U.S. patent application number 16/273402 was filed with the patent office on 2019-06-20 for storage container.
The applicant listed for this patent is IdeaStream Consumer Products, LLC. Invention is credited to Lisa Brady, Anthony DeCarlo, Matthew Hanson, Curtis Taylor.
Application Number | 20190185224 16/273402 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55452984 |
Filed Date | 2019-06-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190185224 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DeCarlo; Anthony ; et
al. |
June 20, 2019 |
Storage Container
Abstract
A container that includes a container body and a securely
attached container lid. The container lid can form an airtight
and/or liquidtight seal between the container lid and the container
body when the container lid is in the fully closed position and
locked position. The container lid is attached to the container
body by a hinge. The container lid includes a seal member, cover
window portion, and an outer rim portion having a plurality of lid
latches. The latches are configured for movement between an
unlatched position in which the container contents can be accessed
and a latched position in which latch features engage fastening
members to secure the container lid in the fully closed and locked
position to the container body.
Inventors: |
DeCarlo; Anthony;
(Cleveland, OH) ; Brady; Lisa; (Cleveland, OH)
; Taylor; Curtis; (Cleveland, OH) ; Hanson;
Matthew; (Cleveland, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
IdeaStream Consumer Products, LLC |
Cleveland |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55452984 |
Appl. No.: |
16/273402 |
Filed: |
February 12, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15051868 |
Feb 24, 2016 |
|
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16273402 |
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62120490 |
Feb 25, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2543/00657
20130101; A45C 13/008 20130101; B65D 2543/00564 20130101; B65D
43/169 20130101; B65D 2543/00296 20130101; A45C 11/20 20130101;
B65D 43/16 20130101; B65D 2543/0024 20130101; B65D 45/20 20130101;
B65D 43/22 20130101; B65B 7/2842 20130101; B65D 2543/00314
20130101; B65D 2543/00101 20130101; B65D 2543/00027 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 43/22 20060101
B65D043/22; B65D 43/16 20060101 B65D043/16; B65D 45/20 20060101
B65D045/20; A45C 13/00 20060101 A45C013/00; B65B 7/28 20060101
B65B007/28; A45C 11/20 20060101 A45C011/20 |
Claims
1. A storage container comprising: a container body, said container
body including one or more sidewalls forming an interior and
exterior sidewall surface and a body cavity between a base of the
container body and the one or more sidewalls, and a container lid,
said container lid including an outer rim portion, a center window
portion and a sealing member disposed between the outer rim portion
and the center window portion, said outer rim portion, said center
window portion and said sealing member being separately formed
components that have been interconnected together, said outer rim
portion including a lid hinge that and a front latch, said lid
hinge is connected to said container body, said lid hinge
permitting movement of the container lid relative to the container
body between an open and a closed position, said front latch
configured to move between an unlatched and latched position, said
position of said front latch enabling said front latch to engage
said container body and to secure said container lid in a closed
and locked position.
2. The storage container of claim 1, wherein said sealing member
formed of a different material from one or more components selected
from the group consisting of said outer rim portion and said center
window.
3. The storage container of claim 2, wherein said container body
has a peripheral top surface that encircles an opening in said body
cavity, said peripheral top surface including a descending wall
portion that is spaced from an outer surface of said sidewall of
said container body.
4. The storage container of claim 3, wherein said top peripheral
surface includes a channel formed therein.
5. The storage container of claim 3, wherein said container body
sidewall includes one or more ribs extending between said outer
surface of said sidewall to said inner surface of said descending
wall portion of said top peripheral surface.
6. The storage container of claim 1, wherein said outer rim portion
of said container lid includes a plurality of latches, each of said
latches is configured to move relative to an outer surface of said
outer rim portion between a latched position and an unlatched
position.
7. The storage container of claim 6, wherein said container lid
includes differently configured latches.
8. The storage container of claim 6, wherein the container lid
includes three latches.
9. The storage container of claim 6, wherein two of said latches
are configured the same and the other latch is configured
differently.
10. The storage container of claim 1, wherein the sealing member
provides an airtight and/or liquidtight seal between said container
lid and said container body when said container lid is in a fully
closed and locked position.
11. The storage container of claim 1, wherein the sealing member is
an elastomeric material.
12. The storage container of claim 1, wherein the said outer rim
portion, said center window, or combinations thereof are formed of
an olefin thermoplastic.
13. The storage container of claim 11, wherein the sealing member
comprises silicon or thermoplastic elastomer.
14. The storage container of claim 1, wherein said cover window
portion of said container lid includes a sealing flange extending
downwardly from a bottom surface of said cover window portion, said
sealing flange configured to engage an inner surface of said body
cavity when said container lid is in said fully closed and lock
position.
15. The storage container of claim 1, wherein said lid hinge
includes two pivot grooves.
16. The storage container of claim 1, wherein said container body
is formed of polycarbonate.
17. The storage container of claim 1, wherein said lid hinge is
connectable to said container body to form a permanent connection
between said container lid and said container body.
18-26. (canceled)
27. A storage container comprising: a container body, said
container body including one or more sidewalls forming an interior
and exterior sidewall surface and a body cavity between a base of
the container body and the one or more sidewalls, and a container
lid, said container lid including an outer rim portion, a center
window portion and a sealing member disposed between the outer rim
portion and the center window portion, said outer rim portion, said
center window portion and said sealing member being separately
formed components that have been interconnected together, said
sealing member formed of a different material from said center
window portion and/or said outer rim portion, said sealing member
formed of a more flexible material than said center window portion
and/or said outer rim portion, said outer rim portion including a
lid hinge and a front latch, said lid hinge is connected to said
container body, said lid hinge permitting movement of the container
lid relative to the container body between an open and a closed
position, said front latch configured to move between an unlatched
and latched position, said position of said front latch enabling
said front latch to engage said container body and to secure said
container lid in a closed and locked position.
28. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
front latch is positioned on an opposite side of said container lid
from said lid hinge.
29. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
container lid includes two side latches that are positioned on
opposite sides of the container lid from one another, each of said
side latches are spaced from said lid hinge and said front
latch.
30. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
container body has a peripheral top surface that encircles an
opening in said body cavity, said peripheral top surface including
a descending wall portion that is spaced from an outer surface of
said sidewall of said container body.
31. The storage container as defined in claim 29, wherein said top
peripheral surface includes a channel formed therein.
32. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
container body sidewall includes one or more ribs extending between
said outer surface of said sidewall to said inner surface of said
descending wall portion of said top peripheral surface.
33. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
sealing member provides an airtight and/or liquidtight seal between
said container lid and said container body when said container lid
is in a fully closed and locked position.
34. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
cover window portion of said container lid includes a sealing
flange extending downwardly from a bottom surface of said cover
window portion, said sealing flange configured to engage an inner
surface of said body cavity when said container lid is in said
fully closed and lock position.
35. The storage container as defined in claim 27, including the
further step of connecting said lid hinge to said container body
prior to fully closing and locking said container lid to said
container body.
36. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said
container body has a peripheral top surface that encircles an
opening in said body cavity, said peripheral top surface including
a descending wall portion that is spaced from an outer surface of
said sidewall of said container body, said top peripheral surface
includes a channel formed therein, said container body sidewall
includes one or more ribs extending between said outer surface of
said sidewall to said inner surface of said descending wall portion
of said top peripheral surface.
37. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein said side
latches are configured the same and the front latch is configured
differently from said two side latches.
38. The storage container as defined in claim 27, wherein the said
outer rim portion, said center window portion, or combinations
thereof are formed of an olefin thermoplastic, said sealing member
is formed of an elastomeric material, said elastomeric material is
silicon or a thermoplastic elastomer, said container body is formed
of polycarbonate.
Description
[0001] The present invention is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/051,868 filed Feb. 24, 2016, which in turn
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
62/120,490, filed on Feb. 25, 2015, and are fully incorporated
herein.
[0002] The present invention is directed to a sealable container
that has a lockable container lid. The invention finds particular
application in conjunction with food storage, and will be described
with particular reference thereto. However, it is to be appreciated
that the present invention is also amenable to other applications
(e.g., general storage, etc.).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A variety of different types of containers are available for
general storage use, some of which are particularly designed for
the storage and preservation of food items for later consumption
and/or use. These containers may be intended for commercial use
during the distribution of food items, home use for the storing of
recently prepared food items, or both.
