ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE FOR SUPPORTING AN OBJECT IN A VERTICAL MANNER

Abstract

An organizational structure for supporting an object in at least a generally vertical manner includes a generally planar first support surface having a first end and an opposing second end. The first support surface extends in a first plane. A generally planar second support surface has a first end and an opposing second end. The second support surface extends in a second plane. The second plane extends generally perpendicularly to the first plane. A plurality of laterally spaced-apart strands extends parallel to one another. A first end of each strand is secured to the first support surface at a location spaced-apart from the first and second ends thereof. An opposing second end of each strand is secured to the second support surface at a location spaced-apart from the first and second ends thereof.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/690,024, filed on Jun. 18, 2012 and titled “Book, File, Magazine And Similar Items Support System.”

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed generally to a unique structure and method to support one or more objects, such as one or more books, files, folders, loose-leaf paper, magazines or the like, in at least a generally vertically upright configuration.

Books ends, which are typically placed on opposite sides of vertically stacked objects, are well known. With current methods, when one or more objects are removed from such an arrangement, an adjacent object or objects tend to fall or lean, thereby necessitating manual rearrangement of the objects and book ends. In addition, further manipulation using two hands is required when replacing the removed object(s). Similarly, on conventional book shelves, where the objects support each other by virtue of occupying the entire width, when one or more objects is/are removed, there is typically inadequate or no support for the other object(s) and two hands are generally required to rearrange the object(s).

In addition, filing cabinets, which are traditionally made of metal and are commonly used to hold manila folders in physician offices, have built in dividers approximately eight inches apart. Such a construction does not prevent adjacent files from “flopping” over when one is removed. Instead, the files must be rearranged or manipulated after removal and/or use.

In light of the above-identified limitations and drawbacks of existing systems, the need for an improved organizational or support structure is apparent. Specifically, it would be desirable to produce a support structure for objects that allows a user to remove one of the objects without the need to readjust or rearrange the remaining objects on the support structure. Further, it would be desirable to produce a support structure that can accomplish the above feature as a free-standing structure, as retro-fitting an existing bookcase or filing cabinet, or as an integral part of a bookcase or filing cabinet. The present invention accomplishes the above objectives.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly stated, one aspect of the present invention is directed to an organizational structure for supporting an object in at least a generally vertical manner including a generally planar first support surface having a first end and an opposing second end. The first support surface extends in a first plane. A generally planar second support surface has a first end and an opposing second end. The second support surface extends in a second plane. The second plane extends generally perpendicularly to the first plane. A plurality of laterally spaced-apart strands extends parallel to one another. A first end of each strand is secured to the first support surface at a location spaced-apart from the first and second ends thereof. An opposing second end of each strand is secured to the second support surface at a location spaced-apart from the first and second ends thereof.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to an organizational structure for supporting an object in at least a generally vertical manner including a generally planar top support surface having a front end, an opposing rear end and a midpoint therebetween. A generally planar bottom support surface has a front end, an opposing rear end and a midpoint therebetween. The bottom support surface is spaced-apart from and extends generally parallel to the top support surface. A plurality of laterally spaced-apart strands extend in parallel to one another. A first end of each strand is secured to the top support surface at a location spaced-apart from the front and rear ends thereof. An opposing second end of each strand is secured to the bottom support surface at a location proximate the midpoint thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention in combination with an object;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a modified version of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with another modified version of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a modified version of the second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with another modified version of the second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a top front perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the organizational structure of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of an organizational structure in accordance with a modified version of the fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” “top,” “front” and “rear” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “outwardly” and “downwardly” refer to directions toward and/or away from a geometric center of the device or certain components thereof, and designated parts thereof, in accordance with the present invention. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a,” “an” and “the” are not limited to one element, but instead should be read as meaning “at least one.” The terminology includes the words noted above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an organizational or support structure, generally designated 10, in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. The structure 10 is intended to support and/or hold one or more objects, generally designated 11, (see FIG. 1) in an organized and at least generally vertical orientation. The objects 11 may be books, files, folders, magazines, loose-leaf pieces of paper or the like. When the object(s) 11 is properly inserted into the structure 10, the structure 10 preferably maintains the object(s) 11 in at least a generally, if not exactly, upright position even when one or more other of the objects 11 are removed from the structure 10.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the structure 10 preferably includes a first support surface or wall 12. In the first preferred embodiment, the first support surface 12 is a bottom support surface having a first or front end 14, an opposing second or rear end 16 and a midpoint or midportion 18 (see FIG. 2) therebetween. The midpoint 18 is preferably equal-distantly spaced apart from both the front and rear ends 14, 16. A distance or length from the front end 14 to the rear end 16 of the bottom support surface 12 is preferably at least generally equal to, if not greater than, a length of the object 11 (see FIG. 1), so that the bottom support surface 12 can fully support the object 11. The bottom support surface 12 is preferably at least generally planar or flat and defines or extends in a first plane. The first support surface 12 preferably has a generally square or rectangular shape when viewed from above or below.

