Customizable Storage Container

Abstract

A customizable storage container is provided. The device includes a shell member comprised of a shell base and at least one shell sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the shell base, thereby defining a shell interior volume. A lid is rotatably secured to an open end of the shell sidewall and is secured to the shell sidewall by a shell closure. The shell member is disposed around an insulation material, and the insulation material is further disposed around a storage compartment. The storage compartment is comprised of a storage base and at least one storage sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the storage base, thereby defining a storage interior volume. A pouch is disposed on an exterior surface of the shell member. The pouch and the shell member include a cleanable material that can be drawn on by a marking material. The cleanable material can be cleaned off and reused.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/868,261 filed on Jun. 28, 2019. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to storage containers. More particularly, the present invention provides for a customizable storage container, such as a lunchbox, which can be drawn on by a marking material and cleaned off for repeated use.

Many individuals travel with children in tow to events such as class trips, field trips, church outings, and the like. During these events, their children may become bored and need to perform a productive activity such as coloring. Traditional coloring books and paper take up valuable space and are not reusable. Once the child has completed coloring, the drawing needs to be stored or discarded. Additionally, when a child makes a mistake, or draws on a space unintentionally, the piece of art may be considered ruined.

While on such trips, the children may bring along food, snacks, and drinks that need to be kept in cold storage. Additional space to store items such as cell phones or notes between parents and teachers is also highly desired. Coolers and other storage containers have several drawbacks. Some storage containers only provide one layer of insulation which may not be enough to keep the contents cold over extended periods of time. Other storage containers do not provide entertainment to the user and any marks made on the device may ruin the aesthetic. Some devices do not contain additional storage compartments or spaces for a user to leave notes to another.

The present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing storage containers. In this regard the present invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of storage containers now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a customizable storage container, such as a lunchbox, which can be drawn on by a marking material and cleaned off for repeated use. The present customizable storage container comprises a shell member comprised of a shell base and at least one shell sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the shell base, thereby defining a shell interior volume. A lid is rotatably secured to an open end of the shell sidewall and is secured to the shell sidewall by a shell closure. The shell member is disposed around an insulation material, and the insulation material is further disposed around a storage compartment. The storage compartment is comprised of a storage base and at least one storage sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the storage base, thereby defining a storage interior volume. A pouch is disposed on an exterior surface of the shell member. The pouch and the shell member include a cleanable material that can be drawn on by a marking material. The cleanable material can be cleaned off and reused.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container.

FIG. 1B shows front views of various embodiments of the customizable storage container, with a focus on the shape of the shell member.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container in an open configuration.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container, with a focus on a removably securable pouch.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container, in use and being drawn on by a child.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the customizable storage container. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, a preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for the customizable storage container. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Referring now to FIG. 1A, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container. The customizable storage container 100 includes a shell member 110 comprised of a shell base 120 and at least one shell side wall 130 disposed around a perimeter of the shell base 120, thereby defining a shell interior volume. Generally, the shell member 110 may be designed according to any of a variety of different forms. In some embodiments, the shell member 110 may include a handle 140 disposed on opposing sides of the shell member 110 which a user can utilize to transport the device. In some embodiments, the handle 140 includes a plastic strip inserted therein for added durability. In other embodiments, the handle 140 is a strap that is flexible to enable a user to comfortably carry the device over their shoulder or arm. In further embodiments, the strap is adjustable in length.

Referring now to FIG. 1B, there are shown front views of various embodiments of the customizable storage container, with a focus on the shape of the shell member. The shape, size, and aesthetics of the shell member 110 can vary according to the preference of a user. In various embodiments, the shell member 110 can be in the shape of an animal, an automobile, a vehicle, and an icon. For example in one embodiment the shell member 110 may resemble a bear's face 111 with a handle 140 attached thereto. In another embodiment, the shell member 110 may resemble the full body 112 of a bear with the handle 140 attached thereto. In a further embodiment, the full body 112 of the bear is capable or storage. In a third embodiment, the shell member 110 may be a smaller sleeker design, such as a pocketbook design 113. In this manner, the appearance of the customizable storage container may be customized according to a particular need or preference.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container in an open configuration. In one embodiment, a lid 200 is rotatably secured to an open end 210 of the shell sidewall 130. In an alternate embodiment, the lid 200 is pivotally secured to an open end 210 of the shell sidewall 130 by a flap or by a hinge. The lid 200 is further selectively secured to the shell sidewall 130 by a shell closure 220. In one embodiment, the shell closure 220 is a solid latch. In the shown embodiment, the lid 200 is rotatably secured to a rear open end 210 of the shell sidewall 130 along the length of the rear open end 210, and is further selectively secured to the shell sidewall 130 by a zipper shell closure 220 which runs along the remaining three perimeter sides of the lid 200 and the shell sidewall 130. In one embodiment, the shell closure 220 is a waterproof and airtight closure.

