Patent Application
20240365941
This invention relates to devices used to transport, enclose, or carry goods for personal use or for shipment of goods to consumers.
Current shipping methods that rely on disposable cardboard boxes and thin poly bag liners present several issues. These traditional shipping systems are not cost-effective, environmentally friendly, or usually reusable or reconfigurable. Additionally, these systems often necessitate single-use disposable materials such as bubble wrap or inflatable pillows to protect the shipped goods. As e-commerce has grown, these issues have only intensified, contributing to a significant amount of waste in landfills and waste disposal facilities. To address this problem, any successful eco-friendly shipping and packaging system must prioritize the three R's: “Reduce,” “Reuse,” and “Recycle.” Furthermore, the system should be “Reconfigurable” and can be “Repurposed.” The reusable, reconfigurable, and inflatable tote shipper and packaging system tackles these challenges by reducing the need for single-use disposable materials, promoting the reuse of shipping materials, and enabling the recycling and repurposing of remaining packaging components. Beyond the three R's, this invention includes additional features such as “Reinflation,” allowing consumers to deflate and “Reinflate” the packaging as needed. The system also supports “Returning” and “Reshipping” merchandise in its original packaging for a “Rebate,” thus completing the recycling loop. Additionally, the packaging should be “Rescalable” with security seals or “Relocking” mechanisms. Users can also “Repurpose” the packaging for alternative tasks, such as using it as a grocery or personal tote with insertable organizers and extra accessories. Companies and small businesses can label their marketing brand or logo onto the reusable tote for downstream advertising or “Remarketing” when consumers reuse the tote for personal use. Finally, the packaging should be “Reconfigurable.” transitioning from a flexible outer packaging to a “Rigid” and insulated shipping device. In summary, the reusable, reconfigurable, and inflatable tote shipper and packaging system effectively addresses these issues and is a significant step towards reducing waste, promoting an eco-friendly packaging system, and offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for shipping.
In accordance with various embodiments, the reusable reconfigurable and inflatable tote shipper and packaging system is designed to include an external flexible foldable device 40 with an outer tote shell
Accordingly, the present invention may include a reconfigurable and inflatable tote shipper and packaging system that is reusable without the need to seal a cardboard box or bag with tape or adhesive patches or to require new inflatable air packaging for reshipping.
One aspect of the present invention includes a reconfigurable, reusable, tote shipping design and packaging system for transporting and shipping goods within a carrying space of a flexible outer wall tote shipper enabling placing items to be transported or shipped through the zippered open lid and into the carrying or shipping space of the tote shipper which is configured by a folding top lid wall, a bottom diametric opposing wall from the lid opening, a front wall, rear wall, right-side wall, and left-side wall, with the tote shipper designed with buttoned, closeable, scalable front outer wall, rear outer wall pouches on the outer front-side wall, outer rear-side wall, where the front-side handle strap, rear-side handle strap is secured and stored within the front wall, rear wall outer buttoned and closeable outer pouches when being used as a reusable shipper or briefcase and extended outside of the front wall, rear wall pouches when configured as a shoulder strap carrying tote, the tote shipper is repurposed as a reusable carry tote after shipping.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a foldable, stackable, tote shipper flexible outer shell which is foldable and stackable before and after shipping by the shipper and or end user. Its outer shell is flexible and can be transformed into an inflatable, rigid, lockable, insulated, climate-controlled, antimicrobial, and water-resistant tote shipper. It can be deflated, stacked, reconfigured into a promotional tote bag with a personal organizer or hanging file folder. It is constructed using recycled materials and compostable plant-based components.
Another aspect of the present invention includes weather resistant, water-resistant, laminated, woven, non-woven outer shell walls.
Another aspect of the present invention includes scalable, water resistant, double grommeted zipper handles and zippers with a right-side track, left-side track which commence at the right-rear, left-rear of the flexible lid and are joined, sewn to the top upper edge of the front-wall, right-side wall, left-side wall, having a junction at the upper front-wall, outlining the entry to the carrying space which can be zippered closed.
Another aspect of the present invention includes wherein first left-side and second right side scalable, water resistant, double grommeted zipper handles and zipper are designed to receive a one-way, lockable, barcoded, numerically numbered, zip tie, lock, combination lock, keyed lock, (TSA) U.S. Transportation Security Administration approved locking mechanism, through the double grommeted zipper first right-side zipper handle, second grommeted left-side zipper handle.
Another aspect of the present invention includes wherein a non-permanent mailing, shipping, self-stick, shipping label, U.S.P.S United States Post Service shipping label, private, commercial carrier, is attached to outer walls of the tote shipper including front-side wall, rear-side wall, right-side wall, left-side wall or bottom diametric opposing wall or front-side pouch, rear-side pouch and tendered for shipping.
Another aspect of the present invention includes, wherein a reconfigurable, reusable, tote shipping design and packaging system arrives at the end user and the seal is broken, unlocked, opened and contents removed, and the tote shipper is now used as a reusable tote or folded, stacked, returned, reshipped or stored for later use.
Another aspect of the present invention further includes sewn edges on folding top lid wall, a bottom-side diametric opposing wall from the lid opening, a front-side wall, rear-side wall, right-side wall, and left-side wall. The outer flexible shell is constructed of 60 GSM to 140 GSM materials including PVC, Polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, poly blends, made of 100% recyclable materials, including a combination of various types of polymers and plant-based starches and enzymes such as PLA, PBAT, PBS, PCL, PLLA, PLDA, PDLLA and other plant-based materials which may render the tote shipper outer flexible shell biodegradable and compostable.
