Recorded Music Type Patents (Class 211/40)
  • Patent number: 6905033
    Abstract: A device for storing a plurality of CDs has a housing which is directed horizontally along its longitudinal axis and stand elements at its two end sides. To accommodate a respective CD, a plurality of compartment elements are disposed side by side, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and mounted on the housing such that they can be swung out about an axis extending parallel to the longitudinal axis from a storage position inside the housing to a removal position outside the housing. Swinging the compartment elements in to the storage position produces a compact, space-saving storage device. When a compartment element is swung out to remove a CD, the CD which is held therein can easily be grasped by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Sunhing Millennium Ltd.
    Inventors: Jason Bennett, Tat-Chi Chow, Qing Wang
  • Patent number: 6902070
    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: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Jr., Tristan M. Christianson, Andrew J. Parker
  • Patent number: 6902071
    Abstract: A system including pluralities of tubular lengths and T-connectors couplable with said lengths in a package for assemblage into an orthogonal frame of width, length and depth not in excess of 24 inches, 80 inches and 5½ inch, respectively, for securement to one of a planar wall and planar door surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Steven J. Vitale
  • Patent number: 6899233
    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: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6899232
    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: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6899235
    Abstract: The present invention is a multimedia storage rack that is adapted to selectively adjust to accommodate different types and sizes of electronic media. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted to store a plurality of different sized electronic media such as DVDs, VCR tapes, CDs, mini disks, etc. In order to store larger items, a portion of the rack of one embodiment of the present invention may be selectively dissembled, expanded, and reassembled, thereby providing a larger area for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Case Logic, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric S. Hassett
  • Patent number: 6899234
    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: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6874645
    Abstract: The wall mountable Compact Disc Storage and Display Device of the present invention provides the user with a new and novel method for the storage of compact discs or jewel cases. Contents are stored in a forward facing manner within individual pockets incorporated into the design. Jewel cases are fitted within the pocket and may be easily removed by pivoting on the edge of a raised platform located within the pocket. Compact discs may be stored independently of the jewel case and are held in place by an interference fit to a clamp at the center of a recess in the platform. The invention presents the user with the advantage of being able to arrange the contents of the cabinet such that the graphic work printed on the compact disc or included as an insert to the compact disc jewel case may be used to create a decorative wall hanging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: David Lee Broderick
  • Patent number: 6863186
    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: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6848588
    Abstract: A rotating display holder for VCR tapes, DVD's, and video games. The holder is round and contains multiple sleeves or compartments to hold the above media items, such that the user can easily read the title of each on the spine of the item. In the preferred mode of production, the compartments are spaced apart from one another so that the user can easily place his or her fingers around the tape or DVD to conveniently pull the item from the holder. Importantly, the rotatable holder can hold a mix of VCR tapes and DVD's or games, saving a great deal of space for the user. Therefore, the holder can be placed in a cabinet with shelves for VCR's or DVD players, as well as in a wall unit or entertainment center. The rotatable holder may be produced in several sizes, such as a small and large size, and the holders can be stacked on top of one another to hold large collections of tapes, DVD's, and games. In addition, the rotatable holder may be motorized and remotely controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: John DeNatale, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040262244
    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: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker
  • Patent number: 6830156
    Abstract: A one piece hanging file made from a continuous web of a flexible sheet material. In one embodiment, small loops are heat-welded at intervals along the strip creating channels or hems for removable hangers. Larger loops between the channels become the file pockets. In another embodiment spring clips clamp small loops of the strip and have notched overhanging ends to engage the support rails. In another embodiment, laminated film is welded directly to the edges of the hanger strips. In all embodiments the filed objects, such as compact discs, rise smoothly out of the looped file pocket when a hanger is lifted. In all embodiments, an opening or aperture made in the center of the looped bottom prevents round media such as CDs from accidentally rolling out of the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Winston Richard MacKelvie
  • Publication number: 20040245194
    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: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040245193
