ACCESSORY GRID FOR A CONTAINER

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to accessories for containers. More specifically, but without limitation, the present disclosure relates to an accessory grid apparatus (40) for a container, for example insulated container, which allows for positioning and retention of various types of accessories.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to accessories for containers. More specifically, but without limitation, the present disclosure relates to an accessory grid apparatus for a container, for example insulated container, which allows for positioning and retention of various types of accessories.

BACKGROUND

For years, it has been problematic for delivery service providers to fulfill many types of direct to consumer orders. Online marketplaces and merchants exist that allow consumers to purchase goods or services (e.g., groceries, meals or meal services, frozen or fresh food, household goods, small electronics, pet products, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare items) that can be delivered by a delivery service provider directly to a location specified by the consumer. However, storage of the goods can be challenging if the consumer is not at the location when the delivery service provider arrives. This can lead to the items being left by the delivery service provider in unsuitable locations. Leaving frozen or fresh food in front of a consumer's door, for example, can result in spoilage.

Still further, insulated containers, for example coolers—both passive and active coolers—are widely used for camping, picnics, social activities and other events. It is always desirable to maximize the utility and capacity of the container. Accordingly, ability to organize and therefore maximize the usable volume of the container is also desirable for such insulated containers.

SUMMARY

Present embodiments are directed to various aspects of an accessory grid, and more particularly to an accessory grid that is configured to be secured to an insulated container such as a delivery box or a cooler. The accessory grid apparatus can be used to customize the insulated container cooler with one or more accessories. Non-limiting example accessories include a secure box for prescription medications, small to medium size storage bags or containers, reusable ice blocks, a flashlight style light for nighttime deliveries or retrieval of packages, an envelope pouch/sorter, a UV sanitizing wand, and a semi-flexible pouch for packages, envelopes or small bags.

The accessory grid apparatus can be configured to be releasably secured to the insulated container. For example, the accessory grid apparatus can include an underlid attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid apparatus or the accessory mount holes to a lid of the cooler. The underlid attachment mechanism of the accessory grid apparatus can include underlid mount holes adapted to receive a plurality of accessory grid attachment elements of the lid of the container.

The lid of the insulated container, or cooler, can have an underside that includes the accessory grid attachment elements. In some examples, the underside of the cooler lid includes a quick release system for attaching the accessory grid apparatus. In some other examples, the accessory grid includes the accessory grid attachment elements and the lid of the cooler includes the underlid mount holes.

In some examples, the accessory grid can include an attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid apparatus or the accessory mount holes to a bottom or side of the cooler (or an insulated liner of the cooler). The bottom or the side can include the accessory grid attachment elements or the quick release system for attaching the accessory grid apparatus.

According to some embodiments, a system may comprise an insulated container having a base and a lid, the base having an outer shell, an inner shell, and a cavity therebetween having an insulating portion disposed in the cavity, and at least one storage compartment, said lid having a lid outer shell, a lid inner shell and a lid cavity therebetween having a lid insulating portion therebetween. An accessory grid is disposed adjacent to the lid inner shell, the accessory grid configured to be releasably secured to the lid inner shell, the accessory grid apparatus comprising a plurality of accessory mount holes extending through a first surface and a second surface of the accessory grid, the plurality of accessory mount holes adapted to receive at least one mount tab of an accessory, an underlid attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid to the lid of the insulated container, the accessory sized and shaped to be connected to said accessory grid within said insulated container.

In some aspects, the plurality of accessory mount holes may be being slots.

In some aspects, the slots may be being one or both of horizontal or vertical.

In some aspects, the accessory grid may further comprise one or more stiffening ribs.

In some aspects, the accessory grid may further comprise a notch allowing for storage behind the accessory grid.

In some aspects, may further comprise a storage location behind the accessory grid.

In some aspects, the accessory grid may be sized to provide a movable sag for storage therein.

In some aspects, the accessory may comprise at least one of a storage container, pharmaceutical container, light, UV sanitizing light, or an ice block.

In some aspects, the accessory may comprise one or more engagement tabs.

In some aspects, the lid may comprise a plurality of attachment elements for connection of the accessory grid.

