Recorded Music Type Patents (Class 211/40)
  • Patent number: 11191199
    Abstract: A system and method for surface mount assembly of PCB's, using an automated pick-and-place machine into which component tapes on reels are fed, uses component tape reels each of which has been pre-threaded into its appropriate tape guide and been stored as a reel/tape guide packet in an automated SMD storage tower, from which appropriate packets are retrieved for coupling to the pick-and-place machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Mycronic AB
    Inventor: Nils Jacobsson
  • Patent number: 10917535
    Abstract: A scanner for inserting a sheaf of papers into a file folder, which includes a first roller, a second roller, a third roller, and a fourth roller, each roller attached to a frame of the scanner, a first paper guide and a second paper guide attached to the frame of the scanner, a folder lifter attached to the frame of the scanner, a conveyor belt attached to the frame of the scanner, and a control circuit configured to control the scanner, where the first roller and the second roller are configured to feed a file folder toward the first paper guide, the first paper guide is configured to guide it toward the third and fourth rollers, where the first paper guide further guides the file folder onto the folder lifter, and the third and fourth rollers are configured to feed the file folder toward the second paper guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: Kyocera Document Solutions Inc.
    Inventor: Gin Yoshidome
  • Patent number: 10881586
    Abstract: A stuffed animal bottle holder apparatus for securing a baby bottle to a car seat or stroller includes a stuffed torso. A pair of hind legs and a head are coupled to the torso. The head has a pair of eyes, a pair of ears, and a nose coupled to a snout portion. The snout portion has a bottle cavity extending into the torso that is configured to receive the baby bottle. A bottle ring is coupled to the head. A pair of arms coupled to the torso and a pair of hands coupled to the pair of arms are used to secure the apparatus to the car seat. Each of the pair of hands comprises a palm and a plurality of fingers coupled to the palm. The torso, the pair of hind legs, the head, the pair of arms, and the pair of hands form a stuffed animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Inventor: Yuliya Hafizi
  • Patent number: 10885940
    Abstract: A disc storage device rack includes: an accommodation space surrounded by left and right side plates and upper and lower partition plates and configured to accommodate a disc storage device; a guide portion provided on the side plates and configured to fit to a guided unit provided in the disc storage device to guide a sliding operation of the disc storage device; and a shutter provided on each end surface of the side plates so as to be slidable in an up-and-down direction and configured to open an opening of the guide portion when the disc storage device is pulled out from the accommodation space or when the disc storage device is pushed into the accommodation space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: SONY SEMICONDUCTOR SOLUTIONS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takeshi Kubo, Naofumi Goto
  • Patent number: 10684928
    Abstract: A storage server receives a control signal indicating that a specific storage device of a plurality of storage devices housed by a specific storage media tray has failed. The storage media tray is in turn housed by the specific storage server, which can house many such trays. In responsive to receiving the control signal, the server activates a visual fault indicator on an external display panel, indicating that the storage server contains a storage media tray housing a failed storage device. An external visual indicator on the specific storage media tray is activated to indicate that the specific storage media tray houses a failed storage device. The specific storage media tray activates an internal visual indicator identifying the specific storage device which has failed in the specific storage media tray. When the specific failed storage device has been replaced with a working storage device, the indicators are deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventors: Phillip Straw, Harry Richardson, Robert Drury, Martin Raumann, David Anders
  • Patent number: 10010202
    Abstract: A napkin holder including a base and a plurality of sides connected to the base and extending upwardly therefrom, wherein the sides are configured to induce rotation of a napkins in a stack of napkins dropped in a vertical orientation into said holder, the rotation proceeding a first direction on one side of the napkin stack and in an opposing direction on the other side of the napkin stack, such that the individual napkins are at least partially displaced from one another and presented in a fanned array, thereby facilitating selection and removal of individual napkins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Inventor: Andrew Flocchini
  • Patent number: 9357861
    Abstract: A dish assembly includes a pair of folding panels having a preset angular relationship, the panels also including plate holding unit structures that are linearly offset along the rising extent of the structure, for greater single object support stability. The panels are hinged at one or more points more closely adjacent lateral support structure on adjacent the plate holding unit structure openings. The panels fold for flat storage, or open to form a stable angled structure with the angular degree of open deployment stabilized by any method, including a limiting hinge, a guide base, or other structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventor: Isaac Waksul
