US20030000856A1 - Storage case - Google Patents
Storage case Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20030000856A1 US20030000856A1 US10/185,596 US18559602A US2003000856A1 US 20030000856 A1 US20030000856 A1 US 20030000856A1 US 18559602 A US18559602 A US 18559602A US 2003000856 A1 US2003000856 A1 US 2003000856A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cover
- storage case
- recording media
- case according
- walls
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B73/00—Devices for locking portable objects against unauthorised removal; Miscellaneous locking devices
- E05B73/0017—Anti-theft devices, e.g. tags or monitors, fixed to articles, e.g. clothes, and to be removed at the check-out of shops
- E05B73/0023—Containers, boxes, cases or the like, e.g. for compact discs or video-cassettes, specially adapted therefor
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- G—PHYSICS
- G11—INFORMATION STORAGE
- G11B—INFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
- G11B33/00—Constructional parts, details or accessories not provided for in the other groups of this subclass
- G11B33/02—Cabinets; Cases; Stands; Disposition of apparatus therein or thereon
- G11B33/04—Cabinets; Cases; Stands; Disposition of apparatus therein or thereon modified to store record carriers
- G11B33/0405—Cabinets; Cases; Stands; Disposition of apparatus therein or thereon modified to store record carriers for storing discs
- G11B33/0411—Single disc boxes
- G11B33/0422—Single disc boxes for discs without cartridge
- G11B33/0427—Single disc boxes for discs without cartridge comprising centre hole locking means
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a storage case for storing a recording media such as optically readable information storage media and associated literature and more particularly to a storage case for holding computer software and its related literature.
- a storage case may depend on the products that it stores.
- Today's software products often include more than recording media, e.g., up to three or more CD-ROMs, on which computer readable software instructions are stored, and associated literature such as a user manual, warranty information etc.
- the associated literature also tends to be thick and bulky. Thus, it is necessary to have a storage case that can accommodate a plurality of recording media and associated literature, even if bulky.
- a storage case can store recording media, such as CD-ROMs, and includes an enclosure which may receive literature even if bulky that is related to the media which is stored therein such as a user manual, warranty information etc.
- a storage case according to the present invention also includes security features that retard theft.
- a storage case according to the present invention utilizes locking systems which have been described in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/696,614 entitled “Case and Lock with Improved Disc Protection”, filed on Oct. 25, 2000, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/858,457 entitled “Case With Internal Lock”, filed May 6, 2001, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.
- Such locking systems are highly secure and space efficient.
- such locking systems can be equipped with tags- which may be readable by sensors to prevent theft.
- a storage case includes a hub or retainer member for holding conventional recording media such as CD-ROMs, and a biasing element which assists in securing the media in place when received by the retainer.
- the biasing element helps to reduce the size of the storage case because it provides the ability to secure more than one recording media on the retainer.
- a preferred embodiment of a storage case according to the present invention includes a first cover; a second cover; a spine flexibly attached at opposing edges thereof to an edge of the first cover and an edge of the second cover respectively; and a recording media retainer adapted to receive at least one recording media, the retainer being disposed on a major surface of the first cover.
- an enclosure is provided on the second cover to receive literature.
- a brace is disposed over the enclosure to further secure the literature received therein.
- the brace includes a portion that is parallel to the second cover and another portion that extends from the first portion at an angle so that literature may be inserted between the brace and the second cover more easily.
- the brace is raised sufficiently high above the second cover to receive and retain bulky or thick literature therein.
- the storage case includes a biasing element which is oriented opposite to a major surface of the first cover and makes contact with a recording media held by the retainer to hinder the motion of the same when the storage case is closed.
- the biasing element may be a spring and may be disposed over the brace, if one is provided.
- another biasing element which may also be a spring, can be provided.
- the second biasing element may be spaced from the first biasing element at a distance that is at least as wide as the diameter of the central opening of a conventional recording media.
- the two biasing elements will be positioned so that the recording media retainer will be disposed between them when the storage case is closed.
- FIG. 1 shows a bottom plan view of a conventional recording media.
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the interior of a storage case according to the present invention.
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a retainer for retaining a conventional recording media.
- FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the exterior of a storage case according to the present invention.
- FIG. 5 shows another perspective view of the interior of a storage case according to the present invention showing literature as received within the storage case.
- FIG. 1 shows a bottom view of a recording media 10 according to a conventional design.
- recording media 10 is circular and has a circular central opening 12 .
- a concentric ring 14 is disposed around opening 12 .
- Concentric ring 14 is usually devoid of any optically readable information.
- Optically readable information storage media such as compact disks (CDs), CD-ROMs and DVDs are examples of such recording media, although it should be realized by those skilled in the art that the storage case of the present invention can be used with any and all types of recording media.
- CD-ROMs are used for storage of computer readable information and/or computer readable instructions (software). When sold, software is often accompanied with literature pertaining to, for example, the use of software, or other literature such as warranty information.
- FIG. 2 shows a software storage case 16 according to the present invention.
