CONTAINER SYSTEMS AND KITS

Abstract

Systems have a first container and a second container removably joined by an intermediate member, the intermediate member forming a partial seal for the first container. The intermediate member includes an attachment area including a fastener for removably attaching the second container to the intermediate member. The attachment area and fastener are configured so that a portion of an upper surface of the intermediate member is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the intermediate member. In systems where the first container holds a liquid, the intermediate member includes a puncturable area for a straw or other conduit, and may include indicators for different drinks.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

None

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of containers, and more specifically to container systems and kits including a removable container lid for a first container such as a cup, the lid having a receptacle for removably attaching a second container to the lid.

2. Background Art

A few general types of plastic drink lids exist. Most common is the press-on plastic lid with straw slot. Another is the press-on re-sealable plastic lid. Yet another is the hot beverage sip-through slotted lid. Plastic lids for cups provide a way to keep beverages from spilling and safely allow users to drink while transporting the beverage.

Often when users are consuming a drink that is held in a cup with the aforementioned plastic lid, they are also consuming various food products that are held in separate containers. Having multiple containers of food and beverage can be problematic for the consumer, who may have difficulty carrying so many containers. This is especially true of people who are consuming food and beverage while driving in a vehicle and have a limited capacity to hold so many containers.

As may be seen, the need remains for a new type of container system, particularly for two or more food items, that would be much more convenient for the consumer, and would make traveling while eating and drinking much safer.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present disclosure, container systems and/or kits are presented which reduce or overcome one or more of the above shortcomings.

A first system embodiment comprises:

• • a) a first container and a second container removably joined by an intermediate member, the intermediate member forming a partial seal for the first container;
  • b) the intermediate member comprising at least one attachment area comprising at least one fastener for removably attaching the second container to the intermediate member, the at least one attachment area and at least one fastener configured so that at least a portion of an upper surface of the intermediate member is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the intermediate member.

A second system embodiment comprises:

• • a) a first container and a second container removably joined by a lid on the first container, the lid forming a partial seal for the first container;
  • b) the lid comprising at least one attachment area comprising at least one fastener for removably attaching the second container to the lid, the at least one attachment area and at least one fastener configured so that at least a portion of an upper surface of the lid is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the intermediate member, at least a portion of the at least one attachment area being on the upper surface of the lid;
  • c) the upper surface of the lid comprising one or more drink indicators in one or more areas outside of the attachment area; and
  • d) the lid comprising one or more puncturable areas configured to allow a straw or other conduit to puncture the puncturable areas and access contents of the first container, with or without the second container attached to the lid.

A third system embodiment comprises:

• • a) a first container and a second container removably joined by a lid removably attached to an upper lip of the first container, the lid and lip forming a partial seal for the first container, the lid having an upper surface;
  • b) the lid comprising at least one female fastener portion on the upper surface for removably attaching one or more corresponding male portions on a bottom of the second container to the lid, the at least one female fastener configured so that at least a portion of the upper surface of the lid is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the lid;
  • c) the upper surface of the lid comprising one or more drink indicators viewable to a user even when the second container is attached to the lid; and
  • d) the lid comprising one or more puncturable areas configured to allow a straw or other conduit to puncture the puncturable areas and access contents of the first container, with or without the second container attached to the lid.

Before attachment of the first container to the intermediate member, or before the attachment of the second container to the intermediate member and the intermediate member to the first container, the unattached components may be described as a kit. Kits may include packaging, such as bubble wrap packaging enclosing the components so that they may be displayed for sale.

Further aspects and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent by reviewing the detailed description, drawings figures, and claims of that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view, with some parts in phantom, of one system embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view, with some parts in phantom, of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic side elevation view of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate member in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic close-up side elevation view of the second container of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3;

FIG. 6 is a schematic exploded view of the fastener used in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 5;

FIGS. 7, 8, 9, and 10 are schematic perspective views, with some parts in phantom, of four other system embodiments in accordance with this disclosure.

It is to be noted, however, that the figures of the appended drawings may not be to scale and illustrate only typical embodiments of this disclosure, and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of the disclosed methods and systems for carrying out the methods. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the methods and systems may be practiced without these details and that numerous variations or modifications from the specifically described embodiments may be possible and are deemed within the claims or claimable subject matter in this or subsequent patents. All United States (U.S.) published patent applications and U.S. Patents referenced herein are hereby explicitly incorporated herein by reference. In the event definitions of terms in the referenced patents and applications conflict with how those terms are defined in the present application, the definitions for those terms that are provided in the present application shall be deemed controlling.

