CONTAINER ASSEMBLY

BACKGROUND

Base and lid containers are typically used in the food preparation and restaurant industry to package prepared or take-out foods. However, base and lid containers occupy a significant volume footprint and food establishments are often limited in space, particularly the area around the main cooking or serving space. Accordingly, it may be desirable to reduce storage space through the use of more convenient packaging material. Further, a food establishment using a base and a lid container may come up short when either the lid or base to complete the container is dropped or otherwise removed from the pool of bases or lids. This creates a discrepancy in the ratio of lids to bases in the container stock. Patrons sometimes assembly a base and a lid together to take food home from a restaurant who would benefit from an easily assembled base and lid.

While several other containers and packaging have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors has made or used the invention described in the appended claims.

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 a first exemplary container assembly in a locked configuration;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the container assembly of FIG. 1 with a first shell component of the container assembly separated and spaced apart from a second shell component;

FIG. 3 depicts a side elevational view of the shell components of the container assembly of FIG. 2 spaced apart from each other;

FIG. 4 depicts an enlarged partial perspective view of a plurality of the first and second shell components of the container assembly of FIG. 1 in a nested configuration;

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of a second exemplary container assembly including a pair of the first shell components of FIG. 1 in a locked configuration;

FIG. 6 depicts an enlarged perspective view of the first shell component of FIG. 5 viewed from an exterior;

FIG. 7 depicts an enlarged partial perspective view of encircled area of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 depicts an enlarged partial perspective view of an engagement region of first shell component of FIG. 6 viewed from the interior;

FIG. 9A depicts a side schematic view of the container assembly of FIG. 5 in a spaced apart configuration;

FIG. 9B depicts a side schematic view of the container assembly of FIG. 5 taken along line 9B-9B of FIG. 5 in a locked configuration;

FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of a third exemplary container assembly including a pair of second shell components of FIG. 1 in a locked configuration;

FIG. 11 depicts an enlarged perspective view of the second shell component of FIG. 10 viewed from an exterior;

FIG. 12 depicts an enlarged partial perspective view of an encircled area of the second shell component of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 depicts an enlarged partial perspective view of an engagement region of the second shell component of FIG. 11 viewed from the interior;

FIG. 14A depicts a side schematic view of the container assembly of FIG. 10 in a spaced apart configuration;

FIG. 14B depicts a side schematic view of the container assembly of FIG. 10 taken along line 14B-14B of FIG. 10 in a locked configuration;

FIG. 15A depicts a side schematic view of the container assembly of FIG. 1 in the spaced apart configuration; and

FIG. 15B depicts a side schematic view of the container assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line 15B-15B of FIG. 1 in the locked configuration.

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.

Various embodiments will be described below in conjunction with the drawings for purposes of illustration. It should be appreciated that many other implementations of the disclosed concepts are possible, and various advantages can be achieved with the disclosed implementations. Headings are included herein for reference and to aid in locating various sections. These headings are not intended to limit the scope of the concepts described with respect thereto. Such concepts may have applicability throughout the entire specification.

I. Exemplary Container Assemblies

A. First Exemplary Container Assembly with Mixed Shell Components

FIGS. 1-3 show a first exemplary container assembly (10) comprising a first shell component (12) and a second shell component (14). Container assembly (10) is convertible between different configurations with a first locked configuration being shown in FIG. 1, a spaced apart configuration being shown in FIGS. 2-3, and a nested configuration being shown in FIG. 4. In the locked configuration, first shell component (12) (shown on the top) is secured with second shell component (14) (shown on the bottom). First shell component (12) may be rotated relative to second shell component (14) in a spaced apart configuration (see FIG. 2-3) to lock in another locked configuration. Shell components (12, 14) may be each used as a base or a lid.

As shown in FIG. 1, first shell component (12) is locked with second shell component (14) to form container assembly (10). As shown, first shell component (12) is inverted relative to second shell component (14), and press fit together to secure first shell component (12) with second shell component (14). After shell components (12, 14) are secured together, shell components (12, 14) may be separated by disengaging the press-fit connection. Shell components (12, 14) allow for repeated engagement and disengagement of the press fit connection.

First shell component (12) is constructed of plastic; however, other suitable materials are also envisioned. Particularly, first shell component (12) may be thermoformed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some versions, first shell component (12) may be formed from polypropylene (PP). First shell component (12) may be formed from recycled plastic and/or recyclable plastic for increased sustainability. Second shell component (14) is constructed of molded fiber, such as bamboo, bagasse, reeds, and grasses, cereal straw, corn and sorghum stalks, palm fibers, wood, recycled molded fiber, recyclable molded fiber; however, other suitable materials are also envisioned. Differences in manufacturing of the plastic and molded fiber do not affect the ability to lock first shell component (12) to second shell component (14). One such difference in manufacturing is the difficulty in forming undercuts using molded fiber components. Container assembly (10) allows for the use of two ecofriendly materials. For example, first shell component (12) may utilize 100% post-consumer plastic and/or second shell component (14) may utilize molded fiber components that are made of 100% recyclable materials and/or that are compostable using normal processes.

First and second shell components (12, 14) may also include interchangeable features where various shell component features (not shown) may be adapted and combined with other shell component features. For instance, a clear shell component or translucent shell component may be combined with an opaque shell component, a patterned shell component may be combined with an un-patterned shell component, a branded shell component may be combined with an unbranded shell component, a labeled shell component may be combined with an unlabeled shell component, a colored shell component may be combined with a clear shell component, or any combination thereof, etc.

In some versions, first and second shell components (12, 14) may have differing depths. Each first or second shell component (12, 14) may have varying depths or fill capacities with the same footprint to allow for various container assembly (10) combinations. For instance, a first shell component (12) may have a shallow depth and a second shell component (14) may have a deep depth with the same footprint. This allows a user to form different combinations of container assembly (10), i.e., a shallow-shallow container assembly (10), a shallow-deep container assembly (10), and a deep-deep container assembly (10). Any number of shell components (12, 14) may be used with varying depths to allow for more combinations and versatility for container assemblies (10).

