U.S. patent application number 11/333739 was filed with the patent office on 2007-07-19 for containers and interlocking container assemblies.
Invention is credited to Mark R. Gartz, H. Bernard Kirkland, Jonathan C. Smith.
Application Number | 20070164019 11/333739 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38262201 |
Filed Date | 2007-07-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070164019 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gartz; Mark R. ; et
al. |
July 19, 2007 |
Containers and interlocking container assemblies
Abstract
A container assembly and method for forming the same with a
first polymeric container and a second polymeric container. The
first polymeric container includes a first body portion and a first
rim. The first container forms a first and a second slot
therethrough. The first rim has a first and a second generally
horizontal area. The second polymeric container includes a second
body portion and a second rim. The second container forms a third
and a fourth slot therethrough. The second rim has a third and a
fourth generally horizontal area. The first container and the
second container are adapted to be attachable to each other by
pressing the first and second rims together such that the generally
horizontal areas of the first container insert into the slots of
the second container, and the generally horizontal areas of the
second container insert into the slots of the first container.
Inventors: |
Gartz; Mark R.; (Mt.
Prospect, IL) ; Kirkland; H. Bernard; (Lindenhurst,
IL) ; Smith; Jonathan C.; (Gurnee, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PACTIV CORPORATION;c/o JENKENS & GILCHRIST
225 WEST WASHINGTON STREET
SUITE 2600
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
38262201 |
Appl. No.: |
11/333739 |
Filed: |
January 17, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/4.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 1/34 20130101; B65D
11/188 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/004.21 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/28 20060101
B65D006/28 |
Claims
1. A container assembly comprising: a first polymeric container
including a first continuous body portion and a first rim, the
first rim encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the
first body portion, the first rim having a first upwardly
protruding slot portion and a second upwardly protruding slot
portion, the first upwardly protruding slot portion forming a first
slot therethrough, the second upwardly protruding slot portion
forming a second slot therethrough, the first rim having a first
generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety
degrees from the first upwardly protruding slot portion, the first
rim having a second generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof generally ninety degrees from the second upwardly
protruding slot portion; and a second polymeric container including
a second continuous body portion and a second rim, the second rim
encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the second
body portion, the second rim having a third upwardly protruding
slot portion and a fourth upwardly protruding slot portion, the
third upwardly protruding slot portion forming a third slot
therethrough, the fourth upwardly protruding slot portion forming a
fourth slot therethrough, the second rim having a third generally
horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety degrees
from the third upwardly protruding slot portion, the second rim
having a fourth generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof
generally ninety degrees from the fourth upwardly protruding slot
portion, wherein the first container and the second container are
adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the
first and second rims together such that the first generally
horizontal area of the first container inserting into the third
slot of the second container, the second generally horizontal area
of the first container inserting into the fourth slot of the second
container, the third generally horizontal area of the second
container inserting into the first slot of the first container, and
the fourth generally horizontal area of the second container
inserting into the second slot of the first container.
2. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and the
second containers comprise a polymeric material.
3. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and the
second containers comprise a polymeric foam.
4. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first container is
generally identical to the second container.
5. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second
container are thermoformed.
6. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first upwardly
protruding slot portion further forms a fifth slot therethrough,
the second upwardly protruding slot portion forming a sixth slot
therethrough, the third upwardly protruding slot portion forming a
seventh slot therethrough, the fourth upwardly protruding slot
portion forming an eighth slot therethrough, and wherein the first
generally horizontal area of the first container further inserts
into the seventh slot of the second container, the second generally
horizontal area of the first container further inserting into the
eighth slot of the second container, the third generally horizontal
area of the second container further inserting into the fifth slot
of the first container, and the fourth generally horizontal area of
the second container further inserting into the sixth slot of the
first container.
7. The container assembly of claim 6 wherein the first container is
generally identical to the second container.
8. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second
containers are plates.
9. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first container is
a bowl and the second container is a plate.
10. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first container
is shaped substantially the same as the second container.
11. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first container
is a bowl and the second container is a bowl.
12. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rim is
identical to the second rim.
