Portable data stack holder

Abstract

A data storage device includes a plurality of sheets having faces marked with characters. An elongate core is configured such that a slot of a sheet can fit over an openable end of the core to mount the sheet on the core and in alignment with the marked face, and to slide along the core. The length of the core is sufficient to enable some sheets of a stack of mounted sheets to slide away from other sheets of the stack to form a gap sufficient to enable reading of the characters on the sheets. A locking element can be placed over the openable end to prevent removal of a sheet from the stack, and the locking element can be removed to enable addition or removal of a sheet. A housing can enclose over the core and include a restraining structure to restrain sliding of the sheets when the housing is enclosed.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the protection of data. More particularly, the present invention relates to a portable holder for a data stack. BACKGROUND

[0002] Users of various devices and applications, particularly users of cryptocurrencies, sometimes need to involve sensitive data in the form of passwords, security seed phrases, or other strings or symbols in order to provide access to information in order to view or manipulate the information. Failure to provide the sensitive data in a timely manner or access to the sensitive data by an unauthorized person or device can cause economic or other harm to the user.

[0003] Typically, the length of the sensitive data, or the number of such sets of sensitive data associated with a single user, can be such that the user can not reliably memorize or recall the sensitive data when needed. On the other hand, if the data is recorded for later recall, the recordation of the data can be subject to loss, corruption, or unauthorized access. SUMMARY

[0004] According to one embodiment of the invention, therefore, there is provided a data storage device comprising: a plurality of sheet-like pieces, a face of each sheet-like piece being marked with characters of a set of characters, each sheet-like piece comprising a slot; an elongate core, the cross-section of the core being configured such that the slot of each of the sheet-like pieces is able to fit over an openable end of the core to mount that sheet-like piece on the core with the marked face of that sheet-like piece aligned with the face of an adjacent sheet-like piece mounted on the core, and such that the sheet-like pieces are able to slide along the core, the length of the core being sufficient such that when a stack of a predetermined maximum number of sheet-like pieces is mounted on the core, some of the sheet-like pieces of the stack slide away from the other sheet-like pieces of the stack to form a gap, thereby enabling the characters marked on that sheet-like piece to be read; a locking element, placeable on the openable end to prevent sheet-like pieces of the plurality of sheet-like pieces from being removed from the stack, and removable from the openable end to enable sheet-like pieces of the plurality of sheet-like pieces to be added to the stack or removed from the stack; and a housing, enclosable over the core, the housing comprising a restraining structure to restrain the sheet-like pieces from sliding along the core when the housing is enclosed over the core.

[0005] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the invention, the characters are indelibly marked on the face of the sheet-like pieces.

[0006] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the invention, the characters are engraved on the face of the sheet-like pieces.

[0007] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the invention, the slot of each sheet-like piece and the cross-section of the core are non-circular.

[0008] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the core comprises a single rod.

[0009] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the core comprises a plurality of prongs.

[0010] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, each of the plurality of pieces is shaped such that a different stack of pieces is mounted on a different one of the plurality of prongs.

[0011] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the core comprises two prongs and each piece is substantially semi-circular.

[0012] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the slot of each piece is located at the center of the face of the piece.

[0013] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the slot of each piece is located eccentrically on the face of the piece.

[0014] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, an end of the core opposite the openable end is widened to prevent the pieces from sliding off the end.

[0015] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the locking element comprises a cap into which the openable end is insertable.

[0016] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the openable end comprises a notch.

[0017] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the cap comprises a hole such that when the openable end is inserted into the cap such that the notch is aligned with the hole, a threaded piece is insertable into the hole to retain the core to the cap.

[0018] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the locking element comprises an end lock, a slot of the end lock is placeable on the openable end and is removable from the openable end.

[0019] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the openable end comprises a slit, a lock is placeable over the slit.

[0020] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the limiting structure comprises a constriction.

[0021] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the limiting structure comprises a spring.

[0022] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present application, the core comprises a marker.

[0023] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the invention, the character includes at least one mark selected from the group consisting of the following mark types: alphanumeric characters, hieroglyphs, symbols, punctuation marks, and diacritics. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To better understand the present invention and its practical application, the following drawings are provided and referenced. It should be noted that the drawings are given by way of example only and do not limit the scope of the invention. Identical parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0025] Figure 1 An example of a portable data stack holder is illustrated schematically.

[0026] Figure 2 Schematic illustration of when open Figure 1 Portable data stack holder.

