BUCKETS AND ACCESSORIES RELATING TO THE SAME

Abstract

An assembly that includes a bucket; an arrangement for coupling a lid to the bucket without fully enclosing the bucket. The bucket can include a base portion that has a circular cross-sectional shape and an upper portion that has a non-circular cross-sectional shape.

Description

REFERENCED APPLICATIONS

The present patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/544,272 filed on Oct. 16, 2023 and entitled “Bucket and Accessories”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and made part of the present U.S. utility patent application for all purposes.

The present patent application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/857,736 filed on Oct. 25, 2022 and entitled “Bucket Lid Clip”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and made part of the present U.S. utility patent application for all purposes.

The present patent application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/857,918 filed on Oct. 26, 2022 and entitled “Bucket Base Handle”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and made part of the present U.S. utility patent application for all purposes.

The present patent application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/857,926 filed on Oct. 26, 2022 and entitled “Non-Circular Top Bucket”, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties and made part of the present U.S. utility patent application for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to improved buckets and bucket assemblies, and accessories that can optionally be used with the improved bucket and bucket assemblies, and more particularly to buckets and bucket assemblies that can be more efficiently packed, shipped, and displayed, and that can be more easily used.

BACKGROUND OF DISCLOSURE

Conventional buckets (e.g. 1 gallon buckets, 5 gallon buckets, 10 gallon buckets, etc.) generally have a circular cross-sectional shape that tapers in size from top to bottom. Such circular cross-sectional shaped buckets include many benefits including, in one example, allowing for easier and uniform mixing of materials therein. However, these conventional buckets occupy a large amount of space, and create a substantial amount of unusable space, when displayed on shelving and/or when packaged in shipping cartons.

Furthermore, the lids or coverings that accompany the buckets are often stored in boxes or containers that are separate from the buckets on the display shelves and/or are packaged and shipped separately from the buckets, thereby creating various storage, shipping, merchandising, and display problems and inefficiencies. Additionally, the separated lids and buckets generally require distinct stock-keeping units (SKUs).

As such, there is an ongoing need for buckets, bucket assemblies, and accessories relating to the same that: (i) improve shipping, handling, and transporting efficiencies; (ii) improve merchandising and display efficiencies; (iii) maintain the benefits of conventional, circular cross-sectional shaped buckets; and (iv) provide a combination bucket and lid product having a single sellable SKU.

SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is directed to buckets, bucket assemblies, and accessories relating to the same that provides for more efficient packing, shipping, merchandising, and displaying of the buckets and their lids, while also allowing for easier use thereof.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket that includes an upper portion and a lower portion having a base, and wherein the upper portion of the bucket has a cross-sectional shape that is different from a cross-sectional shape of the lower portion of the bucket. The size of the bucket is non-limiting (e.g., 1 quart bucket to 20 gallon bucket and all values and ranges therebetween). The material used to form a majority (e.g., 51-99.99% and all values and ranges therebetween) or all of the bucket is non-limiting (e.g., plastic, metal, composite material, ceramic, wood, fiber material, etc.). In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper portion of the bucket has a non-circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein the base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper portion of the bucket has a polygonal or generally polygonal cross-sectional shape (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc.), and wherein the base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In one non-limiting configuration of the present disclosure, the top portion of the bucket has a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape. In another non-limiting configuration of the present disclosure, the top portion of the bucket has a generally square or rectangular cross-sectional shape wherein the corners of the generally square or rectangular cross-sectional shape are curved (e.g., 45-90° radius of curvature and all values and ranges therebetween) and wherein the edge between the corners is straight or slightly curved (e.g., 0.01-10° radius of curvature and all values and ranges therebetween). In another one non-limiting configuration of the present disclosure, the bucket has a non-circular cross-sectional shape along 5-99.99% (and all values and ranges therebetween) of a longitudinal central axis of the bucket. Generally, the maximum height of the bucket is greater than a maximum cross-sectional length of the bucket (e.g., height of bucket greater than a maximum diameter of the bucket, etc.). The bucket can optionally include a pouring lip region on the upper rim of the bucket to facilitate in pouring materials from the bucket. A lid can optionally be provided for use with the bucket. The lid, when provided, is configured to be releasably securable to the top rim of the bucket. The cross-sectional shape of the lid is generally non-circular, and is generally the same or similar to the cross-sectional shape of the top of the bucket. In one non-limiting configuration, the inner bottom edge region of the lip can optionally include a lip that is configured to releasably engage an underside of a first or top rim of the bucket to facilitate in releasably securing the lid to the bucket. In another non-limiting configuration, the bottom surface of the lid includes an inner flange that is spaced from an inner bottom edge of the lid, and the spacing between the inner flange and the inner bottom edge is configured to releasably receive a portion or all of the first or top rim of the bucket to facilitate in releasably securing the lid to the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the bucket optionally has a first rim and an optional second rim, and wherein the second rim is located below the first rim. The distance that the second rim is positioned below the first rim is non-limiting (e.g., the second rim is positioned below the first rim a distance of 1-15% of a height of the bucket and all values and ranges therebetween). In one non-limiting embodiment, the first and second rims have the same size, shape and configuration. In another non-limiting embodiment, the first and second rims have a different size, shape and/or configuration. In one non-limiting configuration, the second rim has a larger lip than the first rim (e.g., the second rim has a lip that is 1.1 to 20 times larger than a lip on the first rim and all values and ranges therebetween).

