Rotisserie Chicken Tray

Abstract

A food container system can include a tray with a bottom and a side wall, which together define a recess. The tray can have an array of ribs on the bottom panel that can extend to the side wall. The side wall can have female ribs that extend from the bottom panel to the top edge of the side wall. An inverted corner creating a concave shape on the exterior edge of the tray can be disposed at the intersection of the bottom wall and the side wall. The tray can include a rim that extends around the perimeter of the tray, which can accept a complimentary surface of a lid.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The disclosure relates to food packaging and more specifically to plastic food trays that can be subjected to elevated temperatures.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In an attempt to provide an appealing display package and transport container for heated foods, such as rotisserie chicken, food processors have turned to rigid plastic containers. Usually, the containers have an opaque tray and a transparent lid thermoformed from plastic material. The purpose of the tray is to hold the food product and provide a sturdy support for transporting the food product from the store. The transparent lid allows food processors to attract consumers by presenting an appealing product on the store shelves. Consumers can also judge the freshness and visual appeal of the product through the transparent lid. The assembly of the tray and the lid is also important in insulating the heated food product and retaining the stored heat for an extended period of time. Also, the assembly aids in keeping the contents, such as juices, from spilling onto surrounding areas.

[0003] One disadvantage of previous rigid plastic container designs is that the plastic loses its rigidity when heated by the heated food contents. The elevated temperature of the food will heat and soften the plastic making the tray more prone to bending when lifted or carried by gripping a first end or a second end or the corners of the tray. This is especially problematic for the tray of the container, which supports the weight of the heated food contents. The combination of heat and weight from the heated food contents can lead to deformation of the container, causing the seal between the tray and the lid to separate and possibly result in the spilling of the contents of the container.

[0004] In order to meet this challenge, food processors have tried several solutions. One solution was to increase the thickness of the plastic material for greater strength and rigidity. However, this solution was undesirable because of the increased packaging costs and the negative environmental consequences of increasing the material content for a disposable container. Another solution was the use of more rigid material, such as aluminum. This solution also had disadvantages because of the increased cost and weight of the aluminum trays.

[0005] Some solutions have been to include ribs in the tray to provide more strength and rigidity to the surfaces of the tray. Planar surfaces are prone to bending and so flat surfaces are the weakest part of the tray. Ribs aid to reinforce the surfaces of the tray because the curves of the rib structures resist bending of the plastic along a transverse axis of the rib.

[0006] One attempt at a rib structure that provides strength and rigidity to a container while minimizing the thickness of the material required is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,619,501, issued Sep. 16, 2003, to Hayes et al., which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. This patent discloses a rib pattern with longitudinal ribs in the center of the bottom surface of the tray, with transverse ribs at different angles interconnecting the longitudinal ribs. The patent also discloses ribs and depressions extending up the walls of the tray. Another tray structure is disclosed within U.S. Pat. App. No. 2007/0196541, published Aug. 23, 2007, to Vovan et al., which is also incorporated by reference in its entirety. This patent application discloses a bottom surface of the tray comprising an array of diamond shaped protrusions at the center and two elongate rib structures along the outer perimeter of the bottom surface. The patent also discloses closely positioned depressions along the walls of the tray.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0007] An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that a there is a need for a rigid, cost-effective packaging system that provides a sturdy container for the display and transport of heated food products. Also, there is a desire to reduce the negative impact on the environment by minimizing the amount of material that is used for the disposable container, while still providing enough material stiffness to prevent the container from excessively bending under the heat and load of the food product. The present invention provides unique approaches that achieve these objectives.

[0008] Thus, in accordance with at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein, a tray for a food container is disclosed. The tray can comprise a bottom wall with at least two first ribs disposed in a middle portion of the bottom wall. Each first rib can comprise two parallel ridges projecting a first distance above the bottom wall and separated by a channel. At least one of the first ribs can be disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tray and at least one of the first ribs can be disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tray. A side wall can extend around the periphery of the bottom wall and define an interior of the tray. In some embodiments, an inverted corner can be disposed along the intersection of the bottom wall and the side wall, wherein the inverted corner is curved toward the interior of the container creating a concave edge on the exterior surface of the tray. At least one second rib comprising two parallel ridges can project a second distance above the bottom wall and can be separated by a channel. The second rib can be disposed on an outer portion of the bottom wall and the corner edge, extending from approximately an edge of the middle portion of the bottom wall to the side wall.

