U.S. patent application number 11/389366 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-23 for storage tin and modular storage system.
This patent application is currently assigned to VMB Chicago LLC. Invention is credited to Victor M. Baez.
Application Number | 20060261060 11/389366 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37447382 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060261060 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Baez; Victor M. |
November 23, 2006 |
Storage tin and modular storage system
Abstract
A storage tin is disclosed that can include a container having
an irregular hexagonal shape and a removable lid. The container can
include a base and a peripheral sidewall secured thereto. The base
and sidewall can cooperate together to define an interior storage
compartment that can be selectively sealed by the removable lid. In
one aspect of the invention, the hexagon defined by the container
includes two sides having a first length and four sides having a
second length, with the first length being smaller than the second
length. A modular storage system including a plurality of such
storage tins is also disclosed. Methods for packaging an item, such
as popcorn, candy, cookies, or the like, are also disclosed.
Inventors: |
Baez; Victor M.; (Elmhurst,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LEYDIG VOIT & MAYER, LTD
TWO PRUDENTIAL PLAZA, SUITE 4900
180 NORTH STETSON AVENUE
CHICAGO
IL
60601-6780
US
|
Assignee: |
VMB Chicago LLC
Elmhurst
IL
|
Family ID: |
37447382 |
Appl. No.: |
11/389366 |
Filed: |
March 23, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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29253151 |
Feb 1, 2006 |
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11389366 |
Mar 23, 2006 |
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29245419 |
Dec 22, 2005 |
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11389366 |
Mar 23, 2006 |
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29240055 |
Oct 7, 2005 |
D524655 |
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11389366 |
Mar 23, 2006 |
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60664617 |
Mar 23, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/4.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 85/60 20130101;
B65D 11/1873 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/004.21 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/28 20060101
B65D006/28 |
Claims
1. A storage tin comprising: a base, the base having a periphery
with a pair of narrow sides and four wide sides, the six sides
defining a hexagonal area, each of the narrow sides having a first
length, each of the wide sides having a second length, the first
length being smaller than the second length, the narrow sides being
disposed in opposing relationship to each other, two of the wide
sides being disposed in adjacent relationship to each other, the
other two wide sides being disposed in adjacent relationship to
each other; a peripheral sidewall having a bottom end, a top end,
and six planar portions, the peripheral sidewall connected adjacent
the bottom end thereof to the base, the sidewall and the base
cooperating together to define an interior storage compartment,
each planar portion having a bottom edge and a top edge, the bottom
edge of each planar portion being aligned, respectively, with one
of the sides of the base and substantially corresponding in length
thereto, the top edges of the planar portions disposed at the top
end of the sidewall, the top edges of the planar portions defining
an opening in communication with the interior storage
compartment.
2. The storage tin according to claim 1, further comprising: a lid,
the lid being removably mountable to the peripheral sidewall such
that the opening is selectively covered.
3. The storage tin according to claim 2, wherein the lid includes
an exterior surface having a handle mounted thereto.
4. The storage tin according to claim 3, wherein the exterior
surface of the lid defines a recess, the handle disposed in the
recess.
5. The storage tin according to claim 4, wherein the handle is
movable between a stowed position wherein the handle is
substantially disposed within the recess and an operating position
wherein at least a portion of the handle extends from the exterior
surface of the lid.
6. The storage tin according to claim 5, wherein the exterior
surface of the lid defines a hollow within the recess, the hollow
being disposed underneath a portion of the handle when the handle
is in the stowed position such that the portion of the handle is in
spaced relationship with the exterior surface of the lid to define
a predetermined gap therebetween.
7. The storage tin according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral
sidewall includes a first shell and a second shell, each shell
including a pair of mating edges, the mating edges of the first
shell configured to retentively engage the mating edges of the
second shell to secure the first and second shells together.
8. The storage tin according to claim 7, wherein the mating edges
of the first shell each include a mounting flange extending
therealong, and the mating edges of the second shell each include a
mounting hook extending therealong, each mounting hook configured
to engage one of the mounting flanges to secure the first and
second shells together.
9. The storage tin according to claim 7, wherein the first shell is
substantially identical to the second shell.
10. The storage tin according to claim 7, wherein one of the mating
edges of the first shell includes a mounting flange extending
therealong, the other of the mating edges of the first shell
includes a mounting hook extending therealong, one of the mating
edges of the second shell includes a mounting flange extending
therealong, the other of the mating edges of the second shell
includes a mounting hook extending therealong, the mounting hook of
the first shell configured to retentively engage the mounting
flange of the second shell, and the mounting hook of the second
shell configured to retentively engage the mounting flange of the
first shell.
11. The storage tin according to claim 1, wherein each narrow side
of the periphery of the base has a pair of ends, each wide side of
the periphery of the base has a pair of ends, one of the wide sides
of the periphery of the base is disposed adjacent each end of the
narrow sides, each narrow side and adjacent wide side defining a
first interior angle, each wide side of the periphery having a
narrow side disposed adjacent one end and a wide side disposed
adjacent the other end, each wide side defining with its adjacent
wide side a second interior angle, the first interior angle being
greater than the second interior angle.
