U.S. patent application number 15/437961 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-15 for twist and lock cap for vacuum container.
The applicant listed for this patent is Nuwave LLC. Invention is credited to Eunjung Huh, Mikale K. Kwon, Jung S. Moon.
Application Number | 20170166383 15/437961 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52389572 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170166383 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moon; Jung S. ; et
al. |
June 15, 2017 |
Twist and Lock Cap for Vacuum Container
Abstract
A vacuum container and pump system including a vacuum container
including: a rounded rectangular or square base with an opening at
the top to receive foodstuffs and adapted with an edge; an optional
cover comprising at least two locking latches adapted to couple to
said edge, said optional cover to close the opening of the vacuum
container, said cover comprising: a circular vacuum tubular opening
forming a cylindrical hole through said cover, and a cross-shaped
notch on the inner cross-section of the tube, through which at
least a portion of a plug may be received and disposed when
evacuating air from the container. A vacuum bag comprising: a bag
having an opening; a plurality of resealable fasteners; a hole for
evacuating air with a pump from the bag; a cap for covering said
hole; and a removable clip for easing closure of said plurality of
fasteners that is adapted to be used with a plurality of the bags.
In one embodiment, a twist and lock cap may be included to prevent
loss of vacuum of the container from the plug, when the cap has
been twisted in a locked position.
Inventors: |
Moon; Jung S.; (Long Grove,
IL) ; Kwon; Mikale K.; (Skokie, IL) ; Huh;
Eunjung; (Gurnee, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nuwave LLC |
Libertyville |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52389572 |
Appl. No.: |
15/437961 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14384686 |
Sep 12, 2014 |
9637298 |
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PCT/US2013/030607 |
Mar 12, 2013 |
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15437961 |
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13551607 |
Jul 17, 2012 |
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14384686 |
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61609453 |
Mar 12, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 25/205 20130101;
B65D 51/245 20130101; B65D 33/16 20130101; A47J 43/24 20130101;
B65D 81/2038 20130101; A47J 47/10 20130101; B65D 81/2015 20130101;
B65D 21/0219 20130101; B65D 45/16 20130101; B65D 25/06 20130101;
B65D 81/2023 20130101; B65D 43/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/20 20060101
B65D081/20; B65D 43/02 20060101 B65D043/02; B65D 45/16 20060101
B65D045/16; B65D 51/24 20060101 B65D051/24; A47J 43/24 20060101
A47J043/24; B65D 21/02 20060101 B65D021/02; B65D 33/16 20060101
B65D033/16; B65D 25/06 20060101 B65D025/06; B65D 25/20 20060101
B65D025/20 |
Claims
1. A vacuum container comprising: a base having sidewalls defining
a volume and an opening at a top of the sidewalls to receive
foodstuff into the volume, the opening having an edge; a cover
comprising at least two locking latches configured to couple to the
edge to close the opening, the cover comprising: a vacuum tubular
interface opening forming a cylindrical hole through the cover, and
a cross-shaped notch on an inner cross-section of the vacuum
tubular interface opening, through which at least a portion of a
plug may be received and disposed when evacuating air from the
container.
2. The vacuum container of claim 1, wherein the cover and the base
are comprised of different transparent colored plastics.
3. The vacuum container of claim 1, wherein the cover has at least
four locking latches.
4. The vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a salad
spinner configured to be positioned within the volume of the base
after removing the cover.
5. The vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a salad
chopper configured to be positioned within the volume of the base
after removing the cover.
6. The vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a pump
comprising at least one of a manually-powered air evacuation pump
and an electric-powered air evacuation pump.
7. The vacuum container of claim 6, wherein the pump comprises a
manually-powered air evacuation pump comprising a hole in the pump
to ease release of air evacuating the pump.
8. The vacuum container of claim 6, wherein the pump comprises an
electric-powered air evacuation pump, the electric-powered pump
comprising at least one of a cavity to receive at least one
battery, an interface adapted to power the pump by providing AC to
DC converted power, and a rechargeable energy source.
9. The vacuum container of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a
concave annular cavity for receiving an annular protrusion of a
bottom of another container base to allow stacking a pair of vacuum
containers.
10. The vacuum container of claim 9, wherein the annular protrusion
of the bottom of the container base is of a depth to securely
couple a stacked pair of vacuum containers when the vacuum
containers are in an evacuated state.
11. The vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a vacuum
indicator positioned on one of either the base or the cover.
12. The vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a removable
divider for positioning within the volume of the base.
13. The vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising an age of
contents day indicator dial.
14. A vacuum bag comprising: a vacuum bag having an opening; a
plurality of resealable fasteners; a interface for evacuating air
with a pump from the bag; a cap for covering the interface; and a
removable clip for easing closure of the plurality of resealable
fasteners adapted to be used with a plurality of vacuum bags.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. application
Ser. No. 14/384,686, filed on Sep. 12, 2014, and now U.S. Pat. No.
______, which is a national stage filing of PCT International
Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/030607, filed Mar. 12, 2013 and a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/551,607, filed
Jul. 17, 2012, which is a Non-Provisional of and claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/609,453, filed on Mar. 12,
2012. The content of all of the above-referenced applications is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Field
[0003] The present invention relates to vacuum packaging, and in
particular to vacuum packaging for foodstuffs.
[0004] Related Art
[0005] Vacuum packing or vacuum packaging is a method of packaging
that removes air from the package prior to sealing. Vacuum packing
can involve both rigid and flexible types of packaging. The intent
is usually to remove oxygen from the container to extend the shelf
life of foods and, with flexible package forms, to reduce the
volume of the contents and package.
[0006] Vacuum packing reduces atmospheric oxygen, limiting the
growth of aerobic bacteria or fungi, and preventing the evaporation
of volatile components. Vacuum packing is also commonly used to
store of dry foods over a long period of time, foods such as
cereals, nuts, cured meats, cheese, smoked fish, coffee, and potato
chips (crisps). On a more short term basis, vacuum packing can also
be used to store fresh foods, such as vegetables, meats, and
liquids, because vacuum packaging inhibits bacterial growth.
