Flexible wall and ceiling storage and retention system

Abstract
The present invention relates generally to storage devices that are adapted for interconnection to a vertical or horizontal surface and to secure and a plurality of items. More specifically, some embodiments of the - present invention are adapted for interconnection between two adjacent wall studs to utilize the area therebetween, and which utilize a novel interconnection system wherein two or more storage devices can be operatively interconnected by utilizing common attachment hardware. In addition, some embodiments of the present invention are adapted to fold and are preferably provided with handles to facilitate transportation of the storage container.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to flexible storage devices for interconnection to a wall or a ceiling of a structure, and which utilizes a novel attachment system. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted for interconnection between two adjacent wall studs, thus utilizing the space therebetween, while an alternate embodiment of the present invention is adapted for interconnection to ceiling joists or rafters to provide storage locations.


BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Storage devices are commonly used to secure items such as garden equipment and other household items. One drawback of common storage devices is that they often take up much needed floor space.


A storage area that is sometimes used is the space between two adjacent wall studs, wherein items are stacked therebetween and perhaps leaned against a stud. However, these items may fall forward or become disorganized because they are not sufficiently constrained.


Individuals sometimes utilize the space above or between horizontal beams of a rafter for storage. Often, this is achieved by adding horizontal panels between the beams to provide a storage location or by spanning longer items from one beam to an adjacent beam. One drawback to this storage method is that the items may become dislodged and fall, possibly injuring bystanders or damaging property thereunder.


Other types of flexible storage mechanisms have previously been used for holding hand tools, and which are adapted for removable interconnection to pegboard or other materials with nails or screws, but do not provide any means for operably interconnecting two or more flexible panels in series in either a vertical or horizontal orientation.


Thus, it is a long felt need in the field of item storage to provide a device that is adapted for interconnection to a vertical or horizontal surface and which utilizes generally unused space and which can be interconnected in multiple parts with commonly known hardware. The following disclosure describes a plurality of flexible storage devices that are adapted for interconnection to a vertical or horizontal surface, generally between wall studs or rafter beams, to utilize the space therebetween.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Thus, it is one aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that is adapted for interconnection to adjacent wall studs, thus efficiently utilizing the space therebetween. Alternatively, a storage device is provided that is adapted for interconnection to the horizontal beams of rafters utilizing the space therebetween. One embodiment of the present invention is employed in unfinished basements or garages, wherein the unit may be installed flush with respect to adjacent wall studs or rafter beams. Thus, it is contemplated that the invention efficiently utilizes the space between wall studs or ceiling rafters that is often filled with insulation, conduits, wires, or otherwise unused.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that is selectively accessible. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention employs zippers, hook and loop fasteners, such as velcro, snaps, clasps, latches, etc. to allow for selective opening of the compartments. One embodiment of the present invention employs a door section that provides access to the interior of the storage device. This door may also include a plurality of compartments as mentioned above. An alternate embodiment of the present invention is selectively accessible to accommodate larger items, such as skis or garden tools wherein large items are inserted without having to lift them into an upper opening of some compartments.


It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that is adapted to efficiently drain fluids, thus ensuring that the items stored therein are less likely to corrode. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention employs compartments with a plurality of drainage holes wherein fluid drains safely away from any items prone to rust, such as garden tools or skis.


It is yet another aspect of present invention to provide a storage device that is comprised of a compliant material, a rigid material, or a combination thereof. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is constructed of a compliant material that allows for expansion. Alternatively, another embodiment of the present invention may be constructed of a rigid material to provide increased strength or protection to the contents stored therein. However, it is contemplated that the storage device may be constructed of a combination of rigid and compliant materials to allow for expansion of some compartments while providing some rigidity and increased protection to the remaining compartments. It is a related aspect of the present invention to provide storage compartments constructed of a transparent or semitransparent material, such as clear plastic or mesh, to thus allow selective viewing of the contents stored therein.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that is easily interconnected to a vertical or horizontal surface. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted for interconnection between adjacent wall studs on the front surface or side surfaces thereof, generally with grommets that receive fasteners such as bolts, nails, screws, ropes, straps, clasps, latches, hook and loop fasteners, etc., that are interconnected to the studs. Generally, any other fastening methods may be used without departing from the scope of this invention. In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, hooks may be selectively interconnected to rafters or ceiling joists to provide locations for grommets, straps, ropes, or other devices to be interconnected thereto.


