Pivot overhead storage unit

Abstract

The overhead storage unit has a pivot arm having a first end pivotally mounted to a fixed pivot. The storage container has interconnecting walls that define an interior of the storage container, one of the interconnecting walls being an access wall. The storage container is mounted to a second end of the pivot arm and is raised and lowered between a stowed position and an accessible position. In the stowed position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area and the access wall is upright. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area and the access wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0001] 〔Cross - Reference to Related Applications〕

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 109,487, filed on November 4, 2020, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. It is also a partial continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 481,131, filed on January 27, 2017, and refers to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 089,059, entitled "Pivotable Overhead Storage Unit", filed on November 4, 2020. The content of both of these documents is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. It also refers to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 910,549, filed on October 4, 2019, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0003] This application generally relates to the storage of items and specifically to an overhead storage unit.

Background Art

[0004] In many jurisdictions, the price of indoor real estate is set per unit of available floor area (e.g., dollars per square foot). In urban residential areas, the relatively high cost per unit floor area has motivated the construction of small - sized residential units.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Developers of these small - sized residential units desire to provide residents with features and accessories associated with large - sized residential units in order to accommodate the residents' lifestyles. However, due to the limited available space in these small - sized residential units, it is difficult to provide such features and accessories.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention discloses a residential dwelling unit comprising a ceiling, floor, and walls that divide the space, and an overhead storage unit, wherein a portion of the space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit includes a pivot arm that extends from a first end to a second end and is pivotable about a pivot axis determined by the pivot, and an interconnecting wall that defines the interior of the storage container, and a storage container that is attached to the second end of the pivot arm and is pivotable to move up and down together with the pivot arm between a storage position and an accessible position, wherein one of the interconnecting walls is a synchronized wall, and in the storage position the storage container is located within the overhead storage area and the synchronized wall is upright, and in the accessible position the storage container is located below the overhead storage area and the synchronized wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

[0007] The present invention discloses a residential dwelling unit comprising a ceiling, floor, and walls that divide a space, a substructure located in the space below the ceiling, an overhead storage area defined between the substructure and the ceiling, and an overhead storage unit, wherein the overhead storage unit includes a pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, pivotably mounted on a fixed pivot, and pivotable about a pivot axis defined by the pivot, and an interconnecting wall defining the interior of the storage container, and a storage container attached to the second end of the pivot arm, pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, one of the interconnecting walls being a synchronous wall, in the storage position the storage container is located in the overhead storage area, with a gap defined between it and the substructure above the substructure, and the synchronous wall is upright, and in the accessible position the storage container is located below the overhead storage area and in front of the substructure, with an access wall providing access to the interior of the storage container.

[0008] The disclosed overhead storage unit includes a pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, pivotably mounted on a fixed pivot, and pivotable about a pivot axis determined by the pivot, and a storage container attached to the second end of the pivot arm, having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, wherein one of the interconnecting walls is a synchronous wall, and in the storage position, the storage container is positioned in an overhead storage area adjacent to the overhead structure, the synchronous wall is upright and continuous with the overhead structure, and the synchronous wall is visually synchronized with the upright visible wall, and in the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, and the synchronous wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

[0009] A method for storing items in an overhead storage unit is disclosed, comprising loading items into a storage container while the storage container, which is attached to an arm, is located below the overhead storage area, and pivoting the arm and the storage container upward within the overhead storage area so that the walls of the storage container become upright and continuous with an upright overhead structure that demarcates the overhead storage area, and so that the walls of the storage container are visually synchronized with the upright overhead structure.

[0010] A residential dwelling unit comprising a ceiling, floor, and walls that divide the space, an overhead structure located close to the ceiling and having upright visible walls, an overhead storage area defined below the ceiling and adjacent to the overhead structure, and an overhead storage unit, wherein the overhead storage unit has a pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end that is pivotably attached to a fixed pivot, and pivotable about a pivot axis defined by the pivot, and interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivoting The present invention discloses a residential dwelling unit which includes a storage container that is pivotable to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, one of which is a synchronized wall, in which the storage position the storage container is located in an overhead storage area adjacent to the overhead structure, the synchronized wall is upright and continuous with the upright visible wall of the overhead structure, the synchronized wall is visually synchronized with the upright visible wall, and in the accessible position the storage container is located below the overhead storage area, the synchronized wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

[0011] The present invention discloses a residential dwelling unit comprising a ceiling, floor, and walls that divide the space, and an overhead storage unit, wherein a portion of the space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit includes a pivot arm that extends from a first end to a second end and is pivotably mounted on a fixed pivot, and is pivotably mounted on a pivot axis determined by the pivot, and an interconnecting wall that defines the interior of the storage container, and a storage container that is attached to the pivot arm and is pivotably mounted together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, one of the interconnecting walls being an access wall, wherein in the storage position the storage container is located within the overhead storage area and the access wall is upright, and in the accessible position the storage container is located below the overhead storage area and the access wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

[0012] A residential dwelling unit comprising a ceiling, floor, and walls that divide the space, an overhead structure located close to the ceiling and having upright visible walls, an overhead storage area defined below the ceiling and adjacent to the overhead structure, and an overhead storage unit, wherein the overhead storage unit has a pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end that is pivotably attached to a fixed pivot, and pivotable about a pivot axis defined by the pivot, and interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivoting The present invention discloses a residential dwelling unit which includes a storage container that is pivotable to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, one of which is a synchronized wall, in which the storage position the storage container is located in an overhead storage area adjacent to the overhead structure, the synchronized wall is upright and continuous with the upright visible wall of the overhead structure, the synchronized wall is visually synchronized with the upright visible wall, and in the accessible position the storage container is located below the overhead storage area, the synchronized wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

[0013] The disclosed overhead storage unit includes a pivot arm extending from a first end having a pivot to a second end and pivotable about a pivot axis determined by the pivot, and a storage container attached to the second end of the pivot arm and pivotable with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, one of the interconnecting walls being an access wall, and in the storage position, the storage container is positioned in an overhead storage area adjacent to the overhead structure with the access wall upright, and in the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area with the access wall providing access to the interior of the storage container.

[0014] The present invention discloses a residential dwelling unit comprising a ceiling, floor, and walls that divide a space, a substructure located in the space below the ceiling, an overhead storage area defined between the substructure and the ceiling, and an overhead storage unit, wherein the overhead storage unit includes a pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end and pivotably mounted on a fixed pivot, pivotably mounted about a pivot axis defined by the pivot, and an interconnecting wall defining the interior of the storage container, attached to the pivot arm and pivotably mounted with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, one of the interconnecting walls being an access wall, wherein in the storage position the storage container is located in the overhead storage area, with a gap defined above the substructure and between it and the substructure, and the access wall is upright, and in the accessible position the storage container is located below the overhead storage area and in front of the substructure, and the access wall provides access to the interior of the storage container.

[0015] A residential dwelling unit and / or overhead storage unit may include any combination of the following features:

[0016] In some embodiments, the walls that divide the space include two opposing walls separated by the space, and the storage containers extend into the space between the two opposing walls.

[0017] In some embodiments, the walls dividing the space include two opposing walls separated by the space, and the storage containers extend throughout the space between the two opposing walls of the residential dwelling, with one of the interconnecting walls of the storage containers adjacent to one of the two opposing walls and the other interconnecting wall of the storage containers adjacent to the other of the two opposing walls.

[0018] In some embodiments, the interconnecting walls of the storage container include a rear wall that is perpendicularly interconnected with the access wall, the rear wall being upright in the accessible position and substantially horizontal in the storage position, and the height of the rear wall in the accessible position is greater than the height of the synchronized wall in the storage position.

[0019] In some embodiments, the height of the rear wall is about 3 feet (0.9 m), and the height of the access wall is 1 - 1.5 feet (0.3 - 0.5 m).

[0020] In some embodiments, the storage container has a barrier wall that extends vertically from the free end of the access wall into the interior of the storage container, and the barrier wall has an upright orientation at the accessible position.

[0021] In some embodiments, the residential dwelling unit includes an overhead structure and a lower structure, the overhead structure is located close to the ceiling within the space above the lower structure, the overhead structure demarcates part of an overhead storage area and has an upright visible wall, in the storage position, the storage container is arranged within the overhead storage area adjacent to the overhead structure, the access wall stands upright and is continuous with the upright visible wall, and the access wall is visually synchronized with the upright visible wall.

