INVERTIBLE CONTAINER

A container is provided having a base and a flexible rim having an opening. The base is sized to fit through the opening. A collapsible sidewall extends between the base and the rim. The sidewall is collapsible so that the base may pass through the opening to invert the container and allow adjustments to the shape of the container to fit in small areas such as other containers or tight locations where many standard containers cannot fit.

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Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The subject matter herein relates generally to a container and, more particularly, to a container that is invertible.

Generally, waste cans include a base and a rim having an opening extending therethrough. A sidewall extends from the base to the rim and creates a cavity that is closed on one end at the base and opens on the other end at the opening. The cavity is configured to receive waste, wherein waste may include trash, garbage, human waste, and/or any other disposable or recyclable materials. Typically, a liner may be inserted into the cavity to receive the waste.

Conventional trash cans are not without their disadvantages. In particular, a liner positioned within the can may become dislodged from the weight of the waste, causing the liner to fall into the can and possibly spill the contents of the liner into the can. Some cans include bands that may be wrapped around an end of the liner to retain the liner on the can. However, such bands may be difficult to position on the can and/or remove from the can. Additionally, such bands may rip the liner. Moreover, conventional bands only secure one liner to the can, thereby requiring a new liner to be secured within the can each time the can is emptied.

Furthermore, conventional cans are difficult to clean. In particular, waste may be frequently left in the can regardless of the use of a liner. For example, the liner may collapse into the can, as stated above. Additionally, the liner may rip when being removed from the can. Waste in the can may create undesirable odors, as well as, attract bacteria and mold. To clean the can, the can typically must be washed out and tipped upside down to remove the waste which may be stuck to the interior of the can. Often, the can must be washed out while upside down or tilted. After rinsing out the can, waste residue may remain stuck to the walls of the can. Such residue may only be removed by reaching into the can and/or using a long cleaning brush.

Additionally, conventional and decorative containers/cans take up a substantial amount of space when not in use.

A need remains for a container that can collapse for storage. Another need remains for a container that can retain multiple liners and prevent the liners from tearing and/or collapsing into the can. A further need remains for a container that can be inverted so that the interior walls of the can may be easily cleaned without having to reach into the container, turn the container upside down, and/or use a long cleaning brush. Another need remains for a container/liner that adjusts in shape to take the shape of an external decorative can or container and is inserted inside the external container as a liner to eliminate the need for bags.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, a container is provided having a base and a flexible rim having an opening. The base is sized to fit through the opening. A collapsible sidewall extends between the base and the rim. The sidewall is collapsible so that the base passes through the opening to invert the container.

In another embodiment, a container is provided having a base and a rim having an opening. The base is sized to fit through the opening. A collapsible sidewall extends between the base and the rim. An upper flange extends from the rim. At least one fixation mechanism is formed in at least one of the upper flange or the sidewall.

In another embodiment, a container is provided having a base and a rim having an opening. The base is sized to fit through the opening. A sidewall extends between the base and the rim. The sidewall is collapsible to adjust a shape of the container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The presently disclosed subject matter will be better understood from reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments, with reference to the attached drawings, wherein below:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a container formed in accordance with an embodiment and shown in an operating position.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the container shown in FIG. 1 in the operating position.

FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the container shown in FIG. 1 in the operating position.

FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the container shown in FIG. 1 and in a loading position.

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the container shown in FIG. 1 and in the loading position.

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a container.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for operating the containers shown in FIGS. 1-6.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property.