- Software storage case 16 includes first cover 18 and second cover 20 , and spine 22 which is flexibly attached at opposing longitudinal edges thereof to an edge of first cover 18 and an edge of second cover 20 , respectively. Due to the flexible attachment, first cover 18 may pivot toward second cover 20 , and second cover 20 may pivot toward first cover 18 .
- the flexible attachment of spine 22 to first cover 18 acts as a hinge between spine 22 and first cover 18 and the flexible attachment of spine 22 to second cover 18 acts as a hinge between spine 22 and second cover 20 .
- This arrangement is commonly referred to as a living hinge.
- First cover 18 has disposed on a surface thereof a hub or recording media retainer 24 .
- Recording media retainer 24 may be adapted to receive one or more recording media as desired.
- retainer 24 is adapted to receive three recording media as schematically suggested in FIG. 5, although it can be adapted to hold more than three.
- FIG. 3 shows an enlarged view of retainer 24 .
- retainer 24 includes a plurality of spaced tabs 26 .
- Tabs 26 are arranged around a circle having a diameter that is substantially equal to the diameter of central opening 12 (FIG. 1) of a conventional recording media 10 (FIG. 1).
- Each tab 26 includes an enlarged free end 28 and an opposing end which is attached to first cover 18 .
- Each enlarged end 28 includes a curved exterior surface.
- central opening 12 of a conventional recording media 10 is substantially aligned with tabs 26 .
- each tab 26 is elastically deformed thereby allowing its respective free end to slip into opening 12 (FIG.
- Cylinder 30 may be disposed on first cover 18 and within the space created by tabs 26 . Cylinder 30 is spaced from tabs 26 to allow adequate room for each tab 26 to be deformed when recording media 10 is being received by recording media retainer 24 . However, cylinder 30 is close enough so as not to allow tabs 26 to be deformed too far inwardly to prevent breakage or permanent deformation of tabs 26 .
- annular ring 32 is disposed on first cover 18 and about recording media retainer 24 .
- Annular ring 32 has a diameter which is preferably more than the diameter of opening 12 and less than the diameter of concentric ring 14 of a conventional recording media 10 (FIG. 1), and rises to a height so as to space the bottom of recording media 10 that is received by retainer 24 from first cover 18 . Because the diameter of annular ring 32 is smaller than the diameter of concentric ring 14 (FIG. 1) of recording media 10 , annular ring 32 will not make contact with those portions of recording media 10 that contain optically readable information, which portions are typically outside of concentric ring 14 (FIG. 1).
- a plurality of spaced arcuate walls 34 are disposed on first cover 18 and about recording media retainer 24 .
- Arcuate walls 34 are arranged around a circle having a slightly larger diameter than the diameter of recording media 10 (FIG. 10).
- Arcuate walls 34 rise to about the height of recording media retainer 24 .
- Raised portions 36 are Disposed between arcuate walls 34 and on first cover 18 .
- Raised portions 36 rise to a height below the height of arcuate walls 34 and equal to or slightly below the height of annular ring 32 .
- Raised portions 36 may make contact with the outer edge of recording media 10 (FIG. 1) when it is received by retainer 24 . Such contact may occur, for example, when recording media 10 (FIG. 1) that is received by recording media retainer 24 is removed.
- a recording media 10 may be removed by two opposing fingers of a user placed at opposing regions on the outer edge of a recording media 10 (FIG. 1) that is received by recording media retainer 24 .
- the downward pressure applied to the retained recording media 10 during this procedure may cause a slight deformation of recording media 10 , as it may be pressed against annular ring 32 .
- Raised portions 36 prevent recording media 10 (FIG. 1) from being pressed too far downwardly, thereby averting accidental breakage of recording media 10 during its removal.
- Storage case 16 may utilize a locking mechanism that is described in detail in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/858,457 described above.
- first cover 18 is flexibly attached at a proximal edge 19 thereof to spine 22
- second cover 20 is flexibly attached at a proximal edge 21 thereof to spine 22 .
- First cover 18 has disposed opposite and parallel to its proximal edge a pair of spaced parallel walls 38 , 40 .
- a pair of spaced parallel walls 42 , 44 are disposed on second cover 20 opposite and parallel to its proximal edge.
- a plurality of spaced loops 46 are disposed between spaced parallel walls 42 , 44 on the second cover.
- a plurality of spaced loops 48 are disposed between spaced parallel walls 38 , 40 on first cover 18 .
- Loops 46 which are disposed between spaced parallel walls 42 , 44 on second cover 20 , are longitudinally aligned with one another.
- the longitudinal positions of the loops 46 and 48 are different such that the loops 46 have a staggered relationship with respect to the loops 48 and loops 48 which are disposed between spaced parallel walls 38 , 40 on first cover 18 are aligned with one another.
- the longitudinal positions of the loops 46 and 48 are different such that the loops 46 have a staggered relationship with respect to the loops 48 .
- loops 48 which are disposed between spaced parallel walls 38 , 40 will be positioned between the loops 46 which are disposed between spaced parallel walls 42 , 44 and vice versa to provide a free path 45 (FIG. 4).