[0007] Vacuum packing greatly reduces the bulk of non-food items.
For example, clothing and bedding can be stored in bags evacuated
with a domestic vacuum cleaner or a dedicated vacuum sealer. This
technique is sometimes used to compact household waste, for example
where a charge is made for each full bag collected.
[0008] Vacuum packaging products may include plastic bags,
canisters, bottles, or mason jars available for home use.
[0009] Vacuum packaging delicate food items can be done by using an
inert gas, such as nitrogen. This helps prevent crushing fragile
items and delicate foods such as potato chips. Alternatively,
vacuum packaging may involve evacuating air from a container by use
of a pump.
[0010] Conventional vacuum packaging containers have several
shortcomings. It would be desirable to provide an improved vacuum
packaging container and pump system that overcomes shortcomings of
conventional vacuum packaging.
SUMMARY
[0011] Further features and/or advantages of, as well as the
structure and/or operation of, various exemplary embodiments, are
described in detail below with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, an improved vacuum pump and
vacuum container kit are provided.
[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment, a manual pump may
include a hole to allow the pump to operate more effectively than
absent the hole.
[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment, a vacuum orifice
or opening to a vacuum container may be circular shaped with a
cross cut out of the circular opening to allow a vacuum stopper to
close the opening while also allowing for ease of release of the
vacuum.
[0015] A vacuum container and pump system including a vacuum
container including: a rounded rectangular or square base with an
opening at the top to receive foodstuffs and adapted with an edge;
an optional cover comprising at least two locking latches adapted
to couple to said edge, said optional cover to close the opening of
the vacuum container, said cover comprising: a circular vacuum
tubular opening forming a cylindrical hole through said cover, and
a cross-shaped notch on the inner cross-section of the tube,
through which at least a portion of a plug may be received and
disposed when evacuating air from the container.
[0016] A vacuum bag comprising: a bag having an opening; a
plurality of resealable fasteners; a hole for evacuating air with a
pump from the bag; a cap for covering said hole; and a removable
clip for easing closure of said plurality of fasteners that is
adapted to be used with a plurality of said bags.
[0017] A vacuum container according to one exemplary embodiment may
further include a twist and lock cap adapted to releasably lock or
unlock a silicone plug on the lid of the container, so as to
disallow, or allow air to vacuate or evacuate from the
container.
[0018] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
further include wherein the twist and lock cap may include at least
one opening through which air may move when in an unlocked
position, and when the silicone plug is permitted to release the
vacuum.
[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
further include wherein the silicone plug is permitted to release
the vacuum when a button portion is depressed through an opening in
the cap, when the cap is in an unlocked position.
[0020] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
include a twist and lock cap, which may include at least one
external handle or protrusion for grasping the cap when twisting to
lock or unlock.
[0021] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
include where the cap may include an inner protrusion for coupling
with a portion of the cover of the container to lock the cap in
place when twisted in a locked position.
[0022] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
include where the inner protrusion(s) may couple with a helical
screw shaped protrusion, thread, or other locking mechanism or
portion, of the container cover to lock the cap and the plug in
place, when the cap is placed in a locked position. The exemplary
embodiment avoids accidental release of vacuum from inadvertent
hitting of the silicone plug, allows maintaining vacuum for an
extended period of time, greater than conventional plug only
solutions, and avoids losing the plug when washing a container, as
the plug is coupled to the lid and will not wash down a drain when
coupled to the lid.
[0023] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
further include a twist and lock cap adapted to at least one of:
releasably lock or unlock a silicone plug on the lid of the
container, so as to disallow, or allow air to vacuate or evacuate
from the container; or couple the silicone plug to the container
lid to avoid loss of the silicone plug.
[0024] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
include the twist and lock cap which may include at least one of:
at least one opening through which air may move when in an unlocked
position, and when the silicone plug is permitted to release the
vacuum; wherein the twist and lock cap may include at least one
external handle or protrusion for grasping the cap when twisting to
lock or unlock; or wherein the cap may include an inner protrusion
for coupling with a portion of the cover of the container to lock
the cap in place when twisted in a locked position.
[0025] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
include where the silicone plug is permitted to release the vacuum
when a button portion is depressed through an opening in the cap,
when the cap is in an unlocked position.
[0026] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
include where the cap may include the inner protrusion, and wherein
the inner protrusion may couple with a helical screw shaped
protrusion on the container cover to lock the cap and the plug in
place, when the cap is placed in a locked position.
[0027] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
further include a foodstuff receiving and spinning basket, received
within the rectangular container, and a removable container cover
may include a mechanism adapted to spin the foodstuff receiving and
spinning basket.
[0028] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
further include a foodstuff chopping or cutting cover adapted to
cut or chop foodstuff into the vacuum container.
[0029] In one exemplary embodiment, the vacuum container may
further include being adapted for stacking a plurality of the
vacuum containers atop one another.
