U.S. patent application number 10/808720 was filed with the patent office on 2005-10-13 for retention device for storage of documents and objects.
Invention is credited to Alonso, Jennifer, Alonso, Louis, Beck-Meloche, Julie, Meloche, Michael, Root, George L. JR., Ta, Kristin.
Application Number | 20050224432 10/808720 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35059472 |
Filed Date | 2005-10-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050224432 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Alonso, Louis ; et
al. |
October 13, 2005 |
Retention device for storage of documents and objects
Abstract
A spring-loaded compression device for retention of documents or
other objects within a storage container, or on a surface, such as
a shelf. One or more springs are disposed between two plates, which
can both serve as pushers to apply compressive force to adjacent
documents or objects. The device can be secured so the spring
mechanism remains in a fully compressed posture. When released, the
spring(s) can expand to any position up to as much as the length of
the storage area, to secure adjacent documents or objects in a
desired orientation within the storage unit. The spring(s) and
attached pusher plate can also be retracted to allow documents or
objects to be readily removed from, or placed into, the storage
unit. The device can be permanently installed in a storage unit,
made portable for use in different storage units, or adapted for
use as free-standing bookends.
Inventors: |
Alonso, Louis; (San Diego,
CA) ; Alonso, Jennifer; (San Diego, CA) ;
Beck-Meloche, Julie; (Alpine, CA) ; Meloche,
Michael; (Alpine, CA) ; Root, George L. JR.;
(Alpine, CA) ; Ta, Kristin; (San Diego,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FOLEY & LARDNER
P.O. BOX 80278
SAN DIEGO
CA
92138-0278
US
|
Family ID: |
35059472 |
Appl. No.: |
10/808720 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
211/59.3 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 65/10 20141201;
A47B 65/20 20141201; A47B 97/00 20130101; A47B 65/00 20130101; A47B
63/00 20130101; B42F 17/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/059.3 |
International
Class: |
A47F 001/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for retaining objects in alignment for storage
within or on a storage unit, the apparatus comprising (a) opposing
plates joined by means for biasing at least one of the plates into
contact with the objects to apply compressive force thereto,
wherein the means for biasing is adapted to maintain the biased
plate in substantially vertical alignment as it is moved into
contact with the objects; and (b) means for securing the means for
biasing in a fully compressed posture for storage when not in
use.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for
biasing consists of a single coil spring.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein at least 25% of the
surface area of the biased plate is within the diameter of the coil
spring.
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for
biasing consists of more than one coil spring.
5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the coil springs are
joined to the plates in an array so as each applies substantially
equal compressive force to the biased plate.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for
securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture
comprise a slidable bolt disposed through apertures on one or more
flanges extending outwardly from the opposing surfaces of the
plates.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for
securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture
comprise one or more clips for attachment to each of the
plates.
8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the means for
securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture
comprise a band disposable around the plates.
9. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the spring tension
on full compression is at a level between 5 and 30 psi.
10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the spring tension
of full compression is at a level between 10 and 20 psi.
11. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the spring tension
on full compression of each spring is at a level between 5 and 30
psi.
12. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the spring tension
of full compression of each spring is at a level between 10 and 20
psi.
13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is
a box having opposing end and side walls, and the plates are of a
width and length sufficient to engage at least 50% of the surface
area of the end walls.
14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is
a shelf having opposing end walls, and the plates are of a width
and length sufficient to engage at least 50% of the surface area of
the end walls.
15. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a
weighted base joined to one of the plates.
16. The apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising a
weighted base joined to the opposing plate.
17. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the storage unit
is a horizontal surface adjacent to a vertical surface, and the
biased plate applies compressive force to objects disposed between
it and the vertical surface.
18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is
adapted for permanent installation within or on the storage unit.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of
document management and storage systems.
[0002] Few objects are more ubiquitous in an office environment
than files, folders, boxes and other means for storing paper. In a
typical document management system, documents may be kept in file
folders, either loosely or clipped in stacks. The file folders in
turn may be kept in boxes, or on shelves. Bookends or hanging tabs
may be used to maintain the files in some degree of order, but they
are often instead simply stacked together, at the risk of slipping
out of alignment under adjacent files.
[0003] The problem is worse when papers are stored outside of a
relatively rigid file or folder. Unless the storage container is
filled from end to end with documents, it is inevitable that some
will slide out of vertical orientation to become stacked on top of
one another. Locating any individual document in the resulting pile
can be a difficult, frustrating exercise that produces crumpled or
torn paper.