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the bucket optionally includes a handle member used to facilitate in carrying the bucket by a user. In one non-limiting embodiment, the handle member is connected to the second rim of the bucket at a first connection point and a second connection point. In another non-limiting embodiment, the handle member is movably connected to the bucket (e.g., pivotally connected to the bucket, etc.). The handle member can optionally include a handle portion.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, there is optionally provided a means for coupling a lid to the bucket without fully enclosing the bucket with the lid. In one non-limiting embodiment, the means for coupling the lid to the bucket further comprises a slot formed in the second rim of the bucket; a tab formed on an outer edge of the lid; and a fastener that is looped through the slot and the tab to thereby secure the lid to a side of the bucket. In one non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, an inner side of the lid faces away from the bucket when the lid is coupled to the bucket by way of the fastener, and wherein the inner side of the lid optionally can receive indicia regarding branding, pricing, instructions of use, bucket size information, and/or marketing information. As can be appreciated, such indicia can also or alternatively be positioned on the top face of the lid, and/or on the inner and/or outer surfaces of the bucket. In another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, the fastener is optionally a zip tie, a cord, a wire, or a chain. In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the means for coupling the lid to the bucket includes a clip having a protruding portion that is configured to releasably engage a groove that is formed along a periphery of an inner side of the lid; and a hook portion that is configured to latch the clip and the lid to a handle member, the first rim or the second rim of the bucket. In one non-limiting configuration, the hook portion of the clip is optionally configured to releasably connect at or near either the first connection point or the second connection point of the handle member on the bucket. In another non-limiting configuration, the clip optionally includes a shelf extending in an opposite direction from the protruding portion; and at least one catch formed on the protruding portion, wherein the at least one catch engages an outer edge of the lid to releasably secure the clip to the lid. In another non-limiting embodiment, the hook portion is deflected at a predetermined angle from a vertical centerline of the clip, and wherein the shelf is deflected at a predetermined angle from a horizontal centerline of the clip. In one non-limiting arrangement, the hook portion is substantially perpendicular to the shelf when the clip is releasably coupled to the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the assembly optionally comprises a handle integrated into the base of the bucket, wherein the handle is transitionable between a non-use position and an in-use position, and wherein the handle is partially or fully concealable in the base of the bucket in the non-use position, and wherein the handle partially extends from the base of the bucket in the in-use position. In some non-limiting aspects of the present disclosure, the handle comprises a grip portion; and a body having an opening formed thereon, wherein the opening receives a protuberance that is formed on the base to couple the handle to the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device for coupling a lid to a bucket, wherein the device comprises a body having a first surface and a second surface; a protruding portion that is configured to engage a groove that is formed along a periphery of a lid, wherein the protruding portion extends from the first surface of the body; and a hook portion that is configured to couple the lid to a first side of a bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the device further comprises a shelf extending from the second surface of the body; and at least one catch formed on the protruding portion, wherein the at least one catch engages an outer edge of the lid to secure the device to the lid.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the bucket comprises an upper portion having a first rim and a second rim, wherein the second rim is located below the first rim; a lower portion having a base; and a handle member that is connected to the second rim at a first connection point and a second connection point, wherein the upper portion has either a substantially square cross-sectional shape or a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein the base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the hook portion latches to the handle member at either the first connection point or the second connection point such that an exterior side of the lid faces away from the bucket, and wherein the exterior side of the lid receives indicia regarding branding, pricing, instructions of use, bucket size information, and/or marketing information.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the hook portion is deflected at a predetermined angle from a vertical centerline of the device, and wherein the shelf is deflected at a predetermined angle from a horizontal centerline of the device. In one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, when the hook portion is latched to the handle member, the shelf engages the second rim and the hook portion is substantially perpendicular to the shelf.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the device further comprises an indented section formed in the second surface of the body, wherein the indented section is substantially coplanar to the protruding portion.

