SYNCHRONIZED DEPLOYING ENCLOSURE DEVICE

Abstract

A synchro-deployable enclosure device for holding one or more items, including a column having a plurality of storage ports, at least one synchronization link having a linkage ring, and a plurality of stages, including a first stage and a second stage each connected to the at least one synchronization link. Each of the first stage and the second stage can include a floating link connected to the linkage ring such that the first stage and the second stage deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with each other.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

It is commonplace to place items such as jewelry or other valuables in an aesthetically appealing box when gifting the items to a friend, family member, or colleague. Various state-of-the-art storage devices are typically used for such purposes. However, such state-of-the-art storage devices are not scalable, reconfigurable, or, many times, aesthetically appealing.

An unmet need exists for a storage solution that can facilitate scalability, reconfigurability, simplicity of design and operation, among other things.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure provides a novel aesthetically appealing storage solution that facilities scalability, reconfigurability, and simplicity of design and operation, among other things. According to an aspect of the disclosure, a synchro-deployable enclosure device for holding one or more items is provided, the device includes a column having a plurality of storage ports, at least one synchronization link having a linkage ring, and a plurality of stages, including a first stage and a second stage each connected to the at least one synchronization link. Each of the first stage and the second stage can include a floating link connected to the linkage ring such that the first stage and the second stage deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with each other. The first stage and the second stage each can comprise a stage body having a fixed link and a space. The first stage and the second stage each can comprise a fixed link that is rotatably connected to the connected to the column. The synchronization link can include a linkage member. The space can be configured to hold the one or more items.

In an embodiment, the first stage and the second stage each can comprise a fixed link that is rotatably connected to the linkage member to allow the fixed links to deploy from or withdraw into the column simultaneously and in synchronization with each other. In the embodiment, the linkage member can include a stage guide that is configured receive a portion of the first stage or a portion of the second stage. The linkage member can include a lip surface or a bearing surface configured to support slidably the linkage ring, allowing the linkage ring to rotate about the linage member.

The stage body can include a floor and a wall that form the space. At least one of the first stage and the second stage can include a protuberance. The protuberance can include a floating protuberance.

The device can include at least one of a first cover and a second cover at either end of the device.

The device can include a magnet configured to apply a magnetic force on a portion of at least one of the first stage or the second stage to secure the first stage and the second stage in the column.

The first stage and the second stage each can comprise a fixed link having a link end, and wherein the stage guide includes a link stop configured to stop the link end from traveling beyond a predetermined point.

The stage guide can include a channel for aligning the stage guide with a mirror stage guide located on an opposite side the linkage member.

The plurality of stages can include seven stages, each stage being configured to deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with six other stages. The seven stages can be configured to surround a perimeter of the column when the device is in a deployed configuration.

In an embodiment, a synchro-deployable enclosure device is provided for holding one or more items. The devices includes a cover, a synchronization link, and a plurality of stages, including a first stage and a second stage each connected to the synchronization link. Each of the first stage and the second stage can include a floating link connected to the synchronization link and a fixed connected to a column such that the first stage and the second stage deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with each other when the synchronization link moves with respect to the column.

The first stage and the second stage each can include a stage body having a space to hold the one or more items. The column can include a lip surface or a bearing surface configured to support slidably the synchronization link, allowing the synchronization link to rotate about a perimeter of the column.

Additional features, advantages, and embodiments of the disclosure may be set forth or apparent from consideration of the detailed description, which includes the drawings. Moreover, it is to be understood that the foregoing summary of the disclosure and the following detailed description and drawings provide non-limiting examples that are intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the disclosure as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the detailed description serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. No attempt is made to show structural details of the disclosure in more detail than may be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the disclosure and the various ways in which it may be practiced.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a nonlimiting embodiment of a synchro-deployable enclosure device in a partially deployed configuration, according to the principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the synchro-deployable device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows another perspective view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 shows another perspective view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1, in a near-closed configuration.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1, in a closed configuration.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1 with a top portion removed to show a synchronization link.

FIG. 9 shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1 with the top portion and a portion of the synchronization link removed.

FIG. 10 shows another top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1 with the top portion and the portion of the synchronization link removed.

FIG. 11 shows another top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1 with the top portion and the portion of the synchronization link removed, in a near-closed configuration.