Various embodiments provide an invertible container. As used herein, the term “invertible” is used to define a container that can be turned inside-out. The term “invertible” is not to be construed as defining a container that is turned over. The container includes a base and a rim having an opening, wherein the base is sized to fit through the opening. A collapsible sidewall extends between the base and the rim. The sidewall may be formed from a semi-rigid material to enable the sidewall to collapse. As used herein, the term “semi-rigid” is used to describe a material that maintains a structural integrity, while being moveable, flexible, bendable, or the like under force. The sidewall is collapsible through the opening so that the base passes through the opening to invert the container. The container has a centerline. The sidewall expands outward with respect to the centerline from the base to the rim. The sidewall may include at least one step tapering outward with respect to the centerline from the base to the rim. An upper step may be joined to the rim and have an effective diameter that is greater than an effective diameter of a lower step joined to the base. In an embodiment having more than one step, the steps may be moveably joined to one another and collapse on one another and/or collapse inward when the sidewall is collapsed. In one embodiment, at least one step is collapsible to adjust a shape of the container. The at least one collapsible step may extend from the base of the container to collapse the base of the container toward the rim of the container. Alternatively, the at least one collapsible step may extend from the rim of the container to collapse the rim toward the base. Additionally, the at least one step may be formed in an intermediate portion of the sidewall between the rim and the base. The container may be adjusted into different shapes without the use of a step. For example, the container may collapse to change shapes, e.g. change to an oval shape, etc., or to change widths or height. In one embodiment, the container may also be inverted without the use of the step. The container is capable of having its shape changed or being inverted without a step because the container side walls, rim and base are made from flexible material.

The container is invertible between a loading position and an operating position by passing the base through the opening. The container has substantially the same volume in the loading position as in the operating position. The sidewall has a first surface along an interior of the container and a second surface along an exterior of the container, when the container is in the loading position. The container is configured to receive a liner over the second surface in the loading positioning. In one embodiment, at least one fixation mechanism is formed in an upper flange extending from the rim to retain the liner on the container. Alternatively, the at least one fixation mechanism may be formed in the sidewall of the container.

The container is invertible to the operating position when the base passes through the opening. In the operating position, the second surface is positioned along the interior of the container and the first surface is positioned along the exterior of the container so that the liner is positioned in the interior of the container along the second surface. A gap positioned between an outer flange and the rim retains a portion of the liner in the operating position.

In one embodiment, the rim is a flexible rim. The rim may be formed from a semi-rigid material that enables the rim to rotate. The rim rotates when the base passes through the opening. The rim has a first surface along an exterior of the container and a second surface along an interior of the container when the container is in the operating position. The first surface is positioned along the interior of the container and the second surface positioned along the exterior of the container, when the container is in the loading position.

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a container 100 formed in accordance with an embodiment. In one embodiment, the container 100 is made as a one piece container 100. The container 100 is formed from a flexible, semi-rigid material, such as rubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), or flexible polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and/or any other suitable material. FIG. 1 illustrates the container 100 in an operating position 102. The container 100 is illustrated as a circular container. In other embodiments, the container 100 may have any other suitable shape, for example rectangular or oval. The container 100 includes a base 104 and a rim 106. A sidewall 108 extends between the base 104 and the rim 106. An opening 109 extends through the rim 106. The opening 109 opens to a cavity 110 having a volume V1. The cavity 110 is defined by the sidewall 108 and the base 104. The cavity 110 is closed at one end at the base 104 and open at the other end at the opening 109 extending through the rim 106. The cavity 110 is configured as a receptacle, for example, a receptacle for waste. The cavity 110 may receive a liner therein to shield the container 100 from waste deposited therein.

The rim 106 is formed from a flexible material. In one embodiment, the rim 106 is rotatable, as described below. In particular, the rim 106 is formed from a semi-rigid material that enables the rim 106 to rotate under force. An upper flange 112 extends outward from the rim 106. The upper flange 112 circumvents the rim 106 and, subsequently, the container 100. At least one fixation mechanism 114 is formed in the upper flange 112. In one embodiment, the fixation mechanisms 114 may be formed in the sidewall 108 proximate to the rim 106. The fixation mechanisms 114 may extend through the sidewall 108 from the cavity 110 to the gap 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixation mechanisms 114 are slots and the upper flange 112 includes four fixation mechanisms 114. Alternatively, the fixation mechanisms 114 may be glue tabs, frictional retention mechanisms, hooks, hinged tabs, clips, or the like. The fixation mechanisms 114 secure a liner (not shown) that has been positioned in the cavity 110 of the container 100. In particular, a portion of the liner is pulled through the fixation mechanisms 114. For example, if any sized conventional or recycled bag is inserted into the cavity 110, the handles of the bag may be secured in the fixation mechanisms 114. Alternatively, a standard bag may be inserted into the cavity 110. In such a scenario, a portion of the bag may be pulled through the fixation mechanisms 114. Alternatively, a drawstring of the bag may be secured in the fixation mechanisms 114.