    Abstract: A compact disk storage rack includes a securing portion and a rack portion both disposed at a same axis for relative rotations. The securing portion is non-rotatable when being fixed and positioned, whereas the rack portion is rotatable regarding the securing portion as a benchmark axis thereof. Moreover, a limiting assembly is provided between the securing portion and the rack portion for restraining relative rotations of the securing portion and the rack portion, and for controlling a rotated position of the rack portion. Using the aforesaid structure, a condition of objects hung at the rack portion may be transformed from being stacked to suspended, or vice versa, thereby minimizing storage spaces and facilitating retrieval or acquisition of a specific object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: Chiu-Fu Cheng
  • Publication number: 20040238462
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a disc storage device with a horizontal base platform, which supports at least one platform support post rigidly attached to the base platform. The device also has rotatable disc-holding platforms with tubular spacers rotatably mounted on each post in a stacked spaced array. The stacked rotatable disc platforms rotate into a stacked storage array and pivot out of the array for easy access to and return of the discs. Each disc fits securely over a center post on the platform with the post friction fit into the center hole of the disc. More than one disc may be placed on each disc holding platform. The tubular spacers located between the disc platforms space apart the disc platforms to prevent the discs from contacting each other and contacting other disc holding platforms. The disc storage device may hold discs of different sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Eric Schulz
  • Publication number: 20040238463
    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: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040232094
    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: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Andrew J. Parker, Edward C. McKinney
  • Publication number: 20040222112
    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: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: The Sharper Image
    Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6805249
    Abstract: A display rack (10) for CDs including an elongated tapered primary support member (20) having an angled front face (21) provided with a plurality of vertically staggered narrow shelves (22) and a rear face (25) provided with an enlarged recess (26) dimensioned to receive a support panel member (30) pivotally suspended within the enlarged recess (26) wherein, the support panel member (30) extends below the upwardly angled contoured rear portion (24″) of the bottom (24) of the primary support member (20) wherein the support panel member (30) can be extended to provide a means of support on a horizontal surface or retracted to allow suspension on a vertical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Andre Houle
  • Publication number: 20040182725
    Abstract: A media storage device for retaining media, such as optical disk media. The device includes a base and a spindle projecting from the base. The spindle is configured to receive optical disks around the outer surface of the spindle. The spindle also includes an opening to a channel within the spindle. This opening allows a marking device to pass through the opening into the channel and allows the marking device to be retained in the spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Henry Becker, Wayne Elmo Vicknair
  • Publication number: 20040182800
    Abstract: A receptacle for storing an article, and usable with a similar receptacle for forming a storage unit, including a base defining a top surface and a bottom surface, a substantially elongated rib extending substantially outwardly from the top surface and a substantially elongated groove provided on the bottom surface. The groove is configured and sized to releasably engage a rib of the similar receptacle. The groove is further oriented at an acute angle with respect to the rib.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: Clement Poirier
  • Patent number: 6789686
    Abstract: A rack for stacking flat articles, in particular cases for CDs and other disc-type information carriers, has a stand part and a base part. The stand part is provided with substantially horizontally aligned compartments for accommodating the flat articles. The base part is formed by a base plate which can be connected with the stand part and the base area of which is larger than the projection of the stand part on the base plate. The base plate can be removed for packing purposes, and is divided into base plate parts which are of such a size that at least in one transverse dimension they do not project over the width of the stand part. Accordingly, the cross-section of packaging for the entire rack does not exceed, or exceeds only to an insignificant extent, the cross-section of the stand part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Sunhing Millennium Limited
    Inventors: Jason Bennett, Qing Wang
  • Patent number: 6789668
    Abstract: A compact disk container includes a base having a central bar to support serially stacked compact disks, a cover being diametrically smaller than the base and having a downward extended central sleeve, first connecting means including angularly connected horizontal and vertical bars, and second connecting means including angularly connected horizontal and vertical tubes. By connecting the horizontal bar and tube together, the vertical tube to the central bar of the base, and the vertical bar to the central sleeve of the cover laid in a reversed position, compact disks stacked on the base may be shifted along the connected first and second connecting means to the reversed cover, enabling a user to conveniently locate a desired compact disk and remove the same from the container by separating the connected horizontal tube and bar, or the connected vertical tube and central bar from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Hsin-Wen Kuo
  • Patent number: 6786338
    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: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: David Caplan, Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6766910