[0004] Organizations which archive documents that must be
maintained in their original condition (such as the Library of
Congress) often need to store relatively small collections of
related documents. The cost of obtaining storage containers suited
to the size of each individual collection would be prohibitive,
even if such containers were available. Instead, devices such as
spacer boards of varying sizes are utilized to fill the space
within existing storage containers not occupied by the stored
documents. Although effective, such boards necessarily have to be
manufactured in different sizes to suit storage containers of
different dimensions.
[0005] Spacers are also used in shelving systems. Typically,
parallel bars are installed on a shelf and joined by a spacer
plate. The position of the spacer plate can be adjusted as the
volume of items stored on the shelf require; e.g., by sliding the
spacer plate and securing it in place by attachment to preset
positions along the parallel bars. The need for preset points of
attachment along the parallel bars necessarily limits the extent to
which the position of the spacer plate can be adjusted.
[0006] A need, therefore, exists for a storage system which
maintains documents and other objects in easily accessible
alignment or other orientation, while being fully adjustable to
accommodate collections of different sizes in storage containers of
larger dimensions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention provides a spring-loaded compression device
for retention of documents or other objects within a storage
container, or on a surface, such as a shelf.
[0008] In general, the device includes a mechanism consisting of a
spring-loaded pusher plate, which is adapted to fit within a
storage container, or on a surface, as in a shelving unit. The
pusher plate is attached to one or more springs that are extendable
up to the length of the storage area, and can be secured in a fully
compressed position.
[0009] When the spring(s) is released, the pusher plate moves into
contact with any adjacent document or object, applying compressive
force thereto to maintain the document or object in a desired
position. The position of the plate can be adjusted to a nearly
infinite extent within the overall extension range of the spring.
In general, at least 25% of the surface area of the pusher plate
will fall within the diameter of the spring coils, to prevent the
plate from angling out of vertical alignment when moved.
[0010] In one embodiment of the device, the device is adapted for
permanent or temporary placement within a storage container, such
as a box or crate, or on a shelf. In such embodiments, the
attachment means for the spring may be formed as an integral or
permanently attached part of the storage container or shelving
unit.
[0011] In another embodiment of the device, the device is
free-standing for portable use. For example, free-standing
embodiments of the device may be utilized as single or dual
bookends. Alternatively, the attachment means may be removably
joined to an end of the storage container or shelving unit, so the
device may be removed when the container is or shelf is full.
[0012] In dimensions and structure, the device of the invention can
be adapted to universal use with storage containers or shelving
units of different sizes and designs. The device therefore provides
a simple solution for storage of documents and objects in storage
units of larger size, and eliminates the need for custom
manufacture of boxes or other storage units for use with the device
of the invention, or vice versa.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is an expanded view of the device of the invention,
with a spring in a fully expanded posture, adapted for use with a
standard document storage box.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a side view of the device of FIG. 1, with a spring
component of the device shown in a compressed posture.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a front view of securing means used in the device
of the invention to maintain a spring in a fully compressed
posture.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a side view of the device of FIGS. 1-3, with
additional securing means applied in the form of a clip to maintain
the spring in a fully compressed posture.
[0017] FIG. 5 shows the device of FIGS. 1-3, disposed in a fully
compressed posture within a document storage box.
[0018] FIG. 6 shows the device of FIGS. 1-3, with the spring in a
partially compressed posture, in use to maintain documents in an
aligned position within the document storage box of FIG. 5.
[0019] FIG. 7 shows the device of the invention, with a spring in a
fully extended posture, adapted for use on a shelf of a shelving
unit, and in use to maintain files in an aligned position.
[0020] FIG. 8 shows the device of the invention, with a spring in a
fully extended posture, adapted for use on a desk as a bookend, and
in use to maintain files in an aligned position.
[0021] FIG. 9 shows the devices of the invention, with multiple
springs in fully extended postures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0022] FIG. 1 provides an exploded view of the device of the
invention, adapted for use within a standard document storage box.
The device consists of two opposing plates, 1 and 2. In this
embodiment, plate 1 serves as a pusher, to compress documents or
other objects in alignment within a storage container, while plate
2 serves as a support for spring 3. It will be understood, however,
that it is possible to use the device to place documents or other
objects at either end of it, whereby both plates 1 and 2 would
serve as pushers.