[0009] In some embodiments, a tray for a food container is disclosed that can comprise a bottom wall comprising at least two ribs disposed in a middle portion of the bottom wall. Each rib can comprise two parallel ridges projecting a first distance above the bottom wall. In some embodiments, the rib can be separated by a channel. At least one of the ribs can be disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tray and at least one of the ribs can be disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tray. A side wall can extend around the periphery of the bottom wall and define an interior of the tray.

[0010] Some embodiments of a tray for a food container can have a bottom wall and a side wall extending around the periphery of the bottom wall that can define an interior of the tray. An inverted corner can be disposed along the intersection of the bottom wall and the side wall wherein the inverted corner can be curved toward the interior of the container, creating a concave edge on the exterior surface of the tray.

[0011] In some embodiments, a tray for a food container can comprise a bottom wall and a side wall extending around the periphery of the bottom wall that can define an interior of the tray. At least one rib can comprise two parallel ridges projecting a distance above the bottom wall and can be separated by a channel. The rib can be disposed on an outer portion of the bottom wall, extending from approximately an edge of a middle portion of the bottom wall to the side wall.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The following drawings and the associated descriptions are provided to illustrate particular embodiments of the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the claims.

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric perspective view of an embodiment of the food tray.

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a top plan view of the food tray of FIG. 1 showing the different portions of the bottom.

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a top plan view of the food tray of FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the food tray of FIG. 3 at A-A.

[0017] FIG. 4A illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the food tray of FIG. 4 at detail C.

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the food tray of FIG. 3 at B-B.

[0019] FIG. 5A illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the food tray of FIG. 5 at detail D.

[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the food tray of FIG. 5 at detail E.

[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged isometric perspective view of a portion of the food tray of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates an enlarged top plan view of a portion of the food tray of FIG. 3.

[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates a front elevation view of the food tray of FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view of the food tray of FIG. 1.

[0025] FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom isometric perspective view of the food tray of FIG. 1.

[0026] FIG. 12 illustrates a bottom plan view of the food tray of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0027] The following description and examples illustrate embodiments of a food tray. The food tray is disclosed in the context of use with various food products, such as for example rotisserie chicken. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to rotisserie chicken or food products in general. The food tray described can be used with other types of goods, including, but not limited to: baked goods, fruits, chips, haberdashery, fasteners, and the like. Additional applications for the devices and systems are disclosed herein. Thus, the illustrations and descriptions of the food tray in connection with the rotisserie chicken are merely exemplary of some possible applications of the food tray.

[0028] To assist in the description of these components, the following coordinate terms are used. FIG. 1 depicts an x-y-z Cartesian coordinate system, with the container system primarily lying in the x-y plane. As described herein, terms such as "height" refer to distance in the z-direction, and "higher/upward" and "lower/downward" refer to the positive and negative z-direction, respectively. Similarly, terms such as "outer" and "inner" generally refer to directions in the x-y plane directed generally away from or toward the center of the container system, respectively. Similarly, terms such as "lateral" will refer to the x-direction and "longitudinal" will refer to the y-direction. A detailed description of an embodiment of the container system, and its associated method of use, now follows.

[0029] Referring initially to FIG. 1, the tray 100 can include a bottom 200 and a side wall 300 that extends around the entire periphery of the bottom 200 and extends from the bottom 200 to a rim 400. The tray 100 can be generally rectangular, but it will be clear from the description herein that the tray 100 can comprise other shapes including circles, trapezoids, rhombuses, pyramids, ovals, and other shapes. As illustrated in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, the tray 100 can have a generally rectangular shape with a fifth side 101 that intersects a corner of the rectangle. The tray 100 can be thermoformed plastic and can be covered with a lid if desired. The tray 100 can be sufficiently thick to provide enough rigidity to support the product contained inside, but the thickness can be minimized so as not to produce excessive waste. In some embodiments, the thickness can include a range from 0.015 inches to 0.125 inches. In other embodiments, the thickness can be outside of the specified range. The tray 100 can be configured to carry foods and hot food such as rotisserie chicken. The tray 100 can be strengthened to avoid or substantially avoid bending by including a pattern or array of ribs and rib units of multiple angles and multiple depths such that the tray 100 does not have a straight path of bending.