12. The storage tin according to claim 11, wherein the first
interior angle is between about 115.degree. and about
135.degree..
13. The storage tin according to claim 11, wherein the second
interior angle is between about 90.degree. and about
130.degree..
14. The storage tin according to claim 12, wherein the second
interior angle is between about 90.degree. and about
130.degree..
15. The storage tin according to claim 11, wherein the second
interior angle is determined from the equation: Angle 2 = 720 - ( 4
.times. Angle 1 ) 2 , ##EQU2## where Angle.sub.1 is the first
interior angle in degrees, and Angle.sub.2 is the second interior
angle in degrees.
16. The storage tin according to claim 14, wherein the second
interior angle is determined from the equation: Angle 2 = 720 - ( 4
.times. Angle 1 ) 2 , ##EQU3## where Angle.sub.1 is the first
interior angle, and Angle.sub.2 is the second interior angle.
17. The storage tin according to claim 1, wherein the opening
defines an opening area, the opening area being substantially the
same as the hexagonal area of the base.
18. The storage tin according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral
sidewall is tapered such that the opening defines an opening area,
the opening area being different than the hexagonal area of the
base.
19. The storage tin according to claim 18, wherein the opening area
of the peripheral sidewall is greater than the hexagonal area of
the base.
20. A storage tin comprising a base, the base having a periphery
with six sides defining an irregular hexagonal shape, a peripheral
sidewall having a bottom end, a top end, and six planar portions,
the peripheral sidewall connected adjacent the bottom end thereof
to the base, the sidewall and the base cooperating together to
define an interior storage compartment, each planar portion having
a bottom edge and a top edge, the bottom edge of each planar
portion being aligned, respectively, with one of the sides of the
base and substantially corresponding in length thereto, the top
edges of the planar portions disposed at the top end of the
sidewall, the top edges of the planar portions defining an opening
in communication with the interior storage compartment.
21. The storage tin according to claim 21, further comprising a lid
for selectively covering the opening to the interior storage
compartment thereof.
22. A modular storage system comprising at least two storage tins
according to claim 1.
23. The modular storage system according to claim 21 wherein at
least one of the storage tins includes a lid for selectively
covering the opening to the interior storage compartment
thereof.
24. A method for packaging an item, the method comprising:
providing a storage tin, the storage tin including a base, the base
having a periphery with six sides defining an irregular hexagonal
shape, a peripheral sidewall having a bottom end, a top end, and
six planar portions, the peripheral sidewall connected adjacent the
bottom end thereof to the base, the sidewall and the base
cooperating together to define an interior storage compartment,
each planar portion having a bottom edge and a top edge, the bottom
edge of each planar portion respectively disposed adjacent one of
the sides of the base, the top edges of the planar portions
defining an opening in communication with the interior storage
compartment; inserting the item into the interior storage
compartment of the storage tin.
25. The method for packaging an item according to claim 24, further
comprising: providing a lid; placing the lid on the peripheral
sidewall of the storage tin such that the opening to the interior
storage compartment is closed.
26. The method for packaging an item according to claim 25, wherein
the item comprises food.
27. The method for packaging an item according to claim 26, wherein
the food comprises a predetermined amount of popcorn.
28. The method for packaging an item according to claim 26, wherein
the food comprises a predetermined amount of candy.
29. The method for packaging an item according to claim 26, wherein
the food comprises a predetermined amount of cookies.
30. The method for packaging an item according to claim 25, wherein
the periphery of the base of the storage tin has a pair of narrow
sides and four wide sides, and the peripheral sidewall of the
storage tin has a pair of narrow planar portions corresponding to
the pair of narrow sides of the base and four corresponding wide
planar portions corresponding to the four wide sides of the
base.
31. The method for packaging an item according to claim 30, further
comprising: providing a pallet; providing a second storage tin, the
second storage tine being substantially the same as the first
storage tin; inserting another item into the second storage tin;
providing a second lid; placing the second lid on the peripheral
sidewall of the second storage tin such that the opening to the
interior storage compartment is closed; placing the first storage
tin on the pallet; placing the second storage tin on the
pallet.
32. The method for packaging an item according to claim 31, wherein
in the placing step, the base of each storage tin rests upon the
pallet.
33. The method for packaging an item according to claim 31, wherein
in the placing step, one of the narrow sides of each storage tin
rests upon the pallet.
34. The method for packaging an item according to claim 31, wherein
in the placing step, one of the wide sides of each storage tin
rests upon the pallet.
35. The method for packaging an item according to claim 24, further
comprising: applying a surface ornamentation to an exterior surface
of the peripheral sidewall of the storage tin.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 29/240,055, filed Oct. 7, 2005; Ser.