Another aspect of the present invention includes wherein the folding top-lid wall has a sewn, glued flexible strap, elastic band, woven, non-woven sleeve pocket which is permeant and sewn or attached underneath the foldable lid that is designed to hold, secure, attach insertable inflatables, organizers, hanging file die cut, rigid, insulated, freezable, gel, water filed cannisters which reconfigure the tote shipper from a flexible outer shell to a rigid, insulated, climate-controlled tote shipper.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a sewn or free-standing organizer with sleeves to accept rigid and insulated panels, freezable rigid cannisters, hanging file folders and other reconfigurable systems within the folding top lid wall, a bottom-side diametric opposing wall from the lid opening, a front-side wall, rear-side wall, right-side wall, and left-side wall, which reconfigure the flexible outer tote shipper into a rigid, insulated, climate-controlled tote shipper and reusable as a personal tote organizer after shipping by the end user.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System which is constructed of rigid, fluted poly corrugated boards, fiber boards, honeycomb corrugated, closed cell foam, foam boards which are inserted into the organizer sleeves reconfiguring the flexible tote shipper into a rigid and insulated device. It is reusable foldable and stackable organizer by end user.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System which is constructed of rigid, plant-based fiber boards molded into the shape of a contoured dinner plate. These dinner plates are inserted into the organizer sleeves reconfiguring the flexible tote shipper into a rigid and or insulated device. It is reusable foldable and stackable organizer by end user. The plant based rigid dinner plates can be repurposed and reused as dinner plates or trays by the end user.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System which accepts u shaped support bars mad from rigid injection molded plastic, metal dissolvable and non-dissolvable U-shaped bent rods of sufficient gauge to support hanging files of standard 8½ by 11-inch business and legal-size 8½ by 14-inch documents, reconfiguring the tote shipper into an organizer with a hanging file folder system enclosed.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a rigid outer shell cannisters that are injection or rotationally molded with a scalable cap which are filled with water or freezable gel and inserted into the sleeves of the TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System after freezing thus reconfiguring the flexible tote shipper into a rigid, climate-controlled device.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System has an optional center zippered laptop bag that also accepts TOPS panels and freezable cannisters providing for compartmentalization withing the center carrying space and for additional rigidity and insulation and climate control of the device.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a foldable, stackable, tote shipper flexible outer shell with a top lid wall that is foldable within the carrying space allowing the tote to be used as an open top carry tote for groceries, personal items, or goods.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a foldable, stackable, tote shipper flexible outer shell with optional reinforced straps, that are sewn on the front outer wall, continuously around the circumference of the bottom wall and rear wall, forming a continuous u-shaped design for added strength and durability depending on the anticipated workload of the device.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System which is constructed of rigid, fluted poly corrugated boards, fiber boards, honeycomb corrugated, closed cell foam, foam boards which are free standing and made of or coated with insulated materials and have a lid panel wall, a bottom diametric opposing panel wall from the lid opening, a front panel walls, rear panel walls, right-side wall, and left-side wall with a top lid that is attached together by straps and connectable by Velcro brand, loop loc material strips when inserted into a tote shipper, reconfiguring the flexible tote shipper into a rigid and insulated device. It is a reusable foldable and stackable free-standing panel system by end user.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a flexible inflatable packaging system that has a free-standing inflatable insert of cube design that is made from pin hole free vinyl or poly blends which is sealed between compartments with heat or vulcanization including sonic sealing methods. The device has lid panel wall, a bottom diametric opposing panel wall from the lid opening, a front panel walls, rear panel walls, right-side wall, and left-side wall with a top lid that is 360 degrees foldable into the carrying space with independent air intake valves on each panel wall which is orally or mechanically inflated or deflated with air.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a flexible inflatable packaging system that has a free-standing inflatable insert of horizontal tube design that is made from pin hole free vinyl or poly blends which is sealed between compartments with heat or vulcanization including sonic sealing methods. The device has lid panel wall, a bottom diametric opposing panel wall from the lid opening, a front panel walls, rear panel walls, right-side wall, and left-side wall with a top lid that is 360 degrees foldable into the carrying space with independent air intake valves on each panel wall which is orally or mechanically inflated or deflated with air.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a flexible inflatable packaging system that has a free-standing inflatable insert of vertical air column design that is made from pin hole free vinyl or poly blends which is sealed between compartments with heat or vulcanization including sonic sealing methods. The device has lid panel wall, a bottom diametric opposing panel wall from the lid opening, a front panel walls, rear panel walls, right-side wall, and left-side wall with a top lid that is 360 degrees foldable into the carrying space with a one-way air intake check valve which is mechanically inflated filled with air.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a tote shipper inflatable shipping tote and packaging system components made of a 100% recyclable polypropylene or poly blends that may be compostable. These compostable plant-based starches and materials include the addition of certain enzymes or chemicals which produce PLA (Polylactic Acid), PLA+PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PBS (Polybutylene Succinate) or PCL (Polycaprolactone) combinations with other thermoplastic starches as plasticizers. They include poly L-lactide (PLLA), poly D-lactide (PLDA), and poly-DL-lactide (PDLLA). The tote shipper has a front side, back side, left side, right side, bottom, and a full flap top lid that extends from the back of the tote shipper to the front.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a carrying briefcase style strap that is located on top of shipper lid provides a secondary carrying method for user or shipper to use when in transport mode or after shipping to customer. The removal of this strap in the future does not diminish any of the claims set forth in the invention.
Another aspect of the present invention includes a re-inflatable inner shell with foldable lid embodiment that can be re-inflated and de-inflated as needed with valve assembly, with or without the use of any mechanical device such as a hand or electric air pump. Other tote shipper inflatable liners with foldable lid embodiments are inflated by mechanical means by use of hand pump or electric compressor automated air column pump for assembly line mass production of tote shipper inflatables.
In yet another aspect of the present invention a specially placed and reinforced stitching is provided in key design areas of the shipping tote shipper to support durability and end customer use. The outer flexible nature of the tote shipper can be branded to include shipper or manufacturer logo or advertising information to provide added value to offset cost of shipping tote when customer reuses it as a tote.
Another aspect of the present invention inner walls of the flexible tote are designed to hold an insertable liner which has sleeves to accept rigid and or insulated panels for rigidity or insulation of shipped goods. These inserts are held in placed by an insertable embodiment attached to the inside of the flexible tote or the rigid and insulated shells directly. The insertable rigid and insulated inner walls are completely removable and/or collapsible and are an optional component of the invention packaging system.
Another aspect of the present invention includes an inflatable inner shell utilizing a special anti-de-inflation oral air valve that once filled with air, must be squeezed to allow air trapped inside to escape. This anti-de-inflation embodiment is designed to improve shipping and content protection and provide de-inflation for storage after use. This embodiment is for the cube and horizontal tube design inflatable tote shipper. The vertical design one way air column inflatable tote embodiment has an internal anti-de-inflation design that prevents air escape one inflated. The inflatable components are also made of a 100% recyclable polypropylene or poly blends that may be compostable. These compostable plant-based starches and materials include PLA (Polylactic Acid), PLA+PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PBS (Polybutylene Succinate) or PCL (Polycaprolactone) combinations with other thermoplastic starches as plasticizers. They include poly L-lactide (PLLA), poly D-lactide (PLDA), and poly-DL-lactide (PDLLA).