In one non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided buckets, bucket assemblies, and accessories that provide for more efficient packing, shipping, merchandising, and displaying of the buckets and their lids, while also allowing for easier use thereof.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket that includes an upper portion and a lower portion having a base, and wherein the upper portion of the bucket has a cross-sectional shape that is different from a cross-sectional shape of the lower portion of the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the upper portion of the bucket has a non-circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein the base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the upper portion of the bucket has a polygonal or generally polygonal cross-sectional shape, and wherein the base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the top portion of the bucket has a generally polygonal cross-sectional shape (e.g., square or rectangular), and wherein the corners of the generally square or rectangular cross-sectional shape are curved, and wherein the edge between the corners is straight or slightly curved.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the bucket has a non-circular cross-sectional shape along 5-99.99% of a longitudinal central axis of the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket that can be used with a lid, and wherein lid is configured to be releasably securable to the top rim of the bucket, and wherein the cross-sectional shape of the lid is generally non-circular, and is generally the same or similar to the cross-sectional shape of the top of the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the bucket has a first rim and a second rim, and wherein the second rim is located below the first rim.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the second rim has a larger lip than the first rim.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the bucket includes a handle member used to facilitate in carrying the bucket by a user, and wherein the handle member is connected to the second rim of the bucket at a first connection point and a second connection point.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein there is provided a means for coupling a lid to the bucket without fully enclosing the bucket with the lid, and wherein the means for coupling the lid to the bucket includes a slot formed in the second rim of the bucket; a tab formed on an outer edge of the lid; and a fastener that is looped through the slot and the tab to thereby secure the lid to a side of the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the means for coupling the lid to the bucket includes a clip having a protruding portion that is configured to releasably engage a groove that is formed along a periphery of an inner side of the lid; and a hook portion that is configured to latch the clip and the lid to a handle member, the first rim or the second rim of the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the means for coupling the lid to the bucket includes a clip, and wherein the hook portion of the clip is configured to releasably connect at or near either the first connection point or the second connection point of the handle member on the bucket.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the means for coupling the lid to the bucket includes a clip, and wherein the clip includes a shelf extending in an opposite direction from the protruding portion; and at least one catch formed on the protruding portion, wherein the at least one catch engages an outer edge of the lid to releasably secure the clip to the lid.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket wherein the means for coupling the lid to the bucket includes a clip, and wherein the hook portion is deflected at a predetermined angle from a vertical centerline of the clip, and wherein the shelf is deflected at a predetermined angle from a horizontal centerline of the clip.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket that includes a handle that is integrated into the base of the bucket, and wherein the handle is transitionable between a non-use position and an in-use position, and wherein the handle is partially or fully concealable in the base of the bucket in the non-use position, and wherein the handle partially extends from the base of the bucket in the in-use position.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure, there is provided a bucket that includes a handle that is integrated into the base of the bucket, and wherein the handle comprises a grip portion; and a body has an opening formed thereon, wherein the opening receives a protuberance that is formed on the base to couple the handle to the bucket.

These and other objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and following the description taken together with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and form a part of the specification, schematically illustrate one or more example implementations of the disclosed technology and, together with the general description given above and detailed description given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting, exemplary bucket in accordance with one non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a first side view of the bucket of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the bucket of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a top-down view of the bucket of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the bucket of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a front, bottom perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 1

FIG. 8 is a rear, bottom perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 depicts a non-limiting, exemplary assembly in accordance with one non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure, wherein the assembly includes a bucket, a lid, and a fastener that couples the lid to the bucket.

FIG. 10A depicts the bucket and the lid of the assembly of FIG. 9, and FIG. 10B is a magnified view of FIG. 10A showing an exemplary point of connection between the bucket and the lid.

FIG. 11 depicts another non-limiting, exemplary assembly in accordance with another non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure, wherein the assembly includes a bucket, a lid, and a clip that couples the lid to the bucket.

FIG. 12 is a first side view of the assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a front view of the assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is a top-down view of the assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 15A depicts the clip and the lid of FIG. 11 coupled together, and FIG. 15B is a magnified view of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the clip of FIG. 11.

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the clip of FIG. 11.

FIG. 18 is a rear view of the clip of FIG. 11.

FIG. 19 is a front view of the clip of FIG. 11.

FIG. 20 is a first side view of the clip of FIG. 11 showing a vertical centerline and a horizontal centerline.

FIG. 21 is a magnified view of FIG. 13 showing the lid and the clip jointly coupled to the bucket.

FIG. 22 depicts a non-limiting, exemplary display comprising a plurality of sets formed from a plurality of stacked assemblies of FIG. 11.

FIGS. 23A-23B depict a non-limiting, exemplary bucket having an integrated handle in accordance with another non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure, wherein FIG. 23A is a front, bottom perspective view of the bucket showing the handle in a non-use position, and wherein FIG. 23B is a front, bottom perspective view of the bucket showing the handle in a use position.

FIG. 24A is a bottom view of the bucket of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 24B is a bottom view of the bucket of FIG. 23B.

FIG. 25A is a front perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 25B is a front perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 23B.

FIG. 26A is a front view of the bucket of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 26B is a front view of the bucket of FIG. 23B.

FIG. 27A is a first side view of the bucket of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 27B is a first side view of the bucket of FIG. 23B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

A more complete understanding of the articles/devices, processes and components disclosed herein can be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings. These figures are merely schematic representations based on convenience and the ease of demonstrating the present disclosure, and are, therefore, not intended to indicate relative size and dimensions of the devices or components thereof and/or to define or limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

Although specific terms are used in the following description for the sake of clarity, these terms are intended to refer only to the particular structure of the embodiments selected for illustration in the drawings and are not intended to define or limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings and the following description below, it is to be understood that like numeric designations refer to components of like function.