[0022] In some embodiments, the access wall is substantially horizontal at the accessible position.

[0023] In some embodiments, the storage container is arranged immediately below the ceiling in the storage position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the residential dwelling unit includes a lower structure arranged within the space below the overhead storage area, and the storage container is arranged in front of the lower structure at the accessible position.

[0025] In some embodiments, the residential dwelling unit includes a lower structure arranged within the space below the overhead storage area, and the pivot is fixedly attached to the lower structure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the pivot is arranged immediately adjacent to one of the walls.

[0027] In some embodiments, the storage container is above and aligned with the lower structure at the storage position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the lower structure has one or more doors that open into the space, the storage container is disposed in front of the lower structure at an accessible position, and the storage container is spaced in front of the lower structure by a distance greater than the dimension of the corresponding door when the door of the lower structure is open.

[0029] In some embodiments, the pivoting arm has a length defined between a first end and a second end, and this length is greater than the distance between the front face of the lower structure and the wall against which the lower structure abuts.

[0030] In some embodiments, the height of the pivot measured from the floor is less than 6 feet (1.8 m).

[0031] In some embodiments, the height of the pivot measured from the floor is less than the height of an average adult human.

[0032] In some embodiments, the entire interior of the storage container is accessible at the accessible position.

[0033] In some embodiments, the storage container does not have a door.

[0034] In some embodiments, the storage container has a length greater than 10 feet (3 m).

[0035] A method of storing an item in an overhead storage area, the method comprising loading an item into a storage container while the storage container attached to an arm is present below the overhead storage area, and pivoting the arm and the storage container upwardly into the overhead storage area to upright the wall of the storage container.

[0036] This method can include any combination of any of the following features.

[0037] In some embodiments, loading items into a storage container includes loading items into the storage container while the storage container is located in front of a substructure positioned below the overhead storage area.

[0038] In some embodiments, pivoting the arm and storage container upward includes using power to pivot the arm and storage container.

[0039] In some embodiments, loading items into a storage container includes loading items into the storage container without opening the door of the storage container.

[0040] In some embodiments, the upward pivoting of the arm and storage container includes pivoting the arm and storage container such that the walls of the storage container are continuous with the upright overhead structure that demarcates the overhead storage area, and the walls of the storage container are visually synchronized with the upright overhead structure.

[0041] In some embodiments, the method includes pivoting an arm and a storage container downwards to horizontalize the wall in order to access items inside the storage container.

[0042] In some embodiments, the method includes preventing items from sliding out of a storage container when the wall is horizontal.

[0043] In some embodiments, pivoting the arm and storage container downward includes pivoting the arm and storage container downward to position the storage container in front of a substructure located below the overhead storage area.

[0044] In some embodiments, pivoting the arm and the storage container downward includes pivoting the arm and the storage container to position the storage container just below the ceiling.

[0045] Please refer to the attached diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0046] [Figure 1A] This is a perspective view of a residential unit with overhead storage units. [Figure 1B] This is another perspective view of the overhead storage unit shown in Figure 1A, which indicates the storage location. [Figure 2A] This is another perspective view of the overhead storage unit shown in Figure 1A, where the storage location is located. [Figure 2B] This is a perspective view of the overhead storage unit shown in Figure 1A, located in an accessible position. [Figure 3] Figure 1A is a perspective view of the overhead storage unit showing a storage container in transit between its storage position and its accessible position. [Figure 4A] Figure 1A is a perspective view of the motor in the overhead storage unit. [Figure 4B] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a pulley with a motor-driven winding cable. [Figure 4C] Figure 4A is another perspective view of the pulley and hoisting cable. [Figure 5] Another perspective view of the overhead storage unit in Figure 1A, showing a storage container in the process of transitioning between a storage position and an accessible position. [Figure 6A] This is a schematic diagram of the overhead structure adjacent to the overhead storage unit shown in Figure 1A. [Figure 6B] This is a schematic diagram of another overhead structure adjacent to the overhead storage unit in Figure 1A. [Figure 7A] This is a perspective view of a residential dwelling unit with a motor of a different configuration. [Figure 7B] Figure 7A is a perspective view of the motor. [Figure 7C] Figure 7A is a perspective view of the spool driven by the motor. [Figure 8A] This is a perspective view of another residential unit with an additional overhead storage unit. [Figure 8B] This is another perspective view of the overhead storage unit in Figure 8A as it moves from its storage position to an accessible position. [Figure 8C]This is another perspective view of the overhead storage unit in Figure 8A as it moves further from its storage position to an accessible position. [Figure 8D] This is another perspective view of the overhead storage unit shown in Figure 8A, located in an accessible position. [Figure 9] This is a schematic side view showing a portion of an overhead storage container moving between its storage position and its accessible position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0047] Figures 1A and 1B show an overhead storage unit 10 provided in a residential living unit 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the residential living unit 12 is a residential apartment. In the illustrated embodiment, the living unit 12 is a room in a residential apartment. The residential living unit 12 has a floor 12A that defines the floor area or region of the living unit 12, and a door 12B that provides access to the residential living unit 12. The residential living unit 12 also has a number of upright walls 12C and a ceiling 12D that defines the upper boundary of the residential living unit 12. The ceiling 12D, floor 12A and walls 12C define the extent of the interior space 12E used or occupied by the resident of the residential living unit 12 or the resident's possessions. The residential living unit 12 may also include other features. The residential living unit 12 may also be other types of residential facilities. Some non-limiting examples of residential dwelling units 12 may include, or may include, apartments, condominiums, houses, rooms, etc. Residential dwelling units 12 may also be other types of enclosed spaces that are not solely residential or are exclusively for commercial use. Some further non-limiting examples of other types of dwelling units 12 may include garages, showrooms, conference rooms, etc. Thus, dwelling units 12 may be enclosed spaces that are either designed for people to live in or are essentially for commercial use.

[0048] The overhead storage unit 10 (sometimes simply referred to as "storage unit 10" in this specification) is movable so as to allow one or more items 11 (see Figure 2B) to be stored within the storage unit 10 when not in use, and to provide access to the items 11. When stored, the features of the storage unit 10 are positioned so as not to occupy the floor area defined by the floor 12A of the residential dwelling unit 12. As a result, the usable and habitable overall floor area of ​​the residential dwelling unit 12 can be increased by freeing up valuable floor space for other purposes. As will be described in more detail herein, the storage unit 10 places the items 11 within the overhead storage area 16 (see also Figure 2B).

[0049] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the space 12E of the residential dwelling unit 12 includes one or more overhead structures 14. The overhead structures 14 are objects or assemblies located above the space 12E that can only be accessed or touched by reaching out from the floor 12A. The overhead structures 14 are above the height of the occupant's head when they are standing on the floor 12A. The overhead structures 14 in Figures 1A and 1B are fixed in position. The overhead structures 14 in Figures 1A and 1B are immovable. The position of the overhead structures 14 in Figures 1A and 1B does not move relative to the walls 12C, ceiling 12D, and floor 12A of the residential dwelling unit 12. In Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead structures 14 are located close to the ceiling 12D. The expression "close to" describes different configurations of the proximity of the overhead structures 14 to the ceiling 12D. In one possible configuration, the overhead structure 14 is directly attached to or incorporated into the ceiling 12D, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B. In another possible configuration, the overhead structure 14 is positioned immediately below the ceiling 12D, but at a distance from the ceiling 12D, adjacent to one of the walls 12C. In yet another possible configuration, the overhead structure 14 is part of the ceiling 12D, such as in a configuration where the overhead structure 14 is a partition wall of the ceiling 12D, a configuration where it is a suspension portion of the ceiling 12D, or a configuration where it defines a lower level of the ceiling 12D. Other configurations are also possible. In all possible configurations of the proximity of the overhead structure 14 to the ceiling 12D, the overhead structure 14 has an upright visible wall 14A. The upright visible wall 14A is a part or component of the overhead structure 14 that is visible and observable to the occupant when the occupant of the residential dwelling unit 12 is present in the space 12E. The upright visible wall 14A has a lower edge 14AL, an upper edge 14AU, and one or more side edges 14AS.

