U.S. patent application number 10/957296 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-30 for collapsible insulated container.
Invention is credited to Curtis P. Taylor.
Application Number | 20060065655 10/957296 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36097855 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060065655 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Taylor; Curtis P. |
March 30, 2006 |
Collapsible insulated container
Abstract
A collapsible and insulated container for storing and
transporting items contained therein. The container includes a lid
assembly, having a lid member pivotally associated with a lid base,
a bottom face, and a plurality of opposed and spaced apart side
faces. Each side face includes an upper and a lower panel pivotally
connected via a hinge upon which the panels pivot and fold about a
horizontal axis when the container is in a collapsed state. The
container is configured to selectably alternate between a collapsed
state for storage and an expanded state for use and storage of
items therein. The collapsibility of the container significantly
facilitates retail of the container, as less shelf space is
required to display the container.
Inventors: |
Taylor; Curtis P.; (Moreland
Hills, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Justin S. Rerko & Associates, LLC
19836 Ellsworth Drive
Strongsville
OH
44149
US
|
Family ID: |
36097855 |
Appl. No.: |
10/957296 |
Filed: |
September 30, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 11/1826 20130101;
A45C 11/20 20130101; A45C 13/30 20130101; B65D 81/3816 20130101;
A45C 7/0036 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/006 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/12 20060101
B65D006/12 |
Claims
1. A collapsible and insulated container for storing and
transporting items contained therein, comprising: a lid assembly
for providing access to an interior cavity of the container; a
bottom face for engaging a surface upon which the container is
placed; and a plurality of opposed and spaced apart side faces,
wherein each side face comprises an upper and a lower panel, and
wherein the panels are pivotally connected via a hinge upon which
the panels pivot and fold about a horizontal axis when the
container is in a collapsed state.
2. The container of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of
opposed and spaced apart end faces, wherein each end face is
pivotally connected to the lid assembly via a hinge upon which the
end face pivots.
3. The container of claim 2, wherein an upper portion of the upper
panel is pivotally connected to the lid assembly, and wherein a
lower portion of the lower panel is pivotally connected to the
bottom face.
4. The container of claim 1, wherein the lid assembly comprises a
lid member and a lid base, wherein the lid is configured to
selectably provide access to the interior cavity of the container,
and wherein the lid member is pivotally connected to the lid
base.
5. The container of claim 2, wherein the end face comprises a
handle for transport of the container when in an uncollapsed
state.
6. The container of claim 5, wherein the handle is a portion
recessed into the end face.
7. The container of claim 1 further comprising a handle for
transport of the container when in a collapsed state.
8. The container of claim 4, wherein the lid member comprises a top
surface and an interior surface, and wherein the top surface
comprises means adapted for retaining a liquid holding device.
9. The container of claim 4, wherein the lid member comprises a top
surface and an interior surface, and wherein the interior surface
comprises means adapted for securing items in proximity to the
lid.
10. The container of claim 9, wherein the means adapted for
securing items in proximity to the lid is a net member associated
with the interior surface of the lid member.
11. The container of claim 1 further comprising at least one
elastic strap adapted to extend around a perimeter of container in
a collapsed state and retain the container in a collapsed
state.
12. The container of claim 11, wherein the elastic strap comprises
a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the proximal end of
the strap is affixed to the container.
13. The container of claim 12, further comprising a second elastic
strap comprising a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the
proximal end of the second strap is affixed to the container.
14. The container of claim 13, wherein the distal end of the
elastic strap and the distal end of the second elastic strap
comprise means adapted for securing the distal ends together.
15. The container of claim 1 further comprising a water-impervious
liner.
16. The container of claim 15, wherein the liner is selectably
secured to the container, and wherein the liner is configured to
collapse into a folded state storable in the container when in a
collapsed state.
17. The container of claim 16, wherein the liner is constructed
from vinyl.
18. The container of claim 1, wherein the container is produced by
injection molding.
19. A container for storing and transporting items contained
therein, comprising a lid for providing access to an interior
cavity of the container, wherein the lid comprises a top surface
and a bottom surface; a bottom face for engaging a surface upon
which the container is placed; a plurality of opposed and spaced
apart side faces; and a net member secured to the bottom surface of
the lid for securably retaining at least one item in proximity to
the lid.
20. The container of claim 19, wherein each side face comprises an
upper and a lower panel, and wherein the panels are pivotally
connected via a hinge upon which the panels pivot and fold about a
horizontal axis for collapsing the container.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is directed to a collapsible
container. More particularly, the present invention is directed to
a collapsible insulated container having substantially rigid walls
that horizontally pivot along hinges for collapsibility.