[0030] According to another exemplary embodiment, an improved pump
may include, e.g., but not limited to, rechargeable batteries, a
switch for different power settings, higher suction levels and
additional motors, according to exemplary embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] The foregoing and other features and/or advantages of the
invention will be apparent from the following, more particular
description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like
reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally
similar, and/or structurally similar elements. A preferred and
various other exemplary embodiments are discussed below in the
detailed description of the following drawings:
[0032] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum
container according to an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary
container illustrated having an exemplary lid with exemplary four
latches adapted to be coupled to an outer edge of a base, an
exemplary annular dial with day indicator adapted to be usable to
track age of container contents, a clear transparent plastic bottom
which may be adapted for stacking, and the exemplary lid as
illustrated includes an exemplary teal colored partially convex
rounded lid with circular vacuum interface, vacuum indicator, and
vacuum release, with exemplary annular concave slot for receiving
an exemplary convex annular protrusion from the bottom of another
such container for stacking, as described further with reference to
FIG. 19L below, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary rounded rectangular
vacuum container similar to that shown in FIG. 1, of shallower
depth, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum
container having only exemplary 2 latches, and including a t-shaped
divider, according to an exemplary embodiment, which in various
exemplary embodiments may be either removable or permanent, and the
container may be adapted to be stacked compatibly with the
containers of FIGS. 1 and 2, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0035] FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking;
[0037] FIG. 6A depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking;
[0038] FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 and FIG. 4A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0039] FIG. 5B depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above and FIG. 5A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking;
[0040] FIG. 6B depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above and FIG. 6A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking;
[0041] FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0042] FIG. 8A depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking;
[0043] FIG. 9A depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking;
[0044] FIG. 7B depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 and FIG. 7A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0045] FIG. 8B depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above and FIG. 8A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking;
[0046] FIG. 9B depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above and FIG. 9A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking;
[0047] FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
3 above, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 11 depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
3 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking;
[0049] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
3 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking;
[0050] FIG. 12B depicts an exemplary bottom view of an exemplary
base as may be used in an exemplary rectangular container as shown
in the above FIGS. 1-12, and may include exemplary one or more
exemplary feet, an exemplary and optional circular concave
indentation to accommodate receiving the exemplary circular rounded
cover of another container for stacking, and an exemplary annular
inner protrusion that may be adapted in be placed into the vacuum
interface annular cavity of an exemplary lid of another vacuum
container adapted for stacking, and sufficiently deep to allow
stacking even when a pair of respective container are in an
evacuated state causing the respective outer surfaces to collapse
slightly from the vacuum pressure, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0051] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary isometric view of an
exemplary silicone exemplary vacuum plug as may be used to
maintain, and/or release a vacuum from an exemplary container;
[0052] FIGS. 14A and 14B depict an exemplary embodiments of the
exemplary undersides of the exemplary vacuum interface and
exemplary vacuum indicator, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary bottom view of the inner
annular vacuum interface including a t-shaped notch through which
an exemplary silicone vacuum plug may be inserted, and the notches
may be adapted to enable evacuation of air from the container;
[0054] FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary vacuum container system
including an exemplary vacuum container, an exemplary manual vacuum
pump, and/or an exemplary electric vacuum pump, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0055] FIG. 17A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an electric
vacuum pump, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0056] FIG. 17B illustrates an exemplary bottom isometric view of
an exemplary electric vacuum pump, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0057] FIG. 17C illustrates another exemplary bottom view of
another exemplary electric vacuum pump, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0058] FIG. 17D depicts an exemplary embodiment of a top view of an
exemplary electric pump including exemplary buttons and cavities
for receiving exemplary batteries, and an exemplary battery cavity
cover, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0059] FIG. 17E depicts an exemplary alternating current (AC)
adapter as may be coupled to the exemplary electric pump for, e.g.,
but not limited to, powering, or recharging a battery pack, etc.,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0060] FIG. 17F depicts an exemplary embodiment of a kit of various
sized containers and an exemplary pump as may be sold in an
exemplary kit including a plurality of rectangular and square
containers, which according to an exemplary embodiment may be
adapted for stacking, and may be shaped to take advantage of
rectangular or square space in a refrigerator and/or for storage,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 17G depicts an exemplary pump according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0062] FIG. 18A depicts an exemplary front view of an exemplary
manual vacuum pump, which may be adapted to extract air while
pumping, and may in an exemplary embodiment be adapted to include
an exemplary hole to improve air extraction as illustrated in FIG.
18G, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0063] FIG. 18B depicts an exemplary isometric bottom and side view
of an exemplary manual vacuum pump, which may be adapted to extract
air while pumping, drawing air in through an exemplary plurality of
holes on an exemplary inner surface of the pump, in an exemplary
inner cavity, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0064] FIG. 18C depicts an exemplary partial bottom view of an
exemplary manual vacuum pump, which illustrates an exemplary four
inlet holes for drawing in air when pumping air with the pump out
of an exemplary vacuum container such as, e.g., but not limited to,
the container of FIGS. 1-17 above, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0065] FIGS. 18D and 18E depict an exemplary top view of exemplary
manual pumps illustrating an exemplary air hole for allowing
improved air release from the pump, when air is taken in through
exemplary inlet holes from the exemplary pump, and then may be
released through the exemplary one or more outlet holes,
alternatively, air may be released around the handle, but
performance of the pump may improve from use of the exemplary
outlet hole, according to an exemplary embodiment. The pump may
also include a syringe like internal plunger, not shown, as may be
used to create the vacuum to draw out the air, according to one
exemplary embodiment. According to another exemplary embodiment,
other pumps as will be apparent to those skilled in the art may be
used such as, e.g., but not limited to, one directional valves,
etc.;
[0066] FIG. 18F illustrates an exemplary inner surface of an
exemplary square shaped vacuum container including an exemplary
bottom view of an exemplary vacuum indicator and exemplary vacuum
