U.S. patent application number 11/488523 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-18 for containers including containers for removing moisture and/or oxygen and adjustable containers.
This patent application is currently assigned to Resourceful Products, Inc.. Invention is credited to Mark Levie.
Application Number | 20070012696 11/488523 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37669494 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070012696 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Levie; Mark |
January 18, 2007 |
Containers including containers for removing moisture and/or oxygen
and adjustable containers
Abstract
A container for allowing the communication of an active agent
with the interior space of the container includes a housing having
a base and a cover. A holder is positioned on the housing for
receiving an active agent. The active agent is in chemical
communication with an interior space of the container. The
container may be adjustable in size. The adjustable container
includes at least one outwardly extending protrusion extending at
least partially along the length of the base, and the cover
includes at least one corresponding recess defined by a wing on the
cover. The wing is configured to mate with the recess in sliding
relation to allow the cover to move longitudinally relative to the
base. A box cover includes a housing having at least a first level
and a second level. The first level has a greater circumference
than the second level. The first level is configured to mate with a
first size container and the second level is configured to mate
with a second size container that is different from the first size
container.
Inventors: |
Levie; Mark; (Ross,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STEPHEN D. SCANLON
JONES DAY
901 LAKESIDE AVENUE
CLEVELAND
OH
44114
US
|
Assignee: |
Resourceful Products, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
37669494 |
Appl. No.: |
11/488523 |
Filed: |
July 18, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60700115 |
Jul 18, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/8 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/266 20130101;
B65D 81/268 20130101; B65D 21/086 20130101; B65D 51/30
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/008 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/00 20060101
B65D006/00 |
Claims
1. A container for allowing the communication of an active agent
with the interior space of the container, said container
comprising: a housing having a base and a cover that together
define an interior space; a holder defined in at least one of the
cover and the base for receiving an active agent inside the
housing, said active agent being in chemical communication with the
interior space of the housing and being removable from the
holder.
2. The container of claim 1, wherein the active agent is at least
one of a moisture inhibiting material and an oxygen inhibiting
material.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein the holder is a recess that is
defined on an inner surface of the cover.
4. The container of claim 3, further comprising a tray configured
to seat in the recess of the cover, the tray including a plurality
of openings extending through a surface thereof for allowing
communication between the active agent and the interior space of
the container.
5. The container of claim 1, wherein the base includes at least one
outwardly extending protrusion extending at least partially along
the length of a wall of the base, and the cover includes at least
one corresponding wing extending at least partially along the
length of a wall of the cover, said wing defining a rib on the
cover, said protrusion being configured to mate with the rib such
that the base is in sliding relation with the cover and the cover
moves longitudinally relative to the base.
6. The container of claim 4, wherein the protrusion has a
cross-sectional shape that is trapezoidal.
7. The container of claim 4, wherein the protrusion and rib are
configured relative to one another such that they do not detach
from one another unless the cover is removed from the base.
8. The container of claim 4, wherein the base, the cover, and the
tray are made of a plastic material, and the active agent is stored
in a vessel made of a plastic material.
9. The container of claim 1, wherein the vessel that houses the
active agent is permeable and allows for the viewing of the active
agent within the vessel.
10. The container of claim 1, wherein the vessel is made of one of
a polypropylene or a Tyvek.TM. material.
11. A box cover comprising: a housing having at least a first level
and a second level, wherein the first level has a greater
circumference than the second level, wherein the first level is
configured to mate with an opening of a first size container and
the second level is configured to mate with an opening of a second
size container that is different from a first size container.
12. The box cover of claim 11, wherein the first level includes an
inner rim and an outer rim and the second level includes an inner
rim and an outer rim, with each respective inner and outer rim
being configured to capture a container opening there between.
13. The box cover of claim 11, wherein the housing is pyramidal in
shape.
14. The box cover of claim 11, further comprising a third level,
the third level being configured to mate with a third size
container that is different from the first and second size
containers.
15. An adjustable size storage container comprising: a cover member
having at least one first rib that extends at least partially along
the length of the cover member; and a base member having at least
one second rib that extends at least partially along the length of
the base member, with the first rib being configured to mate with
the second rib so that the cover is slidable longitudinally over
the base member along the second rib.
16. The container of claim 15, wherein the cover member and base
member together define a storage area inside the container, with
the storage area being adjustable in size based upon the relative
location of the cover member to the base member.
17. The container of claim 15, wherein the second rib is
trapezoidal in cross-section, and the first rib includes a recess
for catching the second rib.
18. The container of claim 15, further comprising a holder
associated with one of the cover member or the base member for
receiving an active agent.
19. The container of claim 18, wherein the holder is a recess that
is defined on an inner surface of the cover member, said recess
being configured to hold the active agent and to allow
communication between the active agent and an interior space of the
container.
20. The container of claim 15, wherein the base and cover members
together define one of a rectangular, a round, or a square
container.
21. The container of claim 15, wherein the first rib is a
protrusion having a recess defined under the protrusion, and the
second rib is a wing that is configured to mate with the
protrusion.
22. The container of claim 15, further comprising a series of bumps
aligned on one of the cover member rib or the base member rib, and
a corresponding series of dimples positioned on the other of the
cover member rib or the base member rib, wherein the bumps align
with the dimples to provide a plurality of positions for
positioning the base relative to the cover.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/700,115, filed Jul. 18, 2005, the disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] This technology relates to a container and a lid designed to
remove moisture and/or oxygen from the contents of the container.