  • Patent number: 9238546
    Abstract: A media storage assembly holds, organizes, and displays one or more of a user's media collections. The assembly includes a base panel having an upper surface. The upper surface is flat wherein the upper surface is configured to receive a plurality of media thereon. A slot extends into the base panel. A rod is positioned in the slot. A pair of end panels is slidably coupled to the rod. The end panels are slidable to a selectable position on the rod wherein the end panels are configured to abut an outermost one of the media and prevent spacing between adjacently positioned ones of the media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Inventor: Marvin D. Burkholder
  • Patent number: 9102458
    Abstract: The present disclosure belongs to the field of liquid crystal displays (LCDs), and more particularly relates to a packing device of a backlight module including a fixing frame, a rotating shaft, and a clamping piece which can rotate around the rotating shaft. The rotating shaft is fixed to the fixing frame. The clamping piece includes an upper arm and a lower arm, and the upper arm and the lower arm are respectively used for clamping upper and lower surfaces of the backlight module. When an opening formed by surrounding the upper arm and the lower arm is upward, one edge of the backlight module can be put above the lower arm. Then, the backlight module is slowly put down, and the lower arm of the clamping piece rotates around the fixing shaft under stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: SHENZHEN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yicheng Kuo, Shihhsiang Chen, Gang Yu, Gege Zhou, Jiaqiang Wang
  • Patent number: 8708165
    Abstract: An improved apparatus configured to store different kinds and types of media cases and boxes includes at least two similar constructed apparatuses which are releasably connected together by at least one pair of mating connecting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: John M. Weiher
  • Patent number: 8453838
    Abstract: A piston nest (10) is provided that includes a plurality of spaced apart single nesting units (12) interconnected by a web (13). Each of the single nesting units is configured a hollow cylindrical body having a first open end about a distal end of the body and a second open end about the proximal end. The hollow cylindrical body also includes a first (24) and a second (26) retention member for retaining a piston within the single nesting unit. The first and the second retention members are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Edward Hill
  • Patent number: 8413821
    Abstract: Some embodiments of an apparatus for displaying media content products may provide consumers with the convenience of browsing front and rear faces of the sample media content products while all of the media content products (including the sample packages) can be secured in a manner that hinders theft. In particular embodiments, the media content products can be secured without requiring the store workers to insert each and every media content product into a security box or security tether system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Blake M. Johnson, William Donald Splain, David Joseph Floersch, Joseph H. Bowser, William Y. Stafford
  • Patent number: 8372634
    Abstract: A storage-access apparatus includes a first support device including a first base; at least one first storage-access device and at least one first storage device, disposed on the first base and arranged in a first circle; a second support device including a second base; at least one second storage-access device and at least one second storage device, disposed on the second base and arranged in a second circle; and a transporting device, wherein the first storage-access device, the first storage device, the second storage-access device and the second storage device each has plural compartments, the transporting device corresponds to the compartments, and the first storage-access device and the first storage device can rotate relative to the second storage-access device and the second storage device. Accordingly, the storage-access apparatus can be employed in depositing and picking up products independently. Also disclosed is a storage system including, among others, the storage-access apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Healthbanks Biotech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shang-Chih Lin, Jia-You Chen
  • Patent number: 8281941
    Abstract: A holder or rack for storing and displaying a plurality of flat box-shaped articles in a substantially vertical and mutual parallel arrangement, comprising at least two mutual parallel and laterally extending rigid beams spaced one above the other in the vertical direction by at least one rigid spacer member, the upper of the beams has a downward extending flange portion providing an upper abutment stop and the lower of the beams has an upward extending flange portion providing a lower abutment stop, each of the beams has on its front side a substantially horizontal and laterally extending projection defining a vertical gap between itself and the other projection, the lower horizontal projection has a substantially smooth and planar horizontal top surface defining a support ledge and the upper horizontal projection has an underside provided with a laterally extending groove adapted to receive and retain an elongated rubber-elastic member having in cross section a wedge-shaped lip portion projecting substantia