FIGS. 2-3 show container assembly (10) in a spaced apart configuration, where first shell component (12) is spaced away from second shell component (14). In moving from the spaced apart configuration to the first locked configuration, shell component (12) is manually pressed in the direction of arrow (A) and/or shell component (14) is manually pressed in the direction of arrow (B). This allows shell components (12, 14) to engage one and releasably lock together, as shown in FIG. 1.

Container assembly (10) is generally shaped as a square; however, container assembly (10) may have a variety of shapes including circles, triangles, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, etc. Container assembly (10) facilitates rotating one shell component (12, 14) about a central axis (CA) to join with another shell component (12, 14) in plurality of different locked configurations. While not shown, the shell components may include a circular shape having the engagement features spaced about the circumference of the circular shape at pre-determined positions that facilitate joining with another shell component at more than one more than one locked configuration. However, any other rotationally symmetrical shape may be used, particularly if each shell component comprises an engagement feature that aligns with a complimentary engagement feature of another shell component at more than one more than one locked configuration (similar to FIG. 5).

Shell component (12) includes a plurality of sides (16, 18, 20, 22) and a plurality of corners (24, 26, 28, 30). Number of sides (16, 18, 20, 22) generally determines the number of locked configurations, as shown container assembly (10) has four locked configurations (see FIG. 1 for one of the four). In the present version, shell component (12) includes a first corner (24), a second corner (26), a third corner (28) and a fourth corner (30). The shape of container assembly (10) may impact the number of corners and/or the number of engagement regions. As shown, first corner (24) joins first side (16) and fourth side (22). Second corner (26) joins first side (16) and second side (18). Third corner (28) joins second side (18) and a third side (20). Fourth corner (30) joins third side (20) and a fourth side (22). A first corner plane (CP1), defined by first and third corners (24, 28), bisects first and third corners (24, 28). A second corner plane (CP2), defined by second and fourth corner (26, 30), bisects second and fourth corner (26, 30). A central axis (CA) is centrally located relative to the corners (24, 26, 28, 30) and sides (16, 18, 20, 22) and extends vertically through the container assembly (10).

Similarly, shell component (14) includes a plurality of sides (17, 19, 21, 23) and a plurality of corners (25, 27, 29, 31). As shown, shell component (14) includes a first corner (25), a second corner (27), a third corner (29) and a fourth corner (31). First corner (25) joins first side (17) and fourth side (23). Second corner (27) joins first side (17) and second side (19). Third corner (29) joins second side (19) and a third side (21). Fourth corner (31) joins third side (21) and a fourth side (23).

First corner (24) of top shell component (12) may be aligned and couple with any corner (25, 27, 29, 31) of bottom shell assembly (14). For example, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with first corner (25) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the first locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with second corner (27) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the second locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with third corner (29) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the third locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with fourth corner (31) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the fourth locked configuration.

As shown, first corner (24) is a mirror image of third corner (28), second corner (26) is a mirror image of fourth corner (30). Similarly, first side (16) is a mirror image of third side (20), and second side (18) is a mirror image of fourth side (22). When rotated 90 degrees, there is no difference in orientation of features on corners (24, 26, 28, 30) and sides (16, 18, 20, 22) relative to the other corners (24, 26, 28, 30) and sides (16, 18, 20, 22).

Similar to first shell component (12), first corner (25) of second shell component (14) is a mirror image of third corner (29), second corner (27) is a mirror image of the fourth corner (31). Similarly, first side (17) is a mirror image of third side (21), and second side (19) is a mirror image of fourth side (23). When rotated 90 degrees, there is no difference in orientation of features on corners (25, 27, 29, 31) and sides (17, 19, 21, 23) relative to the other corners (25, 27, 29, 31) and sides (17, 19, 21, 23).

First shell component (12) includes a peripheral lip (32), a plurality of sidewalls (34), and a base (36). As shown, peripheral lip (32) extends around the entire periphery of first shell component (12). Sidewalls (34) extend around the entire periphery of shell component (12) and slope away from peripheral lip (32) to base (36). Peripheral lip (32) is shown as being planar except for engagement regions (42) and sealing features (80) as described in detail below. As shown, base (36) is oriented generally parallel to peripheral lip (32). As shown in FIG. 3, the bottom of base (36) is spaced a distance (D) from a planar surface (PS). This distance (D) reduces the heat transfer from the contents of container assembly (10) to planar surface (PS). For example, base (36) reduces the conductive heat transfer with planar surface (PS). Conduction is a process in where the transfer of heat takes place between objects by direct contact. Only a portion of base (36) contacts planar surface (PS) thereby reducing the conductive heat transfer allowing the hot contents of container assembly (10) to remain hot longer, and cold contents of container assembly (10) to remain cold longer.

Second shell component (14) includes a peripheral lip (33), a plurality of sidewalls (35) and a base (37). Peripheral lip (33) extends around the entire periphery of second shell component (14). Plurality of sidewalls (35) extends around the entire periphery of second shell component (14) sloping away from peripheral lip (33) to base (37). Peripheral lip (33) is shown as being planar except for engagement regions (43) as described in detail below. Base (37) is oriented generally parallel to peripheral lip (33). Base (37) is configured to space the bottom of base (37) when placed on a planar surface (PS) a distance (D). Similar to first shell component (12), distance (D) reduces the heat transfer from the contents of the container to the planar surface (PS).

As shown in FIGS. 3-4, an exterior (48) of first shell component (12) is configured to be positioned within an interior (50) of first shell component (12) or interior (51) of second shell component (14) or vise-versa, in a nested configuration. First and second shell components (12, 14) are oriented the same direction and are nested together to reduce the amount of space required to store first and second shell components (12, 14). In the nested orientation, the complementary shapes of the various elements facilitate a tight complementary fit between first and second shell components (12, 14). Sidewall (34, 35) and base (36, 37) of a first or second shell component (12, 14) are slidably received within sidewall (34, 35) and base (36, 37) of another first or second shell component (12, 14). First shell component (12) may be nested within second shell component (14) or first shell component (12). Second shell component (14) may be nested within second shell component (14) or first shell component (12). As shown, there are three first shell components (12) and two second shell components (14) nested within each other. However, any number of first shell components (12) or second shell components (14) may be nested together.