[0027] Figure 3A An alternative instance of a portable data stack holder is illustrated schematically when it is open.

[0028] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portable data stack holder is shown.

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the housing of the portable data stack holder shown.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a portable data stack holder housing including a spring.

[0031] Figure 6A An example of a character sheet component of a portable data stack holder is shown schematically.

[0032] Figure 6B This schematically illustrates another example of a character sheet.

[0033] Figure 6C An example of an alternative shape for the face of a character sheet element in a portable data stack holder is shown schematically.

[0034] Figure 7 An example of an alternative shape for a slot on a character sheet of a portable data stack holder is shown schematically.

[0035] Figure 8A An example of a stack core for a portable data stack holder with two pins is shown schematically.

[0036] Figure 8BA variation of the stack core of the portable data stack holder is schematically illustrated, the core having three prongs.

[0037] Figure 8C A stack core including indicia is schematically illustrated.

[0038] Figure 9 Examples of portable data stack holders configured to be connected to each other are schematically illustrated.

[0039] Figure 10 Examples of a housing of a portable data stack holder configured to hold two stacks are schematically illustrated.

[0040] Figure 11 Examples of a portable data stack holder configured to hold different stacks on multiple prongs are schematically illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the application. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present application can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the application.

[0042] Although embodiments of the present application are not limited in this regard, the terms "plurality" and "a plurality" as used herein can include, for example, "multiple" or "two or more". The term "plurality" or "a plurality" can be used throughout the specification to describe two or more ingredients, devices, elements, units, parameters, or the like. The term "plurality" or "a plurality" can be used throughout the specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, or the like. Additionally, some of the method embodiments or elements thereof can be performed by same or different devices, units and / or other components of a portable data stack holder at one time or concurrently at different times. Unless otherwise specified, the use of the conjunction "or" as used herein is to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination of the listed options.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a portable data stack holder is configured to hold a stack of pieces representing strings of characters. Typically, the strings represent sensitive data, such as passwords, private keys, security seed phrases, or other data required to access a system or device or re-call data in at least some cases. As used herein, a character can include one or more alphanumeric characters, pictographic characters, symbols, punctuation marks, diacritics, or other types of marks that can be arranged to represent data. In some cases, a character can include a combination of two or more such marks of one or more types of marks. The character set can be selected for different populations (e.g., speakers or readers of different languages, or other different populations).

[0044] Each piece includes at least one face on which one or more characters from the character set are typically inelastically marked. For example, the characters can be engraved, deposited, or otherwise inelastically marked on the piece. As used herein, inelastically marked refers to marks that cannot be erased without destroying the piece, or that cannot be erased by abrading the piece to remove material from the piece itself (e.g., as opposed to merely removing a layer of paint or coloring applied to the surface of the piece). In some cases, each piece can be thin (having a thickness no greater than one-tenth of a representative transverse dimension (e.g., diameter or width)). In other cases, the pieces can have a substantial thickness. In some cases, the pieces can be flat. In other cases, the pieces can have a curved or curved surface (e.g., having a substantially identical profile to enable nesting of the pieces within the stack), or can be otherwise shaped.

[0045] The pieces are typically constructed of a rigid and durable material such that they do not bend when used to store sensitive data as described herein. For example, the pieces can be constructed of a material such as metal, rigid plastic, ceramic, glass, stone, wood, or other material that is not expected to bend or disintegrate during normal use.

[0046] The engraved pieces are mounted in order on an elongate core, for example, with all of the characters facing the same direction. For example, each engraved piece can have a slot or opening configured to fit over the elongate core and enable the piece to slide along the core. A user can access the sensitive data by reading the engraved characters of each piece of the stack. The core is long enough so that after reading the exposed piece at one end of the stack, the read piece can be slid along the core to expose the next piece of the stack. The user can continue to read and slide the pieces of the stack until all of the pieces in the stack have been read. When the user is not reading or arranging the pieces, the core and stack can be enclosed inside a protective housing.

[0047] In some cases, the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the core and the corresponding non-circular shape of the slots on the flaps can prevent undesired rotation of the flaps around the core. With rotation prevented, the characters on all of the flaps can be considered upright so long as the core is oriented such that the characters on one of the flaps are considered upright. Thus, to read the stack, a user can simply slide each of the flaps of the stack along the core to read each of the flaps of the stack in succession.