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Jørgen Holberg Fenger
  • Publication number: 20120152869
    Abstract: The invention provides a reading stand. The reading stand may comprising a base portion including at least one base portion sidewall, the base portion sidewall being supported by the base portion; and a platform portion forming a support surface to support the document, the platform portion including at least one page holder to retain the document. The reading stand may further include a side support clip extending from the platform portion such that the base portion sidewall is receivable between the platform portion and the side support clip in an assembled position, the side support clip having a protuberance disposed thereon, the protuberance engageable with the base portion sidewall. The assembled position affords side reading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventors: Beverly C. PHIFER, M. Scott CLARK, Thomas G. GRAMMER
  • Publication number: 20110259839
    Abstract: A device for storing compact disks comprising a base and a stack of supports installed on the base and placed one above the other. The supports have seats for compact disks, located one above the other. The device is made so that these seats can be pulled out from the stack by rotating the supports about an axis located outside these seats. The device has a retaining member connected with the base and located along said axis. The retaining member makes contact with the supports in their initial position, with the capability of resting, which restricts their rotation. The two supports that are immediately adjacent to each other make contact with parts of the retaining member and can stop, thereby restricting rotation of these supports in mutually opposite directions. Accordingly, the possibility of undesired pullout of adjacent supports from the stack following pullout of a compact disk is eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Mikhail Yurievich Kosenko
  • Patent number: 8011503
    Abstract: Protective modular holders for CDs and DVDs can be assembled into a storage assembly from which each disc and its accompanying literature can be removed without opening an individual holder. Two outer elements and an inner element form a module which receives two components, such as a pair of discs, or a disc and a booklet. Each side of the inner member cooperates with the corresponding outer element to form a disc receiving opening with openings aligned or at 90° or 180° offsets. The units are connected at the corners to adjacent units with the openings in selected alignments to form a storage assembly. The assembly may be expanded by connecting additional holder units. The outer elements and inner members cooperatively form a slot and label rail for receiving a label when the elements are joined together. The inner holder member surfaces may include a disc cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Erick V. Hartman
  • Patent number: 7918351
    Abstract: A point of purchase display structure (300) is described incorporating one or more shelves (132) for supporting items, wherein the display structure in a partially assembled configuration is a generally flat structure, and may be converted to a finished structure by movement of an inner slide (150) within an outer sleeve (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Atlas AGI Holdings LLC
    Inventor: Darren Zimmer
  • Patent number: 7814693
    Abstract: A wall or vertically mounted framing device for holding and displaying the full front cover of a single compact disc case comprising a housing which is a plane of suitable thickness having walls that cover the edges of said case and within said plane are leveling and fulcrum members allowing the said case to lie level in the display position and swivel out in the dismount position and spring assembly to assist in holding and dismounting said case, said housing having mounting means and around said device is a sash which is a means to serve as a decorative edging, and to secure the left edge of said case, and the spring assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Leonard Limson Simba
  • Patent number: 7571819
    Abstract: A system and a method store a data storage device, and a method manufactures the system for storing the data storage device. The system has a base made from a foam material with a first side and a second side. The base has one or more slots and/or a hole which extend from the first side of the base through the base to the second side of the base. The data storage device is insertable into and/or is received by one of the slots of the base for storing and/or for displaying the data storage device with the base. A first edge and/or a second edge of the slot in the base abuts sides of the data storage device within the slot of the base. The first edge and/or the second edge holds, connects and/or attaches the data storage device to the slot of the base. A layer is attachable and/or is connectable to the first side of the base for receiving and/or for displaying indicia on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: John Reeves
  • Publication number: 20090127143
