U.S. patent application number 11/918762 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-05 for cosmetic case.
Invention is credited to Pamela M. Kaiser, Stephanie A Kaiser.
Application Number | 20090272659 11/918762 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41256393 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090272659 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kaiser; Stephanie A ; et
al. |
November 5, 2009 |
Cosmetic case
Abstract
A cosmetic case is provided that includes a frame and a
plurality of interleaved, vertically tiered compartments for the
storage of cosmetics or other items. The compartments of the
plurality are independent and can pivot laterally to an open
position. The case is provided with a mirror which can occupy
either a storage position or a viewing position. The mirror storage
position can be located in the frame or in a compartment,
preferably an uppermost compartment that is hinged on a horizontal
axis. The case includes a pair of pivot shafts enabling selected
compartments to pivot in an opposed lateral direction to an open
position so that more than one compartment can be readily opened
for concurrent display of their contents.
Inventors: |
Kaiser; Stephanie A;
(Chicago, IL) ; Kaiser; Pamela M.; (Chicago,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Olson & Cepuritis, LTD.
20 NORTH WACKER DRIVE, 36TH FLOOR
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
41256393 |
Appl. No.: |
11/918762 |
Filed: |
April 19, 2006 |
PCT Filed: |
April 19, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US06/14784 |
371 Date: |
May 27, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11131102 |
May 17, 2005 |
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11918762 |
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60672830 |
Apr 19, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
206/235 ;
132/287; 132/314; 132/316 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 33/008 20130101;
A45F 5/00 20130101; A45D 33/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/235 ;
132/287; 132/314; 132/316 |
International
Class: |
B65D 69/00 20060101
B65D069/00; A45D 33/20 20060101 A45D033/20; A45D 42/00 20060101
A45D042/00 |
Claims
1. A case comprising: a frame including a lower portion, an upper
portion and a back portion extending therebetween; a pair of spaced
apart hinge pins extending between said lower portion and said
upper portion; a plurality of trays located between said lower
portion and said upper portion, each said tray having a floor
defining a perimeter and a continuously extending raised side edge
about said perimeter, each said tray further defining an opening
for receiving at least one article for storage; said trays
including a hinge socket for receiving one of said hinge pins for
swingable mounting thereon and a latch for engaging either the
other of said hinge pins or said frame; said plurality of trays
being arranged with different trays supported by different ones of
said hinge pins; and each of said trays being independently movable
with respect to the other trays.
2. The case of claim 1 wherein said pivot members of said pair of
pivot members are generally coextensive.
3. The case of claim 1 wherein said latch is releasable for
releasably engaging the other of said hinge pins.
4. The case of claim 1 wherein said plurality of trays are serially
arranged one on top of the other.
5. The case of claim 1 wherein said plurality of trays are arranged
in a single continuous serial array.
6. The case of claim 1 wherein said plurality of trays are arranged
in two serial arrays, each array being supported by a respective
one of said hinge pins.
7. The case of claim 6 wherein the trays of the serial arrays are
interleaved with one another.
8. The case of claim 6 wherein the plurality of trays are arranged
in a single serial overall array, with a succession of trays taken
from each of the serial arrays, alternately.
9. The case of claim 1 wherein the hinge pins are selectively
removable.
10. The case of claim 1 further comprising a storage divider
receivable in at least one of said trays.
11. The case of claim 10 wherein said storage divider comprises a
plurality of storage segments disposed inside of an outer ring.
12. The case of claim 11 wherein the outer ring is releasable
engageable with the floor of said at least one tray.
13. The case of claim 1 wherein said frame further comprises an
upper compartment disposed above said plurality of trays.
14. The case of claim 13 wherein said case further comprises a lid
covering said upper compartment.
15. The case of claim 1 wherein said frame further comprises a back
wall carrying at least one releasable fastener for releasably
securing an external object to said case.
16. The case of claim 3 wherein said latch comprises a collar
defining a channel for receiving a portion of one of said hinge
pins.
