FOOD STORAGE CONTAINER

Abstract

A food or beverage storage container which is configured to secure one or more dividers to allow for reconfigurable interior compartments for the container. The dividers may include a resilient gasket which, when compressed, forms an airtight seal between the compartments. The dividers may also include an integrated material such as a gel that can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container. The container includes a lid that engages the top surfaces of the dividers to establish a plurality of substantially sealed compartments within the container.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present invention generally relates to containers and methods of using the same, and more specifically relates to modular containers for use in storing and transporting items such as food and drinks, including containers having modular rigid and/or flexible dividers therein.

BACKGROUND OF DISCLOSURE

Multipurpose containers and coverings are used for packing, storing, and transporting food, beverages, and other items that need to kept separate from other items. Existing containers do not provide meaningful versatility and can generally be used only in a few configurations. Existing containers that have multiple compartments are generally incapable of being adjusted, forcing users to employ nonoptimal arrangements that may not suit the items the user wishes to transport. For example, existing containers generally contain one or more pre-defined compartments; users are unable to adjust the configuration of compartments based on the specific item(s) to be transported or stored therein. Alternatively, users may be forced to place different types of items in separate packaging (such as separate plastic bags) in order to keep the items separated within a container. The use of separate packaging is wasteful (as where the packaging is single-use or disposable) and does not adequately retain items within a desired portion of the container.

There exists an unmet need in the art for an improved container and method of use which permits the transport of multiple items in separate compartments within a container where the compartments are sealed off from each other to prevent the co-mingling of items during transport.

SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that is further described in the detailed description of the disclosure. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Described herein are systems comprising containers that have an interior surface configured to secure a rigid or flexible divider in a variety of configurations so as to allow for a reconfigurable interior of the container along with corresponding dividers configured for use therewith. The dividers may include a resilient material which, when compressed against the interior of the container and the lid, provides for an airtight seal between compartments. In embodiments, the resilient material is in the form of a separate strip or gasket that surrounds at least a portion of a divider. In other embodiments, the resilient material is formed on or connected to at least a portion of the divider. In embodiments, the dividers themselves are made from a deformable resilient material.

In embodiments, dividers also comprise an integrated material (such as a gel) that can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container.

In embodiments of the containers described herein provide a configurable container and lid that has an interior surface configured to secure one or more rigid or flexible dividers and to allow for the dividers to establish a plurality of substantially sealed compartments within the container.

In embodiments, a container system is provided that comprises a container comprising: a base wall; a peripheral wall extending from the base wall to form a cavity, the peripheral wall comprising a top edge opposite the base wall; and a pair of ridges separated by a groove, the pair of ridges and the groove extending across the base wall and at least a lower portion of the peripheral wall proximate the base wall; and a divider comprising an edge, the edge sized so as to form a seal between multiple compartments.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the disclosure, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the disclosure, exemplary constructions of embodiments of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the disclosure and the disclosures herein are not limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a first embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a first embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 4 is a top view of a first embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a first embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a food storage container with a divider applied within the cavity of the container.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a food storage container with a lid secured to the top of the food storage container.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 9 is a side view of a second embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 10 is a front view of a second embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 11 is a top view of a second embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of a second embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a food storage container with a divider applied within the cavity of the container.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a food storage container with a lid secured to the top of the food storage container.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 16 is a side view of a third embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 17 is a front view of a third embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 18 is a top view of a third embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of a third embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a food storage container with a divider applied within the cavity of the container.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a food storage container with a lid secured to the top of the food storage container.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 23 is a side view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 24 is a front view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 25 is a top view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 26 is a bottom view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container with divider(s) applied within the cavity of the container.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a food storage container with a lid secured to the top of the food storage container.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a divider for use with a food storage container.