    Abstract: This invention is a new and innovative means for storing typical media cases such as CD(s) or DVD(s) in a uniquely shaped slot. Said invention also incorporates features that allows user to interlock, clip together, and display plastic trays on a wall or table top in order to create a variable and expandable storage system that best suits their mounting, installation, and displaying needs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: STAX DEVELOPMENT
    Inventors: Micah Jones, Ryan Neal
  • Patent number: 7533770
    Abstract: A data disc storage arrangement for a plurality of data discs includes a disc housing having a storage portion, and a disc guider. The disc guider includes a plurality of edge holders spacedly formed on the storage portion of the disc housing, wherein each of the edge holders is adapted for substantially holding a non-data edge of the data disc, such that the disc guider is adapted for spacedly retaining the data discs on the storage portion of the disc housing in an upright manner that data surfaces of the data discs contact with air for preventing the data surfaces of the data discs from being scratched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Hung-Yu Lan
  • Patent number: 7448502
    Abstract: A media storage organizer and method as disclosed relate to a storage device for attachment to a support structure to hold a collection of media objects in a side-by-side generally upright manner. At least one organizer mount secures a media object support transversely to the support structure and helps the support to move along a path of travel generally parallel to the plane of the media objects. A stop limits the forward movement of the support to a display position. In one embodiment, at lease one retainer may be disposed above the media object support and spaced from an end thereof for engaging a media object to help limit the number of media objects positioned on the media object support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Spectrum Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Hunt
  • Publication number: 20080135504
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a display device for displaying indicia and/or printed material. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for a display device for displaying indicia and/or printed material, as well as for storing, packaging and/or housing CDs or DVDs or the like. In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides for a display device that is convertible between a poster for displaying indicia in a group or solitary setting free of interruptions or discontinuities in the display of indicia; a self-standing structure or configuration for displaying the indicia without the need of a separate support device; a storage pocket configuration for conveniently storing items; and a pocket folder and/or CD/DVD packaging configuration for housing and/or storing CDs/DVDs and/or other items or the like, and for transporting the display device and/or CDs/DVDs or the like. Indicia may be positioned anywhere on the display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: INKTREE, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Eric Braun, John Keefe, Peter Keefe, Jennifer L. Keefe
  • Patent number: 7377387
    Abstract: In a CD storage device, the combination comprising an upstanding post to receive CD's in a stack, and via openings therethrough, a carrier for each CD having circularly spaced retainers to retain the periphery of each CD at spaced locations, an identification zone associated with a retainer, for each CD, and cam surfaces on said carriers for inter-engagement in response to selected CD rotation, for locally elevating the carrier of a selected CD for retrieval off the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Andrez Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20070295676
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a display structure, comprising two vertical bars, two cross bars, a plurality of partition bars, and a plurality of partition parts to form a unit body. The short sides of the assembly panels on both ends of the partition bar are positioned into the gaps between the two wing panels in the vertical bar and then the partition bar is rotated to engage with the two clip grooves and the two wing panels, and a clip tenon is sandwiched by the two wing panels so as to form a plate-shape unit body. Further, the top of the partition part is snapped into the slide groove with the bottom of the partition bar protruding a partition panel such that the space between the partition parts is partitioned into accommodating spaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventor: Rong-Sheng Teng
  • Patent number: 7249681
    Abstract: A media shelving unit comprising a base for supporting a media storage case; a plurality of dividers extending upwardly from the base, the plurality of dividers defining at least two channels; wherein the channels are at different orientations with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Trade Guys International Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Raymond Scicluna, Joseph Victor Scicluna
  • Patent number: 7228974
    Abstract: Storage media rack arranged to simultaneously receive different sizes and types of storage media including front and rear walls, side walls, a bottom wall having steps which connect the bottom wall to the side walls and partition walls arranged perpendicular to the side walls and on the steps such that a first type of storage media can be positioned on or supported by the steps and a second type of storage media can be positioned on or supported by the bottom wall between the steps. Additional partition walls project inwardly from the steps and upwardly from the bottom wall and define slots for receiving the second type of storage media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Abraham Ohayon