In one embodiment, securement of the lid 200 to the shell sidewall 130 forms a waterproof and airtight seal, such that a storage interior volume 290 is isolated from external liquids and gasses such as air. In some embodiments securement of the lid 200 to the shell sidewall 130 forms an airtight seal, while in other embodiments, such securement forms a waterproof seal. In one embodiment, the lid 200 further comprises a compartment 230 configured to receive a heating or cooling pack 231. In a further embodiment, the compartment 230 includes a compartment closure such as a zipper, to prevent the heating or cooling pack 231 from falling out. The heating or cooling pack 231 can be utilized to warm or cool the storage interior volume 290 without directly contacting any personal items 291, such as food or drink containers, stored therein. In another embodiment, adjustable dividers are removably secured to the storage interior volume 290 such that the storage interior volume 290 can be subdivided. Such subdivisions enable a user to separate and store various items while preventing the items from contacting each other. For example, the adjustable dividers can be utilized to form a storage space for a delicate item such as a sandwich or banana, as well as a separate storage space for a soda can. The adjustable dividers prevent the soda can from rolling around and compressing against the sandwich or banana.

The shell member 110 is disposed around an insulation material 240. The insulation material 240 is configured to provide a thermal barrier between the environment outside of the device and the interior of the device. In one embodiment, the insulation material 240 comprises polyurethane. Polyurethane provides a cushioned and soft material that prevents the device from denting or deforming. Polyurethane also provides a thick material with insulating properties.

The insulation material 240 is disposed around a storage compartment 250, wherein the storage compartment 250 is comprised of a storage base 257 and at least one storage sidewall 252 disposed around a perimeter of the storage base 257, thereby defining a storage interior volume 290. The storage compartment 250 is configured to receive various personal items such as food, drink containers. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the storage compartment 250 provides a storage space in which a user can store perishable or temperature sensitive items and that the insulation material 240 will aid in maintaining a temperature inside the storage interior volume 290 necessary for such temperature sensitive items. In this manner, a user can place their food and drink containers and keep them cool for extended periods of time.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container, with a focus on a removably securable pouch. In some embodiments, a pouch 300 is disposed on an exterior surface 350 of the shell member 110. In other embodiments, the pouch 300 is removably secured to the exterior surface 350 of the shell member 110. In various further embodiments, the pouch 300 can be removably secured via complementary fasteners such as hook and loop fasteners, metal clasps, or the like. The pouch 300 is configured to provide additional storage space to a user outside of the storage interior volume. The pouch 300 can be utilized to store various personal items such as pens, crayons, cellphones, notes, eating utensils, napkins, wet naps, or the like. In some embodiments, the pouch further includes a pouch closure 301 which can be utilized to close an interior volume of the pouch 300 such that items stored therein will not spill out.

In some embodiments, the exterior surface 350 of the shell member 110 further includes indicia 310. The indicia 310 can provide an identifier that can be used to distinguish one device from another. In some embodiments, the indicia 310 include games that can be played thereon such as tic-tac-toe 311. In some embodiments, the indicia 310 can provide characters 312, designs 313, and patterns that a user can mark as further detailed below. In one embodiment, the indicia 310 can provide a space for important notes to be left such as food allergies, food needs, emergency details, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable storage container, in use and being drawn on by a child. In some embodiments, the shell member 110 comprises a cleanable material disposed on an exterior surface 350 thereof, wherein the cleanable material is configured to enable a marking material 400 to removably adhere thereto. In other embodiments, both the shell member 110 and the pouch 300 comprise the cleanable material disposed on an exterior surface 350 thereof. The cleanable material enables a user to use a marking material 400 such as an erasable marker, a permanent marker, and a removable paint marker, to draw and color on the exterior surface 350 of the device. In some embodiments, the cleanable material is washable, and when washed the marking material 400 is cleaned from the surface thereof. In some embodiments, the cleanable material is compatible for use with permanent or removable paint markers, and marks on the cleanable material resulting from the use of such materials can be cleaned off as the user desires.