FIG. 30 is a side view of the divider depicted in FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a front view of the divider depicted in FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 is a bottom view of the divider depicted in FIG. 29

FIG. 33 is a second perspective view of the bottom of the divider depicted in FIG. 29.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a lid for use with a food storage container.

FIG. 35 is a side view of the lid depicted in FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a second side view of the lid depicted in FIG. 34

FIG. 37 is a top view of the lid depicted in FIG. 34

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the lid depicted in FIG. 34.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the lid depicted in FIG. 34 with a latching mechanism to secure the lid to the top of a food storage container.

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of a food storage container, divider, and lid.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of three separate embodiments of food storage containers stacked together for storage.

FIG. 42 is a partially transparent perspective view of the food storage container shown in FIG. 22.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure as a whole may be best understood by reference to the provided detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, drawing description, abstract, background, field of the disclosure, and associated headings. Identical reference numerals when found on different figures identify the same elements or a functionally equivalent element. The elements listed in the abstract are not referenced but nevertheless refer by association to the elements of the detailed description and associated disclosure.

For the purposes of promoting and understanding the principles disclosed herein, reference is now made to the preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language is used to describe the same. It is nevertheless understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is hereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated devices and such further applications of the principles disclosed and illustrated herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one of skill in the art to which this disclosure relates.

The present disclosure relates to, in one or more embodiments, containers, dividers, and systems comprising a container and one or more dividers configured to interact together to create removable seals, thereby separating the container into two or more distinct compartments. Such compartments can be used, by way of non-limiting example, to store and transport various food items without such items mixing or coming into contact.

In embodiments, dividers incorporate material having thermal inertia (such as gel packs) that enable a divider to maintain a desired temperature for a period of time, thereby keeping items stored in an adjacent compartment within a desired temperature range. In an embodiment, at least one side of a divider comprises material that has been cooled and keeps adjacent items cool. In an embodiment, at least one side of a divider comprises a material that has been heated and keeps adjacent items warm. In an embodiment, dividers comprising hot and cold material are used to keep items in one compartment cool while items in another compartment are kept warm.

Except as otherwise used herein, for the purposes of this disclosure, the term “gasket” refers a length of resilient and/or deformable material which may be used to form a seal when compressed against another material. Embodiments of a gasket include a shaped piece or ring of rubber or other deformable or resilient material. Further embodiments include a deformable or resilient portion of material.

Examples of food strange containers include the embodiments described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,319,135 (the “'135 patent”), the contents of which are hereby fully incorporated by reference herein. Many of the embodiments disclosed in the '135 patent incorporate ridges separated by grooves. In contrast, embodiments of the instant disclosure are directed towards containers without ridges or groves on the interior surface of the container. Other differences will also be apparent to one of skill in the art in view of the instant disclosure.

FIGS. 1 through 40 depict embodiments of containers 100, 200, 300, 400 for storing and transporting items, such as food and beverages. As contemplated herein, in various embodiments, the containers 100, 200, 300, 400 may be made of a material that is transparent or translucent (such that items within the container are visible without opening the container), opaque (such that items within the container are obscured without opening the container), or any combination or variation thereof.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed herein, it will be understood by one of skill in the art that specific features or benefits that are discussed herein in the context of a single embodiment (e.g., container 100), such discussion is in generally equally applicable to other embodiments (e.g., containers 200, 300, 400) unless otherwise noted herein or understood from the instant disclosure. Further, while the embodiments of containers described herein may be referred to as “food storage containers” or “beverage storage containers,” it is to be understood that such containers are contemplated as holding any item or items sized to be placed therein and that food and beverage are merely two contemplated uses for such containers.

First Embodiment of the Food Storage Container

As shown in FIGS. 15 through 21, a first embodiment of a container 300 comprises a base 302 and a lid 330. In a preferred embodiment, the container 300 is comprised of a co-polyester resin. In alternative embodiments, the container 300 is comprised of other suitable materials which may provide sufficient support for the container 300. Such examples include but are not limited to epoxy, thermosetting polymers, synthetic resin, and polyethylene terephthalate.