The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used in the specification and in the claims, the term “comprising” may include the embodiments “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of.” The terms “comprise(s),” “include(s),” “having,” “has,” “can,” “contain(s),” and variants thereof, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended transitional phrases, terms, or words that require the presence of the named ingredients/steps and permit the presence of other ingredients/steps. However, such description should be construed as also describing compositions or processes as “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” the enumerated ingredients/steps, which allows the presence of only the named ingredients/steps, along with any unavoidable impurities that might result therefrom, and excludes other ingredients/steps.

Numerical values in the specification and claims of this application should be understood to include numerical values which are the same when reduced to the same number of significant figures and numerical values which differ from the stated value by less than the experimental error of conventional measurement technique of the type described in the present application to determine the value.

All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the recited endpoint and independently combinable (for example, the range of “from 2 grams to 10 grams” is inclusive of the endpoints, 2 grams and 10 grams, and all the intermediate values).

The terms “about” and “approximately” can be used to include any numerical value that can vary without changing the basic function of that value. When used with a range, “about” and “approximately” also disclose the range defined by the absolute values of the two endpoints, e.g., “about 2 to about 4” also discloses the range “from 2 to 4.” Generally, the terms “about” and “approximately” may refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number.

Percentages of elements should be assumed to be percent by weight of the stated element, unless expressly stated otherwise.

Although the operations of exemplary embodiments of the disclosed method may be described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that disclosed embodiments can encompass an order of operations other than the particular, sequential order disclosed. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Further, descriptions and disclosures provided in association with one particular embodiment are not limited to that embodiment, and may be applied to any embodiment disclosed.

For the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways (readily discernable, based on this disclosure, by one of ordinary skill in the art) in which the disclosed system, method and apparatus can be used in combination with other systems, methods and apparatuses. Additionally, the description sometimes uses terms such as “produce” and “provide” to describe the disclosed method. These terms are abstractions of the actual operations that can be performed. The actual operations that correspond to these terms can vary depending on the particular implementation and are, based on this disclosure, readily discernible by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Example implementations of the disclosed technology provides a bucket (e.g. 1 gallon bucket, 5 gallon bucket, 10 gallon bucket, etc.) having a generally non-circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., polygonal [e.g., square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, etc.], oval, etc.) at an upper portion of the bucket and a traditional circular cross-sectional shape at a base of the bucket. The disclosed bucket provides various advantages (e.g., space-saving advantages, shelf display advantages, packaging advantages, dispensing advantages, carrying advantages, advantages when using a mixer, increased volume capacity, smaller height, packaging advantages, shipping advantages, etc.), while maintaining the benefits of conventional buckets, such as the circular base allowing for easier and uniform mixing of materials as compared to a squared base bucket.

In one non-limiting example, the disclosed bucket (e.g., 5 gallon bucket) is compared to a conventional circular cross-sectional shaped 5 (five) gallon bucket, wherein both buckets have the same diameter base. The square cross-sectional shape upper portion of the disclosed bucket creates additional volume capacity than the circular cross-sectional shaped upper portions, thereby allowing the disclosed bucket to be shorter (e.g., about 0.375 inches shorter) than the conventional bucket, while holding the same 5 gallons of liquid. For example, 23 of the disclosed buckets in accordance with the present disclosure can stack within a shipping carton having dimensions of 12″×13″×52″, as compared to 19 conventional buckets that can stack within a shipping carton having dimensions of 13″×13.25″×52″. Conventionally sized shipping pallets can generally fit 9 total cartons of conventional 5 gallon buckets for a total 171 total buckets per shipping pallet; however, conventionally sized shipping pallets can fit 12 total cartons of the disclosed 5 gallon buckets in accordance with the present disclosure for a total of 288 total buckets per shipping pallet. It is to be appreciated that other shipping advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the disclosed bucket in accordance with the present disclosure.

Other example implementations of the disclosed technology provides novel assemblies and accessories that combine bucket lids and buckets into a single, sellable product, while reducing shelf inventory, minimizing the amount of unused space on display shelves, and improving merchandising efficiencies. Example implementations of the disclosed technology provide tethering (e.g. zip tie, cord, wire, chain, etc.) or clipping a lid to a conventional bucket (circular cross-sectional shaped) and/or to the disclosed bucket (square cross-sectional shape upper portion).

In one non-limiting example, a display self that is 48″ wide×24″ deep can generally receive 20 conventional 5 gallon buckets and 42 corresponding lids that are packaged separately from the conventional buckets on the display self. The display shelf having the same dimensions can alternatively receive 42 disclosed 5 gallon buckets in accordance with the present disclosure and 30 corresponding lids that are packaged separately from the disclosed 5 gallon buckets on the display shelf. The display shelf having the same dimensions can alternatively receive 25 combined conventional 5 gallon buckets and lids assemblies. The display shelf having the same dimensions can alternatively receive 36 combined disclosed 5 gallon buckets and lids assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that other space-saving and merchandising advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Still other example implementations of the disclosed technology provides a bucket (conventional bucket or the disclosed square cross-sectional shaped bucket) having an integrated handle coupled to a recessed base of the bucket. The disclosed integrated handle can advantageously aid in the handling and/or use of the bucket (e.g. pouring liquid from the bucket), while also serving as an additional support to the bucket to prevent tipping or falling while in an in-use position.