17. A portable case comprising: a frame having a lower portion, an
upper portion, and a back portion, said lower portion and said
upper portion each extending in spaced relationship relative to
each other outwardly from said back portion; said upper portion and
said lower portion each having a similar perimeter; a pair of
spaced pivot shaft members extending between said lower portion and
said upper portion adjacent to said back portion; a plurality of
compartments, each having a perimeter corresponding to that of said
similar perimeter, said compartment plurality being arranged in a
vertically tiered and aligned sequence and being located between
said upper portion and said lower portion and adjacent to said back
portion; each said compartment comprising a bottom panel having
said perimeter and a continuously extending, raised side edge about
said perimeter of said bottom panel and cooperating with the bottom
panel to define an upwardly opening cavity therein; each said
compartment having connection means for pivotably associating that
compartment with an adjacent portion of one of said pivot shaft
members, with each compartment independently pivotable between a
closed position located generally in said tiered and aligned
sequence and an open position pivoted away from said back portion;
a catch releasably engageable with either one of said pivot shaft
members or said frame, for retaining each said compartment in said
closed position; and a transport member for suspending and
transporting said frame in association with said plurality of
compartments arranged in their respective closed positions.
18. The case of claim 17 further comprising a mirror positionable
successively in each one of two positions, a first position being a
non-viewable case-associated storage position, and a second
position being a case-supported viewable position.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is based on a previously filed U.S.
non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/131,102 filed May
17, 2005, which is based on previously filed U.S. provisional
application Ser. No. 60/672,830 filed Apr. 19, 2005, the
disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a cosmetic case and, in
particular, to a portable cosmetic case having a plurality of
readily accessible storage compartments and a retractable
mirror.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Handbags of various shapes and sizes have been used for many
years. One disadvantage of many handbags is the inability to
organize the materials stored in the bag in a manner that renders
those materials readily accessible. Portable cases for cosmetics
have been developed with a number of vertically tiered compartments
which can be used to store various items for easy access. For
example, the case could store cosmetic materials, keys, and even
cell phones in an organized and readily accessible manner.
[0004] However, such cases do not contain a mirror which can be
stored when not in use and which can be retrieved for use in
applying cosmetics. There is a need for a portable case with a
plurality of vertically tiered compartments which incorporates such
a mirror.
[0005] In addition, cases are needed for cosmetics, jewelry as well
as various hobbies that are able to organize and simultaneous
display a number of items and which is able to quickly and easily
adapt for transport of those items from one location to another. In
particular, a need has arisen for accommodating a large number of
items which does not require manipulation of the items themselves,
when converting the case between a display position and a travel
position, for example. Further, a need has arisen for providing
economical cases of the type described above, which are light
weight and readily adapted to be carried for personal use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention relates to a case such as a cosmetic
case having a frame including a lower portion, an upper portion and
a back portion extending therebetween, along with a pair of spaced
apart hinge pins extending between the lower portion and the upper
portion. A plurality of trays are located between the lower portion
and the upper portion, each tray having a floor defining a
perimeter and a continuously extending raised side edge about the
perimeter, and defining an opening for receiving at least one
article for storage. The trays include a hinge socket for receiving
one of the hinge pins for swingable mounting thereon and a latch
for engaging either the other hinge pin or the frame. The plurality
of trays are arranged with different trays supported by different
one of the hinge pins, and each of the trays are independently
movable with respect to the other trays.
[0007] In other aspects, the present invention relates to a
portable case having a frame having a lower portion, an upper
portion and a back portion. The lower and upper portions each
extend in spaced relationship relative to each other, outwardly
from the back portion. The upper portion and the lower portion each
have a similar perimeter. A pair of spaced pivot shaft members
extend between the lower portion and the upper portion adjacent to
the back portion. A plurality of compartments is provided. The
compartments preferably have a common shape and size so as to
present a common profile or perimeter. The compartments are
arranged in a vertically tiered and aligned sequence. Preferably,
the plurality of compartments is arranged between the upper and the
lower portion and rear portions of the compartments are located
adjacent to the back portion.
[0008] Each compartment has a bottom panel and a continuously
extending, raised side edge cooperating with the bottom panel to
define an upwardly opening cavity therein. Each compartment has
connection means for pivotably associating that compartment with an
adjacent portion of the pivot shaft members when the compartment
plurality is in the vertically tiered and aligned sequence and is
located between the upper portion and the lower portion. Each
compartment is independently pivotable about the pivot shaft
member, between a closed position located generally in said tiered
and aligned sequence and an open position located generally
laterally of said tiered and aligned sequence. A catch is
releasably engageable with either one of the pivot shaft members or
the frame, for retaining each compartment in its closed position. A
transport member is provided for suspending and transporting the
frame, with the plurality of compartments all maintained in their
respective closed positions.
