Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
Attorney Docket No. 11905002CA02
TILE HOLDER
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to label displays. More
specifically, the present invention relates to a tile holder
that can be attached to or integrated with a storage device.
BACKGROUND
Storage devices including shelves, cabinets, doors, jars,
storage totes, backpacks and drawers often require their
contents to be identified using labels. Such labelling may be
required in settings including pantries, clothes closets,
bathrooms, offices, laboratories, locker rooms, classrooms,
bars, garages, warehouses, and kitchens.
Some types of labels known in the art include typed labels and
handwritten labels.
Handwritten labels are usually hard to read. Furthermore, some
handwritten labels are written using temporary ink products,
such as dry erase technology, in which case their markings may
fade or smudge over time. Other handwritten labels are written
using permanent ink technologies, in which case they cannot be
reused to label different contents.
Creating typed or printed labels requires specialized equipment.
Additionally, typed or printed labels are usually permanent and
therefore cannot be reused to label different contents.
Many types of labels known in the art are designed to simply
label items. However, depending on the configuration of these
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labels, they may hinder the use of the labelled items.
Furthermore, these labels may not be legible.
From the above, there is therefore a need to overcome the
shortcomings of the prior art by providing a functional display
label that is clearly legible and permanent but can also be
reused or interchanged.
SUMMARY
The present invention provides a tile holder that can be
attached to or integrated with a storage device. The tile holder
may be made of a rigid material, such as wood or metal, or a
semi-flexible material, such as rubber or plastic.
In a first aspect, the present invention provides a tile holder
comprising: at least one channel, said at least one channel
constructed and arranged such that the tile holder is holding
and displaying at least one rigid tile; and at least one lip for
holding said at least one rigid tile within said channel, each
of said at least one lip being adjacent said at least one
channel; and wherein said tile holder is for labelling a storage
device.
In a second aspect, the present invention provides a device for
use with rigid tiles, the device comprising: a first end
comprising a first channel; a second end comprising a second
channel; wherein said first channel and said second channel are
sized to accommodate one of: a rigid tile and a tile holder; and
said first end is joined to said second end at an angle.
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In a third aspect, the present invention provides for a tile
holder comprising: a face plate comprising: a front side with at
least one opening, said at least one opening being for
displaying at least one rigid tile and said front side being for
keeping said at least one rigid tile within said tile holder;
and a frame around an outer perimeter of said front side, said
frame being for supporting said at least one rigid tile; wherein
said tile holder is for labelling a storage device.
In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides for a device
for use with a rigid tile holder, wherein said device comprises
a channel with a first end and a second end, wherein said first
end is closed and said second end is open, wherein said second
end is configured to fit over a holder channel of said rigid
tile holder.
In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides for a tile
holder comprising: a back side for coupling to a storage device;
at least one channel coupled to said back side, each of said at
least one channel comprising: a front side with at least one
opening, said at least one opening being for displaying at least
one rigid tile and said front side being for keeping said at
least one rigid tile within said tile holder; and a frame around
an outer perimeter of said front side, said frame being for
supporting said at least one rigid tile.
In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides for a tile holder
comprising: at least one channel configured to hold at least one
rigid tile, said at least one channel including a lower side; a
wall side; and an upper side, said upper side being opposite said
lower side; at least one lip configured to secure said at least
one rigid tile within said channel, wherein each of said at least
one lip is adjacent said at least one channel; and a rigid
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positioning feature configured to urge at least a portion of said
at least one rigid tile towards a front of said channel, said front
of said channel being opposite said wall side, wherein: said tile
holder is for labelling a storage device adjacent said tile holder;
said at least one rigid tile is manually insertable and removable
from said tile holder; said positioning feature is integral to
said channel; and said positioning feature defines a cross-
sectional shape of said channel.