[0030] In some embodiments, the bottom 200 of the tray 100 can include five different levels and a pattern or array of ribs on the bottom 200. The pattern or array of alternating levels and ribs can prevent bending of the bottom 200. The bottom 200, with its pattern or array of ribs, can provide an increase in strength of the tray 100 when supported or held while a force is loaded on the bottom 200.

[0031] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the bottom 200 can include a bottom wall 201 which defines one of six different levels or heights in the bottom 200. The bottom wall 201 defines the first level and comprises an inner portion 202 at the center of the bottom wall 201 and an outer portion 203 that circumscribes the inner portion 202. FIG. 2 illustrates generally the inner portion 202 shaded in a diamond pattern and generally the outer portion 203 shaded in a dotted pattern. A second level is defined by at least two first bottom ribs 210 formed in the bottom 200. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 4A, the first bottom ribs 210 can comprise at least two substantially parallel ridges 211 projecting a first distance above the bottom wall 201. A third level is defined by at least one second bottom rib 220 formed on the bottom 200. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, each second bottom rib 220 can comprise two parallel ridges 221 projecting a second distance above the bottom wall 201, separated by a channel 222. The second bottom rib 220 can be disposed on an outer portion 203 of the bottom wall 201, extending from an edge 204 of the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201 and along the contour of the inverted corner 500 to the side wall 300. In some embodiments, a plurality of cross-ribs 230 projecting a third distance above the bottom wall 201 can be positioned in between the first bottom ribs 210. A fourth level is defined by a plurality of first depressions 240 formed in the bottom wall 201 and between the first bottom ribs 210, as illustrated in FIGS. 3, 4 and 4A. A fifth level is defined by a plurality of second depressions 250 formed in the first depressions 240. A sixth level is defined by at least one third bottom rib 260 projecting a sixth distance above the bottom wall 201 and disposed approximate the corners of the bottom wall 201.