In some aspects, the attachment elements may be rotating locks.

In some aspects, the accessory grid may be formed integrally within the lid.

In some aspects the accessory grid may be hingedly connected to pivot from a first position to a second position.

In some aspects, the base may have a plurality of slots capable of receiving a second accessory grid which is capable of functioning as a divider.

According to some embodiments, an accessory grid for securing an accessory to an insulated container, the accessory grid apparatus comprises a first surface on a first side and a second surface on a second opposed side, a plurality of accessory mount holes extending through said first surface and said second surface, the plurality of accessory mount holes adapted to receive at least one engagement tab of said accessory, and, an attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid to a lid of the insulated container.

In some aspects, the plurality of accessory mount holes may define a plurality of slots for removably attaching the accessory at a plurality of positions along the accessory grid.

In some aspects, the slots may extend in either or both of two dimensions.

In some aspects, the attachment mechanism may comprise a plurality of mount holes adapted to receive a plurality of accessory grid attachment elements of the lid of the insulated container.

According to some embodiments, a method for attaching an accessory grid apparatus is described.

In some aspects, the method may comprise each and every novel feature or combination of features disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate only various embodiments of an Accessory Grid for a Container and therefore are not to be considered limiting of the scope of this disclosure. The principles illustrated in the various embodiments of the drawings can be applied to alternate methods and apparatus. Additionally, the elements and features shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the various embodiments. Certain dimensions or positions may be exaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings, the same reference numerals used in different embodiments designate like or corresponding, but not necessarily identical, elements.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example insulated container in accordance with some embodiments depicted in a closed configuration;

FIG. 2 is a front view of an example insulated container in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example insulated container in accordance with some embodiments depicted in an open configuration and showing an example accessory grid;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of an example insulated container in the closed configuration in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an example accessory grid removed from the example container in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of an opposite side of the accessory grid from FIG. 5 in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the accessory grid side shown in FIG. 6 in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example insulated container in an open configuration depicting an alternate accessory grid with a plurality of accessories in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of an accessory mounted to an example accessory grid with an accessory also shown exploded from the accessory grid in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate accessory grid shown mounted in an example insulated container in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a further alternative accessory grid shown in an example insulated container in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a further alternative accessory grid shown in an example insulated container in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view with a plurality of accessories shown exploded from an example accessory grid in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternate type of insulated container; and,

FIG. 15 is a perspective embodiment of a container with a hingedly connected accessory grid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The example embodiments described herein are directed to various aspects (e.g., methods, systems, devices) of an accessory grid, and more particularly to an accessory grid apparatus that is configured to be releasably secured to a container, insulated or non-insulated, such as a delivery box or a cooler. The accessory grid apparatus can be used to customize the insulated container cooler with one or more accessories.

Example accessories include a secure box for prescription medications, small to medium size storage bags, reusable ice blocks, a flashlight style light for nighttime deliveries or retrieval of packages, an envelope pouch/sorter, a UV sanitizing wand, and a semi-flexible pouch for packages, envelopes or small bags. The accessories can be sized and shaped to be placed within at least one storage compartment of the container.

The accessory grid apparatus can include accessory mount holes extending through a first surface and a second surface of the accessory grid apparatus. The accessory mount holes can define a grid for removably attaching accessories at positions according to the grid. The accessory mount holes can be adapted to receive at least one mount element (e.g., mount tab) of an accessory.

The accessory grid apparatus can be configured to be releasably secured to the cooler. For example, the accessory grid apparatus can include an underlid attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid apparatus or the accessory mount holes to a lid of the cooler. The underlid attachment mechanism of the accessory grid apparatus can include underlid mount holes adapted to receive a plurality of accessory grid attachment elements of the lid of the container. Alternately, the accessory grid may be hingedly connected to the container, for example cooler.

The lid of the cooler can have an underside that includes the accessory grid attachment elements. In some examples, the underside of the cooler lid includes a quick release system for attaching the accessory grid apparatus. In some other examples, the accessory grid apparatus includes the accessory grid attachment elements and the lid of the cooler includes the underlid mount holes.