An outer flange 116 extends from the upper flange 112. The outer flange 116 extends in the direction of the base 104 of the container 100. Alternatively, the outer flange 112 may extend in other directions from the upper flange 112. The outer flange 116 provides a clean look to the container 100, when a liner is inserted therein. In particular, the outer flange 116 hides the portion of the liner that has been secured in the fixation mechanisms 114. In one embodiment, the outer flange 116 may include ribs and/or other textured surfaces to enable the outer flange 116 to be rotated when the container 100 is inverted.

The sidewall 108 is formed from a semi-rigid material that enables the sidewall 108 to collapse. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall 108 includes at least one step 118. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of steps 118 taper inward from the rim 106 to the base 104. Conversely, the steps 118 taper outward from the base 104 to the rim 106. An upper step 120 is joined to the rim 106. The upper step 120 is joined to the rim 106 by a flexible joint 122 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). The flexible joint 122 is a semi-rigid joint that maintains a structural integrity of the container 100, while enabling the upper step 120 to move with respect to the rim 106 under force. A lower step 124 is joined to the base 104. Intermediate steps 126 extend between the upper step 120 and the lower step 124. Each of the steps 118 is joined to adjacent steps by a flexible joint 128. The flexible joints 128 are semi-rigid joints that maintain a structural integrity of the container 100, while enabling the steps 118 to move with respect to one another under force. The steps 118 collapse on one another when the sidewall 108 is collapsed. The steps 118 may also collapse inward when the sidewall 108 is collapsed. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of steps 118 may also be utilized to adjust a shape of the container 100, rather than collapsing the container entirely. For example, at least one of the steps 118, i.e. the upper step 120, the lower step 124, or any of the intermediate steps 126, may be collapsed to shorten the container 100, thereby enabling the container 100 to be sized as a liner for a waste can, decorative container for waste or liquid or standard pots used for holding dirt for household plants and trees. The steps 108 may also enable a shape of the container 100 to be adjusted so that the container 100 conforms to a shape of a waste can, etc. For example, the container 100 may be adjusted to an oval shape or the like. Additionally, at least one of the steps 108 may adjust a width of the container 100.

It should be noted that in other embodiments, the container 100 may not include any steps 108. Because the rim 106, base 104, and sidewall 108 are flexible, the container 100 is still collapsible/invertible and adjustable in shape without the steps 108.

In another embodiment, the container 100 may only include at least one of or combination of the upper step 120, the lower step 124, or at least one of the intermediate steps 126. For example, the container 100 may include only the lower step 124 to collapse the base 104 toward the rim 106 to shorten the container 100 and change the shape for alternative uses. Another way, the container 100 may include only the upper step 120 to collapse the rim 106 toward the base 104 to shorten the container 100 to change the shape for alternative uses. In other embodiments, the container 100 may include any one of or combination of the intermediate steps 126 to shorten the container 100 to change the shape for alternative uses. In any of these embodiments, the remainder of the sidewall 108 would be collapsible, so that the container 100 may be inverted.

