US20070095722A1

US20070095722A1 - Single piece organizer

Info

Publication number: US20070095722A1
Application number: US11/540,400
Authority: US
Inventors: Samuel Messinger
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2003-07-18
Filing date: 2006-09-28
Publication date: 2007-05-03

Abstract

A single piece organizer for storing or shipping objects without damaging the object. The organizer having a unitary, one piece stiff, bendable and deformable blank having a thickness. The blank having a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels connected to each one of the top panels and the bottom panel, two end panels connected to each side panel, and at least one flap connected to each one of the top and bottom panels. Each flap includes at least one folding section separated by scoring lines. In addition, each folding section includes areas of flexible netting. The flexible netting can be attached to the blank or can exist within the blank. The flexible netting may also be secured to a netting frame, which is affixed to the blank. The single piece organizer is assembled as a box, and the flaps, when folded, will then hold the objects to be stored or shipped. The configurations thus formed would prevent the objects from moving inside the organizer. The organizer may be preformed or customized with pre-cut holes or perforations in order to secure fragile or high-priced objects or goods. In addition, the present invention also refers to a portable organizer for storing or displaying objects.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/119,091 filed on Apr. 29, 2005, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/622,760, filed on Jul. 18, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,945,404.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention concerns to an organizer for storing objects and goods in a secured manner. More specifically, the present invention concerns an organizer for maintaining objects of various sizes in a desired position during shipping or storage to prevent damaging of the objects.
2. Description of the Related Art
Private parties, individuals, manufacturers, and sellers usually use boxes or containers to store and ship their products. In addition, these companies or individuals often desire to position those products inside the shipping container in a manner that avoids unrestrained movement.
Many of the products are usually damaged because of impacts, road vibration, negligent dropping(s) during loading and/or unloading, and also because of the movement of the vehicles transporting these boxes or containers. To prevent damage of the packed goods, manufacturers, and sellers usually place or insert filler materials such as Styrofoam, peanuts, foam rubber, plastic, crushed newspapers, and air bubbles to avoid the products from being loose inside the box or container.
One disadvantage of the use of filler materials is that these filler materials do not entirely prevent the movement of the product inside the container. In addition, the filler material is clumsy to insert and creates too much of a mess for the shipper and recipient.
Another disadvantage is that the shippers must retain a large storage area for the filler materials, which render the method of packaging uneconomical. Furthermore, the recipient must dig through the filler material to remove the object from the container.
Furthermore, even a very small fragile object to be shipped would require a large amount of filler material to secure the object to be shipped.
The prior art shows several shipping containers that have been developed in an attempt to solve the problem of shipping products without damaging the products.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,129,247, entitled “Die-Cut Carton with Built-In Filler” to McCall discloses a sheet of corrugated material die-cut and scored into a one-piece blank formable into a closed carton for book shipping. The patent includes integral corner fillers, which are formed and strategically located automatically upon erection of the walls of the box.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,635,815, entitled “Reinforced Bulk Material Container” to Grigsby discloses a container having support members made of wood, which are positioned near the corners of the container.
A disadvantage presented by the container of the prior art is that each container is specifically manufactured to custom fit a specific object, thus the shipper cannot pack different products using the same container.
The present inventor has seen the necessity of providing a shipping container that can be configured to be used with various sizes, height, depth, and thickness of products, and at the same time; protects the product to be shipped.