interface, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0067] FIG. 18G illustrates an exemplary close up view of an
exemplary inner surface of an exemplary square shaped vacuum
container including an exemplary vacuum interface and notched
opening through which an exemplary plug as shown in FIG. 13 may be
inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0068] FIG. 18H illustrates an exemplary electrical pump including
an exemplary push button as may be used to activate the pump, the
pump coupled to an exemplary vacuum interface of an exemplary
container, and as illustrated, the vacuum indicator indicates that
the container is not yet sufficiently evacuated and remains in a
non-vacuum state;
[0069] FIG. 18I illustrates an exemplary electrical pump coupled to
an exemplary vacuum interface of an exemplary container as may be
used to activate the pump, and as illustrated, the vacuum indicator
indicates that the container has now been sufficiently evacuated of
air to be in a vacuum state;
[0070] FIG. 18J illustrates the exemplary plug of FIG. 13, inserted
in an exemplary vacuum interface of FIG. 18G, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0071] FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, 19D, 19E and 19F illustrate exemplary
isometric views of an exemplary inner surface of an exemplary
rectangular container, adapted to receive an exemplary removable,
exemplary multiple-part, exemplary divider/separator members as
illustrated in FIG. 19K, as may be used to create two or more
separate areas within the exemplary vacuum container, including in
an exemplary embodiment a reversible half length member and an
exemplary width long divider member adapted to receive the half
length divider member on one side as illustrated in 19A and B, and
as removed in 19B and 19C, may be reinserted as shown in 19F, or
the inner width member may be removed as illustrated in 19D to have
a full container as illustrated in FIG. 19E which illustrates also
exemplary ribs in the sides of both the long and short sides to
receive the exemplary removable divider members, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0072] FIG. 19G illustrates an exemplary top view of an exemplary
lid illustrating exemplary four latches adapted to be coupled to
one or more rims or protrusions of a rim of an exemplary vacuum
container bottom as illustrated in FIGS. 19H (shallow depth) and
19I (deep depth) according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0073] FIG. 19H illustrates an exemplary vacuum container bottom
(shallow depth) for coupling to the lid of FIG. 19G;
[0074] FIG. 19I illustrates an exemplary vacuum container bottom
(deep depth) for coupling to the lid of FIG. 19G;
[0075] FIG. 19J illustrates an exemplary nonremovable divider in an
exemplary container, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0076] FIG. 19K illustrates an exemplary two part divider removed
from a container illustrating a t-shaped bottom cross section for
providing rigidity and to support the divider members, and for
interlocking into the ribbed protrusions in the exemplary inner
edge of the contain as shown in FIG. 19L according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0077] FIG. 19L illustrates an exemplary bottom view of an
exemplary vacuum container illustrating exemplary feet and an
exemplary circular indentation to receive a rounded lid while
stacking and an exemplary annular protrusion of sufficient depth to
permit securing when stacking and placed in a respective annual
cavity surrounding part of an exemplary lid's vacuum interface as
shown, e.g., in the top view of FIG. 19G, to secure to one another
stacked containers in evacuated vacuum state, a respective pair of
such containers, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0078] FIG. 20 depicts an exemplary rounded square vacuum container
according to an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary container
illustrated having an exemplary lid with exemplary two latches
adapted to be coupled to an outer edge of a base, an exemplary
annular dial with day indicator adapted to be usable to track age
of container contents, a clear transparent plastic bottom which may
be adapted for stacking, and the exemplary lid as illustrated
includes an exemplary teal colored partially convex rounded lid
with circular vacuum interface including an exemplary inner
structure and an exemplary silicone rubber plug, exemplary vacuum
indicator, and vacuum release, with exemplary multiple concentric
surfaces including an exemplary annular concave slot for receiving
an exemplary convex annular protrusion from the bottom of another
such container for stacking, as shown, and as also described
further with reference to FIG. 19L, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0079] FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary rounded square vacuum
container similar to that shown in FIG. 1, of exemplary slightly
shallower depth, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0080] FIG. 22 illustrates additional exemplary rounded square
vacuum containers, each having exemplary 2 latches, and including
of varying size, according to an exemplary embodiment, which in
various exemplary embodiments may be adapted to be stacked
compatibly with the containers of FIGS. 1, 2, 20, and 21, according
to an exemplary embodiment;
[0081] FIG. 23 depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
20 above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting dimensions,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0082] FIG. 24 depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
20 above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting dimensions,
according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0083] FIG. 25 depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
20 above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting dimensions,
according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0084] FIG. 26 illustrates an exemplary bottom view of an exemplary
square vacuum container, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0085] FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate an exemplary lower surface of
an exemplary square container and illustrate the annular stacking
protrusion as may be used to stack the bottom of one container in
an annular cavity as illustrated in FIG. 28, to permit stacking as
illustrated in FIG. 29 whether in vacuum or non vacuum state,
including a sufficient depth to the protrusion of FIGS. 27A and 27B
of the protrusion to permit securing the upper container to the
lower container even when evacuated in a vacuum state and the lid
has been pulled in from vacuum pressure. FIGS. 27A and 27B also
illustrate a circular indentation in the bottom of the container
(see circular light reflection on FIG. 27B, and outer circle of
FIG. 26), the large circular indentation is also shown on an
exemplary rectangular container in FIG. 27C, as well as FIG. 12B,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0086] FIG. 27C illustrates an exemplary rectangular container
having a large circular indentation;
[0087] FIG. 28 illustrates an exemplary rectangular container
having an annular cavity in the lid for stacking;
[0088] FIG. 29 illustrates a square container stacked on a
rectangular container;
[0089] FIG. 30 illustrates an exemplary deep ring shaped protrusion
made sufficiently long to securely be placed into the inner ring
cavity of a given vacuum contain as shown in FIG. 31, according to
an exemplary embodiment;
[0090] FIG. 32 illustrates exemplary combinations of stacking
smaller square containers on larger square containers, and as shown
in FIG. 29 above, square containers may also be stacked on a
rectangular container, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0091] FIG. 33 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum bag,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0092] FIG. 35 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum bag
including an exemplary vacuum interface of the exemplary bag,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0093] FIG. 36 illustrates an exemplary extra bonding at the edges
of an exemplary interlocking bag interface, which may include one
or more zipping or other locking tongue and groove interlocking
openings;
[0094] FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate an exemplary removable tool that
may be used to press and close the exemplary interlocking opening
of the bag. Advantageously by being removable, one of the exemplary
closure tools illustrated in FIG. 38 may be used with multiple bags
to decrease the cost of a bag by not needing to include a tool with
each bag;
[0095] FIG. 39 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum bag,