The present disclosure relates generally to container systems, particularly, but not limited to, container systems for food. While the following detailed description describes features primarily associated with food containers, those skilled in the container art will realize that with no or simple modifications the specifically described containers may be employed in a variety of uses. One particularly identified embodiment comprises a plastic lid for drinking cups, the lid having one or more straw slots, and the lid including a female part on the top surface of the lid, which would attach to the bottom of a separate food receptacle (for example a French fry container) which has the corresponding male part on the bottom of the French fry container. The two units would have the ability to attach together, creating a user-friendly, more convenient way of containing for the food and drink items. The two units may also be usable separately, if desired. A lengthened straw may be necessary in order to consume the beverage while the food receptacle is attached to the lid.

More generally, the systems and kits of the present disclosure may comprise a first container and a second container removably joined by an intermediate member, the intermediate member forming a partial seal for the first container, the intermediate member comprising at least one attachment area comprising at least one fastener for removably attaching the second container to the intermediate member, the at least one attachment area and at least one fastener configured so that at least a portion of an upper surface of the intermediate member is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the intermediate member.

In certain system embodiments, at least a portion of the at least one attachment area may be on the upper surface of the intermediate member.

In certain system embodiments, at least a portion of the at least one attachment area may be on a side surface of the intermediate member.

In certain system embodiments, the fastener may be selected from the group consisting of hook and loop fasteners, clasps, snap fasteners, press-studs, double-sided tape, T-joint fasteners, quick connect/disconnect fasteners, quick release fasteners, self-clinching fasteners, self-locking fasteners, quarter turn fasteners, dogs, and the like.

In certain system embodiments, the containers and intermediate member may independently comprise materials selected from the group consisting of natural materials, synthetic materials, composite materials, and any combination of these.

In certain system embodiments, the containers and intermediate member materials may comprise one or more synthetic materials.

In certain system embodiments, the synthetic materials may be polymeric, such as thermoplastics, thermoplastic elastomers, thermosetting plastics, and the like, and the materials may contain one or more additives and/or coatings, such as fillers, coloring agents, pigments, and the like. Examples of suitable thermoplastic materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, and the like. Hybrid or composite materials may be used, for example, polymer-coated cardboard, and the like. In certain embodiments the containers and/or intermediate members may include embedded printing and/or surface printing thereon or therein. Layered materials may be used. Foamed polymeric materials, such as foamed polystyrene, foamed polyurethane, foamed polyisocyanurate, foamed polyethylene, foamed rubbers, such as foamed polyvinyl chloride/acrylonitrile butadiene (PVC/NBR) rubber, and the like, may also be used. Commercial products, such as the materials known under the trade designations “Ensolite®” and “OleTex®”, both available from RBX Industries, Inc., Roanoke, Va., USA, may find use as containers and/or intermediate members. Products known under the trade designation “Ensolite®” are made in many varieties, but are all essentially variations of PVC/NBR foamed polymers having maximum water absorption of 0.1 lb/ft² when tested using American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) test D-1667. The products under the OleTex® product line are high-performance, closed cell polyolefin foams, chemically cross-linked using a patented, continuous processing method. The materials are closed cell and moisture proof. These products can be die cut, heat sealed, vacuum formed, and heat molded. Glass materials may be used if they may be appropriately made or modified to include the removability and puncturability features described herein. Leather is a preferred natural material. The material of choice will depend on many factors, including the weight of the systems, the type and amount of fluids and other contents to be held, and the desires of the user. Local regulations, such as food and drug regulations, may also direct or limit materials.

In certain system embodiments, at least one of the synthetic materials may be cardboard or paperboard.

In certain system embodiments, the intermediate member may comprise a plastic lid and the at least one attachment area and the at least one fastener may comprise a single snap fastener on the upper surface of the lid.

In certain system embodiments, the snap fastener may comprise a female portion integral with the upper surface of the lid and a male portion integral with the second container.

In certain system embodiments, the snap fastener may comprise a male portion integral with the upper surface of the lid and a female portion integral with the second container.

In certain system embodiments, the upper surface of the lid may comprise one or more drink indicators in one or more areas outside of the attachment area.

In certain system embodiments, the lid may comprise one or more puncturable areas configured to allow a straw or other conduit to puncture at least one of the puncturable areas and access contents of the first container, with or without the second container attached to the lid.