- a locking member comprising a substantially straight bar 47 (FIG. 4) is then received in free path 45 by each loop 46 , 48 to secure the first cover and the second cover to one another.
- First cover 18 has disposed thereon a pair of opposing vertical walls 50 , 52 , which are disposed adjacent to its proximal edge 19 .
- Opposing vertical walls 50 , 52 each have an extended portion 50 a , 52 a .
- Second cover 20 also has disposed thereon a pair of opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 which are adjacent to its proximal edge 21 .
- the respective extended portions 50 a , 50 b of opposing vertical walls 50 , 52 , on first cover 18 are spaced apart slightly further than opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 so that when software storage case 16 is closed extended portions 50 a , 52 a of opposing vertical walls 50 , 52 will be positioned outside opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 of second cover 20 respectively as shown schematically in FIG. 4.
- This arrangement improves the security of software storage case 16 by providing a double-wall structure that makes it more difficult to compromise software storage case 16 , by, for example, prying it open to gain access to its contents.
- filler layers 58 may be provided on exterior portions of opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 of second cover 20 to cover those portions of the exterior of opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 which are not covered by extended portions 50 a , 52 a of respective opposing vertical walls 50 , 52 .
- the innermost one 42 of spaced parallel walls 42 , 44 and opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 create an enclosure that can receive literature, such as a booklet or other written material such as warranty material, etc.
- An opening 59 in second cover 20 serves as a window which may be used to display portions of literature that is received in the literature enclosure.
- a short wall 57 may be disposed on second cover 20 near and parallel to its proximal edge 21 . Short wall 57 , when provided, will further restrict the lateral movement of any literature received in the enclosure that is created by opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 and innermost one 42 of spaced parallel walls 42 , 44 .
- First cover 18 also has disposed near its proximal edge a short vertical wall 51 .
- Short wall 51 ensures that first cover 18 will not pivot beyond a vertical position relative to spine 22 .
- the same function is substantially performed by short wall 57 of second cover 20 .
- first cover 18 and second cover 20 will be oriented substantially vertical to spine 22 , and thus parallel to one another as first cover 18 is pivoted about is proximal edge 19 when, for example, software storage case 16 is closed.
- brace 60 is provided over the literature enclosure. Brace 60 extends between opposing vertical walls 54 , 56 of second cover 20 . Brace 60 , preferably includes first portion 60 a which is substantially parallel to second cover 20 and a second portion 60 b which slopes at an angle away from second cover 20 thereby providing a wide opening for receiving literature in the literature enclosure.
- FIG. 5 shows software storage package 16 which has received in its literature enclosure an item of literature.
- brace 60 is configured to receive thick or bulky literature that is at least 1 ⁇ 2′′ thick.
- software storage package 16 meets the size requirements recommended by IEMA (Interactive Entertainment Merchants Association) for a downsized software storage case. The IEMA recommended dimensions are 71 ⁇ 2′′ by 51 ⁇ 4′′ by 11 ⁇ 8′′.
- At least one biasing element (e.g. 62 , 64 ) is provided to make contact with at least one recording media, and preferably up to three, that is retained by recording media retainer 24 when software storage package 16 is closed.
- biasing element e.g. 62 , 64
- Biasing elements 62 , 64 in the preferred embodiment of the invention are springs and biased towards the recording media when storage case 16 is closed.
- the biasing elements 62 , 64 should be sufficiently biased to securely hold from one to three or more recording media on retainer 24 when case 16 is closed.
- biasing elements 62 , 64 are sufficiently resilient and contact the recording media on the unrecorded portion, thereby preventing damage to the recording media.
- biasing elements 62 , 64 are spaced at least as wide as the diameter of central opening 14 of a conventional recording media 10 (FIG. 1). Also, according to an aspect of the invention, biasing elements 62 , 64 are disposed on brace 60 . In the preferred embodiment of the invention, recording media retainer 24 will be disposed between biasing elements 62 , 64 when software storage case 16 is closed, thus providing biasing force evenly over a recording media retained by recording media retainer 24 .
- a software case according to a preferred embodiment is made from an environmentally friendly recyclable polypropylene copolymer and is 71 ⁇ 2′′ by 41 ⁇ 4′′ by 1 ⁇ 2′′ when closed.
- a preferred embodiment of the present invention is thus smaller than conventional packages, which saves retail space thus allowing retailers to display up to three times more products on the shelves.
- a software case according to the preferred embodiment can accommodate a booklet that is 63 ⁇ 4′′ by 41 ⁇ 4′′ by 1 ⁇ 2′′ up to a booklet that is 7 ⁇ fraction (1/16) ⁇ ′′ by 41 ⁇ 2′′ by 1 ⁇ 2′′.
- a package according to the present invention is advantageous in that it: conforms to the size standards set by IEMA and their retailers; provides customers with compact and permanent storage cases which are easy to use as opposed to boxes which are discarded after use; provides customers with environmentally friendly packaging as it is made from recyclable material and it is capable of being reused to package other products when it is returned; includes a reusable lock which further makes it environmentally friendly; and furthers energy efficiency in that it can be produced by low energy injection molding.