In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides for a A tile
holder comprising: at least one channel configured to hold at least
one rigid tile, said at least one channel including a lower side;
a wall side; and an upper side, said upper side being opposite
said lower side; and at least one lip configured to secure said at
least one rigid tile within said channel, wherein each of said at
least one lip is adjacent said at least one channel, wherein: said
tile holder is for labelling a storage device adjacent said tile
holder; said at least one rigid tile is manually insertable and
removable from said tile holder; said lower side, said wall side,
and said upper side are comprised of a rigid material; and said at
least one lip comprises a flexible material, such that said at
least one rigid tile is manually insertable from a front of said
tile holder by flexibly bending said at least one lip and inserting
said rigid tile into said channel; and said front of said tile
holder being opposite said wall side of said channel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention will now be described by reference to the
following figures, in which identical reference numerals refer
to identical elements and in which:
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Figure 1 is a cross sectional view of a tile holder
according to a first embodiment of the present
invention mounted to the front of a shelf;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the tile holder
according to the first embodiment mounted to the
front of a shelf;
Figure 3 is a cross sectional view of a tile holder
according to a second embodiment of the present
invention mounted to the underside of a shelf;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the tile holder
according to the second embodiment mounted to the
underside of a shelf;
Figure 5 is a cross sectional view of a tile holder
according to a third embodiment of the present
invention mounted to the front of a shelf;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the tile holder
according to the third embodiment mounted to the
front of a shelf;
Figure 7 is a perspective cross sectional view a
cabinet door with an integrated tile holder according
to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 8A is a side view of a circular tile holder
according to a fifth embodiment of the present
invention;
Figure 83 is a top view of the circular tile holder
according to the fifth embodiment;
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Figure 9 is a perspective cross sectional view of the
circular tile holder according to the fifth
embodiment;
Figure 10 is a perspective cross sectional view of a
device for use with rigid tiles according to a sixth
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 11 is a perspective cross sectional view of a
device for use with rigid tiles according to a
seventh embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 12A is a perspective view of a tile holder and
a spacing block according to an eighth embodiment of
the present invention;
Figure 12B is a perspective view of a tile holder and
a spacing block according to another embodiment of
the present invention, in a first position;
Figure 12C is a front view of the tile holder shown
in Figure 12B in a first position;
Figure 12D is an exploded, front perspective view of
the tile holder and spacing block shown in Figure 12B
in a first position;
Figure 12E is an exploded, rear perspective view of
the tile holder and spacing block shown in Figure 12B
in a first position;
Figure 12F is an exploded, rear perspective view of
the tile holder and spacing block shown in Figure 12B
in a second position;
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Figure 12G is an exploded, front perspective view of
the tile holder and spacing block shown in Figure 12B
in a second position;
Figure 12H is an exploded, front perspective view of
the tile holder and spacing block shown in Figure 12B
in a first position;
Figure 121 is an exploded, front perspective view of
the tile holder and spacing block shown in Figure 12B
in a second position;
Figure 13A is a cross sectional view of the tile
holder and the spacing block according to the eighth
embodiment shown in Figure 12A;
Figure 13B is a cross sectional view of the tile
holder and the spacing block along line A-A shown in
Figure 12C in a first position;
Figure 14 is a perspective view of an integrated tile
holder according to a ninth embodiment of the present
invention;
Figure 15 is a perspective cross sectional view of a
tile holder according to a tenth embodiment of the
present invention mounted to the top of a drawer or
cabinet door;
Figure 16 is a perspective cross sectional view of a
tile holder according to an eleventh embodiment of
the present invention;
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Figure 17 is a perspective view of a tile holder with
an end cap according to a twelfth embodiment of the
present invention;
Figure 18 is a perspective view of a tile holder
mounted to a storage tote according to a thirteenth
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 19 is a perspective view of a tile holder
mounted to a storage tote according to a fourteenth
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 20 is a perspective view of a tile holder
according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present
invention, mounted on or integrated into the front of
a backpack;
Figure 21 is a perspective view of a tile holder
according to the fifteenth embodiment, mounted on or
integrated into backpack straps;
Figure 22 is a perspective view of an integrated tile
holder according to a sixteenth embodiment of the
present invention;
Figure 23 is a perspective view of an integrated tile
holder according to a seventeenth embodiment of the
present invention;
Figure 24 is a perspective view of a tile holder
according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present
invention;
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Figure 25 is a perspective view of a tile holder
according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present
invention;
Figure 26 is a perspective view of a tile holder
according to a twentieth embodiment of the present
invention;
Figure 27 is a perspective view of a tile holder
according to a twenty-first embodiment of the present
invention with a rigid tile;
Figure 28 is another perspective view of a tile
holder according to a twenty-first embodiment of the
present invention;, and
Figure 29 is another perspective view of a tile
holder according to a twenty-first embodiment of the
present invention.
The figures are not to scale, and some features may be
exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular elements
while related elements may have been eliminated to prevent
obscuring novel aspects. Therefore, specific structural and
functional details disclosed herein are not to he interpreted as
limiting but merely as a representative basis for teaching one
skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention provides a tile holder for holding rigid
tiles. The tile holder can be attached to or integrated into a
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storage device, such as a shelf, door, jar, storage tote,
backpack, cabinet, or drawer. The tile holder may be used in
settings where labelling may be required. Such settings may
include a pantry, a clothes closet, a locker room, a classroom,
a bar, a garage, a bathroom, an office, a laboratory, a
warehouse, or a kitchen. The tile holder may hold, for example,
tiles with individual letters, numbers, and/or patterns on each
tile.
The tile holder may be constructed from a rigid material, such
as wood, a suitable metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel,
or any suitable combination thereof. Similarly, the tile holder
may be constructed out of a semi-flexible and/or resilient
material, such as thick rubber, a flexible plastic, or any
suitable combination thereof. The tile holder may be attached to
a storage device using, for example, glue, nails, screws, snap-
fit, tension fit, or any other suitable attachment means.
Figure 1 shows a cross sectional view of a tile holder 101
according to the first embodiment, holding a rigid tile 102. As
can be seen, the tile holder 101 has a channel 103, which is
shaped and sized to hold and display at least one rigid tile
102. The channel 103 is defined by the upper and lower sides
with the tile being supported by the lower side. In addition to
these, a back wall further supports the tile as the tile
partially rests on the back wall.
The tile holder 101 has a first lip 104 and a second lip 105
opposite to the first lip 104. The first 104 and second lips 105
prevent the rigid tile 102 from falling or being knocked out of
the channel 103.
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The rigid tile 102 may be inserted through one end of the
channel 103 or through the space between the first lip 104 and
the second lip 105, if this space is wide or large enough.