No. 29/245,419, filed Dec. 22, 2005; and Ser. No. 29/253,151, filed
Feb. 1, 2006--each of which being entitled, "Tin and Lid
Combination," and each of which being incorporated in its entirety
herein by this reference. This patent application also claims the
benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/664,617,
filed Mar. 23, 2005, and entitled, "Storage Tin and Modular Storage
System," which is incorporated in its entirety herein by this
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention pertains to storage tins, and more
particularly to gift products, such as, popcorn, candy, and the
like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Frequently, people purchase food items, such as popcorn,
candy, and the like, as gifts. An industry has developed for
packaging such items in a decorative tin to embellish the
presentation of such gift products. Typically, the tin is
cylindrical. As the popularity of such gifts has increased, the
industry has grown. It would be desirable to provide an improved
storage tin for use with gift products.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The invention provides such an improved tin. The tin of the
present invention is constructed to present a unique outer
appearance and to be palletized such that an increased number of
tins can be loaded on a typical pallet as compared to a typical
cylindrical tin. Advantageously, the tin of the present invention
can be used as a modular storage system, as well. In some
embodiments, the tin can be constructed to accommodate a
predetermined volume of popcorn. In other embodiments, the tin can
be constructed to conveniently store candy. In yet other
embodiments, the container can be configured to act as a storage
container for items associated with Easter.
[0005] In one aspect, the storage tin according to the present
invention can include a container having an irregular hexagonal
shape and a removable lid. The container can include a base and a
peripheral sidewall secured thereto. The base and sidewall can
cooperate together to define an interior storage compartment.
[0006] The base can have a periphery with a pair of narrow sides
and four wide sides, with the six sides defining a hexagonal area.
Each of the narrow sides can be a first length, and each of the
wide sides can be a second length. The first length can be smaller
than the second length. The narrow sides can be disposed in
opposing relationship to each other. Two of the wide sides can be
disposed in adjacent relationship to each other. The other two wide
sides can be disposed in adjacent relationship to each other. In
one aspect, two wide sides are disposed between the pair of narrow
sides at one end thereof, and the other two wide sides are disposed
between the pair of narrow sides at the other end thereof to
complete the periphery.
[0007] The peripheral sidewall can have a bottom end, a top end,
and six planar portions. The peripheral sidewall can be connected
adjacent the bottom end thereof to the base. Each planar portion
can have a bottom edge and a top edge. The bottom edge of each
planar portion can correspond in length, respectively, to one of
the sides of the base. Each bottom edge of the planar portions can
be disposed, respectively, adjacent one of the sides of the base
that has the same length as the bottom edge. The top edges of the
planar portions can be disposed at the top end of the sidewall. The
top edges of the planar portions can define an opening in
communication with the interior storage compartment. In some
embodiments, each planar portion can be rectangular. In yet other
embodiments, the planar portions can have a different shape, such
as, square or trapezoidal, for example.
[0008] The peripheral sidewall can be constructed from a pair of
mating shells that fit together. Each shell can have mounting
elements configured to be secured to the mounting elements of the
other shell to secure the shells together. In some embodiments, one
shell can have one kind of mounting element, and the other shell
can have another kind of mounting element. In yet other
embodiments, the shells can be identical to each other and each
include at least two kinds of mounting elements configured to
interengage with the corresponding mating mounting element on the
other shell.
[0009] The lid can be removably mounted to the peripheral sidewall
such that the opening is selectively covered. A handle can be
provided on the lid to facilitate the lid's transport and removal
from the container. In one embodiment, the handle can be pivotally
mounted to an exterior surface of the lid such that the handle is
movable between a stowed position wherein the handle is
substantially flush against the exterior surface and an operating
position wherein at least a portion of the handle extends from the
exterior surface of the lid. In other embodiments, the exterior
surface of the lid can define a recess in which the handle is
disposed. In yet other embodiments, the exterior surface of the lid
can also define a hollow within the recess which is disposed
underneath a portion of the handle when the handle is in the stowed
position such that the portion of the handle is in spaced
relationship with the exterior surface of the lid to define a
predetermined gap therebetween. The gap can be configured to allow
a user's finger or fingers to extend therethrough to facilitate the
grasping of the handle to move it from the stowed position and to
clutch the handle for removing the lid and transporting the
lid.
[0010] In another aspect of the invention, a storage container can
include a base, the base having a periphery with six sides defining
an irregular hexagonal shape, and a peripheral sidewall, the
sidewall having a bottom end, a top end, and six planar portions.
The peripheral sidewall can be connected adjacent the bottom end
thereof to the base. The sidewall and the base can cooperate
together to define an interior storage compartment. Each planar
portion can have a bottom edge and a top edge. The bottom edge of
each planar portion can be aligned with a respective side of the
base and substantially correspond in length thereto. The top edges
of the planar portions can be disposed at the top end of the
sidewall. The top edges of the planar portions can define an
opening in communication with the interior storage compartment.
