Patent Publication Number: US-10786075-B1

Title: Modular storage system with foldable storage containers

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/549,718, filed Aug. 24, 2017 and entitled “Modular Closet Systems and Methods,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Applicant has realized that there is a need for better storage systems. More particularly, Applicant realized that there is a need for better modular storage systems for use in closets or to create closet-like storage for the storage of items such as clothes, hangars, jewelry, and shoes. 
     SUMMARY 
     Storage systems herein contain a frame system, one or more rod attachment systems, and one or more storage containers or shelves. The storage systems may be assembled and re-assembled by a user at a desired location. 
     An exemplary storage container comprises: a flexible bottom having a first edge, a second edge, a third edge, and a forth edge; a first end extending from the first edge of the bottom to a first height substantially the same as a height of a shelf opening of the storage system; a second end extending from the third edge of the bottom to a second height less than the height of the shelf opening; a first side wall extending from the second edge of the bottom to a point substantially equivalent to the first height near the first end and the second height near the second end; a second side wall extending from the fourth edge of the bottom to a point substantially equivalent to the first height near the first end and the second height near the second end; and a rigid insert receivable between the first and second ends and first and second side walls; wherein the first and second side walls are inwardly collapsible when the rigid insert is removed from the storage container; and wherein the storage container may be inserted into the shelf opening with either the first or second end facing outward from the storage system. 
     An exemplary rod attachment system comprises: a rod having a first end and a second end, the second end having a receiving portion a fastener having a cap portion with a first diameter and a projection portion with a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter; and a connector having a planar portion and an arcuate portion, the planar portion having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an aperture extending from the first side to the second side and having a third diameter; wherein the third diameter is larger than the second diameter and smaller than the first diameter; and wherein the rod attachment system is securable to the storage system by disposing the arcuate portion over a support rod of the storage system, inserting the projection portion of the connector through the aperture from the first side to the second side, and securing the projection portion of the connector in the receiving portion of the rod. 
     An exemplary storage system comprises: a frame system comprising: a first side frame comprising a first leg, a second leg, a support rod connecting the first leg and second leg, and at least one shelving track extending horizontally between the first and second legs; a second side frame comprising a third leg, a fourth leg, a support rod connecting the third and fourth legs, and at least one shelving track extending horizontally between the third and fourth legs; and at least one connector bar connecting the first side frame and the second side frame; a rod attachment system comprising; a rod having a first end, a second end, and a receiving portion in the second end; a connector having an arcuate portion, a planar portion, and an aperture through the planar portion; and a fastener having a cap portion and a projection portion, the projection portion being securable within the receiving portion of the rod; and a mount having a rod receiving portion and being securable to a wall. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of embodiments using the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary storage system; 
         FIG. 2  is a front-top-right perspective view of an exploded partial exemplary frame system for use with the storage system; 
         FIG. 3  is a front-top-right perspective view of an exploded exemplary frame system for use with the storage system; 
         FIG. 4  is a front-top-right perspective view of the frame system of  FIG. 3  with storage containers; 
         FIG. 5  is a front-top-right perspective view of an exemplary multi-tier frame system for use with the storage system; 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom-front-right perspective view of an exemplary frame system with a top plate; 
         FIG. 7A  is a front-top-right perspective view of a storage container according to one embodiment in a second or folded position; 
         FIG. 7B  is a front-top-right perspective view of the storage container of  FIG. 7A  in a first or erected position; 
         FIG. 8  is a front-left-top perspective view of the storage container of  FIGS. 7A and 7B  disposed in a shelf opening of a frame system; 
         FIG. 9A  is a top-rear-right perspective view of a storage container according to a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 9B  is a partial top-rear-right perspective view of the storage container of  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIG. 9C  is a top-rear-left perspective view of a storage container according to a third embodiment; 
         FIG. 9D  is a bottom-front-right perspective view of the storage container of  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIG. 9E  is a top view of an insert for use with a storage container; 
         FIGS. 10A and 10B  are front and rear top-right perspective views of the storage container of  FIG. 9C  in an erected position; 
         FIG. 11  is a trop-front-right perspective of the storage container of  FIG. 9C  in a folded position; 
         FIG. 12A  is a front-left-top perspective view of the storage container of  FIG. 9  disposed in a shelf opening of a frame system with the first end wall facing outwardly; 
         FIG. 12B  is a front-left-top perspective view of the storage container of  FIG. 9  disposed in a shelf opening of a frame system with the second end wall facing outwardly; 
         FIG. 13  is a bottom perspective view of a shelf disposed on a shelving track; 
         FIG. 14  is a top-front-right perspective view of an exemplary rod attachment system; 
         FIG. 15  is a front-right perspective view of a second end of a rod; and 
         FIGS. 16A and 16B  are perspective views of an exemplary fastener; 
         FIGS. 17A and 17B  are perspective views of an exemplary connector; 
         FIGS. 18A and 18B  are perspective views of the rod attachment system of  FIG. 14  attached to a support rod of a frame system; 
         FIG. 19  is a front-right perspective view of a mount according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a right-top-front perspective view of a wall bracket according to one embodiment; and 
         FIGS. 21A and 21B  are perspective views of the wall bracket of  FIG. 20  connected to a frame system; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view a wall bracket according to a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 23A  is a perspective view of a rod having a rod insert and a rod sleeve; 
         FIG. 23B  is a cross-sectional side view of the rod of  FIG. 23A ; 
         FIG. 23C  is a cross-sectional top view of the rod of  FIG. 23A ; 
         FIG. 23D  is a perspective view of an exemplary rod insert; 
         FIG. 23E  is a perspective view of an exemplary rod sleeve; 
         FIG. 23F  is a partial perspective view of the rod of  FIG. 23A  with the second rod portion removed; and 
         FIG. 24  is an exploded rear perspective view of a mount according to a second embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     This Detailed Description merely describes exemplary embodiments of the invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. Indeed, the invention as claimed is broader than and unlimited by the preferred embodiments, and the terms used in the claims have their full ordinary meaning. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , an exemplary storage system  10  is shown. The storage system  10  includes a frame system  12 , one or more rod attachment systems  200 , and one or more mounts  260 . In a preferred embodiment, the storage system  10  is modular in that the storage system  10  may be packaged, stored, and transported in a relatively small and flat package and subsequently assembled or re-assembled by a user at a desired location, such as a bedroom, closet, or other similar location. Additionally, the storage system  10  is customizable in that it may take various configurations, shapes, and designs, as detailed below. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 2-6 , an exemplary frame system  12  is shown. The frame system  12  includes one or more first side frames  14 , one or more second side frames  16 , and one or more connector bars  18 . The frame system  12 , when assembled, may provide a self-standing modular storage system for use with items to be stored in a closet such as hung and/or folded clothing, shoes, jewelry, and the like. The frame system  12  may be customized to different heights or by including various drawers, bins, storage containers, and/or shelving units, 
     The first and second side frames  14 , 16  each include a first leg  20 , a second leg  22 , a horizontal support rod  40 , and one or more shelving tracks  50 . The first and second legs  20 ,  22  are generally cylindrical tubes which extend in the vertical direction and each have an outer circumferential leg surface  24 , an upper end  26 , an upper portion  28  near the upper end  26 , a lower end  30 , a lower portion  32  near the lower end  30 , and at least one lateral aperture  36 . The first and second legs  20 ,  22  may be substantially hollow or may have hollowed portions near the upper and/or lower portions  28 ,  32  extending inwardly from the upper and lower ends  26 ,  30  and defining a circumferential inner leg surface  34 . The first and second legs  20 ,  22  may include lateral apertures  36  in the upper and lower portions  28 ,  32  which are aligned along the length of the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . The lateral apertures  36  may extend through the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . 
