Patent Application
20210086979
This disclosure relates generally to a port-able storage container for storing objects, such as food and/or beverages.
It is often desirable to bring along food or beverages when traveling or when participating in remote leisure activities. Often, the food may be perishable and the ambient temperature may be high (for instance, at a beach location), so it is desirable to keep the perishable food in a temperature controlled environment to avoid spoiling. Similarly, beverages, such as canned or bottled beverages, may also be consumed, and it is desired to keep such beverages cool until consumption. Meal delivery kits including perishable items are shipped to consumers in shipping containers. Portable storage containers, including insulated and non-insulated storage containers, coolers, and/or insulated shipping containers, may also be used for a variety of other purposes or activities including hunting, fishing, camping, medical purposes, general storage, grocery delivery, meal kit shipping, other food delivery, and/or other business or personal purposes. Exemplary portable storage containers are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. Nos. 15/398,468, filed Jan. 4, 2017, 15/494,020, filed Apr. 21, 2017, and 62/508,099, filed May 18, 2017, the disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Transporting or shipping the storage containers may be relatively difficult or expensive due to the relatively large volume of the container. In some situations, it may be desirable for the storage container to have an expanded configuration providing a larger interior space for storing food and/or beverages and a collapsed, smaller configuration for transporting an empty container.
Portable storage containers are used for a variety of purposes and in conjunction with a variety of activities. In some exemplary embodiments, the storage container may be insulated to assist in keeping one or more items cool, cold, frozen, warm, or hot. The storage container may also be used to protect one or more items from damage, bumps, scratching, impact, water, rain, snow, mud, dust, dirt, light, visibility, theft, chemicals, and/or contaminants. The storage container may also be used to organize and/or transport items stored therein. While most of the examples discussed herein are illustrated with respect to a “cooler,” it should be understood that the techniques and features disclosed herein are applicable to other types of storage containers or temperature control containers. Further, shipping containers of the type disclosed herein may be used for storage or transportation purposes and need not necessarily include insulating characteristics. The containers disclosed herein may be configured to be carried or transported in a plurality of ways or configurations.
In one exemplary embodiment a portable insulated storage container is provided. The storage container includes an insulated body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items, the insulated body having a base, first and second opposing end panels, and first and second opposing side panels. The first and second opposing end panels are each configured to move between a first vertical position and a second horizontal position. Each of the first and second opposing side panels includes an upper portion connected to a lower portion by a respective hinge. The first and second opposing side panels are each configured to rotate about their corresponding hinge between a first vertical storage position and a second stacked position. The container includes an insulated lid configured to engage the insulated body to close the internal cavity.
In a more particular embodiment, the storage container includes a flexible liner covering at least a portion of the internal cavity. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the hinge on each side panel is a living hinge. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the insulated body includes an upper perimeter portion. The first and second opposing end panels are configured to releasably attach direct to the perimeter portion in the second horizontal orientation. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the insulated body includes an upper perimeter portion and the first and second opposing end panels are positioned within a space defined by the upper perimeter portion in the second horizontal orientation. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the body is configured to releasably attach directly to the base when the first and second opposing side panels are in the stacked configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container has a first height when the first and second opposing end panels are in the first vertical position and the first and second opposing side panels are in the first vertical position and a second height when the first and second opposing end panels are in the second horizontal position and a second horizontal position and the first and second opposing side panels are in the second stacked position, the first height being greater than the second height.
In one exemplary embodiment a collapsible shipping container is provided. The container has a first configuration and a second configuration. The container includes an insulated base and an insulated upper perimeter portion. The container includes a plurality of insulated side panels extending between the upper perimeter portion and the base, each of the plurality of the insulated side panels being movable between a respective first position and a respective second position. The shipping container is in the first configuration when all of the insulated side panels are in the respective first positions. The shipping container collapses into the second configuration when all of the side panels are in the respective second positions. The collapsible shipping container has a height in the first configuration that is greater than a height of the shipping container in the second configuration. The container includes an insulated lid removably attachable to the upper perimeter portion for selectively closing and accessing an internal storage volume of the shipping container. The internal storage volume is defined by the insulated base, the plurality of insulated side panels, the insulated upper perimeter portion and the insulated lid. The container includes a latching mechanism for temporarily maintaining the shipping container in the first configuration. The latching mechanism latches at least two of the insulated side panels in the respective first positions to temporarily maintain the shipping container in the first configuration. The container includes a flexible liner attached to the upper perimeter portion and configured to line the internal storage volume. The flexible liner has a first surface facing the internal storage volume and a second surface facing at least one of the insulated base and the insulated side panels. The flexible liner has a handle attached to the first surface and accessible from inside the internal storage volume. The container includes a strap attached to the second surface of the flexible liner and attached to the latching mechanism. The strap disengages the latching mechanism when the handle of the flexible liner is pulled from the internal storage volume, the disengaging of the latching mechanism permitting the shipping container to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration.
In a more particular embodiment, the latching mechanism includes a first latching apparatus associated with a first panel of the plurality of insulated side panels and a second latching apparatus associated with a second panel of the plurality of side panels, the second panel being opposite the first panel. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second panels pivot inward toward the internal storage volume enabling the shipping container to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, a third panel of the plurality of insulated side panels is opposite a fourth panel of the plurality of insulated side panels, each of the third and fourth panels having an upper portion connected to a lower portion by a hinging element. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, each latching apparatus includes a movable biased tab attached to the respective side panel, the movable biased tab extending into a slot in the insulated base to temporarily retain the respective side panel in the respective first position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, a force applied to the strap retracts the biased tabs from the slots in the insulated base to unlatch the latching mechanism. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the strap is attached to the flexible liner without piercing the flexible liner. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the strap is detachable from the flexible liner and/or the latching mechanism. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the flexible liner is removable from the collapsible shipping container. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the flexible liner is liquid impermeable. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the flexible liner has insulating characteristics. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the insulated lid includes one or more receptacles for receiving a temperature control element and one or more shelves for retaining the temperature control element, each shelf including one or more convection apertures.