[0048] The slots on each of the flaps can be located off-center. The off-center location can provide more available space for the characters than if the slots were centered. Increasing the available space can enable the engraving of characters that are larger than possible with centered slots and thus more easily visible. In some cases, as an alternative or in addition to sliding the flaps along the core, non-centered circular slots on a core having a circular cross-section can enable viewing of each of the flaps by rotation of the flaps around the core.

[0049] In some cases, the shape of the slots can be determined by the method of production of the flaps. For example, the slots can be shaped to facilitate production by a particular type of machine or manufacturing facility.

[0050] Each end of the elongated core includes a retention structure to prevent the flaps from accidentally sliding or falling off of the end of the core. At one or both ends of the core, the retention structure is a removable locking structure to enable installation of the flaps onto the core or intentional removal of the flaps from the core. At other times, a locking mechanism, for example in the form of a screw or other mechanism, can be applied to prevent accidental or unintentional removal of the locking structure.

[0051] For example, the retention structure at one end of the core can include a widening of the core to prevent the discs from sliding off of the core at that end. The opposite end of the core can be configured to enable attachment of a locking structure in the form of a removable cap. For example, the end for attaching the cap can include a hole or notch through which a locking screw can be inserted. When the cap is removed from the core, the flaps can be installed onto or removed from that end of the core. When the cap is placed onto the core, the locking screw, pin, or other locking component can be inserted into a hole in the cap and through the hole or notch at the end of the core. Rotation and tightening of the screw can cause the threads of the screw to engage with threads in the hole of the cap to hold the screw in place. For example, the screw can be unable to be removed without the use of a specialized screwdriver or wrench, for example, an internal hex wrench or hex screwdriver.

[0052] In another example, one end of the core can be attached to the cap (e.g., not designed to be easily removed by a user), while the locking structure at the opposite end can include a locking nut that can be rotated to an open orientation to enable removal of the locking nut from the core and to a closed orientation (e.g., 90° from the open orientation) to prevent removal of the locking nut, and thus the sheet from the core.

[0053] When all engraved sheets have been installed on the elongated core and the cap has been locked in place, the stack assembly can be inserted into the housing. For example, the male threads on the cap can be threaded into the female threads on the housing to secure the stack assembly inside the housing.

[0054] The housing includes a limiting structure to limit the sliding of the sheets along the core when placed in the housing. For example, the limiting structure can include an internal shoulder or constriction, preventing the sheets from sliding past the internal shoulder or constriction. The constriction can be positioned such that when the stack consists of the maximum allowable number of sheets, all sliding is prevented. Alternatively or additionally, the limiting structure can include a spring that can press against the sheets to also prevent sliding when the number of sheets is less than the maximum.

[0055] The use of the portable data stack holder as described herein can be advantageous over other methods of storing sensitive data. The stack sheets on the core can be completed privately without the need for intervention or assistance from external parties. Typically, no specialized tools or devices are needed to enable the data to be stored or read. The sheets and other components of the portable data stack holder can be resistant to damage or destruction under a wide variety of conditions (e.g., meteorological or environmental conditions, immersion in many types of liquids, heat or fire, exposure to light or other radiation, exposure to electrical shock or magnetic fields, drops or impacts, abrasion, or other conditions that can destroy paper, magnetic, electronic, or other data storage). Due to its weight and bulk, the portable data stack holder can be less likely to be misplaced relative to a piece of paper or a flash drive. Since the data sheets are arranged in a stack where only one sheet is visible at a time, the entire string cannot be copied by simply taking a picture of the core and sheets when exposed. The data cannot be accessed via unauthorized access to a computer, smart phone, or other data storage, communication, or computing device, or to a network in communication with such a device. There is no need to entrust the data to a third party (as with some password storage services).

[0056] Figure 1 An example of a portable data stack holder is shown schematically.

[0057] The portable data stack holder 10 is configured to enable storage of a plurality of character tiles 14 on the stack core 12. The character tiles 14 are arranged in a tile stack 20 on the stack core 12. The character tiles 14 are oriented within the tile stack 20 such that the faces 40 of the character tiles 14 are aligned with each other. Thus, when two adjacent character tiles 14a are slid to abut each other, the characters 44 on the face 40 of one character tile 14 can be covered by the adjacent character tile 14. In the illustrated example, a distal portion 20b of the tile stack 20 (e.g., distal of the cap 16 on the stack core 12 in the illustrated example) has slid away from a proximal portion 20a of the tile stack 20 to form a gap 21 between the distal portion 20b and the proximal portion 20a. The stack core 12 is exposed within the gap 21 between the distal portion 20b and the proximal portion 20a. The length of the stack core 12 is sufficient such that when the stack 20 includes a predetermined maximum number (e.g., 100 or another maximum number) of character tiles 14, a portion of the stack 20 can slide away from another portion (e.g., the distal portion 20b from the proximal portion 20a) to form a gap 21 that is long enough to enable a user to read the exposed characters 44 on the character tiles 14 adjacent the gap 21. For example, the minimum length of the gap 21 can be designed to be at least 1 cm.