  • Patent number: 7222739
    Abstract: A rotatable display holder system includes one or more rotatable display holders constructed for stacking upon other rotatable display holders to store and display media items for easy access. The holders are preferably formed by injection molding by common materials to minimize cost. The holders may be formed as round, cylindrical housings, constructed with substantially flat upper and lower disc-like surfaces extending radially from the housing's axial center to create an open internal volume extending from an inner annular wall of the cylindrical housing at a distance R1 from the axial center to an outer edge of the cylindrical housing at a radial distance R2 from the axial center. R2 is determined so that a portion of intended media items extend from the edge of a compartment into which it is placed, and to define an outer boundary of the housing's annular internal volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: John DeNatale, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7191899
    Abstract: A disc cartridge storage case has a clam-shell type construction with front and back panels and a middle panel connected between the front and back panels by integral hinges. The front and back panels are pivotable relative to the middle panel between respective open and closed positions. A holder is provided on the middle panel for holding a disc cartridge perpendicular to the middle panel. The holder has a rigid support and a flexible support with a slot therebetween for receiving the disc cartridge. Pins with beveled ends are provided on the flexible support and extend into the slot for engaging corresponding holes in the disc cartridge. The flexible support allows the pins to be flexed outwardly away from the first rigid support to facilitate inserting and removing the disc cartridge from the slot. The back panel prevents the flexible support from flexing outward when the case is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jose Pascual Garcia, Jr., Michael John Brown
  • Patent number: 7185769
    Abstract: An article storage display tower for storage, display and continuous easy access to the article is provided. The display tower has a top and a bottom with a cell structure having a plurality of cells positioned between the top and the bottom. Each of the cells of the tower can store and display a plurality of articles, such as compact discs, while allowing access to the articles. The cell structure is rotatably connected to a base that permits the cell structure to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the base, so that access to all cells is facilitated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Timothy Glass
  • Patent number: 7165686
    Abstract: In a disk stand device and a disk storage device for use in compact disks, mini disks and floppy disks, an array of grooves (2) are provided on an upper surface of a pedestal (1) at predetermined intervals (L). When one end of a disk (3) is inserted into the groove (2) upon accommodating the disks (3), a plurality of disks (3) are positioned to overlap with the predetermined intervals (L) therebetween. A title labelled on the disk (3) can be visually recognized through the intervals (L) of the neighboring disks (3). Upon reusing the disk (3), the disk (3) can be taken out of the groove (2) quicky to improve an efficiency at offices in which electronic computers are employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Takashi Ito
  • Patent number: 7160514
    Abstract: A rack for holding specimen slides. The rack has a frame with opposed support bars having opposed openings for supporting opposite ends of the specimen slides. The support bars have edges connected to sides of the frame, so that the support bars are resiliently deflectable with respect to the frame. The rack of specimen slides is containable in a slide case for purposes of transportation. The slide case has a base with a first latch portion, and the rack has a second latch portion. As the rack is positioned adjacent the base, the first and second latch portions are placed in juxtaposition to releasably secure the rack in the base. A cover is positionable over the base such that the base and cover fully enclose the rack of specimen slides. As the cover is closed over the base, the cover pushes the specimen slides against the opposed support bars, thereby deflecting the support bars and securing the specimen slides in the slide case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Erie Scientific Company
    Inventors: Richard J. Chouinard, N. Guy Cosby, David J. Moore
  • Patent number: 7097052
    Abstract: A rack for digital media containers such as compact disc jewel boxes. The unit contains a base and opposed sides, between which a plurality of tubular members are provided to hold the containers. Dividers are provided between adjacent tubular members and have attachment means at least one end formed from two arc like members, supported on a resilient support to the divider and having a pivotal connection between the points of support from the divider so as to be able to assume an open and a closed stable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Sunhing Millenium Ltd.
