WO2017075650A1

WO2017075650A1 - Storage partition device

Info

Publication number: WO2017075650A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/051001
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sally HART
Original assignee: Hart Sally
Priority date: 2015-11-04
Filing date: 2016-10-24
Publication date: 2017-05-11

Abstract

A device adapted for partitioning a storage receptacle in which the device comprises a first elongate element and a second elongate element. Each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element comprise a respective first axial end and a second axial end. A partition is disposed between the first elongate element and the second elongate element and wherein at least one the first axial end and the second axial end of each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element comprise an abutment means.

Description

STORAGE PARTITION DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a device or assembly adapted for use as a storage partition or storage divider or storage device. More particularly, the present invention may relate to a storage partition for compartmentalising containers or storage furniture.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Storage space in dresser drawers and the like is typically limited within most households, particularly with respect to small residences or persons who have a large number of possessions. Furthermore, it is often necessary or desirable to store a plurality of small articles, such as shoes or toys, in a drawer or other furniture compartment.

However, storing these articles within a drawer can result in an unsightly and

unorganised drawer which can make it difficult to find a desired object or article when searching. Further, opening and closing the drawer may result in movement of the articles within the drawer which causes placed items to shift from the Icnown location in the drawer.

[0003] There have been a number of prior art devices which attempt to address this problem. However, these storage devices are typically specific for a predetermined item and preclude the use of other items within the drawer. For example, the drawer divider disclosed in United States Patent No. 5,292,571 A is directed towards a flexible drawer dividing device. However, this device does not generally allow elongate items to be used with the dividing system and has a fixed height which further prohibits the use of items which need to be stored upright, or drawers which have a smaller height profile than that of the drawer divider.

[0004] Other known dividing systems such as file cabinets have a rail system which is fixed such that files can be hung in a vertical direction within the drawers relative to the rail. The rail system allows for folders to be hung from the rail and slide backwards and forwards relative to the opening face of the filing cabinet drawer. However, these rail systems typically only comprise a single fixed position rail at the top of the drawer and do not provide any vertical restraint or dividing for items which are placed in the bottom of the drawer. Further, these devices do not allow for movement of the rail system which allows for customisation of the compartments. Further, file dividers must be used with the rail system which cannot be adjusted at the end distal the rail which restricts the size and types of objects which can be deposited within the cabinet.

[0005] Another type of known storage dividing device is a peg shelf system in which a peg or wooden dowel is adapted to support a rigid shelf. However, these systems only allow dividing of vertical storage spaces (i.e. shelves) as they require a rigid shelf to be positioned relatively above the peg or wooden dowel such that the peg or dowel supports the shelf. Therefore, these peg shelving systems are not suitable for dividing space in a drawer or other container unit as the pegs to not provide lateral restraint for the rigid shelf. Further, these systems do not allow adjustment of the size of the divider size without completely replacing the divider for the desired application.

[0006] Other typical drawer dividers are also known which are of a predetermined size and are substantially rigid and do not allow any adjustability for different storage receptacles and therefore have the same disadvantages as the above identified prior art.

[0007] Although there are a number of existing storage arrangements available which are specifically designed for storage and ready retrieval of items, before now there have been no cabinet arrangements that would fully satisfactorily accommodate a wide range of different- sized items, such as shoes and toys, within the same drawer. Further, these devices could not be readily modified to accommodate changes to the items to be stored, or facilitate easy removal of the storage devices installed in a storage unit or receptacle.

[0008] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field. SUMMARY

[0009] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED

[0010] Current systems for dividing drawers or storage devices do not allow adjustability of storage dividers and have a predetermined adjustment system.

[0011] Further, currently known storage dividers do not allow adjustability of the dividers to accommodate different items to be stored in varying sizes of containers or storage units.

[0012] Another disadvantage with known dividers is that they do not allow adjustability of dividers to fit within different furniture, such as different sized drawers.

[0013] It may be advantageous to store shoes is a vertical orientation to increase airflow.

[0014] It may be advantageous to store shoes is a vertical orientation to reduce damage to shoes.

[0015] It may be advantageous to store shoes is a vertical orientation to reduce the space consumed in a drawer.

[0016] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0017] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

[0018] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, there may be provided a device for partitioning a storage receptacle. The device may comprise a first elongate element and a second elongate element. Each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element may comprise a respective first axial end and a second axial end. A partition is preferably disposed between the first elongate element and the second elongate element, and wherein at least one the first axial end and the second axial end of each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element preferably comprises an abutment means.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, at least one the first axial end and the second axial end of each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element may comprise an abutment means. Preferably, the length of at least one of the first elongate element and the second elongate element are adjustable in the axial direction. More preferably, the first elongate element is substantially parallel relative to the second elongate element, when in use. The device may comprise an adjustment means for adjusting the relative position of the first elongate element relative to the second elongate element. Optionally, each abutment means comprises a first surface adapted to form an abutting relationship with a wall of the storage receptacle. Preferably, the first surface is at least partially formed from at least one material from the following group; rubber, silicone polymer, latex, PTE and PTFE. Optionally, the first surface may be formed with a textured surface. Preferably, at least one abutment means is axially offset relative to the axis of its respective elongate element. Each of the first axial end and the second axial ends of the first and second elongate elements may comprise an aperture adapted to retain a protrusion of the respective abutment means.