[0004] Rigid containers are preferable as they are durable, can
maintain their shape, and thereby protect the stored items (e.g.,
food items, etc.) from being crushed. Another advantage is that the
rigid containers are usually easily washable and, therefore,
reusable. Also, it is desirable that rigid containers be
temperature and microwave resistant to allow for heating, cooling,
and freezing of the stored food items within the container.
[0005] These containers, such as bowls for food items and the like,
have sometimes been provided with lids. However, the container/lid
combinations have typically been susceptible to leakage, or
difficulties in securing the lid to the container. This problem of
securing the lid to the container can be aggravated after the
container and lid have been washed and dried by heat, which can
result in slight deformations of the container and/or lid. Such
container/lid combinations, as a result of slight deformation, can
lose their ability to generate a tight seal between said lid and
container.
[0006] It would be desirable to provide a storage container and lid
combination that can be used to form an airtight, lockable,
leak-proof seal,be a microwavable container, and which lid can be
repeatedly and releasably securable to the container after being
subjected to many wash and dry cycles.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention relates to a storage container adapted
and designed to provide a locking mechanism that can be used in the
storing and preserving of foodstuffs. The lockable container of the
present invention overcomes the limitations of generic
container/lid combinations that have typically been susceptible to
leakage, or difficulties in securing the lid to the container,
especially after having been repeatedly washed and dried.
[0008] The present invention is directed to a container that
incorporates an airtight lid system and a locking mechanism
suitable for use with the storage of food items; however, it can be
appreciated that the lockable container can be configured to store
other objects (e.g., office supplies, hardware, pet foods, liquid
products, etc.). According to one non-limiting aspect of the
present invention, the lockable container comprises a container
body and a container lid that is connected to the container body;
however, this is not required. The container lid can be permanently
and/or securely connected to the container body, or can be
removably connected to the container body.
[0009] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
present invention, the container lid can incorporate a lid system
which can include an outer rim portion and a cover portion, wherein
a plurality of lid latches are connected to the outer rim portion
by hinge arrangements (e.g., living hinges, etc.). The plurality of
lid latches can be configured to lock the container lid to the
container body when in a closed position. The plurality of lid
latches can be configured for movement between an unlatched
position in which the container lid, when previous connected to the
container body, can be removed from an opening in the container
body to allow access to the interior of the container body, and a
latched position in which the lid latches can engage fastening
members located on the container body so that the container lid can
be secured over an opening in the container body and provide a seal
over the opening in the container body. A seal member can
optionally be provided between the outer rim portion and the cover
window portion for the purpose of creating an airtight and/or
leak-proof seal; however, this is not required.
[0010] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
present invention, the container can include a container lid
permanently and/or securely attached to the container body by a
living hinge. The container lid can include one or more moveable
pieces that can be used to secure and seal the container lid to the
container body. In still yet another and/or alternative
non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the container lid can
create an airtight and liquidtight system when in the closed and
locked/latched position.
[0011] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container lid and living hinge can be formed in a
one-piece construction as one component of the container.
Similarly, the container body can be formed in a one-piece
construction and the container lid can be constructed as a second
component of the container. As such, the container can be
manufactured as two separate components. In such an arrangement,
the container lid and container body can be configured such that
the container lid can be hingedly connected to the container body
such that the container lid is no long intended to be separated
from the container body during the use of the container lid with
the container body. One non-limiting arrangement can include a snap
fit connection wherein the container lid includes a hinge having
connection members that are designed to snap into openings in the
rim or side of the container body and, once connected, the
connection members are not designed to be releasable from the
openings in the rim or side of the container body; however, this is
not required. As can be appreciated, the hinge on the container lid
can include one or more openings and the rim or side of the
container body can include connection members, or both the hinge of
the container lid and the rim or side of the container body can
include connection members and/or openings. As can also be
appreciated, the container body can include the hinge that is to be
connected to the container lid, or both the container lid and the
container body include a portion of the hinge that is to be
connected together. As can further be appreciated, other or
additional arrangements can be used to hingedly connect the
container lid to the container body such that the container lid is
not intended to be fully disconnected from the container body for
any reason after the container lid is initially connected to the
container body. As can be appreciated, the connection between the
container lid and container body can be permanent; however, it can
be appreciated that the container lid can be configured to be
disconnected from the container body after the container lid is
initially connected to the container body. One non-limiting
advantage of manufacturing the container as two separate components
prior to a first use is an increased ease of shipping and
manufacturing processes of the container body and the container
lid.
[0012] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container body can be substantially bowl-shaped with
an open end at the top of the container such that one or more
sidewalls extend upwardly from a bottom wall thereby forming the
bowl-shaped body of the container. The bowl shape of the container
body can define and provide a storage cavity for receiving
foodstuffs, for example; however, this is not required. As can be
appreciated, the lockable container can comprise other and/or
alternative shapes (e.g., rectangular, circular, etc.). The
container body can also include more than one opening; however,
this is not required. The opening in the container body can be one
the side or partially formed in the top or side of the container
body, formed in the bottom of the container body, or some other
location on the container body. The one or more sidewalls can be
marginally continuous through the corners along a longitudinal end;
however, this is not required. Generally, the container body can
include at least two sidewalls, more typically at least three
sidewalls, and even more typically four sidewalls; however, this is
not required. As can be appreciated, the container body can include
more than four sidewalls or less than four sidewalls depending on
the design and look desired and/or needed for the container. The
one or more sidewalls can form an interior and exterior sidewall
surface. Generally, the container body is of a one-piece
construction; however, this is not required. The materials used to
form the container body are non-limiting. In one non-limiting
arrangement, the container body is formed of a durable plastic
material. The material used to form the container body can be
clear, semi-clear or opaque. The container body can be manufactured
by a variety of processes (e.g., molded, blow molded, extruded,
stamped, formed by 3D printing, etc.).
[0013] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container body includes four sidewalls, wherein two
oppositely disposed sidewalls extend between the other two
oppositely disposed sidewalls, wherein all four sidewalls are
continuous through the corners; however, this is not required. The
four sidewalls and the base wall can be marginally continuous
through the corners and be formed of as one component; however,
this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative
non-limiting aspect of the invention, the sidewalls of the
container can be bowed radially outward such that the entire
perimeter of the container body is curved (i.e., no straight edges
exist around the perimeter of the container body); however, this is
not required. As can be appreciated, other configurations can be
used (e.g., straight sidewalls, curved sidewalls, etc.). In still
yet another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the four
sidewalls can taper outward from each other when moving away from
the base or base portion of the container body such that the top
open end of the container body is larger than the area of the base
of the container body; however, this is not required. In one
non-limiting embodiment of the invention, at least one sidewall may
optionally include markings and/or labels (e.g., volume markings
and/or labels, product markings and/or labels, etc.); however, this
is not required.
[0014] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container body can include a top flange extending
continuously perpendicularly away or at some other angle away from
the sidewall at its distal end; however, this is not required. The
top flange(when used) can provide a top peripheral surface, wherein
the distal end of the top peripheral surface can again extend
continuously perpendicularly or at some other angle in a descending
sidewall portion having a terminal edge; however, this is not
required. Thus, the top edge of the container body sidewalls can
optionally comprise a substantially U-shaped structure and provide
a sealing lip for attachment of container lid latches; however,
this is not required. In such an arrangement, the descending
sidewall portion can be spaced from the one or more container body
sidewalls, thereby defining a gap between the descending sidewall
portion and the adjacent container body sidewall; however, this is
not required. The descending sidewall portion can extend at least
partially over the container body sidewall; however, this is not
required. In one some non-limiting embodiment, one or more spaced
ribs can be optionally provided between the one or more sidewalls
of the container body and the descending sidewall of the peripheral
flange; however, this is not required. The use of one or more rib
features can be used to provide improved strength and rigidity at
the open end of the container body; however, this is not
required.
[0015] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the top peripheral surface of the container body can
optionally include a groove and/or channel; however, this is not
required. In one non-limiting embodiment, the channel portion is
generally V-shaped and designed to receive a sealing member
provided on the container lid when the container is in the closed
position; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the
shape of the channel can be many other shapes (e.g., square,
rectangular, triangular, U-shaped, C-shaped, V-shaped, etc.). The
channel and the sealing member could also be reversed such that the
sealing member is on the container body and the channel is in the
container lid.