     The outer circumferential leg surface  24  and circumferential inner leg surface  34  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  may be sized and shaped such that the lower portion  32  of one first or second leg  20 ,  22  may fit on top of and/or around the outer circumferential leg surface  24  of the upper portion  28  of another first or second leg  20 ,  22 . For example, the outer circumferential leg surface  24  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  may be inwardly tapered or otherwise reduced in diameter near the upper portion  28  close to the upper end  26 , the first and second legs  20 ,  22  may include one or more projections  38  extending vertically from the upper end  26  having a diameter which is receivable in the lower portion  32  of the first or second leg  20 ,  22 , and/or the outer circumferential leg surface  24  and circumferential inner leg surface  34  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  may be outwardly flared or otherwise expanded near the lower portion  32  close to the lower end  30 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2-5 , the support rod  40  is a substantially cylindrical rod having a front end  42 , a rear end  44 , and an outer circumferential rod surface  46 . The support rod  40  extends horizontally between the first and second legs  20 ,  22  and connects the upper portions  26  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . In one embodiment, the one or more support rods  40  are pre-attached to the first and second legs  20 ,  22  to form a single frame side  14 ,  16 . For example, the each support rod  40  may be welded, glued, bolted, or fastened between the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . However, in other embodiments, the one or more support rods  40  may be modular in that the support rod  40  may be separate from the first and second legs  20 ,  22  such that a user may attach the front end  42  of the support rod  40  to the first leg  20  and the rear end  44  of the support rod  40  to the second leg  22 . For example, the front and rear ends  42 ,  44  of the support rod  40  may fasten, connect, or otherwise be secured in an aperture, receiving portion, lock, latch, or other suitable fastening mechanism to secure the support rod  40  between the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . 
     When the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  are aligned in parallel, the lateral apertures  36  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  of the first side frame  14  are respectively aligned with the lateral apertures  36  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  of the second side frame  16 . In a preferred embodiment, the lateral apertures  36  of the first legs  20  are in the same horizontal plane as the lateral apertures  36  of the second legs  22 . 
     The first and second sides  14 ,  16  may be attached together by one or more connector bars  18  horizontally connecting the first leg  20  of the first side frame  14  to the first leg  20  of the second side frame  16  and one or more connector bars  18  connecting the second leg  22  of the first side frame  14  to the second leg  22  of the second side frame  16 . Each connector bar  18  may have a first end  21 , a second end  23 , and an outer circumferential bar surface  25  extending between the first end  21  and the second end  23 . In one embodiment, the connector bar  18  has threaded bores  27  extending inwardly from the first and second ends  21 ,  23 . The threaded bores  27  may be sized, shaped, and threaded to threadingly receive a screw or other suitable fastener. 
     In one embodiment, the connector bars  18  are separate from the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  and may be connected, fastened, or otherwise secured to the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  by a user. The connector bars  18  may be connected between the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  by any suitable means. For example, the connectors  18  may be connected to the first and second side frame  14 ,  16  by extending a screw, nail, bolt, or other suitable fastener through the lateral apertures  36  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  and into the threaded bores  27  of the connector bar  18 . Further, the frame system  12  may also include one or more spacers  48  disposed between the first and second legs  20 ,  22  and connector bars  18 . The spacers  48  may be substantially cylindrical with a flat end which abuts the first or second end  21 ,  23  of the connector bar  18  and a curved or rounded end which abuts the outer circumferential leg surface  24  of the first or second leg  20 ,  22 . As the first and second legs  20 ,  22  have a round outer circumferential leg surface  24  and the ends of the connector bars  18  are generally flat, the spacers  48  provide a snug connection between the connector bars  18  and the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . In other embodiments, the connectors  18  may be pre-attached to the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  such that the one or more connectors  18 , the first side frame  14 , and the second side  16  form a single shelving frame. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , when the connector bars  18  connect the first and second side frames  14 ,  16 , the resulting structure forms a substantially rectangular box frame. The first and second side frames  14 ,  16  each have a proximal side  17  facing the other side frame  14 ,  16  and a distal side  19  opposite the proximal side  17 . The lateral apertures  36  extend from the distal side  19  to the proximal side  17  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first and second side frames  14 , 16  may each include one or more shelving tracks  50  disposed horizontally on the proximal sides  17  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  which provide structural support for the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  and may provide a shelving system, as detailed below. The shelving tracks  50  are generally L-shaped with a vertical wall  52  having an outside face  54  and an inside face  56  and a horizontal wall  58  having a top face  60  and a bottom face  62 . The shelving tracks  50  may include a stop flange  64  at the rear of the shelving track  50  which projects upwardly from the horizontal wall  58 . The shelving tracks  50  may be equally spaced along the height of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16 . The shelving tracks  50  may be attached or otherwise secured to the first or second side frame  14 ,  16  such that the outside face  54  of the shelving tracks  50  abut or are connected with the proximal side  17  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . The shelving tracks  50  may be welded, fastened to the first and second legs  20 ,  22  by screws, bolts, nails, or other suitable fasteners, or may be secured to the first and second legs  20 ,  22  by any other suitable securement means. In a preferred embodiment, the horizontal walls  58  of the shelving tracks  50  extend proximally inward from the vertical walls  52  to a distance sufficient to support a shelf or a storage container supporting or filled with items such as clothing, jewelry, shoes, or the like. 
     The shelving tracks  50  may further include one or more shelf apertures  63  in the horizontal wall  58  extending from bottom face  62  to the top face  60 . The shelf apertures  63  may be inset from the front and rear ends of the shelving track  50  and disposed along the length of the shelving track  50 . The shelf apertures  63  may be sized to receive a screw, bolt, nail, or other fastener. 
     When the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  are connected, as detailed below, the space between the inside face  56  of the vertical wall  52  of a shelving track  50  secured to the first side frame  14  and the inside face  56  of the vertical wall  52  of a correspondingly positioned shelving track  50  secured to the second side frame  16  defines a width of a shelf opening H. The space between the top face  60  of those two shelving tracks  50  and the bottom faces  62  of two shelving tracks  50  positioned successively above the two shelving tracks  50 , or, for the top-most shelving tracks  50  of the side frame  14 ,  16 , the connector bar  18  connecting the side frames  14 ,  16  above the top-most shelving tracks  50 , defines a height of the shelf opening H. The shelf opening H has a depth which extends substantially the depth of the shelving tracks  50  and/or the first and second side frames  14 ,  16 . The connector bars  18  connecting the lower portions  32  of the first legs  20  of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  and the connector bars  18  connecting the lower portions  32  of the second legs  22  of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  may be disposed below the bottom-most shelving tracks  50  such that the connector bars  18  do not disrupt the shelf opening H. The connector bars  18  connecting the upper portions  28  of the first legs  20  of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  and the connector bars  18  connecting the upper portions  28  of the second legs  22  of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  may be disposed a distance above the top-most shelving tracks  50  which is equal to the distance between the lower shelving tracks  50  such that the shelf opening H above the top-most shelving tracks  50  is substantially the same size as the other shelf openings H. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second side frame  14 ,  16  each have four shelving tracks  50 . However, the first and second sides  14 ,  16  may have any number of shelving tracks  50 . For example, the first and second sides  14 ,  16  may have one, two, three, or five or more shelving tracks  50  disposed between the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . 
     In an optional embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the frame system  12  may include a lower pair of first and second sides frames  14   a ,  16   a  with lower first and second legs  20   a ,  22   a  and at least one upper pair of first and second sides frames  14   b ,  16   b  with upper first and second legs  20   b ,  22   b . The upper pair of first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b  may be stacked, placed, or otherwise disposed on the lower pair of first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a.    
