindrical bar element. The detachable side may then be
moved laterally away from its opposing side like a drawer opening
separating the accordion pockets for access. One or two bar
elements, each rotatably coupled to the orthogonal sides, are
coupled to the detachable side to hold the accordion pockets
separated.
[0011] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and
technical advantages of the present invention in order that the
detailed description of the invention that follows may be better
understood. Additional features and advantages of the invention
will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims
of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,
and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following
descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a side view of a bilateral accordion pocket
structure suitable for embodiments of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a side view of a file system according to an
embodiment of the present invention wherein a side locking member
is used to hold the end pieces at a desired separation thereby
holding the accordion pockets open for access;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a side view of a file system according to an
embodiment of the present invention wherein some of the bilateral
accordion pockets are linearly expanded and some are fanned open
and the side locking member is used to hold the end pieces
separated;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a side view of a file system according to an
embodiment of the present invention wherein the bilateral accordion
pockets have end pieces for adapting to a desk drawer;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a side view of a file system according to an
embodiment of the present invention with the locking side member in
a stored position;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a side view of a file system according to an
embodiment of the present invention with stiffeners adapted to hold
the file system expanded using foot pieces;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the file system of FIG. 6;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a side view of a file system with hanging elements
inserted under the folder edge of one set of bilateral accordion
pockets for converting the file system to a hanging file;
[0021] FIG. 9 is an end view of the file system of FIG. 8 showing
the parallel rails and a hanging element;
[0022] FIG. 10 is another embodiment of the present invention with
bilateral accordion pockets dispose in a box with a pivoting side;
and
[0023] FIG. 11 is another embodiment of the present invention
bilateral accordion pockets disposed in a case to configure a
portable file drawer.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present
invention. However, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art
that the present invention may be practiced without such specific
details. In other instances, well-known mechanisms may be shown in
block diagram form in order not to obscure the present invention in
unnecessary detail. For the most part, details concerning
materials, processes and the like have been omitted inasmuch as
such details are not necessary to obtain a complete understanding
of the present invention and are within the skills of persons of
ordinary skill in the relevant art.
[0025] Refer now to the drawings wherein depicted elements are not
necessarily shown to scale and wherein like or similar elements are
designated by the same reference numeral through the several views.
For details of a separable and expandable accordion pocket
structure, see U.S. Pat. No. 6,419,082. Accordion pockets are
defined as a linked accordion pocket structure where the pocket
openings may be either separated or separated and expanded. One
class of accordion pockets form bi-lateral pockets when the pockets
are joined to provide linking. Embodiments of the present invention
may use the accordion pockets to provide either single pocket
openings for access and storage or opposing bi-lateral accordion
pockets openings for access and storage. In the following detailed
descriptions, the shortened terms "accordion pockets" or simply
"pockets" may be used interchangeably when referring to the class
of accordion pockets comprising separable or separable and
expandable bi-lateral accordion pockets used in embodiments of the
present invention. Accordion pockets are usually configured to
conform to the shape of the planar media, however, embodiments of
the present invention may store any shaped planar media in suitably
sized accordion pockets.
[0026] FIG. 1 is a side view of an accordion pocket structure
suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention. In this
illustration, accordion pocket assembly 100 is linearly expanded.
In this embodiment, pocket openings 102 and 104 enlarge to provide
access to a pocket (e.g., pocket 108 for a 102 opening). The
pockets of accordion pocket assembly 100 both expand and separate.
Separating a pocket is defined as pocket center lines (e.g., 105
and 110) moving away from each other. In FIG. 1, pocket openings
102 face upwards and would allow paper sheets to be placed in an
exemplary pocket 108 from the topside. Stiffeners 101 and 103 are
added so that the whole surface of the end pockets moves at one
time. If the material used to form accordion pocket assembly 100 is
stiff (e.g., manila folder material), stiffeners 101 and 103 may
not be necessary unless additional features are needed to attach
accordion pocket assembly 100 to another unit (not shown).