[0011] In yet another aspect of the invention, a modular storage
system can include at least two of the storage tins of the present
invention. The shape of the peripheral sidewall of the storage tin
of the present invention allows a plurality of such tins to be
ganged together and stacked on top of each other to form an array
of storage tins.
[0012] In still another aspect of the invention, a method for
packaging an item can include providing a storage tin according to
the present invention, inserting the item into the interior storage
compartment of the storage tin, and placing a lid on the peripheral
sidewall of the storage tin such that the opening to the interior
storage compartment is closed. The item can be food in some
embodiments, such as popcorn, candy, cookies, and the like, for
example. The exterior surface of the peripheral sidewall can bear a
surface ornamentation. The surface ornamentation can be a picture
or other design, for example. The surface ornamentation can be
associated with a particular holiday or season of the year, for
example. Such ornamentation can include a depiction of a snowman, a
Christmas tree, an Easter bunny, a jack o'lantern, etc.
[0013] A plurality of storage tins according to the present
invention can be packaged onto a standard pallet such that more
tins can fit on the pallet than with conventional tins. The storage
tins of the present invention can be arranged on the pallet such
that the base of each storage tin in the first row of storage tins
rests upon the pallet. Storage tins in subsequent rows can be
similarly arranged with the bases of those storage tins resting
upon the lids secured to the storage tins in the row of storage
tins immediately below.
[0014] In another pallet arrangement, the storage tins in the first
row can be arranged on their sides such that one of the narrow
sides of the peripheral sidewall rests upon the pallet. Adjacent
storage tins can be in spaced relationship to each other such that
the outermost edges of the peripheral sidewalls of adjacent storage
tins are separated a distance substantially corresponding to the
length of the narrow side of the base. The uppermost wide sides of
the peripheral wall define a valley between the adjacent storage
tins. With such an arrangement, the row of storage tins immediately
above this row can be disposed with its narrow side disposed at the
base of the valley and its bottommost wide sides in contacting
relationship with one of the uppermost wide sides of the two
adjacent storage tins disposed immediately below. A third row of
storage tins placed above the second row can have the same
configuration as the first row. Thus, subsequent rows can be
disposed in alternating fashion between the positions in the first
row and the positions in the second row.
[0015] In another pallet arrangement, the storage tins in the first
row can be arranged on their sides such that one of the wide sides
of the peripheral sidewall rests upon the pallet. Adjacent storage
tins can be disposed such that the wide side adjacent the wide side
in contacting relationship with the pallet is in contacting
relationship with one of the wide sides on the wide portion of the
sidewall opposite of the wide portion with the wide side in
contacting relationship with the pallet. In subsequent rows, the
storage tins can be substantially vertically aligned.
[0016] The features of the present invention will become apparent
to one of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the detailed
description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
provided herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a storage
tin according to the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the storage tin of FIG.
1.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the storage tin of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the storage tin of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 5 is an exploded view taken from the top of another
embodiment of a pair of mating shells of a peripheral sidewall of a
container suitable for use with the storage tin of the present
invention.
[0022] FIG. 6 is an exploded view taken from the top of another
embodiment of a pair of mating shells of a peripheral sidewall of a
container suitable for use with the storage tin of the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 7 is an enlarged, detail elevational view, in section,
of the peripheral sidewall and a base of the container of FIG.
1.
[0024] FIG. 8 is a side elevational view, in section, of a lid of
the storage tin of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of a
container suitable for use with the storage tin according to the
present invention.
[0026] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the container of FIG. 9.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a pallet arrangement of
conventional tins.
[0028] FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the pallet
arrangement of FIG. 11.
[0029] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the pallet arrangement
of FIG. 11.
[0030] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first layer of a first
pallet arrangement of a plurality of storage tins according to the
present invention.
[0031] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the complete first pallet
arrangement of FIG. 14.
[0032] FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of the first pallet
arrangement of FIG. 15.
[0033] FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of the pallet arrangement
of FIG. 15.
[0034] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a first row of a second
pallet arrangement of a plurality of storage tins according to the
present invention.
[0035] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the complete second pallet
arrangement of FIG. 18.
[0036] FIG. 20 is a front elevational view of the pallet
arrangement of FIG. 19.
[0037] FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of the pallet arrangement
of FIG. 19.
[0038] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a third pallet arrangement
of a plurality of storage tins according to the present
invention.
[0039] FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the pallet arrangement of FIG.
22.
[0040] FIG. 24 is a front elevational view of the pallet
arrangement of FIG. 22.
[0041] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the pallet arrangement
of FIG. 22.
[0042] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
storage tin according to the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 27 is a side elevational view, in section, of a lid of
the storage tin of FIG. 26.
[0044] FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of a container of the
storage tin of FIG. 26.
[0045] FIG. 29 is a top plan view of the container of FIG. 27.
[0046] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a lid
suitable for use with the storage tin according to the present
invention.
[0047] FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of the lid of FIG.
30.
[0048] FIG. 32 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a
container suitable for use with the lid of FIG. 30.