The technology also concerns a collapsible and adjustable container
and a universal lid.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Foods, particularly produce, spoil more quickly when
subjected to oxygen and moisture. Food storage containers presently
on the market do a poor job at maintaining product life.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
[0004] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example container that is
designed to accommodate a particular size or type of food, such as
a tomato or onion, or other materials;
[0005] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example container that is
designed to accommodate a particular size or type of food, such as
lettuce or a melon, or other materials;
[0006] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example container that is
designed to accommodate a particular size or type of food, such as
sugar, or other materials;
[0007] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example container that is
designed to accommodate a particular size or type of food, such as
flour, or other materials;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example container that is
designed to accommodate a particular size or type of food, such as
a hotdog or hamburger, or other materials;
[0009] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example collapsible
container that is designed to accommodate a particular size or type
of food, such as a square cracker, or other materials;
[0010] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example collapsible
container that is designed to accommodate a particular size or type
of food, such as pasta, or other materials;
[0011] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example collapsible
container that is designed to accommodate a particular size or type
of food, such as a loaf of bread, or other materials;
[0012] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example collapsible
container that is designed to accommodate a particular size or type
of food, such as a box of cereal, or other materials;
[0013] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example collapsible
container that is designed to accommodate a particular size or type
of food, such as a cracker, or other materials;
[0014] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example universal lid
that is designed to accommodate a number of different sized
containers;
[0015] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a cover similar to the example
container depicted in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of FIG.
13 taken at line A-A in FIG. 12;
[0017] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of FIG.
13 taken at line B-B in FIG. 12;
[0018] FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view of a base similar to the
example container of FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the base depicted in
FIG. 15 taken at line A-A of FIG. 15;
[0020] FIG. 17 is a front plan view of a latch utilized with an
example container that is similar to that of FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 18 is a top view of the latch of FIG. 17;
[0022] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of the latch shown in
FIGS. 17 and 18;
[0023] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of an example
container that utilizes the cover of FIGS. 12-14, the base of FIGS.
15-16 and the latch of FIGS. 17-19, with the cover being installed
on the base and the latch being rotated into a locked position;
[0024] FIGS. 21 is a partial exploded view of section A in FIG. 20,
depicting the point on the example container where the latch,
cover, and base meet;
[0025] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of a tray utilized with the example
container of FIG. 20;
[0026] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional end view of the tray of FIG.
22;
[0027] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray of FIG.
22;
[0028] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of an example
container that is similar to that shown in FIG. 2, with the cover
being installed on the base and the latch being rotated into a
locked position;
[0029] FIG. 26 is a top view of a base of an example container
similar to that depicted in FIG. 3;
[0030] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the base of FIG.
26;
[0031] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of an example
container similar to that shown in FIG. 3 that utilizes the base of
FIGS. 26-27 and the cover of FIGS. 32-33, with the cover being
installed on the base;
[0032] FIG. 29 is a bottom view of a tray utilized with the example
container of FIG. 28;
[0033] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional end view of the tray of FIG.
29;
[0034] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray of FIG.
29;
[0035] FIG. 32 is a bottom plan view of the cover utilized with the
example container of FIG. 28;
[0036] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of FIG.
28;
[0037] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional side view of an example
container similar to that shown in FIG. 4 that utilizes the cover
of FIG. 32, with the cover being installed on the base;
[0038] FIG. 35 is a top view of a tray utilized with the example
container of FIG. 34;
[0039] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray of FIG.
35;
[0040] FIG. 37 is a bottom view of a base for use with an example
container similar to that depicted in FIG. 6;
[0041] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional side view of the base shown in
FIG. 37;
[0042] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional side view of an example
container similar to that shown in FIG. 6 that utilizes the base of
FIGS. 37-38 and the cover of FIGS. 42-44, with the cover being
installed on the base;
[0043] FIG. 40 is a bottom view of a tray utilized with the example
container cover of FIG. 42;
[0044] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray of FIG.
40;
[0045] FIG. 42 is a top view of the cover depicted in FIG. 39;
[0046] FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of FIG.
42, taken at line B-B in FIG. 42;
[0047] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of FIG.
42, taken at line A-A in FIG. 42;
[0048] FIG. 45 is a side view of a base for use with an example
container similar to that depicted in FIG. 8;
[0049] FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional side view of the base shown in
FIG. 45;
[0050] FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional side view of an example
container similar to that shown in FIG. 8 that utilizes the base of
FIGS. 45-46 and the cover of FIGS. 48-49, with the cover being
installed on the base;
[0051] FIG. 48 is a bottom view of a tray utilized with the example
container cover of FIG. 47;
[0052] FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional side view of the tray of FIG.
48;
[0053] FIG. 50 is a top view of the cover depicted in FIG. 47;
[0054] FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of FIG.
50;
[0055] FIG. 52 is an exploded perspective view of the container of
FIG. 9, with the cover removed from the base, showing how the cover
is configured to mate with the base;
[0056] FIG. 53 is a bottom view of a base for use with an example
container similar to that depicted in FIG. 10;
[0057] FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of
FIG. 10 showing the cover coupled to the base;
[0058] FIG. 55 is a top plan view of the example universal box top,
similar to that depicted in FIG. 11;
[0059] FIG. 56 is an end view of the box top of FIG. 55;
[0060] FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional side view of the box top of
FIG. 55, with a tray and active agent pouch inserted in a recess of
the box top;
[0061] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of an example collapsible
container that is designed to accommodate a particular size or type
of food, such as a sandwich, or other materials, showing the
container positioned in an intermediate position;
[0062] FIG. 59 is an expanded view of the container of FIG. 58,
showing how the cover is positioned over the base;
[0063] FIG. 60 is a bottom view of the container of FIG. 58;
[0064] FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of
FIG. 58 shown installed in a second intermediate position;
[0065] FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 58
with the container positioned in a first, smallest position;
[0066] FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of
FIG. 58 shown installed in a first, smallest position; and
[0067] FIG. 64 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 58
with the container positioned in a third, largest position;
[0068] FIG. 65 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of
FIG. 58 shown installed in a third, largest position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0069] Referring to the figures, the present disclosure concerns
example containers 10, 70, 72, 74, 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, 100, 132 and
a new box top 116. The containers and box top may have an "active"
component, in that they are actively utilized for removing
moisture, oxygen, or another element from the container. The active
containers and box top help to keep materials stored inside the
container, such as food, fresh. This is accomplished using a
desiccant or other active agent. The term "desiccant" is typically
utilized to refer to a drying agent that acts to reduce or remove
water or moisture. The term "active agent," as used herein, refers
to an agent that serves to remove or reduce moisture, oxygen, or
another element, as long as the chemical composition of the
material that makes up the active agent is capable of removing the
desired element. Thus, the term "active agent," as used herein is
used in the broad sense to encompass desiccants as well as other
agents for removing elements from the interior of a container.
