CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR LID SECUREMENT

BACKGROUND

Disposable containers for packaging, distributing, displaying or otherwise housing consumer items, especially perishable foods, are becoming increasingly important. Historically, perishable products were brought to market and sold quickly to avoid loss due to exposure to natural elements causing ripeness and eventual decay.

The advent of plastics resulted in many products being wrapped or packaged in plastic, both in the form of flexible plastic bags and solid plastic containers. The use of plastics in the modern-day convenience food industry has significantly improved the “shelf life” of perishable products, allowing both merchants and their customers to store the products for longer periods of time, resulting in substantial savings, and greater distribution.

In addition, consumers may prefer to visually inspect the food product within such containers. Thus, fabricating containers from clear see-through plastics is desirable. For example, packaging provided for bakery goods or agriculture products has often been in the form of clear, plastic clamshell packaging, because, among other things, such clear, plastic clamshell packaging, provides a baked-on-the-premises or homegrown image that grocery retailers have found to be especially appealing to consumers.

Typically, plastic containers will include a fairly rigid lid and base. Ideally, the lid should be capable of properly and effectively sealing the container, yet the container should be constructed so that the lid is relatively easy to remove, and in some circumstances, replace, since it may be expected that the container and lid would be reused. In addition, the lid should provide adequate space for product branding and meeting regulatory product identification (e.g., identification of the product, place of product origin, weight, etc.) in the form of a label that may comprise paper, plastic or both. Typically, these containers are either pre-labeled or labeled after the product is filled in a secondary application.

Initial use and later reuse of the lid with the base favors hand securement by a user, particularly in food service and for household consumers typically with less access to equipment configured to seal the lid and the base. Mechanical coupling between the lid and the base typically provides sufficient closure and sealing for consumer use. These mechanical coupling features are typically positioned on the outermost perimeters between the lid and the base in order to maximize storage space within the container for food. Despite the outermost perimeters of lid and base supporting these mechanical coupling features, the physical act of coupling base and lid generally requires two hands on the base and the lid to simultaneously squeeze these outermost perimeters together in a tedious and often cumbersome act complete. Moreover, should the user fail to properly secure the lid to the base, the container will likely leak resulting in loss of food and/or damaging spills.

Furthermore in the food service and household settings, although not limited to such settings, amounts of food identified for containing and storing at a given instance may vary considerably. For example, a consumer taking food home from a restaurant may have any desired amount left to store and consume at a later time. The consumer may even choose to eat varying amounts over the course of coming days. The restaurant, or even the consumer, typically has containers of varying sizes to accommodate these differing volumes. Of course, handling more types of containers requires more storage capacity as well as a greater variety of unused storage containers resulting in greater logistical maintenance and inventory monitoring to ensure that the desired containers are available on demand. Moreover, larger containers of these varying sizes tend to fill disposal containers more quickly than smaller containers once discarded such that properly sized containers are preferably available for food in a given instance even after the food has been consumed.

There is thus a need for a container, particularly a disposable container, that addresses present challenges and characteristics such as those discussed above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description of certain examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of one example of a container with a lid connected to a base by an exemplary inner lid securement and the base having an exemplary adjustable wall in an extended state;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 with the lid disconnected from the base;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the base of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 depicts an enlarged perspective view of the base of FIG. 1 with a post of the lid securement;

FIG. 5 depicts a top view of the base of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of the lid of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 depicts an enlarged perspective view of the lid of FIG. 1 with a cap of the lid securement such that the cap is configured to releasably connect to the post of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 depicts a bottom view of the lid of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 depicts a top view of the container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional view of the container taken along section line 10-10 of FIG. 9 with the post connected to the cap for releasably connecting the lid to the base;

FIG. 11 depicts a side elevational view of the base of FIG. 1 with the adjustable wall in the extended state;

FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the base with the adjustable wall taken along section line 12-12 of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 depicts a side elevational view of the container of FIG. 1 with the adjustable wall in the extended state;

FIG. 14 depicts a cross-sectional view of the container taken along section line 14-14 of FIG. 13 with the adjustable wall in the extended state such that the container has an expanded storage space;

FIG. 15 depicts a side elevational view of the container of FIG. 1 with the adjustable wall in a retracted state; and

FIG. 16 depicts a cross-sectional view of the container taken along section line 16-16 of FIG. 15 with the adjustable wall in the retracted state such that the container has a contracted storage space.

