FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present technology generally relates to interlocking containers. In particular, the present technology provides for an interlocking container that protects items from physical displacement and damage while transiting a scanner.
BACKGROUND
Scanners, and scanner systems, are used in various situations, often for security purposes or for detection of contraband. These scanners use a variety of technologies, such as x-ray scanning or radiation scanning, to examine articles passed through the scanners as well as anything within the articles. While scanners are available in various designs, a scanner generally uses a conveyor system to transit articles through the scanner. The scanner may have radiation curtains at the ingress and the egress of the scanner to block x-rays or radiation generated within the scanner.
SUMMARY
Various embodiments of the present technology can include a method comprising: inverting a first container, wherein the first container comprises one or more first positive features; placing the inverted first container on a second container, wherein the second container comprises one or more second positive features; and interlocking the inverted first container with the second container using the one or more first positive features and the one or more second positive features.
In an embodiment, the first container further comprises one or more first empty spaces corresponding with the one or more first positive features, wherein the second container further comprises one or more second empty spaces corresponding with the one or more second positive features, and wherein the interlocking the inverted first container with the second container comprises: engaging each of the one or more first positive features with each of the one or more second empty spaces; and engaging each of the one or more second positive features with each of the one or more first empty spaces.
In an embodiment, the first container further comprises one or more first negative features corresponding with the one or more first positive features, wherein the second container further comprises one or more second negative features corresponding with the one or more second positive features, and wherein the interlocking the inverted first container with the second container comprises: engaging each of the one or more first positive features with each of the one or more second negative features; and engaging each of the one or more second positive features with each of the one or more first negative features.
In an embodiment, the one or more first positive features and the one or more second positive features are rounded rectangle protrusions, and wherein the one or more first negative features and the one or more second negative features are rounded rectangle concave depressions.
In an embodiment, each of the one or more first positive features and each of the one or more second positive features is a protrusion with sides sloped inward, and wherein each of the one or more first negative features and each of the one or more second negative features is a concave depression with sides sloped inward.
In an embodiment, the method further comprises: placing one or more articles in the second container prior to placing the inverted first container on the second container; and placing the inverted first container and the second container on a conveyer system subsequent to interlocking the inverted first container with the second container.
In an embodiment, the first container and the second container are rectangular open containers with sloped sides.
In an embodiment, the first container further comprises one or more holders on one or more sides of the first container and ribs on the bottom of the first container.
Various embodiments of the present technology can include a container comprising: a base; one or more walls; and a mechanism on a top edge of the container, wherein the mechanism facilitates a connection with another container.
In an embodiment, the mechanism includes one or more positive features, the container further comprises: one or more empty spaces corresponding with the one or more positive features on the top edge of the container, wherein the interlock with the other container is further facilitated by the one or more empty spaces.
In an embodiment, the mechanism includes one or more positive features, the container further comprises: one or more negative features corresponding with the one or more positive features on the top edge of the container, wherein the interlock with the other container is further facilitated by the one or more negative features.
In an embodiment, the one or more positive features and the one or more negative features are aligned with the one or more sloped walls.
In an embodiment, each of the one or more positive features is a protrusion and each of the one or more negative features is a concave depression, and wherein first dimensions and first shape of the one or more positive features correspond with second dimensions and second shape of the one or more negative features.
In an embodiment, the container interlocks with the other container by engaging the one or more positive features of the container with one or more positive features of the other container and by engaging the one or more negative features of the container with one or more positive features of the other container.
In an embodiment, the container stores one or more articles for transit through a scanner.
In an embodiment, the mechanism is a non-slip mechanisms that includes a non-slip material or a gripping mechanism that includes a gripping material.
In an embodiment, the container further comprises one or more supportive structures on the bottom of the container.
Various embodiments of the present technology can include a system comprising: a scanner; a first container comprising a first mechanism to connect the first container to a second container; and a second container comprising a second mechanism to connect the second container to the second container.
In an embodiment, the first container is inverted and placed over the second container, and wherein the first mechanism and the second mechanism prevent displacement of the first container off the second container as the first container and the second container transit the scanner.
In an embodiment, the system further comprises: a conveyer, wherein the first container or the second container transits the scanner on the conveyer.
It should be appreciated that many other embodiments, features, applications, and variations of the present technology will be apparent from the following detailed description and from the accompanying drawings. Additional and alternative implementations described herein can be employed without departing from the principles of the present technology.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a scanner and a container that may be used to carry articles to transit through the scanner.
FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
FIG. 8 illustrates an example method, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
The figures depict various embodiments of the present technology for purposes of illustration only, wherein the figures use like reference numerals to identify like elements. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated in the figures can be employed without departing from the principles of the present technology described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Today, scanners, and scanner systems, are often used for security purposes. Various locations, such as airports and government buildings, use scanners at security checkpoints to scan articles that people may be carrying. At these security checkpoints, people place their articles on a conveyer system that transits the articles through a scanner. The scanner scans the articles and provides an image of anything inside the articles. FIG. 1A illustrates an example 100 of a scanner 102 that can scan articles and image anything inside the articles. As illustrated in the example 100, the scanner 102 has an ingress 104 where articles enter the scanner 102 and transit through the scanner 102. FIG. 1B illustrates an example 130 of an ingress 132 of a scanner, such as the scanner 102 of FIG. 1A. As illustrated in the example 130, the ingress 132 includes radiation curtains 134. The radiation curtains function to block radiation generated by the scanner. The ingress 132 is connected to a conveyer system 136. The conveyer system 136 functions to transit articles through the ingress 132 and the scanner. In many cases, a tray is used in conjunction with the conveyer system 136 to transit articles through the scanner. FIG. 1C illustrates an example 160 of a tray 170 that may be used in conjunction with a conveyer system, such as the conveyer system 136 of FIG. 1B, to transit articles through a scanner, such as the scanner 102 of FIG. 1A. As illustrated in the example 160, various articles, including coins 162, keys 164, a wallet 166, and a phone 168, are placed in the tray 170. The tray 170, with the articles placed therein, can be placed on the conveyer system. The conveyer system transits the tray 170 and the articles through the scanner where the articles are scanned. The tray 170 can be useful for keeping the various articles together. However, conventional trays, such as the tray 170, have various shortcomings. For example, radiation curtains, such as the radiation curtains 134 of FIG. 1B, can displace the various articles that transit the scanners. In cases of small items, such as the coins 102, the keys 104, the wallet 106, and the phone 108, the radiation curtains can sweep these small items completely out of the tray 170. This can result in damage to the small items as well as the conveyer system and the scanner. Likewise, some large items, such as belts, coats, and jackets, can also be swept out of the tray 170 by the radiation curtains. In some cases, wider and longer trays can exacerbate these problems by providing more opportunity for the radiation curtains to sweep items out of the trays. Furthermore, many scanners operate with a fixed sized tray, so smaller trays cannot be used for small items. Thus, there is a need for an improved approach to transiting items through a scanner.
An improved approach in accordance with the present technology provides for an open container (e.g., tray, open box, receptacle, vessel, bowl, basin) with a mechanism that allows for one open container to be inverted and placed securely over another open container to form a closed container. In various embodiments, the mechanism can be a non-slip mechanism that includes a non-slip material, such as rubber, or non-slip fabric, such as non-slip vinyl. In various embodiments, the mechanism can be a gripping mechanism that includes a gripping material, such as Velcro and hook-and-loop fasteners. In various embodiments, the mechanism can be an interlock that includes a positive feature. The positive feature can be a protrusion (e.g., bump, extension, knob, ridge, elevation) that protrudes upwards from one edge of the open container. In various embodiments, the positive feature alone can provide sufficient resistance between an inverted tray and a non-inverted tray such that the inverted tray, placed on top of the non-inverted tray, are securely connected and form a closed container. For example, the inverted tray may be secured so that it covers the contents in the tray and cannot be swept off by the radiation curtain. In various embodiments, the interlock can include multiple positive features that provide resistance between the inverted train and the non-inverted tray such that the inverted tray, placed on top of the non-inverted tray, are securely connected and form a closed container. In various embodiments, the interlock for the open container can include the positive feature and a corresponding negative feature. The negative feature can be a concave depression (e.g., indentation, depression, cavity, recess, dent, hole, concave protrusion). The positive feature and negative feature can be located at corresponding locations (e.g., at opposite edges, at opposite sides) of the open container such that when the inverted tray is placed over the non-inverted tray, the positive feature of the inverted tray engages with (e.g., fits within, locks with, fastens with, links with) the negative feature of the non-inverted tray and the positive feature of the non-inverted tray engages with the negative feature of the inverted tray, thereby securely connecting the inverted tray to the non-inverted tray to form a closed container. In various embodiments, the interlock can include multiple positive features and multiple corresponding negative features such that when the inverted tray is placed over the non-inverted tray, the multiple positive features of the inverted tray fit within the multiple negative features of the non-inverted tray and the multiple positive features of the non-inverted tray fit within the multiple negative features of the inverted tray, thereby securely connecting the inverted tray to the non-inverted tray to form a closed container. In various embodiments, the interlock of the open container is such that the open container is stackable with other open containers.