[0027] FIG. 2 is a side view of a file system 200 according to an
embodiment of the present invention wherein a side locking member
206 is used to hold the stiffener pieces 201 and 203 at a desired
separation thereby holding the pockets (e.g., 211) open for access
so that a paper sheet 220 may be stored. Locking member 206 has a
slot 209 that allows it to slide over pivot element 207 on
stiffener 201. Locking member 206 may be rotated on pivot element
207 into an upright position and then slid downward so that it may
be stored flush with the side of stiffener 201. Locking member 206
is shown dotted in a storage position. Notch 212 in locking member
206 fits over a pin 208 in stiffener 203. When file system 200 is
linearly expanded as shown, locking member slides and rotates over
pivot 207. When notch 212 is fitted over pin 208, file system 200
is held with its pockets separated for access. In this embodiment,
the accordion pockets (e.g., 211) expand allowing for easy access
to stored paper sheet media.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a side view of a file system 300 according to an
embodiment of the present invention wherein some of the bilateral
accordion pockets are linearly expanded and some are fanned open
and the side locking member is used to hold the end pieces
separated. File system 300 is similar to file system 200 and is
used to illustrate additional functionality of the present
invention. Stiffener 301 has pivot 307 which allows locking member
306 to slide and pivot on slot 309. The linked and separable (or
separable and expandable) accordion pockets (e.g., 311 and 312)
have pocket openings 302. Opposing bilateral accordion pockets
(e.g., 313 and 314) have pocket openings 304 and 305. Openings 305
are differentiated for openings 304 since they operate in a
different mode. Stiffener 303 may be linearly moved relative to
stiffener 301 separating the accordion pockets of file system 300
similar to the illustration of FIG. 2. Likewise, locking member 306
may be rotated and fitted over pin 308 to hold the pockets open. At
this point, stiffener 303 may be rotated from a vertical position
to a horizontal position as shown. Because locking member 306 is a
fixed length, some of the pockets (e.g., 311) will remain upright
and some of the pockets (e.g., 312) fan open. When the pockets fan
open, pocket openings 305 are compressed closed; however, pocket
openings 302b remain fully accessible for storing paper sheet
media. Since the accordion pockets of files system 300 are linked
together, the accordion pockets may be expanded and separated by
varying degrees by simply moving the folded edges (e.g., 315).
Locking member 306 may be returned to its stored position (see FIG.
2) and the file system compressed closed by moving stiffeners 301
and 303 toward each other. The file system will compress to a
thickness defined by the thickness of stiffeners 301 and 303, the
combined thickness of the pocket planar sides, and the thickness of
stored paper sheet media. To again access stored paper sheet media,
file system 300 is simply expanded into one of the configurations
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Openings 302a are differentiated for
openings 302b as they are primarily in the linear expanded portion
of file system 300.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a side view of a file system 400 according to an
embodiment of the present invention wherein the accordion pocket
unit 100 couples to a modified desk drawer 430 made to receive file
folders. Drawer 430 typically has a sliding panel 401 that defines
file holding space that may vary from zero to substantially the
whole drawer depth. Rails 404 are attached to both sides of drawer
430 and guide features 405 on sliding panel 401 allow it to move in
guide slot 406. A accordion pocket unit 100 is placed in drawer 430
and stiffener 101 is attached to drawer front 402 using element
407. Likewise, element 408 is used to attach stiffener 103 to
sliding panel 401. In this manner, sliding panel 401 expands and
compresses pocket openings 102 and 104 in accordion pocket unit 100
as it moves to define the file space in drawer 430. However, unlike
prior art file systems, accordion pocket unit 100 according to
embodiments of the present invention may be removed as a unit for
transport or to allow access according to the embodiment of FIG. 2
and FIG. 3.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a side view of a file system 500 according to an
embodiment of the present invention with the locking side member
506 in a stored position and a flap 506 for covering and securing
pocket openings in a accordion pocket unit 100. Pocket openings 102
in accordion pocket unit 100 are compressed closed in this
illustration. Stiffeners 502 and 503 define the ends of accordion
pocket unit 100 of file system 500. Stiffener 501 has optional
locking member 506 shown with pivot 507. Likewise, stiffener 503
has pin 508 for coupling to notch 504 in locking member 506.