The base 302 is comprised of a length, a width, and a height. In the embodiment of FIGS. 15 through 21, the base 302 has a length greater than its width to form a rectangular shape. The corners of the base 302 proximate the floor may be rounded or form a point.

The base 302 comprises a floor 304 and a perimeter wall 306 which extends upward from the floor 304 to define a cavity. Items to be stored or transported may be placed within the cavity in the base 302. A plurality of spaced-apart indentations 314 extend along the interior surface 308 of the peripheral wall 306. In an embodiment, a ridge 310 extends along the inner surface 308 of the perimeter wall 306. In this embodiment, the plurality of spaced-apart indentations 314 extend along the ridge 310. An upper ridge 320 is located along the top of the perimeter wall 306. A gasket 322 may be placed along the upper ridge 320 so as to form an airtight seal when the upper ridge 320 interacts with the lid 330.

As shown in FIGS. 15 through 21, the interior surface 308 of the floor 304 is smooth and contains no indentations or ridges. In an alternative embodiment, the interior surface of the floor 304 includes ridges, grooves, or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 15 through 21, the plurality of spaced-apart indentations 314 extend along the ridge 310 in pairs. The spaced-apart indentations 314 correspond to a divider 332 and are configured to receive a pair of tabs extending from both sides of the divider 332 to detachably secure the divider 332 in place. In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of spaced-apart indentations 314 are not in pairs. In the alternative embodiment, the divider 332 includes a single tab on each side to lock the divider 332 in place. The divider 332 is further described in a separate section below.

Other means for securing a divider 332 known in the prior art are considered for alternative embodiments.

The exterior surface 316 of the base 302 may be generally smooth. Alternatively, the exterior surface 316 may mirror the structure of the interior surface 308, for example by including protrusions corresponding to the plurality of indentations 314 and the ridge 310. As shown, a plurality of feet 318 may extend away from the exterior of the surface 316 of the floor 304 of the base 302 so as to support the base 302 above a surface.

Second Embodiment of the Food Storage Container

FIGS. 1 through 7 depict a second embodiment of container 100 that is generally similar to the first embodiment described above except as otherwise noted.

The base 102 is comprised of a length, a width, and a height. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 7, the base 102 has a length greater than its width to form a rectangular shape. The corners of the base 102 proximate the floor may be rounded or form a point.

As depicted in FIGS. 1 through 7, the height of the container 100 is greater than the width of the floor 104 of the container 100.

In the preferred embodiment, a first set of three pairs of spaced-apart indentions 114 extend along a first side of the interior surface 108 of the peripheral wall 106. A second set of three pairs of spaced-apart indentations 114 extend along a second, opposite side of the interior surface 108 of the peripheral wall 106. The first and second sets of pairs of indentations 114 are aligned to be directly across from each other and provide a means for the insertion of a divider 132 in three locations.

In an alternative embodiment, the spaced apart indentations 114 are not in pairs and are comprised of a first and second set of three spaced-apart indentations 114. Other means for securing a divider 132 which are known in the prior art are considered as alternative embodiments.

Third Embodiment of the Food Storage Container

FIGS. 8 through 14 depict a food storage container 200 that is generally similar to the first and second embodiments described above except as otherwise noted.

The base 202 is comprised of a length, a width, and a height. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8 through 14, the base 202 has a length approximately the same side as its width to form a square shape. The corners of the base 202 proximate the floor may be rounded or form a point.

In the preferred embodiment, a first set of three pairs of spaced-apart indentions 214 extend along a first side of the interior surface 208 of the peripheral wall 206. A second set of three pairs of spaced-apart indentations 214 extend along a second, opposite side of the interior surface 208 of the peripheral wall 206. The first and second sets of pairs of indentations 214 are aligned to be directly across from each other and provide a means for the insertion of a divider 232 in three locations.

