Depressurizing Coin and / or Stamp Display Case

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention comprise a decompressing display case for numismatists, philatelists, and others to store and display coins, stamps, or other collectable items. Embodiments of the display case include a built-in air-decompressing finger pump that can be pressed multiple times to express air out of the display case and thereby generate a relative low-level vacuum environment inside the display case to protect the contents from exposure to ambient air, thus deterring tarnish and / or aging of the contents.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 638,072, entitled “Depressurizing Coin and / or Stamp Display Case,” filed Apr. 24, 2024. This application also claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 718,785, entitled “Depressurizing Coin and / or Stamp Display Case,” filed Nov. 11, 2024.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to display cases for coins, stamps, and other collectable items.

[0003] More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to collectable item display cases that include a means for expressing air from the display case to create a relative vacuum inside the display case to protect the collectable items from continued exposure to ambient air.BACKGROUND

[0004] Generally speaking, in the field of coin collecting and stamp collecting, the more that a given coin or stamp (or other similar collectable item) can be preserved or protected against physical and / or chemical degradation and / or tarnishing, the more valuable it will be. For this reason, such collectors will often try to protect their collectable items, not only from physical damage due to handling and contact with other collectables, but also from chemical interaction with oxygen and other components of the ambient atmosphere.

[0005] With respect to coins, prolonged exposure to an unstable environment can cause coins of all types to develop haze, spots, encrustation, verdigris, corrosion and tarnish. All coin types can be affected by surface contaminants and negative environmental reactions. In many cases, coins have been stored or sold in soft plastic flips or mint packaging that contains polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), a chemical now known to slowly leach onto the surfaces of certain coins. If not safely removed, PVC and other residues will eventually result in permanent damage.

[0006] Some professional coin grading services will “conserve” a coin by cleaning it and then encapsulating it in a sealed, air-tight case. Such cases are generally not well sealed, however, and may not be capable of keeping ambient out air at all. Other such coin cases may be permanently heat sealed or ultrasonically welded, thereby preventing the collectable item from being easily removed, held, and / or examined closely by a collector.

[0007] In addition to protecting valuable collectables, it is also highly desirable to house such collectables in such a manner that they can be easily and conveniently examined in detail. Most numismatists and philatelists prefer to use a magnifying glass for such examination, particularly when examining an item for purchase. It is therefore desirable that a collectable storage and display case be sufficiently transparent to allow examination of a contained collectable without exposing the collectable to the ambient air.

[0008] Some attempts have been made to create a coin and / or stamp display case that can be compressed or squeezed to remove some internal air. U.S. Pat. No. 3,139,977 to Burdick is an example. In the '977 patent, a coin is placed in a circular coin-holder. Thereafter, a top lenticular (lentil-shaped) cover, which is made from a transparent synthetic resin, is placed over the coin. The lenticular cover is then pressed down against the coin, which causes most of the air inside the coin-holder to be squeezed out radially between the rim of the coin-holder and the lenticular cover, thereby creating a mild vacuum in the interior space. The invention described by the '977 works only minimally, however, because the same “seal” that allows air to exit the case also lets air in, since the seal is not designed to let air flow only in one direction.

[0009] Other types of display cases are believed to have been developed as well, but they are expensive, somewhat cumbersome to handle, do not include an inexpensive way of expressing air from the display case, and generally fail to exclude air or hold a vacuum.

[0010] The depressurizing collectable item display case disclosed herein addresses the various challenges related to the above-described technologies.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention comprise a depressurizing display case for numismatists, philatelists, and others to store and display coins, stamps, or other collectable items. Embodiments of the display case include a built-in air-decompressing finger pump that can be pressed multiple times to express air out of the display case and thereby generate a relative low-level vacuum environment inside the display case to protect the contents from exposure to ambient air, thus deterring tarnish and / or aging of the contents.

[0012] The display case may be sized to contain a single coin or multiple coins, or a single stamp or multiple stamps, or other collectable items. To facilitate both the display of a collectable item and the ability to retain a relative vacuum inside the display case for a reasonable time, the display case may be made of a material such as a transparent, non-reactive, non-PVC plastic.

[0013] A built-in air-decompressing (vacuum) finger pump, which may be molded into the display case, can be made of neoprene non-reactive rubber, silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”), or equivalent material, and may be constructed so as to change the internal volume of the air pumping chamber when pressed. Embodiments may also include an exit-only umbrella check valve that allows air to exit from the display case when the decompressing button is pressed, but not let air back in, thereby creating a relative, non-perfect vacuum inside the display case. A separate air-input umbrella check valve can allow air to enter the display case when the air-input valve is uncovered, thereby releasing the vacuum so the display case can be opened more easily. In embodiments, and to facilitate the creation, maintenance, and release of the non-perfect vacuum inside the display case, embodiments of the invention may include a seal-and-release flap comprising plugs that can be pressed into (or pulled out of) the umbrella check valves, to seal (or unseal) them.

[0014] Embodiments of the invention may be used to store and display coins and / or stamps, as well as other small items such as cards, jewelry, or other memorabilia.

[0015] Embodiments may also be designed to be inexpensive and thus reasonable to use for coin and / or stamp protection and marketability.

[0016] Embodiments of the invention may allow a coin or stamp collector to remove a collectable item for closer inspection or to verify authenticity or appreciate the item more intimately, and then place the item back into the display case. Embodiments may then allow the display case to be decompressed and resealed using the air-decompressing finger pump and the seal-and-release flap so as to continue preventing degradation and / or tarnishing of the displayed item.

[0017] Embodiments of the invention may comprise a coin-holder that can protect a coin and also clearly display both sides of the coin.

[0018] Embodiments of the invention may provide a coin-holder or stamp-holder of the type stated above, which can be quickly and easily set up for receiving and displaying coins and / or stamps of various sizes and which also is capable, when closed, of removing a substantial amount of air in order to significantly reduce degradation and / or tarnishing from exposure to ambient air.

[0019] Embodiments of the invention can also allow a coin collector or stamp collector to occasionally pump the air-decompressing finger pump to increase or restore the vacuum inside the display case.

[0020] Embodiments of the invention may include an elastic perimeter seal that can both retain a relative vacuum and retard the influx of external ambient air into a collectable item display case.

[0021] Embodiments of the invention allow a stored collectable item in a display case to be removed for closer inspection and then easily returned. Once the collectable item is returned to the display case and the display case is closed, then embodiments allow a simple, fully incorporated finger pump to be depressed manually to create an internal low vacuum pressure within the display case, to reduce exposure of ambient air to the collectable item.

[0022] The above summary of embodiments of the present invention has been provided to introduce certain concepts that are further described below in the Description of the Embodiments. The summarized embodiments are not necessarily representative of the claimed subject matter, nor do they limit or fully span the scope of features described in more detail below. They simply serve as an introduction to the subject matter of the various inventions.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] So that the manner in which the above recited summary features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only typical or representative embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention and this disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 1 provides an “exploded”3D illustration of the primary components of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position relative to the components.

[0025] FIG. 2 provides a 3D illustration of the top enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0026] FIG. 3 provides a 3D illustration of the top enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a low frontal position looking upward at the underside of the top enclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4 provides a 3D illustration of the base enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, including an exploded view of a one-way air input valve and a one-way air exit valve, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0028] FIG. 5 provides a 3D illustration of an elastic seal-and-release flap that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation, maintenance, and release of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.

[0029] FIG. 6 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a base enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, along with an unattached elastic seal-and-release flap, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0030] FIG. 7 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a base enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, with an attached elastic seal-and-release flap, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0031] FIG. 8 provides a 3D illustration and cross-section of a molded vacuum finger pump that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.DEFINITIONS

[0032] The following definitions are provided for introductory illustration and educational purposes, to help one of ordinary skill in the art understand, make, and use the invention. The definitions are not intended to be limiting.

[0033] Collectable Item: A collectable item, or alternatively, a collectable, is any item or object suitable for placing, storing, and / or displaying within the display area of an embodiment of the invention. Examples of collectable items include coins, stamps, small cards, jewelry, and other memorabilia.

[0034] TPE: The acronym “TPE” stands for “thermoplastic elastomer,” which is a class of copolymers or a physical mix of polymers (usually a plastic and a rubber) that consist of materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties.

[0035] Umbrella Check Valve: An umbrella check valve is an elastomeric valve that features a circular convex diaphragm shaped like an umbrella, which acts as a sealing disk to seal the valve. When mounted in an appropriate valve seat, the convex circular diaphragm can flatten over the entire valve seat, enabling the diaphragm to absorb pressure irregularities while successfully creating a barrier against any counter pressure. Once sufficient pressure in the head volume is created, the built-up force lifts the convex diaphragm from the seat and the umbrella valve allows forward flow, in a one-way stream. The design of the valve and seat allows for a predetermined flow rate and pressure. Any change in flow direction will trigger the umbrella valve to snap back into the seat, stopping backflow in the opposite direction. The flexible, elastic diaphragm and its pre-loaded convex shape together create a sealing force and barrier against the seat inside the valve. Umbrella check valves may also feature a central stem or axle (also like an umbrella) which can hold the diaphragm firmly in place, completely removing the need for any additional components like springs or central (circumferential) disc positioners.DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, and wherein the leftmost digit of each reference number refers to the drawing number of the figure in which the referenced part first appears.Overview

[0037] FIG. 1 provides an “exploded”3D illustration of the primary components of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position relative to the components.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, an embodiment of Depressurizing Display Case 100 may comprise a Top Enclosure 111, an Enclosure Seal 121, and a Base Frame 131. For purposes of illustration, Enclosure Seal 121 is shown as a separate component in FIG. 1, but in the manufacturing process, Enclosure Seal 121 is preferentially over-molded onto the Base Frame 131. Once the over-molding process is complete, the Enclosure Seal 121 and the Base Frame 131 will together comprise a single lower enclosure, which is shown as Base Enclosure 400 in FIG. 4.

[0039] Preferentially, the Depressurizing Display Case 100 may be approximately 2¼ inches wide, approximately 3¼ inches tall, and approximately ⅜ inches thick when assembled. The actual size of the Depressurizing Display Case 100 may vary from these measurements substantially, while maintaining a goal of both storing and viewing a collectable item such as a coin or stamp in a depressurizing display case.

[0040] Still referring to FIG. 1, Base Frame 131 may include Item Chamber 133, within which a coin, stamp, or other displayable collectable item (not shown) may be placed.

[0041] Once a collectable item has been suitably placed into Item Chamber 133 of Base Enclosure 400 (shown in FIG. 4), then the Top Enclosure 111 may be aligned over and pressed onto the Enclosure Seal 121 to create a relatively air-tight single-unit Display Case 100 with a collectable item inside Item Chamber 133.

[0042] The Top Enclosure 111 and the Base Frame 131 are preferentially made from clear polycarbonate, which is a transparent and durable thermoplastic polymer with exceptional impact resistance and heat resistance. However, other similar materials known to those skilled in the art may be used. For example, acrylic, nylon, polystyrene, and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), are also potentially useful alternative materials.

[0043] The surfaces of the Top Enclosure 111 that touch Enclosure Seal 121 should be as smooth as possible (for example, an A-1 surface finish) in order to produce a tight seal with Enclosure Seal 121 and therefore the longest-lasting vacuum within Display Case 100. The same goal of surface smoothness applies to portions of Base Frame 131 that touch and form a seal with the Seal-and-Release Flap 171, the Air Input Valve 151, and Air Exit Valve 153.

[0044] To achieve a smooth finish, a mold (or molding tool) for manufacturing Top Enclosure 111 and Base Frame 131 should be correspondingly smooth. Such molds may be made from various metals. Hardened steel, buffed with various grades of diamond buffing material appears to produce the smoothest surfaces, but other metals and buffing materials may be used with varying results.

[0045] The Enclosure Seal 121 may be made of any suitably compressible material, including neoprene non-reactive rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or silicone, and over-molded to the Base Enclosure Frame 131. Instead of TPE, Enclosure Seal 121 could also be formed from other similar materials known to those skilled in the art.

[0046] To more effectively secure and / or bond the Enclosure Seal 121 to the Base Frame 131, a plurality of over-mold anchoring slots and holes, such as Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 shown in FIG. 1, may be formed in the walls of Base Frame 131. During the process of over-molding Enclosure Seal 121 to the Base Frame 131, the Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 may be filled with the over-molding material of Enclosure Seal 121, which when cured, can facilitate a stronger and more stable bond between the Enclosure Seal 121 and the Base Frame 131, both during a “demolding” phase that occurs at the end of the over-molding process, and also during normal handling as a person opens and closes the Display Case 100. In other words, the Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 help the Enclosure Seal 121 to stay bonded and connected to Base Frame 131.

[0047] Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 may be formed in Base Frame 131 during a molding process, such as the one described above in the context of using hardened steel molds. Alternatively, Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 may be cut or milled into Base Frame 131.

[0048] Still referring to FIG. 1, Base Frame 131 may preferentially include an Air Input Valve 151, an Air Exit Valve 153, Air Transfer Hole(s) 155, a Vacuum Finger Pump 161, and a Valve Plug Flap 171.

[0049] Similar to Enclosure Seal 121, Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is also shown as a separate component, but in the manufacturing process, it is preferentially over-molded into the Finger Pump Frame 141, which surrounds Finger Pump Opening 143 of Base Frame 131. The process of over-molding the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 onto Finger Pump Frame 141 is similar to the process of over-molding Enclosure Seal 121 onto Base Frame 131.

[0050] Similar to the process of more effectively securing and / or bonding the Enclosure Seal 121 to the Base Frame 131 using a plurality of over-mold anchoring slots and holes, the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 may be more effectively secured and / or bonded to the Finger Pump Frame 141 using a using a plurality of over-mold anchoring slots and holes, such as Anchoring Slots 135.

[0051] Still referring to FIG. 1, Display Case 100 may also include a Seal-and-Release Flap 171 to facilitate the expressing of air away from the Item Chamber 133 during the creation of a relatively low-level vacuum environment to protect the contents of Item Chamber 133 from exposure to ambient air, thus deterring tarnish and / or aging of a collectable item.

[0052] The function of Air Input Valve 151, Air Exit Valve 153, Air Transfer Hole(s) 155, and Seal-and-Release Flap 171 will be explained in further detail below.The Top Enclosure

[0053] FIG. 2 provides a 3D illustration of the Top Enclosure 111 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0054] Top Enclosure 111 was introduced in FIG. 1. Here in FIG. 2, the primary features of Top Enclosure 111 are shown. First, it is important to notice that Top Enclosure 111 is generally divided into two sections: an Item Viewing Area 205 and an Information Viewing Area 210.

[0055] Item Viewing Area 205 allows a collectable item stored in Display Case 100 to be viewed and examined. Item Viewing Area 205 is shown as a circular area that may hold and / or support, as well as allow viewing of a collectable item (not shown) placed in the Item Chamber 133 shown in FIG. 1. Item Viewing Area 205 may be other shapes as well. For example, to more appropriately display stamps or other non-circular items, Item Viewing Area 205 may be shaped like a rectangle.

[0056] Information Viewing Area 210 is a section of Top Enclosure 111 that allows a paper or card (or other material) of suitable size to be placed there to provide a printed explanation of the collectable item being displayed in the Item Viewing Area 205. Information Viewing Area 210 may be preferentially shaped like a rectangle.

[0057] Both the Item Viewing Area 205 and the Information Viewing Area 210 are preferentially enclosed on the top surface by a flat, clear polycarbonate cover that is molded as a single unit along with all other features of the Top Enclosure 111. In other words, Top Enclosure 111 is preferentially a unitary piece of clear molded polycarbonate with a continuous top surface that includes both the Item Viewing Area 205 and the Information Viewing Area 210.

[0058] Top Enclosure 111 may be framed by Top Side Walls 220 that surround the perimeter. Top Side Walls 220 may be shaped and sized to match and receive the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 shown in FIG. 1.

[0059] At the apex of the Top Side Walls 220 may be a Top Stacking Ridge 230 (which is preferentially also part of the unitary piece of clear molded polycarbonate that forms the Top Enclosure 111). Top Stacking Ridge 230 may run along the top-side outer perimeter of Top Enclosure 111 to facilitate stable stacking and organizing of multiple Display Cases 100.

[0060] Finally, Top Enclosure 111 may include one or more Notches 240 to facilitate opening the Display Case 100 by allowing a collector to wedge a fingernail or a tool, such as a flathead screwdriver, into Notch 240 to pry the Top Enclosure 111 away from Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121, to facilitate accessing or placing a collectable item in the Item Chamber 133 (shown in FIG. 1) and viewed through Item Viewing Area 205.

[0061] FIG. 3 provides a 3D illustration of the Top Enclosure 111 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a low frontal position looking upward at the underside of the top enclosure.

[0062] As was explained above with respect to FIG. 2, FIG. 3 shows Top Enclosure 111 as being generally divided into two sections: an Item Viewing Area 205 and an Information Viewing Area 210. Viewing the Top Enclosure 111 from the underside, as shown in FIG. 3, reveals that Top Enclosure 111 may comprise a continuous Item Chamber Wall 310 that surrounds the Item Viewing Area 205. Top Enclosure 111 may also comprise a continuous Information Viewing Area Wall 320 that surrounds the Information Viewing Area 210.

[0063] Top Side Wall 220, Item Chamber Wall 310, and Information Viewing Area Wall 320 are all preferentially sized, located, and constructed to form Channels 350 between the walls (Top Side Wall 220, Item Chamber Wall 310, and Information Viewing Area Wall 320) such that the Channels 350 align with and receive the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 (shown in FIG. 1) to create relatively air-tight seals around the Item Viewing Area 205 and the Information Viewing Area 210.

[0064] Note that Item Viewing Area 205 of Top Enclosure 111 generally overlays and aligns with Item Chamber 133 of Base Frame 131. Similarly, Information Viewing Area 210 of Top Enclosure 111 generally overlays and aligns with the portion of Base Frame 131 that contains the Finger Pump Frame 141, Air Input Valve Frame 451 (shown in FIG. 4), and Air Exit Valve Frame 453 (also shown in FIG. 4). This overlaying and aligning of certain component parts of Top Enclosure 111 with Enclosure Seal 121 enables a collectable item that is placed within Item Chamber 133 to be hermetically sealed from external ambient air, with the exception of Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 that are explained in more detail with respect to FIG. 4.The Base Enclosure

[0065] FIG. 4 provides a 3D illustration of the Base Enclosure 400 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, including an exploded view of a one-way air input valve and a one-way air exit valve, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0066] As initially summarized with reference to FIG. 1, during the manufacturing process of Depressurizing Display Case 100, Enclosure Seal 121 will be preferentially over-molded onto the Base Frame 131 to create a single lower enclosure shown as Base Enclosure 400 in FIG. 4.

[0067] Similarly, during the manufacturing process of Depressurizing Display Case 100, Vacuum Finger Pump 161 will be preferentially over-molded into the Finger Pump Frame 141, which surrounds Finger Pump Opening 143 of Base Frame 131 (in FIG. 1). The process of over-molding the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 onto Finger Pump Frame 141 is similar to the process of over-molding Enclosure Seal 121 onto Base Frame 131.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 4 and other figures, Vacuum Finger Pump 161 may have a generally oval shape that is approximately 1¼ inches long, approximately ⅝ inches wide, and approximately ¼ inches tall. However, other sizes and shapes known and / or available to a person skilled in the art are possible.

[0069] As discussed above, the Base Enclosure 400 may comprise the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 that has been over-molded onto Base Frame 131. Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 may have Raised Sealing Ridges 421, which may help to facilitate a more effective seal against ambient air when Top Enclosure 111 is aligned over and pressed onto the Base Enclosure 400 to create a relatively air-tight single-unit Display Case 100.

[0070] Similarly, the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 may also include Inner Sealing Wall and Ridge 441, which may facilitate the isolation of Item Chamber 133 (shown in FIG. 1) from the ambient air and from the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 and related valves within Vacuum Pumping Area 450 that work together to create a relative vacuum within Item Chamber 133.

[0071] For general illustration purposes, FIG. 4 shows a generic Collectable Item 401 representing a large coin that has been placed in Item Chamber 133 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0072] Base Enclosure 400 may comprise an Air Input Valve Frame 451 for holding a one-way Air Input Valve 151, and may further comprise an Air Exit Valve Frame 453 for holding a one-way Air Exit Valve 153. Preferentially, both Air Input Valve 151 and Air Exit Valve 153 may be umbrella check valves, as that term is defined and explained above.

[0073] When Air Input Valve 151 is installed (typically press-fit) into circular seats within Air Input Valve Frame 451, the installation may form an air-tight seal between them. Similarly, when Air Exit Valve 153 is installed (typically press-fit) into circular seats within Air Exit Valve Frame 453, the installation may form an air-tight seal between them.

[0074] The arrows shown in FIG. 4 next to Air Input Valve 151 and Air Exit Valve 153 indicate the direction of air flow that each respective valve will permit. Thus, Air Input Valve 151 allows air to flow from the underside of Base Enclosure 400 into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 occupied by the Vacuum Finger Pump 161. Air Exit Valve 153 allows air to flow from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 occupied by the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 to the underside of Base Enclosure 400.

[0075] The flow of air on the underside of Base Enclosure 400 will be preferentially determined by the Seal-and-Release Flap 171, which is explained below with respect to FIG. 5.

[0076] Finally, FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of Air Transfer Hole(s) 155. As shown in the exploded close-up area of FIG. 4, as many as six (6) such Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 may be used. However, as shown in FIG. 4, only one of the Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 may go entirely through Base Frame 131. Other Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 may be opened (typically by drilling) during the manufacturing process to permit more air to flow and therefore a vacuum to be created faster within Item Chamber 133 (of FIG. 1) than if fewer Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 were opened through Base Frame 131. The decision about how many open Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 to use is dependent on a variety of factors, including the sealing ability of Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121, the volume of air that Vacuum Finger Pump 161 can move, and the volume of air that Air Input Valve 151 and Air Exit Valve 153 can move.The Seal-and-Release Flap

[0077] FIG. 5 provides a 3D illustration of an elastic Seal-and-Release Flap 171 that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation, maintenance, and release of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.

[0078] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may comprise an elongated flap of elastomeric material that includes (a) two plugs connected by an air channel that together allow air to flow from Item Chamber 133 (FIG. 1) into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 (FIG. 4) when Vacuum Finger Pump 161 (FIGS. 1 and 4) is released and returns to its default position, “pulling” air from the Item Chamber 133 in the process; and (b) a third plug that allows air to escape from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 when Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is depressed.

[0079] More specifically, the Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may comprise an elongated flap of elastomeric material that is connected to and supports an Air Hole Plug 511, an Air Channel 521, an Air Input Valve Plug 531, an Air Exit Valve Plug 541, a Pull Flap 551, and a Bend Point 561.

[0080] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may be configured so that its plugs line up with the Air Valves and Air Transfer Holes that are components of Base Enclosure 400. Thus, Air Hole Plug 511 may be configured to line up with the Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 on the underside of Base Enclosure 400 (FIG. 4). Air Channel 521 may connect Air Hole Plug 511 with Air Input Valve Plug 531. Air Input Valve Plug 531 may be configured to line up with Air Input Valve 151 (FIG. 4) on the underside of Base Enclosure 400. And Air Exit Valve Plug 541 may be configured to line up with Air Exit Valve 153 (FIG. 4) on the underside of Base Enclosure 400.

[0081] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may also have a Pull Flap 551 that enables an item collector to pull the Air Exit Valve Plug 541 away from Air Exit Valve 153 and thereby let air be expelled from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 in response to the air-pumping action of Vacuum Finger Pump 161 when it is depressed. When Pull Flap 551 is pulled and Air Exit Valve Plug 541 is unseated, Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may naturally bend at Bend Point 561 in order to let Air Input Valve Plug 531 remain inserted while Air Exit Valve Plug 541 is unplugged.

[0082] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 performs the following functions: (1) it permits air to flow from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 to the outside environment through Air Exit Valve 153 when Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is depressed and when Air Exit Valve Plug 541 is pulled away from Air Exit Valve 153; and (2) it permits air to flow from Item Chamber 133 (FIG. 1) through Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 (FIGS. 1 and 4), along Air Channel 521 which connects Air Hole Plug 511 to Air Input Valve Plug 531, and then through Air Input Valve 151 (FIGS. 1 and 4) into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 in response to the vacuum-creating pumping action of Vacuum Finger Pump 161 as it returns to its default position after being depressed.

[0083] Pressing and releasing Vacuum Finger Pump 161 (FIG. 4) multiple times can increase the vacuum within Item Chamber 133.

[0084] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may be constructed of the same TPE material as the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 (shown in FIG. 1), though other similar materials, including non-reactive neoprene rubber or silicone, are possible.Underside of the Base Enclosure

[0085] FIG. 6 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a Base Enclosure 400 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, along with an unattached elastic Seal-and-Release Flap 171, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0086] The underside of Base Enclosure 400 may include a Base Stacking Ridge 630 around the lower perimeter, configured to align with the Top Stacking Ridge 230 of the Top Enclosure 111 (FIG. 2) to facilitate stable stacking and organizing of multiple Display Cases 100.

[0087] Base Enclosure 400 may also include on its underside a Base Item Viewing Area 605 that permits the underside of Collectable Item 401 (FIG. 4) to be viewed.

[0088] The Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is accessible from the underside of Base Enclosure 400. When pressed, the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 may compress the air inside the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 (which is coincident with and shares air with the Information Viewing Area 210 of FIGS. 2 and 3). The compressed air can then be expressed through Air Exit Valve 153 if the Air Exit Valve Plug 541 (FIG. 5) of the Seal-and-Release Flap 171 has been pulled open and flexed at Bend Point 561 (FIG. 5). Then, as Vacuum Finger Pump 161 returns to its default shape, it will create a vacuum in the Vacuum Pumping Area 450, which will cause air to be pulled from the Item Chamber 133 (FIG. 1) through Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 (FIGS. 1 and 4), along Air Channel 521 which connects Air Hole Plug 511 to Air Input Valve Plug 531, and then through Air Input Valve 151 (FIGS. 1 and 4) into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 in response to the vacuum-creating pumping action of Vacuum Finger Pump 161 as it returns to its default shape after being depressed.

[0089] FIG. 7 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a Base Enclosure 400 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, with an attached elastic Seal-and-Release Flap 171, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0090] The items identified in FIG. 7 are the same as those in FIG. 6. The only difference is that Seal-and-Release Flap 171 is shown in FIG. 7 as being fully attached to Base Enclosure 400.Vacuum Finger Pump

[0091] FIG. 8 provides a 3D illustration and cross-section of a molded Vacuum Finger Pump 161 that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.

[0092] The cross-section of the Vacuum Finger Pump 161—shown on the right side of FIG. 8—shows Thickened Inner Walls 810 of the Vacuum Finger Pump 161, which may be purposely thickened during the over-molding process so as to create a stronger resistance to deflection-depression and therefore create a stronger vacuum within Display Case 100 as the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 returns to its default shape after being depressed.

[0093] Preferentially, with approximately 3-4 pumps of the Vacuum Finger Pump 161, embodiments of the present invention will create a vacuum inside the Item Chamber 133 equivalent to a displacement of approximately 7-8 inches of water.CONCLUSION

[0094] The foregoing disclosure has been set forth merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. It will be appreciated that modifications, variations, and additional embodiments are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention. Since modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to persons skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0036]Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, and wherein the leftmost digit of each reference number refers to the drawing number of the figure in which the referenced part first appears.

Overview

[0037]FIG. 1 provides an “exploded”3D illustration of the primary components of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position relative to the components.

[0038]As shown in FIG. 1, an embodiment of Depressurizing Display Case 100 may comprise a Top Enclosure 111, an Enclosure Seal 121, and a Base Frame 131. For purposes of illustration, Enclosure Seal 121 is shown as a separate component in FIG. 1, but in the manufacturing process, Enclosure Seal 121 is preferentially over-molded onto the Base Frame 131. Once the over-molding process is complete, the Enclosure Seal 121 and the Base Frame 131 will together...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 638,072, entitled “Depressurizing Coin and / or Stamp Display Case,” filed Apr. 24, 2024. This application also claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 718,785, entitled “Depressurizing Coin and / or Stamp Display Case,” filed Nov. 11, 2024.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to display cases for coins, stamps, and other collectable items.

[0003] More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to collectable item display cases that include a means for expressing air from the display case to create a relative vacuum inside the display case to protect the collectable items from continued exposure to ambient air.BACKGROUND

[0004] Generally speaking, in the field of coin collecting and stamp collecting, the more that a given coin or stamp (or other similar collectable item) can be preserved or protected against physical and / or chemical degradation and / or tarnishing, the more valuable it will be. For this reason, such collectors will often try to protect their collectable items, not only from physical damage due to handling and contact with other collectables, but also from chemical interaction with oxygen and other components of the ambient atmosphere.

[0005] With respect to coins, prolonged exposure to an unstable environment can cause coins of all types to develop haze, spots, encrustation, verdigris, corrosion and tarnish. All coin types can be affected by surface contaminants and negative environmental reactions. In many cases, coins have been stored or sold in soft plastic flips or mint packaging that contains polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), a chemical now known to slowly leach onto the surfaces of certain coins. If not safely removed, PVC and other residues will eventually result in permanent damage.

[0006] Some professional coin grading services will “conserve” a coin by cleaning it and then encapsulating it in a sealed, air-tight case. Such cases are generally not well sealed, however, and may not be capable of keeping ambient out air at all. Other such coin cases may be permanently heat sealed or ultrasonically welded, thereby preventing the collectable item from being easily removed, held, and / or examined closely by a collector.

[0007] In addition to protecting valuable collectables, it is also highly desirable to house such collectables in such a manner that they can be easily and conveniently examined in detail. Most numismatists and philatelists prefer to use a magnifying glass for such examination, particularly when examining an item for purchase. It is therefore desirable that a collectable storage and display case be sufficiently transparent to allow examination of a contained collectable without exposing the collectable to the ambient air.

[0008] Some attempts have been made to create a coin and / or stamp display case that can be compressed or squeezed to remove some internal air. U.S. Pat. No. 3,139,977 to Burdick is an example. In the '977 patent, a coin is placed in a circular coin-holder. Thereafter, a top lenticular (lentil-shaped) cover, which is made from a transparent synthetic resin, is placed over the coin. The lenticular cover is then pressed down against the coin, which causes most of the air inside the coin-holder to be squeezed out radially between the rim of the coin-holder and the lenticular cover, thereby creating a mild vacuum in the interior space. The invention described by the '977 works only minimally, however, because the same “seal” that allows air to exit the case also lets air in, since the seal is not designed to let air flow only in one direction.

[0009] Other types of display cases are believed to have been developed as well, but they are expensive, somewhat cumbersome to handle, do not include an inexpensive way of expressing air from the display case, and generally fail to exclude air or hold a vacuum.

[0010] The depressurizing collectable item display case disclosed herein addresses the various challenges related to the above-described technologies.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention comprise a depressurizing display case for numismatists, philatelists, and others to store and display coins, stamps, or other collectable items. Embodiments of the display case include a built-in air-decompressing finger pump that can be pressed multiple times to express air out of the display case and thereby generate a relative low-level vacuum environment inside the display case to protect the contents from exposure to ambient air, thus deterring tarnish and / or aging of the contents.

[0012] The display case may be sized to contain a single coin or multiple coins, or a single stamp or multiple stamps, or other collectable items. To facilitate both the display of a collectable item and the ability to retain a relative vacuum inside the display case for a reasonable time, the display case may be made of a material such as a transparent, non-reactive, non-PVC plastic.

[0013] A built-in air-decompressing (vacuum) finger pump, which may be molded into the display case, can be made of neoprene non-reactive rubber, silicone, a thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”), or equivalent material, and may be constructed so as to change the internal volume of the air pumping chamber when pressed. Embodiments may also include an exit-only umbrella check valve that allows air to exit from the display case when the decompressing button is pressed, but not let air back in, thereby creating a relative, non-perfect vacuum inside the display case. A separate air-input umbrella check valve can allow air to enter the display case when the air-input valve is uncovered, thereby releasing the vacuum so the display case can be opened more easily. In embodiments, and to facilitate the creation, maintenance, and release of the non-perfect vacuum inside the display case, embodiments of the invention may include a seal-and-release flap comprising plugs that can be pressed into (or pulled out of) the umbrella check valves, to seal (or unseal) them.

[0014] Embodiments of the invention may be used to store and display coins and / or stamps, as well as other small items such as cards, jewelry, or other memorabilia.

[0015] Embodiments may also be designed to be inexpensive and thus reasonable to use for coin and / or stamp protection and marketability.

[0016] Embodiments of the invention may allow a coin or stamp collector to remove a collectable item for closer inspection or to verify authenticity or appreciate the item more intimately, and then place the item back into the display case. Embodiments may then allow the display case to be decompressed and resealed using the air-decompressing finger pump and the seal-and-release flap so as to continue preventing degradation and / or tarnishing of the displayed item.

[0017] Embodiments of the invention may comprise a coin-holder that can protect a coin and also clearly display both sides of the coin.

[0018] Embodiments of the invention may provide a coin-holder or stamp-holder of the type stated above, which can be quickly and easily set up for receiving and displaying coins and / or stamps of various sizes and which also is capable, when closed, of removing a substantial amount of air in order to significantly reduce degradation and / or tarnishing from exposure to ambient air.

[0019] Embodiments of the invention can also allow a coin collector or stamp collector to occasionally pump the air-decompressing finger pump to increase or restore the vacuum inside the display case.

[0020] Embodiments of the invention may include an elastic perimeter seal that can both retain a relative vacuum and retard the influx of external ambient air into a collectable item display case.

[0021] Embodiments of the invention allow a stored collectable item in a display case to be removed for closer inspection and then easily returned. Once the collectable item is returned to the display case and the display case is closed, then embodiments allow a simple, fully incorporated finger pump to be depressed manually to create an internal low vacuum pressure within the display case, to reduce exposure of ambient air to the collectable item.

[0022] The above summary of embodiments of the present invention has been provided to introduce certain concepts that are further described below in the Description of the Embodiments. The summarized embodiments are not necessarily representative of the claimed subject matter, nor do they limit or fully span the scope of features described in more detail below. They simply serve as an introduction to the subject matter of the various inventions.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] So that the manner in which the above recited summary features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only typical or representative embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention and this disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 1 provides an “exploded”3D illustration of the primary components of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position relative to the components.

[0025] FIG. 2 provides a 3D illustration of the top enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0026] FIG. 3 provides a 3D illustration of the top enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a low frontal position looking upward at the underside of the top enclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4 provides a 3D illustration of the base enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, including an exploded view of a one-way air input valve and a one-way air exit valve, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0028] FIG. 5 provides a 3D illustration of an elastic seal-and-release flap that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation, maintenance, and release of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.

[0029] FIG. 6 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a base enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, along with an unattached elastic seal-and-release flap, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0030] FIG. 7 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a base enclosure of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, with an attached elastic seal-and-release flap, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0031] FIG. 8 provides a 3D illustration and cross-section of a molded vacuum finger pump that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.DEFINITIONS

[0032] The following definitions are provided for introductory illustration and educational purposes, to help one of ordinary skill in the art understand, make, and use the invention. The definitions are not intended to be limiting.

[0033] Collectable Item: A collectable item, or alternatively, a collectable, is any item or object suitable for placing, storing, and / or displaying within the display area of an embodiment of the invention. Examples of collectable items include coins, stamps, small cards, jewelry, and other memorabilia.

[0034] TPE: The acronym “TPE” stands for “thermoplastic elastomer,” which is a class of copolymers or a physical mix of polymers (usually a plastic and a rubber) that consist of materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties.

[0035] Umbrella Check Valve: An umbrella check valve is an elastomeric valve that features a circular convex diaphragm shaped like an umbrella, which acts as a sealing disk to seal the valve. When mounted in an appropriate valve seat, the convex circular diaphragm can flatten over the entire valve seat, enabling the diaphragm to absorb pressure irregularities while successfully creating a barrier against any counter pressure. Once sufficient pressure in the head volume is created, the built-up force lifts the convex diaphragm from the seat and the umbrella valve allows forward flow, in a one-way stream. The design of the valve and seat allows for a predetermined flow rate and pressure. Any change in flow direction will trigger the umbrella valve to snap back into the seat, stopping backflow in the opposite direction. The flexible, elastic diaphragm and its pre-loaded convex shape together create a sealing force and barrier against the seat inside the valve. Umbrella check valves may also feature a central stem or axle (also like an umbrella) which can hold the diaphragm firmly in place, completely removing the need for any additional components like springs or central (circumferential) disc positioners.DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, and wherein the leftmost digit of each reference number refers to the drawing number of the figure in which the referenced part first appears.Overview

[0037] FIG. 1 provides an “exploded”3D illustration of the primary components of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position relative to the components.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, an embodiment of Depressurizing Display Case 100 may comprise a Top Enclosure 111, an Enclosure Seal 121, and a Base Frame 131. For purposes of illustration, Enclosure Seal 121 is shown as a separate component in FIG. 1, but in the manufacturing process, Enclosure Seal 121 is preferentially over-molded onto the Base Frame 131. Once the over-molding process is complete, the Enclosure Seal 121 and the Base Frame 131 will together comprise a single lower enclosure, which is shown as Base Enclosure 400 in FIG. 4.

[0039] Preferentially, the Depressurizing Display Case 100 may be approximately 2¼ inches wide, approximately 3¼ inches tall, and approximately ⅜ inches thick when assembled. The actual size of the Depressurizing Display Case 100 may vary from these measurements substantially, while maintaining a goal of both storing and viewing a collectable item such as a coin or stamp in a depressurizing display case.

[0040] Still referring to FIG. 1, Base Frame 131 may include Item Chamber 133, within which a coin, stamp, or other displayable collectable item (not shown) may be placed.

[0041] Once a collectable item has been suitably placed into Item Chamber 133 of Base Enclosure 400 (shown in FIG. 4), then the Top Enclosure 111 may be aligned over and pressed onto the Enclosure Seal 121 to create a relatively air-tight single-unit Display Case 100 with a collectable item inside Item Chamber 133.

[0042] The Top Enclosure 111 and the Base Frame 131 are preferentially made from clear polycarbonate, which is a transparent and durable thermoplastic polymer with exceptional impact resistance and heat resistance. However, other similar materials known to those skilled in the art may be used. For example, acrylic, nylon, polystyrene, and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), are also potentially useful alternative materials.

[0043] The surfaces of the Top Enclosure 111 that touch Enclosure Seal 121 should be as smooth as possible (for example, an A-1 surface finish) in order to produce a tight seal with Enclosure Seal 121 and therefore the longest-lasting vacuum within Display Case 100. The same goal of surface smoothness applies to portions of Base Frame 131 that touch and form a seal with the Seal-and-Release Flap 171, the Air Input Valve 151, and Air Exit Valve 153.

[0044] To achieve a smooth finish, a mold (or molding tool) for manufacturing Top Enclosure 111 and Base Frame 131 should be correspondingly smooth. Such molds may be made from various metals. Hardened steel, buffed with various grades of diamond buffing material appears to produce the smoothest surfaces, but other metals and buffing materials may be used with varying results.

[0045] The Enclosure Seal 121 may be made of any suitably compressible material, including neoprene non-reactive rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or silicone, and over-molded to the Base Enclosure Frame 131. Instead of TPE, Enclosure Seal 121 could also be formed from other similar materials known to those skilled in the art.

[0046] To more effectively secure and / or bond the Enclosure Seal 121 to the Base Frame 131, a plurality of over-mold anchoring slots and holes, such as Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 shown in FIG. 1, may be formed in the walls of Base Frame 131. During the process of over-molding Enclosure Seal 121 to the Base Frame 131, the Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 may be filled with the over-molding material of Enclosure Seal 121, which when cured, can facilitate a stronger and more stable bond between the Enclosure Seal 121 and the Base Frame 131, both during a “demolding” phase that occurs at the end of the over-molding process, and also during normal handling as a person opens and closes the Display Case 100. In other words, the Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 help the Enclosure Seal 121 to stay bonded and connected to Base Frame 131.

[0047] Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 may be formed in Base Frame 131 during a molding process, such as the one described above in the context of using hardened steel molds. Alternatively, Anchoring Slots 135 and Anchoring Holes 137 may be cut or milled into Base Frame 131.

[0048] Still referring to FIG. 1, Base Frame 131 may preferentially include an Air Input Valve 151, an Air Exit Valve 153, Air Transfer Hole(s) 155, a Vacuum Finger Pump 161, and a Valve Plug Flap 171.

[0049] Similar to Enclosure Seal 121, Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is also shown as a separate component, but in the manufacturing process, it is preferentially over-molded into the Finger Pump Frame 141, which surrounds Finger Pump Opening 143 of Base Frame 131. The process of over-molding the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 onto Finger Pump Frame 141 is similar to the process of over-molding Enclosure Seal 121 onto Base Frame 131.

[0050] Similar to the process of more effectively securing and / or bonding the Enclosure Seal 121 to the Base Frame 131 using a plurality of over-mold anchoring slots and holes, the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 may be more effectively secured and / or bonded to the Finger Pump Frame 141 using a using a plurality of over-mold anchoring slots and holes, such as Anchoring Slots 135.

[0051] Still referring to FIG. 1, Display Case 100 may also include a Seal-and-Release Flap 171 to facilitate the expressing of air away from the Item Chamber 133 during the creation of a relatively low-level vacuum environment to protect the contents of Item Chamber 133 from exposure to ambient air, thus deterring tarnish and / or aging of a collectable item.

[0052] The function of Air Input Valve 151, Air Exit Valve 153, Air Transfer Hole(s) 155, and Seal-and-Release Flap 171 will be explained in further detail below.The Top Enclosure

[0053] FIG. 2 provides a 3D illustration of the Top Enclosure 111 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0054] Top Enclosure 111 was introduced in FIG. 1. Here in FIG. 2, the primary features of Top Enclosure 111 are shown. First, it is important to notice that Top Enclosure 111 is generally divided into two sections: an Item Viewing Area 205 and an Information Viewing Area 210.

[0055] Item Viewing Area 205 allows a collectable item stored in Display Case 100 to be viewed and examined. Item Viewing Area 205 is shown as a circular area that may hold and / or support, as well as allow viewing of a collectable item (not shown) placed in the Item Chamber 133 shown in FIG. 1. Item Viewing Area 205 may be other shapes as well. For example, to more appropriately display stamps or other non-circular items, Item Viewing Area 205 may be shaped like a rectangle.

[0056] Information Viewing Area 210 is a section of Top Enclosure 111 that allows a paper or card (or other material) of suitable size to be placed there to provide a printed explanation of the collectable item being displayed in the Item Viewing Area 205. Information Viewing Area 210 may be preferentially shaped like a rectangle.

[0057] Both the Item Viewing Area 205 and the Information Viewing Area 210 are preferentially enclosed on the top surface by a flat, clear polycarbonate cover that is molded as a single unit along with all other features of the Top Enclosure 111. In other words, Top Enclosure 111 is preferentially a unitary piece of clear molded polycarbonate with a continuous top surface that includes both the Item Viewing Area 205 and the Information Viewing Area 210.

[0058] Top Enclosure 111 may be framed by Top Side Walls 220 that surround the perimeter. Top Side Walls 220 may be shaped and sized to match and receive the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 shown in FIG. 1.

[0059] At the apex of the Top Side Walls 220 may be a Top Stacking Ridge 230 (which is preferentially also part of the unitary piece of clear molded polycarbonate that forms the Top Enclosure 111). Top Stacking Ridge 230 may run along the top-side outer perimeter of Top Enclosure 111 to facilitate stable stacking and organizing of multiple Display Cases 100.

[0060] Finally, Top Enclosure 111 may include one or more Notches 240 to facilitate opening the Display Case 100 by allowing a collector to wedge a fingernail or a tool, such as a flathead screwdriver, into Notch 240 to pry the Top Enclosure 111 away from Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121, to facilitate accessing or placing a collectable item in the Item Chamber 133 (shown in FIG. 1) and viewed through Item Viewing Area 205.

[0061] FIG. 3 provides a 3D illustration of the Top Enclosure 111 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a low frontal position looking upward at the underside of the top enclosure.

[0062] As was explained above with respect to FIG. 2, FIG. 3 shows Top Enclosure 111 as being generally divided into two sections: an Item Viewing Area 205 and an Information Viewing Area 210. Viewing the Top Enclosure 111 from the underside, as shown in FIG. 3, reveals that Top Enclosure 111 may comprise a continuous Item Chamber Wall 310 that surrounds the Item Viewing Area 205. Top Enclosure 111 may also comprise a continuous Information Viewing Area Wall 320 that surrounds the Information Viewing Area 210.

[0063] Top Side Wall 220, Item Chamber Wall 310, and Information Viewing Area Wall 320 are all preferentially sized, located, and constructed to form Channels 350 between the walls (Top Side Wall 220, Item Chamber Wall 310, and Information Viewing Area Wall 320) such that the Channels 350 align with and receive the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 (shown in FIG. 1) to create relatively air-tight seals around the Item Viewing Area 205 and the Information Viewing Area 210.

[0064] Note that Item Viewing Area 205 of Top Enclosure 111 generally overlays and aligns with Item Chamber 133 of Base Frame 131. Similarly, Information Viewing Area 210 of Top Enclosure 111 generally overlays and aligns with the portion of Base Frame 131 that contains the Finger Pump Frame 141, Air Input Valve Frame 451 (shown in FIG. 4), and Air Exit Valve Frame 453 (also shown in FIG. 4). This overlaying and aligning of certain component parts of Top Enclosure 111 with Enclosure Seal 121 enables a collectable item that is placed within Item Chamber 133 to be hermetically sealed from external ambient air, with the exception of Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 that are explained in more detail with respect to FIG. 4.The Base Enclosure

[0065] FIG. 4 provides a 3D illustration of the Base Enclosure 400 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, including an exploded view of a one-way air input valve and a one-way air exit valve, as viewed from a high frontal position.

[0066] As initially summarized with reference to FIG. 1, during the manufacturing process of Depressurizing Display Case 100, Enclosure Seal 121 will be preferentially over-molded onto the Base Frame 131 to create a single lower enclosure shown as Base Enclosure 400 in FIG. 4.

[0067] Similarly, during the manufacturing process of Depressurizing Display Case 100, Vacuum Finger Pump 161 will be preferentially over-molded into the Finger Pump Frame 141, which surrounds Finger Pump Opening 143 of Base Frame 131 (in FIG. 1). The process of over-molding the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 onto Finger Pump Frame 141 is similar to the process of over-molding Enclosure Seal 121 onto Base Frame 131.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 4 and other figures, Vacuum Finger Pump 161 may have a generally oval shape that is approximately 1¼ inches long, approximately ⅝ inches wide, and approximately ¼ inches tall. However, other sizes and shapes known and / or available to a person skilled in the art are possible.

[0069] As discussed above, the Base Enclosure 400 may comprise the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 that has been over-molded onto Base Frame 131. Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 may have Raised Sealing Ridges 421, which may help to facilitate a more effective seal against ambient air when Top Enclosure 111 is aligned over and pressed onto the Base Enclosure 400 to create a relatively air-tight single-unit Display Case 100.

[0070] Similarly, the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 may also include Inner Sealing Wall and Ridge 441, which may facilitate the isolation of Item Chamber 133 (shown in FIG. 1) from the ambient air and from the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 and related valves within Vacuum Pumping Area 450 that work together to create a relative vacuum within Item Chamber 133.

[0071] For general illustration purposes, FIG. 4 shows a generic Collectable Item 401 representing a large coin that has been placed in Item Chamber 133 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0072] Base Enclosure 400 may comprise an Air Input Valve Frame 451 for holding a one-way Air Input Valve 151, and may further comprise an Air Exit Valve Frame 453 for holding a one-way Air Exit Valve 153. Preferentially, both Air Input Valve 151 and Air Exit Valve 153 may be umbrella check valves, as that term is defined and explained above.

[0073] When Air Input Valve 151 is installed (typically press-fit) into circular seats within Air Input Valve Frame 451, the installation may form an air-tight seal between them. Similarly, when Air Exit Valve 153 is installed (typically press-fit) into circular seats within Air Exit Valve Frame 453, the installation may form an air-tight seal between them.

[0074] The arrows shown in FIG. 4 next to Air Input Valve 151 and Air Exit Valve 153 indicate the direction of air flow that each respective valve will permit. Thus, Air Input Valve 151 allows air to flow from the underside of Base Enclosure 400 into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 occupied by the Vacuum Finger Pump 161. Air Exit Valve 153 allows air to flow from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 occupied by the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 to the underside of Base Enclosure 400.

[0075] The flow of air on the underside of Base Enclosure 400 will be preferentially determined by the Seal-and-Release Flap 171, which is explained below with respect to FIG. 5.

[0076] Finally, FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of Air Transfer Hole(s) 155. As shown in the exploded close-up area of FIG. 4, as many as six (6) such Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 may be used. However, as shown in FIG. 4, only one of the Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 may go entirely through Base Frame 131. Other Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 may be opened (typically by drilling) during the manufacturing process to permit more air to flow and therefore a vacuum to be created faster within Item Chamber 133 (of FIG. 1) than if fewer Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 were opened through Base Frame 131. The decision about how many open Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 to use is dependent on a variety of factors, including the sealing ability of Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121, the volume of air that Vacuum Finger Pump 161 can move, and the volume of air that Air Input Valve 151 and Air Exit Valve 153 can move.The Seal-and-Release Flap

[0077] FIG. 5 provides a 3D illustration of an elastic Seal-and-Release Flap 171 that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation, maintenance, and release of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.

[0078] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may comprise an elongated flap of elastomeric material that includes (a) two plugs connected by an air channel that together allow air to flow from Item Chamber 133 (FIG. 1) into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 (FIG. 4) when Vacuum Finger Pump 161 (FIGS. 1 and 4) is released and returns to its default position, “pulling” air from the Item Chamber 133 in the process; and (b) a third plug that allows air to escape from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 when Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is depressed.

[0079] More specifically, the Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may comprise an elongated flap of elastomeric material that is connected to and supports an Air Hole Plug 511, an Air Channel 521, an Air Input Valve Plug 531, an Air Exit Valve Plug 541, a Pull Flap 551, and a Bend Point 561.

[0080] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may be configured so that its plugs line up with the Air Valves and Air Transfer Holes that are components of Base Enclosure 400. Thus, Air Hole Plug 511 may be configured to line up with the Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 on the underside of Base Enclosure 400 (FIG. 4). Air Channel 521 may connect Air Hole Plug 511 with Air Input Valve Plug 531. Air Input Valve Plug 531 may be configured to line up with Air Input Valve 151 (FIG. 4) on the underside of Base Enclosure 400. And Air Exit Valve Plug 541 may be configured to line up with Air Exit Valve 153 (FIG. 4) on the underside of Base Enclosure 400.

[0081] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may also have a Pull Flap 551 that enables an item collector to pull the Air Exit Valve Plug 541 away from Air Exit Valve 153 and thereby let air be expelled from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 in response to the air-pumping action of Vacuum Finger Pump 161 when it is depressed. When Pull Flap 551 is pulled and Air Exit Valve Plug 541 is unseated, Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may naturally bend at Bend Point 561 in order to let Air Input Valve Plug 531 remain inserted while Air Exit Valve Plug 541 is unplugged.

[0082] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 performs the following functions: (1) it permits air to flow from the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 to the outside environment through Air Exit Valve 153 when Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is depressed and when Air Exit Valve Plug 541 is pulled away from Air Exit Valve 153; and (2) it permits air to flow from Item Chamber 133 (FIG. 1) through Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 (FIGS. 1 and 4), along Air Channel 521 which connects Air Hole Plug 511 to Air Input Valve Plug 531, and then through Air Input Valve 151 (FIGS. 1 and 4) into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 in response to the vacuum-creating pumping action of Vacuum Finger Pump 161 as it returns to its default position after being depressed.