BRIEF DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART
[0002] Containers, especially insulated containers, are commonly
employed for storing and/or transporting items therein. Common
examples of containers include coolers, picnic-like coolers,
perishable item containers, biologics containers; etc., and are
configured to store and transport, for example, food items,
especially perishable food items, biological sera (e.g., blood,
etc.), perishable medical drugs, etc. Of particular relevance to
the present invention, insulated containers are especially useful
as picnic-like containers, also known simply as coolers, and are
used to store and transport in a thermally insulated environment
food items to a desired location, such as a beach, picnic location,
etc. Conventional coolers are large, typically of sufficient size
to accommodate a desired quantity of food items, and are
constructed by blow molding techniques. Such coolers are fashioned
as unitary structures having a lid member that is either detachable
or is pivotally connected.
[0003] The large size of conventional containers, especially
coolers, present significant complications to every element of
their commercial chain. For example, manufacturers of containers
ship the containers to retailers, who display the containers for
sale to consumers. The large size of the containers necessitates
significant amounts of packaging materials and large freight
expenses associated with shipping correspondingly large items.
Additionally, the containers require significant amounts of retail
shelf space to be displayed. Given limited shelf space
availability, retailer are often concerned with maximizing shelf
usage and doing so in a way that maximizes shelf space to
profitability ratios. Conventional containers, such as coolers,
frustrate these ratios by demanding large amounts of shelf space
for relatively low profits. Additionally, the ultimate users of the
containers also suffer from the significant size thereof. When the
containers are not in use, precious home space must be wasted to
store the container. Additionally, many families travel by car for
vacation and typically elect to bring a conventional container. Due
to the space capacity constraints of typical family automobiles,
the choice to bring a container, such as a cooler, requires a
concomitant decision to eliminate other potentially desirable
items.
[0004] Conventional containers, especially coolers, suffer from
additional disadvantages. Containers are typically produced by blow
molding techniques according to which the entire container
apparatus is produced as a unitary construction. Due to procedural
limitations of blow molding, the vertical faces of the container
are angularly offset relative to a base support member. The angular
offset nature of the faces produces an interior container cavity
with a significant quantity of unusable space. For example, many
items to be stored in a container are generally rectangular in
cross-sectional configuration, such as a bottle of soda. When the
bottle is placed in the container near a site of intersection
between a vertical face and the base support member, a gap of space
will result between the vertical wall of the bottle and the
angularly offset face of the container. This gap is difficult to
fill with typical items and frequently ends up not being filled,
thereby significantly impairing the space usage efficiency.
[0005] Thus, there exists a need for a container, especially a
cooler-like container, that can accommodate a large quantity of
items therein and simultaneously be able to require a minimum
amount of space for storage, especially retail display. There also
exists a need for a container that maximizes space usage
efficiency.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In accordance with one example aspect, the present invention
is directed to a collapsible and insulated container for storing
and transporting items contained therein. The container includes a
lid assembly for providing access to an interior cavity of the
container; a bottom face for engaging a surface upon which the
container is placed; and a plurality of opposed and spaced apart
side faces. Each side face includes an upper and a lower panel. The
panels are pivotally connected via a hinge upon which the panels
pivot and fold about a horizontal axis when the container is in a
collapsed state.
[0007] In accordance with another aspect, the container also
includes a plurality of opposed and spaced apart end faces. Each
end face is pivotally connected to the lid assembly via a hinge
upon which the end face pivots when the container is collapsed.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect, the lid assembly includes
a lid member and a lid base. The lid member is configured to
selectably provide access to the interior cavity of the container.
The lid member suitably is pivotally connected to the lid base.
Additionally, an upper portion of the upper panel is suitably
pivotally connected to the lid assembly and a lower portion of the
lower panel is pivotally connected to the bottom face.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect, the end faces of the
container include a handle, particularly a recessed handle, for
facilitating the transport of the container when not collapsed. The
container suitably also includes an additional handle configured to
facilitate the transport of the container when in a collapsed
state.
[0010] In accordance with yet another aspect, the lid member
includes means adapted for securing items in proximity to the lid.
The means for securing the items preferably is a net secured to a
lower surface of the lid member.
[0011] In accordance with another aspect, the container includes a
water impervious liner. The liner may be selectably secured to the
container is preferably is configured to collapse into a folded
state storable in the container when in a collapsed state.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect, the container includes at
least one elastic strap adapted to extend around a perimeter of the
container and to retain the container in a collapsed state.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect, the container is produced
by injection molding techniques.
