TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to storage of physical items, more specifically a storage facilitation system.
BACKGROUND
When it comes to storing items, storage containers often lack versatility. Specifically, storage containers often lack the ability to account for more than one use and/or user of a storage container, lack the ability to allow a user to store more than one item in the storage container, do not promote a hygienic environment, and/or account for how often a storage container may be utilized. For example, available storage containers for dry goods may only contain one chamber for storing a dry good. Further, storage containers utilized in conjunction with objects that contain water on the surface of the item may not promote hygienic conditions where the water may drain and/or evaporate. As another example, available storage containers allow for garbage to leak within a storage container and/or do not allow for storage of multiple items within a storage container used for garbage. Lastly, available storage containers for storing laundry may only include one receptacle within the storage container for the laundry to be stored within.
SUMMARY
In one aspect of the invention, a storage facilitation system includes a receptacle. The receptacle includes a housing having a top portion, a bottom portion, and a central portion. The central portion defines a storage chamber. A plurality of dividers are included within the storage chamber. Further, a tray is included where the tray can be proximate to the bottom portion.
In some embodiments, the storage facilitation system also includes a a lid proximate to the tray where the lid and bottom portion define a storage compartment and the tray is disposed in the storage compartment. Further, the tray can be removed from the storage compartment. The bottom portion can include a plurality of perforations. Further, the central portion can include a door affixed to the central portion. The receptacle can be a first receptacle and the storage facilitation system can include a second receptacle affixed to the door or be affixed to a groove portion of the top portion of the first receptacle. Further, each of the dividers of the plurality of dividers can include a first portion in contact with an inner surface of the housing. Additionally, at least one of the plurality of dividers can have a second portion in contact with another of the plurality of dividers. Each of the dividers of the plurality of dividers can span a diameter of the storage chamber. Moreover, a receiving portion can be include that is affixed to the top portion of the receptacle. The receiving portion can be adapted to affix a cover to the top portion of the receptacle. Further, the bottom portion can be detachably removeable from the central portion.
In another aspect of the invention, a storage facilitation system includes a first storage container. The first storage container includes a first housing having a first central portion, a first top portion, a first bottom portion, a first lid, and a second lid. The first lid is adapted to be disposed on the first top portion. The second lid is adapted to be disposed on the first bottom portion. Further, the second lid includes an adjustable opening. The storage facilitation system also includes a second storage container. The second storage container includes second housing having a second central portion, a second top portion, a second bottom portion, and a third lid. The third lid is disposed on the second bottom portion. Further, the second storage container is adapted to be affixed to the first storage container at the second lid of the first storage container. The second lid is adapted to be disposed on the second top portion.
In some embodiments, the adjustable opening of the storage facilitation system can be slidably removeable from the first storage container. Further, a third storage container can be included that is adapted to be affixed to the first storage container.
In yet a further aspect of the invention, a storage facilitation system includes a first storage container. The first storage container includes a first housing comprising a first central portion defining a first storage compartment, a first top portion, and first bottom portion. Further, a first removeable housing is included where the first removeable housing is disposed within the first storage compartment. A second storage container is included that is adapted to be affixed to the first storage container. The second storage container comprises a second housing comprising a second central portion, a second top portion, and a second bottom portion. A second removeable housing is included where the second removeable housing is disposed within the second storage compartment.
In some embodiments, the first removeable housing can be disposed within the first storage container. The second storage container can be adapted to be affixed to the first storage container at the second top portion of the second housing and the first bottom portion of the first housing. The second storage container can be affixed to the first storage container at an external portion of the first housing. A cover can be disposed on the first top portion of the first housing.
These and other capabilities of the disclosed subject matter will be more fully understood after a review of the following figures, detailed description, and claims. It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various objectives, features, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter can be more fully appreciated with reference to the following detailed description of the disclosed subject matter when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements.
FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 2A-2G show top and side views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 3A-3C show top and side views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 shows a top view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 5A-5B show front and side views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 6A-6B show side views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 shows a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 shows a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 9A-9C show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 10A-10C show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 11A-11C show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 12A-12B show front and side views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 13A-13B show front and side views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 14A-14B show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 15A-15B show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 16A-16B show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 17A-17D show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 18A-18D show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 19A-19B show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 20 shows a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 21 shows a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 22A-22B show front views of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 23 shows a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 24A-24B show a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 25 shows a front view of a storage facilitation system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As will be described in greater detail below, embodiments according to the present disclosure relate to a storage facilitation system, specifically to a storage facilitation system using a container and/or a plurality of tracks. The storage facilitation system described herein seeks to address spatial restraint challenges, hygienic concerns, and/or usage frequency of an item a user faces when storing an item. Further, some embodiments of the storage facilitation system include versatile containers designed to promote varied new applications, configurations and uses for storage, ranging from small household uses to larger commercial/industrial installations.