[0050] The following is a non-exclusive list of possible examples of overhead structures 14. Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead structure 14 is a box-shaped structure or a rectangular prism. For example, in Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead structure 14 is a cabinet 14' mounted just below the ceiling 12D. The upright visible wall 14A' is the door or drawer of the cabinet 14'. In Figure 6A, the overhead structure 14 is a bulkhead 14'' of the ceiling 12D located below the plane defined by the rest of the ceiling 12D. The bulkhead 14'' defines a cavity for lighting, wiring, or piping. The upright visible wall 14A'' is one or more of the visible vertical walls of the bulkhead 14''. In Figure 6B, the overhead structure 14 is a suspension portion 14'' of the ceiling 12D located below the plane defined by the rest of the ceiling 12D. The upright visible wall 14A'' is a vertical wall that connects the suspension portion 14'' of the ceiling 12D to the rest of the ceiling 12D. In yet another example, the overhead structure 14 is a ventilation duct installed just below the ceiling 12D. In such a configuration of the overhead structure 14, the upright visible wall 14A is the vertical wall of the ventilation duct.

[0051] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead structure 14 partially separates the overhead storage area 16, regardless of its form or shape. The overhead storage area 16 is located above the floor 12A of the residential dwelling unit 12 and is part of the interior volume or space 12E. The overhead storage area 16 is separate from the overhead structure 14. In Figures 1A and / or 1B, the overhead storage area 16 is not nested within the overhead structure 14, nor is it part of the overhead structure 14. Rather, the overhead storage area 16 is adjacent to the overhead structure 14 and located below the ceiling 12D. In Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead storage area 16 is at the same height as the overhead structure 14 when measured from the floor 12A. In Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead storage area 16 has its uppermost boundary at the ceiling 12D and extends downward toward the floor 12A to its lowermost boundary, which is above the average head height of the residents of the residential dwelling unit 12. The location of this overhead storage area 16 allows residents to move freely within the residential dwelling unit 12 without being obstructed by the overhead storage unit 10. The overhead storage area 16 is demarcated on one or both of its left or right boundary by one of the side edges 14AS of the upright visible wall 14A, or by the upright side wall of the overhead structure 14, if such wall exists. One of the upright walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12 demarcates and defines the rear or back boundary of the overhead storage area 16. The overhead storage area 16 opens along its front or front to receive the overhead storage unit 10.

[0052] The shape and extent of the overhead storage area 16 can take on different forms. For example, in Figures 1A and 1B, the overhead storage area 16 is located above the residential dwelling unit 12 and is inaccessible to the resident without using a ladder. The overhead storage area 16 is a box-shaped or rectangular volume enclosed by two of the walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12 and the cabinet 14'. The volume of the overhead storage area 16 is set separately from the internal volume determined by the overhead structure 14 (i.e., the cabinet 14' in Figures 1A and 1B). Therefore, as long as the overhead storage area 16 is higher than the floor 12A of the residential dwelling unit 12 so as not to obstruct the movement of the resident in the residential dwelling unit 12 when the storage unit 10 is located within the overhead storage area 16, many configurations of the overhead storage area 16 are understood to be within the scope of this disclosure. For example, another possible configuration of the overhead storage area 16 is shown in Figures 7A to 7D. The overhead storage area 16 extends between opposing walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. In Figures 7A to 7D, the overhead storage area 16 has its uppermost boundary at the ceiling 12A, and extends downward toward the floor 12A to its lowest boundary above the average head height of the residents of the residential dwelling unit 12, with its lateral boundaries defined by walls 12C. The storage unit 10 is movable so that items 11 can be raised into the overhead storage area 16 for storage and lowered out of the overhead storage area 16 to provide access to items 11.

[0053] The residential dwelling unit 12 may also have a substructure 15. The substructure 15 is any object or assembly within the internal space 12E between the walls 12C, ceiling 12D, and floor 12A of the residential dwelling unit 12, and is also located below the overhead storage area 16. Thus, the substructure 15 can define the lowest boundary of the overhead storage area 16 (see Figures 7A to 7D). Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the substructure 15 is located closer to the floor 12A than the overhead structure 14. The substructure 15 can be any three-dimensional object or assembly that is separate from the overhead structure 14 and has a different function from the overhead structure 14. The substructure 15 defines a volume calculated from the depth measured from the nearest supporting wall 12C, the height measured from the floor 12A, and the width. Thus, the substructure 15 can be a movable single piece of furniture such as a table, drawers, or a bench. The substructure 15 can be a wall-mounted structure such as a cabinet or an island in a kitchen, or other fixed structure. An example of a possible substructure 15 is shown in Figures 1A and 1B. The substructure 15 is a retractable bed (Murphy bed) 15A. The retractable bed 15A is shown in a retracted upright position, closer to the floor 12A than the overhead structure 14 below the overhead storage area 16. Other examples of the substructure 15 will be discussed later. As will be described in more detail below, the components of the storage unit 10 move relative to the substructure 15.

[0054] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the storage unit 10 includes one or more storage containers 20 for storing items 11, and one or more pivot arms 30 for raising and lowering the storage containers 20 between a storage position and an accessible position.

[0055] The storage container 20 is an object of any preferred shape and size that holds and moves the item 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the storage container 20 includes a box-shaped storage body or structure 22 having at least a partially hollow storage container interior 24 in which the item 11 is stored. The storage structure 22 includes two or more interconnecting walls 26. The walls 26 are shown as planar bodies mounted perpendicular to each other, but in other embodiments they may be non-planar. Similarly, the interconnecting walls 26 are shown as substantially uninterrupted along their length, but in another embodiment one or more interconnecting walls 26 may be interrupted along their length. Thus, the storage container 20 is a volume bounded on three or four or more sides to define an open or closed enclosure that receives and stores the item 11. Figures 1A and 1B show only one storage container 20. In another embodiment, the storage container 20 may consist of multiple sub-containers connected to each other.

[0056] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the storage container 20 has five interconnecting walls 26 that define the interior 24 of the storage container and open along its front portion to receive items 11. The interconnecting walls 26 include two side walls 26A, a rear wall 26B, a conforming wall 26C, and a boundary wall 26D that is spaced apart from the conforming wall 26C and crosses the interior 24 of the storage container. The interconnecting walls are interconnected along their common edges and define the box-shaped or rectangular structure of the storage container 20 to open along one side and are perpendicular to each other. Suitable structures to reinforce the interconnecting walls 26 can also be provided. For example, one or more of the interconnecting walls 26 may have frame members, brackets, or braces joining them or extending between them.

[0057] The synchronized wall 26C is a panel or other planar body having width and height. The synchronized wall 26C has at least two functions. Firstly, when the storage container 20 is in the storage position, the synchronized wall 26C is visible and observable to the occupant of the residential dwelling unit 12 when the occupant is present in the space 12E. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the synchronized wall 26C is the only interconnecting wall 26 of the storage container 20 that is visible to the occupant of the residential dwelling unit 12 when the storage container 20 is in the storage position. Because the synchronized wall 26C is one of the few or only interconnecting walls 26 visible in the storage position, it functions to conceal, adapt, harmonize, camouflage, or blend the storage container 20 with respect to the adjacent overhead structure 14. Thus, the synchronized wall 26C helps to make the storage container 20 appear as if it is part of the adjacent overhead structure 14, or as if it is continuous with the adjacent overhead structure 14. At least one other function performed by the synchronized wall 26C is to conceal or obscure the items 11 inside the storage container 20 when the storage container 20 is in the storage position. Thus, in the storage position, the synchronized wall 26C prevents or hinders the occupant from seeing or observing the items 11 inside the storage container 24 when they are present in the space 12E. In Figures 2A and 2B, the synchronized wall 26C is opaque. If necessary, the synchronized wall 26C can also be light-transmitting or transparent.