[0014] In accordance with another aspect, the present invention is
directed to a container for storing and transporting items
contained therein. The container includes a lid for providing
access to an interior cavity of the container, wherein the lid
comprises a top surface and a bottom surface; a bottom face for
engaging a surface upon which the container is placed; a plurality
of opposed and spaced apart side faces; and a net member secured to
the bottom surface of the lid for securably retaining at least one
item in proximity to the lid. Each side face suitably comprises an
upper and a lower panel, and wherein the panels are pivotally
connected via a hinge upon which the panels pivot and fold about a
horizontal axis for collapsing the container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] These and other features and a more thorough understanding
of the present invention may be achieved by referring to the
following description and claims, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an example collapsible
insulated container according to the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the container of FIG.
1;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the container of FIG.
1, wherein a lid is pivoted partially open providing access to an
interior cavity;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a side view of the container of FIG. 1 in a
partially collapsed configuration;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a side view of the container of FIG. 4 in a
substantially collapsed configuration;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a side view of the container of FIG. 5 in a fully
collapsed configuration;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a partially top perspective view of the container
of FIG. 6 in a fully collapsed and secured configuration;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a partially bottom perspective view of the
container of FIG. 7 in a fully collapsed and secured
configuration;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a partially top perspective view of the container
of FIG. 3 having a liner; and
[0025] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the liner of FIG. 9.
DETAILED DISCUSSION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0026] Disclosed according to the present invention is a
collapsible container, particularly a collapsible insulated
container, such as a general cooler, a collapsible picnic-like
cooler for food items, a biologics transport container, etc. The
container is useful for storing and/or transporting a variety of
items, such as food items, especially perishable food items,
biologics, especially blood, temperature-sensitive drugs, etc., and
other items, especially temperature-sensitive items. The container
is configured to be collapsible and thereby alternate between a
closed, collapsed state for storage and transport, and an open,
expanded state for use as a container for items, especially
perishable items. Preferably, substantially rigid materials are
used to construct the structural framework of the container, which
framework includes a plurality of longitudinally-running hinges for
collapsing the container along one or more horizontal axes. As will
be more fully described below, the collapsibility of the container
imparts significant advantages for all members of the chain of
commerce of the container, especially manufacturers, retailers and
ultimate end-users.
[0027] The container of the present invention comprises a core
structural framework and a plurality of accessory features, each of
which is variously combinable with the core structural framework in
a plurality of configurations, as will be more fully discussed
below. In general, the core structural framework is squarely,
preferably rectangularly, prismatic in overall shape and includes a
lid assembly, a bottom face, and a plurality of side faces. The
core structural framework defines the operable unit of the
container and additionally defines therein an interior cavity for
storing desired items.
[0028] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, illustrated are several views
of an example preferred embodiment of a collapsible insulated
container 100 according to the present invention. The container 100
includes the lid assembly 102, the bottom face 104, and a plurality
of vertical side faces. The vertical side faces are generally
arranged in pairs of opposed, spaced apart walls and define
therebetween the interior cavity 140 (FIG. 3) for storage of
items.
[0029] The lid assembly 102 functions to permit access to the
interior cavity 140 and to selectably close the interior cavity
140. In general, the lid assembly 102 includes a lid base 112 and a
lid member 110. The lid base 112 is generally an open rectangular
member and provides a substrate for attachment and pivoting of
several container 100 components, as will be described below.
According to a preferred embodiment, the lid 110 is hingedly
connected to the lid base 112 such that the lid 110 is pivotably
from the lid base 112 along a continuum of positions, ranging from
a fully open state, in which full access to the interior cavity 140
is possible, and a fully closed state, in which the lid 110 is
securely abutting the lid base 112, thereby closing the interior
cavity 140 and securing the contents therein. The lid 110 and the
lid base 112 are provided with a plurality of hinge elements 136,
138 (FIG. 2) for enabling the pivotability of the lid 110.
[0030] As previously described, the lid 110 functions to pivotably
provide access to the interior cavity 140 and to close the interior
cavity 140. The lid 110 preferably includes at least one feature
for securing the lid 110 in a closed state. According to a
preferred embodiment, the lid 110 includes at least one locking
member 118 that is pivotable from the lid 110 into locking
engagement with one or more lock engaging member 120 fashioned into
the lid base 112. The locking member 118 suitably is a snap
lock-like locking member configured to lockingly engage the lock
engagement member 120 in a snap-like manner. Accordingly, the
locking member 118 suitably includes on a surface facing the lid
base 112 a projecting flange-like protrusion adapted to engage and
be engaged by a complementary engagement surface on the lock
engaging member 120. The locking member 118 may additionally
include on an exterior surface features that increase friction
between a user's hand and the locking member 118, such as raised
surface features, applied adhesive, etc. Such exterior surface
features are especially useful under normal operating conditions,
as users of the container are likely to have water on their hands,
thereby reducing their hands' ability to engage the locking member
118. It is to be appreciated that a variety of other features for
securing the lid 110 are contemplated and may include, but not be
limited to, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro.TM.), lock and
key-like securing devices, or other suitable locking means.