B. Second Exemplary Container Assembly with Plastic Shell Components

FIG. 5 shows a second exemplary container assembly (52) in a locked configuration. Similar to container assembly (10), container assembly (52) may be positioned in a spaced apart configuration (similar to FIG. 3), a nested configuration (see FIG. 4), and a plurality of locked configurations (with one such locked configuration being shown in FIG. 5). Container assembly (52), similar to container assembly (10), may be disposed in first, second, third, and fourth locked configurations.

Container assembly (52) differs from container assembly (10) in that container assembly (52) comprises a first shell component (12) releasably secured to another first shell component (12). In other words, another shell component (12) is used in place of shell component (14) of FIGS. 1-3 and FIGS. 15A-15B. Container assembly (52) includes a top shell component (12) that is inverted so that peripheral lip (32) of top shell component (12) press fits together with peripheral lip (32) of bottom shell component (12) to releasably lock two shell components (12) together.

First corner (24) of top shell component (12) may be aligned and coupled with any corner (24, 26, 28, 30) of bottom shell assembly (12). For example, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with first corner (24) of bottom shell assembly (12) in the first locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with second corner (26) of bottom shell assembly (12) in the second locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with third corner (28) of bottom shell assembly (12) in the third locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (24) of top shell assembly (12) may couple with fourth corner (30) of bottom shell assembly (12) in the fourth locked configuration.

As shown in FIG. 6-8, first shell component (12) has an exterior (48) (see FIG. 6) and an interior (50) (see FIG. 8). Interior (50) is a mirror image of exterior (48). For example, any recessed element of interior (50) is a protruding element of exterior (48), and any protruding element of interior (50) is a recessed element of exterior (48). Interior (50) of top shell component (12) and interior (50) of bottom shell assembly (12) collectively form a cavity.

As best shown in FIG. 6, first shell component (12) includes a base (36), a plurality of sidewalls (34), and a peripheral lip (32). Base (36) is configured to space apart bottom of container from planar surface (PS) on exterior (48) and retain contents within interior (50) (see FIG. 8). Base (36) includes a rim (54), a plurality stabilization features (56), a fillet (58), and a valley (60). Valley (60) is centrally positioned relative to rim (54). Rim (54) completely encircles valley (60). Valley (60) encompasses a majority of the area of base (36). Valley (60) outwardly transitions to rim (54) via fillet (58).

Each stabilization feature (56) is configured to allow each shell component (12), or container assembly (52) as a whole, to rest in a stable manner on a planar surface (PS) (see FIG. 3). Stabilization features (56) are integrally formed with base (36). Stabilization features (56) each include a male portion (62) and a female portion (64) positioned on rim (54) about each corner (24, 26, 28, 30). Male portion (62) has an inner riser (66) that extends from fillet (58) away from base (36) and an arcuate portion (68) extending from sidewall (34) on a side that is opposite inner riser (66) that meets at an apex (70). Male portion (62) further includes two side risers (72) that extend away from base (36). Side risers (72) may extend away from base (36) in an angular or arcuate manner. Female portion (64) is a mirror image of male portion (62). Female portion (64) is cutaway from rim (54) and male portion (62) extends from rim (54). Stated differently, male portion (62) extends outwards from base (36) to a height that is greater than the height that female portion (64) extends outwards from base (36). Each male portion (62) is oriented to the clockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) relative to central axis (CA) and female portion (64) is located on the counterclockwise side of the corner plane (CP1, CP2) relative to central axis (CA). It should be noted that the locations of the male and female portions (62, 64) may be reversed with female portion (64) on the clockwise side and male portion (62) on the counterclockwise side.

Female portion (64) is configured to accept a male portion (62) when first shell components (12) are stacked with exterior (48) of a first shell component (12) engaging an exterior (48) of another first shell component (12), in a stacked configuration (not shown). Female portion (64), being a mirror image of male portion (62), has a complementary shape that helps stabilize stacked container assemblies (52). An example of when containers would be stacked exterior (48) to exterior (48) is when a container assembly (52) in the locked configuration is stacked upon another container assembly (10, 52, 114). A container assembly (52) may be stacked on a container assembly (10), or a container assembly (114) with any container assembly (10, 52, 114) stacked upon another container assembly (10, 52, 114).

Sidewalls (34) generally slope away from rim (54) in an arcuate manner towards the peripheral lip (32). Sidewalls (34) are generally perpendicular to base (36) and are configured to retain food within a container assembly (52) or a first shell component (12) when detached from container assembly (52). Each sidewall (34) includes a smooth portion (74) and an embossed portion (76). Embossed portion (76) includes a taper (78) that separates the smooth portion (74) from the embossed portion (76) and extends in an arcuate manner towards rim (54) from one of corners (24, 26, 28, 30) at peripheral lip (32) traveling back away from rim (54) to another corner (24, 26, 28, 30) at peripheral lip (32). Smooth portion (74) generally extends upwards away from rim (54) at each corner (24, 26, 28, 30) to peripheral lip (32).

Peripheral lip (32) extends outwardly from sidewalls (34). Peripheral lip (32) includes a planar portion (38), a plurality of sealing features (80), a plurality of tabs (40), and a plurality of engagement regions (42). While four engagement regions (42) are shown, more or fewer engagement regions (42) are envisioned. Planar portion (38) extends transversely from sidewalls (34) and encircles sidewalls (34). Planar portion (38) is configured to engage another planar portion (38) when a pair of first shell components (12) (see FIG. 5).

As best shown in FIG. 7, tab (40) extends outwardly away from peripheral lip (32) at each corner (24, 26, 28, 30). Tabs (40) are located proximate to the engagement region (42) and extend transversely and are integrally formed with planar portion (38). Tab (40) is offset to a clockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) relative to central axis (CA) (see FIG. 6) when viewed from exterior (48) (see FIG. 7), and tab (40) is offset to a counterclockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) when viewed from interior (50) (see FIG. 8). These locations may be reversed, with tab (40) being offset to the opposite side of corner plane (CP1, CP2), so long as tabs (40) of a top and bottom shell components (12) are offset from one another. Tabs (40) may also be positioned along other parts of peripheral lip (32) of first shell component (12). Tabs (40) may be a planar extension of peripheral lip (32) or any other style of tabbing that maybe grasped by a user. Tabs (40) are configured so that when shell component (12) is inverted and placed upon another shell component (12), the tabs (40) are offset from one another (see FIG. 5). This offsetting of tabs (40) may facilitate a user to grasp tab (40) of top shell component (12) and another tab (40) of bottom shell component (12) and pull top shell component (12) away from bottom shell component (12) disengaging the engagement regions (42) of top and bottom shell components (12). This may prevent a user from having to frustratingly pick at corner (24, 26, 28, 30) to disengage the engagement regions (42) of top and bottom shell components (12) and separate top and bottom shell components (12).