In some examples, the accessory grid apparatus can include an attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid apparatus or the accessory mount holes to a bottom or side of the cooler (or an insulated liner of the cooler). The bottom or the side can include the accessory grid attachment elements or the quick release system for attaching the accessory grid apparatus.

For any figure shown and described herein, one or more of the components may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments shown in a particular figure should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in such figure. Further, if a component of a figure is described but not expressly shown or labeled in that figure, the label used for a corresponding component in another figure can be inferred to that component. Conversely, if a component in a figure is labeled but not described, the description for such component can be substantially the same as the description for the corresponding component in another figure.

With respect to the example methods described herein, it should be understood that in alternate embodiments, certain steps of the methods may be performed in a different order, may be performed in parallel, or may be omitted. Moreover, in alternate embodiments additional steps may be added to the example methods described herein. Accordingly, the example methods provided herein should be viewed as illustrative and not limiting of the disclosure.

Terms such as “first”, “second”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “distal”, “proximal”, “face,” and “within” are used merely to distinguish one component (or part of a component or state of a component) from another. Such terms are not meant to denote a preference or a particular orientation, and are not meant to limit the embodiments described herein. In the example embodiments described herein, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description.

The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include plural alternatives, e.g., at least one. The terms “including”, “with”, and “having”, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language), unless specified otherwise.

Various numerical ranges are disclosed herein. When Applicant discloses or claims a range of any type, Applicant's intent is to disclose or claim individually each possible number that such a range could reasonably encompass, including end points of the range as well as any sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges encompassed therein, unless otherwise specified. Numerical end points of ranges disclosed herein are approximate, unless excluded by proviso.

Values, ranges, or features may be expressed herein as “about”, from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such values, or ranges are expressed, other embodiments disclosed include the specific value recited, from the one particular value, and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that there are a number of values disclosed therein, and that each value is also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition to the value itself. In another aspect, use of the term “about” means±20% of the stated value, ±15% of the stated value, ±10% of the stated value, ±5% of the stated value, ±3% of the stated value, or ±1% of the stated value.

Although embodiments described herein are made with reference to example embodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications are well within the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the example embodiments described herein are not limited to any specifically discussed application and that the embodiments described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. From the description of the example embodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing other embodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselves to practitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the example embodiments is not limited herein.

Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure.

Additional details are provided in the following, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a container 10 is shown, also sometimes referred to as a cooler. In some embodiments, the container 10 may be a delivery box, for depositing of delivered goods of various types. The container 10 may be insulated or non-insulated. As described primarily herein, the container 10 is mostly described as an insulated container however such description is not limiting of the use of the accessory grid. The accessory grid may be used various types of containers including coolers as shown in some embodiments.

The perspective view of the device comprises an insulated container 10 having a base 12 and a lid 14. The base 12 defines a storage compartment wherein products may be deposited. The base is shown with a three-dimensional rectangular shape having two parallel long sides 13, 15 (front and rear) and two parallel short sides 17, 19. The insulated container 10 may be of various other shapes as well.

The lid 14 is shown in a closed position in the depicted embodiment. The lid 14 of the depicted embodiment may be pivotally or hingedly connected to the rear upper edge of the base 12. The lid 14 can pivot between the position shown in FIG. 1 and an open position shown in FIG. 3. While the lid 14 is pivotally connected in some embodiments, but may be connected in other movable manners so that the contents of the base 12 may be retrieved. Further, in the depicted embodiment, the lid 14 is pivoted along the rear side 15, one of the longer sides. However, in some other embodiments, the lid 14 may be pivoted along one of the short sides 17, 19 or alternatively in other locations.

The instant embodiment may further comprise a locking mechanism 20 which allows access or secures closure from unintended opening of the lid 14. The locking mechanism 20 is generally represented by a plurality of buttons which may be used in designated combination to lock or unlock the insulated container 10. The locking mechanism 20 may further comprise a key lock or other mechanical entry alternatively, or additionally. The locking mechanism 20 may be powered by battery power, or a plug-in electrical system, solar power, or any combination. The lock mechanism 20 can activate an electrically operated actuator to control access to interior of the insulated container 10. Activating the electrically operated actuator, can, in some examples, include causing the electrically operated actuator to be energized or deenergized. Some aspects of the disclosure provide that activating the electrically operated actuator prevents the locking mechanism 20 of the container 10 from being unlocked. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 20 may further provide input devices such as a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad, a touch screen, a scanner, or a microphone. Additionally, the locking mechanism 20 may also provide at least one output device 117 for example a display, a siren, a speaker, a status indicator, or other suitable output device.

