Retention device for storage of documents and objects

Abstract

A spring-loaded compression device for retention of documents or other objects within a storage container, or on a surface, such as a shelf. One or more springs are disposed between two plates, which can both serve as pushers to apply compressive force to adjacent documents or objects. The device can be secured so the spring mechanism remains in a fully compressed posture. When released, the spring(s) can expand to any position up to as much as the length of the storage area, to secure adjacent documents or objects in a desired orientation within the storage unit. The spring(s) and attached pusher plate can also be retracted to allow documents or objects to be readily removed from, or placed into, the storage unit. The device can be permanently installed in a storage unit, made portable for use in different storage units, or adapted for use as free-standing bookends.

1 . An apparatus for retaining objects in alignment for storage within or on a storage unit, the apparatus comprising (a) opposing plates joined by means for biasing at least one of the plates into contact with the objects to apply compressive force thereto, wherein the means for biasing is adapted to maintain the biased plate in substantially vertical alignment as it is moved into contact with the objects; and (b) means for securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture for storage when not in use.  
   
   
       2 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the means for biasing consists of a single coil spring.  
   
   
       3 . The apparatus according to  claim 2 , wherein at least 25% of the surface area of the biased plate is within the diameter of the coil spring.  
   
   
       4 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the means for biasing consists of more than one coil spring.  
   
   
       5 . The apparatus according to  claim 4 , wherein the coil springs are joined to the plates in an array so as each applies substantially equal compressive force to the biased plate.  
   
   
       6 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the means for securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture comprise a slidable bolt disposed through apertures on one or more flanges extending outwardly from the opposing surfaces of the plates.  
   
   
       7 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the means for securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture comprise one or more clips for attachment to each of the plates.  
   
   
       8 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the means for securing the means for biasing in a fully compressed posture comprise a band disposable around the plates.  
   
   
       9 . The apparatus according to  claim 2 , wherein the spring tension on full compression is at a level between 5 and 30 psi.  
   
   
       10 . The apparatus according to  claim 9 , wherein the spring tension of full compression is at a level between 10 and 20 psi.  
   
   
       11 . The apparatus according to  claim 2 , wherein the spring tension on full compression of each spring is at a level between 5 and 30 psi.  
   
   
       12 . The apparatus according to  claim 9 , wherein the spring tension of full compression of each spring is at a level between 10 and 20 psi.  
   
   
       13 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the storage unit is a box having opposing end and side walls, and the plates are of a width and length sufficient to engage at least 50% of the surface area of the end walls.  
   
   
       14 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the storage unit is a shelf having opposing end walls, and the plates are of a width and length sufficient to engage at least 50% of the surface area of the end walls.  
   
   
       15 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , further comprising a weighted base joined to one of the plates.  
   
   
       16 . The apparatus according to  claim 15 , further comprising a weighted base joined to the opposing plate.  
   
   
       17 . The apparatus according to  claim 15 , wherein the storage unit is a horizontal surface adjacent to a vertical surface, and the biased plate applies compressive force to objects disposed between it and the vertical surface.  
   
   
       18 . The apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the apparatus is adapted for permanent installation within or on the storage unit.