[0049] FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of the container of FIG.
32.
[0050] FIG. 34 is a front elevational view of the container of FIG.
32.
[0051] FIG. 35 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a
storage tin according to the present invention.
[0052] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the storage tin of FIG.
35.
[0053] FIG. 37 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a
container suitable for use with the storage tin according to the
present invention.
[0054] FIG. 38 is a front elevational view of the container of FIG.
37.
[0055] FIG. 39 is a side elevational view of the container of FIG.
37.
[0056] FIG. 40 is a top plan view of a lid suitable for use with
the container of FIG. 37.
[0057] FIG. 41 is a front elevational view of the lid of FIG.
40.
[0058] FIG. 42 is a side elevational view of the lid of FIG.
40.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0059] The storage tin according to the present invention can
include a container having an irregular hexagonal shape and a
removable lid. The container can include a base and a peripheral
sidewall secured thereto. The base and sidewall can cooperate
together to define an interior storage compartment that is
selectively closed by mounting the lid to the top of the container.
Turning now to the Figures, there is shown various embodiments of
the storage tin according to the present invention. Referring to
FIGS. 1-3, a storage tin 50 is shown that includes a container 52
and a removable lid 54.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 4, the storage tin 50 can be made from
four component pieces: the lid 54, a base 56, and a pair of mating
shells 57, 58 that can be secured together to comprise a peripheral
sidewall 60 (see FIG. 2). The base 56 and the peripheral sidewall
60 comprise the container 52.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 4, the base 56 can have a periphery 64
with six sides defining an irregular hexagonal shape. In the
illustrated embodiment, the periphery 64 of the base has a pair of
narrow sides 66 and four wide sides 70, with the six sides defining
a hexagonal area AA. The terms "narrow" and "wide" are used for
convenient reference to indicate that the "narrow side" is shorter
than the "wide side." The narrow sides 66 can be disposed in
opposing relationship to each other. Two of the wide sides 70a, 70b
can be disposed in adjacent relationship to each other. The other
two wide sides 70c, 70d can be disposed in adjacent relationship to
each other. In one aspect, two wide sides 70a, 70b are disposed
between the pair of narrow sides 66a, 66b at one end 80 thereof,
and the other two wide sides 70c, 70d are disposed between the pair
of narrow sides 66a, 66b at the other end 82 thereof to complete
the periphery 64.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the peripheral sidewall 60 can
have a bottom end 85, a top end 86, and six planar portions 88a,
88b, 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d that define an irregular hexagonal shape
substantially corresponding to the shape of the periphery 64 of the
base 56. The peripheral sidewall 60 can be connected adjacent the
bottom end 85 thereof to the base 56. The sidewall 60 and the base
56 can cooperate together to define the interior storage
compartment. Of the six planar portions, two can be narrow planar
portions 88 and the other four can be wide planar portions 90
corresponding to the narrow and wide sides 66, 70 of the base 56.
Each planar portion can have a bottom edge 92, 93 and a top edge
94, 95. The bottom edge 92, 94 of each planar portion can be
aligned with a respective side 66, 80 of the base and substantially
correspond in length thereto. The top edges 94, 95 of the planar
portions can be disposed at the top end of the sidewall. The top
edges of the planar portions can define an opening 98 in
communication with the interior storage compartment. In some
embodiments, each planar portion can be rectangular. In yet other
embodiments, the planar portions can have a different shape, such
as, square or trapezoidal, for example.
[0063] The peripheral sidewall 60 can be constructed from the pair
of mating shells 57, 58 that fit together. Each shell 57, 58
includes a pair of wide planar portions 90 disposed in adjacent
relationship to each other and a narrow planar portion 88. Each
shell 57, 58 can have mounting elements configured to be secured to
the mounting elements of the other shell to secure the shells
together. The first shell 57 can include one kind of mounting
element, and the second shell 58 can have another kind of mounting
element.
[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the first shell 57 includes a
pair of mating edges 100, and the second shell 58 includes a pair
of mating edges 101. The mating edges 100 of the first shell 57
each include a mounting flange 101 extending therealong. The mating
edges 102 of the second shell 58 each include a mounting hook 103
extending therealong. Each mounting hook 103 is configured to
engage one of the mounting flanges 101 to secure the first and
second shells 57, 58 together. Once the mounting hooks 103 and the
flanges 101 are respectively engaged, they can be bent back such
that the are substantially flush against the interior surface of
the peripheral sidewall.