13. A method of forming a polymeric container assembly, the method
of comprising the acts of: providing a first polymeric container
that includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim
having a first surface, the first rim encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the first body portion, the first rim
having a first upwardly protruding slot portion and a second
upwardly protruding slot portion, the first upwardly protruding
slot portion forming a first slot therethrough, the second upwardly
protruding slot portion forming a second slot therethrough, the
first rim having a first generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof generally ninety degrees from the first upwardly protruding
slot portion, the first rim having a second generally horizontal
area at a periphery thereof generally ninety degrees from the
second upwardly protruding slot portion; providing a second
polymeric container that includes a second continuous body portion
and a second rim having a second surface, the second rim
encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the second
body portion, the second rim having a third upwardly protruding
slot portion and a fourth upwardly protruding slot portion, the
third upwardly protruding slot portion forming a third slot
therethrough, the fourth upwardly protruding slot portion forming a
fourth slot therethrough, the second rim having a third generally
horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety degrees
from the third upwardly protruding slot portion, the second rim
having a fourth generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof
generally ninety degrees from the fourth upwardly protruding slot
portion; flipping one of the first container and the second
container such that the first container and second container are
generally aligned and the first rim and the second rim are adjacent
to each other; rotating one of the first container and the second
container ninety degrees such that the first upwardly protruding
slot portion of the first container generally aligns with the third
generally horizontal area, the second upwardly protruding slot
portion generally aligning with the fourth generally horizontal
area, the third upwardly protruding slot portion aligning with the
first generally horizontal area, the fourth upwardly protruding
slot portion aligning with the second generally horizontal area;
pressing the first and second rims together; and inserting the
third generally horizontal area into the first slot, the fourth
generally horizontal area into the second slot, the first generally
horizontal area into the third slot, and the second generally
horizontal area into the fourth slot.
14. The method of claim 13 further including placing a food article
on at least one of the first container and the second container
before pressing the first and second rims together.
15. The method of claim 13 wherein at least one of the first and
second containers comprises polymeric foam.
16. The method of claim 13 wherein the first container is generally
identical to the second container.
17. The method of claim 13 wherein the first rim is generally
identical to the second rim.
18. A method of forming a polymeric container assembly, the method
of comprising the acts of: providing a first polymeric container
that includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim
having a first surface, the first rim encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the first body portion, the first rim
having a first upwardly protruding slot portion and a second
upwardly protruding slot portion, the first upwardly protruding
slot portion forming a first slot and a second slot therethrough,
the second upwardly protruding slot portion forming a third slot
and a fourth slot therethrough, the first rim having a first
generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety
degrees from the first upwardly protruding slot portion, the first
rim having a second generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof generally ninety degrees from the second upwardly
protruding slot portion; providing a second polymeric container
that includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim
having a second surface, the second rim encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the second body portion, the second rim
having a third upwardly protruding slot portion and a fourth
upwardly protruding slot portion, the third upwardly protruding
slot portion forming a fifth slot and a sixth slot therethrough,
the fourth upwardly protruding slot portion forming a seventh slot
and an eighth slot therethrough, the second rim having a third
generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety
degrees from the third upwardly protruding slot portion, the second
rim having a fourth generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof generally ninety degrees from the fourth upwardly
protruding slot portion; flipping one of the first container and
the second container such that the first container and second
container are generally aligned and the first rim and the second
rim are adjacent to each other; rotating one of the first container
and the second container ninety degrees such that the first
upwardly protruding slot portion of the first container generally
aligns with the third generally horizontal area, the second
upwardly protruding slot portion generally aligning with the fourth
generally horizontal area, the third upwardly protruding slot
portion aligning with the first generally horizontal area, the
fourth upwardly protruding slot portion aligning with the second
generally horizontal area; pressing the first and second rims
together; and inserting the third generally horizontal area into
the first slot and the second slot, the fourth generally horizontal
area into the third slot and the fourth slot, the first generally
horizontal area into the fifth slot and the sixth slot, and the
second generally horizontal area into the seventh slot and the
eighth slot.
19. The method of claim 18 further including placing a food article
on at least one of the first container and the second container
before pressing the first and second rims together.
20. The method of claim 18 wherein at least one of the first and
second containers comprises polymeric foam.
21. The method of claim 18 wherein the first container is generally
identical to the second container.
22. The method of claim 18 wherein the first rim is generally
identical to the second rim.
23. A first polymeric container for use in a container assembly the
first polymeric container comprising: a continuous body portion;
and a rim, the rim encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly
from the body portion, the rim having a first upwardly protruding
slot portion and a second upwardly protruding slot portion, the
first upwardly protruding slot portion forming a first slot
therethrough, the second upwardly protruding slot portion forming a
second slot therethrough, the rim having a first generally
horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety degrees
from the first upwardly protruding slot portion, the rim having a
second generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally
ninety degrees from the second upwardly protruding slot portion,
wherein the first polymeric container is adapted to be releasably
attachable to a second container having at least a second rim
having a third upwardly protruding slot portion and a fourth
upwardly protruding slot portion, the third upwardly protruding
slot portion forming a third slot therethrough, the fourth upwardly
protruding slot portion forming a fourth slot therethrough.
24. The container of claim 23 wherein the container comprises
polymeric foam.
25. The container of claim 23 wherein the first container is a
plate.
26. The container of claim 23 wherein the first upwardly protruding
slot portion further forms a fifth slot therethrough, the second
upwardly protruding slot portion forming a sixth slot
therethrough.
