Including Spindlelike Retainer Patents (Class 206/310)
  • Patent number: 11155381
    Abstract: A package for a product that contains a first and a second thermoform container body that are configured to support the product. The first container body includes a first outer wall extending along a side of the first container body and defining a first mating surface and a first interlocking structure proximate the first outer wall and including an outer surface. The second container body includes a second outer wall extending along a side of the second container body, an inner wall disposed inwardly of the second outer wall and defining a second mating surface, and a second interlocking structure intermediate the second outer wall and the inner wall. The first and second interlocking structures are configured to interlock with one another when the outer surface of the first interlocking structure is placed in facing engagement with the inner surface of the second interlocking structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: SEE Forming L.L.C.
    Inventors: Scott James Sadowski, Mark Allan Erickson
  • Patent number: 10786078
    Abstract: A display case apparatus for selectively displaying a phonograph record or album cover including a base member having a recess member formed therein, a display panel member detachably coupled within the recess member of the base member, a spindle member detachably coupled to the display panel member, the spindle member having a first side having a protrusion configured to fit within a hole of the phonograph record and a second opposing side having a planar surface configured to receive the album, and a cover member detachably coupled to the base member to protect items disposed on the spindle member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Inventor: Adam Takashi Kawasawa
  • Patent number: 9465982
    Abstract: A user can be identified and/or authenticated to an electronic device by analyzing aspects of a motion or gesture made by that user. At least one imaging element of the device can capture image information including the motion or gesture, and can determine time-dependent information about that motion or gesture in two or three dimensions of space. The time-dependent information can be used to identify varying speeds, motions, and other such aspects that are indicative of a particular user. The way in which a gesture or motion is made, in addition to the motion or gesture itself, can be used to authenticate an individual user. While other persons can learn the basic gesture or motion, the way in which each person makes that gesture or motion will generally be at least slightly different, which can be used to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information, protected functionality, or other such content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Mark Karakotsios, Volodymyr V. Ivanchenko
  • Patent number: 9215941
    Abstract: A frame assembly for displaying a flat article and a combined frame assembly and flat article. In one aspect, the frame assembly comprises a frame, a coupler, a backer panel, and a window panel. The frame comprises a floor structure, a wall coupled to the floor structure, a locking feature on the wall, and a coupling member. The coupler comprises a retaining member and a mounting member. The coupler is coupled to the coupling member of the frame by interaction between the mounting member of the coupler and the coupling member. The retaining member of the coupler protrudes into a display cavity of the frame for retaining a flat article by the retaining member extending into an opening in the flat article. The window panel is positioned in the display cavity of the frame and the locking feature retains the window panel within the display cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Inventor: Matthew Scott Kressin
  • Patent number: 8520474
    Abstract: The protective case includes a back cover (2) and a cover (3), which are provided to fit together. The case further includes a flange (6), inserted in the back cover and held laterally by the edge (4), and an elastically deformable stake (7), which is for immobilizing a plate-shaped part pierced with an aperture (11). The stake is mounted on the top surface of the flange and it is inserted into the aperture of the plate-shaped part. The bottom surface of the cover (3) further carries a projecting portion (8) that presses against the stake when the case is closed, so as to increase the external diameter of the stake and jam it in the aperture of the plate-shaped part. Elastic means (9) are also provided for returning the flange (6) in the direction of the cover (3) so as to hold the stake (7) jammed in the aperture in the plate-shaped part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Montres Breguet S.A.