[0009] Other objects, aims, purposes, features, benefits,
advantages, embodiments and the like will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from the accompanying disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] In the drawings which comprise a portion of this
disclosure:
[0011] FIG. 1 is an environmental perspective front view of a first
embodiment of the cosmetic case of the present invention wherein
the case is supported and suspended by a chain or strap;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective front view similar to FIG. 1 but
showing dashed lines for portions of certain components and showing
a compartment of the cosmetic case in an opened position and the
mirror in an extended position;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective rear view of the cosmetic case of
FIG. 1 showing dashed lines for portions of certain components and
showing the mirror in a retracted, stored position;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the cosmetic case of FIG. 1
showing dashed lines for portions of certain components;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the cosmetic case of
FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 4 but showing a
compartment in an open position with dashed lines showing position
of certain components when the compartment is closed;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of the cosmetic case of
FIG. 1 showing dashed lines for portions of certain components;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view taken
radially and perpendicularly through the back wall and adjacent
lateral portions of the cosmetic case of FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIG. 8 but showing the mirror in
the extended position shown in FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective rear view of an alternative
embodiment of the cosmetic case of the present invention showing an
alternative construction for storing the mirror in a retracted,
stored position and showing dashed lines for portions of certain
components;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view taken
radially and perpendicularly along the plane 11-11 through the back
wall and adjacent lateral portions of the embodiment of FIG.
10;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a fragmentary front perspective view of the upper
portion of an alternative embodiment of the cosmetic case of the
present invention wherein the uppermost compartment is hingeably
connected to an adjacent upper portion of the base frame and
showing dashed and phantom lines for portions of certain
components;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a fragmentary rear perspective view of the upper
portion of the embodiment of FIG. 12 showing the hinged uppermost
compartment in a closed position and showing dashed lines for
portions of certain components;
[0024] FIG. 14 a fragmentary front perspective view of the upper
portion of another alternative embodiment of the cosmetic case of
the present invention wherein a pair of adjacent compartments open
in opposed directions relative to each other;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 14 showing
dashed lines for portions of one component;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a horizontal sectional view taken below the top
wall of the embodiment of FIG. 14 showing the pair of adjacent
compartments in their respective closed positions;
[0027] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the
case of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 18 is a perspective view with the components thereof in
an open position;
[0029] FIG. 19 is a top plan view thereof;
[0030] FIG. 20 is a side elevational view thereof;
[0031] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a tray component
thereof;
[0032] FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the tray of FIG. 21;
and
[0033] FIG. 23 is a fragmentary perspective view of one rear corner
of the case shown in FIG. 17.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0034] FIGS. 1-9 show an embodiment 10 of a cosmetic case of the
present invention. The cosmetic case 10 comprises a base frame 12
that includes a lower portion 14, an upper portion 16 and a mid-
(or medial or back) portion 18. The back portion 18 extends between
the respective opposed rear edges 20 and 22 of the lower portion 14
and the upper portion 16. The lower portion 14 and the upper
portion 16 are each preferably flat and preferably have similar
perimeters. Preferably they extend in vertically spaced, parallel
relationship relative to each other although diagonal but parallel
arrangements can be used if desired. The back portion 18 is
preferably flat and preferably extends perpendicularly between the
lower portion 14 and the upper portion 16 although the back portion
can extend diagonally between the portions 14 and 16 if desired.
Preferably the back portion 18 has a perimeter that defines a
parallelogram with upper and lower edge portions that are in
spaced, parallel relationship relative to each other. More
preferably, the parallelogram is rectangular.
[0035] Preferably a case of the invention has a right angle
relationship between the components, but, as those skilled in the
art will appreciate, such a relationship is not required. Other
configurations can be employed as when a particular artistic effect
or appearance is desired, or when a case is to conform to a
particular location, or the like. A back portion 18 may have a
perimeter that is configured, for example, as a trapezoid, and the
upper portion 16 and the lower portion 14 may be laterally offset,
one relative to the other, etc. Similarly, and correspondingly, the
plurality of trays or compartments 26, as described and explained
below, that is situated in the frame 12, may, if desired, have a
configuration that conforms to the general geometric configuration
of the frame 12, or otherwise if desired.
[0036] As is characteristic of the frame 12 of all embodiments of
this invention (including those embodiments shown in FIG. 17 and
following), the frame 12 and its portions 14, 16 and 18 can be
variously fabricated of, for example, molded plastic (presently
preferred), molded filled plastic, compositions of resin and molded
wood or recycled paper, covered cardboard or masonite, painted or
padded sheet metal, and the like. Individually fabricated
components of subassemblies may if necessary or desirable be
fastened together with conventional fastening means (including
suitable adhesives, weldments, joining screws, rivets, nut and bold
assemblies, etc.). Fabrication materials of relatively high
structural integrity and light weight are preferred.