FIG. 12 shows another top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1 with the top portion and the portion of the synchronization link removed, in a closed configuration.

FIG. 13 shows a block diagram depicting a side view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective side view of another embodiment of a synchro-deployable enclosure device in a deployed (or open) configuration, constructed according to the principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in the deployed (or open) configuration.

FIG. 16A shows a perspective side view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in a partially closed configuration.

FIG. 16B shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in the partially closed configuration.

FIG. 17A shows a perspective side view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in a near closed configuration.

FIG. 17B shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in the near closed configuration.

FIG. 18A shows a perspective side view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in a closed configuration.

FIG. 18B shows a top view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in the closed configuration.

FIG. 19 shows a cross-section cut side view of the synchro-deployable enclosure device of FIG. 14 in the closed configuration.

The present disclosure is further described in the detailed description that follows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure and its various features and advantageous details are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments and examples that are described or illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and features of one embodiment can be employed with other embodiments as those skilled in the art will recognize, even if not explicitly stated. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques may be omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments of the disclosure. The examples are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the disclosure can be practiced and to further enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the examples and embodiments should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the various views of the drawings.

Brigham Young University's Compliant Mechanism Research Laboratory has developed devices using a broad classification of mechanisms referred to as Developable Mechanisms. A Developable Mechanism is a device that, at some point in its motion, conforms to a developable surface. Such devices typically use links and pin joints to transfer or transform motion, force, or energy. However, such devices are extraordinarily complex and difficult to design or manufacture.

The instant disclosure provides a storage solution that can facilitate scalability, reconfigurability, simplicity of design and operation, among other things. Unlike certain state-of-the-art designs that use both a static and a moving central column to synchronize collections of stages, the novel storage solution provided by this disclosure facilitates scalability, reconfigurability, simplicity of design and operation, among other things. The solution provides other advantages, including reduction in complexity, reduction in cost, increase in agency for the user as well as manufacturer when determining how they want to use a device constructed according to the principles of this disclosure.

The storage solution includes various embodiments of a synchro-deployable (or synchronized deployable) enclosure (SDE) device equipped with a collection of mechanical links to allow synchronized deployment of multiple previously enclosed volumes (also referred to as stages) where items can be stored and retrieved. The designs of the various embodiments are highly scalable, including, for example, with one static central column being shared by adjacent stages. In the various embodiments, one or more synchronizing links can form part of an external geometry that permits a space for an enclosed volume, eliminating any need for additional glazings on the outside of the device.

In various embodiments, the synchro-deployable enclosure (or SDE) device includes a central column and one or more synchronization links that allow one or more stages to be joined and synchronously operated without any discrete fasteners. The central column and synchronization links can be configured to permit the one or more stages to be freely stacked to increase storage capacity. This construction design decouples part count from apparent SDE device complexity, thereby reducing cost while still increasing value for the user.

The SDE device is designed and constructed to provide a storage solution that is functionally rich but physically, visually, and kinematically simple. In various embodiments, the SDE device includes an intermediate stacked synchronization link that joins one or more stages while also forming part of a predominant external shape. The SDE device can include a large opening at a center of the synchronization link to permit passage of a central joining column.

In various embodiments, the SDE device includes central and concentric articulation columns, discrete, centrally mounted synchronization links to join adjacent stages, or adjacent stages joined with stacked gears. In various embodiments, the SDE device can include any number of deployable stages, including, for example, one, two, three, four, five, or more stages, each of which can include a storage compartment that, when the device is collapsed (in a closed configuration) each storage compartment can form an enclosed volume where items can be stored. In certain embodiments, the SDE device includes more than one column. In at least one embodiment, the SDE device includes multiple columns, wherein at least one column is formed as a stage linked to another column.

In various embodiments, the SDE device can be constructed using any combination of one or more types of material, including, for example, metal, glass, plastic, wood, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or other suitable synthetic or naturally occurring material.

FIGS. 1-13 show various views of a nonlimiting embodiment of a SDE device 1 constructed according to the principles of the disclosure, including: a perspective view of SDE device 1 in a partially deployed configuration, as seen in (seen in FIG. 1); a top view of the SDE device 1 (seen in FIG. 2); a bottom view of the SDE device 1 (seen in FIG. 3); a side view of SDE device 1 (seen in FIG. 4); another perspective view of the SDE device 1 (seen in FIG. 5); another perspective view of the SDE device 1 in a near-closed configuration (seen in FIG. 6); a perspective view of the SDE device 1 in a closed configuration (seen in FIG. 7); a top view of the SDE device 1 with a top portion removed to show a synchronization link (seen in FIG. 8); a top view of the SDE device 1 with the top portion and a portion of the synchronization link removed (seen in FIG. 9); another top view of the SDE device 1 with the top portion and the portion of the synchronization link removed (seen in FIG. 10); another top view of the SDE device 1 with the top portion and the portion of the synchronization link removed, in a near-closed configuration (seen in FIG. 11); another top view of the SDE device 1 with the top portion and the portion of the synchronization link removed, in a closed configuration (seen in FIG. 12); and a block diagram depicting a side view of the SDE device 1 (seen in FIG. 13).

Referring to FIGS. 1-13, the SDE device 1 has a column 10 and a pair of opposing stages 20, 30, wherein the column 10 can be located centrally in the SDE device. Each of the first stage 20 and the second stage 30 is configured to connect to the column 10 such that it is deployable and collapsible in synchronization with the other stage and with respect to the column 10 in response to a force applied at a single point to either the first stage 20 or the second stage 30, as seen, for example, in FIGS. 5-7.

The first stage 20 and the second stage 30 can be similarly (or differently) constructed. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the first stage 20 is constructed similar to the second stage 30, except that, for example, the space 22 has a smaller diameter than that of the space 32, the fixed link 21 includes a protuberance 24, and the depth (or height) of the stage 20 is greater than the depth (or height) of the stage 30 (for example, as measured along the z-axis, shown in FIG. 2).

In various embodiments, the protuberance 24 is provide on the fixed link 21 (shown in FIG. 5) and/or a fixed link 31 (discussed below). In an embodiment, the protuberance 24 is optional.

While the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-13 has a circular-shaped central column 10, the column in other embodiments of the SDE device can have other shapes, including, for example, square, triangular, rectangular, or other shapes, including user-defined or customizable shapes. Similarly, in other embodiments the circular-shaped stages 20, 30, can have other shapes, including, for example, square, triangular, rectangular, user-defined, or customizable shapes. The shapes of the column 10 and stages 20, 30 can be constructed such that the walls of the SDE device can be flush when the device is in its closed (or collapsed) configuration, as seen, for example, in FIG. 7.

Referring to FIG. 1, the column 10 includes a first cover member 11 and a second cover member 12. Either or both cover members 11, 12 can include a side having a planar or otherwise shaped surface, and may be constructed from a plate or other structure, including a structure having at least one planar surface. The SDE device 1 can include one or more synchronization links 70 in the column 10, positioned between the cover members 11, 12. The first cover member 11 can function as an upper cover and the second cover member 12 can function as a lower cover of the column 10. In various embodiments, the first and second cover members 11 and 12 can be configured to form one or more stage ports therebetween, with each stage port being configured to receive and hold or enclose a stage.

In the column 10, the first and second cover members 11 and 12 together with the synchronization link 70 are configured to form a pair of adjacent storage ports 13, 14, with the storage port 13 being formed between the upper cover 11 and an upper side of the synchronization link 70, and the storage port 14 being formed between the lower side of the synchronization link 70 and the cover member 12. The first storage port 13 can have a side (or wall) formed on one side by the first cover member 11 and another side (or wall) formed on the opposite side by the upper side of the synchronization link 70. The second storage port 14 can have a side (or wall) formed on one side by the lower side of the synchronization link 70 and another side (or wall) on the opposite side formed by the second cover member 12.

The first storage portion 13 is configured to receive, through a first port opening, and enclose or hold the first stage 20. The second storage port 14 is configured to receive, through a second port opening, and enclose or hold the second stage 30.

The upper and lower sides of the synchronization link 70 are configured to synchronously guide the first stage 20 and the second stage 30, respectively, as the stages deploy from, or withdraw into, their respective storage ports 13, 14, as seen in FIGS. 5-7.

In various embodiments, the SDE device can include one or more bearings and/or gears in place of, in addition to, or within the synchronization link 70.