One or more implementations of the subject application will now be described with reference to the attached FIGS. 1-8, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting, exemplary bucket 5 in accordance with one non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a first side view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a front view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a top-down view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a front, bottom perspective view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a rear, bottom perspective view of the bucket 5 of FIG. 1.

With reference to FIGS. 1-8, there is provided a bucket 5 having a partially enclosed body 10 that defines an internal space 12. The body 10 includes an upper portion 20, a middle or central portion 30, and a lower portion 40 having a base 42. The upper portion 20 has a non-circular shape (e.g., substantially square cross-sectional shape), while the lower portion 40 and the base 42 have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The middle portion 30 has a shape transformation from the substantially non-circular cross-sectional shape of the upper portion 20 to the substantially circular cross-sectional shape of the lower portion 40. The cross-sectional area of bucket 5 can be such that the cross-sectional area of the base 42 is less than a cross-sectional area of the middle portion 30 and/or the upper portion 20. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the cross-sectional area of bucket 5 progressively increase from the base 42 to the upper portion 20.

Still referring to FIGS. 1-8, the upper portion 20 includes a top rim 22 and an intermediate rim 24 that are separated by a skirt 25. The top rim 22 and the intermediate rim 24 are substantially non-circular shaped (e.g., square shaped, etc.) to correspond to the substantially non-circular cross-sectional shape of the upper portion 20. The top rim 22 includes a lip that extends downwardly from the top edge of top rim 22. Likewise, the intermediate rim 24 includes a lip that extends downwardly from the top edge of intermediate rim 24. The length of the lip on the intermediate rim 24 is longer than the length of the lip on the top rim 22 (e.g., 0.5-10 time longer and all values and ranges therebetween). The bottom edge of the rims on both the top rim 22 and the intermediate rim 24 are spaced from the side wall of the body 10 of bucket 5. Also, the rims on both the top rim 22 and the intermediate rim 24 angle outwardly from the side wall of the body 10 of bucket 5 as illustrated in FIG. 3.

The bucket 5 further includes a handle 26 having a grip member 28. The handle is coupled to the intermediate rim 24 at connection points 50a and 50b. The handle 26 is configured to pivotally move relative to intermediate rim 24. The shape of the handle 26 and the grip member 28 are non-limiting. The handle 26 can optionally include stops and/or curved regions as illustrated in FIG. 4 to limit the movement of the grip member 28 along the longitudinal length of handle 26. Although not shown in the figures, it is to be appreciated that the top rim 22 can receive a corresponding, non-circular shaped lid (e.g., substantially square shaped lid, etc.).

One or more implementations of the subject application will now be described with reference to the attached FIGS. 9 and 10A-10B, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. FIG. 9 depicts a non-limiting, exemplary assembly 100 in accordance with one non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure, wherein the assembly 100 includes a bucket 110, a lid 150, and a fastener 160 that couples the lid 150 to the bucket 110. FIG. 10A depicts the bucket 110 and the lid 150 of the assembly 100 of FIG. 9, and FIG. 10B is a magnified view of FIG. 10A showing an exemplary point of connection between the bucket 110 and the lid 150. The bucket 110 can be the specially configured bucket that is illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 as discussed above, or can be a conventional prior art bucket.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10A-10B, there is provided an assembly 100 having a bucket 110, a corresponding lid 150, and a fastener 160. The bucket 110 can be similar to the bucket 5 discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-8, wherein the bucket 110 includes a partially enclosed body 112 having a substantially non-circular upper portion 116 (e.g., square shaped upper portion), a shape transformative middle or central portion 118, and a substantially circular cross-sectional shaped lower portion 120. The lower portion 120 includes a base 132 that is also substantially circular-shaped. The body 112 defines an internal space 114. The upper portion 116 includes a non-circular top rim 122 (e.g., substantially square shaped top rim) and a non-circular intermediate rim 124 (e.g., substantially square shaped intermediate rim) that are separated by a skirt 126. As can be appreciated, bucket 110 can be a conventionally shaped bucket that includes both circular cross-sectional shaped middle and upper portions and circular cross-sectional shaped top and intermediate rims.

Still referring to FIGS. 9 and 10A-10B, the intermediate rim 124 includes a slot 125 that is configured to receive the fastener 160. The size and shape of the slot 125 is non-limiting. A handle 128 having a grip member 130 is coupled to the intermediate rim 124.