     In one such embodiment, the lower portions  32  of the first and second legs  20   b ,  22   b  of the upper first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b  may be placed on the upper end  26  of the first and second legs  20   a ,  22   a  of the lower first and second side frame  14   a ,  16   a  such that the upper ends  26  of the first and second legs  20   a ,  22   a  of the lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  may extend into the lower end  30  of the first and second legs  20   b ,  22   b  of the upper first and second side frame  14   b ,  16   b . For example, the projections  38  of the first and second legs  20   a ,  22   a  of the lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  may extend into and be received within the circumferential inner leg surface  34  of the first and second legs  20   b ,  22   b  of the upper first and second side frame  14   b ,  16   b . The projections  38  and circumferential inner leg surfaces  34  may be sized and shaped such that the projections  38  fit snugly within the circumferential inner leg surfaces  34 . The lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  may support the upper first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b  and the upper first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  may be secured in the lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  by the weight of the upper first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b  and the force of gravity. However, the upper first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b  may be secured or additionally secured in the lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  by additional means. For example, the lower portions  32  of the first and second legs  20   b ,  22   b  of the upper first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b  may be secured in the upper portions  28  of the first and second legs  20   a ,  22   a  of the lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  by screws, bolts, nails, or other suitable fasteners, spring mechanisms, latches, magnets, or any other suitable means. The process may be repeated with additional pairs of first and second side frames  14 ,  16  on top of the upper first and second side frames  14   b ,  16   b.    
     The first and second legs  20 ,  22  may also include a support flange  66  located at the upper portions  28  near the upper ends  26  and extending proximally inward and angled toward the opposite leg  22 ,  20  of the other side frame  14 ,  16 . The support flange  66  may have a substantially flat upper surface  68 , a lower surface  70  opposite the upper surface  68 , and a plate aperture  72  in the upper surface  68  and extending through the support flange  66  to the lower surface  70 . In the illustrated embodiment, the support flange  60  has a rounded edge. However, it will be understood that the support flange  66  may have any suitable shape which may support a top plate, as detailed below. For example, the support flange  66  may be rectangular, triangular, or any other suitable shape. 
     The frame system  12  may also include a rectangular top plate  74  having a top surface  76  and a bottom surface  78  which may be connected, attached, or otherwise secured to the upper portions  28  of the top-most first and second legs  20 ,  22  of the frame system  12 . The top plate  74  may be a substantially flat plate or shelf having a with at least equivalent to the distance between the distal sides  19  of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  and a depth at least equivalent to the distance between the upper ends  26  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  of each of the first and second side frames  14 ,  16 . 
     The top plate  74  may include bores  80  extending from the bottom surface  78  toward or to the top surface  76 . The bores  80  may be disposed in the bottom surface  78  such that the bores  80  align with the plate apertures  72  of the first and second legs  20 ,  22  of the upper most first and second side frames  14 ,  16  when the frame system  12  is assembled. In one embodiment, the bores  80  are threaded. However, in other embodiments, the bores  80  may be unthreaded. The top plate  74  may be secured to the first and second side frame  14 ,  16  by inserting a screw, bolt, nail, or other suitable fastener through the support flanges  66  from the lower surface  70  to the upper surface  68  and into the bores  80  of the top plate  74 . 
     The frame system  12  may further include one or more feet  82  attached to the bottom-most legs of the frame system  12 , either the first and second legs  20 ,  22  of a single tiered frame system  12  or the first and second legs  20   a ,  22   a  of the lower first and second side frames  14   a ,  16   a  of a multi-tiered frame system  12 . The feet  82  may have a ground contact face  84  which engages a floor or ground surface on which the frame system  12  is disposed and a connecting portion  86  which connects the feet  82  to one of the first or second leg  20 ,  22 . The ground contact face  84  is substantially flat and has a surface area which is larger than the cross-sectional area of the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ground contact faces  84  are circular. However, the ground contact faces  84  may be any other suitable shape. For example, the ground contact faces  84  may be rectangular, triangular, oval, or any other suitable shape. 
     The connecting portion  86  of the feet  82  may connect or secure the feet to either the lower ends  30  or lower portions  32  of the first or second legs  20 ,  22 . In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting portions  86  are hollow cylinders which extend upwardly from the ground surfaces  84 . The cylinder is sized to snugly fit around the outer circumferential surface  24  of the lower portions  32  of the first or second legs  20 ,  22 . In such embodiment, the feet  82  may be placed over the lower ends  30  of the first or second legs  20 ,  22  and the frame system  12  may then be place on a floor or ground surface. However, the feet  82  may be any other suitable design. For example, the connecting portions  86  of the feet  82  may be sized and shape to be secured in the lower ends  30  of the first or second legs  20 ,  22  by threads, spring loaded latches, securely fitting in the insider diameter  34  of the lower ends  30 , magnets, or any other suitable securement methods. 
     When the feet  82  are secured to the first and second legs  20 ,  22  the ground contact faces  84  are substantially perpendicular to the length of the first and second legs  20 ,  22 . As the ground contact faces  84  are substantially flat and have a diameter larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the first and second legs  20 ,  22 , the feet  82  more evenly distribute the weight of the frame system  12  and thereby better stabilize the frame system  12  on the floor or other ground surface on which the frame system  12  is disposed. Additionally, the ground contact faces  84  of the feet  82  may be padded, coated or otherwise protect the floor or other surface on which the frame system  12  is disposed and prevent the frame system  12  from moving, shifting, slipping, or sliding on the floor or other surface. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 4, 5, 8, 12A, 12B, and 13 , the storage system  10  may include one or more drawers, bins, or storage containers  100  and/or one or more shelves  150 . The storage containers  100  or shelves  150  may be inserted into the shelf openings H such that the storage containers  100  or shelves  150  may rest or otherwise be disposed on the top face  60  of the horizontal wall  58 . The shelves  150  and storage containers  100  may have a horizontal depth substantially equivalent to the length of the shelving tracks  50  and a horizontal width substantially equivalent to the distance between the vertical walls  52  of the shelving frames  50  attached to the first and second side frames  14 ,  16 . The storage containers  100  may have a height substantially equivalent to the vertical distance between the top face  60  of the horizontal wall  58  defining the bottom of the shelf opening H and the bottom face  62  of the horizontal wall  58  or connector bar  18  defining the top of the shelf opening H. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5, 7A, 7B, and 8-12B , a storage container  100  is depicted according to one embodiment. The storage container  100  is generally a rectangular box having an open top. The storage container  100  includes a rectangular base  102 , a first end wall  108 , a second end wall  110 , a first side wall  112 , and a second side wall  114 . The base  102  has a first edge  102   a , a second edge  102   b , a third edge  102   c , and a fourth edge  102   d , and top surface  104  (not pictured), a bottom surface  106 . The first end wall  108  extends upwardly from the first edge  102   a  of the base  102  to a first height  109 . The second end wall  110  extends upwardly from the third edge  102   c  of the base  102  to a second height  111 . The first side wall  112  extends upwardly from the second edge  102   b  of the base  102  to a first top edge  113  having a height substantially equivalent to the first height  109  near the first end wall  108  and a height substantially equivalent to the second height  111  near the second end wall  114 . The second side wall  114  extends upwardly from the fourth edge  102   d  of the base  102  to a second top edge  115  having a height substantially equivalent to the first height  109  near the first end wall  108  and a height substantially equivalent to the second height  110  near the second end wall  110 . The storage container  100  may be sized and shaped such that the storage container  100  may be disposed in the shelf opening H with either the first or second end wall  108 ,  110  facing outwardly from and defining a front of the shelf opening H. 