In certain embodiments, either, or both, of the first cover member 11 and the second cover member 12 can be equipped with guide features similar to, or the same as, those that are provided on the upper and/or lower sides of the synchronization link 70 to guide a stage, such as, for example, the linkage body 71 and the stage guide 72 shown in FIG. 8.

In at least one embodiment, the SDE device comprises a single-stage device (not shown) in which the cover members 11 and 12 are configured to form a single storage port therebetween to receive through an opening and enclose a stage, such as, for example, the first stage 20 or the second stage 30. In this embodiment, either or both of the inward facing surfaces of the cover members 11, 12 can include the linkage body 71 and the stage guide 72.

Referring to FIGS. 1-13, the stage 20 and the stage 30 each include a stage body that can be attached movably to the synchronization link 70. The stage body of each of the stages 20 and 30 can be attached to the respective covers 12 and 11. The stages 20 and 30 are connected movably to the covers and/or synchronization link such that the stages deploy from or withdraw into the column simultaneously and in synch with each other, as described in greater detail below.

As seen in the Figures, the stage body of the stage 20 can be comprised of a fixed link 21, a space 22, a floating link 23, and a floating protuberance 29. Similarly, the stage 30 can be comprised of the fixed link 31, a space 32, a floating link 33, and a floating protuberance 39.

Referring to the stage 20, the space 22 can be formed as an opening in the stage body, such as, for example, in the fixed link 21 or the floating protuberance 29. In at least one embodiment, the space 22 is formed by providing a recess or a space in a portion of the stage body, such as, for example, in the fixed link 21, such that the space 22 has a wall surrounding the open space and a floor 22F, as seen in FIG. 3, that can hold an item (not shown) in the space 22. The fixed link 21 can include at one end a fulcrum 25 connected to the synchronization link 70 and/or cover 12, and at another end a pivot connector 26 connected to the floatable link 23. The recess can be formed by, for example, drilling out the space 22 from the stage body, or forming the stage body with the space 22 (such as, for example, via a molding process).

Similarly in the stage 30, the stage body is comprised of a fixed link 31, a space 32, a floating link 33, and a floating protuberance 39. The space 32 can be formed as an opening in the stage body, such as, for example, a recess or space in the fixed link 31 or the floating protuberance 39). In at least one embodiment, the space 32 is formed by providing a recess in a portion of the stage body, such as, for example, in the fixed link 31, such that the space 32 has a wall surrounding the space and a floor 32F, as seen in FIG. 3, that can hold an item (not shown) in the space 32. The fixed link 31 can include at one end a fulcrum 35 connected to the synchronization link 70 and/or the cover 11, and at another end a pivot connector 36 connected to the floatable link 33. The recess can be formed by, for example, drilling out the space 32 from the stage body, or forming the stage body with the space 32 (such as, for example, via a molding process).

In an embodiment, either or both floors 22F, 32F can be configured to open, for example, by having a door that pivots about a hinge (not shown), or that slides in the stage deployment plane (for example, x-y plane shown in FIG. 2) to allow access from the bottom, or pass-through access, to the space(s) 22, 32. The stage body can include a catch mechanism (not shown) to engage and hold the door or openable floor 22F, 32F in a closed position.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of the SDE device 1 positioned such that the stages 20, 30 move in the x-y plane, with the z-axis being perpendicular to the direction of the stage movement.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 5, and 6, the fulcrum 25 and the fulcrum 35 can each be connected by a fastener 40 (shown in FIG. 6) to the synchronization link 70 and/or the adjacent cover 12 or 13, respectively, and configured to pivot about an axis of the fastener 40, such as, for example, the z-axis shown in FIG. 2. The fastener 40 can include, for example, a pin, a rod, a screw, a bolt, a bearing, a gear, or other mechanism that allows the fulcrum 25 or 35 to pivot about the axis of the fastener 40, for example, as depicted by the circular arrows shown in FIG. 5. At the same time that the fulcrums 25 and 35 pivot about the axis of their respective fastener 40, the fixed link 21 and the fixed link 31 move in synchronization with each other in the x-y plane (shown in FIG. 2) as the stages 20 and 30 are in synchronization withdrawn (closed) into, or deployed (opened) from, their respective storage ports 13 and 14, as demonstrated by the arrows depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of the SDE device 1 with the cover 11 removed to show an upper side of the synchronization link 70 and its interoperability with the stage 30. In at least one embodiment, the lower side of the synchronization link 70 is a mirror image and substantially the same, but inverted, as the upper side seen in FIG. 8, and its interoperability with the stage 20 is also substantially the same but inverted.