    Inventor: Wai Ming Lau
  • Patent number: 7083052
    Abstract: The invention relates to the display and storage of DVDs and CDs. By staggering the DVDs/CDs on a Spiral Rack, the invention makes each DVD/CD visible and easy to identify. The two visible spaces that are created on each DVD/CD by the staggering could lead to the standardized placement of titles and feature photos on DVDs and CDs. The Spiral Rack not only stores DVDs/CDs but also displays them beautifully, for commercial purpose or at home, where the Multispiral Rack can replace a floor lamp at the corner of a room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth Alexander Morle
  • Patent number: 7051887
    Abstract: A supporting column (30) of the present invention includes a main body (31) and a stiff shaft (33). The main body (31) includes a half-sleeve shaft (319) and a plurality of parallel wing panels (317) encircling portions of the half-sleeve shaft. The main body has a C-shaped cross section and defines an axial bore along an axis direction. The wing panels are formed perpendicular to the half-sleeve shaft and each wing panel provides a protrusion (318) in the middle of the wing panel. A cassette (40) incorporating the supporting columns is used to accommodate a plurality of substrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun Kai Huang, Ming-Hui Chang
  • Patent number: 7048117
    Abstract: A container for housing optical discs includes a base and a lid. The disc is housed between the base and the lid. The base may have a retainer for releasably holding an optical disc against a surface thereof. The lid is pivotally coupled to the base by a pivot joint which permits pivotal motion of the lid relative to the base about a pivot axis that is substantially orthogonal to the plane of the disc. The container also includes a hook for coupling the container to a rod. The hook may be formed on a perimeter edge of at least one of the base and lid. The inwardmost end of the hook may terminate within the pivot joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Akihisa Matsuno
  • Patent number: 7044310
    Abstract: A rack for contiguously storing and displaying a stack of symmetrical objects having parallel and planar opposite faces such as compact discs jewelcases. The rack comprises a toggling mechanism at the bottom of each storage location that raises the object above the adjacent others in response to a light pushing movement in order to facilitate pulling the object our of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Su Yong Yi
  • Patent number: 7028851
    Abstract: A carrying device for box-shaped items, such as compact discs in covers, comprises an upper, elongate retaining means with a rubber-elastic portion and a stop for the items, and a lower, elongate carrying means with a horizontal supporting face and a stop for the items. The retaining means has preferably a lip facing the items. The carrying device may below have a shelf, preferably with saw-tooth shaped steps. The retaining means and the carrying means are preferably connected by a wall. The carrying device has preferably suspension means for suspension on a wall, and preferably supporting means for support against the wall. The supporting means are preferably lengthwise adjustable by shortening. The carrying device has preferably feet for resting on a tabletop, and its supporting structure is preferably constituted by an extruded metal blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Joergen Fenger Aps
    Inventor: Jørgen Fenger
  • Patent number: 6994377
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sheet-retaining system for securing sheets on a sheet carrier, in particular for securing paper sheets in a cover, having a retaining and connecting device for securing at least one sheet at the sheet edge and for connecting the at least one sheet to the sheet carrier indirectly via the retaining and connecting device. According to the invention, the retaining and connecting device has a retaining bar which is connected to the at least one sheet, may possibly be subdivided into separate sections and extends along the sheet edge which is directed towards the sheet carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Matthias Büttner
  • Patent number: 6994222
    Abstract: A storage device and methods for supporting elements such as media packages, books and others, in an upright side-by-side configuration are disclosed. The device includes a body having an inclined element support surface having a sufficient incline to cause at least one of the elements to be biased to fall under the force of gravity toward one direction and align itself against a vertical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Spectrum Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Hunt
  • Patent number: 6991101
    Abstract: A kit for storing computer discs. The kit includes sheets of die-stamped card stock each of which are folded to form a CD or a DVD holder. The kit also includes a special stackable and expandable disc storage unit. Preferably, the user's computer prints labels on the holder identifying the contents of the CD or DVD. The software programming the computer utilizes may be provided on a CD or it can be downloaded from a WEB site. The disc storage unit is made up of a number of disc storage shelves of an elongated male tab and an elongated female receptor wherein the tabs and the receptor mate respectively with receptors and tabs on adjacent shelves to form the stackable and expandable storage unit. Preferably, the kit also includes end support pieces for preventing the disc storage shelves from sliding relative to each other while stacked. The compact disc holder is inserted into a stackable disc storage unit for storage and display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: David W. Bennett
  • Patent number: 6991115
    Abstract: An add-on storage device for flat objects, particularly CD and/or DVD cases, is made up of box-shaped housing elements which are open at the front and lie against one another with facing side walls. Clip-shaped connection elements are pushed onto adjoining side walls which form a common edge, in a predetermined fastening region from the open housing side and from the opposite bottom side, to engage over the side walls at the inner surface of the housing elements. In the fastening region, the open side at the inner surfaces of the adjoining side walls have a depression and/or elevation, and the connection element has an associated elevation and/or depression. The elevation and/or depression of the inner surface of the side wall forms a positive lock-in connection with the associated depression and/or elevation at the connection element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Sunhing Millennium Ltd.