In the first embodiment shown in Figure 1, the tile holder 101
is mounted to the front of a shelf 107. The tile holder 101 may
also function as a moulding trim for the shelf 107. Furthermore,
the tile holder 101 may be mounted to the top or the underside
of the shelf 107. In addition to the shelf 107, the tile holder
101 may be mounted to any suitable storage device or container.
In the first embodiment, the sides and wall forming the channel
103 may be partially or fully lined with a material that
provides compression or cushioning to the tile. Such a material
would assist in keeping the rigid tiles 102 in place. Such a
material may line the top and/or bottom sides as well as the
back wall. The material would, preferably, be compressible
and/or resilient.
In the first embodiment, the channel 103 may be sized to prevent
the insertion of the rigid tiles 102 from the front opening of
the channel 103. Accordingly, the rigid tiles 102 would be
inserted from an open end of the channel 103. Alternatively, the
channel 103 may be sized to allow the rigid tile 102 to be
inserted vertically, with the ceiling having enough space to
allow the bottom of the rigid tile 102 to fit over the first lip
104. In another embodiment, the channel 103 may be sized to
allow the rigid tile 102 to be inserted sideways (widthwise) and
then be rotated Into a vertical position.
The rigid tile 102 is, preferably, large enough so that the
information indicator on the front face (i.e, the letter, number
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or pattern being displayed) is clearly visible through the space
between the first lip 104 and the second lip 105.
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the tile holder 101
illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 3 shows a cross sectional view of a tile holder 301
according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The
tile holder 301 comprises a channel 302 that is shaped and sized
to simultaneously hold and display at least one rigid tile 102.
The channel 302 is defined by a bottom side and a back wall.
The bottom side supports the bottom of the rigid tile 102 while
the back wall supports the back of the rigid tile. As can be
seen, the tile holder 301 is suspended underneath the shelf 107
and the shelf 107 forms a top side for the channel.
The channel 302 may be formed by a lip 303 to hold the rigid
tile 102 inside the channel 302.
The rigid tile 102 may be inserted through an end of the channel
302 or through the space between the shelf 107 and the lip 303,
if this space is large enough.
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the tile holder 301
illustrated in Figure 3. As can be seen, the rigid tile 102
need not be so large as to completely fill the channel. The
rigid tile 102 is, preferably, large enough so that the
information indicator on its front face (i.e., the letter,
number or pattern being displayed) is clearly visible through
the space between the lip 303 and the shelf 107.
Figure 5 shows a cross sectional view of a tile holder 501
according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The
tile holder 501 comprises a channel 502 that is shaped and sized
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to hold and display at least one rigid tile 102. The channel 502
is defined by upper and lower sides and a back wall. The rigid
tile 102 is supported by the lower side and back wall.
Similarly to the first embodiment, the channel 502 comprises a
first lip 503 and a second lip 504, opposite to the first lip
503. The channel 502 further comprises a void 505 such that part
of the tile holder forming the void 505 and the outer edge 509
can act as a hinge. In one embodiment, the part of the tile
holder forming the void 505 may be made of a flexible or
resilient material, such as rubber or plastic. In another
embodiment, the present invention contemplates a living hinge.
The tile holder 501 further comprises a second channel 506 that
is opposite to the tile-holding channel 502. The second channel
506 is shaped or sized to receive an edge or lip on any storage
device. In a preferred embodiment, the second channel 506 is
shaped and sized to receive a front or a ledge of a shelf 107.
The portion of the tile holder 501 forming the second channel
502 may be lined with barbs 507 that provide a better grip on
the shelf 107.
The tile holder 501 has an extension 508 that is attached to,
but extends away from, the second lip 504. The second lip 504 is
adjacent to the void 505. As the tile portion forming the void
505 acts as a hinge, the space between the first lip 503 and the
second lip 504 can be momentarily increased by exerting pressure
or force on the lowermost portion of the extension 508 in a
direction towards the shelf 107. This force or pressure compels
the tile portion forming the void 505 to act as a hinge and
momentarily increase the space between the first lip 503 and the
second lip 504. Preferably, the void 505 is a circular or
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substantially circular profile to facilitate an easier operation
of the hinge. The circular profile of the void 505 may be
reflected by a circular outline of the outer edge 509 of the
void 505.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the tile holder 501 shown in
Figure 5. As can be seen, the void 505 extends along the channel
503 to facilitate the insertion of the rigid riles 102 into the
channel 503.
Figure 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the present
invention. Figure 7 shows a perspective cross sectional view of
an integrated tile holder 701 installed as the frame 702 of a
door 703. The door 703 may be for any storage device that uses a
door 703, such as a cabinet, shelf, cupboard or filing cabinet.
The integrated tile holder 701 has a frame 702 and a center
panel 704 that is inserted into the body of the frame 702. The
frame 702 comprises a groove 705 along the inner perimeter of
the frame 702. The portion of the tile holder 701 forming the
groove 705 is sized and shaped to hold an edge of the center
panel 704.
In this embodiment, the integrated tile holder 701 is formed
partially from the center panel 704 and partially from the frame
702. In other embodiments, the integrated tile holder 701 may be
entirely formed or cut out of the center panel 703.
Alternatively, the integrated tile holder 701 may be entirely
formed or cut out of the frame 702 or an additional material.