In one exemplary embodiment, a configurable shipping container has a first configuration and a second configuration. The shipping container includes a base and an upper portion. The shipping container includes a plurality of side panels extending between the upper portion and the base, each of the plurality of the side panels being movable between a first position and a second position. The shipping container is in the first configuration when all of the side panels are in the respective first positions. The shipping container is in the second configuration when all of the side panels are in the respective second positions. The first configuration of the shipping container has a height that is greater than a height of the second configuration. The shipping container includes a lid for selectively accessing and closing an internal storage volume of the shipping container, the internal storage volume defined by the base, the upper portion, the plurality of side panels, and the lid. The shipping container includes latching mechanisms for temporarily maintaining the shipping container in the first configuration. The latching mechanisms temporarily latch at least two of the side panels in the respective first positions to temporarily maintain the shipping container in the first configuration. The shipping container includes a flexible liner attached to the upper portion and configured to line at least a portion of the internal storage volume of the shipping container. The shipping container includes a strap attached to the flexible liner and the latching mechanisms. The strap disengages the latching mechanisms when the flexible liner is pulled away from the internal storage volume. The disengaging of the latching mechanisms releases the at least two of the side panels from the respective first positions thereby permitting the shipping container to transition from the first configuration to the second configuration.
In a more particular embodiment, the flexible liner includes a handle attached to an inner surface of the flexible liner, the handle being accessible from the internal storage volume. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the side panels, and the lid include vacuum insulated panels. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a securing mechanism for securing the configurable shipping container in the second configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the at least two of the side panels are opposite each other and hinge inward toward the internal storage volume when in the respective second positions. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the flexible liner is replaceable.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable insulated storage container has at least two configurations. The container includes an insulated body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items. The insulated body includes a base. The body includes first and second opposing end panels each configured to move between a first vertical orientation and a second horizontal orientation, each of the first and second opposing end panels including a respective latching mechanism for engaging the base for temporarily maintaining the first and second opposing end panels in the first vertical orientation. The body includes first and second opposing side panels each including an upper portion connected to a lower portion by a respective hinge. The first and second opposing side panels are each configured to rotate about their respective hinge between a first vertical configuration and a second stacked configuration. The portable insulated storage container is in a collapsed configuration when each of the opposing side panels are in the second stacked configuration and each of the opposing end panels are in the second horizontal orientation. The container includes an insulated lid configured to close an opening of the insulated body to close the internal cavity. The container includes a strap removably attached to the respective latching mechanisms of the first and second opposing end panels for releasing both the first and second opposing end panels from the first vertical orientation to the second horizontal orientation when the strap is pulled.
In a more particular embodiment, the container includes a liquid impermeable liner which lines the internal cavity of the insulated body, wherein the strap is removably adhered to a surface of the liquid impermeable liner that is opposite a surface of the liquid impermeable liner facing into the internal cavity. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a handle adhered to the surface of the liquid impermeable liner facing into the internal cavity of the insulated body, wherein the strap and the handle are adhered to the liquid impermeable liner without puncturing the liquid impermeable liner. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the liquid impermeable liner includes one or more of an antimicrobial coating and an insulating layer.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The portable storage container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items. The body includes an upper perimeter portion, a base, and first and second opposing side panels each connecting the body to the base. The body includes first and second opposing end panels pivotably attached to the upper perimeter portion. The first end panel includes a movable locking member extending from a surface of the first end panel. The movable locking member is configured to be movable between a locked position. The movable locking member is received in a recess of the base and an unlocked position. The movable locking member prevents the first end panel from pivoting with respect to the upper perimeter member when the movable locking member is in the locked position. The movable locking member permits the first end panel to pivot with respect to the upper perimeter when the movable locking member is in the unlocked position. The container includes a liner at least partially positioned in the internal cavity, the liner having opposing inner and outer surfaces, the inner surface including a handle, the handle operably connected to the movable locking member. The handle is configured such that a first movement of the handle is configured to move the movable locking member from the locked to the unlocked position and the portable storage container from the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration.
In a more particular embodiment, the first movement includes moving the handle in a direction away from the base. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels each extend between the perimeter portion and the base in a vertical storage position when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels each extend from the perimeter portion substantially parallel to the base in a horizontal shipping position when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the handle is independently connected to the first and second opposing end panels such that the first movement of the handle results in the movement of the first and second opposing end panels from the vertical storage position to the horizontal shipping position.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the movable locking member is positioned proximate a bottom surface of the first end panel. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first end panel includes a biasing member attached to the movable locking member, the biasing member biasing the movable locking member in the locked position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the handle is operably connected to a strap, the strap being connected to the biasing member, wherein the strap is configured such that a first movement of the handle transmits a force through the strap and the biasing member to move the movable locking member from the locked to the unlocked position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the handle is attached to the inner surface of the liner and the strap is attached to the outer surface of the liner. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the handle and strap are independently attached to the liner with an adhesive and wherein the inner surface and the outer surface of the liner are each continuous proximate the handle and the strap.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the second end panel includes a second movable locking member extending from a surface of the second end panel, the second movable locking member configured to be movable between a locked position wherein the second movable locking member is received in a second recess of the base and an unlocked position wherein the second movable locking member prevents the second end panel from pivoting with respect to the upper perimeter member when the second movable locking member is in the locked position and the second movable locking member permits the second end panel to pivot with respect to the upper perimeter when the second movable locking member is in the unlocked position. The second end panel includes a second biasing member attached to the second movable locking member, the second biasing member biasing the movable locking member in the locked position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the handle is operably connected to a strap, the strap being connected to the first biasing member and the second biasing member, wherein the strap is configured such that a first movement of the handle transmits a first force through the strap and the biasing member to move the movable locking member from the locked to the unlocked position and a second force through the strap and the second biasing member to move the second movable locking member from the locked to the unlocked position.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a lid configured to removably engage the body to removably seal the internal cavity. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the internal cavity is defined by the base, the first and second opposing end panels, the first and second opposing side panels, and the engaged lid. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the internal cavity defines an expanded volume when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration and a collapsed volume when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, the expanded volume being greater than the collapsed volume.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels are each pivotably attached to the perimeter portion. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels each extend between the perimeter portion and the base in a vertical storage position when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels each extend from the perimeter portion substantially parallel to the base in a horizontal shipping position when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first side panel is pivotably attached to at least one of the perimeter portion and the base. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first side panel includes an upper portion pivotably attached to the perimeter portion and a lower portion pivotably attached to the base. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper portion is connected to the lower portion by a hinge. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a hoop configured to secure the liner to the upper perimeter portion.