    Inventors: Stéphane Cadau, Pascal Bourret
  • Patent number: 8418848
    Abstract: A disc package assembly for packaging and accommodating multiple discs is provided. The disc package assembly includes an upper cover and a base. The upper cover includes a through-hole, a first annular protrusion, a second annular protrusion, and a restraining portion. The thickness of the upper cover gradually increases from the edge of the upper cover toward the center. Further, the base includes a hollow fastening portion and a third annular protrusion. An annular part is formed at the upper end of the fastening portion and has several slots. The fastening portion includes a central through-hole penetrating through the base. The thickness of the base gradually increases from the edge of the base toward the center. The disc package assembly may further include a thermal shrink film for wrapping over the disc package assembly and the discs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Princo Middle East FZE
    Inventor: Peng-Kai Hsu
  • Patent number: 8397908
    Abstract: A storage device for multiple optical discs in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a front cover, a back cover, and a spine rotatably connecting the front cover and the back to allow for rotation between a closed position and an open position. A tray is rotatable coupled to the spine between the front and back covers and includes a first hub on a first surface operable to retain a first disc, and a second hub on a second surface operable to hold a second disc. The second hub is offset from the first hub such that the first disc does not overlap the second hub and the second disc does not overlap the first hub. A second tray may be rotatably coupled to the spine between the front and back covers, adjacent to the first tray. The second tray preferably includes a third hub on a first surface operable to retain a third disc and a fourth hub on a second surface operable to retain a fourth disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Viva Onetime Limited
    Inventor: Agjah I. Libohova
  • Patent number: 8104613
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a disc holder for storing a plurality of discs comprising: a base; a spindle extending vertically from the base, where the spindle enables the stacking of the plurality of discs; a top cover, where the top cover locks to the base by using two sliding clasps, where one clasp is one side of the top cover and the other clasp is on the opposite side. The base may include three prongs extending vertically from three respective sides of the base in order to keep discs aligned. The enclosure may further include a receptacle for the top of the spindle and a swivel handle for carrying the unit. The plurality of discs may include compact discs and DVDs or a combination of both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: T. Richard Trammell
  • Patent number: 7975844
    Abstract: A one-piece, injection-molded case (10) for containing an optical media disc (85), the case (10) comprising: a front cover (20): a back cover (40); a spine (30) to pivotally connect the front and back covers (20, 40); a flexible, polymeric sleeve (70) to wrap around an external surface of the front and back covers (20, 40) and spine (30); wherein the front and back covers (20, 40) have voids defining cut-out portions (50, 60) to reduce the weight of the case (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Encore Holdings Ltd
    Inventor: King Yeung Choi
  • Patent number: 7942261
    Abstract: The present invention provides a media storage case that is configured to resiliently hold up to six media discs on a single hub. In one construction, a first panel and a second panel are joined by a hinge and configured to securely hold up to six media discs on a common hub through transit and distribution, using a cantilevered disc retention finger and/or a spine disc retention fin. The media storage case can hold multiple media discs and accompanying literature, while having a minimized case thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Atlas AGI Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Heuser, Jesse D. Wells
  • Patent number: 7896156
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for holding information storage media such as a disk (4) having an aperture therein. The apparatus includes, among other elements, a base portion and engaging means for releasably engaging the information storage media via said aperture. The engaging means includes at least one arm resiliently cantilevered to the base portion, retaining means for engaging and retaining the information storage media on the apparatus, and release means. The depression of the release means disengages the retaining means and the information storage media. A locating means is provided for receiving a security member as it is inserted beneath the engaging means in a first direction parallel to the base portion so as to inhibit operation of the release means. The locating means is arranged to locate the security member laterally as it is inserted beneath the engaging means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Dubois Limited
    Inventors: Peter Antony Farrar, Robert Johnston
  • Patent number: 7798322