[0037] The upper portion 16 and the lower portion 14 preferably
have similar sizes and configurations and generally matching
respective perimeters. This perimeter can be considered to define a
forward region and a rear region. The respective opposite ends of
each such region meet whereby an opposite end of the rear region
meets an opposite end of the forward region and an acute angle is
defined therebetween. Thus, the perimeter defines two opposed acute
angles preferably located on respective opposing sides thereof, and
preferably these acute angles are about equal in size. Preferably,
regarding the perimeter, the rear region extends straight and the
forward region extends outwardly relative to the rear region to
define a desired geometric configuration. For example, the
perimeter of the upper portion 16 and the lower portion 14 can
define a triangle, a parallelogram, a hemi-circle (presently
preferred) wherein the diameter corresponds to the rear region, or
otherwise as desired.
[0038] The case 10 incorporates a hinge pin or pivot shaft member
24 that extends preferably perpendicularly between the lower
portion 14 and the upper portion 16 adjacent to the back portion 18
and also adjacent to one of the acute angles. Thus, the pivot shaft
member 24 can extend so as to be adjacent one of the two acute
angles located at each rear corner 27 of each compartment 26. The
pivot shaft member 24 can be comprised of heavy steel wire,
extruded plastic or the like.
[0039] The case 10 includes a plurality (preferably in the range
from about 4 to 8) of independent trays or compartments 26 for
storing and transporting cosmetic and like materials. An inner
surface of a compartment can include a magnetic portion or a clip
(not shown) for holding a cosmetic brush or the like. Each
compartment 26 has a perimeter that is preferably similar to that
of the upper portion 16 and the lower portion 14 so that all such
perimeters are similar and preferably about the same. The
compartment 26 plurality is preferably arranged in a vertically
layered and aligned sequence and the plurality is preferably
positioned (located) between the lower portion 14 and the upper
portion 16 and also adjacent to the back portion 18.
[0040] Each compartment 26 comprises preferably flat bottom panel
28 that preferably has the indicated perimeter that is common in
size and configuration to the lower portion 14 and the upper
portion 16. A continuously extending, raised side edge 30 that
preferably is vertically upstanding (when viewed externally) is
provided about the perimeter of the bottom panel 28. In each
compartment 26, the height of the raised side edge 30 can be the
same as in other compartments 26, or the edge 30 can vary in height
from one compartment 26 to the next. An upwardly opening cavity 31
is thus defined by the panel 28 and the side edge 30 in each
compartment 26. Compartments 26 of the same compartment plurality
can have same or differing volumes can be provided as may be
desired. In accord with the perimeter contour of the upper portion
16 and the lower portion 14, with which the perimeter of panel 28
of each compartment 26 is preferably similar, the spaced, opposed
rear corner portions 27 of each compartment 26 each define an acute
angle. Thus, a compartment 26 has two such acute angles which are
preferably similar in size and configuration.
[0041] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a compartment
plurality is preferably configured to fit into a frame 12, as
indicated. However, if desired, the individual compartments 26,
though vertically tiered and adjacent to one another, may be
inclined relative to a (hypothetical) vertical, and the side edges
30 may, if desired, be similarly inclined. Each compartment 26 can
be formed of a material such as above indicated for the frame 12.
In addition, the exterior surface of each compartment and the frame
12 can be decorated, for example, with crystals, sequins, faux fur
and the like.
[0042] Each compartment 26 adjacent a corner portion 27 thereof is
adapted to accommodate a laterally adjacent portion of the pivot
shaft means 24 when the compartment 26 plurality is associated with
the base 12 and is in its vertically layered and aligned tiered
sequence with each compartment 26 cavity being upwardly oriented.
Each compartment 26 has connection means for pivotably
independently associating each compartment 26 with an adjacent
portion of the pivot shaft means 24. Various connection means such
as are known to art can be employed, as those skilled in the art
will appreciate.