[0032] In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 4A, the first bottom ribs 210 can comprise two substantially parallel ridges 211 projecting a first distance above the bottom wall 201. In other embodiments, the ribs may comprise more than two ridges, such as for example three or four ridges. The parallel ridges 211 can be separated by a channel 212 with a U-shaped bottom. At least one of the first ribs can be disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis 600 of the tray 100 and at least one of the first bottom ribs 210 can be disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600 of the tray 100. In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the tray 100 comprises three first bottom ribs 210 generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 600 and three first bottom ribs 210 generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600. This can create an array of crossing ribs that can resist bending of the tray 100 in multiple directions. In other embodiments, the tray 100 can comprise any number of first bottom ribs 210 in the generally longitudinal direction and any number of first bottom ribs 210 that can be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 600. In some embodiments, the first bottom ribs 210 can be at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis 600. For example, the first bottom ribs 210 can extend at an angle to the longitudinal axis 600 that is between 0 to 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the first bottom ribs 210 can have a curvilinear shape or comprise angles along the longitudinal length of the ribs. The first bottom ribs 210 extend across the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201 from one edge 204 of the inner portion 202 to another edge 204 of the inner portion 202.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a cross-section of the tray 100 taken along line A-A in FIG. 3, which illustrates the shapes and heights of the bottom wall 201, first bottom ribs 210, first depressions 240 and second depressions 250. As illustrated in the detail view of FIG. 4A, the ridges 211 of the first bottom ribs 210 can be narrow and can have generally vertical side walls 213. The first bottom ribs 210 can have a generally "M" shape. In some embodiments, the curved channel 212 has a semicircular cross section, as illustrated in FIG. 4A. In some embodiments, the depth of the channel 212 below the top of the ridges 211 can be less than the height of the ridges 211.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 3, the tray 100 can comprise at least one second bottom rib 220 disposed on the outer portion 203 of the bottom wall 201. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the second bottom ribs 220 can be double ribs similar to the first bottom ribs 210. The two parallel ridges 221 of the second bottom ribs 220 can project a second distance above the bottom wall 201 and can be separated by a channel 222. In some embodiments, the channel 222 is a U-shaped channel. The second bottom ribs 220 are generally disposed on an outer portion 203 of the bottom wall 201 and can extend generally from an edge 204 of the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201 to the side wall 300, as can be seen in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the second bottom ribs 220 can extend from the end of the first bottom ribs 210 to the side wall 300 and/or extend from the edge of the first depression 240 to the side wall 300. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the second bottom ribs 220 follow the contour of the inverted corner 500. In other embodiments, the second bottom ribs 220 may extend to the side wall 300 without following the contour of the inverted corner 500.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the tray 100 taken along the centerline of one of the first bottom ribs 210, as illustrated by line B-B in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 illustrates the depth of the channels 212 between the first bottom ribs 210 and also illustrates the plurality of cross-ribs 230. The cross-ribs 230 can comprise two parallel ridges 231 projecting a third distance above the bottom wall 201, separated by a channel 232 and positioned within the ridges 211 of the first bottom ribs 210, as illustrated in FIG. 5A. In some embodiments, the channel 232 between the ridges 231 can be a rounded bottom channel. In some embodiments, the cross-ribs 230 are generally perpendicular to the first bottom ribs 210 within which they are positioned. In other embodiments, the cross-ribs 230 are disposed at an angle between 0 degrees to 180 degrees relative to the first bottom ribs 210 within which they are positioned. In some embodiments, the depth of the channels 232 of the cross-ribs 230 can be substantially the same as the depth of the channels 212 of the first bottom ribs 210 and the height of the cross-ribs 230 can be substantially the same as the height of the first bottom ribs 210, as illustrated in the detail view of FIG. 5A. In other embodiments, the depth of the channels 232 of the cross-ribs 230 can be less than or greater than the depth of the channels 212 of the first bottom ribs 210. The height of the cross-ribs 230 can be higher or lower than the height of the first bottom ribs 210.

[0036] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of first depressions 240 can be disposed in the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201, including the areas between the first bottom ribs 210. The first depressions 240 can be at a fourth distance below the bottom wall 201. In some embodiments, the first depression 240 can be one depression disposed in the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201 and can have a perimeter shape that generally corresponds to the perimeter shape of the tray 100.

[0037] Also illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of second depressions 250 can be disposed in the first depression 240 and can project a fifth distance below the bottom wall 201. The second depressions 250 can be deeper than the first depressions 240. In some embodiments, the second depressions 250 can have shapes that are for example, but not limited to, triangular, rectangular, circular, or oval.

[0038] The depressions 240, 250 form angles in the tray 100 that can resist bending in multiple directions. The depressions 240, 250 of the tray 100 can reduce sliding among multiple stacked containers. For example, the depressions 240, 250 in the tray 100 can extend downward such that they can generally extend into and match the upper grooves created by the curved walls of a lid when a tray 100 is stacked on top of a lid.

[0039] The bottom wall 201 can comprise at least one third bottom rib 260 projecting a fourth distance above the bottom wall 201 and disposed approximate the edge 204 of the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201. An embodiment of a third bottom rib 260 is illustrated in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the third bottom rib 260 can be curved segments disposed approximately around the corner perimeters of the first depression 240. In some embodiments, these curved ribs projecting above the bottom wall 201 can create depressions 261 on the outer bottom surface of the tray 100, as illustrated in FIG. 11, which can accept complimentary projection on the lid for resisting lateral movement of a tray 100 stacked on top of a lid. The third bottom ribs 260 can be of sufficient width to accommodate the complimentary projections.

[0040] The corner defined by the junction of the bottom 200 and side walls 300 can be inverted so that the corner is convex instead of concave when viewing the inner surfaces of the tray 100, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The inverted corner 500 strengthens the tray 100 against bending by providing angles. In some embodiments, the inverted corner 500 runs along the entire length of the junction between the bottom 200 and the side walls 300. In other embodiments, the inverted corner 500 is disposed on some portions of the junction between the bottom 200 and the side walls 300.

[0041] The features of the bottom 200 and side walls 300 that are disposed at the corner can follow the contour of the inverted corner 500 so that the features have a generally convex shape as well. For example, the second bottom ribs 220 can have a convex shape at the corner region, which is best illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0042] The side wall 300 includes a pattern of one or more ribs that provide multiple angles and depths to the side wall 300. Some embodiments of rib units described herein are from the perspective looking at the interior surfaces of the tray 100 and are illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8. A first rib unit 310 can be thermoformed into the tray 100 and can include a first female rib 311 and a second female rib 316 formed in the first female rib 311. The first female rib 310 can extend from adjacent the rim 400 to the outer portion 203 of the bottom wall 201. The second female rib 316 can be shorter than the first female rib 311 and can extend from adjacent the rim 400 to approximately the inverted corner 500.

[0043] The first female rib 311 can comprise a first section 312 that extends from adjacent the rim 400 to the inverted corner 500. The first section 312 can be tapered and can be wider at the end adjacent the rim 400 than the end adjacent the inverted corner 500, so that the first section 312 has generally a V-shape, as best illustrated in FIG. 9. In some embodiments, the first section 312 can have a uniform width or some other shape. Returning to FIG. 7, the second section 313 can be a female rib formed on the inverted corner 500. In some embodiments, the second section 313 can have a uniform width. In other embodiments, the second section 313 can be tapered wherein one end can be wider than the other end. The third section 314 of the first female rib 311 can be an elongate female rib disposed on the outer portion 203 of the bottom wall 201. Some of the third sections 314 can be positioned between the second bottom ribs 220. In some embodiments, the third section 314 can have a uniform width. In some embodiments, the depth of the third section 314 can be tapered, so that it creates a V-shaped channel 315 along the outer portion 203 of the bottom wall 201.

[0044] The end of the third section 314 can extend to approximately the edge 204 of the inner portion 202 of the bottom wall 201. In some embodiments, the length of the third section 314 can vary depending on the location where the first female rib 311 is disposed. For example, the third section 314 of the first female ribs 311 on the corners of the tray 100 can have third sections 314 that are shorter in length than the third sections 314 of first female ribs 311 along the sides of the tray 1 00, to avoid overlap of the first female ribs 311. The varying length of the third sections 314 is best illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0045] The second female rib 316 can be disposed substantially along the centerline of the first female rib 311 and can extend from adjacent the rim 400 to approximately the inverted corner 500, as illustrated in FIG. 7. The second female rib 316 can have a width at the rim 400 end and can taper inward as it extends down toward the inverted corner 500, so that its sides intersect at approximately adjacent the inverted corner 500. In some embodiments, the sides of the second female rib 316 can converge toward the end adjacent the inverted corner 500 without intersecting. In some embodiments, the depth of the second female rib 316 can also vary along the length of the second female rib 316. In some embodiments, the second female rib 316 can be deepest toward the end adjacent the rim 400 and can taper so that the second female rib 316 can be flush with the first female rib 311 toward the end adjacent the inverted corner 500. In other embodiments, the depth of the second female rib 316 can be generally constant along the length of the second female rib 316.

[0046] The first rib unit 310 also strengthens the side wall 300 against bending by providing multiple angles. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the first rib unit 310 can be at an angle A to a vertical line 340 that is perpendicular to the bottom 200. In some embodiments, the range for angle A can include angles from about 5.degree. to about 45.degree.. The first rib unit 310 can be repeated around the entire side wall 300 to form a pattern. The first rib units 310 can be positioned adjacent to each other or spaced apart with portions of the side wall 300 between first rib units 310.