The upper side of the synchronization link 70 includes a linkage body 71 and a stage guide 72. In various embodiments the lower side of the synchronization link 70 includes a mirror linkage body and a mirror stage guide, which are the same as but inverted to the linkage body 71 and the stage guide 72, respectively. The linkage body 71 includes a linkage ring 71R and a linkage member 71B. The linkage ring 71R and the linkage member 71B can be movable with respect to each other, as demonstrated by the arrow depicted in FIG. 8. In various embodiments the linkage member 71B includes a circular plate or cylinder that is installable in or near the linkage ring 71R such that linkage ring 71R and linkage member 71B are movable (for example, rotatable) with respect to each other.

In certain embodiments the stage guide 72 can be integrally formed as one piece with the linkage member 71B. In other embodiments the stage guide 72 can be provided as a separate piece that can be securely fastened to the linkage member 71B (or linkage body 71) by one or more linkage fasteners 73. The linkage fastener 73 can include, for example, a pin, a rod, a rivet, a screw, a bolt, a nut, or other mechanism that can align and/or securely fasten the stage guide 72 to the linkage body 71.

In various embodiments the stage guide 72 is provided as a separate structure, separate from the synchronization link 70. In an embodiment the stage guide 72 is provided as a central column located within one or more linkage rings 71R.

In at least one embodiment, the linkage ring 71R can encircle the perimeter of the linkage member 71B and slidably rest on a lip portion of the stage guide 72, for example, as seen in FIG. 13.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8, the stage guide 72 is fastened to the linkage member 71B on the upper side of the synchronization link 70, and a mirror stage guide (not shown) is fastened to a mirror linkage member (not shown) on the underside of the synchronization link 70 (not shown). The stage guide 72 can include a channel 73C that can operate to properly align the stage guide 72 on the upper side of the synchronization link 70 (shown in FIG. 8) with the mirror stage guide 72 on the lower side of the synchronization link (not shown). In particular, the channel 73C is constructed such that each end of the channel 73C aligns with at least one corresponding linkage fastener 73 that is used to secure the mirror stage guide 72 to the lower side of the synchronization link (not shown). The mirror stage guide (not shown) can have the same but inverted channel 73C.

In at least one embodiment, the stage guide 72 on the upper side of the synchronization link 70 and the same but inverted mirror stage guide provided on the lower side of the synchronization link 70 (not shown) each include a link guide 74 and a guide wall 75. In certain embodiments the link guide 74 and guide wall 75 are part of, and formed in, the stage guide 72.

The link guide 74 can be contoured to match the travel path of a link end 31L of the fixed link 31 (or 21) as the storage 30 (or 20) withdraws into or deploys from the column 10. The link guide 74 can include a link stop 74S at each end of the travel path of the link end 31L, with a first stop 74S positioned at one end of the travel path of the link end 31L to engage a first side of the link end 31L when the stage 30 (or 20) is in the withdrawn (or closed) configuration, as seen, for example, in FIG. 7. A second link stop 74S can be positioned on the other end of the travel path of the link end 31L to engage a second, opposite side of the link end 31L when the stage 30 (or 20) is in the deployed configuration, as seen, for example, in FIG. 1.

The guide wall 75 can be contoured to define and match the travel path of the floating protuberance 39 (or 29) as it travels in the storage port 13 (or 14), moving into or out from the port 13 (or 14). The stage 30 (or 20) is configured such that a portion of the floating protuberance 39 (or 29) is always in the storage port 13 (or 14) and positioned between the linkage member 71B on one side of the protuberance 39 (or 29) and the cover 11 or 12 (or another synchronization link, in some embodiments) on the other side of the protuberance 39 (or 29).

The guide wall 75 can be contoured such that the stage body, including the protuberance 39 (or 29), is nested in the space defined by the guide wall 75 when the SDE device 1 is in the closed configuration, wherein the stage 30 (or 20) is fully withdrawn in its respective storage port 13 (or 14). In at least one embodiment, the guide wall 75 can operate as a stop for the stage 30 (or 20) by engaging the outer walls of the stage body when the stage 30 (or 20) is in the closed configuration (shown in FIG. 7).