[0023] As shown, both the pusher plate 1 and support plate 2 are of
substantially equal dimensions, and are constructed of a
lightweight sheet metal. Those of ordinary skill in the art will
recognize that materials other than sheet metal can be used to
fabricate plates 1 and 2, so long as the material can withstand the
compressive force applied by spring 3 without warping or
cracking.
[0024] Spring 3 is shown in FIG. 1 in a fully extended posture. The
last coils on either end of spring 3 are securely attached to,
respectively, pusher plate 1 and support plate 2, by pins 4
extending through the plate wall and around the coil. As shown in
FIG. 2, hooking the coils to the plate in this fashion helps to
assure that the coils will not become dislodged as spring 3
compresses and expands. However, other means for attaching the
coils to the plates may be utilized, such as bolts or welds.
[0025] As shown, approximately a third of the surface area of
pusher plate 1 and support plate 2 is within the diameter of the
coils of spring 3. For ease of reference, a single spring is
referred to in this disclosure as being present in the device of
the invention. However, it will be appreciated that multiple
springs may be utilized in lieu of single spring 3, as illustrated
in FIG. 9.
[0026] Whether one or more springs are utilized, it is desirable
that they be adapted to ensure that the plates are maintained in a
substantially vertical alignment, instead of angling as they move
in response to the coiling or uncoiling of the spring mechanism(s).
To this end, at least 25% of the surface area of the plates is
within the diameter of the coils of a single spring, or the
collective coils of multiple springs.
[0027] Further, if multiple springs are present, it is desirable to
have them arrayed to apply substantially equal pressure to the
plates at opposing points on plates 1 and 2 (e.g., as shown in FIG.
9, to the two bottom corners and to the center of pusher plate 2).
To ensure that compressive force is applied appropriately to a
sufficient surface area of plate 2 to prevent it from angling
during motion, other kinds of biasing mechanisms, such as roller
springs, are less useful in the invention.
[0028] As compressive force is applied to objects in contact with
pusher plate 1 by uncoiling of spring 3, pressure is also placed on
the walls of a storage container or shelving unit in which the
device is placed. If the walls are at all flexible, they may become
distorted by bowing outward away from the source of pressure.
Further, the documents or objects in contact with pusher plate 1
may also crumple under spot pressure.
[0029] For these reasons, it is preferable that pusher plate 1 (and
support plate 2) have a length and width substantially equivalent
to (e.g., at least 50% of) the length and width of the storage
container, shelving unit and/or documents and objects with which
the device is to be used. The plates may be of any desired
geometry; e.g., square, circular or rectangular.
[0030] Spring 3 is made of a conventional metal composite. It will
be appreciated, however, that other materials may be utilized in
the spring, including decorative materials (for home and office use
in visible areas) and corrosion-resistant materials for use in
outdoor or inclement environments. A sheath, such as a gasket, may
also be provided to spring 3 to cover its coils.
[0031] Before use, the device may be maintained for shipment or
storage in a compressed position, as shown in FIG. 4. Means to
secure spring 3 in a fully compressed position are provided which
are of sufficient resiliency to resist the tendency of spring 3 to
uncoil.
[0032] As shown in FIG. 3, the securing means consist of
spring-loaded slidable bolt 5 mounted to bars 6A, 6B and 6C on
support plate 2. It will be appreciated that tension can be applied
to slidable bolt 5 to maintain it in a locked position within bars
6A, 6B and 6C by means other than spring-loading, or by means other
than tensioning. Flange 7 is provided on pusher plate 1, with
aperture 8 therethrough. Aperture 8 is positioned on flange 7 so
that slidable bolt 5 can engage it when spring 3 is fully
compressed to bring aperture 8 into position beneath bar 6C (having
a corresponding aperture therethrough, not shown) with respect to
slidable bolt 5.
[0033] Additional means to secure spring 3 in a fully compressed
position may also be provided, such as one or more units of clip 9,
shown in FIG. 4; a band around pusher plate 1 and support plate 2;
or a bolt extending horizontally between them.
[0034] Turning to FIG. 5, the device of FIGS. 1-3 is shown in place
within a standard cardboard document storage box 10 having end
walls 11 and 12, and side walls 13 and 14. Slidable bolt 5 is
engaged in aperture 8 of flange 7 to maintain spring 3 in a fully
compressed posture. Both pusher plate 1 and support plate 2 have
carve-outs to correspond to the hand-holds that are typically
present in document storage boxes.