[0047] With reference to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, additional depths and angles can be provided in the side wall 300 by a second rib unit 320 thermoformed in the side wall 300. The second rib unit 320 can include a third female rib 321 that can extend from adjacent the rim 400 to the inverted corner 500. In some embodiments, the third female rib 321 can be an extension of the curved channel 222 of the second bottom ribs 220 that may extend to the side wall 300. The third female rib 321 can have a depth that is generally the same as the depth of the channel 222 of the second bottom ribs 220. In other embodiments, the depth of the third female rib 321 can be variable and/or can have a depth that is different from the depth of the channel 222 of the second bottom ribs 220. In some embodiments, the third female ribs 321 have a uniform width along the length of the rib. In other embodiments, the width of the third female ribs 321 can be variable. For example, the third female ribs 321 can have a width on the end adjacent the inverted corner 500 that is substantially the same as the width of the channel 222 of the second bottom ribs 220, but then can converge as it extends up to the end adjacent the rim 400.

[0048] To provide angles to the tray 100, the second rib unit 320 can be at an angle B to the vertical line 340, as illustrated in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, angle B can include angles from about 5.degree. to about 45.degree.. In some embodiments, the angle A can be different from angle B, contributing to the multiple depth characteristic of a rib pattern that can include both the first rib units 310 and the second rib units 320. The different angles A and B can add to the strengthening effect of the rib units and can contribute to avoiding a straight line of bending in the tray.

[0049] A third rib unit 330 can be thermoformed in the side wall 300 to provide additional strength and rigidity to the tray 100. In some embodiments, the third rib unit 330 can be similar to the second rib units 320, but disposed on the side wall 300 where the second bottom ribs 220 do not extend. For example, in some embodiments, the third rib unit 330 can be disposed on the corners of the side wall 300. The third rib unit 330 can comprise a fourth female rib 331 that can extend from adjacent the rim 400 to adjacent the inverted corner 500. The fourth female rib 331 can have a width at end adjacent the rim 400 and can converge inward as it extends down toward the inverted corner 500, so that it intersects approximate to the end adjacent the inverted corner 500. In some embodiments, the sides of the fourth female rib 331 can converge toward the end adjacent the inverted corner 500 without intersecting. In some embodiments, the fourth female ribs 331 have a uniform width along the length of the rib. In some embodiments, the depth of the fourth female rib 331 can also vary along the length of the rib. For example, the fourth female rib 331 can be deepest toward the end adjacent the rim 400 and can taper so that the fourth female rib 331 is flush with the surface of the third rib unit 330 toward the end adjacent the inverted corner 500.

[0050] A multiple angle, multiple depth rib unit pattern can include alternating the first rib units 310 and the second rib units 320 or may include any combination of first rib units 310, second rib units 320 and third rib units 330. Some embodiments may include only one or two types of rib units. By providing such ribbing in multiple directions, bending of the tray 100 can be resisted in multiple directions, including lateral, longitudinal, and diagonal directions.

[0051] With reference to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the tray 100 can have a rim 400 extending outwardly from the top edge 401 of the tray 100 and can comprise a structure that is complimentary to a structure on an optional lid. The lid and tray 100 can attach along their respective rims, which can extend generally along the perimeter of the lid and tray 100.

[0052] Corresponding to the attachment structures along the sides of the tray 100, the tray 100 can include an elongate snap ridge 402 disposed along the rim 400 of the tray 100 for fitting into a complimentary groove on a lid. These features are best depicted in FIG. 6. The snap ridge 402 can comprise a protrusion 403 along the side of the snap ridge 402 that fits in a hollow on a complimentary groove of the lid. The attachment can be primarily achieved by the interaction of the snap ridge 402 and the protrusion 403 on the tray 100, with the snap ridge receiving portion on the lid. A second ridge 404 can be disposed on the exterior periphery of the snap ridge 402 that can cover and protect the edge of the lid from contaminants and/or damage.

[0053] To facilitate opening of the tray 100 and lid, the tray 100 can include a tab 410 on a side of the tray 100, as illustrated in FIG. 12. In some embodiments, the tab 410 on the tray 100 can have a slot 411 into which the tab of the lid can pass. To attach the lid to the tray 100, a user can pass a lid tab through the slot 411 and then close the lid to the tray 100 by engaging the snaps. In order to remove the lid, a consumer can tear a portion of the tab 410 on the tray 100, releasing the lid tab. In some embodiments, perforations 412 are disposed on the tray tab 410 to aid in tearing. For purposes of sanitation and tamper-proofing of the contained product, trays that have already been used or opened can easily be identified by inspecting the tray tab 410 for torn perforations 412. As depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12, the tab 410 can be on one side of the tray 100. In the embodiment shown, the tab 410 is along the fifth side 101, but in other embodiments the tabs can be on other sides or more than one side. Further, in some embodiments the tabs 410 can have a roughened texture (not shown) to improve grip.

[0054] To help preserve the seal between the lid and the tray 100, the tray 100 can include a variety of attachment structures. Although snap engagements are depicted in the illustrated embodiment, other securement methods can be used including adhesives, Luer connections, Velcro.RTM., and the like. Further, other embodiments can include other types of snaps. In some embodiments, increasing the number of snaps can add redundancy and strengthen the hold between the lid and tray 100.

[0055] The design of the tray 100 can also reduce sliding among multiple stacked containers. For example, the depressions in the tray 100 can extend downward such that they can generally extend into and match the upper grooves created by the curved walls of the lid when a tray 100 is stacked on top of a lid. In some embodiments, the third bottom ribs 260 projecting above the bottom wall 201 can create depressions 261 on the outer bottom 200 surface of the tray 100 which can accept complimentary projection on the lid for resisting lateral movement of a tray 100 stacked on top of a lid.

[0056] The lid and tray 100 can be made from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, the lid and tray 100 can be made of rigid plastic materials. For example, the lid and tray 100 can be made of polyethylene terephthalate. Further, the lid can be made clear to enhance visibility while the tray 100 can be opaque.

[0057] Reference throughout this specification to "some embodiments" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least some embodiments. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in some embodiments" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0058] In the above description of embodiments, various features of the inventions are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment.

[0059] Although the invention(s) presented herein have been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention(s) extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention(s) and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof Thus, it is intended that the scope of the invention(s) herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular embodiments described above.

Claims

1. A tray for a food container, comprising: a bottom wall comprising at least two first ribs disposed in a middle portion of the bottom wall, each first rib comprising two parallel ridges projecting a first distance above the bottom wall, separated by a channel, at least one of the first ribs being disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tray and at least one of the first ribs being disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tray; a side wall extending around the periphery of the bottom wall and defining an interior of the tray; an inverted corner disposed along the intersection of the bottom wall and the side wall wherein the inverted corner is curved toward the interior of the container, creating a concave edge on the exterior surface of the tray; at least one second ribs comprising two parallel ridges projecting a second distance above the bottom wall, separated by a channel, disposed on an outer portion of the bottom wall and the corner edge, extending from approximately an edge of the middle portion of the bottom wall to the side wall.

2. The tray for a food container of claim 1, wherein the first ribs form an array comprising of three first ribs disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tray and three first ribs being disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tray.

3. The tray for a food container of claim 1, wherein the first distance of the first ribs and the second distance of the second ribs are substantially the same distance.

4. The tray for a food container of claim 1, further comprising at least one cross-rib comprising two parallel ridges projecting a third distance above the bottom wall, separated by a channel, positioned within the ridges of the first ribs and generally perpendicular to the first ribs within which it is positioned.

5. The tray for a food container of claim 4, wherein the first distance of the first ribs and the third distance of the cross-ribs are substantially the same distance.

6. The tray for a food container of claim 1, wherein at least one of the channels of the first ribs or second ribs is a U-shaped channel.

7. The tray for a food container of claim 1, further comprising at least one first depression projecting a fourth distance below the bottom wall.

8. The tray for a food container of claim 7, further comprising at least one second depression projecting from the first depressions to a fifth distance below the bottom wall.