Another aspect of the present invention includes an inflatable inner shell made from leak resistant and pinhole free, poly blends which are recyclable or compostable of sufficient thickness to support the inner contents presented to be shipped. The thicknesses range in diameter of 0.02 mm to 0.80 mm or greater, wherein inflatable inner shell can also be inflated mechanically for mass production based on user shipping needs. Vertical air column inflatables can be made part of the tote shipper as an embodiment in the inner flexible tote shipper secured with the permanently fixed holding strap located underneath the foldable lid of the tote shipper, wherein ide straps are sewed with X box stitching to provide for increased strength, wherein edges of external pouches are sewed with reinforced nylon or cotton thread and corners are sewed with X box stitching, wherein an air valve on inflatable unit that is orally inflated is designed to be inserted into air pocket once air cushion is inflated to allow for shipping items to be free from interfering with valve, wherein the inflatable shell is designed to have flexibility between compartments to allow for the natural wrapping or encapsulation of the item to be shipped, wherein the inflatable shell may have multiple air valve ports based on the shipping requirements of the item to be shipped. In the event of a defective valve during shipping, other compartments are not compromised or deflated, wherein the inner inflatable shells come in a variety of designs which include cub, horizontal tube and vertical air column design variations with foldable lids based on the requirements of the shipper. Inflatables are inflated by manual non mechanical and mechanical mean, and wherein the TOPS and TAPS inner rigid and insulated panels are made from 2 mm to 10 mm or greater PVC fluted corrugated or closed cell foam made of poly blends that are compostable, depending on the items to be shipped. They are made of a 100% recyclable polypropylene or poly blends that are compostable. These compostable plant-based starches and materials include PLA (Polylactic Acid), PLA+PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PBS (Polybutylene Succinate) or PCL (Polycaprolactone). The inner rigid panels are completely collapsible and connected by half cut, natural material strips or material pockets that are attached within the inflatable tote or other supports to prevent the inner shell from collapsing when assembled. The inner walls connect to the top and bottom lids with loop lock or Velcro brand materials that are either fastened by adhesive or staples, wherein the tote shipper accessory organizer is made of natural materials and has several compartments to allow the user to use the tote shipper as an all-purpose everyday tote and item organizer. The organizer has additional compartments to allow for the padded and insulated transport and storage of personal effects and laptop computers with shoulder straps. This embodiment incentivizes end users to continue to use the tote shipper and repurpose the flexible packaging as a tote with multiple functionalities.
In still yet another aspect of the present invention, a combination tote and packaging container providing the following: an outer shell having a bottom wall, a front wall, a rear wall, and two sidewalls defining a compartment accessible through an opening defined by a periphery of the front wall, the rear wall, and the two sidewalls; a lid attached to the periphery so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position preventing access to the compartment; a front pocket and a rear pocket disposed along an exterior portion of the front and rear walls, respectively; each pocket defining an enclosed area along said respective exterior portion, wherein each pocket is movable between an open condition and a closed condition fully enclosing the enclosed area; and for each enclosed area, a strap connected thereto so that the strap is movable between carrying condition projecting above the lid and a storage condition wherein the strap is entirely contained within the respective pocket, wherein the front wall, the rear wall, and the two sidewalls are foldable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration where the lid is moveable into the compartment; further providing two grommeted closing mechanisms operatively associated with a track extending along said periphery; a locking mechanism movable between an unlocked engagement and a locked engagement connecting the two grommets of the two grommeted closing mechanisms; and further including the following: an insert comprising at least a rear panel, a front panel and two side panels that are foldable between a collapsed condition and an expanded condition substantially coextensive with the compartment; and at least one panel sleeve provided by each panel; a plurality of rigid insulation inserts, each rigid insulation insert dimensioned and shaped to be slidable received in one of the panel sleeves; an insert comprising a sequence of accordion-connected insulated panels having a perimetral distance substantially coextensive with a perimetral distance of the compartment; an insert comprising a plurality of inflatable panels that are foldable between a collapsed condition and an expanded condition substantially coextensive with the compartment, wherein each inflatable panel has a dedicated air valve, wherein each inflatable panel is defined by a horizontal tube design or wherein each inflatable panel is defined by a vertical tube design.
These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description, and claims.
This brief description of drawings does not aim to highlight every significant or crucial aspect of the invention. Those significant aspects are provided in the detailed description of the drawings.
The present disclosure provides a comprehensive explanation of the components and illustrations included in the accompanying drawings. These drawings are a crucial component of the disclosure and demonstrate various structures and scenarios in which the aspects of the disclosure can be implemented. It should be acknowledged that the depicted structures and methods in the drawings are just examples and that there is the possibility of using other structures and methods as well. Furthermore, alterations to the originally described structures and methods can be made while still staying within the scope of the present disclosure. This allows for ample room for customization and adaptation to the specific needs of the desired implementation. The accompanying drawings serve as a valuable resource for comprehending the different aspects of the disclosure, offering a clear and concise visual representation of the structures and scenarios in which the disclosed aspects can be applied.
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1 is a reusable reconfigurable and inflatable tote shipper outer flexible shell which is of the shape and size of a tote briefcase. The shape can also be reconfigured to a traditional grocery style tote. It is made from non-woven or woven material. The material is compostable, or PVC constructed of 60 GSM to 140 GSM laminated or non-laminated material with gusseted trim and reinforced stitching on edges and corners. The components of the shipping tote and packaging system are made of 100% recyclable and compostable polypropylene or poly blends, including combinations of PLA, PBAT, PBS, PCL, PLLA, PLDA, and PDLLA. The tote has six sides (front, back, left, right, bottom, and full flap top lid) made of these materials. The tote shipper is fully scalable to meet a multiple range of sizes to meet the shipping and packaging needs of a variety of products sizes and configurations. The outer side wall of the shipping tote may be printed with high resolution inks and design imprints which may include 3D or 4 D images to enhance the fashionable look and feel of the tote shipper for consumer use and remarketing. It is depicted in an expanded state. 2 is atop closeable lid flap with gusseted trim. 3 is an extended front side upper handle strap attached to the outer shell of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper. The strap is made from nylon or natural material which is extended outside of the pouch and attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper which is extendable to be used as an additional handle strap or shoulder strap which is placed and secured in pouch during shipping. 4 is an extended rear side upper handle strap attached to the outer shell of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper. The strap is made from nylon or natural material which is extended outside of the pouch and attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper which is extendable to be used as an additional handle strap or shoulder strap which is placed and secured in pouch during shipping.