In addition, the present inventor thought of the necessity of providing a shipping container that is easy to manufacture, and at the same time, protects the product without the use of auxiliary filler material.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a shipping container that can be configured to be used with various sizes, height, depth, and thickness of products, and at the same time, protects the product to be shipped.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a shipping container that is easy to manufacture, and at the same time, protects the product without the use of auxiliary filler material.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a shipping contained constructed of a laminate of standard cardboard and a flexible netting material.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a shipping container that is lightweight; thus, the shipping cost is substantially reduced.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a method for packing shipped product in a box, and at the same time, restrain the movement of the product to prevent damage of the product. This method of restraining the product can also provide shock absorption properties by absorbing energy if the box is dropped.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a portable organizer for packing a product in the organizer itself without the use of a standard box type configuration having sides.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a shipping container that is reusable.
The present invention is directed to a single piece organizer for organizing, shipping, and storing objects. The organizer includes a unitary, one piece stiff, bendable and deformable blank having a thickness, wherein the blank includes a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels connected to each one of the top panel and the bottom panel, two end panels connected to each side panel, at least one flap connected to each one of the top and bottom panels, wherein each flap includes at least one folding section separated by scoring lines, wherein the at least one folding section includes multiple perforations lines that can be easily broken and portions of the folding section can be removed, and at least one piece of flexible netting disposed within a portion of the folding section.
The single piece organizer, according to the present invention, further includes a second perforation line located between the flap and each one of the end panels.
The bottom panel when assembled with flap(s) is folded at a 90 degree angle into the side panel, wherein the end panel is folded at a 90 degree angle into the side panel to form a 90 degree angle with bottom panel, wherein the other side panel is folded 90 degrees inwardly to the end panel and at right angle to bottom panel; wherein the end panel is then folded 90 degrees inwardly to the side panel and at right angles to bottom panel forming a box.
In addition, the organizer further includes at least one adhesive/Velcro flap attached to the outermost edge of the flap. The adhesive/Velcro flap folds under the assembled flap to secure the flap into a specific location. The flexible netting is deformed when the object is placed inside the organizer.
In another aspect, the folding sections also include a layer of flexible netting affixed to the unitary sheet, the flexible netting configured to cover the multiple perforations. In other aspects, the flexible netting includes rubberized expandable sheets affixed to the unitary sheet.
In another embodiment, the present invention concerns a portable organizer for storing or shipping objects. The organizer includes: a panel, at least one flap connected to the panel, wherein each flap includes at least one folding section separated by scoring lines, wherein the at least one folding section includes multiple perforations lines that can be easily broken and portions of the folding section can be removed, and at least one piece of flexible netting is attached to the folding section and disposed over at least a portion of the multiple perforations.
The portable organizer includes a cover with a second panel, two side panels connected to the second panel, at least one flap connected to each one of the side panels, wherein the at least one adhesive folds into the panel locking the cover in place.
In another embodiment, the present invention concerns an organizer box including a rigid organizer section panel with a removable portion, a netting frame affixed to the organizer section panel and disposed around the removable portion, and a plurality of netting strands attached to the netting frame, such that each netting strand is attached to the netting frame at two separate locations, and an exterior container box configured to receive the rigid organizer section panel, such that the exterior container box includes interior length and width dimensions that are substantially similar to the length and width dimensions of the rigid organizer section panel. The organizer box also includes an exterior container box lid configured to enclose the exterior container box.
The portable organizer may be used to secure items in a home, office, school, boat or airplane. The portable organizer may be placed in a bookcase, pantry, shelf, filing area, living room, or hobby craft room. When the portable organizer is used in this manner, it may or may not be used for shipping items, but merely for securing, store or display items.