    Abstract: A storage rack for thin flat objects such as CD's, DVD's and the like has multi-lobe “flower-like” pieces which may be stacked for rotation or non-rotation relative to each other. Each flower typically comprises three radially-directed lobes. Each lobe is divided into an outer portion to support an object, and a smaller inner portion for exerting downward pressure against the flat object and hold it in place. The lobes are positioned so that adjacent levels of lobes are radially displaced for viewing objects on underlying lobes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventors: Kerry Kelly, Oliver Hoffmann, Mark Wertheimer, Joseph Gasparino
  • Patent number: 6763953
    Abstract: A storage and retrieval system primarily adapted for the convenient storage and retrieval of media disks includes a plurality of disk enclosures releaseably supported in a hanging fashion from a rod via a plurality of hanger assemblies. The rod has a plurality of grooves and the hanger assemblies have at least two inwardly extending tabs that engage the grooves. The hanger assemblies have an upper section that includes the tabs, and an elongate docking member attached to and disposed below the upper section. The docking member includes a generally downwardly opening channel having a wider main section disposed above a constricted section. The disk enclosures each have a generally elongate docking section that are adapted to releasably engage the docking member such that the disk enclosures are releasably supported in a hanging fashion from the rod with limited rotational movement about the axis of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Anthony E. Pobee-Mensah
  • Patent number: 6758347
    Abstract: An electrically cycling multi-media CD rack comprising a main framework, a gearing device and at least a clamping seat belt. The gearing device is connected to the main framework. The clamping seat belt is integrally formed and has multiple mutually linked clamping seats. The clamping seats are connected mutually, and the clamping seat belt is mounted around the gearing device to complete the electrically cycling multi-media CD rack with a lower cost of production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo-Ming Kao
  • Patent number: 6758346
    Abstract: A storage housing or unit for holding a circular disk, such as a CD-ROM, Audio Compact Disk, DVD, or any media product of a similar size, shape, or thickness. The unit has a top portion with a number of grooves recessed approximately half the depth of the unit to house the disks at a slight angle for easy access and viewing. The center of the container may include a piece of closed cell foam or other soft material that has slits approximately 1.5 times the thickness of the disk that will frictionally engage the disk without causing any harm or scratches to the disk. However, other embodiments of the invention do not utilize such material. The unit sits upright with or without a stand and allows multiple disks to be stored and viewed without the use of any other storage apparatus such as sleeves or jewel cases. The unit is decorative in fashion and can be made using many different materials in a myriad of colors. An area in front or on top of the unit is saved for the placement of a logo or corporate identity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Disc Dealer, Inc.
    Inventor: Les Kollegian
  • Publication number: 20040124162
    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: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: Su Yong Yi
  • Publication number: 20040124160
    Abstract: A system including pluralities of tubular lengths and T-connectors couplable with said lengths in a package for assemblage into an orthogonal frame of width, length and depth not in excess of 24 inches, 80 inches and 5½ inch, respectively, for securement to one of a planar wall and planar door surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: Steven J. Vitale
  • Publication number: 20040124161
    Abstract: This invention relates to 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 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: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Applicant: Sunhing Millennium Ltd.,
    Inventor: Wai Ming Lau
  • Publication number: 20040112848
    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: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Takashi Ito
  • Patent number: 6749071
    Abstract: A merchandise display device for dispensing and displaying digital media cases. Digital media cases are inserted vertically into the opening between the front panel and the lateral supports. This opening limits the number of cases which can be removed and/or inserted at one time. The width of the opening allows only two cases to be inserted or removed at a time, to deter theft. The opening, however, still allows for easy access when removing or inserting the cases. A replaceable pusher is attached to the back wall of the unit to bias the digital media cases toward the front panel. The display units are broken into two separate components, a right and left side. The components allow for flexibility in arranging the display system, depending on the need of the vendor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventor: John Caterinacci
  • Publication number: 20040104185
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention comprises an apparatus for holding computer disks with or without a case in a manner that displays the label side of the disk to the user. In one or more instances, the apparatus embodying the invention comprises an open-faced housing having a plurality of grooves of multiple depths recessed into one or more portions of the housing. Each groove is configured to hold disks and/or their cases so that the user may easily insert and retrieve disks via the grooves. Embodiments of the invention allow the storage of a jewel case or a disk, a mini-jewel case or a disk, a jewel case or a mini-jewel case or a mini-jewel case and a disk at the same time or a jewel case in place of both a mini-jewel case and a disk. The grooves holding a disk may or may not overlap the data carrying portion of the disk depending upon the embodiment of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Applicant: DISC DEALER INC.