[0031] The lid 110 and lid base 112 preferably also include
structural features that increase the frictional engagement
therebetween to further maintain the lid 110 in a closed state
relative to the lid base 112. For example, and with reference to
FIG. 3, the lid 110 suitably includes an inwardly recessed portion
that is configured to position into and be secured by a
complementary shape in the lid base 112. In more detail, the lid
110 includes a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom
surface abuts the lid base 112 when in a closed state. The bottom
surface of the lid 110 preferably includes a downwardly projecting
member 144 that is configured to occupy a reduced perimeter,
relative to the perimeter of the overall lid 110. The member 144
may be present in a discontinuous manner, or may be present in a
continuous manner defining a closed rectangular-like member on the
bottom surface of the lid 110. The reduced perimeter of the member
144 defines a bottom surface of the member 144, an outwardly-facing
side surface of the member 144 and a portion of the bottom surface
of the lid 110 that extends exteriorly around the member 144, the
plane of which portion is generally perpendicular to the side
surface of the member 144.
[0032] The lid base 112 preferably contains structure complementary
to the member 144 for securely retaining the member 144 and,
correspondingly, the lid 110. With further reference to FIG. 3, the
lid base 112 includes a shoulder-like portion 142 that is
configured to fittingly engage the member 144. The lid base 112
includes an exterior surface and an inner surface. The shoulder 142
is provided as an inwardly projecting portion along the inner
surface of the lid base 112 and is downwardly offset relative to a
top of the lid base 112. The downwardly offset nature of the
shoulder 142 defines an upper surface of the shoulder 142 and a
portion of the inner surface of the lid base 112 positioned above
the shoulder 142 and generally perpendicular thereto. Accordingly,
when the lid 110 is pivoted into a closed state against the lid
base 112, the member 144 of the lid 110 is securely engaged with
the shoulder 142 of the lid base 112. In more detail, the bottom
surface of the member 144 lies against the upper surface of the
shoulder 142 and the outwardly-facing side surface of the member
144 lies against the portion of the inner surface of the lid base
112 positioned above the shoulder 142. Additionally, one or more of
the outwardly-facing side surface of the member 144 and the portion
of the inner surface of the lid base 112 positioned above the
shoulder 142 may suitably include additional surface features to
increase the frictional engagement therebetween. For example, the
surface features may include complementary raised portions that
increase the frictional fit. By way of additional example, the
surface features may include generally flexible flange-like
members, such as fashioned from rubber-like materials, that
increase the frictional fit and impart a generally water-tight seal
to the lid 110 and lid base 112. Such water-tight seal may be
advantageous in connection with the container's 100 use as a
cooler, especially a picnic-like cooler in which meltable ice is
likely to be placed.
[0033] The lid 110 preferably includes additional features for
enhancing its use as a cooler, especially a picnic-like cooler.
With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an upper surface of the lid 110
suitably includes one or more grooved members 114 that may be
fashioned as temporary storage receptacles. For example, grooved
member 114 may include one or more generally circular, downwardly
recessed cut out portions 116 configured to temporarily secure a
cup or other drinking glass. With reference to the container's 100
exemplary use as a picnic-like cooler, the lid 110 may function as
a table-like member, with the cut out portions 116 further
enhancing the expansive functionality of the lid 110.
[0034] The lid 110 may suitably be also include a net-like member
146 secured to an inner surface of the lid 110. The net 146
suitably provides an interior cavity 140 partitioning function by
enabling certain items to be stored between the net 146 and the
inner surface of the lid 110 and still be maintained in the
interior cavity 140. The net 146 is especially advantageous in
connection with the container's 100 use as a picnic-like cooler, as
certain water-sensitive items, such as bread, lunchmeat, etc., can
be stored in the net and be out of contact with ice in the interior
cavity 140. The net 146 provides an additional advantage over
conventionally used rigid trays, as the net 146 can accommodate and
not interfere with the collapsibility of the container 100.
[0035] In connection with the container's 100 use as an insulated
container, the lid 110 suitably includes insulative features that
enhance the lid's 110 ability to contribute to the maintenance of a
cooled environment in the interior cavity 140. For example, the lid
110 suitably includes insulating material, such as, for example,
foam, secured thereto. The insulating material may be provided as
integral to and contained within the lid 110 or may be provided as
a separate member secured to an inner surface of the lid 110.