Further, in another aspect of the present invention a novel interconnection mechanism is provided, wherein a plurality of flexible storage devices may be interconnected in series in either a vertical or horizontal orientation (or both), and which utilize the same attachment hardware in the corners. In one embodiment, the flexible storage devices are designed wherein the border materials overlap when multiple storage devices are interconnected at the corners, thus allowing the use of a plurality of storage devices in a given wall and utilize the same attachment hardware.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that is easily transported. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted to fold upon itself to facilitate transportation. Some embodiments of the present invention are also equipped with at least one handle. This embodiment of the present invention allows for the storage device to be removed and perhaps folded to be easily carried to a work location. A related embodiment of the present invention additionally employs wheels that allow for the storage device to be more easily transported once removed from its hanging location. Alternatively, a detachable belt may be provided to allow the flexible storage device to be selectively interconnected to a user's waist.


It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that may be easily transitioned from a first horizontal location to a second horizontal location. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted for selective interconnection to at least one pulley that is in turn interconnected to the ceiling of a structure such that the entire storage device may be stored in generally unused spaces and lowered when needed to provide access thereto.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that employs only one support fixture, thus providing increased hanging options. More specifically, some embodiments of the present invention employ only one grommet for interconnection to a single nail, for example, while other embodiments employ attachment hardware on each corner, and which are operably interconnectable to other storage devices.


It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a ceiling storage device that may be selectively lowered to gain access therein. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is operably interconnected to the ceiling, rafter beam, or joint, wherein a portion thereof is capable of cowering, thus providing increased access thereto. This embodiment, and similar embodiments provide movable storage devices that allow for quick and easy access to the contents therein, but maintain the head room inside the structure when not in use.


It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that transitions from a first location to a second location and that is also adapted for interconnection to an automobile. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention transitions, as described above, from a low level such as the garage floor to a higher level, such as the space between the garage rafters for storage. When the items are required, the storage device is then lowered as described above. However, in this embodiment, means are provided for selective interconnection to the roof, hood, or bed of an automobile, such that an automobile may be positioned under the storage container prior to lowering.


It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that a plurality of compartments which can be selectively removed and attached to another device. For example, one embodiment of the present invention employs compartments that selectively disconnect and that are adapted for selective interconnection to a workmen's belt, for example.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that employs a plurality of hooks, loops, etc. for securing tools. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention employs a plurality of loops that are adapted to receive and secure tools. Alternatively, another aspect of the present invention utilizes a rigid wire or other metallic material that supports a shelf for holding heavy items. Preferably the rigid wire is hingedly interconnected to the support device to allow the shelf to be folded inwardly for storage purposes when not in use.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that is adapted to be self-standing. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is a foldable structure, wherein the device is self-supporting. This embodiment of the present invention may also be equipped with handles or other means to facilitate transportation when folded.


It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that utilizes magnets, wherein the device can be remarkably interconnected to a metallic object such as a toolbox, refrigeration, etc.


It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device that selectively expands. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted to expand similar to a bellows to accommodate and cover items of various shapes and sizes.


It is another aspect of the present invention to provide certain storage pockets which have a transparent front faces, wherein the specific tools or items positioned therein can be clearly seen. Alternatively, mesh materials may also be utilized.


It is still yet another aspect of the present invention that it is cost effective to manufacture. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is constructed of commonly used material such as plastics, nylon, cloth, polyvinylchloride (PVC), etc. In addition, many embodiments of the present invention employ zippers, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, latches, hooks, wire stiffeners, eyelets, grommets, clasps, straps, ropes, etc., that are commonly known in the art. Thus the cost of manufacturing any one of the disclosed embodiments will not be prohibitive.


Thus, it is one aspect of the present invention to provide a storage device comprising: a substantially flexible panel having a top edge, a bottom edge, and lateral edges positioned therebetween;

    • an attachment mechanism interconnected at the corners of said lateral edges and said top edge and said bottom edge;
    • at least one storage compartment interconnected to said substantially flexible panel which is adapted for storing a plurality of items; and
    • a border material positioned at least partially between said attachment mechanisms and positioned outwardly from said plurality of compartments, wherein a plurality of storage devices can be operatively positioned in a horizontal or vertical orientation while using at least some of the same attachment hardware by overlapping said attachment mechanisms.