[0070] As discussed above, one type of active agent is a desiccant.
Another is an oxygen inhibitor. Oxygen inhibitors may be utilized
in containers to dramatically reduce the amount of oxygen inside
the container. Produce containers derive significant benefit from
oxygen inhibitors. For instance, lettuce, melons, tomatoes and
onions that are stored in containers that have oxygen inhibitors
have an extended lifetime and freshness. Oxygen is a primary
catalyst to premature spoilage of produce. Therefore, an active
agent that removes oxygen can help to prolong the useful life of
produce. Packages of crackers or other products made with grains
may also benefit from a moisture removing active agent, among other
foods and materials.
[0071] The example containers utilize an active agent that is
stored in a removable and replaceable pouch 30 or other vessel. A
pouch 30 is positioned inside each container and is held in
position so that the contents of the pouch 30 can communicate with
the interior storage space 54 of each container. Each pouch 30 has
a useful life that depends upon the humidity and/or oxygen or other
level within the container. A typical shelf-life for a desiccant
pouch 30 is three to six months. The pouch 30 contains crystals.
When the pouch 30 is initially inserted into the container, the
crystals are a first color. As the crystals absorb moisture, for
example, they gradually change color. An example of the color
change that occurs is changing from blue to pink. Once the crystals
have completely changed in color, the desiccant has been entirely
used and the pouch 30 may be removed and replaced with a new pouch
30. The pouch 30 of active agent is preferably disposable, although
reusable pouches are within the scope of the claimed subject
matter.
[0072] The pouch 30 is preferably made of a material that has been
approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use with food
products. One type of material that may be used is Tyvek.TM. or
polypropylene. An example polypropylene is a polyolefin/hydrocarbon
film material that is clear or opaque. Other types of plastic
materials may be utilized, if so desired. An example pouch 30 may
be rectangular and have a length of 2.25 inches, a width of 1 inch
and a depth of 0.25 inches. Other sizes and shapes of pouches may
be utilized. It is not required that the pouch 30 be rectangular.
The pouch 30 should easily fit inside any storage space within the
container designed to hold the pouch 30.
[0073] The pouch material may be transparent in order to allow the
user to view the color of the active agent. In the examples
depicted, the containers each include a cover 12 and a base 14. A
recess 24 is defined in the cover 12 and the pouch 30 is sized to
fit within the recess 24. In addition, a tray 60 is utilized along
with the pouch 30 to hold the pouch 30 inside the tray 60 and
recess 24. The tray 60 may include holes 64 to allow the active
agent to communicate with the environment of the container. The
tray 60 is both removable and replaceable. In the disclosed
examples, the tray 60 is sized to press fit into the recess 24
defined on the cover 12 of each container. However, other
techniques may be utilized to attach the tray to the cover. For
example, screws, glue, hinge mechanisms and clasps, or other known
attachment methods may be utilized.
[0074] The desiccant may be any known agent. Commonly known drying
agents include calcium oxide or silica gel. These materials are
useful in food-related applications because they are approved for
use in such applications by the United States Food & Drug
Administration. While the active agent is shown positioned in a
recess 24 of the cover 12, it may be stored at other locations, if
desired, and need not be positioned in a recess defined in the
container wall.
[0075] Other example containers 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, 100, 132
disclosed herein are collapsible and expandable. The containers
includes a base 14 and a cover 12. The base 14 and cover 12 have
mating portions, such as rails 102, 104, that couple the base 14
and cover 12 together. The rails 102, 104 may extend along the
sides of the cover 12 and base 14, for example. The rails 102, 104
may be ridges 106 and recesses 110 on the sides of the cover 12 and
base 14, respectively, for mating with each other, so that one of
the base 14 or the cover 12 slides inside the other of the cover 12
or the base 14. The base 12 and/or cover 14 may include mechanisms,
such as protrusions 142 and dimples 144, to allow the cover 12 and
base 14 to be fixedly positioned at a variety of positions relative
to one another, as will be described in greater detail below.
Alternatively, the base 12 and cover 14 may seat inside one
another, but be free of any type of positioning mechanisms, so that
the container size will be dependent upon the size of the item
stored in the container. When the size of the container is greater
than the size of the item be stored, the container will take on a
fixed minimum size. Other mechanisms for joining the cover and base
are also anticipated.
[0076] The interior size of the container 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, 100
may expand or contract depending upon how much material is stored
inside the container. In the case of a cereal box, this is useful
because the cereal itself, or a bag containing the cereal can be
deposited into the container. When the cereal bag is full, the
cover 12 of the container rests on the cereal bag and the cereal
bag helps to suspend the cover 12 above the base 14. As the cereal
is depleted, the bag becomes smaller. Eventually the bag of cereal
is small enough to fit inside the base 14 and the cover 12 rests
against the base 14. These types of containers 90, 92, 94, 96, 98,
100 are useful in a kitchen cabinet because they only take up as
much room as is actually needed. These containers are referred to
herein as "universal" containers because they can be utilized for
may different sizes and types of products.
[0077] The collapsible container side rails 102, 104 facilitate
closure of the containers and help to keep out unwanted moisture.