Although foam is a preferred insulating material, other known
insulating materials, such as, for example, liquid ice, glycerol,
etc., may be used. It is to be understood that the foregoing
discussion of insulative features is applicable to further
discussions of insulative features as contained herein.
[0036] The container 100 also includes a bottom face 104 that
functions as the bottom of the container 100. A bottom surface of
the bottom face 104 rests upon a surface, such as grass, sand,
concrete, etc., upon which the container 100 is placed.
Accordingly, the bottom face 104 is preferably a highly durable
component, able to withstand repeated engagement with rough
surfaces. Additionally, the bottom face 104 suitably includes
insulative features, such as foam positioned on an interior surface
of the bottom face 104, for enhancing the container's insulative
capacity. As will be more fully described below, the bottom face
104 additionally provides a substrate against which various side
faces are hingedly engaged.
[0037] The container 100 additionally includes a plurality of
vertical side faces that define the vertical components of the
container 100. The side faces generally include a pair of opposed,
vertically spaced apart end faces 106a, 106b, and a pair of
opposed, vertically spaced apart side faces 108a, 108b.
[0038] The opposed, vertically spaced apart end faces 106a, 106b
define the end faces of the end sides of the container 100, and are
preferably provided as identical, mirror-image-like, components.
Additionally, the end faces 106a, 106b are preferably reduced in
size relative to the side faces 108a, 108b, such that the side
faces 108a, 108b define the longer sides of the generally
rectangular shape of the container 100 and the end faces 106a, 106b
define the shorter sides of the container 100.
[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the end faces 106a,
106b are hingedly secured to the lid base 112. With reference to
FIGS. 4 and 5, the end faces 106a, 106b are defined by an upper
portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion is generally
adjacent to the lid base 112 and the lower portion is generally
adjacent to the bottom face 104. The upper portion of the end face
106a, 106b is engaged with the lid base 112 through hinge-like
members 154a, 154b. The hinged engagement of the end faces 106a,
106b with the lid base 112 enables the end faces 106a, 106b to be
pivoted inward toward the lid base 112 in a position wherein an
inner surface of the end faces 106a, 106b lies in generally
abutting, preferably parallel, relationship to a horizontal axis of
the lid base 112. As will be more fully described below, the
pivoting of the end faces 106a, 106b facilitates the collapsibility
of the container 100 and further contributes structural support for
maintaining the container 100 in an upright configuration.
Additionally, the lower portion of the end faces 106a, 106b
contains means for securably engaging the bottom face 104.
[0040] In an additionally preferred embodiment, the end faces 106a,
106b feature a handle 128 for receiving a user's hand during
transport of the container 100. With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the
handles 128 are positioned on an exterior surface of each of the
end faces 106a, 106b and are preferably positioned near the upper
portions of the end faces 106a, 106b so as to increase stability of
the container 100 during transport. The handles 128 may be provided
as any known handle, such as, for example, a pivotably attached
member, a rigidly affixed extension, etc. In a preferred
embodiment, the handles 128 are provided as members recessed into
the end faces 106a, 106b. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the
preferred recessed handle 128 is configured so as to define a slot
in the exterior surface of the end faces 106a, 106b into which the
user can position the user's hands for transport.
[0041] The end faces 106a, 106b may additionally include insulative
material positioned on an interior surface thereof. For example,
the end faces 106a, 106b suitably include foam insulation secured
to the interior surface for contributing to the insulative capacity
of the container 100.
[0042] The container 100 also includes a pair of opposed,
vertically spaced apart side faces 108a, 108b that define a front
vertical surface and a back vertical surface of the container 100.
According to a preferred embodiment, and with reference to FIGS.
1-3, the side faces 108a, 108b include an upper panel 132a, 132b
and a lower panel 130a, 130b. The upper panel 132a, 132b
essentially defines an upper half of the side face 108a, 108b and
the lower panel 130a, 130b essentially defines a lower half of the
side face 108a, 108b. The upper panel 132a, 132b is pivotally
connected to the lower panel 130a, 130b via a hinge 134a, 134b upon
which the panels 132a, 132b, 130a, 130b pivot and fold about a
horizontal axis when the container 100 is collapsed. In a further
preferred embodiment, the hinge 134a, 134b preferably extends along
substantially the entire longitudinal length of the site of
interaction of the upper panel 132a, 132b and the lower panel 130a,
130b. The hinge 134a, 134b provides a pivot point along which the
side faces 108a, 108b are inwardly foldable for collapsing of the
container 100.