[0043] For simplicity, a present preference for the connection
means is to define a hole or opening 32 in the bottom panel 28 in
the area of a corner portion 27 thereof which opening 32 is
adjacent to, or situated to accommodate therethrough the pivot
shaft means 24. The opening 32 preferably can extend also through a
preferably locally thickened area in raised side edge 30 which can
provide an elongated opening 32 that is desirable for purposes of
stabilizing the pivot movement of a compartment 26 relative to a
pivot shaft means 24. Each of the openings 32 in the compartments
26 is such that, when the pivot shaft means 24 is extended
therethrough, each compartment 26 is pivotable relative to the
pivot shaft means 24. During assembly of the case 10, the pivot
shaft means 24 can be, if desired, conveniently slidably extended
progressively through the openings 32 defined in each of the
members 26 of the compartment plurality. In the assembly,
respective opposite ends of the pivot shaft means 24 are each
conveniently engaged terminally with the upper portion 16 and the
lower portion 14 by conventional means, including, for example,
blind rivets, adhesively bonded clamps, self-threading nuts, or the
like. Thus, each compartment 26 can swing independently laterally
outwardly to one side away from the mid-portion 18 and the closed
plurality of compartments 26 to an open position for access to a
compartment 26. If desired, washers or spacer sleeves, not
detailed, can be positioned on the pivot shaft means between
adjacent compartments 26.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, each compartment 26 is seen to
include on a side edge 30 an exteriorly located extension (or knob
or fingerhold) 24 to facilitate opening and moving of each
compartment 26. To hold or retain the plurality of compartments 26
each in a closed position for purposes of movement or transport of
the case 10 various retainer means can be employed. For one
preferred example applicable to the compartment plurality, a strap
36 or the like can be employed, if desired. For instance, the strap
36 can be secured at its upper end to the upper portion 16 by a
rivet, screw or the like, and can have a snap buckle 38 or the like
secured at its lower end that is adapted to engage a
correspondingly mateable tab 40 that is itself located along the
lower portion 14, thereby to maintain the compartment 26 plurality
in a closed configuration.
[0045] The compartments 26 of the compartment plurality when
pivoted to their respective closed positions can also be
individually disassociatively associated in their respective closed
positions with the frame 12. For example, a snap-fit or
friction-fit engagement can be provided between adjacent
compartments or more preferably, between each compartment 26 and an
adjacent portion of the frame 12. If desired, the compartments can
be provided with inter-engaging detents and sockets located, for
example, either on the side edge 30 or the panel 28. Preferably,
the detents are made releasably engageable for ready opening and
closing of the compartments.
[0046] To facilitate movement, carrying or transport of case 10, a
handle, chain, or the like can be associated therewith. For
example, each of the opposite ends of a chain or strap 42 can be
secured to a different opposed upper side of the mid-portion 18 or
of the upper portion 16. The chain or strap 42 can either be
permanently or releasably secured to the case 10, as may be
desired. Preferably, as shown in the embodiments illustrated, the
extensions 34 are preferably offset relative to the strap 36 to
avoid interference.
[0047] A case 10 is preferably provided with an internally storable
mirror that can remain stored in the case until use thereof is
desired. Various arrangements can be employed. For example, and as
shown in FIGS. 1-4, the back 18 can define on a rear face thereof a
recessed receiving slot 44 for receiving a mirror 46 from a slot
end or side. The mirror 46, which can be either magnifying or
non-magnifying, can be slidably positioned within the slot 44 so as
to achieve a first or storage position for mirror 46. The mirror 46
can be slidably extended from the slot 44 to a second or viewable
(or use) position, which can be vertical or angled. The slot 44 is
preferably configured so that the mirror 46 can be slidably
extended upwardly from storage position to the use position, as
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 9. Alternatively, the mirror and the
slot 44 can be arranged so that the mirror can be moved slidably
laterally outwardly to either side of the back portion 18 (not
shown) before entering a use position. The slot 44 can include
guide members or flanges 48 for retaining the mirror 46 as shown,
for example, in FIGS. 3 and 7, if desired.
[0048] Alternatively, the slot 44 can be enclosed within the back
portion 18 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, for example. In either
case, the mirror 46 can include an extension (or fingerhold) 34 to
facilitate grasping the mirror 46. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the
mirror 46, extended from the slot 44, 46 can be angled back and
received into a channel 50 defined in the back-portion 18 (see FIG.
9) for ease in viewing. Thus, the case 10 can hold the mirror 46 in
a vertical slot (not shown) defined in the back portion 18. As a
result, the case 10 has a second position defining a mirror holding
position defined by an auxiliary, preferably angularly extending
second slot defined in said frame adjacent to said first slot, this
second slot being adapted for receiving a lower portion of the
mirror 46 when mirror 45 is removed from a first or storage
position, whereby said mirror is supported at an inclined angle for
viewing.