The insulated container 10 is also shown with end walls 16, 18 which may be formed integrally with the base 12 or may be formed separately and attached, for example by fastener. The end walls 16, 18 may include support feet 22 for leveling adjustment and/or permanent connection of the container 10 to a substrate, such as a front porch or other area of delivery. The end walls 16, 18 may also include handholds 23 in which the insulated container 10 may be grasped and lifted or moved if needed. The end walls 16, 18 and the container as whole may, in some non-limiting embodiments, have the appearance of furniture piece as may be desirable for outdoor, porch positioning.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a front view of the insulated container is shown. The view is depicted to show feet 22 depending from the insulated container 10. The feet 22, according to some nonlimiting embodiments, may be adjustable for leveling for example. In the instant embodiment, the adjustable feet 22 are disposed on the end walls 16, 18, but in other embodiments, may be disposed on the base 12 of the insulated container 10. Thus the end walls 16, 18 provide a location for lifting and moving via the handholds 23, and also provide a location for positioning of the adjustable feet 22 for adjustment. In some examples, the feet 22 may comprise a threaded rod which is threaded into a threaded anchor in the end walls 16, 18. The threaded rod may also include a nut which may be tightened against the end wall 16, 18 so that the feet 22 are locked in position.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a perspective view of the insulated container 10 is shown in with the lid 14 in an open position. An interior storage compartment 26 is shown within the base 12. The interior storage compartment 26 may be used to store various items or goods, including but not limited to, grocery delivery, prepared meal delivery, takeout home delivery, frozen/fresh food shipments, non-grocery product deliveries such as household goods, small electronics, pet products, pharmaceuticals, healthcare items, and more.

Within the interior storage compartment 26 there may be a single volume or a divided volume to separate goods. For example, at least one thermal storage divider can be positioned in the compartment 26. The interior divider may provide for compartmentalization of cold/frozen foods and maintaining a food safe temperature. Additionally, a support ledge 53 may be provided within the base 12 to support a wire basket or other accessory that suspend at least one gel pack, ice block, or other thermal storage member. Still further, and with brief reference to FIG. 15, container 610 shows the accessory grid 640 may be formed to pivot, for example from the hinge between the lid 614 and base 612, or a separate hinge, and may be supported on such ledge 53 (FIG. 3).

Further, with the lid 14 shown in the open position, the lid 14 is shown having a depth wherein an accessory storage grid 40 may be positioned and wherein accessories may be located. The inside of the lid 14 and the accessory grid 40 may define a lid storage compartment wherein accessories 80 may be positioned and retained. Depending on the size and weight of the lid 14, the container 10 may comprise lift assisting actuators 32 disposed between the base 12 and lid 14. The actuators 32 may be pneumatic, hydraulic, spring biased, or other mechanical or electrical forms. The accessory grid 40 may be formed of various metals or plastics and in some embodiments may be formed of polyethylene, although various other materials may be used.

Also visible from this view is an inner shell or liner 28. The base 12 may be formed of an outer shell 27, and the inner shell 28. In some embodiments, where the container 10 may be insulated, an insulating material (not shown) may be disposed between the outer shell 27 and the inner shell 28. In such configuration, and according to some embodiments, a cavity (not shown) may be disposed between the outer shell 27 and the inner shell 28. Within the cavity between the outer shell 27 and the inner shell 28, an additional insulating material may be disposed, for example. In some embodiments, the outer shell 27 may be formed of polyethylene, for non-limiting example. In some embodiments, the inner shell 28 may be formed of polypropylene for non-limiting example. Further, the insulating material within the cavity may be for example a polyurethane foam in some non-limiting examples.

Likewise, the lid 14 may have a similar construction. The lid 14 may be formed of a lid outer shell and a lid inner shell. The construction of the container 10 may be dependent on whether or not insulating features are necessary or the level of importance of such insulating features.

