Storage device for optical storage media

Abstract

A storage device for optical media comprises a body defining an upper surface. A plurality of adjacent slots formed in the upper surface of the body extend in a first direction from the upper surface and define upper guiding cavities and lower engaging cavities. The upper guiding cavities guide optical media into the lower engaging cavities, which have openings to the upper cavities. The lower engaging cavities engage lower arcuate portions of the optical media. The lower engaging cavities independently support the optical media in the adjacent slots in a parallel relationship when the storage device is located on a flat supporting surface. The lower engaging cavities have a trapezoidal-shaped cross section. The upper cavities have a generally “U”-shaped cross section.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to storage devices, and more particularly to storage devices for optical storage media. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Optical storage media such as compact discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), and optical media for future data formats store digital content such as music, video, still pictures, software and other data. Playback devices such as CD players / recorders, DVD players / recorders, computers, and gaming devices use a laser to read back digital content that is stored on the optical storage media. Optical storage media such as CDs and DVDs are meant to be stored in jewel cases or other protective storage devices such as CD and DVD wallets and / or albums. However, users tend to leave the optical storage media outside of the jewel cases or other protective storage devices. [0003] For example, uncased CDs are often left sitting in a vehicle, on top of a computer desk and / or near an entertainment center where the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] In still other features, a first width of the upper guiding cavities generally decreases with a depth of the upper guiding cavities. A second width of the lower engaging cavities generally decreases with a depth of the lower engaging cavities. A third width of the lower engaging cavities adjacent to the opening is greater than a fourth width adjacent to a bottom surface of the lower engaging cavities. The fourth width is between 1.25 mm and 1.5 mm. The slots are spaced at a fifth width that is greater than 10 mm and less than 25 mm.

[0009] In yet other

Problems solved by technology

However, users tend to leave the optical storage media outside of the jewel cases or other protective storage devices.

During busy times, it may be inconvenient to locate the correct jewel case or other protective storage devices.

Sometimes, a user will temporarily store the CD in the incorrect jewel case, which often makes it difficult to find the CD later.

As a result, the CDs may be left unprotected, stacked on top of each other, etc.

The failure to properly care for the CDs may damage the CDs.

In addition, the loose CDs may clutter the area around the computer desk or entertainment center.

It also may be difficult for the user to locate a particular CD quickly.

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