The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention.




BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these embodiments.



FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention and showing a flexible storage device with a mesh front and attachment hardware positioned on each corner;



FIG. 2 is a top elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 1;



FIG. 3 is a left elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 1;



FIG. 4 is a front plan view of the invention shown in FIG. 1 and further depicting the storage department and zippered front to allow further opening;



FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and depicting a tool holder;



FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the invention shown in FIG. 5;



FIG. 7 is a left elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 5;



FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 5;



FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and depicting a transparent front and a zippered panel to provide access therein;



FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and depicting two wire reinforced shelves;



FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and depicting a towel holder positioned on the flexible storage device;



FIG. 12 is a front perspective view showing two embodiments of the present invention operably interconnected on wall studs to depict the inner connection of a plurality of the flexible storage devices;



FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of an alternative attachment mechanism of the present invention interconnected to a wall stud;



FIG. 14 are various embodiments of alternative attachment mechanisms for the flexible panels of the present invention;



FIG. 15 are alternative embodiments of the attachment mechanism for the flexible panels of the present invention and further depicting a hanging bracket; and



FIG. 16 is a front perspective view depicting a corner attachment mechanism positioned on an upper left hand corner of a flexible storage device.




To assist in the understanding of the drawings and invention(s) described herein, the following is a list of components and numbering generally used throughout the drawings:

#Component 2Flexible storage device 4Panel 6Upper edge 8Lower edge10Lateral edge12Corner attachment hardware14Tool loop16Shelf18Reinforcing wire20Border spacing22Weep holes24Mesh material26Hardware reinforcing material28Storage bins30Handle32Zipper34Transparent material36Belt38Buckle40Magnet42Paper towel holder44Border material46Framing stud48Hook & loop material50Attachment hardware aperture52Screw54Flexible plastic attachmentmechanism56Attachment bracket58Drywall60Flexible rope62Recessed storage volume64Hinge


It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or which render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-4 depict various views of one embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, a flexible storage device 2 is provided which generally comprises a panel 4 with an upper edge 6, a lower edge 8 and lateral edges 10 extending therebetween. In each corner of this particular embodiment, corner attachment hardware 12 is provided to allow the flexible storage device 2 to be interconnected to a wall stud or other vertical support member. The corner attachment hardware 12 in one embodiment is comprised of a metallic plate with an aperture 50 adapted to fit over a screw, nail, hook, or other type of hardware.


As further shown in FIGS. 1-4, this embodiment of the present invention further includes a mesh material 24 to allow viewing of the contents positioned within the storage bin 28, and may further include a belt 36 and buckle 38 to provide additional support. As appreciated by one skilled in the art, the length of the storage device 2 is not critical to the invention and the device shown in FIG. 1-4 can have a length up to 6 or 8 feet to allow for the storage of skis, poles, bats, and other sporting gear or hardware. To allow for the drainage of any liquid which may collect in the storage bin 28, one or more weep holes 22 are provided in a lower portion of the storage compartment 28 to allow drainage. Positioned between the corner attachment hardware 12 is a border spacing material 20 which generally defines the perimeter edges of the storage bins 28 or available storage space. This border spacing 20 allows one or more of the flexible storage devices 2 to be interconnected with common attachment hardware along the corners and thus facilitating placing a plurality of flexible storage devices 2 either in a horizontal orientation, vertical orientation or both. One example of two flexible storage devices being interconnected in a horizontal relationship to framing studs 46 is shown in FIG. 12, and will be discussed in further detail below.


Referring now to FIG. 5-8, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is provided herein wherein the storage compartments 28 are comprised of one or more tool loops 14 which are adapted for holding plyers, screwdrivers, hammers, and other tools commonly used in a workshop or garage. Further, storage compartments utilizing mesh material 24 are provided to allow the viewing of items such as screws, nails, brackets, and other types of hardware commonly used in a garage or workshop. In general, the storage devices 2 of the present invention are comprised of flexible materials, such as fabric, cloth, polyethylene, nylon, plastics, and other materials which can be bent and/or folded. Furthermore, these flexible storage devices 2 may alternatively have a handle interconnected to one or more surfaces which allow the storage bins to be easily transported between locations, and may have closure mechanisms such as zippers or buckles to prevent the tools from falling therefrom. Furthermore, in another embodiment of the present invention the flexible storage devices 2 may have an interconnected belt and/or buckle to allow the tools to be positioned around a user's waist during a construction operation, and subsequently hung up on a wall.