[0016] In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container body can be formed as a one-piece
construction wherein all edges and sides are formed marginally
continuous through the corners with one another; however, this is
not required. In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting
aspect of the invention, the container body, the living hinge, and
the outer rim portion of the container lid can be formed into a
one-piece construction; however, this is not required. The
one-piece construction can be formed by injection molding, for
example; however, this is not required.
[0017] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container can include one or more living hinges,
wherein the one or more living hinges allow the container lid to
pivot relative to the container body between the open position and
the closed position; however, this is not required. The one or more
hinges can connect the container body to the container lid and can
comprise one or more pivot points or pivot grooves. In one specific
embodiment, the hinge connecting the container lid to the container
body typically includes two pivot points or pivot grooves; however,
this is not required. When two pivot points or pivot grooves are
used, a non-limiting advantage is provided wherein all or
substantially all of the container lid can close flat onto the
container body simultaneously thereby, improving the seal between
the container lid and container body. In yet another and/or
alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the living hinge
permanently and/or securely attaches the container lid to the
container body; however, this is not required. Permanent and/or
secure attachment of the container lid to the container body can
prevent the recurring problem of misplacing the container lid
relative to the container body. In one non-limiting embodiment, a
first end of the living hinge(when used) can connect to the
container body and a second end of the living hinge can connect to
the container lid, thereby permanently and/or securely attaching
the container lid to the container body. In yet another and/or
alternative non-limiting embodiment, a first end of the living
hinge can connect to the terminal end of the descending sidewall of
the container body and a second end of the living hinge can attach
to atop edge of the outer rim portion of the container lid;
however, this is not required. In still yet another and/or
alternative non-limiting embodiment, one end of the living hinge
can attach to the bottom edge of the outer rim portion of the
container lid; however, this is not required. As can be
appreciated, one end of the living hinge can be attached at a point
on the outer surface of the outer rim portion of the container lid
between the top edge and the bottom edge, for example, the center
of the outer rim portion; however, this is not required.
[0018] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container includes a container lid system. The top
surface of the container lid can be substantially planar and can be
defined by an outer rim portion and a center window separated by a
sealing member; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting
embodiment, the container lid system can comprise a channel
configured to receive and accommodate the top edge of the container
body when the container body and container lid are in an at least
partially closed position; however, this is not required. The shape
of the channel is non-limiting (e.g., U-shaped, C-shaped, V-shaped,
etc.). In one non-limiting configuration, the container lid
includes a cover window portion and an outer rim portion separated
by a sealing member; however, this is not required. The outer rim
portion of the container lid can form an interior and exterior
outer rim surface; however, this is not required. The lid can be
shaped so as to fit the size of the opening provided by the
container body; however, this is not required. The container lid
can be formed of a plurality of materials; however, this is not
required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the sealing member on
the container is formed of a different material than the cover
window portion and/or the outer rim portion of the container lid.
The sealing material can optionally be formed of a material that is
more flexible and/or softer than the material used for the cover
window portion and/or outer rim portion of the container lid. In
another non-limiting arrangement, the material used to form the
cover window portion and the outer rim portion of the container lid
is the same.
[0019] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the sealing member can be configured to seat in the
channel provided on the top peripheral surface of the container
body when the lockable container is in an at least partially closed
position; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, an
opposite configuration can be used. The sealing member can be
adapted and/or designed to have an inverse shape as the channel
portion such that the channel and the sealing member abut or lock
together to form an airtight and/or liquid tight seal therebetween;
however, this is not required. Interfaces other than flat
interfaces distribute the sealing forces over a greater surface
area and therefore improve the beneficial sealing properties of the
container. This interface (i.e., non-flat sealing interfaces) also
generates oblique mechanical forces which further enhance the
beneficial sealing properties of the subject apparatus.
[0020] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container lid can include an optionally
substantially planar center window; however, this is not required.
As can be appreciated, the center window can include ridges or
bevels as a means for stacking other lids or container bases;
however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
cover window portion may include the name of the product and/or
other types of information; however, this is not required.
Furthermore, the cover window portion can be substantially
transparent so as to allow the user to see the content stored in
the container, especially food products; however, one or more
portions or the complete cover window portion can be opaque,
semi-opaque, non-opaque, and/or translucent.
[0021] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the center window can optionally include a sealing
flange extending continuously and perpendicularly in a downward
direction relative to the bottom surface of the center window;
however, this is not required. The sealing flange of the cover
window portion can optionally be disposed at or near the peripheral
edge of the cover window portion; however, this is not required.
The sealing flange can form an interior and exterior flange
surface; however, this is not required. As such, the exterior
flange surface can form a seal with the interior surface of the
container body sidewall; however, this is not required. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the sealing flange can be configured to
accommodate the shape of the opening created by the container body;
however, this is not required. In another non-limiting
configuration, the sealing flange can be configured such that the
exterior surface of the sealing flange frictionally engages with
the interior sidewall surface of the container body sidewall;
however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative
non-limiting configuration, the height of the sealing flange can be
substantially constant around at least part of the perimeter of the
container body for the purpose of maintaining a consistent seal
(i.e., about the complete perimeter of the center window); however,
this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative
non-limiting embodiment, the exterior surface of the sealing flange
can be provided with one or more surface projections disposed
thereon; however, this is not required. The one or more surface
projections (when used) can be configured to increase the
frictional engagement between the sealing flange and the container
body sidewall; however, this is not required. The one or more
surface projections can be provided on one or more sides of the
exterior surface of the sealing flange; however, this is not
required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the center window is
plastic; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated,
other and/or additional materials can be used (e.g., glass, wood,
composite materials, etc.).
[0022] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the outer rim portion of the container lid can form an
interior and exterior surface. As such, the interior surface can
form a seal with the exterior surface of the container body
sidewall; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting
configuration, the outer rim portion can be designed to accommodate
the shape of the opening created by the container body; however,
this is not required. In one non-limiting configuration, the outer
rim portion is designed and configured such that the interior
surface of the outer rim portion frictionally engages with the
exterior surface of the descending sidewall portion of the
container body sidewall; however, this is not required. In another
and/or alternative non-limiting configuration, the height of the
outer rim portion is substantially constant around at least part of
the perimeter of the container lid for the purpose of maintaining a
consistent seat; however, this is not required. The outer rim
portion can be substantially parallel to the sealing flange of the
center window and extend along all sides of the container lid;
however, this is not required. Generally, the parallel outer rim
portion and sealing flange can frictionally engage with the
container body sidewall, thereby facilitating in maintaining the
container lid and container body together when in a closed
position; however, this is not required. The outer rim portion can
be provided with one or more surface projections provided thereon
for the purpose of facilitating in maintaining the container lid on
the container body when in an at least partially closed position;
however, this is not required. The one or more surface projections
(when used) can be provided on one or more sides of the interior
surface of the outer rim portion of the container lid and be
configured to enhance the frictional engagement between the outer
rim portion and descending sidewall portion of the container body;
however, this is not required. In one specific embodiment, the one
or more surface projections are provided along all sides of the
outer rim portion; however, this is not required. The size and/or
shape of the one or more surface projections are non-limiting. In
one specific embodiment, the outer rim portion of the container lid
is plastic; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated,
other and/or additional materials can be used (e.g., glass, wood,
composite materials, etc.).