Therefore, the fit between the base 14 and cover 12 may be tight.
Where the fit is tight, an air release (not shown) may be utilized
at the seam between the cover 12 and the base 14, at the top of the
cover, or at another location that allows air to be released as the
cover is closed upon the base.
[0078] In a further embodiment, a universal box top 116 is
provided. The universal box top 116 is designed to accommodate
three different sizes of cereal boxes, for example, as indicated by
three levels of the box top in the drawings. In one embodiment, the
universal box top is designed to accommodate all three sizes of
General Mills cereal boxes, including a 20 oz., 15 oz., and 10 oz.
box. Migration of moisture into cereal boxes makes cereal stale.
The universal box top may house an active agent, such as described
above, in order to remove moisture from a box, such as a box of
cereal. The universal box top 116 can be positioned around the top
opening of a cereal box. Other types of food products may also be
utilized with the universal box top, the example box top not being
limited to General Mills cereal boxes.
[0079] With reference now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-10 depict
several different types of active containers. FIGS. 1-5 depict
containers that take on a single shape when assembled. FIGS. 6-10
and 58 are collapsible containers that expand and collapse
depending upon the quantity and size of materials stored inside the
container. FIG. 11 depicts a universal box top that may be utilized
to seal off three different sizes of cereal boxes. FIGS. 12-57 and
59-64 depict various views of containers and the universal box top
that are similar to or the same as containers depicted in FIGS.
1-11 and 58.
[0080] FIG. 1 depicts a container 10 that has a rounded cover 12
and a flat base 14. The circumference of the container 10 is round.
This type of container 10 may be utilized to store such food items
as tomatoes or onions. The container includes two grips 16 at an
upper end of the cover 12 that may be utilized to remove the cover
12 from the base 14. FIGS. 12-24 depict more detailed views of the
container 10 shown in FIG. 1. The container 10 of FIG. 1 is shown
as including two latches 40 that are positioned on both sides of
the container 10 for coupling the cover 12 to the base 14. A
similar container may be provided that does not include such a
latch, or that includes only one latch. The cover 12 may
alternatively be hinged to the base 14 (not shown). The container
10 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 12-24 utilizes a rim 20 on the cover 12
and a rim 22 on the base 14 to join the cover and base, in addition
to the two latches 40. The cover 12 and base 14 that utilize the
rims 20, 22 for joining the cover and base together may not need
the external latch shown, depending upon the configuration of the
rims 20, 22.
[0081] The cover 12 of the container 10 of FIG. 1, depicted in
FIGS. 12-14, includes two hand or finger grips 16 that are
positioned near the top of the rounded cover 12. The cover 12
includes a rim 20 that is defined at a lowermost edge of the cover
12 and extends around the periphery of the cover 12. The cover 12
also includes a holder 24, such as a recess, that is defined on an
interior surface 26 of the cover 12, so that the recess 24 is
positioned inside the cover 12. The recess 24 is rectangular shaped
and includes four walls 28 that extend inwardly from the outer wall
of the cover 12. These four walls 28 together define the shape of
the recess 24. Fewer than four walls may be utilized, if desired.
Other shapes for the recess 24 may also be utilized. Furthermore,
the recess 24 would not necessarily have to be shaped like a recess
24, as long as its shaped to hold a vessel 30 or packet. While
finger grips 16 are disclosed on a top surface 32 of the cover 12,
finger grips 16 are not absolutely required. It is desirable to
have some means to assist a user in removing the cover 12 from the
base 14. Any such means may be utilized, although it is anticipated
that the container 10 may be designed without any finger grips 16
whatsoever.
[0082] The rim 20 is positioned at the lower end of the cover 12
and is used for mating with the rim 22 of the base 14, which is
depicted in FIGS. 15-16. The rim 20 includes a bump 34 or
protrusion that extends at least partially around the circumference
of the rim 20. The bump 34 may extend all the way around the
circumference, or partially around the circumference at spaced
locations or otherwise. The rim 20 and bump 34 are utilized for
mating with a corresponding rim 22 and bump 36 on the base 14 of
the container 10. The cover 12 also includes at least one latch
surface 38 that is positioned at spaced locations around part of
the circumference of the cover 12. The latch surfaces 38 are
configured for mating with a latch or a latch arm 40. The latch arm
40 is depicted in greater detail in FIGS. 17-19. The latch arm 40
depicted has an arcuate shape when viewed from the top or bottom
and a generally flat exterior wall when viewed from the side A
lower end of the latch arm includes a hand 42 having an opening 44
for receiving a peg 46 that is positioned on the base 14 of the
container 10. The base 14 outer surface also includes an
indentation 56 adjacent the bottom wall 50 that houses the peg 46.
The hand 42 of the latch arm 40 couples with the peg 46 on the base
14 and is rotatable around the peg 46. A peg 46 is provided on
either side of the arm. The opposite end of the latch arm 40
includes a protruding rib 48 that extends along the width of the
latch arm 40 and forms a hook. The rib 48 is configured to mate
with the latching surface 38 on the cover 14, as shown in greater
detail in FIG. 21.
[0083] The base 14 of the container 10, depicted in FIGS. 15-16,
has a substantially flat bottom wall 50 and a circular side wall 52
that extends upwardly from the bottom wall 50 to define an interior
space 54. The interior space 54 is configured to mate with an
interior space 54 of the cover 12 once the cover 12 and base 14 are
coupled together. The base 14 includes a rim 22 and the rim 22 has
at least one bump 36 or protrusion that extends around the
circumference of the rim 22. The bump 36 may extend entirely around
the circumference, or partially around the circumference at spaced
locations or otherwise. The rim 22 and bump 36 are utilized to mate
with a corresponding rim 20 and bump 34 of the cover 12, as shown
best in FIG. 21. It should be noted that the base 14, while shown
as being flat, does not have to be flat and can have any shape
desired.