In an alternative embodiment, the spaced apart indentations 214 are not in pairs and are comprised of a first and second set of three spaced-apart indentations 214. Other means for securing a divider 232 which are known in the prior art are considered as alternative embodiments.

Fourth Embodiment of the Food Storage Container

FIGS. 22 through 28 depict a food storage container 400 that is generally similar to the first, second, and third embodiments described above except as otherwise noted. By way of example, the embodiment of FIGS. 22 through 29 provides for a larger container 400 described in connection with FIGS. 15 through 21.

The base 402 is comprised of a length, a width, and a height. In the embodiment of FIGS. 22 through 29, the base 402 has a length greater than its width to form a rectangular shape. The corners of the base 402 proximate the floor may be rounded or form a point.

The enlarged container 400 provides for additional locations to insert a divider. In the preferred embodiment, a first set of seven pairs of spaced-apart indentions 414 extend along a first side of the interior surface 408 of the peripheral wall 406. A second set of seven pairs of spaced-apart indentations 414 extend along a second, opposite side of the interior surface 408 of the peripheral wall 406. The first and second sets of pairs of indentations 414 are aligned to be directly across from each other and provide a means for the insertion of a divider 432 in seven locations.

In an alternative embodiment, the spaced apart indentations 414 are not in pairs and are comprised of a first and second set of seven individual spaced-apart indentations 414. Other means for securing a divider 432 which are known in the prior art are considered as alternative embodiments.

Alternative embodiments may comprise greater or less than seven pairs of (or individual) spaced-spaced apart indentations 414.

Lid for the Food Storage Container

The lid 600 corresponds to the lids disclosed above and is sized so as to enclose the cavity formed by the base 102, 202, 302, 402. As shown in FIGS. 34 through 39, the lid 600 comprises a top surface 602 opposite a bottom surface 604 as well as an exterior wall 606. As shown, the exterior wall 606 may extend below the bottom surface 604 so as to form a peripheral edge 608 configured to engage with the perimeter wall 106, 206, 306, 406 of the base 102, 202, 302, 402 to form an airtight seal. Alternatively, the peripheral ridge 608 may be configured to engage with the upper ridge 120, 220, 320, 420 of the perimeter wall 106, 206, 306, 406.

In alternative embodiments, portions of the exterior wall 606 may extend above the top surface 602. A gasket 626 may be placed along the peripheral edge 608 so as to form an airtight seal with the perimeter wall 106, 206, 306, 406 or the upper ridge 120, 220, 320, 420. Additionally, when the lid is placed on a surface (with the bottom surface 604 facing down), the gasket 626 makes contact with the surface. This allows for a user to place the base 102, 202, 302, 402 of the container on the lid 600 (with the bottom surface 604 facing down) to provide a non-skid surface for the container 100, 200, 300, 400 to rest.

In a second alternative embodiment, portions of a gasket may be placed on the top of the upper ridge 612 at each of the rounded corners, or alternatively, along the entirety of the upper ridge 612. Therefore, when the lid is placed on a surface (with the bottom surface 604 facing up), the gasket makes contact with the surface. This allows for a user to place the base 102, 202, 302, 402 of the container on the lid 600 (with the bottom surface 604 facing up) to provide a non-skid surface for the container 100, 200, 300, 400.

In an embodiment, engagement mechanisms 610 are located on the exterior wall 606 of the lid 600 and are configured to interlock with corresponding receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424 located on the exterior surface 116, 216, 316, 416 of the perimeter wall 106, 206, 306, 406 of the base 102, 202, 302, 402, thereby securing the lid 600 to the base 102, 202, 302, 402 and sealing the container 100, 200, 300, 400.

In the embodiment, shown in FIGS. 34 through 39 the container 100, 200, 300, 400 and lid 600 comprise four engagement mechanisms 610 and corresponding receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424. Alternatively, the container 100, 200, 300, 400 may contain two engagement mechanisms 610 and corresponding receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424 as shown in FIGS. 1 through 7.

In an embodiment, the engagement mechanisms 610 are rotably attached to the lid 600, to lock the lid 600 to the base 102, 202, 302, 402. Upon engagement of the engagement mechanisms 610, the lid 600 is pressed firmly against the base 102, 202, 302, 402, which causes the gasket(s) 626, 122, 222, 322, 422 to depress. The depressed gasket(s) 626, 122, 222, 322, 422 form an airtight seal for the cavity of the container 100, 200, 300, 400.

In an embodiment, the receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424 comprise indentations beneath teeth, a protrusion, or the like that hold the engagement mechanism 610 in place. The engagement mechanisms 610 are configured such that upon interlocking with the corresponding receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424, pressure is removed from the lid 600 and base 102, 202, 302, 402, allowing the gasket(s) 626, 122, 222, 322, 422 to expand and form an airtight seal. Removal of the lid 600 requires pressure to be applied to the lid, which allows the engagement mechanisms 610 to disengage from the corresponding receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424. Once the engagement mechanisms 610 are rotated away from the receiving portions 124, 224, 324, 424, the lid 600 may be removed from the base 102, 202, 302, 402. In an alternative embodiment, a gasket is not used, and the lid 600 itself is made from a resilient material capable of deforming to form an airtight seal with the base 102, 202, 302, 402.

In an embodiment, the exterior wall 606 of the lid 600 also extends above the top surface 602 of the lid 600, such that an upper ridge 612 also extends above the top surface 602 of the lid 600. One or more tabs 622 may extend laterally away from the perimeter edge 608 of the exterior wall 606 of the lid 600 so as to permit the lid 600 to be easily removed from the container 100, 200, 300, 400 by applying force to one of the tabs 622 once the engagement mechanisms 610 are disengaged. Tabs 622 may be located at each corner of the lid or on other portions of the lid 600.

Divider for Use with the Food Storage Container

The divider 500 corresponds to the dividers disclosed above and is sized to fit within the cavity of the base 102, 202, 302, 402 to form distinct compartments. As shown in FIGS. 29 through 33, each divider 500 includes a first face 508 and a second face 510 and a rim 502 there between sized to fit within the base 102, 202, 302, 402 of the container 100, 200, 300, 400. The divider 500 comprises tabs 504 which protrude from opposite sides of the rim 502 and are configured to engage with the plurality of indentations 114, 214, 314, 414 in the perimeter wall 106, 206, 306, 406 so as to secure the divider 500 in place. The engagement of tabs 504 and indentations 114, 214, 314, 414 ensures that the divider 500 stays upright during transport of the container 100, 200, 300, 400. The divider 500 is sized to securely fit within the base 102, 202, 302, 402 and lid 600 of the container such that when the container 100, 200, 300, 400 is sealed, the divider 500 forms an airtight seal between compartments of the container.

In an embodiment, a gasket 506 is placed along the entirety of the rim 502 such that the gasket 506 contacts the interior surface 108, 208, 308, 408 of the base 102, 202, 302, 402 when the divider 500 is placed in the base 102, 202, 302, 402. The gasket 506 is made of a resilient material which permits the divider 500 to form an airtight and watertight seal between compartments of the container 100, 200, 300, 400. In particular, when the lid 600 is secured to the container, the lid 600 and base 102, 202, 302, 402 press against the gasket 506, and the gasket 506, being made of a resilient material, pushes back against the lid 600 and base 102, 202, 302, 402, forming an airtight seal between the compartments.

In an alternative embodiment, the rim 502 is comprised of a resilient and/or deformable material capable of forming a seal against the base 102, 202, 302, 402 and lid 600 of the container system 100, 200, 300, 400. In other embodiments of the divider 500 other sealing mechanisms can be used, including other deformable structures known in the prior art.

In a preferred embodiment, the rim 502 is variable in width. The rim 502 is thinner along the top of the divider 500, which makes contact with the lid 600, and has an increased thickness along the bottom of the divider 500, which makes contact with the floor 104, 204, 304, 404. Along the sides of the divider 500, which contact the perimeter wall 106, 206, 306, 406, the thickness of the rim 502 increases as it moves from the top edge to the bottom edge, forming a triangular profile. Similarly, the gasket 506 is sized and shaped to fit firmly within or surround the rim 502. This triangular profile ensures the stability of the divider 500 and ensures a strong airtight seal is formed between compartments of the container 100, 200, 300, 400. This embodiment eliminates the need for grooves on the floor 104, 204, 304, 404 of the base 102, 202, 302, 402 and improves the sealing capability of the divider 500 by increasing the surface area which makes contact with the base 102, 202, 302, 402.

In an embodiment, the bottom surface of the lid 600 comprises corresponding grooves and ridges so as to completely engage the divider 500 within the container 100, 200, 300, 400. These grooves and ridges may be molded into the bottom surface 604 of the lid 600 so as to be integral parts of the lid 600. Alternatively, the bottom surface of the lid 600 may comprise gasket(s) which form a seal with the divider(s) 500 when compressed.

The gasket 506 may be made out of an adherent material to assist the formation of an airtight seal between compartments in the container 100, 200, 300, 400. In one embodiment, the gasket 122, 222, 322, 422, 626, 506 is comprised of rubber.

The dividers 500 may also include an integrated material such as a gel that can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container.

Alternative Materials and Arrangements of the Food Storage Container

The base portion 102, 202, 302, 402 may be made from a suitable material that is substantially rigid such as glass, plastic, or polycarbonate. The lid 600 may be made from a suitable material that is flexible or semirigid such as rubber, silicone, or the like. In embodiments, either the container 100, 200, 300, 400 as a whole or at least the base portion 102, 202, 302, 402 is made from microwave-safe materials.

As described above, the base 102, 202, 302, 402 may be generally rectangular in shape with rounded corners. Alternative shapes may also be used, such as squares, circles, or the like. An alternative embodiment may feature a substantially square horizontal cross section.

As described above, in an embodiment, the lid 600 comprises an engagement mechanism 610. As shown in FIGS. 34, 39, and 40, engagement mechanism 610 comprises a latch 650 or other fastening means. The latch 650 includes a lip to connect to a corresponding receiving portion 124, 224, 324, 424. The latch 650 is connected to the lid 600 with a hinge pin 652 and socket 654. A groove 656 is carved into the upper ridge 612 of the lid 600 at each location of the container which includes the engagement mechanism 610. The groove 656 comprises two circular insets 658 to insert the hinge pin 652. The groove 656 further comprises a cutout portion 660 through which extends a socket 654. The ends of the hinge pin 652 are inserted into the insets 658 and run through the socket 654 to connect the latch 650 to the lid 600.

In an embodiment, the lid 600 comprises a sub-lid 680 which corresponds to and forms a bottom portion of the lid 600. The sub-lid comprises a top surface, opposite a bottom surface, as well as an exterior wall (the “top portions of the sub-lid”). When the lid 600 and sub-lid 680 are assembled, the top portions of the sub-lid are proximate or flush with the underside of the lid 600, and the sub-lid 680 forms the lower half of the lid 600. The sub-lid 680 includes the socket 654 which is used to attach a latch 650 to the lid 600.

Storage of Food Storage Containers

As depicted in FIG. 41, the food storage containers may be arranged for storage in a stacking arrangement. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 41, two embodiments 100, 200 of the food storage container are stacked on top of a third, larger embodiment of the food storage container 300.

Each container 100, 200, 300, 400 is sized and shaped so as to permit stacking of similar or differently sized container embodiments. The upper ridge of the lid is sized and shaped so as to form an edge to prevent containers from falling off the top of the container 100, 200, 300, 400 beneath it.