Referring now to FIG. 9, another embodiment of the present invention is provided herein wherein the front portion of the flexible storage device 2 has one or more transparent materials 34 which allow the contents of the storage compartments to be viewed by a user. Furthermore, a zipper 32 or other opening means is provided which allow the contents to be securely stored therein. As further depicted in FIG. 9, in one embodiment of the present invention the flexible storage device 2 includes a recessed storage volume 62 which is designed for positioning between the framing studs of a typical structure such as a garage, barn, or workshop. Thus, the front surface of the flexible storage device 2 remains substantially flush with an exterior surface of the framing studs, while the storage volume 62 is positioned between the framing studs to allow an efficient use of space.


Referring now to FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is provided herein wherein the flexible storage device 2 includes one or more shelves 16 which are reinforced with a reinforcing wire 18 or bar which preferably is hingedly connected to the panel 4 or border spacing material 20. By utilizing the reinforcing wire 18, a structurally sound shelf is provided which can support heavy material such as hammers or wrenches. Preferably, the reinforcing wire 18 is interconnected to a reinforced loop or other cloth material and is secured to the fabric panel for selective interconnection. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the wire 18 is generally interconnected to the panel at the hinge 64 which allows the reinforced wire 18 to be pivoted about the hinge 64, and positioned flat against the panel 4 when in a position of non use or storage.


Referring now to FIG. 11, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is provided herein, and which generally depicts a flexible storage device 2 with a paper towel holder 42 positioned therein. More specifically, by utilizing a wire material, flexible fabric, or other similar device, a typical cylindrical roll of paper towel can be positioned thereto and rotated for use. In one embodiment it is anticipated that the flexible material utilized for the paper towel holder 42 has a button, snap, or velcro material to interconnect two ends positioned through the paper towel center aperture.


Referring now to FIG. 12, the interconnection of two flexible storage devices 2 are shown horizontally interconnected to three framing studs 46. As depicted in this drawing, the corner attachment hardware 12 utilizes the same attachment hardware which is positioned through an attachment hardware aperture 50. Preferably, the corner attachment hardware 12 is comprised of a rigid metallic material and/or plastic material which can sustain significant tensile loads, and which will not be damaged with the use of attachment screws, nails, or other hardware known in the art. By positioning the corner attachment hardware 12 between the lateral edges 10, and more specifically between the border spacing material 20 of the flexible storage device 2, two flexible storage devices 2 can be overlapped along the respective lateral edges 10, and thus positioned in a horizontal and/or vertical position by utilizing the same corner attachment hardware 12. Thus, multiple flexible storage devices 2 can be overlapped and used in either a vertical or horizontal combination, or both depending on the specific need, while utilizing common attachment hardware at the respective corners. Thus, an efficient use of space can be utilized and the flexible storage devices can be positioned between framing studs 46 or alternatively positioned on a wall which has been dry walled or otherwise finished.


Referring now to FIGS. 13-15, alternative embodiments of various corner attachment hardware are depicted herein. More specifically, and referring now to FIG. 13, a corner attachment hardware 12 is shown interconnected to the corner of the flexible storage device 2. More specifically, in this embodiment the corner attachment hardware 12 has four apertures positioned along each lateral edge, and which are adapted to receive a strap which is interconnected to the flexible storage device 2. Preferably, the strap is a hook and loop material 48 which allows optimum positioning of the flexible storage device once the corner attachment hardware 12 is interconnected to a framing stud 46 by the use of a screw 52, nail, or other commonly known attachment hardware. As further depicted in FIG. 13, by utilizing this type of geometry with the corner attachment hardware 12, the corners of four distinct flexible storage devices 2 can be interconnected to the same corner attachment hardware 12 and thus effectively utilize available space.