[0023] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container lid can optionally include a sealing
member. As can be appreciated, the container body can also or
alternatively include a sealing member; however, this is not
required. The outer rim portion and center window of the container
lid can be connected by the sealing member disposed therebetween;
however, this is not required. As such, the center window of the
container lid system can configured in a floating window
configuration (i.e., the center window is formed separately from
the other components of the container lid); however, this is not
required. The sealing member may be an extruded or molded
elastomeric member; however, this is not required. In one
non-limiting configuration, the sealing member is an
injection-molded unitary part. The sealing member may be made of a
silicon or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE); however, other materials
can be used. In a closed position, the sealing member can be
brought into compression with the channeled rim portion of the top
peripheral surface of the container body; however, this is not
required. The sealing member can be sized to have a length
equivalent to the length of the top peripheral surface; however,
this is not required. The thickness the sealing member is
non-limiting. The connection between the outer rim portion, sealing
member, and cover window portion can be facilitated by many
techniques known in the art. In one non-limiting example, the outer
rim portion and cover window portions can be formed in a first step
(e.g., injection molded, etc.). In a second step, the sealing
member can be attached onto and/or between the outer rim portion
and cover window portion such that the sealing member can be
attached to both the outer rim portion and the cover window
portion. In another and/or alternative non-limiting example, the
outer rim portion, cover window portion and sealing member can be
formed and attached in the same step; however, this is not
required. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting example,
the attachment between the outer rim portion, sealing member and
the cover window portion can include intermolecular bonding via
heat (e.g., melted bond); however, other or additional arrangements
can be used (e.g., adhesive, friction connection, mechanical
locking connection, etc.). As such, the materials of the outer rim
portion and cover window portion can be intermixed with the
material of the seal member thereby creating a melted bond of
increased strength so as to prevent the sealing member from
separating from the other components of the container lid. The
integrally formed sealing member in the container lid facilitates
in creating an airtight and/or liquidtight seal between the
container lid and the container body when the container is in the
closed position. In addition, the integrally attached sealing
member, when used in conjunction with a container body channel, can
generate additional forces and maintain a steady compression state
of the elastomeric seal member around the container body; however,
this is not required. As such, the airtight and/or liquid tight
seal can be enhanced. In one specific embodiment, the sealing
member can be made to extend downward from the top surface of the
container lid at least partially between the outer rim portion and
sealing flange. In one non-limiting aspect of the present
invention, the sealing member can at least partially form: 1) the
engagement between the interior surface of the outer rim portion
and the exterior surface of the descending sidewall of the
container body; 2) the engagement between the one or more surface
projections of the interior surface of the outer rim portion and
the exterior surface of the descending sidewall of the container
body; 3) the engagement between the sealing member and the
channeled top peripheral surface of the container body; 4) the
engagement between the exterior surface of the sealing flange and
the interior surface of the container body sidewall; and/or, 5) the
engagement between the one or more surface projections on the
exterior surface of the sealing flange and the interior surface of
the container sidewall.
[0024] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, one or more latching and/or locking features can be
provided on the container for the purpose of securing the container
lid to the container body and thereby creating and/or providing an
airtight and/or liquidtight (e.g., liquid proof seal) seal between
the container body and container lid. In one non-limiting
embodiment of the present invention, the container has a plurality
of different latch arrangement; however, this is not required.
Alternatively, the container can have a single type of locking
arrangement. According to one non-limiting aspect of the present
invention, the one or more latching and/or locking features of the
container include one or more latch hooks and/or fastening ribs and
one or more corresponding latch flanges and/or fastening pieces. As
such, the one or more latch hooks and the one or more corresponding
latch flanges are provided for the purpose of securing the
container lid in the closed and sealed position on the container
body. The present invention overcomes past problems of prior art
containers wherein the latches or clasps are only provided on the
front edge of the lid (i.e., the side opposite a hinge) and the lid
may bow axially away from the lateral sides extending between the
front and rear sides such that the container lid does not seat well
on the top surface of those lateral sides. The container of the
present invention is designed and configured to improve the seal
and seat between the container lid and the container body such that
an airtight and/or liquidtight seal is created when the container
lid is in the fully closed and fully locked position on the
container body.
[0025] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the fastening flanges can be integrally formed with the
outer rim portion of the container lid by injection molding;
however, this is not required. Each of the fastening flanges can be
formed at the upper edge thereof and can be attached at a pivot
point or pivot groove such that the fastening flange can be rotated
at a lower edge of the outer rim portion of the container lid;
however, this is not required. In other and/or alternative
non-limiting embodiments, the fastening flanges can be formed at
the lower edge of the outer rim portion of the container lid;
however, this is not required. The one or more fastening flanges
can include one or more slits and/or openings provided thereon;
however, this is not required. As such, the fastening flanges can
include a slit cut approximately in a lengthwise direction (i.e.,
parallel to the pivot point), and be integrally formed at a central
portion thereof; however, this is not required. The one or more
slits and/or openings in the one or more fastening flanges can be
designed and/or configured to accommodate the one or more latch
hooks disposed on the container body; however, this is not
required. The one or more fastening flanges can optionally include
a hook feature extending the length of the fastening flange for the
purpose of hooking to the container body (e.g., hooking the sealing
lip provided by the U-shaped open edge of the container body,
etc.); however, this is not required. As such, the fastening
flanges can be configured to hook onto and securably and releasably
attach to the container body (e.g., the sealing lip of the
container body, etc.); however, this is not required. One or more
of the fastening flanges can be approximately trapezoidal; however,
other and/or alternative shapes can be used (e.g., rectangular,
square, oval, T-shaped, etc.). The shape of the fastening pieces
can be selected for increased rigidity when locking and unlocking
the container; however, this is not required. The fastening flanges
can be integrally formed with the outer rim portion of the
container lid by injection molding and include a fastening hook;
however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, one or more
of the fastening flanges can be separate pieces that can be
connectable to the container lid; however, this is not required.
One or more fastening hooks can be integrally formed on the
container body (e.g., formed on with the descending sidewall
portion of the container body, etc.). The fastening hooks can be
configured to correspond in shape and/or size to the one or more
fastening flanges on the container lid; however, this is not
required. As such, the fastening hooks can include one or more
protrusions (e.g., protrusion in the lateral direction, etc.) at
positions respectively corresponding with the one or more fastening
members (e.g., slits and/or openings, etc.) of the fastening
flange. In one non-limiting arrangement, one or more of the
fastening hooks can protrude from the sidewall and/or the
continuous extensions of the descending sidewall portions of the
container body; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting
configuration, the continuous extension of the descending sidewall
portion can be approximately trapezoidal; however, this is not
required. As can be appreciated, other and/or alternative shapes
can be used (e.g., rectangular, square, triangular, T-shaped,
etc.). In use, the one or more fastening flanges can be pushed onto
the fastening hooks, thereby locking the container lid to the
container body. As such, the one or more fastening flanges can be
configured to be releasably secured to the fastening hook. As the
container lid is locked onto the container body (i.e., the
fastening flange is secured to the fastening hook), an airtight
and/or liquid tight seal can be formed between the container lid
and the container body. In another and/or alternative non-limiting
aspect of the invention, the descending sidewall portion of the
container body (when used) may itself serve the purpose of the
sealing lip and/or fastening point to which the one or more hook
features of the one or more fastening flanges on the container rim
portion can connect; however, this is not required.
[0026] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container can include a second type of latch
provided on the opposite side of the container as the hinge (e.g.,
living hinge, etc.); however, this is not required. The second type
of latch(when used) can be a thumb latch; however, this is not
required. A latch flange can be integrally formed with the outer
rim portion of the container lid by injection molding and
optionally attached to an upper edge thereof; however, this is not
required. The latch flange can be attached to a pivot point or
pivot groove such that the flange can be rotated around the pivot
point or pivot groove to lock the container lid onto the container
body; however, this is not required. The latch flange can include a
hook provided on one or both sides of the latch flange for the
purpose of coupling with a latch hook provided on the sidewall of
the container body; however, this is not required. In use, the
container lid is closed and compressed on the container body so
that the latch flange can couple with the latch hook thereby
locking the container lid to the container body. Other non-limiting
embodiments can use latches at different locations such as at the
corners rather than the middle portion of container lid and/or the
container body can include the latch arrangement; however, this is
not required. One exemplary embodiment of the invention employs
three latches in the middle of each of the three sides of the
container lid periphery of a container lid that has four sides;it
can be appreciated that other non-limiting embodiments may employ a
fewer or a greater number of latches for similar shaped container
lids or for different shaped container lids. Similarly, another
exemplary embodiment of the invention employs two different types
of latches; however, it can be appreciated that other non-limiting
embodiments may employ a single type of latch or more than two
different types of latches.