Finally, the present invention is directed to a method for storing or shipping objects in a secured manner by using the single piece organizer of the present invention.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood, and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter, which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the concept and the specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other aerators for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention, reference should be made by the following detailed description taken in with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a blank sheet of corrugated paper from which the organizer of the present invention is formed.
FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the organizer according to the present invention un-assembled with two sections of flexible netting affixed.
FIG. 3 a top plan view of the single piece organizer of the present invention obtained after a die-cutting operation with four sections of flexible netting affixed.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the single piece organizer of the present invention showing the assembled organizer including an item.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the single piece organizer of the present invention showing the assembled organizer including the object being shipped or stored.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the perforation of the foldable section of the flap showing a cross hatching design.
FIG. 7 a shows a top view of the assembled organizer according to the present invention including the object being shipped.
FIG. 7 b, shows a side view of the assembled organizer according to the present invention including the object being shipped showing the folding flap folded at 50%.
FIG. 7 c shows a side view of the assembled organizer according to the present invention including the object being shipped showing the folding flap folded at 25%.
FIG. 7 d shows a three-dimensional view of the assembled organizer according to the present invention including the object being shipped.
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the portable organizer according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 shows a cover for the portable organizer according to the present invention.
FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the foldable section of the flap with a portion of the perforated section removed and a single piece of flexible netting affixed to two folding sections.
FIG. 11 shows an enlarged view of the foldable section of the flap with multiple portions of the perforated section removed and multiple pieces of flexible netting affixed to the folding sections.
FIG. 12 shows an enlarged view of the foldable section of the flap with multiple portions of the perforated sections removed and two pieces of flexible netting affixed to two of the folding sections.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a the foldable section of the flap showing the flexible netting across two folding sections.
FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of an organizer with four sections of flexible netting supporting an object.
FIG. 15 is a cross section view of an organizer with two sections of flexible netting support an object.
FIG. 16 shows an enlarged view of a configurable flexible netting section.
FIG. 17 shows an enlarged view of a configurable flexible netting section, with netting anchors.
FIG. 18 shows an enlarged perspective view of an netting anchor.
FIG. 19 shows a top view of a configurable netting section affixed to four foldable sections.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a configurable netting section affixed to four folded foldable section.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of two configurable netting sections disposed within a box.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The single piece organizer 10 can be made from any substantially stiff but deformable and bendable material such as hard plastic, rubber, ply cardboard, or any types of known material suitable for storage or shipping purposes. The present invention also contemplates the idea of adding an insulated material for protection against water or moisture or the environment. Materials such as polyethylene sheet or polypropylene may also be used to provide support and reinforcement of objects to be placed therein for storage or shipping. The single piece organizer also contemplates at least portions of flexible netting or sheets of rubberized material incorporated within, or attached to, the bendable material
Furthermore, the present invention contemplates the use of a cardboard having a heat activated or fluid activated material embedded in the cardboard.
The thickness of the sheet depends on the properties of the objects and fragility of the objects that would be stored or shipped therein.
The design of the organizer of the present invention allows the shipper to ship objects of diverse shapes, fragile or non-fragile, as well as perishable objects or non-perishable objects. The present invention contemplates the using of pre-selected portions of the sheet from different composites to achieve specific engineering goals.
The organizer is preferably by a die-cutting operation from a flat, stiff, unitary rectangular shaped sheet 20 of corrugated load bearing box paper. (FIG. 1)
The sheet 20 is cut from a continuous roll having a desired size. The size of the corrugated sheet is selected based on the dimensions and geometry of the objects to be shipped.