[0065] The mounting flanges 101 and the mounting hooks 103 can
extend substantially between the bottom and top ends 85, 86 of the
peripheral sidewall 60. In other embodiments, the mounting flanges
and the mounting hooks can extend only a portion of the distance
between the bottom and top ends of the peripheral sidewall. In yet
other embodiments, each mating edge can include a plurality of
mounting flanges and mounting hooks that are in corresponding
spaced relationship with each other. In yet other embodiments,
other suitable mounting elements can be used.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 5, another embodiment of a pair of mating
shells 105, 106 is shown. The shells 105, 106 can be substantially
identical to each other and each include at least two kinds of
mounting elements configured to interengage with the corresponding
mating mounting element on the other shell. In the illustrated
embodiment, each shell includes a pair of mating edges 108, 109
that are configured to retentively engage the mating edges 109, 108
of the other shell to secure the first and second shells 105, 106
together. One of the mating edges 108 of the first shell 105
includes a mounting flange 110 extending therealong, and the other
of the mating edges 109 of the first shell 105 includes a mounting
hook 111 extending therealong. One of the mating edges 108 of the
second shell 106 includes a mounting flange 110 extending
therealong, and the other of the mating edges 109 of the second
shell 106 includes a mounting hook 111 extending therealong. The
mounting hook 111 of the first shell 105 is configured to
retentively engage the mounting flange 110 of the second shell 106,
and the mounting hook 111 of the second shell 106 is configured to
retentively engage the mounting flange 110 of the first shell 105.
The mating shells 105, 106 can be similar in other respects to the
mating shells 57, 58 of FIG. 4.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 6, another embodiment of a pair of mating
shells 113, 114 is shown. Each shell 113, 114 includes a narrow
planar portion 88 disposed between a pair of wide planar portions
90. The first shell 113 can include one kind of mounting element
115, and the second shell 114 can have another kind of mounting
element 116. The mating edges 117 of the first shell 113 each
include a mounting flange 115 extending therealong. The mating
edges 118 of the second shell 114 each include a mounting hook 116
extending therealong. Each mounting hook 116 is configured to
engage one of the mounting flanges 115 to secure the first and
second shells 113, 114 together. The mating shells 113, 114 are
similar in other respects to the mating shells 57, 58 of FIG. 4
with the exception of the location of the narrow planar portion
with respect to the wide planar portions of each shell.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 7, the bottom end 85 of the peripheral
sidewall 60 can be joined to the base 56 by the interengagement of
respective rolled edges 119, 120 of the base 56 and the peripheral
sidewall 60. At least a portion 119 of the periphery of the base
can be bent downward. At least a portion 120 of the bottom end of
the peripheral sidewall can be bent upward in the shape of a hook.
The bent edges 119, 120 can interengage each other to retain the
sidewall 60 to the base 56. The overlapping portions can be crimped
together to further retain the sidewall and the base. In other
embodiments, the peripheral sidewall can be joined to the base
using any suitable means.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 8, the lid 54 can be removably mounted to
the peripheral sidewall such that the opening is selectively
covered. A handle 125 can be provided on the lid 54 to facilitate
the lid's transport and removal from the container. The handle 125
can be pivotally mounted to an exterior surface 127 of the lid such
that the handle 125 is movable between a stowed position, as shown
in FIG. 8, wherein the handle 125 is substantially flush against
the exterior surface 127 and an operating position, shown in hidden
lines in FIG. 8, wherein at least a portion of the handle 125
extends from the exterior surface 127 of the lid. The exterior
surface 127 of the lid 54 can define a recess 129 in which the
handle 125 is disposed. The exterior surface 127 of the lid can
also define a hollow 130 within the recess 129 which is disposed
underneath a portion of the handle 125 when the handle is in the
stowed position such that the portion of the handle is in spaced
relationship with the exterior surface of the lid to define a
predetermined gap 131 therebetween. The gap 131 can be configured
to allow a user's finger or fingers to extend therethrough to
facilitate the grasping of the handle to move it from the stowed
position and to clutch the handle for removing the lid and
transporting the lid.
[0070] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, another embodiment of a
container 162 suitable for use with the storage tin according to
the present invention is shown. The opening 198 defines an opening
area AB. The opening area AB is substantially the same as the
hexagonal area AA of the base 156. The planar portions 188, 190 of
the peripheral sidewall 160 are substantially parallel to a
longitudinal axis 198 of the container 162 extending between the
bottom and top end 185, 186.
[0071] The length of the narrow sides 166 of the base 156 of the
container 162 substantially coincides with the width of the narrow
planar portions 188 of the sidewall. The length of the wide sides
170 of the base substantially coincides with the width of the wide
planar portions 190 of the sidewall. The narrow sides 66 can be a
first length A, and each of the wide sides 70 can be a second
length B. The first length A can be smaller than the second length
B. The first length A can be any suitable length. Preferably, the
first length A is between about two inches and four inches, and
even more preferably, the first length A is about three inches. The
second length B can be any suitable length. Preferably, the second
length B is between about four inches and eight inches, and even
more preferably, the second length B is about six and 7/16 inches.