[0020] Optionally, the abutment means is removable. In a preferred embodiment, at least one abutment means is adapted to be received in a rail. Preferably, the partition comprises at least one support structure. The partition if formed from or comprises at least one material selected from the group of; cotton, polyester, wool, viscose, silk, polymer, nylon, acrylic, rayon, acetate, spandex, lastex, denim, elastic, and Kevlar™. Optionally, the first elongate element may comprise a first extension member, and the second elongate element comprises second extension member, in which each of the extension members are axially slidable in the elongate element. Preferably, the partition is attached to the each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element at respective attachment points. Preferably partition is resiliently flexible. Preferably, at least one of the first elongate element and the second elongate element are substantially rigid. [0021] In the context of the present invention, the words "comprise", "comprising" and the like are to be construed in their inclusive, as opposed to their exclusive, sense, that is in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

[0022] The invention is to be interpreted with reference to the at least one of the technical problems described or affiliated with the background art. The present aims to solve or ameliorate at least one of the technical problems and this may result in one or more advantageous effects as defined by this specification and described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0023] Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the storage partition wherein the length of the storage partition is adjustable;

[0024] Figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of a telescopic elongate element for use with an embodiment of the storage partition;

[0025] Figure 3A illustrates an embodiment of an abutment means with a circular abutment face;

[0026] Figure 3B illustrates an embodiment of an abutment means with a semi-circular abutment face with a substantially linear edge and an offset attachment means;

[0027] Figure 3C illustrates an embodiment of an abutment means with a rectangular abutment face;

[0028] Figure 4A illustrates a sectional view of an embodiment of a storage partition with a self-retracting partition which allows alteration of the length of the partition;

[0029] Figure 4B illustrates a sectional view of another embodiment of a storage partition which is adapted to allow manually alteration of the length of the partition; [0030] Figure 4C illustrates a sectional view of a further embodiment of a storage partition with two self-retracting partitions which allows alteration of the length of the partition;

[0031] Figure 4D illustrates a sectional view of yet another embodiment of a storage partition with a concertina partition;

[0032] Figure 5A illustrates a vertical rail system for use with at least one embodiment of the storage partition;

[0033] Figure 5B illustrates a vertical rail system with a biased mechanism for use with at least one embodiment of the storage partition.

[0034] Figure 6 illustrates top view of an embodiment of a storage unit comprising a plurality of storage partition devices;

[0035] Figure 7 A illustrates a front view of Figure 6 in with section line A-A;

[0036] Figure 7B illustrates the section view of line A-A depicted in Figure 7 A;

[0037] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a storage unit with a plurality of storage partition devices installed therein;

[0038] Figure 9 illustrates another embodiment perspective view of an embodiment of a storage unit with a plurality of storage partition devices installed therein.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and non-limiting examples. [0040] In one embodiment the storage divider or storage partition 100 comprises a first elongate element 110 and a second elongate element 120. A divider or partition screen 130 is preferably disposed between the first elongate element and the second elongate element. Each of the first elongate element 110 and second elongate element 120 comprise a first axial end 111 and a second axial end 112. At least one of the first end 111 and second end 1 12 of at least one of the first elongate element 110 and the second elongate element 120 comprises an abutment means 140. More preferably, each of the respective first end 111 and the second end 112 of each of the first elongate element 110 and the second elongate element 120 comprise an abutment means 140. Preferably, the abutment means for a respective elongate element 110, 120 are substantially the same in appearance, however the first elongate element 110 may have a pair of abutment means 140 which differ to that of the second elongate element 120.

[0041] Each abutment means 140 is typically suitable for forming an abutting

relationship with a container or storage unit 10 such that the abutment means 140 retains the relative of the elongate element 1 10, 120 in a desired position. For example, if the elongate element 1 10, 120 is positioned between two parallel walls, such as the walls of a drawer, each abutment means 140 is adapted to abut a respective wall of the drawer such that the abutment means releasably secures the elongate element 110, 120 between the parallel walls. Preferably, the first elongate element 1 10 and the second elongate element 120 are adapted to be releasably secured relative to a wall of a container, such as a drawer or other storage unit 10 or container.

[0042] It will be appreciated that the abutment means at the first end 1 11 and the abutment means at the second end 112 can be axially displaced relative to each other. For example, at least one of the abutment means 140 comprises an adjustment means, such as a thread and screw extension assembly (not shown) or a spring loaded

arrangement which exerts an axial force to each abutment member to retain the elongate element 110, 120 in an abutting relationship with walls of a storage unit 10.