[0049] FIGS. 12 and 13 show an alternative embodiment of the
inventive case in which a rearward portion of an uppermost
compartment 52 that preferably is similar to a compartment 26 of
the compartment plurality is pivotably connected above and over a
rearward portion of the upper portion 16 by means of a horizontally
oriented hinge 54, such as a hinge of the so-called piano type.
Alternatively, the rearward portion of the compartment 52 can be
hinged to an upper end region of the back portion 18. The outside
surface of the bottom panel 28 can be provided with a mirror 56
which when the compartment 52 is inclined can be viewed. The panel
28 can be provided with a flat arm which can be temporarily erected
so that the lower end thereof abuts against the upper portion 16
when the compartment 52 is inclined to prop the compartment 52 in
an open position.
[0050] In a further alternative, the compartment 52 can be provided
with a lid member having a rear edge portion that is pivotably
connected to a rearward portion of the compartment 52 by means of a
horizontally oriented hinge 54. The inside surface of the lid
member can be associated with a mirror 56, as shown in FIG. 12.
When the lid member is pivotably elevated, the mirror 56 is visible
and usable. If desired the mirror can be made to be magnifying or
can have a magnifying portion. Further a small magnifying mirror
can be located on the lid member, adjacent mirror 56. The lid
member can be provided with a flat arm which can be temporarily
erected so that the lower end thereof abuts against the inside of
the panel 28 when the lid member of compartment 52 is inclined
thereby to prop the lid member up in an open position.
[0051] When the mirror 56 is associated with the compartment 52 or
the lid thereof, the compartments 26 of the underlying or lower
compartment plurality can be maintained in their respective closed
configurations, if desired, by a retaining means, such as the strap
36 and the snap buckle 38/tab 40 assembly as shown in FIGS. 1-9, or
otherwise as desired.
[0052] FIGS. 14-16 show an additional embodiment 10' of a case 10'
of the invention. Components similar to case 10 are similarly
numbered but with the addition of prime marks for identification
purposes. The case 10' includes a frame 12' having a lower portion
14', an upper portion 16' and a back portion 18' extending
therebetween. In a preferred embodiment 10', the back-portion 18'
extends between opposed rear edges 20' and 22' of the lower portion
14' and the upper portion 16', respectively, similarly to
embodiment 10. In embodiment 10', a pair of pivot shaft members 24a
and 24b are provided that extend in parallel, opposed relationship
relative to the back portion 18' and adjacent to each rear corner
21 of each compartment 26'. A plurality of tiered compartments 26'
for storing cosmetic and like materials is provided and positioned
in a stacked relationship between the lower portion 14' and the
upper portion 16'. The compartments 26' are constructed
conveniently and preferably similarly to the compartments 26 of
FIGS. 1-9 and include a bottom panel 28' defining a compartment
perimeter and a continuously extending raised edge 30' about the
perimeter.
[0053] As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, the height of the raised
edge 30' can be the same for each compartment 26' or can vary from
one compartment 26' to another. For example, the height of the
raised edge 30' and thus the depth and volume of the cavity in a
compartment 26' can be increased, if desired, to accommodate a cell
phone or similar item. In this example, fewer compartments could be
used or the back portion 18' could be lengthened, if desired.
[0054] Each bottom panel 28' of a compartment 26' defines an
opening 32' preferably in one side of the rear portion thereof for
receiving either pivot shaft member 24a or 24b. In a preferred
embodiment, compartments 26' each include openings 32' in opposed
sides of their respective bottom panels 28' relative to the
location of the opening 32' in an adjacent compartment 26'. In
place of an opening 32', a compartment 26' can be provided with a
notch-like indentation which permits a selected compartment 26' to
bypass a particular pivot shaft member 24a or 24b. The compartments
26' can be assembled with respective ones of either shaft member
24a or 24b. As a result, compartments 26' of the compartment
plurality can be arranged so that each pivotably swings about one
of the respective pivot members 24a and 24b with selected ones of
each compartment 26' pivoting in one lateral direction and others
of the compartments pivoting in the opposed lateral direction as
illustrated for example in FIGS. 14 and 15. Thus, this arrangement
provides for convenient access to two or more adjacent compartments
26' at the same time without one compartment blocking access to
another compartment.
[0055] As indicated, each compartment 26' preferably includes (in
the end opposed to the end having the opening 32') a cutaway
segment 58 which allows a compartment 26' to be closed without
engaging the opposite pivot member 24a or 24b, as the case may be
(see, for example, FIGS. 14 and 15).