In some embodiments, the second length B is more than twice as
large as the first length A.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 10, each narrow side 166 of the periphery
164 of the base has a pair of ends 168, and each wide side of the
periphery of the base has a pair of ends 172. One of the wide sides
170 of the periphery of the base is disposed adjacent each end 168
of the narrow sides 166. Each narrow side 166 defines a first
interior angle BA with the wide sides 170 to which it is in
adjacent relationship. Each wide side defines a second interior
angle BB with the wide side to which it is in adjacent
relationship. The first interior angle BA is greater than the
second interior angle BB. The first interior angle BA is preferably
between about 115.degree. and about 135.degree.. The second
interior angle BB is preferably between about 90.degree. and about
130.degree.. The second interior angle BB can be determined from
the equation: Angle 2 = 720 - ( 4 .times. Angle 1 ) 2 , ##EQU1##
where Angle.sub.1 is the first interior angle BA in degrees, and
Angle.sub.2 is the second interior angle BB in degrees.
[0073] Referring to FIGS. 11-13, a conventional pallet arrangement
240 of a plurality of conventional storage tins 242 is shown. Each
conventional storage tin 242 is in the shape of a cylinder. The
storage tins 242 are disposed on a typical pallet 243 that measures
approximately 48 inches by 40 inches. On such a pallet, the typical
storage tins 242 have been disposed standing up with the bases of
the first row 244 of tins 242 thereof contacting the pallet 243.
The second row 245 of tins 242, and any subsequent rows, are
disposed with the bases of the tins 242 of the second row 245
disposed upon the lids of the tins 242 of the first row 244.
Typically each row includes a 4 by 4 array of tins 242, and four
rows are stacked on each pallet 243. Thus, in the typical
arrangement, sixty-four total tins 242 can be packaged onto the
pallet 243. Such an arrangement of typical tins 242 occupies a
volume of about forty-two inches by forty-two inches by forty-two
inches.
[0074] Referring to FIGS. 14-17, a plurality of storage tins 250
according to the present invention can be packaged onto a standard
pallet 243 such that more tins can fit on the pallet than with
conventional tins. A first pallet arrangement 340 of storage tins
250 according to the present invention is shown. Each storage tin
250 has a narrow planar portion 288 that is approximately three
inches wide, a wide planar portion 290 that is approximately 6 and
7/16 inches wide, and a height C that is approximately ten and 1/2
inches tall.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 16, the storage tins 250 in the first row
344 can be arranged on their sides such that one of the narrow
planar portions 288 of the peripheral sidewall rests upon the
pallet 243. Adjacent storage tins can be in spaced relationship to
each other such that the outermost ends 280, 282 of adjacent
storage tins are separated a distance substantially corresponding
to the first length A of the narrow side of the base. The uppermost
wide planar portions 290a, 290d of adjacent tins 250 define a
valley 272 therebetween. With such an arrangement, the second 345
row of storage tins 250 immediately above the first row 344 can be
disposed with each storage tin 250 having a narrow planar portion
288 disposed at the base 273 of the valley and its bottommost wide
planar portions 290b, 290c in contacting relationship with one of
the uppermost wide planar portions 290d, 290a, respectively, of the
two adjacent storage tins 250 disposed immediately below in the
first row 344. A third row 346 of storage tins placed above the
second row 345 can have the same configuration as the first row
344. Thus, subsequent rows can be disposed in alternating fashion
between the positions in the first row and the positions in the
second row.
[0076] The first pallet arrangement 340 of storage tins 250
includes five rows configured as in the first row 344 and four rows
configured as in the second row 345. The first row 344 includes a
includes a 4 by 4 array of tins 250. The second row 345 includes a
3 by 4 array of tins 250. Thus, in the first pallet arrangement
340, one hundred twenty-eight total tins 250 can be packaged onto
the pallet 243. Such an arrangement of tins 250 occupies a volume
of about forty-eight inches by forty-two inches by fifty-two and
1/2 inches.
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 18-21, in a second pallet arrangement
440, the storage tins 250 of the present invention can be arranged
on the pallet 243 such that the base 256 of each storage tin in the
first row 444 of storage tins 250 rests upon the pallet 243.
Storage tins in the second row 445, and subsequent rows, can be
similarly arranged with the bases 256 of those storage tins 250
resting upon the lids 254 secured to the storage tins in the row of
storage tins immediately below.
[0078] The first row 444 includes an array of seven columns,
comprising two different columns 448, 449. The first column 448
includes four storage tins 250 arranged such that a narrow planar
portion 288b of one storage tin is in adjacent relationship with
one of the narrow planar portions 288a of the adjacent storage tin
in the column 448. The second column 449 includes three storage
tins 250 arranged such that a narrow planar portion 288b of one
storage tin is in adjacent relationship with one of the narrow
planar portions 288a of the adjacent storage tin in the column 448.
The storage tins of the second column 449 are disposed relative to
the storage tins of the first column 448 such that the wide planar
portions 290c, 290d at one end 282 of the tins 250 of the second
column 449 are in adjacent, contacting relationship with one of the
wide planar portions 290a at the other end 280 of one of the tins
250 of the first column 448 and another of the wide planar portions
290b of another tin 250 of the first column 448. The first row 444
includes four columns that are like the first column 448 and three
columns that are like the second column 449 such that the first row
includes twenty-five storage tins 250. The second pallet
arrangement can include five rows similar to the first row 444.