- a software case according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention can have a clear sleeve disposed on its exterior to receive graphic inserts that can be 11 ⁇ fraction (1/16) ⁇ ′′ by 7 ⁇ fraction (9/32) ⁇ ′′.
- a software case according to the present invention lends itself easily to packaging automation such as the packaging automation used for the packaging of DVDs in which the graphic insert and the recording media are first automatically inserted into the case and then the booklets are inserted in a semi-automatic station.
- a software case according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes: an internal lock system with double acting catches that makes the case smaller; internal double overlapping walls which hinders theft by spreading the case apart; and a stronger body and particularly a reinforced spine which makes it more difficult to compromise the case by cutting it.
- the lock used in the preferred embodiment can have security tags placed thereon or can accommodate coil technology.
Abstract
A software storage case for storing optically readable information or software storage media such as CD-ROMs having an enclosure for receiving literature related to the software and a brace disposed over the enclosure to hinder the movement of the literature so received. The storage case also includes a retainer for retaining optically readable information or software storage media and a biasing element to assist in securing the recording media retained by the retainer.
Description
- This application is based on and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/301,383, filed on Jun. 27, 2001, by Michael Lax and Agjah I. Libohova, entitled “Software Storage Case”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a storage case for storing a recording media such as optically readable information storage media and associated literature and more particularly to a storage case for holding computer software and its related literature.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- As the sale of recording media, such as software that is stored on a CD, CD-ROM or DVD continues to grow, retailers are being faced with the opportunity to increase their profits by increasing the volume of their sales. Two major factors, however, affect the potential for profits which may be obtained by an increase in the volume of sales in this field. The first factor concerns loss due to theft. The second factor is the inefficient use of retail space which limits the number of items that may be displayed for sale on the retail floor.
- To address the first problem, at times, retailers display their products behind locked glass windows. While such a practice may reduce theft, it tends to retard sales as it requires the assistance of sales attendants as opposed to allowing the shoppers to help themselves thereby speeding up the sales process.
- To prevent theft, the products such as a CD-ROM and its associated literature, have been packaged in large display boxes. Such packaging may hinder theft by making it more complicated for a thief to gain access to the contents of the package, but reduces the density of products that can be put on the shelves as it increases the size of each package.
- It is thus highly desirable to reduce the size of packaging of interactive media, such as software, while maintaining or improving its security so as to retard or prevent loss due to theft and increase sales by increasing the density of products on the shelves.
- Of course, the size of a storage case may depend on the products that it stores. Today's software products often include more than recording media, e.g., up to three or more CD-ROMs, on which computer readable software instructions are stored, and associated literature such as a user manual, warranty information etc. The associated literature also tends to be thick and bulky. Thus, it is necessary to have a storage case that can accommodate a plurality of recording media and associated literature, even if bulky.
- It is, therefore, desirable to have a storage case that can accommodate software products that is as small as possible to increase the density of products on the retail floor.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a storage case that is reduced in size compared to conventional packages.
- It is another object of the invention to provide a storage case that is more secure so that it may be displayed on the retail floor without theft.
- A storage case according to the present invention can store recording media, such as CD-ROMs, and includes an enclosure which may receive literature even if bulky that is related to the media which is stored therein such as a user manual, warranty information etc.
- A storage case according to the present invention also includes security features that retard theft.
- In a preferred embodiment, a storage case according to the present invention utilizes locking systems which have been described in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/696,614 entitled “Case and Lock with Improved Disc Protection”, filed on Oct. 25, 2000, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/858,457 entitled “Case With Internal Lock”, filed May 6, 2001, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. Such locking systems are highly secure and space efficient. Also, such locking systems can be equipped with tags- which may be readable by sensors to prevent theft.
- A storage case according to the present invention includes a hub or retainer member for holding conventional recording media such as CD-ROMs, and a biasing element which assists in securing the media in place when received by the retainer. The biasing element helps to reduce the size of the storage case because it provides the ability to secure more than one recording media on the retainer.
- A preferred embodiment of a storage case according to the present invention includes a first cover; a second cover; a spine flexibly attached at opposing edges thereof to an edge of the first cover and an edge of the second cover respectively; and a recording media retainer adapted to receive at least one recording media, the retainer being disposed on a major surface of the first cover.
- According to one aspect of the invention an enclosure is provided on the second cover to receive literature. A brace is disposed over the enclosure to further secure the literature received therein. According to one aspect of the invention the brace includes a portion that is parallel to the second cover and another portion that extends from the first portion at an angle so that literature may be inserted between the brace and the second cover more easily.
- According to another aspect of the invention, the brace is raised sufficiently high above the second cover to receive and retain bulky or thick literature therein.
- According to another aspect of the invention the storage case includes a biasing element which is oriented opposite to a major surface of the first cover and makes contact with a recording media held by the retainer to hinder the motion of the same when the storage case is closed. The biasing element may be a spring and may be disposed over the brace, if one is provided.