In one embodiment, the cleanable material is a polyurethane foam. In another embodiment, the cleanable material includes an insulation which provides for either the primary, or an additional layer of insulation, thereby providing thermal insulation properties to the device. In another embodiment, the cleanable material further comprises indicia 310, as discussed above. Because the cleanable material can be cleaned of marks from compatible marking materials 400, a user can draw, play games, leave notes and the like and be able to clean off such markings when desired. In this manner, the present device can be repeatedly re-used, and games can be played over again, as can drawings and coloring activities and notes left.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, 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.

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 may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1) A customizable storage container, comprising:

a shell member comprised of a shell base and at least one shell sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the shell base, thereby defining a shell interior volume;

a lid rotatably secured to an open end of the shell sidewall;

wherein the lid is further selectively secured to the shell sidewall by a shell closure;

the shell member disposed around an insulation material;

the insulation material disposed around a storage compartment;

wherein the storage compartment is comprised of a storage base and at least one storage sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the storage base, thereby defining a storage interior volume;

the storage compartment is further comprised of adjustable dividers;

wherein the adjustable dividers are removably secured to the storage interior volume;

a pouch disposed on an exterior surface of the shell member;

the pouch includes an interior volume and a pouch closure;

the shell member comprises a cleanable material disposed on an exterior surface thereof, wherein the cleanable material is configured to enable a marking material to removably adhere thereto.

2) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the cleanable material is a polyurethane foam.

3) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the cleanable material further comprises a thermal insulation barrier between an environment outside of the customizable storage container and the shell interior volume.

4) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the cleanable material is washable.

5) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the cleanable material is compatible for use with permanent or removable paint markers.

6) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the cleanable material further comprises indicia.

7) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the shell closure is waterproof and airtight.

8) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein securement of the lid to the shell sidewall forms a waterproof and airtight seal, such that the storage interior volume is isolated from external liquids and gasses.

9) The customizable storage container of claim 1, wherein the lid further comprises a pouch configured to receive a heating and cooling pack, wherein the heating and cooling pack warm or cool the storage interior volume without directly contacting any personal items stored therein.

10) A customizable storage container, comprising:

a shell member comprised of a shell base and at least one shell sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the shell base, thereby defining a shell interior volume;

a lid rotatably secured to an open end of the shell sidewall;

wherein the lid is further selectively secured to the shell sidewall by a shell closure;

the shell member disposed around an insulation material;

the insulation material disposed around a storage compartment;

wherein the storage compartment is comprised of a storage base and at least one storage sidewall disposed around a perimeter of the storage base, thereby defining a storage interior volume;

the storage compartment is further comprised of adjustable dividers;

wherein the adjustable dividers are removably secured to the storage interior volume;

a pouch removably secured to an exterior surface of the shell member;

the pouch includes an interior volume and a pouch closure;

the pouch and the shell member comprise a cleanable material disposed on an exterior surface thereof, wherein the cleanable material is configured to enable a marking material to removably adhere thereto.

11) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the cleanable material is a polyurethane foam.

12) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the cleanable material further comprises a thermal insulation barrier between an environment outside of the customizable storage container and the shell interior volume.

13) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the cleanable material is washable.

14) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the cleanable material is compatible for use with permanent or removable paint markers.

15) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the cleanable material further comprises indicia.

16) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the shell closure is waterproof and airtight.

17) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein securement of the lid to the shell sidewall forms a waterproof and airtight seal, such that the storage interior volume is isolated from external liquids and gasses.

18) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the lid further comprises a pouch configured to receive a heating and cooling pack, wherein the heating and cooling pack warm or cool the storage interior volume without directly contacting any personal items stored therein.

19) (canceled)

20) (canceled)

21) The customizable storage container of claim 10, wherein the shell member includes a handle disposed on opposing sides of the shell member.

22) The customizable storage container of claim 21, wherein a plastic strip is disposed in the handle.