along with an exemplary removable closure tool, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0096] FIG. 40 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum
interface with an exemplary circular snapping cap interface,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0097] FIG. 41 illustrates an exemplary closure tool and an
exemplary snapping cap for an exemplary vacuum bag, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0098] FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate an exemplary flavor locker vacuum
interface with the plug removed and the snapping cap removed of an
exemplary circular snapping cap vacuum interface, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0099] FIG. 44 illustrates an exemplary vacuum plug as may be
placed in the opening illustrated in FIGS. 42 and 43, and may be of
silicone rubber;
[0100] FIGS. 45 and 46 illustrate an exemplary side view of an
exemplary flavor locker vacuum interface with an exemplary circular
snapping cap interface and the snapping cap of FIG. 41 removed,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0101] FIGS. 47 and 48 illustrate an exemplary circular snapping
cap, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0102] FIGS. 34A-34E illustrate exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions of an exemplary, but nonlimiting salad chopper and/or
slicer and/or dicer lid as illustrated in exemplary FIG. 34G,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0103] FIG. 34F illustrates an exemplary interchangeable salad
spinner lid as may be used with an exemplary square or other
rectangular vacuum container including an exemplary circular salad
basket in an exemplary square container, allowing storage of the
salad in the container in a refrigerator, and advantageously having
a square shape for easing placement, and efficient space
utilization, in the refrigerator or storage, according to an
exemplary embodiment. According to an exemplary embodiment, the
container may be adapted to permit stacking. Another exemplary
embodiment of a salad spinner lid is illustrated in FIG. 49,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0104] FIG. 34G illustrates an exemplary interchangeable salad
slicer and/or dicer and/or chopper lid as may be used with an
exemplary square or other rectangular vacuum container including an
exemplary circular salad basket in an exemplary square container,
allowing storage of the chopped salad in the container in a
refrigerator, and advantageously having a square shape,
interchangeable with the other lids for placing in the refrigerator
or storage, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0105] FIG. 34H illustrates an exemplary interchangeable vacuum
contain lid as may be interchanged with the salad slicer and/or
dicer and/or chopper lid of FIG. 34G and the salad spinner lid of
FIG. 34F or 49, as may be used with an exemplary square or other
rectangular vacuum container, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0106] FIG. 49 including an exemplary spinner mechanism which may
permit an exemplary initial winding of a handle and coupled spring
clockwork, which, when the spring is allowed to unwind may be
coupled by gears or other coupling to cause the basked to spin
according to an exemplary embodiment. An exemplary hold may be
provided as shown, for other exemplary uses such as to accommodate
an exemplary brake, or to allow easily lifting the lid, etc.,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0107] FIG. 50 sets forth an exemplary vacuum container cover with
various exemplary features including an exemplary improved twist
and lock cap that when selectably twisted in an exemplary clockwise
manner by grasping exemplary protrusion/handles may releasably
lock, and/or may be untwisted in an exemplary counter-clockwise
manner by grasping the exemplary protrusion/handles to unlock and
allow evacuating or vacuating the container by, e.g., pumping air
out through one or more exemplary holes through the cap, or
releasing the vacuum by depression of an exemplary button at a top
of an exemplary improved silicone plug, which as shown in an
exemplary embodiment may protrude through an opening in the cap,
wherein when the cap is locked, the cap may prevent the vacuum from
being released, and as shown; and, the container in one exemplary
embodiment may further include an exemplary dial for tracking an
age of exemplary contents, according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0108] FIG. 51 sets forth an exemplary side view of a plug and an
exemplary disconnected view of an exemplary twist and lock cap,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0109] FIG. 52 sets forth another exemplary view of the exemplary
plug and exemplary twist and lock cap of FIG. 51, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0110] FIG. 53 sets forth another exemplary top view of an
exemplary kit of an exemplary rounded square container cover, an
exemplary silicone plug, and an exemplary twist and lock cap,
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0111] FIG. 54 sets forth another exemplary view of an exemplary
twist and lock cap illustrating exemplary handles, exemplary inner
protrusions for coupling the cap to an exemplary rim of a receiving
portion of an exemplary container cover, and illustrating one or
more exemplary openings in the cap permitting air to evacuate when
unlocked, and allowing pressing the silicone plug, when the cap is
unlocked, according to an exemplary embodiment; and
[0112] FIG. 55 sets forth another exemplary side view of an
exemplary silicone plug as may be adapted to be received within an
exemplary twist and lock cap, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0113] The following detailed description of various preferred
exemplary embodiments as well as various other exemplary
embodiments, in conjunction with the accompanying claims and/or
drawings describes the invention in which like numerals in the
several views refer to corresponding or similar parts. The present
invention broadly represents applicable improvements to an
apparatus and/or methods relating to a vacuum container and pump
system or kit. The embodiments detailed herein are intended to be
taken as representative or exemplary of those in which the
improvements of the embodiments may be incorporated and are not
intended to be limiting.
[0114] A vacuum container and pump system including a vacuum
container including: a rounded rectangular or square base with an
opening at the top to receive foodstuffs and adapted with an edge;
an optional cover comprising at least two locking latches adapted
to couple to said edge, said optional cover to close the opening of
the vacuum container, said cover comprising: a circular vacuum
tubular opening forming a cylindrical hole through said cover, and
a cross-shaped notch on the inner cross-section of the tube,
through which at least a portion of a plug may be received and
disposed when evacuating air from the container.
[0115] A vacuum bag comprising: a bag having an opening; a
plurality of resealable fasteners; a hole for evacuating air with a
pump from the bag; a cap for covering said hole; and a removable
clip for easing closure of said plurality of fasteners that is
adapted to be used with a plurality of said bags.
[0116] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum
container according to an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary
container illustrated having an exemplary lid with exemplary four
latches adapted to be coupled to an outer edge of a base, an
exemplary annular dial with day indicator adapted to be usable to
track age of container contents, a clear transparent plastic bottom
which may be adapted for stacking, and the exemplary lid as
illustrated includes an exemplary teal colored partially convex
rounded lid with circular vacuum interface, vacuum indicator, and
vacuum release, with exemplary annular concave slot for receiving
an exemplary convex annular protrusion from the bottom of another
such container for stacking, as described further with reference to
FIG. 19L below, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0117] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary rounded rectangular
vacuum container similar to that shown in FIG. 1, of shallower
depth, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0118] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum
container having only exemplary 2 latches, and including a t-shaped
divider, according to an exemplary embodiment, which in various
exemplary embodiments may be either removable or permanent, and the
container may be adapted to be stacked compatibly with the
containers of FIGS. 1 and 2, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0119] FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0120] FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking.