While the linkage body 71 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8 has a circular shape, in other embodiments the linkage body 71 has other shapes, including, for example, a square shape, a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a user-defined shape, or a customizable shape. In various embodiments, the linkage member 71B can have a circularly shaped perimeter and the linkage ring 71R can have a circular inner wall matched to the perimeter shape of the linkage member 71B. The linkage ring 71R can have one or more outer walls having any shape, including, for example, circular, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, customized, or user defined.

Referring to FIG. 4, the SDE device 1 can include one or more magnets 80. In various embodiments the magnet 80 can be installed in one or more of the fixed link 21 (or 31), the floating link 23 (or 33), the link stop 74, the guide wall 75, or the linkage member 71B. In certain embodiments a portion of any one or more of the fixed link 21 (or 31), the floating link 23 (or 33), the link stop 74, the guide wall 75, or the linkage member 71B can be magnetized.

FIG. 9 shows a top view of the SDE device 1 with the cover 11 and stage body 72 removed to show the linkage ring 71R and linkage member 71B, including holes provided in the linkage member 71B to receive one or more linkage fasteners 73. As seen, the floating connector 27 of the floating link 23 and the floating connector 37 of the floating link 33 are both connected to the linkage ring 71R and configured such that the connection end of the floating links 23, 33 can rotate at their respective floating connectors 27, 37 to allow the opposite end that is connected to the respective pivot connectors 26, 36 to move (pivot) toward and into, or out of and away from, the column 10 as the respective stages 20, 30 withdraws or deploys. Thus, when the linkage ring 71R moves, both floating connectors 27, 37 move in unison in opposite directions and away for their respective fulcrums 25, 35, thereby pulling/pushing the stage body into/away from the column 10.

The fulcrum 35 of the fixed link 31 is connected to the stage guide 71 and/or the linkage member 71B, as seen in FIG. 8, and the fulcrum 25 of the fixed link 21 is connected to the mirror stage guide (not shown) and/or the other side of the linkage member 71B on the other side of the synchronization link 70, such that when the linkage member 71B is rotated in either direction, as shown by the arrow depicted in FIG. 8, the fulcrums 25, 35 move in unison in opposite directions, nearer to or further away from respective floating connectors 27, 37.

Referring to FIGS. 5-8, a closing (or withdrawing) operation of the SDE device 1 can be achieved by, for example, holding column 10 in one hand and applying a force to a point on either or both of the stages 20, 30 with the other hand, such as, for example, at the protuberance 24, to withdraw (or close) the stages 30, 20 into the column 10. By holding either the column 10 or the stage 20/30 and moving the other, or by moving both the column 10 and the stage 20/30 in opposite directions such that the synchronization link 70 moves as shown by the arrows depicted in FIG. 5, the SDE device 1 will move from the deployed configuration (shown in FIG. 1) through the various configurations (FIG. 1=>FIG. 5=>FIG. 6=>FIG. 7) until the device 1 transforms to the closed configuration (shown in FIG. 7). During this operation the linkage ring 71R (shown in FIG. 8) and the linkage member 71B move (rotate) with respect to each other, in opposite directions, such that floating connectors 27, 37 move away from the respective fulcrums 25, 35, such that the respective floating protuberances 29, 39 are pulled into their respective guide walls 75. The opposite operation can be performed to transform the SDE device 1 from the closed configuration (shown in FIG. 7) to the deployed configuration (shown in FIG. 1).

Referring to FIGS. 10-13, the column 10 can include one or more radial coupling links that are configured to provide a central column passage 90 that forms a column volume. As seen in FIG. 13, the linkage member 71B can be provided with a lip and/or bearing surface 76 on which the linkage ring 71R can rest and, when the linkage ring 71R and linkage member 71B are moved with respect to each, slide with minimal friction. In an alternative embodiment, a bearing (not shown) can be provided between the linkage ring 71R and lip surface 76.

In at least one embodiment the linkage member 71B can include an inner column that can be installed within the openings of one or more linkage rings 71R and included in the column 10 (or 100). The inner column can include one or more lip or bearing surfaces 76 (shown in FIG. 13) that support and guide a corresponding linkage ring 71R.