FIGS. 7-8 best show one of four engagement regions (42) positioned proximate to a corner (24, 26, 28, 30). Engagement regions (42) may be positioned along any portion or section of the perimeter of the first shell components so long as the first and second engagement features align with one another. Engagement region (42) includes first engagement feature (44) and second engagement feature (46). In other versions, engagement regions (42) may also include additional first and second engagement features (44, 46) spaced from corners (24, 26, 28, 30). Engagement regions (42) may include one, two, three, or four of engagement features (44) in combination with one, two, three, or four of engagement features (46). Engagement features (44, 46) may also include other types of locking features such as tabbed locks, bar locks, button locks, rim locks, inside and outside locks, perimeter locks, etc.

First engagement feature (44) is configured to removably lock with second engagement feature (46) of first or second shell component (12, 14). FIG. 8 shows, first engagement feature (44) is offset a distance on a clockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) on planar portion (38) and second engagement feature (46) is offset the same distance on a counterclockwise corner plane (CP1, CP2) on planar portion (38) when viewed from interior (50). First engagement feature (44) may include a portion of the aforementioned other types of locking features. Engagement feature extends outwardly from planar portion (38). First engagement feature (44) includes a projection (86) that has a tapered portion (88), a tip (90), and an annular notch (92). Tapered portion (88) extend at an angle from planar portion (38) to tip (90). Tapered portion (88) may include a chamfer or bevel where the tapered portion (88) meets planar portion (38). Tip (90) may include a chamfered or beveled portion to aid in guiding projection (86) into second engagement feature (46). Annular notch (92) is positioned on the tapered portion (88) and extend around the circumference of projection (86) and is recessed relative to tapered portion (88).

Second engagement feature (46) is configured to removably lock with first engagement feature (44) of first or second shell component (12, 14). Second engagement feature (44) may include a complimentary portion of the aforementioned other types of locking features configured to lock with first engagement feature (44). Second engagement feature (44) includes a recess (94). Recess (94) includes an entry portion (96), a plurality of inwardly extending barbs (98), a tapered sidewall (100), and a bottom portion (102). Entry portion (96) may include a bevel or chamfer to guide projection (86) into the recess (94) when the projection (86) is slightly misaligned with the recess (94). Tapered sidewall (100) extends from entry portion (96) to bottom portion (102) at a complementary angle to the angle of tapered portion (88) of projection (86). Barbs (98) are configured to removably lock with annular notch (92) of projection (86). Barbs (98) are spaced generally the same distance as annular notch (92) from planar portion (38) to facilitate a positive engagement and alignment with annular notch (92). Barbs (98) extend around tapered sidewall (100). Tapered sidewall (100) includes a perimeter having an arcuate portion (104) and an elongate portion (106) forming the shape of an elongated oval. Each barb (98) includes a space (108) between barb (98) positioned on arcuate portion (104) and barb (98) positioned on elongate portion (106). In other versions, one continuous barb (98) extends around perimeter. Bottom portion (102) may be chamfered or beveled to compliment the chamfered or beveled portion of tip (90) of projection (86).

FIG. 9A shows side (16) of first shell component (12) spaced apart from another side (16) of another first shell component (12) of container assembly (52) (see FIG. 5). Side (16) extends from corner (24) to corner (26). Side (16) is shown as being identical to other sides (18, 20, 22). As shown in FIG. 6, sealing feature (80) is positioned between embossed portion (76) of sidewall (34) and planar portion (38) of peripheral lip (32). Sealing feature (80) generally extends along side (16) from engagement feature (44) to engagement feature (46) and parallels embossed portion (76). Each sealing feature (80) includes a ramp (82) and ramp sides (84). Ramp (82) slopes at an angle from above peripheral lip (32), through peripheral lip (32), to below peripheral lip (32). Sealing feature (80) includes a first portion (110) and a second portion (112). As shown in FIG. 8, first portion (110) projects away from peripheral lip (32) with ramp (82) and ramp sides (84) being exposed above peripheral lip (32) on interior (50). On second portion (112), ramp (82) extends below peripheral lip (32) and ramp sides (84) are below peripheral lip (32) and ramp sides (84) may be viewed from exterior (48) (see FIG. 6). Each ramp (82) is configured to engage another ramp (82) of another inverted shell component (12, 14) to seal the contents within container assembly (52).

In the spaced apart configuration, engagement features (44, 46) and sealing features (80) of top and bottom shell components (12) are aligned in preparation of transitioning to a locked configuration (see FIG. 9B). First engagement feature (44) of bottom shell component (12) is aligned with second engagement feature (46) of top shell component (12) and first engagement feature (44) of top shell component (12) is aligned with second engagement feature (46) of bottom shell component (12).

Sealing features (80) are positioned about peripheral lip (32) that extends along the sides (16, 18, 20, 22) of shell component (12). Sealing features (80) aid in retaining the contents placed within the interior of container assembly (52). Ramp (82) extends at an angle through the outer rim from a first portion (110) to a second portion (112). Other sealing features (80) may include complementary protrusions and channels, mating teeth, labyrinth seals, etc. Top and bottom sealing features (80) are also aligned with each other. Sealing features (80) are aligned by first portion (110) of sealing feature (80) of the bottom shell component (12) being aligned with second portion (112) of top shell component (12). First portion (110) of sealing feature (80) of the top shell component (12) is also aligned with second portion (112) of bottom shell component (12).

Additionally, top shell component (12) or bottom shell component (12) may be rotated about a central axis (CA) (see FIG. 5) until different sides (16, 18, 20, 22) are aligned with one another. A different sealing feature (80) positioned on another side (16, 18, 20, 22) of a top shell component (12) aligns with sealing feature (80) of bottom shell component (12) and another set of first and second engagement features (44, 46) align. In the present version, top and bottom shell components (12) may be rotated about 90 degrees to align with one another side (16, 18, 20, 22) in four separate positions.