Certain embodiments may comprise a single-piece intermediate member serving as a lid for two or more first containers, the upper surface having one or more attachment areas including one or more fasteners, or portions of fasteners, as detailed herein. In certain of these embodiments the first container may be a single container having one or more internal barriers separating the single container into two or more sub-containers. The intermediate member may include a hinged region.

Referring now to the drawing figures, FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view, with some parts in phantom, of one system embodiment 100 of the disclosure. Embodiment 100 comprises a first container 2 and a second container 4. Second container 4 is removably attached to an intermediate member or lid 6, and lid 6 is removably attached to first container 2. A straw 20 is included in embodiment 100, and its positioning is more fully explained with reference to FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view, with some parts in phantom, of embodiment 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 illustrates how straw 20 passes through a puncturable area 16 in lid 6, and when the system is fitted together for use, straw 20 extends into first container 2. Also depicted in FIG. 2 is an upper surface 8 of lid 6, and an attachment area 10. Attachment area 10 includes, in embodiment 100, a female portion of a snap fastener. A male portion 14 of the snap fastener resides on an underside of second container 4. Another, optional feature in embodiment 100 is the provision of drink indicators 18, which in embodiment 100 comprise pliable plastic bubbles as are known in the fast food industry. Finally, embodiment 100 includes a rim portion on lid 6 that sealingly engages a rim 26 on first container 24.

FIG. 3 is a schematic side elevation view of embodiment 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrating further the physical relationship of first container 2, second container 4, straw 20, and lid 6 in system embodiment 100.

FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of an intermediate member or lid in accordance with the present disclosure, illustrating one possible position of attachment area 10, puncturable area 16, and drink indicators 18.

FIG. 5 is a schematic close-up side elevation view of the second container of embodiment 100, illustrating male portion 14, and FIG. 6 is a close-up schematic exploded view of the fastener used in embodiment 100, illustrating an extension 26 and a connector rib 28 of male portion 14 on first container 2, and a receptacle 30 having a locking receiver 32 for accepting and removable attaching second container 2 to upper surface 8 of lid 6. When second container 2 is moved toward upper surface 8, rib 28 enters and snaps into receptacle 30 and removably locks into receiver 32.

FIGS. 7, 8, 9, and 10 are schematic perspective views, with some parts in phantom, of four other system embodiments in accordance with this disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates embodiment 200, which differs from embodiment 100 only in having a different mechanism for attachment of second container 204 to lid 6 and first container 202. Embodiment 200 includes a dog extension 40 having a set of dogs that engage mating dogs 42 on upper reaches of first container 202. Embodiment may have another set of dogs on the opposite side of the system, and may or may not have a snap attachment as illustrated in relation to embodiment 100.

Embodiment 300 illustrated schematically in FIG. 8 comprises two first containers 302 removably attached to a single-piece intermediate member or lid 306, with two second containers 304 removably attached to lid 306 using snap fasteners as previously described in reference to FIGS. 1-3 and 5-6. Another snap fastener optionally allows a condiment container 308 to be removably attached, such as a ketchup or sauce container. Those of skill in this art will recognize that more than one fastener for more than one condiment container could easily be provided in certain embodiments. Straws 320 may also be provided.

Embodiment 400 illustrated schematically in FIG. 9 comprises a single-piece intermediate member 406 serving as a lid for a first container 402. Upper surface 409 of intermediate member 406 comprises several attachment areas including fasteners as described in reference to FIGS. 1-3 and 5-6 for removably attaching second containers 404 and condiment containers 408. Intermediate member 406 may optionally include a hinged region 412. Straws 420 pass through puncturable areas as previously described. In embodiment 400, first container 402 is a single container having one or more internal barriers 410 separating first container 402 into two or more sub-containers.

Embodiment 500 illustrated schematically in perspective view on FIG. 10 also comprises a single-piece intermediate member 506 removably attached to four first containers 502. Removably attached to an upper surface 509 of intermediate member 506 are two second containers 504, as well as two condiment containers 508 and 510. Embodiment 500 may be useful for food orders involving four drinks that are carried in a cardboard drink holder (not illustrated).

Fasteners are common and require no further explanation. One preferred hook and loop fastener is that known under the trade designation Velcro®, available from Velcro USA, Manchester, N.H. Double-sided tapes are widely available, as are dog connectors, snap connectors, and the like.

The various embodiments of the disclosure allow consumers or commercial users flexibility in their lifestyle, for example when it is necessary to leave the home or office for a short time period for a scheduled or unscheduled event, such as a doctor appointment, a trip to the grocery store for a recipe item, or similar trips. Other uses no doubt will come to the minds of consumers and commercial user, and those end uses of systems described herein are considered within the present disclosure

Although the foregoing detailed description is intended to be representative of the disclosure, it is not intended to in any way limit the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system comprising:

a) a first container and a second container removably joined by an intermediate member, the intermediate member forming a partial seal for the first container;

b) the intermediate member comprising at least one attachment area comprising at least one fastener for removably attaching the second container to the intermediate member, the at least one attachment area and at least one fastener configured so that at least a portion of an upper surface of the intermediate member is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the intermediate member.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein at least a portion of the at least one attachment area is on the upper surface of the intermediate member.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein at least a portion of the at least one attachment area is on a side surface of the intermediate member.

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the fastener is selected from the group consisting of hook and loop fasteners, clasps, snap fasteners, press-studs, double-sided tape, T-joint fasteners, quick connect/disconnect fasteners, quick release fasteners, self-clinching fasteners, self-locking fasteners, and quarter turn fasteners.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein the containers and intermediate member independently comprise materials selected from the group consisting of natural and synthetic materials.

6. The system of claim 5 wherein the containers and intermediate member material comprise one or more synthetic materials.

7. The system of claim 6 wherein the synthetic materials are plastic.

8. The system of claim 6 wherein at least one of the synthetic materials is cardboard.

9. The system of claim 2 wherein the intermediate member comprises a plastic lid and the at least one attachment area and the at least one fastener comprises a single snap fastener on the upper surface of the lid.

10. The system of claim 9 wherein the snap fastener comprises a female portion integral with the upper surface of the lid and a male portion integral with the second container.

11. The system of claim 9 wherein the snap fastener comprises a male portion integral with the upper surface of the lid and a female portion integral with the second container.

12. The system of claim 10 wherein the upper surface of the lid comprises one or more drink indicators in one or more areas outside of the attachment area.

13. The system of claim 12 wherein the lid comprises one or more puncturable areas configured to allow a straw or other conduit to puncture the puncturable areas and access contents of the first container, with or without the second container attached to the lid.

14. A system comprising:

a) a first container and a second container removably joined by a lid on the first container, the lid forming a partial seal for the first container;

b) the lid comprising at least one attachment area comprising at least one fastener for removably attaching the second container to the lid, the at least one attachment area and at least one fastener configured so that at least a portion of an upper surface of the lid is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the intermediate member, at least a portion of the at least one attachment area being on the upper surface of the lid;

c) the upper surface of the lid comprising one or more drink indicators in one or more areas outside of the attachment area; and

d) the lid comprising one or more puncturable areas configured to allow a straw or other conduit to puncture the puncturable areas and access contents of the first container, with or without the second container attached to the lid.

15. The system of claim 14 wherein the fastener is selected from the group consisting of hook and loop fasteners, clasps, snap fasteners, press-studs, double-sided tape, T-joint fasteners, quick connect/disconnect fasteners, quick release fasteners, self-clinching fasteners, self-locking fasteners, and quarter turn fastener.

16. The system of claim 14 wherein the containers and lid independently comprise materials selected from the group consisting of natural and synthetic materials.

17. The system of claim 14 wherein the lid and the at least one attachment area and the at least one fastener comprises a single snap fastener on the upper surface of the lid.

18. The system of claim 14 wherein the snap fastener comprises a female portion integral with the upper surface of the lid and a male portion integral with the second container.

19. The system of claim 14 wherein the snap fastener comprises a male portion integral with the upper surface of the lid and a female portion integral with the second container.

20. A system comprising:

a) a first container and a second container removably joined by a lid removably attached to an upper lip of the first container, the lid and lip forming a partial seal for the first container, the lid having an upper surface;

b) the lid comprising at least one female fastener portion on the upper surface for removably attaching one or more corresponding male portions on a bottom of the second container to the lid, the at least one female fastener configured so that at least a portion of the upper surface of the lid is accessible and visible to a user when the second container is attached to the lid;

c) the upper surface of the lid comprising one or more drink indicators viewable to a user even when the second container is attached to the lid; and

d) the lid comprising one or more puncturable areas configured to allow a straw or other conduit to puncture the puncturable areas and access contents of the first container, with or without the second container attached to the lid.

21. A kit comprising the system of claim 1.