Stiffener 501 also has an attachment feature 505 for coupling to a
mating attachment feature 508 on flap 502. Flap 502 would fold over
openings 102 and couple to attachment feature 505 to secure media
stored in the accordion pockets of accordion pocket unit 100 of
file system 500.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a side view of a file system 600 according to an
embodiment of the present invention. Exemplary bilateral accordion
pockets 611 and 612 are linked expandable and separable accordion
pockets with folded edges 620. Pocket 609 is linked with element
607. Pocket 608 has joined edge 610. Opposing pocket 613 has joined
edge 605. The accordion pockets have pocket openings 606 which are
expanded open for access. The linked accordion pockets (e.g., 611
and 612) have stiffeners 601 and 603 applied to the planar sides of
the end pockets. Stiffener 601 has foot pieces 602 (one on each
side, where one is hidden in this view) and stiffener 603 has foot
pieces 604. When file system 600 is expanded, the linking of the
accordion pockets provides a natural restoring force 606 that tries
to return the accordion pockets into a closed and compressed
position. If foot pieces 603 and 604 are designed to have
sufficient friction force to prevent the accordion pockets from
closing, then there is a moment that tries to rotate the stiffeners
601 and 603. By making foot piece 602 with a sufficient length 622
and foot piece 603 with a sufficient length 621, the rotational
moment caused by force 606 will be countered and file system 600
will remain open once expanded until sufficient force is applied to
close it again.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of file system 600. In this view
both of foot pieces 602 and 604 on stiffeners 601 and 603,
respectively, may be seen. Pocket bottoms 621 and folded edges 620
are also visible in this view. The accordion pockets fit inside of
foot pieces 602 and 604 so that file system 600 may be placed in
both configurations shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a side view of a file system 800 according to
embodiments of the present invention. Exemplary bilateral accordion
pockets 808 and 809 are shown. Pocket 808 has joined edge 810 and
pocket 809 has joined edge 805. Pocket 808 and 809 configured such
that they are linked with element 807. The linked bilateral pockets
in file system 800 have exemplary folded edges 820. The folded
edges of the opposing bilateral accordion pockets have a hanging
element 830 inserted such that file system 800 may be "hung" from
parallel rails much like a Pendaflex.RTM. file folder. However,
files system 800 allows multiple file pockets to be hung as a unit.
Stiffeners 801 and 803 likewise have hanging elements 830. Since
the accordion pockets of files system 800 are linked, separable
accordion pockets, the hanging elements 830 may be slid along the
parallel rails to open one or multiple pockets. File system 800 may
be compressed and removed as a unit. Stiffeners 801 and 803 may
have optional foot pieces 822 and 821. This would allow file system
800 to be place in the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3.
Additionally, stiffeners 801 and 803 may have an optional locking
member (not shown) like locking member (206) with corresponding
pivot 207 and 208. See FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0034] FIG. 9 is an end view of a file system 800 illustrating
parallel rails 900 and a hanging element 830. Stiffener 801 is the
only other part of file system 800 visible in this view.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a view of another embodiment of the present
invention. A box has a back side 1012, first and second sides 1004
and 1005, a bottom side 108, a front side 1006 and a top lid 1001.
The top lid 1001 has lip 1002 and a lip 1003. Lip 1003 is adapted
to fit over and hold front side 1006 when it is closed in contact
with first and second sides 1004 and 1005. A plurality of accordion
pockets 1013 are disposed in the box and the planar side of the
first pocket 1014 is coupled to the back side 1012 and the planar
side of the last pocket 1015 is coupled to the front side 1006. The
front side is hinged to the bottom 1008. When the front side 1008
is rotated closed and in contact with first and second sides 1004
and 1005, the first pocket openings directed up towards the top lid
(e.g., 1007) are separate evenly in accordion fashion to fill the
space between the back side and the closed front side. When the top
lid 1001 is rotated open on hinge 1009, front side 1006 is released
and rotates about hinge 1010 rotating first pocket openings 1007
additionally separating them for access. Since the accordion
pockets are attached only to the back side 1012 and the front side
1006, rotating the front side 1006 open translates all the pockets
and further separates all the pocket openings. Exemplary pocket
openings 1007 may separate more than the pockets that only
translate.