The integrated tile holder 701 comprises a channel 706 that is
shaped and sized to receive and display the rigid tiles 102. In
Figure 7, the channel 706 is defined by an upper side comprised
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of the center panel 704 and a lower side comprised of the frame
702, with the tile being supported by the lower side. A back
wall further supports the tile as the tile partially rests on
the back wall. However, a channel 706 may be formed on either
side or the top of the door 703. For example, a channel 706 may
be formed along the left side of the door 703 with the channel
706 being defined by a right side comprised of the center panel
704 and a left side comprised of the frame 702. Accordingly, the
bottom rigid tile 102 would be supported by the bottom side and
each subsequent rigid tile 102 would stack on top of the rigid
tile 102 immediately underneath it. Similarly, a channel 706 may
be formed along the top of the door 703 with the channel 706
being defined by an upper side comprised of the frame 702 and a
lower side comprised of the center panel 704, with the tile
being supported by the lower side.
The channel 706 may be defined further by a first lip 707 and a
second lip 708 that are opposite to each other. The first lips
707 and the second lip 708 are for keeping the rigid tiles 102
within the channel 708.
Figure 8A shows a side view of a tile holder 801 according to a
fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8A shows a
tile holder 801 that uses multiple channels 802, with each
channel 802 being shaped and sized to simultaneously receive and
display at least one rigid tile 102 (see Figure 9). In one
embodiment, the portion of the tile holder 801 forming each
channel 802 may be shaped and sized to hold multiple rigid tiles
102 that are stacked on top of one another.
The tile holder portion forming the channels 802 each have an
open end 803 and a closed end 804. The closed end 804 keeps the
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rigid tile 102 within the channel 802. Each channel 802 may
further comprise a first lip 805, a second lip 806, and a third
lip 807. The first 805, the second 806, and the third lips 807
are for keeping the rigid tiles 102 within the channel 802. As
can be seen, the various lips surround a space through which the
letter, number or pattern on the rigid tile 102 can be viewed.
The first 805, the second 806, and the third lips 807 are
present at all sides of the channel 802 except for the same side
where the open end 803 is present. Each channel 802, defined by
the open 803 and the closed ends 804 and the first 805, the
second 806, and the third lips 807, is cut into a band 808.
Figure 8B shows a top view of the fifth embodiment. As shown in
Figure 8B, the band 808 may be placed to encircle an opening for
a storage device, such as a mason jar. The band 808 may
completely or partially encircle the storage device opening.
The band 808 may further comprise a lip 809. The lip 809 allows
the tile holder 801 to rest on a ledge or rim of a storage
device and retain the lid of the storage device.
A skilled artisan would understand that, while the tile holder
801 shown in Figure 8B is circular, the tile holder 801 may be
formed to the shape of any storage device opening. Many
different shapes are contemplated by the present invention.
Figure 9 shows a perspective cross sectional view of the fifth
embodiment. The tile holder 801 may be further comprised of
integrated female internal threads 810 on the band 808. The
female internal threads 810 may be used to thread the tile
holder 801 onto the male external threads of a storage device,
such as a mason or ball jar. As such, in addition to lip 809,
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the female internal threads 810 help to secure the lid to the
storage device.
In an alternate embodiment, the band 808 would be provided
without the female internal threads 810. In this embodiment, the
band 808 would be made of a flexible material such as rubber or
plastic that could be stretched over an existing jar band.
Figure 10 shows a perspective cross sectional view of a device
1001 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 shows the device 1001 fitted over the tile holder 101.
However, the device 1001 may be modified to fit over the tile
holder 301 (see Figure 3) or the tile holder 501 (see Figure 5).
The device 1001 may be used to connect two tile holders 101
together at an angle. In the figure, it can be seen that the
tile holder 101 is mounted to a shelf 107. The device 1001
comprises a first end 1002 and a second end 1003. The first end
1002 has a first channel 1004 and the second end 1003 has a
second channel 1005. The first 1004 and the second channels 1005
may be formed around the tile holder 101.
The first 1004 and second channels 1005 are formed to fit around
and securely form the channel 103 of the tile holder 101. More
specifically, the first 1004 and second channels 1005 may be
formed around the first 104 and second lips 105 of the tile
holder 101. Accordingly, a device 1001 that is formed to fit
around tile holder 501 would have first 1004 and second channels
1005 that are formed to fit around the extension 508.
In the embodiment shown, the first 1002 and the second ends 1003
are joined at a 90 degree angle. In alternative embodiments, the
first 1002 and the second ends 1003 may be joined at any angle.
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In one example, the first 1002 and the second ends 1003 are
joined at 180 degrees, thereby resulting in a coupler that joins
two separate tile holders 101.
Figure 11 shows a device 1101 according to a seventh embodiment
of the present invention. Figure 11 shows a device 1101 that can
fit over the tile holder 101. The device 1101 has a first end
1102 and a second end 1103. The first end 1102 has a first
channel 1104 and the second end 1103 has a second channel 1105.
The first channel 1104 is a larger version of the channel 103 on
the tile holder 101. The portion of the device 1101 forming the
first channel 1104 is shaped and sized for receiving the tile
holder 101 while also being able to hold and display rigid tiles
102 (see Figure 1). In an alternative embodiment, either or both
of the portions forming first 1104 and the second channels 1105
may be shaped to fit around another tile holder 101. Thus, the
device 1101 may act as a coupler between two tile holders 101.