27. The container of claim 23 wherein the first slot and the second
slot are single generally horizontal slots adapted to deform
thereby creating an opening when the second rim of the second
container contacts the first slot and the second slot.
28. The container of claim 23 wherein the first slot and the second
slot are single generally horizontal hinged slots adapted to
hingedly displace thereby creating an opening when the second rim
of the second container contacts the first slot and the second
slot.
29. The container of claim 23 wherein the first slot and the second
slot are dual generally horizontal slots adapted to deform thereby
creating an opening when the second rim of the second container
contacts the first slot and the second slot.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to containers. More
particularly, the present invention relates to releasably attaching
container assemblies and containers used therein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The use of inexpensive polymeric packaging containers has
become popular, especially for preparing and serving various food
products. Polymeric containers have been used for heating the food
product(s) disposed therein.
[0003] It would be desirable to have a polymeric container that
would be easy for the customer to close and open. It would also be
desirable to provide a container that is releasably attachable and
prevents or inhibits material, such as liquid, from leaving the
container. It would also be desirable to provide a container that
is releasably attachable and prevents or inhibits foreign materials
from entering the container. It would be desirable for a container
to function without necessarily having a lid, but if a lid is
desired to form a container assembly, a customer would be able to
form such an assembly easily.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a
container assembly comprises a first polymeric container and a
second polymeric container. The first polymeric container includes
a first continuous body portion and a first rim. The first rim
encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body
portion. The first rim has a first upwardly protruding slot portion
and a second upwardly protruding slot portion. The first upwardly
protruding slot portion forms a first slot therethrough. The second
upwardly protruding slot portion forms a second slot therethrough.
The first rim has a first generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof, generally ninety degrees from the first upwardly
protruding slot portion. The first rim has a second generally
horizontal area at a periphery thereof, generally ninety degrees
from the second upwardly protruding slot portion. The second
polymeric container includes a second continuous body portion and a
second rim. The second rim encompasses and projects laterally
outwardly from the second body portion. The second rim has a third
upwardly protruding slot portion and a fourth upwardly protruding
slot portion. The third upwardly protruding slot portion forms a
third slot therethrough. The fourth upwardly protruding slot
portion forms a fourth slot therethrough. The second rim has a
third generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof, generally
ninety degrees from the third upwardly protruding slot portion. The
second rim has a fourth generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof, generally ninety degrees from the fourth upwardly
protruding slot portion. The first container and the second
container are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by
pressing the first and second rims together such that the first
generally horizontal area of the first container inserts into the
third slot of the second container. The second generally horizontal
area of the first container inserts into the fourth slot of the
second container. The third generally horizontal area of the second
container inserts into the first slot of the first container. The
fourth generally horizontal area of the second container inserts
into the second slot of the first container.
[0005] According to one process of the present invention, a method
of forming a polymeric container assembly is provided. The method
provides a first polymeric container that includes a first
continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface. The
first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the
first body portion. The first rim has a first upwardly protruding
slot portion and a second upwardly protruding slot portion. The
first upwardly protruding slot portion forms a first slot
therethrough. The second upwardly protruding slot portion forms a
second slot therethrough. The first rim has a first generally
horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally ninety degrees
from the first upwardly protruding slot portion. The first rim has
a second generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally
ninety degrees from the second upwardly protruding slot portion.
The method provides a second polymeric container that includes a
second continuous body portion and a second rim that has a second
surface. The second rim encompasses and projects laterally
outwardly from the second body portion. The second rim has a third
upwardly protruding slot portion and a fourth upwardly protruding
slot portion. The third upwardly protruding slot portion forms a
third slot therethrough. The fourth upwardly protruding slot
portion forms a fourth slot therethrough. The second rim has a
third generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof generally
ninety degrees from the third- upwardly protruding slot portion.
The second rim has a fourth generally horizontal area at a
periphery thereof generally ninety degrees from the fourth upwardly
protruding slot portion. The method flips one of the first
container and the second container such that the first container
and second container are generally aligned and the first rim and
the second rim are adjacent to each other. One of the first
container and the second container rotates ninety degrees such that
the first upwardly protruding slot portion of the first container
generally aligns with the third generally horizontal area. The
second upwardly protruding slot portion generally aligns with the
fourth generally horizontal area. The third upwardly protruding
slot portion aligns with the first generally horizontal area. The
fourth upwardly protruding slot portion aligns with the second
generally horizontal area. The first and second rims press
together. The process inserts the third generally horizontal area
into the first slot. The fourth generally horizontal area inserts
into the second slot. The first generally horizontal area inserts
into the third slot. The second generally horizontal area inserts
into the fourth slot.
[0006] According to another process of the present invention, a
method of forming a polymeric container assembly is provided. The
method provides a first polymeric container that includes a first
continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface. The
first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the
first body portion. The first rim has a first upwardly protruding
slot portion and a second upwardly protruding slot portion. The
first upwardly protruding slot portion forms a first slot and a
second slot therethrough. The second upwardly protruding slot
portion forms a third slot and a fourth slot therethrough. The
first rim has a first generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof generally ninety degrees from the first upwardly protruding
slot portion. The first rim has a second generally horizontal area
at a periphery thereof generally ninety degrees from the second
upwardly protruding slot portion. The method provides a second
polymeric container that includes a second continuous body portion
and a second rim that has a second surface. The second rim
encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body
portion. The second rim has a third upwardly protruding slot
portion and a fourth upwardly protruding slot portion. The third
upwardly protruding slot portion forms a fifth slot and a sixth
slot therethrough. The fourth upwardly protruding slot portion
forms a seventh slot and an eighth slot therethrough. The second
rim has a third generally horizontal area at a periphery thereof
generally ninety degrees from the third upwardly protruding slot
portion. The second rim has a fourth generally horizontal area at a
periphery thereof generally ninety degrees from the fourth upwardly
protruding slot portion. The method flips one of the first
container and the second container such that the first container
and second container are generally aligned and the first rim and
the second rim are adjacent to each other. One of the first
container and the second container rotates ninety degrees such that
the first upwardly protruding slot portion of the first container
generally aligns with the third generally horizontal area. The
second upwardly protruding slot portion generally aligns with the
fourth generally horizontal area. The third upwardly protruding
slot portion aligns with the first generally horizontal area. The
fourth upwardly protruding slot portion aligns with the second
generally horizontal area. The first and second rims press
together. The process inserts the third generally horizontal area
into the first slot and the second slot. The fourth generally
horizontal area inserts into the third slot and the fourth slot.
The first generally horizontal area inserts into the fifth slot and
the sixth slot. The second generally horizontal area inserts into
the seventh slot and the eighth slot.
[0007] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a
first polymeric container for use in a container assembly the first
polymeric container comprises a continuous body portion, and a rim.
The rim encompasses and projects laterally outward from the body
portion. The rim has a first upwardly protruding slot portion and a
second upwardly protruding slot portion. The first upwardly
protruding slot portion forms a first slot therethrough. The second
upwardly protruding slot portion forms a second slot therethrough.
The rim has a first generally horizontal area at a periphery
thereof generally ninety degrees from the first upwardly protruding
slot portion. The rim has a second generally horizontal area at a
periphery thereof generally ninety degrees from the second upwardly
protruding slot portion. The first polymeric container is adapted
to be releasably attachable to a second container having at least a
second rim having a third upwardly protruding slot portion and a
fourth upwardly protruding slot portion. The third upwardly
protruding slot portion forms a third slot therethrough. The fourth
upwardly protruding slot portion forms a fourth slot
therethrough.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a container to be used with a
container assembly according to one embodiment of the present.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a top view of the container of FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a front view of the container of FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a side view of the container of FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a front view of a container assembly comprising
the container of FIG. 1 and a substantially similar container
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a container to be used with a
container assembly according to another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a top view of the container of FIG. 6.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a front view of the container of FIG. 6.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a side view of the container of FIG. 6.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a front view of a container assembly comprising
the container of FIG. 6 and a substantially similar container
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a container to be used with
a container assembly according to a further embodiment of the
present invention.
[0019] FIG. 12 is cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of
FIG. 11.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a container assembly
comprising the container of FIG. 11 and a substantially similar
container.
[0021] FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a container to be used with
a container assembly according to yet another embodiment of the
present invention.
[0022] FIG. 15 is cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 of
FIG. 14.
[0023] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a container assembly
comprising the container of FIG. 15 and a substantially similar
container.
[0024] FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a container to be used with
a container assembly according to yet a further embodiment of the
present invention.
[0025] FIG. 18 is cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of
FIG. 17.
[0026] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a container assembly
comprising the container of FIG. 17 and a substantially similar
container.
[0027] FIG. 20 is an isometric view of a container to be used with
a container assembly according to still yet another embodiment of
the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 21 is cross-sectional view taken along line 21-21 of
FIG. 20.
[0029] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a container assembly
comprising the container of FIG. 20 and a substantially similar
container.
[0030] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown
by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in
detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended
to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed but, on
the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications,
equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope
of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, a container 10 according to one
embodiment of the present invention is shown. The container 10 is
adapted to be used in a container assembly 100 (FIG. 5) that
includes the container 10 and a second container 110 (FIG. 5). The
containers 10, 110 may be substantially the same or, alternatively,
the container 110 may be identical to the container 10 to form a
container assembly that is releasably lockable.