In one exemplary embodiment, an insulated portable storage container movable between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration is provided. The container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items. The body includes an insulated upper perimeter portion, an insulated base, first and second opposing side panels each connecting the body to the base. The first side panel includes an insulated first upper portion pivotably attached to the perimeter portion and an insulated first lower portion pivotably attached to the base and the second side panel includes an insulated second upper portion pivotably attached to the perimeter portion and an insulated second lower portion pivotably attached to the base, and first and second opposing insulated end panels pivotably attached to the upper perimeter portion. The first and second opposing end panels each extend between the perimeter portion and the base in a vertical storage position when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration. The first and second opposing end panels each extend from the perimeter portion substantially parallel to the base in a horizontal shipping position when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration. The container includes a liner at least partially positioned in the internal cavity, the liner including a handle operably connected to the first end panel. The handle is configured such that a first movement of the handle is configured to move the first end panel from the vertical storage position to the horizontal shipping position. The liner includes an insulated lid configured to engage the body to removably seal the internal cavity.
In a more particular embodiment, the first upper portion is connected to the first lower portion by a first hinge and wherein the second upper portion is connected to the second lower portion by a second hinge. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first end panel includes a movable locking member extending from a surface of the first end panel, wherein the locking member is configured such that the first movement of the handle moves the locking member from a locked position in which the locking member resists the movement of the first end panel from the vertical storage position to the horizontal shipping position to an unlocked position in which the locking member permits the movement of the first end panel from the vertical storage position to the horizontal shipping position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first end panel includes a biasing member attached to the movable locking member, the biasing member biasing the movable locking member in the locked position.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the handle is operably connected to a strap, the strap being connected to the biasing member, wherein the strap is configured such that a first movement of the handle transmits a force through the strap and the biasing member to move the movable locking member from the locked to the unlocked position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the base includes a recess for receiving the movable locking member when the movable locking member is in the locked position.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, at least one of the upper perimeter portion, the base, the first side panel, the second side panel, the first end panel, the second panel, and the lid includes a vacuum insulated panel. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper perimeter portion, the base, the first side panel, the second side panel, the first end panel, the second panel, and the lid each includes one or more vacuum insulated panels. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes an insulating gasket between the upper perimeter portion and at least one of the first side panel, the second side panel, the first end panel, the second panel, and the lid.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The portable storage container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items, the body including an upper perimeter portion, a base, first and second opposing side panels each connecting the body to the base. The body includes first and second opposing end panels pivotably attached to the upper perimeter portion. The container includes an insulated lid configured to engage the body to removably seal the internal cavity and a liner at least partially positioned in the internal cavity and connected to the first and second opposing end panels, the liner including a handle connected to a movable locking mechanism of the first end, the movable locking mechanism including a projection configured to be moved between a locked position and an unlocked position upon a first movement of the handle, the projection engaging the base to resist movement of the first end relative to the base when the projection is in the locked position, and the projection permitting movement of the first end relative to the base when the projection is in the unlocked position.
In a more particular embodiment, the first and second opposing end panels each extend between the perimeter portion and the base in a vertical storage position when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration and wherein the first and second opposing end panels each extend from the perimeter portion substantially parallel to the base in a horizontal shipping position when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first end is configured such that the first movement of the handle moves the first end panel from the vertical storage position to the horizontal shipping position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first movement includes moving the handle in a direction away from the base.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first side panel includes an insulated first upper portion pivotably attached to the perimeter portion and an insulated first lower portion pivotably attached to the base and the second side panel includes an insulated second upper portion pivotably attached to the perimeter portion and an insulated second lower portion pivotably attached to the base. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first upper portion is connected to the first lower portion by a first hinge and wherein the second upper portion is connected to the second lower portion by a second hinge. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first upper portion includes a first outer surface and an opposing first inner surface and the first lower portion includes a second outer surface and a second inner surface, wherein the first outer surface and the second outer surface form an outer side surface of the portable storage container when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first outer surface is adjacent the second outer surface when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the internal cavity defines an extended volume when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration and a collapsed volume when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, the expanded volume being greater than the collapsed volume. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container has an expanded volume when the container is in the expanded configuration and a collapsed height when the container is in the collapsed configuration, the expanded height being greater than the collapsed height.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container is provided. The container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items, the body including a base, a perimeter portion, first and second opposing end panels extending from the perimeter portion, and first and second opposing side panels extending from the perimeter portion, and a lid configured to engage the body to close the internal cavity. The perimeter portion includes a securing mechanism including a locking lip, the portable storage container having an expanded configuration in which the locking lip is configured to releasably engage a side panel locking portion of the first side panel to prevent movement of the first side panel relative to the upper perimeter portion when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration, and the portable storage container having a collapsed configuration in which the locking lip is configured to releasably engage a base locking portion of the base to prevent movement of the base relative to the upper perimeter portion when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration.