Alternatively, the device 1101 may act as a tile holder on
either the first 1102 or the second end 1103, while being
coupled to a tile holder 101 at the other end. Similarly to the
device 1001, the device 1101 shown in Figure 11 may be used with
other tile holders according to other embodiments, such as the
tile holder 301 or the tile holder 501.
Figure 12A shows a tile holder 1201 according to an eighth
embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment
incorporates the tile holder 1201 in a handle for a storage
device (e.g. a drawer, filing cabinet, desk, etc.). In this
embodiment, the tile holder 1201 comprises a face plate 1202
with an opening 1203. The face plate 1202 and the opening 1203
are preferably shaped and sized to simultaneously expose one
face of each rigid tile 102 and to keep the rigid tiles 102
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within the tile holder 1201. Specifically, the face plate 1202
forms a channel that operates to prevent the rigid tiles 102
from falling through the opening 1203. The opening 1203 may be
covered with a transparent or a translucent material.
Alternatively, the opening 1203 may be uncovered.
The tile holder 1201 may use a frame 1204 around the outer
perimeter of the face plate 1202. The frame 1204 may be used to
support the rigid tiles 102 and to ensure that the rigid tiles
102 stay within the tile holder 1201.
As noted above, the tile holder 1201 may be mounted to the face
of a storage device, such as a drawer, filing cabinet or desk.
In one embodiment, the frame 1204 may be thinner than the rigid
tiles 102, such that when the tile holder 1201 is mounted to a
storage device, the rigid tiles 102 are securely held between
the storage device and the face plate 1202.
The tile holder 1201 may further comprise one or more screw
bosses 1205 for mounting the tile holder 1201 to a storage
device using a suitable mounting means, such as screws. In the
embodiment shown, the tile holder 1201 may be mounted to a
storage device using a spacer block 1206. The spacer block 1206
may use one or more screw holes 1207. As can be imagined, each
screw hole 1207 is aligned with a corresponding screw boss 1205.
Figures 12B to 12G show a tile holder 1301 according to another
embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the
tile holder 1301 comprises a face plate 1302 with an opening
1303, a frame 1304, and a reversible spacer block 1306.
The front side of the face plate 1302 and the opening 1303 are
preferably shaped and sized to simultaneously expose one face of
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each rigid tile 102 and to keep the rigid tiles 102 within the
tile holder 1301. Specifically, the face plate 1302 forms one
side of a channel that operates to prevent the rigid tiles 102
from falling through the opening 1303. The opening 1303 may be
covered with a transparent or a translucent material.
Alternatively, the opening 1303 may be uncovered.
The tile holder 1301 has a frame 1304 that is around the outer
perimeter of the front side of the face plate 1302, such that
the face plate 1302 and the frame 1304 form a channel. The frame
1304 may be used to further support the rigid tiles 102 and to
ensure that the rigid tiles 102 stay within the tile holder
1301.
The reversible spacer block 1306 forms a back side of the
channel, to securely hold the rigid tiles 102 in place. The
reversible spacer block 1306 has a first face 1308 and a second
face 1310, such that the face plate 1302 and spacer block 1306
can be coupled in a first position (as shown in Figures 12B to
12E) or a second position (as shown in Figures 12F and 12G. The
first position allows the rigid tiles 102 to be held between the
reversible spacer block 1306 and the face plate 1302 in a manner
where they are visible and can be used as a label. The second
position allows the tile holder to be used without any rigid
tiles 102.
As shown in Figures 12C, 12D, and 12F, the first face 1308 of
the reversible spacer block 1306 has individual channels 1312
for receiving at least a portion of a rigid tile 102 and
retaining the rigid tile 102 in place. However, the first face
1308 of the spacer block 1306 may have a single channel that
receives multiple rigid tiles 102 or multiple channels that
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receive one or more rigid tiles 102. The channels 1312 may also
serve to space the rigid tiles 102 at a suitable distance from
each other.
As shown in Figures 12E to 12G, the tile holder 1301 may further
comprise one or more screw bosses 1305 for mounting the tile
holder 1301 to a storage device using a suitable mounting means,
such as screws. The spacer block 1306 may use one or more screw
holes 1307. As can be imagined, each screw hole 1307 is aligned
with a corresponding screw boss 1305.
Figures 12H and 121 show the tile holder 1301 in use on a
storage device 107. Specifically, Figures 12H and 121 show how
the tile holder 1301 can be used with a drawer on a storage
device 107. As can be seen, the spacer block 1306 is reversible,
such that the spacer block 1306 can be used with rigid tiles 102
(Figure 12H) or without rigid tiles 102 (Figure 121).
Figure 13A shows a cross sectional view of the tile holder 1201
illustrated in Figure 12A.
Figure 13B shows a cross-sectional view of the tile holder 1301
taken at lines A-A of Figure 12C. As shown in Figure 133, the
rigid tile 102 may rest predominantly on the frame 1304, with a
portion of the tile being suppor-Led by the channels 1312.
Alternatively, the channels 1312 may be sized and shaped to fit
the entire rigid tile 102 or the frame 1304 may be sized and
shaped to fit the entire rigid tile 102.
Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a tile holder 1401
according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The
tile holder 1401 comprises a face plate 1402 with an opening
1403 and a spacer block 1404 with a channel 1405. When the face
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plate 1402 is coupled to the spacer block 1404, the channel 1405
acts as a frame to support the rigid tiles 102. The tile holder
1401 is similar to the tile holder 1201 shown in Figures 12A to
12G. The principal difference being that the tile holder 1401 of
Figure 14 has the channel 1405 within the spacer block 1404 for
holding the rigid tiles 102.
The face plate 1402 and the channel 1405 are preferably shaped
and sized to keep the rigid tiles 102 within the tile holder
1401. Specifically, the face plate 1402 and the channel 1405
operate together to prevent the rigid tiles 102 from falling
through the opening 1403. The opening 1403 may be covered with a
transparent or a translucent material to expose one face of each
rigid tile 102. Alternatively, the opening 1403 may be
uncovered.
The spacer block 1404 may be securely glued or fastened to the
base of a handle of a storage device with suitable attachment
means. Alternatively, the spacer block 1404 may be removably
attached to the base of a handle, a door, countertop, or shelf
of a storage device.
Figure 15 shows a perspective cross sectional view of a tile
holder 1501 according to a tenth embodiment of the present
invention. Similar to tile holder 101, the tile holder 1501
comprises a channel 1502 with a first lip 1503 and a second lip
1504. The tile holder 1501 further comprises a second channel
1505 that is shaped and sized to fit over a door or drawer face
1506. For example, the tile holder 1501 may fit over the top,
bottom or hinge-free side of a cabinet or cupboard door.
Alternatively, the tile holder 1501 may fit over the top or
bottom front face of a drawer.
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The channel 1502 may integrate a flexible portion, such as a
void 505 and an extension 508 (see Figure 5), to allow for the
insertion of the rigid tiles 102 from the front of the channel
1502. Furthermore, the portion of the tile holder forming the
channel 1502 may be comprised of a flexible material, such as
rubber or plastic, to prevent vibration while the drawer or door
is opened or closed.
Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a tile holder 1601
according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.
The tile holder 1601 is formed as a handle for a storage device,
such as a drawer, cupboard or filing cabinet. The tile holder
1601 is comprised of a handle 1602 and a tile support piece
1603. Collectively, the handle 1602 and the tile support piece
1603 form a channel that holds the rigid tiles 102. The rigid
tiles 102 are supported and held securely in place by a first
groove 1604 (not visible in Figure 16) on the handle 1602 and a
second groove 1605 on the tile support piece 1603.
The tile holder 1601 may have at least one hole 1606 on the
handle 1602 to attach the tile support piece 1603 to the handle
1602 with a suitable attachment means. The suitable attachment
means is inserted through the storage device, through the holes
1606, and lastly are threaded through a corresponding second
hole 1607 (not visible in Figure 16) on the tile support piece
1603.
Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a tile holder 1701
according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 shows a tile holder 1701 with an end cap 1702. The
tile holder 1701 comprises a channel 1703, formed from a bottom
side, top side, a first lip 1704 and a second lip 1705. The tile
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holder portion forming the channel 1703 is shaped and sized to
hold a rigid tile 102 (see Figure 1). The tile holder 1701
further comprises a second channel 1706 for attaching to a
storage device. The tile holder portion forming the second
channel 1706 may optionally have barbs 1707 to provide a more
secure grip on the storage device.
The end cap 1702 comprises an end cap channel 1708 that is
closed at one end. The open end of the end cap channel 1708 is
shaped and sized to fit over the tile holder 1701.
Alternatively, the end cap 1702 may be used with other
embodiments of the present invention, such as the tile holder
101 (see Figure 1), the tile holder 301 (see Figure 3), or the
tile holder 501 (see Figure 5). Accordingly, the end cap channel
1708 would be shaped and sized to fit over those embodiments.
Figure 18 shows a perspective view of an integrated tile holder
1801 according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present
invention. The integrated tile holder 1801 is integrated in a
storage device, such as the storage tote 1802 shown in Figure
18. In an alternate embodiment, the integrated tile 1801 holder
may be mounted on the storage device, such as a storage tote
1802.
The integrated tile holder 1801 comprises a channel 1803 and a
face plate 1804. The tile holder portion forming the channel
1803 is bordered by at least one aperture 1805 and the face
plate 1804 is bordered by at least one projection 1806. The
apertures 1805 and the projections 1806 are placed to line up
with each other when the face plate 1804 is placed within the
channel 1803. One aperture 1805 and one projection 1806
collectively form a snap fit lock. In a preferred embodiment,
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the aperture 1805 and the projection 1806 may be repeatedly
engaged and released without sacrificing the ability of the snap
fit lock mechanism to securely join the integrated tile holder
1801 to the storage tote 1802.
The face plate 1804 further comprises an opening 1807. The face
plate 1804 and the tile holder portion forming the channel 1803
are preferably shaped and sized to keep the rigid tiles 102
within the integrated tile holder 1801. Specifically, the face
plate 1804 and the channel 1803 operate together to prevent the
rigid tiles 102 from falling through the opening 1807. The
opening 1807 may be covered with a transparent or a translucent
material to expose one face of each rigid tile 102.
Alternatively, the opening 1807 may be uncovered.
The rigid tiles 102 are placed within the channel 1803 and held
securely in place by the face plate 1804, when the snap fit lock
is engaged. In an alternate embodiment, the rigid tiles 102 may
be placed within the face plate 1804 and held securely in place
by the channel 1803.