[0032] The container assemblies and containers of the present
invention are typically used with respect to food, but may be used
in other applications such as to store household goods, medical
supplies, cosmetics or other items. Food container assemblies and
containers may be used for serving, storing, preparing and/or
re-heating the food.
[0033] Referring still to FIGS. 1-4, the container 10 includes a
continuous body portion 12 and a continuous rim 14 encompassing and
projecting laterally outwardly from the body portion 12. The body
portion 12 includes a bottom 16 and a continuous sidewall 18
encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom
16. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly
from the bottom 16 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the
bottom 16. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be
continuous, although it is desirably continuous.
[0034] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the rim 14 includes slot portions
20a, 20b. The slot portions 20a, 20b protrude generally upwardly
from the rim 14. Each of the slot portions 20a, 20b of the rim 14
forms slots 22a, 22b therethrough. The slots 22a, 22b are located
above the rim 14 on the slot protrusions 20a, 20b. The rim 14
further includes generally horizontal areas 24a, 24b located
approximately ninety degrees from the slots 22a, 22b along the
periphery of the rim 14.
[0035] Turning now to FIG. 5, a container assembly 100 according to
one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The container
assembly 100 comprises the first container 10 and the second
container 110. In one embodiment, the second container 110 is
shaped substantially the same as the first container 10.
Alternatively, the second container 110 may be identical to the
first container. It may be desirable to have identically shaped
containers to reduce waste by a consumer when the second container
is not used.
[0036] It is contemplated that other container assemblies may be
formed besides those in FIG. 5. For example, container assemblies
may be formed, but are not limited to, using plates, bowls,
platters, tubs, single-serve and family-size containers,
single-serve and family-size ovenware, and combinations thereof.
One such combination is a bowl and a plate that forms a container
assembly. The remainder of the application generally discusses
container and container assemblies with respect to plates although
it is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that other
container assemblies, such as those discussed above, may be
formed.
[0037] The height and shape of the container assemblies may vary
from that shown without departing from the scope of the invention.
For example, the container assembly of FIG. 5, as will be discussed
in more detail below, is depicted as being generally circular. It
is contemplated that the container assemblies and containers used
herein may be other shapes such as square, hexagonal, octagonal,
other polygonal shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as ovals.
[0038] The container assembly 100 of FIG. 5 may be formed according
to one method by providing the first container 10 and the second
container 110. The second container 110 includes a continuous body
portion 112 and a continuous rim 114 that encompasses and projects
laterally outwardly from the body portion 112. The body portion 112
includes a bottom 116 and a continuous sidewall 118 encompassing
and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 116. The rim
114 includes slot portions 120a, 120b. The slot portions 120a, 120b
protrude generally upward from the rim 114. Each of the slot
portions 120a, 120b of the rim 114 forms slots 122a, 122b
therethrough. The slots 122a, 122b are located above the rim 114 on
the slot portions 120a, 120b. The rim 114 further includes a first
generally horizontal area (not shown) and a second generally
horizontal area 124b located approximately ninety degrees from the
slot portions 120a, 120b along the periphery of the rim 114.
[0039] The second container 110 is flipped 180 degrees relative to
the first container 10 such that the containers 10, 110 are
generally aligned and the rims 14, 114 are adjacent to each other.
The second container 110 is then rotated 90 degrees such that the
slot portion 120a of the second container 110 is adjacent to the
generally horizontal area 24a of the first container 10, the slot
portion 120b of the second container 110 is adjacent to the
generally horizontal area 24b of the first container 10, the slot
portion 20a of the first container 10 is adjacent to the first
generally horizontal area of the second container 110, and the slot
portion 20b of the first container 10 is adjacent to the second
generally horizontal area 124b of the second container 110.
[0040] As the slot portions 20a, 20b, 120a, 120b of the respective
first and second containers 10, 110 protrude above the rims 14, 114
of the first and second container 10, 110, when the second
container 110 is flipped 180 degrees relative to the first
container, the slots 22a, 22b of the first container 10 vertically
align with the respective generally horizontal areas of the rim 114
of the second container 110. Similarly, the slots 122a, 122b of the
second container 110 vertically align with the respective generally
horizontal areas 24a, 24b of the rim 14 of the first container
10.
[0041] The generally horizontal areas 24a, 24b of the rim 14 of the
first container 10 are then inserted into the respective slots
122a, 122b of the second container 110. Similarly, the generally
horizontal areas of the rim 114 of the second container 110 are
inserted into the respective slots 22a, 22b of the first container
10. Thus, the first container 10 and the second container 110 are
interlocked to form the container assembly 100.
[0042] Referring to FIGS. 6-9, a container 210 according to one
embodiment of the present invention is shown. The container 210 is
adapted to be used in a container assembly 300 (FIG. 10) that
includes the container 210 and a second container 310 (FIG. 5). The
containers 210, 310 may be substantially the same or,
alternatively, the container 310 may be identical to the container
210 to form a container assembly that is releasably lockable.