[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the side faces 108a,
108b are also hingedly connected to the lid base 112 and the bottom
face 104. As best shown in FIG. 4, the upper panels 132a, 132b are
pivotally connected to a bottom portion of the lid base 112 through
a hinge 150a, 150b. The hinge 150a, 150b accommodates the inward
pivoting of the side faces 108a, 108b and enables the panels 130a,
130b, 132a, 132b to fold on each other. Additionally, the lower
panels 130a, 130b are pivotally connected to an upper portion of
the bottom face 104 through a hinge 152a, 152b. The hinge 152a,
152b accommodates the inward pivoting of the side faces 108a, 108b
as well, as will be more fully discussed below.
[0044] The side faces 108a, 108b may additionally include on an
interior surface an insulative material, such as foam affixed to
the interior surface, for contributing to the insulative capacity
of the container 100. In a preferred embodiment, an interior
surface of each of the panels 130a, 130b, 132a, 132b is provided
with an insulative material. Providing each panel 130a, 130b, 132a,
132b with a separate unit of insulative material simplifies the
collapsing mechanism of the container 100 without interfering with,
for example, the pivoting of hinge 134a, 134b.
[0045] In connection with the preferred exemplary embodiment of the
container's 100 use as a picnic-like cooler, the container 100
additionally includes a liner 162 (FIGS. 9 and 10). The liner 162
is preferably a water-retaining member configured to impart a
leak-proof characteristic on the container 100. Given the typical
application of positioning meltable ice in the interior cavity 140,
the liner 162 ensures that the container 100 will securably retain
water or other liquids and will not leak the same. The liner 162 is
preferably constructed from vinyl or other similar flexible
material. Additionally, the liner 162 is preferably constructed
from a washable material.
[0046] According to an embodiment, the liner 162 is securably
retained in the interior cavity 140 of the container 100. With
reference to FIG. 9, the liner 162 is configured so as to be
complementary in shape to the interior cavity 140 and to
substantially cover the entire interior surface of the interior
cavity, while maintaining an open top for access therein. The liner
162 suitably includes fold lines 172 for folding of the liner 162
as the container 100 is collapsed.
[0047] According to an alternate, preferred embodiment, the liner
162 is detachably associated with the container 100 such that it
can be inserted into and removed from the container 100. The liner
162 is provided with one or more handles 166 for facilitating the
insertion and removal of the liner 162. The handles 166 are
preferably configured as thin, flexible protrusions from a lower
portion of the liner 162 that can be abuttingly pushed against the
liner 162, so as to minimize the amount of interior space consumed
by the handles 166. Additionally, a top portion of the liner 162
includes a flange-like protrusion 164 that is configured to rest
upon the upper surface of the shoulder 142 of the lid base 112. The
flange 164 is preferably a substantially rigid material that
securably retains the liner 162 in an upright configuration in the
interior cavity 140. In collapsible operation, the liner 162 is
removable from the container 100, is foldable along its fold lines
172 and subsequently storable in the collapsed container 100,
preferably between the lid 110 and the lid base 112, as will be
more fully discussed below.
[0048] The liner 162 suitably also includes a securable opening for
draining of the liquid, e.g., water, contents therein. With
reference to FIG. 10, the securable opening is preferably provided
as a pop-out valve 168 configured to be pushed into the liner
cavity for storage and popped out for drainage. The valve 168 is
preferably securable with a cap-like member 170 for alternating the
valve 168 between an open and closed state. Additionally, and with
reference to FIG. 4, the container 100 includes an aperture 148
through which the valve 168 may be extended and retracted. In a
preferred embodiment, the aperture 148 is provided as an opening
integral with a vertical portion of the bottom face 104.
[0049] According to an additional alternate embodiment, the liner
162 suitably is an inflatable liner. Accordingly, the inflatable
liner embodiment suitably also includes an air valve for inflating
and deflating the liner. An inflatable liner may be advantageous
for the transport of delicate items, as the air contained in the
inflated liner provides a cushioning support. Additionally, air
operates as a natural insulator and, as such, can contribute to the
insulative capacity of the container 100.
[0050] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 7 and 8, the container
suitably also includes one or more straps for extending around the
collapsed container 100 and securing it in a collapsed state.
According to a preferred embodiment, the straps are provided as
elastic straps 122, such as elastic straps available under the
tradename "Bungee Cords." The elastic straps 122 are configured to
expand around the collapsed container 100 and elastically retract
upon their length of secure the container 100 in a collapsed
state.
[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the elastic straps 122
are integrally associated with the container 100. According to a
more preferred embodiment, the elastic straps 122 are provided as
pairs of straps, wherein a proximal end of each strap is secured to
a portion of the container 100 and wherein the distal ends of the
straps are extendable around the container 100 and subsequently
fixable to each other through a locking mechanism 158 (FIG. 8). In
more detail, the proximal end of each strap 122 is suitably secured
to a portion of the groove 114 on the lid 110 and the straps 122
are configurably positioned so as to extend away from each other.