5 is a double zipper track on top lid forward closing. 6 is a gusseted trim edge of the panels of the flexible tote shipper which are sewn with natural and man-made materials. These gusseted trim edges can be placed on all outer edges or on a select few as illustrated depending on the intended use and weight load. 7 is a side view of the right outer side wall of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper. 8 is the bottom wall edge of the tote shipper. 9 is the outer front wall of the tote shipper. 10 is an optional reinforced lower external tote straps and stitching used to secure the lower outer side straps to the sides and bottom of the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. This lower outer strap configuration is optional. 11 is a transparent view of an inserted front side upper handle strap attached to the outer shell of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper inserted within the front side pouch of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper. 12 is the external front side pouch button, snap or closing mechanism used to close the outer pouch. This closing mechanism can be made of a traditional metal or plastic button or snap, loop lock or Velcro brand materials or magnetic strips. 13 is a reinforced stitching used to secure the outer pouch to the side walls of the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 14 is the optional briefcase style outer top strap and reinforced stitching used to secure the strap handle to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. It is designed to be used when the side straps are secured in pouches and closed. It allows the user to have an additional secondary method to carry and transport the tote shipper. 15 is the foldable non gusseted trim edge of the top rear panel of the flexible tote shipper. This non-gusseted trim edge is optional. Gusseted edges can be placed on this location depending on the intended application which would require reinforcement of this flexible folding top lid edge. 16 is a pouch for rear side handle straps and additional storage attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 17 is a rear view of optional reinforced lower external tote straps and stitching used to secure the lower outer side straps to the sides and bottom of the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. This lower outer strap configuration is optional. 18 is a gusseted trim on the bottom edge of the tote shipper. 19 is a side view of the left outer side wall of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper. 20 is a gusseted trim edge of the panels of the flexible tote shipper which are sewn with natural and man-made materials. These gusseted trim edges can be placed on all outer edges or on a select few as illustrated depending on the intended use and weight load. 21 is a permeant sewn sleeve or strap located underneath the folding lid to secure and hold in place attachable components of the configurable tote shipper. These components will be described in greater detail in further additional drawing descriptions. 22 is view of (1) of 2 zipper handles with a grommet opening at end of zipper shaft. 23 is the reinforced outer edge stitching on the outer pouch for handles and additional storage. These pouches are attached to the front and rear sides of the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 24 is the loop lock or Velcro brand inner strip sewn or adhered with heat scaling or other adhesive methods to the inner top edge of the tote shipper inner carrying space. This strip is used to attach additional components to the tote shipper. These components will be described in greater detail in further additional drawing descriptions. 25 is the inner carrying space of the flexible shell of the tote shipper when it is in an expanded state. 26 is view of the right (1) of 2 zipper handles with a grommet opening at end of zipper shaft. 27 is the top gusseted edge trim with open zipper located on the top folding lid of the tote shipper with stitching of nylon or other natural thread. 28 is view of the left (2) of 2 zipper handles with a grommet opening at end of zipper shaft. 29 is an optional rear bottom non-gusseted trim edge of the tote shipper as illustrated. 30 is a nylon or natural fiber top strap handle to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 31 is the closed double zipper track on top lid forward closing which wraps around top of tote shipper to back of top lid which is has different properties including water resistance and durable zipper teeth. The zipper outer edges are sewn to the tote shipper with nylon or other natural threads. 32 is an optional front right side corner edge with non-gusseted trim on the tote shipper as illustrated. 33 is a removable shipping label with non-permanent adhesive attached or inserted into a label sleeve placed on the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 34 is a removable shipping label from U.S. Postal Service or other commercial shipping carrier including companies that deliver local packages of meals, goods and products including local and national store chains. The label is attached with a sewn card or label sleeve pocket or non-permanent adhesive attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. The address is written or printed on the label representing a label generated at the United States Postal Service or any other freight forwarder or commercial shipper or transport company including companies that deliver local packages of meals, goods and products including local and national store chains. 35 is the top gusseted zipper edge trim located on the top front panel of the tote shipper with stitching of nylon or other natural thread. 36 is an optional gusseted trim edge on the rear top lid folding edge of the tote shipper. 37 is a transparent rear view of an inserted rear side upper handle strap attached to the rear outer shell side of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper inserted within the rear side pouch of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper. 38 is an optional gusseted trim on the bottom edge of the tote shipper. 39 is a side view of the outer side wall of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper. 40 is the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper in a folded state with double zippers in a closed position.
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41 is a top view of the double zipper track on top lid forward closing which wraps around top of shipping tote to back of top lid. 42 is top view of right-side zipper handles with a grommet opening at end of zipper shaft. 43 is a top view of top closeable lid flap with gusseted trim and zippers that form the closing flap of the outer flexible shipping tote. 44 is a top view of the rear wall edge of the shipping tote without optional gusseted edge trim. 45 is a top view of the left top side gusseted edge trim stitching with zipper sewn with nylon or other natural thread. 46 is a top left view of reinforced stitching used to secure the optional outer top strap handle to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 47 is the optional nylon or natural fiber top strap handle to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper sewn in a manner that is taught to prevent slacking on top lid of tote shipper. 48 is top view of inside carrying space opening of the tote shipper. 49 is a top view of the rear wall edge of the shipping tote with optional gusseted edge trim. 50 is the top outer shell lid of the flexible tote shipper without the optional top lid strap. 51 is a bottom view of the right bottom side with optional gusseted edge trim stitching sewn with nylon or other natural thread. 52 is the bottom panel of the tote shipper with optional additional wrap around straps for heavy duty applications. 53 is the optional additional straps that are sewn on both edges for reinforced strength with nylon or other natural threads. These optional straps wrap around the entire bottom and front and rear sides of the tote shipper. 54 is the bottom outer shell of the flexible tote shipper without the optional heavy duty strap applications. 55 is a bottom view of the bottom side edges with optional gusseted edge trim stitching sewn with nylon or other natural thread. 56 is an extended rear side upper handle strap attached to the outer shell of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper. The strap is made from nylon or natural material which is extended outside of the pouch and attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper which is extendable to be used as an additional handle strap or shoulder strap which is placed and secured in pouch during shipping. 57 is the outer shell top lid of the flexible tote shipper folded in a grocery tote state. 58 is a side view of the outer side wall of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper in a grocery tote state. 59 is the tote shipper in a grocery tote state with top lid folded into carrying space with groceries or personal goods loaded into the carrying space. 60 is a tote shipper in a grocery or personal goods carry transport state with heavy duty additional optional support straps which run along the sides and bottom of flexible outer shell. 61 is layered view of the tote shipper outer flexible wall with a laminated scratch and water-resistant surface. 62 The reusable reconfigurable and inflatable tote shipper and packaging system has a flexible outer shell made of 100% recyclable polypropylene or other poly blends that may be compostable. These compostable plant-based starches and materials include the addition of certain enzymes or chemicals which produce PLA (Polylactic Acid), PLA+PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PBS (Polybutylene Succinate) or PCL (Polycaprolactone) combinations with other thermoplastic starches as plasticizers. They include poly L-lactide (PLLA), poly D-lactide (PLDA), and poly-DL-lactide (PDLLA). The tote shipper has a front side, back side, left side, right side, bottom and a full flap top lid that extends from the back of the tote shipper to the front. 63 is layered view of the tote shipper flexible walls that may include thickened pearl cotton as an insulated layer for long acting cold and heat preservation. 64 is layered view of the tote shipper walls with additional embodiments which include a water resistant inner flexible shell that can be sewn or interchangeable depending on the application. The inner shell can also be interchangeable with the TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System, the TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System and other attachments including insulated zip locked shells, gel filled poly rigid ice packs panels and or other accessories including fireproof cases and alternative rigid foldable file organizers which will be described further in the descriptions. 65 is the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper in a folded state with double zippers in a closed position after the tote shipper has been used as a grocery or goods transport tote. 66 is an extended front or rear side upper handle strap attached to the outer shell of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper. The strap is made from nylon or natural material which is extended outside of the pouch and attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper which is extendable to be used as an additional handle strap or shoulder strap which is placed and secured in pouch during shipping. 67 is a reinforced cross style stitching of outer pouch to exterior flexible shell of tote shipper. 68 is a a pouch for side handle straps and additional storage attached to the exterior shell of the flexible tote shipper. 69 is a transparent view of an inserted front side upper handle strap attached to the outer shell of the flexible outer wall of the tote shipper inserted within the side pouch of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper. 70 is a tote shipper with a heavy duty additional optional support straps which run along the sides and bottom of flexible outer shell. 71 is the reinforced outer edge stitching on the outer pouch for handles and additional storage. These pouches are attached to the front and rear sides of the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. 72 is a reinforced cross style stitching of outer pouch to exterior flexible shell of tote shipper. 73 is the external front side pouch button, snap or closing mechanism used to close the outer pouches. This closing mechanism can be made of a traditional metal or plastic button or snap, loop lock or Velcro brand materials or magnetic strips. 74 is a left side view of the optional gusseted edge trim stitching sewn with nylon or other natural thread. 75 is a side view of the outer side wall of the flexible outer shell of the tote shipper in an expanded closed state.