[0058] Referring to Figures 2A to 3, the interconnecting wall 26 changes orientation as the storage container 20 rises and falls between the storage position and the accessible position. The change in orientation results from a rotation or pivot of approximately 90°. When the storage container 20 is in the storage position shown in Figure 2A, the rear wall 26B is the bottom wall 26 of the storage structure 22. The rear wall 26B has a first orientation that defines the bottom surface 26BS of the storage container 20. In the illustrated embodiment, when the storage container 20 is in the storage position, the bottom surface 26BS is the bottom surface of the storage container 20. As shown in Figure 2B, when the storage container 20 is in the accessible position, the harmonizing wall 26C is the bottom wall 26 of the storage structure 22. As shown in Figure 2A, the harmonizing wall 26C is upright when the storage container 20 is in the storage position and is located furthest from the adjacent wall 12C that partially separates the overhead storage area 16 among the interconnecting walls 26. When the storage container 20 is in the storage position, the rear wall 26B contributes to supporting the weight of the items 11 stored inside the storage container 20. When the storage container 20 is in the accessible position, the synchronized wall 26C contributes to supporting the weight of the items 11 stored inside the storage container 20. The storage container 20 may include hooks, brackets, ties, mounts, or other devices inside the storage container interior 24 to secure the items 11 inside and prevent them from moving while the storage container 20 is being moved. In Figures 2A, 2B, and 4C, the storage container 20 opens along its entire front portion in the accessible position, providing unobstructed and free access to the entire interior 24 of the storage container. In Figures 2A, 2B, and 4C, the front portion of the storage container 20 is an opening that is not obstructed by any structure such as a door or panel. In another embodiment, the storage container 20 selectively provides access to the interior 24 of the storage container and the items 11 inside it by having a door that selectively closes the opening that defines the front portion.

[0059] The other interconnecting walls 26 of the storage container 20 change orientation as the storage container 20 rises and falls between the storage position and the accessible position. Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the side wall 26A is a rectangular planar body extending along its longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the side wall 26A has an upright orientation in the storage position (see Figure 2A) and a substantially horizontal orientation in the accessible position (see Figure 2B). The rear wall 26B has an upright orientation in the accessible position (see Figure 2B) and a substantially horizontal orientation in the storage position (see Figure 2A). The boundary wall 26D has an upright orientation in the storage position (see Figure 2A) and a substantially horizontal orientation in the accessible position (see Figure 2B).

[0060] The interconnecting walls 26 of the storage container 20 can be interconnected to define a sealed storage container interior 24. The sealed storage container interior 24 prevents liquids and debris from leaking out of the storage container 20 through one of the interconnecting walls 26 when the storage container 20 is moving or stationary. Similarly, the storage container 20 can be formed of any preferred material to provide impermeability, among many other desirable properties. The storage container 20 can be used to store any type of item 11. In Figures 2A and 2B, the storage container 20 and overhead storage area 16 extend over only a portion of the distance separating the two opposing walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. In another embodiment, as will be described in more detail below, the storage container 20 and overhead storage area 16 extend over the entire distance separating the two opposing walls 12C or substantially the entire distance.

[0061] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the storage container 20 is fitted with one or more pivot arms 30 to raise and lower the storage container 20 by pivoting it between a storage position and an accessible position. In the illustrated embodiment, the storage unit 10 has two pivot arms 30. Each pivot arm 30 is attached to one side wall 26A of the storage container 20 and forms or defines part of it. In Figures 2A and 2B, the pivot arm 30 is a single rectangular planar body extending along an elongated arm axis 31 between a first end 32A and a second end 32B. The second end 32B defines the distal end of each pivot arm 30. Each pivot arm 30 defines an inner surface 33A facing the other pivot arm 30 and the storage container 20, and an outer surface 33B opposite to the inner surface 33A. The body of each pivot arm 30 near the second end 32B in Figures 2A and 2B is the side wall 26A of the storage container 20 or defines the side wall 26A, and thus partially defines the interior 24 of the storage container along the side of the storage container 20. The inner surface 33A partitions a portion of the interior 24 of the storage container. In Figures 2A and 2B, the interconnecting wall 26 of the storage container 20 is connected to or attached to the pivot arm 30 to define the interior 24 of the storage container. The orientation of each pivot arm 30 changes as it pivots between the stowed position and the accessible position. In the stowed position, the arm axis 31 has an upright orientation (see Figure 2A), and in the accessible position, the arm axis 31 has a substantially horizontal orientation (see Figure 2B). Other embodiments and configurations of the pivot arm 30 are conceivable and are also within the scope of this disclosure. In another embodiment, the pivot arm 30 is one of a rod, beam, rod, pole, shaft, or interconnecting linkage composed of multiple members. In another embodiment, the storage unit 10 has only one pivot arm 30.

[0062] A storage container 20 is attached to the second end 32B of the pivot arm 30. The phrase "attached" implies that the storage container 20 can be a separate storage object attached to the pivot arm 30, or it can be an integral part of the pivot arm 30. For example, in Figures 2A and 2B, the body of the pivot arm 30 at the second end 32B of each pivot arm 30 defines one of the interconnection walls 26 of the storage container 20, so the storage container 20 is an integral part of the pivot arm 30. When in operation, the storage container 20 pivots together with the pivot arm 30 around the pivot axis 34A. The storage container 20 and the pivot arm 30 move together without relative movement. The storage container 20 does not pivot, rotate, or move relative to the second end 32B of the pivot arm 30. The storage container 20 moves together with the pivot arm 30 without relative movement between it and the pivot arm 30. This relationship between the storage container 20 and the pivot arm 30 allows for a change in the orientation of the storage container 20 as it pivots around the pivot axis 34A. Referring to Figure 2A, in the storage position, the orientation of the storage container 20 can define a basket or bucket supporting items 11 inside the storage container 24 that remain inaccessible due to its overhead position. Referring to Figure 2B, in the accessible position, the orientation of the storage container 20 differs from the storage position, defining a cubby hole or accessible compartment that allows an occupant to easily access items 11.

[0063] Referring to Figures 2A, 2B, and 3, the pivot arm 30 is visible to the occupants of the residential unit 12 when it pivots from its storage position to an accessible position. In the storage position, the pivot arm 30 can be recessed or hidden within a slot in the adjacent wall 12C, or it can be obscured by the upright portion of the overhead structure 14.

[0064] The first end 32A of the pivot arm 30 is pivotably attached to a fixed pivot 34 that defines the pivot axis 34A. The pivot 34 is immovable. The pivot 34 does not move within the residential dwelling unit 12. The pivot 34 is immovable relative to the wall 12C, the overhead structure 14, and the overhead storage area 16. The pivot 34 is located below the storage container 20 when the storage container 20 is in the storage position. Different embodiments of the pivot 34 that enable such functionality are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0065] Referring to Figure 2B, when the storage container 20 is in an accessible position, the pivot 34 is at approximately the same height as the synchronized wall 26C of the storage container 20 when measured from the floor 12A. In Figures 2A and 2B, the height of the pivot 34 measured from the floor 12A is less than 6 feet (1.8 m). In Figures 2A and 2B, the height of the pivot 34 measured from the floor 12A is greater than 3 feet (0.9 m) but less than 4 feet (1.2 m). In Figures 2A and 2B, the height of the pivot 34 measured from the floor 12A is lower than the average height of an adult woman. The height of the pivot 34 measured from the floor 12A can be low enough for a person seated in a wheelchair to access the item 11 inside the storage container 20 when it is in an accessible position. In Figures 2A and 2B, the pivot 34 is located closer to the floor 12A than the top surface of the substructure 15. Such a low or easily accessible height of the pivot 34 allows the storage container 20 to pivot downward to the height of the pivot 34, and therefore to a height easily accessible to the occupant, when the storage container 20 is in the storage position. In Figures 2A and 2B, the pivot 34 is located right next to the nearest upright wall 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. Placing the pivot 34 as close to the nearest wall 12C as is mechanically possible and feasible allows for the longest possible geometric lever arm, enabling the pivot 34 to be placed closer to the floor 12A. Placing the pivot 34 as close to the nearest wall 12C as is mechanically possible and feasible also improves aesthetics by making it easier to conceal the pivot 34. Furthermore, positioning the pivot away from the wall 12C increases the moment load on any of the structural elements connecting the pivot 34 to the wall 12C. Therefore, positioning the pivot 34 as close to the nearest wall 12C as is mechanically possible and feasible helps to reduce the load that the pivot 34 and any of its supporting structures must bear.