    Abstract: A media storage container has a sleeve and a slide out tray wherein the sleeve includes a feature that helps to hold the disc in the tray in the event the disc holding hub breaks. In one configuration, the sleeve includes a tab that has been folded over at least once such that the tab is wedged between the inner surface of the upper wall of the sleeve and the top of the disc holding hub. In another configuration, the tab is folded over itself twice to create three layers of tab material between the inner surface of the upper wall of the sleeve and the disc holding hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Robert M. Wynalda, Jr., Robert G. Rajter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7775352
    Abstract: A spindle packaging tray for holding a plurality of discs, the tray including: a depression designed to hold the plurality of discs, the depression including an inner wall that is at least partially ridged to provide stability for the plurality of discs to stay snug inside the depression; a spindle formed inside the depression, the spindle designed to help keep the plurality of discs in place; and a plurality of holes designed to allow consumers to easily insert or remove the plurality of discs to and from the depression. Keywords include spindle, ridged inner wall, and tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Andy Alvarez, Thomas Dohner, Marc Rashba
  • Patent number: 7721883
    Abstract: A holder for a disk having a central opening and front and back surfaces includes a base having a planar panel and a forwardly projecting pedestal including a ring for supporting the disk, an inwardly extending disk member, a plurality of stem members for engaging the disk opening, and a corresponding plurality of U-shaped connector segments supporting the stem members in cantilevered relation to the disk member. Alternating ones of the stem members have outwardly projecting retainer members and inwardly projecting tab members, collectively forming a button surface for receiving downward pressure whereby the disk is releasable. Deformation of the pedestal in response to the downward pressure is concentrated in the connector segments and, to a limited extent, an innermost portion of the disk member, providing improved structural integrity for a given downward force required to release the disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Finest Products Limited
    Inventor: Kwok Din Lau
  • Patent number: 7717262
    Abstract: A compact disk (CD) box structure includes a seat having an upward extended central post, which has an externally threaded upper end; a knob having a downward extended and internally threaded hollow central column for screwing to the externally threaded upper end of the central post, so that CDs stacked on the seat around the central post can be immovably held to the seat by the knob; a protective barrel being a cylindrical container with a closed bottom and an open top, so that the seat having CDs stacked thereon can be fitly received in the protective barrel; and a top cover being connectable to a flange around the open top of the protective barrel by high-frequency heating or heat melting to seal the CDs in the protective barrel. The CDs stored in the CD box are not only well protected against dust, but also scratches possibly caused by vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: CMC Magnetics Corporation
    Inventors: Colin Chien, Nick Lin, Jimmy Hsiao
  • Patent number: 7708139
    Abstract: An enclosure for securing a disc having a central aperture includes a base and a pivotable cover. A two part disc securing rosette has a first part on the base including at least two upstanding, circularly spaced apart segments with arcuate outer peripheral surfaces dimensioned for engaging the central aperture of a disc and a second part including at least two elongate, upstanding ribs extending radially from a position on the cover which is centered on the segments on the base, the number of ribs on the cover corresponding to the number of segments on the base, the ribs being positioned and dimensioned such that, when the enclosure is closed, the ribs on the cover enter the first part radially inwardly of the segments with the ribs contacting the radially inside surface of the corresponding arcuate segments for bracing the arcuate segments against breakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: MeadWestvaco Corporation
    Inventors: Kenny Freitag, Daniel Ed Cornwell, James Philippe
  • Patent number: 7669712
    Abstract: A storage case has a base and a lid parallel to the base. The base has a rigid base plate with a rigid support for a data disk that stores digital information. The base has a fastening zone arranged centrally on the base plate and connected to the base plate by springy radial sections. The fastening zone has a central rigid pressure element and tongues distributed about the pressure element for securing positively the data disk. The tongues have integral snap-on cams projecting past an edge of a central opening of the data disk resting on the support. The radial sections have inner ends connected directly to the pressure element. The tongues are connected by a bending location to the inner ends. The support is arranged directly about the radial sections so as to be proximal to the edge of the central disk opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Cartonneries de Thulin S.A.