Still referring to FIGS. 9 and 10A-10B, the lid 150 includes an inner side 154 having a groove 152 that extends the periphery of the lid 150, wherein the groove 152 is configured to releasably receive the top rim 122 of the bucket 110 when the lid 150 is to close the bucket 110. In the present non-limiting embodiment, the lid 150 is non-circular shaped (e.g., substantially square shaped) so as to correspond to the shape of the upper portion 116 of the bucket 110. The lid 150 further includes a tab or a loop 156 that is configured to receive the fastener 160. The tab 156 is illustrated as extending outwardly from the outer peripheral edge of the lid; however, this is not required. The size and shape of the tab 156 is non-limiting. The tab 156 can be integrally formed on the lid 150 or be subsequently attached to the lid 150 (e.g., adhesively attached, mechanically attached, melted connection, etc.). If the tab 156 is subsequently attached to the lid 150, the tab 156 can be configured to be removable or be non-removable from the lid 150.

With specific reference to FIG. 9, the fastener 160 is fed through the loop 156 and the slot 125 to couple the lid 150 to the bucket 110 such that the inner side 154 is facing outward. The fastener can be configured to be permanently removable (e.g., fastener configured to be cut or broken, etc.) or be reusable. The inner side 154 of the lid 150 can receive labels, stickers, text, or other indicia 170 (e.g. branding, pricing, marketing, instructions, etc.) to improve merchandising and/or ensure purchasers obtain the proper lid with the bucket.

It is to be appreciated that the lid 150 could be coupled to the bucket 110 by way of the fastener 160 such that the inner side 154 is facing inward towards the bucket 110. In such non-limiting implementations, the indicia 170 could be located on an exterior side of the lid 150. It is to be appreciated that the fastener 160 can be cut or otherwise removed when the lid 150 is to be used to close or seal the upper portion 116 of the bucket 110. Non-limiting fasteners 160 can include a cord, a zip-cord, wire, hook and loop strap, chain, clip, etc. As can be appreciated, after the lid is detached from the bucket, the lid can be removably secured to the top of the bucket. As can also be appreciated, a user can optionally reattach the lid to the bucket by feeding the same or a new fastener 160 through the loop 156 and the slot 125 to couple the lid 150 to the bucket 110.

One or more implementations of the subject application will now be described with reference to the attached FIGS. 11-21, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 11 depicts another non-limiting, exemplary assembly 200 in accordance with another non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure, wherein the assembly 200 includes a bucket 210, a lid 230, and a clip 250 that is configured to couple the lid 230 to the bucket 210. The bucket 210 can be the specially configured bucket that is illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 as discussed above, or can be a conventional prior art bucket.

FIG. 12 is a first side view of the assembly 200 of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a front view of the assembly 200 of FIG. 11. FIG. 14 is a top-down view of the assembly 200 of FIG. 11. FIG. 15A depicts the clip 250 and the lid 230 of FIG. 11 coupled together, and FIG. 15B is a magnified view of FIG. 15A. FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the clip 250 of FIG. 11. FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the clip 250 of FIG. 11. FIG. 18 is a rear view of the clip 250 of FIG. 11. FIG. 19 is a front view of the clip 250 of FIG. 11. FIG. 20 is a first side view of the clip 250 of FIG. 11 showing a vertical centerline and a horizontal centerline. FIG. 21 is a magnified view of FIG. 13 showing the lid 230 and the clip 250 jointly coupled to the bucket 210.

With reference to FIGS. 11-14, there is disclosed an assembly 200 comprising a bucket 210, a lid 230, and a clip 250. The bucket 210 has a partially enclosed body 212 that defines an internal space 214. The body 212 includes a top rim 216 and an intermediate rim 218 that are separated by a skirt 220. The intermediate rim 218 includes a lip or an edge 219 that extends the periphery of the bucket 210 at a predetermined distance from the bod 212. The bucket 210 further includes a handle 222 having a grip member 224, wherein the handle 222 is coupled to the intermediate rim 218 at connection points 226a and 226b.

Now referring to FIGS. 11-14 and 15A-15B, the lid 230 includes an exterior side 232 and an interior side 234, wherein the interior side 234 includes a groove 236 that extends the periphery of the lid 230. The groove 236 corresponds to and releasably receives the top rim 216 of the bucket 210. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the groove 236 is further configured to releasably receive the clip 250.

With reference to FIGS. 11-21, the clip 250 is configured to releasably engage the groove 236 of the lid 230 and releasably couple the lid 230 to the handle 222 of the bucket 210 at or near either connection point 226a or 226b such that the exterior side 232 of the lid 230 is facing outward, away from the bucket 210. As can be appreciated, the 250 can be configured to releasably couple the lid 230 to other regions of the handle 222 of the bucket 210 and/or to the top rim 216 of the bucket 210.

Again with reference to FIGS. 11-21, the clip 250 includes a body 252 having a first portion 254, a second portion 256, and a hook or latch portion 258 integrally formed with the first portion 254; however, such integral formation is not required. The body 252 comprises a first surface 260 and a second surface 262. A protruding section 266 extends from the first surface 260 between the first portion 254 and the second portion 256, and an indented section 264 is formed in the second surface 262 substantially coplanar to that of the protruding section 266. The protruding section 266 includes a top surface 272 that optionally has a first catch 268 and an optional second catch 270 formed thereon. The clip 250 further includes a shelf 274 that extends from the second surface 262. The indented section 264 can optionally include one or more reinforcement structures 265 to include the rigidity of protruding section 266.