[0056] A handle, strap 36' or the like can be provided if desired.
For example, strap 36' can be in association with a snap buckle
38'/tab 40' assembly, as described above, or otherwise as may be
desired, to maintain the compartments 26' each in a closed
position. As an alternative, a friction-fit engagement can be
provided to secure the compartments 26' each in a closed position
whereby the height of the raised side edge 30' in the area of the
cutaway segment 58 of each compartment 26' is slightly increased so
that the edges of the cutaway segment 58 of one compartment 26'
press against the bottom panel 28' or raised edge 30' of an
adjacent compartment.
[0057] The embodiment of FIGS. 14-16 can include any of the mirror
constructions shown in FIGS. 1-13 as described above.
[0058] FIGS. 17-20 show an embodiment 70 of a case of the present
invention, suitable for storing and displaying cosmetics, jewelry,
or a plurality of virtually any type of small articles. The case 70
includes a frame 72 and a plurality of compartments or trays 76
which are supported one above the other, by frame 72. Included in
case 70 are a pair of pivot shafts or hinge pins 80, 82 which
preferably extend virtually the entire height of case 70. Hinge
pins 80, 82 include rings or handles 84 for rotating the hinge pins
between locked and unlocked positions. Handles 84 are used to grasp
the hinge pins for their removal from frame 72.
[0059] In one embodiment, the plurality of trays 76 are arranged in
two interleaved sets of trays, one set supported by hinge pin 80
and the other set supported by hinge pin 82. With reference to FIG.
18, the trays 76a are supported by hinge pin 80 for pivotal or
swinging movement for opening in the clockwise direction of arrow
90. Trays 76b are pivoted or swung about hinge pin 82 for opening
in a counter-clockwise direction indicated by arrow 92 in FIG. 18.
With swinging movement in directions opposite to arrows 90, 92, the
trays 76 are swung from an open or display position to the closed
or storage position shown in FIG. 17. If desired, the trays can
contain a lighting device for illuminating the tray interior. This
lighting feature can be applied to any of the cases described
herein, and can be added to the lids, as well, if desired.
[0060] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the Figures,
frame 72 includes a tray-like compartment 94 at its upper end, and
a base or platform 96 at its lower end. Upper compartment 94
includes a floor 98 and an upstanding edge wall 102 extending above
floor 98 and cooperating therewith so as to form an upwardly
opening cavity. Upper compartment 94 includes a back wall 104 which
blends with a housing portion 106 which receives the upper ends of
hinge pins 80, 82. A lid 112 is hinged at 114 to frame 72. A panel,
preferably comprising a framed mirror 120, is received in channels
122 formed at the rear of frame 72. As can be seen in FIG. 19, a
rear wall 124 encloses the rear surface of mirror 120. As can be
seen for example in FIG. 17, mirror 120, when lowered to its
storage position, has an upper surface flush with lid 112. In its
raised or working position as shown in FIG. 18, mirror 120 is
propped up along a slight incline from the vertical. An interior
wall 126, visible in FIG. 18, cooperates with rear wall 124 (see
FIG. 19) and channels 122 (see FIG. 17) to enclose mirror 120, when
lowered to its stored position.
[0061] In the preferred embodiment, case 70 is provided with one or
more releasable fastening means for releasably securing accessories
to a back wall or bottom of the case. The releasable fastener means
may comprise, for example, cooperating intersliding channels, snap
fasteners, hook and loop fasteners, and the like. Complementary
fastener members may be provided for cellular telephones, beepers,
wireless transmitting devices, personal digital assistants, and the
like items which can be conveniently carried along with the case.
The accessories could include, for example, a releasable attachment
to a dashboard of a car, or a mounting plug that would fit into a
cup holder of a car. The dashboard attachment would preferably be
fitted to the back wall of the case, while the cup holder
attachment would be fitted to the bottom of the case.
[0062] Turning now to FIGS. 21 and 22, an exemplary embodiment of a
tray 76 is shown. With reference to FIG. 18, tray 76 shown in FIG.