Further shown in this configuration with the lid open, the inner area of the lid 14 is shown with the accessory storage grid 40 therein. The storage grid 40 may be connected by attachment elements for either a permanent or releasable connection. The accessory storage grid 40 is disposed for within the insulated container 10 in various manners. For example, the accessory grid 40 may be fixed within the lid 14, for example by forming integrally when the lid 14 or a lid inner shell is formed. Alternately, the holes 46 in the accessory grid 40 may be connected to the lid 14 by a plurality of fasteners.

Further, the accessory grid 40 may be releasably connected to the lid 14 by attachment elements. As depicted for example, the storage grid 40 may include holes 46 for rotatable lock knobs 45 that pass through the holes 46 and lock the accessory grid 40 in position, within the lid 14 by rotating the knobs 45. The lock knobs 45 can rotate from a first or unlocked position to a second or locked position (shown). In some examples, the lock knobs 45 can be manually turned to retain the accessory grid 40 in position. Alternately, the lid 14 may have holes and the accessory grid 40 may include the engagement tab or other feature to connect to the undersurface of the lid 14. Alternately, the attachment elements of the lid 14 may be fixed structures that pass through holes in the accessory grid 40 and retain the grid 40 in position.

Still further, the accessory grid 40 may be pivotally connected by hinge for example, the base 12, so that the accessory grid 40 may be pivoted down over the storage compartment 26 or may be pivoted up into the lid 14. For example, in such embodiment, the accessory grid 40 may be supported about the peripheral edge by an internal ledge 53 within the base 12.

Also shown in FIG. 3, the inside of the lid 14 may include a wall or drape 49 which is extending from the lid 14 interior surface and around the accessory grid 40. The wall or drape 49 provides a depth wherein the accessories may be located on the lid 14. The wall or drape 49 may extend into the base 12 when the lid 14 is closed. The lid inner surface and the drape 49 may define a lid storage area or compartment.

The lid 14 may also have an insulation layer (not shown) for thermal efficiency and a lid gasket for thermal efficiency and weatherproofing. Alternatively, the base 12 may include a gasket and engage with a rib or other structure, such as the drape 49, within the base 12.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a rear view of the insulated container 10 is shown. The rear view depicts an area where the lid and the base connect by hinge or hinged connection 21. The hinged connection 21 comprises a hinge axis which is horizontal in the depicted orientation. The hinged connection 21 is disposed along the rear upper edge of the base, so that the lid opens, as shown in FIG. 3, relative to the rear edge of the insulated container 10.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a view of an example accessory grid 40 is provided. The accessory grid 40 is shown in a front view and is shaped to be disposed within the insulated container 10. In some embodiments, the inside of the base 12 and the lid 14 may be rectangular in shape. Accordingly, the shape of the accessory grid is depicted as rectangular, although this shape is not limiting but merely one example. The accessory grid 40 includes two long parallel edges 41, 42 and two short parallel edges 43, 44 defining the rectangular shape. Additionally, the corners of the rectangular are rounded, matching the curvature of the corresponding location where the accessory grid 40 is disposed. As shown in FIG. 3, the accessory grid 40 is shown within the lid 14 and the description corresponds to such. However, it should be understood that the accessory grid 40 may also be disposed in other locations of the insulated container 10. The accessory grid 40 may comprise a plurality of fastener holes 46 spaced about the grid 40 for fastening to the lid 14, according to some embodiments.

With reference still to FIG. 5, the accessory grid 40 is shown with an outer facing surface 51 and an inner facing surface 47 (FIG. 6). The outer facing surface 51 is facing the user when the lid 14 is opened and the outer facing surface 51 may be facing upward if the accessory grid 40 is disposed in the base 12.