The sidewall 108 includes a first surface 130 and a second surface 132. In the operating position 102, the first surface 130 forms an exterior of the container 100. In the operating position 102, the second surface 132 forms an interior of the container 100. In particular, the second surface 132 defines a wall of the cavity 110. Indicators 111 are provided on the first surface 130 of the sidewall 108. The indicators 111 are illustrated as arrows; however, the indicators 111 may take any form, such as a colored dot or the like, a tab, a finger tab or groove formed in the sidewall 108, or any other suitable indicator. The indicators 111 are aligned with the fixation mechanisms 114. The indicators 111 indicate the position of the fixation mechanisms 114 to a user of the container 100.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the container 100. FIG. 2 illustrates the container 100 in the operating position 102. The base 104 is centered with respect to the rim 106. The steps 118 taper outward from the base 104 to the rim 106. Conversely, the steps 118 taper inward from the rim 106 to the base 104 Likewise, the flexible joints 128 taper outward from the base 104 to the rim 106, and taper inward from the rim 106 to the base 104.

The upper flange 112 extends outward from the rim 106. The upper flange 112 circumvents the rim 106. The fixation mechanisms 114 extend through the upper flange 112. Accordingly, a portion of a liner (not shown) can be inserted through the fixation mechanisms 114. The outer flange 116 extends from the upper flange 112 and circumvents the upper flange 112 and the rim 106. It should be noted that, in one embodiment, the upper flange 112 and the outer flange 116 may only partially circumvent the rim 106. The fixation mechanisms 114 in the upper flange 112 are positioned between the rim 106 and the outer flange 116. Accordingly, a portion of the liner extending through the fixation mechanisms 114 is positioned between the rim 106 and the outer flange 116.

FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the container 100. FIG. 3 illustrates the container 100 in the operating position 102. A gap 134 is formed between the rim 106 and the outer flange 116 and extends between the upper step 120 and the outer flange 116. The fixation mechanisms 114 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) are formed in the upper flange 112 between the rim 106 and the outer flange 116. The fixation mechanisms 114 extend from an exterior of the container 100 to the gap 134. Alternatively, the fixation mechanisms 114 may extend through the sidewall 108 from the cavity 110 to the gap 134. When a liner (not shown) is positioned within the cavity 110 of the container 100, a portion of the liner may be pulled through at least one of the fixation mechanisms 114 and into the gap 134. The portion of the liner is secured in the gap 134 and hidden from view by the outer flange 116. For example, if a grocery bag is positioned in the cavity 110, the handles of the grocery bag may be pulled through at least one of the fixation mechanisms 114 and hidden from view by the outer flange 116.

The rim 106 includes a first surface 136 and a second surface 138. In the operating position 102, the first surface 136 is positioned along an exterior of the container 100. In the operating position 102, the second surface 138 is positioned along an interior of the container 100. The second surface 138 defines a portion of the cavity 110. The base 104 includes a first surface 140 and a second surface 142. In the operating position 102, first surface 140 is positioned along an exterior of the container 100. In the operating position 102, the second surface 142 is positioned along an interior of the container 100. The second surface 142 defines a bottom 141 of the cavity 110. In one embodiment, the base 104 may include a pull tab (not shown) attached to at least one of the first surface 140 and/or the second surface 142. The pull tab may be used to provide force to invert the container 100.

The container 100 includes a centerline C1. The steps 118 expand outward from the centerline C1 from the base 104 to the rim 106. Conversely, the steps 118 retract inward from the centerline C1 from the rim 106 to the base 104. In one embodiment, each step 118 has a different size. From the base 104 to the rim 106, each step expends further outward from the centerline C1. From the rim 106 to the base 104, each step retracts further inward toward the centerline C1.

The opening 109 in the rim 106 has an opening effective diameter D1. The base 104 has a base effective diameter D2 that is smaller than the opening effective diameter D1 and larger than the base effective diameter D2. The lower step 124 has effective diameter D3 that is substantially the same as the base effective diameter D2. The upper step 120 includes an effective diameter D4 that is less than the opening effective diameter D1. In one embodiment, each of the intermediate steps 126 of the container 100 has a distinct effective diameter D5. Each effective diameter D5 is smaller than the effective diameter D4 of the upper step 120. Each effective diameter D5 is larger than the effective diameter D3 of the lower step 124. The effective diameters D5 of the intermediate steps 126 become smaller as the container 100 tapers from the upper step 120 to the lower step 124. The effective diameters D5 of the intermediate steps 126 become larger as the container 100 tapers from the lower step 124 to the upper step 120. Each of the effective diameters D2, D3, D4, and D5 is smaller than the effective diameter D1.