In a more particular embodiment, the side panel locking portion includes a groove, the locking lip being received within the groove to prevent movement of the first side panel relative to the perimeter portion when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the base panel locking portion includes a groove, the locking lip being received within the groove to prevent movement of the base relative to the perimeter portion when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper perimeter portion includes a rotatable portion movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the rotatable portion including the locking lip. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the locking lip is configured to engage the side panel locking portion when the rotatable portion is in the locked position and the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration, the locking lip is configured to engage the base locking portion when the rotatable portion is in the locked position and the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, and the locking lip is configured to not engage either the side panel locking portion or the base locking portion when the rotatable portion is in the unlocked position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a button movable between an expanded configuration and a depressed configuration, wherein the button is configured to maintain the rotatable portion in the locked position when the button is in the expanded configuration and the button is configured to allow the rotatable portion to move between the locked position and the unlocked position when the button is in the depressed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a biasing element configured to bias the button in the expanded configuration.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the securing mechanism includes a second locking lip, the second locking lip configured to releasably engage a lid locking portion of the lid. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the lid locking portion includes a groove, the second locking lip being received within the groove to prevent movement of the engaged lid relative to the body. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the perimeter portion includes a rotatable portion movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the rotatable portion including the locking lip and the second locking lip. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the internal cavity is defined by the base, the first and second opposing end panels, the first and second opposing side panels, and the engaged lid.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the internal cavity defines an extended volume when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration and a collapsed volume when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, the expanded volume being greater than the collapsed volume.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels are each pivotably attached to the perimeter portion. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels each extend between the perimeter portion and the base in a vertical storage position when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first and second opposing end panels each extend from the perimeter portion substantially parallel to the base in a horizontal shipping position when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first side panel is pivotably attached to at least one of the perimeter portion and the base. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the first side panel includes an upper portion pivotably attached to the perimeter portion and a lower portion pivotably attached to the base. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper portion is connected to the lower portion by a hinge.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container having an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration is provided. The portable storage container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items. The body includes an upper perimeter portion including a rotatable portion having a locking lip movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, a base including a groove configured to receive the locking lip when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, first and second opposing end panels, the first end panel including a groove configured to receive the locking lip when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration, and first and second opposing side panels each extending between the upper perimeter portion and the base.
In a more particular embodiment, the locking lip is configured to prevent movement of the first side panel relative to the upper perimeter portion when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration, and locking lip is configured to prevent movement of the base relative to the upper perimeter portion when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the locking lip is configured to be received within the groove of the first end panel when the rotatable portion is in the locked position and the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration, the locking lip is configured to be received within the groove of the base when the rotatable portion is in the locked position and the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, and the locking lip is configured to not be received within either the groove of the first end panel or the groove of the base when the rotatable portion is in the unlocked position.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper perimeter portion includes a second rotatable portion having a second locking lip movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the base includes a second groove configured to receive the second locking lip when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, and the second end panel includes a second groove configured to receive the locking lip when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a button movable between an expanded configuration and a depressed configuration, wherein the button is configured to maintain the rotatable portion in the locked position when the button is in the expanded configuration and the button is configured to allow the rotatable portion to move between the locked position and the unlocked position when the button is in the depressed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a biasing element configured to bias the button in the expanded configuration.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a lid configured to removably engage the body to close the internal cavity. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the securing mechanism includes a second locking lip, the second locking lip configured to releasably engage a groove of the lid, the second locking lip configured to be received within the groove of the lid to prevent movement of the engaged lid relative to the body. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the locking lip is configured to be received within the groove of the first end panel and the second locking lip is configured to be received with in the groove of the engaged lid when the rotatable portion is in the locked position and the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration, the locking lip is configured to be received within the groove of the base and the second locking lip is configured to be received with in the groove of the engaged lid when the rotatable portion is in the locked position and the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration, and the locking lip is configured to not to be received within either the groove of the first end panel or the groove of the base and the second locking lip is configured to not be received within the groove of the engaged lid when the rotatable portion is in the unlocked position.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper portion includes a post about which the rotatable portion rotates to move the locking lip between the locked position and the unlocked position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the locking lip, the post, and the second locking lip are positioned in a substantially straight line.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The portable storage container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items. The body includes an upper perimeter portion, a base, first and second opposing end panels, and first and second opposing side panels. The upper perimeter portion includes means for selectively engaging the first side panel when the portable storage container is in the expanded configuration and the base when the portable storage container is in the collapsed configuration.
In a more particular embodiment, the container includes a lid configured to engage the body to removably seal the internal cavity and wherein the upper perimeter portion includes means for selectively engaging the lid.
In one exemplary embodiment, a configurable shipping container has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration is provided. The shipping container includes an insulated base and an insulated upper portion. The container includes a plurality of insulated side panels extending between the upper portion and the base, the side panels movable to transition the shipping container between the expanded configuration and the collapsed configuration. The shipping container has a height in the expanded configuration that is greater than a height of the shipping container in the collapsed configuration. The container includes an insulated lid configured to close an internal storage volume of the shipping container when the lid is in a closed position and provide access to the internal storage volume when the lid is in an opened position. The lid includes a first receptacle and a second receptacle that face the internal storage volume when the lid is in the closed position, each of the first and second receptacles configured to receive one or more temperature control elements. The lid includes a first shelf and a second shelf, each shelf configured to cover at least a portion of a respective one of the first and second receptacles to hold the one or more ice packs in the respective one of the receptacles; and a slot between the first and second receptacles. The container includes a removable divider for dividing the internal storage volume into a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment when the shipping container is in the expanded configuration. A slot proximate the base and the slot in the lid receive respective edges of the divider for holding the divider in place. The first receptacle is associated with the first storage compartment and the second receptacle is associated with the second storage compartment.
In a more particular embodiment the container includes a removable flexible liner configured to line at least a portion of the internal storage volume. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the flexible liner is liquid impermeable and/or has anti-microbial characteristics. In another more particular embodiment, the slot proximate the base is formed in the base, in the liner, or in a handle coupled to the liner.