In various embodiments one or more components of the SDE device 1 can be spring-loaded for automated deployment, or withdrawal, of the stages 20, 30, from or into the column 10.

In certain embodiments, one or both of the floating links 23, 33 can be spring loaded or attached to a spring mechanism (not shown). In one embodiment, one or both of the floating links 23, 33 are spring loaded such that when the stages 20, 30 are deployed sufficiently to overcome the magnetic force applied by the magnet(s) 80 to the stage body(ies), the stages 20 and 30 deploy automatically.

The various embodiments of the SDE device 1 can be used for a variety of applications, including, for example, to hold a gift such as a pair of wedding rings, jewelry, or other valuables.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show side and top views, respectively, of another embodiment of a SDE device 2 in a deployed configuration, constructed according to the principles of the disclosure. As seen, the SDE device 2 can include a column 100 and a plurality of stages 200, each separated by a synchronization link 170, and each of which is configured to deploy or withdraw simultaneously, in synchronization, with all the other stages 200. In this embodiment, the SDE device 2 is configured, through the interoperation of the stages 200 and adjoining synchronization link(s) 170, to deploy all the stages 200 simultaneously and synchronously, for example, similar in many respects to a handheld folding fan that can be “fanned out” by pulling the two opposite ends apart or closed by pushing the ends together. Each of the plurality of stages 200 can be configured to deploy and “fan out” to encircle the entirety of the perimeter of the column 100, that is 360-degrees around the column 100.

FIGS. 16A and 16B show side and top views, respectively, of the SDE device 2 in a partially deployed (or partially closed) configuration; FIGS. 17A and 17B show side and top views, respectively, of the SDE device 2 in a nearly closed configuration; and FIGS. 18A and 18B show side and top views, respectively, of the SDE device 2 in a closed configuration; and FIG. 19 shows a cross-section cut side view of the SDE device 2.

As seen in FIGS. 14 to 18B, each stage 200 has a stage body that includes a fixed link 210 and a floating link 230. The fixed link 210 can be configured to form a space 22, which can include a floor 22F. Each stage 200 can include a stage body comprising the fixed link 210 and the floating link 230. Each stage 200 is synchronously linked to an adjacent stage 200 via its floating link 230.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 19, for each stage 200, one end of its floating link 230 pivotally (rotatably) connected to the fixed link 210 of that same stage 200, for example, by a fastener 40 (discussed above), and the other end of the floating link 230 is pivotally (rotatably) connected to an adjacent synchronization link 170 on one side of that stage 200. At the same time, the opposite end of the fixed link 210 can be connected by a fastener 40 to another adjacent link 170, that is on the opposite side of the stage 200.

As seen in FIG. 19, the SDE device 2 has seven stages 200, each separated by a synchronization link. The first and second stages are separated by a synchronization link 170-1; the second and third stages are separated by a synchronization link 170-2; the third and fourth stages are separated by a synchronization link 170-3; the fourth and fifth stages are separated by a synchronization link 170-4; the fifth and sixth stages are separated by a synchronization link 170-5; and the seventh and eight stages are separated by a synchronization link 170-6. At the same time the column joins each adjacent set of stages (e.g., 1-2, 2-3, 3-4, 4-5, 5-6, 6-7) such that all seven stages 200 deploy or withdraw simultaneously and synchronously.

In an embodiment, any one or more of the floors 22F in the stages 200 can be configured to open, for example, by having a door that pivots about a hinge (not shown) or slides in the plane of the stage deployment (for example, x-y plane shown in FIG. 18B) to allow access to the space 22 from the bottom, or pass-through access to the space 22. The stage body can include a catch mechanism (not shown) to engage and hold the door or openable floor 22F in a closed position. The door (not shown) can be spring loaded so that it opens, for example, downward when a user presses on the floor using a finger.

In an embodiment, the SDE device 2 can be configured to hold a user's weekly dosages of medicament. For example, the SDE device 2 can include seven stages 20 (as seen in FIG. 14), each configured to hold a day's worth of medicament for Monday through Sunday.