The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be carried out in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention; it being understood, however, that this invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

It will be appreciated that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. that are described herein. The following-described teachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

I. Consumer-Friendly Container for Food Packaging

With respect to FIGS. 1-2, a consumer-friendly container (10) of the present example includes a lid (12) and a base (14) with an inner securement (16), which may also be referred to herein as a lid securement, to releasably connect lid (12) and base (14) for single-handed application thereof as well as an adjustable wall (17) incorporated into at least one of base (14) or lid (12) for selective adjustment of inner storage space (18). As shown in the present example, lid securement (16) has a lid securement portion (20) (see FIG. 6) on lid (12) and a base securement portion (22) on base (14) configured to releasably connect lid (12) to base (14) with single-handed compression for greater ease of enclosing contents, such as food, within container (10). Of course, lid (12) may be connected to base (14) with lid securement (16) with single-handed application, but more than one hand may be applied in other examples. The invention is thus not intended to be unnecessarily limited to single-handed application such that even more than one hand of application, such as two hands, may benefit from greater ease of connection therebetween.

Also as shown in the present example, base (14) includes adjustable wall (17) configured to selectively adjust a volume of inner storage space (18) to at least one of a greater storage volume or a lesser storage volume to more effectively fit a volume of contents more closely to the selected volume of inner storage space (18). While the present example of container (10) includes both lid securement (16) and adjustable wall (17), an alternative container (not shown) may include one or both of lid securement (16) and adjustable wall (17) such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to features associated with each of lid securement (16) and adjustable wall (17). Furthermore, base (14) of the present example includes adjustable wall (17) such that adjustable wall (17) adjusts vertical height in a like vertical direction with application of lid (12) to base (14). However, an alternative example of container (10) may include adjustable wall (17) positioned so as to adjust horizontal length of container (10) in a direction transverse to vertical height and/or may be positioned on one or both of base (14) and lid (12). In any case, the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to container (10) of the present example.

As briefly discussed above, lid securement (16) of the present example includes lid and base securement portions (20, 22) respectively on lid (12) and base (14). Base (14) more particularly includes a front sidewall (24), a rear sidewall (26) opposite front sidewall (24), a left sidewall (28), and a right sidewall (30) opposite left sidewall (28). Front and rear sidewalls (24, 26) extend to corner sidewalls (32) with left and right sidewalls (28, 30) similarly extending to corner sidewalls (32) defining a generally rectangular shape in the present example. Corner sidewalls (32) of the present example further include chamfered corners (33) at base (14) to provide further structural rigidity to along corner sidewalls (32). Notably, any references to front, rear, left, and right are merely exemplary as to the present figures and not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention described herein. Also, while the present arrangement of sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) define a generally rectangular base (14), it will be appreciated that alternative shapes may be similarly constructed such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited the example described herein.

Base (14) further includes a bottom (34), including a base stacking frame (35), horizontally extending between sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) with sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) vertically extending upward therefrom to an upper peripheral frame (36), which defines an opening (38) into a base chamber (40). In this respect, base chamber (40) is defined by sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32), bottom (34), and upper peripheral frame (36), although additional features may further define base chamber (40) in one or more examples. Upper peripheral frame (36) is configured to provide rigidity to base (14) about opening (38) and further includes an upper sealing surface (42) configured to engage a lower sealing surface (44) (see FIG. 6) on lid (12) to inhibit contents within inner storage space (18) from leaking between upper and lower sealing surfaces (42, 44) (see FIG. 6) and outward to the surrounding environment. In the present example, each of upper and lower sealing surfaces (42, 44) (see FIG. 6) are continuous for better sealing that surrounds opening (38). Notably, sealing that occurs against “sealing surfaces” as those terms are used herein generally inhibits contents from leaking therethrough, but some leaking may still be possible as used herein. References to “sealing surfaces” are thus not intended to be unnecessarily limited to a fluid seal.