The structure 10 also includes a second support surface or wall 20 that preferably extends at least generally, if not exactly, perpendicularly to the bottom support surface 12. In the first preferred embodiment, the second support surface 20 is a rear support surface that includes a first or upper end 22, an opposing second or lower end 24, and a midpoint or midportion 26 therebetween. The midpoint 26 is preferably equal-distantly spaced apart from both the upper and lower ends 22, 24. A distance or length from the upper end 24 to the lower end 24 of the rear support surface 20 is preferably at least generally equal to, if not greater than, a height of the object 11 (see FIG. 1). The rear support surface 20 is preferably at least generally planar or flat and defines or extends in a second plane. The second plane extends generally, if not exactly, perpendicularly to the first plane. The second support surface 20 preferably has a generally square or rectangular shape. The lower end 24 of the rear support surface 20 is preferably attached to and/or contacts the rear end 16 of the bottom support surface 12.

The structure 10 also preferably includes two laterally spaced-apart side support surfaces or walls 28. Each side support surface 28 provides structural rigidity to the bottom and rear support surfaces 12, 20, and may support and/or contact any object 11 placed at a lateral side of the bottom and rear support surfaces 12, 20. Each side support surface 28 preferably has a generally triangular shape. The side support surfaces 28 preferably extends generally, if not exactly, perpendicular to both the bottom and rear support surfaces 12, 20. The entire structure 10 may be separable from and removably insertable into a conventional bookcase or filing cabinet, for example. Alternatively, the structure 10 may be integrally formed in a bookcase. The structure 10 is preferably formed of a light-weight, high-strength material, such as a metallic, polymeric and/or wood material.

A plurality of laterally spaced-apart separators or strands 30 preferably extend at least generally taut (i.e., under tension) or rigidly from the bottom support surface 12 to the rear support surface 20. Each strand 30 preferably extends in a straight line from the bottom support surface 12 to the rear support surface 20, and the strands 30 preferably extend at least generally, if not exactly, parallel to one another. More specifically, a first or lower end 32 of each strand 30 is secured to the bottom support surface 12 at a location spaced-apart from the front and rear ends 14, 16 thereof. More preferably, the lower end 32 of each strand 30 is preferably secured to the bottom support surface 12 at a location between the front end 14 and the midpoint 18 of the bottom support surface 12.

An opposing second end 34 of each strand 30 is preferably secured to the rear support surface 20 at a location between the upper and lower ends 22, 24 thereof. More preferably, the upper end 34 of each strand 30 is preferably secured to the rear support surface 20 at a location between the upper end 22 and the midpoint 26 of the rear support surface 20. However, the ends 32, 34 of each strand 30 may be secured to the bottom and rear support surfaces 12, 20, respectively, at generally any point that is desired and provides the functional and/or operational benefits described below. The strands 30 are preferably attached to the support surfaces 12, 20 in any of a variety of methods, such as welding, soldering, brazing, tying, stapling, nailing, adhesive, etc.