[0043] In one embodiment, the elongate element 110, 120 further comprises an extension member 115 which allows the relative position of a first end 111 abutment means 140 to be varied relative to a second end abutment means 140. A first abutment means 140 may be attached to first end of the elongate element 110, 120 and the second abutment means 140 is attached to the extension member 115, such that the first abutment means 140 and second abutment means 140 are adapted to move in an axial direction relative to each other. The extension member 115 is preferably telescopically arranged with respect to a respective elongate element 110, 120. Allowing the relative positioning of the first and the second abutment means 140 allows the device to be removably secured within storage units 10 of differing dimensions.

[0044] If the extension member 115 may be telescopically arranged relative to the elongate element 110, in which the extension member 115 is received in a bore or hollow shaft of the elongate element 110, 120 (not shown). It will be appreciated that at least a portion of the elongate element 1 10, 120 shaft may not be hollow, or alternatively has a varying inner diameter relative to another portion of the shaft. The elongate elements 110, 120 are formed from a material which is stiff or rigid enough to support items stored within drawers, such as shoes, jewellery, laptops, tablet computers, electronics or other common household items. The material may be, for example, a metal alloy, a metal element, a polymer, wood, glass, ceramic, or any other suitable material.

[0045] Optionally, the elongate elements 110, 120 may be undulated or textured surface (not shown) such that items placed thereon, such as the heel of a shoe, can be spaced evenly. If the elongate elements 1 10, 120 have an undulation or textured surface, the partition screen 130 is adapted to or arranged to allow the undulations or textures to be utilised.

[0046] In yet a further embodiment, the partition screen 130 may be imparted with, or formed with, a concertina fold or a zig-zag fold (see Figure 4D), such that the height and/or the width of the partition 130 may be adjusted for the container. Optionally, a partition screen 130 may have a plurality support structures (not shown), such as ribbing, embedded within, or attached to, the partition 130 to facilitate a desired fold or structural property. For example, ribbing in one direction of the partition screen 130 may allow relatively heavier items to be supported relative to a partition 130 which does not include ribbing. This generally allows the partition screen 130 to retain rigidity to support items as well as form a more resilient barrier within a storage unit 10.

The partition can be formed from a flexible material such as cotton, polyester, wool, viscose, silk, polymer, nylon, acrylic, rayon, acetate, spandex, lastex, denim, elastic, Kevlar™ (poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide), or a combination thereof. Other materials resilient and/or durable materials may be used with the device to achieve a structurally similar partition. More rigid materials may also be used, such as bamboo or metal alloys for applications which will receive a significant amount of abrasion or interaction with items to be stored in a storage unit 10.

[0047] In yet another embodiment, the partition screen 130 comprises a Venetian style blind type configuration (not shown) which may include semi-rigid or rigid materials such as wood, metal alloys or any other suitable material. It will be appreciated that the Venetian style blind configuration can be in oriented in either the transverse or the longitudinal direction, relative to at least one of the first elongate element 1 10 and/or second elongate element 120.

[0048] In yet a further embodiment, the abutment means 140 comprises an abutting face 160 and an attachment face 165. The abutting face 160 is adapted to at least partially abut a wall or side of the storage unit 10 in which the partition device 100 is being mounted. The attachment face 165 of the abutment means 140 is adapted be either permanently attached or removably attached to a respective end of an elongate element 110, 120 or extension means 115. The abutment means may comprise a protrusion 150 which projects from the attachment face 165 such that it can be either mounted onto an end of the elongate element 110, 120 or can be at least partially inserted into an end 1 11, 112 (or end of extension member 113) of the hollow shaft of an elongate element 110, 120. If the protrusion 150 is adapted to be at least partially inserted into the elongate element 110, 120, the protrusion 150 is preferably tapered (not shown) to facilitate insertion within the hollow shaft, with the diameter of the protrusion 150 increasing near to the plane of the attachment face 165 to form a relatively tight fit within the hollow shaft of the elongate element. The taper near to the plane of the face of the attachment face 165 on the protrusion 150 may be larger than the diameter of the hollow shaft of the elongate element 110, 120, and the taper may be deformed during insertion to provide the tight fit. Instead of a taper on the protrusion 150, a texture or undulation may also be used.

[0049] The abutting face 160 of the abutment means 140 is preferably generally circular; however, other shapes may also be used, such as a square or a semi-circle. Generally, the shape of the perimeter of the abutting face 160 corresponds to the perimeter shape of the attachment face 165. It will be appreciated that the shape of the butting means 140 can facilitate a more desirable placement of the partition device 100 for certain storage units 10. For example, having an abutment means 140 comprising an abutment face with at least one linear edge may allow an elongate element 110, 120 to be positioned nearer to the top of a container if the linear edge is substantially aligned with the upper wall edge of the container. The abutting face 160 may have a textured surface 161, such as a pattern, or other geometrically effectual layout, such that the textured surface 161 provides an improved abutting contact surface for resisting movement when mounted in a storage unit 10. Simply put, the friction between the wall and the abutting face 160 which comprises a textured surface 161 is greater than without a textured surface.