In some embodiments according to the present disclosure, the storage facilitation system includes a container (i.e., a receptacle). The container can comprise a housing having a top portion, a bottom portion, and a central portion that defines a storage chamber. The storage facilitation system can also include a plurality of dividers disposed within the storage chamber and a removeable tray proximate to the bottom portion of the housing of the receptacle.
In some embodiments according to the present disclosure, and as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B, the storage facilitation system can be a container configured to hold soap (e.g., a soap holder 100). Soap holder 100 can include housing 102 that has one or more shelves 104 disposed within the housing. One or more shelves 104 can form multiple tiers that promote space savings in surface area of, for example, a bathroom countertop. Further, soap holder 100 can include cover 106 disposed at a top portion of housing 102 and/or cover 108 that forms a portion of a body of housing 102.
In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1D, cover 106 and/or cover 108 can be a hinged style cover (e.g., cover 108 in FIGS. 1B-1C, where cover 108 is in an open position and provides an internal view of housing 102 as well as in a closed position), a roll-top sliding cover, or another suitable type of cover (e.g., a square cover as shown in FIG. 1D in a closed position). Cover 108 can be connected to the top portion of housing 102 at an edge of housing 102 or a center of housing 102. When cover 108 is disposed at a center of housing 102, it is affixed to the central portion by, for example, but not limited to, a hinge. Cover 108 can have another storage container affixed to it. Further, cover 108 can also include a handle affixed to housing 102. Even more, cover 108 can function as a storage area with its own catchment receptacle.
In some embodiments, soap holder 100 includes tray 110. Tray 110 can be disposed within housing 102 on top of one or more shelves 104, below one or more shelves 104, or simply disposed in housing 102 without any shelves present. Further, tray 110 can reduce likelihood of spills by, for example, collecting seepage of items within soap holder 100. Tray 110 can be removeable. Additionally, soap holder 100 can include a perforated portion located at a base of the housing, which can promote seepage of items within soap holder 100. As such, if a user places one or more bars of soap within soap container 100, the one or more bars of soap can be kept dry and protected from airborne particles and/or protected from cross-contamination. Further, soap holder 100 can be easily cleaned. Further, the base of the housing (i.e., a bottom portion) can detach from housing 102, specifically a central portion of housing 102.
In another example according to one or more of the above-mentioned embodiments, a user can have more than one toothbrush in a bathroom, specifically on a bathroom sink. If a toothbrush is uncovered, it can be exposed to germs in the air from a toilet flushing, water droplets from usage of the sink, coughing/sneezing of a user, and household cleaners used in the bathroom. As such, a user may want to keep their toothbrush protected from being exposed to the previous examples. Further, a user may want to keep the user's toothbrush separate from any other toothbrushes in the bathroom to avoid comingling. Therefore, FIGS. 2A-2F provide embodiments of a storage facilitation system that seeks to address the above-noted challenges of storing toothbrushes. Though, it should be noted that toothbrushes are used for purposes of illustration and this embodiment can have applications beyond storing toothbrushes. For example, another illustration can include a toilet brush receptacle having a tray capable of collecting seepage attached to a waste receptacle. The toilet brush receptacle can further include separate containers attached to the toilet brush receptacle for other cleaning supplies.
In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2G, a storage facilitation system can be configured as receptacle 202 having housing 204. Receptacle 202 can also include the plurality of dividers 206 disposed within housing 204, which form the plurality of compartments 208 within housing 204 and can or are not removeable from housing 204. Each of the plurality of dividers 206 can include a first portion in contact with an inner surface of housing 204 and/or include a second portion in contact with another of the plurality of dividers. Moreover, one or more of the plurality of dividers can span a diameter of the storage chamber and/or interlock with another of the plurality of dividers. Further, housing 204 can include a hollow portion, as illustrated in FIG. 2G (e.g., hollow portion 222). Receptacle 202 can include a cover 210. Cover 210 can be fastened to housing 204 via receiving portion 212 connected to receiving portion 214 of housing 204 via pin 216. Cover 210 can also include an insert portion 220 that is disposed on a surface of cover 210 that is in contact with housing 204. Additionally, housing 204 can also be configured to be in fluid contact with tray 218. Tray 218 can be removeable and can be disposed underneath housing 204 or above housing 204. Alternatively, tray 218 can slide into a portion of housing 204 at a base portion of housing 204 that has a cutout portion that is configured to receive tray 218.
In some embodiments, and still referring to FIGS. 2A-2F, receptacle 202 can be scaled in size. Scaling receptacle 202 in size can allow for various types of items to be stored within receptacle 202. For example, receptacle 202 can be scaled in size to allow for small items such as floss to larger items such as a brush, a bag, a broom, and/or a mop.
In some embodiments, and still referring to FIGS. 2A-2F, the plurality of compartments 208 within receptacle 202 can include individual covered and/or uncovered portions. For example, the plurality of compartments 208 can include a hinged, swing, pull-out, pull-up, or pull-down cover portion on one or more of the plurality of compartments 208.
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 3A-3C, receptacle 202 can be configured to attach to a separate compartment (e.g., separate compartment 302, 310). For example, separate container 302 can be attached to rim portion 304 of housing 204 via groove portions 306. Groove portions 306 can be disposed on rim portion 304 and/or on a divider on the plurality of dividers 206 at hollow portion 308 of housing 204. Further, the plurality of dividers 206 can be adjustable in order to create small and/or large compartments of the plurality of compartments 208. As another example, receptacle 202 can be stacked, pulled-out, or nested on another container. As an application, receptacle 202 can be utilized as a toothbrush holder with various compartments (e.g., separate compartment 302, 310) for storing items such as floss where each separate compartment (e.g., separate compartment 302, 310) can include its own cover and/or tray that is capable of collecting seepage.
In some embodiments and referring again to FIGS. 3A-3C, separate container 302 can include an individual or shared cover (e.g., cover 210 forms a cover over separate container as well as receptacle 202). Further, separate container 302 can include a tray (not shown) to collect matter escaping separate container 302. Additionally, separate container 302 can include one or more ridges to accept an adjustable panel and can include an aperture, mesh, slider, internal/external spout or spigot or other means that allow matter to pass through the separate compartment.
In some embodiments, receptacle 202 can include an aperture, mesh portion, hollow space, a slider, panel, and/or a spigot on housing 204 and/or cover 210. The aperture, mesh portion, hollow space, a slidable portion, panel, and/or spigot can be adjustable and/or layered.
In some embodiments and referring FIG. 4, tray 218 can include the plurality of holes 402. The plurality of holes 402 can facilitate draining of liquids that collect at a bottom portion of housing 204.
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 5A-5B, views of tray 218 and cover 210 are provided. For example, FIG. 5A illustrates a view of tray 218 from underneath housing 204 (not shown) resting on a surface while FIG. 5B illustrates a top view of cover 210 where cover 210 is positioned on top of receptacle 202 (not shown).
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 6A-6B, views of tray 218 and cover 210 are presented. Specifically, a view of tray 218 is provided in FIG. 6A where tray 218 contains pooled liquid 602. Further, in FIG. 6B, a side view of cover 210 is presented where cover 210 faces downward.
Switching to another application, a user can have several storage containers that hold, for example, various dry goods (e.g., sugar, flour, etc.). The user can be presented with a challenge related to the storage containers when the storage containers are not completely empty, and the user wants to add fresh dry goods to the storage containers to fill the storage containers to a higher level. Specifically, the challenge is that when the user adds fresh dry goods to the storage containers, the existing older dry goods may not be accessible until the fresh dry goods are utilized in a storage container that only opens from one point. As such, in some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 7, a storage container configuration is shown that includes multiple openings for a user to access, for example, either fresh dry goods or existing older dry goods (i.e., first in, first/last out or vice versa). For example, storage container 702 can include two lids (e.g., lid 704, 706). Lids 704 and 706 can screw on, snap on, or slide on. Lids 704 and 706 can also include an adjustable or fixed opening. An adjustable opening can be manipulated by either including or omitting a mechanism that fixes lids 704 and 706 to storage container 702 and allows lids 704 and 706 to be easily maneuvered. In contrast, a fixed opening is one that cannot be manipulated. In the configuration with two lids, a user can add fresh dry goods on top of existing dry goods to storage container 702 by opening/removing lid 704. If the user wishes to access the existing dry goods, the user can flip storage container 702 so that lid 706 is positioned as a top lid and lid 704 is positioned as a bottom lid. This configuration allows the user to access the existing dry goods first while the fresh dry goods are located beneath the existing dry goods.
In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 8, two storage containers (e.g., container 802, 804) that each have a housing with a central portion, a top portion, and a bottom portion can be affixed to one another in order to facilitate, for example, dry goods to be filtered from one container to another, which separates fresh dry goods from existing dry goods. For example, container 802 and container 804 can be stacked with container 802 on top of container 804, where container 802 and container 804 are separated by separate plate 806. Separate plate 806 can include adjustable opening 808 that is configured to allow, for example, dry goods to flow from container 802 to container 804. Further, container 802 can include lid 810. Container 804 can include lid 812. Lid 811 and lid 810 can be screw-on, snap-on, slide-on, etc. Further, storage containers 802 and 804 can include a panel and/or a pull-out portion (i.e., removeable) within container 802 and/or container 804.
In some embodiments and referring to FIG. 9A, two storage containers (e.g., storage containers 902, 904) can be affixed to one another via a cover (e.g., lid 908). In this configuration, a base of storage container 902 forms a cover for storage container 904. Further, storage container 904 can include base 910, which can form a cover for another storage container.
In some embodiments and as illustrated in FIG. 9B, a first storage container (e.g., storage container 912) can be affixed to (permanently or detachably) a horizontal side portion of a second storage container (e.g., storage container 914). A plate (e.g., plate 916) having an opening can separate the first storage container (e.g., storage container 912) from the second storage container (e.g., storage container 914). The opening can include an adjustable opening, an aperture, a spout, etc., and can lock or snap closed. The aperture can remain open and be placed toward a top portion of storage container 912, 914, and/or include a closure mechanism (e.g., a sliding panel). Though, this is meant as an illustration only and the aperture can be placed anywhere within the storage container 912, 914. Further, in this configuration, a user can add, for example, dry goods to the first storage container (e.g., storage container 912) and, once the dry goods pass through the adjustable opening of, for example, the plate (e.g., plate 916), access them from the second storage container (e.g., storage container 914). Further, this configuration can allow a user to access fresh dry goods and/or existing dry goods without needing to flip a storage container.
In some embodiments and as illustrated in FIG. 9C, a storage container (e.g., storage container 918) can include a smaller inner storage container (e.g., storage container 920) to allow a user to store smaller quantities of, for example, dry goods. Additional compartments can be affixed to a storage container (e.g., storage container 918) to allow a user to store additional items, such as dry goods.
In some embodiments and in regard to the above-mentioned embodiments described in at least paragraphs [037]-[041], a lid (e.g., lid 704, 706, 810, 812, 908, 910) and/or a side portion of a storage container (e.g., storage container 702, 802, 804, 902, 904) can be in a variety of colors, materials, and/or shapes. Further, a lid (e.g., lid 704, 706, 810, 812, 908, 910) and/or a side portion of a storage container (e.g., storage container 702, 802, 804, 902, 904) can incorporate a mechanism that informs a user which, for example, dry good to utilize first. For example, the mechanism can include a way for a storage container (e.g., storage container 702, 802, 804, 902, 904) that an existing dry good is stored within to be noted as a first/last setting or by utilizing a number, alphabet, etc.
Outside of dry goods, a user may desire a storage container for use as, for example, a garbage receptacle or a clothing receptacle for laundry. In regard to a garbage receptacle, a user may seek to find a receptacle that prevents leakage of a garbage bag. For example, when a garbage bag is removed from a garbage receptacle, the garbage bag may leak within the receptacle and/or along surfaces on the way to a final destination of the garbage bag. In another example, a user may have spatial constraints in storing a garbage receptacle, yet the user may desire to have a garbage receptacle, recycling receptacle, and/or a place to store extra garbage bags, etc. Further, a user may also have spatial constraints when it comes to storing a clothing receptacle for laundry, yet desire multiple clothing receptacles to each individually store white colored clothing, colored clothing, delicates, etc.
In light of the above, in some embodiments, and referring to FIGS. 10A-10C, a garbage receptacle (e.g., garbage receptacle 1002, 1004, 1006) is shown. Garbage receptacle 1002 can include a housing with a central portion that defines a storage compartment, a top portion, and a bottom portion and/or a removeable housing disposed within the defined storage compartment (not shown). Further, garbage receptacle 1002 can be affixed to a bottom/base portion of garbage receptacle 1004. Additionally, garbage receptacle 1004 can be affixed to a side portion of garbage receptacle 1006. In this configuration, garbage receptacle 1002 can be utilized for garbage while garbage receptacle 1004 and garbage receptacle 1006 can be utilized for recycling and/or other storage. Further, garbage receptacle 1002 can include an adjustable opening on the bottom portion of the housing (see, e.g., discussion of an adjustable opening in) [0052]).
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 10A-10C, garbage receptacle 1008 can be removably attached to garbage receptacle 1010. Garbage receptacle 1010 can include cover 1012 that can be removably attached to a top portion of garage receptacle 1010. Further, garbage receptacle 1008 can include flap 1014. Flap 1014 can be located on a front-facing portion of garbage receptacle 1008 and allows a user to place items inside garbage receptacle 1008. Garbage receptacle 1008 can also include tray 1016 that collects pooled liquid or other substances that may leak from, for example, a garbage bag within garbage receptacle 1008. Tray 1016 can be located at a base portion of garbage receptacle 1008 where base portion of garbage receptacle 1008 can be perforated to allow liquid or other substances to pool in tray 1016. Further, tray 1016 can be removeable to facilitate easy cleaning. Alternatively, tray 1016 can be located underneath garbage receptacle 1008 to form an independent base that garbage receptacle 1008 is positioned on top of. Therefore, this configuration allows for a garbage bag within garbage receptacle 1008 to not sit in pooled liquid, be less likely to drip, and, therefore, cause little to no mess for the user.
In some embodiments, tray 1016 can be an independent base that can be modified to detach from garbage receptacle 1008. Further, tray 1016 can include a separate storage portion where items such as, for example, garbage bags and/or other essentials can be stored. Further, tray 1016 can include a handle that can be recessed. The base can also include an internal/external spout or spigot, can be continuous or recessed, and can include legs.
While the above examples in the embodiments described herein may refer to garbage receptacles, this is for illustration purposes only and should not be construed as to limiting the usage to only containers for garbage.
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 11A-11C, a first clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102) is illustrated. Clothing receptacle 1102 can be removably attached to a bottom portion of a second clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1104) and can include a cover (e.g., cover 1103). Clothing receptacle 1102 and 1104 can be tapered where a lower portion of clothing receptacle 1102 and 1104 can be narrower than an upper portion of clothing receptacle 1102 and 1104. This can allow for convenience and/or space saving. For example, a tapered shape (i.e., “V-shape”) can allow for container 1102 and 1104 to be placed between low tables, between bath fixtures, etc. Further, clothing receptacle 1104 can include cover 1106 and/or flap 1108. Cover 1103 can include a lock/snap mechanism that can receive clothing receptacle 1104. Flap 1108 can be opaque, transparent, can extend down toward a base portion of clothing receptacle 1104, and/or formed by a portion of clothing receptacle 1104 or separate from clothing receptacle 1104 and affixed to clothing receptacle 1104 via, for example, a hinge or a slide/snap mechanism.
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 11A-11B, clothing receptacle 1110 can include two compartments (e.g., compartment 1112, 1114) stacked vertically on top of one another (e.g., compartment 1112 stacked on top of compartment 1114). Compartment 1112 and compartment 1114 can each include a flap (e.g., flap 1116). For example, flap 1116 can either be formed by a portion of compartment 1114 or can be separate from compartment 1114 and affixed via, for example, a hinge.
In some embodiments and referring again to FIGS. 11A-11C, a removable inner compartment (not shown) can be placed within a clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112). The removable inner compartment can extend from a bottom portion of a clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1110) through a top portion of a clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1104, 1112), extend within only a portion of a clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112) and/or or extend over/protrude over an edge of a clothing receptacle configured to receive the removeable inner compartment (e.g., clothing receptacle 1104, 1110).
In some embodiments and referring again to FIGS. 11A-11C, the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112) can include a spout or spigot. The spout or spigot can be located internally within the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112) or externally on the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112).
In some embodiments and referring again to FIGS. 11A-11C, the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112) can include an adjustable and/or removable panel disposed within the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112). This can allow a user to create a larger or smaller compartment within the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112).
In some embodiments and referring again to FIGS. 11A-11C, the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112) can include an aperture, mesh portion, hollow space, a slidable portion, adjustable/non-adjustable panels, etc. Further, various separate compartments can be affixed to the clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1104, 1110, 1112) that can pivot in various directions, lift, or slide or be otherwise configured to enable the various separate compartments to move as needed.
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 12A-12B, a tray (e.g., tray 1202) can be placed underneath a bottom portion of a clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1102, 1110) or can sit atop a clothing receptacle (e.g., clothing receptacle 1104, 1112). Tray 1202 can include objects 1204 stored on a base portion of tray 1202. Objects 1204 can include, for example, laundry detergent, stain remover, and/or other laundry essentials. Tray 1202 can include handle 1206 that can be affixed to tray 1202.
In some embodiments, a tray utilized in conjunction with the embodiments described herein can take the form as illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13B. For example, and as illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13B, tray 1302 can include open portion 1304 that is capable of collecting seepage from apertures, mesh, perforations, slidable portion, etc. Tray 1202 can include collection basin 1306. Tray 1302 can also include a closed front portion (e.g., closed front 1308). Alternatively, and referring to FIGS. 13A-13B, tray 1302 can include an open front portion (e.g., open front portion 1310).
In some embodiments, a tray utilized in conjunction with the embodiments described herein can take the form as illustrated in FIGS. 14A-14B. Specifically, tray 1402 can be placed within a receptacle (e.g., receptacle 1404) and include handles/stirrups 1406.
Further, in regard to the various embodiments above that include a spout and/or a spigot, the spout or spigot can include a fold-out spout or spigot external to the respective container it is housed on. For example, spout/spigot 1018 can be located on garbage receptacle 1002 or 1008 (which can include flap 1014). Though, this is for illustration purposes only and spout/spigot 1018 can be located on garbage receptacle 1002 and/or other storage containers/receptacles. As another example, FIG. 11C illustrates fold-out spout/spigot 1118 on storage container 1102). Though, it should be noted that spout/spigot 1118 can be located on other storage containers, in addition to or on its own, outside of garbage receptacle 1102 (e.g., spout/spigot 1118 located on clothing receptacle 1102). The spout and/or spigot can allow for materials to pass through various chambers of the containers described above and/or allow for collection of waste to be disposed. Additionally, or alternatively, an internal spout can be included or a spigot that runs from a base of the respective container to a brim of the respective container. The spout can include apertures, a mesh portion, a slidable portion, etc., to facilitate removal of seepage. Specifically, the spout can allow for liquids, solids or other matter to drain, seep, ooze or otherwise move from one receptacle to another, comprising holes, spouts, spigots, tunnels, grills and other methods of movement.
Turning to other embodiments of a storage facilitation system, various configurations of customizable tracks are shown in FIGS. 15-19. A storage facilitation system can include a plurality of tracks. The plurality of tracks can be affixed to one another and capable of receiving a storage container. Further, the tracks can be configured in a manner that meets storage desires of a user.
In some embodiments, FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate a single track (e.g., track 1202) vertically oriented while FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate a single track (e.g., track 1202) vertically oriented and affixed to a second track (e.g., track 1204) that is horizontally oriented. Further, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, track 1202 and track 1204 can together form a frame that is capable of supporting one or more storage containers.
In some embodiments and as illustrated in FIGS. 16A-16B, a frame can be formed by a vertically oriented track (e.g., track 1602) and two horizontally oriented tracks (e.g., track 1604, 1606). A configuration that is capable of holding objects, such as a closet, can be placed over the frame. Various objects (e.g., storage container 1608) can be mounted or stacked on the configuration affixed to the frame. Storage container 1608 can be selected from a variety of different types of storage containers. For example, storage container 1608 can be a storage drawer. Further, the frame formed by the vertically oriented track (e.g., track 1602) and two horizontally oriented tracks (e.g., track 1604, 1606) can include wheels (e.g., wheels 1610). Further, FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate a close-up view of a storage container (e.g., storage container 1608) affixed to a track (e.g., track 1604).
In some embodiments and as illustrated in FIGS. 17A-17D, a frame can be formed by a vertically oriented track (e.g., track 1702) and a horizontally oriented track (e.g., track 1704). For example, FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate containers (e.g., container 1706) disposed in an upper-left region and a lower-right region of the frame. Further, FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate containers (e.g., container 1706) disposed in the upper-left region, a lower-left region, an upper-right region, and the lower-right region of the frame. FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate containers (e.g., container 1706) disposed in the upper-left region, the lower-left region, and the lower-right region of the frame. FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate containers (e.g., container 1706) disposed in the upper-left region and the upper-right region of the frame.
In some embodiments and as illustrated in FIGS. 18A-18D, multiple vertically oriented and horizontally oriented tracks to accommodate storage containers in various configurations are shown. For example, FIGS. 18A-18D show three horizontally oriented tracks (e.g., 1802, 1806, 1808) affixed to two vertically oriented tracks (e.g., 1804, 1810). Specifically, horizontally oriented track 1802 can be affixed to a top portion of vertically oriented track 1804 where a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812, which is illustrative of all containers in FIGS. 18A-18D) can be positioned between horizontally oriented track 1802 and vertically oriented track 1804. Horizontally oriented track 1806 can be affixed to a middle portion of vertically oriented track 1804 and horizontally oriented track 1808 can be affixed to a bottom portion of vertically oriented track 1804 where a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) is disposed between horizontally oriented track 1806 and vertically oriented track 1804. Further, vertically oriented track 1810 can be affixed to a middle portion of horizontally oriented track 1808 where a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) can be disposed between vertically oriented track 1810 and horizontally oriented track 1808, specifically on either side of vertically oriented track 1810.
Further, in FIGS. 18A-18D, horizontally oriented track 1814 can be affixed to a middle portion of vertically oriented track 1816 with a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) disposed in an upper-left portion and a lower-right portion of where horizontally oriented track 1814 and vertically oriented track 1816 meet. Horizontally oriented track 1818 can be affixed to a bottom portion of vertically oriented track 1816. Vertically oriented track 1820 can be affixed to a middle portion of horizontally oriented track 1818 with a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) disposed on either side of vertically oriented track 1820. Further, horizontally oriented track 1822 can be affixed to vertically oriented track 1820 where a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) is disposed on an upper portion of horizontally oriented track 1822.
Additionally, FIGS. 18A-18D illustrate a middle portion of vertically oriented track 1824 affixed to horizontally oriented track 1826 with a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) disposed where horizontally oriented track 1826 and vertically oriented track 1824 meet. Further, vertically oriented track 1824 can be affixed to horizontally oriented track 1826 with a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) disposed where vertically oriented track 1824 and horizontally oriented track 1826 meet. Vertically oriented track 1828 can also include a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) disposed on a lower-left portion of vertically oriented track 1828.
Additionally, FIGS. 18A-18D illustrate vertically oriented track 1830 affixed to a middle portion of horizontally oriented track 1832 with a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) on either side of vertically oriented track 1830. Further, horizontally oriented track 1832 can be affixed to a top portion of vertically oriented track 1834 with a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) disposed where horizontally oriented track 1832 and vertically oriented track 1834 meet. Additionally, vertically oriented track 1834 can be affixed to a middle portion of horizontally oriented track 1836 where a storage container (e.g., storage container 1812) is disposed in a lower-right portion of a frame formed by vertically oriented track 1834 and horizontally oriented track 1836. Further, vertically oriented track 1836 can be included to affix two storage containers (e.g., storage container 1812) to one another.
In the various embodiments described herein, a frame comprised of various tracks can be affixed to a wall, a storage container, a storage container that is affixed to another storage container to facilitate various stacking configurations, a support, an object, etc. Alternatively, the frame can be standalone, as illustrated in FIGS. 19A-19B. For example, FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate a frame comprised of various tracks that is supported by a base. Specifically, vertically oriented track 1902 can be affixed to horizontally oriented track 1904, horizontally oriented track 1906, and horizontally oriented track 1910. Horizontally oriented tracks 1906 and 1910 can also be affixed to vertically oriented track 1908. Further, a first portion of a base (e.g., base 1912) can be affixed to vertically oriented track 1902 and horizontally oriented track 1910 while a second portion of the base (e.g., base 1912) can be affixed to vertically oriented track 1908 and horizontally oriented track 1912. FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate the frame described in FIGS. 19A-19B with various objects (e.g., 1914, 1916, 1918, 1920, 1922, 1924).
Additionally, in the various embodiments described herein, the frame comprised of various tracks can be made out of varied materials, can utilize a variety of configurations to lock/snap or otherwise secure to one another, other components of the frame, other storage containers, or other items or objects, can be adjustable, or oriented at an angle. Further, the storage containers (e.g., containers 1608, 1706, 1812, 1914, 1916, 1918, 1929, 1922, 1924) can be affixed to one another (e.g., via a snapping mechanism or other mechanism).
In the above embodiments directed to tracks, the tracks can be configured in different mountings with positions that offer varied configurations. Further, the tracks can bend into a desired shape of a user. As for removal, the tracks can be easily removed. For example, the tracks can be detachable.
In another application, storage containers may be affixed to one another via a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can include grooves, include no grooves and/or a track with an integrated locking mechanism. For example, FIG. 20 illustrates a storage container (e.g., storage container 2000) with grooves (e.g., grooves 2004) located on a housing of storage container 2000 (e.g., housing 2002), a top portion (e.g., top portion 2006), and a bottom portion (e.g., bottom portion 2008). Further, top portion 2006 can be opened to form an aperture and/or can be a cover portion. Bottom portion 2008 can be hollow and/or include a tray. While grooves 2004 are located on a side portion of storage container 2000 in FIG. 20, this is for illustration purposes only. Grooves 2004 can be located anywhere on storage container 2000. Further, grooves 2004 can facilitate stacking of storage container 2000 and another storage container (not shown).
In some embodiments, the locking mechanism can include a track with an integrated locking mechanism as illustrated in FIG. 21. Specifically, locking mechanism 2102 and 2104 can connect to one another where locking mechanism 2102 can be a male locking portion that can connect to locking mechanism 2104 that can include a receiving female locking portion. Further, locking mechanism 2102 can be affixed to a track (e.g., track 2106) and locking mechanism 2104 can be affixed to a track (e.g., track 2108). While tracks 2106 and 2108 both illustrate two separate portions, this is for illustration purposes only. Further, the number of locking mechanisms 2102, 2104 can vary outside of the number illustrated in FIG. 21.
In some embodiments and referring to FIGS. 22A-22B, a storage container (e.g., storage container 2202, 2212) can include an interlocking mechanism (e.g., locking mechanism 2210, 2220) directly on a portion of the storage container (e.g., storage container 2202, 2212). For example, interlocking mechanism 2210, 2220 can be located on a side portion of housing 2204, 2214 of storage container 2202, 2212, a top portion (e.g., top portion 2206, 2216) of storage container 2202, 2212, and/or on a base portion (e.g., base portion 2208, 2218). Though, the placement of interlocking mechanism 2210, 2212 is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as a limitation. Further, interlocking mechanism 2210 can be a female interlocking mechanism that can receive locking mechanism 2220, which can be a male interlocking mechanism, such that storage containers 2202 and 2212 can be interlocked to one another. Additionally, top portion 2206, 2216 can be opened to form an aperture and/or can be a cover portion. Bottom portion 2208, 2218 can be hollow and/or include a tray.
In some embodiments, and referring to FIG. 23, a storage container (e.g., storage container 2300) can include interlocking mechanisms of tracks (e.g., tracks 2304) and grooves (e.g., grooves 2306). While tracks 2304 are illustrated as being positioned on a side of housing 2302 of storage container 2300 and grooves 2306 are illustrated as being positioned at a center of housing 2302 of storage container 2300, this is for illustration purposes only. For example, tracks 2304 and/or grooves 2306 can be placed on housing 2302, a top portion (e.g., top portion 2308) of storage container 2300, and/or a base portion (e.g., base portion 2310) of storage container 2300. Further, top portion 2308 can be opened to form an aperture and/or be a cover portion. Bottom portion 2310 can be hollow and/or include a tray.
In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 24A-24B, a storage container (e.g., storage container 2402, 2418) can include a track (e.g., track 2410, 2414, 2426, 2428) having an interlocking mechanism (e.g., interlocking mechanism 2412, 2416, 2430). For example, interlocking mechanism 2412 can be affixed to track 2410, interlocking mechanism 2416 can be affixed to track 2414, and/or interlocking mechanism 2430 can be affixed to track 2426. While the track (e.g., track 2410, 2414, 2426, 2428) is illustrated in FIGS. 24A-24B as being affixed to a housing of the storage container (e.g., housing 2404, 2420 of storage container 2402, 2418), the track (e.g., track 2410, 2414, 2426, 2428) can be affixed to any portion of the housing (e.g., housing 2404, 2422) such as a top portion (e.g., top portion 2406, 2420) and/or a base portion (e.g., base portion 2408, 2424). Interlocking mechanism 2412 can also be affixed directly to the storage container (e.g., storage container 2402, 2418) (not shown). Further, top portion 2406, 2420 can be opened to form an aperture and/or be a cover portion. Bottom portion 2408, 2424 can be hollow and/or include a tray.
In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 25, a storage container (e.g., storage container 2500) can include grooves (e.g., grooves 2508). Grooves 2508 can allow for storage container 2500 to be affixed to another storage container (not shown). Further, grooves 2508 can extend from a top portion (e.g., top portion 2506) of storage container 2500 through a housing (e.g., housing 2502) of storage container 2500 to a base portion (e.g., base portion 2504) of storage container 2500. Specifically, grooves 2508 can be disposed on an inner wall of housing 2502 of storage container 2500. Though, this is for illustration purposes only and other configurations are possible.
It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that the above embodiments can be made using any material (e.g., natural, manmade, bio-degradable or non-degradable, a see-through or opaque material) having a desired density, shape/style (e.g., convention, geometric or whimsical, themed or non-themed), texture, thickness, rigidity, flexibility, or color. Further, one or more of the embodiments can be combined with one another. For example, a garbage receptacle can include a separate container placed around a rim of the garbage receptacle.
While the above embodiments are directed to several applications of the storage facilitation system, a storage facilitation system can also be applied to special containers suitable for placement in a fridge, which can allow for isolation and containment of leakage, ooze, contamination from an item that can be rotting, defrosting, etc. Another application includes a mug (e.g., a travel mug) having a removable inner core within the mug, where space between the mug and the inner core is capable of collecting overflow spills. Further, the removable inner core can be detached and cleaned.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or steps plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made in the present invention, without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalent.
In some embodiments, a storage facilitation system is disclosed, the storage facilitation system comprising a container. The container comprises of a housing having a top portion and a bottom portion. A removable receptacle can also be included. The removeable receptacle can be in fluid contact with a bottom portion of the house.
In some embodiments, a storage facilitation system is disclosed, the storage facilitation system comprising a plurality of tracks affixed to one another and capable of receiving a storage container.
In some embodiments, a storage facilitation system is disclosed, the storage facilitation system comprising a first container. The first container can include a first interlocking mechanism. A second container can also be included. The second container can include a second interlocking mechanism that is configured to interlock with the first interlocking mechanism.
It is to be understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosed subject matter is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, can readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the disclosed subject matter. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.
Although the disclosed subject matter has been described and illustrated in the foregoing exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of example, and that numerous changes in the details of implementation of the disclosed subject matter can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter, which is limited only by the claims which follow.
Patent Application
20230322441