[0121] FIG. 6A depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking.
[0122] FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 and FIG. 4A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0123] FIG. 5B depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above and FIG. 5A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking.
[0124] FIG. 6B depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
1 above and FIG. 6A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking.
[0125] FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0126] FIG. 8A depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking.
[0127] FIG. 9A depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking.
[0128] FIG. 7B depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 and FIG. 7A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0129] FIG. 8B depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above and FIG. 8A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking.
[0130] FIG. 9B depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
2 above and FIG. 9A above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to
another exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular
protrusion (not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for
stacking.
[0131] FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
3 above, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0132] FIG. 11 depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
3 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking.
[0133] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
3 above, according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19I) adapted for stacking.
[0134] FIG. 12B depicts an exemplary bottom view of an exemplary
base as may be used in an exemplary rectangular container as shown
in the above FIGS. 1-12, and may include exemplary one or more
exemplary feet, an exemplary and optional circular concave
indentation to accommodate receiving the exemplary circular rounded
cover of another container for stacking, and an exemplary annular
inner protrusion that may be adapted in be placed into the vacuum
interface annular cavity of an exemplary lid of another vacuum
container adapted for stacking, and sufficiently deep to allow
stacking even when a pair of respective container are in an
evacuated state causing the respective outer surfaces to collapse
slightly from the vacuum pressure, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0135] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary isometric view of an
exemplary silicone exemplary vacuum plug as may be used to
maintain, and/or release a vacuum from an exemplary container.
[0136] FIGS. 14A and 14B depict an exemplary embodiments of the
exemplary undersides of the exemplary vacuum interface and
exemplary vacuum indicator, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0137] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary bottom view of the inner
annular vacuum interface including a t-shaped notch through which
an exemplary silicone vacuum plug may be inserted, and the notches
may be adapted to enable evacuation of air from the container.
[0138] FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary vacuum container system
including an exemplary vacuum container, an exemplary manual vacuum
pump, and/or an exemplary electric vacuum pump, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0139] FIG. 17A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an electric
vacuum pump, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0140] FIG. 17B illustrates an exemplary bottom isometric view of
an exemplary electric vacuum pump, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0141] FIG. 17C illustrates another exemplary bottom view of
another exemplary electric vacuum pump, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0142] FIG. 17D depicts an exemplary embodiment of a top view of an
exemplary electric pump including exemplary buttons and cavities
for receiving exemplary batteries, and an exemplary battery cavity
cover, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0143] FIG. 17E depicts an exemplary alternating current (AC)
adapter as may be coupled to the exemplary electric pump for, e.g.,
but not limited to, powering, or recharging a battery pack, etc.,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0144] FIG. 17F depicts an exemplary embodiment of a kit of various
sized containers and an exemplary pump as may be sold in an
exemplary kit including a plurality of rectangular and square
containers, which according to an exemplary embodiment may be
adapted for stacking, and may be shaped to take advantage of
rectangular or square space in a refrigerator and/or for storage,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0145] FIG. 17G depicts an exemplary pump according to an exemplary
embodiment, which may be rechargeable in one exemplary embodiment,
may accommodate an A/C adapter, may accommodate batteries, and/or
may include one, or a plurality of operating power levels to
provide one or more levels of suction power, according to various
exemplary embodiments.
[0146] FIG. 18A depicts an exemplary front view of an exemplary
manual vacuum pump, which may be adapted to extract air while
pumping, and may in an exemplary embodiment be adapted to include
an exemplary hole to improve air extraction as illustrated in FIG.
18G, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0147] FIG. 18B depicts an exemplary isometric bottom and side view
of an exemplary manual vacuum pump, which may be adapted to extract
air while pumping, drawing air in through an exemplary plurality of
holes on an exemplary inner surface of the pump, in an exemplary
inner cavity, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0148] FIG. 18C depicts an exemplary partial bottom view of an
exemplary manual vacuum pump, which illustrates an exemplary four
inlet holes for drawing in air when pumping air with the pump out
of an exemplary vacuum container such as, e.g., but not limited to,
the container of FIGS. 1-17 above, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0149] FIGS. 18D and 18E depict an exemplary top view of exemplary
manual pumps illustrating an exemplary air hole for allowing
improved air release from the pump, when air is taken in through
exemplary inlet holes from the exemplary pump, and then may be
released through the exemplary one or more outlet holes,
alternatively, air may be released around the handle, but
performance of the pump may improve from use of the exemplary
outlet hole, according to an exemplary embodiment. The pump may
also include a syringe like internal plunger, not shown, as may be
used to create the vacuum to draw out the air, according to one
exemplary embodiment. According to another exemplary embodiment,
other pumps as will be apparent to those skilled in the art may be
used such as, e.g., but not limited to, one directional valves,
etc.
[0150] FIG. 18F illustrates an exemplary inner surface of an
exemplary square shaped vacuum container including an exemplary
bottom view of an exemplary vacuum indicator and exemplary vacuum
interface, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0151] FIG. 18G illustrates an exemplary close up view of an
exemplary inner surface of an exemplary square shaped vacuum
container including an exemplary vacuum interface and notched
opening through which an exemplary plug as shown in FIG. 13 may be
inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0152] FIG. 18H illustrates an exemplary electrical pump including
an exemplary push button as may be used to activate the pump, the
pump coupled to an exemplary vacuum interface of an exemplary
container, and as illustrated, the vacuum indicator indicates that
the container is not yet sufficiently evacuated and remains in a
non-vacuum state.
[0153] FIG. 18I illustrates an exemplary electrical pump coupled to
an exemplary vacuum interface of an exemplary container as may be
used to activate the pump, and as illustrated, the vacuum indicator
indicates that the container has now been sufficiently evacuated of
air to be in a vacuum state.