    Inventor: Filip Lammerant
  • Publication number: 20090314670
    Abstract: A spindle packaging tray for holding a plurality of discs, the tray including: a depression designed to hold the plurality of discs, the depression including an inner wall that is at least partially ridged to provide stability for the plurality of discs to stay snug inside the depression; a spindle formed inside the depression, the spindle designed to help keep the plurality of discs in place; and a plurality of holes designed to allow consumers to easily insert or remove the plurality of discs to and from the depression. Keywords include spindle, ridged inner wall, and tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Andy Alvarez, Thomas Dohner, Marc Rashba
  • Patent number: 7607536
    Abstract: A package for housing two discs including a cover forming an elongated spine panel with first and second opposing panels extending therefrom such that the opposing panels selectively rotate between open and closed positions. First and second partial trays attach to the first and second opposing panels, respectively, and are laterally spaced so that when closed, the thickness of the package is approximately equal to that of one of the trays. Each partial tray has a planar surface forming a periphery and a recess, a rosette near a first side of the tray for engaging a central aperture to retain a disc within the recess and a spacing rim upstanding from the planar surface. The spacing rim is U-shaped so that in the closed position, the spacing rims do not overlap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: MeadWestvaco Corporation
    Inventors: George F. Rufo, James Philippe
  • Patent number: 7505260
    Abstract: A storage compartment for storing a data storage disc and/or other items includes a side, and a post positionable relative to the side. With the positionable post, one may position the post to extend away from a bottom of the compartment to retain one or more discs in the storage compartment. Or one may recess the post to store other items, such as a camera and camera docking station, in the compartment. Thus, one can move the post out of the way when the compartment does not contain a storage disc, thus freeing up the compartment to better store other items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Thomas S. Neal, Sze-Moey Voon, Joel Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7494008
    Abstract: Provided with a base body (1b), with its corresponding cover (1a) and the ridge (1c) which connects them, said base body (1b) contains inside it a lug (2) articulated to same at (2b) and connected at its other end (7), also by articulation, to the ridge (1c) of the case or to the cover (1a) so that said lug (3) is displaced towards the bottom (1b) and is separated from same, during the case closing and opening operations. The lug (2) incorporates the seating and fixing means for the disc, specifically a series of flexible pins (5) capped with retaining teeth (5a), which, when the lug (2) is raised, may be connected in the orifice of the disc, and which, when the said lug drops during the case closing operation, are projected outwards by a spindle (6) integral with the bottom (1b) of the case, causing locking of the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Creta Creacion De Empresas Con Tecnologia Avanzada, S.L.
    Inventors: Alberto Zamarron Pinilla, Abel Pedro Rodriguez Garcia, Pedro Manuel Escolar Cuevas, Pedro Garayo Olarra
  • Patent number: 7451871
    Abstract: A multiple information disc housing for storing optical discs and including a first housing part (3), a second housing part (5) and an intermediate third housing part (7) arranged between the first and second housing parts. The first housing part is a lid part and the second housing part is a bottom part. The lid part being provided with hinge elements formed as lid part hinge arms (31A, B). The bottom part is provided with hinge elements formed as bottom part corner recesses (37A, B). The intermediate housing part is provided with intermediate housing part hinge elements of two different kinds, (i) intermediate housing part hinge arms (39A, B) and (ii) intermediate housing part corner recesses (41 A, B). Each hinge arm extends into a corresponding corner recess and is rotatably coupled to a respective recessed hinge wall to form a corner hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Johannes Adrianus Maria Schuurs
  • Patent number: 7422103
    Abstract: The apparatus comprises a base portion (2) and at least two arms (1) resiliently cantilevered from the base portion (2), the inner ends of the arms (1) forming a button-like member (4) and each having a projection (4A) for engaging on the outwardly facing surface of a compact disk (10) held on the apparatus. Depression of the button-like member (4) causes the projections (4A) to move towards each other until their engagement on the disk (10) is released. An upstand (6) surrounds the disk (10) and is positioned close thereto so as to restrict movement of the disk (10) within its own plane. The inner ends (4) of the arms (1) may be shaped to reduce the risk of forces applied thereto in the plane of the disk (10) causing the disk (10) to be released. Finger recesses (6A) in the upstand may be formed so as to inhibit access to the edge of a disk (10) whilst held by the apparatus but provide access thereto once the disk (10) has been released. 3-arm release mechanisms are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Meadwestvaco Corporation