With specific reference to FIG. 20, the hook portion 258 is optionally deflected towards the first surface 260 at a predetermined angle (e.g., 5-45° and all values and ranges therebetween) from the vertical centerline (VC) of the clip 250. The shelf 274 is deflected towards the hook portion 258 (i.e. deflected upward) at a predetermined angle (e.g., 5-45° and all values and ranges therebetween) from the horizontal centerline (HC) of the clip 250. The angle of deflection of the hook portion 258 relative to the vertical centerline (VC) can be the same or different from the angle of deflection of the shelf 274 from the horizontal centerline (HC) of the clip 250.

Referring to FIGS. 11-21, the protruding section 266 is configured to be removably inserted into the groove 236 until an outer edge 238 of the lid 230 optionally engages the first and second catches 268, 270 and the lid 230 is removably secured to the clip 250. The hook portion 258 of the clip 250 is then coupled to the handle 222 of the bucket 210 at the connection point 226a (or connection point 226b), as shown for example in FIG. 13. The hook portion 258 can optionally include a narrow region 259 that inhibits or prevents the hook portion 258 from inadvertently disengaging from handle 222. The width of the narrow region 259 can be narrow of either or both of the regions located above and below the narrow region 259 as illustrated in FIG. 18.

With specific reference to FIGS. 13 and 21, when the clip 250 is removably coupled to the handle 222 at the connection point 226a, the shelf 274 engages the bottom edge 219 of the intermediate rim 218 to support the combined clip 250 and lid 230. In this non-limiting arrangement on the bucket 210, the hook portion 258 is substantially perpendicular to the shelf 274, and the lid 230 is displaced away from the bucket 210 at a predetermined angle (e.g., e.g., 5-45° and all values and ranges therebetween) and distance (e.g., 0.1-3 inches and all values and ranges therebetween); however, this is not required.

FIG. 22 depicts a non-limiting, exemplary display 300 comprising a plurality of stacked sets 305 formed from a plurality of the assemblies 200 of FIG. 11. With reference to FIGS. 11-22, the display 300 includes a plurality of sets 305 that are formed from a plurality of assemblies 200 that are in a stacked configuration. Each of the sets 305 are positioned on an exemplary shelf 310. In this exemplary display 300, one or more of the lids 230 of the assemblies 200 can include labels, stickers, text, or other indicia 320 (e.g. branding, pricing, marketing, etc.) on the exterior side 232. Such indicia 320 can improve merchandising and/or ensure purchasers obtain the proper lid with the bucket.

One or more implementations of the subject application will now be described with reference to the attached FIGS. 23A-27B, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout.

FIGS. 23A-23B depict a non-limiting, exemplary bucket 400 having an integrated handle 420 in accordance with another non-limiting implementation of the present disclosure, wherein FIG. 23A is a front, bottom perspective view of the bucket 400 showing the handle 420 in a non-use position, and wherein FIG. 23B is a front, bottom perspective view of the bucket 400 showing the handle 420 in a use position. FIG. 24A is a bottom view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 24B is a bottom view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23B. FIG. 25A is a front perspective view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 25B is a front perspective view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23B. FIG. 26A is a front view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 26B is a front view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23B. FIG. 27A is a first side view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23A, and FIG. 27B is a first side view of the bucket 400 of FIG. 23B.

With reference to FIGS. 23A-27B, there is provided a bucket 400 having an integrated handle 420 formed in a recessed base 412 of the bucket 400, wherein the handle 420 is transitionable between a non-use position (FIGS. 23A, 24A, 25A, 26A, and 27A) and a use position (FIGS. 23B, 24B, 25B, 26B, and 27B). The bucket 400 can be the specially configured bucket that is illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 as discussed above, or can be a conventional prior art bucket. The bucket 400 has a partially enclosed body 402 that defines an internal space 404. The body 402 includes a top rim 406 and an intermediate rim 408 that are separated by a skirt 410. A side recess 430 is formed in the body 402 near the recessed base 412. The bucket 400 further includes a conventional handle 440 having a grip member 442, wherein the handle 440 is coupled to the intermediate rim 408.

Still referring to FIGS. 23A-27B, the handle 420 includes a grip portion 422 and a body 424 having an opening 426 that is configured to receive a protuberance 414 extending from the recessed base 412 of the bucket 400. The handle 420 has a thickness that is less than or equal to the depth of the recessed base 412. The handle 420 rotates about the protuberance 414 between the non-use position and the use position. When in the non-use position, the handle 420 is partially or fully stored in the recessed base 412. When in the use position, the handle 420 rotates or pivots about the protuberance 414 until the grip portion 422 extends partially or fully from the side recess 430.