Moreover, the flexible joints 128 enable the steps 118 to collapse on one another. Accordingly, as the container 100 is collapsed, each of the steps 118 and the base 104 are enabled to pass through the opening 109 defined by the rim 106. Additionally, the flexible joint 122 enables the rim 106 to rotate as the sidewall 108 and the base 104 pass through the opening 109.

The rim 106 also includes an outside effective diameter D6. The outside effective diameter D6 is greater than the opening effective diameter D1. In one embodiment, the outside effective diameter D6 may be approximately 8 mm larger than the opening effective diameter Di. The difference is size between the outside effective diameter D6 and the opening effective diameter D1 enables the rim 106 to rotate when the container 100 is inverted. The rotation of the rim 106 enables the sidewall 108 to be passed through the opening 109 to invert the container 100.

The steps 118 each include a thickness. A thickness T1 of the upper step 120 may be greater than a thickness T2 of the lower step 124. A thickness T3 of the intermediate steps 126 may decrease from the upper step 120 to the lower step 124. Accordingly, from the upper step 120 to the lower step 124, the thickness T3 of each intermediate step 126 may become smaller. Conversely, from the lower step 124 to the upper step 120, the thickness T3 of each intermediate step 126 may become larger. The difference in the thicknesses T1, T2, and T3 of the steps 118 enables the sidewall 108 to collapse into the opening 109. Additionally, the difference in the thicknesses T1, T2, and T3 of the steps 118 enables the sidewall to collapse substantially flat within the rim 106. In such a configuration, the container 100 may be easily stored and/or transported. It should be noted that in one embodiment, the steps 118 may each have the same thickness. Alternatively, some or all of the steps 118 may have the same thickness.

FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the container 100. FIG. 4 illustrates the container 100 in a loading position 200. In the loading position 200, the sidewall 108 of the container 100 has been collapsed so that the sidewall 108 is pushed through the opening 109 in the rim 106 Likewise, the base 104 is pushed through the opening 109 to invert the container 100. After the container 100 is inverted, the sidewall 108 is extended to define a cavity 150. The cavity 150 is defined by the sidewall 108 and the base 104. The cavity 150 is closed on one end at the base 104 and open on the other end at the opening 109. The cavity 150 has a volume V2 that is substantially the same as the volume V1 of the cavity 110 formed in the operating position 102.

When the container 100 is inverted into the loading position 200, the rim 106 rotates. In particular, the rim 106 rotates so that the first surface 136 extends along an interior of the container 100. The first surface 136 defines a portion of the cavity 150. In the loading position 200, the second surface 138 of the rim 106 is rotated to extend along an exterior of the container 100.

Moreover, when the container 100 is inverted to the loading position 200, the first surface 130 of the sidewall 108 is inverted to form an interior of the container 100. The first surface 130 defines a portion of the cavity 150. The second surface 132 of the sidewall 108 is inverted to form a portion of the exterior of the container 100. In the loading position 200, the second surface 132 of the sidewall 108 functions as a loading surface for receiving liners (not shown). In particular, a liner may be positioned over the second surface 132 of the sidewall 108.

Additionally, in the loading position 200, the first surface 140 of the base 104 is inverted to form an interior surface of the container 100. The first surface 140 defines a bottom 152 of the cavity 150. The second surface 142 of the base 104 is inverted to form an exterior of the container 100. In the loading position 200, the outer flange 116 extends away from the base 104.

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the container 100. FIG. 5 illustrates the container 100 in the loading position 200. The upper step 120 includes indicators 154. The indicators 154 are provided on the second surface 132 of the sidewall 108. The indicators 154 are illustrated as arrows; however, the indicators 154 may take any form, such as a colored dot or the like, a tab, finger tab or groove formed in the sidewall 108, or any other suitable indicator. The indicators 154 are aligned with the fixation mechanisms 114. The indicators 154 indicate the position of the fixation mechanisms 114 to a user of the container 100.