- According to another aspect of the invention another biasing element, which may also be a spring, can be provided. The second biasing element may be spaced from the first biasing element at a distance that is at least as wide as the diameter of the central opening of a conventional recording media. The two biasing elements will be positioned so that the recording media retainer will be disposed between them when the storage case is closed.
- Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention which refers to the accompanying drawings.
- FIG. 1 shows a bottom plan view of a conventional recording media.
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the interior of a storage case according to the present invention.
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a retainer for retaining a conventional recording media.
- FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the exterior of a storage case according to the present invention.
- FIG. 5 shows another perspective view of the interior of a storage case according to the present invention showing literature as received within the storage case.
- FIG. 1 shows a bottom view of a
recording media 10 according to a conventional design. According to the conventional design, recordingmedia 10 is circular and has a circularcentral opening 12. Typically, a concentric ring 14 is disposed around opening 12. Concentric ring 14 is usually devoid of any optically readable information. Optically readable information storage media such as compact disks (CDs), CD-ROMs and DVDs are examples of such recording media, although it should be realized by those skilled in the art that the storage case of the present invention can be used with any and all types of recording media. As is well known, CD-ROMs are used for storage of computer readable information and/or computer readable instructions (software). When sold, software is often accompanied with literature pertaining to, for example, the use of software, or other literature such as warranty information. - FIG. 2 shows a
software storage case 16 according to the present invention.Software storage case 16 includesfirst cover 18 andsecond cover 20, andspine 22 which is flexibly attached at opposing longitudinal edges thereof to an edge offirst cover 18 and an edge ofsecond cover 20, respectively. Due to the flexible attachment,first cover 18 may pivot towardsecond cover 20, andsecond cover 20 may pivot towardfirst cover 18. Thus, the flexible attachment ofspine 22 tofirst cover 18 acts as a hinge betweenspine 22 andfirst cover 18 and the flexible attachment ofspine 22 tosecond cover 18 acts as a hinge betweenspine 22 andsecond cover 20. This arrangement is commonly referred to as a living hinge. -
First cover 18 has disposed on a surface thereof a hub or recordingmedia retainer 24. Recordingmedia retainer 24 may be adapted to receive one or more recording media as desired. Preferably,retainer 24 is adapted to receive three recording media as schematically suggested in FIG. 5, although it can be adapted to hold more than three. - FIG. 3 shows an enlarged view of
retainer 24. Referring to FIG. 3,retainer 24 includes a plurality of spacedtabs 26.Tabs 26 are arranged around a circle having a diameter that is substantially equal to the diameter of central opening 12 (FIG. 1) of a conventional recording media 10 (FIG. 1). Eachtab 26 includes an enlargedfree end 28 and an opposing end which is attached tofirst cover 18. Eachenlarged end 28 includes a curved exterior surface. To utilizerecording media retainer 24,central opening 12 of aconventional recording media 10 is substantially aligned withtabs 26. Whenconventional recording media 10 is forced downwardly towardfirst cover 18, eachtab 26 is elastically deformed thereby allowing its respective free end to slip into opening 12 (FIG. 1) ofconventional recording media 10. Oncerecording media 10 is moved further towardfirst cover 18 past enlarged free ends 28 oftabs 26,tabs 26 automatically return to their undeformed positions and make contact with the annular wall 12'(FIG. 1) ofopening 12 and due to friction, retainrecording media 10 in a position substantially parallel tofirst cover 18. -
Cylinder 30 may be disposed onfirst cover 18 and within the space created bytabs 26.Cylinder 30 is spaced fromtabs 26 to allow adequate room for eachtab 26 to be deformed when recordingmedia 10 is being received byrecording media retainer 24. However,cylinder 30 is close enough so as not to allowtabs 26 to be deformed too far inwardly to prevent breakage or permanent deformation oftabs 26. - Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an
annular ring 32 is disposed onfirst cover 18 and aboutrecording media retainer 24.Annular ring 32 has a diameter which is preferably more than the diameter of opening 12 and less than the diameter of concentric ring 14 of a conventional recording media 10 (FIG. 1), and rises to a height so as to space the bottom ofrecording media 10 that is received byretainer 24 fromfirst cover 18. Because the diameter ofannular ring 32 is smaller than the diameter of concentric ring 14 (FIG. 1) ofrecording media 10,annular ring 32 will not make contact with those portions ofrecording media 10 that contain optically readable information, which portions are typically outside of concentric ring 14 (FIG. 1). - Referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of spaced
arcuate walls 34 are disposed onfirst cover 18 and aboutrecording media retainer 24.Arcuate walls 34 are arranged around a circle having a slightly larger diameter than the diameter of recording media 10 (FIG. 10).Arcuate walls 34 rise to about the height ofrecording media retainer 24. Once arecording media 10 is received byrecording media retainer 24,arcuate walls 34 hinder its lateral movement thereby contributing to its secured retention. - Disposed between
arcuate walls 34 and onfirst cover 18 are a plurality of raisedportions 36. Raisedportions 36 rise to a height below the height ofarcuate walls 34 and equal to or slightly below the height ofannular ring 32. Raisedportions 36 may make contact with the outer edge of recording media 10 (FIG. 1) when it is received byretainer 24. Such contact may occur, for example, when recording media 10 (FIG. 1) that is received byrecording media retainer 24 is removed. - A