The terms “a,” “an,” and “the,” as used in this disclosure, means “one or more,” unless expressly specified otherwise.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like, as used in this disclosure, do not necessarily connote any sequence or order, but rather can serve to refer to separate components, articles, or devices.

The terms “including,” “comprising,” and variations thereof, as used in this disclosure, mean “including, but not limited to,” unless expressly specified otherwise.

Although process steps, method steps, or the like, may be described in a sequential order, such processes and methods can be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of the processes or methods described herein can be performed in any order practical. Further, some steps can be performed simultaneously.

When a single structure or article is described herein, it will be readily apparent that more than one device or article may be used in place of a single device or article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is described herein, it will be readily apparent that a single structure or article may be used in place of the more than one structure or article. The functionality or the features of a structure or article may be alternatively embodied by one or more other structures or articles that are not explicitly described as having such functionality or feature.

While the disclosure has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure can be practiced with modifications in the spirit and scope of the instant disclosure. These examples given above are merely illustrative and are not meant to be an exhaustive list of all possible designs, embodiments, applications or modifications of the disclosure.

Devices that are in contact with each other need not be in continuous contact with each other unless expressly specified otherwise. In addition, devices that are in contact with each other may contact directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

The subject matter described above is provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various modifications and changes can be made to the subject matter described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention encompassed by the present disclosure, which is defined by the set of recitations in the following claims and by structures and functions or steps which are equivalent to these recitations.

Claims

1. A synchro-deployable enclosure device for holding one or more items, the device comprising: a column having a plurality of storage ports;at least one synchronization link having a linkage ring; anda plurality of stages, including a first stage and a second stage each connected to the at least one synchronization link,wherein each of the first stage and the second stage includes a floating link connected to the linkage ring such that the first stage and the second stage deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with each other.

2. The device in claim 1, wherein the first stage and the second stage each comprise a stage body having a fixed link and a space.

3. The device in claim 1, wherein the first stage and the second stage each comprise a fixed link that is rotatably connected to the connected to the column.

4. The device in claim 1, wherein the synchronization link includes a linkage member.

5. The device in claim 4, wherein the first stage and the second stage each comprise a fixed link that is rotatably connected to the linkage member to allow the fixed links to deploy from or withdraw into the column simultaneously and in synchronization with each other.

6. The device in claim 4, wherein the linkage member comprises a stage guide that is configured receive a portion of the first stage or a portion of the second stage.

7. The device in claim 4, wherein the linkage member comprises a lip surface or a bearing surface configured to support slidably the linkage ring, allowing the linkage ring to rotate about the linage member.

8. The device in claim 2, wherein the space is configured to hold the one or more items.

9. The device in claim 2, wherein the stage body includes a floor and a wall that form the space.

10. The device in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first stage and the second stage comprises a protuberance.

11. The device in claim 10, wherein the protuberance is a floating protuberance.

12. The device in claim 1, the device further comprising at least one of a first cover and a second cover at either end of the device.

13. The device in claim 1, further comprising: a magnet configured to apply a magnetic force on a portion of at least one of the first stage or the second stage to secure the first stage and the second stage in the column.

14. The device in claim 6, wherein the first stage and the second stage each comprise a fixed link having a link end, and wherein the stage guide includes a link stop configured to stop the link end from traveling beyond a predetermined point.

15. The device in claim 6, wherein the stage guide includes a channel for aligning the stage guide with a mirror stage guide located on an opposite side the linkage member.

16. The device in claim 1, wherein the plurality of stages comprise seven stages, each stage being configured to deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with six other stages.

17. The device in claim 16, wherein the seven stages are configured to surround a perimeter of the column when the device is in a deployed configuration.

18. A synchro-deployable enclosure device for holding one or more items, the device comprising: a cover;a synchronization link; anda plurality of stages, including a first stage and a second stage each connected to the synchronization link,wherein each of the first stage and the second stage includes a floating link connected to the synchronization link and a fixed connected to a column such that the first stage and the second stage deploy or withdraw simultaneously and in synchronization with each other when the synchronization link moves with respect to the column.

19. The device in claim 18, wherein the first stage and the second stage each comprise a stage body having a space to hold the one or more items.

20. The device in claim 18, wherein the column comprises a lip surface or a bearing surface configured to support slidably the synchronization link, allowing the synchronization link to rotate about a perimeter of the column.