     In one embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 5, 7A, 7B, and 8 , the storage container  100  is a substantially rectangular box and the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  are rectangular. In such an embodiment, the first height  109  of the first end wall  108  and the second height  111  of the second end wall  110  are substantially the same. As the first and second heights  109 ,  111  are substantially similar, the first and second top edges  113 ,  115  are substantially linear and parallel to the base  102 . The first and second heights  109 ,  111  may be substantially equivalent to the height of the shelf opening H such that the storage container  100  substantially fills the shelf opening H when the storage container  100  is disposed on the shelving tracks  50 . The storage container  100  may additionally have a cover or lid which covers the interior of the storage container  100 . 
     In a second embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 9A-12B , the first height  109  of the first end wall  108  is substantially the same as the height of the shelf opening H and the second height  111  of the second end wall  110  is less than the height of the shelf opening H. The first and second top edges  113 ,  115  may be curved, rounded, or otherwise shaped such that the height of the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  varies between a height substantially similar to the height of the shelf opening H or the first height  109  near the first end wall  108  and a height substantially similar to the second height  111  near the second end wall  110 . In such an embodiment, when the storage container  100  is inserted in the shelf opening H of the frame system  12 , there is a gap between the second end wall  110  and the shelving tracks  50  or connector bar  18  defining the top portion of the shelf opening H. The gap may be large enough for a user to see into the interior of the storage container  100  and/or remove items from the storage container  100  while the storage container  100  is disposed in the shelf opening H. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  have a width of about 16.125 inches and the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  have a width of about 15.5 inches. the first height  109  of the first end wall  108  is about 8.125 inches and the second height  111  of the second end wall  110  is about 5.5 inches. 
     The first and second ends wall  108 ,  110  and the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  each have an interior face  116  which faces one of the other of the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  and an exterior face  118  opposite the interior face  116 . The top surface  104  of the base  102  and the interior faces  116  of the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and the first and second side walls  112 ,  114 , when extending upwardly from the base  102  define an interior space J. When the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  extend upwardly from the base  102 , clothing, jewelry, shoes, and other similar items may be placed in the in the interior space J of the storage container  100 . 
     The first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may be substantially rigid such that the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may stand upright in an erected position, as detailed below. The first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may also be constructed from a material or in a manner that is relatively soft such that it is comfortable when a user touches it. For example, the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may be constructed of one or more inserts composed of cardboard, paperboard, cellulose, plastic, or other suitable material which is at least semi-rigid, encased in a fabric or cloth. The corners between the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may also be constructed such that the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may pivot, fold, or otherwise be moved at the respective corners, as detailed below. For example, the fabric casings of the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may be sewn or stitched together at the respective corners. In a further embodiment, the storage container  100  may include a binding along one or more of the first height  109  of the first end wall  108 , the second height  111  of the second end wall  110 , the first top edge  113  of the first side wall  112 , and the second top edge  115  of the second side wall  114 . The binding may be fabric, cloth, or other suitable material. 
     In one embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 7A, 7B, 10A, 10B, and 11 , the storage container  100  is foldable, collapsible or otherwise movable between a first or erected position ( FIGS. 7B, 10A, and 10B ) and a second or folded position ( FIGS. 7A and 11 ). The first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may include a division or crease  120  dividing the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  into two portions such that the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may be folded in half. For example, the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may each be composed of two inserts encased in a single fabric casing with sewing or stitching diving the inserts along the crease  120  or the crease may be a perforation or other division which allows the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  to fold. The first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may then be folded or pivoted along the crease  120  such that the crease  120  may be moved toward the opposite side wall  112 ,  114 . As the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  are folded inwardly, the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  may be brought toward the other end wall  108 ,  110  and the folded side walls  112 ,  114  in a compressed manner. When the side walls  112 ,  114  are folded inwardly and the end walls  108 ,  110  are brought together, the storage container  100  may be substantially flat. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7B, 9A, and 9E , the storage container  100  may also include a rigid insert  122  which may be disposed in the storage container  100  when the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  are erected to maintain the storage container  100  in the first or erected position. The rigid insert  122  may be substantially rectangular and planar and may be sized to be received between the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  when the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  and first and second side walls  112 ,  114  are erected. The rigid insert  122  may also be sized and designed to be disposed on the base  102  of the storage container  100  and thereby prevent the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  from folding or pivoting inwardly. The rigid insert  122  may be constructed similarly to the end walls  108 ,  110  and side walls  112 ,  114 . For example, the rigid insert  122  may be constructed of one or more inserts composed of cardboard, paperboard, cellulose, plastic, or other suitable material which is at least semi-rigid, encased in a fabric or cloth. 
     In an optional embodiment, the insert  122  may include a lateral fold  123  which divides the insert  122  into a first insert portion  122   a  and a second insert portion  122   b . The first insert portion  122   a  and the second insert portion  122   b  may be two separate inserts with a stitching therebetween separating the two portions  122   a ,  122   b . The lateral fold  123  may be oriented such that the insert  122  does not fold or collapse when the insert is disposed in the storage container  100 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 9E , either in addition or in the alternative, the insert  122  may include a tag  125  disposed on or near an edge of the insert  122 . The tag  125  extends inwardly from the edge and provides a surface which a user may grab to remove the insert  122  from the storage container  100 . In the illustrated embodiment, the tag  125  is a looped piece of fabric which is sewn at both ends near the edge. However, the tag  125  may be a single strip of fabric, a clasp, a snap, or any other suitable structure which a user may grab to place or remove the insert  122 . Further, the insert  122  may also include a binding around the outer edges of the insert  122 . The binding may be fabric, cloth, or other suitable material. 
     In one embodiment, the storage container  100  may be sized, shaped, and designed such that the storage container  100 , when in the first or erected position, may be inserted into one of the shelf openings H of the frame system  12  along the shelving tracks  50  with either the first end wall  108  or second end wall  110  facing outwardly from the shelf opening H and with the other of the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  abutting the stop flange  64  of the shelving tracks  50 . As such, either the first end wall  108  or the second end wall  110  may define a front face of the shelf opening H. When the first end wall  108  defines the front face of the shelf opening H, the first end wall  108  extends to substantially the same height as the shelving tracks  50  or connector bar  18  successive above the shelving tracks  50  on which the storage container  100  is disposed. As such, the contents and interior of the storage container  100  would not be visible to a user when the storage container  100  is fully inserted into the shelf opening H. When the second end wall  110  defines the front face of the shelf opening H, there is a gap between the top of the second end wall  110  and the shelving tracks  50  successively above the shelving tracks  50  on which the storage container  100  is disposed. As such, the contents and interior space J of the storage container  100  may be visible to a user when the storage container  100  is fully inserted into the shelf opening H. 
     In an optional embodiment, the first end wall  108  and/or the second end wall  110  may have a handle  124  disposed on the exterior face  118 . The one or more handles  124  may be designed such that a user may grasp one of the handles  124  with his or her hand and move the storage container  100 . The handle  124  may allow a user to push, pull, or otherwise move the storage container  100  in and out of the shelf opening H. In the illustrated embodiment, the handles  124  are attached to the first and second end walls  108 ,  110  by two rivets extending through opposite ends of the handle  124  through the handle  124  and into the end wall  108 ,  110 . However, in other embodiments, the handle  124  may be attached or secured to the exterior face  118  of the first or second end wall  108 ,  110  by fasteners, glue, or other suitable attachment means. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9A-12B , when the first height  109  is different than the second height  111 , the first and second top edges  113 ,  115  of the first and second side walls  180 ,  110  may be rounded or otherwise curved such that the height of the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  varies between the sides near the first end wall  108  where the height of the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  is substantially equivalent to the height of the first end wall  108  and the sides near the second end wall  110  where the height of the first and second side walls  108 ,  110  is substantially equivalent to the height of the second end  110 . However, the top edge of the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may have other shapes or constructions. For example, the top edge of the first and second side walls  112 ,  114  may be curved or rounded in the opposite direction, stepped, diagonal, tiered, or any other suitable shape or construction. 