[0083] Pressing and releasing Vacuum Finger Pump 161 (FIG. 4) multiple times can increase the vacuum within Item Chamber 133.

[0084] The Seal-and-Release Flap 171 may be constructed of the same TPE material as the Over-molded Enclosure Seal 121 (shown in FIG. 1), though other similar materials, including non-reactive neoprene rubber or silicone, are possible.Underside of the Base Enclosure

[0085] FIG. 6 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a Base Enclosure 400 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, along with an unattached elastic Seal-and-Release Flap 171, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0086] The underside of Base Enclosure 400 may include a Base Stacking Ridge 630 around the lower perimeter, configured to align with the Top Stacking Ridge 230 of the Top Enclosure 111 (FIG. 2) to facilitate stable stacking and organizing of multiple Display Cases 100.

[0087] Base Enclosure 400 may also include on its underside a Base Item Viewing Area 605 that permits the underside of Collectable Item 401 (FIG. 4) to be viewed.

[0088] The Vacuum Finger Pump 161 is accessible from the underside of Base Enclosure 400. When pressed, the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 may compress the air inside the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 (which is coincident with and shares air with the Information Viewing Area 210 of FIGS. 2 and 3). The compressed air can then be expressed through Air Exit Valve 153 if the Air Exit Valve Plug 541 (FIG. 5) of the Seal-and-Release Flap 171 has been pulled open and flexed at Bend Point 561 (FIG. 5). Then, as Vacuum Finger Pump 161 returns to its default shape, it will create a vacuum in the Vacuum Pumping Area 450, which will cause air to be pulled from the Item Chamber 133 (FIG. 1) through Air Transfer Hole(s) 155 (FIGS. 1 and 4), along Air Channel 521 which connects Air Hole Plug 511 to Air Input Valve Plug 531, and then through Air Input Valve 151 (FIGS. 1 and 4) into the Vacuum Pumping Area 450 in response to the vacuum-creating pumping action of Vacuum Finger Pump 161 as it returns to its default shape after being depressed.

[0089] FIG. 7 provides a 3D illustration of the back side of a Base Enclosure 400 of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, with an attached elastic Seal-and-Release Flap 171, as viewed from a low rear position.

[0090] The items identified in FIG. 7 are the same as those in FIG. 6. The only difference is that Seal-and-Release Flap 171 is shown in FIG. 7 as being fully attached to Base Enclosure 400.Vacuum Finger Pump

[0091] FIG. 8 provides a 3D illustration and cross-section of a molded Vacuum Finger Pump 161 that may be used by embodiments of the invention to facilitate the creation of a relative vacuum inside a depressurizing collectable item display case.

[0092] The cross-section of the Vacuum Finger Pump 161—shown on the right side of FIG. 8—shows Thickened Inner Walls 810 of the Vacuum Finger Pump 161, which may be purposely thickened during the over-molding process so as to create a stronger resistance to deflection-depression and therefore create a stronger vacuum within Display Case 100 as the Vacuum Finger Pump 161 returns to its default shape after being depressed.

[0093] Preferentially, with approximately 3-4 pumps of the Vacuum Finger Pump 161, embodiments of the present invention will create a vacuum inside the Item Chamber 133 equivalent to a displacement of approximately 7-8 inches of water.CONCLUSION

[0094] The foregoing disclosure has been set forth merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. It will be appreciated that modifications, variations, and additional embodiments are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention. Since modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to persons skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0036]Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, and wherein the leftmost digit of each reference number refers to the drawing number of the figure in which the referenced part first appears.

Overview

[0037]FIG. 1 provides an “exploded”3D illustration of the primary components of an embodiment of a depressurizing collectable item display case, as viewed from a high frontal position relative to the components.

[0038]As shown in FIG. 1, an embodiment of Depressurizing Display Case 100 may comprise a Top Enclosure 111, an Enclosure Seal 121, and a Base Frame 131. For purposes of illustration, Enclosure Seal 121 is shown as a separate component in FIG. 1, but in the manufacturing process, Enclosure Seal 121 is preferentially over-molded onto the Base Frame 131. Once the over-molding process is complete, the Enclosure Seal 121 and the Base Frame 131 will together...

Claims

1. An item display case comprising:(a) an elastic vacuum finger pump;(b) a one-way air exit valve;(c) a one-way air intake valve;(d) a base enclosure comprising a continuous base perimeter wall, the base enclosure further comprisinga clear interior item holding chamber and an interior vacuum pump chamber separated from the item holding chamber by a base interior wall that is interoperably coupled to and continuous with the base perimeter wall,where the interior item holding chamber has an external air hole, andwhere the interior vacuum pump chamber has (1) a pump opening configured to hold the vacuum finger pump, (2) an air input valve opening configured to accept the one-way air intake valve, and (3) an air exit valve opening configured to accept the one-way air exit valve;(e) a continuous flexible base enclosure seal over-molded to an upper portion of the base perimeter wall and an upper portion of the base interior wall;(f) a top enclosure having a continuous top perimeter wall configured to fit hermetically over an outer perimeter of the base enclosure seal, a clear interior item display area framed by a continuous interior item display wall configured to fit hermetically against an a portion of the enclosure seal framing the interior item holding chamber, and an interior information display area framed by a continuous interior information display wall configured to fit hermetically against a portion of the enclosure seal framing the interior vacuum pump chamber;(g) an elastic flap having an air exit plug configured to fit hermetically into an outer portion of the air exit valve opening, an air input plug configured to fit hermetically into an outer portion of the air input valve opening, and an air hole plug configured to fit hermetically into an outer portion of the external air hole;where the vacuum finger pump is over-molded into the pump opening;where the one-way air exit valve is interoperably and hermetically fitted into an inner portion of the air exit valve opening;where the one-way air input valve is interoperably and hermetically fitted into an inner portion of the air input valve opening; andwhere the elastic flap further comprises a sealed air channel extending from the air input plug to the air hole plug.

2. The display case of claim 1, where the base perimeter wall and the base interior wall are the same height.

3. The display case of claim 1, where the continuous flexible base enclosure seal is comprised of a thermoplastic elastomer.

4. The display case of claim 1, where the vacuum finger pump is comprised of a thermoplastic elastomer.

5. The display case of claim 1, where the elastic flap is comprised of a thermoplastic elastomer.

6. The display case of claim 1, where the external air hole comprises a plurality of holes.

7. The display case of claim 1, the base perimeter wall further comprising anchoring holes for securing the continuous flexible base enclosure seal.

8. The display case of claim 1, the pump opening further comprising anchoring holes for securing the vacuum finger pump.

9. The display case of claim 1, where the interior item holding chamber, the enclosure seal, the finger pump, the one-way air exit valve, the one-way air input valve, the air hole plug, and the air channel are together able to hold a low vacuum for 24 hours.

10. An item protection system comprising:a base enclosure comprising a continuous base perimeter wall, the base enclosure further comprising a clear interior item holding chamber and an interior vacuum pump chamber separated from the item holding chamber by a base interior wall;a continuous flexible enclosure seal over-molded to an upper portion of the base perimeter wall and an upper portion of the base interior wall so as to frame the base enclosure, the interior item holding chamber, and the interior vacuum pump chamber;a top enclosure having (1) a continuous top perimeter wall configured to fit hermetically over an outer perimeter of the enclosure seal, (2) a clear interior item display area framed by a continuous interior item display wall configured to fit hermetically against an inner surface of the enclosure seal framing the interior item holding chamber, and (3) an interior information display area framed by a continuous interior information display wall configured to fit hermetically against an inner surface of the enclosure seal framing the interior air-pumping chamber; andmeans for pumping air out of the item holding chamber.

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