It is to be appreciated that the handle 420 can attach and detach from the protuberance 414 when transitioning between the non-use and use position (or vice versa), rather than rotating or pivoting the handle 420 about the protuberance 414.

It is to be appreciated that any of the disclosed features of the bucket 400 (e.g. handle 420, side recess 430, protuberance 414, etc.) could be incorporated in any of the buckets previously discussed herein (e.g. bucket 5 discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-8, bucket 110 discussed with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10A-10B, and/or bucket 210 discussed with reference to FIGS. 11-21).

It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made in the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The disclosure has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the disclosure provided herein. This disclosure is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present disclosure. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the disclosure herein described and all statements of the scope of the disclosure, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall there between. These and other modifications of the preferred embodiments as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be obvious from the disclosure herein, whereby the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims.

The description of embodiments and examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modifications are possible in light of the teachings herein. Some of those modifications have been discussed, and others will be understood by those skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to illustrate principles of various embodiments as are suited to particular uses contemplated. The scope is, of course, not limited to the examples set forth herein, but can be employed in any number of applications and equivalent devices by those of ordinary skill in the art.

To aid the Patent Office and any readers of this application and any resulting patent in interpreting the claims appended hereto, applicants do not intend any of the appended claims or claim elements to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112 (f) unless the words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim.

Claims

1. An assembly comprising:

a bucket; and

a means for coupling a lid to said bucket without fully enclosing said bucket.

2. The assembly as defined in claim 1, wherein said bucket includes an upper portion having a first rim and a second rim, and a lower portion has a base, and wherein said second rim is located below said first rim.

3. The assembly as defined in claim 2, wherein said upper portion has a non-circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein said base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

4. The assembly of claim 2, wherein said means for coupling said lid to said bucket includes a slot formed in said second rim; a tab formed on an outer edge of said lid; and a fastener that is looped through said slot and said tab.

5. The assembly of claim 4, wherein an inner side of said lid faces away from said bucket when said lid is coupled to said bucket by way of said fastener, and wherein said inner side of said lid receives indicia regarding branding, pricing, instructions of use, bucket size information, and/or marketing information.

6. The assembly of claim 4, wherein said fastener is a zip tie, a cord, a wire, or a chain.

7. The assembly of claim 2, wherein said bucket further comprises a handle member that is connected to said second rim at a first connection point and a second connection point.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein said means for coupling said lid to said bucket further comprises a clip having a protruding portion that is configured to engage a groove that is formed along a periphery of an inner side of said lid; and a hook portion that is configured to latch said clip and said lid to said handle member at either said first connection point or said second connection point.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein said clip further includes a shelf extending in an opposite direction from said protruding portion; and at least one catch formed on said protruding portion, wherein said at least one catch engages an outer edge of said lid to secure said clip to said lid.

10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein said hook portion is deflected at a predetermined angle from a vertical centerline of said clip, and wherein said shelf is deflected at a predetermined angle from a horizontal centerline of said clip.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein said hook portion is substantially perpendicular to said shelf when said clip is coupled to said bucket.

12. The assembly of claim 2, further comprising a handle integrated into said base of said bucket, and wherein said handle is transitionable between a non-use position and an in-use position, wherein said handle is at least partially concealed in said base in said non-use position, and wherein said handle at least partially extends from said base in said in-use position.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein said handle includes a grip portion; and a body having an opening formed thereon, and wherein said opening receives a protuberance that is formed on said base to couple said handle to said bucket.

14. A device for coupling a lid to a bucket, said device comprising:

a body having a first surface and a second surface;

a protruding portion that is configured to engage a groove that is formed along a periphery of a lid, wherein said protruding portion extends from said first surface of said body; and

a hook portion that is configured to couple said lid to a first side of a bucket.

15. The device as defined in claim 14, wherein said device further includes a shelf extending from said second surface of said body; and at least one catch formed on said protruding portion, and wherein said at least one catch engages an outer edge of said lid to secure said device to said lid.

16. The device as defined in claim 15, wherein said bucket includes an upper portion having a first rim and a second rim, wherein said second rim is located below said first rim; a lower portion having a base; and a handle member that is connected to said second rim at a first connection point and a second connection point, and wherein said upper portion has either a substantially square cross-sectional shape or a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein said base has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

17. The device as defined in claim 16, wherein said hook portion latches to said handle member at either said first connection point or said second connection point such that an exterior side of said lid faces away from said bucket, and wherein said exterior side of said lid receives indicia regarding branding, pricing, instructions of use, bucket size information, and/or marketing information.

18. The device as defined in claim 15, wherein said hook portion is deflected at a predetermined angle from a vertical centerline of said device, and wherein said shelf is deflected at a predetermined angle from a horizontal centerline of said device.

19. The device as defined in claim 17, wherein when said hook portion is latched to said handle member, said shelf engages said second rim and said hook portion is substantially perpendicular to said shelf.

20. The device as defined in claim 14, further comprising an indented section formed in said second surface of said body, wherein said indented section is substantially coplanar to said protruding portion.