     The storage container  100  may also include one or more liners  126  disposed in the interior space J of the storage container  100  along the first and/or second side walls  112 ,  114 . The liners  126  may be secured or attached to the interior space J of the storage container  100  along three sides of the liner  126  such that the liner  126  defines a pocket with the interior of the storage container  100 . The liner  126  may be secured to the storage container  100  along the crease between the base  102  and the first or second side wall  112 ,  114 , along the corner formed between the first end wall  108  and the first or second side wall  112 ,  114 , and along the corner formed between the second end wall  110  and the first or second side wall  112 ,  114 . As such, the liner  126  defines a pocket having an opening facing the top of the storage container  100 . The liner  126  may be cloth, mesh, plastic, or other suitable fabric. The liner  216  may also have an elastic band  128  within or attached to the top portion of the liner  126  such that the opening of the liner  126  may be biased toward the first or second side wall  112 ,  114 . The pocket formed between the liner  126  and the interior of the storage container  100  may store smaller items such as jewelry, socks, underwear, or any other similarly sized items. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 9A and 9B , the liner  126  may include one or more dividers  127  which vertically connect the liner  126  to the adjacent side wall  112 ,  114  and divide the space between the liner  126  and the adjacent side wall  112 ,  114  into two or more pockets. In the illustrated embodiment, the storage container  100  includes two dividers  127  which attach the liner  126  to the second side wall  114 . The liner  126  extends about 4.75 inches from the bottom  102  of the storage container  100  and the dividers  127  are about 5.125 inches and about 10.25 inches from the first end wall  108 , respectively. The pocket nearest the first end wall  108  is about 5.125 inches wide and the liner  126  is about 7.125 inches wide between the first end wall  108  and the first divider  127 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9C , the liner  126 , as depicted in  FIG. 9C , the liner  126  may not include any dividers  127  such that the liner  126  creates a single pocket. In the illustrated embodiment, the liner  126  is disposed adjacent the first side wall  112  and has a length of about 15.5 inches and the length of the fabric of the liner liner  126  is about 22 inches. The liner  126  has a height near the first end wall  108  which is substantially the same height as the first height  109  and a height near the second end wall  110  which is substantially the same height as the second height  111 . 
     While the liners  126  have been described as being disposed along the first and second side walls  112 ,  114 , the liners  126  may be similarly disposed along the first and/or second end walls  108 ,  110 , either in addition to or instead of being disposed along the first and second side walls  112 ,  114 . 
     In a second embodiment, either alternatively or additionally to the storage system  10  with storage containers  100 , the storage system  10  may include one or more shelves  150 . The shelves  150  may be a generally rectangular plate and each shelf  150  may include an upper face  152 , a lower face  154  opposite the upper face  152 , side surfaces  153  extending between the upper and lower faces  152 ,  154  along the sides of the shelf  150 , and end surfaces  155  extending between the upper and lower faces  152 ,  154  at the front and rear of the shelf  150 . The upper and lower faces  152 ,  154  may have a width substantially equivalent to the distance between the vertical walls  52  of the shelving frames  50  attached to the first and second side frames  14 ,  16  and a depth substantially equivalent to the depths of the shelving tracks  50 . The shelves  150  are designed and constructed to be disposed on the top face  60  of the horizontal wall  58  by two shelving tracks  50  defining a shelf opening H and support items such as clothing, jewelry, shoes, decorations, or other items on the shelf  150 . The shelves  150  may be made of wood, metal, paperboard, plastic, or other suitable material. Further, the shelves  150  may be made of the same material as the top plate  74  and/or made to look similar to the top plate  74 . 
     Each shelf  150  may have one or more shelf bores  156  disposed in the lower face  154  and extending toward the upper face  152 . In one embodiment, the shelf bores  156  are threaded. In other embodiments, the shelf bores  156  are not threaded. The shelf bores  156  may be inset from the side surfaces  153  and disposed on the lower face  152  along the length of the side surface  153 . The shelf bores  156  may align with the shelf apertures  63  of the shelving tracks  50  when the shelf  150  is disposed in the shelf opening H on two shelving tracks  50 . A screw, bolt, nail, or other suitable fastener may be inserted through the shelf aperture  63  and into the shelf bore  156  to secure the shelf  150  in the frame system  12 . 
     In use, the storage container  100  or shelf  150  may be inserted into the shelf opening H with a portion of the bottom surface  106  of the base  102  the storage container  100  or of lower surface  154  of the shelf  150  disposed on the top face  60  of the shelving tracks  50 . The storage container  100  or shelf  150  may be pushed or slid into the shelf space H until a portion of the storage container  100  or shelf  150  abuts the stop flange  64  of the shelving tracks  50 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 14-18B , an exemplary rod attachment system  200  is depicted. The rod attachment system  200  includes a bar or rod  202 , a fastener  212 , and a connector  224 . The rod attachment system  200  may be secured to the frame system  12  and the mount  260  such that a user may hang clothing or other items from the rod  202 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the rod  202  is a generally cylindrical tube having a first end  204 , a second end  206 , and an outer circumferential surface  208 . The first and second ends  204 ,  206  may be substantially circular and the outer circumferential surface  208  may be sized similarly to traditional closet rods and/or sized to hang clothing hangers. For example, the outer circumferential surface may have a diameter between about 1.0 and about 2.0 inches, such as between about 1.25 and about 1.625 inches. The outer circumferential surface  208  may have a reduced diameter near the first end  204  such that the first end  204  of the rod  202  may be received in the mount  260 , as detailed below. The second end  206  has a receiving portion  210  which may extend into the rod  202  and may receive a portion of the fastener  212 . In one embodiment, the receiving portion  210  is a threaded bore or passage which extends inwardly into the rod  202  from the second end  208 . However, as detailed below, the receiving portion  210  may be other suitable constructions or designs which may secure and/or interlock the rod  202  with the fastener  212 . 
     In one embodiment, the rod  202  is telescoping and has a first rod portion  202   a  having a first end  204   a , a second end  206   a , and a first outer circumferential surface  208   a  and a second rod portion  202   b  having a first end  204   b , second end  206   b , and a second outer circumferential surface  208   b . The first outer circumferential surface  208   a  may have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the second outer circumferential surface  208   b  such that the second end  206   a  of the first rod portion  202   a  may fit within the first end  204   b  of the second rod portion  202   b  such that the rod  202  may telescope to different lengths. In such an embodiment, the rod  202  may further include a locking mechanism  209  which may secure the first rod portion  202   a  within the second rod portion  202   b  to fix the length of the rod  202 . For example, the locking mechanism  209  may be a clamping mechanism which clamps the first and second rod portions  202   a ,  202   b  together when the first and/or second rod portion  202   a ,  202   b  is radially twisted, snaps, screws, bolts, or other fasteners, or any other suitable locking mechanisms. However, in other embodiments, the rod  202  is a substantially solid bar or cylinder which does not telescope or otherwise vary in length. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 16A and 16B , the fastener  212  has a cap portion  214  having an outer surface  216  with a first diameter, a proximal surface  218 , and a distal surface  220  opposite the proximal surface  218  and a projection portion  222  extending from the proximal surface  218  and having a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter. The outer surface  216  of the cap portion  214  may be raised, ridged, textured, or otherwise designed to allow a user to grip and/or twist the fastener  212 . The projection portion  222  is shaped, sized, and designed to fit through the connector  224  and be received in, interlock with, and/or secured in the receiving portion  210  of the rod  202 . In one embodiment, the projection portion  222  is threaded such that the projection portion  222  may be threadingly received and secured in the receiving portion  210  of the rod  202 . However, the projection portion  222  and receiving portion  210  may be secured and/or interlocked together by other suitable mechanisms. For example, the projection portion  222  may have on or more spring loaded latches, the projection portion  222  and receiving portions  210  may have a magnetic connection, the projection portion  222  and the receiving portion  210  may have shapes or geometries which interlock together when at least the projection portion  222  or the receiving portion or twisted, or the projection portion  222  and receiving portion  210  may be secured together by bolts, snaps, screws, nails, or other suitable fasteners. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 17A and 17B , the connector  224  has a planar portion  226  and an arcuate portion  234  having an inside surface  236  and an outside surface  238 . The arcuate portion  234  is sized and shaped to securely fit over one of the support rods  40  and may be at least a half circle. The connector  224  is sized and shaped such that the planar portion  226  hangs substantially vertically when the arcuate portion  234  is disposed on one of the support rods  40 . The planar portion  226  has a distal surface  228 , a proximal surface  230  opposite the distal surface  228 , and an aperture  232  extending through the planar portion  226  from the distal surface  228  to the proximal surface  230 . In one embodiment, the arcuate portion  234  terminates in a flange  240  extending radially and outwardly from the remainder of arcuate portion  234  and opposite the planar portion  226 . In an additional or alternative embodiment, the connector  224  may also include a pad  242  disposed which secures the attachment of the of the connector  224  on the support rod  40  and/or protects the connector  224  and support rod  40  when the rod attachment system  200  is attached to the frame system  12 , as detailed below. The inside surface  236  of the arcuate portion  234  and/or the pad  242  may be sized and shaped to snugly fit around the outer circumferential rod surface  46  of the support rod  40 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 19 , an exemplary mount  260  is depicted. The mount  260  may be secured to a wall or similar surface and may secure the first end  204  of the rod  202 . The mount  260  may have mount plate  262  having a proximal surface  264  and a distal surface  266  (not pictured), a rod receiving portion  268  extending proximally from the proximal surface  264  of the mount plate  262 , and one or more mount apertures  270  in the mount plate  262 . The mount plate  262  may be substantially vertical such that the distal surface  266  may be disposed flush against a wall or similar surface. The rod receiving portion  268  extends proximally from the proximal surface  264  of the mount plate  262  to receive, interlock with, or secure the first end  204  of the rod  202 . The mount apertures  270  may accommodate one or more screws, bolts, nails, or other suitable fasteners to secure the mount  260  to a wall or similar surface and may be disposed in the mount plate  262  around the rod receiving portion  268  to support the mount plate  260  and the rod  202  when the rod  202  is loaded with hanging clothes and similar items. In the illustrated embodiment, the rod receiving portion  268  is a hollow cylinder which is sized to securely receive the first end  204  of the rod  202 . However, the rod receiving portion  268  may have other designs, shapes, or constructions to suitably secure the mount  260  and the rod  202 . For example, the rod receiving portion  268  may be J- or U-shaped such that the first end  204  of the rod  202  may be gravitationally secured in the rod receiving portion, the first end  204  of the rod  202  may have a threaded projection which is threadingly secured in a threaded bore in the rod receiving portion  268 , the rod receiving portion  268  may have a threaded projection which is threadingly secured in a threaded bore in the first end  204  of the rod  202 , the rod  202  and/or rod receiving portion  268  may have spring loaded latches, groves, projections, or other similar designs which may interlocking secure the rod  202  and rod receiving portion  268  together, or the rod  202  and the rod receiving portion  268  may secured by screws, snaps, bolts, magnets, or other suitable fasteners. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14, 18A, and 18B , the rod attachment system  200  may be connected, secured, or attached between the mount  260  and any of the support rods  40  of the frame system  12 . For example, in  FIG. 14 , a first rod  202  for hanging items such as garments from hangers extends to the left from the top, left support rod  40  and a second rod  202  for hanging items such as garments from hangers extends to the right from the top, right support rod  40  to give two tall areas for hanging garments of just about any length. In  FIGS. 18A and 18B , a first rod  202  extends to the right from the top, right support rod  40  ( FIG. 18B ) and a second rod  202  extends to the right from the middle, right support rod  40  ( FIG. 18A , support rod  40  right above the drawers in  FIG. 5A ) to give two shorter areas for hanging garments that take up less vertical space, such as blouses, shirts, and pants. To connect the rod attachment system  200  between the mount  260  and frame system  12 , the frame system  12  is constructed and the connector  224  is hung from one of the support rods  40  such that the arcuate portion  234  of the connector  224  is disposed on top of the support rod  40  and the planar portion  226  hangs below the support rod  40 . In a preferred embodiment, the connector  224  is placed substantially half way along the length of the support rod  40 . The flange  240  of the arcuate portion  234  facilitates the placement of the connector  224  around the support rod  40 . In the illustrated embodiment, the connector  224  is disposed on the support rod  40  such that the distal surface  228  faces away from the frame system  12 . However, the connector  224  may be disposed on the support rod  40  such that either the distal or the proximal surface  228 ,  230  of the connector  224  faces away from the frame system  12 . 
     The mount  260  may be secured to a wall or similar surface at a height and position which is aligned with the aperture  232  in the planar portion  226  of the connector  224  when the connector  224  is hung from the support rod  40  such that the rod receiving portion  268  and the surface of the planar portion  226  extending away from the frame system  12  are directly facing each other. If the rod  202  is telescoping, the first and second rod portions  202   a ,  202   b  may be adjusted so that the rod  202  is expanded or contracted to correspond to the distance between the rod receiving portion  268  and the planar portion  226  of the connector  224  and the second end  206  of the rod  202  may be positioned such that the second end abuts or nearly abuts the planar portion  226  and the receiving portion  210  of the rod  202  is aligned with the aperture  232 . The projection portion  222  of the fastener  212  may be inserted through the aperture  232  in the connector  224  from the side of the planar portion  226  opposite the rod  202  and the projection portion  222  may be secured in the receiving portion  210  of the rod  202 . 
     Once the projection portion  222  of the fastener  212  is secured through the connector  224  in the receiving portion of the rod  202 , the rod  202  may be gravitationally secured between the mount  260  and the frame system  12 . As the outer surface  216  of the cap portion  214  of the fastener  212  is larger than the aperture  232  of the connector  224 , the fastener  212  will not come through the connector  224  and the rod  202  may remain secured. Further, as the pad  242  of the connector  224  may be disposed between the arcuate portion  234  of the connector  2242  and the support rod  40 , the pad  242  may prevent the connector  224  from sliding along the length of the support rod  40  and may protect the connector  224  and support rod  40  when the weight of hanging clothes or similar items is applied to the rod  202 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the rod attachment system  200  is attached to the support rod  40  of the second side frame  16  of an upper pair of side frames  14   b ,  16   b . However, the rod attachment system  202  may be attached to the frame system  12  at any of the support rods  40  of the frame system  12 . For example, the connector  224  may be disposed on the support rod  40  of the lower or upper first side frame  14   a ,  14   b  or the support rod  40  of the lower or upper second side frame  16   a ,  16   b.    