Each strand 30 is preferably sufficiently thin (i.e., in width or thickness) such that at least a portion of the strand 30 is configured to move between two adjacent pages of a book 11, for example, without damaging the pages of the book 11 when the book 11 is inserted into the structure 10 with the binding or spine of the book 11 facing away from the structure 10 (see FIG. 1). As a result, a book 11 can straddle one or more of the strands 30. The size, shape and/or configuration of each strand 30 preferably allows the strand 30 to relatively easily move between two adjacent pages of a book 11, for example, without damaging the pages. Alternatively, if desired, a relatively thin book 11 may be inserted between two adjacent strands 30 with the spine is facing toward the rear support structure 20 (opposite of the position shown in FIG. 1).

As shown in FIG. 2, each strand 30 extends at an angle θ with respect to the bottom support surface 12. The angle θ is preferably less than ninety degrees and greater than zero degrees with respect to the bottom support surface 12. More particular, the angle θ may be approximately forty five degrees. Such an angle θ contributes to the strand 30 being easily insertable between to adjacent pages of a book 11, in a manner similar to how a knife more easily cuts a piece of meat if the blade edge of the knife is angled with respect to the meat, as oppose to moving the blade edge of knife downwardly in a manner that is parallel to a top surface of the meat. In other words, it is preferred that the initial point of contact of any strand 30 with the object 11 is relatively minimal, thus preventing or at least minimizing any damage to the object 11 upon insertion into the structure 10.

The value or magnitude of the angle θ is dependant upon where the ends 32, 34 of each strand 30 are secured to the bottom and rear support surfaces 12, 20, respectively. Although the angle θ may preferably be approximately forty five degrees, the angle θ may be modified as desired. For example, the angle θ may be less than forty five degrees if the second end 34 of each strand 30 is positioned at or even below the midpoint 26 of the rear support surface 30. Likewise, the angle θ may be greater than forty five degrees if the first end 32 of each strand 30 is positioned at or even rearward of the midpoint 18 of the bottom support surface 12.

Each strand 30 is preferably laterally spaced-apart from an adjacent strand 30 or one of the side support surfaces 28 by a distance D (see FIG. 1). The distance D preferably has a value or magnitude that permits the object 11 to be inserted therebetween but also supports the object 11 in at least a generally vertical orientation when the object 11 is inserted into the structure 10. Further, the distance D preferably has a value or magnitude that a single piece of loose-leaf paper is able to remain at least generally vertical between adjacent strands 30. For example, adjacent strand 30 may be laterally spaced-apart by the distance D of approximately one half inch, or even one inch. The strands 30 eliminate the need for conventional book ends.

Each strand 30 may be formed of any of a variety of materials or combination of materials. For example, each strand 30 may be a metallic wire, such as steel, or may include a monofilament core having an outer polymeric sheath. Alternatively, each strand 30 may include a nylon filament or other filament. Alternatively, each separator or strand 30 may be a generally solid plate or divider. Each strand 30 is preferably at least generally identical in size, shape, configuration and material, and may have a generally tubular shape. Each strand 30 is preferably at least generally taut when secured to the first and second support surfaces 12, 20 and generally flexible when detached from either the first support surface 12 or the second support surface 20.

Generally, in operation, a user employs the structure 10 to stand one or more objects 11 erect by inserting the object(s) 11 within the structure 10 and in between and/or around one or more strands 30. The object 11 stands at least generally erect whether or not there are any other objects 11 within the system 10. When a user removes the object 11, there is no need to re-adjust the surrounding objects 11 because they remain erect as a result of the strands 30. This is especially helpful if a plurality of objects 11 are removed and replaced directly. The present invention allows a user to remove and replace objects 11 with ease, often with only one hand. This is possible as the other objects 11 within the structure 10 remain erect. The strands 30 effectively occupy or maintain an void or gap into which an object 11 may be easily inserted. The result is not only time saving but reduces damage to the object 11 because the objects 11 do not need to be “jammed” or forcibly inserted into the structure 10, as is often required for conventional bookcase or filing cabinets.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show a modified version of the first preferred embodiment. The reference numerals of the modified version of the first preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred embodiment by a prime symbol (′), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 10′ of the present version is substantially similar to that of the first preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