Top first shell component (12) is manually pressed in the direction of arrow (A), and/or bottom first shell component (12) is manually pressed in the direction of arrow (B). Entry portions (96) of recesses (94) aligns tips (90) of projections (86) with recesses (94). Tapered portions (88) of projections (86) are further guided by tapered sidewalls (100) until planar portion (38) of top and bottom shell components (12) engage one another in the locked configuration (see FIG. 9B).

FIG. 9B shows sealing features (80) and first and second engagement features (44, 46) in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, tips (90) of projections (86) are located proximate to or engaging bottom portions (102) on both top and bottom shell components (12). Tip (90) of projection (86) located on top shell component (12) was guided by entry portion (96) of recess (94) located on bottom shell component (12) into recess (94) located on bottom shell component (12). Tip (90) of projection (86) located on bottom shell component (12) was guided by entry portion (96) of recess (94) located on top shell component (12) into recess (94) located on top shell component (12). Tapered portions (88) of projections (86) are further guided by tapered sidewalls (100) until tips (90) of projections (86) are proximate to or engage bottom portions (102) of recesses (94). Planar portions (38) of top and bottom shell components (12) also engage one another. Annular notches (92) of projections (86) are positively engaged by inwardly extending barbs (98) of recesses (94) locking projections (86) to recesses (94). Additionally, tapered portions (88) of projections (86) may be slightly larger than the tapered sidewall (100) of recess (94) to provide additional locking of the top and bottom shell components (12) together.

Sealing features (80) interlock to retain the contents within container assembly (52). First portion (110) of sealing feature (80) positioned on top shell component (12) extends within second portion (112) of sealing feature (80) positioned on bottom shell component (12) until ramp (82) of first portion (110) engages ramp of second portion (112).

In the locked position, tab (40) positioned on top shell component (12) may be pulled in a direction opposite bottom shell component (12) while simultaneously pulling tab (40) positioned on bottom shell component (12) away from top shell component (12) to transition container assembly (52) from the locked configuration to the spaced apart configuration.

C. Third Exemplary Container Assembly with Molded Fiber Shell Components

FIG. 10 shows a third exemplary container assembly (114) in a locked configuration. Similar to container assembly (10), container assembly (114) may be positioned in a spaced apart configuration (similar to FIG. 3), a nested configuration (see FIG. 4), and a plurality of locked configurations (with one such locked configuration being shown in FIG. 10). Similar to container assembly (10), container assembly (114) may be disposed in any of first, second, third, and fourth locked configurations.

Container assembly (114) differs from container assembly (10) in that container assembly (114) comprises a second shell component (14) releasably secured to another second shell component (14). In other words, another shell component (14) is used in place of first shell component (12) of FIGS. 1-3 and FIGS. 15A-15B. Container assembly (114) includes a top shell component (14) that is inverted so that peripheral lip (33) of top shell component (14) press fits together with peripheral lip (33) of bottom shell component (14) to releasably lock two shell components (14) together.

First corner (25) of top shell component (14) may be aligned and couple with any corner (25, 27, 29, 31) of bottom shell assembly (14). For example, first corner (25) of top shell assembly (14) may couple with first corner (25) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the first locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (25) of top shell assembly (14) may couple with second corner (27) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the second locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (25) of top shell assembly (14) may couple with third corner (29) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the third locked configuration. Alternatively, first corner (25) of top shell assembly (14) may couple with fourth corner (31) of bottom shell assembly (14) in the fourth locked configuration.

As shown in FIGS. 11-13, second shell component (14) includes an exterior (49) (see FIG. 11) and an interior (51) (see FIG. 13). Interior (51) is a mirror image of exterior (49). For example, any recessed element of the interior (51) is a protruding element of exterior (49) and any protruding element of the interior (51) is a recessed element of exterior (49).

As best shown in FIG. 11, second shell component (14) includes a base (37), a plurality of sidewalls (35), and a peripheral lip (33). Base (37) is configured to space apart the bottom of container assembly from planar surface (PS) (see FIG. 3) on the exterior (49) and retain contents within the interior (51). Base (37) includes a rim (55), stabilization features (57), a fillet (59) and a valley (61). Valley (61) is centrally positioned relative to rim (55). Rim (55) completely encircles valley (61). Valley (61) encompasses a majority of the area of base (37). Valley (61) outwardly transitions to rim (55) via fillet (59).

Each stabilization feature (57) is configured to allow each shell component (14), or a container assembly (114) to rest in a stable manner on a planar surface (PS) (see FIG. 3). Stabilization features (57) are integrally formed with base (37). Stabilization feature (57) includes a male portion (63) and a female portion (65) positioned on rim (55) about each corner (25, 27, 29, 31). Male portion (63) has an inner riser (67) that extends from fillet (59) away from base (37) and an arcuate portion (69) extending from sidewall (35) on a side that is opposite inner riser (67) that meets at an apex (71). Male portion (63) further includes two side risers (73) that extend away from the base (37). Side risers (73) may extend away from base (37) in an angular or arcuate manner. Female portion (65) is a mirror image of male portion (63). Female portion (65) is cutaway from rim (55) and male portion (63) extends from rim (55). Stated differently, male portion (63) extends outwards from base (37) to a height that is greater than the height that female portion (65) extends outwards from base (37). Each male portion (63) is oriented to the clockwise side of the corner plane (CP1, CP2) relative to central axis (CA) and female portion (65) is located on the counterclockwise side of the corner plane (CP1, CP2) relative to central axis (CA). It should be noted that the locations of male and female portions (63, 65) may be reversed with female portion (65) on the clockwise side and the male portion (63) on the counterclockwise side.

Female portion (65) is configured to accept a male portion (63) when second shell component (14) is stacked with exterior (49) of a second shell component (14) engaging an exterior (49) of another second shell component (14), in a stacked configuration (not shown). Female portion (65) being a mirror image of the male portion (63) has a complementary shape that helps stabilize stacked container assemblies (114). An example of when shell component (14) would be stacked exterior (49) to exterior (49) is when assembled container assembly (114) in the locked configuration is stacked upon another container assembly (10, 52, 114). Container assembly (114) may be stacked upon any other container assembly (10, 52, 114) and vise-versa.