The accessory grid 40 has a plurality of attachment locations for attachment of one or more accessories. The accessory grid 40 comprises a plurality of holes 50 which may be arranged in a variety of manners to attach various devices to the accessory grid 40. The depicted embodiment provides groups of holes embodiment by slots 52. In the example, there are groups of four slot 52 arranged in a cross-hair configuration 54. The holes 50 may be of various shapes and may be of various sizes, and various arrangements, depending on the types of accessories, the size of such accessories, and the function of the accessory. For example, as will be shown further herein longer slots may be used in parallel arrangement to define a plurality of rows or columns. Further, the slots 52 may extend in two dimensions, for example as shown, some may be vertical or horizontal. This may allow for adjustment of accessory positioning in two dimensions. This may also limit movement of the accessory during movement of the container 10. It should be understood that where the slots extend in a single dimension, this is still falls within the scope of the term grid as use throughout this disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a rear view of the accessory grid 40 is shown depicted the inner facing surface 47. The rear or inner surface 47 of the accessory grid 40 comprises one or more stiffening ribs 48. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the stiffening rib 48 is disposed about the perimeter of the accessory grid 40 inner facing surface 47 and may comprise a plurality of intermediate ribs extending across the inner facing surface 47. Additionally, in the depicted embodiment, the plurality of ribs 48 compartmentalize each group cross-hair 54 of slots 52. This may be desirable if the accessories are of a weight which may cause flexing of the accessory grid 40.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a perspective view is shown of FIG. 6. The perspective view shows that the plurality of ribs 48 have a height extending from the inner facing surface 47 of the accessory grid 40. The height of the ribs 48 strengthens of the accessory grid 40 so that the flexing of the accessory grid 40 is limited. While the previous described pattern of ribs 48 is shown, others may be used in an effort to support the weight of the desired accessories and in order to reduce flexing of the accessory grid 40.

Additionally, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, the accessory grid 40 may also comprise a plurality of fastening holes 46. The fastening holes 46 may be used to fasten the accessory grid 40 to the insulated container 10, for example to the inside of the lid 14, with screw fasteners, knobs, or other fasteners.

Referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of the insulated container 10 with the lid 114 open is shown. The insulated container 10 shows the accessory grid 140 disposed in the lid 14 with an alternate plurality of holes 150. In this embodiment, the holes 150 are defined by a plurality of slots 152. The slots 152 are arranged in parallel fashion and may be of the same or differing lengths. The slots 152 are horizontally extending and allow for horizontal movement of accessories. The slots 152 may be of one length or may be of various length depending on the accessories provided and the amount of adjustment to be provided. The slots 152 are arranged in parallel rows to also allow for vertical adjustment of accessories 80.

Also shown within the lid 114 are a plurality of accessories 80. The accessories 80 may be used alone or in combinations, not necessarily shown. The accessories 80 may be the ones shown or others, in other words the types of accessories and functions are not limited to those shown and the following list should not be considered limiting.

In some embodiments there may be a UV sanitizing light 82 for sterilization of the contents that are deposited in the insulated container 10. Additionally, one or more lights 84 may be disposed in the insulated container 10 to illuminate the insulated container 10 either for the person delivering the contents or the person retrieving the contents.

Still further, a cooling block 86 may be disposed on the accessory grid 40 which cools the interior contents of the insulated container 10, for example when refrigerated or frozen contents are deposited in the insulated container 10. Additionally, one or more storage compartments 88, 89 may be used on the accessory grid for example for storage of delivered items, or storage of things which are small enough that need not be stored in the base of the container 10. Still further, a pharmaceutical storage 90, for example, may be disposed in the lid 14.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a perspective view of the rear of an example accessory 80, for example the light 84, and the accessory grid 40 is depicted. The rear perspective view shows two engagement tab 81 on an accessory 80. The engagement tab 81 flexes and may be squeezed through one or more accessory slots, so that upon passing through the slots 52, the engagement head expands and retains the accessory. This male/female arrangement is shown but it should be understood that the male and female parts may be reversed as well. In the example shown, the accessory light 84 comprises two engagement tabs 81, which pass through one or more of the slots 52. In the non-limiting example, the cross-hair arrangement 54 provides for locating of the light 84 in a vertical orientation, or a horizontal orientation. The two engagement tabs 81 may be spaced apart a specific distance corresponding to the pairs of slots 52 of the cross-hair arrangement 54. Thus, the accessory 80 may be located in various locations of the accessory grid 40 and function with the various slots 52. This provides added functionality and adjustability. Additionally, by varying the arrangement of slots by shape, length, and/or orientation, the slots 52 may provide improved options for the user to arrange the accessories 80 as desired.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a further alternative of the accessory grid 240 is depicted in the embodiment. In this embodiment, the accessory grid 240 has a notch 220, formed so that the accessory grid 240 does not cover all of the lid 14 interior. The notch 220 is an area where the material of the grid 240 and the slots is removed. The accessory grid 240 may also be spaced some distance from the inner surface of the lid 14 which creates an area between the accessory grid 240 and the lid interior for storage. In this way, the notch 220 defines an opening wherein contents may be inserted and stored behind the accessory grid 240.