[0154] FIG. 18J illustrates the exemplary plug of FIG. 13, inserted
in an exemplary vacuum interface of FIG. 18I, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0155] FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, 19D, 19E and 19F illustrate exemplary
isometric views of an exemplary inner surface of an exemplary
rectangular container, adapted to receive an exemplary removable,
exemplary multiple-part, exemplary divider/separator members as
illustrated in FIG. 19K, as may be used to create two or more
separate areas within the exemplary vacuum container, including in
an exemplary embodiment a reversible half length member and an
exemplary width long divider member adapted to receive the half
length divider member on one side as illustrated in 19A and B, and
as removed in 19B and 19C, may be reinserted as shown in 19F, or
the inner width member may be removed as illustrated in 19D to have
a full container as illustrated in FIG. 19E which illustrates also
exemplary ribs in the sides of both the long and short sides to
receive the exemplary removable divider members, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0156] FIG. 19G illustrates an exemplary top view of an exemplary
lid illustrating exemplary four latches adapted to be coupled to
one or more rims or protrusions of a rim of an exemplary vacuum
container bottom as illustrated in FIGS. 19H (shallow depth) and
19I (deep depth) according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0157] FIG. 19J illustrates an exemplary nonremovable divider in an
exemplary container, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0158] FIG. 19K illustrates an exemplary two part divider removed
from a container illustrating a t-shaped bottom cross section for
providing rigidity and to support the divider members, and for
interlocking into the ribbed protrusions in the exemplary inner
edge of the contain as shown in FIG. 19L according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0159] FIG. 19L illustrates an exemplary bottom view of an
exemplary vacuum container illustrating exemplary feet and an
exemplary circular indentation to receive a rounded lid while
stacking and an exemplary annular protrusion of sufficient depth to
permit securing when stacking and placed in a respective annual
cavity surrounding part of an exemplary lid's vacuum interface as
shown, e.g., in the top view of FIG. 19G, to secure to one another
stacked containers in evacuated vacuum state, a respective pair of
such containers, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0160] FIG. 20 depicts an exemplary rounded square vacuum container
according to an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary container
illustrated having an exemplary lid with exemplary two latches
adapted to be coupled to an outer edge of a base, an exemplary
annular dial with day indicator adapted to be usable to track age
of container contents, a clear transparent plastic bottom which may
be adapted for stacking, and the exemplary lid as illustrated
includes an exemplary teal colored partially convex rounded lid
with circular vacuum interface including an exemplary inner
structure and an exemplary silicone rubber plug, exemplary vacuum
indicator, and vacuum release, with exemplary multiple concentric
surfaces including an exemplary annular concave slot for receiving
an exemplary convex annular protrusion from the bottom of another
such container for stacking, as shown, and as also described
further with reference to FIG. 19L, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0161] FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary rounded square vacuum
container similar to that shown in FIG. 1, of exemplary slightly
shallower depth, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0162] FIG. 22 illustrates additional exemplary rounded square
vacuum containers, each having exemplary 2 latches, and including
of varying size, according to an exemplary embodiment, which in
various exemplary embodiments may be adapted to be stacked
compatibly with the containers of FIGS. 1, 2, 20, and 21, according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0163] FIG. 23 depicts an exemplary top orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
20 above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting dimensions,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0164] FIG. 24 depicts an exemplary front orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
20 above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting dimensions,
according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0165] FIG. 25 depicts an exemplary side orthogonal view of the
exemplary rounded rectangular vacuum container as depicted in FIG.
20 above, including exemplary, but nonlimiting dimensions,
according to an exemplary embodiment. According to another
exemplary embodiment, the base may include an annular protrusion
(not shown, but illustrated in FIG. 19L) adapted for stacking,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0166] FIG. 26 illustrates an exemplary bottom view of an exemplary
square vacuum container, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0167] FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate an exemplary lower surface of
an exemplary square container and illustrate the annular stacking
protrusion as may be used to stack the bottom of one container in
an annular cavity as illustrated in FIG. 28, to permit stacking as
illustrated in FIG. 29 whether in vacuum or non vacuum state,
including a sufficient depth to the protrusion of FIGS. 27A and 27B
of the protrusion to permit securing the upper container to the
lower container even when evacuated in a vacuum state and the lid
has been pulled in from vacuum pressure. FIGS. 27A and 27B also
illustrate a circular indentation in the bottom of the container
(see circular light reflection on FIG. 27B, and outer circle of
FIG. 26), the large circular indentation is also shown on an
exemplary rectangular container in FIG. 27C, as well as FIG. 12B,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0168] FIG. 30 illustrates an exemplary deep ring shaped protrusion
made sufficiently long to securely be placed into the inner ring
cavity of a given vacuum contain as shown in FIG. 31, according to
an exemplary embodiment.
[0169] FIG. 32 illustrates exemplary combinations of stacking
smaller square containers on larger square containers, and as shown
in FIG. 29 above, square containers may also be stacked on a
rectangular container, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0170] FIG. 33 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum bag,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0171] FIG. 35 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum bag
including an exemplary vacuum interface of the exemplary bag,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0172] FIG. 36 illustrates an exemplary extra bonding at the edges
of an exemplary interlocking bag interface, which may include one
or more zipping or other locking tongue and groove interlocking
openings.
[0173] FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate an exemplary removable tool that
may be used to press and close the exemplary interlocking opening
of the bag. Advantageously by being removable, one of the exemplary
closure tools illustrated in FIG. 38 may be used with multiple bags
to decrease the cost of a bag by not needing to include a tool with
each bag.
[0174] FIG. 39 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum bag,
along with an exemplary removable closure tool, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0175] FIG. 40 illustrates an exemplary flavor locker vacuum
interface with an exemplary circular snapping cap interface,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0176] FIG. 41 illustrates an exemplary closure tool and an
exemplary snapping cap for an exemplary vacuum bag, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0177] FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate an exemplary flavor locker vacuum
interface with the plug removed and the snapping cap removed of an
exemplary circular snapping cap vacuum interface, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0178] FIG. 44 illustrates an exemplary vacuum plug as may be
placed in the opening illustrated in FIGS. 42 and 43, and may be of
silicone rubber.