In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, one or more of the plurality of side panels includes a slot for receiving an edge of the removable divider. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the base includes a second slot and the lid includes a corresponding second slot for receiving the respective edges of the divider for holding the divider in place in a second position. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, at least one of the shelves includes one or more apertures for allowing convective air movement between the associated storage compartment and the associated receptacle. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the base includes a second slot for receiving a second divider for defining a third storage compartment in the internal storage volume, and the lid includes a third receptacle, a third shelf, and a second slot for receiving the second divider. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a securing mechanism configured to secure the lid in the closed position when the shipping container is in the expanded configuration, and secure the lid in the closed position and secure the shipping container in the collapsed configuration when the shipping container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the divider is insulated.
In one exemplary embodiment, a configurable shipping container system is provided. The system includes a configurable shipping container having an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The shipping container includes an insulated base, an insulated upper portion, a plurality of insulated side panels extending between the upper portion and the base, the side panels movable to transition the shipping container between the expanded configuration and the collapsed configuration. The shipping container has a height in the expanded configuration that is greater than a height of the shipping container in the collapsed configuration, and an insulated lid configured to close an internal storage volume of the shipping container when the lid is in a closed position and provide access to the internal storage volume when the lid is in an opened position, the lid including a first receptacle and a second receptacle each facing the internal storage volume when the lid is in the closed position, each of the first and second receptacles configured to receive one or more temperature control elements, the lid including a slot positioned between the first and second receptacles. The system includes a first shelf and a second shelf, each shelf configured to cover at least a portion of a respective one of the first and second receptacles to hold the one or more ice packs in the respective one of the receptacles, each of the first and second shelves including one or more convection apertures, and a removable divider for dividing the internal storage volume into a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment when the shipping container is in the expanded configuration. A slot proximate the base and the slot in the lid receive respective edges of the divider for holding the divider in place. The first receptacle is associated with the first storage compartment and the second receptacle is associated with the second storage compartment.
In a more particular embodiment, the system includes a removable flexible liner configured to line at least a portion of the internal storage volume. In another more particular embodiment, the slot proximate the base is formed in the base, in the liner, or in a handle coupled to the liner. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the system includes a strap for releasing the configurable shipping container from the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration, the strap attached to two or more of the insulated side panels. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the strap is attached to the flexible liner. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the flexible liner is liquid impermeable and has anti-microbial characteristics. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the system includes a securing mechanism configured to: secure the lid in the closed position when the shipping container is in the expanded configuration, and secure the lid in the closed position and secure the shipping container in the collapsed configuration when the configurable shipping container is in the collapsed configuration. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the shipping container is configurable to maintain the first storage compartment in a first temperature range that is different than a second temperature range of the second storage compartment. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the system includes a second divider. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the system includes a tamper resistant closure or tamper evident closure for the insulated lid. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the system includes a lock for the insulated lid.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container is provided. The container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items, the body including a base and a plurality sides, each of the plurality of sides having an internal surface and an opposing external surface, the body having an upper perimeter including an internal lip extending around the internal cavity. The container includes a liner at least partially positioned in the internal cavity and covering an interior surface of the base and the internal surface of each of the plurality of sides, the liner including an edge region around a perimeter of the liner, and a hoop coupling the upper perimeter of the body to the edge region of the liner. The hoop includes an upper perimeter portion, a connecting portion extending downward from the upper perimeter portion, and a securing portion extending upward from the connecting portion, the securing portion exerting a force through the liner against the plurality of sides to secure the liner in the internal cavity.
In one more particular embodiment, the securing portion exerts a force through the liner against the internal lip of the body to resist the hoop from being removed from the body. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the securing portion includes an outer surface and a distal end, the outer surface exerting the force through the liner against the plurality of sides to secure the liner in the internal cavity, and the distal end exerting the force through the line against the internal lip of the body to resist the hoop from being removed from the body. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the connecting portion has a thickness substantially similar to a thickness of the securing portion, and wherein an intermediate portion connecting the connecting portion and the securing portion has a thickness less than the thickness of the connecting portion. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the upper perimeter includes a recess extending around the internal cavity, the hoop being received within the recess. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a lid configured to be removably attached to the body. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the container includes a gasket positioned in a recess formed in one of the hoop and the lid, the gasket contacting the other of the hoop and the lid when the lid is attached to the body to thermally seal the internal cavity of the body. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the recess extends around an upper surface of the hoop. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the plurality of sides includes one or more vacuum insulated panels. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the hoop includes a plurality of sides, the upper perimeter portion and the connecting portion forming a continuous perimeter around the plurality of sides of the hoop.
In one exemplary embodiment, a portable storage container is provided. The container includes a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items, the body including a base and a plurality sides, each of the plurality of sides having an upper surface, an internal surface and an opposing external surface, a liner at least partially positioned in the internal cavity and covering an interior surface of the base, the internal surface of each of the plurality of sides, and at least a portion of the upper surface of each of the plurality of sides, and a hoop coupled to the upper surface of each of the plurality of sides, the hoop having a plurality of outwardly engaging projections applying a force through the liner to the body, the hoop securing the liner in the body.
In one more particular embodiment, the body includes a recess positioned in the upper surface of each of the plurality of sides, the recess forming a perimeter extending around the internal cavity, the hoop being positioned in the recess. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the body includes an internal lip extending outward from the internal surface of one of the plurality of sides, the outwardly engaging projections engaging the internal lip through the liner to maintain the hoop in the internal cavity. In another more particular embodiment of any of the above or below embodiments, the outwardly engaging projections have a bias in a direction towards the body.
In one exemplary embodiment, a method of assembly a storage container is provided. The method includes providing a body having an internal cavity for storing one or more items, the body including a base and a plurality sides each having a top surface, an internal surface and an opposing external surface, the body having an upper perimeter including an internal lip extending around the internal cavity, each of the plurality of sides having an internal side and an opposing external side, the body having an upper perimeter including an internal lip extending around the internal cavity. The method also includes inserting a liner having a perimeter region into the internal cavity, the liner fully covering the internal lip and internal surface of each of the plurality of sides. The method also includes attaching a hoop to the body, the hoop including an upper perimeter portion, a connecting portion extending downward from the upper perimeter portion, and a securing portion extending upward from the connecting portion, whereby attaching the hoop compresses the securing portion against the connecting portion causing the securing portion to exert a force through the liner to the internal surface of each of the plurality of sides, the force securing the liner between the body and the hoop.