A distinguishing feature of the structure 10′ is the omission of side support surfaces. In addition, the structure 10′ includes one or more spaced-apart openings or indicia 36′ that permit or aid in mounting or attaching the structure 10′ to a wall, shelf or bookcase (none shown). More preferably, the structure 10′ includes four spaced-apart openings 36′. Two of the openings 36′ are preferably positioned proximate to the first or upper end 22′ of the second or rear support surface 20′, and two of the openings 36′ are preferably positioned proximate to the first or front end 14′ of the first or bottom support surface 12′. In operation, a fastener (not shown), such as a screw, nail or bolt, is preferably inserted through each of the openings 36′ to mounted the structure 10′ in at least a generally stationary position. The openings 36′ may be pre-drilled holes, or may simply be indicia or markings to indicate a preferred location to insert the fastener.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show another modified version of the first preferred embodiment. The reference numerals of the present version are distinguishable from those of the first preferred embodiment discussed above by two prime symbols (″), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 10″ of the present version is substantially similar to that of the modified version of the first preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

A distinguishing feature of the structure 10″ is that the structure 10″ is preferably essentially inverted with respect to the structure 10′ of the modified version of the first preferred embodiment described above. Thus, the first support surface 12″ is preferably a top support surface. As a result, the second or rear end 16″ of the top support surface 12″ may be attached or secured to the first or upper end 22″ of the rear support surface 20″. The first plane defined by the top support surface 12″ extends at least generally, if not exactly, to the second plane defined by the rear support surface 20″. The structure 10″ preferably includes four openings or indicia 36″ in the top support surface 12″ and at least two openings 36″ in the rear support surface 20″. However, the rear support surface 20″ may also include four or more spaced-apart openings 36″ similar to the top support surface 12″.

At least one benefit of the structure 10″ is that the second end 34′ of each strand 30″ is preferably spaced at least slightly upwardly and/or away from a bottom support surface (not shown), such as that of a conventional bookcase. In other words, it is preferred that the second end 34″ of each strand 30″ is secured to the rear support surface 20″ at a location below the midpoint 26″ but above the lower end 24″. Of course, the second end 34″ of each strand 30″ could be positioned above the midpoint 26″ on the rear support surface 20″. As a result, it can be relatively easy to clean a back, lower corner of the shelf and/or bookcase because the strands 30″ permit unobstructed access thereto. Thus, the strands 30″ permit the organizational benefits described in detail above without hinder keeping the structure 10″ clean.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show a second preferred embodiment of the structure 210. The reference numerals of the second preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred embodiment by a factor of two-hundred (200), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 210 of the second preferred embodiment is substantially similar to that of the first preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

A distinguishing feature of the structure 210 is the inclusion of a third support surface 238. In the second preferred embodiment, the first support surface 212 is a top support surface and the third support surface 238 is a bottom support surface. The bottom support surface 238 includes a first or front end 240, an opposing second or rear end 242 and a midpoint or midportion 244 (see FIG. 8) therebetween. The bottom support surface 238 is preferably at least generally planar or flat and defines or extends in a third plane. The third plane extends generally, if not exactly, parallel to the first plane of the top support surface 212. The bottom support surface 238 preferably extends outwardly from the second or rear support surface 220, such that the rear end 242 of the bottom support surface 238 contacts or engages a portion of the rear support surface 220, such as the lower end 224 or the midpoint 226 thereof. In the second preferred embodiment, each side support surface 228 preferably has a generally square or rectangular shape. The structure 210 may be a self-contained bookcase.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the second end 234 of each strand 230 may be positioned at and/or secured to a point of intersection of the second support surface 220 and the third support surface 238. Such positioning provides the cleaning benefit described above. In addition, a distance of the first support surface 212 from the front end 214 to the rear end 216 thereof may be relatively short, such that an angle α (see FIG. 8) measured from each strand 230 to the first support surface 212 may be at least relatively large, such as approximately sixty degrees. The structure 210 may have two, vertically stacked spaces for receiving the object(s). The upper space may include the strands 230, as described in detail above, and the lower space may be void of the strands 230, similar to a conventional bookcase. Of course, each space of the structure 210 may include the plurality of spaced-apart strands 230.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show a modified version of the second preferred embodiment. The reference numerals of the modified version of the second preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the second preferred embodiment by a prime symbol (′), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the second preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 210′ of the present version is substantially similar to that of the second preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