As shown, four sidewalls (35) generally slope away from rim (55) in an arcuate manner towards the peripheral lip (33). Sidewalls (35) are generally perpendicular to the base (37) and are configured to retain food within container assembly (52) or a second shell component (14) when detached from container assembly (52). Each sidewall (35) includes a smooth portion (75) and an embossed portion (77). Embossed portion (77) includes a taper (79) that separates the smooth portion (75) from the embossed portion (77) and extends in an arcuate manner towards rim (55) from one of corners (25, 27, 29, 31) at peripheral lip (33) traveling back away from rim (55) to another corner (25, 27, 29, 31) at the peripheral lip (33). Smooth portion (75) generally extends upwards away from rim (55) at each corner (25, 27, 29, 31) to peripheral lip (33).

Peripheral lip (33) extends outwardly from sidewalls (35). Peripheral lip (33) includes a planar portion (39), a plurality of sealing features (81), a plurality of tabs (41), and a plurality of engagement regions (43). While four engagement regions (43) are shown, more or fewer engagement regions (43) are envisioned. Planar portion (39) extends transversely from sidewalls (35) and encircles sidewalls (35). Planar portion (39) is configured to engage another planar portion (39) when a pair of second shell components (14) are in the locked position (see FIG. 10).

As best shown in FIG. 12, tabs (41) are located proximate to the engagement region (43) and extend transversely and are integrally formed with planar portion (39). Tab (41) extends outwardly away from peripheral lip (33) at each corner (25, 27, 29, 31). Tab (41) is offset to a clockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) relative to the central axis (CA) when viewed from exterior (49) (see FIG. 12), and tab (41) is offset to a counterclockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) when viewed from interior (51) (see FIG. 13). These locations may be reversed, so long as tabs (41) of a top and bottom shell components (14) are offset from one another. Tabs (41) are configured so that when shell component (14) is inverted and placed upon another shell component (14), tabs (41) are offset from one another (see FIG. 10). This offsetting of tabs (41) facilitates a user to grasp tab (41) of top shell component (14) and another tab (41) of bottom shell component (14) and pull top shell component (14) away from bottom shell component (14) disengaging engagement regions (43) of top and bottom shell components (14). It should be noted, second shell component (14) may also be removed from first shell component (12) by pulling tab (41) away from first shell component (12).

FIGS. 12-13 show one of four engagement regions (43) positioned proximate to one of corners (25, 27, 29, 31). It is envisioned that engagement regions (42) may be positioned along any portion or section of the perimeter of first shell components (12) so long as first and second engagement features (45, 47) align with one another. Engagement region (43) includes first engagement feature (45) and second engagement feature (47). In other versions, engagement regions (43) may also include additional first and second engagement features (45, 47) spaced from corners (25, 27, 29, 31). Engagement regions (43) may include one, two, three, or four first engagement features (45) in combination with one, two, three, or four second engagement features (47). Engagement features (45, 47) may also include other types of locking features such as tabbed locks, bar locks, button locks, rim locks, inside and outside locks, etc. First engagement feature (45) is configured to removably lock with second engagement feature (47) of first or second shell component (12, 14).

FIG. 13 shows first engagement feature (45) offset a distance on a clockwise side of corner plane (CP1, CP2) (see FIG. 11) on planar portion (39) and second engagement feature (47) is offset the same distance on a counterclockwise corner plane (CP1, CP2) on planar portion (39) when viewed from interior (51). First engagement feature (45) may include a portion of the aforementioned other types of locking features. Engagement feature extends outwardly from planar portion (38). Second engagement feature (47) is configured to removably lock with first engagement feature (44) of first shell component (12) or first engagement feature (45) of second shell component (14). Second engagement feature (47) may include a complimentary portion of the aforementioned other types of locking features configured to lock with first engagement feature (44, 45) of first or second shell component (12,14).

First engagement feature (45) in the present version, includes a projection (116). Projection includes a straight portion (118) and a tip (120). Straight portion (118) extends transversely from planar portion (39) to tip (120). Straight portion (118) may include a chamfer or bevel where straight portion (118) meets planar portion (39). Tip (120) may include a chamfered or beveled portion to aid in guiding projection (116) into second engagement feature (47). Second engagement feature (47) includes an aperture (122). Aperture (122) has a bore that extends entirely through planar portion (39) of second shell component (14) similarly shaped to recess (94) of first shell component (12). Aperture (122) is sized smaller than projection (86) of first shell component (12) or projection (116) of second shell component (14) and is configured to mate with tapered portion (88) of first shell component (12) or straight portion (118) of second shell component (14) by being reduced to the smaller size of aperture (122) to removably lock the respective projection (116, 86) to the aperture (122).

FIG. 14A shows side (17) of second shell component (14) spaced apart from another side (17) of another second shell component (14) of container assembly (114) (see FIG. 10). Side (17) extends from corner (25) to corner (27). Side (17) may be identical to other sides (19, 21, 23). As shown in FIG. 11, each sealing feature (81) is positioned between embossed portion (77) of sidewall (35) and planar portion (39) of peripheral lip (33). Sealing feature (81) generally extends along a side (17, 19, 21, 23) from an engagement region (43) to another engagement region (43) and parallels embossed portion (77). Each sealing feature (81) includes a ramp (83) and ramp sides (85). Ramp (83) slopes at an angle from above peripheral lip (33), through peripheral lip (33), and to below peripheral lip (33). Sealing feature (81) includes a first portion (111) and a second portion (113). First portion (111) projects away from peripheral lip (33) with ramp (83) and ramp sides (85) being exposed above peripheral lip (33) on interior (51) (see FIG. 13). On second portion (113), ramp (83) extends below peripheral lip (33) and ramp sides (85) are below peripheral lip (33) and ramp sides (85) may be viewed from exterior (49) (see FIG. 11). Each ramp (83) is configured to engage another ramp (83) of another inverted shell component (14) to seal the contents within container assembly (114) (see FIG. 10).