To this end, lid (12) of the present example includes a cover (46) with a lid stacking frame (47) and a lower peripheral frame (48) configured to provide rigidity to lid (12) about opening (38). Lower peripheral frame (48) further includes lower sealing surface (44) as discussed above and surrounds cover (46) such that cover (46) extends therebetween and upward therefrom. Cover (46) of the present example is also generally rectangular in shape to complement base (14) and is domed to further define a lid chamber (50). When connected together, lid chamber (50) and base chamber (40) collectively define inner storage space (18). Of course, lid (12) may take alternative shapes to that shown in the present example such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to the domed and/or rectangular shape described herein. Lid (12) and base (14) also respectively include grip tabs (51) extending therefrom to aid in gripping and removal of lid (12) from base (14) as discussed below in greater detail.

A. Inner Lid Securement

Lid securement (16) has base securement portion (22) on base (14) and lid securement portion (20) on lid (12). FIGS. 3-5 show base securement portion (22) of lid securement (16) as more particularly including a plurality of posts (52) extending upward to releasably connect with lid securement portion (20) on lid (12) discussed below in greater detail. Base securement portion (22) further includes a support frame (54) extending radially inward and downward from upper peripheral frame (36). Support frame (54) of the present example is incorporated into sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30) to surround base chamber (40) and provide rigidity and support to each post (52) extending upward therefrom, such as while compressing lid (12) (see FIG. 2) against base (14) during use.

Each post (52) of the present example includes a pair of detent projections (56) on opposing sides thereof with an undercut (58) configured to overlap with a portion of lid securement portion (20) (see FIGS. 6 and 7). Detent projections (56) of the present example are also resilient and deflectable for snapping locked as discussed below in greater detail. Posts (52) are more particularly positioned in corner sidewalls (32) such that four posts (52) are incorporated into base (14) in the present example. Alternative numbers of more or less than four posts (52) may be used in one or more examples such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to four posts (52).

With respect to FIG. 5, support frame (54) with posts (52) extending upward therefrom are positioned horizontally inward from upper peripheral frame (36) such that upper peripheral frame (36) surrounds posts (52). Such inward positioning more effectively leverages compression against lid (12) (see FIG. 6) while releasably connecting lid (12) (see FIG. 6) to base (14). Notably, all of base (14), including sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32), bottom (34), upper peripheral frame (36), support frame (54), and posts (52), are integrally formed of unitary construction, specifically thermoformed of polypropylene material in the present example. Alternative constructions of differing material may be used in one or more examples such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to being constructed as shown herein.

FIGS. 6-7 show lid (12) of the present example as including a plurality of caps (60) of lid securement portion (20) incorporated into cover (46). Each cap (60) more particularly includes a pair of detent recesses (62) on opposing sides thereof with an undercut (64) configured to overlap with detent projection (56) on post (52) (see FIG. 4). Detent recesses (56) of the present example are also resilient and deflectable for snapping locked as discussed below in greater detail. Caps (60) are more particularly positioned in corners of cover (46) such that four caps (60) are incorporated into cover (46) in the present example to complement respective positions of posts (52) (see FIG. 4) for connection therewith. Alternative numbers of more or less than four caps (60) may be used in one or more examples such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to four caps (60). While not shown in the present example, lid (12) in another example may include one or more vents to allow airflow therethrough.

To further enable single-handed compression of lid (12) against base (14) (see FIG. 4) to releasably snap cap (60) to receive post (52) (see FIG. 4), cover (46) of the present example further includes a plurality of arches (66, 68) incorporated therein. Referring back to FIG. 2 as well as FIGS. 6-7, Arches (66, 68) are configured to provide rigidity from a top of cover (46) to each of caps (60) and, in particular, concentrate compressive forces from the top of cover (46) to caps (60) for improving closure. In particular, longer arches (66) are positioned on longer sides of cover (60), whereas shorter arches (68) are positioned on short sides of cover (60) of the generally rectangular, domed shape discussed above. Arches (66, 68) respectively have upper crowns (70, 72) that are centrally positioned on sides of cover (60) as well as haunches (74, 76) supporting crowns (70, 72). More particularly, in the present example, a pair of haunches (74) extends downward from crown (70) to a pair of caps (60), whereas a pair of haunches (76) extends downward from crown (72) to a pair of caps (60). In the present example, compression of lid (12) against base (14) concentrates the compressive forces at arches (66, 68) downward along crowns (70, 72) and haunches (74, 76) toward caps (60) so that posts (52) (see FIG. 4) snap into caps (60) while inhibiting lid (12) from collapsing during closure. Each set of haunches (74, 76) are formed together at each cap (60), although haunches (74, 76) and crowns (70, 72) may be alternatively formed in another example such that arches (66, 68) may take any desired shape to provide sufficient rigidity to lid (12) for use.