[0050] The abutment means 140 may be formed at least partially from a material with a suitable coefficient of friction (μ) to resist movement when in an abutting relationship with a drawer or container wall. Examples of suitable materials may include at least one of the following; rubber (including vulcanised rubber), silicone polymer, latex, PTE, PTFE, Teflon™ (plytetrapluroethylene), or any other suitable material. It will be appreciated that other materials with a lower coefficient of friction may be used with an increase of the surface area of the abutment means 140 or the axial force applied thereto. The abutment means may also be formed into a desired shape to improve the aesthetic features or to improve friction resistance.

[0051] In a simplified embodiment, the abutment means 140 may be alternatively a shoe or cap (not shown) which covers an end of an elongate element 110, 120 or end of an extension member 113. The shoe or cap may be integrally formed or fixed to the elongate element 110, 120, however in a preferred embodiment the cap is removably attached to an end thereof.

[0052] Optionally, the partition device 100 may be used for at least partially partitioning a set of parallel walls, such as a cube storage unit 10 or a shelving unit. In at least one embodiment, the partition device 100 is suitable to receive a load on the partition screen 130. For example, the load on the partition wall may be items within a storage unit 10 resting against the partition screen 130.

[0053] Throughout this specification the term 'storage unit' 10 may refer to a drawer, a container, a filing cabinet, a chest, trunk or any other receptacle. Further, the term 'storage unit' 10 is used interchangeably with the term 'container' throughout this specification.

[0054] In at least one embodiment, the partition device 100 is adapted to receive a transverse loading. More particularly, the partition device 100 is preferably suitable to support a load, such as the weight of a plurality of shoes removably mounted thereon, for example, by the heel of a shoe. The load may be applied to either the partition screen 130 or, more preferably, the elongate element 110, 120. Having a partition device 100 adapted to receive loads ay allow for more effective partitioning of a storage unit 10 for desired articles as this may prevent collapse of the partition device 100. In either case a transverse or a lateral load up to a predetei-mined load limit can be applied to the partition without the partition device 100 moving from the relative mounting position.

[0055] The elongate element is preferably in the form of a hollow tube or hollow cylinder, however other shapes may also be used for different applications. For example, if a square elongate element is used the dividing partition may provide an improved partition as a flat edge of the elongate element 110, 120 may be positioned in a substantially planar abutting arrangement with a drawer wall. Other shapes may be advantageous for different applications, such as a curved elongate element 110, 120 or an elongate element 110, 120 with a tapered axial profile. Having a hollow cylinder allows for an extension member 115 to be telescopically retained within the elongate element 1 10, 120. Optionally, the elongate element 110, 120 comprises a plurality of inner diameters such that an extension member 1 15 with a stopper can prevented from being withdrawn completely from at least one axial side of the elongate element.

[0056] In yet another embodiment, the storage partition device 100 may be positioned between two opposed vertical surfaces by means of a biasing force, such as a spring. The forces acting in an axial direction outwardly of an elongate element 110, 120 provide a biasing force which, in combination with the abutment means 140, retains the elongate partition device 100 in a generally desired location. The storage partition device 100 may also be used for other applications, such as to block out light. Internal to the elongate element 110, 120, the extension member 115 may form an abutting relation with a wire coil spring (not shown) located toward the opposite end of the elongate element.

[0057] Preferably, the spring is free to move in the axial direction relative to the elongate element 1 10, 120. The dimension of the spring generally corresponds to the inner diameter of the elongate element such that the spring is configured to move or slide within the elongate element 110, 120. Preferably, the movement of the spring is limited within the elongate element, for example with at least one groove (not shown) which restricts the spring moving beyond the groove (which may also be referred to herein as the first groove) under relatively large pressure. Simply, the groove acts as an internal abutment or retainer for the spring, such that the spring movement is restricted.

Optionally, a second groove (not shown) may also be formed within the hollow passage of the elongate element 110, 120. The second groove generally serves to retain the spring; however, the second groove is configured to allow movement beyond the second groove under relatively large pressure. It will be appreciated that the term 'relatively large pressure' is any pressure which meets an anticipated ordinary maximum loading pressure for the application of the elongate element 110, 120.

[0058] The abutment formed by the groove may define a passage of a first diameter or cross-section and the second groove preferably defines a passage with a relatively larger diameter or cross-section. It will be understood that little force need be applied to the spring to pull the spring outwardly from the elongate element 110, 120 from the groove other than the weight of the spring itself, and almost all of the compression force applied to the spring is in the direction from the second groove or protrusion towards the first groove. It will be appreciated that the first groove or the second groove may alternatively be projection, such as an annular ring or tooth.