[0084] The latch 40 may be configured relative to the base 14 in
any known manner to rotate upwardly so that the hook end 48 mates
with a latch surface 38 on the cover 12 to hold the cover 12 in a
closed position relative to the base 14. Other types of latching
mechanisms may alternatively be utilized, including non-rotating
latches.
[0085] FIG. 20 depicts a desiccant or active agent pouch 30
positioned inside the recess 24 of the cover 12. A tray 60 is
positioned over the active agent pouch 30 to hold the pouch 30 in
place within the cover 12. The tray 60 has a bottom wall 62 that
includes a plurality of openings 64. The openings 64 are configured
to allow communication between the contents of the active agent
pouch 30 and the interior storage area 54 of the container 10. The
tray 60 includes side walls 66 that are dimensioned to seat firmly
within the recess 24 of the cover 12. The tray 60 may have a press
fit relative to the recess 24 in order to be maintained inside the
recess 24 without the need for any external attachment mechanisms.
Alternatively, the tray 60 may be connected to the cover 12 with a
hinge and catch (not shown), with the hinge being positioned on one
edge of the tray and the catch being positioned on another side of
the tray.
[0086] FIGS. 22-24 depict details concerning the disclosed tray 60.
The tray 60 is rectangular and is configured to seat firmly within
the recess 24 in order to maintain the active agent pouch 30 within
the container 10. It is beneficial to maintain the active agent
pouch 30 under the cover 12 since there is very little, if any,
likelihood of the active agent escaping or otherwise communicating
with the outside of the container 10 when the container is in use.
In this embodiment, the active agent may be designed to reduce
moisture, oxygen, or both, or another element or elements.
[0087] The tray 60 includes a rectangular base wall 62 that has a
plurality of holes 64 that extend through the base wall 62. The
holes 64 may be arranged in a pattern of rows and columns, as
shown, or may be arranged in any other manner desired. More or less
holes 64 may alternatively be provided. The base wall 62 is
surrounded by four upstanding side walls 66 that extend
perpendicularly from the base wall 62. The side walls 66 have a
length sufficient to hold the tray 60 inside the recess 24 of the
cover 12. The recess 24 of the cover 12 has four side walls 28 for
receiving the four side walls 66 of the tray 60. The walls 28 of
the recess 24 and walls 66 of the tray 60 may have mating features
to assist in maintaining the tray 60 inside the cover 12, such as
protrusions or recesses (not shown).
[0088] FIGS. 2 and 25 depict a container 70 that has a rounded
cover 12 and a flat base 14. The circumference of the container 70
is round. This type of container 70 may be utilized to store such
food items as lettuce or melon. This container 70 typically has a
larger size than the container 10 depicted in FIG. 1, but this is
not absolutely required. The container 70 includes two grips 16 at
an upper end of the cover 12, a recess or holder 24 for receiving a
tray 60, an active agent pouch 30 positioned inside the recess 24
communicating with the interior space 54 of the container 70, and a
latch member 40, all of which are configured in a similar manner to
that described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 12-25. As previously
described for FIG. 1, the container shown in FIG. 2 may be designed
without the external latches 40 and finger grips 16, if desired.
The base 14 of the container 70 is depicted as having a flat
surface. Alternatively, the base 14 may have a shape designed to
hold a particular type of food or material, or designed to prolong
the life of a food product positioned inside the container, among
other designs. Other similarities exist between the container of
FIG. 2 and the container of FIG. 1, which will not be repeated as
one of skill in the art will recognize the similar features.
[0089] FIGS. 3 and 4 depict other example containers 72, 74 that
have a substantially rectangular cover 12 and a substantially
rectangular base 14. The circumference of the containers 72, 74 is
rectangular. These containers 72, 74 may be utilized to store such
food items as sugar or flour. The container 72 of FIGS. 3 and 26-33
has a size that is optimally designed for storing sugar. The
container includes a cover 12, shown in FIGS. 32-33, and a base 14,
shown in FIGS. 26-27.
[0090] The base 14 includes a base wall 50 and four side walls 52
that are joined at the corners to define the walls of the container
72. A ledge 76 is positioned adjacent the upper rim 22 of the base
14. The ledge 76 is designed for receiving a bottom edge or rim 20
of the cover 12 and for stopping the vertical movement of the cover
12 relative to the base 14. The rim 22 of the base 14 also includes
an outwardly extending bump 36 that is positioned adjacent the
upper end of the base 14. The bump or protrusion 36 is configured
for mating with like bumps or recesses 34 defined near the rim 20
of the cover 12. The rims 20, 22 and bumps 34, 36 are configured to
join the cover 12 to the base 14 in a tight, snap-together fit. The
base wall 50 of the container 72 is substantially flat, but is
raised relative to a bottom of the container such that a rim 78 is
positioned around the base wall.
[0091] The cover 12, shown in FIGS. 32-33, includes a top wall 32
and four side walls 80. The side walls 80 of the cover 12 extend
downwardly from the top wall 32. The cover 12 includes two finger
grips 16 defined on the top wall 32 of the cover 12. The finger
grips 16 are designed to allow a user to more easily grip and
remove the cover 12 from the base 14 of the container 72. The
container utilizes a rim 20, 22 on each of the cover 12 and base 14
to join the cover 12 to the base 14. The lower end of the cover 12
includes a rim 20 with an inwardly extending bump or bumps 34. As
discussed above in connection with the rounded containers, the
bumps 34 may extend completely around the circumference of the
cover 12, or partially around the cover 12, or otherwise.
[0092] The cover 12 includes an inwardly extending recess 24 that
extends from a wall of the cover 12. The recess 24 is defined by
four inwardly extending walls 28 and is configured for receiving an
active agent. The active agent may be in the form of a pouch 30 of
desiccant. The recess 24 is configured to mate with a tray 60 in
order to hold the active agent pouch 30 in position. The tray 60
may alternatively be a door (not shown) that is coupled to an inner
surface of the cover 12 and that is positioned over the recess 24.