    Inventors: Stefan Alexander Pijanowski, Anthony Henry Joseph Fraser, Peter Antony Farrar
  • Patent number: 7398878
    Abstract: A case for accommodating a disc-shaped recording medium such as CD or DVD is disclosed. The case included a front lid opened and closed and a body formed with a central button and a holder including an annular piece formed with an engagement groove for engaging a fixing hole of the disc-shaped recording medium with legs. The annular piece is disposed around the button and the holder further includes a spring portion. A force acting so that an upper side of the disc-shaped recording medium is pressed such that the recording medium is depressed and rendered against a force acting so that the button is pushed upward via a second hinge by the spring portion. As a result, the button is prevented from being pushed over its toggle dead point and the disc-shaped recording medium is re-fixed to the annular piece by reduction and/or elimination of the external force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Nihon Video Center
    Inventor: Tadami Kondo
  • Patent number: 7389871
    Abstract: A base for holding a disk on which data may be recorded. The base includes a skirt from which elastic tabs depend, free ends of the skirt forming a rim. The rim includes a clipping structure that releasably engages another base. The bases, when engagedly stacked, are fed to a machine for gluing to supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Moulage Industriel de Perseigne “MIP”
    Inventor: Alain Crouan
  • Publication number: 20080041743
    Abstract: A holder for a disk having a central opening includes a base, a forwardly projecting ring for supporting the disk, a diaphragm supported within the ring member, and a button structure projecting forwardly from the diaphragm for engaging the central opening. Retainer members project radially outwardly from the central opening proximate the front face surface for releasably holding the disk when the diaphragm member is in a relaxed position. Downward pressure on the button structure deflects the diaphragm to move the retainer members inwardly for releasing the disk. The retainer members are on hook stem members that are rigidly joined to an inner extremity of the diaphragm in radial alignment with circumferentially spaced ring attachment locations of the diaphragm. Button stem members rigidly connect a button member to the diaphragm in alternating circumferentially spaced relation to the hook stem members to provide greatly enhanced lateral support of the disk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: FINEST PRODUCTS LIMITED
    Inventor: Kwok Din Lau
  • Patent number: 7299920
    Abstract: A three-piece jewel case for information storage discs, such as CDs and DVDs, is of the clam-shell type, and includes a base portion having a pair of generally rectangular hinge recesses positioned at adjacent corners along a rear side edge thereof, a lid portion having a pair of generally rectangular hinge arms positioned at adjacent corners along a rear side edge thereof, and a media tray having a lid portion supporting hub, which snaps into the base portion. For a preferred embodiment of the case, the media tray is hingeably connected to the base portion along the rear side edge. Each hinge arm has a rectangular solid component that extends from the outer edge to the inner edge and from the front edge to the back edge thereof. This feature rigidifies the rectangular hinge so that it is much more resistant to mechanical damage from crushing or dropping loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventors: Warren R. Osborn, Bryan P. Dunford
  • Patent number: 7267225
    Abstract: A locking device for a disc retaining hub includes a base and a head that lock together over the hub to lock a disc on the hub until a portion of the locking device is destroyed. The head or the base of the locking device includes locking fingers that allow the head and base to lock together in a one-way snap fit connection. The locking mechanism may also cooperate with the disc retaining hub to lock itself to the hub. The locking mechanism prevents the disc from being removed from the hub until the locking mechanism is destroyed by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Nexpak Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin E. Myszka, James M. Byrne
  • Patent number: 7167096
    Abstract: A security collar for placement around the base of a display package to prevent removal of a cover from the base to protect merchandise contained therein. An EAS security tag is contained in the collar. A magnetically actuated lock mechanism is formed on the collar to lock the collar in a closed locked position on the display package. The collar includes a pair of semi-circular housing members pivotally joined at one end and swingable between open and closed positions. The collar is formed with spaced projections which trap the base and portions of the cover therebetween to secure the collar about the base and cover. Each of the housing members each locking teeth which mutually engage each other to secure the housing members in locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Alpha Security Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Marsilio, Christopher J. Fawcett
  • Patent number: 7165671