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76 is view of (1) of 2 zipper handles with a grommet opening at end of zipper shaft which join in center of front of flexible shipping tote shipper which are used to connect to lock the tote shipper with a security seal or locking mechanism. 77 is the double zipper track in an open position. 78 is view of (2) of 2 zipper handles with a grommet opening at end of zipper shaft which join in center of front of flexible shipping tote shipper which are used to connect to lock the tote shipper with a security seal or locking mechanism. The seal is cut and broken by the receiver once it arrives at the intended delivery address. The user can then reseal the tote shipper with an additional seal to secure the tote shipper and return the original tote shipper back to sender if required. 79 is view of zipper end stops. 80 is a one-way security seal which is sequentially numbered and or barcoded and lockable. It is constructed of durable flexible material PVC or metal or other materials. The seals are run through the zipper gromets and locked by one-way gears or teeth or by key lock before shipping. Transactional tracking systems using custom barcodes are incorporated to track and monitor the tote shipper's progress by the shipper throughout the shipping process. The security seals provide tampered evidence of intrusion into the tote shipper. 81 is a one-way security seal flexible band which is placed through tote shipper 1 of 2 zipper grommeted holes and inserted into the lockable one-way cavity of the seal and made ready for locking and shipping. 82 is a one-way security seal flexible band which is placed through tote shipper 2 of 2 zipper grommeted holes and inserted into the lockable one-way cavity of the seal and made ready for locking and shipping. 83 is a double zipper track which has been closed and made ready for shipping. 84 is a removable shipping or delivery label with non-permanent adhesive attached to the outer shell of the flexible tote shipper. The printed label represents a label generated at the United States Postal Service or any other freight forwarder of commercial shipper or transport company including companies that deliver local packages of meals, goods and products including local and national store chains or companies. 85 is a one-way check lever that prevents security seal teeth from being removed or retracted after the unit has been sealed and locked. 86 is a deployed and active security scal with one-way teeth which is a flexible band that is inserted into the tote shipper zipper grommeted open ends and made ready for shipping. The seal is cut after shipment has arrived at its intended destination. A new seal is placed to return item or to reship tote shipper to a new destination. 87 is the security one-way check lever. 88 is a close-up view of a one-way security seal which is sequentially numbered and or barcoded and lockable. It is constructed of durable flexible material PVC or metal or other materials. The seals are run through the zipper gromets and locked by one-way gears or teeth or by key lock before shipping. Transactional tracking systems using custom barcodes are incorporated to track and monitor the tote shipper's progress by the shipper throughout the shipping process. The security seals provide tamper evidence of intrusion into the tote shipper. 89 is a close-up view of the security seal and barcode tracking system embodiments. Additional locking methods are discussed further in the descriptions. 90 is a programmable security combination lock that is U.S.T.S.A. United States Transportation Security Administration approved. The TSA is a special lock that can be opened with a master key by the USTSA. 91 is a programable security USTSA lock with loop locking bar that is inserted into the grommeted holes of the tote shipper to lock the tote shipper during transport. 92 is a programable combination feature of the USTSA lock. 93 is a metal durable key lock that can be used by inserting barrel of lock through both grommeted zipper handle holes on the tote shipper to lock the zippers in place during shipping or for safe keeping of contents. 94 is a one-way security seal which is sequentially numbered and or barcoded and lockable. It is in a non-locked state. 95 is the security one-way check lever lock in a non-closed state. 96 is the security one-way security seal main flexible shaft in an open state. 97 is a non-deployed security seal with one-way teeth in an open state.
In
98 is an expanded view of the TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System. It is a retention system insert or lining that can be interchanged into a tote organizer. The insert is constructed using either poly or natural fiber materials and has multiple internal pocket sleeves that hold rigid and insulated panels, giving the tote shipper additional insulation and rigidity. These sleeves receive rigid and insulated panels which provide strength and rigidity with insulation to the tote shipper flexible packaging and then converts to an item organizer after shipping. The material is 1 mm to 3 mm thick or 60 to 140 GSM. The insert retention organizer is 100% recyclable, water resistant, anti-microbial and compostable. The Tote Organizer Panel System has a top lid, bottom, front, rear, left and right-side walls. All walls including the top lid and bottom have embodiment sleeves that can accommodate the interchangeable panels. The panels are rigid and insulated. When not sewn in place, an optional embodiment is the placement of securing mechanisms such as Velcro brand straps that secure the retention system insert to the flexible packaging tote of the inner tote shipper when used. Furthermore, the system is repurposed as a stand-alone tote organizer when not used in the tote shipper. There is a removable laptop compartment and carry strap. This system enables significant repurposing and reuse of the tote shipper by functioning as an internal and external item organizer within the carrying space of the tote shipper while supporting rigid and insulated panels enabling the tote shipper to be reconfigurable from a flexible device to a hard rigid outer shell tote shipper. 99 is the left side panel with sleeve opening for panel inserts. The left and right-side panel have an additional embodiment that includes a Velcro brand sewn strip that is aligned to receive and connect to a removable insertable laptop zippered center compartment bag with outside pockets which can also accept TOPS panels. 100 is the top lid panel with sleeve opening with flexible seam that allows the lid to fold closed and 360 degrees so the lid can be tucked or folded into the carry space or outside the tote shipper walls. The lid of the tote organizer panel system is secured into the tote shipper by the permeant sewn sleeve or strap located underneath the folding lid to secure and hold in place attachable components of the configurable tote shipper see
In
5A is a flow chart view of a tote shipper in a folded state. 5B is flow chart view of a flexible wall tote shipper in an expanded state. 5C is flow chart view of a TOPS organizer lining or free-standing organizer with sleeves for insertable rigid and or insulated panels. 5D is flow chart view of a tote shipper TOPS rigid panels in a stacked state including fluted board panels 120, aluminum coating or thermal shield panels 121, foam coating or other insulated materials including closed cell foam panels 122, injection or rotational molded poly materials which make a closed rigid container panels with a scalable cap 123 & rigid panel inserts with contoured edges forming a dinner plate which can be repurposed by the end user. The rigid dinner plate panels are plant based, biodegradable, water, oil resistant and stackable 123A. 5E is flow chart view of a tote shipper TOPS organizer lining or free-standing organizer with sleeves and inserted rigid and or insulated panels on all outer walls including front-side, rear-side, left-side, right-side, bottom, and top folding lid. 5F is flow chart open view of a flexible wall tote shipper in an expanded state with an inserted TOPS organizer or lining with inserted rigid or insulated panels which is now reconfigured into a rigid wall tote shipper. 5G is a flow chart closed transparent view of a flexible wall tote shipper in an expanded state with inserted TOPS organizer or lining with inserted rigid or insulated panels which is now reconfigured into a rigid wall tote shipper and made ready for shipping with locked security seal. 5H is flow chart view of a tote shipper in a folded state after shipping with panels stored in the inner carrying space.