Referring now to FIG. 14, an alternative embodiment of corner attachment hardware 12 used in the present invention is provided herein. More specifically, a flexible plastic attachment mechanism 54 is shown, and which can be operably interconnected to the flexible panel 4 by means of hardware reinforcing material 26 such as stitching, welding, etc. By utilizing a flexible plastic attachment mechanism or other material which has flexure, the corner attachment hardware 12 can be positioned on a framing stud or other support mechanism, and the flexible storage device 2 placed in a position of use. As further shown in FIG. 14, an alternative corner attachment hardware device 12 is shown which utilizes a flexible rope 60 and does not utilize plastic or metal materials whatsoever. As shown in the bottom right hand corner, the flexible rope, plastic, nylon, or other similar material is interconnected to the border material 20 by means of hardware reinforcing material 26, and which can be operably interconnected to a attachment mechanism such as a screw or nail positioned in a framing stud 46 or other material.


Referring now to FIG. 15, an alternative embodiment of corner attachment hardware 12 is provided herein, and which includes a flexible plastic attachment mechanism 54 which in one embodiment has a rope or other material attached thereto to provide a corner attachment hardware piece 12. In one embodiment of this corner attachment hardware 12, the flexible plastic attachment mechanism 54 is hollow and which may include indicia positioned on the attachment hardware, or on the rope or cloth material positioned therethrough. As further shown in the upper portion of FIG. 15, the flexible storage devices 2 of the present invention can be shown interconnected to an attachment bracket 56 which can be secured to any vertical wall structure including drywall, paneling, or other building products which provide a more finished look to hang one or more flexible storage devices 2.


Referring now to FIG. 16, another embodiment of attachment hardware used with the flexible storage devices 2 of the present invention is shown herein. More specifically, the attachment hardware 12 is shown interconnected to the upper left hand corner of a flexible panel 4 by means of a fabric, cloth or webbing material which is interconnected along an upper edge 6 and a lateral edge 10 by means of reinforced stitching 26, welding, or other means to operably secure the attachment mechanism 12 to the flexible panel 4. Alternatively, the strap or webbing may be adjustable in length, wherein the strap can be extended in length to allow the flexible storage device to be interconnected to framing studs 46 which are not on 16″ centers. In one embodiment the straps interconnected to the attachment hardware 12 utilize hook and loop materials such as Velcro®, buckles, clasps or other devices to allow the length of the strap to be selectively adjusted. As shown, each strap or webbing material extends through a slot or aperture positioned along an edge of the attachment hardware 12. Furthermore, the substantially rigid attachment hardware 12 preferably has at least one aperture 50 positioned therethrough which is used for positioning over a screw, nail, hook, or other form of attachment hardware which is interconnected to a vertical surface such as a framing stud. As further shown in FIG. 16, a border region 20 is provided along a vertical plane and a horizontal plane next to the attachment hardware 12, and which allows multiple flexible storage devices 2 to be hung in either horizontal or vertical orientation using common attachment hardware.


While various embodiment of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and adaptations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims.