Thus, the second pallet arrangement 440 can include a total of one
hundred twenty-five storage tins 250. Such an arrangement of tins
250 occupies a volume of about fifty-one inches by forty-two inches
by fifty-two and 1/2 inches.
[0079] Referring to FIGS. 22-25, in a third pallet arrangement 540,
the storage tins 250 in the first row can be arranged on their
sides such that one of the wide planar portions 290 of the
peripheral sidewall rests upon the pallet 243. Adjacent storage
tins can be disposed in contacting relationship with each other
with wide planar portions 290 in contacting engagement with each
other. The first row 544 includes a five by four array of storage
tins 250 such that the first row 544 includes twenty storage tins
250. In subsequent rows, the storage tins can be substantially
vertically aligned. The third pallet arrangement 540 includes six
rows similar to the first row 544. Thus, the third pallet
arrangement 540 can include a total of one hundred twenty storage
tins 250. Such an arrangement of tins 250 occupies a volume of
about fifty and 1/2 inches by forty-two inches by fifty-two and 1/2
inches.
[0080] In yet another aspect of the invention, a modular storage
system can include at least two of the storage tins of the present
invention. The shape of the peripheral sidewall of the storage tin
of the present invention allows a plurality of such tins to be
ganged together and stacked on top of each other to form an array
of storage tins. The storage tins can be disposed in an array that
includes a predetermined number of row and a predetermined number
of columns in any suitable fashion. Examples of such an array are
shown in FIGS. 16, 19, and 24, for example.
[0081] The storage tin according to the present invention can be
sized for conveniently housing a predetermined quantity of a food
product, such as popcorn, candy, and the like. The predetermined
amount can correspond to, or approximate, an amount of the gift
item that is traditionally sold as a gift. In still another aspect
of the invention, a method for packaging an item can include
providing a storage tin according to the present invention,
inserting the item into the interior storage compartment of the
storage tin, and placing a lid on the peripheral sidewall of the
storage tin such that the opening to the interior storage
compartment is closed. A plurality of storage tins can be placed on
a pallet as described above for shipment to a customer, for
example. The item can be food in some embodiments, such as popcorn,
candy, cookies, and the like, for example.
[0082] The exterior surface of the peripheral sidewall can bear a
surface ornamentation. The surface ornamentation can be a picture
or other design, for example. The surface ornamentation can be
associated with a particular holiday or season of the year, for
example. Such ornamentation can include a depiction of a snowman, a
Christmas tree, an Easter bunny, a jack o'lantern, etc. It will be
appreciated that in other embodiments, other surface ornamentation
can be applied. Any suitable technique for placing the surface
ornamentation on the storage tin can be used.
[0083] Referring to FIGS. 26-29, another embodiment of a storage
tin 650 is shown. The storage tin 650 can be used to conveniently
hold a food product such as candy. Referring to FIG. 27, the lid
654 can be used as a serving tray for a food product stored
therein. Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the container 652 can be
similar to the container 52 shown in FIG. 1 except that it can have
a different height.
[0084] Referring to FIGS. 30-34, other embodiments of a lid 754 and
a container 752 comprising a storage tin according to the present
invention are shown. Referring to FIG. 31, the lid 754 can include
a depending lip 755 that extends around the periphery of the lid
754. The lip 755 of the lid can extend below the opening 798 of the
container 752. Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, the peripheral
sidewall 760 of the container 752 is tapered from the top end 786
to the bottom end 785 thereof. Referring to FIG. 32, the opening
798 defines an opening area AC. The periphery 764 of the base 756
defines a hexagonal area AD. The opening area AC is different than
the hexagonal area AD of the base 756. The opening area AC of the
peripheral sidewall 760 is greater than the hexagonal area AD of
the base.
[0085] Referring to FIGS. 35 and 36, another embodiment of a
storage tin 850 according to the present invention is shown. The
storage tin 850 is similar to the storage tin shown in FIGS. 30-34
except that the height of the storage tin 850 is different.
[0086] Referring to FIGS. 37-42, other embodiments of a lid 954 and
a container 952 comprising a storage tin according to the present
invention are shown.
[0087] All references, including publications, patent applications,
and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to
the same extent as if each reference were individually and
specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set
forth in its entirety herein.
[0088] The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar
referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in
the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover
both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein
or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values
herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of
referring individually to each separate value falling within the
range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value
is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually
recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in
any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise
clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples,
or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is
intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not
pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise
claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as
indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of
the invention.
[0089] While this invention has been described with an emphasis
upon exemplary embodiments, variations of the exemplary embodiments
can be used, and it is intended that the invention can be practiced
otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this
invention includes all modifications and equivalents encompassed
within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the
claims. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements
in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention
unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted
by context.
* * * * *