In
6A is flow chart view of a flexible wall tote shipper in a collapsed state and then opened into an expanded state. 6B is flow chart view of a TOPS organizer lining or free-standing organizer without insertable rigid and or insulated panels. 6C is a flow chart view of a flexible wall tote shipper in an open tote state with TOPS organizer lining or organizer sewn or attached within. The top lid is folded into the carrying space. 6D is a flow chart view of a flexible wall tote shipper in a grocery tote state with TOPS organizer lining or organizer sewn or attached within. The top lid is folded into the carrying space and the carrying space is loaded with groceries or goods. 6E is flow chart view of a TOPS organizer free-standing organizer without insertable rigid and or insulated panels loaded with groceries or goods and removed from the tote shipper flexible outer tote. 6F is flow chart view of a TOPS organizer free-standing organizer without insertable rigid and or insulated panels unloaded without groceries or goods and folded for storage. 6G is flow chart view of a flexible wall tote shipper in a collapsed state after use.
In
7A is flow chart transparent view of a TOPS organizer panels assembled free-standing and attached together with Velcro brand strips. See
In
153 is a rigid inner TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System panel that includes fluted or honeycomb boards or other rigid panels that are made of 100% recyclable or compostable polypropylene or poly blends, including combinations of PLA, PBAT, PBS, PCL, PLLA, and PDLLA. The panels are inserted on all six sides (front, back, left, right, bottom and full flap top lid. They can be made from cardstock, corrugated cardboard, honeycomb, fluted and recycled materials including plant-based poly blended materials. 154 is a rigid inner TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System bottom panel and top lid panel with Velcro brand strips along the perimeter to facilitate attachment to the side panels with opposite Velcro brand or loop lock strips. 155 is a rigid inner TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels with Velcro brand strips along the perimeter to facilitate attachment to the bottom base panel and top lid with opposite Velcro brand or loop lock strips. 156 is a rigid TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels with flexible strips of fabric, plastic or other materials including methods such as half cut or thermal seam treatments to allow for the panels to bend in an accordion manner so that they remain attached and bend flat and or 360 degrees for later storage within a collapsible tote shipper when not in use. 157 is a rigid TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels. 158 is a rigid TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels with flexible strip or treatment to allow for accordion bending and panel flexibility while remaining as one continuous panel having front, rear and side wall panels. 159 is a rigid inner TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System top lid panel with an additional smaller panel adhered to the main larger panel to facilitate an inner support edge to support the outer wall panels from collapsing internally. The additional panel has Velcro brand strips along the perimeter and is adhered to the main panel with glue adhesives, staples or heat bonding. 160 is a rigid inner TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System bottom panel identical and interchangeable with the top lid assembly of the TAPS panel system. 161 is a transparent view of rigid inner TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panel assembly with Velcro brand strips along the perimeter to facilitate attachment to the bottom base panel and top lid with opposite Velcro brand or loop lock strips. 162 is a transparent view underneath the top lid of the TAPS panels. 163 is a transparent assemble view of the top lid of the TAPS panels. 164 is a transparent assembled view of the top outer support straps of the TAPS panels. 165 is a transparent assembled view of the lower outer support straps of the TAPS panels. 166 is a transparent assembled view of the bottom panel of the TAPS panels. 167 is a transparent assembled view of the front panels of the TAPS. The insertable rigid and insulated panel inside connection assembly is illustrated identifying the buttressing of the center panels against the bottom and top sections which prevent center section panels from becoming dislodged or folding inwards towards the carrying or shipping space. This embodiment provides for additional inner container integrity and strength. Additionally bottom and top lid beams of sufficient thickness are affixed inside of the bottom and top lids to support the outer center walls from movement during shipping. 168 is an assembled open view of the TAPS in an open state. 169 is an assembled open view of the TAPS carrying space. 170 is an assembled closed view of the TAPS in a closed state illustrating the assembled rigid and insulated connected walls forming an interchangeable or optional rigid and insulated inner container shell of the tote shipper. 171 is an assembled open view of the TAPS in an open state placed within a tote shipper. 172 is an assembled open view of the TAPS in an open state within a flexible tote shipper with top lid assembly inserted underneath and attached to the bottom of the flexible tote shipper. 173 is the TAPS with a fluted polypropylene or other poly blends including compostable plastic materials. Additional panel configurations can include fiber, cardstock board, recycled fluted corrugated, honeycomb or rigid board or plant-based materials. These TAPS panels can be made with insulation foam coatings, closed cell foam or PVC fabric. Additional panel configurations may include aluminum or tother thermal coatings. 174 is a TAPS rigid panel with an aluminum coating. 175 is a TAPS rigid panel with a foam or closed cell foam coating. The closed cell foam or coating material is nontoxic microcellular IXPE foam with a minimum insulated R-Value of at least 1.5. 176 is a TAPS rigid panel with a water-resistant antimicrobial coating or gel pack rigid outer shell cannister with a gel or water filling that is frozen to provide for climate control of the pancaking during shipping. 177 is a rigid TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels in an accordion or folded state. 178 is a rigid TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels in an accordion or folded state with a 360-degree range in folding ability to facilitate flat space saving storage after use. 179 is an assembled TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System inserted and made ready for shipping within a sealed tote shipper. 180 is a rigid TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System side wall panels in an accordion or folded state with a 360-degree range in folding ability to facilitate flat space saving storage after use. 181 is view of a flexible wall tote shipper in a collapsed state after use with the TAPS panels inserted for storage.
In
9A is flow chart transparent view of a flexible wall tote shipper with TAPS panels inserted in a shipping and sealed state upon arrival to a consumer or end user from the original shipper or sender of the merchandise or goods. 9B is flow chart view of an open flexible wall tote shipper with TAPS panels inserted. 9C is flow chart view of an assembled TAPS panel assembly which has been removed from the flexible tote shipper shell. 9D is flow chart view of the TAPS panels in a pre-folded state after disassembly. 9E is flow chart view of TAPS being stacked and made ready for storage. 9F is flow chart view of tote shipper outer shell in a collapsed state. 9G is flow chart view of the TAPS panels in a stacked and collapsed state and being made ready for storage within a collapsed tote shipper for later use when needed.