Claims
  • 1. A flexible storage device adapted for interconnection to a vertical support structure, comprising: a substantially flexible panel having a top edge, a bottom edge, and lateral edges positioned therebetween; an attachment mechanism interconnected at the corners of said lateral edges and said top edge and said bottom edge; at least one storage compartment interconnected to said substantially flexible panel which is adapted for storing a plurality of items; and a border material positioned at least partially between said attachment mechanisms and positioned outwardly from said plurality of compartments, wherein a plurality of storage devices can be operatively positioned in a horizontal or vertical orientation while using at least some of the same attachment hardware by overlapping said attachment mechanisms.
  • 2. The storage device of claim 1, wherein said attachment mechanism comprises a metal plate with at least one aperture extending therethrough.
  • 3. The storage device of claim 1, wherein said at least one storage compartment further comprises a wire frame which provides structural support.
  • 4. The storage device of claim 3, wherein said wire frame is hingedly interconnected to at least one of said substantially flexible panel and said border material.
  • 5. The storage device of claim 1, wherein said substantially flexible panel further comprises a handle, wherein said storage device can be selectively removed and carried.
  • 6. The storage device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of said at least one storage compartment occupies a space located between two adjacent wall studs.
  • 7. The storage device of claim 1, wherein said attachment mechanisms are interconnected to said substantially flexible panel with a webbing material.
  • 8. The storage device of claim 1, wherein said at least one storage compartment includes a weep hole in a bottom portion to facilitate draining any liquid contained therein.
  • 9. The storage device of claim 1, wherein said at least one storage compartment has a front surface comprised of at least one of a transparent material and a mesh material, wherein a user can view the contents of said at least one storage compartment.
  • 10. A flexible storage apparatus adapted for interconnection in multiple parts to a vertical structural surface, comprising: a substantially flexible panel having an upper edge, a lower edge and lateral edges extending therebetween; a border material interconnected at least partially along said lateral edges; an attachment means interconnected between at least said upper edge and said lateral edges which includes an interconnection means which is adapted for operable engagement with attachment hardware; at least one storage compartment interconnected to a front surface of said flexible storage device, said storage compartment positioned substantially within a perimeter defined by said lateral edges; and wherein a corner of a first storage apparatus may be operably positioned over a corner of a second storage apparatus by overlapping said attachment means of said first storage apparatus to an attachment means of a second storage apparatus and utilizing the same attachment hardware.
  • 11. The flexible storage apparatus of claim 10, wherein said attachment means is comprised of a metallic material with at least one aperture extending therethrough.
  • 12. The flexible storage apparatus of claim 10, wherein said vertical structural surface comprises a plurality of wall studs, wherein at least a portion of said at least one storage compartment occupies a space positioned between two of said wall studs.
  • 13. The flexible storage apparatus of claim 10, wherein said at least one storage compartment further comprises a rigid frame to add structural support.
  • 14. The flexible storage apparatus of claim 13, wherein said rigid frame is hingedly interconnected to at least one of said flexible panel and said lateral edges.
  • 15. The flexible storage apparatus of claim 10, wherein said flexible apparatus further comprises a removable belt, wherein said flexible storage apparatus can be worn on a user's waist.
  • 16. The flexible storage apparatus of claim 10, wherein said interconnection means comprises an aperture.
  • 17. A storage device adapted for interconnection to adjacent wall studs, comprising: a substantially flexible panel having a top edge, a bottom edge, and lateral edges extending therebetween; an attachment mechanism interconnected at the corners of said lateral edges of said top edge, said bottom edge, and said lateral edges; at least one storage compartment interconnected to said substantially flexible panel which is adapted for storing a plurality of items in a space at least partially between said adjacent wall studs.
  • 18. The storage device of claim 17, wherein said attachment mechanism comprises a substantially metallic plate having an aperture positioned therethrough.
  • 19. The storage device of claim 17, further comprising a hinged rigid wire operably interconnected to said substantially flexible panel to at least partially provide structural support for a weight bearing shelf.
  • 20. The storage device of claim 17, further comprising a border material positioned between said attachment mechanisms located in said corners of said storage device, and positioned outwardly from said plurality of compartments, wherein a plurality of storage devices can be operatively positioned in a horizontal or vertical orientation using the same attachment hardware;
  • 21. The storage device of claim 16, further comprising an aperture positioned in a lower portion of said at least one storage compartment to allow drainage of any liquid in said at least one storage compartment.
Parent Case Info

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 60/540,608, 60/625,635, 60/592,030 and 60/625,520, filed Jan. 29, 2004, Nov. 4, 2004, Jul. 28, 2004 and Nov. 4, 2004, respectively, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein. In addition, this application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. Nos. 29/210,911, 29/210,912, 29/214,597, 29/214,573, 29/215,536, 29/217,498, 29/217,480, and 29/217,507 filed Aug. 5, 2004, Aug. 5, 2004, Oct. 5, 2004, Oct. 5, 2004, Oct. 19, 2004, Nov. 17, 2004, Nov. 17, 2004, and Nov. 17, 2004, respectively, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein. Finally, this application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. Design patent applications filed on Jan. 10, 2005 that have yet to receive a serial number, but are identified by attorney file numbers 2417-614 and 2417-618, express mail receipt nos. EV539130858 and EV539130929, respectively, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

Provisional Applications (4)
Number Date Country
60540608 Jan 2004 US
60625635 Nov 2004 US
60592030 Jul 2004 US
60625520 Nov 2004 US
Continuation in Parts (10)
Number Date Country
Parent 29210911 Aug 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29210912 Aug 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29214597 Oct 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29214573 Oct 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29215536 Oct 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29217498 Nov 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29217480 Nov 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29217507 Nov 2004 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29221083 Jan 2005 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US
Parent 29221070 Jan 2005 US
Child 11046520 Jan 2005 US