In another embodiment, a collapsible shipping container includes an insulated base, an upper perimeter portion including one or more securing mechanisms, a plurality of insulated side panels, and an insulated lid. The plurality of insulated side panels extend between the upper perimeter portion and the base. Each of the plurality of insulated side panels is movable between a respective first position and a respective second position, wherein the collapsible shipping container is in the first configuration when all of the insulated side panels are in the respective first positions and wherein the collapsible shipping container collapses into the second configuration when all of the side panels are in the respective second positions. The collapsible shipping container has a height in the first configuration that is greater than a height of the collapsible shipping container in the second configuration. The insulated lid is removably attachable to the upper perimeter portion for selectively closing and accessing an internal storage volume. The internal storage volume is defined by the insulated base, the plurality of insulated side panels, the upper perimeter portion, and the insulated lid. Each of the one or more securing mechanisms of the upper perimeter portion is configured to removably secure a lower edge of the upper perimeter portion to the insulated base when the collapsible shipping container is in the second configuration. Each of the one or more securing mechanisms is also configured to removably secure the insulated lid to an upper edge of the upper perimeter portion in both the first and the second configurations.
Other variations and embodiments are possible, including variations and embodiments which do not necessarily include all of the elements described above or below and/or variations and embodiments which may include additional elements.
Container 100 includes a body 110 and a lid 120. Body 110 provides an internal cavity, storage compartment, or storage area 102 (
Body 110 and/or lid 120 may be rigid or may contain portions that are flexible, bendable, soft, compliant, stretchable, and/or compressible. In some cases, one or more portions of container 100 may be partially or fully collapsible when not in use as described herein. Various portions of container 100 may be attached using one or more methods including sewing, gluing, adhesive, electro-welding, thermoplastic welding, co-molding, melting, and/or fasteners. One or more parts of container 100 may be waterproof, water-resistant, abrasion resistant, tear resistant, and/or puncture resistant.
Lid 120 may be fully removable from body 110 (as illustrated in
Referring to
In some exemplary embodiments, container 100 has a first expanded configuration as illustrated in
An upper portion of each end panel 116 is pivotably connected to upper perimeter portion 114 of body 110. A lower portion of each end panel is releasably coupled to base 112 by an attachment mechanism 132, such as by a snap or détente or other suitable mechanism (see
Each side panel 118 is illustratively formed from a lower side panel 118A and an upper side panel 118B. Each lower side panel 118A is pivotably connected to the base 112 with one or more pins 138. Each upper side panel 118B is pivotably connected to the upper perimeter portion 114 with one or more pins 138. Lower side panel 118A and upper side panel 118B are illustratively connected by a hinge 130, such as a living hinge. As described below with respect to
Referring to
Referring to
Liner 148 is illustratively formed from a bendable, and/or flexible material, such as a polymer or fabric. Beneficially, the bendable and/or flexible nature of liner 148 allows the liner to conform to the size of the storage area 102 when the container 100 is configured as illustrated in
Referring next to
In
In
Although not illustrated in
Referring next to
Referring next to
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
Body 110 further includes first and second opposing end panels 116 extending downwardly from upper perimeter portion 114. Each end panel 116 includes a pivoting connector 214, such as a circular or semi-circular end, to rotatably attach the end panel 116 to the upper perimeter portion 114 with one or more pins 134.
Body 110 further includes first and second opposing side panels 118, each including a lower portion 118A extending upwardly from the base 112 and an upper portion 118B extending downwardly from upper perimeter portion 114. Each lower portion 118A is rotatably attached to a corresponding upper portion 118B with a hinge 130, such as a living hinge. Each panel portion 118A, 118B includes a pivoting connector 214, such as a circular or semi-circular end, to rotatably attach the panel portion 118A, 118B to either the base or the upper perimeter portion 114 with one or more pins 138.
In the illustrative embodiments shown in
In some exemplary embodiments, container 100 further includes a flexible liner 148 separating the interior storage area 102 from the body 110 of container 100. Liner 148 is attached to upper perimeter portion with hoop 142. Liner 148 includes a first surface 148A facing the internal storage area 102 of container 100 and a second opposing surface 148B facing at least one of the base 112, end panels 116, and side panels 118 (see
In some embodiments, liner 148 is removably and/or replaceably attached to upper perimeter portion 114 with hoop 142. In other embodiments, liner 148 may be permanently attached to upper perimeter portion 114. Upper perimeter portion 114 and/or hoop 142 may include one or more gaskets 144 for sealing with lid 120 when lid is attached to body 110.
In some exemplary embodiments, one or more of base 112, upper perimeter portion 114, end panels 116, side panels 118, and lid 120 include insulation or one or more insulating elements, such as foam, expanding foam, closed cell foam, structural foam, spray foam, blanket materials, one more evacuated cavities, one more vacuum panels 108 (see
The sides of container 100, namely end panels 116 and side panels 118, are movable between a first vertical storage position when the container is in the first expanded configuration, such as shown in
Referring next to
In the embodiment illustrated in
Lid 120 illustratively includes one or more handles 124. As illustrated in
As illustrated in
In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in
In some exemplary embodiments, the lid includes a plurality of shelves 160, each configured to cover at least a portion of one of the receptacles 158. The receptacles 158 are held in place by one or more tabs 162 on the bottom portion of lid 120. Each shelf 160 is configured to hold or support the temperature control element positioned in the corresponding receptacle 158. In other exemplary embodiments, the temperature control element may be directly attached to lid 120, such as snapping into tabs 162 of lid 120, or movable retaining element such as a screw or rotatable tab.