    Abstract: A hub for a storage package for storing a recording medium includes a base member, an uninterrupted deformable, generally domed portion, and at least one gripping formation extending from the generally domed portion. The gripping formation is positioned to extend through a hole in the recording medium and engage the inner edge of the recording medium as the medium is placed onto the hub. The generally domed portion and the gripping formation are directly joined at a location disposed above the recording medium when the recording medium is placed onto the hub. Deformation of the generally domed portion in a direction transverse to the base member directly causes the gripping formation to retract radially inward to allow removal of the recording medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Pinnacle Design Technology
    Inventor: Thomas D. Wetsch
  • Patent number: 7143894
    Abstract: The apparatus comprises a base portion (2) and at least two arms (1) resiliently cantilevered from the base portion (2), the inner ends of the arms (1) forming a button-like member (4) and each having a projection (4A) for engaging on the outwardly facing surface of a compact disk (10) held on the apparatus. Depression of the button-like member (4) causes the projections (4A) to move towards each other until their engagement on the disk (10) is released. An upstand (6) surrounds the disk (10) and is positioned close thereto so as to restrict movement of the disk (10) within its own plane. The inner ends (4) of the arms (1) may be shaped to reduce the risk of forces applied thereto in the plane of the disk (10) causing the disk (10) to be released. Finger recesses (6A) in the upstand may be formed so as to inhibit access to the edge of a disk (10) whilst held by the apparatus but provide access thereto once the disk (10) has been released. 3-arm release mechanisms are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Dubois Limited
    Inventors: Stefan Alexander Pijanowski, Anthony Henry Joseph Fraser, Peter Antony Farrar
  • Patent number: 7140489
    Abstract: Benefit denial systems for securing an asset within a container and methods of use are provided. Such benefit denial systems of the present invention may include a benefit denial device that secures the asset within the container. The benefit denial device may include a base member and at least one locking member, and the asset may be secured therebetween. By securing the asset between the base member and a locking member, the asset will be rendered unusable if a thief attempts to remove the asset from the container. For example, if the asset is a storage medium such as a DVD, then the DVD will break if the thief attempts to remove the DVD from the confines of the benefit denial device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Autronic Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R Lax, Agjah I Libohova, Timothy J Keuning, Frederik A van Koot
  • Patent number: 7124885
    Abstract: A hub post for mounting an information-bearing disk to a substrate for presentation, storage or transportation of the disk includes a base and a post projecting from the base for engaging a mounting hole in the disk, the base carrying a layer of adhesive for affixing the hub post to the substrate, and the post being constructed of a stiffly resilient synthetic polymeric material having resilient characteristics for retaining the disk on the post against inadvertent release, while enabling ready intentional release, and renitent characteristics sufficient to resist deleterious compression and crushing while retaining the disk upon the post for selective release of the disk from the post. A flange on the hub post provides a greater basal area for affixation of the hub post to the substrate, and spaces a mounted disk from the substrate to avoid damage to an information-bearing surface of the disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Marshall L. Weingarden
  • Patent number: 7111729
    Abstract: A low-profile CD/DVD disk case has base and lid portions and spaced apart integrally formed living hinge members that extend between portions of a spine structure, the spine structure forming a rigid enlargement of the base portion. Preferably, the length and width of the base portion, including that of the spine structure, correspond to like dimensions of a standard jewel case, and an overall open length of the base and lid portions also correspond to that of the standard jewel case for automated handling and loading using existing jewel case machinery. Also, the thickness of the case can be only 5.2 mm, about half that of the standard jewel case, and there can be clearance openings for receiving standard storage posts, rings, or the like. Moreover, the case can be configured to hold two conventional disks within the same 5.2 mm thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Finest Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwok Din Lau
  • Patent number: 7044296
    Abstract: A storage device for a data carrier, which includes a base element, holding elements adapted for engaging with an opening in a data carrier, and a locking element adapted for engagement with the storage device in such a manner that the release of a data carrier from the holding elements is prevented until the locking element is removed. The locking element can have a circular cross sectional shape and the storage device includes a recess capable of receiving the circular cross section of the locking element. The holding elements can include two or more arms which upon release of the data carrier are moved towards each other, and the locking element includes a protruding part blocking the movement of the arms towards each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Scanavo A/S