[0059] A partition screen 130 comprises an attachment point, such as an eyelet, a rod pocket, a pleat, a tab top or any other suitable attachment means such that the partition screen 130 can be mounted on, or fixed to, an elongate element 110, 120 .

[0060] In yet a further embodiment, the partition device 100 comprises a first elongate element 1 10, the first elongate element 110 comprising a hollow shaft adapted to receive an extension member 115, a compression spring in said hollow shaft, a first means for limiting motion of said spring in the hollow shaft comprising a relatively deep groove in said hollow shaft forming a narrowly constricted passage therein of smaller transverse dimension than the smallest transverse dimension of said spring under relatively large compression. A second means for limiting motion of said spring in said hollow shaft spaced from said first means comprising a shallow groove in said hollow shaft foiming a less narrowly constricted passage therein of sufficiently wide transverse dimension to permit said spring to pass through under relatively large compression but narrow enough to restrain said spring against such motion under relatively light pressure, whereby the spring may be inserted in said casing from the end thereof nearest the second means and forced beyond said second means to a position abutting said first means leaving the spring in operative position to abut the end of said elongated body in the hollow shaft and urging the same outwardly thereof under spring compression. A similar second elongate element 120 is disposed substantially in parallel with the first elongate element, and a partition screen 130 receives the first and the second elongate elements 110, 120 in respective attachment points. The second elongate element 120 is preferably

substantially similar to the first elongate element 110.

[0061] In yet a further embodiment, the storage unit 10 can comprise a plurality of storage partitions 100 which divide the space therein. Optionally, the storage unit 10 only comprises a set of parallel walls which have at least one storage partition 100 disposed therebetween.

[0062] A preferred embodiment of the storage partition device 100 is illustrated in Figure 1. The partition device 100 comprises a first elongate element 110 and a second elongate element 120. The first and the second elongate elements 110, 120 are disposed substantially parallel to each other respectively. A partition screen 130 is disposed between the first and second elongate elements 110, 120 and is attached to the first and the second elongate elements 110, 120. It will be appreciated that the partition screen 130 can be removably attached to the elongate elements 110, 120 or be fixed thereto by protrusion 150 on attachment face 165. At each respective end of the elongate elements there is disposed an abutment means 140. Each abutment means 140 is preferably removably attached at an anchor point 150 to the respective end of the elongate elements 110, 120. The abutting face 160 of each abutment means 140 is preferably adapted to form an abutting relationship with a wall storage unit 10.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the abutment means 140 are adjustable relative to the elongate elements 110, 120 such that they can form an abutting relationship with a wall of a storage unit 10 such that the abutment means 140 supports the weight of the storage partition device 100.

[0064] Referring to Figure 2, there is illustrated an embodiment of a telescopic elongate element 110. The elongate element further comprises an extension member 115 which is adapted to be received within a hollow shaft of the elongate element 110. It will be appreciated that the storage partition device may comprise one or elongate elements 110, 120 with an extension member 115. In this embodiment, an abutment means 140 is attached to the respective free end of the elongate element 110 and another abutment means is attached to respective free end of the extension member.

[0065] In yet a further embodiment, it may be advantageous for protrusion 150 of the abutment means 140 to be disposed at least partially within a hollow section of the extension member 115. This allows the end face 111 of elongate element 110 to be configured such that the face 111 at least partially abuts the attachment face of the abutment means 140.

[0066] A number of different abutment means 140 are illustrated in in Figures 3 A, 3B, 3C. The abutment means illustrated in Figure 3 A comprises a substantially circular abutment face 160 and a converse attachment face 165. The thickness of the abutment means may vary to provide a predetermined abutting effect, however, it is preferred that the thickness of the abutment means 140 is generally uniform. A protrusion 150 projects from the attachment face and is preferably integrally formed with the abutment means. Optionally, the abutment means 140 may be formed separately from the protrusion 150 such that the abutment face 160, and therefore the respective attachment face 165, can be replaced or removed. If the protrusion 150 is formed separately, it may be attached to the attachment face 165 by, for example, a screw, a press fit, a tongue in grove arrangement or any other suitable attachment means. The abutment means 140 as illustrated comprises the protrusion disposed in a generally central location. This may provide a more uniform distribution of the force in an abutting relationship with the wall of the storage unit 10 and therefore may provide a superior abutting relationship relative to other protrusion positions.

[0067] Turning to Figure 3B, there is illustrated yet a further embodiment of the abutment means 140 wherein the abutment face 160 is generally semi-circular, such that there is a flat edge 161. The flat edge 161 allows for the positioning of the storage partition device near to an upper edge of a storage unit 10, such as a drawer. Further, in this embodiment the protrusion 150 is illustrated off-centre relative to the attachment face 165, such that the elongate element 110, 120 may be positioned near to the edge of a storage unit 10, for example a plane defined by an upper edge of a drawer. This provides the advantage of, for example, partitioning a greater vertical height of a drawer as the elongate element can be positioned closer to the upper edge of the drawer or allows the storage partition device to be positioned near to a perpendicular wall of a storage unit 10.