As illustrated in
Referring next to
In some exemplary embodiments, at least one of liner 148 and body 110 includes slots 128 at least partially extending around installed divider 140 to support the container 100 in the expanded configuration.
Referring next to
As illustrated in
In some exemplary embodiments, it may be desirable to thermally isolated isolate adjacent first portion 102A and second portion 102B of internal storage area 102. In these embodiments, a first temperature control element may be placed in first receptacle 158A to maintain the first portion 102A at a first temperature and a second temperature control element may be placed in second receptacle 158B to maintain the second portion 102B at a second temperature that is different than the first temperature. In one embodiment, the first temperature control element is dry ice and the second temperature control element is an ice pack or reusable cold pack to maintain a first temperature that is colder than the second temperature.
In some exemplary embodiments, slots 128 form a seal with an insulated divider 140 to thermally isolate adjacent first portion 102A and second portion 102B of internal storage area 102. In some exemplary embodiments, divider 140 is formed as a part of liner 148 to thermally isolate adjacent first portion 102A and second portion 102B of internal storage area 102.
Each slot 168 in the lid 120 and/or side panels 118, as well as each slot 170 in the handle 230 or base 112 illustratively acts as a divider 140 positioning feature to maintain the position of divider 140 within the internal storage area 102. When positioned one or more slots 168, 170, divider 140 supports the shape of container 100.
Referring next to
As shown in
In some exemplary embodiments, the intermediate portion 268 has a thinner cross sectional area relative to the connecting portion 264 and/or securing portion 266, allowing the securing portion 266 to flex about the intermediate portion 268 relative to the securing portion 266. In one exemplary embodiment, the flexible intermediate portion 268 biases the securing portion 266 at an angle to the vertical connecting portion 264 in a direction towards the exterior surface of the container 100 when the hoop 142 is installed in the upper perimeter portion 114. In some exemplary embodiments, the connecting portion 264 and the securing portion 266 have substantially similar cross-sectional areas.
In some embodiments, the lower perimeter portion 176 is formed by molding the hoop 142 out of a plastic material such that the connecting portion 264, intermediate portion 268, and securing portion 266 form a substantially straight line. While the hoop 142 is warm, the securing portion 266 is then pushed upward to be almost parallel with the connecting portion 264 and the hoop 142 is cooled. The resulting strain in the intermediate portion 268 provides an outward biasing force to the securing portion 266.
Referring next to the cross-section illustrated in
As the hoop 142 is positioned, the securing portion 266 of the hoop 142 is compressed by the lip 254 towards the connecting portion 264. After the distal end 272 of the securing portion 266 passes the lip 254, the securing portion 266 is compressed against the liner 148, exerting a force through the liner 148 against the inner surface 258 of the upper perimeter portion. The hoop 142 is maintained in position by the distal end 272 of the securing portion 266, which is prevented from moving upward by the lip 254. In some embodiments, the hoop 142 provides a force on two, three, or four sides of the upper perimeter portion 114 to secure the liner 148 in place. In some exemplary embodiments, the thinner intermediate portion 268 is configured to break if a strong enough upward force is exerted on the hoop 142, allowing hoop 142 and liner 148 to be removed from the interior storage area 102 of the container 100.
In some embodiments, the container 100 is assembled by providing the base, upper perimeter portion 114, end panels 116, and side panels 118. The liner 148 is inserted into the internal storage area 102 of the body 110, covering the internal lip 254 of the upper perimeter portion 114. The hoop 142 is then received within the recess 256 in the upper perimeter portion 114, such that the outer surface 270 of securing portion 266 exerts a force through the liner 148 against the upper perimeter portion to secure the liner 148 in place. The hoop 142 is retained in position by the distal end 272 of the securing portion 266 abutting the internal lip 254 of the upper perimeter portion 114.
Referring next to
In some embodiments, securing mechanism 180 includes a rotating portion 186 which rotates about a rotation post 190 secured to upper perimeter portion 114. Rotating portion 186 is configured to be rotatable between a locked position in which securing mechanism 180 is releasably coupled to one or more of base 112, end panel 116, and lid 120, and an unlocked position in which securing mechanism 180 is not releasably coupled to one or more of base 112, end panel 116, and lid 120. Rotating portion 186 rotates clockwise and counterclockwise about post 190 between the locked position and unlocked position within a circular recess 212 formed in the outer perimeter surface 210 of upper perimeter portion 114.
As shown in
Rotating portion 186 includes an upper locking portion 192 for releasably coupling a corresponding lid locking portion 152 of lid 120 (see
Rotating portion 186 includes a lower locking portion 196 for releasably coupling either a corresponding panel locking portion 200 positioned on end panel 116 (see
When container 100 is in the expanded configuration (see
When container 100 is in the collapsed configuration (see
In some exemplary embodiments, rotating the rotating portion 186 of securing mechanism 180 between the locked and unlocked positions moves the upper locking lip 194 of upper locking portion 192 from a locked position within the groove 154 of lid locking portion 152 to an unlocked position not within the groove 154, and simultaneously moves the lower locking lip 198 of lower locking portion 196 from a locked position within either the groove 202 of panel locking portion 200 or the groove 206 of base locking portion 204 to an unlocked position not within either groove 202 or 206. In some exemplary embodiments, the post 190, upper locking lip 194, and lower locking lip 198 are positioned in a substantially straight line. In some exemplary embodiments, the post 190, upper locking lip 194, lower locking lip 198, and button 182 are positioned in a substantially straight line.
As illustrated in
Referring next to
As shown in
In some exemplary embodiments, a release mechanism 250 including a locking latch 220 is formed on a bottom surface 218 of end panel 116. Locking latch 220 is illustratively attached to the bottom surface 218 end panel 116 by a biasing member 246, and is moveable between a down, locked or latched position engaging a corresponding channel 222 in base 112 and an up, unlocked or unlatched position disengaging the channel 222 (see
Locking latch 220 is illustratively received within a recess or channel 222 formed in base 112 (see
Referring next to
Handle 230 is accessed through the internal storage area 102 with the lid 120 removed. In some exemplary embodiments, handle 230 includes a grasping portion 232 extending above the surface of liner 148 and configured to be grasped by a user. The grasping portion 232 extends between end portions 234. The handle 230 may include one or more slots 170 for receiving divider 140. Each end portion 234 is illustratively attached to the liner 148.