[0027] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container lid and/o the container body can be
partially or fully formed by injection molding with transparent or
translucent synthetic resin; however, this is not required. In one
non-limiting specific embodiment, about 50-100% of the container
body and the container lid are made of plastic. In a specific
configuration, the container body is formed of a polycarbonate
material and at least a portion of the container lid is formed of
polypropylene. However, it can be appreciated that the container
body and/or container lid can be formed of other or additional
materials (e.g., a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, a
low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic, a rubber material,
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), various types of resins, various types of
resin epoxides, polyester, polypropylene, polyurethane,
polyacrylate, polycarbonate and copolymers thereof, etc.). When the
container body is formed of a polycarbonate material, the type of
polycarbonate used is generally a non-staining or stain resistant
polycarbonate material. Such a material is useful in that it will
resist discoloration from food when the foods are stored, heated
and/or cooked in the container body; however, this is not required.
Generally, the container body is formed of a different material
than the one or more materials used to form the container lid;
however, this is not required. Generally, the container body is
formed of a harder and less flexible material than at least one or
all of the materials used to form the container lid. In such a
non-limiting arrangement, the container body is a substantially
rigid component and the lid is a generally flexible component of
the container.
[0028] The thickness of the material used to form the container
body and the container lid is non-limiting. In one non-limiting
embodiments, the thickness of the material used to form at least
the container body and/or one or more portions of the container lid
is about 0.2 mm to about 4 mm, particularly about 0.5 mm to about
1.5 mm, and more particularly about 0.8-1.2 mm (e.g., 1 mm).
However, other dimensions may be used.
[0029] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, one or more additives can be added to the material used
to form the container; however, this is not required. As such, the
additives can be added for the purpose of making the container
stain- and/or odor-resistant, dishwasher safe, microwave safe,
refrigerator safe, freezer safe, add color, scent, etc. In yet
another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention,
the material used to form the container can be Bisphenol A (BPA)
free; however, this is not required. In still yet another and/or
alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the container can
be formed from recycled materials (e.g., plastics, etc.); however,
this is not required.
[0030] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container body has a generally square
cross-sectional shape; however, the container body can have other
cross-sectional shapes (e.g., rectangular, circular, etc.).The
volume of the cavity of the container body that is used to receive
food or other materials generally has a volume of about two ounces
to two gallons; however, other volumes can be used (e.g., 0.5 cup,
one cup, two cups, four cups, 0.25 liter, 0.5 litter, one liter,
two liters, eight cups, twelve cups, one gallon, five gallons,
etc.).
[0031] In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the
invention, the container lid and container body can include
stacking channels and/or bevels provided for the purpose of
promoting the stackability of the container lids and/or the
container body during the shipping of multiple container lids
and/or container bodies; however, this is not required.
[0032] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the
lockable container includes a container body that is configured to
hold food and/or other items and a container lid that includes a
hinge (e.g., living hinge) that permanently and/or securely
connects the container lid to the container body. The top of the
container body includes a sealing lip that is configured to engage
a sealing element on the container lid when the container lid is
moved to the closed position. The container lid includes one or
more securing latches configured to be releasably secured to latch
connectors on the container body so that the container lid, when
positioned in the closed position, can be locked in the fully
closed and locked position when the securing latches are releasably
secured to the latch connectors. The container lid can include a
sealing that is configured to form a liquid tight and/or airtight
seal with the sealing lip of the container body when the container
lid is in the fully closed and locked position on the container
body. When the container lid includes two or more securing latches,
the securing latches can be configured to be the same or a
different shape and can be configured to be used with the same or
different mechanism to releasably connect the container lid to the
container body. In one non-limiting arrangement, the container lid
includes two side securing latches that are configured the same and
a front latch that is configured differently from the two side
securing latches. The container body and container lid can have
non-limiting shapes and sizes and can be configured to hold any
volume of items. The materials used to form the container body and
the container lid are non-limiting (e.g., metal, plastic, ceramic,
glass, composite materials, etc.). The materials used to form the
container body and the container lid can be clear, opaque,
semi-opaque, and/or non-opaque.
[0033] In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the
present invention, the lockable container can include a container
body that defines a storage area and which has an open end. The
open end has a peripheral top surface and a descending wall portion
spaced apart from the container body sidewall. The container body
further includes a plurality of spaced ribs extending between the
container body sidewall and the descending wall of the top
peripheral surface. The container body further includes a top
peripheral surface that has a channel in the top peripheral
surface. The container lid is configured to be attached to the
container body to cover the open end of the storage container. The
container lid includes an outer rim portion and a cover window
portion separated by a sealing member. The sealing member is
located between the outer rim portion and cover window portion for
the purpose of creating and/or providing an airtight and/or
liquidtight seal between the container body and the container lid
when the container lid in the fully closed and locked position on
the container body. The container lid includes a living hinge that
connects the container lid to the container body. The hinge
includes one or more pivot points (e.g., 2 pivot points or 2 pivot
grooves, etc.). The container lid includes a plurality of latches
that are configured to be rotated about a hinge (e.g., living
hinge, etc.) between an open (unlatched) and closed (latched)
position. The container can be configured such that the container
lid and the container body provide an airtight and/or liquidtight
seal when in the fully closed and locked position. When the
container lid is in the fully closed and locked position on the
container body, the plurality of latches on the container lid are
engaged with the fastening members (e.g., fastening ribs, etc.) of
the container body, and the sealing member on the container lid is
compressed against the top peripheral surface of the container body
thereby creating an airtight and/or liquidtight seal between the
container body and the container lid.
[0034] According to one non-limiting aspect of the present
invention, a method for using said lockable container in the
storage of food items can comprise the steps of: placing the
container on a surface such that the open end of the container
faces at least partially upwards; placing a material in the cavity
of the container body; moving the container lid to a closed
position by rotating the lid member about the living hinge; locking
the latches of the container lid to the container body such that
the container lid is in the fully closed and locked position on the
container body and an airtight and/or liquidtight seal is created
between the container body and the container lid; and optionally
placing the container in a refrigerator and/or cabinet to be stored
until further use as needed or desired. One or more containers can
be stacked on top of one another to conserve space when stored;
however, this is not required. The above steps can be reversed to
obtain access to the contents in the cavity of the container body
and/or the container lid is in the fully closed and locked position
on the container body prior to inserting materials into the cavity
of the container body.
[0035] One non-limiting object of the present invention is to
provide an at least partially airtight and/or liquidtight, lockable
container that has a balance of improved properties that are useful
in commercial and/or home use food storage and/or other storage
applications.
[0036] Another non-limiting objective of the present invention is
to provide a lockable container that can be airtight and/or
liquidtight, lockable, leak-proof, microwavable, and wherein the
container lid can be repeatedly and releasably secured to the
container body.
[0037] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent from the subsequent
description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] Reference may now be made to the drawings which illustrate
various non-limiting embodiments that the invention may take in
physical form and in certain parts and arrangement of parts
wherein:
[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration of one non-limiting
lockable container according to the present invention wherein the
container lid is in the fully closed and locked position;
[0040] FIG. 2 is a perspective illustration of the lockable
container of FIG. 1 wherein the container lid is on the open
position;
[0041] FIG. 3 is a front plan view of the lockable container of
FIG. 1;
[0042] FIG. 4 is a side plan view of the lockable container of FIG.
1;
[0043] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the lockable container of FIG.
2;
[0044] FIG. 6 is a perspective illustration of the lockable
container of FIG. 2 wherein the container lid is detached from the
container body;
[0045] FIG. 7 is a perspective illustration of the lockable
container of FIG. 2 wherein the container lid is connected to the
container body;
[0046] FIG. 8 is a perspective illustration of the container body
of the lockable container of FIG. 1 without the container lid;
[0047] FIG. 9 is a section view of the container body of the
lockable container of FIG. 2 without the container lid;
[0048] FIG. 10 is a perspective illustration of the bottom side of
the container lid of FIG. 2 without the container body;
[0049] FIG. 11 is a perspective illustration of the top side of the
container lid of FIG. 2 without the container body;
[0050] FIG. 12 is a different perspective illustration of the
bottom side of the container lid of FIG. 2 without the container
body;
[0051] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the container lid of FIG.
2;
[0052] FIG. 14 is bottom plan view of the container lid of FIG. 2;
and,
[0053] FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the container lid of FIG.
2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS
[0054] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for
the purpose of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the
invention only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention,
FIGS. 1-15 illustrate a lockable container 10 comprising a
container body 20 and a container lid 30 that can be used in and/or
in conjunction with the storage and preservation of foodstuffs
and/or other materials.
[0055] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-15, the lockable container of the
present invention can be designed to be used in conjunction with
food storage; however, it can be appreciated that the present
invention is also amenable to other applications (e.g., general
storage, etc.). The lockable container includes a container body
20. The container body has a base or bottom 22, one or more
sidewalls 24 that are connected to the base and extend upwardly
from the top surface of the base, and a body cavity 26 that is
defined by the top surface of the base and the inner surface of the
one or more sidewalls. The cavity has an opening in the top which
can be covered by the container lid as will be discussed in more
detail below. The container body is illustrated as being generally
bowl-shaped with four sidewalls; however, the container body can
have other shapes and/or a different number of sidewalls. The
container lid 30 includes a hinge 40 such as, but not limited to a
living hinge, that couples the container lid to the container body.
The hinge can be formed such that the hinge is permanently and/or
securely connected to the container lid and the container body and
would be required to be cut or otherwise damaged to separate the
container lid from the container body. Alternatively, the hinge can
be permanently formed on the container lid and be connectable to
the container body such that once the hinge is connected to the
container body, the hinge is not intended to ever be subsequently
disconnected from the container body and the forcing of such
disconnection would result in damage to the hinge and/or the
container body. Alternatively, the hinge can be permanently formed
on the container body and be connectable to the container lid such
that, once the hinge is connected to the container lid, the hinge
is not intended to ever be subsequently disconnected from the
container lid and the forcing of such disconnection would result in
damage to the hinge and/or the container lid. Alternatively, the
hinge can be configured to be connectable to both the container lid
and the container body such that once the hinge is connected to
both the container lid and the container body, the hinge is not
intended to ever be subsequently disconnected from the container
body and the container lid and the forcing of such disconnection
would result in damage to the hinge and/or the container body,
and/or the hinge and/or the container lid.
[0056] The container body and the container lid include a plurality
of structures that are configured to secure the container lid in
the fully closed and locked position on the container body.
[0057] Referring now to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a perspective
view of a non-limiting lockable container 10 in a fully closed and
locked position according to the invention. The lockable container
10 can include a locking mechanism that creates an airtight and/or
liquidtight seal between the container lid and container body when
the container lid is on the fully closed and locked position on the
container body. The container body can be partially or fully formed
by injection molding with a transparent or translucent synthetic
resin; however, this is not required. Likewise all or some portion
of the container lid can also formed by injection molding with a
transparent or translucent synthetic resin; however, this is not
required. In one non-limiting configuration, at least a portion of
the container lid plastic can be formed of an olefin thermoplastic
(e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, block copolymer polypropylene,
etc.); however, it can be appreciated that one or more portions of
the container lid can be formed of other or additional materials.
In another non-limiting configuration, the container body can at
least partially or fully formed of polycarbonate; however, it can
be appreciated that the container body can be formed of other or
additional materials. In another non-limiting configuration, the
container body can at least partially or fully formed of
polycarbonate, and the container lid plastic can be at least formed
of an olefin thermoplastic, and the sealing member can be formed of
an elastomeric material, and the container lid does not container
polycarbonate.
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 2, the lockable container 10 is in an
open/unlatched position. The container lid is still connected to
the container body in such position; however, the body cavity 26 is
not accessible so that materials (e.g., food items, etc.) can be
easily inserted into or removed from the body cavity. The container
lid includes a plurality of lid latches 42, 43, and 44. The latches
are moveable between an open and locked position. FIG. 1
illustrates the latches in the locked or latched position. FIG. 2
illustrates the latches in the open or unlatched position. The
latches can be connected by a living hinge to the rim or some other
portion of the container lid; however, this is not required.
Generally, the latches are permanently connected to the rim or some
other portion of the container lid; however, this is not required.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the latches, when in the locked position,
releasably connect to arrangement on the container body which will
be discussed in more detail below.
[0059] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are front and back perspective view
illustrations, respectively, of the container body. One or more
sidewalls 24 can include markings 41 as illustrated in FIG. 4. The
type of markings is non-limiting. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the
markings are cup measurement markings that provide information
about how much of a liquid material is contained in the body cavity
26 of the container body. As can be appreciated, metric measurement
markings can be located on the same or different sidewall of the
container body. As can be appreciated, other or additional types of
markings can be included on the container body and/or container lid
(e.g., "Do not fill above this line", "Microwaveable", brand name,
etc.).
[0060] As best illustrated in FIGS. 5-7, a living hinge 40 connects
the container lid 30 to the container body 20. The living hinge 40
allows the container lid system 30 to pivot relative to the
container body 20 between the open and closed position. The living
hinge can include one or more pivot points. As illustrated in FIG.
5, the living hinge includes two pivot points 40a, 40b that are
spaced on sidewall 24 of the container body and outer rim portion
32 of container lid 30. As can be appreciated, a pivot point can
optionally exist at the connection point of hinge 40 outer rim
portion 32 of container lid 30 and/or the connection point of hinge
40 the container body. The pivot point can be in the form of a
groove, a thin later, flexible material, etc. that enables movement
so that the hinge can allow the container lid to move between the
fully open position (as illustrated in FIG. 2) and the fully closed
and locked position (as illustrated in FIG. 1).The configuration of
hinge 40, in combination with the configuration of the container
lid and the container body, enables the container lid to lie
substantially flat over the perimeter of the cavity opening of the
container body, thereby inhibiting or preventing the container lid
from bowing upwards when the container lid is moved to the closed
position and then ultimately moved to the fully closed and lock
position. The use of one or more pivot points in the hinge allows
the container lid to be closed flat onto the container body thus
improving the seal between the container lid system and the
container body. As such, the hinge can be used to improve the
sealing between the container lid and the container body.
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, during manufacturing, the
container lid 30 can be manufactured or assembled as one separate
component and the container body can be manufactured or assembled
as a second separate component. These two separate components can
subsequently be connected together via hinge 40 as illustrated in
FIG. 7 during the first use of the container. The attachment of the
hinge to the container body can be permanent and/or secure;
however, this is not required. The permanent and/or secure
attachment of the container lid to the container body prevents the
recurring problem of losing the container lid as often occurs with
lids that are not permanently connected to the container body. As
can be appreciated, the container body and container lid can be
manufactured as a single component that requires no further
assembly.
[0062] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 8, container body 20 is
illustrated as having a bowl shape and includes four sidewalls 24,
which extend upwardly from the base or bottom wall 22. In one
non-limiting arrangement, the sidewalls can be configured to bow
outward such that the open end of the container body is larger than
the base of the container body as illustrates in FIG. 5; however,
this is not required. The sidewalls are connected continuously to
the base or via corners 19. The corners (when used) can be rounded;
however, this is not required.
[0063] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the container body 20 includes a
top flange 25 that is connected at or near the top edge of the
sidewalls. The top flange is illustrated as extending about the
complete perimeter of the top edge of the sidewalls. The top flange
is illustrated as extending outwardly from the outer surface of the
side at an angle that is perpendicular or generally perpendicular
(e.g., 85.degree.-95.degree.) to the top portion of the sidewall;
however, this is not required. The top surface of the top flange
forms a top peripheral surface. The top peripheral surface is
illustrated as including a groove/channel 29; however, this is not
required. As can be appreciated, the top peripheral surface can
alternatively be flat or include one or more ribs or other
structures extending upwardly from the top peripheral surface. In
one non-limiting arrangement, channel 29 generally has a V-shape or
U-shape and is configured to at least partially receive a sealing
member 34 on the container lid when the container lid is moved to
the closed position. When the container lid is in the fully closed
and locked position, the sealing member in channel 29 can partially
or fully form the airtight and/or liquidtight seal between the
container lid and the container body. As can be appreciated, the
airtight and/or liquidtight seal between the container lid and the
container body can be partially or fully formed by the sealing
member with a top peripheral surface that is absent a channel
and/or includes other structures.