In the spaced apart configuration, engagement features (45, 47) and sealing features (81) of top and bottom shell components (14) are aligned in preparation of transitioning to the locked configuration (see FIG. 14B). First engagement feature (45) of bottom shell component (14) is aligned with second engagement feature (47) of top shell component (14) and first engagement feature (45) of top shell component (14) is aligned with the second engagement feature (47) of bottom shell component (14). In moving from the spaced apart configuration of FIG. 15A to the locked configuration of FIG. 15B, top first shell component (14) is manually pressed in the direction of arrow A and/or bottom first shell component (14) is manually pressed in the direction of arrow B.

Sealing features (81) are positioned about peripheral lip (33) that extends along the sides (17, 19, 21,23). Sealing features (81) aid in retaining the contents placed within the interior of the container. Sealing features (81) include a ramp (83) that extends at an angle through the outer rim from a first portion (111) to a second portion (113). Other sealing features (81) may include complementary protrusions and channels, mating teeth, labyrinth seals, etc. Top and bottom sealing features (81) are also aligned with each other. Sealing features (81) are aligned by first portion (111) of sealing feature (81) of the bottom shell component (14) being aligned with second portion (113) of top shell component (14). First portion (111) of sealing feature (81) of top shell component (14) is also aligned with second portion (113) of bottom shell component (14).

Top shell component (14) or bottom shell component (14) may be rotated about a central axis (CA) (see FIG. 10) until different sides (17, 19, 21, 23) (see FIG. 10) are aligned with one another. A different sealing feature (81) positioned on another side (17, 19, 21, 23) of a top shell component (14) aligns with sealing feature (81) of bottom shell component (14) and another set of first and second engagement features (45, 47) align. In the present version, top and bottom shell components (12) may be rotated about 90 degrees to align with one another side (17, 19, 21, 23) in four separate positions.

FIG. 14B shows sealing features (81) and first and second engagement features (45, 47) in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, projections (116) extend completely through apertures (122). The larger diameter projections (116) are retained by friction within the apertures (122). Projections (116) are pressed through apertures (122) and engage one another in the locked configuration. Projections (116) may be resiliently biased outwards further locking the projections (116) within the apertures (122). Planar portions (39) of top and bottom shell components (14) also engage one another. Sealing features (81) are configured interlock to retain the contents within container assembly (114). First portion (111) of sealing feature (81) positioned on top shell component (14) extends within second portion (113) of sealing feature (81) positioned on bottom shell component (14) until ramp (83) of first portion (111) engages ramp of second portion (113).

In the locked position, tab (41) positioned on top shell component (14) of may be pulled in a direction opposite bottom shell component (14) while simultaneously pulling tab (41) positioned on bottom shell component (14) away from top shell component (14) to transition container assembly (114) from the locked configuration to the spaced apart configuration.

D. Exemplary Container Assembly with Molded Fiber and Plastic Shell Components

FIGS. 15A-15A show sectional views of first and second shell components (12, 14) moving from the spaced apart configuration to the locked configuration. Particularly, FIG. 15A shows side (16) of first shell component (12) spaced apart from another side (17) of second shell component (14) of container assembly (10). Sealing features (80) of first shell component (12) are aligned with sealing features (81) of second shell component (14). Sealing features (80, 81) are aligned by first portion (111) of second shell component (14) being aligned with second portion (112) of first shell component (12). First portion (110) of shell component (14) is also aligned with second portion (113) of first shell component (12). Sealing features (80, 81) of first and second shell components (12, 14) provide the benefit of improved containment of the contents placed within container assembly (10) such as contents containing liquids.

In the spaced apart configuration, engagement features (44) of first shell component (12) and engagement features (47) of second shell component (14) are aligned in preparation to transition to locked configuration (see FIG. 15B). Also, engagement features (46) of first shell component (12) and engagement features (45) of second shell component (14) are aligned; and further sealing features (80) of first shell component (12) and sealing features (81) of second shell component (14) are aligned in preparation to transition to locked configuration (see FIG. 15B).

As shown, side (17) of second shell component (14) is aligned with side (16) of first shell component (12). First shell component (12) or second shell component (14) may be rotated about a central axis (CA) (see FIG. 1) until different sides (16, 18, 20, 22) (see FIG. 1) of first shell component (12) are aligned with different sides (17, 19, 21, 23) (see FIG. 10) of second shell component (14). Sealing features (80) positioned on side (16) aligns with a different sealing feature (81) positioned on another side (19, 21, 23) of second shell component (14). First engagement feature (44) positioned on side (16) aligns with another second engagement feature (47) positioned on another side (19, 21, 23). Second engagement features (46) positioned on side (16) aligns with another first engagement features (45) positioned on another side (19, 21, 23). In the present version, top and bottom shell components (12, 14) may be rotated 90 degrees to align side (16) of first shell component (12) with another side (19, 21, 23) of second shell component (14). As shown, container assembly (10) has four separate locked configurations.

First shell component (12) is manually pressed in the direction of Arrow A and/or second shell component (14) is manually pressed in the direction of Arrow B. As described above, first engagement feature (44) of first shell component includes projection (86), and second engagement feature (46) of first shell component includes recess (94). First engagement feature (45) of second shell component (14) is projection (116) and second engagement feature (47) of second shell component (14) is aperture (122). Entry portion (96) of recess (94) aligns tip (120) of projections (116) with recesses (94), and tip (90) is inserted within aperture (122) until first engagement features (44) of first shell component (12) and second engagement features (47) of second shell component (14) fully engage one another in the locked configuration (see FIG. 15B). Second engagement features (46) of first shell component (12) and first engagement features (45) of second shell component (14) also fully engage one another in locked configuration (see FIG. 15B).

FIG. 15B shows container assembly (10) in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, projection (116) of second shell component (14) is fully seated within recess (94) of first shell component (12) and projection (86) of first shell component (12) is fully seated within aperture (122) of second shell component (14). Tip (120) of projection (116) is located proximate to or engaging bottom portion (102) of recess (94). Barbs (98) (see FIG. 15A) of recess (94) positively engage or bite into straight portion (118) of projection (116), locking projection (116) within recess (94). Additionally, projection (116) may have a larger diameter than recess (94) further locking projection (116) within recess (94). Tip (90) of projection (86) located on first shell component (12) extends within aperture (122) of second shell component (14). Tapered portion (88) of projection (86), located below annular notch (92), has a larger outer diameter than the inner diameter of aperture (122) to aid in locking the projection (86) within aperture (122).

Sealing features (80) interlock with sealing features (81) to retain the contents within container assembly (10). First portion (110) of sealing feature (80) positioned on first shell component (12) extends within second portion (113) of sealing feature (81) positioned on second shell component (14) and first portion (111) of sealing feature (81) positioned on second shell component (14) and second portion (112) of sealing feature positioned on first shell component (12) extend within one another until ramps (82) engage ramps (83).

In the locked position, tab (40) positioned on first shell component (12) may be pulled in a direction opposite second shell component (14) while simultaneously pulling tab (41) positioned on second shell component (14) away from first shell component (12) to transition container assembly (52) from the locked configuration to the spaced apart configuration.

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 assembly comprising: (a) a first component comprising: (i) a first base, (ii) a first plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the first base, and (iii) a first lip extending outwardly around a perimeter of the first plurality side walls; and (b) a second component comprising: (i) a second base, (ii) a second plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the second base, and (iii) a second lip extending outwardly around a perimeter of the second plurality of side walls, wherein the first and second components are convertible between at least a spaced configuration, a first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration, wherein the first and second components are completely separate from one another in the spaced configuration, wherein the first lip is lockably engaged with the second lip to define an interior in the first and second locked configurations, wherein an orientation of at least one the first and second components is different in the first and second locked configurations.

Example 2

The container assembly of Example 1, wherein the first component and the second component are identical.

Example 3

The container assembly of any of Examples 1 through 2, wherein the first and second components are convertible between at least the spaced configuration, the first locked configuration, the second locked configuration, and a third locked configuration, wherein the first lip is lockably engaged with the second lip to define the interior in the first, second, and third locked configurations, wherein the orientation of at least one the first and second components is different in each of the first, second, and third locked configurations.

Example 4

The container assembly of any of Examples 1 through 3, wherein the first and second components is convertible between at least the spaced configuration, the first locked configuration, the second locked configuration, a third locked configuration, and a fourth locked configuration, wherein the first lip is lockably engaged with the second lip to define the interior in the first, second, third, and fourth locked configurations, wherein the orientation of at least one the first and second components is different in each of the first, second, third, and fourth locked configurations.

Example 5

The container assembly of any of Examples 1 through 4, wherein the first lip includes a first engagement feature, wherein the second lip includes a second engagement feature, wherein the first engagement feature is configured to positively engage with the second engagement feature to retain the first and second components in the first locked configuration.

Example 6

The container assembly of Example 5, wherein the first lip includes a third engagement feature, wherein the second lip includes a fourth engagement feature, wherein one of the first or second components is configured to be rotated about 90 degrees or less about a plane defined by the first or second lips to align and positively engage the second and third engagement features as well as to align and positively engage the first and fourth engagement features.

Example 7

The container assembly of any of Examples 5 through 6, wherein the first engagement feature is a projection configured to positively engage the second engagement feature to retain the projection within the second engagement feature.

Example 8

The container assembly of Example 7, wherein the second engagement feature is an aperture that extends completely through the second lip.

Example 9

The container assembly of Example 8, wherein the projection has a maximum projection diameter and the aperture has a minimum aperture diameter, wherein the maximum projection diameter is greater than the minimum aperture diameter.

Example 10

The container assembly of Example 7, wherein the second engagement feature is a recessed surface of the second lip.

Example 11

The container assembly of Example 10, wherein the recessed surface includes inwardly extending barbs configured to releasably retain the projection.

Example 12

The container assembly of Example 11, wherein the projection includes an annular notch configured to couple with the inwardly extending barbs of the recessed surface.

Example 13

The container assembly of any of Examples 1 through 12, wherein one of the first component or the second component is formed from molded fiber.

Example 14

The container assembly of Example 13, wherein the other of the first component or the second component is formed from plastic.

Example 15

The container assembly of any of Examples 1 through 12, wherein both the first component and the second component are formed from molded fiber.

Example 16

A container assembly comprising: (a) a first component comprising: (i) a first base, (ii) a first plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the first base, and (iii) a first lip extending outward around a perimeter of the first plurality of side walls, wherein the first lip includes first and second engagement features; and (b) a second component comprising: (i) a second base, (ii) a second plurality of side walls extending upward from the second base, and (iv) a second lip extending outwardly around a perimeter of the second plurality of side walls, wherein the second lip includes a third engagement feature configured to lock with the first engagement feature in a first locked configuration, wherein the third engagement feature is configured to lock with the second engagement feature in a second locked configuration, wherein at least one of the first or second components is formed from molded fiber.

Example 17

The container assembly of Example 16, wherein the first engagement feature includes a projection and the third engagement feature includes an aperture extending completely through the second lip, wherein the projection is configured to extend through the aperture to lock with the aperture in the first locked configuration.

Example 18

A container assembly comprising: (a) a first component comprising: (i) a first base, (ii) a first plurality of side walls extending from the first base, and (iii) a first lip including a first planar portion extending outward around a perimeter of the first plurality of side walls and a first ramp that extends through the first planar portion at an angle from a first side of the first component to a second side of the first component; and (b) a second component comprising: (i) a second base, (ii) a second plurality of side walls extending from the second base, and (iii) a second lip including a second planar portion extending outward around a perimeter of the second plurality of side walls and a second ramp extending through the second planar portion at the angle of the first ramp, wherein the second ramp is configured to mate with the first ramp while the first and second planar portions engage each other in a first locked configuration.

Example 19

The container assembly of Example 18, wherein the first and second components are convertible between at least a spaced configuration, the first locked configuration, and a second locked configuration, wherein the first and second components are completely separate from one another in the spaced configuration, wherein the first lip is lockably engaged with the second lip to define an interior in the first and second locked configurations, wherein an orientation of at least one the first and second components is different in the first and second locked configurations.

Example 20

The container assembly of any of Examples 18 through 19, wherein the first lip comprises a first plurality of projections and a first plurality of apertures, wherein the second lip comprises a second plurality of protrusions and a second plurality of apertures, wherein each first projection is insertable into each second aperture and each second protrusion is insertable into each first aperture to releasably lock the first component with the second component in one of the locked configurations.

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 ASSEMBLY

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Description

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