In one exemplary embodiment, the end portion 234 is attached to a strap 240 extending below the liner 148 by an anchor 236 coupled to both the end portion 234 and the strap 240 and extending through liner 148. In some exemplary embodiments, strap 240 is detachable from liner 148 and/or biasing member 246.
In another exemplary embodiment (see
As illustrated in
Referring next to
With the container 100 in the expanded configuration, the button 182 of securing mechanism 180 is moved to the depressed position and the rotating portion 186 of securing mechanism 180 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, such that the lower locking lip 196 is not positioned within the panel locking groove 202. With the lid 120 removed, the handle 230 is configured such that as the handle 230 is moved, the strap 240 extending through the slots 248 in each end panel 116 exerts a force on the locking latch 220. Once the force overcomes the downward force of the biasing member 246, the locking latch 220 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position. Continued movement of the handle in a direction away from the base 112 results in the strap 240 continuing to pull both of the end panels 116 from a region near bottom surface 218, resulting in the locking latches 224 deforming and releasing from the recessed lips 226 of base 112, and each panel 116 moving from the vertical storage position to the horizontal shipping position. The panels 116 may be secured in the horizontal shipping position with one or more snap/detente 136. The hinge 130 of each side panel 118 is then collapsed inward, causing each lower side panel 118A and upper side panel 118B to rotate about pins 138 and the outer surface of each lower side panel 118A to be moved adjacent to the outer surface of the corresponding upper side panel 118B. The lid 120 may then be replaced on the body 110, and the rotating portion 186 of securing mechanism 180 is rotated back to the locked position until the spring 184 returns the button 182 to the extended position, the lower locking lip 198 is received within base locking groove 206, and the upper locking lip 194 is received within the lid locking groove 154, thereby securing the container 100 in the collapsed configuration.
With the container 100 in the collapsed configuration, the button 182 of securing mechanism 180 is moved to the depressed position and the rotating portion 186 of securing mechanism 180 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, such that the lower locking lip 196 is not positioned within the panel locking groove 202 and upper locking lip 194 is not positioned within the lid locking groove 154. The lid 120 may be removed, and the hinge 130 of each side panel 118 is expanded, causing each lower side panel 118A and upper side panel 118B to rotate about pins 138 and the outer surface of each lower side panel 118A to be moved substantially continuous to the outer surface of the corresponding upper side panel 118B to form an outer surface of the side 260. The end panels 116 are then pivoted downwardly with respect to the upper perimeter portion from the horizontal shipping position to the vertical storage position. The locking latch 220 of each end panel 116 is received within the corresponding channel 222 in the base 112, and locking latches 224 are received within the corresponding recessed lips 226 of the base 112. The biasing member moves the locking latch 220 to the locked position. The liner 148 may be pushed into the storage area 102 until the outer surface 148 contacts the base 112. The lid 120 may then be replaced on the body 110, and the rotating portion 186 of securing mechanism 180 is rotated back to the locked position until the spring 184 returns the button 182 to the extended position, the lower locking lip 198 is received within panel locking groove 202, and the upper locking lip 194 is received within the lid locking groove 154, thereby securing the container 100 in the expanded configuration.
In addition to the primary internal storage areas or compartments, container 100 may also include one or more other storage areas, storage pockets, or storage compartments for carrying other items. Container 100 may also include one or more other accessories, such as a rechargeable battery, a solar cell, a light, a liquid storage bladder, a first aid kit, a toolkit, and/or one or more thermometers for indicating temperature of one or more of the storage areas. In some configurations, one or more of the additional pockets, storage compartments, and/or dry storage areas may be on an interior surface of container 100.
In addition, container 100 may include one or more powered cooling or heating units for assisting in keeping items cold or warm, respectively, before transport, after delivery, and/or for some portion of the shipping process. In other words, the features disclosed herein may be supplemented by a powered cooling or heating unit when power is available and container 100 can be attached to the power source. In further examples, container 100 may include one or more contained power sources, such as a battery or solar panel, for temporarily providing power to the cooling or heating unit without tethering it to a power source.
Container 100 may also include one or more attachment areas or attachment points for removably attaching one or more accessories or other items to container 100. Attachment points may include any of a variety of attachment mechanisms, structures, elements, or features including any described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/398,468, filed Jan. 4, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Any of the techniques, improvements, features, functions, or processes described herein may be implemented in the form of a system or a kit. The system or kit may include any combination of the devices, components, elements, and/or modules disclosed herein.
The elements, components, and steps described herein are meant to exemplify some types of possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned examples limit the scope of the invention, as they are only exemplary embodiments.
The phrases “in some embodiments,” “in an exemplary embodiment,” “in one exemplary embodiment,” “in some exemplary embodiments,” “according to some embodiments,” “in the embodiments shown,” “in other embodiments,” “in some examples,” “in other examples,” “in some cases,” “in some situations,” “in one configuration,” “in another configuration,” and the like generally mean that the particular technique, feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and/or may be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments or to different embodiments.
The foregoing disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. Other modifications and variations of the disclosed techniques may be possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments described in the foregoing disclosure were chosen to explain the principles of the concept and its practical application to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention. It is intended that the claims be construed to include other alternative embodiments of the invention, except as limited by the prior art.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/982,246, filed on May 17, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62/515,004, filed Jun. 5, 2017, and 62/585,630, filed Nov. 14, 2017, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62585630 | Nov 2017 | US | |
| 62515004 | Jun 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15982246 | May 2018 | US |
| Child | 17112251 | US |