[0035] In this embodiment, the device is not permanently attached
at support plate 2 to end wall 11, and so can be removed from box
10. The device can therefore be used repeatedly, for a variety of
storage needs. To this end, pusher plate 1 and support plate 2 will
preferably be substantially square in shape, with straight edges.
This design will allow the device to be used with a number of
different standard storage options, such as boxes and shelves,
thereby expanding the versatility of the device while avoiding
custom manufacture costs.
[0036] It will be appreciated, however, that the device may be
adapted for permanent installation within or on a storage unit. For
example, support plate 2 may alternatively be permanently attached
to end wall 11; e.g., by providing box 10 with a slot along the
face of end wall 11 into which support plate 2 may be fitted, with
an aperture, as necessary, for slidable bolt 5 or other securing
means and spring 3 to protrude out of the slot for engagement with
flange 7. Alternatively, where the storage container is of molded
or extruded manufacture, support plate 2 may be integrated into an
end wall of the container; e.g., by co-molding or co-extrusion.
[0037] Pusher plate 1 and support plate 2 are slightly smaller in
dimension than end walls 11 and 12, respectively, of box 10. A gap
is therefore left between the edges of each plate and the inside
surfaces of side walls 13 and 14, to allow pusher plate 1 freedom
of motion.
[0038] FIG. 6 depicts the device with spring 3 in a partially
compressed position. A collection of documents 15 are shown in an
aligned, vertical posture adjacent to pusher plate 1. In use,
documents 15 or another object is inserted into the space between
pusher plate 1 and end wall 12 (FIG. 5) when spring 5 is fully
compressed. Slidable bolt 5 is disengaged from flange 7, to allow
spring 3 to uncoil, bringing pusher plate 1 into contact with the
documents or objects to apply compressive force thereto.
[0039] The compressive force applied has to be sufficient to
maintain the documents or objects in the desired orientation,
without placing more pressure on the items, storage container or
shelving unit than they can easily withstand. The amount of
pressure will vary by the context in which the device is used, and
with the length of the spring, but a range of spring tension of 5
to 30 psi (on full compression) can generally be expected to be
suitable, with tensions in the 10 to 20 psi range being preferable
for use of the device with books, documents or files. Those of
ordinary skill in the art will be able to adjust the spring tension
during manufacture upward or downward to accommodate use of the
device for storage of lighter or heavier items.
[0040] To remove or add additional documents or objects to the
storage container or shelving unit, pressure can be manually
applied to pusher plate 1 to compress spring 3 slightly to create
room adjacent to pusher plate 1 for addition or removal of
documents or objects. On release, pusher plate 1 returns to contact
with documents or objects already in the container or shelving
unit, to ensure that their position in the storage area is
maintained.
[0041] FIG. 7 depicts a further embodiment of the invention,
adapted for use on a shelf 16 of a shelving unit 17, wherein shelf
16 has end walls 18 and 19. Spring 3 is shown in a fully extended
posture on shelf 16. The device is placed onto shelf 16, and used
as described with respect to FIG. 6, with support plate 1
contacting end wall 18, and pusher plate 2 separated from end wall
19 by files 20. Shelf 16 may also be adapted to include a slot (not
shown) for friction-fit placement therein of the bottom edge of
support plate 2, to secure the device on the shelf.
[0042] FIG. 8 depicts a further embodiment of the invention,
adapted for use on a surface, such as a desk, having only one
immovable wall extending upwardly therefrom or adjacent thereto,
such as a wall. As shown, the device has a pusher plate 21, support
plate 22 and spring 23. Support plate 22 is disposed on a weighted
base 24 (a weighted base, not shown, may also be joined to pusher
plate 21). Spring 23 is fully extended to compress files 25 between
a room wall 26 and pusher plate 21. Used singly or in pairs, this
embodiment of the invention essentially functions as one or more
bookends.
[0043] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
there are numerous other contexts to which the device can be
adapted. For example, the device could be utilized to prevent
objects from moving in a car trunk or to secure items that might
otherwise tend to roll out of place, such as cans stored on their
sides.
[0044] The invention having been fully described, alternative means
for carrying out the invention may be recognized by those of skill
in the art. All such further means are included within the scope of
the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *