Abstract: An apparatus for storing at least one electronic storage device comprises an enclosure, an overlay, and a removable insert. The enclosure has at least one storage cell and an outer cover. The storage cell is configured to receive at least one electronic storage device. The overlay is attached to the outer cover and includes a first area in which indicia disposed beneath the overlay is visibly exposed. The removable insert is received between the outer cover and the overlay, and has a substantially transparent area that overlaps at least partially with the first area of the overlay.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with a beverage container of the kind typically having a cover with a central straw opening. The packaging device includes a cylindrical lid comprising two separate elements—an upper element and a lower element—adapted to receive and retain a disc-shaped media, which cylindrical lid is then sealingly engaged to a beverage container of the cup type which is often sold or given away as a promotional item in connection with the purchase of a large fountain beverage. At least one of the two elements of the lid has a cylindrical inner structure defining central support for the disc media by means of the annular opening at the center of the disc, such that the disc media is allowed to rotate, while limiting the linear movement of the disc media both perpendicular to and parallel to the plane of the media.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a CD-ROM holder suitable for binding. In a preferred embodiment, the CD-ROM is sealed between two vinyl sheets by means of a heat sealing operation. Several of these holders may then be gathered with the signatures of the book and bound therewith. One of the heat seal lines on the holder provides a break line for the holder to fold over when opened, allowing the book to lie flat when opened on a substantially flat surface.

Abstract: A compact disc folder in the form of a booklet is disclosed which has a multi-page booklet portion held between two opposing panels of a cover portion. The front panel of the cover portion includes a pocket formed thereon in opposition to the booklet portion. The pocket includes two opposing flaps by which it is attached to the front panel and one of the flaps includes a notch that permits the flap to lie flat on the front panel without interfering with the booklet portion so that the folder will lie flat when closed. A second pocket may be formed in the cover portion to accommodate a thick booklet.

Abstract: A card device including a front card portion and a back card portion hinged together in a manner which enables the card to be opened and closed. The back card portion includes spaced front, rear and side panels which define an interior space therebetween. The card further includes a tape cartridge, such as a VHS video or audio cassette tape, having a drive gear defining an open recess in the tape cartridge, and a carrier device including a carrier portion containing a novelty item, product sample, or other item of value or perceived value. The carrier device and the tape cartridge are positioned in nested relation within the interior space of the back card portion such that the carrier portion is received within the open recess in the tape cartridge. An alternative embodiment uses a compact disk case as the card and a recess in the disk carrier for receiving the novelty item, product sample, or other item.

Abstract: An organizer to receive bank statements and bank checks is disclosed. A bottom is provided and includes a plurality of pockets adapted to receive bank checks. A top portion includes a pocket to receive bank statements. The top portion fits over the bottom portion in a closed position. The pockets have a removable cover to retain the checks and allow the user to view the checks.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with other materials relating to such disc or otherwise in a stacked relationship. The packaging device includes a first member or plug having a first chamber and a first opening for access into such first chamber and removable lid for closing such first opening and thus sealing the first chamber, and a second member or container having a second chamber and a second opening for access into such second chamber for the storage of other materials in such second chamber. The first chamber has an inner structure defining central support for the disc media by means of interaction of such inner structure with the annular opening at the center of the disc media, such that the disc media is allowed to rotate, while limiting the linear movement of the disc media both perpendicular to and parallel to the plane of the media.

Abstract: A packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as a recording media together with other materials in a stacked relationship. The packaging device comprises a first member having a center column for its upper portion and a means for receiving and retaining the other materials as its lower portion, which first member is slidably inserted through the opening of and into the chamber of an elongated second member. A cover is provided to close the opening of the second member, thereby sealing the contents of both members. A central support structure for the disc media acts in combination with the annular opening at the center of the disc media so as to allow the disc media to rotate, while limiting the linear movement of the disc media. A method is further provided for packaging such disc-shaped item and other material within the packaging device.

Abstract: A packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as a recording media disc together with other materials in a stacked relationship. The packaging device includes a first member having a first chamber and a first opening for providing access thereto and a second member having a second chamber and a second opening for providing access thereto, wherein the first member is adapted to be removably attached to the second member about the second opening to thereby cover this second opening. These complementary compartments are adapted to be attached to each other at the edges thereof by means of an interlocking structure such as a common hinge, such that the first member resembles a clam-shell configuration. The compartments include means for retaining the first member in a closed position. A method is further provided for packaging such disc-shaped item and other material within the packaging device.

Abstract: A carton for packaging articles, having at least one supplemental information panel hingedly connected to one of the wall panels. The supplemental information panel is disposed inside the carton and can be withdrawn through an end of the carton.

Abstract: A lunchbox to promote communication between a caretaker and child comprising a container having a food compartment, a voice recording mechanism and a visual component. The voice recording mechanism is housed inside the walls of the container and enables a caretaker and/or child to record a message and permits said message to be retrieved by the child or caretaker.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with other materials relating to such disc or otherwise in a stacked relationship. The packaging device comprises a first member having a first chamber and a first opening providing access thereto, said first chamber including means to receive and retain a disc-shaped media, and a second member for the storage of materials other than the disc-shaped media, said second member including a second chamber and a second opening providing access thereto. A protective element may be inserted either beneath or above (or both) the disc-shaped media so as to protect the media surface or retain the disc-shaped media within the first chamber. The first member may be removably attached to the second member about the second opening so as to close said second opening.

Abstract: A packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD. The packaging device includes an opening at one end thereof, and it has at least one internal upper chamber and at least one internal lower chamber for respectively receiving the disc-shaped item and the other materials. These chambers are divided by a support element that is adapted to positively retain the disc-shaped item within the upper chamber. A lid is further provided for closing the opening at the end of the packaging device. A method is further provided for packaging such disc-shaped item and other material within the packaging device.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with other materials relating to such disc or otherwise in a stacked relationship. The packaging device comprises a first member having a first chamber and a first opening providing access thereto, said first chamber including means to receive and retain a disc-shaped media, and a second member for the storage of materials other than the disc-shaped media, said second member including a second chamber and a second opening providing access thereto. A method is further provided for packaging such disc-shaped item and other material within the packaging device.

Abstract: A protective case for storage media that itself has separately addressable data independent of the storage media encased in the protective case. The inventive features allows for the storing, playing and recording of predetermined data. A display on its exterior for displaying stored data is provided and it is able to communicate with other devices for the access, reproduction and alteration of the data.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with other materials relating to such disc or otherwise in a stacked relationship. The packaging device includes an opening at one end thereof, and it has at least one internal upper chamber and at least one internal lower chamber for respectively receiving the disc-shaped item and the other materials. These chambers are divided by a support element that is adapted to positively retain the disc-shaped item within the upper chamber. A lid is further provided for closing the opening at the end of the packaging device. A method is further provided for packaging such disc-shaped item and other material within the packaging device.

Abstract: A tool holder or writing instrument is provided which includes a formable modeling compound material positioned around a flexible rod or tube which in a preferred embodiment is capable of holding an ink or other writing substance. The material is capable of conforming to the fingers and grip orientation of a user of the writing instrument to provide a comfortable, ergonomically correct writing instrument. Additionally, a portion of this writing instrument (e.g., the flexible tube) may be wrapped around at least one digit of the user's writing hand, e.g. the index finger, to provide additional support and comfort. One end of the tube can include means for removably attaching various hand tools such as scribes, knives, electrical contacts or the like.

Abstract: A plurality of containers comprises a series of “volumes” each identified by a significant event or time period in a child's development to young adulthood. Each “volume” comprises a book-like container having a simulated binding whereby a series of the “volumes” can stand on a shelf and give the appearance of a row of large books. Each “volume” is identifiable on the binding as to the event or time period and a transparent pocket is included for a picture of the child from the event or time period. Within each “volume” are transparent sleeves for pictures and other two dimensional items as well as ample room for baby shoes. trinkets, ribbons, and small trophies, for example.

Abstract: A single sheet of non-woven material is provided with sufficient strength and durability to store two compact discs without the necessity of laminating or otherwise interconnecting the non-woven sheet to a backing sheet or other materials for strength. The single sheet of non-woven material is positioned between the playing surfaces of the two compact discs to provide a non-scratching, protective surface and to reduce the costs associated with manufacturing the sleeves used to store the CDS.

Abstract: A display and carrying package is provided which is particularly adapted for displaying and carrying a bedding ensemble, but which could be used for displaying and carrying any ensemble of products of different sizes. The package is in the form of a closed flexible bag, preferably box-shaped, having generally flat transparent front and rear walls and, preferably, having non-transparent side and top walls connected thereto. The bag preferably includes a zipper for closing and opening the bag to provide access to the interior of the bag. The ensemble of products of different sizes is positioned inside the bag with the large ensemble product in juxtaposition to the transparent front bag wall for viewing therethrough and the other smaller ensemble products are positioned inside the bag, preferably in pockets attached to the inside of the rear wall, in juxtaposition to the rear transparent wall and in side-by-side position for being viewed from the outside through the transparent rear wall.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with other materials relating to such disc or otherwise in a stacked relationship. The packaging device includes a first member or wafer for the storage of disc-shaped media in a first chamber and a second member or container for the storage of a beverage in a second chamber, which container is sealed by a cover having an opening at the center thereof for the insertion of a straw. The first chamber is an annular inner chamber for receiving the disc media and includes a cylindrical inner structure defining central support for the disc media by means of the annular opening at the center thereof, such that the disc media is allowed to rotate, while limiting the linear movement of the disc media both perpendicular to and parallel to the plane of the media.

Abstract: This invention relates to a sleeve for holding one or more digital video discs with a first dimension in a first pocket and the accompanying graphics having a second dimension in a second opposing pocket. The digital video disc is supported in the first pocket by one or more stop seals which elevate the digital video disc to a more accessible position for removal.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding a media storage disk of a kind having a surface forming a central hole. The apparatus includes a base portion and two arms, each arm resiliently cantilevered and extending substantially perpendicular from the base portion. A disk locating means includes two portions, each having a disk engageable region. The two portions are also articulated to each other about an articulation axis and each portion is pivotally connected to one of the arms, respectively, about a pivot axis, the articulation axis located between the pivot axes. The two portions are moveable in a manner that moves the articulation axis from a side on one side of and between the two pivot axes, wherein the two portions are in a disk securing condition, to a position on the other side of and between the two pivot axes, wherein the two portions are in a disk releasing condition.

Abstract: A variety of closures are provided for use with a drink cup or other container wherein the closures provide a compartment for receiving a digital media disk or other merchandise. Examples include various closures formed of inner and outer members connected by a hinge with the inner and outer members forming a compartment for closely receiving a digital media disk. Other examples include a closure having a single lid portion with a retaining mechanism for retaining a digital media disk to a top surface of the lid. The retaining mechanism includes, for example, elastic retaining bands or resilient tabs. In another example, the closure provides a curved compartment for receiving a booklet wherein a closure for the compartment includes snap-fit members for attaching the compartment closure to other portions of the container lid. Still other embodiments are provided for enclosing toys or the like including one embodiment wherein the closure is configured to retain both a compressible ball and a backboard.

Abstract: A compact disc folder in the form of a booklet is disclosed which has two multi-page booklet portion held between two opposing panels of a cover portion. The front panel of the cover portion includes a pocket formed thereon in opposition to the booklet portion that receives a compact disc therein. The two booklet portions are held on opposite sides of a spine of the folder and are divided by way of a divider portion that is an extension of the rear cover panel of the cover portion.

Abstract: A non-invasive kit is provided for collecting and transporting DNA specimens from an individual for analysis or study. The kit contains swabs for harvesting DNA cells from the mouths of individuals and corpses. The kit consists of a rectangular panel having a center portion and two hinged members. The center portion is provided with a folded stand with apertures for holding swabs containing the DNA specimens. Bar coded envelopes are also provided for mailing to a depository.

Abstract: Disclosed is a document storage and/or transport system with a permanently attached media storage member specifically designed to hold two different sizes of computer media. The storage member is dual-purpose; one part of the storage member is sized to hold 3½ disks and the other part of the storage member is sized to hold compact discs or similar sized computer media. Advantageously, the dual-purpose media storage member of the present invention is formed from a single sheet of rigid material that is shaped during manufacture to form necessary perforations and bending lines therein. The media storage member is adapted to be mounted either on the inside or on the outside of one or more covers of various paper storage devices, including binders, portfolios, envelopes, file folders, and the like.

Abstract: A card device including a front card portion and a back card portion hinged together in a manner which enables the card to be opened and closed. The back card portion includes spaced front, rear and side panels which define an interior space therebetween. The card further includes a tape cartridge, such as a VHS video or audio cassette tape, having a drive gear defining an open recess in the tape cartridge, and a carrier device including a carrier portion containing a novelty item, product sample, or other item of value or perceived value. The carrier device and the tape cartridge are positioned in nested relation within the interior space of the back card portion such that the carrier portion is received within the open recess in the tape cartridge. An alternative embodiment uses a compact disk case as the card and a recess in the disk carrier for receiving the novelty item, product sample, or other item.

Abstract: A blank having a defined pattern of reduced strength, allowing separation along said defined pattern, the pattern defining a video cassette box from a single sheet having first and second face portions, one or more side flaps for forming a parallelepiped, one or more reinforcing tabs for increasing the durability of the box and one or more top tabs for forming an enclosure at one end of the box.

Abstract: A rectangular box 10 that can be made from folded card. The box 10 has a slip case 22 for holding a book 28 and an internal space 26 for storing objects. The internal space 26 is divided from the slip case 22 by a partition wall 20 extending between the top and bottom 16,17 faces of the box 10. The internal space 26 has a window 30 so that its content can be inspected, and a flap 18 for covering the window 30.

Abstract: This invention relates to a sleeve for holding one or more digital video discs and the accompanying graphics and a method for manufacturing the sleeve.

Abstract: A method of holding plants to a stake is provided. A posable figure preferably having a plurality of elongate positionable appendages is provided. The posable figure preferably has an internal bendable wire frame and external relatively soft body, appendage, and head portions surrounding the wire frame. In addition, the figure is preferably a whimsical figure, such as a fanciful frog, garden bug, or farmer. A stake is inserted into the soil or other ground or potting material adjacent the plant. Then a pair of appendages of the figure are positioned on either side of the plant stem and stake and bent about the plant stem and the stake. The process is preferably repeated for additional appendages. The method provides a quick, easy, and decorative manner for safely holding a plant to a stake. A kit of posable figures is also provided for practicing the method of the invention.

Abstract: A display carton for holding glassware, compact discs or the like that allows for full, simulated inspection of the article without opening the carton. To view and touch the article(s), the prospective purchaser has limited access through individual cutout opening in the front of the carton. Although a substantial portion of the article can be observed directly, the cutouts are limited in size to aid in protecting the article within the carton. To provide the full, simulated inspection of the article to the prospective purchaser, a silhouette of the peripheral outline of the article is printed around the cutout on the front surface of the carton. A slide-out tray may also be used to secure the articles within the carton. The tray includes a fold over cover, folded pop-in dividers and a tube with recesses for securing the articles. The slide-out tray allows the articles to be easily removed from the carton, inspected, and returned to the carton.

Abstract: A carrier or case having a first body panel, a spacer panel and a second body panel to which at least one pocket member is coupled. The pocket member forms a pocket having an open end which is adapted to retain an article, such as a saw blade. The spacer panel is disposed between the first and second body panels. The spacer panel and first and second body panels are foldably interconnected in order to allow selective movement of the first and second body panels relative to the spacer panel between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first and second body panels are substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart a predetermined distance defined by the spacer panel and the first body panel covers at least a portion of the pocket member to retain the article in the pocket when the article carrier is placed in the closed position.

Abstract: Apparatus for organizing bills has a flexible backing and a plurality of compartments for individual accounts, each compartment having an inner section for paid bills and an outer section for unpaid bills, wherein the inner section has sufficiently expansive capacity to hold all of the billings on an individual account for a twelve month period and the outer section includes a transparent window to allow viewing its contents.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new and useful gift packaging system, method and kit that includes an assortment of gifts and a decorative container and packing materials in which to present the gifts. The gift packaging system is pre-packaged together in a collapsed configuration that can be assembled into a constructed configuration. A container is provided of generally rigid material that is collapsible and constructable. When in the collapsed position, the container forms a generally rectangular, planer configuration. Further, packing material is provided in a partially overlying position with respect to the container. Gifts are also provided in a partially overlying position with respect to the container and the packing material. When in a collapsed configuration, a wrapping substantially encloses the packing material and gifts. The gift packaging kit can be constructed from the collapsed configuration upon removal of the wrapping.

Abstract: A container with double-walled construction eliminates problems encountered with a conventional jewel box; the container comprises a rectangular shell and a cartridge non-removably held within the shell, the cartridge in turn holding a disc; the disc is ejectable from one side with an ejection button; the cartridge is sheathed in the shell so as to have only one open side; the container allows printed material to completely obscure a disc held within the cartridge; yet the container allows one to determine visually whether a disc is stored within the cartridge from the position of the ejection button. The roof of the cartridge is provided with a detent in which the central aperture of the disc is held, and while so held, the disc is supported in the cartridge only at its opposed peripheral edges.

Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped item such as, for example, a recording media disc such as a CD, a CD-ROM or a DVD, together with other materials relating to such disc or otherwise in a stacked relationship. The packaging device includes an opening at one end thereof, and it has at least one internal upper chamber and at least one internal lower chamber for respectively receiving the disc-shaped item and the other materials. These chambers are divided by a support element that is adapted to positively retain the disc-shaped item within the upper chamber. A lid is further provided for closing the opening at the end of the packaging device. A method is further provided for packaging such disc-shaped item and other material within the packaging device.

Abstract: A closed carrier card for packaging a strip of sampler packettes for fluid or volatile cosmetic, beauty, or toiletry products is constructed in a manner suitable for insertion in periodical literature distributable through the U.S. Postal Service and which meets the criteria to be classified under the subscription rate. The closed carrier card is formed by sealing a cover card piece over a portion of a main card piece. The main card has a perforated margin which can be bound within the pages of the periodical literature. A one-way zipper is formed across the cover card piece for exposing a strip of sampler units sealed between the main card piece and the cover card piece. The sampler strip is permanently affixed between the two card pieces at a position such that when the zipper is opened, each of the sampler units become accessible for testing of the product.

Abstract: A multimedia distribution box includes a container portion and a lid portion. The container portion includes a plurality of upstanding walls, at least two of which are opposing, and a pair of slots, each of which is formed in a respective one of the opposing walls. It is used to contain computer software and documentation associated with the software. The lid portion is adapted to cover the container portion, and thereby enclose the software and the documentation within the assembled box. An insert is provided for selectively positioning the software within the container portion, and a band is used to maintain the insert, the software, and the documentation firmly in place.

Abstract: A portfolio including a sheet-like body having first and second spaced hinge lines dividing the sheet-like body into a first end section, a middle section, and a second end section each having respective front and rear surfaces. The first and second end sections are foldable between a closed position, wherein the second end section is disposed intermediate the first end section and the middle section, and an open position, wherein all three sections are in common alignment in a generally flat configuration. First compact disc-receiving pockets are disposed on the front surface of the second end section and open toward the first and second hinge lines when the portfolio is in the open position. Each first disc-receiving pocket completely encloses a respective compact disc inserted therein. Second disc-receiving pockets are disposed on the rear surface of the second end section and open away from the first hinge line when the first end section is folded towards the middle section.