A distinguishing feature of the structure 210′ is that the first, second and third support surfaces 212′, 220′, 238′ are wider or have a greater width (i.e., extending perpendicular to front and rear ends 214′, 216′) than the first, second and third support surfaces 212, 220, 238 of the structure 210 of the second preferred embodiment. In addition, the first, second and third support surfaces 212′, 220′, 238′ have a greater length (i.e., extending from the front end 214′ to the rear end 216′) than the first, second and third support surfaces 212, 220, 238 of the structure 210 of the second preferred embodiment. As a result of the greater length, the angle α′ (see FIG. 10) measured from each strand 230′ to the first support surface 212′ may be at least relatively small, such as approximately thirty degrees. In addition, the second end 234′ of each strand 230′ may be secured to the point of intersection of the rear support surface 220′ and the bottom support surface 238′ (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10), or at a point spaced at least slightly above the point of intersection (similar to that shown in FIGS. 5 and 6).

FIGS. 11 and 12 show another modified version of the second preferred embodiment. The reference numerals of the present version of the second preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the second preferred embodiment by two prime symbols (″), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the second preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 210″ of the present version is substantially similar to that of the second preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

A distinguishing version of the structure 210″, as compared to some of the versions described above, is that the structure 210″ is a self-contained spaced that can independently support one or more objects in at least a generally vertical manner or can be inserted into a shelf of a conventional bookcase. Alternatively, the structure 210″ can be placed on a support surface, such as a desk or the floor (none shown), and support the object(s) as described in detail above.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show a third preferred embodiment of the structure 310. The reference numerals of the third preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred embodiment by a factor of three-hundred (300), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first and second preferred embodiments, except as otherwise specified. The structure 310 of the third preferred embodiment is substantially similar to that of the first and second preferred embodiments. The description of certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

In the third preferred embodiment 310, the first end 332 of each strand 330 is preferably secured to the first or top support surface 312 at a location spaced-apart from the front and rear ends 314, 316 thereof. More particularly, the first end 332 of each strand 330 is preferably secured to the first support surface 312 at a location between the front end 314 and the midpoint 318 thereof (see FIG. 14). However, the first end 332 of each strand 330 may be secured to the front end 314 of the first support surface 312. An opposing second end 334 of each strand 330 is preferably secured to the third or bottom support surface 338 at a location at least proximate to, if not exactly at, the midpoint 344 thereof. A third end 335 of each strand 330 is preferably secured to the first or top support surface 312 at a location spaced-apart from the front and rear ends 314, 316 thereof. More particularly, the third end 335 of each strand 330 is preferably secured to the first support surface 312 at a location between the midpoint 318 and the rear end 316 thereof (see FIG. 14). However, the third end 335 of each strand 330 may be secured to the rear end 316 of the first support surface 312, such as at the point of intersection between the top support surface 312 and the rear support surface 320. As a result of the above-described configuration, each strand 330 may form a “V” when viewed from the side.

Each strand 330 may be a single, continuous piece that extends from the first end 332, to the second end 334 and to the third end 335. Alternatively, each strand 330 may be formed of at least two discrete segments. For example, one segment of each strand 330 may extend from the first end 332 to the second end 334 and another segment of each strand 330 may extend from the second end 334 to the third end 335. The segments may be joined together, such as by tying, welding or adhesive, for example, but the present invention is not so limited. Instead, the two segments of each strand 330 may simply meet or intersection at a particular point, such as the midpoint 344 of the bottom support surface 338.

The structure 310 of the third preferred embodiment may include the second or rear support surface 320 and the two opposing side support surfaces 328. Alternatively, the rear support surface 320 may be omitted, so as to provide access to an interior of the structure 310 from either a front or a rear thereof. In the alternative configuration, one or more objects may be inserted into the structure 310 from either the front or the rear, and the strands 330 would function as described above regardless of which way the object is inserted into the structure 310.