[0058] For convenience and clarity, the end of the stack core 12 closest to the cap 16 is referred to herein as the proximal end, as it is assumed that in many cases a user will hold and manipulate the stack core 12 by grasping the cap 16. Similarly, the end of the stack core 12 farthest from the cap 16 is referred to herein as the distal end.

[0059] The stack core 12 is in the form of a single elongated rod or a rod composed of rigid and durable materials. The shape of the cross-section of the stack core 12 can generally be non-circular (but can be circular in some examples). The materials and design of the stack core 12 can be selected to be resistant to breaking, twisting or bending, warping, corrosion, melting, or other changes to the shape or structural integrity of the stack core 12. For example, suitable materials can include stainless steel, brass, or another suitable metal or non-metal material of sufficient thickness (e.g., greater than 1 mm) to provide the stack core 12 with a predetermined sufficient rigidity and durability. The stack core 12 can be long enough to accommodate a predetermined maximum number (e.g., 100 or another number) of character tiles 14 and a gap between two tile stacks, while being short enough (e.g., less than 10 cm) to be easily transported (e.g., in a pocket or purse).

[0060] Each character sheet 14 is in the form of a thin (e.g., less than 1 mm, such as about 0.5 mm) plate having two opposing faces (e.g., having a diameter or other representative lateral dimension in the range of 7 mm to 2 cm). Each character sheet 14 is formed of a material sufficiently rigid and durable to maintain its shape during normal use (e.g., mounting on, removing from, and sliding along the stack core 12). The character sheet 14 includes at least one slot 42 configured to fit over the stack core 12. The shape and size of the slot 42 can be selected to not impede a user of the portable data stack holder 10 from sliding each character sheet 14 along the stack core 12. As in the illustrated example, the cross-section of the stack core 12 and the shape of the slot 42 can be selected (e.g., non-circular) to discourage unwanted rotation of the character sheet 14 about the stack core 12. In the illustrated example, the slot 42 is located at the center of the character sheet 14, and the stack core 12 extends from the center of the cap 16.

[0061] In the illustrated example, the character sheets 14 have an elongated curved shape, and the cross-sectional shape of the housing 18 is circular. In other examples, the character sheets 14 and the housing 18 can have other shapes (e.g., circular, rectangular, polygonal, oval, irregular, or other shapes).

[0062] At least one face of each character sheet 14 is ineludibly marked with a character 44 (e.g., by engraving, electroplating, machining, inlaying, or other means). In some examples, the characters 44 can be raised or recessed relative to the rest of the surface of the character sheet 14, e.g., to enable tactile recognition of the characters 44. The marking can change the color or texture of the characters 44 relative to the rest of the surface of the character sheet 14 to facilitate visual recognition of the characters 44 under various lighting conditions. In some examples, the colored characters 44 can be accompanied by separate tactile markings (e.g., Braille characters). In some examples, each character sheet 14 can be marked with a different character on opposite faces of the character sheet 14.

[0063] In the illustrated example, the character sheets 14 can be slid one at a time along the stack core 12 from the distal portion 20b to the proximal portion 20a of the sheet stack 20 across the gap 21. As each character sheet 14 is slid from the distal portion 20b to the proximal portion 20a, the characters 44 on that character sheet 14 become visible and can be read (or felt). Thus, if the characters 44 on the character sheets 14 have been arranged in an order that represents a set of sensitive data, each character 44 (or equivalent indicated by the character 44) can be entered as it is read into a security system to enable access to that system.