The recess 24 is similar to that discussed in connection with the
round containers, above. Similarities will not be repeated as one
of skill in the art will recognize the similar features. FIG. 28
depicts the cover 12 installed on the base 14 and FIGS. 29-31
depict the tray 60 that is used to cover 12 the recess 24. As
previously discussed, the tray 60 includes a plurality of openings
64 defined there through that allow the desiccant or other active
agent in the pouch 30 to communicate with the interior space 54 of
the container 72. The active agent pouch 30 is sized to seat snugly
within the tray 60. Other sizes and shapes of active agent pouches
or vessels may also be used.
[0093] FIGS. 4 and 34-36 depict a container 74 that is optimally
sized for storing flour. Other sizes may alternatively be defined
for storing a particular food or material. The container 74 of
FIGS. 4 and 34 includes a cover 12 and a base 14. The cover 12
includes a top wall 32 and four side walls 80. The base 14 includes
a base wall 50 and four sides 82. The base wall 50 is recessed
inwardly such that a rim 78 is defined around the bottom of the
container 74. The top wall 32 of the cover 12 does not utilize
finger or hand grips 16. Instead, the top wall 32 of the cover 12
of FIG. 4 is recessed inwardly and is substantially flat. A rim 84
is defined around the recessed top wall 32. The upper end of the
base 14 includes a ledge 76 and rim 22, like that discussed in
connection with FIG. 3. The lower end of the cover 12 includes a
rim 20, also like that discussed above in connection with FIG. 3.
Other similarities are also present and will not be repeated as
they are readily evident to those of skill in the art.
[0094] The cover 12 of FIGS. 34 is somewhat different from the
previously described covers because it shows a tray 60 that is
positioned on an exterior surface of the container 74. In this
example, the top wall 32 of the cover 12 has a recess 24 that faces
outwardly. The recess 24 has a bottom wall 86 and four side walls
28. The four side walls 28 are connected to the bottom wall 86 and
extend inwardly from the top wall 32 of the cover 12. Holes 88 are
defined through the bottom wall 86 of the recess 24. As previously
discussed, the holes 88 may be arranged in a pattern and are
preferably sized to allow a desiccant or other material stored
inside the recess 24 to communicate with the interior space 54 of
the container 74. A tray 60 seats over the recess 24 and holds an
active agent pouch 30 inside the recess 24. As previously
discussed, the tray 60 has a base wall 62 and four side walls 66.
The four side walls 66 extend into the recess 24 and hold the tray
60 in position. In this example, it is important that the tray 60
create a tight fit with the recess 24 in order to reduce the amount
of leakage of air through the recess 24. The tray 60 of this
example is different from previously described examples because the
tray 60 does not have holes defined through the base wall 62. The
holes in this embodiment are instead defined through a wall 86
defining the recess 24. The earlier described examples having a
recess 24 that faces inwardly is preferred to this example because
the likelihood of exterior air migrating into the container is
reduced.
[0095] The flour container is typically a larger sized container
that will be sufficient in size to hold an entire 5 lb. bag of
flour. In order to strengthen the side walls of the container, ribs
77 are positioned that extend outwardly from the sides of the
container 74 and that extend longitudinally along the height, as
shown in best in FIGS. 4 and 34. Four ribs 77 may be provided, with
two on opposite sides of the container 74. The ribs extend from the
ledge 76 downwardly to a position that is approximately half way
along the height of the container 74.
[0096] FIG. 5 depicts another example container 90 that has a cover
12 and base 14 having a generally rectangular shape. This container
90 may be utilized to store any number of different foods or other
items, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, are multi-use. The cover 12
includes two grips 16 that are molded into the upper surface 32 of
the cover 12. The base wall 50 is substantially flat and may or may
not be recessed inwardly. Alternatively, the base wall 50 may have
other shapes, or may be defined to provide legs, if so desired. The
cover 12 is joined to the base 14 in a manner described above and
may or may not include a latch 40. Other shapes and sizes for this
and the previously discussed containers may be utilized without
departing from the disclosed examples. This container 90 shares
many of the same features as the above described embodiments. The
tray 60 is positioned on an interior surface 26 of the cover 12 and
the recess 24 defined on the cover 12 extends inwardly. Other
similarities will not be repeated as one of skill in the art will
readily recognize the similar features.
[0097] FIGS. 6-10 depict various embodiments of a collapsible and
adjustable container. FIGS. 37-54 depict the examples shown in
FIGS. 6-10 in greater detail. The container 92 of FIGS. 6 and 37-44
is designed as a square cracker container, but may be used for
storing other food and/or materials. The container 94 of FIG. 7 is
designed as a cookie, pasta, cracker container. The container 96 of
FIGS. 8 and 45-51 is designed as a bread container. The container
98 of FIGS. 9 and 52 are designed as a cereal container. The
container 100 of FIGS. 10 and 53-54 is designed as a round cracker
container. Other shapes and sizes for the containers may also be
utilized.
[0098] Each container is similar in that each includes a base 14
and a cover 12. The cover 12 has a top wall 32 and at least one
side wall 80. The base 14 includes a base wall 50 and at least one
side wall 82. In the case of rectangular containers, the side walls
80, 82 number four. When the container is round or rounded, a
single continuous side wall 80, 82 may be utilized. A pair of rails
102 extends along the length of the side walls 80 of the cover 12
and a corresponding pair of rails 104 extends along the length of
the side walls 82 of the base 14. The base 14 includes outwardly
extending protrusions 106 on either side thereof. The cover 12
includes a pair of outwardly extending wings 108 that are shaped
like the protrusions 106 on the base 14, but are larger than the
protrusions 106 and include an underlying recess 110 for receiving
the protrusions 106.
[0099] The recesses 110 formed by the wings 108 are configured to
mate with the corresponding protrusions 106. The recesses 110
formed by the wings 108 are configured to mate with the
corresponding protrusions 106 on the base 14 in a sliding manner,
such that the cover 12 is slidable on the base 14 of each
container, with the protrusions 106 and the recesses 110 defined by
the wings 108 defining rails 102, 104 that mate with one another.
In this manner, when the food product positioned in the container
90 has a height that extends past the upper end 22 of the base 14,
the cover 12 is suspended by the food product. As the food product
is emptied from the container 90, the cover 12 travels downwardly
relative to the base 14, thereby collapsing the cover 12 relative
to the base 14 to make the container 90 smaller. When the food
product stored inside the container 90 has a size that is smaller
than the size of the base 14, the top wall 32 of the cover 12 seats
on the upper edge 22 of the side walls of the base 14 and the
container 90 is then positioned at its minimum size.
[0100] FIG. 52 illustrates the operation of the collapsible cereal
box. As is evident, the cover 12 seats over the base 14 and is
guided on the base 14 by the protrusions 106 disposed on the sides
of the base 14. The cover 12 can move upwardly and downwardly
relative to the base 14 on the rails 102, 104. While two wings 108
are shown, more or less may be utilized depending on the size and
shape of the containers, among other reasons, as known by those of
skill in the art. A less optimal cereal box, for example, could
include a single protrusion 106 and wing 108. Alternatively, the
base 14 may include the wings 108 and recesses 110 and the cover 12
may include the protrusions 106 that seat inside the recesses 110,
such that the cover 12 seats inside the base 14. The top wall 32
and bottom wall 50 of each container may be recessed slightly
inwardly, if desired, or take on other shapes.
[0101] Each of the depicted embodiments includes a recess 24 that
is defined on a surface of the cover 12 for receiving an active
agent, such as a desiccant stored in a pouch 30. A tray 60 is
positionable within the recess 24, as described above, to maintain
an active agent in the pouch 30. Holes or openings 64, 88 are
defined through the surface of the cover 12 within the recess 24 to
allow the active agent to communicate with an interior space 54 of
the container when the tray 60 is positioned on an outside surface
of the cover 12. When the recess 24 is defined on an inner surface
26 of the cover 12, the tray 60 is positioned inside the cover 12
and includes holes 64 defined through the tray 60 instead of
through the wall of the cover 12. The recess 24 may be positioned
on an inner surface or on an outer surface of the container, as
defined above in connection with the other containers. In addition,
the recess 24 may be defined on the base 14 instead of the cover
12. The wings 108 and protrusions 106 may take on any desired
shape. The wing shape that is shown is that of an isosceles
trapezoid. The tray 60 preferably has a size to be received within
the recess 24 in a press-fit manner. Alternatively, a door can be
provided instead of the tray (not shown). The door may seat over
the recess 24 to close the recess 24 and may be hinged or otherwise
coupled to the container wall.
[0102] In the case of the container 92 shown in FIGS. 6 and 42, the
recess 24 for receiving the active agent is positioned in the top
wall 32 of the cover 12. The container 94 shown in FIG. 7 includes
a recess 24 for receiving the active agent positioned in the top
wall 32 of the cover 12. The container 98 shown in FIG. 9 includes
a recess 24 for receiving the active agent positioned in the top
wall 32. In FIGS. 6-10 a tray 60 is depicted in the recess 24.
[0103] The bread container 96, shown in FIGS. 8 and 45-51, is
different from the other collapsible containers in that the
container 96 is designed to be positioned on its side instead of on
its base wall 50. In this example, the base 14 has a right side end
wall 112 that is similar to the base wall 50. The cover 12 has a
left side end wall 114 that is similar to the top wall of the cover
12. The recess 24 is defined in the left side end wall 114 of the
cover 12 and a tray 60 is positionable in the recess 24, as with
other example containers. The base 14 slides horizontally inside
the cover 12. In comparison, with the prior example containers, the
base 14 slid vertically inside the cover 12.
[0104] FIGS. 10 and 53-54 depict a round collapsible container 100.
As with prior collapsible containers, the base 14 has protrusions
106 and the cover 12 has wings 108. The protrusions 106 and wings
108 are arranged as rails 102, 104 that extend longitudinally along
the length of the container 100, as with prior examples. The cover
12 extends over the base 14 such that the protrusions 106 mate with
and ride inside the wings 108. A recess 24 is positioned through
the top wall 32 of the cover 12 and includes holes 88 that extend
through the wall of the recess 24. An active agent is positioned
inside the recess 24 and a tray 60 or other cover is positioned
over the recess 24.
[0105] FIGS. 11 and 55-57 depict a universal box top 116. The
depicted box top 116 is designed to seal the opening of three
different size General Mills.TM. cereal boxes. The box top 116 is
pyramidal in shape, with various steps that are designed to change
the level of the box top 116. A first level 118 is positioned at
the open end of the box top 116. A second level 120 is positioned
at an intermediate point on the box top 116, and a third level 122
is positioned adjacent the closed end of the box top 116. Each
level 118, 120, 122 of the box top 116 includes an outer rim 124
and an inner rim 126. For levels 118 and 120, the outer rim 124
extends around the circumference of the box top 116 while the inner
rim 126 extends only partially around the circumference of the box
top 116. As shown in FIG. 57, the inner rim 126 for levels 118 and
120 is only positioned near the ends of the box top 116.
[0106] The distance between each outer rim 124 and inner rim 126 is
designed to capture an end of a container or box. Each inner rim
126 has a beveled surface 128 that faces the outer rim 124. This
beveled surface 128 assists in capturing a container rim or box
between the outer and inner rims 124, 126.
[0107] As discussed above in connection with the other embodiments,
the box top 116 also includes a recess 24 for holding an active
agent. The recess 24 includes inwardly extending walls 28 from the
inner side 26 of the top surface 130 of the box top 116, as shown
best in FIG. 57. The recess 24 is shaped and sized for
accommodating an active agent vessel 30, such as a desiccant pouch
30. A tray 60 is utilized, as with previously discussed
embodiments, to hold the vessel 30 in position. The tray 60
includes openings 64 for allowing chemical communication between
the active agent and the interior space 54 of the box or container
that is attached to the box top 116.
[0108] While the universal box top 116 that is depicted and
described is designed for use with three different sizes of cereal
boxes, the box top 116 could be designed for any number of
different containers or boxes. While three levels 118, 120, 122 are
shown, one or more level could be utilized, if so desired.
[0109] FIGS. 58-65 describe an adjustable and collapsible sandwich
container 132. The container 132 includes a base 14 and a cover 12.
Both the cover 12 and the base 14 are substantially rectangular in
shape. The depicted container 132 has a shape of a slice of bread,
but may take on other shapes, such as rectangular or square. The
cover 12 has a top wall 134 and four side walls 136. The base 14
has a base wall 138 and four side walls 140. The side walls 136 of
the cover 12 are sized to mate with the side walls 140 of the base
14 by sliding over the base side walls 138 in a longitudinal
manner. The base wall 138 is the wall against which the sandwich
will sit when stored inside the container and may include ribs or
other protrusions (not shown) that help to keep the sandwich from
sitting on the base wall 138. The cover top wall 134 may have
similar protrusions or ribs (not shown).
[0110] The side walls 136 of the cover 12 and base 14 include
mating protrusions 142 and recesses or dimples 144. In the case of
the cover 12, an outwardly extending ridge 102 is defined on two of
the side walls 136 of the cover 12. For the base 14, similar, but
smaller sized ridges 104 extend outwardly from the same two sides
140 of the base 14. The ridges 104 of the base 14 are designed to
seat inside the ridges 102 of the cover 12 and define a place where
the base 14 mates with the cover 12. The cover ridges 102 ride on
the base ridges 104.
[0111] The outer side walls 140 of the base 14 includes a row of
dimples 144 that are concave in shape, as shown, but may be other
shapes. The dimples 144 are positioned on the ridges 104 of the
base 14 and extend outwardly. The inner surfaces of the side walls
136 of the cover 12 include a mating row of bumps or protrusions
142 that are convex in shape, as show, but may be other shapes. The
bumps 142 are for mating with the dimples 144 defined on the base
14. The bumps 142 are defined in a row on the inner side of the
ridges 102 of the cover 12 and are positioned at spaced heights
such that the container 132 may be maintained in one of three
positions. In a first position, shown in FIGS. 62-63, the cover
bottom edge 20 sits adjacent the base wall 138 and the three bumps
142 of the cover 12 align with the three recesses 144 of the base
14. This is the smallest size for the container 132. In a second
position, shown in FIGS. 58 and 61, the lowest bump 142 on the
cover 12 mates with the middle recess 144 of the base 14. This size
is an intermediate size of the container that is greater than the
smallest size. In a third position, shown in FIG. 64-65, the lowest
bump 142 on the cover 12 mates with the highest recess 144 of the
base 14. This size is the largest size of the container, with the
bottom edge of the cover 12 being at its farther position from the
base wall 138 of the base 14. The dimples 144 and bumps 142 are
utilized to provide various storage positions for the cover 12
relative to the base 14, providing for smaller or larger sandwiches
to be stored inside the container 132. The protrusions 142 may
alternatively be positioned on the base 14 with the dimples 144
alternatively positioned on the cover 12. Mating features other
than bumps and recesses may alternatively be utilized, such as
ridges, for example.
[0112] One type of active agent that may be utilized with the
example containers is known as "O-Buster" and is sold by Desiccare,
Inc. of Mississippi. The active agent may be stored in a Tyvek.TM.
package or a polypropylene package, which meets the requirements of
Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations for direct food contact
temperatures up to 100.degree. C. The active agent pouch 30 is
positioned inside a barrier bag. When the pouch 30 is ready for
use, the barrier bag is removed and the active agent is then
activated. Another active agent is Silica Gel, manufactured by
Desiccare, Inc. of Pomona, Calif. The product name for a type of
silica gel that may be utilized is Silica Gel-TS6.
[0113] The above-described example containers may or may not
include the active agent. If the active agent is not utilized, the
recess 24 for receiving the agent may be omitted from the
container.
[0114] Various dimensions are shown in the Figures. These
dimensions are provided as examples. Other shapes and dimensions
may be utilized without departing from the teachings herein.
[0115] The containers 10, 70, 72, 74, 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, 100, 132
and box top 116 may be formed of any desired material. For food
storage purposes, a clarified polypropylene is desirable because it
allows users to view what is stored inside the container. A generic
general purpose polypropylene could also be used. Other materials
may be used for non-food storage purposes. A styrene may also be
used for the containers, or other known materials.
[0116] The term "substantially" is used herein as an estimation
term.
[0117] While various features of the claimed invention are
presented above, it should be understood that the features may be
used singly or in any combination thereof. Therefore, the claimed
invention is not to be limited to only the specific embodiments
depicted herein.
[0118] Further, it should be understood that variations and
modifications may occur to those skilled in the art to which the
claimed invention pertains. The examples described herein are
exemplary of the claimed invention. The disclosure may enable those
skilled in the art to make and use examples having alternative
elements that likewise correspond to the elements of the invention
recited in the claims. The intended scope of the invention may thus
include other examples that do not differ or that insubstantially
differ from the literal language of the claims. The scope of the
present invention is accordingly defined as set forth in the
appended claims.
* * * * *