With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the straps 122 are extendable away
from their proximal ends around the container 100 and subsequently
lockable to each other through the locking mechanism 158 along the
bottom face 104 of the container 100. In a preferred embodiment,
the locking mechanism 158 is provided as a two part construction,
with one of each part securably fashioned to the distal end of the
strap 122, and wherein the parts are securably and releasable
enageable with each other. The bottom face 104 may additionally
include along its bottom surface grooved portions 156 along which
the straps 122 pass and which secures the straps 122 from lateral
movement. It is to be appreciated that straps 122 need not be
integrally provided with the container and may be present as
detachable cords, as known to a skilled artisan.
[0052] In addition to securing the container 100 in a closed state,
the straps 122 may provide additional functions as well. For
example, the straps 122 may be extended around an item, such as a
beach towel, a foldable chair, etc., and thereby secure the item to
the container 100. Such feature may be advantageous, especially in
connection with the container's 100 exemplary use as a picnic-like
cooler, as the additionally affixed item is easily transportable
along with the container 100.
[0053] According to another preferred embodiment, the container 100
includes a briefcase-like handle 124 (FIGS. 1, 7, and 8) for
facilitating the transport of the container 100 when in a collapsed
state. The handle 124 may be provided in any of a plurality of
configurations, such as, for example, a protruding member, a
recessed slot-like member (similar to the handle 128 of the end
faces 106a, 106b), etc. According to a preferred embodiment, the
handle 124 is provided as a strap of material that is extendable
from and collapsible along a pair of pins 126 in a sliding manner.
The handle 124 can be collapsed along the pins 126 when not in use
and can be pulled away from the pins 126 to expose the strap for
carrying purposes. The handle 124 can be affixed to or integrated
with any suitable component of the container 100. In a preferred
embodiment, the handle 124 is secured to the lid base 112, as best
shown in FIG. 1. In reference to packaging for retail of the
container 100, the handle 124 is preferably exposed through the
packaging for enabling simple transport of the container 100 from
the retail site to the user's desired location.
[0054] The container 100 of the present invention can be
constructed from any known and appropriate material and by any
known and appropriate technique. According to a preferred
embodiment, the container 100 is constructed by injection molding,
wherein each component of the container 100 (e.g., lid 110, lid
base 112, side faces 108a, 108b, end faces 106a, 106b, bottom face
104, etc.) is separately molded and subsequently assembled for use.
Injection molding offers significant benefits, especially relative
to conventional blow molding. For example, as previously mentioned,
each component of the container 100 can be separately molded, an
aspect that lends a degree of flexibility to component design. In
particular, the end faces 106a, 106b can be injection molded to
include the recessed handle 128, a feature difficult to attain by
blow molding. By way of additional example, injection molding can
be used to produce a container having faces that meet at
substantially right angles, a feature also difficult to attain by
blow molding. With regard to the present invention, the end faces
106a, 106b are positioned relative to the bottom face 104 and the
lid assembly 102 in a substantially right angle relationship, with
similar relationships attained with the positioning of the side
faces 108a, 108b relative to the same structures. The creation of
right angles significantly expands and maximizes the usability of
the interior cavity of the container 100. For example, a container
produced by blow molding results in the vertical walls being
angularly offset relative to their base. Typical products placed in
a container, such as bottles, are usually generally rectangular in
shape. Accordingly, when the products are positioned in the
interior, a significant gap exists between the product and the
walls, due to the angular offset, which gap is typically
unfillable, thereby reducing the utilization of interior space. The
container 100 of the present invention contains right
angled-relationships, and thereby eliminates such unusable gaps and
thereby maximizes utilization of the interior cavity 140.
Additionally, the container 100 as made by injection molding is
structurally much stronger than a container made by blow
molding.