With respect to FIG. 8, caps (60) are positioned horizontally inward from lower peripheral frame (48) such that lower peripheral frame (48) surrounds caps (60). Again, such inward positioning complements posts (52) (see FIG. 5) to more effectively leverage compression against lid (12) while releasably connecting lid (12) to base (14) (see FIG. 5). Notably, all of lid (12), including cover (46), lower peripheral frame (48), and caps (60), are integrally formed of unitary construction, specifically thermoformed of polyethylene terephthalate material in the present example. Alternative constructions of differing material may be used in one or more examples such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to being constructed as shown herein.

FIGS. 9-10 show releasable connection between lid (12) and base (14) via lid securement (16) in greater detail. While connected, cap (60) receives post (52) therein such that detent projections (56) vertically overlap and interlock with detent recesses (62), thereby securing lid (12) to base (14). Upon removal of lid (12) from base (14), sufficient separation force is applied to overcome the interlocking of detent projections (56) and detent recesses (62) such that at least one resiliently deflects until released. Lid (12) may then be reconnected to base (14) by applying pressure downward against lid (12) and horizontally inward of upper and lower peripheral frames (36, 48), such as with one hand, until each of detent projections (56) resiliently deflect to interlock within detent recesses (62). In addition, the present example shows grip tabs (51) on lid (12) and base (14) positioned adjacent to each other and similarly adjacent to and extending horizontally outward from cap (60) and post (52) to more easily pry apart for removal of lid (12) from base (14).

B. Adjustable Wall for Selectable Storage Space

FIGS. 11-16 show container (10) of the present example having adjustable wall (17) incorporated into portions of each of sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) such that adjustable wall (17) surrounds base chamber (40). FIGS. 11-12 more particularly show adjustable wall (17) in an extended state and including an upper hinge (78), a lower hinge (80), and a flex zone (82) extending therebetween. Flex zone (82) as shown in the present example includes a diaphragm (84) that is both resilient and deflectable. Diaphragm (84) pivotally connects to an upper sidewall portion (86) at upper hinge (78), whereas diaphragm (84) pivotally connects to a lower sidewall portion (88) at lower hinge (80). Diaphragm (84) resiliently supports upper sidewall portion (86) relative to lower sidewall portion (88) so as to urge upper sidewall portion (86) away from lower sidewall portion (88) and retain the extended state in equilibrium.

In the present example, an outer surface (90) of diaphragm (84) is concave in shape in this extended state. However, compressing upper sidewall portion (86) toward lower sidewall portion (88) deflects diaphragm (84) while pivoting at lower and upper hinges (80, 78) effectively straightening diaphragm (84) from the concave shape to at least some extent. Sufficient compression eventually overcomes the resilient bias in the concave shape of diaphragm (84) at a threshold tipping point such that outer surface (90) of diaphragm (84) becomes convex in shape. Once outer surface (90) of diaphragm (84) becomes convex in shape, diaphragm (84) resiliently biases upper sidewall portion (86) toward lower sidewall portion (88) in equilibrium as a retracted state. In this respect, flex zone (82) of the present example may be more particularly referred to herein as an over toggle mechanism (82) that extends or retracts upon compressing and releasing energy at the threshold tipping point, which may also be referred to herein as an over-center-toggle point state.

Flex zone (82) in one example also includes additional chamfered corners (92) above lower hinge (80) for additional rigidity in corner sidewalls (32) to encourage pivoting at lower hinge (80) upon compression rather than less desirable collapsing of corner sidewall (32). In addition, corner sidewalls (32) have recessed corner portions (92) vertically between lower hinge (80) and bottom (34). These recessed corner portions (94) also provide additional rigidity in corner sidewalls (32) while further providing clearance for portions of sidewall (32) pivoting and repositioning about lower hinge (80) for less encumbered movement during use.

Notably, all of base (14), including sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32), bottom (34), upper peripheral frame (36), support frame (54), and adjustable wall (17), are integrally formed of unitary construction, specifically thermoformed of polypropylene material in the present example. Hinges (78, 80) are thus living hinges in the present example. Furthermore, in one or more example, base (14), including sidewalls (24, 26, 28, 30, 32), bottom (34), upper peripheral frame (36), support frame (54), and adjustable wall (17), are not formed of silicone so as to be more cost effectively used for consumer disposal. Alternative constructions of differing material may be used in one or more examples such that the invention is not intended to be unnecessarily limited to being constructed as shown herein.

FIGS. 13-14 show adjustable wall (17) in the extended state such that container (10) has an expanded storage space (96). In contrast, FIGS. 15-16 show adjustable wall (17) in the retracted state such that container (10) has contracted storage space (98). Again, diaphragm (84) biases adjustable wall (17) to hold each of these extended and retracted states, but either state may be selected by compressing or extending upper sidewall portion (86) relative to lower sidewall portion (88) beyond the over-center-toggle point state.

While expanded storage space (96) with adjustable wall (17) in the extended state may be desirable in one example for containing larger portions of food upon initial use, contracted storage space (98) may be beneficial thereafter, such as upon disposal of container (10). For instance, a user may selectively enlarge container (10) to the expanded storage space (96) to accommodate larger portions of food. However, once the user desires to dispose of container (10), the user then selectively contracts container (10) to the contracted state such that container (10) consumes less space in its environment, particularly upon disposal into a disposal container. Additional space in the disposal container may be used for other refuse rather than expanded container (10) and, in turn, prolong the useful storage life of the disposal container for improved environmental outcomes. Container (10) thus provides selective storage for storing food, while also providing selective storage for disposal as desired by the user.

II. Exemplary Combinations

The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to restrict the coverage of any claims that may be presented at any time in this application or in subsequent filings of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are being provided for nothing more than merely illustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in numerous other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features referred to in the below examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or features referred to below should be deemed critical unless otherwise explicitly indicated as such at a later date by the inventors or by a successor in interest to the inventors. If any claims are presented in this application or in subsequent filings related to this application that include additional features beyond those referred to below, those additional features shall not be presumed to have been added for any reason relating to patentability.

Example 1

A container, comprising: (a) a base, including: (i) a sidewall at least partially defining a base chamber, and (ii) a peripheral frame projecting vertically upward from the sidewall and surrounding the base chamber; and (b) a lid securement including a base securement portion configured to releasably connect to a lid, wherein the base securement portion is positioned horizontally inward of the peripheral frame.

Example 2

The container of Example 1, wherein the peripheral frame includes an upper sealing surface configured to engage with a lower sealing surface of the lid, wherein the base securement portion is positioned horizontally inward of the upper sealing surface.

Example 3

The container of any one or more of Examples 1 through 2, wherein the peripheral frame defines an opening into the base chamber, wherein the base securement portion includes a first post extending vertically upward toward the opening.

Example 4

The container of Example 3, wherein the base securement portion further includes a second post extending vertically upward toward the opening.

Example 5

The container of Example 4, wherein the base securement portion further includes a support frame, and wherein each of the first and second posts extends vertically upward from the support frame.

Example 6

The container of any one or more of Examples 3 through 5, wherein the first post includes a first detent projection configured to releasably connect with a first detent recess.

Example 7

The container of any one or more of Examples 1 through 6, further comprising a lid, and wherein the lid securement further includes a lid securement portion configured to releasably connect to the base securement portion.

Example 8

The container of any one or more of Examples 1 through 7, wherein the sidewall further includes an adjustable wall configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state.

Example 9

The container of any one or more of Examples 1 through 8, wherein the base and the base securement portion of the lid securement are of single, unitary construction.

Example 10

A container, comprising: (a) a base, including: (i) a sidewall at least partially defining a base chamber, wherein the sidewall further includes an adjustable wall configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state.

Example 11

The container of Example 10, wherein the sidewall with the adjustable wall of single, unitary construction.

Example 12

The container of any one or more of Examples 10 through 11, wherein the adjustable wall, includes: (i) an upper wall portion, (ii) a lower wall portion, and (iii) a diaphragm extending between the upper and lower wall portions, wherein the diaphragm biases the upper wall away from the lower wall in the extended state, and wherein the diaphragm biases the upper wall toward the lower wall in the retracted state.

Example 13

The container of Example 12, wherein the diaphragm is pivotally connected to each of the upper wall portion and the lower wall portion.

Example 14

The container of any one or more of Examples 12 through 13, wherein the adjustable wall further includes an upper hinge and a lower hinge, wherein the diaphragm is pivotally connected to the upper wall portion at the upper hinge, and wherein the diaphragm is pivotally connected to the lower wall portion at the lower hinge.

Example 15

The container of Example 14, wherein each of the upper hinge, the lower hinge, the upper wall portion, the lower wall portion, and the diaphragm are of single, unitary construction.

Example 16

The container of any one or more of Examples 12 through 15, wherein each of the upper wall portion, the lower wall portion, and the diaphragm are of single, unitary construction.

Example 17

The container of any one or more of Examples 10 through 16, further comprising a lid.

Example 18

The container of Example 17, further comprising a lid securement configured to releasably connect the lid to the base.

Example 19

The container of any one or more of Examples 17 through 18, wherein the lid and the base define a storage space therebetween, wherein the storage space with the adjustable wall in the extended state has a larger volume than the storage space with the adjustable wall in the retracted state.

Example 20

A method of adjusting a container, comprising: (a) selectively extending or retracting an adjustable wall to thereby adjusting a volume of the container.

Example 21

A container, comprising: (a) a base, including: (i) a sidewall at least partially defining a base chamber, and (ii) a peripheral frame projecting vertically upward from the sidewall and surrounding the base chamber such that the base chamber is horizontally inward from the peripheral frame; and (b) an inner securement including a base securement portion positioned on the base, wherein the base securement portion is horizontally inward of the peripheral frame and configured to releasably connect to a lid.

Example 22

The container of Example 21, wherein the peripheral frame includes an upper sealing surface configured to engage with a lower sealing surface of the lid, wherein the base securement portion is positioned horizontally inward of the upper sealing surface.

Example 23

The container of any one or more of Examples 21 through 22, wherein the peripheral frame defines an opening into the base chamber, wherein the base securement portion includes a first post extending vertically upward toward the opening.

Example 24

The container of Example 23, wherein the base securement portion further includes a second post extending vertically upward toward the opening.

Example 25

The container of Example 24, wherein the base securement portion further includes a support frame, and wherein each of the first and second posts extends vertically upward from the support frame.

Example 26

The container of any one or more of Examples 23 through 25, wherein the first post includes a first detent projection configured to releasably connect with a first detent recess.

Example 27

The container of any one or more of Examples 21 through 26, wherein the base securement portion includes a plurality of detent features positioned horizontally inward of the peripheral frame and configured to releasably connect to the lid.

Example 28

The container of any one or more of Examples 21 through 27, further comprising a lid, and wherein the inner securement further includes a lid securement portion configured to releasably connect to the base securement portion on the base.

Example 29

The container of Example 28, wherein the peripheral frame includes an upper sealing surface, wherein the lid further includes a lower sealing surface configured to engage with the upper sealing surface with the lid releasably connected to the base, and wherein the lid securement portion is positioned horizontally inward of the lower sealing surface of the lid.

Example 30

The container of Example 29, wherein the lid securement portion includes a plurality of detent features.

Example 31

The container of Example 28, wherein the inner securement has a post and a cap, wherein the cap is configured to releasably receive the post therein.

Example 32

The container of Example 31, wherein the base securement portion has the post on the base, and wherein the lid securement portion has the cap on the lid.

Example 33

The container of any one or more of Examples 28 through 32, wherein the lid includes a plurality of arches formed therein and configured to provide structural rigidity to the lid.

Example 34

The container of any one or more of Examples 21 through 33, wherein the sidewall further includes an adjustable wall configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state for adjusting a volume of the base chamber.