During the die cutting process, pre-compressed scoring lines and perforation lines are produced into the sheet. Portions of the sheet can also be removed during the cutting process. The dimensions of the perforated area may be limited to the size of the item being shipped, thus increasing the structural strength of the completed box. Also, multiple perforated areas can be created that are separated by non-perforated areas.
The dimensions of the organizer are selected based upon the size and geometry of the object selected (i.e. one flap, two flaps on the bottom or one flap, two flaps, no flaps on the top).
FIG. 2 illustrates a top plan view of the single piece organizer 10 showing a bottom panel 80 and assembled panel 65 and flap 50 connected to the bottom panel 80, and an adhesive flap 170 connected to the bottom panel 80. Two sections of flexible netting 400, 410 are affixed to the flaps 50. The sections flexible netting 400, 410 can also be integrated within the interior of the panel 50 when the sheet 20 is manufactured. The sections of flexible netting 400, 410 may also be affixed to either side of the panel 50. Assembled panel 65 represents the assembled panels 45, 40, 60, 70, and the top flaps of a standard box. Line A represents the open space created by top flaps of a standard box. One example of standard box is defined as kind used for shipping parcels or packing household items such as available at a local U-Haul® retailer, product name “Small Box,” part number SM.
FIG. 3 illustrates the die cut-blank that forms the single piece organizer 10 for storing or shipping objects according to the present invention. The organizer comprises:
a unitary, one piece stiff, bendable and deformable sheet 20 having a thickness;.
wherein the sheet comprises:
a bottom panel 80;
two end panels 45, 60;
two side panels 70, 40;
a top panel 30;
at least one flap 50 connected to the top and bottom panels respectively, wherein each flap includes at least two folding sections 50 A-C and 50 A′-C′, wherein the sections are separated by scoring lines 90; and
at least two sections of flexible netting 400, 410.
The number and size of the folding sections on each flap is determined by the size of the object to be shipped or stored. The present invention illustrates an organizer having three folding sections in each flap.
In the first preferred embodiment, each folding section 50 A-C, 50 A′-C′ corresponds to one-third (⅓) of the size of the bottom panel 80 or top panel 30 of the organizer and folding sections 50A-C are equaled in length with sections 50 A′-C′.
In the second preferred embodiment, each folding section 50 corresponds to one-half (½) of the size of the bottom panel 80 or top panel 30 of the organizer and folding sections 50A-C are equaled in length with sections 50 A′-C′.
In the third preferred embodiment, each folding section 50 corresponds to one-quarter (¼) of the size of the bottom panel 80 or top panel 30 of the organizer, and folding sections 50A-C are equaled in length with sections 50 A′-C′.
In the fourth preferred embodiment, each folding section 50 corresponds to the size of the bottom panel 80 or top panel 30 of the organizer, and folding sections 50A-C are equaled in length with sections 50 A′-C′.
In the fifth preferred embodiment, the bottom panel 80 or top panel 30 are of different sizes in order to hold non-symmetrical objects.
In the sixth preferred embodiment, the container does not include atop panel 30 but has at least one flap with bottom panel 80.
Each flap 50 includes multiple perforations 100 that can be easily broken to fit the object to be stored or shipped, but at the same time, the perforations are strong enough to hold the object securely. The perforation on the folding sections of the flap structurally weakens the flap to allow the flap to break away easily as the geometry of the object meets the flaps when the object is manually or mechanically assembled into the container. Thus, the perforations make it easy for the object to be placed in a snug fit and shipped without need of any air bubbles/Styrofoam/peanuts/bundled newspapers.
In addition, the present invention contemplates the use of perforations having an X, slit, pocket, -hole, or snowflake design. The location and geometry of the perforations can be aligned with a layer of flexible netting collocated within the blank. The flexible netting provides additional support in the areas within the folding sections that contain the perforations. Additionally, the perforations can be configured to allow portions of the blank to be removed while allowing portions of the netting to remain.
Those perforations having slits, holes, or those in the form of a pocket, allow protrusions from the object to project and to be suspended, thereby protecting such protrusions, which may be fragile.
When using the organizer for spherical or elongated objects such as a vase or bottle, the perforations on the folding sections of each flap require cross hatching perforations to allow the corrugation to conform exactly to the geometry of the object as shown in FIG. 6. In other words, the folding sections of the flap need corrugation to break away and create a snug fit no matter what the geometry of the object.