    Inventor: Tino Sølling
  • Patent number: 6997311
    Abstract: A storage container for a disc-shaped item of recorded media includes a base and a lid that is hingedly connected to the base and moveable between open and closed positions. The lid does not cover the entire surface area of the base when the lid is closed. The areas that are not covered are holding tabs that allow the base to be easily held by one hand while the other hand opens the lid and removes the disc. The base includes a hub that has a low overall height that reduces the overall thickness of the storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Nexpak Corporation
    Inventors: James K. Sankey, James M. Byrne, Michael S. Jaeb
  • Patent number: 6991100
    Abstract: Novel optical disc storage units comprising transparent polypropylene are provided. Such storage units exhibit sufficient impact resistance to protect the target disc and sufficient clarity that any informational literature may be placed entirely within the storage unit and easily viewed and read through the walls thereof without impediment. Furthermore, the target storage unit must also include a spine section of sufficient width to permit a section of the informational literature to be placed internally thereon and viewed and easily read (such as, for example, the title and accompanying language describing the target disc placed therein) substantially without impediment as well. Additionally, provided therein are novel insert trays that simultaneously permit proper placement of such internally placed informational literature against the internal portion of the aforementioned walls, and particularly the spine portion, as well as provide antitheft properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Marc Delaere, Rajnish Batlaw
  • Patent number: 6983842
    Abstract: The use of soft material or thinly designed tongues is made possible for fastening devices for at least one disc shaped data carrier with a central opening in a cassette, wherein the cassette comprises a middle part on which a crown of tongues is provided, elastically insertable into the central opening of the at least one data carrier, while still preventing unwanted falling out of the data carrier, for example CDs or DVDs. This is made possible in that at least one connecting element is provided, moveably connecting at least two of the tongues, wherein the connecting element is produced in the production of the fastening device in a first position and wherein after the production for increasing the restoring force of the tongues against the data carrier the connecting element is moved into a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: AWM Mold Tech AG
    Inventor: Josef Krummenacher
  • Patent number: 6964401
    Abstract: A promotional item includes a digital data storage disk adapted for inserting into a player for playback by a recipient. A disk carrier holds the data storage disk. The disk carrier cooperates with the data storage disk to form a novelty beverage coaster adapted for protecting an underlying surface. A moisture-absorbent plug is inserted into a center hole formed with the data storage disk, and is adapted for receiving and, transporting moisture away from a top side of the coaster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventors: Michael Sean Kelley, William Tracey Walker
  • Patent number: 6951278
    Abstract: Apparatus used for holding a disc (12) including a lower surface and an upper surface with an opening extending between the surfaces, comprises a base (1) and a hub (2) extending upwards from the base. The hub includes a center portion (6) adapted to pass through the opening of the disc and engage the upper surface of the disc (12) to hold the disc on the hub. The hub (2) includes outer pieces (4), non-movable with respect to the base (1), for arresting downward movement of the disc (12) during its removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Nexpak Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Pettigrew, Naomitsu Sakaguchi
  • Patent number: 6938760
    Abstract: A disk positioning structure disposed inside a disk case for holding a disk is constructed to include a flat base, two finger strips upwardly extended from the flat base, each finger strip having an outwardly extended retaining block for holding down the loaded disk, two stop plates respectively outwardly extended from the finger strips below the retaining block of each finger strip for supporting the loaded disk in place, and a fastening device provided between the finger strips and adapted to lock the finger strips in an inwardly tilted position for the loading of a disk when the user squeezing the finger strips with the fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Wen-Long Hu
  • Patent number: 6938758
    Abstract: A retaining device for a disc-shaped item of recorded media includes at least one arm that projects through the central opening of the disc with a locking finger that engages the upper edge of the disc. The disc is released when the user pushes downwardly on the retaining device to collapse the arm through the central opening of the disc to release the disc. The downward force on the device forces portions of the retaining device below the bottom wall of the container. When the downward force is released, the arms engage the lower inner edge of the disc and hold the disc on top of the retaining device. The invention also provides a disc-holding page that snaps into the lid of the container to allow a second disc to be stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Nexpak Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald M. Marsilio, James M. Byrne