Example 35

The container of any one or more of Examples 21 through 34, wherein the base and the base securement portion of the inner securement are of single, unitary construction.

Example 36

A container, comprising: (a) a base, including: (i) a sidewall at least partially defining a base chamber, (ii) a base peripheral frame projecting vertically upward from the sidewall and surrounding the base chamber such that the base chamber is horizontally inward from the base peripheral frame, and (iii) an upper sealing surface on the base peripheral frame surrounding the base chamber, (b) a lid, including: (i) a cover at least partially defining a lid chamber, (ii) a lid peripheral frame projecting from the cover and surrounding the lid chamber such that the lid chamber is horizontally inward from the lid peripheral frame, and (iii) a lower sealing surface on the lid peripheral frame surrounding lid chamber; and (b) an inner securement, including: (i) a base securement portion positioned on the base, wherein the base securement portion is horizontally inward of the upper sealing surface, and (ii) a lid securement portion positioned on the lid, wherein the lid securement portion is horizontally inward of the lower sealing surface, wherein base securement portion is configured to releasably connect to the lid securement portion to releasably secure the base to the lid such that the upper sealing surface of the base receives the lower sealing surface of the lid thereagainst.

Example 37

The container of Example 36, wherein the base securement portion includes a plurality of posts, wherein the lid includes a plurality of caps, and wherein each of the posts is configured to releasably connect within the caps for securing the base to the lid.

Example 38

The container of Example 37, each of the plurality of posts has a detent projection, wherein each of the plurality of caps has a detent recess, and wherein the detent projection is configured to resiliently snap into releasable engagement with the detent recess for securing the base to the lid.

Example 39

The container of any one or more of Examples 36 through 38, wherein the sidewall further includes an adjustable wall configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state for adjusting a volume of the base chamber.

Example 40

A method of sealing a container, the container including (a) a base, including: (i) a sidewall at least partially defining a base chamber, and (ii) a base peripheral frame projecting vertically upward from the sidewall and surrounding the base chamber such that the base chamber is horizontally inward from the base peripheral frame; (b) a lid, including: (i) a cover at least partially defining a lid chamber, (ii) a lid peripheral frame projecting from the cover and surrounding the lid chamber such that the lid chamber is horizontally inward from the lid peripheral frame; and (c) an inner securement, including: (i) a base securement portion positioned on the base horizontally inward of the base peripheral frame, (ii) a lid securement portion positioned on the lid horizontally inward of the lid peripheral frame, wherein base securement portion is configured to releasably connect to the lid securement portion to releasably secure the base to the lid, the method comprising: (a) compressing against a portion of the lid horizontally inward of the lid peripheral frame thereby releasably connecting the base securement portion to the lid securement portion and sealing the container.

Example 41

A container, comprising: (a) a base, including: (i) a bottom, (ii) a sidewall surrounding the bottom and extending upward therefrom, wherein the sidewall has an adjustable wall with an over-toggle-mechanism configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state, wherein the adjustable wall in the extended state is biased toward the extended state, and wherein the adjustable wall in the retracted state is biased toward the retracted state, and (iii) a base chamber at least partially defined by the bottom and the sidewall, wherein the base chamber has a greater storage volume with the adjustable wall in the extended state, and wherein the base chamber has a lesser storage volume with the adjustable wall in the retracted state.

Example 42

The container of Example 41, wherein the base further includes a base peripheral frame such that the sidewall vertically extends between the base peripheral frame and the bottom.

Example 43

The container of any one or more of Examples 41 through 42, wherein the adjustable wall surrounds the base chamber.

Example 44

The container of any one or more of Examples 41 through 43, wherein the adjustable wall is configured to vertically deflect between the extended and retracted states.

Example 45

The container of any one or more of Examples 41 through 44, wherein the over-toggle-mechanism includes an over-center-toggle point state between the extended state and the retracted state, wherein the adjustable wall on a first side of the over-center-toggle point state is biased toward the extended state, and wherein the adjustable wall on a second side of the over-center-toggle point state is biased toward the retracted state.

