Case with removable accessory holder

Abstract

A container, such as a toolbox, is disclosed with a reversible accessory holder. When the accessory holder is inserted into the container in a first position, the theft of the contents of the holder is prevented because the contents cannot be accessed from the exterior of the container nor can the holder be removed. When the accessory holder is inserted into the container in a second position, its contents can be conveniently accessed from the outside of the container by opening the accessory holder door without opening the entire container. A method of deterring the theft of items displayed in a container, while allowing access to those items from the outside of the container after purchase is also disclosed. The method includes inserting a reversible, transparent accessory holder into an aperture within a container, with the door of the holder facing the interior of the container, and then reversing the orientation of the holder to allow external access after purchase.

Description

BACKGROUND [0001] 1. Technical Field [0002] The present invention generally relates to containers for displaying, storing, and transporting items. More specifically, the illustrative embodiments of the present invention relate to toolboxes which may be used to display, store, and transport tools and accessories. [0003] 2. Background Information [0004] Containers for storing and transporting items may take many forms. For example, tool cases, toolboxes, tackle boxes, sewing boxes, lunch boxes, or briefcases may be used to transport work-related or hobby-related items and accessories. A lid is typically mounted on such containers to cover the opening into the storage area. The lid also usually includes a fastening device so that the container may be securely closed during storage or transportation. Other configurations such as top and bottom clamshell-shaped halves that are hingedly connected also can be used. [0005] Some types of containers are designed to facilitate display of their...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] In general, the present invention provides a container with a reversible accessory holder that protects against the theft of items within the holder, while allowing the purchaser easy access to those items when needed. In one embodiment of the invention, the holder is transparent so that the items inside may be viewed externally—for example, while on display at a retail facility. The holder may be equipped with an access door, as well as slots or rails that mate with rails or slots located within the container, allowing the holder to be slidably inserted within the container or on the exterior of the container. This arrangement allows the holder door to be opened from the inside of the container when the holder is inserted in a first position and from the outside of the container when it is inserted in a second position.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a method of deterring the theft of items displayed in a container, while allowing access to those items from the outside of the container after purchase. The method includes inserting a reversible, transparent accessory holder into a bracket surrounding an aperture in one of the sides of the container, with the door of the holder directed toward the interior of the container. With the holder inserted in this position, the items within the holder are protected from theft while the container is on display at a retail facility. After purchase of the container, the accessory holder may be removed from the container and reinserted with the holder door facing the exterior of the container. With the holder inserted in this position, the user may then conveniently access the items in the holder by opening the door of the holder, rather than opening the entire container every time an item is needed.

Problems solved by technology

The window, however, is typically fixed and does not permit a purchaser of the toolbox to access the items contained within it when the toolbox is in a closed position.

These containers, however, provide no protection from theft when the containers and their contents are on display at retail locations.

It is even conceivable that an unauthorized individual could remove the entire secondary compartment from the main container and transport it out of the retail facility.

The user is typically required to either keep the entire container open during use and risk inadvertent spillage, or undergo the hassle of unfastening and opening the entire container each time an item is sought.

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