  • Patent number: 6929123
    Abstract: A DVD disk case includes a hook connected to its base or lid and having an open position for clearing an outer disk perimeter during insertion and removal of the disk, and a closed position for blocking the removal of the disk. The hook opens when the lid is open, and the hook closes for securing the disk on a pedestal hub structure of the case when the lid is closed, to provide security by preventing removal of the disk from the case when the lid is proximately closed. The hook can project from the base, a lock projecting from the lid to displace the hook inwardly as the lid is move to its closed position. The hook can also include an inwardly extending lid tab of the lid and/or a projecting rib of a spine portion of the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Finest Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwok Din Lau
  • Patent number: 6915898
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Henry Becker, Wayne Elmo Vicknair
  • Patent number: 6901600
    Abstract: A protective cover for a data storage disc such as a compact disc (CD) includes a disc which has a central retainer for engaging the hole in the data storage disc. The protective cover may placed on both the data storage side and the opposite side of the data storage disc. In one embodiment the retainer consists of a plurality of upstanding members disposed on one side of the protective cover, and a corresponding plurality of cavities disposed on the other side of the protective cover. The cavities of one protective cover receive the upstanding members of another protective cover so that a plurality of protective covers may be stacked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 6896133
    Abstract: A storage case or receptacle used to secure CDs and DVDs used in rental or purchase applications. The case is comprised of a housing having a lid and a base between which is removably positionable a CD, DVD or the like. A releasable locking mechanism retains the lid and base in position in surrounding relationship about the CD or DVD. The locking mechanism may be of any type, such as some of the various security tag locks commonly used in the electronic article surveillance (“EAS”) industry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Richard J. Spagna
  • Patent number: 6892878
    Abstract: A DVD case (1) is of integral one-part moulded plastics construction. A retainer (15) has two opposed retainer parts (32) having lips (33) for engagement of a DVD at opposed sides of its central aperture. The DVD is released by the parts (32) being moved closer together. However there is no need for the user to press them directly. He or she simply presses a push-button (20) at the edge of the seat, causing the parts (32) to move together in a simple action caused by an integrally moulded release mechanism (16, 17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Dualbox Limited
    Inventors: John Hegarty, Brendan Farrell, Katharina Pfutzner, Dominic Southgate
  • Patent number: 6874625
    Abstract: A slim storage casing able to hold two optical disks. The upper and the lower casing each have a central straddling respectively formed at the time of molding, such that two optical disks, using the-center hole of the optical disk, can be coupled to the central straddling at the upper and the lower casing respectively and stored in the storage casing. The upper and the lower casing according to the invention has a thickness of about 5 mm to 5.5 mm when coupled together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: CMC Magnetics Corporation
    Inventor: Chen-Cheng Chang
  • Patent number: 6839239
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a large form factor media enclosure structure configured to removably retain a smaller form factor device therein. The large form factor media enclosure structure includes a first flexible retainer, and a second retainer oppositely disposed from said first retainer. A catch paw is disposed along the first retainer, for frictionally engaging the smaller form factor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: 3Com Corporation
    Inventor: Seang Wee Lee
  • Patent number: 6820741
    Abstract: The present invention is a disc media storage and retrieval system for safely and efficiently storing and conveniently retrieving specific disc media from a plurality of disc media stacked on a central column or spindle. Modified disc media are rotationally aligned on the spindle using corresponding alignment protrusion(s) formed on the spindle and notch(es) on the inner chuck hole of the disc. Accordingly, disc media is further modified with the addition of indexing notches on the outer circumference of the disk, such that each disc within the system is provided a unique notched-index. The aligned stack is protected by a cover member that forms a disc lifting device. A disc of interest is indexed and retrieved from the stack by rotating the cover member relative to the disc stack thereby aligning the disc notch-index with the lifting device. When the cover member is raised, the lifting device separates the stack at the disc of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: G6 Science Corp.
    Inventors: Gary William Ferguson, Jayson Darek Eppler