Additionally, in this view, the accessory grid 240 is shown with still a further pattern of slots 252. The accessory grid 240 is provided with a plurality of slots 252, which are equally spaced in a vertical direction to define rows, and are mostly of equivalent length. The slots 252 near the notch 220 are of shorter length due to the width of the notch 220 and the length between the ends of the notch and the ends of the accessory grid.

With the depicted slots 252, the accessories 80 are adjustable in a horizontal direction, but not in the vertical direction, without changing the connection to the slots 252. Nonetheless, the accessories 80 may change location vertically and horizontally.

With reference now to FIG. 11, a further alternative view is depicted of an accessory grid 340. In this view, the accessory grid 340 comprises slots 352 which extend in longer lengths than the previous embodiments. In this view, the slots 352 nearly all extend from near end to end on the accessory grid 340. As a result, the accessories 84, 90 may be adjusted horizontally for most of the length of the lid.

Also shown in FIG. 11, the base 312 of the container is shown with a plurality of vertical slots. The slots may provide an additional location for vertical positioning of an accessory grid 341 of same or differing size than shown in the lid. The accessory grid 341 in such embodiment may additionally function as a divider to compartmentalize the base, as well as hold devices, such as an ice block. The accessory grid 341 may be size to extend parallel to the long dimension of the container, or may be sized, as shown, to extend parallel to the short dimension of the container. The grid pattern of the accessory grid 341 may be a same or similar pattern to the grid 340 or may have a different grid pattern.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a further embodiment is shown of the accessory grid 440. The grid 440 in this embodiment has a width which may be longer than the lid internal surface. The accessory grid 440 may provide a sag 430 which creates a space for storage similar to the embodiment of FIG. 10 behind the accessory grid 440. Also similar to the embodiment of FIG. 10, the instant accessory grid 440 may also comprise a notch 420. However, in this embodiment, the sag 430 allows for positioning of the accessory grid 440 closer to the lid interior surface, if desirable, or if needed.

Additionally, the slots 452 defined in the accessory grid are arranged to extend vertically. Accordingly, the vertically extending slots 452 are spaced apart horizontally across the accessory grid 440.

Referring to FIG. 13, a perspective view of a plurality of accessories 80 is shown exploded from the accessory grid 40. In the view, the accessories 80 are positioned on the accessory grid 40 with the cross-hair pattern or arrangement 54. This pattern 54 may allow for vertical or horizontal orientation, depending on the arrangement of engagement tabs 81 (FIG. 9) on the accessories 80.

In the depicted view, first and second ice blocks 86 are provided. The ice blocks 86 may include a rotating handle 87 to turn a catch (not shown) and lock the ice block 86 to the accessory grid 40, or alternatively, the ice block 86 may include fixed engagement tabs 81 which extend through one or more of the slots 52 to retain the ice block in position. One or more storage containers or compartments 88, 89 may be used with the accessory grid 40. The two containers 88, 89 are shown with zipper closures for opening and closing but alternate closures such as magnets, snaps, buttons, Velcro, or others may be used. These containers may be for a variety of types of products or devices, typically smaller such as keys, wallets, phones, or the like.

Additionally, a pharmaceutical container 90 is shown exploded from the accessory grid 40. The pharmaceutical container 90 may have a door 92 to open and close the container for deposit and retrieval of the prescriptions following delivery. Further, in some embodiments, the container may also comprise a key lock for connection of the pharmaceutical container 90 to the accessory grid 40, thus locking the container 90 in position and inhibiting removal of the container 90.