In an embodiment, the feet 118, 218, 318, 418 located on the exterior surface of the floor 104, 204, 304, 404 of the container align with a rectangular indentation in the lid 600 of a second container. In this embodiment and in FIG. 41, alternative embodiments of the containers 100, 200, 300, 400 described above are stacked and secured within the boundary of the upper ridge 612 of the lid 600.

The foregoing examples have been provided merely for the purpose of explanation, and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the present invention disclosed herein. While the invention has been described with reference to various embodiments, it is understood that the words, which have been used herein, are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Further, although the invention has been described herein with reference to particular means, materials, and embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein; rather, the invention extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims. Those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings of this specification, may effect numerous modifications thereto and changes may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention in its aspects.

Any other undisclosed or incidental details of the construction or composition of the various elements of the disclosed embodiment of the present invention are not believed to be critical to the achievement of the advantages of the present invention, so long as the elements possess the attributes needed for them to perform as disclosed. Certainly, one skilled in the field would be able to conceive of a wide variety of alternative configurations and successful combinations thereof. The selection of these and other details of construction are believed to be well within the ability of one of even rudimentary skills in this area, in view of the present disclosure. Illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described in considerable detail for the purpose of disclosing a practical, operative structure whereby the invention may be practiced advantageously. The designs described herein are intended to be exemplary only. The novel characteristics of the invention may be incorporated in other structural forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The invention encompasses embodiments both comprising and consisting of the elements described with reference to the illustrative embodiments. All technical terms shall take on their customary meaning as established by the appropriate technical discipline utilized by those normally skilled in that particular area.

Claims

1. A container comprising: a substantially smooth base wall;a perimeter wall extending from the base wall to form a cavity, the perimeter wall comprising a top edge opposite the base wall, an interior surface, and an exterior surface,wherein the interior surface comprises at least one first engagement mechanism; anda divider comprising at least one second engagement mechanism and a surface, the second engagement mechanism configured to detachably connect to the first engagement mechanism so as to secure the divider within the container; anda gasket disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the divider such that with the first engagement mechanism attached to the second engagement mechanism, the gasket contacts the base wall.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the gasket has a first width along a top edge thereof and a second width along a bottom edge thereof and the first width is greater than the second width.

3. The container of claim 1, further comprising a lid configured to removably attach to the top edge of the peripheral wall so as to enclose the cavity, the lid comprising at least one locking mechanism, such that with the lid attached to the top edge of the peripheral wall, the lid forms a seal with the divider and the top edge of the base.

4. The container of claim 3 wherein the lid comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, an exterior wall, and a locking mechanism the exterior wall forming a peripheral edge configured to engage with the upper ridge of the perimeter wall of the base,wherein a gasket runs along the upper ridge of the perimeter wall of the base,wherein the locking mechanism is located on the exterior wall of the lid and is configured to interlock with corresponding receiving portions located on the exterior surface of the perimeter wall of the basewherein the engagement of the locking mechanism presses the lid firmly against the base and causes the gasket to depress and form an airtight seal.

5. The container system of claim 4, wherein when the lid and base are sealed, the gasket of the divider is compressed, the portion of the gasket that runs along a top edge of the rim being compressed by the lid,the portion of the gasket that runs along a bottom edge of the rim being compressed by the base.the compressed gasket forming a seal between compartments of the cavity of the container.

6. The container system of claim 1, wherein the at least one first engagement mechanism comprises a plurality of indentations spaced apart along the perimeter wall, the at least one second engagement mechanism comprises a pair of tabs located at opposite ends of the divider, wherein the tabs are configured to detachably connect to respective pairs of indentations so as to secure the divider within the container.

7. The container system of claim 4, wherein the gasket comprises a resilient material.

8. The container system of claim 6, wherein the divider further comprises a pair of rims and the gasket is disposed between the pair of rims.

9. The container system of claim 1, wherein the divider includes an integrated material which can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container.

10. A divider to separate compartments of a food storage container, the divider comprising: a first face;a second face opposite the first face and a rim therebetween;the rim comprising a top, bottom, and opposing sides to form a rectangular shape, wherein the rim is thinner along the top of the divider and has an increased thickness along the bottom of the divider, the thickness of the rim increasing as it moves from the top edge to the bottom edge, forming a triangular profile;a pair of tabs protruding from opposite sides of the rim and configured to engage with a plurality of indentations in a food storage container to secure the divider;

11. The divider of claim 9, wherein the divider comprises a gasket placed along the entirety of the rim, the gasket comprised of a resilient material which permits the divider to form an airtight and watertight seal between compartments of the container.

12. The divider of claim 9, wherein the rim of the divider is comprised of a resilient material which permits the divider to form an airtight and watertight seal between the compartments of the container.

13. A method for using a container system comprising a container comprising a base wall, a peripheral wall extending from the base wall to a top edge and forming a cavity, a plurality of first engagement mechanisms located on the peripheral wall, and a lid configured to attach to the top edge to seal the cavity and a plurality of dividers each comprising a plurality of second engagement mechanisms, the method comprising the steps of: aligning a first divider of the plurality of dividers with a first pair of the first engagement mechanisms, the engagement mechanisms being a plurality of indentations and the first divider having a first pair of second engagement mechanisms located on opposite ends of the first divider, the second engagement mechanisms being two pairs of tabs;inserting the first divider into the cavity;connecting the first series of indentations to the first divider via two pair of tabs, thereby forming a first compartment within the cavity between the peripheral wall and the first divider;aligning a second divider of the plurality of dividers with a second pair of the indentations, the second divider having a two pairs of tabs each located on opposite ends of the second divider;inserting the second divider into the cavity;connecting the second series of indentations to the second divider via the two pairs of tabs, thereby forming a second compartment within the cavity between the first divider, the peripheral wall, and the second divider and forming a third compartment within the cavity between the peripheral wall and the second divider; andplacing the lid on the container, such that the lid contacts the top edge, the first divider, and the second divider.

14. The method of using a container system described in claim 13, wherein the lid configured to removably attach to the top edge of the peripheral wall so as to enclose the cavity, the lid comprising at least one locking mechanism, such that with the lid attached to the top edge of the peripheral wall, the lid forms a seal with the divider and the top edge of the base.

15. The method of using a container system described in claim 14, wherein the lid comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, an exterior wall, and a locking mechanism the exterior wall forming a peripheral edge configured to engage with the upper ridge of the perimeter wall of the base,wherein a gasket runs along the upper ridge of the perimeter wall of the base,wherein the locking mechanism is located on the exterior wall of the lid and is configured to interlock with corresponding receiving portions located on the exterior surface of the perimeter wall of the basewherein the engagement of the locking mechanism presses the lid firmly against the base and causes the gasket to depress and form an airtight seal

16. The method of using a container system described in claim 14, wherein when the lid and base are sealed, the gasket of the divider is compressed, the portion of the gasket that runs along a top edge of the rim being compressed by the lid,the portion of the gasket that runs along a bottom edge of the rim being compressed by the base.the compressed gasket forming a seal between compartments of the cavity of the container

17. The method of using a container system described in claim 13, wherein the at least one first engagement mechanism comprises a plurality of indentations spaced apart along the perimeter wall, the at least one second engagement mechanism comprises a pair of tabs located at opposite ends of the divider, wherein the tabs are configured to detachably connect to respective pairs of indentations so as to secure the divider within the container.

18. The method of using a container system described in claim 16, wherein the gasket comprises a resilient material.

19. The method of using a container system described in claim 18, wherein the gasket further comprises an adherent material.

20. The method of using a container system described in claim 13, wherein the divider includes an integrated material which can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container.