[0036] In another embodiment, both the front side 1006 and the back
side 1012 are hinged to the bottom side 1008. In this embodiment,
the top lid 1001 is hinged only to either first side 1004 or second
side 1005. Top lid 1001 is then configured with a lip 1003 which
couples to hold front side 1006 closed and a opposing lip (not
shown) that couples to hold back side 1012 closed. In this
embodiment, opening top lid 1001 frees both the back side 1012 and
the front side 1006 to rotate about their respective hinges. In
this manner, the accordion pockets 1013 rotate the pockets in an
arc and separating the first pocket openings and compressing the
second pocket openings (e.g., 1011).
[0037] FIG. 11 is a portable file drawer 1100 used with bi-lateral
accordion pockets according to embodiments of the present
invention. Base 1117 has rigid sides 1104 and 1105. Top 1106 may be
coupled to the back side 1120 with a permanent hinge element 1108
or back side 1120 may be detachable like detachable side 1102. Top
1106 has a handle 1107 and a latch element 1109 for coupling to
mating latch element 1113 on detachable side 1102. Bilateral
accordion pocket unit 1101 is disposed between the detachable side
1102 and the back side 1120 such that moving detachable side 1102
laterally from back side 1120 serves to separate the pockets in
accordion pocket unit 1101. Detachable side 1102 has mating latch
elements 1115 and 1116 that couple with a latch element (e.g.,
latch element 1110) to hold detachable side 1102 engaged to base
1117 and sides 1104 and 1105. Base 1117 has cylindrical bar element
1112 that couples with mating fork element 1114 to further hold
detachable side engaged with base 1117. Detachable side 1102 may
also rotate around cylindrical hinge element 1112 when mating latch
elements 1115 and 1116 are decoupled or disengaged thereby cause
the pocket openings in accordion pocket unit 1101 to fan open in an
arc. Top 1106 may rotate open around hinge element 1108 when latch
element 1113 and latch element 1109 are decoupled so that pockets
under top 1106 may be accessed. One or two optional bars (e.g., bar
1111) are rotatably attached to side 1104 (or side 1105) and may
then be coupled to the detachable side when open to hold the
accordion pocket unit 1101 fully separated. Cut away line 1121 is
used to remove from view the bottom portion of accordion pocket
unit 1101 so that pivot 1112 and base 1117 may be viewed. Dotted
line 1118 is used to illustrate the folded edge of an accordion
pocket under top 1106.
[0038] FIG. 12 is a view of a stiffener suitable for use with
accordion pocket units used in embodiments of the present invention
to make paper files that are disposed into a file drawer with or
without hanging elements. Accordion pockets in an accordion pocket
unit 1202 are linked together and it is desirable to have a way to
remove them from a drawer recess without having to grasp the bottom
of the accordion pocket unit. To solve this problem a strap, rope,
or string element 1206 with two ends (only end 1208 is shown) are
threaded through a guides (e.g., guide 1205) coupled to the top
edges (e.g., 1201 and 1221) of the stiffeners 1209 and 1211. The
strap element 1206 is looped back (1207) and coupled with a sliding
element 1203 to strap element 1206. When stiffeners 1209 and 1211
are moved laterally apart, the sliding element moves toward the top
edge 1201 and the excess strap of strap 1206 is free to extend
allowing the pockets of accordion pocket unit to separate. When the
paper file 1200 is lifted using loops 1212 and 1210, stiffeners
1209 and 1211 move laterally together until stopped by the
thickness of the pockets and any stored planar paper elements. The
excess of strap element 1206 is taken up by sliding the sliding
elements (e.g., 1203) toward the bottom of the stiffeners (e.g.,
1209).
[0039] In embodiments of the present invention, linked bilateral
separable and expandable accordion pockets are used as described in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,419,082. Since these pockets have folded edges and
since the retaining sides of the pockets do not have to be joined
all the way to the folded edges, an opening is available to place a
hanging element 830. Therefore, a file system 800 may have multiple
uses and the hanging members 830 may be added as an option.
[0040] The present invention and its advantages have been described
in detail, it should be understood that various changes,
substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims.
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