The geometry and dimension of the inside of the organizer 10 of the present invention depends on the number and size of the folding sections 50A-C of the flap 50. The folding sections of each flap can either be equal in size or length, or have different length or size.
A feature of the present invention is that the design of the organizer provides support for the mid section of the object being shipped or stored. This is very important for elongated objects such as vases to maintain the structural integrity of the object.
In addition, the one-piece organizer according to the present invention includes adhesive/Velcro flaps 120 attached to the outermost folding section (i.e. 50C on FIGS. 2 and 3). The adhesive flaps 120 secure the assembled flap 50 into location on the bottom panel 80 and top panel 30 on the assembled organizer.
The adhesive flap 120 contains an adhesive or glue-like substance on the reverse sides for securing the folding sections to the top panel or bottom panel of the organizer. The present invention also contemplates the use of hook and loop material such as Velcro or tongue and groove to be used in securing/locating the flaps 120.
During assembly, the folding sections 50A-C of the bottom panel 80 of the organizer will be detached from the perforation line 160 in contact with panel 60. The folding sections 50 A′-C′ of the top panel 30 of the organizer will be detached from the perforation line 140 adjacent with panel 45.
In the same manner, the folding sections 50 A′-C′ of the bottom panel 80 of the organizer will be detached from the perforation line 160 adjacent with panel 60.
Folding section 50A folds 90° into panel 30 along line 150. Then section 50B folds 90° into 50A along line 90 (FIG. 3). Section 50C is then folded 90° into section 50B along line 90. The adhesive/Velcro is removed from the reverse side of flap 120 and fold 90° into panel 30.
With this arrangement, the object is lifted further off of the walls of the box, and at the same time, distances the object away from sides of the box. The assembled folding sections serve as further “shock absorbers” because the forces on the box are absorbed in whole or in part to reduce or eliminate the transmission of such forces to the items being shipped. (FIGS. 4-5, Z1-Z4)
Because of the flexibility of the folding sections, they are able to conform substantially to the item or items being shipped, which is, especially useful for items having odd-shaped configurations (FIGS. 7 a-7 d).
After the bottom panel is fully assembled as described above, the assembled bottom panel 80 is then folded at the scoring line 150 at a 90-degree angle into panel 70.
Panel 60 is then folded at a 90-degree angle into the panel 70 to form a 90-degree angle with bottom panel 80. Panel 40 is folded 90 degrees inwardly to panel 60 and at right angles to bottom panel 80. Panel 45 is then folded 90 degrees inwardly to panel 40 and at right angles to bottom panel 80. At this point, the sides and bottom of the organizer are assembled. Thus, the seam at the intersection of panel 70 and panel 45 is closed by sealing the corner with tape, as is normally done with any standard box.
When the flaps 50 of panel 80 are folded and the sides are assembled, panels 70, 60, 40, and 45 surround bottom panel 80 to form a box of the organizer. To complete the box, the adhesive flaps 120 are locked into the panels 70 and 45.
The present invention also contemplates having an adhesive flap 170 on each one of top panels 30 and bottom panel 80 containing adhesive on the reverse side to lock the top panel and bottom panel into panel 70 and 40 respectively. The flap 170 glues into the outside or inside of panels 70 or 40 respectively. Thus, the seam at the intersection of bottom panel 80 and panel 40 is closed by sealing the corner with tape, as is normally done with any standard box. After the object is inserted into the assembled box, the top 30 is closed and the seam of 30 and 70 is closed by sealing the corner with tape, as is normally done with any standard box.
The present invention also contemplates having the top and bottom panels fit snugly into the sides of the box to increase the structural integrity of the container.
The object 180 is placed securely located in the assembled inside the organizer and bottom-panel 80 of the organizer. FIG. 5.
After the top panel 30 is fully assembled as described above, the assembled top panel 30 is then folded at the scoring line 150 at a 90-degree angle into panel 40. Thus, panels 70, 60, 40, and 45 surround panel 30. Panel 40 is placed opposite to panel 70, and panel 45 is placed opposite to panel 60.
The adhesive tape on the reverse side of adhesive flap 170 locks the bottom panel 80 to panel 40 and panel 30 into panel 70.
If the shipper considers it necessary, the organizer can be taped on the outside for extra protection normally done with any standard box.
The perforations 100 can be pre-formed in the blank sheet during the die cutting operation. The scoring lines 150 provide alternative means for folding, cutting, or breaking up the sheet to accommodate a particular dimension of the objects to be stored or shipped. The resulting geometry of perforations that have conformed to the shape of the object being shipped creates a structure that forbids lateral movement as the object is squeezed between the resulting opposite cardboard shoulders.