[0068] Referring now to Figure 3C, there is depicted yet another embodiment of the abutment means 140 wherein the shape abutment means 140 is substantially rectangular, more particularly a square. This shape allows the storage partition device 100 to be positioned near to both an upper edge of a storage unit 10 and a relative perpendicular wall, such as a comer of the drawer. It will be appreciated that for this relationship between the storage partition 100 and a storage unit 10 there only need be two flat edges 161 and therefore other shape configurations may also achieve a similar outcome.

[0069] It will be appreciated that the above abutment means 140 shapes is not an exhaustive list and are examples only. Other shapes and configurations which allow for a sufficient abutting relationship are also anticipated by this disclosure.

[0070] It is noted that while each of the protrusions 150 are illustrated with an aperture 155, the aperture 155 need not be included. However, providing an aperture 155 may reduce production costs as well as providing a more light weight component, and therefore the force required to be maintained by the abutment member 140 to retina the storage partition device 100 can be reduced.

[0071] Figures 4A to 4D illustrate a number of embodiments of the storage partition device 100 with differing length adjustment means. While not every embodiment of the storage partition allows variation in the height of the partition screen, it is preferred.

[0072] Figure 4A illustrates an embodiment of the storage partition device 100A with a manual height adjustment means wherein a user may manually apply a rotational force to turn or rotate one of the elongate elements such that the partition screen 130 is wound around the axial axis of the elongate element 110, 120. This effectively reduces or increases, depending on the direction of winding, the relative distance between the first elongate element 110 and the second elongate element 120. It is preferred that in this embodiment the partition screen is fixed at least a portion of the elongate element to allow winding to be retained. Alternatively, the elongate element allows the screen to be releasably locked in a predetermined position suitable for the partitioning needs of the user. [0073] Referring now to Figure 4B, there is illustrated yet another embodiment of the storage partition device 100B with a partition screen 130, wherein the second elongate element 120 comprises height adjustment means, retraction assembly 170, which is adapted to allow the partition screen 130 to be retracted. The retraction assembly 170 is preferably fitted with a retraction means, such as a spring roller (not shown) or a gear mechanism (not shown), which allows retraction of the partition screen 130. Preferably the retraction means is at least partially contained within a housing of the retraction assembly 170. The partition screen 130 can be releasably retained or locked in a desired location such that the retraction assembly 170 does not unwantedly retract the partition screen 130. A release mechanism (not shown) allows the partition screen 170 to release the lock or retainment of the partition screen 130 such that a user may adjust the relative distance between first elongate element 110 and the second elongate element 120, or in other words the exposed relative area of the partition screen 130 extending from the retraction assembly 170.

[0074] Figure 4Cillustrates another embodiment of a storage partition device lOOC with is similar to Figure 4B in that there is a similar adjustment means, dual retraction assembly 175, which comprises a retraction means, such as a spring roller (not shown) or a gear mechanism (not shown). The dual retraction assembly 175 is disposed generally in the centre of the partition screen 130. The dual retraction assembly 175 is configured such that displacing the first elongate element 110 perpendicularly relative to the axial direction of the dual retraction assembly 175 also causes a similar displacement between the second elongate element 120 and the dual retraction assembly. Again, the partition screen 130 can be releasably retained or locked in a desired location such that the retraction assembly 170 does not unwantedly retract the partition screen 130. A release mechanism (not shown) allows the partition screen 170 to release the lock or retainment of the partition screen 130 such that a user may adjust the relative distance between first elongate element 110 and the second elongate element 120, or in other words the exposed relative area of the partition screen 130 extending from the retraction assembly 170. [0075] Figure 4D depicts a partial view of yet a further embodiment of the partition device 100D. A first elongate element 110 and a second elongate element 120 comprise a respective abutment means 140 at each end. The partition screen 130 comprises height adjustment means in the form of a concertina type arrangement, which allows the first elongate element 1 10 to be moved relative to the second elongate element 120. The concertina preferably comprises predetermined fold intervals, ribbing (not shown) or reinforcement members (not shown) which imparts a desired fold to the partition screen 130.

[0076] While the above embodiments comprise a height adjustment means, other embodiments (not illustrated) may have a width adjustment means instead of, or in combination with the height adjustment means. However, it will be appreciated that the partition screen 130 may be cut or modified such that it can be received within a storage unit 10 if there is no width and/or height adjustment means.