The embodiment also comprises an accessory light 84 for illumination when the lid is opened.

At the far right hand side of the container is a supplemental accessory grid 96. The supplemental accessory grid 96 may be connected to the accessory grid 40 and provides additional horizontal adjustment slots 97 in various vertical locations of the supplemental grid.

Referring now to FIG. 14, a perspective view of an alternate insulated container 510 is provided. The embodiment provides a cooler type of insulated container which is generally mobile for use at picnics, tailgates, camping, sporting events, and other activities. The cooler 510 may be actively cooled (compression/absorption cooling) or passively cooled (ice/frozen blocks). The exterior 512 of the cooler 510 is shown with vents for heat transfer from a condenser structure, for example. Alternatively, or additionally, where the cooler is passively cooled, the cooler may comprise a drain plug. The drain plug may be in fluid communication with the interior storage compartment 528. When the drain plug is removed, water or other fluid in the cavity can drain out of the cooler, for example to allow emptying of melted ice from the cooler 510.

The interior of the lid 514 is shown with an accessory grid 40, as in previous embodiments. While accessory grid 540 is shown, the interior of the lid 514 may include any of the grids previous shown and described, or variations thereof. As noted, the accessory grid 40 may be used to locate and retain one or more of the accessories previously described. The accessories may be of the same type, or may be alternatives better suited for whatever activity the cooler is being utilized for. Additionally, or alternatively, the accessory grid 540 may be mounted in such a way that it is disposed over the base 512 and pivoted up from the base 512, as shown in FIG. 15.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: an insulated container having: a base and a lid;said base having an outer shell, an inner shell, and a cavity therebetween having an insulating portion disposed in said cavity, and at least one storage compartment,said lid having a lid outer shell, a lid inner shell and a lid cavity therebetween having a lid insulating portion therebetween,an accessory grid disposed adjacent to the lid inner shell;said accessory grid configured to be releasably secured to the lid inner shell, the accessory grid comprising: a plurality of accessory mount holes extending through a first surface and a second surface of the accessory grid, the plurality of accessory mount holes adapted to receive at least one mount tab of an accessory; andan underlid attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid to the lid of the insulated container;the accessory sized and shaped to be connected to said accessory grid within said insulated container.

2. The system of claim 1, said plurality of accessory mount holes being slots.

3. The system of claim 2, said slots being one or both of horizontal or vertical.

4. The system of claim 2, said accessory grid further comprising one or more strengthen ribs.

5. The system of claim 1 further comprising a notch allowing for storage behind said accessory grid.

6. The system of claim 5, further comprising a storage location behind said accessory grid.

7. The system of claim 1, said accessory grid being sized to provide a movable sag for storage therein.

8. The system of claim 1, said accessory comprising at least one of a storage container, pharmaceutical container, light, UV sanitizing light, or an ice block.

9. The system of claim 1, said accessory comprising one or more engagement tabs.

10. The system of claim 1, said lid comprising a plurality of attachment elements for connection of said accessory grid.

11. The system of claim 10, said plurality of attachment elements being rotating locks.

12. The system of claim 1, said accessory grid being formed integrally within said lid.

13. The system of claim 1, said accessory grid hingedly connected to pivot from a first position to a second upper position adjacent.

14. The system of claim 1, said base having a plurality of slots capable of receiving a second accessory grid which is capable of functioning as a divider.

15. An accessory grid for securing an accessory to an insulated container, the accessory grid comprising: a first surface on a first side and a second surface on a second opposed side;a plurality of accessory mount holes extending through said first surface and said second surface, the plurality of accessory mount holes adapted to receive at least one engagement tab of said accessory; andan attachment mechanism that secures the accessory grid to a lid of the insulated container.

16. The accessory grid of claim 15, wherein the plurality of accessory mount holes define a plurality of slots for removably attaching the accessory at a plurality of positions along the accessory grid.

17. The accessory grid of claim 16 wherein the plurality of slots may extend in either or both of two dimensions.

18. The accessory grid of claim 15, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a plurality of mount holes adapted to receive a plurality of accessory grid attachment elements of the lid of the insulated container.