As an example of how the present technology can be used, a user preparing to pass through a security checkpoint can be provided with a pair of open containers, a first open container and a second open container, to hold articles to be transited through a scanner via a conveyer system. The first open container can have a first interlock that includes a first positive feature and a corresponding first negative feature. The second open container can have a second interlock that includes a second positive feature and a corresponding second negative feature. The first interlock and the second interlock can match such that the first positive feature matches the second positive feature and the first negative feature matches the second negative feature. The user can place the articles in the first open container. The user can invert the second open container and place the inverted second open container over the first open container. The first open container and the inverted second open container can form a closed container secured by the first interlock and the second interlock. That is, the first positive feature of the first open container can fit into the second negative feature of the second open container. The second positive feature of the second open container can fit into the first negative feature of the first open container. As the closed container formed by the first open container and the second open container transits through the scanner, radiation curtains on the scanner are prevented from displacing the articles within the closed container. Furthermore, the closed container can offer additional benefits such as deterring theft and providing some privacy with respect to the articles within the closed container. Thus, as illustrated in this example, the present technology provides an improved approach to transiting articles through a scanner. More details relating to the present technology are provided below.
FIGS. 2A-2G illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. It should be understood that the various features described with respect to the example container illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2G are exemplary, and other implementations of the present technology can include some or all of the various features described. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 2A illustrates an example view 200 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 200, the example container is a rectangular open container with a rectangular base and four sides sloping outwards from the rectangular base. Along the top edge of the example container is an interlock that includes positive features 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d and negative features 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d. In this example, the positive features 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d are protrusions with rounded rectangular shapes. The positive features 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d can have sides that are sloped inwards (e.g., at a 10 degree angle). The positive features 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d can have rounded edges along the top of the protrusions. The negative features 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d are concave or other appropriately shaped protrusions with shapes corresponding with the positive features 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d. The negative features 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d can have sides that are sloped inwards (e.g., at a 10 degree angle). The negative features 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d can have rounded edges along the bottom of the concave depressions. The positive features 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d can correspond with the negative features 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d. For example, positive feature 202a can correspond with negative feature 208c, positive feature 202b can correspond with negative feature 208d, positive feature 202c can correspond with negative feature 208a, and positive feature 202d can correspond with negative feature 208b. As illustrated in the example view 200, the example container includes holders 206a, 206b. The holders 206a, 206b can be located in the middle of the longer sides of the example container and along the bottom edges of the example container. The holders 206a, 206b are recessed spaces where a card, sticker, or label can be placed to identify the example container. For example, barcode labels, barcode stickers, RFID tags, or other forms of identification can be placed in the holders 206a, 206b. Identification placed in the holders 206a, 206b can be used by the scanner to correspond images provided by the scanner with appropriate containers. The identification can be placed within the recessed space of the holders 206a, 206b to prevent potential damage to the identification. Along the top edge of the four sides of the example container is a rim 204. The rim 204 can be made up of an outward extension along the top edge that extends away from the four sides of the example container and a downward extension along the outer edge of the outward extension. The rim 204 can function as an overhang that allows the example container to be easily carried. For example, the rim 204 can be manually grabbed to carry the example container. The rims 204 can also be grabbed by mechanical props, such as those found in an automated tray return system.
FIG. 2B illustrates an example top view 220 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example top view 220, along the top edge of the example container is an interlock that includes positive features 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d and negative features 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d. Positive feature 222a can correspond with negative feature 228c, positive feature 222b can correspond with negative feature 228d, positive feature 222c can correspond with negative feature 228a, and positive feature 222d can correspond with negative feature 228b. In other words, the positive features 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d have corresponding negative features 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d on opposite sides of the example container. Based on the structure and location of the positive features 222a, 222b, 222c, 222d and negative features 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d, the interlock can secure an inverted example container over the example container. For example, when the inverted example container is placed on the example container, positive feature 222a on the inverted example container engages with negative feature 228b on the example container. Positive feature 222b on the inverted example container engages with negative feature 228d on the example container. Positive feature 222c on the inverted example container engages with negative feature 228a on the example container. Positive feature 222d on the inverted example container engages with negative feature 228b on the example container. Likewise, positive feature 222a on the example container engages with negative feature 228b on the inverted example container. Positive feature 222b on the example container engages with negative feature 228d on the inverted example container. Positive feature 222c on the example container engages with negative feature 228a on the inverted example container. Positive feature 222d on the example container engages with negative feature 228b on the inverted example container. By engaging the positive features on the inverted example container with the negative features, and vice-versa, on the example container, the inverted example container and the example container are securely connected, forming a closed container. Also illustrated in the example top view 220 are the holders 226a, 226b. The holders 226a, 226b can be recessed spaces that slightly extend within the example container. The slight extension of the holders 226a, 226b within the example container can help to maintain structural integrity of the example container by maintaining an approximately equal thickness along all sides of the example container without significantly affecting the volume the example container can hold. Along the top edge of the example container is a rim 224. The rim 224 extends completely around the top edge of the example container and includes rounded corners to promote safety and to avoid inadvertent snags.
