Apparatus for holding a media storage disk

Abstract

The invention relates in general to an apparatus for holding a media storage disk, more particularly an apparatus having an improved central retaining area for the retention of the media storage disk, along with an optional securing means for engaging the media storage disk around its outside circumference. The disk-receiving portion contains a body portion which includes a circular outer retaining wall whose radius is slightly larger than media storage disk. The body portion also incorporates a central retaining area comprising a cylindrical hub, at least one arm extending radially and downward from the hub toward the body portion, and at least one additional arm opposite the first arm creating a hinge between the hub and body portion. Additionally the body portion may incorporate a means to secure the outer diameter of the media storage disk.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The invention relates in general to an apparatus for holding a media storage disk, more particularly an apparatus having an improved central retaining area for the retention of the media storage disk, along with an optional securing means for engaging the media storage disk along its outer edge. [0003] 2. Description of the Related Art [0004] Media storage disks have gained popularity with consumers. Examples of media storage disks include, but are not limited to, the compact disk (CD), the digital video disk (DVD) and the video compact disk (VCD). [0005] Numerous storage cases have been developed for media storage disks. It is appreciated by designers of storage cases that it is undesirable for any portion of the case to be in contact with the information-carrying portions of the disk. Thus, developments in storage case design have involved means that limit the contact of the case with the disk to the central hole ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0015] A third object of the invention is to provide a disk storage apparatus that allows for easy insertion and removal of the disk.

[0016] A fourth object of the invention is to provide a disk storage apparatus that is not susceptible to disk loosening and removal when pressure is applied to the center of the storage case.

[0017] A fifth object of the invention is to provide a disk storage apparatus that facilitates the disk packaging process by eliminating the need for performing additional steps when transitioning between a disk-releasing position and a disk-securing position.

[0018] A sixth object of the invention is to provide a disk storage apparatus that is simple and inexpensive to produce.

[0019] A seventh object of the invention is to provide a disk storage apparatus which does not pinch the fingers of users when releasing the disk from the central hub.

Problems solved by technology

It is appreciated by designers of storage cases that it is undesirable for any portion of the case to be in contact with the information-carrying portions of the disk.

Because DVDs consist of two laminated layers of polycarbonate, the bending of the DVDs for engagement and removal can cause disk and hence data damage.

A common problem associated with most storage case designs is disk loosening and removal from a prepackaged case.

The actual disk, however, has no alarm-sensing device.

In addition, it greatly increases the susceptibility of disk damage during normal handling, transport and storage procedures.

Although Cheung lessens the susceptibility to disk loosening when pressure is applied to the center of the storage case, it does not provide for convenient insertion of the disk.

This leads to an additional step in the disk packaging process, which is undesirable.

Generally, when pressing these split hubs the user experiences an unpleasant pinching sensation.

Additionally, these split hubs for engaging the storage media are prone to damage if one of the sections is pressed faster or harder than any of the remaining sections of the hub.

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