FIG. 15 shows a fourth preferred embodiment of the structure 410. The reference numerals of the fourth preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the first preferred embodiment by a factor of four-hundred (400), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the first preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 410 of the third preferred embodiment is substantially similar to that of the first through third preferred embodiments. The description of certain similarities between the embodiments may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

The structure 410 preferably omits both the rear support surface and any side support surfaces. Instead, the top support surface 412 is preferably spaced-apart from the bottom support surface 438 by a rod, shaft or other support member 446. Each strand 430 preferably extends radially outwardly from the rod 446. The top and bottom support surfaces 412, 438 may be at least generally circular when viewed from above or below. The structure 410 may rotate to permit access to any particular strand 430 and object within the structure 410 from a given location or point.

FIG. 16 shows a modified version of the fourth preferred embodiment. The reference numerals of the modified version of the fourth preferred embodiment are distinguishable from those of the fourth preferred embodiment by a prime symbol (′), but otherwise indicate the same elements as indicated in the fourth preferred embodiment, except as otherwise specified. The structure 410′ of the present version is substantially similar to that of the fourth preferred embodiment. The description of certain similarities may be omitted herein for the sake of brevity and convenience, and, therefore, is not limiting.

A distinguishing feature of the structure 410′ is that first and third ends 433′ and 435′ of each strand 430′ may be attached to the top support surface 412′, and the second end 434′ of each strand 430′ may be attached to the bottom support surface 43′8. However, the strands 430 may extend in any manner with respect to the rod 446′. The structure 410′ may include a single, continuous strand 430′ that extends from the top and bottom support surfaces 412′, 438′ a plurality of times. Alternatively, the structure 410′ may include at least two separate strands 430′ and preferably a plurality of strands 430′ that generally circle the rod 446′. The top and bottom support surfaces 412′, 438′ may be at least generally circular when viewed from above or below. The structure 410′ may rotate to permit access to any particular strand 430′ and object within the structure 410′ from a given location or point.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An organizational structure for supporting an object in at least a generally vertical manner, the organizational structure comprising:

a generally planar first support surface having a first end and an opposing second end, the first support surface extending in a first plane;

a generally planar second support surface having a first end and an opposing second end, the second support surface extending in a second plane, the second plane extending generally perpendicularly to the first plane; and

a plurality of laterally spaced-apart strands extending parallel to one another, a first end of each strand being secured to the first support surface at a location spaced-apart from the first and second ends thereof, an opposing second end of each strand being secured to the second support surface at the second end of the second support surface.

2. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein each strand extends at an angle of approximately forty five degrees from both the first support surface and the second support surface.

3. The organizational structure according to claim 2, further comprising:

a generally planar third support surface extending outwardly from the second support surface, the third support surface extending in a third plane, the third plane being spaced-apart from and extending parallel to the first support surface, at least a portion of the second support surface extending from the third support surface.

4. The organizational structure according to claim 3, wherein the second end of each strand is positioned at a point of intersection of the second support surface and the third support surface.

5. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein the support structure is removably mountable into a bookcase.

6. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein each strand is laterally spaced-apart from an adjacent strand by approximately one inch.

7. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein each strand is sufficiently thin such that at least a portion the strand is configured to move between two pages of a book without damaging the pages when the book contacts the strand.

8. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein each strand comprises a monofilament core having an outer sheath.

9. The organizational structure according to claim 8, wherein each strand is generally taut when secured to the first and second support surfaces and is generally flexible when detached from either the first support surface or the second support surface.

10. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein each strand extends in a straight line from the first support surface to the second support surface.

11-17. (canceled)

18. The Organizational structure according to claim 1, further comprising:

a first side support wall connected to the first ends of the first support surface and the second support surface; and

a second side support wall connected to the second ends of the first support surface and the second support surface, the first and second side support walls providing structural rigidity to the first and second support surfaces.

19. The organizational structure according to claim 1, wherein each strand extends at an angle of approximately sixty degrees from the first support surface.

20. The organizational structure according to claim 1, further comprising:

a generally planar third support surface connected to the second support surface, the opposing second end of each strand being secured to the second and third support surfaces at an intersection between the second and third support surfaces.