[0055] The manner of collapsing the container 100 will now be
discussed. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the container 100 is in an open,
usable state wherein the interior cavity 140 is defined by the
upright, vertical side and end faces. In this state, the container
100 is usable for the storage and/or transport of items placed in
the interior cavity 140. When the container 100 is not being used,
it may be desirable to collapse the container 100 into a collapsed
state for reducing the amount of space necessary to store or retail
the container 100. Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 4, to
collapse the container 100, a user first pivots the end faces 106a,
106b inward toward the lid base 112. The end faces 106a, 106b are
pivoted along their respective hinges 154a, 154b until the end
faces 106a, 106b are positioned generally parallel to the bottom
face 104, and further wherein an interior surface of the end faces
106a, 106b is in close proximity to the lid base 112 and a bottom
surface of the lid 110. Additionally, the end panels 106a, 106b are
preferably fashioned of a size relative to the size of the overall
container 100 such that the end faces 106a, 106b are positionable
next to each other in a non-overalapping relationship. Once the end
faces 106a, 106b have been inwardly pivoted, the side faces 108a,
108b can be subsequently collapsed. Prior to the pivoting of the
end faces 106a, 106b, the end faces 106a, 106b provided support for
maintaining the side faces 108a, 108b in an upright, unfolded
position. Accordingly, to collapse the side faces 108a, 108b, the
hinges 134a, 134b connecting the upper panels 132a, 132b to the
lower panels 130a, 130b, are pushed inward toward the interior
cavity 140. As the hinges 134a, 134b begin to pivot, the remaining
side face 108a, 108b hinges, namely hinges 150a, 150b connecting
the upper panels 132a, 132b to the lid base 112 and hinges 152a,
152b connecting the lower panels 130a, 130b to the bottom face 104,
also begin to pivot to accommodate the inward pivoting of the
panels 130a, 130b, 132a, 132b. FIG. 4 illustrates the end faces
106a, 106b in a fully pivoted state and the side faces 108a, 108b
in a partially pivoted state. FIG. 5 illustrates the side faces
108a, 108b in a more fully pivoted state. The side faces 108a, 108b
are pivoted until they are fully collapsed, i.e., an exterior
surface of the upper panel 132a, 132b lies next to in a generally
parallel relationship an exterior surface of the lower panel 130a,
130b. When the exterior surfaces are so situated, the container 100
is in a fully collapsed state, as shown in FIGS. 6-8. When the
container 100 is collapsed, it can be secured with the straps 122
to maintain it in a closed state. With regard to a preferred
embodiment, the distal end of each strap 122 is pull around the
container 100 until the distal ends meet, whereat the locks 158 of
the straps 122 are engaged.
[0056] As previously mentioned, the container 100 may include a
liner 162. Accordingly, during collapsing of the container 100, the
liner 162 is removed via its handles 166 from the interior cavity
140 before the end faces 106a, 106b are inwardly pivoted. Once the
liner 162 is removed, the container 100 is collapsed as previously
described. Once the container 100 is collapsed, the liner 162 can
be folded and subsequently positioned between the lid 110 and the
lid base 112 for storage. Thereafter, the straps 122 are used to
secure the collapsed container 100.
[0057] The collapsed container 100 is openable and extendable by
generally following the above steps in reverse order. Thus, to
expand the collapsed container 100, a user first unlocks the straps
122, removes the folded liner 162, if present, from the lid
assembly 102, raises the lid assembly 102 away from the bottom face
104, facilitates the outwardly pivoting of the hinges 134a, 134b,
and, when the side faces 108a, 108b are fully extended, downwardly
pivots the end faces 106a, 106b into secure engagement with the
bottom face 104, whereupon the container 100 is expanded for use.
Once the container 100 is expanded, the liner 162 can be inserted
into the interior cavity 140, as previously described.
[0058] Thus, the container 100 of the present invention presents
significant advantages over conventionally known containers. Most
importantly, the container 100 is collapsible, a benefit to all
members of the commercial chain of the container 100. For example,
a collapsible container is easier to manufacture, as disclosed
herein, than a conventional container. Additionally, the
collapsible container 100 assumes a significantly reduced size
profile relative to an uncollapsed container, a feature that
reduces the amount of material necessary for shipping the container
100 and the expense associated with shipping. Most significantly,
however, the collapsible nature of the container 100 offers a
unique advantage for retailing of the container 100. Given the
premium of shelf space, the collapsible container 100 requires less
shelf space to display than is required by a non-collapsible,
conventional container. Thus, whereas a given amount of shelf space
is required to display a conventional container, the same amount of
space can be used to display several collapsible containers 100,
thereby maximizing a retailer's shelf space utilization.
Additionally, the collapsibility offers benefits to end users as
well, as when the container 100 is not in use, it can be collapsed
and stored in less space than is required for conventional
containers. Furthermore, the container 100 as retailed and sold by
a retail store is an advantage to a buyer, as the collapsed
container 100 requires less shopping cart space to transport to a
checkout station.
[0059] Although the invention has been described with regard to
certain preferred example embodiments, it is to be understood that
the present disclosure has been made by way of example only, and
that improvements, changes and modifications in the details of
construction and the combination and arrangement of parts may be
resorted to without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. Such improvements, changes and modifications within the
skill of the art are intended to be covered by the scope of the
appended claims.
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