[0064] In the illustrated example, when the portable data stack holder 10 is not modified or read, the housing 18 can enclose the stack core 12 and the sheet stack 20. For example, the housing 18 may include a concave thread 34. Figure 4 As shown, the concave thread is configured to engage the convex thread 17 on the cap 16 to secure the housing 18 to the stack core 12. Other attachment or locking mechanisms can be used to attach the housing 18 to the stack core 12. For example, the housing 18, cap 16, or both may include (e.g., rubber, soft plastic, or roughened) friction surfaces or pads to hold the housing 18 to the cap 16. Latches, pins, or other locking mechanisms can be used. In some instances, the housing 18 may include clips, chains, or other structures to securely hold the portable data stack holder 10 in a pocket, wallet, case, or other location.

[0065] In the example shown, housing 18 has a cylindrical shape. In other examples, the cross-section may not be circular, and may have flat, rounded, tapered, or otherwise shaped ends, and an outer surface including ridges, bosses, recesses, or other patterns.

[0066] The stack core 12 includes a sheet holding structure configured to be opened to allow for the arrangement or rearrangement of character sheets 14 on the stack core 12 and to prevent the removal of character sheets 14 from the stack core 12 at other times.

[0067] Figure 2 Indicative of when open Figure 1 Portable data stack holder.

[0068] In the illustrated example, the distal end of the stack core 12 includes a widening 31 on either side of the slit 29. The locking structure includes an end lock 25 having a locking groove 27. The locking groove 27 is elongated such that when the end lock 25 is oriented such that the elongated dimension of the locking groove 27 is parallel to the plane of the widening 31 (e.g., Figure 2 As shown, the end lock 25 can slide on the widening portion 31 at the distal end of the stack core 12. The elasticity at the distal end of the stack core 12 surrounding the slit 29 allows friction between the end lock 25 and the widening portion 31 to retain the end lock 25. Alternatively or additionally, the distal end of the stack core 12 may include a protrusion or other structure to retain the end lock 25 on the stack core 12.

[0069] Figure 3A An alternative instance of a portable data stack holder is illustrated schematically when it is open. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portable data stack holder is shown.

[0070] In this example, the distal end of the stack core 12 includes an integral stop 28. The integral stop 28 is shaped (e.g., widened sufficiently or otherwise shaped as in the illustrated example) to prevent the slot 42 of the character sheet 14 from sliding past the integral stop 28 and off the stack core 12.

[0071] At the proximal end of the stack core 12, a locking structure in the form of a cap 16 can be removed from the stack core 12. When the cap 16 is removed from the stack core 12, the character sheet 14 can slide on the stack core 12 toward the integral stop 28 at the distal end of the stack core 12, or can be removed from the stack core 12. When the character sheet 14 is arranged as desired, the cap 16 can be attached to the stack core 12 to deter or prevent intentional or unintentional removal of the character sheet 14 from the stack core 12.

[0072] In the illustrated example, the cap 16 includes a hole 22, and the stack core 12 includes a notch 30 near its proximal end. The proximal end of the stack core 12 can be inserted into the opening 26 of the cap 16 until the notch 30 is aligned with the hole 22. When the notch 30 and the hole 22 are aligned, the locking screw 24 can be threaded into the hole 22 and through the notch 30. For example, male threads on the locking screw 24 can engage female threads within the hole 22. In other examples, the proximal end of the stack core 12 can include a hole through which the locking screw 24 can be inserted. Alternatively or additionally, other types of locking structures including one or more pins, latches, or other locking structures can hold the cap 16 to the stack core 12.

[0073] In the illustrated example, the slot 42 is off-center on the character sheet 14. The off-center location of the slot 42 can enable the character sheet 14 to be marked with larger characters 44 than would be possible with a centered slot 42. Similarly, the opening 26 is off-center on the cap 16 such that the stack core 12 exits from an off-center location on the cap 16.

[0074] Figure 4 is Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of the housing of the illustrated portable data stack holder.

[0075] In the illustrated example, the stack 20 of character tiles 14 is mounted on the stack core 12. As in the illustrated example, a restriction in the form of an internal shoulder 32 of the housing 18 can limit the sliding of the character tiles 14 along the stack core 12 when the housing 18 is placed over the stack 20 of tiles 14 on the stack core 12. For example, the internal shoulder 32 can be located at a point within the housing 18 that corresponds to a recommended maximum number of character tiles 14 in the stack 20 of tiles 14. A cavity 33 within the housing 18, inside the internal shoulder 32, is long enough and wide enough to accommodate the distal end of the stack core 12. For example, the cavity 33 can be of a diameter sufficient to accommodate the rotation of the stack core 12 that extends eccentrically from the cap 16 when the cap 16 is screwed into or out of the housing 18.