Abstract: A photo album case or other storage container is formed with an outer shell having laterally enclosing walls and an end structure opposite an open end to the shell. At least one transparent display panel is formed in the shell, and preferably the shell is formed from a single sheet of transparent stock. A stiff, inner display retainer is inserted into the open end of the shell and fits into the storage cavity defined within the shell. The display retainer conforms to the shape of at least the transparent display panel wall. The display retainer preferably extends beyond the display wall to extend across another of the inner shell surfaces immediately adjacent thereto. A visual display sheet, such as a photographic print, is located between the transparent display wall and the display retainer. The display sheet may be merely inserted in between the transparent display wall and the display retainer, or it may be mounted upon either the retainer or the inner surface of the transparent display panel wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an indexed storage cradle system for compact discs comprising a series of storage cradles rotatably mounted in parallel in a housing. Each cradle consists of a base having generally parallel vertically upstanding side walls, a rear wall and a vertical upstanding front wall. One of said side walls is higher than the other to act as a guide when inserting the disc into the slot formed between the two side walls. Means are provided on each of said side walls to keep the disc centered when fully inserted into the cradle. The top of the front wall of each cradle is provided with a cutout portion and a tab is provided either on the bottom or the top of said cutout to facilitate pulling down the cradle and the location of the tab alternates on adjacent cradles to minimize the chance of inadvertently pulling down the adjacent cradle.

Abstract: A slide presentation arrangement and method are provided. The presentation arrangement includes a slide sleeve sheet including a plurality of slide pockets each sized to receive a slide and at least one additional pocket. A plurality of slides are provided with each slide having a border with indicia for identifying the slide. A plurality of lecture note cards are also provided. Each lecture note card includes indicia presenting information for correlating the note card with a particular slide. Each lecture note card also includes graphics/indicia corresponding to the graphics/indicia of the corresponding slide and lecture notes for the corresponding slide. The slides are disposed in an order in a sleeve sheet and said note cards are disposed in an order in the additional pocket.

Abstract: A double storage container for articles of recorded media includes a pair of storage containers that each have a base and a lid. The double storage container may be fabricated by connecting the bases together with connectors or welds. A common sheath is applied over both lids and the hinge to receive printed material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a compact disc (CD) and booklet display stand that enables a plurality of such CDs and booklets to be stored for convenient access, such as in a desktop environment. The display stand mounts a plurality of CD/booklet holders to a stand that places the holders for convenient access by a user. Some embodiments of the display stand may be folded for secure transportation or storage.

Abstract: A single sheet of non-woven material is provided with sufficient strength and durability to store two compact discs without the necessity of laminating or otherwise interconnecting the non-woven sheet to a backing sheet or other materials for strength. The single sheet of non-woven material is positioned between the playing surfaces of the two compact discs to provide a non-scratching, protective surface and to reduce the costs associated with manufacturing the sleeves used to store the CDS.

Abstract: A packaging system for a compact disk comprising a box and a insert disposed within the box. The insert including first indicia disposed on the insert. The first indicia are setback from the window and are viewable through the window to provide a three-dimensional image.

Abstract: A container for holding storage media is provided which contains an image carrying member, an upper and lower case member and a storage media holding member. Display flanges are provided for displaying the mage carrying is removed from the container.

Abstract: A celebrity autograph collector disk system for maintaining valuable objects in a safe environment is disclosed. The system includes at least one disk selected from a set of disks from a celebrity genre. Each disk is circular in shape and has a front face having an interior circle. The interior circle has primary indicia in the form of a picture of the face of a celebrity therein. Secondary indicia is provided in the space between the interior circle and the exterior circle. The secondary indicia includes the name of the pictured celebrity and the year of publication. The disk also has a reverse face with a pair of parallel lines extending thereacross to define a space for an autograph of the celebrity. The space above the parallel lines and below the parallel lines contain indicia correlated to the indicia on the front side including at least some alpha-numeric characters.