Figure 19 shows a perspective view of a tile holder 1901
according to a fourteenth embodiment. Similarly to Figure 18,
the tile holder 1901 is for mounting on a storage device, such
as a storage tote 1902. In a preferred embodiment, the tile
holder 1901 if suited for retro-fitting a metal mesh storage
tote with the tile holder 1901.
The tile holder 1901 is a face plate that comprises a channel
1903, an opening 1904 and at least one projection 1905. The tile
holder portion forming the channel 1903 and the opening 1904 are
shaped and sized to simultaneously receive and display at least
one rigid tile 102. The channel 1903 is not visible in Figure
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19; however, a skilled artisan would understand that the channel
1903 may be configured in a similar manner to other embodiments.
Specifically, the rigid tiles 102 are supported by a lower side
of the channel 1903. The rigid tiles 102 may be further
supported by the back wall, which is comprised of the storage
tote 1902 when the tile holder 1901 is attached. The opening
1904 may be covered with a transparent or a translucent material
to expose one face of each rigid tile 102. Alternatively, the
opening 1904 may be uncovered.
The projections 1905 are configured with a lip or step that is
made of a flexible material such that the projection 1905 may
contract to fit through holes 1906 in the storage device, such
as a storage tote 1902. The holes 1906 may be added to the
storage tote 1902 or may already be present in the metal or
plastic mesh of the storage tote 1902. In a preferred
embodiment, the projections 1905 may be repeatedly engaged and
released without sacrificing the ability of the lock mechanism
to securely join the tile holder 1901 to the storage tote 1902.
Figure 20 shows a perspective view of an integrated tile holder
2001 according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present
invention. The integrated tile holder 2001 is for use with a
cloth or flexible material based storage device, such as a
backpack 2002.
The integrated tile holder 2001 is a flexible frame 2003 that
comprises a channel 2004 and an opening 2005. The portion of the
tile holder forming the channel 2004 and the opening 2005 are
shaped and sized to simultaneously receive and display at least
one rigid tile 102. The channel 2004 is not visible in Figure
20; however, a skilled artisan would understand that the channel
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2004 may be configured in a similar manner to other embodiments.
The tile holder portion forming the channel 2004 may be
integrated into the flexible frame 2003 or into the backpack
2002 or other suitable storage device.
The flexible frame 2003 may be securely fastened to the backpack
2002 or other suitable storage device on up to three (3) sides
of the flexible frame 2003. The flexible frame 2003 may be
fastened using any suitable fastening means, such as glue,
stitches, contact cement, tape, etc. At least one side of the
flexible frame 2003 (i.e., at least the fourth non-securely
attached side plus any of the other three sides) is attached by
a reusable fastening means, such as hook and loops (for example,
VELCROTm), snaps, buttons, zipper, etc. The rigid tiles 102 are
inserted into the channel 2004 through the at least one side of
the flexible frame 2003 that is fastened with the reusable
fastening means.
The flexible frame 2003 may be made of a flexible material, such
as rubber or plastic, such that the integrated tile holder 2001
does not impede the movement of the storage device, such as the
backpack 2002. The opening 2005 may be covered with a
transparent or translucent material or be uncovered.
Figure 21 shows another perspective view of the integrated tile
holder 2001 according to the fifteenth embodiment in another
configuration. The integrated tile holder 2001 is shown mounted
on the strap of the backpack 2002. As shown in Figure 21, the
rigid tiles 102 are inserted into the integrated tile holder
2001 and are visible through the opening 2005.
Figure 22 shows a perspective view of an integrated tile holder
2201 according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present
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invention. The integrated tile holder 2201 is for use with a
cloth or flexible material based storage device, such as a cloth
bag, backpack, suitcase, purse, laundry basket, etc. The
integrated tile holder 2201 is comprised of a flexible frame
2202, a window 2203 and a slot 2204. The flexible frame 2202 and
the window 2203 are sized and shaped to accept at least one
rigid tile 102. The rigid tiles 102 are supported by the lower
side of the frame 2202 and the storage device that the
integrated tile holder 2201 is fastened to.
The flexible frame 2202 is securely fastened to the storage
device on three (3) sides by any suitable fastening means, such
as glue, stitches, contact cement, tape, etc. The fourth side of
the flexible frame 2202 that is not securely fastened comprises
a slot 2204 that is attached to the storage device by a reusable
fastening means. Accordingly, the rigid tiles 102 may be
inserted into the integrated tile holder 2201 through the slot
2204.
The flexible frame 2202 may be made of any flexible or semi-
flexible material such as rubber or plastic. Similarly, The
opening 2203 may be made of any flexible and clear material,
such as plastic.
Figure 23 shows a perspective view of an integrated tile holder
2301 according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present
invention. Similar to Figures 20 to 22, the integrated tile
holder 2301 is for use with a cloth or flexible material based
storage device. The integrated tile holder 2301 comprises a
channel 2302, a frame 2303, a window 2304 and a slot 2305. The
tile holder portion forming the channel 2302 is shaped and sized
to hold the rigid tiles 102 that are visible through the window
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2304. The rigid tiles 102 are supported by a lower side and a
back side of the channel 2302.