In
10A is flow chart view of a foldable die cut rigid briefcase shell with handle and clip buckle front panel lock. It is constructed of sufficient thickness of poly or fiber materials so that it is rigid and puncture resistant. The poly fiber case is illustrated in a die cut form partially assembled. 10B is flow chart view of an assembled and closed foldable die cut rigid briefcase shell with handle and clip buckle front panel lock. 10C is a flow chart view of an assembled and closed foldable die cut rigid briefcase shell locking mechanism that is attached to the forward closing flap and bottom base panel of the rigid foldable case. 10D is a flow chart transparent view of an assembled and closed foldable die cut rigid briefcase shell inserted within a flexible tote shipper. The use of this rigid die cut briefcase provides rigidity and puncture resistance to the tote shipper contents when used with this configuration. 10E are rigid inner panels made from injection or rotational molded poly materials which make a closed container with a scalable cap. This flask or container is filled with freezable gel or water to allow for the container to act as a temporary chilling device mechanism for the tote shipper during transport. The rigid nature of the water and gel container also provides additional rigidity to the tote shipper walls. 10F is the rigid freczable panel containers with a perimeter placement configuration with water and gel filled and frozen and made ready for placement within a tote shipper. 10G is a transparent view of the rigid freezable panels containers inserted inside of a tote shipper in a perimeter placement configuration with water and gel filled and frozen and made ready for shipment. 10H is a rigid inner TOPS panel with contoured edges forming a dinner plate which can be repurposed by the end user. The rigid dinner plate panels are plant based, biodegradable, water resistant, stackable and also provides additional rigidity to the tote shipper walls. 101 is the rigid inner TOPS panel with contoured edges forming dinner plates with a perimeter placement configuration and made ready for placement within a tote shipper. 10J is a transparent view of the rigid panels with contoured edges forming a dinner plate inserted inside of a tote shipper in a perimeter placement configuration and made ready for shipment.
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182 is an inflated view of an inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design which is heat sealed or vulcanized to provide structure to the inflatable walls allowing inflation. The inflatable has folding top lid, bottom, front-side, rear-side, left-side and right-side inflatable walls. Each wall is compartmentalized when inflated to provide for durability and packaging integrity in the event that one compartment becomes compromised, the others will remain inflated. The material is made from poly blends and sealed between compartments with heat or vulcanization including sonic sealing methods. 183 is a rear wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design. 184 is a front wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design. 185 is a right-side wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design. 186 is the inflatable tote shipper valve attached to an inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design. 187 is a bottom wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design. 188 is a mechanical means by which the device can be inflated. The use of a hand or electric air pump can be used to inflate the air chambers. The tote shipper inflatable cube design can be inflated orally as well. 189 is an inflation by oral means. 190 is the foldable top lid wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of cube design. 191 is a side view of the heat, vulcanization or sonic seal between compartments of the inflatable tote shipper of cube design. 192 is a side view of tote shipper valve opening receiver assembly to create an air tight seal which is attached to the valve assembly. 193 is a side view of tote shipper inflatable inner wall which is made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. 194 is a side view of tote shipper inflatable air chamber which provides for product or merchandise air cushioning during use or shipping. 195 is a side view of tote shipper inflatable outer wall which is made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. 196 is a side view of the gusseted outer trim sewn with nylon or other natural materials onto the outside flexible shell of the tote shipper. 197 is a side view of tote shipper rigid and insulated TOPS or TAPS embodiments including other insulated or rigid panels or materials in the previous descriptions
In
199 is a side view of an inflatable tote shipper of cube design in an inflated state illustrating air intake from attached valve. 200 is a side view of tote shipper manual inflation plug head valve opening receiver extension assembly attached to an inflatable tote shipper of cube design. 201 is a side view of tote shipper in a partially deflated state with an air check valve opening receiver assembly that is depressed to allow air to escape during de-inflation. 202 is a side view of tote shipper plug head valve cap which is tapered and insertable into the valve assembly to create an airtight seal and attached to the valve assembly. 203 tote shipper plug head valve which is closed and inserted into the valve assembly receiver and pushed into the tote shipper inflatable air chamber of cube design after inflation. The valve assembly is then made flush and level with the surrounding surface of the inflatable tote shipper of cube design. 204 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design with surfaces which are made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. Each panel compartment has a dedicated air valve, and the individual compartments and air chamber wall seam are vulcanized, or heat sealed to provide for an air tight seal and to allow inflation within each separate compartment. In the event of a drop in air pressure in any chamber, the remaining non impacted air chambers remain intact. 205 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design illustrating the back or rear wall with multiple cube air chambers with a dedicated air valve. 206 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design illustrating the left side panel wall with multiple cube air chambers with a dedicated air valve. 207 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design illustrating the front wall with multiple cube air chambers with a dedicated air valve. 208 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design illustrating the bottom wall with multiple cube air chambers with a dedicated air valve. 209 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design illustrating the right-side panel wall with multiple cube air chambers with a dedicated air valve. 210 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable valve attached to the inflatable wall of cube design illustrating the top lid folding panel wall with multiple cube air chambers with a dedicated air valve. 211 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of cube design illustrating the airflow intake direction when orally or mechanically inflated. 212 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of cube design illustrating the airflow intake direction when orally or mechanically inflated into the air chamber. 213 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of cube design illustrating the airflow exhaust direction when orally or mechanically deflated by depressing the valve stem. 214 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of cube design illustrating the airflow exhaust direction when orally or mechanically inflated from the air chamber. 215 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of cube design in an inflated state with folding top lid to protect the shipped goods and contents during transportation and shipping. The design has inflatable outer walls including a front, rear, right-side, left-side, bottom, and a folding top lid. Each air chamber is independently sealed and has a dedicated air valve.