9. The tray for a food container of claim 7, further comprising at least one third rib projecting above the bottom wall and disposed adjacent the peripheral corners of the first depressions.

10. The tray for a food container of claim 8, wherein the fifth distance of the second depression is greater than the fourth distance of the first depression.

11. The tray for a food container of claim 1, further comprising at least one first female rib upwardly extending from the outer portion of the bottom wall to a top edge of the side wall, each of the first female ribs including at least one second female rib formed in the side wall disposed within the upper portion of the first female ribs.

12. The tray for a food container of claim 1, further comprising at least one third female rib that comprises at least one channel upwardly extending along the side wall from an end of the second ribs to a top edge of the side wall.

13. The tray for a food container of claim 1, further comprising at least one fourth female rib upwardly extending along the side wall disposed within the upper portion of the side wall.

14. The tray for a food container of claim 1, further comprising an outward extending flange disposed around the periphery of a top edge of the side wall, wherein the flange surface is generally parallel to the bottom wall.

15. The tray for a food container of claim 14, the extending flange further comprising an abutment surface positioned to couple with a complimentary abutment surface of a cover piece to form a snap fit in a closed position.

16. A tray for a food container, comprising: a bottom wall comprising at least two ribs disposed in a middle portion of the bottom wall, each rib comprising two parallel ridges projecting a first distance above the bottom wall, separated by a channel, at least one of the ribs being disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tray and at least one of the ribs being disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tray; a side wall extending around the periphery of the bottom wall and defining an interior of the tray.

17. The tray for a food container of claim 16, wherein the ribs form an array comprising of three ribs disposed generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tray and three ribs being disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tray.

18. The tray for a food container of claim 16, further comprising at least one cross-rib comprising two parallel ridges projecting a second distance above the bottom wall, separated by a channel, positioned within the ridges of the ribs and generally perpendicular to the ribs within which it is positioned.

19. The tray for a food container of claim 18, wherein the first distance of the ribs and the second distance of the cross-ribs are substantially the same distance.

20. The tray for a food container of claim 16, wherein at least one of the channels is a U-shaped channel.

21. The tray for a food container of claim 16, further comprising at least one first depression projecting a third distance below the bottom wall.

22. The tray for a food container of claim 21, further comprising at least one second depression projecting from the first depressions to a fourth distance below the bottom wall.

23. The tray for a food container of claim 21, further comprising at least one rib projecting a fifth distance above the bottom wall and disposed adjacent the peripheral corners of the first depressions.

24. The tray for a food container of claim 22, wherein the fourth distance of the second depression is greater than the third distance of the first depression.

25. The tray for a food container of claim 16, further comprising at least one first female rib upwardly extending from the outer portion of the bottom wall to a top edge of the side wall, each of the first female ribs including at least one second female rib formed in the side wall disposed within the upper portion of the first female ribs.

26. The tray for a food container of claim 16, further comprising at least one third female rib upwardly extending along the side wall disposed within the upper portion of the side wall.

27. The tray for a food container of claim 16, further comprising an outward extending flange disposed around the periphery of a top edge of the side wall, wherein the flange surface is generally parallel to the bottom wall.

28. The tray for a food container of claim 27, the extending flange further comprising an abutment surface positioned to couple with a complimentary abutment surface of a cover piece to form a snap fit in a closed position.

29. A tray for a food container, comprising: a bottom wall; a side wall extending around the periphery of the bottom wall and defining an interior of the tray; at least one rib comprising two parallel ridges projecting a distance above the bottom wall, separated by a channel, disposed on an outer portion of the bottom wall, extending from approximately an edge of a middle portion of the bottom wall to the side wall.

30. The tray for a food container of claim 29, further comprising at least one channel upwardly extending along the side wall from an end of the ribs to a top edge of the side wall.

31. The tray for a food container of claim 29, further comprising an outward extending flange disposed around the periphery of a top edge of the side wall, wherein the flange surface is generally parallel to the bottom wall.

32. The tray for a food container of claim 31, the extending flange further comprising an abutment surface positioned to couple with a complimentary abutment surface of a cover piece to form a snap fit in a closed position.