[0076] When the sliding of the character tiles 14 in the stack 20 of tiles 14 is limited by the internal shoulder 32, the portable data stack holder 10 can be handled or carried without noise. In some cases, limiting the sliding of the character tiles 14 within the housing 18 can prevent or limit possible damage to the character tiles 14.

[0077] It can be noted that when the distal end of the stack 20 of tiles 14 does not extend fully to the internal shoulder 32, the sliding of the character tiles 14 can be limited but not eliminated. In some cases, different housings 18 can be designed for different stacks 20 of tiles 14 that include different numbers of character tiles 14 (e.g., for stacks 20 of tiles of the same length corresponding to the same length of sensitive data to be stored). In some cases, the stack 20 of tiles can include one or more spacer tiles on which no character is marked, in order to create a stack 20 of tiles of the correct length that extends to the internal shoulder 32.

[0078] It can be noted that, in addition to extending the length of the stack 20 of tiles to the internal shoulder 32, the blank spacer tiles can have other uses. For example, the spacer tiles can be used as dividers to divide the stack 20 of tiles into shorter subsets of character tiles 14, each subset representing a different (e.g., relatively short) password or another type of sensitive data.

[0079] Figure 5 Schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a housing of a portable data stack holder including a spring.

[0080] In the illustrated example, a restraining mechanism in the form of a spring 35 is inserted into the housing 18. The spring 35 can be compressed between a distal end of the sheet stack 20 and a distal housing wall 18a when the stack core 12 holding the sheet stack 20 of character sheets 14 is inserted into the housing 18. The distance by which the spring 35 is compressed can depend on the length of the sheet stack 20 determined by the number of character sheets 14 in the sheet stack 20. The force exerted by the spring 35 when compressed onto the sheet stack 20 can prevent the character sheets 14 from sliding in the sheet stack 20. The variable length of the spring 35 can enable the prevention of sheet sliding in sheet stacks 20 having different length ranges. As an alternative or supplement to the spring 35, the housing 18 can include another type of compressible and resilient element, such as an elongated column or block of compressible resilient material (e.g., plastic foam, synthetic sponge, or other compressible resilient object).

[0081] Figure 6A An example of a character sheet of a portable data stack holder is schematically illustrated.

[0082] In the illustrated example, the character sheet 14 is non-circular, and the slot 42 is located at the center of the character sheet 14.

[0083] Figure 6B Another example of a character sheet is schematically illustrated.

[0084] In the illustrated example, the slot 42 is located off-center on the face 40 of the character sheet 14. The characters 44 are marked on the portion of the face 40 above the slot 42 (e.g., when the character sheet 14 is held so that the characters 44 are upright). Thus, the available space for marking the characters 44 is greater than if the slot 42 were located along the center (horizontal diameter in the illustrated example) of the face 40.

[0085] In the illustrated example, the face 40 of the character sheet 14 is circular. Other shapes are possible.

[0086] Figure 6C Examples of alternative shapes of faces of character sheets of a portable data stack holder are schematically illustrated.

[0087] The face shapes 40a through 40y illustrate examples of different shapes exhibiting different degrees of rotational or reflection symmetry or lack of symmetry. Other shapes of faces 40 can be used. The interior of the housing 18 can be shaped and sized to accommodate a stack of character sheets 14 having any of the face shapes 40a through 40y. In some cases, different face shapes having similar outer profiles (e.g., face shapes 40g and 40h, or 40p and 40r) can be used together and enclosed in a single housing 18.

[0088] Similarly, various shapes of slot 42 can be possible. The cross-sectional shape of stack core 12 can be shaped to match the shape of slot 42.

[0089] Figure 7 Examples of alternative shapes of slots on a character sheet of a portable data stack holder are shown schematically.

[0090] Slot shapes 42a through 42n show examples of shapes of slots 42 in character sheet 14. Character sheet 14 with slot 42 having one of slot shapes 42a through 42n is typically designed for mounting on a stack core 12 with a similar cross-section. In some cases, such as slot shapes 42j through 42n, slot 42 can be designed for mounting on a stack core 12 composed of two or more prongs.

[0091] In the example shown, slot shape 42a is circular. Thus, if character sheet 14 is mounted on a stack core 12 with a similar circular cross-section, character sheet 14 can rotate freely around stack core 12. The remaining slot shapes 42b through 42n are non-circular. Thus, character sheet 14 with slot 42 having one of slot shapes 42b through 42n and mounted on a stack core 12 with a similar shape (e.g., formed from a single piece or from multiple prongs) cannot rotate around stack core 12.

[0092] In all of the examples of slot shapes 42a through 42n shown, the left-right reflection symmetry of slot 42 and stack core 12 allows mounting of character sheet 14 on stack core 12 with face 40 facing either the distal or proximal end. Shapes with additional vertical reflection symmetry (e.g., slot shapes 42a-42j and 42n) or four-fold rotational symmetry (e.g., slot shapes 42f and 42h) and depending on the position of slot 42 on face 40, can allow mounting of character sheet 14 on stack core 12 so that characters 44 on different character sheets 14 are oriented differently.

[0093] Figure 8A An example of a stack core of a portable data stack holder is shown schematically, the core having two prongs. Figure 8B A variation of a stack core of a portable data stack holder is shown schematically, the core having three prongs.

[0094] In the illustrated example, the double-pronged stack core 50 includes two prongs 54 extending distally from the cap 52. Each prong 54 can have a cross-sectional shape configured to fit into a slot 42 of a character sheet 14. For example, a double-pronged stack core 50 with two prongs 54 having a circular cross-section can be designed for use with a slot 42 having a slot shape 42n, or a pair of slots 42 each having slot shape 42a. Two prongs 54 having a rectangular cross-section can be designed for use with a slot 42 having slot shape 42j or 42l, or with two slots each having slot shape 42g. The prongs 54 can have other shaped cross-sections, for example designed for use with other shaped slots 42.

[0095] The triple-pronged stack core 56 includes three prongs 54 extending distally from the cap 52. For example, a triple-pronged stack core 56 with prongs 54 having a circular cross-section can be designed for use with a slot 42 of three slots 42 having slot shape 42a. Prongs 54 having a rectangular cross-section can be designed for use with a slot 42 having slot shape 42k or 42m, or with three slots each having slot shape 42g. The prongs 54 can have other shaped cross-sections, for example designed for use with other shaped slots 42.

[0096] Figure 8C A marked stack core is schematically illustrated.

[0097] In the illustrated example, the marked stack core 58 includes a length marker 59. For example, the length marker 59 can facilitate marking units of count of the number of character sheets 14 present in the sheet stack 20 on the marked stack core 58. In other cases, the marked stack core 58 can be marked in other ways, for example by a manufacturer or user of the marked stack core 58. For example, the markings can include characters, colors, or other markings. In some cases, these markings can be configured to be visible only under specified conditions.

[0098] In some cases, a plurality of portable data stack holders can be connected together.

[0099] Figure 9 Examples of portable data stack holders configured to be connected to one another are schematically illustrated.

[0100] In the illustrated example, the housing 60 includes a male cap 62 having male threads on its outer surface. The housing 64 has at least one female cap 66, which is a cavity having female threads on its inner surface. In this example, the male cap 62 can be screwed into the female cap 66 to attach the housing 60 (e.g., enclosing the stack core 12 of a sheet stack 20) to the housing 64 (e.g., also enclosing the stack core 12 of a different sheet stack 20). After such end-to-end coaxial attachment, the housing 60 and the housing 64 can be carried or stored as a single unit (e.g., increasing ease of handling or reducing the likelihood of loss).

[0101] In the illustrated example, in which each end of the housing 64 is provided with a female cap 66, two housings 60 having male caps 62 can be attached to opposite ends of the housing 64. In other examples, a housing can be provided with a male cap 62 at one end and a female cap 66 at the other end. In some cases, a kit provided to a user can provide more than one type of cap, for example to enable the user to determine how to attach different housings to one another.

[0102] In some examples, all of the caps of all of the housings are male caps 62 (e.g., all of the housings are similar to the housing 60). In such cases, two housings 60 can be attached to one another by a hollow connector, for example, which can be shorter than a typical housing 60 having female threads on its inner surface, at least in some examples. Similarly, two housings 64 having female caps 66 can be attached to one another using a male plug having an extension with male threads on its outer surface. In some examples, the connectors can include a bend to enable connecting different housings in a more compact manner than coaxial end-to-end attachment.

[0103] Figure 10 An example of a housing of a portable data stack holder configured to house two stacks is schematically illustrated.

[0104] A double-ended housing 70 is configured to enable insertion of two caps 16, for example each attached to a stack core 12 and a sheet stack 20, into opposite ends. For example, the double-ended housing 70 can be longer than a typical housing 18, or the stack core 12 (and thus the sheet stack 20) can be shorter (e.g., have about half the length) than the double-ended housing 70.

[0105] Figure 11 An example of a portable data stack holder configured to hold different stacks on multiple prongs is schematically illustrated.

[0106] In the illustrated example, the portable data stack holder 80 includes two prongs 54 extending from the cap 52. A stack 82 of flaps 84 can be mounted on each prong 54. In the illustrated example, each flap 84 of the stack 82 is generally semi-circular and includes a character 44. In this way, when a stack 82 is mounted on one of the prongs 54, the flaps 84 of that stack 82 do not prevent another stack 82 of different flaps 84 from being mounted on the other prong 54. In the illustrated example, each flap 84 is provided with two slots 86, for example in the form of notches, for example to enable the flap 84 to be mounted on the prong 54 in more than one orientation. A closure (not shown) can hold the flap 84 on the prong 54. In other examples, the portable data stack holder can include more than two prongs, flaps of other shapes, and slots of other types or locations.

[0107] The different sets of characters 44 on the flaps 84 on different stacks 82 can represent different strings or different portions of a single string. In some cases, the flaps 84 intended to be mounted on different prongs 54 can be manufactured to be distinguishable from one another (e.g., different colors, textures, shapes, character fonts, or otherwise distinguishable).

[0108] Various implementations are disclosed herein. Features of certain implementations can be combined with features of other implementations; thus certain implementations can be combinations of features of multiple implementations. The foregoing description of implementations of the application has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the application to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications, variations, alterations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that certain adaptations and modifications are possible and within the scope of the application. Moreover, although adaptive control and machine learning are described herein in the context of certain example implementations, adaptive control and machine learning can be used in other implementations as well. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and

[0109] Although certain features of the application have been illustrated and described, many modifications, substitutions, changes, alterations, and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that certain adaptations and modifications are possible and within the scope of the application. Moreover, although adaptive control and machine learning are described herein in the context of certain example implementations, adaptive control and machine learning can be used in other implementations as well. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and

Claims

1. A data storage device, comprising: Multiple sheet-like components, each sheet-like component having a character marked on its face according to a character set, and each sheet-like component including a slot; An elongated core, the cross-section of which is configured such that a slot in each of the sheet elements can be fitted onto an openable end of the core to mount the sheet element onto the core, wherein the marked face of the sheet element aligns with the face of an adjacent sheet element mounted on the core; and such that the sheet element can slide along the core, the length of which is sufficient to allow some of the sheet elements in the stack to slide away from other sheet elements in the stack when a predetermined maximum number of the sheet elements are stacked on the core, to form a sufficiently long gap to allow reading of the marked characters on the sheet element; A locking element is provided, which can be placed on the openable end to prevent the sheet from being removed from the stack, and can be removed from the openable end to allow the sheet to be added to the stack or removed from the stack. as well as A housing that can be closed over the core, and the housing includes a limiting structure to restrict the sliding of the sheet-like member along the core when the housing is closed over the core.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The characters are indelibly marked on the surface of the sheet-like component.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The characters are engraved on the surface of the sheet-like piece.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The cross-section of the slot and the core of each sheet is non-circular.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The core comprises a single rod.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The core includes multiple pins.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the plurality of sheet pieces is shaped such that different stacks of the sheet pieces can be mounted on different pins of the plurality of pins.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The core includes two pins and each plate is substantially semi-circular.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The slot of each sheet is located at the center of the surface of the sheet.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The slot of each sheet is eccentrically located on the surface of the sheet.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The end of the core opposite the openable end is widened to prevent the sheet from slipping off from that end.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The locking element includes a cap, and the openable end can be inserted into the cap.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The openable end includes a notch.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The cap includes a hole such that when the openable end is inserted into the cap such that the notch aligns with the hole, a threaded member can be inserted into the hole to retain the core to the cap.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The locking element includes an end lock with a slot that can be placed on and removed from the openable end.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The openable end includes a slit, and a slit lock can be placed above the slit.

17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The limiting structure includes a contraction section.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The limiting structure includes a spring.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The core includes a marker.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The characters include at least one mark selected from the group consisting of the following mark types: alphanumeric characters, pictographs, and symbols.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The characters include at least one mark selected from the group consisting of the following mark types: punctuation marks and diacritics.

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