recording media 10 may be removed by two opposing fingers of a user placed at opposing regions on the outer edge of a recording media 10 (FIG. 1) that is received byrecording media retainer 24. The downward pressure applied to the retainedrecording media 10 during this procedure may cause a slight deformation ofrecording media 10, as it may be pressed againstannular ring 32. Raisedportions 36 prevent recording media 10 (FIG. 1) from being pressed too far downwardly, thereby averting accidental breakage ofrecording media 10 during its removal. -
Storage case 16 may utilize a locking mechanism that is described in detail in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/858,457 described above. For convenience, a brief description of the locking mechanism follows. As described above,first cover 18 is flexibly attached at aproximal edge 19 thereof tospine 22, whilesecond cover 20 is flexibly attached at a proximal edge 21 thereof tospine 22.First cover 18 has disposed opposite and parallel to its proximal edge a pair of spacedparallel walls parallel walls 42, 44 are disposed onsecond cover 20 opposite and parallel to its proximal edge. A plurality of spacedloops 46 are disposed between spacedparallel walls 42, 44 on the second cover. Also, a plurality of spacedloops 48 are disposed between spacedparallel walls first cover 18.Loops 46, which are disposed between spacedparallel walls 42, 44 onsecond cover 20, are longitudinally aligned with one another. The longitudinal positions of theloops loops 46 have a staggered relationship with respect to theloops 48 andloops 48 which are disposed between spacedparallel walls first cover 18 are aligned with one another. The longitudinal positions of theloops loops 46 have a staggered relationship with respect to theloops 48. Whensoftware storage case 16 is closed, that is, whenfirst cover 18 andsecond cover 20 are brought close to one another,loops 48 which are disposed between spacedparallel walls loops 46 which are disposed between spacedparallel walls 42, 44 and vice versa to provide a free path 45 (FIG. 4). A locking member comprising a substantially straight bar 47 (FIG. 4) is then received infree path 45 by eachloop -
First cover 18 has disposed thereon a pair of opposingvertical walls proximal edge 19. Opposingvertical walls Second cover 20 also has disposed thereon a pair of opposingvertical walls vertical walls first cover 18 are spaced apart slightly further than opposingvertical walls software storage case 16 is closed extended portions 50 a, 52 a of opposingvertical walls vertical walls second cover 20 respectively as shown schematically in FIG. 4. This arrangement improves the security ofsoftware storage case 16 by providing a double-wall structure that makes it more difficult to compromisesoftware storage case 16, by, for example, prying it open to gain access to its contents. Optionally, filler layers 58 may be provided on exterior portions of opposingvertical walls second cover 20 to cover those portions of the exterior of opposingvertical walls vertical walls - The innermost one42 of spaced
parallel walls 42, 44 and opposingvertical walls opening 59 insecond cover 20 serves as a window which may be used to display portions of literature that is received in the literature enclosure. Optionally, ashort wall 57 may be disposed onsecond cover 20 near and parallel to its proximal edge 21.Short wall 57, when provided, will further restrict the lateral movement of any literature received in the enclosure that is created by opposingvertical walls parallel walls 42, 44.First cover 18 also has disposed near its proximal edge a short vertical wall 51. Short wall 51 ensures thatfirst cover 18 will not pivot beyond a vertical position relative tospine 22. The same function is substantially performed byshort wall 57 ofsecond cover 20. Thus, whensoftware storage case 16 is closed,first cover 18 andsecond cover 20 will be oriented substantially vertical tospine 22, and thus parallel to one another asfirst cover 18 is pivoted about isproximal edge 19 when, for example,software storage case 16 is closed. - According to an aspect of the present invention, brace60 is provided over the literature enclosure.
Brace 60 extends between opposingvertical walls second cover 20.Brace 60, preferably includesfirst portion 60 a which is substantially parallel tosecond cover 20 and asecond portion 60 b which slopes at an angle away fromsecond cover 20 thereby providing a wide opening for receiving literature in the literature enclosure. FIG. 5 showssoftware storage package 16 which has received in its literature enclosure an item of literature. Preferably, brace 60 is configured to receive thick or bulky literature that is at least ½″ thick. Also, preferablysoftware storage package 16 meets the size requirements recommended by IEMA (Interactive Entertainment Merchants Association) for a downsized software storage case. The IEMA recommended dimensions are 7½″ by 5¼″ by 1⅛″. - According to another aspect of the present invention, at least one biasing element (e.g.62, 64) is provided to make contact with at least one recording media, and preferably up to three, that is retained by
recording media retainer 24 whensoftware storage package 16 is closed. To make contact with a recording media retained onrecording media retainer 24, biasing element (e.g. 62, 64) is oriented in a direction opposite tofirst cover 18 whensoftware storage case 16 is closed.Biasing elements storage case 16 is closed. The biasingelements retainer 24 whencase 16 is closed. Preferably, biasingelements - In a preferred embodiment, biasing
elements elements brace 60. In the preferred embodiment of the invention,recording media retainer 24 will be disposed between biasingelements software storage case 16 is closed, thus providing biasing force evenly over a recording media retained byrecording media retainer 24. - A software case according to a preferred embodiment is made from an environmentally friendly recyclable polypropylene copolymer and is 7½″ by 4¼″ by ½″ when closed. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is thus smaller than conventional packages, which saves retail space thus allowing retailers to display up to three times more products on the shelves. A software case according to the preferred embodiment can accommodate a booklet that is 6¾″ by 4¼″ by ½″ up to a booklet that is 7{fraction (1/16)}″ by 4½″ by ½″.