[0179] FIGS. 45 and 46 illustrate an exemplary side view of an
exemplary flavor locker vacuum interface with an exemplary circular
snapping cap interface and the snapping cap of FIG. 41 removed,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0180] FIGS. 47 and 48 illustrate an exemplary circular snapping
cap, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0181] FIGS. 34A-34E illustrate exemplary, but nonlimiting
dimensions of an exemplary, but nonlimiting salad chopper and/or
slicer and/or dicer lid as illustrated in exemplary FIG. 34G,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0182] FIG. 34F illustrates an exemplary interchangeable salad
spinner lid as may be used with an exemplary square or other
rectangular vacuum container including an exemplary circular salad
basket in an exemplary square container, allowing storage of the
salad in the container in a refrigerator, and advantageously having
a square shape for placing in the refrigerator or storage,
according to an exemplary embodiment. Another exemplary embodiment
of a salad spinner lid is illustrated in FIG. 49, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0183] FIG. 34G illustrates an exemplary interchangeable salad
slicer and/or dicer and/or chopper lid as may be used with an
exemplary square or other rectangular vacuum container including an
exemplary circular salad basket in an exemplary square container,
allowing storage of the chopped salad in the container in a
refrigerator, and advantageously having a square shape,
interchangeable with the other lids for placing in the refrigerator
or storage, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0184] FIG. 34H illustrates an exemplary interchangeable vacuum
contain lid as may be interchanged with the salad slicer and/or
dicer and/or chopper lid of FIG. 34G and the salad spinner lid of
FIG. 34F or 49, as may be used with an exemplary square or other
rectangular vacuum container, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0185] FIG. 49 including an exemplary spinner mechanism which may
permit an exemplary initial winding of a handle and coupled spring
clockwork, which, when the spring is allowed to unwind may be
coupled by gears or other coupling to cause the basked to spin
according to an exemplary embodiment. An exemplary hold may be
provided as shown, for other exemplary uses such as to accommodate
an exemplary brake, or to allow easily lifting the lid, etc.,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0186] FIG. 50 sets forth an exemplary vacuum container cover with
various exemplary features including an exemplary improved twist
and lock cap that when selectably twisted in an exemplary clockwise
manner by grasping exemplary protrusion/handles may releasably
lock, and/or may be untwisted in an exemplary counter-clockwise
manner by grasping the exemplary protrusion/handles to unlock and
allow evacuating or vacuating the container by, e.g., pumping air
out through one or more exemplary holes through the cap, or
releasing the vacuum by depression of an exemplary button at a top
of an exemplary improved silicone plug, which as shown in an
exemplary embodiment may protrude through an opening in the cap,
wherein when the cap is locked, the cap may prevent the vacuum from
being released, and as shown; and, the container in one exemplary
embodiment may further include an exemplary dial for tracking an
age of exemplary contents, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0187] FIG. 51 sets forth an exemplary side view of a plug and an
exemplary disconnected view of an exemplary twist and lock cap,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0188] FIG. 52 sets forth another exemplary view of the exemplary
plug and exemplary twist and lock cap of FIG. 51, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0189] FIG. 53 sets forth another exemplary top view of an
exemplary kit of an exemplary rounded square container cover, an
exemplary silicone plug, and an exemplary twist and lock cap,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0190] FIG. 54 sets forth another exemplary view of an exemplary
twist and lock cap illustrating exemplary handles, exemplary inner
protrusions for coupling the cap to an exemplary rim of a receiving
portion of an exemplary container cover, and illustrating one or
more exemplary openings in the cap permitting air to evacuate when
unlocked, and allowing pressing the silicone plug, when the cap is
unlocked, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0191] FIG. 55 sets forth another exemplary side view of an
exemplary silicone plug as may be adapted to be received within an
exemplary twist and lock cap, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0192] According to an exemplary embodiment, the locking cap safety
mechanism may be adapted to lock in vacuum packed vacuum in the
flavor locker, preventing air from entering the chamber of the
vacuum container. The silicone pressure maintaining plug may be
released by a twisting and unlocking of the exemplary plastic cap.
In an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary plastic cap may be turned
in an exemplary clockwise direction to lock, in an exemplary 180
degree turn, and when so turned, according to an exemplary
embodiment may crimp the silicone plug in place to prevent escape
of the vacuum from the container. In an exemplary embodiment, the
exemplary plastic cap may be turned in an exemplary counter
clockwise direction to unlock, in an exemplary 180 degree turn, and
when so turned, according to an exemplary embodiment may uncrimp
the silicone plug to enable manual release by, e.g., but not
limited to, tilting of the exemplary silicon plug, and/or releasing
by depression of an exemplary optional button, to allow the vacuum
pressure to escape from the container.
[0193] The process of using the cap may include, first pumping all
the air out, using, e.g., a manual or electric suction pump, then
locking the cap so the silicone plug will not release air, then
when the contents of the container are to be accessed, unlocking
the cap, allowing the silicone plug to allow air movement out of
the container, when pressing down the exemplary button in the
center of the opening of the cap may allow the silicone plug to
release the vacuum, and then air may return into the vacuum chamber
around the plug and through the hole in the container lid in which
the plug was inserted, and through one or more holes in the locking
cap. The locking cap may include screw threads and/or other
mechanisms to crimp the silicone plug in an exemplary locked
position, preventing air vacuum from escaping. The silicone plug
may be locked or coupled to the lid by the locking cap.
Advantageously, the plug will not be lost down a drain or otherwise
be separated from the container lid, avoiding unintended loss of
the small silicone plug during cleaning or other use and/or storage
of the lid. The use of the locking cap prevents or avoids
accidental vacuum release by accidental hitting of the silicone
plug while stowing or otherwise moving or placing the vacuum
container. Advantageously, using the locking cap, the vacuum state
of the vacuum container may be maintained for a longer period of
time.
CONCLUSION
[0194] While various embodiments of the present invention have been
described above, it should be understood that they have been
presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the
breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by
any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should
instead be defined only in accordance with the following claims and
their equivalents.
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