[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the outer edge of the top flange
25 can extend downwardly from the top peripheral surface to form a
descending sidewall 27; however, this is not required. Generally,
the descending sidewall 27 extends downwardly at an angle that is
perpendicular or generally perpendicular to the top peripheral
surface. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the descending sidewall 27
includes one or more connection openings 31 that are configured to
receive connection tabs 37 on the end of hinge 40 as illustrated in
FIG. 10. The end of the hinge can include an end flange 33 that can
include the one or more connection tabs 37; however, this is not
required. The connection tabs are typically configured to be at
least partially inserted into connection openings 31 and, once
connected, are not designed to be disconnected from the connection
openings. However, it can be appreciated that the connection tabs
can be configured to be releasably connected to the connection
openings. The shape and size of the connection tabs and connection
openings are non-limiting. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the descending
sidewall 27 is spaced from the outer surface of sidewall 24 so that
the end flange 33 of the hinge can be inserted in the space between
the outer surface of the sidewall and the inner surface of the
descending sidewall 27 so that the connection tabs and connection
openings can be aligned with one another and thereafter connected
together.
[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 9, one or more spaced ribs 21 can be
optionally provided between the descending wall portion 27 and the
sidewall of the container body. The one or more ribs can be used to
provide strength to the top flange 25 and the descending wall
portion 27. The one or more ribs (when used) include generally flat
bottom edges. One non-limiting advantage of using such ribs is
that, when securing latch hooks of the container lid system are
pulled off of the container body (i.e., unlatching and/or opening
the container), the securing lip of the container body is not
malformed, altered, or distorted. Thus, the longevity and
durability of the container is increased.
[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the end flange 33 can include a
guide slot 39 that is configured to receive a rib 21 when the end
flange 33 is inserted in the space between the outer surface of the
sidewall and the inner surface of the descending sidewall 27. As
such the guide slot is used to facilitate in properly positioning
the end flange 33 relative to the descending sidewall 27 when
connecting the hinge to the container body.
[0067] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the bottom surface of the base
wall 22 can include ridges and/or bevels; however, this is not
required. The ridges and/or bevels can be used as a means of
stacking other bases together; however, this is not required.
[0068] As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 8, the container body
includes a latch connector 45. As illustrated, the latch connector
45 is positioned on the front sidewall of the container body and is
configured to connect to front thumb latch 43 on the container lid.
When the container lid is in the closed position, the container lid
can be locked to the container body by securing the front thumb
latch 43 to the latch connector 45. Latch connector 45 can be a
continuous extension of the descending sidewall 27. Additionally or
alternatively, latch connector 45 can be connected to the outer
surface of sidewall 24. The latch connector can include at its
distal end a hook-like portion 51 capable of inhibiting or
preventing the front thumb latch 43 from becoming unlatched from
the latch connector 45 without excessive force. The front thumb
latch 43 can include one or more tabs 53 that are configured to
engage the hook-like portion 51 when the front thumb latch 43 is
releasably connected to latch connector 45.
[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 2, 10 and 15, the container lid 30 is
formed of three components, namely an outer rim portion 32, a
sealing member 34, and a center window 36. The sealing member is
positioned between the center window and the outer rim portion.
[0070] As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 15, the center window
includes a top surface 60, a bottom surface 62 and a center window
flange 38. The center window flange 38 extends downwardly from the
bottom surface 62. Generally, the center window flange 38 extends
downwardly from the bottom surface 62 at an angle that is
perpendicular or generally perpendicular to the plane of the bottom
surface; however, this is not required. The center window flange 38
is generally positioned at or near the peripheral edge of the
center window and generally extends about the complete periphery of
the center window; however, this is not required. The center window
flange can be configured to be inserted into the container cavity
26 when the container lid is in the closed position. The exterior
surface of center window flange 38 (i.e., the surface of the center
window flange that is facing the inner surface of the container
body sidewall when the container lid is in the closed position) can
be optionally configured to frictionally engage with at least a
portion of the interior surface of a container body sidewall
thereby improving the seal between the container lid 30 and the
container body 20 and/or to facilitate in positioning the container
lid relative to the container body when closing the container lid
on the container body.
[0071] The peripheral surface of the center window can optionally
include one or more grooves or other structures that can be used to
facilitate in the connection of the sealing member to the center
window. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the peripheral surface of the
center window includes a plurality of grooves and/or ribs; however,
this is not required.
[0072] The center window can optionally include a printed design,
ribs that form a design etc. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the center
window includes a plurality of ribs that radiate from a central
circular rib. As can be appreciated, other designs can be used. The
ribs can also be configured to improve the structural integrity
and/or rigidity of the center window; however, this is not
required. The top and/or bottom surface of the center window can
optionally include other or additional structures for purposes of
aesthetics, rigidity, strength etc.
[0073] The center window can optionally include one or more ridges
or bevels as a means of stacking other container lids together;
however, this is not required. The center window can be formed from
substantially transparent materials so as to allow the user to see
the contents stored within the container; however, this is not
required.
[0074] Sealing member 34 is configured to connect to the outer
periphery of the center window. The type of connection is
non-limiting (e.g., melted connection, molded connection, adhesive
connection, friction connection, etc.). Generally, the inner
surface of the sealing member is connected to the outer periphery
of the center window; however, it can be appreciated that other or
additional surfaces of the sealing member can be connected to the
center window. A portion of the sealing member can be configured to
extend over a portion of the top and/or bottom surface of the
center window; however, this is not required. As illustrated in
FIG. 11, a portion of the sealing member extends over a portion of
the top of the center window. The bottom surface 35 of the sealing
member can include one or more sealing structures (e.g., glove,
rib, slot, etc.) that are configured to engage with the container
body to create and/or facilitate in creating an airtight and/or
liquidtight seal between the container lid and the container body
when the container lid is in the fully closed and locked position.
As illustrated in FIG. 10, the bottom surface of the sealing member
includes a rib or downwardly protruding extension 64 that is
configured to at least partially fit into channel 29 of the top
flange 25 of container body 20 when the container lid is in the
fully closed and locked position. The rib or downwardly protruding
extension can have a corresponding shape as channel 29; however,
this is not required. The rib or downwardly protruding extension 64
can be configured to compress in channel 29 so as to improve the
seal formed between the rib or downwardly protruding extension 64
and channel 29 when the container lid is moved to the fully closed
and locked position on the container body. The rib or downwardly
protruding extension 64 is generally positioned about the complete
periphery of the sealing member; however, this is not required. The
rib or downwardly protruding extension 64 is illustrated as being
spaced from the outer edge and the inner edge of the sealing
member; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the
sealing member can include more than one downwardly protruding
extension 64. The height of the downwardly protruding extension 64
is generally greater than the depth of channel 29; however, this is
not required. The bottom surface 35 of the sealing member can also
be configured to contact the top flange 25 of container body 20 on
one or both sides of channel 29 when the container lid is moved to
the fully closed and locked position on the container body;
however, this is not required. Such contact arrangement (when used)
facilitates in the sealing between the container lid and container
body when the container lid is moved to the fully closed and locked
position on the container body. The bottom surface 35 of the
sealing member can be configured to compress when contacting the
top flange 25 of container body 20 on one or both sides of channel
29 when the container lid is moved to the fully closed and locked
position on the container body; however, this is not required.
[0075] The sealing member can be an extruded or molded elastomeric
material (e.g., Natural polyisoprene: cis-1,4-polyisoprene natural
rubber (NR) and trans-1,4-polyisoprene gutta-percha; synthetic
polyisoprene (IR for isoprene rubber); polybutadiene (BR for
butadiene rubber); chloroprene rubber (CR), polychloroprene,
neoprene, baypren, butyl rubber (copolymer of isobutylene and
isoprene, IIR), halogenated butyl rubbers (chloro butyl rubber:
CIIR; bromo butyl rubber: BIIR), styrene-butadiene rubber
(copolymer of styrene and butadiene, SBR), nitrile rubber
(copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile, NBR), hydrogenated
nitrile rubbers (HNBR), therban, zetpol, EPM (ethylene propylene
rubber, a copolymer of ethylene and propylene), EPDM rubber
(ethylene propylene diene rubber, a terpolymer of ethylene,
propylene and a diene-component), epichlorohydrin rubber (ECO),
polyacrylic rubber (ACM, ABR), silicone rubber (SI, Q, VMQ),
fluorosilicone Rubber (FVMQ), fluoroelastomers (FKM, and FEPM),
viton, tecnoflon, fluorel, aflas, dai-El, perfluoroelastomers
(FFKM), tecnoflon PFR, kalrez, chemraz, perlast, polyether block
amides (PEBA), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM), (Hypalon),
ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE),
proteins resilin and elastin, polysulfide rubber, elastolefin);
however, this is not required. In one non-limiting configuration,
the sealing member is an injection-molded unitary part. The seal
member can be made of a silicon or thermoplastic elastomer;
however, it can be appreciated that other materials can be used.