[0066] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the pivot 34 is fixedly attached to the substructure 15 and positioned immediately next to the nearest upright wall 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. The pivot 34 is an elongated bar or linkage that passes through the side wall of the retractable bed 15A and extends through the body of the pivot arm 30 at the first end 32A. The pivot 34 can also be any other preferred mechanical structure. For example, the pivot 34 may be a ball bearing or may include a ball bearing. In this way, the pivot 34 is attached to the substructure 15 rather than the nearest wall 12C to the pivot 34, but is still close to the wall 12C. As a result, the storage container 20 can move relative to the substructure 15. For example, as shown in Figure 2B, the storage container 20 pivots downward from its retracted position so that it is positioned in front of the substructure 15 when in an accessible position. The depth of the rear wall 26B of the storage container 20, measured from the nearest wall 12C parallel to the rear wall 26B, is greater than the depth of the front of the substructure 15, measured from the same wall 12C. The pivot arm 30 has a length L determined between the first and second ends 32A, 32B, measured parallel to the arm axis 31. The length L of the pivot arm 30 is greater than the distance D between the front of the substructure 15 and the wall 12C to which the substructure 15 is in contact. Therefore, in Figures 2A and 2B, the length L of the pivot arm 30 is related to the distance of the storage container 20 from the substructure 15 in the accessible position. This relationship helps the pivot arm 30 to pivot the storage container 20 in front of the substructure 15. Thus, in the accessible position, the storage container 20 pivots downward in front of the substructure 15. Therefore, it is not necessary to move the wall 12C, the substructure 15, or furniture on the floor 12A to access the items 11 in the storage container 20. Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the storage container 20 has a lowest position above the bottom of the substructure 15 so that the storage container 20 never pivots downward to below or below the substructure 15. This lowest position can be established using a mechanical stop or brake.

[0067] In another embodiment, the pivot 34 is fixedly attached to a structure other than the substructure 15. For example, the pivot 34 can be attached to the nearest wall 12C to which the substructure 15 is supported or in contact. The pivot 34 can be attached directly to a stud supporting the wall 12C, or indirectly to a bracket protruding from the wall 12C.

[0068] In some configurations, referring to Figure 2A, in the storage position, the storage container 20 is located above the substructure 15 and is aligned with the substructure 15. In Figure 2A, the depth of the storage container 20 from wall 12C in the storage position is the same as the depth of the substructure 15 from the same wall 12C. In Figure 2A, the depth of the synchronized wall 26C of the storage container 20 from wall 12C in the storage position is the same as the depth of the front of the substructure 15 from the same wall 12C. When the storage container 20 is in the storage position, it does not protrude beyond the substructure 15 and can therefore form a more aesthetic relationship with the substructure 15. When the storage container 20 pivots from the lower accessible position to the storage position, it can pivot above the substructure 15 and coincide with the substructure 15. In Figure 2A, the rear wall 26B of the storage container 20 is separated from the top surface of the retractable bed 15A by a vertical distance VD. One or more of the interconnecting walls 26 of the storage container 20, such as the synchronized wall 26C, can be visually similar to the observable surfaces of the substructure 15 by having the same or similar surface finish or color.

[0069] Referring to Figure 2A, the substructure 15 may include one or more doors 15B, such as cabinet doors, that open into the internal space 12E. The storage container 20 is positioned on the pivot arm 30 such that when it is positioned in front of the substructure 15 in an accessible position, the rear wall 26B of the storage container 20 is spaced in front of the substructure 15 by a distance greater than the dimensions of the corresponding door 15B when the door 15B is open. In such a configuration, the doors 15B of the substructure 15 can be opened even when the storage container 20 is positioned in front of the substructure 15.

[0070] Figures 1A to 2A show the features of the storage container 20 in its storage location. The storage container 20 is located within the overhead storage area 16. Therefore, the overhead storage area 16 is hidden by the storage container 20 when it is not being accessed. The storage container 20 is also adjacent to the overhead structure 14. The storage container 20 and the overhead structure 14 are at the same height as measured from the floor 12A. The storage container 20 is mounted close to the ceiling 12D. The storage container 20 is located just below the ceiling 12D, with sufficient space to allow for pivotal movement of the storage container 20. One non-limiting example of the dimensions of the storage container 20 is 18 inches (46 cm) in height and 36 inches (91 cm) in depth. The harmonizing wall 26C is substantially upright. The term "substantially" implies that the magnitude of its vertical vector is much greater than the magnitude of its horizontal vector. The harmonizing wall 26C is continuous with the upright visible wall 14A of the overhead structure 14. When the storage container 20 occupies the overhead storage area 16, there is no observable gap between the synchronized wall 26C and the adjacent upright visible wall 14A. When the storage container 20 occupies the overhead storage area 16, there is a seamless visual transition between the synchronized wall 26C and the adjacent upright visible wall 14A. Furthermore, the synchronized wall 26C is visually synchronized with the upright visible wall 14A. "Visually synchronized" means that the synchronized wall 26C looks the same as or identical to the upright visible wall 14A. Therefore, when the storage container 20 occupies the overhead storage area 16, the synchronized wall and the upright visible walls 26C and 14A appear to blend together as a single unit. Thus, the synchronization between the synchronized wall 26C and the upright visible wall 14A at the storage location makes it possible for the storage container 20 and the overhead structure 14 to appear to the occupants of the residential dwelling unit 12 as a continuous, single structure. Therefore, the synchronized wall 26C can give the impression that the storage container 20 in its storage position is part of or an extension of the visible portion of the overhead structure 14.

[0071] Different configurations and arrangements are also possible to achieve synchronization between the synchronized wall 26C and the upright visible wall 14A of the overhead structure 14. For example, referring to Figures 1A and 1B, the synchronized wall 26C has the same vertical length as the upright visible wall 14A. In Figures 1A and 1B, the synchronized wall 26C has one or more of the same colors, patterns, and textures as the upright visible wall 14A. Other interconnecting walls 26 of the storage container 20 can also be synchronized with other visible structures of the overhead structure 14. For example, referring to Figure 2A, the rear wall 26B and bottom surface 26BS are visible when the storage container 20 is in the storage position. In such a configuration, the corresponding lower or bottom wall 14B of the overhead structure 14 adjacent to the rear wall 26B is also synchronized with the rear wall 26B by having the same depth, color, or pattern, thereby enhancing the visual continuity and synchronization between the storage container 20 and the adjacent overhead structure 14 in the storage position.

[0072] Therefore, since the conforming wall 26C is one of the few or only interconnecting walls 26 visible in the storage position, it can be understood that it functions to conceal, adapt, harmonize, camouflage, or blend the storage container 20 with respect to adjacent overhead structures 14 (e.g., cabinets 14', partitions 14'', suspension portion 14'' of the ceiling 12D, etc.). Thus, the conforming wall 26C helps to make the storage container 20 appear as if it is part of or continuous with the adjacent overhead structure 14. The conforming wall 26C conceals or makes invisible the items 11 inside the storage container 20 when the storage container 20 is in the storage position. Thus, in the storage position, the conforming wall 26C prevents or hinders the occupant from seeing or observing the items 11 inside the storage container 24 when present in the space 12E.

[0073] The synchronization between the storage container 20 and the adjacent overhead structure 14 in its storage location contributes to the aesthetics of the residential dwelling unit 12 for two reasons: the items 11 in the storage container 20 are hidden from view by the synchronized wall 26C, and the storage container 20 appears to be part of the structure of the residential dwelling unit 12. For this reason, the storage container 20 can be used in situations where design and appearance are important, such as in the living area of ​​a residential space or the interior of a commercial showroom.

[0074] Figure 2B shows the features of the storage container 20 in an accessible position. The storage container 20 is located below the overhead storage area 16. The storage container 20 is located closer to the floor 12A than the overhead structure 14. The storage container 20 and items 11 are suspended in close proximity to the floor 12A of the residential dwelling unit 12, at a low position that is comfortable for the occupant to take items 11 in and out of the storage container 20. The synchronized wall 26C reveals the interior 24 of the storage container and allows access to the items 11 inside. Thus, the synchronized wall 26C may also be referred to as the “access wall 26C” in this specification. In the lowered accessible position, the access wall 26C is substantially horizontal. From “substantially” it is understood that the magnitude of its vertical vector is much greater than the magnitude of its horizontal vector. For example, as shown in Figure 2B, the access wall 26C forms a relatively small angle with respect to the horizontal plane. This angle can be greater than 0 degrees and less than 20 degrees. Therefore, such a substantially horizontal access wall 26C is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane and slopes downward toward the rear wall 26B. This orientation of the access wall 26C helps reduce the likelihood of items 11 sliding out of the storage container 20 when the storage container 20 transitions to an accessible position. The substantially horizontal access wall 26C forms a shelf that helps the occupant examine, sort, rearrange, and / or store the items 11. The change in orientation of the access wall 26C when pivoting to an accessible position allows the storage container 20 to remain without a door or other similar barrier controlling access to the interior 24 of the storage container. Instead, access to the interior 24 of the storage container is provided by the simple change in orientation that the synchronized wall 26C undergoes. Thus, the occupant does not need to open and close a door to hide / contain items 11 inside the storage container 20 or to access the storage container 20. The change in orientation of the access wall 26C when it pivots toward the storage position functions to keep the item 11 inside the storage container 24, so the occupant does not need to remember to close the door when placing the item 11 inside the storage container 20. This contributes to the usability and safety of the storage container 20.

[0075] Referring to Figures 2B and 4C, the entire interior 24 of the storage container is accessible from the accessible position. The storage container 20 opens along its entire front. From the accessible position, the occupant can access the entire width and height of the interior 24 of the storage container. In another embodiment, only a portion of the interior 24 of the storage container is accessible from the accessible position.

[0076] Referring to Figures 4A to 4C, the movement of the storage container 20 can be performed by the occupant manually or with the assistance of power. In Figures 4A to 4C, the storage unit 10 includes a power source. Specifically, the storage unit 10 has a motor assembly 140. The motor assembly 140 powers the storage container 20 to move it between a storage position and an accessible position. In the illustrated embodiment, to optimize the available space, the motor assembly 140 is mounted in an overhead storage area 16 adjacent to the overhead structure 14. Acoustic tiles are mounted adjacent to the motor assembly 140 and can be removed for maintenance of the motor assembly 140. The motor assembly 140 includes a motor 142. Suitable brackets or fixtures may be provided to secure the motor 142 in place, such as on a wall 12C. The motor 142 drives and engages with one or more moving members 144A. The moving member 144A is attached to the storage container 20 to move the storage container 20 between a storage position and an accessible position. The motor 142 can be controlled manually using a switch, or its operation can be controlled remotely using a remote control that communicates with the motor 142. The motor 142 may have a gearbox. The motor 142 may have a manually operated crank.

[0077] In the embodiments shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the movable member 144A includes a motor cable 144A. The motor cable 144A is wound around one or more pulleys 146 that are mounted to rotate together with a drive shaft 145 driven by a motor 142. The rotation of the pulleys 146 causes the motor cable 144A to be wound up and unwound. The ends of each motor cable 144A are attached to the storage container 20 so that the storage container 20 pivots around the pivot axis 34A as the motor cable 144A is wound up and unwound.

[0078] The movement of the storage container 20 using the motor assembly 140 is performed as follows: To lower the storage container 20 from a storage position having a first orientation, the motor 142 rotates to unwind the motor cable 144A, thereby driving the drive shaft 145 to perform controlled unwinding. As a result, slack is created in the motor cable 144A, allowing the storage container 20 to pivot downward based on gravity. To raise the storage container 20 from an accessible position, the motor 142 rotates to retract the motor cable 144A by winding it onto the pulley 146. As a result, slack is removed from the motor cable 144A and tension is applied, causing the storage container 20 to pivot upward around the pivot axis 34A.

[0079] Other techniques for moving the storage container 20 are also within the scope of this disclosure. In other embodiments, power may be supplied by any other preferred type of drive unit, including, but not limited to, a crank having a manual mechanism and / or a spring balance. In some embodiments, the storage unit 10 includes sensors to monitor the movement of the storage container 20 and prevent excessive descent of the storage container 20 or contact with objects while it is rising or descending. Similarly, the storage unit 10 may include a stopper that limits the downward movement of the storage container 20.

[0080] One such other technique for moving the storage container 20 is shown in Figures 7A-7C. A motor 142 of a motor assembly 140 is mounted on the outer surface of one side wall 26A of the storage container 20. The motor 142 is positioned between the side wall 26A and one wall 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. The motor 142 functions to move the storage container 20 between a storage position and an accessible position. The motor 142 moves the storage container 20 around a pivot shaft 34A. The output of the motor 142 rotates a drive shaft 145, which is mounted on a spool 147 that rotates with the drive shaft 145 around an axis defined by the drive shaft 145. There is no slippage between the drive shaft 145 and the spool 147 mounted on the drive shaft 145. The spool 147 and the drive shaft 145 move the storage container 20 around the pivot shaft 34A. A cable 144A is wound around each spool 147, and one end of the cable 144A is fixed to one wall 12C. The movement of the storage container 20 using the motor assembly 140 shown in Figures 7A and 7C is performed as follows: To lower the storage container 20 from a storage position having a first orientation, the motor 142 rotates the spool 147 so as to unwind the motor cable 144A, thereby driving the drive shaft 145 to perform a controlled unwinding. As a result, slack is created in the motor cable 144A, allowing the storage container 20 to pivot downward based on gravity. To raise the storage container 20 from an accessible position, the motor 142 rotates the drive shaft 145 in the opposite direction so as to wind the motor cable 144A onto the spool 147, thereby pulling in the motor cable 144A. As a result, the slack is removed from the motor cable 144A and tension is applied, causing the storage container 20 to pivot upward around the pivot axis 34A.

[0081] Referring to Figures 7A to 7C, the drive shaft 145 and spool 147 are located inside the storage container 24, as defined by the storage structure 22 of the storage container 20. The drive shaft 145 and spool 147 are located near the top and rear of the storage container interior 24, as defined when the storage container 20 is in an accessible position. This positioning of the drive shaft 145 and spool 147 allows the boundary wall 26D of the storage container 20 to directly contact the wall 12C when the storage container 20 is in a stored position. The spool 147 and / or drive shaft 145 can be partially or completely enclosed to prevent access when the storage container 20 is in an accessible position.

[0082] Referring to Figure 7C, each spool 147 has a laterally spaced groove 147A that extends along the entire periphery of the outer surface of the spool 147. The groove 147A is sized and shaped to receive a portion of the cable 144A wound on the spool 147. By providing laterally spaced positions for the portion of the cable 144A, the groove 147A helps to prevent or suppress the cable 144A from bundling or overlapping as the spool 147 rotates to raise and lower the storage container 20.

[0083] Other techniques for moving the storage container 20 are also within the scope of this disclosure. In one other possible technique, a motor 142 is fixed to or mounted near the floor 12A to drive a drive shaft 145 near the floor 12A. The motor 142 drives the drive shaft 145 to move a cable 144A. The cable 144A extends upward from the drive shaft 145 or its spool 147, passes around a pulley 146 located in the overhead storage area 16, and reaches the end of the cable 144A fixedly mounted to the storage container 20. In this configuration of the motor assembly 140, parts of the motor assembly 140, such as the motor 140, the drive shaft 145, the spool 147 and / or the pulley 146, can be stored behind the wall 12C and therefore out of sight.

[0084] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, a method for storing item 11 within the overhead storage area 16 is disclosed. This method involves loading item 11 into the storage container 20, which is attached to a pivot arm 30, while the storage container 20 is located below the overhead storage area 16. The method involves pivoting the pivot arm 30 and the storage container 20 upward within the overhead storage area 16. The walls 26C of the storage container 20 become upright and continuous with the upright overhead structure 14 and / or other visible structures of the overhead structure 14, such as a base plate or walls. The walls 26C of the storage container 20 are visually synchronized with the upright overhead structure 14.

[0085] In this embodiment, the residential dwelling unit 12 does not have one or more overhead structures 14 adjacent to the storage container 20 in the storage location, nor does it have one or more substructures 15 below the storage container 20 in the storage location. In this embodiment, the storage container 20 can be placed adjacent to the wall 12C in the storage location, but spaced apart from the interconnecting wall 12C so as not to be adjacent to the lateral structure. In this embodiment, the storage container 20 may be visually conspicuous within the residential dwelling unit 12.

[0086] In this embodiment, the residential unit 12 does not have one or more overhead structures 14 adjacent to the storage container 20 at the storage location. In this embodiment, the overhead storage area 16 is located above the substructure 15 and below the ceiling 12D, and is not partitioned laterally by structures other than the walls 12C of the residential unit 12. An example of such an embodiment is shown in Figures 8A to 8D.

[0087] In Figures 8A to 8D, the residential dwelling unit 12 includes various substructures 15. When the storage container 120 is in storage position, all substructures 15 are positioned below the storage container 120 in the overhead storage unit 110 (see Figures 8A and 8B). The substructures 15 provide functionality to different rooms or compartments of the residential dwelling unit 12. For example, the substructures 15 include objects that provide functionality to the kitchen, such as a sink 15C, a stove 15D, a refrigerator 15E, and kitchen cabinets 15F. The substructures 15 also include a retractable bed 15A, a chaise lounge or ottoman 15G to provide functionality to a living room / bedroom. The substructures 15 can be attached to and supported by one or more of the walls 12C, and / or supported by the floor 12A. It will be understood that the residential dwelling unit 12 may also have more or fewer substructures 15.

[0088] Parts of the substructure 15, such as the kitchen cabinet 15F, refrigerator 15E, and stovetop 15D, may have one or more doors that open into the internal space 12E. When the storage container 120 is positioned in front of the substructure 15 in an accessible position, the rear wall 126B of the storage container 120 is positioned on the pivot arm 130 such that it is spaced in front of the substructure 15 by a distance greater than the dimensions of the corresponding door when the door is open. In this configuration, the doors of the substructure 15 can be opened even when the storage container 120 is positioned in front of the substructure 15.

[0089] Referring to Figures 8A to 8D, the residential dwelling unit 12 does not have an overhead structure 14 adjacent to the overhead storage area 16 that partially partitions the overhead storage area 16. The overhead storage area 16 extends between opposing walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. The "opposing" walls 12C are parallel walls 12C that are spaced apart from each other by the straight-line distance of the interior space 12E of the residential dwelling unit 12. Figures 8A to 8D show only one of the opposing walls 12C. The overhead storage area 16 has its uppermost boundary at the ceiling 12D and extends downward toward the floor 12A to the lowest boundary defined by the substructure 15, with its lateral boundaries defined by the walls 12C. Referring to Figures 8A to 8D, the lowest boundary of the overhead storage area 16 defined by the substructure 15 has a uniform height defined by the top surface of the substructure 15. The lowest boundary of the overhead storage area 16, as defined by the substructure 15, has the same height measured from the floor 12A across the entire distance between the opposing walls 12C. Therefore, the overhead storage area 16 can extend across the entire distance between the two opposing walls 12C, or even across them.

[0090] Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, when the storage container 120 is in the storage position, a gap 17 is defined between the substructure 15 and the storage container 120. The gap 17 is the portion or volume of the overhead storage area 16 that remains unoccupied by the storage container 120 in the storage position. The gap 17 has the vertical distance VD and the horizontal distance HD described above. The horizontal distance HD of the gap 17 is defined between the opposing walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12. The size of the horizontal distance HD is greater than the size of the vertical distance VD. The vertical distance VD is defined between the rear wall 126B of the storage container 120 and the top surface of the substructure 15. The vertical distance VD is uniform throughout the entire horizontal distance HD between the opposing walls 12C. The gap 17 is the space between the bottom of the storage container 120 and the top of one or more substructures 15 that allows the storage container 120 to move over the substructure 15 when it pivots from the storage position to the accessible position. The gap 17 is sized such that the front edge 129 of the storage container 120, located at the intersection of the synchronized wall 126C and the rear wall 126B in the pivotal motion path of the storage container 120, can overcome one or more substructures 15. Referring to Figure 9, the front edge 129 is sufficiently separated from the substructures 15 by the gap 17 so that it can move along a continuous downward arc A around the pivot 34. When the storage container 120 is in the storage position, the arc A defined by the front edge 129 has its highest point HP at its initial position. When the storage container 120 is in the accessible position, the arc A has its lowest point LP when the front edge 129 is in its final position. The front edge 129 does not rise above the highest point HP when moving along the arc A. A non-limiting example of the vertical distance VD of the gap 17 is approximately 1 to 1.5 ft. The gap 17 also provides a display area or display zone above the substructure 15, which can be attached to the wall 12C or supported on the upper surface of the substructure 15, allowing the displayed items within the gap 17 to be visible.

[0091] Referring to Figures 8A to 8D, the storage container 120 extends between opposing walls 12C of the residential unit 12. The storage container 120 extends between opposing walls 12C of the residential unit 12 for the entire distance. One side wall 126A of the storage container 120 is directly adjacent to one of the opposing walls 12C, and the other side wall 126A is directly adjacent to the other opposing wall 12C. The side walls 126A of the storage container 120 define a plane parallel to the plane defined by the opposing walls 12C. In one embodiment, the storage container 120 extends between opposing walls 12C for a distance longer than 10 feet but shorter than the entire distance. In another embodiment, the storage container 120 extends between opposing walls 12C for a distance of approximately 14 feet. Referring to Figure 8A, when the storage container 120 is in the storage position, a portion of the overhead storage area 16 is hidden or occupied by the storage container 120, and the remaining unoccupied portion of the overhead storage area 16 is the gap 17.

[0092] Referring to Figures 8B and 8C, the storage container 120 has a long harmonizing wall 126C that extends between the opposing walls 12C of the residential dwelling unit 12 and covers the entire distance. The rear wall 126B is connected perpendicularly to the harmonizing wall 126C. Referring to Figure 8D, the rear wall 126B is substantially upright in the accessible position and substantially horizontal in the stored position (see Figure 8A). When the storage container 120 is in the accessible position, the height HBW of the rear wall 126B is defined (see Figure 8D). When the storage container 120 is in the stored position, the height HBW of the rear wall 126B is greater than the height HCW of the harmonizing wall 126C (see Figure 8A). In one possible non-limiting configuration, the height HBW of the rear wall 126B is approximately 3 feet (0.9 m), and the height HBC of the harmonizing wall 126C is approximately 1 to 1.5 feet (0.3 to 0.5 m). The difference in height between the rear wall 126B and the synchronized wall 126C, and the change in orientation of these walls 126B and 126C when moving between the storage position and the accessible position, help determine the configuration of the storage container 120 so that it becomes "higher" when the storage container 120 is in the accessible position, thus enabling the storage of tall items 11 (see Figure 8D), and also allowing the storage container 120 to have a small vertical profile so that it is less conspicuous in the storage position (see Figure 8A). Referring to Figure 8A, the difference in height between the rear wall 126B and the synchronized wall 126C allows the storage container 120 to "project" more than its height from the adjacent wall 12C in the storage position. The synchronized wall 126C can be the minimum dimension necessary to conceal the stored items 11 when the storage container 120 is in the storage position. Referring to Figure 8D, the storage container 120 has a barrier wall 126E extending vertically from the free end of the synchronized wall 126C into the interior 124 of the storage container. The barrier wall 126E has an upright orientation at the accessible position. The barrier wall 126E has a height less than the height HBW of the rear wall 126B as defined at the accessible position. The barrier wall 126E has a height less than one-third of the height HBW of the rear wall 126B as defined at the accessible position.In the accessible position, the barrier wall 126E forms a lip of the storage container 120 that helps hold the item 11 inside the storage container 124. In the storage position, the synchronized wall 126C is substantially upright, with its free upper end close to the ceiling 12D.

[0093] Referring to Figures 8A to 8D, the pivot arm 130 is similar to the pivot arm 30 described above, and therefore the description of the features and functions of the pivot arm 30 applies mutatis mutandis to the pivot arm 130. The storage unit 110 has three pivot arms 130. Parts of two of the pivot arms 130 form the side walls 126A of the storage container 120. Referring to Figures 8C and 8D, the third pivot arm 130 forms a dividing wall that divides the interior 124 of the storage container into two parts. Each part of the interior 124 of the storage container can be used in a different way. For example, one part of the interior 124 of the storage container can be used to store items 11, and the other part can be used as an office space including a desk and chair. Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, part of the third pivot arm 130 is exposed and, when in the storage position, looks like a dividing wall of the display area or zone above the substructure 15. The remainder of the third pivot arm 130 is hidden between the adjacent substructures 15. Referring to Figure 8B, when the storage container 120 is in an accessible position, the pivot 34 is located higher than the synchronization wall 126C of the storage container 120 when measured from the floor 12A. When the storage container 120 is in a stowed position, the pivot 34 is located lower than the synchronization wall 126C of the storage container 120 when measured from the floor 12A. The pivot 34 is located closer to the floor 12A than the top surface of all the substructures 15.

[0094] When the storage container 120 is in its storage position, it is positioned just below the ceiling 12D (see Figure 8A). The fact that the storage container 120 is so close to the ceiling 12D helps to make the storage container 120 appear as a fixed structure within the residential dwelling unit 12. When the storage container 120 is close to the wall 12C and the ceiling 12D in its storage position, the items 11 in the storage container 120 are hidden from view by the synchronized wall 126C, and the storage container 120 appears as part of the structure of the residential dwelling unit 12, thus contributing to the aesthetics of the residential dwelling unit 12.

[0095] The above description of the features, functions, and advantages of the residential dwelling unit 12, substructure 15, overhead storage area 16, and storage unit 10 related to Figures 1A to 7C applies mutatis mutandis to the residential dwelling unit 12, substructure 15, overhead storage area 16, and storage unit 110 shown in Figures 8A to 8D.

[0096] Based on the above, it can be understood that the storage units 10 and 100 have storage containers 20 and 120 that can be stored in an overhead position, can be lowered and raised, and have movement that changes the orientation of the storage containers 20 and 120 between a storage position and an accessible position. When used in a relatively small residential dwelling unit 12, the storage units 10 and 110 help minimize the space occupied by the items 11 that need to be stored. In the accessible position, the storage containers 20 and 120 can be lowered to a convenient height to facilitate loading and unloading, thereby eliminating the need for and inconvenience of a step stool, as well as the possibility of injury if the resident falls from the step stool. The storage units 10 and 110 help increase the usable living space in a relatively small residential dwelling unit 12 by assisting in the storage and easy retrieval of items 11. The storage units 10 and 110 can also enable the storage of heavy items 11 overhead that would otherwise be difficult or impossible for the resident to store overhead using only a step stool.

[0097] The embodiments described herein are non-limiting examples of possible implementations of the Art. Those skilled in the art will recognize, upon reviewing this disclosure, that modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the descriptive terms “horizontal,” “vertical,” and “upright” as used herein are not limited to features being perfectly horizontal or perfectly perpendicular to a horizontal plane. These features may deviate from horizontal and vertical as long as they remain substantially horizontal or vertical. Similarly, while storage units 10 and 110 are disclosed herein as part of a residential dwelling unit 12, it will be understood that storage units 10 and 110 can also be used in other types of building units, such as commercial or industrial units. Furthermore, storage units 10 and 110 may be provided as kits or pre-assembled parts and assembled and installed as part of a renovation within an existing residential dwelling unit 12. Those skilled in the art can make further modifications in light of this disclosure, and such modifications will also be considered within the scope of the Art.

Claims

1. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The storage container is located in front of the lower structure in the space below the overhead storage area, and the storage container is located in front of the lower structure in the accessible position. A residential dwelling unit.

2. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The system includes a lower structure located in the space below the overhead storage area, and the pivot is fixedly attached to the lower structure. A residential dwelling unit.

3. The pivot is positioned immediately next to one of the upright walls that divide the space. A residential dwelling unit according to claim 2.

4. The storage container is positioned above the lower structure and aligned with the lower structure in the storage position. A residential dwelling unit according to claim 1.

5. The substructure has one or more doors that open completely into the space, and the storage container is positioned in front of the substructure at the accessible position, and is spaced in front of the substructure by a distance greater than the dimensions of the corresponding door when the door of the substructure is fully open. A residential dwelling unit according to claim 1.

6. The pivot arm has a length determined between the first end and the second end, and this length is greater than the distance between the front surface of the substructure and the wall to which the substructure is in contact. A residential dwelling unit according to claim 1.

7. A residential dwelling according to claim 1, wherein a gap is defined between the substructure and the storage container when the storage container is in the storage position, and the gap is such that the storage container can move over the substructure when the storage container pivots from the storage position to the accessible position.

8. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The height of the pivot measured from the floor is less than 6 feet. A residential dwelling unit.

9. The storage container extends over the entire distance between the opposing walls of the residential unit, A residential dwelling unit according to claim 1, 2, or 8.

10. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The interconnecting walls of the storage container include a rear wall that is perpendicularly interconnected with the first wall, the rear wall being upright in the accessible position and substantially horizontal in the storage position, and the height of the rear wall in the accessible position being greater than the height of the first wall in the storage position. A residential dwelling unit.

11. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The interconnecting walls of the storage container include a rear wall perpendicularly interconnected with the first wall, the storage container has a barrier wall extending perpendicularly into the interior of the storage container from the free end of the first wall, the rear wall and the barrier wall are oriented upright at the accessible position, and the height of the barrier wall is less than half the height of the rear wall at the accessible position. A residential dwelling unit.

12. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The overhead structure is located close to the ceiling and has an upright visible wall, the overhead storage area is defined below the ceiling and adjacent to the overhead structure, and in the storage position, the storage container is placed in the overhead storage area adjacent to the overhead structure, the first wall is upright and continuous with the upright visible wall, and the first wall is visually synchronized with the upright visible wall. A residential dwelling unit.

13. One of the walls has a door that provides access to the space of the residential dwelling unit, and the storage container is positioned above the door in the storage location. A residential dwelling unit according to claim 1, 2, 8, 10, 11, or 12.

14. The storage container is positioned between the top and bottom of the door in the accessible location. A residential dwelling unit according to claim 13.

15. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. When the storage container is in the storage position, the pivot arm is upright, and the pivot is positioned below the storage container at a distance that is at least a portion of the length of the pivot arm determined between the first end and the second end. A residential dwelling unit.

16. A residential dwelling unit, The ceiling, floor, and vertical walls that divide the space, Overhead storage unit, The above-mentioned space below the ceiling is an overhead storage area, the rear upright wall of the upright wall that divides the space defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage unit is A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, which is pivotably mounted on a pivot that remains stationary within the residential dwelling unit, and which is pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to rise and fall between a storage position and an accessible position, The interconnecting walls include, one of which is a first wall, and the pivot arm forms at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls. In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The pivot arm has a body, and the body partially divides the inside of the storage container of the storage container near the second end of the pivot arm. A residential dwelling unit.

17. A method for storing items in an overhead storage area separated by a ceiling, floor, and upright walls, wherein the rear upright wall of the upright walls defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the method is Loading the items into a storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, wherein the storage container is mounted on an arm while the storage container is located below the overhead storage area and at a distance from the rear upright wall corresponding to the accessible position of the storage container, the arm forming at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls, the wall of the interconnecting wall of the storage container being horizontal and providing access to the interior of the storage container, The arm and the storage container are pivoted upward within the overhead storage area around a fixed pivot axis to change the orientation of the storage container, and the walls of the interconnecting walls of the storage container are made upright to block access to the inside of the storage container, wherein the storage container is located at a distance from the rear upright wall corresponding to the storage position of the storage container, and the distance from the rear upright wall corresponding to the storage position is smaller than the distance from the rear upright wall corresponding to the accessible position, and the arm and the storage container are pivoted. Includes, Loading the items into the storage container includes loading the items into the storage container while the storage container is located in front of the substructure positioned below the overhead storage area. method.

18. An overhead storage unit, An overhead storage area separated by a ceiling, floor, and upright walls, wherein the rear upright wall of the upright wall defines the rear boundary of the overhead storage area, and the overhead storage area is separated from the upright wall. A pivot arm extending from a first end to a second end, pivotably mounted on a fixed pivot, and pivotable around a pivot axis determined by the pivot, A storage container having interconnecting walls that define the interior of the storage container, one of which is a first wall, attached to the second end of the pivot arm, and pivotable together with the pivot arm to move up and down between a storage position and an accessible position, the pivot arm forming at least a portion of one of the interconnecting walls, Includes, In the aforementioned storage position, the storage container is positioned within the overhead storage area, the first wall is upright, and the storage container is positioned at a first distance from the rear upright wall. In the accessible position, the storage container is positioned below the overhead storage area, the first wall provides access to the interior of the storage container, and the storage container is positioned at a second distance greater than the first distance from the rear upright wall. The interconnecting walls of the storage container include a rear wall perpendicularly interconnected with the first wall, the storage container has a barrier wall extending perpendicularly into the interior of the storage container from the free end of the first wall, the rear wall and the barrier wall are oriented upright at the accessible position, and the height of the barrier wall is less than half the height of the rear wall at the accessible position. An overhead storage unit characterized by the following features.

Images