In the loading position 200, the container 100 may be loaded with a liner (not shown). In one embodiment, the container 100 may be loaded with multiple liners. The liners are positioned over the second surface 132 of the container 100. A portion of each liner, for example, a grocery bag handle, is then pulled through the fixation mechanisms 114. The fixation mechanisms 114 secure the liner to the container 100. The container 100 may then be inverted back to the operating position 102 so that the liners line the cavity 110 of the container 100. A more detailed description of loading the container 100 is provided with respect to FIG. 7.

In another embodiment, the loading position 200 may be used to clean the container 100. In particular, in the operating position 102, the second surface 132 of the sidewall 108 and the second surface 142 of the base 104 of the container 100 may be dirty from waste that has been dispensed in the cavity 110. By inverting the container 100 to the loading position 200, the second surface 132 of the sidewall 108 and the second surface 142 of the base 104 may be cleaned from the exterior of the container 100.

In another embodiment, the container 100 may be collapsed without fully inverting the container 100. In such an embodiment, the base 104 and sidewall 108 of the container 100 may be collapsed to position within the rim 106 of the container 100. In such a configuration, the container 100 is reduced in size for storage and/or transportation or used as a liner. Additionally, this configuration would allow the container 100 to be used as a portable cooler for holding ice and liquid to keep beverages cold while traveling and/or during transit. The container may also have a lid or cap that attaches to the fixation mechanisms 114 and forms a “vacuum seal” to potentially keep the smell of the waste inside or to keep liquid from spilling out if container 100 tips over on its side.

FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternative container 400. The container 400 includes several of the same elements as the container 100, illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. The elements of the container 400 that are the same as the elements of the container 100 are referenced using the same reference numbers.

The container 400 includes a base 402 and the rim 106. The rim 106 is formed from a flexible material and is rotatable. The upper flange 112 extends outward in any direction from the rim 106 and includes at least one fixation mechanism 114. The outer flange 116 extends from the upper flange 112.

A sidewall 404 extends between the base 402 and the rim 106. The sidewall 404 includes curved portions 406 and steps 408 extending from the base 402 to the rim 106. The steps 408 and curved portions 406 are collapsible to adjust the shape of the container 400 so that the container 400 can be sized to a particular volume of a waste, decorative container or pot. The curved portions 406 curve inward from the rim 106 to the base 402. The curved portions 406 and steps 408 are collapsible to invert the container 400.

Accordingly, the container 400 operates in the same manner as the container 100, as described in FIG. 7. In particular, the steps 408 and the curved portions 406 collapse so that the base 402 may be pushed or pulled through the opening 109 in the rim 106. As the base 402 is pushed through the opening 109, the rim 106 rotates to enable the container 400 to be inverted. The container 400 is then fully inverted by expanding the sidewall 404 on the other side of the rim 106.

It should be noted that in other embodiments, the sidewall 404 may include additional steps at any location between the base 402 and the rim 106. As such, the sidewall 404 may include additional curved portions 406 as well. The additional steps 408 and curved portions 406 may or may not facilitate further adjustment in the shape of the container 400. Moreover, in one embodiment, the sidewall 404 may not include any steps 408; however, the container 400 would still be collapsible/invertible and adjustable in shape due to the flexible rim 106, base 402, and sidewall 404.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method 300 for operating the container 100. It should be noted that the method 300 is also applicable to operating the container 400. At step 302, the container 100 is inverted into the loading position 200. At step 304, the container 100 is loaded with liners. The container 100 may be loaded with a single liner. Optionally, the container 100 may be loaded with a plurality of liners. The liners are positioned over the container 100 on the second surface 132 of the sidewall 108 and the second surface 142 of the base 104. When loading multiple liners, the liners are loaded one at a time. Each liner is positioned over the previously loaded liner. At step 306, the liners are secured to the container 100. The liners are secured by passing a portion of the liner through at least one of the fixation mechanisms 114. For example, the handles of a bag may be secured in the fixation mechanisms 114. Each of the liners may be secured at the same time. Alternatively, each liner may be secured as it is loaded onto the container 100 prior to the next liner being loaded.

After the liners are loaded, the container 100 is inverted into the operating position 102 by pushing on the base 102 of the container 100, at step 308. Alternatively, the container 100 may be inverted by pulling on a pull tab (not shown) joined to the base of the container 100. In particular, the sidewall 108 of the container 100 is collapsed and the base 104 is pushed/pulled through the opening 109 of the container 100 so that the sidewall 108 expands on the other side of the opening 109. As the container 100 is inverted, the fixation mechanisms 114 secure the liners to the container 100 by friction or other means. In the operating position 102, the liners are positioned within the cavity 110. The portion of the liners that has been extended through the fixation mechanisms 114 is retained with the gap 134 and hidden from view by the outer flange 116, when viewing the container 100.

In the operating position, the container 100 is configured to receive waste or other items. The waste is collected in the innermost liner. When the liner becomes full, the liner is removed from the container 100, at step 310. The liners are removed from the container 100 one at a time. Accordingly, after the full liner is removed, a clean liner remains in the container 100 to collect further waste. When each of the liners has been removed, the container 100 may be inverted back to the loading position 200 and loaded with more liners.

In one embodiment, the container 100 may be used as a free standing can. In another embodiment, the container 100 may be sized to shape to be used as a liner for any traditional container, decorative pot, basket or can. For example, the container 100 may be sized to shape for an (external) standard kitchen trash can and/or decorative pots, baskets or cans. In one embodiment, the container 100 is sized for small waste or decorative cans or baskets that may be used in a bathroom, kid's room, office, auto or alternatively small areas where standard cans do not fit. The container 100 is liquid proof to protect cans into which the container 100 is inserted. For example, the container 100 may protect a waste or decorative pot or can from food, liquid waste, dirty towels, dirty diapers, other human or animal waste and/or other dirt, plant particles that may get caught in crevices of the pot or can and may be difficult to clean and may leak liquid. In another embodiment, the container 100 may be shaped and sized for use in a car. In such an embodiment, the container 100 may include a strap and/or hook to hang the container 100 within the car. Additionally, the strap and/or hook may be used to hang the container 100 on a door knob or the like to keep the container out of the reach of children and/or pets. Moreover, the container 100 may be partially collapsed to adjust the shape of the container 100 to size the container 100 for a particular volume of a waste, decorative pot or can. In addition, the container 100 may be placed in the dishwasher for cleaning.

The embodiments described herein provide a container 100 that can collapse for storage or be shaped to fit in small areas. The container 100 can also retain multiple liners and prevent the liners from tearing and/or collapsing into the container 100. The container 100 enables the recycling of unused or used bags or the like, which promotes a “green” environment and reduces costs associated with purchasing can bag liners or the like. Moreover, the container 100 may be formed from recycled materials. The container 100 provides a clean organized look for reusing bags. In particular, the bags may be organized by stacking multiple bags on the container 100. Accordingly, the bag in the container is conveniently replaced by being stacked with multiple bags. When in use, the outer flange 116 of the container 100 hides the handles of the bags to provide the clean organized look. The container 100 can also be inverted so that the interior walls of the container 100 may be easily cleaned without having to reach into the container 100, turn the container upside down 100, and/or use a long cleaning brush. The container 100 is also capable of retaining liquid which may spill from traditional decorative trash cans, containers or pots. By retaining liquid, the container 100 may also operate as a collapsible cooler capable of retaining ice and liquid. During travel, the collapsible cooler may be collapsed for easy storage in a car, etc. Further, the container 100 does not scratch or damage walls, car interiors, etc. like traditional cans or coolers.

Exemplary embodiments of a can are described above in detail. The components illustrated are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of the system may be utilized independently and separately from other components described herein. For example, the sidewall and rim components described above may also be used in combination with other sidewalls and rims.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the invention without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the invention, the embodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function void of further structure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the various embodiments of the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments of the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if the examples have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A container comprising:

a base forming a first end of the container;
a flexible rim forming a second end of the container and having an opening, the base sized to fit through the opening; and
a collapsible sidewall extending between the base and the rim, the sidewall collapsible so that the base passes through the opening to invert the container.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the rim is rotatable so that the rim rotates when the base passes through the opening.

3. The container of claim 1, wherein, in an operating position, the sidewall has a first surface along an exterior of the container and a second surface along an interior of the container, the container invertible to a loading position when the base passes through the opening so that the first surface is positioned along the interior of the container and the second surface is positioned along the exterior of the container.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein, in an operating position, the rim has a first surface along an exterior of the container and a second surface along an interior of the container, the container invertible to a loading position when the base passes through the opening so that the first surface is positioned along the interior of the container and the second surface is positioned along the exterior of the container.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein the container is invertible between an operating position and a loading position by passing the base through the opening, the container having substantially the same volume in the operating position as in the loading position.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the container has a centerline, the sidewall expending outward with respect to the centerline from the base to the rim.

7. The container of claim 1, wherein the container includes at least one collapsible step to adjust a shape of the container.

8. The container of claim 1, wherein the sidewall is formed from a semi-rigid material to enable the sidewall to collapse, and the rim is formed from a semi-rigid material that enables the rim to rotate.

9. A container comprising:

a base forming a first end of the container;
a rim forming a second end of the container and having an opening, the base sized to fit through the opening;
a collapsible sidewall extending between the base and the rim;
an upper flange extending from the rim; and
at least one fixation mechanism formed in at least one of the upper flange or the sidewall.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein, in a loading position, the sidewall has a first surface along an interior of the container and a second surface along an exterior of the container, the container configured to receive a liner over the second surface, the liner secured in the at least one fixation mechanism.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the container is invertible to an operating position by passing the base through the opening so that the first surface is positioned along the exterior of the container and the second surface is positioned along the interior of the container so that the liner is positioned in the interior of the container along the second surface.

12. The container of claim 9 further comprising an outer flange extending from the upper flange so that a gap is formed between the sidewall and the outer flange, a portion of a liner extended through the at least one fixation mechanism and hidden within the gap when the container is in an operating position.

13. The container of claim 9, wherein, in an operating position, the rim has a first surface along an exterior of the container and a second surface along an interior of the container, the container invertible to a loading position by passing the base through the opening so that the first surface is positioned along the interior of the container and the second surface is positioned along the exterior of the container.

14. The container of claim 9, wherein the container is invertible between a loading position and an operating position by passing the base through the opening, the container having substantially the same volume in the loading position as in the operating position.

15. The container of claim 9, wherein the container includes at least one collapsible step to adjust a shape of the container.

16. The container of claim 9 further comprising a lid to seal the container, the lid secured in the at least one fixation mechanism.

17. A container comprising:

a base;
a rim having an opening, the base sized to fit through the opening;
a sidewall extending between the base and the rim, the sidewall being collapsible to adjust a shape of the container between an operating position and loading position, the container having substantially the same volume in the operating position as in the loading position,

18. The container of claim 17, wherein the sidewall comprises at least one collapsible step to adjust the shape of the container.

19. The container of claim 17, wherein the container has a centerline, the sidewall expanding outward with respect to the centerline from the base to rim.

20. The container of claim 17, wherein the sidewall collapses so that the base passes through the opening to invert the container between the operating position and the loading position.

Patent History
Publication number: 20130284753
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 30, 2012
Publication Date: Oct 31, 2013
Inventor: Gary Kellmann (St. Peters, MO)
Application Number: 13/459,542
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Collapsible Wall Feature (220/666)
International Classification: B65D 6/16 (20060101);