Patent Application
20200262610
The present invention relates generally to storage systems, and more particularly, to a storage system having stackable and engageable vessels.
It is often desirable to transport, provide and store multiple vessels as a set that can be easily separated for use, and reconnected after use to keep the vessels together as a unit. An example of this is a set of beverages having multiple flavors such as cola, lemon-lime soda and root beer. Another example is a set of hair products that are intended to be used with one another such as shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner. Yet other examples include alcohol and mixers for cocktails; baking materials such as flour and/or cake mixes; and infant formula mixes.
Transporting, providing and storing discrete materials including liquids, fluids, solids and semi-solids in a set usually requires multiple unattached vessels. For example, a beverage kit to make cranberry orange spritzer requires three separate containers: cranberry juice; orange juice; and seltzer. Unfortunately, however, having three separate containers increases the likelihood that one or more of the members will be misplaced. Also, it is more cumbersome to handle separate vessels versus one larger item.
As can be seen, there is a need for an improved storage system that includes multiple vessels configured to be joined together. It is desirable that the vessels can be easily and quickly engaged and disengaged as desired, and that the engagement structures don't interfere with normal usage of the vessels. It is also desirable that the storage system can accommodate as few or as many vessels as desired without modification.
A storage system includes a plurality of vessels each sized and shaped to engage with an adjoining vessel in a top-to-bottom orientation. In a preferred embodiment the lip of each vessel includes a plurality of radially positioned flanges, and the bottom of each vessel includes a plurality of radially positioned locking lugs that correspond and engage with the flanges. The lip is sized and shaped to be inserted into the depression of an upwardly adjoining vessel, with the flanges and locking lugs engaged upon rotating one vessel relative to the other. In this manner a series of vessels can be engaged one to another in a stackable orientation.
The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.
The following structure numbers shall apply to the following structures among the various FIGS.:
Broadly, the present invention pertains to containers, and, more particularly, to a storage system includes a plurality of vessels each sized and shaped to engage with an adjoining vessel in a top-to-bottom orientation.
As used herein, “materials” shall refer to a broad range of substance having various forms including liquids, fluids, solids and semi-solids.
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Interior cavity 35 of vessel 20 preferably has a volume of approximately 15 ml to 2 L, with a volume of approximately 220 ml to 500 ml being preferred. The volume of each vessel need not be identical.
Conventional manufacturing methods such as injection molding, blow molding, stretch molding and extrusion are suitable for producing the vessels of the present invention. Preferably the vessels include conventional thread patterns and employ commercially available caps. Vessels are preferably constructed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), but could also be constructed of high-density Polyethylene (HDPE), polystyrene (PS), other plastics, as well as glass, stainless steel, aluminum, and other metals.
It should be understood 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 invention as set forth in the following claims. By way of example, material, sizes, volumes and mechanisms can differ. Terms such as “substantially” and the like shall mean within reasonable bounds when considering limitations such as machines, materials, manufacturing methods, and people. By way of example, a “substantially smooth” surface means there are no intentional bumps or irregularities. All ranges set forth herein include the endpoints as well as all increments there between, even if not specifically stated. By way of example 1 to 2 inches includes 1 inch, 1.000001 inches and so forth. Finally, unless otherwise stated or contrary to common sense, “approximate” and the like shall mean +/−10%.