    Inventors: Les Kollegian, Carlo DeVittorio Smith
  • Publication number: 20040074853
    Abstract: This invention relates to a stacking device for CD cases or similar arranged in a general form of equilateral triangle. In doing so, CD cases can be placed into the rack through all 3 sides of the triangular device and the support platforms or rack elements are generally supported by columns or similar spacing devices at the corners of the equilateral triangle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: Sunhing Millennium Ltd.
    Inventors: Tat-Chi Chow, Jason Bennett
  • Publication number: 20040069732
    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: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Chun Kai Huang, Ming-Hui Chang
  • Publication number: 20040065629
    Abstract: A multimedia storage device for supporting packages is disclosed. The device includes at least two spaced-apart rails, each rail having at least one series of package supporting portions. A front retainer and a rear retainer is adapted to confine a plurality of packages therebetween. A cross-bar may be provided to secure the rails in a spaced-apart configuration. One of the retainers may be adapted to glide along the rails. The gliding retainer may include a glide portion having a central portion and a pair of wings. Each wing may be adapted to secure the glide to a rail and to enable the glide to be movable along the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Applicant: Spectrum Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Hunt, Thomas E. Veloskey, Robert Bruce O'Neill
  • Patent number: 6715606
    Abstract: A device for storing and holding compact discs with a holder member which carries a disc, and optionally, a jacket or other information identifying the disc, a tray in which one or more holder members are releaseably mounted for storing compact discs, the holder member having a body portion on which the disc is held and a flexible membrane connecting the body portion to a retaining member, the retaining member being secured in the tray, thereby permitting flipping of the holder member to facilitate identification and selection of a compact disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Robert P. Wray
  • Patent number: 6715620
    Abstract: A display device for displaying multiple album covers and allowing for display of one or more clamshell album covers in an open or closed configuration. Album covers can be inserted into display areas of the device or removed therefrom for handling and play substantially without movement or manipulation of the frame. In certain embodiments, each of the display areas can be independently accessed to insert or remove an album cover without disturbing album covers in the other display areas. Such independent access may be provided by way of vertical and/or horizontal slots formed in the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Martin Taschek
  • Patent number: 6712223
    Abstract: A CD organization device includes a telescopic component and two supports. The user can take the target disc by using the telescopic component and a location disc. A horizontal fixed component is on the upper side and lower side, respectively, of two supports and a vertical fixed component is on the outer surface of the two supports. Using the horizontal fixed component or the vertical fixed component allows two CD organization devices to be combined horizontally or vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Hsin-Wen Kuo
  • Publication number: 20040055975
    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: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6705472
    Abstract: A storage apparatus for the storage of a collection of data media in the form of compact discs, CD-ROMs or DVD discs or the like in their original cases, comprising a number of individual box-like holders which can be releasably attached to each other so that the system can be simply expanded to accommodate more compact discs, CD-ROMs or DVD discs in their original cases at any desired location within the storage system. Each holder comprises a base and first and second opposing vertical side walls which hold a CD case or other case between the side walls. Each holder is provided with first and second fastening means at first and second sides respectively of the holder, adapted to permit the releasable engagement of the first fastening means of one holder with the second fastening means of an adjacent holder. The fastening means may comprise interengaging projecting portions and apertures arranged between the projecting portions, or interengaging fit male and female members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventors: David Webster Cross, Elaine Mary Cross
  • Publication number: 20040045844
    Abstract: A media storage bin including a floor and a pair of spaced apart walls specifically spaced to receive pieces of media and to retain the pieces of media in a stacked condition. A drop control flap is mounted to an individual one of the spaced walls for delaying the fall of a piece of media into the bin. This wall includes a top surface. A platform for supporting a stack of pieces of media is disposed in the bin, between the wall top surface and the floor. A helical spring is disposed between the platform and the floor for maintaining the top of the media stack at a predetermined distance from the wall top surface to provide thereby a constant fall distance between an individual one of the pieces of media and the wall top surface. This is accomplished in a manner whereby the spring rate enables the platform to drop the thickness of one piece of media for each piece of media added to the top of the stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Warren Beauchamp