21 is one of the trays 76b supported by hinge pin 82 at the
right-hand side of case 70 (as viewed in FIGS. 17 and 18, for
example). Tray 76 includes a floor 130 surrounded by an upstanding
outer edge wall 132, cooperating with floor 130 to form an upwardly
opening cavity. Tray 76 shown in FIG. 21 includes a generally
cylindrical hinge socket 134, defining an inner bore 136, located
at one rear corner of the tray. Located at the opposing rear corner
of the tray, a generally semi-cylindrical latch 140 defines an
interior channel 142. As will be seen herein, the hinge socket 134
can either be co-extensive, i.e. flush with edge wall 132, or can
protrude above and below edge wall 132 to provide advantages as
will be described herein.
[0063] If desired, other numbers of pan or storage segments 152 can
be employed. For example, three storage segments 152 could be
arranged within outer ring 158. It is not necessary that the outer
ring be integrally formed with the storage segments. Instead, the
various storage segments could either be separately formed or
formed together as a subunit and located within an outer ring
158.
[0064] A plurality of latch tabs 146 extend upwardly above floor
130 and include a locking hook at their upper ends. An insert 150
is provided in the embodiments illustrated in the figures, such as
FIG. 21. Insert 150 includes a plurality of storage segments 152
which, as can be seen in the preferred embodiment, have a generally
circular or cylindrical configuration. Preferably, the storage
segments 152 have a floor with a surrounding upstanding edge wall
cooperating with the floor so as to define an upwardly opening
cavity. Alternatively, storage segments 152 can comprise an
upstanding wall which cooperates with floor 130 of the tray to form
an upwardly opening cavity. An outer ring 158 surrounds the storage
segments 152. In the preferred embodiment, outer ring 158 defines
notches 160 for receiving the upper hooked ends of latch tabs 146
so as to maintain insert 150 in secure engagement with floor 130.
Storage segments 152 and outer ring 158 are preferably molded to
form a unitary monolithic insert which is joined to tray 76 with
resilient engagement of latch tabs 146.
[0065] In one preferred embodiment, outer ring 158 has an upper
edge which is generally flush with the upper edge of edge wall 132.
The areas between outer ring 158 and storage segments 152 can be
used as additional storage segments if desired. Referring to FIG.
22, floor 130 of tray 76 defines a plurality of apertures 166 for
access to the floors of storage segments 152, and slots 168 for
access to the bottom surface of outer ring 158, to aid in removal
of insert 150 from tray 76. If desired, apertures 166 can be
located beneath the edge walls of storage segments 152. Further, if
desired, apertures 166 can be reduced in size or replaced by narrow
slots in those embodiments where storage segments 152 do not have
their own floor portions, but instead cooperate with floor 130 of
the tray to form a storage cavity.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 23, a fragmentary view of the right-hand
portion of case 70 is shown (as seen for example in FIGS. 17 and
18). It is generally preferred that the latches 140 of one set of
trays cooperates with the hinge sockets 134 of the other set of
trays to form a continuous part cylindrical external appearance at
the rear corners of case 70. As can be seen in FIG. 23 and the
other figures, it is generally preferred that the trays be
interleaved one with another throughout the array of trays of case
70. As a consequence, a latch 140 of one tray will engage the hinge
pin supporting the other array of trays, and is received between
adjacent hinge sockets 134 of the other array of trays. As can be
seen for example in FIG. 23, latches 140 and hinge sockets 134 are
alternated one with the other at the rear corners of case 70. Tabs
172, as can be seen for example in FIGS. 22 and 23, are formed
adjacent latches 140 and allow a convenient grasping of the free
ends of the trays to initiate their pivotal or swinging movement to
an open position, shown for example in FIG. 18. As can be seen for
example in the lower right corner of FIG. 22, latches 172 are
formed adjacent an indented portion 173 such that the free ends of
the tabs do not protrude beyond the outer planar surface of the
case formed by edge wall portions 175.
[0067] As with the other embodiments described herein, case 70 can
be formed from a wide variety of materials such as molded plastic
(presently preferred), molded filled plastic, compositions of resin
and molded wood or paper waste, covered cardboard or masonite,
painted or padded sheet metal, and the like. Although it is
generally preferred at all of the components of case 70 be formed
from molded plastic, it may be desirable in certain instances, to
form various components of case 70 from different materials. For
example, the hinge pins 80,82 and their handles 84 could be formed
from metal material.
[0068] Further, the cases described herein may be made to virtually
any scale desired. For example, the cases can be made in a first
larger size for home use, a second size to serve as a purse or to
fit within a purse, and a mini-size to be worn as a necklace, or to
be carried on a keychain or a belt loop.
[0069] It will be readily apparent from the foregoing description
and the accompanying drawings that various modifications can be
made without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel
concepts of this invention.
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