Example 46

The container of any one or more of Examples 41 through 45, wherein the sidewall further includes an upper sidewall portion and a lower sidewall portion, wherein the over-toggle-mechanism includes a diaphragm extending between the upper and lower sidewall portions, wherein the diaphragm biases the upper sidewall portion away from the lower sidewall in the extended state, and wherein the diaphragm biases the upper sidewall portion toward the lower sidewall in the retracted state.

Example 47

The container of any one or more of Examples 41 through 46, wherein the over-toggle-mechanism further includes an upper hinge on the upper sidewall portion and a lower hinge on the lower sidewall portion, wherein the diaphragm is pivotally connected to each of the upper and lower hinges and extends therebetween.

Example 48

The container of Example 47, wherein the upper hinge, the lower hinge, the upper sidewall portion, the lower sidewall portion, and the diaphragm are of single, unitary construction.

Example 49

The container of any one or more of Examples 46 through 48, wherein the diaphragm has an outer diaphragm surface opposite the base chamber, wherein the outer diaphragm surface is concave in the extended state, and wherein the outer diaphragm surface is convex in the retracted state.

Example 50

The container of any one or more of Examples 41 through 49, wherein the bottom and the sidewall are of a single, unitary construction.

Example 51

The container of Example 50, wherein the single, unitary construction of the bottom and the sidewall is not silicone.

Example 52

The container of Example 51, wherein the single, unitary construction of the bottom and the sidewall is polypropylene.

Example 53

The container of Example 51, further comprising a lid and a lid securement, wherein the lid securement is configured to releasably connect the lid to the base.

Example 54

The container of Example 53, wherein the lid and the base define a storage space therebetween, wherein the storage space with the adjustable wall in the extended state has a larger volume than the storage space with the adjustable wall in the retracted state.

Example 55

The container of any one or more of Examples 51 through 54, wherein the base includes a base peripheral frame projecting vertically upward from the sidewall and surrounding the base chamber such that the base chamber is horizontally inward from the base peripheral frame, and further comprising an inner securement including a base securement portion positioned on the base, wherein the base securement portion is horizontally inward of the base peripheral frame and configured to releasably connect to the lid.

Example 56

A container, comprising: (a) a base, including: (i) a bottom, (ii) a sidewall surrounding the bottom and extending upward therefrom, wherein the sidewall has an adjustable wall configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state, and (iii) a base chamber at least partially defined by the bottom and the sidewall, wherein the base chamber has a greater storage volume with the adjustable wall in the extended state, wherein the base chamber has a lesser storage volume with the adjustable wall in the retracted state, wherein the bottom and the sidewall are of a single, unitary construction, and not silicone.

Example 57

The container of Example 56, wherein the single, unitary construction of the bottom and the sidewall is polypropylene.

Example 58

The container of any one or more of Examples 56 through 57, wherein the base includes a base peripheral frame projecting vertically upward from the sidewall and surrounding the base chamber such that the base chamber is horizontally inward from the base peripheral frame, and further comprising an inner securement including a base securement portion positioned on the base, wherein the base securement portion is horizontally inward of the base peripheral frame and configured to releasably connect to a lid.

Example 59

A method of adjusting a storage volume of a container, the container including (a) a base, including: (i) a bottom, (ii) a sidewall surrounding the bottom and extending upward therefrom, wherein the sidewall has an adjustable wall with an over-toggle-mechanism configured to selectively deflect between an extended state and a retracted state, wherein the adjustable wall in the extended state is biased toward the extended state, and wherein the adjustable wall in the retracted state is biased toward the retracted state, and (iii) a base chamber at least partially defined by the bottom and the sidewall, wherein the base chamber has a greater storage volume with the adjustable wall in the extended state, and wherein the base chamber has a lesser storage volume with the adjustable wall in the retracted state, the method comprising: (a) selectively extending or retracting the adjustable wall to thereby adjust the volume of the container.

Example 60

The method of Example 59, urging the over-toggle-mechanism through an over-center-toggle point state to the extended state or the retracted state.

III. Miscellaneous

It should be understood that any of the examples described herein may include various other features in addition to or in lieu of those described above. By way of example only, any of the examples described herein may also include one or more of the various features disclosed in any of the various references that are incorporated by reference herein.

It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. The above-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Having shown and described various versions of the present invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the examples, versions, geometrics, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR LID SECUREMENT

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