Similar to the integrated tile holder 2201 shown in Figure 22,
the frame 2303 is securely fastened to the storage device on
three (3) sides by any suitable fastening means. Furthermore,
the slot 2305 is attached to the storage device by a reusable
fastening means. Accordingly, the rigid tiles 102 are inserted
into the integrated tile holder 2301 through the slot 2305.
The tile holder portion forming the channel 2302 and the frame
2303 may be integrated as one part that is molded or thermally
formed. Alternatively, the tile holder portion forming the
channel 2302 and the frame 2303 may form two separate pieces
that are securely fastened to each other with a suitable
fastening means. The tile holder portion forming the channel
2302 and the frame 2303 may be made from any material, rigid or
flexible, that would support the rigid tiles 102.
Figure 24 shows a perspective view of an integrated tile holder
2401 according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present
invention. Similar to Figures 20 to 23, the integrated tile
holder 2401 is for use with a cloth or flexible material based
storage device. The integrated tile holder 2401 comprises a
channel 2402, a flexible frame 2403, at least one individual
window 2404 and a flexible slot 2405.
The channel 2402 runs the entire length of the integrated tile
holder 2401. The tile holder portion forming the channel 2402 is
shaped and sized to receive rigid tiles 102 through the slot
2405. The channel 2402 has a first end, a second end, an upper
side and a lower side. The front of the channel 2402 is defined
by the individual windows 2404 and the back of the channel 2402
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is defined by the flexible frame 2403. The rigid tiles 102 are
supported by the lower side of the channel 2402 and may be
=
further supported by leaning against the flexible frame 2403 or
the individual window 2404.
The flexible frame 2403 may be made of any flexible or semi-
flexible material. The flexible frame 2403 may be securely or
removably fastened to the storage device using any suitable
secure fastening means or reusable fastening means,
respectively.
The individual windows 2404 may be covered with a transparent or
translucent material or may be uncovered. The individual windows
2404 are configured such that the letter, number or pattern on
the rigid tile 102, when inserted, is visible. In a preferred
embodiment, the individual windows 2404 are configured such that
the outer perimeter of each individual window 2404 is smaller
than the outer perimeter of the rigid tile 102.
The slot 2405 is configured with a slot tab 2406 to facilitate
the insertion and removal of rigid tiles 102. The slot tab 2406
is made of a flexible material, such as rubber or plastic, to
allow the slot tab 2406 to be bend upwards to open the slot 2405
and insert the rigid tile 102. The flexible material allows the
slot tab 2406 to recover back to the original position, as shown
in this Figure 24.
Figure 25 shows a perspective view of an integrated tile holder
2501 according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present
invention. The integrated tile holder 2501 is similar to the
integrated tile holder 2401, the principle difference being that
the integrated tile holder 2501 provides a single channel 2502
for each rigid tile 102. Each single channel 2502 is defined by
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a first side, a second side, the flexible frame 2503 as a back
side, an individual window 2504 as a front side, a lower side
and an individual slot 2505 as an upper side. Each of the
individual slots 2505 has an individual slot tab 2506.
Accordingly, the integrated tile holder 2501 allows for the easy
insertion and removal of one rigid tile 102 at a time.
Figure 26 shows a perspective view of a flexible tile holder
2601 according to a twentieth embodiment of the present
invention. The flexible tile holder 2601 is similar to the
integrated tile holder 2501, in that the flexible tile holder
2601 also provides a single channel for each rigid tile 102.
Each of the plurality of channels is defined by a back side
2602, the frame 2603, and a front side with an individual window
2604 (i.e., an opening). One side of the frame 2603 is an
individual slot (not shown). Each of the individual slots has an
individual slot tab (not shown). Accordingly, the flexible tile
holder 2601 allows for the easy insertion and removal of one
rigid tile 102 at a time.
As can be seen, the tile holder 2601 is fastened to the storage
device 107 via fastening means 2610, such as glue, stitches,
contact cement, tape, or any other suitable fastening means.
Figures 27 and 28 show a front and rear perspective view,
respectively, of a flexible tile holder 2701 according to a
twenty-first embodiment of the present invention. The flexible
tile holder 2701 is similar to the integrated tile holder 2601,
the principle difference being the fastening means 2710.
The flexible tile holder 2701 may be made of flexible material
that can be fastened to a fabric, plastic, wood, or metal
storage device.
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Each of the plurality of channels 2702 is defined by a back side
2702, the frame 2703, and a front side with an individual window
2704 (i.e., an opening).
As can be seen, the fourth side comprises an individual slot
2705 with an individual slot tab 2706. The slot 2705 is
configured with a slot tab 2706 to facilitate the insertion and
removal of rigid tiles 102 into channel 2702. The slot tab 2706
may be made of a flexible material, such as rubber or plastic,
to allow the slot tab 2706 to be bend upwards to open the slot
2705 and insert the rigid tile 102. The flexible material allows
the slot tab 2706 to recover back to the original position, as
shown in Figure 27. Alternatively, the slot may have a hinged
slot tab or other suitable means of opening the slot to insert a
rigid tile 102 and closing the slot to retain the rigid tile 102
in the channel 2702.
Figure 29 shows another perspective view of the flexible tile
holder 2701.
A person understanding this invention may now conceive of
alternative structures and embodiments or variations of the
above, all of which are intended to fall within the scope of the
invention as defined in the claims that follow.
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