FIG. 2C illustrates an example cross-section side view 230 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example side view 230, an interlock along the top edge of the example container includes positive feature 232 and negative feature 238. Positive feature 232 can correspond with negative feature 238. As positive feature 232 and negative feature 238 are corresponding features, positive feature 232 can be a protrusion that shares the same shape as the concave depression of negative feature 238. The protrusion of positive feature 232 can have a height, width, and length that corresponds with the depth, width, and length of the concave depression of negative feature 238 such that positive feature 232 on an inverted example container can fit within negative feature 238 on the example container. As illustrated in the example cross-section side view 230, the example container includes a holder 236. In this example, the holder 236 is located in the middle of a side of the example container and along the bottom edge of the example container. In various embodiments, a holder on a container, such as the holder 236, can be located at various places on the container to accommodate different scanners. For example, a holder, such as the holder 236, can be located along the top edge of a container to accommodate a scanner that expects identification of the container to be located along the top edge of the container. Along the top edge of the example container is a rim 234. The rim 234 includes an outward extension from the top edge of the example container and a downward extension from the outer edge of the outward extension. The outward extension and the downward extension of the rim 234 creates a cavity that allows the example container to be easily manually carried or carried by an automated system (e.g., tray return system).
FIG. 2D illustrates an example side view 240 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example side view 240, an interlock along the top edge of the example container includes positive features 242a, 242b, 242c, 242d and negative features not shown. In this example, positive features 242a, 242b, 242c, 242d have the same dimensions (e.g., height, width, length). As the positive features 242a, 242b, 242c, 242d have the same dimensions, an inverted example container can fit over the example container in multiple configurations. In various embodiments, positive features, such as positive features 242a, 242b, 242c, 242d, on a container can have different dimensions. For example, a container can have a first positive feature with first dimensions (e.g., a first height, a first width, a first length). The container can have a second positive feature with second dimensions (e.g., a second height, a second width, a second length) different from the first dimensions. The container can have a first negative feature with dimensions corresponding to those of the first positive feature. The container can have a second negative feature with dimensions corresponding to those of the second positive feature. In this example, an inverted container can fit over the container in only one configuration where the first positive feature of the inverted container fits into the first negative feature of the container, the second positive feature of the inverted container fits into the second negative feature of the container, the first positive feature of the container fits into the first negative feature of the inverted container, and the second positive feature of the container fits into the second negative feature of the inverted container.
FIG. 2E illustrates an example bottom view 260 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example bottom view 260, the example container has an interlock that includes positive features 262a, 262b, 262c, 262d and negative features 268a, 268b, 268c, 268d. Positive features 262a, 262b, 262c, 262d can correspond with negative features 268a, 268b, 268c, 268d. As illustrated in the example bottom view 260, the example container can have ribs 272 (e.g., beams, spines) on the bottom of the example container. The ribs 272 can be supportive structures and provide structural support to the example container to allow the example container to carry heavy articles. The ribs 272 can provide additional friction for transiting on a conveyer system. On the bottom of the example container is a product label 270. The product label can identify a part number, revision, and manufacturer identification of the example container.
FIG. 2F illustrates an example view 280 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 280, positive feature 282 can be a protrusion with sides that are sloped inwards. The protrusion can have rounded edges along the top of the protrusion. As illustrated in the example side view 280, negative feature 288 can be a concave depression with sides that are sloped inwards. The concave depression can have rounded edges along the bottom of the concave depression. The dimensions and shape of positive feature 282 can correspond with the dimensions and shape of negative feature 288 such that positive feature 282 on the example container fits into a corresponding negative feature, with the same dimensions and shape as negative feature 288, of an inverted container placed on the example container. For example, positive feature 282 can be a rounded rectangle shaped protrusion with sides sloped inwards at a 10 degree angle. Positive feature 282 can have a height of 10 mm, a width of 10 mm at the bottom of positive feature 282, a width of 7.5 mm at the top of positive feature 282, and a length of 3 cm. Negative feature 288 can be a rounded rectangle shaped concave depression with sides sloped inwards at a 10 degree angle. Negative feature 288 can have a depth of 11.7 mm, a width of 11 mm at the top of negative feature 288, a width of 10 mm at the bottom of negative feature 288, and a length of 3.2 cm. These example dimensions allow positive feature 282 on one container fit into negative feature 288 on another container. The particular dimensions provided in this example are for illustrative purposes, and there can be many variations and other possibilities.
FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. It should be understood that the various features described with respect to the example container illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B are exemplary, and other implementations of the present technology can include some or all of the various features described. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 3A illustrates an example view 300 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 300, the example container is a rectangular open container with a rectangular base and four sides sloping outwards from the rectangular base. The example container includes a rim 304 along the top edge of the example container. The example container includes an interlock that includes one positive feature 302 and one negative feature 308. In this example, positive feature 302 is an oval shaped protrusion with a rounded top. Positive feature 302 can have an inward sloped wall from the base of the positive feature to the rounded top. Positive feature 302 can correspond with negative feature 308. In this example, negative feature 308 is an oval shaped hole. As illustrated in this example, the present technology provides for an open container with various numbers of positive features and various numbers of negative features. In some cases, a smaller number of positive features (e.g., one positive feature) and a smaller number of negative features (e.g., one negative feature) may facilitate improved ease of interlocking one container with another container because the number of positive features to align with negative features is reduced. In some cases, a greater number of positive features (e.g., four positive features, eight positive features) and a greater number of negative features (e.g., four negative features, eight positive features) may facilitate a more secure interlock between containers because the number of positive features and negative features to provide the interlock is increased. The present technology further provides for various forms of positive features and negative features. Positive features and negative features can take a variety of shapes (e.g., rounded rectangle, rectangle, square, oval, circle). In some cases, a negative feature can be a concave depression, a concave protrusion, a cavity, or a hole. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 3B illustrates an example side view 350 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example side view 350, along the top edge of the example container is a rim 354 and an interlock that includes positive feature 352 and negative feature 358. Positive feature 352, which in this example is an oval protrusion, can correspond with negative feature 358, which in this example is an oval hole. Based on the structure and location of positive feature 352 and negative feature 358, the interlock can secure an inverted example container over the example container. For example, when the inverted example container is placed on the example container, positive feature 352 on the inverted example container engages with negative feature 358 on the example container. Likewise, positive feature 352 on the example container engages with negative feature 358 on the inverted example container. By engaging positive feature 352 with the inverted example container within negative feature 358 on the example container, and vice-versa, the inverted example container and the example container are securely connected, forming a closed container. As illustrated in this example, in some cases, a sufficiently secure interlock between two containers can be made with one positive feature and one negative feature on each of the containers.
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. It should be understood that the various features described with respect to the example container illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C are exemplary, and other implementations of the present technology can include some or all of the various features described. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 4A illustrates an example view 400 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 400, the example container is a rectangular open container with a rectangular base and four sides sloping outwards from the rectangular base. The example container includes a rim 404 along the top edge of the example container. The example container includes two holders 406a, 406b on opposite sides of the example container. In this example, the example container includes an interlock that includes positive features 402a, 402b and negative feature 408a, 408b. Positive features 402a, 402b can be rounded rectangle shaped protrusions. Negative features 408a, 408b can be rounded rectangle shaped holes. The positive features 402a, 402b can correspond with the negative features 408a, 408b. For example, positive feature 402a can correspond with negative feature 408b. Positive feature 402b can correspond with negative features 408a. As illustrated in this example, the positive features 402a, 402b and the negative features 408a, 408b of the interlock are mirrored. By mirroring the positive features 402a, 402b and the negative features 408a, 408b, an inverted example container can be placed over the example container in multiple orientations. For example, the inverted example container can be placed over the example container in a first orientation. Positive feature 402a of the inverted example container engages with negative feature 408b of the example container, and positive feature 402b of the inverted example container engages with negative feature 408a of the example container. Positive feature 402a of the example container engages with negative feature 408b of the inverted example container, and positive feature 402b of the example container engages with negative feature 408a of the inverted example container. In this example, the inverted example container can be flipped horizontally (e.g., turned 180 degrees horizontally) and placed over the example container in a second orientation. In both the first orientation and the second orientation, the interlocks of the inverted example container and the example container securely connects the inverted example container with the example container, forming a closed container. Thus, the present technology provides for an open container with mirrored positive features and mirrored negative features to allow for containers to be securely connected in multiple orientations.