     Further, while the storage system  10  has been described as having one rod attachment system  202  and one mount  260 , the storage system  10  may have any other number of rod attachment systems  200  and mounts  260 . For example, the storage system  10  may have two, three, four, or more rod attachment systems  200  which may be attached to any one or more of the support rod  40  of the lower first side frame  14   a , the support rod  40  of the upper first side frame  14   b , the support rod  40  of the lower second side frame  16   a , and the support rod  40  of the upper second side frame  16   b  and secured to a corresponding mount  260 . 
     In a further embodiment, the storage system  10  may include a wall bracket  90 . As shown in  FIG. 20, 21A, 21B, 22 , the wall bracket  90  has a mount portion  92  which is substantially vertical, a connecting portion  94  extending perpendicularly from a top portion of the mount portion  92 , and an arcuate connector  96  extending from the other end of the connecting portion  94 . The mount portion  92  may have one or more bracket apertures  98  extending therethrough which may each accommodate a screw, nail, bolt, or other suitable fastener. The arcuate portion  96  has an inside surface with a diameter substantially equivalent to the outer circumferential bar surface  25  of one of the connector bars  18 . Similarly to the arcuate portion  234  of the connector  224 , the arcuate portion  96  of the wall bracket  90  may also include a pad on the inside surface (not pictured). The arcuate portion  96  may extend from the connecting portion  94  in a similar direction as the mount portion  92  ( FIGS. 20, 21A, and 21B ) or the arcuate portion  96  may extend from the connecting portion  94  in the opposite direction as the mount portion  92  ( FIG. 22 ). When the arcuate portion  96  extends from the connecting portion  94  in the opposite direction as the mount portion  92 , a user may have more space to fasten the wall bracket  90  to a wall or similar surface, as detailed below. 
     Once the frame system  12  has been constructed and placed in the desired position with the rear of the frame system  12  disposed near a wall or similar surface, the arcuate connector  96  may be disposed on or around one of the connector bars  18  disposed at the rear of the frame system  12 . The arcuate connector  96  may be placed around any one of the rear connector bars  18  of the frame system  12 . In a preferred embodiment, the arcuate connector  96  is placed around one of the rear connector bars  18  disposed at between the middle and top of the frame system  12 . When the arcuate connector  96  is disposed around the connector bar  18  the mount portion  92  may disposed flush against the wall or other similar surface. The wall bracket  90  may be disposed around the connector bar  18  such that the connecting portion  94  is disposed below the connector bar  18  and the mount portion  92  extends upwardly against the wall ( FIG. 21A ) or such that the connecting portion  94  is disposed above the connector bar  18  and the mount portion  92  extends downwardly against the wall ( FIG. 21B ). Fasteners may then be inserted through the bracket apertures  98  and into the wall or other surface and thereby secure the wall bracket  90  to the wall or similar surface. When the arcuate connector  96  is secured around one of the connector bars  18  and the mount portion  92  is fastened to the wall, the connection between the wall, wall bracket  90 , and connector bar  18  stabilizes the frame system  12  and may prevent the frame system  12  from moving or tipping over. In a further alternative embodiment, when the rod  202  is telescoping, the rod  202  may include a mechanism or system which prevents the first rod portion  202   a  from detaching or otherwise separating from the second rod portion  202   b . As shown in  FIGS. 23A-23F , the rod  202  may include a first rod aperture  203  extending through the first outer circumferential surface  208   a  near the second end  206   a  of the first rod portion  202   a , a second rod aperture  205  extending through the second outer circumferential surface  208   b  near the first end  204   b  of the second rod portion  202   b , a rod insert  300  at least partially receivable in the first rod aperture  203 , and a rod sleeve  350  at least partially receivable in the second rod aperture  205 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first rod aperture  203  is about 4 inches from the second end  206   a  of the first rod portion  202   a.    
     The rod insert  300  includes an arcuate insert portion  302  having a first arcuate surface  303  and a second arcuate surface  304  opposite the first arcuate surface  302 , and a radial projection  306  extending radially inward from the second arcuate surface  304 . The radial projection  306  is sized and shaped to fit within the first rod aperture  203 . The second arcuate surface  304  is sized and shaped to fit snugly around the first outer circumferential surface  208   a , and the first arcuate surface  303  is sized and shaped to fit within an inner diameter of the second rod portion  202   b.    
     The rod sleeve  350  includes a generally cylindrical cap portion  352  having a first sleeve outer circumferential surface  353 , a generally cylindrical insert portion  354  having a second sleeve outer circumferential surface  356 , and a sleeve projection  360  extending radially outward from the insert portion  354 . The sleeve projection  360  is sized and shaved to fit within the second rod aperture  205 . The cap portion  352  and the insert portion  354  have an inner circumferential sleeve surface  355  which is substantially the same size as the first outer circumferential surface  208   a  of the first rod portion  202   a . The first sleeve outer circumferential surface  353  may be substantially the same size as the second outer circumferential surface  208   b  and the second sleeve outer circumferential surface  356  may be substantially the same size as an inside surface of the second rod portion  202   b  at the first end  204   b . In the illustrated embodiment, the insert portion  354  also includes two cutouts  358  which may allow the insert portion  354  to flex or bend and thereby fit into the second rod portion  202   b  more easily. 
     In use, the radial projection  306  of the rod insert  300  may be inserted into the first rod aperture  203  of the first rod portion  202   a  such that the second arcuate surface  304  is disposed on the first outer circumferential surface  208   a . The insert portion  354  of the rod sleeve  350  may be inserted into the first end  204   b  of the second rod portion  202   b  until the sleeve projection  360  projects radially outwardly from the second rod aperture  205 , thereby securing the rod sleeve  350  in the second rod portion  202   b . In such a position, the cap portion  352  of the rod sleeve  350  may abut the first end  204   b  of the second rod portion  202   b . The first rod portion  202   a  may be inserted into the second rod portion  202   b  such that the first rod portion  202   a  fits within the inner circumferential sleeve surface  355  of the rod sleeve  350  and the arcuate insert portion  302  of the rod insert  300  is disposed between the first outer circumferential surface  208   a  of the first rod portion  202   a  and the inner surface of the second rod portion  202   b . In such an embodiment, the rod insert  300  and the rod sleeve  350  are secured in the rod  202 . When the first and second rod portions  202   a ,  202   b  are extended to a maximum allowable distance, the rod insert  300  abuts the rod sleeve  350  and prevents the first and second rod portions  202   a ,  202   b  from being further separated. As such, when the rod insert  300  and the rod sleeve  350  are secured in the rod  202 , the first and second rod portions  202   a ,  202   b  may be prevented from telescoping to a distance where they separate. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the radial projection  306  and first rod aperture  203  are substantially rectangular and the sleeve projection  360  and second rod aperture  205  are substantially cylindrical. However, the radial projection  306  and sleeve projection  360  may be other shapes and geometries. For example, the radial projection  306  and first rod aperture  203  may be cylindrical and the sleeve projection  360  and second rod aperture  205  may be rectangular, or any of pairs may be triangular, oval, pentagonal, or any other suitable shape or geometry. 
     Turning to  FIG. 24 , a mount  260  according to an alternative embodiment is depicted. The mount plate  262  of the mount  260  has a wall aperture  272  in the distal portion surface  266  extending to the rod receiving portion  268 . The mount  260  also includes a mount backing  274  having a mount connecting portion  276  and a backing projection  278  extending proximally from the mount connecting portion  276 . The backing projection  278  may be received, fastened, threaded, or otherwise secured in a receiving portion in the first end  204  of the rod  202 . 
     In use, before a user secures the mount  260  to the wall or similar surface, the user may insert the first end  204  of the rod  202  through the wall aperture  272  of the mount  272  such that the first end  204  of the rod  202  is distally beyond the distal surface  266  of the mount  260 . The user may then secure the backing projection  278  of the mount backing  274  into the receiving portion in the first end  204  of the rod  202 . The first end  204  may then be pull proximally back toward the mount  260  and the mount connecting portion  276  may be secured to the mount plate  262  of the mount  262 , thereby securing the rod  202 , mount  260 , and backing projection  278  together. In the illustrated embodiment, the backing projection  278  is threaded and would be received in a receiving portion of the rod  202  which is a threaded bore, and the connecting portion  276  is twist-locked into the mount plate  262 . However, the rod  202  and the connecting portion  276  and the connecting portion  276  and the mount plate  262  may be secured by any suitable means. Once the rod  202 , the mount  260 , and the backing projection  278  are secured together, the user may then secure the mount  260  to the wall. 
     In exemplary embodiments, a kit is provided with some or all of the components for any of the various exemplary embodiments described above or below and/or shown in the figures. In some exemplary embodiments, the kit includes an instruction sheet showing assembly of the embodiment and the instruction sheet optionally includes instructions showing that the garment hanging rods  202  can be connected to and supported by any of the support rods  40 . For example, in exemplary embodiments, the kit instructions show one or more garment hanging rods  202  supported by an upper support rod  40  and extending to the right and/or the left ( FIG. 14 , e.g., to a respective mount  260 ). As another example, in exemplary embodiments, the kit instructions show one or more garment hanging rods  202  supported by the upper support rod  40  and extending to the right and/or the left and one or more garment hanging rods  202  supported by a middle support rod  40  and extending to the right and/or the left ( FIGS. 18A, 18B , e.g., to a respective mount  260 ). 
     As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached, or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be direct as between the components or may be indirect such as through the use of one or more intermediary components. Also, as described herein, reference to a “member,” “component,” or “portion” shall not be limited to a single structural member, component, or element but can include an assembly of components, members or elements. 
     While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the invention to such details. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the inventive concept, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, the representative apparatus, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant&#39;s general inventive concept. 
     Exemplary Embodiments 
     1. A storage container for use with a storage system, the storage container comprising: 
     a flexible bottom having a first edge, a second edge, a third edge, and a forth edge; 
     a first end extending from the first edge of the bottom to a first height substantially the same as a height of a shelf opening of the storage system; 
     a second end extending from the third edge of the bottom to a second height less than the height of the shelf opening; 
     a first side wall extending from the second edge of the bottom to a point substantially equivalent to the first height near the first end and the second height near the second end; 
     a second side wall extending from the fourth edge of the bottom to a point substantially equivalent to the first height near the first end and the second height near the second end; and 
     a rigid insert receivable between the first and second ends and first and second side walls; 
     wherein the first and second side walls are inwardly collapsible when the rigid insert is removed from the storage container; and 
     wherein the storage container may be inserted into the shelf opening with either the first or second end facing outward from the storage system. 
     2. The storage container of the above embodiment, further comprising one or more handles disposed on an exterior face either the first end wall or second end wall. 
     3. The storage container of any of the above embodiments, further comprising at least one liner disposed in an interior space of the storage container along one or more of the first end wall, the second end wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall.
 
4. The storage container of any of the above embodiments, wherein each liner further comprises an elastic band at an upper portion of the liner which biases the liner toward one of the first end wall, the second end wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall.
 
5. The storage container of any of the above embodiments, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall each have a top edge which curves between the first height near the first end wall and the second height near the second end wall.
 
6. The storage container of any of the above embodiments, wherein the first end wall and the second end wall are rectangular.
 
7. The storage container of any of the above embodiments, wherein the storage container comprises a fabric.
 
8. The storage container of any of the above embodiments, wherein an interior space of the container is viewable when the second end wall defines a front of the shelf opening.
 
9. A rod attachment system for use with a storage system, the rod attachment system comprising:
 
     a rod having a first end and a second end, the second end having a receiving portion 
     a fastener having a cap portion with a first diameter and a projection portion with a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter; and 
     a connector having a planar portion and an arcuate portion, the planar portion having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an aperture extending from the first side to the second side and having a third diameter; 
     wherein the third diameter is larger than the second diameter and smaller than the first diameter; and 
     wherein the rod attachment system is securable to the storage system by disposing the arcuate portion over a support rod of the storage system, inserting the projection portion of the connector through the aperture from the first side to the second side, and securing the projection portion of the connector in the receiving portion of the rod. 
     10. The rod attachment system of the above embodiments, further comprising a pad disposed on the inside surface of the arcuate portion. 
     11. The rod attachment system of any of embodiments 9 through 10, wherein the projection portion of the fastener is threadingly securable in the receiving portion of the rod. 
     12. The rod attachment system of any of embodiments 9 through 11, wherein one end of the arcuate portion terminates in a flange extending radially outward. 
     13. The rod attachment system of any of embodiments 9 through 12, wherein the rod is telescoping. 
     14. The rod attachment system of any of embodiments 9 through 13, further comprising a mount having a rod receiving portion and being securable on a wall or similar surface. 
     15. The rod attachment system of any of embodiments 9 through 14, wherein the arcuate portion has an inside surface having a diameter substantially the same size as a diameter of an outer circumferential rod surface of a support rod of the storage system. 
     16. The rod attachment system of any of embodiments 9 through 15, wherein the cap portion of the fastener is larger than the aperture of the connector. 
     17. A storage system, the storage system comprising: 
     a frame system comprising:
         a first side frame comprising a first leg, a second leg, a support rod connecting the first leg and second leg, and at least one shelving track extending horizontally between the first and second legs;   a second side frame comprising a third leg, a fourth leg, a support rod connecting the third and fourth legs, and at least one shelving track extending horizontally between the third and fourth legs; and   at least one connector bar connecting the first side frame and the second side frame;       

     a rod attachment system comprising;
         a rod having a first end, a second end, and a receiving portion in the second end;   a connector having an arcuate portion, a planar portion, and an aperture through the planar portion; and   a fastener having a cap portion and a projection portion, the projection portion being securable within the receiving portion of the rod; and       

     a mount having a rod receiving portion and being securable to a wall. 
     18. The storage system of the above embodiment, wherein the rod attachment system may be attached to the support rod of the first frame side or the support rod of the second frame side. 
     19. The storage system of any of embodiments 17 or 18, further comprising at least one of a storage container and a shelf disposed one of the at least one shelving tracks of the first side and one of the at least one shelving tracks of the second side. 
     20. The storage system of any of embodiments 17 through 19, wherein the projection portion of the fastener is inserted through the aperture of the planar portion and securable in the receiving portion of the rod. 
     21. The storage system of any of embodiments 17 through 19 further comprising a storage container according to any of the foregoing embodiments. 
     22. The storage system of any of embodiments 17 through 19 further comprising a rod attachment system according to any of the foregoing embodiments. 
     23. The storage system of any of embodiments 17 through 19 further comprising a rod attachment system according to any of the foregoing embodiments and a storage container according to any of the foregoing embodiments. 
     24. A kit, comprising: frame components and an instruction sheet teaching one or more upper garment hanging rods supported by a respective upper support rod of the frame and extending to the right and/or the left and also one or more lower garment hanging rods supported by a middle support rod of a frame and extending to the right and/or the left.
 
25. A kit, comprising: a storage container or rod attachment system or storage system according to any of the foregoing embodiments comprising an instruction sheet teaching one or more upper garment hanging rods supported by a respective upper support rod of a frame and extending to the right and/or the left and also one or more lower garment hanging rods supported by a middle support rod of a frame and extending to the right and/or the left.