It is possible to have the organizer so designed and so constructed that the folded sections of the flap on the bottom and top panels meet each other for further protection of contents.
Therefore, the single piece organizer will accommodate objects or goods of different sizes and dimensions.
When assembled top panel 30 of the organizer closes, the perforations 100 will be dislocated to accommodate and lock the object. In other words, the perforations will deform and crunch until the object securely locks, assuming the shape of the objects and will aid -in further securing the objects that will be stored or shipped in the organizer.
In addition, the present invention contemplates inserting the flap 20 in a slot (not shown) on panel 30 that is secured with adhesive/Velcro on the reverse side.
The box can be any type of dimensions and sizes as desired. A square or rectangular box is preferred since most objects are usually shipped or stored in a square or rectangular box. But the present invention is not limited to square or rectangular shaped organizers.
The packaging technique may require that additional flaps be placed on the top portion in order to lock the objects in place and will greatly restrict lateral and vertical movement of objects stored therein.
In another embodiment, the present invention contemplates separating the top panel and flaps from the assembled sides of the box to provide a portable organizer having a panel, at least one flap, connected to the panel, wherein each flap includes at least one folding section separated by scoring lines, and wherein the at least one folding section includes multiple perforations lines that can be easily broken. (FIG. 8)
In addition, the present invention contemplates providing a cover to the portable organizer (FIG. 9). The cover comprises:
a second panel 300;
two side panels 310 connected to the second panel 300;
at least one flap 320 connected to each one of the side panels,
wherein each flap 320 slide under an open end Y of the folding sections 50 A-C and 50 A′-C′;
The top, side and bottom of the completely assembled portable, organizer are closed by sealing the corner seam with tape, as is normally done with any standard box.
The use of the cover converts the portable organizer into a shipping box itself.
The portable organizer may be added to the top or bottom of any standard box to secure the objects inside the box.
This design will allow a portable organizer that can be integrated into the packing industry with a minimum of disruption.
Referring to FIG. 10, with further reference to FIG. 2, the single piece organizer 10 includes a section of flexible netting 400 on the folding sections 50C and 50B. The flexible netting 400 is affixed to the sheet 20 across a scored line. The flexible netting 400 can be held in position with an adhesive or by other mechanical connections (e.g., by securing the ends of the flexible netting 400 with knots, clips, frame, or other methods of tethering the netting to reduce relative movement). The flexible netting 400 is configured to secure an item within the organizer during shipping. Further, the flexible netting 400 acts as a shock absorber in the event the box is dropped. In another embodiment, the flexible netting 400 is an expandable sheet (e.g. rubber or nylon). In other examples, the flexible netting can be an integral part of the blank 20 (e.g., the strands within strapping tape). The length and width of the flexible netting 400 can be dimensioned to fit a specific good to be shipped. Portions of the outer layers of the blank can be removed to expose the internal netting, if the blank is constructed with integral netting. In one embodiment, the flexible netting 400 is embedded in the blank 20 to provide additional support to the perforated sections shown in FIG. 6.
Referring to FIG. 11, with further reference to FIG. 2, the single piece organizer 10 includes two sections of flexible netting 400, 410 on the folding sections 50C, 50B and 50C′, 50B′ respectively. The sizes of the flexible netting 400 and 410 need not be identical.
Referring to FIG. 12, with further reference to FIG. 2, the single piece organizer 10 includes two sections of flexible netting 420, 430 on the folding sections 50C and 50B. A portion of the sheet 20 remains in between the areas of flexible netting 420, 430 to increase the structural strength of the completed single piece organizer.
Referring to FIG. 13, with further reference to FIG. 10, the flexible netting 400 is configured to wrap around the corner created by folding sections 50C and 50B.
Referring to FIG. 14 with further reference to FIG. 3, the organizer 10 includes sections of flexible netting 400, 410, 440, 450 disposed and configured to contact the object 180. The size of the flexible netting 400, 410, 440, 450 can be sized to fit the object 180 tightly, or the netting can be sized to create a sack. The flexible netting 400, 410, 440, 450 is configured to keep the object 10 within the organizer 10 and away from the outside borders (e.g. the sides for the resulting box). In one example, the flexible netting is comprised of a more rigid material (e.g., bamboo lattice, plastic) to provide resistance on the object 180. The sections of flexible netting 400, 410, 440, 450 can be disposed to support different orientations of the object 180 within the organizer 10 (e.g., vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and displacement location in each of the three axis).