FIG. 4B illustrates an example view 430 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 430, positive feature 432 can be a rounded rectangle shaped protrusion. Positive feature 432 can have straight sides. Positive feature 432 can have a flat top with rounded edges around the flat top. Negative feature 434 can be a rounded rectangle shaped hole. As illustrated in this example, the present technology provides for various forms of positive features. Positive features can take a variety of shapes. Positive features can have, for example, straight sides or sloped sides. In some cases, positive features with sloped sides may more readily engage with a negative feature that is a concave depression. In some cases, positive features with straight sides may provide a more secure connection with a negative feature that is a hole. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 4C illustrates an example view 460 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 460, positive feature 462 on an inverted example container can engage with negative feature 468 on the example container. Positive feature 462, in this example, can be a rounded rectangle shaped protrusion with straight sides and a flat top with rounded edges along the flat top. Negative feature 468, in this example, can be a rounded rectangle shaped hole. The dimensions and shape of positive feature 462 can correspond with the dimensions and shape of negative feature 468 such that positive feature 462 fits within negative feature 468. For example, positive feature 462 can be a rounded rectangle shaped protrusion with a height of 1 cm, a width of 1 cm, and a length of 2 cm. Negative feature 468 can be a rounded rectangle shaped hole with a width of 1.2 cm and a length of 2.4 cm. These example dimensions and shapes allow positive feature 462 on one container to engage with negative feature 468 on another container. The particular dimensions provided in this example are for illustrative purposes, and there can be many variations and other possibilities.
FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. It should be understood that the various features described with respect to the example container illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5D are exemplary, and other implementations of the present technology can include some or all of the various features described. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 5A illustrates an example view 500 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 500, the example container is a rectangular open container with a rectangular base and four sides sloping outwards from the rectangular base. The example container 500 includes a rim 504 and two holders 506a, 506b. The example container includes an interlock that includes eight positive features, positive features 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f, 502g, 502h and eight negative features, negative features 508a, 508b, 508c, 508d, 508e, 508f, 508g, 580h. The eight positive features can correspond with the eight negative features. For example, positive feature 502a can correspond with negative feature 508g. Positive feature 502b can correspond with negative feature 508h. Positive feature 502c can correspond with negative feature 508e. Positive feature 502d can correspond with negative feature 508f. Positive feature 502e can correspond with negative feature 508c. Positive feature 502f can correspond with negative feature 508d. Positive feature 502g can correspond with negative feature 508a. Positive feature 502a can correspond with negative feature 508g. In this example, positive features 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f, 502g, 502h are rectangular shaped protrusions along the inner edge of the top of the example container. The positive features 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f, 502g, 502h each have a side that is flush with the inner wall of the example container. The positive features 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f, 502g, 502h each have sides sloped inwards and a flat rectangular top. In this example, negative features 508a, 508b, 508c, 508d, 508e, 508f, 508g, 580h are rectangular shaped cavities along the inner edge of the top of the example container. The negative features 508a, 508b, 508c, 508d, 508e, 508f, 508g, 580h each have an opening along the rim 504 and the inner wall of the example container. As illustrated in this example, the present technology provides for an open container with an interlock that includes positive features and negative features on all sides of the open container. In some cases, having positive features and negative features on all sides can provide support against movement in four directions (e.g., left, right, forward, backward) when containers are connected together by the positive features and the negative features.
FIG. 5B illustrates an example view 530 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 530, positive feature 232 can be a rectangular protrusion positioned along the inner edge of the top of the example container. Positive feature 232 can have sides sloped inwards and a flat rectangular top. Negative feature 238 can be a rectangular cavity positioned along the inner edge of the top of the example container. Negative feature 238 can have sides sloped inwards. Negative feature 238 can be open towards the top of the example container and towards the inside of the example container. As illustrated in this example, the present technology provides for various positions for positive features and negative features on the example container. In some cases, positioning positive features and negative features towards the inside of a container facilitates the forming of a secure connection between the positive features and the negative features of one container with the positive features and the negative features of another container.
FIG. 5C illustrates an example view 560 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 560, positive feature 562 on an inverted example container can engage with negative feature 568 on the example container. Positive feature 562, in this example, can be a rectangular protrusion with sides sloped inwards and a flat rectangular top. Positive feature 562 can be positioned along the inner edge of the inverted example container. Negative feature 568, in this example, can be a rectangular cavity with sides sloped inwards. Negative feature 568 can be positioned along the inner edge of the example container. As illustrated in this example, positive feature 562 can engage with negative feature 568 even though negative feature 568 is open towards the inside of the example container. Positive feature 562 and negative feature 568 can provide sufficient resistance, in combination with positive features and negative features on other edges of the inverted example container and the example container to securely connect the inverted example container and the example container. For example, an inverted example container, with an interlock as described herein, can be placed at an angle on top of an example container, with a corresponding interlock, with one edge of the inverted example container making contact with the top of the example container. To interlock the positive features, such as positive feature 562, and the negative features, such as negative feature 568, of the inverted example container with the positive features, such as positive feature 562, and the negative features, such as negative feature 568, of the example container, the inverted example container can be slid along the top of the example container until the one edge of the inverted example container making contact with the top of the example container reaches a corresponding edge of the example container. At this point, the positive features and negative features on the one edge of the inverted example container can engage with the positive features and the negative features on the corresponding edge of the example container. The inverted example container can then be let down horizontally so that the rest of the positive features and the negative features on the inverted example container can engage with the rest of the positive features and the negative features on the example container.
FIG. 5D illustrates an example view 560 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 560, positive feature 582 can be a rectangular protrusion with sides sloped inwards and a flat rectangular top. Negative feature 588 can be a rectangular cavity with sides sloped inwards. Positive feature 582 and negative feature 588 can be positioned along the inner edge of the example container, where rim 584 is located. The dimensions and shape of positive feature 582 can correspond with the dimensions and shape of negative feature 588 such that positive feature 582 on the example container fits into a corresponding negative feature, with the same dimensions and shape as negative feature 588, on another example container. For example, positive feature 582 can have a height of 15 mm, a width of 12 mm and a length of 16 mm at the bottom of the positive feature 582, a width of 10 mm and a length of 12 mm at the top of the positive feature 582, and sides sloped 10 degrees inwards. Negative feature 588 can have a depth of 16 mm, a width of 14 mm and a length of 20 mm at the top of the negative feature 588, a width of 12 mm and a length of 16 mm at the bottom of the negative feature 588, and sides loped 10 degrees inwards. These example dimensions allow positive feature 582 on one container to slide into negative feature 588 on another container. The particular dimensions provided in this example are for illustrative purposes, and there can be many variations and other possibilities.
FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate example views of an example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. It should be understood that the various features described with respect to the example container illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6C are exemplary, and other implementations of the present technology can include some or all of the various features described. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 6A illustrates an example view 600 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 600, the example container is a rectangular open container with a rectangular base and four sides sloping outwards from the rectangular base. The example container includes a rim 604 along the top edge of the example container and two holders 606a, 606b on opposite sides of the example container. In this example, the example container includes an interlock that includes positive features 602 and no negative features. The interlock includes seven positive features 602 on each of the longer sides of the example container and five positive features 602 on each of the shorter sides of the example container. The positive features 602 can be arranged on the example container such that each positive feature 602 corresponds with (e.g., is opposite to) a space on the opposite side of the example container. As illustrated in this example, the present technology provides for an open container with positive features and without negative features. For example, a container with an interlock that includes positive features, such as positive features 602, can be inverted and placed over another container with an interlock that includes the same positive features. The positive features on the inverted container can align with the spaces between the positive features on the other, non-inverted, container. Likewise, the positive features on the non-inverted container can align with the spaces between the positive features on the inverted container. In this way, the positive features on the inverted container and the positive features on the non-inverted container securely connect and the two containers form a closed container. While the example container is illustrated with 24 positive features (e.g., seven positive features on each of the longer sides and five positive features on each of the shorter sides), the present technology provides for an open container with various numbers of positive features. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 6B illustrates an example view 630 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 630, positive feature 632 can be a rectangle shaped protrusion with straight sides and a rectangle shaped flat top. Positive feature 632 is adjacent to an empty space 638 on the example container. The empty space 638 can be of sufficient size so that positive feature 632 on an inverted example container can engage with (e.g., fit within) the empty space on the example container. While positive feature 632 in this example is a rectangular protrusion with straight sides and a flat rectangular top, the present technology provides for an open container with positive features of various shapes and forms. For example, positive features can be of various shapes, such as circles, ovals, rectangles, rounded rectangles, squares, and diamonds. Positive features can be of various forms, such as ridges, ripples, points, and protrusions. Positive features can have straight sides or sloped sides of varying degrees. In some cases, positive features with straight sides may facilitate a more secure connection between containers than positive features with sloped sides. In some cases, positive features with sloped sides may facilitate easier placement of an inverted container over a non-inverted container. While the example positive feature 632 is illustrated as a rectangle shaped protrusion, the present technology provides for positive features in a variety of shapes and forms. For example, the positive features can be ridges. The ridges can be parallel to an edge of an open container. In this way, the ridges on an inverted container can align with empty spaces between ridges on a non-inverted container (and vice-versa), securely connecting the two containers to form a closed container. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 6C illustrates an example view 660 of the example container, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 660, positive feature 662b on an inverted example container can engage (e.g., make contact) with empty space 668b on the example container. Positive feature 662a on the example container can engage with empty space 668a on the inverted example container. In this example, positive features 662a, 662b are rectangular protrusions with straight sides and rectangular flat tops. The dimensions of positive features 662a, 662b can correspond with the dimensions of empty spaces 668a, 668b such that empty spaces 668a, 668b are of sufficient size to securely fit positive features 662a, 662b. For example, positive features 662a, 662b can be rectangular protrusions with a height of 1 cm, a width of 1 cm, and a length of 1.2 cm. Empty spaces 668a, 668b can be rectangular spaces with a width of 1 cm and a length of 1.3 cm. These example dimensions allow positive features 662a, 662b to engage with empty spaces 668a, 668b. The particular dimensions provided in this example are for illustrative purposes, and there can be many variations and other possibilities.
FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate example views of example containers, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. It should be understood that the various features described with respect to the example containers illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B are exemplary, and other implementations of the present technology can include some or all of the various features described. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 7A illustrates an example view 700 of the example containers, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 700, an inverted example container 702 is securely connected with an example container 706. The inverted example container 702 forms a closed container with the example container 706 by interlocking with the example container 706 using the respective interlocks on the inverted example container 702 and the example container 706. The closed container, formed by the inverted example container 702 and the example container 706 are stacked on an example container 704. As illustrated in this example, the present technology provides for an open container that can form a closed container with other open containers as well as be stackable with the other open containers. The sloped outward sides of the open container allow the open container to be stackable. The interlock on the open container allows the open container to form a closed container with other open containers.
FIG. 7B illustrates an example view 750 of the example containers, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As illustrated in the example view 750, an inverted example container 752 is securely connected with an example container 756. The inverted example container 752 is securely connected with the example container 756 by the interlocks 758 on the inverted example container 752 and the example container 756. The interlocks 758 in this example can include positive features and corresponding negative features that allow the inverted example container 752 and the example container 756 to securely connect and form a closed container. Also illustrated in the example view 750, the closed container formed by the inverted example container 752 and the example container 756 is stacked on the example container 758. While the example containers illustrated here are connected with interlocks, the present technology provides for various approaches to connecting open containers. For example, an open container can have a non-slip material, such as rubber, along the top edge of the open container such that an inverted container placed on a non-inverted container would resist slipping off the non-inverted container. As another example, an open container can have a gripping material, such as Velcro, along the top edge of the open container such that an inverted container placed on a non-inverted container would grip each other using the gripping material. Many variations are possible.
FIG. 8 illustrates an example method 800, in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. At block 802, the example method 800 inverts a first container, wherein the first container comprises one or more first positive features. At block 804, the example method 800 places the inverted first container on a second container, wherein the second container comprises one or more second positive features. At block 806, the example method 800 interlocks the inverted first container with the second container using the one or more first positive features and the one or more second positive features. Many variations to the example method are possible. It should be appreciated that there can be additional, fewer, or alternative steps performed in similar or alternative orders, or in parallel, within the scope of the various embodiments discussed herein unless otherwise stated.
Methods described herein may vary in accordance with the present disclosure. Various embodiments of this disclosure may repeat one or more steps of the methods described herein, where appropriate. Although this disclosure describes and illustrates particular steps of certain methods as occurring in a particular order, this disclosure contemplates any suitable steps of the methods occurring in any suitable order or in any combination which may include all, some, or none of the steps of the methods. Furthermore, although this disclosure may describe and illustrate particular components, apparatuses, devices, or systems carrying out particular steps of a method, this disclosure contemplates any suitable combination of any suitable components, devices, or systems carrying out any suitable steps of the method.
The scope of this disclosure encompasses all changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications to the example embodiments described or illustrated herein that a person having ordinary skill in the art would comprehend. The scope of this disclosure is not limited to the example embodiments described or illustrated herein. Moreover, although this disclosure describes and illustrates respective embodiments herein as including particular components, modules, elements, feature, functions, operations, or steps, any of these embodiments may include any combination or permutation of any of the components, modules, elements, features, functions, operations, or steps described or illustrated anywhere herein that a person having ordinary skill in the art would comprehend. Furthermore, reference in the appended claims to an apparatus or system or a component of an apparatus or system being adapted to, arranged to, capable of, configured to, enabled to, operable to, or operative to perform a particular function encompasses that apparatus, system, component, whether or not it or that particular function is activated, turned on, or unlocked, as long as that apparatus, system, or component is so adapted, arranged, capable, configured, enabled, operable, or operative. Additionally, although this disclosure describes or illustrates particular embodiments as providing particular advantages, particular embodiments may provide none, some, or all of these advantages.
While various embodiments of the present technology have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams may depict an example architectural or other configuration for the disclosed technology, which is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that can be included in the disclosed technology. The present technology is not restricted to the illustrated example architectures or configurations, but the desired features can be implemented using a variety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative configurations can be implemented to implement the desired features of the technology disclosed herein. Additionally, with regard to operational descriptions and method claims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall not mandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recited functionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.
Although the present technology is described above in terms of various example embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects and functionality described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the other embodiments of the present technology, whether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not such features are presented as being a part of a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the technology disclosed herein should not be limited by any of the above-described example embodiments.
Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” should be read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term “example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or “an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or the like; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,” “standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any time in the future. The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases may be absent.
Patent Application
20240400260