Generally, the material that is used to form the sealing member is
different from the material of the center window and/or the outer
rim portion. In one non-limiting configuration, the material that
is used to form the sealing member is different from both the
center window and the outer rim portion. In one non-limiting
arrangement, the sealing member is formed of a material that is
softer and more malleable or deformable than the center window and
the outer rim portion. Generally, the center window and the outer
rim portion are formed of a rigid material; however, this is not
required. Generally, the center window and the outer rim portion
are formed of the same material; however, this is not required.
Generally the center window and the outer rim portion of the
container lid and the container body are formed of the same
material; however, this is not required. The color of the sealing
member can optionally be different from the color of the center
window and/or the outer rim portion. The transparency of the
sealing member can optionally be different from the transparency of
the center window and/or the outer rim portion.
[0076] The outer rim portion 32 of container lid 30 can also serve
the purpose of a sealing flange; however, this is not required. The
outer rim portion is connected to the sealing member as illustrated
in FIG. 14. The connection between the sealing member and the outer
rim portion is non-limiting (e.g., melted connection, molded
connection, adhesive connection, friction connection, etc.).
Generally, the connection between the sealing member and the
container lid and the outer rim portion can be a melted connection
or molded connection. The sealing member, when connected to the
outer rim portion, can be configured to contact at least a portion
of the inner surface of the outer rim portion, at least a portion
of the top surface of the outer rim portion, and/or at least a
portion of the outer surface of the outer rim portion. In one
non-limiting arrangement, the sealing member engages the top
surface of the outer rim portion and the inner surface of the outer
rim portion, but not the outer surface of the outer rim portion. In
another non-limiting arrangement, the sealing member engages only
the inner surface of the outer rim portion, but not the outer
surface of the outer rim portion. As can be appreciated, other
connection configurations can be used between the sealing member
and the outer rim portion.
[0077] The outer rim portion can optionally include one or more
connection channels 66 that are configured to receive a rib or
downwardly protruding extension on the bottom surface of the
sealing member so as to facilitate in the connection between the
sealing member and the outer rim portion; however, this is not
required. The connection channel 66 (when used) is positioned at or
near the inner surface of the outer rim portion. As illustrated in
FIG. 15, the inner surface of the outer rim portion forms one side
of connection channel 66. The connection channel 66 (when used) is
generally spaced form the top and/or bottom edge of the outer rim
portion as illustrated in FIG. 15; however, this is not
required.
[0078] The outer rim portion can be optionally configured such that
the inner surface of the outer rim portion frictionally engages the
outer surface of the sidewalls of the container body when the
container lid is in the closed position. As illustrated in FIG. 15,
the inner surface of the outer rim portion can be provided with one
or more surface projections 46. The surface projections can be used
to hold the container lid on the container body when the container
lid is at least partially in the closed position. The surface
projections 46 are generally spaced between the top and bottom
edges of the outer rim portion as illustrated in FIG. 15; however,
this is not required. The surface projections 46 are illustrated as
being positioned below the connection channel 66.
[0079] During manufacturing of the container lid, the outer rim
portion 32, center window 36, and sealing member 34 can be formed
together in a one-piece construction; however, this is not
required. Hinge 40 can be formed together with outer rim portion
32, center window 36, and sealing member 34; however, this is not
required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the center window is
formed as a single piece, the sealing member is formed a single
separate piece, and the outer rim portion that includes hinge 40
and latches 42, 43, 44 is formed of a single separate piece. The
sealing member is then connected to both the center window and the
outer rim portion to form the container lid. The connection between
the sealing member and the outer rim portion and the center member
is designed to be a permanent and/or secure connection. As such,
the container lid would be damaged and unable to form an airtight
and/or water-tight seal if the sealing member were forced to be
separated from the outer rim portion and/or center window.
[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 12-13, the container lid 30 is
provided with one or more latches for the purpose of fastening the
container lid 30 to the container body 20. The container lid 30 is
designed and configured to improve the seal and seat between the
container lid 30 and the container body 20 such that, in one
non-limiting configuration, an airtight and/or liquidtight seal is
created between container lid 30 and container body 20 when in the
fully closed and locked position.
[0081] Latches 42, 43, and 44 are integrally formed with the outer
rim portion 32 of container lid 30. Each of the latches 42, 43, and
44 are illustrated as being connected at or near the top edge of
the outer rim portion; however, it can be appreciated that one or
more of the latches can be connected between the top and bottom
edges or connected at or near the bottom edge of the outer rim
portion. As illustrated in FIG. 5, each of the latches includes a
pivot channel 42a, 43a, 44a and enables each of the latches to be
movable relative to the outer surface of the outer rim portion so
that the latches can be moved between the latched and unlatched
positions.
[0082] Side latches 42 and 44 are illustrated as being similarly
configured, whereas front thumb latch 43 has a different
configuration; however, this is not required. Front thumb latch 43
is illustrated as being positioned on the opposite side of the
container lid from hinge 40; however, this is not required. Side
latches 42 and 42 are illustrated as being positioned on the
opposite side of the container lid from another and generally
equally spaced from hinge 40 and/or front thumb latch 43; however,
this is not required. Although the container lid is illustrated as
including three latches, it can be appreciated that the container
lid can be configured to include only front thumb latch 43. Also,
it can be appreciated that the container lid can be configured to
include a front thumb latch 43 and a single side latch or more than
two side latches.
[0083] The front thumb latch 43 that is configured to be releasably
secured to a latch connector 45 of container body 20is illustrated
in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4. The first and second side latches 42 and 44
are configured to be releasably secured to the descending wall
portion 27 of container body 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4.
Side latches 42 and 44 are provided with a hook feature 49 that is
configured to releasably engage and secure to the descending wall
portion 27 of the top flange 25 on the container body. The hook
feature 49 is configured to at least partially extend in an upward
direction into the gap between the container body sidewall and the
descending sidewall portion 27 when the side latch is in the
latched position as illustrated in FIG. 3; however, this is not
required. The side latches can optionally include one or more latch
ribs 68 to provide structural support to the hook feature as
illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0084] The latches are configured for movement to an open/unlatched
position as illustrated in FIG. 2, in which the container lid can
be pivoted on hinge 40 between the open and closed position so that
materials can be added and/or removed from the container cavity of
the container body. The latches are also configured for movement to
a locked/latched position as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4 in
which the container lid is secured in a fully closed and locked
position and an airtight and/or liquidtight seal is formed between
the container lid and the container body.
[0085] The outer surface of one or more latches can include
markings as illustrated in in FIG. 11; however, this is not
required.
[0086] Other embodiments may use latches at different locations
such as at the corners rather than the middle portion. While the
exemplary embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures
employs three latches in the middle of each of the three sides of
the lid, other embodiments may employ a fewer or greater number of
latches.
[0087] The lockable container of the present invention can be
designed to accommodate the storage of food items; however, it can
be appreciated that the lockable container of the present invention
can be designed to accommodate the storage of other items (e.g.,
office supplies, hardware, pet supplies, pet food, etc.). The
lockable container of the present invention has the following
advantages 1) the lockable container is relatively inexpensive to
manufacture, 2) provides an airtight seal when in a closed
position, 3) can be lockable, 4) can be substantially leak-proof,
5) can be microwavable, 6) can be repeatedly and releasably
securable, 7) can be easily and conveniently stored, 8) can be
configured and/or customized in a variety of shapes and sizes,
and/or 9) can be configured and/or customized to accommodate the
storage of food items.
[0088] The invention has been described with reference to the
preferred embodiment and alternatives thereof. It is believed that
many modifications and alterations to the embodiment disclosed will
readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art upon reading
and understanding the detailed description of the invention. It is
intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar
as they come within the scope of the present invention.
* * * * *