- A package according to the present invention is advantageous in that it: conforms to the size standards set by IEMA and their retailers; provides customers with compact and permanent storage cases which are easy to use as opposed to boxes which are discarded after use; provides customers with environmentally friendly packaging as it is made from recyclable material and it is capable of being reused to package other products when it is returned; includes a reusable lock which further makes it environmentally friendly; and furthers energy efficiency in that it can be produced by low energy injection molding.
- Preferably, a software case according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention can have a clear sleeve disposed on its exterior to receive graphic inserts that can be 11{fraction (1/16)}″ by 7{fraction (9/32)}″.
- A software case according to the present invention lends itself easily to packaging automation such as the packaging automation used for the packaging of DVDs in which the graphic insert and the recording media are first automatically inserted into the case and then the booklets are inserted in a semi-automatic station.
- A software case according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes: an internal lock system with double acting catches that makes the case smaller; internal double overlapping walls which hinders theft by spreading the case apart; and a stronger body and particularly a reinforced spine which makes it more difficult to compromise the case by cutting it. The lock used in the preferred embodiment can have security tags placed thereon or can accommodate coil technology.
- Although the present invention has been described in relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is preferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by the specific disclosure herein, but only by the appended claims.
Claims (37)
1. A storage case comprising:
a first cover;
a second cover, said first and second covers being relatively movable between an open position and a closed position;
a recording media retainer adapted to receive at least one recording media when said first and second covers are in the open position, said recording media retainer being disposed on a major surface of said first cover; and
a biasing element for making contact with a recording media retained by said recording media retainer to hinder the motion of the same when said first and second covers are in the closed position.
2. A storage case according to claim 1 , further comprising an enclosure for receiving literature.
3. A storage case according to claim 2 , wherein said enclosure is disposed on said second cover.
4. A storage case according to claim 2 , further comprising a brace disposed over said enclosure, wherein literature is received between said brace and said second cover.
5. A storage case according to claim 4 , wherein said brace includes a first portion that is substantially parallel to a major surface of said second cover and a second portion that extends at an angle away from said first portion.
6. A storage case according to claim 4 , wherein said biasing element is disposed on said brace.
7. A storage case according to claim 1 , wherein said biasing element comprises a spring.
8. A storage case according to claim 1 , further comprising another biasing element, said biasing element being spaced at least as wide as the diameter of the central opening of a conventional recording media.
9. A storage case according to claim 8 , wherein said recording media retainer will be disposed between said springs when said first and second covers are in the closed position.
10. A storage case according to claim 2 , wherein said enclosure comprises a plurality of walls each parallel to an edge of said second cover and extending perpendicular from a major surface thereof.
11. A storage case according to claim 1 , further comprising a spine flexibly attached at opposing edges thereof to an edge of said cover and an edge of said second cover, respectively.
12. A storage device according to claim 11 , wherein each of said first cover and said second cover is flexibly connected to said spine at a proximal edge thereof, and wherein each cover includes a pair of spaced vertical walls positioned parallel to a distal edge thereof, further comprising a plurality of spaced loops disposed between each pair of said spaced walls, each loop having an opening, wherein said loops are arranged so that their respective openings register with one another when said first and second covers are in the closed position to provide a free path for receiving a locking member.
13. A storage case according to claim 12 , wherein said first cover includes a pair of opposing vertical walls extending parallel to edges adjacent to said proximal edge thereof, and said second cover includes a pair of opposing vertical walls extending parallel to edges adjacent to said proximal edge thereof, said pair of opposing walls of said first cover being spaced wider than said pair of opposing walls of said second cover so that when said first and second covers are in the closed position said pair of opposing walls on said first cover receive said pair of opposing walls of said second cover.
14. A storage case according to claim 1 , wherein said recording media retainer comprises a plurality of tabs arranged around a circle having a diameter that is substantially equal to the diameter of the central opening of a recording media.
15. A storage case according to claim 14 , wherein each of said tabs includes an enlarged free end having a curved exterior, and wherein each tab is flexibly attached to said first cover.
16. A storage case according to claim 14 , further comprising an annular ring disposed around said recording media retainer and extending from said first cover.