In
216 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of cube design with surfaces which are made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. Each panel compartment has a dedicated air valve, and the individual compartments and air chamber wall seam are vulcanized, or heat scaled to provide for an air tight seal and to allow inflation within each separate compartment. In the event of a drop in air pressure in any chamber, the remaining non impacted air chambers remain intact. 217 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of cube design in an inflated state with folding top lid to protect the shipped goods and contents during transportation and shipping. The design has inflatable outer walls including a front, rear, right-side, left-side, bottom, and a folding top lid. Each air chamber is independently sealed and has a dedicated air valve. 218 is a transparent view of tote shipper inflatable of cube design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper secured underneath the tote shipper folding top lid with the sleeve embodiment. 219 is a tote shipper inflatable of cube design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper secured underneath the tote shipper folding top lid with the sleeve embodiment in an open lid state. 220 is a transparent view of tote shipper inflatable of cube design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper with a reconfigured state using the TOP or TAPS rigid panel system. The inner inflatable is protected by the rigid puncture resistant panels of the TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System or the TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System embodiments. Additional configurations can be included as illustrated in
In
221 is an inflated view of an inflatable tote shipper lining of horizontal tube design which is heat scaled or vulcanized to provide structure to the inflatable walls allowing inflation. The inflatable has folding top lid, bottom, front-side, rear-side, left-side and right-side inflatable walls. Each wall is compartmentalized when inflated to provide for durability and packaging integrity if one compartment becomes compromised, the others will remain inflated. The material is made from poly blends and sealed between compartments with heat or vulcanization including sonic sealing methods. 222 is a front wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of horizontal tube design. 223 is the inflatable tote shipper valve attached to an inflatable tote shipper lining of horizontal tube design. 224 is a bottom wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of horizontal tube design. 225 is a mechanical means by which the device can be inflated. The use of a hand or electric air pump can be used to inflate the air chambers. The tote shipper inflatable of horizontal tube design can be inflated orally as well. 226 is an inflation by oral means. 227 is the foldable top lid wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of horizontal tube design. 228 is a side view of the heat, vulcanization, or sonic seal between compartments of the inflatable tote shipper of horizontal tube design. 229 is a side view of tote shipper valve opening receiver assembly to create an airtight seal which is attached to the valve assembly. 230 is a side view of tote shipper inflatable inner wall which is made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. 231 is a side view of tote shipper inflatable air chamber which provides for product or merchandise air cushioning during use or shipping. 232 is a side view of tote shipper inflatable outer wall which is made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. 233 is a side view of the gusseted outer trim sewn with nylon or other natural materials onto the outside flexible shell of the tote shipper. 234 is a side view of tote shipper rigid and insulated TOPS or TAPS embodiments including other insulated or rigid panels or materials in the previous descriptions
In
236 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of horizontal tube design with surfaces which are made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. Each panel compartment has a dedicated air valve, and the individual compartments and air chamber wall seam are vulcanized, or heat sealed to provide for an air tight seal and to allow inflation within each separate compartment. In the event of a drop in air pressure in any chamber, the remaining non impacted air chambers remain intact. 237 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of horizontal tube design in an inflated state with folding top lid to protect the shipped goods and contents during transportation and shipping. The design has inflatable outer walls including a front, rear, right-side, left-side, bottom, and a folding top lid. Each air chamber is independently sealed and has a dedicated air valve. 238 is a transparent view of tote shipper inflatable of horizontal tube design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper secured underneath the tote shipper folding top lid with the sleeve embodiment. 239 is a tote shipper inflatable of horizontal tube design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper secured underneath the tote shipper folding top lid with the sleeve embodiment in an open lid state. 240 is a transparent view of tote shipper inflatable of horizontal tube design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper with a reconfigured state using the TOP or TAPS rigid panel system. The inner inflatable is protected by the rigid puncture resistant panels of the TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System or the TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System embodiments. Additional configurations can be included as illustrated in
In
241 is an inflated view of an inflatable tote shipper lining of vertical air column design which is heat sealed or vulcanized to provide structure to the inflatable walls allowing inflation. The inflatable has folding top lid, bottom, front-side, rear-side, left-side and right-side inflatable walls. Each wall and individual column are compartmentalized when inflated to provide for durability and packaging integrity if one compartment or column becomes compromised, the others will remain inflated. The material is made from poly blends and sealed between compartments and columns by air check internal valves with heat or vulcanization including sonic sealing methods. 242 is a side wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of vertical air column design. 243 is a bottom wall of the inflatable tote shipper lining of vertical air column design. 244 is a mechanical means by which the device can be inflated. The use of a hand or electric air pump can be used to inflate the air chambers through one air entry intake location. The tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design can be inflated by bulk assembly when placed on an automated inflation machine utilizing inflatables manufactured on a bulk roll with perforations between individual inflatable units. See
In
254 is a template view of tote shipper inflatable wall of vertical air column design with surfaces which are made from flexible and expandable poly blend materials of varying thicknesses based on the anticipated carrying volume and material and products to be shipped. The inflatable embodiment vertical air column bag, inflatable cushion is a completely transparent buffer material made from PE/PE polyethylene/polyethylene or PE/PA polyethylene/polyamide co-extruded film. Each panel compartment or column has a dedicated one-way air check valve and the individual air columns and air chamber wall seam are vulcanized, or heat sealed to provide for an airtight seal and to allow inflation within each separate air column compartment. In the event of a drop in air pressure in any chamber, the remaining non impacted air chambers remain intact. 255 is a cut away view of the tote shipper inflatable airway distribution channel which distributes air to each individual vertical air column. 256 is a tote shipper inflatable valve of vertical air column design in an inflated state with folding top lid to protect the shipped goods and contents during transportation and shipping. The design has inflatable outer walls including a front, rear, right-side, left-side, bottom, and a folding top lid. Each air chamber column is independently sealed, and one air distribution channel inflates all individual air columns simultaneously. 257 is a transparent view of tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper secured underneath the tote shipper folding top lid with the sleeve embodiment. 258 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper secured underneath the tote shipper folding top lid with the sleeve embodiment in an open lid state. 259 is a transparent view of tote shipper inflatable valve of vertical air column design in an inflated state inserted in a flexible tote shipper with a reconfigured state using the TOP or TAPS rigid panel system. The inner inflatable is protected by the rigid puncture resistant panels of the TOPS Tote Organizer Panel System or the TAPS Tote Accordion Panel System embodiments. Additional configurations can be included as illustrated in
In
260 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design that is illustrated in a roll state. The material is made from LDPE low-density polyethylene extruded film or other poly blends in L, U or Q shape configurations. L shape refers to the current illustration presented and described with the top folding lid. Other lid configurations of this inflatable are claimed and made part of these embodiments. The inflatable is illustrated in a roll state which is placed on a commercial automated electric air column inflation machine. The air column material thickness ranges from 20 microns to 120 microns depending on the application and intended use. The tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design in a roll state is fed into the air inflation channel of the machine. The machine is turned on and the adjustable pressure is set. The machine automatically inflates the entire contents of the roll at the set pressure until pauses. 261 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design that is in an inflated state after being auto inflated by the air column machine. 262 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design automatic air column inflation machine electrical plug. 263 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design automatic air column inflation machine control panel with adjustable pressure settings and limit switches. 264 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design automatic air column inflation machine support or table base. 265 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column design in a roll state. 266 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column of L shape design with the flexible folding lid closed. 267 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column of L shape design with the flexible folding lid open. 268 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column of L shape design with the flexible folding lid open in a larger size illustrating flexibility and customization in inflatable size as needed depending on the application or product or merchandise required to be packaged and protected with the illustrated inflatable tote shipper of vertical air column design. 269 is a tote shipper inflatable of vertical air column of L shape design with the flexible folding lid inserted and attached underneath to the tote shipper flexible lid by the illustrated embodiment. Other attachable methods include adhesive strips or patches, Velcro brand strips or loop lock materials. 270 is the flexible outer tote shipper with an inflatable of vertical air column design inserted and attached with lid open and being made ready for sealing and shipping.
As used in this application, the term “about” or “approximately” refers to a range of values within plus or minus 10% of the specified number. And the term “substantially” refers to up to 80% or more of an entirety. Recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to all values falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated, and each separate value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.
For purposes of this disclosure, the term “aligned” means parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “transverse” means perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle between 55.0 and 125.0 degrees. Also, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “length” means the longest dimension of an object. Also, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “width” means the dimension of an object from side to side. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “above” generally means superjacent, substantially superjacent, or higher than another object although not directly overlying the object. Further, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “mechanical communication” generally refers to components being in direct physical contact with each other or being in indirect physical contact with each other where movement of one component affect the position of the other.
The use of all examples, or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” or the like) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the embodiments or the claims. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosed embodiments.
In the following description, it is understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” and the like, are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms unless specifically stated to the contrary.
It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