[0077] In an alternate embodiment, a rail 200 can be used to position a storage partition device 100 at a desired height or in a desired position in a storage unit 10. The rail 200 can be permanently fixed to the storage unit 10, for example via screws or nails, or removably mounted, for example with an adhesive or adhesive strip. The rail 200 preferably comprises at least one flange 210 which retains an abutment means 140 in a desired location. It will be appreciated that the length of the rail 200 does not need to correspond to the storage unit 10 and may be relatively shorter or longer to suit a desired purpose. Further, is will be appreciated that rails 200 can be mounted at any practical desired angle, such that the first elongate element 110, in this case it is referred to as the upper elongate element 110, does not need to be relatively positioned vertically (i.e. 90 degrees) about the second elongate element 120, in this case it is referred to as the lower elongate element 120.

[0078] It will further be appreciated that each abutment means 140 for abutment against a single storage unit 10 wall can be mounted in the same rail 200, or alternatively may be mounted in separate rails 200' (not shown). Mounting the abutment means 140 in separate rails 200 may allow the relative location of the first elongate element 110 to be offset from the second elongate element 120. For example, this may be advantageous if a portion of a storage unit 10 need be kept in a relatively higher level or darkness compared to another portion of the storage unit 10.

[0079] Referring now to Figure 5A, there is illustrated an embodiment of the rail system 200 and an example of a corresponding abutment means 140 for use with a storage partition device 100. The rail system 200 illustrated comprises a first flange 210 and a second flange 220 which allows for the abutment means 140 to be releasably retained by the rail 200. Optionally, as shown, the abutment means 140 comprises a resiliency biased pin 180 which is adapted to be received in an aperture 230 of the rail 200 to allow for a predetermined height or location to be retained.

[0080] In at least one embodiment the abutment means 140 is interchangeable, such that a desired abutment means 140 can be used for different storage units 10 or to take a relative larger loading. It will be appreciated that the rail system 200 for the storage partition 100 will correspond to the shape of the abutment means 140, 140 A (see Figures 5 A and 5B) selected for use with the storage partition 100.

[0081] In yet a further embodiment as illustrated in Figure 5B, the abutment means 140 is a biased mechanism 140 A formed from a unitary element. The biased mechanism 140 A is biased such that two respective outer faces 240, 250 (which are portions of a continuous face) of the mechanism are resiliently biased respectively away from each other. The biased mechanism 140A can be formed from a unitary strip, for example which has been deformed to impart the bias nature of the mechanism. Suitable materials to form the unitary strip may be selected from the group of; metals, metal alloys, polymers or other resilient materials. The unitary strip biased mechanism 140A as illustrated comprises a single biased hinge 260 which is located at a 'C-shape' bend 260, such that the C-shape bend 260 provides an outward relative force to the outer faces 240, 250 of the biased mechanism 140A. An optional manipulation means may also be formed 270 to allow pressure to be applied to the bias mechanism 140 A such that C- shape 260 can be elastically deformed to facilitate placement or removal of the storage partition device 100 relative to the rail 200. [0082] It will be appreciated that any suitable biasing mechanism 140 A or biasing means may also be used with the storage partition 100. Further, the rail system may instead be a mounting means (not shown) such as hook, a pocket or receptacle adapted to mount the abutment means 140, 140A in a predetermined desired location. The mounting means (not shown) can be removably attached to a storage unit 10 with adhesive, a screw, or other suitable attachment means, such that the partition 100 can be installed at a desired height or location in a storage unit 10.

[0083] Figure 6 illustrates an example of a storage unit 10 with a plurality of storage partition devices 100 installed therein. The storage partition devices 100 are preferably removably retained within the storage unit 10 in a rail system 20 OA. The rail system 200A may comprise a plurality of rails 200, or alternatively comprise a plurality of slots 205(illustrated as 205 A and/or 205B) which retain the storage partition devices 100. Preferably, where slots 205 are used to retain the storage partition devices 100, there are a pair of corresponding slots 205 A and 205B which retains the storage partition device 100. The rail system 200 A may be a bespoke dimension for a storage unit 10, however it is preferred that the rail system 200A can be adapted for most types of common storage units 10. While not illustrated, the rail system 200 A may comprise other forms of retaining means, such as projections to retain the storage partition device 100 therein. The rail system 200A may have slots 205 or rails 200 disposed in any predetermined spacing configuration or spacing array. Preferably, the slots 205 can be filled in or moved such that placement of the slots 205 or rails 200 can be manipulated for a particular drawer or storage unit 10.

[0084] A front view of the embodiment in Figure 6 is illustrated in Figure 7 A, which depicts section line A-A. The relative upper edge of the rail system 200A preferably comprises a bevelled or sloped inner upper edge 207. The bevelled edge facilitates the installation of the storage partition devices 100 in the rail system 200 A by directing minor misplacements of the storage partition devices 100 in the direction of the respective slots 205. While the rail system 200A is illustrated with a base potion 209, the base portion is not required and the rail system 200A can be installed without this feature. [0085] Section view along the line A-A is illustrated in Figure 7B. In this embodiment, a plurality of storage partition devices 100 can be installed in a rail system 200A which is disposed within a storage unit 10. As shown, the storage partition devices may be adapted to be stacked and formed with varying heights. As shown, the storage partition devices are generally formed from a rigid material, such wood, metal or a polymer, however other materials such as an extendable fabric may also be used. Extendable fabrics may comprise a weave, mesh or braided structure which allow a desired property to be imparted to the fabric. For example, a weave allows manipulation of the fabric in both a longitudinal direction and a transvers direction relative to the plane of the weave, while a braid structure will only allow manipulation of the fabric in a longitudinal direction relative to the orientation of the braid.

[0086] While each of the storage partition devices 100 within the rail system 200A are illustrated with a first elongate element and a second elongate element, this may not be necessary if the partition 130 is fabricated from a self-supporting material such as the materials mentioned above, In at least one embodiment, the abutment means 140 of the storage partition device 100 may be received in corresponding apertures such that the abutment means 140 is retained by the apertures.

[0087] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate perspective views of the rail system with a plurality of storage partition devices installed therein. It will be appreciated that the partition devices can be fixed or movable within the rail system 200A. The rail system 200A may be adapted for use with other embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 illustrates partition devices 100 adapted to be disposed in an abutting relationship between the pair of slots 205. As such, the storage partition device 100 can be used to form a desired partition shape within a drawer or storage unit 10. As the partitions are typically not in a configuration which orients the major faces (i.e. faces with the largest surface area) of teh partition screens 130 in a horizontal direction, a plurality of storage partition devices 100 can be stacked or form abutting relationships along each perimeter face of the partition device 100. [0088] It will be appreciated that in yet a further embodiment (not shown), that two elongate elements 110 can receive a single extension member 115, such that the elongate elements 110 are movable in the axial direction relative to each other. The elongate elements 1 10 are slidably mounted on the extension member 115, such that the elongate elements 110 move in a substantially linear direction relative to each other. A spring or locking mechanism allows the elongate elements to be releasably retained in a desired position relative to each other.

[0089] In yet a further embodiment, the partition screen 130 is a plurality of rigid or semi-rigid partition elements disposed between the first elongate element 1 10 and the second elongate element 120. The partition elements may be received in a plurality of apertures disposed in the elongate elements 1 10, 120 and are preferably disposed in a predetermined array or webbing arrangement. Optionally, the partition elements may be telescopic or adjustable in at least one direction. It will also be appreciated that the partition screen may be a plurality of partition screens, or ribbons which form a screen.

[0090] In a further embodiment (not shown), the abutment means 140 comprises a pair of abutment plates which are biased respectively away from each other. Preferably, the abutment plates are relatively parallel to each other and are adapted to form an abutting relationship with a rail 200. To install the abutment means 140 in a rail, the plates can be pressed together such that the respective inner faces move towards each other and then installed into the rail 200. The pair of abutment plates may then have the pressure released and the biasing force between the two plates causes the plates to form an abutting relationship with the rail 200.

[0091] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms, in keeping with the broad principles and the spirit of the invention described herein.

[0092] The present invention and the described preferred embodiments specifically include at least one feature that is industrial applicable.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A device for partitioning a storage receptacle, the device comprising;

a first elongate element and a second elongate element;

each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element comprising a respective first axial end and a second axial end;

a partition is disposed between the first elongate element and the second elongate element; and

wherein at least one the first axial end and the second axial end of each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element comprise an abutment means.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the first axial end and the second axial end of each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element comprise an abutment means.

3. The device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the length of at least one of the first elongate element and the second elongate element are adjustable in the axial direction.

4. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first elongate element is substantially parallel relative to the second elongate element, when in use.

5. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises an adjustment means for adjusting the relative position of the first elongate element relative to the second elongate element.

6. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each abutment means comprises a first surface adapted to form an abutting relationship with a wall of the storage receptacle.

7. The device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the first surface is at least partially formed from at least one material from the following group; rubber, silicone polymer, latex, PTE and PTFE.

8. The device as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the first surface formed with a textured surface.

9. The device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein at least one abutment means is axially offset relative to the axis of its respective elongate element.

10. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first axial end and the second axial ends of the first and second elongate elements comprise an aperture adapted to retain a protrusion of the respective abutment means.

11. The device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the abutment means is removable.

12. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one abutment means is adapted to be received in a rail.

13. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the partition comprises at least one support structure.

14. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the partition comprises at least one material selected from the group of; cotton, polyester, wool, viscose, silk, polymer, nylon, acrylic, rayon, acetate, spandex, lastex, denim, elastic, and Kevlar™.

15. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first elongate element comprises a first extension member, and the second elongate element comprises second extension member, in which each of the extension members are axially slidable in the elongate element.

16. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the partition is attached to the each of the first elongate element and the second elongate element at respective attachment points.

17. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the partition is resiliently flexible.

18. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first elongate element and the second elongate element are substantially rigid.