[0043] The container 210 includes a continuous body portion 212 and
a continuous rim 214 encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the body portion 212. The body portion 212 includes
a bottom 216 and a continuous sidewall 218 encompassing and
projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 216. It is
contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the
bottom 216 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom
216. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous,
although it is desirably continuous.
[0044] As shown in FIGS. 6-9, the rim 214 includes slot portions
220a, 220b. The slot portions 220a, 220b protrude generally
upwardly from the rim 214. The slot portion 220a of the rim 214
forms slot 222a and slot 222b therethrough. The slots 222a, 222b
are located above the rim 214 on the slot portion 220a. The slot
portion 220b of the rim 214 forms slot 222c and slot 222d
therethrough. The slots 222c, 222d are located above the rim 214 on
the slot portion 220b. The rim 214 further includes generally
horizontal areas 224a, 224b located approximately ninety degrees
from the slot portions 220a, 220b along the periphery of the rim
214.
[0045] Turning now to FIG. 10, a container assembly 300 according
to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The
container assembly 300 comprises the first container 210 and the
second container 310. In one embodiment, the second container 310
is shaped substantially the same as the first container 210.
Alternatively, the second container 310 may be identical to the
first container.
[0046] The container assembly 300 of FIG. 10 may be formed
according to one method by providing the first container 210 and
the second container 310. The second container 310 includes a
continuous body portion 312 and a continuous rim 314 that
encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion
312. The body portion 312 includes a bottom 316 and a continuous
sidewall 318 encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly
from the bottom 316. The rim 314 includes slot portions 320a, 320b.
The slot portions 320a, 320b protrude generally upward from the rim
114. The slot portion 320a of the rim 314 forms slot 322a and slot
322b therethrough. The slots 322a, 322b are located above the rim
314 on the slot portion 320a. The slot portion 320b of the rim 314
forms slot 322c and slot 322d therethrough. The slots 322c, 322d
are located above the rim 314 on the slot portion 320b. The rim 314
further includes a first generally horizontal area (not shown) and
a second generally horizontal area 324b located approximately
ninety degrees from the slot portions 320a, 320b along the
periphery of the rim 314.
[0047] The second container 310 is flipped 180 degrees relative to
the first container 210 such that the containers 210, 310 are
generally aligned and the rims 214, 314 are adjacent to each other.
The second container 310 is then rotated 90 degrees such that the
slot portion 320a of the second container 310 is adjacent to the
generally horizontal area 224a of the first container 210, the slot
portion 320b of the second container 310 is adjacent to the
generally horizontal area 224b of the first container 210, the slot
portion 220a of the first container 210 is adjacent to the
generally horizontal area of the second container 310, and the slot
portion 220b of the first container 210 is adjacent to the
generally horizontal area 324b of the second container 310.
[0048] As the slot portions 220a, 220b, 320a, 320b of the
respective first and second containers 210, 310 protrude above the
rims 214, 314 of the first and second container 210, 310, when the
second container 310 is flipped 180 degrees relative to the first
container 210, the slots 222a, 222b of the first container 210
vertically align with the generally horizontal area of the rim 314
of the second container. Additionally, the slots 222c, 222d of the
first container 210 vertically align with the generally horizontal
area 324b of the rim 314 of the second container 310. Similarly,
the slots 322a, 322b, of the second container 310 vertically align
with the generally horizontal area 224a of the first container 210.
Likewise, the slots 322c, 322d of the second container 310
vertically align with the generally horizontal area 224b of the rim
214 of the first container 210.
[0049] The generally horizontal areas 224a, 224b of the rim 214 of
the first container 210 are then inserted into the respective slots
322a, 322b and 322c, 322d of the second container 310. Similarly,
the generally horizontal areas of the rim 314 of the second
container 310 are inserted into the respective slots 222a, 322b and
222c, 222d of the first container 210. Thus, the first container
210 and the second container 310 are interlocked to form the
container assembly 300.
[0050] Turning now to FIG. 11, a container 410 is shown according
to another embodiment of the present invention. The container 410
is adapted to be used in a container assembly 500 (FIG. 13) that
includes the container 410 and a second container 510 (FIG. 13).
The containers 410, 510 are substantially identical.
[0051] The container 410 includes a continuous body portion 412 and
a continuous rim 414 encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the body portion 412. The body portion 412 includes
a bottom 416 and a continuous sidewall 418 encompassing and
projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 416. It is
contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the
bottom 416 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom
416. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous,
although it is desirably continuous.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 11, the rim 414 includes slot portions
420a, 420b. The slot portions 420a, 420b protrude generally
upwardly from the rim 414. The slot portion 420a of the rim 414
forms slot 422a therethrough. The slot 422a is located above the
rim 414 on the slot portion 420a. The slot portion 420b of the rim
414 forms slot 422b therethrough. The slot 422b is located above
the rim 414 on the slot portion 420b. The rim 414 further includes
generally horizontal areas 424a, 424b located approximately ninety
degrees from the slot portions 420a, 420b along the periphery of
the rim 414.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 12, the slot 422a is single generally
horizontal slot. The slot 422a is generally identical to the slot
422b.
[0054] Turning now to FIG. 13, a container assembly 500 according
to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The
container assembly 500 comprises the first container 410 and the
second container 510. In one embodiment, the second container 510
is identical to the first container 410. A generally horizontal
area 524b of the second container 510 inserts into the slot 422b of
the first container 410. The generally horizontal area 524b deforms
the second slot 422b by opening the slot 422b, allowing the
generally horizontal area 524b to interact with the slot 422b,
locking the containers together. An identical horizontal area
interacts with the first slot 422a of the container 410.
[0055] Turning now to FIG. 14, a container 610 is shown according
to another embodiment of the present invention. The container 610
is adapted to be used in a container assembly 700 (FIG. 16) that
includes the container 610 and a second container 710 (FIG. 16).
The containers 610, 710 shown in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 16
are identical.
[0056] The container 610 includes a continuous body portion 612 and
a continuous rim 614 encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the body portion 612. The body portion 612 includes
a bottom 616 and a continuous sidewall 618 encompassing and
projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 616. It is
contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the
bottom 616 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom
616. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous,
although it is desirably continuous.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 14, the rim 614 includes slot portions
620a, 620b. The slot portions 620a, 620b protrude generally
upwardly from the rim 614. The slot portion 620a of the rim 614
forms slot 622a therethrough. The slot 622a is located above the
rim 614 on the slot portion 620a. The slot portion 620b of the rim
614 forms slot 622b therethrough. The slot 622b is located above
the rim 614 on the slot portion 620b. The rim 614 further includes
generally horizontal areas 624a, 624b located approximately ninety
degrees from the slot portions 620a, 620b along the periphery of
the rim 614.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 15, the slot 622a is single generally
horizontal slot. The slot 622a is generally identical to the slot
622b.
[0059] Turning now to FIG. 16, a container assembly 700 according
to yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The
container assembly 700 comprises the first container 610 and the
second container 710. In one embodiment, the second container 710
is identical to the first container 610. A generally horizontal
area 724b of the second container 710 inserts into the slot 622b of
the first container 610. The generally horizontal area 724b deforms
the second slot 622b by hinging the slot 622b open, allowing the
generally horizontal area 724b to interact with the slot 622b,
locking the containers together. An identical horizontal area
interacts with the first slot 622a of the container 610.
[0060] Referring next to FIG. 17, a container 810 is shown
according to another embodiment of the present invention. The
container 810 is adapted to be used in a container assembly 900
(FIG. 19) that includes the container 810 and a second container
910 (FIG. 19). The containers 810, 910 shown in the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 19 are identical.
[0061] The container 810 includes a continuous body portion 812 and
a continuous rim 814 encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the body portion 812. The body portion 812 includes
a bottom 816 and a continuous sidewall 818 encompassing and
projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 816. It is
contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the
bottom 816 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom
816. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous,
although it is desirably continuous.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 17, the rim 814 includes slot portions
820a, 820b. The slot portions 820a, 820b protrude generally
upwardly from the rim 814. The slot portion 820a of the rim 814
forms a slot 822a therethrough. The slot 822a is located above the
rim 814 on the slot portion 820a. The slot portion 820b of the rim
814 forms a slot 822b therethrough. The slot 822b is located above
the rim 814 on the slot portion 820b. The rim 814 further includes
generally horizontal areas 824a, 824b located approximately ninety
degrees from the respective slot portions 820a, 820b along the
periphery of the rim 814.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 18, the slot 822a is single generally
horizontal slot. The slot 822a is generally identical to the slot
822b.
[0064] Turning now to FIG. 19, a container assembly 900 according
to yet a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. The
container assembly 900 comprises the first container 810 and the
second container 910. In one embodiment, the second container 910
is identical to the first container 810. A generally horizontal
area 924b of the second container 910 inserts into the slot 822b of
the first container 810. The generally horizontal area 924b fits
within the second slot 822b, allowing the generally horizontal area
924b to interact with the slot 822b, locking the containers
together. An identical horizontal area interacts with the first
slot 822a of the container 810.
[0065] FIG. 20 depicts a container 1010 according to still yet
another embodiment of the present invention. The container 1010 is
adapted to be used in a container assembly 1100 (FIG. 22) that
includes the container 1010 and a second container 1110 (FIG. 22).
The containers 1010, 1110 shown in the embodiment depicted in FIG.
22 are identical.
[0066] The container 1010 includes a continuous body portion 1012
and a continuous rim 1014 encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the body portion 1012. The body portion 1012
includes a bottom 1016 and a continuous sidewall 1018 encompassing
and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 1016. It is
contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the
bottom 1016 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom
1016. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous,
although it is desirably continuous.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 20, the rim 1014 includes slot portions
1020a, 1020b. The slot portions 1020a, 1020b protrude generally
upwardly from the rim 1014. The slot portion 1020a of the rim 1014
forms slot 1022a therethrough. The slot 1022a is located above the
rim 1014 on the slot portion 1020a. The slot portion 1020b of the
rim 1014 forms slot 1022b therethrough. The slot 1022b is located
above the rim 1014 on the slot portion 1020b. The rim 1014 further
includes generally horizontal areas 1024a, 1024b located
approximately ninety degrees from the slot portions 1020a, 1020b
along the periphery of the rim 1014.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 21, the slot 1022b is a formed from two
generally horizontal cuts within the slot portion 1020b. The slot
1022a is generally identical to the slot 1022b.
[0069] Turning now to FIG. 22, a container assembly 1100 according
to yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The
container assembly 1100 comprises the first container 1010 and the
second container 1110. In one embodiment, the second container 1110
is identical to the first container 1010. A generally horizontal
area 1124b of the second container 1110 inserts into the slot 1022b
of the first container 1010. The generally horizontal area 1124b
deforms the second slot 1022b by displacing the slot 1022b to an
open position, allowing the generally horizontal area 1124b to
interact with the slot 1022b, locking the containers together. An
identical horizontal area interacts with the first slot 1022a of
the container 1010.
[0070] The container and container assemblies of the present
invention (e.g., the containers discussed above in FIGS. 1-22) are
formed from polymeric materials. The polymeric containers and
container assemblies may be formed from polyolefins. The polymeric
containers and container assemblies are typically formed from
orientated polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET),
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene and combinations thereof.
The containers and containers assemblies may be made from a
mineral-filled polymeric material such as, for example, talc or
calcium carbonate-filled polyolefin. It is contemplated that one of
ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other polymers or
combination of polymers may be used to form the containers and
container assemblies.
[0071] The containers and container assemblies may be formed by a
polymeric foam. For example, the containers and container
assemblies may be formed from a polystyrene foam. One example of a
polystyrene foam is a high-impact polystyrene (HIPS). It is
contemplated that one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize
that other polymeric foams or combination of polymeric foams may be
used to form the containers and container assemblies.
[0072] The containers and container assemblies of the present
invention are typically disposable, but it is contemplated that
they may be reused at a future time. The containers used in forming
the container assemblies (e.g., container 10) are shown as
including one compartment. It is contemplated that the containers
may be formed of multiple compartments. Such containers are
desirable for placing items (e.g., food items) in different
compartments to prevent or inhibit commingling of items. For
example, undesirable mixing of food items can corrupt the flavor
and the consistency of the food items.
[0073] The container assemblies and containers of the present
invention are typically used with respect to food, but may be used
in other applications such as to store household goods, medical
supplies, cosmetics or other items. Food container assemblies and
containers may be used for serving, storing, preparing and/or
re-heating the food.
[0074] A method of using such container assemblies includes placing
the food and locking the containers to form a container assembly
with food therein. The container assembly is then placed in a
heating apparatus and heated. Typical heating apparatuses include
microwaves and conventional ovens. The container assemblies may
contain solid food products. The container assemblies may be used
for storage in the refrigerator and/or the freezer.
[0075] The containers to be used in forming the container
assemblies of the present invention may be formed using
conventional thermoforming (e.g., by pressure, vacuum or the
combination thereof), injection-molding processes, or rotational
molding. According to one method of thermoforming, pellets of a
polymeric resin and additives, if any, are added into an extruder.
The pellets of the polymeric resin and additives, if any, are
melted to form a blend. The blend is extruded through a die to form
an extruded sheet. The extruded sheet is thermoformed to a desired
shape of a container to be used in forming the container
assembly.
[0076] The thickness of the container to be used in forming the
container assemblies generally ranges from about 0.002 to about
0.15 inch, but is typically from about 0.005 to about 0.04 inch.
The container assemblies may be opaque or a variety of colors or
color combinations. The container assemblies typically have at
least one transparent container if it is desired for the customer
to ascertain the nature of the accommodated product and the
condition thereof without having to open the container
assembly.
[0077] While particular embodiments and applications of the present
invention have been illustrated and described, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited to the precise
construction disclosed herein and that various modifications,
changes, and variations may be apparent from the foregoing
descriptions without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention as defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *