CONTAINER INSERT FOR LIFTING CONTENTS

Abstract

A container insert for elevating liftable contents includes a shaft. A base is attached to the bottom end of the shaft. A movable platform is slidingly disposed on the shaft. The platform is configured to support liftable contents in the container and to slide from the bottom end of the shaft towards the top end of the shaft and stopping at one of a plurality of discrete points along the length of the shaft without retreating towards the bottom end. The shaft includes a plurality of engagement details (e.g., indentations) defining the plurality of discrete points. In an embodiment, latches are operably coupled to the platform and configured to pivot from an engaged position to a released position under the influence of weight and or buoyancy as the insert is inverted and returned to an upright position. The latches which engage the engagement details in the engaged position prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position. In another embodiment the container insert includes a shaft with engagement projections, such as a plurality of resilient fingers defining the plurality of discrete points. Each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft, and the fingers are configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position. A central opening of the platform is configured to urge the engaged finger against the shaft and allow the urged finger to pass through the central opening when the insert is inverted due to weight of the platform.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application 60/927,536, filed May 3, 2007, and U.S. provisional application 60/934,411 filed Jun. 13, 2007, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to containers, and more particularly, to a container insert for lifting contents.

BACKGROUND

Quantities of many small items are frequently packaged in containers that have an open top and a removable closure means, such as a cap or lid. By way of example and not limitation, such containers are typically used to store food items, pharmaceuticals and health supplements. Food items such as olives and pickles are frequently immersed in liquid brine contained in jars with removable caps. Medicinal pills and capsules are often stored in jars with removable caps. While such containers are convenient, inexpensive and effective for storing a wide array of items, they impede retrieval of contained items as the quantity of items is depleted.

The problem with retrieval is best illustrated with a few anecdotes. Initially, a jar of olives may be packed nearly to its top. However, as the contained olives are removed, it becomes increasingly difficult to remove additional olives by hand without tipping the jar or using a utensil. The problem arises because fingers cannot reach deep into the jar in a manner that enables grasping. Using a utensil is inconvenient and often a last resort. Even with a utensil, it may be difficult to scoop or stab and retrieve a floating or rolling olive. Tipping the jar often results in a regrettable mess.

Likewise, it becomes increasingly difficult to retrieve softgel capsules from a container as the capsules are consumed. Eventually, the capsules on the bottom are out of reach and may even be stuck to the bottom of the container. Overturning and vigorously shaking the container may be insufficient to free the bottom capsules. After considerable agitation, several freed capsules may fall from the container, some of which may fall to the floor. Of course, the difficulty in retrieving small items from a container with an opening small enough to prevent easy entry of a hand is not unique to food and pharmaceuticals. Such difficulty exists with any small items stored in containers that have openings too small to receive a hand.

What is needed is a device for elevating the contents of a container towards the open top so that they may be easily grasped and removed. The device should be adaptable to many conventional containers, reliable, easy to use and inexpensive to produce. The invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems and solving one or more of the needs as set forth above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a container insert with a shaft and movable platform for lifting contents and means for preventing retreating motion of the platform at discrete points along the length of the shaft, while also providing means for allowing advancing motion when the insert is inverted.

Another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a container insert with a shaft and movable platform for lifting contents and a movable support that can be moved, such as by flexing or pivoting, to allow advancement of the platform.

Yet another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a container insert with a shaft and movable platform for lifting contents and a movable support that can be moved upon overturning the insert to allow advancement of the platform.

Still another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a container insert with a shaft and movable platform for lifting contents wherein the platform advances under the influence of gravity.

To solve one or more of the problems and meet one or more of the object set forth above, in an exemplary implementation of the invention, a container insert for lifting contents is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the container insert for a container that contains lift able contents and has a first height, an open top and a bottom, the insert includes a shaft having a length less than the height, a bottom end and a top end. A base is attached to the bottom end of the shaft. A movable platform is slidingly disposed on the shaft, the platform being configured support lift able contents in the container and being further configured to slide from the bottom end of the shaft towards the top end of the shaft and stopping at one of a plurality of discrete points along the length of the shaft without retreating towards the bottom end. The shaft includes a plurality of engagement details (e.g., indentations) defining the plurality of discrete points. In one embodiment, the insert includes at least one latch operably coupled to the platform, configured to pivot from an engaged position to a released position, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position. In one embodiment, the latches are weighted to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted. In another embodiment, each latch includes a buoyant element configured to pivot the latch from an engaged position in which each latch engages the indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted.

In yet another embodiment the container insert includes a shaft having a length less than the height, a bottom end and a top end, and a plurality of engagement projections. A base is attached to the bottom end of the shaft. A movable platform with a central opening is slidingly disposed on the shaft. The platform is configured to support liftable contents in the container and is further configured to slide from the bottom end of the shaft towards the top end of the shaft and stopping at one of a plurality of discrete points along the length of the shaft without retreating towards the bottom end. The engagement projections include a plurality of resilient fingers defining the plurality of discrete points. Each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft, and the fingers are configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position. Each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft. The central opening of the platform is configured to urge the engaged finger against the shaft and allow the urged finger to pass through the central opening when the insert is inverted due to weight of the platform.

The invention is not limited to any particular container, contents or product.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects, objects, features and advantages of the invention will become better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1 shows a profile of a first exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 3 shows a cutaway view of a jar and a first exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 4 shows a profile of a second exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of components of a second exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 7 shows a profile of a third exemplary embodiment of an container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention; and

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment of a container insert for lifting contents according to principles of the invention.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the figures are not intended to be drawn to any particular scale; nor are the figures intended to illustrate every embodiment of the invention. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments depicted in the figures or the types of containers, contents, component and feature shapes, relative sizes, ornamental aspects or proportions shown in the figures or described in the exemplary embodiments. The invention may be used with any type of container (e.g., a bottle, a jar or other type of container) that stores any type of contents, edible or inedible, which may be elevated towards the opening to facilitate removal (i.e., liftable contents).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the Figures, in which like parts are indicated with the same reference numerals, various views of exemplary container inserts for elevating contents according to principles of the invention are shown. Referring now to FIG. 1, a first exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of latch assemblies 125, 130 pivotally coupled to a sliding platform 110. The sliding platform 110 is configured to move linearly along the longitudinal axis of a concentric elongated vertical shaft 105. The platform 110 may be weighted (e.g., dense and relatively heavy or have attachable and/or attached weights) to facilitate advancement. The bottom of the shaft 105 is attached to a support base 125. In most cases, the diameters of the base 125 and platform 110 are less than the diameter of the container in which the container insert 100 will be used. However, in some cases, where a tight seal between the platform and sidewalls of the container are desired, the diameter of the platform 110 may equal or slightly exceed the container diameter. The base 135 provides a stable upright support for the shaft 105. In general, the platform 110 will have a diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of the container, to permit free non-binding movement of the platform 110 without allowing elevated contents to slip between the sidewalls of the container and the platform 110. In use, the latch assemblies 125, 130 act as pawls configured to engage details (i.e., engagement details such as indentations, compartments, teeth or other protrusions or combinations thereof) in or on the shaft 105 to resist movement of the platform towards the base (referred to herein is retreating motion), while permitting motion in the opposite direction (referred to herein is advancing motion).

Although one concentric shaft 105 is shown in the Figures and described herein, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is not so limited. Rather, the invention encompasses all embodiments with one or more shafts, concentric or not concentric.

Referring now to the perspective view of FIG. 2, various other features are more clearly illustrated. The vertical shaft 105 includes a plurality of notches 140 (i.e., indentations or small compartments) formed in the sides of the shaft 105. The exemplary shaft 140 is symmetrical about its vertical longitudinal axis. Thus, the side of the shaft 140 opposite to the side shown in FIG. 2 also features a plurality of notches 140 (i.e., indentations or small compartments) formed in the sides of the shaft 105. The notches 140 are configured for ratcheting engagement by the latches 125, 130.

The shaft 105 defines the linear path of travel of the platform 110 from adjacent to the base 135 towards the opening of a container. The exemplary shaft 105 is keyed with a longitudinal rib 106. Again, the shaft may be symmetric with a longitudinal rib 106 on each of two opposed sides of the shaft 105.

A collar 120 is attached to the bottom or underside of the platform 110. The collar 120 provides a guide which slides along the shaft 105. The collar 120 includes a central opening through which the shaft 105 is received. Likewise, the platform 110 includes a central opening through which the shaft 105 is received. The shaft 105 is keyed to the collar 120. The collar also includes tabs 119, 129, through which pins 121, 122 are provided. The latches 125, 130 are pivotally attached to the pins 121, 122 on the tabs 119, 129.

Containers may contain liquids. For examples, olives, cherries, pickles and other food products are frequently stored in liquid filled containers. The exemplary container insert 100 may be used with liquid filled containers. Both the base 135 and the platform 110 may be perforated with slot-like perforations 111, 136 to facilitate the passage of fluids from one side to the other. However, the perforations 111, 136 are configured to prevent the liftable contents of the container 200 from falling through the perforations 111, 136. Perforations are optional.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a perspective cutaway view of the exemplary container insert 100 for elevating contents according to principles of the invention is shown in an exemplary container 200. The container 200 includes a closed bottom 210 and an open top 215 with a threaded neck 205 for receiving a threaded cap and an interior compartment 220 in which the insert 100 and contained contents (not shown) are received. The base 135 is placed in the container 200 against the bottom 210. The shaft 105 attaches to the center of the base 210 and extends upwardly in the compartment 220 towards the opening 215 in the neck 205 of the container 200.

The shape of each exemplary notch 140 in the side of the shaft 105 is better shown in FIG. 3. Each notch 140 includes a horizontal base 142 and a slanted top 141. The horizontal bases 142 act against each latch 125, 130. The slanted tops 141 urge the latches 125, 130 to pivot during advancing motion.

The latches 125, 130 are also better shown in FIG. 3. Each latch 125, 130 is a v-shaped assembly, pivotally attached at the vertex or elbow using pins 126, 131. Actuator arms 127, 132, which extend from each vertex towards the shaft 105, are configured to engage aligned notches 140. Counterweighted arms 128, 133 extend from the vertex in downwardly and away from the shaft 105. The counterweighted arms 128, 133 may have attached weights, or may simply be more massive than the actuator arms 127, 132.

In use, the insert 100 is inverted to advance the platform 110. When the insert 100 is inverted, such as by turning the container upside down, the counterweighted arms 128, 133 pivot towards the platform 110 under the influence of gravity. Of course, the container 200 should be overturned only when a lid or other closure seals the opening 215, so that contents do not spill from the container 200. As the counterweighted arms 128, 133 pivot towards the platform 110 under the influence of gravity, the actuator arms 127, 132 pivots away from the notches 140, allowing the platform 110 to advance towards the opening 215 in the neck 205. The inverted platform 110 will cease advancing when it encounters an obstacle. The obstacle may be the top of the container 200, contents sandwiched between the platform 110 and a top closure of the container, or a stopping detail of the shaft 105. After the inverted platform 110 ceases advancing by encountering an obstacle, the container is restored to an upright orientation, upon which, the counterweighted arms 125, 130 pivots away from the platform 110, thereby urging the actuator arms 127, 132 into the notches 140. The horizontal bottom 142 of each notch 140 prevents the upright latches 125, 130, and, therefore the platform 110, from retreating. Even the weight of the contents on the platform 110 will not cause the latches 125, 130 and therefore the platform 110 to retreat.

The base 135 and/or platform 110 may be deformed to fit through a narrow opening in a container. In a preferred embodiment the base 135 and/or platform 110 are resilient. After deforming them to fit within a narrow opening in the container 200, the base 135 and/or platform 110 will gradually or rapidly return substantially to their original undeformed shapes within the container 200. Alternatively, the base 135 and/or platform 110 may be sized to fit within the opening of the container 200 without substantial deformation. As another alternative, the base 135 and/or platform 110 may be composed of a plurality of parts (e.g., halves) that are snap-fit, bonded, clamped or otherwise joined together after being inserted in the container.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiment described above. Any configuration with a pawl-like latch assembly that allows advancing motion until an obstacle is encountered and resists retreating motion may be utilized and comes within the scope of the invention. Thus, each latch may have a configuration other than the v-shaped configuration shown in FIG. 3. As another example, the shaft 105 may feature protrusions such as teeth, instead of notches, for the latches 125, 130 to engage. Furthermore, the base 135 and platform 110 may have different style perforations or no perforations at all, without departing from the scope of the invention. Additionally, the shapes of the base 135, platform 110 and shaft 105 may differ from the shapes depicted in FIGS. 1 through 3. Moreover, the positions and orientations of the base 135 relative to the shaft 105 and platform 110 may differ, so long as the insert 100 functions within its intended container.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a second exemplary embodiment includes a sliding platform 420. The sliding platform 420 is configured to move linearly along the longitudinal axis of a concentric elongated vertical shaft 405. The platform 420 may be weighted (e.g., dense and relatively heavy or have attachable and/or attached weights) to facilitate advancement. The bottom of the shaft 405 is attached to a support base 430. The diameters of the base 430 and platform 420 are less than the diameter of the container in which the container insert 400 will be used. The base 430 provides a stable upright support for the shaft 405. In most cases, the platform 420 should have a diameter on slightly less than the inner diameter of the container, to permit free non-binding movement of the platform 420 without allowing elevated contents to slip between the sidewalls of the container and the platform 420. However, in some cases, where a tight seal between the platform and sidewalls of the container are desired, the diameter of the platform 420 may equal or slightly exceed the container diameter. In use, the latch assemblies 455, 475 act as pawls configured to engage details in the shaft 405 to resist movement of the platform towards the base (referred to herein is retreating motion), while permitting motion in the opposite direction (referred to herein is advancing motion).

Referring now to the perspective view of FIG. 5, various other features are more clearly illustrated. The vertical shaft 405 includes a plurality of notches 415 (i.e., indentations or small compartments) formed in the sides of the shaft 405, comparable to the notches 140 described above. The exemplary shaft 405 is symmetrical about its vertical longitudinal axis. Thus, the side of the shaft 415 opposite to the side shown in FIG. 5 also features a plurality of notches 415 (i.e., indentations or small compartments) formed in the sides of the shaft 405. The notches 415 are configured for ratcheting engagement by the latches 455, 475.

The shaft 405 defines the linear path of travel of the platform 420 from adjacent to the base 430 towards the opening of a container. The exemplary shaft 405 is keyed with a longitudinal rib 410. Again, the shaft may be symmetric with a longitudinal rib 410 on each of two opposed sides of the shaft 405.

A collar 435 is attached to the bottom or underside of the platform 420. The collar 435 provides a guide which slides along the shaft 405. The collar 435 includes a central opening through which the shaft 405 is received. Likewise, the platform 420 includes a central opening through which the shaft 405 is received. The shaft 405 is keyed to the collar 435. The collar also includes tabs through which pins 450, 465 are provided. The latches 455, 475 are pivotally attached to the pins 450, 465 on the tabs of the collar 435.

Containers may contain liquids. For examples, olives, cherries, pickles and other food products are frequently stored in liquid filled containers. The exemplary container insert 400 is intended for use with liquid filled containers. Both the base 430 and the platform 420 may be perforated with slot-like perforations 425, 431 to facilitate the passage of fluids from one side to the other. Perforations are optional.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a perspective exploded view of the exemplary container insert 400 for elevating contents according to principles of the invention is shown. The latches 455, 475 are each a generally v-shaped assembly, pivotally attached at the vertex or elbow using pins 465, 450. Actuator arms terminate with hooked ends 445, 470, which extend from each vertex towards the shaft 405 and are configured to engage aligned notches 415. Buoyantly biased arms terminate with buoyant ends 440, 460 and extend from the vertex away from the shaft 405. The buoyant ends 440, 460 generate buoyant forces in the presence of a liquid.

In use, the insert 400 is inverted to advance the platform 420. When the insert 400 is upright in a liquid filled container, the buoyant forces maintain the latches in a locked position with the hooked ends 445, 470 engaging the notches 415. When the insert 400 is inverted in a liquid filled container, the buoyant forces release the latches 455, 475 from a locked position with the hooked ends 445, 470 disengaging the notches 415. Concomitantly, the weight of the platform 420 exceeds the buoyant force of the buoyant ends 440, 460 as well as any buoyancy of the platform 420. The net force causes the platform 420 to sink in the liquid under the influence of gravity. Of course, the container should be overturned only when a lid or other closure seals the opening, so that contents do not spill from the container. The inverted platform 420 will cease advancing when it encounters an obstacle. The obstacle may be the top of the container, contents sandwiched between the platform 420 and a top closure of the container, or a stopping detail of the shaft 405. After the inverted platform 420 ceases advancing by encountering an obstacle, the container may be restored to an upright orientation, upon which, the buoyantly actuated arms 455, 475 urge the latches in a locked position with the hooked ends 445, 470 engaging the notches 415. Even the weight of the contents on the platform 420 will not cause the latches 455, 475 and therefore the platform 420 to retreat.

The base 430 and/or platform 420 may be deformed to fit through a narrow opening in a container. In a preferred embodiment the base 430 and/or platform 420 are resilient. After deforming them to fit within a narrow opening in a container, the base 430 and/or platform 420 will gradually or rapidly return substantially to their original undeformed shapes within a container. Alternatively, the base 430 and/or platform 420 may be sized to fit within the opening of a container without substantial deformation. As another alternative, the base 430 and/or platform 420 may be composed of a plurality of parts (e.g., halves) that are snap-fit, bonded, clamped or otherwise joined together after being inserted in the container.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a third exemplary embodiment includes a sliding platform 710. The sliding platform 710 is configured to move linearly along the longitudinal axis of a concentric elongated vertical shaft 705. The platform 710 may be weighted (e.g., dense and relatively heavy or have attachable and/or attached weights) to facilitate advancement. The bottom of the shaft 705 is attached to a support base 735. The diameters of the base 735 and platform 710 are less than the diameter of the container in which the container insert 700 will be used. The base 735 provides a stable upright support for the shaft 705. In most case, the platform 710 should have a diameter on slightly less than the inner diameter of the container, to permit free non-binding movement of the platform 710 without allowing elevated contents to slip between the sidewalls of the container and the platform 710. However, in some cases, where a tight seal between the platform and sidewalls of the container are desired, the diameter of the platform 710 may equal or slightly exceed the container diameter. Resilient fingers 715, 720 project angularly from the shaft 705 away from the base 735. The fingers 715, 720 flex towards (725, 730 in FIG. 8) the shaft 705 when urged by the platform 710 in advancing motion. However, the upwardly angled fingers 715, 720 resist retreating motion.

Referring now to the perspective view of FIG. 8, various other features are more clearly illustrated. The vertical shaft 705 includes a plurality of resilient fingers 715, 720 projecting angularly from the shaft 705 away from the base 735. The exemplary shaft 705 is symmetrical about its vertical longitudinal axis. The shaft 705 defines the linear path of travel of the platform 710 from adjacent to the base 735 towards the opening of a container.

A split collar comprising two separated halves 740, 745 is attached to the bottom or underside of the platform 710. The collar 740, 745 provides a guide which slides along the shaft 705. The collar 740, 745 includes a central opening through which the shaft 705 is received. The central opening of the collar 740, 745 is wide enough to also receive and allow passage of the fingers 715, 720 as the fingers 715, 720 are urged against the shaft 705 during upward advancing travel of the platform 710. Likewise, the platform 710 includes a central opening through which the shaft 705 is received.

Containers may contain liquids. For examples, olives, cherries, pickles and other food products are frequently stored in liquid filled containers. The exemplary container insert 700 may be used with liquid filled containers. The base 735 and/or the platform 710 may be perforated with slot-like perforations 735, 750 to facilitate the passage of fluids from one side to the other. Perforations are optional.

In use, the insert 700 is inverted to advance the platform 710. When the insert 700 is upright, the platform 710 rests against a pair of the plurality of fingers 715, 720 which resist retreating motion. When the insert 700 is inverted, the weight of the platform 710 advances the platform 710 against the fingers and urges the engaged fingers 715, 720 against the shaft 705. The platform 710 advances over the fingers 715, 720 under the influence of gravity. Of course, the container should be overturned only when a lid or other closure seals the opening, so that contents do not spill from the container. The inverted platform 710 will cease advancing when it encounters an obstacle. The obstacle may be the top of the container, contents sandwiched between the platform 710 and a top closure of the container, or a stopping detail of the shaft 705. After the inverted platform 710 ceases advancing by encountering an obstacle, the container may be restored to an upright orientation, upon which, the fingers 715, 720 prevent retreat. Even the weight of the contents on the platform 710 will not cause the fingers 715, 720 to fold downwardly and therefore the platform 710 to retreat.

The base 735 and/or platform 710 may be deformed to fit through a narrow opening in a container. In a preferred embodiment the base 735 and/or platform 710 are resilient. After deforming them to fit within a narrow opening in a container, the base 735 and/or platform 710 will gradually or rapidly return substantially to their original undeformed shapes within the container. Alternatively, the base 735 and/or platform 710 may be sized to fit within the opening of a container without substantial deformation. As another alternative, the base 735 and/or platform 710 may be composed of a plurality of parts (e.g., halves) that are snap-fit, bonded, clamped or otherwise joined together after being inserted in the container.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiment described above. Any configuration with a pawl-like latch assembly that allows advancing motion until an obstacle is encountered and resists retreating motion may be utilized and comes within the scope of the invention. Thus, each latch may have a configuration other than the v-shaped configuration shown in FIG. 6. As another example, the shaft 405 may feature protrusions such as teeth, instead of notches, for the latches 455, 475 to engage. Furthermore, the base 430 and platform 420 may have different style perforations or no perforations at all, without departing from the scope of the invention. Additionally, the shapes of the base 430, platform 420 and shaft 405 may differ from the shapes depicted in FIGS. 1 through 3. Moreover, the positions and orientations of the base 430 relative to the shaft 405 and platform 420 may differ, so long as the insert 400 functions within its intended container.

The various embodiments described above share common features. One common feature of the various embodiments is means for preventing retreating motion of the platform at discrete points along the length of the shaft, while also providing means for allowing advancing motion when the insert is inverted. Another common feature of the various embodiments is a movable support feature that can be moved, such as by flexing or pivoting, to allow advancement of the platform. Yet another common feature is actuating the movable supports by overturning the insert. Still another common feature is a sliding platform that advances under the influence of gravity.

In yet another embodiment, the insert may include a means for pulling the platform, such as a sliding puller, an elongated attachment or extension connected to the movable platform. The puller, attachment or extension may be pulled to advance the platform. In the case of a puller, the means for pulling may comprise an elongated shaft with a flared distal end. The shaft extends from the platform through a small aperture in the platform towards the opening in the top of the container. The flared distal end prevents the distal end from passing through the small aperture when the shaft is pulled.

Optionally, the insert may be surrounded by a cylindrical tube-like container open at the top. In such embodiment, the insert may be inserted into a container of any size, so long as the opening is sufficiently sized to receive the contained insert. Such an embodiment is useful with containers that have a narrow opening and a wider base.

In all embodiments, the base may be a component separate from the container or may comprise the bottom of a container. In other words, a bottom of a container may be configured for attaching a shaft. Alternatively, the shaft may be integrally molded with the container bottom. Thus, the base may be the bottom of the container. Additionally, in all embodiments, the shaft may be permanently or releasably attached or otherwise coupled to the base.

In another mode of use, a user may lift the insert by the shaft to access contents. In such an embodiment, the platform may be removed or included on the shaft. Additionally, in such an embodiment the shaft may be flexible and/or pivotally mounted to a liftable base, so that the shaft may be moved to the side of the opening of the container to facilitate access to the elevated contents. The shaft with extensions could be moved sideways and hooked on the side of container to stay in desired place.

A container insert according to principles of the invention may be comprised of any material that exhibits sufficient resiliency, strength and biocompatibility to be safely and effectively used for elevating the contents of a container. In an exemplary embodiment, the insert may be fabricated using plastic by any suitable plastic forming technique. For example, the insert may be comprised of a plastic or polymeric material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, polysulfone, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, acrylics, cellulosics, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) terpolymers, urethanes, thermo-plastic resins, thermo-plastic elastomers (TPE), acetal resins, polyamides, polycarbonates and/or polyesters. Other suitable polymeric compositions are known to those familiar with the art and may also be used in accordance with the present invention. Preferably the chosen material exhibits the desired physical properties, is easy to use in manufacturing operations and results in an aesthetically acceptable product.

The material may further include additives to provide desired properties such as desired colors, antibacterial properties, structural characteristics, glow-in-the dark properties and thermal reactivity (e.g., color changes according to heat). For instance, silver nanoparticles may be included to resist bacteria. Phosphorescent polymer additives, such as aluminate based phosphors, may be added to adsorb light energy and continue to release that energy as visible light, after the energy source is removed. Thermochromic additives may be included to trigger a visible color change if a determined temperature is reached.

The insert may be produced using any suitable manufacturing techniques known in the art for the chosen material, such as (for example) injection, compression, structural foam, blow, or transfer molding; polyurethane foam processing techniques; vacuum forming; casting; and extrusion. Preferably the manufacturing technique is suitable for mass production at relatively low cost per unit, and results in an aesthetically acceptable product with a consistent acceptable quality and structural characteristics.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a specific embodiment, the foregoing description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiment as well as alternative applications of the invention will be suggested to persons skilled in the art by the foregoing specification and illustrations. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover any such modifications, applications or embodiments as fall within the true scope of the invention.

While an exemplary embodiment of the invention has been described, it should be apparent that modifications and variations thereto are possible, all of which fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum relationships for the components and steps of the invention, including variations in order, form, content, function and manner of operation, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. The above description and drawings are illustrative of modifications that can be made without departing from the present invention, the scope of which is to be limited only by the following claims. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents are intended to fall within the scope of the invention as claimed.

Claims

1. A container insert for a container that contains liftable contents and has a first height, an open top and a bottom, said insert comprising

a shaft having a length less than the height, a bottom end and a top end;

a base attached to the bottom end of the shaft;

a movable platform slidingly disposed on said shaft, said platform being configured to support liftable contents in the container and being further configured to slide from the bottom end of the shaft towards the top end of the shaft and stopping at one of a plurality of discrete points along the length of the shaft without retreating towards the bottom end.

2. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of indentations defining said plurality of discrete points.

3. A container insert according to claim 1, further comprising at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, configured to pivot from an engaged position to a released position, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position.

4. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, configured to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position.

5. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, configured to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

6. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, weighted to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

7. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, weighted to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted, said platform being weighted to facilitate advancement.

8. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement details defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages a detail when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases a detail when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

9. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement details defining said plurality of discrete points, the platform is perforated with perforations that do not allow passage of the liftable contents, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages a detail when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases a detail when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

10. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the shaft includes a plurality of engagement details defining said plurality of discrete points, the platform is perforated with perforations that do not allow passage of the liftable contents, a concentric collar is attached to the platform, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages a detail when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases a detail when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

11. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the container is at least partially filled with liquid and the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

12. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the container is at least partially filled with liquid and the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

13. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the container is at least partially filled with liquid, the platform is perforated with perforations that do not allow passage of the liftable contents, and the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said platform, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

14. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the container is at least partially filled with liquid, the platform is perforated with perforations that do not allow passage of the liftable contents, a concentric collar is attached to the platform, and the shaft includes a plurality of engagement indentations defining said plurality of discrete points, and the insert further comprises at least one latch operably coupled to said collar, each latch having a buoyant element configured to float in liquid and cause the latch to pivot from an engaged position in which each latch engages an indentation when the insert is upright to a released position in which each latch releases an indentation when the insert is inverted, and configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and configured to allow the platform to advance towards the open top when the insert is inverted.

15. A container insert for a container that contains liftable contents and has a first height, an open top and a bottom, said insert comprising

a shaft having a length less than the height, a bottom end and a top end, and a plurality of engagement projections;

a base attached to the bottom end of the shaft;

a movable platform with a central opening slidingly disposed on said shaft, said platform being configured support liftable contents in the container and being further configured to slide from the bottom end of the shaft towards the top end of the shaft and stopping at one of a plurality of discrete points along the length of the shaft without retreating towards the bottom end.

16. A container insert according to claim 15, wherein the engagement projections comprise a plurality of resilient fingers defining said plurality of discrete points.

17. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the engagement projections comprise a plurality of resilient fingers defining said plurality of discrete points, and each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft, and said fingers are configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position.

18. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the engagement projections comprise a plurality of resilient fingers defining said plurality of discrete points, and each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft, and said fingers are configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and the central opening of the platform is configured to urge the engaged finger against the shaft and allow the urged finger to pass through the central opening when the insert is inverted.

19. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the engagement projections comprise a plurality of resilient fingers defining said plurality of discrete points, and each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft, and said fingers are configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and the central opening of the platform is configured to urge the engaged finger against the shaft and allow the urged finger to pass through the central opening when the insert is inverted due to weight of the platform.

20. A container insert according to claim 1, wherein the platform is perforated with perforations that do not allow passage of the liftable contents, the engagement projections comprise a plurality of resilient fingers defining said plurality of discrete points, and each finger is configured to pivot from an angled engagement position to a bent release position with the finger urged against the shaft, and said fingers are configured to prevent the platform from retreating towards the bottom end when the latch is in the engaged position, and the central opening of the platform is configured to urge the engaged finger against the shaft and allow the urged finger to pass through the central opening when the insert is inverted due to weight of the platform.

21. A container insert according to claim 1, further comprising a means for pulling the movable platform from the bottom end of the shaft towards the top end of the shaft, said means for pulling including an elongate pulling shaft extending upwardly through an aperture in the movable platform and having a distal end configured to prevent the distal end from passing through the aperture.