    Inventors: Tat-Chi Chow, Wai-Ming Lau
  • Patent number: 6988627
    Abstract: Storage devices and methods for storing and accessing items that are adapted to support an item in at least two positions, a stored position and an ejected position. In the stored position, an item may be aligned with adjacent items to allow a user to view a perimeter edge of each item. A latch support secures the item in the stored position, and permits the unlatching of the item to permit it to rotate under force of gravity to a stable ejected position. In the ejected position, a portion of the desired item protrudes the alignment, allowing a user to easily grasp and remove the desired item without disturbing adjacent items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Spectrum Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Hunt
  • Patent number: 6974038
    Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: The Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6959822
    Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker
  • Patent number: 6955267
    Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of DVD boxes or containers in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired DVD is moved to the top fan-out region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two DVD boxes in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of DVD selection. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker, Edward C. McKinney, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6955268
    Abstract: A modular display system for polyhedron shaped merchandise, such as DVD's, software, computer games, CD's and the like, and a method for manufacturing such a display. In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of individual pocket constraints configured as integral modules aligned and retained in a set of cascading shelves. The individual pocket modules are an integral form having side constraints, a connecting portion extending between the side portions, and a pushing portion having a merchandise engagement portion connecting to a bias-providing portion. The cascading shelves are, in a preferred embodiment, formed from a plurality of stackable shelves. Each shelf, in a preferred embodiment, has a horizontal lower base, a vertical back side, a vertical front portion, and a horizontal top piece forming generally a G-shape in the cross-section. The shelves are cascaded such that each successive higher shelf is set rearwardly from the shelf below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Exotic Rubber and Plastics of Minnesota, Inc.
    Inventor: Merle M. Waldron
  • Patent number: 6932215
    Abstract: A disc storage box includes a body having an inner face provided with two support seats each having an oblique shape. The inner face of the body is provided with two elastic snapping members each located at a center of the respective support seat and each having an inclined angle equal to that of the respective support seat. Thus, the storage box can be used to store two compact discs simultaneously. In addition, the two discs are inserted into and removed from the inner face of the disc storage box in an independent manner without incurring interference, thereby facilitating the user placing and taking the two discs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Hsing-Chiou Chang
  • Patent number: 6915911
    Abstract: A high capacity motorized rack holds a plurality of jewel case enclosed CDs in holders flexibly inter-connectable with each other to form a rotatable continuous loop. The loop is rotatably retained within a vertical rack housing and is driven by a motor, disposed within the housing, under user control such that the loop is rotated until a desired CD is moved to the top region of the belt. A rack may hold two or more such loops of inter-connected holders. In one embodiment a holder retains a single jewel case, and comprises two independent loops that are rotated with a single motor. A preferred embodiment employs inter-connectable holders that each retain two jewel cases in a side-by-side configuration. A lamp and/or barcode scanner may be disposed on the housing for ease of CD selection. The housing base preferably is detached during shipping to permit transporting the rack in a smaller volume container. User control can include voice commands to direct loop rotation and speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Jr., Tristan M. Christianson, Andrew J. Parker, David Caplan