  • Publication number: 20040045918
    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: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Edward C. McKinney, Tristan M Christianson, Andrew J. Parker
  • Patent number: 6702110
    Abstract: A storage container for storing optical discs, the storage container having a support ring that defines a disc storage area and a plurality of holding members that securely retain a disc in the disc storage area, each holding member having a base connected to the disc storage area and a disc supporting wall having a retaining lip that limits the movement of the disc when the disc is placed in the disc storage area. The holding member being flexible so as to facilitate the insertion and removal of a disc from the disc storage area. In another embodiment of the invention, the storage container further includes a pair of release buttons placed diametrically opposed to one another to facilitate the removal of a disc from the disc container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Ace Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Victorio T. Flores, Jr., Victorio M. Flores, III, Ernst C. Benjamins
  • Patent number: 6691875
    Abstract: A rack unit for stacking storage medium disks such as compact disks (CDs) in a stacked cylindrical arrangement attached by arms to a vertical post attached to an enlarged base support. The cylindrical arrangement is oriented to be off-center in relation to the base support. The unit includes substantially planar and flat narrow support arms for holding and supporting the disks, so that the disks can be closely stacked to one another. The arms can include flat and planar clip ends thicker than the rest of the arms for snapably attaching about vertical post, where a step edge allows for an exterior edge of the disk to abut against it. The narrow support ends can include a wider substantially flat and planar support surface having an upwardly protruding and flexible hub portion which can snugly fit within the through-holes of the disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Ployhistor International, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl Jonas Peter Schönning
  • Publication number: 20040026275
    Abstract: A lamina storage device comprising a spine, first and second leaves hingedly secured to the spine to permit hinging movement of the leaves between a closed position of the device in which the leaves and spine define a hollow interior of the device and an open position for insertion and removal of a lamina to be stored, and a lamina support carried by the spine, the lamina support comprising a pair of resilient arms projecting when the device is in the closed position from the spine into the hollow interior of the device between the leaves, each arm having a groove extending therealong and the grooves facing one another and into the hollow interior, the grooves of the arms being spaced apart a distance suitable for receiving edge portions of the lamina to be stored in the grooves, the arms having a length greater than the effective radius of a lamina to be stored and each arm being provided at its end portion remote from the spine with a projection into the groove spaced from the spine by a distance greater th
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Mark Geoffrey Margetts, Neil Adrian Eaton, Mark Daniel Bagnall
  • Patent number: 6685034
    Abstract: A device for retaining articles including a support surface having a holding means which may be finger like projections and at least one holding zone defined by a space between adjacent holding means and whereby the adjacent holding means are adapted to hold an article in the holding zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Charles Cooke
  • Publication number: 20040011682
    Abstract: An objet of the present invention is to obtain a disc storage case capable of storing a large number of discs and of reducing a time taken for picking up an intended disc therefrom. In accordance with the present invention, two disc storage cases are coupled to each other via a hinge to be free to open and close, wherein each of the two disc storage cases has a plurality of triangle-shaped partition plates which are displaced and aligned at a predetermined distance, and a top of each of alternate ones of the partition plates is provided with an identification tab extending therefrom. Recognition marks are displayed on the same-directional faces of the identification tabs for making more clear positions of disc storage chambers for convenience of storing discs. A hinge member as a coupler is attached to the two disc chambers for coupling them to each other for providing a connection part thereof with improved strength and durability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Masateru Hasemi
  • Publication number: 20040007544
    Abstract: A one piece hanging file made from a a continuous web of a flexible sheet material. In one embodiment, small loops are heat-welded at intervals along the strip creating channels or hems for removable hangers. Larger loops between the channels become the file pockets. In another embodiment spring clips clamp small loops of the strip and have notched overhanging ends to engage the support rails. In another embodiment, laminated film is welded directly to the edges of the hanger strips. In all embodiments the filed objects, such as compact discs, rise smoothly out of the looped file pocket when a hanger is lifted. In all embodiments, an opening or aperture made in the center of the looped bottom prevents round media such a CDs from accidentally rolling out of the pocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Winston Richard MacKelvie