17. A storage case according to claim 14 , further comprising a plurality of spaced arcuate walls disposed about said recording media retainer, said walls being arranged about a circle having a diameter that is larger than the diameter of a recording media.
18. A storage case according to claim 17 , further comprising raised portions disposed between said spaced vertical arcuate walls, said raised portions extending from said first cover to a height that is lower than a height of said spaced arcuate walls.
19. A storage case according to claim 1 , wherein said second cover includes an opening that serves as a window into an interior of said recording media storage device.
20. A storage case comprising:
a first cover;
a second cover, said first and second covers being relatively movable between an open position and a closed position;
a recording media retainer adapted to receive at least one recording media when said first and second covers are in the open position and said recording media having a central opening, said recording media retainer being disposed on a major surface of said first cover;
an enclosure disposed on said second cover for receiving literature; and
a brace disposed over said enclosure to hinder the movement of literature received in said enclosure.
21. A storage case according to claim 20 , wherein said brace includes a first portion that is substantially parallel to a major surface of said second cover and a second portion that extends at an angle away from said first portion.
22. A storage device according to claim 20 , wherein said enclosure comprises of a plurality of walls each parallel to an edge of said second cover and extending perpendicular from a major surface thereof.
23. A storage case according to claim 19 , further comprising a spine flexibly attached at opposing edges thereof to an edge of said cover and an edge of said second cover, respectively.
24. A storage device according to claim 23 , wherein each of said first cover and said second cover is flexibly connected to said spine at a proximal edge thereof, and wherein each cover includes a pair of spaced vertical walls positioned parallel to a distal edge thereof, further comprising a plurality of spaced loops disposed between each pair of said spaced walls, wherein said loops are arranged so that their respective openings register with one another when said first and second covers are in the closed position to provide a free path for receiving a locking member.
25. A storage case according to claim 24 , wherein said first cover includes a pair of opposing vertical walls extending parallel to edges adjacent to said proximal edge thereof, and said second cover includes a pair of opposing vertical walls extending parallel to edges adjacent to said proximal edge thereof, said pair of opposing walls of said first cover being spaced wider than said pair of opposing walls of said second cover so that when said first and second covers are in the closed position said pair of opposing walls on said first cover receive said pair of opposing walls of said second cover.
26. A storage case according to claim 20 , wherein said recording media retainer comprises a plurality of tabs arranged around a circle having a diameter that is substantially equal to the diameter of the central opening of a recording media.
27. A storage case according to claim 26 , wherein each of said tabs includes an enlarged free end having a curved exterior surface, and wherein each tab is flexibly attached to said first cover.
28. A storage case according to claim 26 , further comprising an annular ring disposed around said recording media retainer and extending from said first cover.
29. A storage case according to claim 26 , further comprising a plurality of spaced arcuate walls disposed about said recording media retainer, said walls being arranged about a circle having a diameter that is larger than the diameter of a recording media.
30. A storage case according to claim 29 , further comprising raised portions disposed between said spaced vertical arcuate walls, said raised portions extending from said first cover to a height that is lower than a height of said spaced arcuate walls.
31. A storage case according to claim 20 , wherein said second cover includes an opening that serves as a window into an interior of said recording media storage device.
32. A storage case according to claim 20 , further comprising a biasing element, wherein said biasing element is oriented opposite to said major surface of said first cover and makes contact with a recording media retained by said recording media retainer to hinder the motion of the same when said first and second covers are in the closed position.
33. A storage case according to claim 32 , wherein said biasing element is disposed on said brace.
34. A storage case according to claim 33 , wherein said biasing element comprises a spring.
35. A storage case according to claim 32 , further comprising another biasing element, said biasing element being spaced at least as wide as the diameter of the central opening of a conventional recording media.
36. A storage case according to claim 35 , wherein said recording media retainer will be disposed between said springs when said first and second covers are in the closed position.
37. A storage case according to claim 20 , wherein said brace is structured and arranged to hold literature that is at least about one-half inch thick.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/185,596 US20030000856A1 (en) | 2001-06-27 | 2002-06-27 | Storage case |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US30138301P | 2001-06-27 | 2001-06-27 | |
US10/185,596 US20030000856A1 (en) | 2001-06-27 | 2002-06-27 | Storage case |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20030000856A1 true US20030000856A1 (en) | 2003-01-02 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/185,596 Abandoned US20030000856A1 (en) | 2001-06-27 | 2002-06-27 | Storage case |
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US20040129587A1 (en) * | 2003-02-07 | 2004-07-08 | Lax Michael R. | Lockable container having an integral and internal locking mechanism and methods of use |
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US20070215498A1 (en) * | 2005-12-02 | 2007-09-20 | Barnette Timothy L | Media storage container with storable latch |
US7918357B2 (en) | 2005-12-02 | 2011-04-05 | Atlas Agi Holdings Llc | Media storage container |
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Legal Events
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---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: AUTRONIC PLASTICS, INC., NEW YORK Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:LAX, MICHAEL;LIBOHOVA, AGJAH I.;REEL/FRAME:013063/0558 Effective date: 20020627 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |