Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MOVABLE STRUCTURE HAVING
ALTERNATIVE ACCESSIBLE SIDES
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METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MOVABLE STRUCTURE HAVING
ALTERNATIVE ACCESSIBLE SIDES
PRIORITY
f
[0001] Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 119(e) and 37 C.F.R. 1.78, the present
application claims
priority to the provisional application entitled "Rotatable Storage with
Alternatively Accessible
Sides" Application Number 60/482,048, filed on June 24, 2003, the inventor of
which is William
Jefferson Stone III.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
l0 [0002] The present invention relates generally to rotating storage
structures that are used for
supporting, holding and safekeeping objects. More particularly, the present
invention relates to a
reversing storage cabinet.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A typical structure, such as a cabinet, furniture, et cetera, may
contain rotatable
15 unit(s), for example, a cabinet may have a "lazy Susan" tray. These
rotatable units have widespread
applications from cabinetry design to sophisticated high precision equipment.
There axe a number of
commercially available designs with regard to rotatable units within a
structure on the market.
[0004] There are storage cabinets known in the prior art that rotate around an
axis. For
example, the storage cabinet described in US Patent No. 6,273,531 by Scheffer
(2001) is located on
2o the top of a desk and can be rotated around an axis. By rotating the
cabinet around an axis one can
alternatively access articles located on different sides of the cabinet. ~ther
examples having similar
designs are also described in various references, such as US Patents No.
4,610492 by Molander et al
(1986), US Patent No. 5,651,595 by Willis (1997) and US Patent No. 5,487,599
by Weisburn et al
(1996).
2s [0005] There are disadvantages associated with these conventional designs.
For example, the
first disadvantage is loss of space because these conventional designs require
significant space
around the rotating object so that it can perform a rotation around an axis.
Space loss in the front of
the cabinet can typically be seen as temporary loss because the space is lost
only when the cabinet is
rotating. The space loss, however, is more wasteful when space is lost behind
the cabinet. Space
30 loss behind a cabinet is typically considered permanent loss of space
because such space has no
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practical utilization or compensation temporary or XXX. Such permanent loss of
space is illustrated
in various conventional desigps, such as those described in US Patent No.
4,610492 by Molander et
al (1986) and US Patert.No. 6,273,531 by Scheffer (2001).
[0006] Another conventional design for rotating an object within a structure
uses non-
obstructive rotation. To provide non-obstructive rotation of an object or
cabinet, it is permanently
moved forward away from a wall or other structure. A drawback associated with
this design is space
loss in front of the cabinet. This type of space loss can become a serious
problem if space is at
premium.
[0007] A second disadvantage associated with some conventional designs is lack
of
1o exclusive access. Conventional designs do not typically offer exclusive
accessibility to one side of
the storage cabinet while other sides of the cabinet are not accessible. This
is not suitable when
alternative access to different sides is needed. Examples of these situations
are the cabinets in which
one of the cabinet sides is used for jeweliy or expensive collectibles while
another side of the cabinet
stores firearms, etc. In order to resolve this problem, conventional designs
offer some designs
I5 including special enclosures and shields as such those described in US
Patent No. 4,610492 by
Molander et al (1986). However, providing special enclosures andlor shields as
solutions are
typically impractical in terms of convenience or cost, e.g. when storage
cabinet is used for relatively
large articles (books, TV sets, etc.).
[0008] A problem associated with the above-referenced designs is safety. For
example, if
2o the weight of stored articles in a cabinet is greater then the weight of
the cabinet itself, the loaded
cabinet can become heavy and cumbersome to rotate and may also create safety
issues because it
could tip over if it is not supported from the top. However, providing support
from the top may
increase the complexity and bulkiness of such designs and may also increase
the total cost of the
storage cabinet.
2s [0009] As mentioned, the problem in these conventional designs is waste of
space. In the
case of a bookcase in which the bookcase has two storage sides for accessing
stored articles waste of
space is significant in conventional rotating designs. To solve the problem of
waste of space, a
known solution employs a cam system including cam followers and grooves to
resolve the problem
of waste of permanent space behind a shelf in a cabinet as described in US
Patent No. 4,124,262 by
so Schill (1978).
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[0010] The disclosed cam system can reduce extra space needed for rotation. In
other
words, with applicatiqn Df the disclosed cam system, the rotating shelf within
the cabinet does not
require a big clearance.for rotation. When rotation is needed, the center
ofthe shelf is moved
forward on its two (top and bottom) centered cam followers sliding in the
transverse grooves of the
> enclosure. A pair of followers, mounted on opposite sides of the rotating
shelf, guideone side to the
opposite side of the stationary enclosure. In order for this rotation to
perform correctly, these must
be accurate grooves in the enclosure.
[0011] Even though the cam system reduces the problem of space waste, it
generates new
problems. For example, a problem associate with the cam system is uneven
loading of the cabinet
1 o weight. The cam system loads the entire weight of the shelf with its
content on the bottom center
cam follower. In addition to supporting the shelf during the rotation, the
bottom center cam follower
also guides itself along the transverse groove through out the enclosure. This
mufti-functionality of
the central bottom cam follower lowers the reliability and lifetime of the
cabinet.
[0012] Another problem associate with the disclosed cam system is that upper
and lower
15 cam followers move independently of each other in the guides. There is no
guarantee that these guide
will move synchronously. Quite to the contrary, one cam always will tend to
move faster than
another. This will happen for two reasons. First, uneven weight distribution
of the cabinet articles
inside the cabinet; and second, uneven pull or push of the shelf by the person
rotating the shelf.
Independent movement ofthe cam followers may cause the cam followers to be
jammed in the
2o guides. Even if there is no jam there is a high degree of wear and tear in
the guiding system, which
shortens the lifetime of the cabinet.
[0013] The conventional design using a cam system with an upper guiding system
to support
the cabinet in addition to the bottom guiding system, as described in the US
Patent No. 4,124,262,
adds an undesirable complication of the shelf design when the cabinet is used
for light loads and top
2s support is not needed.
[0014] Another problem with the design of the cam system is that it is
dimension dependent.
When dimensions of the cabinet are such that it is not deep but wide, the
center cam follower of the
cabinet is required to extend outside of the cabinet enclosure for shelf
rotation. This adds serious
complications in the cabinet design by requiring dynamic elongations to the
guiding grooves of the
3o enclosure with telescoping guides. Also. for heavy loaded cabinets that are
not deep but wide it is
especially impractical for reliability and safety concerns.
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[0015] FIG 1 of US Patent No. 4,124,262 also shows wasted space on the left
and right sides
of the cabinet. In order to compensate for some of this waste, the left and
right sides of the shelf are
of cylindrically shaped. This design prevents two or more such cabinets to be
placed next to each
other in close proximity without wasted space. When the user has more than one
cabinet it is
advantageous to place them next to each other without wasted space for
convenience of use and also
for saving the total space allocated for the cabinets.
[0016] What is needed, therefore, is a cabinet with alternatively accessible
sides that is
economical in utilizing the space around it, convenient for accessing
different sides of this cabinet,
has some practical way of preventing access to side that are supposed to be
inaccessible at given
~o time, is strong so it can handle heavy loads using a reliable low wear
mechanical arrangement for
jam free rotation and is simple in design and not expensive when handling
light loads.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present intention comprises a compound movement link mechanism that
allows
an object to move from the space it occupies in one orientation and return to
the same space in a
different orientation. Preferably the object is a support structure having at
least two selectively
accessible sides. In a preferred embodiment, the object is supported by a pair
of synchronis
compound movement link mechanisms. Objectives of various aspects ofthe
invention are
mentioned below.
[0018] In view of the above-stated disadvantages of the prior art, objectives
of the invention
include providing an improved rotational storage for applications where
alternative access to
~o different sides ofthe cabinet is practical or needed.
[0019] Another objective ofthe invention is to provide a storage cabinet that
is economical
in utilizing the space allocated for it. In addition to be economical in
utilizing the space around
storage the cabinet, its design should provide alternative of access to
different sides of the cabinet
with convenience and ease.
1 s [0020] A further objective of the invention is to provide limited access
to the side or sides of
the cabinet that are not being accessed at a given time. This secure access
should be achieved
economically and with simplicity of design.
[0021] A still further objective of the invention is to provide a storage
cabinet that can be
utilized for applications with heavy loads such as for example storing books,
firearms, electronic
2o equipment, etc.
[0022] Another objective of the invention is to provide a storage cabinet that
can be simple
in design with low cost for light load applications such as for example CD's,
DVD's, stamp
collections, etc.
[0023] A reversable storage cabinet with alternatively accessible sides, in
one embodiment,
2s includes a storage structure, which is used to hold at least one article.
Means for holding the storage
structure includes a four-link mechanism, wherein three of the links are
serially connected. The
three serially connected links are rotatably connected to two outside ends of
a fourth link at two
substantially separated locations. The fourth link is substantially
stationary. The middle link of
three serially connected links is a part of the storage structure allowing
reorientation of the storage
so structure relative to the fourth stationary link for alternative access to
the sides of storage cabinet.
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[0024] Additional features and benefits of the present invention will become
apparent from
the detailed description, figures and claims set forth below.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed
description
given below and from the accompanying drawings of various embodiments of the
invention, which,
however, should not be taken to limit the invention to the specific
embodiments, but are for
explanation and understanding only.
[0026] FIG lA-1M are diagrams illustrating a storage structure in accordance
with one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG 2-FIG 3 are diagrams of storage structure with different storage
articles in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG 4A - 4D are diagrams illustrating light articles storage mounted on
a desk in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIG SA - SE are diagrams a compound movement link mechanism for a
storage
structure in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG 6A - 6 E are schematic representations illustrating an operations
of the storage
1 s with outside joints of the four link mechanism moved back on the
stationary plate in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG 7A - 7E are schematic representations illustrating operations of
the storage with
outside joints of the four-link mechanism located in diagonal corners of the
stationary plate in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG 8A - 8A are schematic representations illustrating operations of
the storage with
outside joints of a four link mechanism located in diagonal corners of the
stationary plate and storage
moving 90° between positions of alternate access in accordance with one
embodiment of the present
invention;
[0033] FIG 9A-9B are diagrams illustrating a storage designed for light loads
mounted on a
2s desk with rotaxial designed illustrated in FIG 8A-8E;
[0034] FIG l0A-10C are diagrams illustrating a storage moving between
alternate access
positions around horizontal axes in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
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[0035] FIG 11A- 11D are diagrams illustrating an application ofthe proposed
invention
with four square storages mo amted next to each other on one square stationary
plate in accordance
with one embodiment of present invention;
[0036] FIG 12A-12D are diagrams illustrating a wheel system in accordance with
one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] FIG 13A- 13C are diagrams illustrating a best assembly in accordance
with one
embodiment of the present invention; and
[0038] FIG 14 is a set of diagrams illustrating a rotating object performing a
rotaxial
movement in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous
specific details
are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It
will be apparent,
however, to one skilled in the art that these specific details may not be
required to practice the
present invention. In other instances, well-known mechanical, circuitry, and
devices are shown in
block diagram form to avoid obscuring the present invention.
[0040] In the following description of the embodiments, substantially the same
parts are
denoted by the same reference numerals. Also, while references such as top,
bottom and side may be
used throughout the specification, it is to be understood that their
orientation requirements are only to
1 o facilitate the explanation of the various embodiments and depending on the
application, the top could
be the side or bottom or vice verse.
[0041] An apparatus for a reversible storage system 100 having a moving object
102 are
disclosed in the present application. The reversible storage system 100, in
one embodiment, includes
an object 102 and a frame 200. A first side of frame is situated at a
substantially fixed distance from
1 s a second side of frame. The reversible storage system 100 further includes
two links 304 and 308
wherein a first end of a first link 304 is coupled to the first side of frame
and a second end of first
link is coupled to the object 102. Also, a first end of a second link 308 is
coupled to the second side
of frame and a second end of second link 308 is coupled to the object 102. The
object 102 is capable
of performing a rotaxially rotation in response to the first and second links
304 and 308.
20 [0042] FIG lA-1M are diagrams illustrating a design of a structure with a
moveable object
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG 1A shows one
embodiment
wherein the structure with a moveable object comprises a reversible storage
system100 which
includes a movable object 102 that holds articles. Rersible storage system 100
also includes an
outside structure 200, bottom rotaxial linkage mechanism 300 (Shown best in
Fig 1C) and top
2s rotaxial linkage mechanism 400 (shown best in Fig. 1 C).
[0043] Referring to FIG 1A, movable object 102, in this embodiment, includes a
first
accessible side 111, a second accessible side 121 (not shown), a bottom plate
104, a top plate 106,
and sidewalls 108, 110. The first reversible side 111 in this embodiment is a
bookcase includes
shelves 112 to hold articles 114. As shown for illustration in given example,
these articles 114 are
3o books. The bookcase 111 also includes vertical wall 116 which is visible
behind the books. The
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vertical wall 116 is one of the strengthening elements of the bookcase 111
together with the
sidewalls 108, 110, and the tGip and bottom plates 104, 106.
[0044] In one embodiment, the shelves 112 are adjustable and form a shelving
system. The
shelving system may help provide overall support to the movable object 102.
Different shelf
arrangements or configurations can provide different support to the bookcase
111. Adjustable
shelves provide flexibility so that the shelves 112 can be arranged to a
particular need. Vertical wall
116, in one embodiment, separates the first accessible side 111 and the second
accessible side 121of
the movable object 102 for alternative access.
[0045] The outside structure 200 provides structural support for the movable
object 102.
1o The outside structure 200 includes a top stationary plate 210, a bottom
plate 202, and two vertical
support members 204 and 206. In this embodiment, the outside structure 200 is
anchored to a wall
212 via two security brackets 214 and 216.
[0046] FIG 1B depicts the movable object 102 moved from the original space
that it
occupied. Portions of the link mechanism 400, which will be described more
fully with regard to
15 Fig. 1F can be seen.
[0047] FIG 1C and 1D show the second accessible side 121 of movable object
102, which
in this embodiment isan entertainment center. The second accessible side 121
of the movable object
102, as shown in FIGS 1C,1D and 1E, includes shelves 118, articles 120 (TV
set), stereo system
122, collection of CD's 124, and collection of tapes 126. These articles 114,
120, 122, 124 and 126
2o are shown for illustration purposes and the second accessible side 121 can
have different shelving
configurations and different articles for holding, storing or safekeeping.
Examples of other articles
include wine, jewelry, stamps, rifles, and guns.
[0048] The entertainment center embodiment includes protective glass covers
103 and 132
which are preferably attached with hinges as depicted in FIGS 1C, 1D and 1E.
These protective glass
25 covers 130 and 132 may, if desired also be included on the first accessible
side 111. To provide
secure access to the articles in the entertainment center, keyed (or keyless)
locks 134 (FIGS 1C,1E,
2) may be installed on the protective glass covers 130 and 132.
[0049] As seen in FIG 1C, in one embodiment, the shelves include moldings 140
prevent
stored articles from sliding off of the shelf during rough, sudden, or fast
rotation.
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[0050] The outside structure 200 of this embodiment, best depicted in FIG 1F,
provides
support for the movable object 102 and also supports the rotaxial link
mechanisms 300 and 400 . In
this embodiment, outside structure 200 includes a stationary base 202, a top
stationary plate 210
(shown in FIG 1A) and vertical support members 204, 206 located respectively
on the left and right
sides of the outside structure 200. Base 202 preferably rests on floor.
Vertical support members 204
and 206 at their lower ends are attached firmly to base 202 and their upper
ends are firmly connected
to top stationary plate 210. All four components (202, 204, 206 and 210) form
the strong outside
structure 200. A sarong outside structure 200 is desirable when heavy loads
are introduced. For
additional vertical stability, the top plate 210 is anchored to a wall 212 of
the environment where the
1o reversible storage structure 100 is located by security brackets 214 and
216. In another embodiment,
vertical support members 204 and 206 may be directly anchored to a concrete
floor for heavy loading
applications. In yet another embodiment, vertical support members 204 and 206
may be anchored to
a ceiling or roof. In certain applications it may be desirable to eliminate
both the base 202 and the
top plate 210 and attach the vertical supports directly to the floor or
ceiling of the environment in
1 s which the reversible storage structure is located.
[0051] Referring back to FIG 1F, the reversible storage structure 100 further
includes a
bottom rotaxial linkage mechanism 300 and a top rotaxial linkage mechanism
400. Depending on
the application, and the loading, of the movable object 102, top rotaxial
linkage 400 may not be
necessary.
20 [0052] The rotaxial linkage mechanism includes multiple links capable of
rotaxially, that is a
combination of a rotating movement and a transverse movement. Preferably the
rotaxial linkage
mechanism is constructed to allow an object to be moved from an original space
in a first orientation
and returned to the original space in a different orientation. Preferably the
rotaxial linkage
mechanism includes a first link 304 and a second link 308. The outer ends of
first and second links
25 304 and 308 of rotaxial linkage mechanism 300 may be rotatably connected to
the base 202.
Preferably base 202 has risers on each side to which the first and second
links are preferably
rotatably connected by first and second pins 310 and 312. The inner ends of
first and second links
304 and 308 are preferably rotatably connected to plate 306 by third and
fourth pins 314 and 316. A
plate 306, in this embodiment, is preferably bolted to the bottom plate 104 of
the movable object
30 102. First and second links 304 and 308 and plate 306 are connected
serially and form a three
movable link chain. This three-link chain together with the stationary base
202 form the preferred
rotaxial linkage mechanism 300. The inner ends of the first and second links
are preferably also
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rotatably attached to a low friction contact device such as for example,
wheels, rollers, gliders or
casters that are attached between the links and the base. The low friction
contact device may also
simply include the use of low friction materials for the base and the links or
a low friction piece of
material attached to the inner end of the links. The risers may be used to
elevate the first and second
links to compensate for the space needed for the low friction contact device.
The preferred
embodiment employs wheels 350 and 352 as the low friction contact device.
[0053] Depending on the application, plate 306 can be eliminated and first and
second links
304 and 308 may be connected directly to bottom plate 104. In the embodiment
where the first and
second links 304 and 308 are connected directly to bottom plate 104, the first
and second links, the
1o bottom plate 104 and the base 202 form the rotaxial linkage mechanism . In
yet another application
the outer ends of the links can be rotatably attached to the floor to form the
rotaxial linkage
mechanism. In the latter embodiment appropriate spacers between the floor and
the links should be
employed to compensate for the distance needed by low friction contact device.
[0054] Top rotaxial linkage mechanism 400 is preferably located between the
outside
15 structure 200 and movable object 102.The top rotaxial linkage mechanism 400
is constructed, in one
embodiment, substantially similar bottom rotaxial linkage mechanism 300. Top
rotaxial linkage
mechanism 400 provides top supportfor the movable object 102 The outer ends of
top first and top
second links 404 and 408 may be rotatably connected to top plate 210.
Preferably the links 404 and
408 are rotatably connected to vertical support members 204 and 206 by pins
410 and 412. The
2o inner ends of links 404 and 406 are preferably connected to a plate 406 by
pins 414 and 416. Plate
406, in one embodiment, is bolted to top storage plate 106. As described with
regard to the bottom
rotaxial linkage mechanism, links 404 and 408 and plate 406 are connected
serially and form a three
link chain. As with the bottom rotaxial linkage mechanism 300 there are
various embodiments that
will provide the desired rotaxial movement. Top and bottom rotaxial linkage
mechanisms 300 and
2s 400 together with outside structure 200 form means to hold and support the
movable object 102 and
provide a predetermined path for its transitional movement from one alternate
orientation to another.
[0055] Top rotaxial linkage mechanism 400, in one embodiment, is constructed
similar to the
bottom rotaxial linkage mechanism 300. As such, the length of the links of top
rotaxial linkage
mechanism 400 is substantially same as the links in bottom rotaxial linkage
mechanism 300.
3o Because of this, the respective pins of both bottom and top rotaxial
linkage mechanisms 300 and 400
are located on the same axesallowing relatively jam free rotation ofthe
movable object 102.
_13_
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[0056] In the presently preferred embodiment, bottom and top rotaxial linkage
mechanisms
300 and 400 are connected to each other to form a synchronized rotaxial
linkage mechanism. . This
facillitaes the movement of the movable abject helping to form a strong and
rigid reversible storage
structure that can hold significant load. The synchronized rotaxial linkage
mechanism preferaby
comprises two rotaxial linkage mechanism interconnected in a manner that such
that the first bottom
link and the first top link rotate around their respective outer ends
simultaneously and strike the same
length arc. Similarly, the second bottom link and the second top link rotate
around their respective
outer ends simultaneously and strike the same length arc. In the preferred
embodment, a torsion bar
430is used to interconnect the two rotaxial linkage mechanisms. Preferably the
outer end of torsion
1o bar 430 is connected to the first bottom link 304 at its pin 310 and the
other end of the torison bar
430 is connected to first top link 404 at its pin 410 to form a rigid coupling
between first bottom link
304 and first top link 404. Partially due to the rigid coupling, links 304 and
404 are able to rotate
synchronously and reduce the possibility of jamming. Minimizing the
possibility of jamming is an
advantage of the present invention over the conventional rotating cabinetry
design, such as described
in US Patent No. 4,124,262. Another advantage of employing vertical bar 430 is
to enhance the
safety of the reversible storage system 100 since it reduces the possibility
of being tip-over.
[0057] To provide additional strength, a fully synchronized rotaxial mechanism
may be
employed. The fully synchronized rotaxial mechanism comprises a synchronized
rotaxial
mechanism with a rigid connection between the second top and second bottom
links. The rigid
2o connection, is preferably accomplished by adding a second torsion bar 440
and connecting one end
of torsion bar 440 to seond bottom link 308 at pin 312 while the other end of
torsion bar 440 is
connected to second top link link 408 at pin 412 to form a rigid connection
between links 408 and
308.. This second torsion bar 440 increases the strength of the reversible
storage system 100 and
with the first torsion bar 430 further decreases the likelihood of jamming
during movement.
2s [0058] FIGS 1G and 1H illustrate preferred features of wheels 350 and 352
in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS 1G and 1H,
wheels 350 and 352
are attached to the bottom rotaxial linkage mechanism 300. They are attached
to the inner ends of
bottom first and bottom second links 304 and 308 of the rotaxial linkage
mechanism. The wheels
support the load from the movable object 102 when it rotates and also when it
is in stationary
3o position. Weight of the movable object 102 is transferred by the wheels to
base 202. The wheels
roll across the base 202 in an arc as constrained by the rotation of the
bottom links. The wheels 350
and 352 in this embodiment are non-rotatably attached to the links 304 and
308. It should be noted
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that the wheels may also be rotatably attached. The non-rotatable attachment
feature simplifies the
design. Base 202 preferably has smooth surface along the arc struck by the
rotation of the links to
provide for smooth rotaxial movement of the movable object 102.
[0059] FIG 1I illustrates an embodiment that includes an electrical , phone or
other data type
outlet or connection in the movable object 102. This is preferably
accomplished by attaching cables
250 which may cant' electricity, phone signals, cable TV signals or other date
signals, to top second
link 408 For example cable 250 is shown used for transporting electrical power
and signals running
from outside of the reversible storage system 100 along link 408 to the
articles such as TV 120,
stereo system 122, lamp 138, and et cetera. In one preferred embodiment, the
cable 250 includes a
o loop 252 at each point of attachment that is sufficiently large to
compensate for the movement of the
second top link 408. While other types of cable connections exist for making
theset types of
connections and may certainly be employed, this loop type connection which may
be used because
the present invention allows an object to be alternatively reoriented without
exceeding a 360 degree
movement, may improve service life of the cables. In another embodiment,
cables 250 run inside of
link 408 or inside a torsion bar 440 that is hollow.
*****
[0060] FIG 1J and 1K illustrate a reversible storage system 100 with a locking
device 136
in accordance with the present invention. Locking device 136 attached to frame
wall 116. It has
locking bolt 144 and spring loaded wedged bar 146. When locks are engaged they
go inside the
2o holes in the vertical member 206 of the outside structure 200. A purpose of
having a locking device
136 is to secure stationary position of the frame from unintentional
movements. The locking device
136, in one embodiment, is operable with a key to protect cabinet from
unauthorized rotation and
from unauthorized access to the other side of the cabinet. The rotating object
102, in one
embodiment, has handles 240 on the side of the obj ect facilitating the
rotation.
[0061] FIG 1L shows a reversible storage system 100 having a control system
1019 in
accordance with the present invention. Control system controls the rotation of
the movable cabinet
through electrical systems and mechanical devices including a motor. Gear
motor 260 is mounted ax
the top of the vertical member 206 with hinge 262. Square telescopically built
shaft 264, 266
transfers rotation to a worm 268 and then to a worm gear 270. Worm 268 and
worm gear 270 with
3o ball bearings 274 and 276 located in the gear housing not shown in FIG 1L.
Output shaft of the
worm gear attached to the top plate 106 of the storage. Rotation of the motor
is transferred by
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described mechanism to the rotation of the storage. Change of the storage
position relative to the
outside structure is compensated by telescopic shaft 264, 266 and also by
hinge 262.
[0062] FIGS 1M and 1N illustrate a structure having an additional compartment
170 in
accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, there is one more
vertical wall 116 is
installed inside of the rotating object 102. This second wall 116 is installed
with small distance from
the first one. On the right side of the storage wall as shown in FIG 1M there
is opening on the
sidewall 110. So there is additional "secret" compartment 170 in the storage
that can be useful for
many applications such as storing maps and drawings. FIG 1N shows a fully
displayed map 180
pulled out of the compartment 170.
[0063] In operation, movable object 102 shown in FIG 1A is positioned with one
side of the
movable object 102 open for access. This side is holding books. Most of the
time cabinet is in one
of the stationary positions or orientations with one of two main sides open
for access. In one
embodiment, some modifications ofthe built storage protective covers 130, 132
should be unlocked
for access to "open" side. FIG 1A also illustrates another side ofthe movable
object 102 faces the
1 s wall 210 and therefore is not accessible.
[0064] To access the other side of the movable object 102, operation starts
from release the
locking device 136 if it is engaged. Then one pulls the cabinet frame away
from the wall 210 using
one of the handles 240. Because the pins 314 and 316 are part of the outside
structure 200, the
motion can be deduced from knowing the directions of the movement of these
pins. The direction of
2o the motion of the pins 314 and 316 is perpendicular to their links
themselves . In starting position,
links 304 and 308 are parallel, therefore motion of the movable object 102 at
starting point is
rectilinear without rotation. Moveable object 102 is directed away from the
wall 212 with small
angle to the one of the left or right sides. Transitional positions of the
storage rotation are shown on
FIGS 1B -1D. FIG 1E shows second standard position for access of the articles
that are held on
25 opposite side to the first access side. This second side is shown with
articles related to TV and stereo
system. One can engage locks 136 if needed.
[0065] FIG 2 illustrates a storage structure 100 with different storage
axticles in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG 2 shows the application of
the storage structure
100 for holding or safekeeping collectibles 152 and 154, such as knives and
coins. Holder 160 holds
3o knives and coins in place. The second side of storage structure 100 may be
used for storing books.
Above one of the cabinet shelves lamps 138 may be located to provide light
when it is needed. For
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keeping articles from sliding ofFthe movable object 102, holders, such as 160
can be added for
stronger attachment of the articles to one of the accessible sides. In
addition to the depicted holder,
cells, clamps, brackets, hooks, locks, etc., can be used.
[0066] FIG 3 illustrates a structure with different storage articles in
accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. FIG 3 shows the safekeeping of the
firearms 156 and 158,
wherein the firearms 156 and 158 are held to the movable object by holders
142.
[0067] FIG 4A-4D illustrate a structure 1300 having light articles storages
1106 and 1116
mounted on a desk 1202 in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. FIG 4A
shows two designs of light article storages 1106 and 1116 that are shown in
two alternate positions.
to There are two minor differences in their common components. In one
embodiment, the length ofthe
fourth, stationary link defined by distance from joint 1310 to joint 1312 is
shorter than the size of the
bottom plate 1104. This particularity that length of the stationary links 1310
and 1312 is larger than
the bottom plate 1104 allows implementation of simple straight torsion bars
outside of the storage
frame to connect lower and upper outside links (1304 with 1404 and 1308 with
1408).
15 [0068] Second difference between common components of invention
implementations
shown in FIG 4A and FIGS lA-E is as follows. In FIG 4A-4D, one access side is
shown with
shelves, second opposite access side is shown blank without shelves. It can be
used for simplified
storage to post notes, calendars, list of things to do, or just to use it as a
black board or screen, etc. If
desired, second access side also can have more developed storage
accommodations. They can be
2o different depending on articles to be stored.
[0069] All common parts in FIGS 1 and 4 are designated with the same numbers.
FIG 4A
shows a right storage 1106 in first starting position with side labeled "open"
available for access. A
left storage 1116 is shown in rotated 180° in opposite and alternate
position as the right storage 1106.
Side labeled "open" is facing back wall 1212 and this side is closed for
access. Both storages 1102
25 are mounted on the simplified outside structure that in this embodiment is
the top plate 1202 of the
desk or table. Back wall 1212 is optional.
[0070] FIG 4B shows exploded view of FIG 4A with visible parts of bottom
rotaxial linkage
mechanism 1300. Mechanisms of both storages are identical but shown in
alternate positions
corresponding to the storages being in opposite positions.
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[0071] FIG 4C shows exploded view of the structure 1320 when storages are in
reversed
position relative to FIGS 4A end 4B. FIG 4D shows cross-section of the bottom
rotaxial linkage
mechanism 1300 through the link 1308. This cross-section shows standard design
of the all links
and their hinged connection to the stationary base 1202 and to the movable
link 1104 where it is at
the same time the bottom plate of the storage 1102. Joints 1312 and 1316 in
this embodiment are
constructed substantially the same. For simplicity of the example, joints 1312
and 1316 are shown
without special rotation bearings. Joints 1312 and 1318 are made from metal.
Link 1308 is made
from plastic with good tribological performance to provide good friction pair
to the joints. Being
made from plastic link 1308 will have also good friction performance when it
is sliding on the
1o surfaces ofthe stationary plate 1202 or bottom plate 1104. In another
optional configuration joints
and links can be made from metal with bearings installed between them To
improve sliding
between the links and the plates 1202 and 1104, links can be covered on their
sliding surfaces with
fabric or felt with good friction properties.
[0072] FIGS SA - 5E, 6A - 6E, 7A - 7E, 8A - 8E show examples of different
geometrical
variations of link system for performing rotaxial movement in accordance with
the present invention.
Also these figures demonstrate the principle of how these implementations
work. To simplify the
demonstration of working principle of present invention, only bottom plate 104
of rotating storage is
shown. All movements of the bottom plate 104 as shown in FIG 1A, will
represent the movements
of the proposed reversible storage relative to the stationary base 202.
2o [0073] FIG SA illustrates a bottom plate 104 of the reversible storage
system 100 at points B
and C connected respectively by revolute joints 314 and 316 to links 304 and
308. Outside ends of
the links 304 and 308 connected by revolute joins 310 and 312 to stationary
base 202. In the theory
of mechanisms stationary plate 202 can be viewed as stationary link AD. Three
links AB, BC and
CD represent movable serially connected part of the mechanism where bottom
plate 104 of the
reversible storage can be viewed as middle link BC also designated as 306.
Movable three-link
chain AB, BC and CD together with stationary link AD represents four-link
mechanism that
determines the positions and the process of movement of bottom plate 104 and
therefore determines
the positions and the process of movement of reversible storage cabinet
whereby is being means of
holding storage cabinet relative to stationary base 202.
[0074] FIG 5A- 5E are diagrams illustrating a compound movement link mechanism
for
the storage structure in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. Referring to FIG
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SA-SE, figures show the essence of inner workings of implementation shown on
FIG 4A-4D. These
figures can represent also invention embodiment illustrated in FIGS lA-lE with
shortened stationary
link AD. For more exact representation illustrated in FIGS lA-lE, joints A and
D should be outside
of the bottom plate 104 (or plate 104 should be shorter than link AD).
s [0075] In one implementation, revolute joints A and D are located at remote
sides of the
stationary base generally in the middle area of short, left and right sides of
the storage frame. Points
B and C for revolute joints 314 and 316 are located on different sides of the
line AD generally
symmetrically relative to this line. Also joints B and C located at the middle
of the front and
backsides of the bottom plate 104. In order for bottom plate 104 to rotate
between alternate positions
to spaced generally 180° apart BC is generally perpendicular to AD in
starting position of the storage,
i. e. FIG SA.
[0076] The process of reversing the position of the plate 104 (i. e. movable
storage) from the
starting position of FIG SA to 180° reversed final position in
increments of 45° is shown on FIGS SB
- SE. Rotation of the plate 104 starts by pulling right side of the movable
object represented here by
~ s plate 104 in direction from back to front. In all transitional positions
as seen on FIGS SB - SD
storage as represented here by bottom plate 104 is not crossing backside of
the stationary plate 202.
Available clearance shown as dimension "a" serves as needed margin for this
requirement. In this
embodiment for not obstructed rotation of the storage there should be some
clearance on left and
right sides ofthe movable object 102.
20 [0077] FIG 6A- 6 E are schematic representations 100 illustrating an
operations ofthe
storage with outside joints of the four link mechanism moved back on the
stationary plate in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG 6A shows, in one
embodiment, the
locations of points A and D representing revolute joints 310 and 312, which
are moved back on
stationary base 202. Locations of revolute joins B and C are shifted left (as
shown in FIG 6A) on
25 bottom plate 104. Line BC remains perpendicular to AD on starting position.
[0078] FIGS 6B - 6D show transitional rotation of plate 104 in steps of
45° to a position
shown in FIG 6E in which plate 104 is in 180° reversed position
relative to starting position of FIG
6A. Previously back side of bottom plate 104 shown in FIG 6A that did not have
access to it
occupies now front position in FIG 6E and became accessible now. This
embodiment shows that in
3o transitional positions especially close to position as shown in FIG 6C
points B and C are not moved
so much forward as shown in FIG SC. This means that stationary plate 202 that
supports wheels
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350 and 352 (see FIG 1F) located generally under the revolute joints B and C
does not need to
extend much forward,~it can be smaller. Also this variation of present
invention saves space in front
of the storage for transitional positions of the storage and can be more
stable against tip-over.
[0079] For clarity of the explanation of the principal differences between
different
modifications of the present invention the changes are shown on the drawings
but secondary
differences, mostly dimensional are not reflected on the drawings. For
example, FIG 6A shows
joints A and D, B and C that are located at positions that allow some
uniformity with the other
drawings but for optimization of each particular embodiment locations of these
joints could be
changed. For example, joints A, D shown in FIG 6A could be moved more apart
from each other to
o allow even better clearance than shown on FIG 6C.
[0080] FIG 7A- 7E are schematic representations 700 illustrating operations
ofthe storage
with outside joints of the four link mechanism located in diagonal corners of
the stationary plate in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment,
joints A and D as
shown in FIG 7A are located at diagonal corners of stationary plate 7202.
Joints B and C are located
on the bottom plate 7104 approximately in the middle axeas of its front and
back sides at positions on
different sides of the line AD and line BC in starting position as shown in
FIG 7A is perpendicular
to line AD.
[0081] FIGS 7B - 7D show transitional rotation of plate 7104 in steps of
45° to position
shown in FIG 7E where plate 7104 is in 180° reversed position relative
to starting position of FIG
7A. Previously back side of bottom plate 7104 shown in FIG 7A that did not
have access to it
occupies now front position in FIG 7E and became accessible now. One of the
most important
advantages of this embodiment is that during rotation for 180° in all
transitional positions the
movable storage generally does not need clearance or additional space for
rotation. This is because
during rotation of the storage its transitional positions are shifted away
from the generally short side,
particularly the side where one of the joints A and D is moved forward. The
left side as shown in
FIG 7A does not need extra clearance. One of the applications when this
advantage can be realized
is when two storage cabinets are located side by side next to each other as
shown in FIGS 9A - 9C.
[0082] FIG 8A - 8A schematic representations 800 illustrating operations of
the storage
with outside joints of the four link 'mechanism located in diagonal corners of
the stationary plate and
3o storage rotating 90° between positions of alternate access in
accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. FIG 8A shows another modification of present invention. It
can be viewed in
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comparison with previous example as having stationary base 8202 and bottom
plate 8104 generally
as square plates. .
[0083] As shown on FIG 8A, for clarity but not necessary in real embodiment,
stationary
plate 8202 is larger than bottom plate 8104. Joints A and D are located at
remote diagonal locations
of the stationary plate 8202. B and C joints are located at positions of
bottom plate 8104 generally
symmetrically to the center point O of the line AD in a such way that line BC
forms 45° angle with
the line AD. Plate 8104 has optional rounded corners 170. On back and right
sides of the storage are
shown obstacles 8220 and 8222. They can be walls, barriers, other similar
cabinets, etc. For Baser
understanding of the process of rotating the storage from starting access
position as shown in FIG
8A to reversed, final access position as shown in FIG 8E bottom plate 104 has
labels marking all
four sides as viewed from starting position.
[0084] Because of 45° degree angle between BC and AD angular distance
between two
alternate access positions is 90° (not 180° as in previous
examples). Transitional positions from
starting to final position are shown in intervals of 22.5° shown in
FIGS 8B - 8D. During rotation of
1 s the bottom plate 8104 this plate will not interfere with back and
sidewalls of 8220 and 8222
especially if it has rounded corners 8170 or if there is even minor clearance
between bottom plate
104 and walls 220 and 222. Because of the rotation of the plate 104 for
alternating access to the
sides of the storage is 90° (not 180° as in previous examples)
alternating access to the sides of the
storage is planned differently. For example, a storage structure may be
organized into front and
2o backsides (as shown in FIG 8A) for holding articles. Left and right sides
are blank. Only front side
as shown in FIG 8A has access to its articles and backside is blocked from
accessing to articles by
wall 8220. After storage rotation by 90° clockwise to position as shown
in FIG 8E "front" labeled
side has no access because it is blocked by wall 8222. "Back" labeled side is
open for access from
the right side.
25 [0085] Second example of storage structure is that only front side has
developed storage
structure for holding essential articles while other three sides could be just
blank walls. Then
rotation of storage by 90° will block access to storage completely.
Rotation of the storage back to
starting position will open front side again for access. There could be more
other applications of
present inventions that could differ in details but follow the essentials of
proposed inventions. To
3o rotate bottom plate 8104 as representing storage rotation backward from
final alternate access
-21-
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position to starting alternate access position for all four previous examples
one has to follow shown
figures from "E" to "~,"
[0086] FIG 9A-9B are diagrams 900-920 illustrating a storage designed for
light loads
mounted on a desk with rotaxial designed illustrated in FIG 8A-8E. FIG 9A
represents practical
implementation of proposed invention per modification shown on FIG 7A - 7E.
FIG 9A shows two
storages 9002 and 9004 as shown. For clarity the sides for storage access are
labeled "open". In this
example, they are on the front sides of starting position. Details of
operation and construction are
similar to steps shown in FIG 4A - 4D.
[0087] FIG 9B shows exploded view of FIG 9A. FIG 9C shows exploded view of the
~o storage when it is rotated 90° counterclockwise for left storage and
clockwise for right storage. In
these alternated positions, open sides of the storage are blocked by
neighboring storage. In this
example, two storages are located next to each other and do not interfere with
each other during
rotation utilizing the advantages of the scheme represented in FIGS 7A - 7E.
[0088] FIG 10A- lOC are diagrams 2100 illustrating a storage rotating between
alternative
~5 accessing positions around horizontal axes in accordance with one
embodiment of present invention.
FIGS 10A, lOB and lOC show simplified and modified version of structure shown
in FIG 1A in
which FIG 10A shows nominal starting position of the storage while FIG lOB
shows an 180°
reversed of the storage with alternative accessing position of the storage.
FIG lOC shows explored
view of the storage in starting position. Simplification is achieved by
omitting optional features of
2o the design shown in FIG 1A -1L including omitted torsion bars, wheels,
lamps, cables, glass
covers, locks, trimmings, etc. A modification of this embodiment is means for
holding the storage
frame whereby giving the storage its kinematical determination are located not
at the bottom and top
sides of the frame but on the left and right sides of the storage frame. It
looks like vertical storage as
shown in FIG 1A was turned back 90° from vertical to horizontal
position. In this position
25 previously front side shown in FIG 1A became upper side of storage shown in
FIG 10A. Previously
bottom side became right side and previously right side became front side as
shown in FIG 10B.
[0089] All common parts shown in FIG 10A and FIG 1A are shown with the similar
number designations. The storage 2100 includes movable object 2102 that is to
hold articles, also
the storage includes means to hold proper storage 2102 in which box 2200
represents optionally
3o developed outside structure and rotaxial linkage mechanisms 300 (right one)
and 400 (left one).
Movable object 2102 is build in this example as flat horizontal box open from
top and bottom
-22-
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includes right plate 2104, left plate 2106, and optional front and back walls
2108 and 2110. The
frame also includes cellular holder 2160 to hold articles that are not shown
here for generalization
purposes. Top holder is arbitrary shown in this example as having 48 cells for
articles and bottom
holder 2162 shown in FIG lOB has 24 cells.
[0090] Holding means include box 2200. Box 2200 has optional cover 2250. Right
and left
walls 2202 and 2210 of the box 2200 serve as stationary bases of the right and
left side rotaxial
linkage mechanisms 2300 and 2400 respectively for holding of proper storage
2102. There are also
front and back walls 2204 and 2206, respectively.
[0091] Right rotaxial linkage mechanism 2300 and left rotaxial linkage
mechanism 2400
1o connect storage 2102 with outside box 2200. FIG lOC shows details ofthe
right rotaxial linkage
mechanism 2300. Left rotaxial linkage mechanism 2400 is not visible on this
view but it is generally
the same as rotaxial linkage mechanism 2300 as being symmetrical to it on the
other side of the
storage. Links 304, 306 and 308 of rotaxial linkage mechanism 2300 connected
serially represent
the movable part of the rotaxial linkage mechanism 2300 and by their outside
ends connected to the
15 stationary box wall 2202 by pins 2310 and 2312. Links 2304 and 2308 by
their inner ends connected
to the right plate 2104 of the storage 2102 by pins 2314 and 2316.
[0092] Movable three-link chain 2304, 2306 and 2308 together with stationary
link 2202
represents four-link mechanism, which determines the positions and the process
of movement of
bottom plate 2104 and therefore determines the positions and the process of
movement of reversible
2o storage 2102 whereby is being means of holding storage cabinet relative to
the stationary base 2202.
The same is true for left rotaxial linkage mechanism 2400. Because of the
substantial symmetry of
the right and left rotaxial linkage mechanisms 2300 and 2400 and the relative
uniformity of the
gravitational load this embodiment even without torsion bars is providing
generally jam free
reversing of the storage 1102 for alternative accesses to upper and bottom
sides of storage 1102. If
2s there is more demanding application for strength, reliability and
smoothness of the operation of the
storage then storage can be modified, e.g. by introducing torsion rods.
[0093] FIG 11A -11D are diagrams 2400illustrating application of proposed
invention with
for four square storages mounted next to each other on one square stationary
plate in accordance with
one embodiment of present invention. FIGS 11A -11D show an embodiment of four
substantially
3o identical storages located next to each other in circular symmetry around
central axis. There is no
obstruction around this group of storages. This group of storages can be
accessed from all four sides.
-23-
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Stationary plates of all four storages combined into one common stationary
plate 3202 serving all
four proper storages 3102. Each proper storage 3102 has one side with
developed shelving 3112.
For clarity on the top of each storage label "open" is placed on the side with
shelving for each
storage 3102.
[0094] Detailed mechanical operation of this embodiment is similar to the
operation shown
in FIGS 8A - 8E. FIG 11B shows all four proper storages rotated 90°
clockwise to the second
alternated positions. All four "open" sides with open shelves are closed for
access.
[0095] FIG 11C shows a top view of the structure shown in FIG 11B including
rotaxial
linkage mechanism 300 links conditionally shown as visible through the storage
parts. Designations
of the components are similar to designations shown in FIG 8A. There is a
convenience if rotation
of all four storages is synchronized so that making one storage box to rotate
makes all four storages
to rotate. In addition to rotating all storage boxes at once, when all storage
boxes rotate
simultaneously, there is more margin for clearance between them because each
box is moving away
from the common center and gives more clearance for itself and two of its
neighboring boxes.
[0096] There could be many different schemes applied for simultaneous rotation
of these
four boxes. FIG 11D shows top view of one of the simpler designs in accordance
with the present
invention. Generally square shape member 3330 rotates around central axis "O".
This member has
at each of its corners four identical joints 3332. Each of these joints 3332
connected by link 3334 to
links 3304 at joints B. Because of circular symmetry of the system, rotation
of all storages 3102 is
2o synchronized. Theoretically, there is dead point for rotation when link
3306 and link 3308 are on
one line, but as with other similar mechanisms continuation of the storage
rotation by inertia resolves
these situation for all practical purposes.
[0097] This note relates to all other features not only to handles. Another
important note
relates to the meanings and usages of terminology. In the theory and
technology different people
2s prefer to use different words for description of same or similar things.
This description is using these
words interchangeably, not taking particular stand on this issue. Similar
situation is with using
words as storage, cabinet, storage cabinet, bookcase, hatch, etc.
[0098] Another example of interchangeability of words relates to the words
rotate, reverse,
transpose, etc. Description is using the word rotate in wide application of it
- rotation not necessary
3o about static axis but rotation about axis that can be different at
different moments (like rotation about
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momentary axes). Reverse and transpose relates mostly to results of motion
than to process of
motion. ~ ,
[0099] Although the description above contains much specificity, these should
not be
construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing
illustrations of some of the
s presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus the scope of this
invention should be
determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Therefore, it
will be appreciated that
the scope of the present invention encompasses other embodiments which may
become obvious to
those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present invention is
accordingly to be limited by
nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in
the singular is not
1o intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather
"one or more". All
structural, chemical, and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-
described preferred
embodiment that are know to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly
incorporated herein by
reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moxeover,
it is not necessary
for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved
by the present
Is invention for it to be encompassed by the present claims.
[0100] FIG 12A-12D are diagrams illustrating a wheel system attached to a link
in
accordance with one embodiment of present invention. FIG 12A shows a top view
of wheel system
4200 having two wheels 4202-4204 and a wheel frame 4210. The wheels 4202-4204
are mounted in
a middle bar 4212 of the wheel frame 4210. The wheels 4202 contact the ground
or track while a
2o portion of wheel frame 4210 attaches to the rotating object. During the
operation, the wheels 4202-
4204 can move in a predefined trajectory while a portion of wheel frame 4210
that attaches to the
rotating object can move in a different orientation so that a rotaxial
movement can be accomplished.
[0101] FIG 12 B shows a cross-section view of a wheel system 4250 in
accordance of one
embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG 12B, a portion of the
wheel frame 4210
25 attaches to the rotating object or moving cabinet 4232 while another
portion of the wheel frame 4210
attaches to a link 4230 for performing link assisted rotaxial turning.
[0102] FIG 13A- 13C are diagrams illustrating a rotating frame capable of
attaching a set
of wheels in accordance with one embodiment of present invention. FIG 13A
illustrates a rotating
frame 4300 having top plate 4302 and bottom plate 4304. In one embodiment, the
bottom plate 4304
3o further includes two wheel-mounting places 4306-4308. The wheel mounting
places 4306-4308 are
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CA 02530587 2005-12-22
~~"WO 2005/007514 ~ ~'"~~"°''~ ~ ~~e~~ v°°~~ "~~ ~E
~~°" -'~~~~ PCT/US2004/020057
capable of mounting wheel frames 4210 with sets of wheels 4202-4204. The
wheels 4202-4204 are
further attached to twc~ links for controlling the turning of the movable
object.
[0103] FIG 13B is a 3D picture illustrating a structure 4310 having a two-link
system with
wheels wherein the bottom plate 4304 of the rotating frame has tamed in 90
degree (extending
forward) from a set position. Set position means one side of rotating object
is accessible while
another side of rotating object is not accessible because it is covered by the
back wall. The structure
4310 includes a bottom plate 4304, two links 4312-4314, ground plate 4320, and
wheels 4210. In
one embodiment, the bottom plate 4304 performs a rotaxial movement in response
to the movement
of the links 4312-4314.
[0104] FIG 13C is a 3D structure 4350 having a bottom plate 4304 of the
rotating frame
4300 in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention. The structure
4350 shows the
bottom plate 4304 in a set position.
[0105] FIG 14 is a set of diagrams illustrating a rotating object 4400
performing a rotaxial
movement in accordance with one embodiment of present invention. FIG 14 is a
top view of the
rotating object 4400 wherein the rotating object 4400 has a rotating axis
4402. Also, the object 4400
has two sides 4404-4406. The set of diagrams shows a sequence of rotaxial
movement to reverse the
side between side 4404 and side 4406 of the object 4400. During the operation
of rotaxial
movement, the object 4404 is transported from front side to back side by
compound motion.
Compound motion, in one embodiment, means rotating the object around its
rotating axis while the
2o rotating axis moves alone a predefined trajectory. Upon the completion of
the rotaxial movement or
rotaxial rotation, the object is back to the same space with a different
orientation.
[0106] In the foregoing specification the invention has been described with
reference to
specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that
various modifications and
changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader scope of the
invention. The
specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative
rather than restrictive
sense.
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