Referring to FIG. 15 with further reference to FIG. 2, the organizer 10 includes two sections of flexible netting 400, 410 disposed and configured to contact the object 180. The sections of flexible netting 400, 410 are each located within one section of panel 50 (e.g. 50C and 50C′) and do not extend across a scoring line. In one example, the flexible netting 400, 410 is comprised of materials including hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro) or other touch contact fasteners and adhesives. The fasteners allow portions of the flexible netting 400, 410 to contact one another and therefore provide a tighter and more secure fit around the object 180. The netting 400, 410 may also be configured to form a loose fitting sack around the object 180 such that the object 180 does not contact the sides of the organizer 10.
Referring to FIG. 16, with further reference to FIG. 2, in one embodiment the organizer 10 includes a configurable flexible netting section 500. The configurable flexible netting section 500 includes a configurable netting frame 502, a plurality of tether points 504, and netting strands 506. The configurable netting frame 502 is affixed to the flap 50 (e.g., with adhesive, staples), and is disposed on the flap 50 such that a strand of netting can pass through either side of the frame 502. For example, the netting strands 506 are made of expandable plastic and include small “T-tabs” on each end to secure the strands to the tether points 504. In another example, the netting strands 506 can comprise a string (e.g., cotton, nylon, rubber) which is laced through the tether points 504 (e.g., boot lacing configuration). The netting strands 506 can be disposed in combination of horizontal, vertical and diagonal configurations.
Referring to FIG. 17, with further reference to FIG. 2, in one embodiment the configurable flexible netting section 510 includes the configurable netting frame 502, a plurality of strand anchor strips 511 with a plurality of strand anchors 512, and a plurality of netting strands 514. The strand anchor strips 511 are rigidly fixed on the netting frame 502. For example, the strand anchor strips 511 are four molded plastic strips, each strip including a plurality of molded strand anchors 512. As an example, and not a limitation, each of the four strand anchor strips 511 are disposed on one of the four sides of the configurable netting frame 502. The arrangement of the strand anchor strips 511 and corresponding netting frame 502 can be constructed in other geometric shapes to accommodate an object to be shipped (e.g., circular, polygon, freeform curves). The netting frame 502 and strand anchor strips 511 also include score lines to assist orthogonal bending such as when installing the netting frame 502 across a score line (see FIG. 13 item 400).
Referring to FIG. 18, with further reference to FIGS. 2 and 17, a strand anchor 512 includes a base 516 and a pedestal 518. The base 516 is configured to allow a netting strand 514 to weave through holes cut into the base 516, and then secure around the pedestal 518. The pedestal 518, for example, includes shapes configured to secure the strand 514 (e.g., a bollard, mushroom top, cleat, hook).
Referring to FIG. 19, in another embodiment, an organizer section 540 includes a configurable netting frame 502, a cutout section 541, and four flaps 542, 544, 546, 548. Each of the four flaps 542, 544, 546, 548 includes four folding sections 542 a-d, 544 a-d, 546 a-d, 548 a-d respectively. The cutout section 541 is disposed in the center of the for flaps 542, 544, 546, 548, and the netting frame 502 is rigidly affixed to the boundary of the cutout section 541 (e.g., with an adhesive or staples). As an example, and not a limitation, the cutout section 541 and corresponding configurable netting frame 502 are square, and the length of the outside edge of netting frame 502 is larger than the length of the cutout section 541.
Referring to FIG. 20, with further reference to FIG. 19, an organizer section 550 with four flaps 542, 544, 546, 548 in a folded position is shown.
Referring to FIG. 21, with further reference to FIG. 20, an organizer box 600 includes two organizer sections, 550, 552, and an exterior container 610. The configuration of the organizer box 600 is exemplary only, and not a limitation, as the dimensions and orientation of the organizer sections 550, 552 can vary based on the size and shape of an object to be shipped. The organizer sections 550, 552 can be integrated with the exterior container 610 and configured to create a sack around an object located between the two organizer sections 550, 552. The organizer box 600 can be covered by separate box top (e.g., similar to a banker's box) or, preferably, with additional folding flaps as is well known in the art.
While the invention has been illustrated and described in the above manner, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A portable organizer for storing or shipping an object, the organizer comprising:

a panel;

at least one flap connected to the panel, wherein each flap includes at least one folding section separated by scoring lines wherein the at least one folding section includes multiple perforations that are easily broken; and

at least one piece of flexible netting disposed within a portion of the folding section to conform to the geometry of an object to be stored or shipped, thereby creating a sack over the object.

2. The portable organizer according to claim 1, further comprising a cover, wherein the cover comprises:

a second panel;

a first side panel connected to a first side of the second panel;

a second side panel connected to a second side of the second panel,

wherein the first and second sides of the second panel are opposed, at least one side-panel flap connected to each one of the first and second side panels, wherein each side-panel flap slides under an end of each folding section of the portable organizer.

3. The portable organizer according to claim 1, wherein the flexible netting is comprised of a touch fastener.

4. A single piece organizer for storing or shipping objects, the organizer comprising:

a unitary, one piece stiff, bendable and deformable blank having a thickness;

wherein the blank comprises:

a bottom panel;

a top panel;

a first side panel connected to the top panel by a first scoring line, and a second side panel connected to the bottom panel by a second scoring line;

a first end panel connected to said first side panel by a third scoring line and a second end panel comprising:

a first side connected to the first side panel by a fourth scoring line, and

a second side connected to the second side panel by a fifth scoring line, wherein the first and second sides of the second end panel are opposed;

a first flap connected to said top panel, wherein said first flap contains one or more first-flap folding sections that contain at least a sixth scoring line; and

a second flap connected to said bottom panel, wherein said second flap contains one or more second-flap folding sections that contain at least a seventh scoring line;

wherein the one or more first-flap folding sections and the one or more second-flap folding section include multiple perforations wherein portions of the folding sections are removable; and

at least one piece of flexible netting disposed within a portion of at least one the folding sections to conform to the geometry of an object to be stored or shipped, thereby creating a sack over the object.

5. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein the first end panel is connected to the first flap by a first perforation line and the second end panel is connected to the second flap by a second perforation line.

6. The single piece organizer according to claim 5 wherein the bottom panel is folded at a 90 degree angle into the second side panel, wherein the second end panel is folded at a 90 degree angle into the second side panel to form a 90 degree angle with the bottom panel, wherein the first side panel is folded 90 degrees inwardly to the second end panel and at right angle to bottom panel; wherein the first end panel is then folded 90 degrees inwardly to the first side panel and at right angles to the bottom panel forming a box.

7. The single piece organizer according to claim 6 wherein the exterior of the box is visually similar to a standard box.

8. The single piece organizer according to claim 6 further including at least one adhesive or hook and loop fastener attached to the outermost edge of the first flap, at least one adhesive or hook and loop fastener attached to the outermost edge of the second flap, or a combination of both.

9. The single piece organizer according to claim 8 wherein to secure the box, the at least one adhesive flap is locked into the first or second side panel.

10. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein the blank is produced by a die-cutting operation of a flat, stiff, unitary sheet.

11. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein each of the first-flap folding sections and the second-flap folding sections comprises three folding sections, wherein each of the first-flap folding sections and the second-flap folding sections corresponds to one-third (⅓) of the size of the top panel or bottom panel.

12. The single piece organizer according to claim 11, wherein said three folding sections are equal in width and length.

13. The single piece organizer according to claim 11, wherein at least one folding section of said at least three folding sections has a different size from the others.

14. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein each of the first-flap folding sections and the second-flap folding sections comprises at least two folding sections, wherein each folding section corresponds to one-half (½) of the size of the top panel or bottom panel.

15. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein each of the first-flap folding sections and the second-flap folding sections comprises at least two folding sections, wherein the size of each section is different from the size of the others.

16. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein each of the first-flap folding sections and the second-flap folding sections comprises one folding section, wherein the folding section corresponds to the size of the top panel or bottom panel.

17. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein the flexible netting is attached to at least one folding section with an adhesive.

18. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, further comprising a flexible netting frame rigidly affixed to at least one folding section.

19. The single piece organizer according to claim 18, wherein the flexible netting is attached to the flexible netting frame.

20. The single piece organizer according to claim 4, wherein the flexible netting is incorporated within the blank.

21. The single piece organizer according to claim 20, wherein portions of the folding sections comprised of the blank are removed and portions of the folding sections comprised of the flexible netting remain.

22. An organizer box comprising:

a rigid organizer section panel including a removable portion, a netting frame affixed to the organizer section panel and disposed around the removable portion, and a plurality of netting strands attached to the netting frame, wherein each netting strand is attached to the netting frame at two separate locations;

an exterior container box configured to receive the rigid organizer section panel, wherein the exterior container box includes interior length and width dimensions that are substantially similar to the length and width dimensions of the rigid organizer section panel; and

an exterior container box lid configured to enclose the exterior container box.

23. The organizer box according to claim 22, wherein the netting frame includes a plurality of strand anchors.

24. The organizer box according to claim 22, further comprising a second rigid organizer section panel including a removable portion, a netting frame affixed to the second organizer section panel and disposed around the removable portion, and a plurality of netting strands attached to the netting frame.