EP4197933A1 - Tote with locking divider features - Google Patents
Tote with locking divider features Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4197933A1 EP4197933A1 EP22213950.3A EP22213950A EP4197933A1 EP 4197933 A1 EP4197933 A1 EP 4197933A1 EP 22213950 A EP22213950 A EP 22213950A EP 4197933 A1 EP4197933 A1 EP 4197933A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- divider
- slot
- channel
- extending
- edge
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009516 primary packaging Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
- B65D81/26—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators
- B65D81/261—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators for draining or collecting liquids without absorbing them
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
- B65D1/22—Boxes or like containers with side walls of substantial depth for enclosing contents
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/02—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together
- B65D21/0209—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together stackable or joined together one-upon-the-other in the upright or upside-down position
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D25/02—Internal fittings
- B65D25/04—Partitions
- B65D25/06—Partitions adapted to be fitted in two or more alternative positions
Definitions
- the present invention is generally directed to containers with divider panels that lock together along the length of the intersection of such panels to prevent flexing or bending of the upper or lower portions of the panels, and more particularly, to containers with a first divider panel having grooves or channels for locking the edges of a second intersecting divider panel.
- Totes and other types of containers that use optional divider panels are a primary packaging product used in the industry to distribute a wide array of products.
- Such containers are typically provided in a returnable loop system (e.g., an ASRS system - automatic storage and retrieval system) where they are used to fulfill orders from inventory.
- the containers quite often contain and transport multiple SKU's (i.e., code assigned to a particular product) of different products.
- divider panels are provided to separate and compartmentalize the products into distinct locations in the container.
- the container can include one or more panels that can be inserted to extend from a first end of the container to the second end, as well as one or more panels that can be inserted to extend from one side of the container to the other side (e.g., perpendicular to the end to end panels). Slots are provided in the various panels that enable each panel to engage with the other panels where they intersect.
- the panels divide the container into separate areas for each of the products loaded in the container.
- the products can be heavy and can become a shifting load during transport. This shifting of the load can create pressure on the upper and lower portions of the divider panels causing the panels to flex, bend or bulge under such side loading conditions. This can damage the panels and lead to mixing of products from different portions of the container.
- the present invention provides a container with divider panels that lock together at intersecting edges to prevent flexing or bulging of the panels during transport.
- the present invention is generally directed to a tote with locking divider features.
- the locking features keep the upper and lower walls of the divider in position, and prevents flexing or bending of these walls during load transport.
- the dividers are provided with locking grooves or channels that trap the upper or lower end of a divider wall the length of the intersection with another divider extending perpendicular thereto. The grooves or channels also help guide the dividers during assembly, ensuring proper fit and location.
- a tote with dividers having locking features comprises a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls.
- a first divider extends between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container.
- the first divider has a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider.
- a first channel aligned with the first slot extends downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot extends downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider.
- a second divider extends between the first side wall and the second side wall.
- the second divider has a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider.
- the first slot of the second divider includes a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- the second divider can include a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider which extends upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot which extends upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider.
- a first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- the first slot of the first divider can include a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection.
- the first projection and the second projection can have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider, or other useful shape.
- the first channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib.
- the second channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the first divider.
- first channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib.
- the second channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- the first divider can also have a second slot spaced from the first slot and extending from the top edge of the first divider downward part way toward the bottom edge of the first divider.
- a third channel is aligned with the second slot and extends downward from a bottom of the second slot on the first side of the first divider and a fourth channel is also aligned with the second slot and extends downward from the bottom of the second slot on the second side of the divider.
- the container can include a third divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall.
- the third divider can have a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the third divider upward part way toward a top edge of the third divider.
- the first slot of the third divider includes a first edge configured to engage the third channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the fourth channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the third divider. Additional dividers and/or slots with the channel structures can be utilized in the container depending on the size of the container, the size of the products to be transported, desired number of compartments, etc.
- the first divider can include a first locking tab on a first end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the first end wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the second end wall.
- the second divider can include a first locking tab on a first end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the first side wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the second side wall.
- the container can include grooves or channels on the interior of the end walls and side walls for locking the edges of the dividers.
- the first slot in the first divider extends about halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the first divider.
- the first slot of the second divider extends about halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the second divider.
- the container and the dividers are formed from plastic. Other similar or suitable materials can also be used.
- a tote with dividers comprises a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls.
- a first divider extends between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container and includes a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider.
- a second divider extends between the first side wall and the second side wall and includes a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider.
- the second divider includes a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider and extends upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extends upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider.
- a first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- the first divider can include a first channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider.
- the first slot of the second divider include a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- the first edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection.
- the first projection and the second projection can have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider.
- the first channel on the second divider can be formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib.
- the second channel on the second divider can be formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- Figure 1 illustrates a known container 10 having a body formed from a first end wall 12, an opposing second end wall 14, a first side wall 16 and an opposing second side wall 18, all of which are extending upward from a bottom wall 20.
- the container 10 - typically referred to in the industry as a tote - is also shown having a plurality of divider panels 22, 23 separating the interior of the container 10 into a plurality of sections or compartments 24.
- the container 10 and divider panels 22, 23 are typically formed from plastic or other similar or suitable materials.
- the divider panels 22, 23 are optionally added to the interior of the container body when it is desired to create the sections or compartments 24 for shipping items that need to be separated.
- the panels 22, 23 include a first end to end divider panel 22 that extends from the first end wall 12 to the second end wall 14, and two side to side divider panels 23 that extend from the first side wall 16 to the second side wall 18.
- the first end to end divider panel 22 is provided with slots 26 that extend about half way down the panel 22 from an upper edge
- the side to side divider panels 23 include slots 28 that extend half way up the panel 23 from a lower edge.
- the slots 26, 28 are positioned and configured to interact with each other where the divider panels 22, 23 intersect.
- the slots 26, 28 break up the upper or lower portions of the panels 22, 23 into sections (sometimes referred to as "pedals") which can be prone to flexing, bulging or breaking when transporting a load in one or more of the compartments 24.
- Figure 3 illustrates an upper wall portion 30 flexing out of a planar alignment with the rest of the divider panel 22.
- Figure 4 shows a lower wall portion 32 bulging from the planar alignment.
- the present invention provides structure between the edges of the slots on one panel and the body of an intersecting panel to lock the upper or lower wall portions 30, 32 in place and prevent any flexing or bulging of the wall portions.
- Figures 5A-5B , 6A-B , 7A-B and 8 show a container 34 in accordance with the present invention.
- the container 34 includes a first end wall 36, an opposing second end wall 38, a first side wall 40 and a second side wall 42. All of the end walls 36, 38 and side walls 40, 42 extend upward from a bottom wall 44.
- a first end to end divider panel 46 is shown extending between the end walls 36, 38 and having three, spaced apart slots 48 extending from an upper edge of the panel 46 downward to about midway toward a bottom edge of the panel 46 (as used herein, directional or positional words like upper, lower, top etc. are made with respect to the structures as shown in the drawings and as normally positioned during use, and are not meant to limit the invention to being in such positions).
- a first side to side divider panel 50 and a second side to side divider panel 52 are shown extending from the first side wall 40 to the second side wall 42.
- Each of the side to side divider panels 50, 52 include a slot 54 extending from a bottom edge of the panel upward to approximately midway toward a top edge of the panel 50, 52.
- the slots of the end to end divider panel and the side to side divider panels are positioned to align so that the panels can intersect each other.
- the portions of each of the panels between the slots is not allowed to freely flex or move. Instead, such portions are held in place by structures in the cross panel.
- Figure 6 provides an enlarged view of an intersection of an upper portion of one of the side to side divider panels 50, 52 with an upper portion of the end to end divider panel 46.
- the side to side divider panel includes a first groove or channel 58 on a first side 60 of the panel and a second groove or channel 62 on a second side 64 of the panel which enclose the edges 66, 68 of one of the slots 48 of the end to end panel 46.
- the first channel 58 is formed from a first rib 70 extending outward from the first side 60 and a second rib 72 spaced from the first rib, extending outward from the first side 60.
- the second channel 62 is formed from a first rib 74 and a second rib 76 extending outward from the second side 64.
- the edges 66, 68 of the slot 48 of the end to end divider panel are shown having projecting ribs giving the edges 66, 68 a generally T-shaped cross-sectional appearance.
- the channels 58, 62 hold the upper portions of the end to end divider 46 in place and prevent flexing at this location.
- Each of the side to side panels is provided with similar channels to lock in the upper portions of the end to end divider panel 46 at each slot 48 location. While the edges 66, 68 of the slots 48 are shown having a T-shaped cross-section, other shapes (including more complex ones) can be used as desired or necessary to maintain the upper portions in a locked configuration depending on the size of the container or load or other factors relating to the use of the container. Additionally, the channels can be continuous along the entire length of the slots, or can be intermittent along this length.
- the end to end divider panel 46 includes a first groove or channel 78 formed from a first rib 80 and second rib 82 on a first side 84 of the divider panel 46, and a second groove or channel 86 formed from a first rib 88 and second rib 90 on a second side 92 of the divider panel 46.
- the channels 78, 86 cooperate with the edges 94, 96 of the slots 54 of the side to side divider panels to hold the lower portions of such panels in place to prevent flexing or bulging.
- the end walls and side walls of the container can include interior facing grooves or channels for receiving the side edges of the panels, or other structures for securing such side edges.
- end to end divider panel and two side to side panels are shown, additional (or fewer - for the side to side panels) divider panels can be provided with the slot edge locking structures described herein.
- end to end divider panel is shown slots extending from a top edge, and the side to side divider panels have slots extending from a bottom edge, this can be reversed.
- the container 34 can also include a drainage system having holes 100 extending through a bumper 102 proximate the bottom of the container.
- the holes are spaced above ribs extending upward from the bottom and allow liquid to first accumulate in the bottom before draining through the bumper 102 in accordance with the disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63/265,598 filed December 17, 2021 .
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
- Bathtub Accessories (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
- Stackable Containers (AREA)
- Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)
- Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- N/A
- The present invention is generally directed to containers with divider panels that lock together along the length of the intersection of such panels to prevent flexing or bending of the upper or lower portions of the panels, and more particularly, to containers with a first divider panel having grooves or channels for locking the edges of a second intersecting divider panel.
- Totes and other types of containers that use optional divider panels are a primary packaging product used in the industry to distribute a wide array of products. Such containers are typically provided in a returnable loop system (e.g., an ASRS system - automatic storage and retrieval system) where they are used to fulfill orders from inventory. The containers quite often contain and transport multiple SKU's (i.e., code assigned to a particular product) of different products.
- To keep the different products inside the container from mixing, divider panels are provided to separate and compartmentalize the products into distinct locations in the container. The container can include one or more panels that can be inserted to extend from a first end of the container to the second end, as well as one or more panels that can be inserted to extend from one side of the container to the other side (e.g., perpendicular to the end to end panels). Slots are provided in the various panels that enable each panel to engage with the other panels where they intersect.
- The panels divide the container into separate areas for each of the products loaded in the container. In some instances, the products can be heavy and can become a shifting load during transport. This shifting of the load can create pressure on the upper and lower portions of the divider panels causing the panels to flex, bend or bulge under such side loading conditions. This can damage the panels and lead to mixing of products from different portions of the container.
- The present invention provides a container with divider panels that lock together at intersecting edges to prevent flexing or bulging of the panels during transport.
- The present invention is generally directed to a tote with locking divider features. The locking features keep the upper and lower walls of the divider in position, and prevents flexing or bending of these walls during load transport. Specifically, the dividers are provided with locking grooves or channels that trap the upper or lower end of a divider wall the length of the intersection with another divider extending perpendicular thereto. The grooves or channels also help guide the dividers during assembly, ensuring proper fit and location.
- In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a tote with dividers having locking features is provided. The tote comprises a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls. A first divider extends between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container. The first divider has a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider. A first channel aligned with the first slot extends downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot extends downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider. A second divider extends between the first side wall and the second side wall. The second divider has a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider. The first slot of the second divider includes a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- The second divider can include a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider which extends upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot which extends upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider. A first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- The first slot of the first divider can include a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection. The first projection and the second projection can have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider, or other useful shape.
- The first channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib. Similarly, the second channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the first divider.
- Also, the first channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib. The second channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- The first divider can also have a second slot spaced from the first slot and extending from the top edge of the first divider downward part way toward the bottom edge of the first divider. A third channel is aligned with the second slot and extends downward from a bottom of the second slot on the first side of the first divider and a fourth channel is also aligned with the second slot and extends downward from the bottom of the second slot on the second side of the divider.
- Additionally, the container can include a third divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall. The third divider can have a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the third divider upward part way toward a top edge of the third divider. The first slot of the third divider includes a first edge configured to engage the third channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the fourth channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the third divider. Additional dividers and/or slots with the channel structures can be utilized in the container depending on the size of the container, the size of the products to be transported, desired number of compartments, etc.
- The first divider can include a first locking tab on a first end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the first end wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the second end wall. Similarly, the second divider can include a first locking tab on a first end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the first side wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the second side wall. Alternatively, the container can include grooves or channels on the interior of the end walls and side walls for locking the edges of the dividers.
- Preferably, the first slot in the first divider extends about halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the first divider. Similarly, the first slot of the second divider extends about halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the second divider.
- The container and the dividers are formed from plastic. Other similar or suitable materials can also be used.
- In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a tote with dividers comprises a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls. A first divider extends between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container and includes a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider. A second divider extends between the first side wall and the second side wall and includes a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider. The second divider includes a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider and extends upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extends upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider. A first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- The first divider can include a first channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider. The first slot of the second divider include a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- The first edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection. The first projection and the second projection can have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider.
- The first channel on the second divider can be formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib. Similarly, the second channel on the second divider can be formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with the following Figures.
- To understand the present invention, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
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FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of a typical tote with typical, optional, intersecting divider panels extending end to end and side to side; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating inter-connection of slots in the divider panels where they intersect as shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view illustrating flexing of an upper wall of a divider panel; -
FIG. 4 is a top perspective view illustrating flexing of a bottom wall of a divider panel; -
FIGS. 5A-5B are perspective views of a container with divider panels having locking features in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the container showing a top portion in cross-section; -
FIG. 6B is an enlarged top cross-sectional view of divider panels locking an upper wall to prevent flexing in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; -
FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the container showing a bottom portion in cross-section; -
FIG. 7B is an enlarged top cross-sectional view of divider panels locking a bottom wall to prevent flexing in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a container with dividers in accordance with the present invention. - While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
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Figure 1 illustrates a knowncontainer 10 having a body formed from afirst end wall 12, an opposingsecond end wall 14, afirst side wall 16 and an opposingsecond side wall 18, all of which are extending upward from abottom wall 20. The container 10 - typically referred to in the industry as a tote - is also shown having a plurality ofdivider panels container 10 into a plurality of sections or compartments 24. Thecontainer 10 anddivider panels - The
divider panels compartments 24 for shipping items that need to be separated. As shown inFigure 1 , thepanels divider panel 22 that extends from thefirst end wall 12 to thesecond end wall 14, and two side toside divider panels 23 that extend from thefirst side wall 16 to thesecond side wall 18. As illustrated inFigure 2 , the first end to enddivider panel 22 is provided withslots 26 that extend about half way down thepanel 22 from an upper edge, and the side toside divider panels 23 includeslots 28 that extend half way up thepanel 23 from a lower edge. Theslots divider panels - The
slots panels compartments 24.Figure 3 illustrates anupper wall portion 30 flexing out of a planar alignment with the rest of thedivider panel 22. Similarly,Figure 4 shows alower wall portion 32 bulging from the planar alignment. - The present invention provides structure between the edges of the slots on one panel and the body of an intersecting panel to lock the upper or
lower wall portions -
Figures 5A-5B ,6A-B ,7A-B and8 show acontainer 34 in accordance with the present invention. Thecontainer 34 includes afirst end wall 36, an opposingsecond end wall 38, afirst side wall 40 and asecond side wall 42. All of theend walls side walls - A first end to end
divider panel 46 is shown extending between theend walls slots 48 extending from an upper edge of thepanel 46 downward to about midway toward a bottom edge of the panel 46 (as used herein, directional or positional words like upper, lower, top etc. are made with respect to the structures as shown in the drawings and as normally positioned during use, and are not meant to limit the invention to being in such positions). A first side toside divider panel 50 and a second side toside divider panel 52 are shown extending from thefirst side wall 40 to thesecond side wall 42. Each of the side toside divider panels slot 54 extending from a bottom edge of the panel upward to approximately midway toward a top edge of thepanel - Similar to the known containers with dividers, the slots of the end to end divider panel and the side to side divider panels are positioned to align so that the panels can intersect each other. However, unlike the known containers, the portions of each of the panels between the slots is not allowed to freely flex or move. Instead, such portions are held in place by structures in the cross panel.
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Figure 6 provides an enlarged view of an intersection of an upper portion of one of the side toside divider panels divider panel 46. As shown, the side to side divider panel includes a first groove orchannel 58 on afirst side 60 of the panel and a second groove orchannel 62 on asecond side 64 of the panel which enclose theedges slots 48 of the end to endpanel 46. Thefirst channel 58 is formed from afirst rib 70 extending outward from thefirst side 60 and asecond rib 72 spaced from the first rib, extending outward from thefirst side 60. Similarly, thesecond channel 62 is formed from afirst rib 74 and asecond rib 76 extending outward from thesecond side 64. Theedges slot 48 of the end to end divider panel are shown having projecting ribs giving theedges 66, 68 a generally T-shaped cross-sectional appearance. - The
channels divider 46 in place and prevent flexing at this location. Each of the side to side panels is provided with similar channels to lock in the upper portions of the end to enddivider panel 46 at eachslot 48 location. While theedges slots 48 are shown having a T-shaped cross-section, other shapes (including more complex ones) can be used as desired or necessary to maintain the upper portions in a locked configuration depending on the size of the container or load or other factors relating to the use of the container. Additionally, the channels can be continuous along the entire length of the slots, or can be intermittent along this length. - Similar to the channels formed on the upper portions of the side to
side divider panels divider panel 46 includes a first groove orchannel 78 formed from afirst rib 80 andsecond rib 82 on afirst side 84 of thedivider panel 46, and a second groove orchannel 86 formed from afirst rib 88 andsecond rib 90 on asecond side 92 of thedivider panel 46. Thechannels edges slots 54 of the side to side divider panels to hold the lower portions of such panels in place to prevent flexing or bulging. - Similar to the divider panels, the end walls and side walls of the container can include interior facing grooves or channels for receiving the side edges of the panels, or other structures for securing such side edges.
- While one end to end divider panel and two side to side panels are shown, additional (or fewer - for the side to side panels) divider panels can be provided with the slot edge locking structures described herein. Moreover, while the end to end divider panel is shown slots extending from a top edge, and the side to side divider panels have slots extending from a bottom edge, this can be reversed.
- The
container 34 can also include a drainagesystem having holes 100 extending through abumper 102 proximate the bottom of the container. The holes are spaced above ribs extending upward from the bottom and allow liquid to first accumulate in the bottom before draining through thebumper 102 in accordance with the disclosure ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application 63/265,598 filed December 17, 2021 - The following numbered items are disclosed herein.
- 1. A tote with dividers having locking features comprising:
- a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls;
- a first divider extending between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container, the first divider having a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider, a first channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider; and,
- a second divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the second divider having a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider, wherein the first slot of the second divider includes a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- 2. The tote of item 1 wherein the second divider includes a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider and extending upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider wherein a first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- 3. The tote of item 2 wherein the first edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection.
- 4. The tote of item 3 wherein the first projection and the second projection have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider.
- 5. The tote of item 2 wherein the first channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib, and the second channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the first divider.
- 6. The tote of item 5 wherein the first channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib, and the second channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- 7. The tote of item 2 wherein the first divider having a second slot spaced from the first slot and extending from the top edge of the first divider downward part way toward the bottom edge of the first divider, a third channel aligned with the second slot and extending downward from a bottom of the second slot on the first side of the first divider and a fourth channel aligned with the second slot and extending downward from the bottom of the second slot on the second side of the divider.
- 8. The tote of item 7 further comprising a third divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the third divider having a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the third divider upward part way toward a top edge of the third divider, wherein the first slot of the third divider includes a first edge configured to engage the third channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the fourth channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the third divider.
- 9. The tote of item 1 wherein the first divider includes a first locking tab on a first end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the first end wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the second end wall.
- 10. The tote of item 9 wherein the second divider includes a first locking tab on a first end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the first side wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the second side wall.
- 11. The tote of item 2 wherein the first slot in the first divider extends halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the first divider.
- 12. The tote of item 11 wherein the first slot of the second divider extends halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the second divider.
- 13. The tote of item 1 wherein the container and the first divider and the second divider are formed from plastic.
- 14. The tote of item 8 wherein the first divider having a third slot spaced from the first slot and second slot and extending from the top edge of the first divider downward part way toward the bottom edge of the first divider, a fifth channel aligned with the third slot and extending downward from a bottom of the third slot on the first side of the first divider and a sixth channel aligned with the third slot and extending downward from the bottom of the third slot on the second side of the first divider.
- 15. A tote with dividers comprising:
- a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls;
- a first divider extending between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container, the first divider having a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider;
- a second divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the second divider having a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider wherein the second divider includes a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider and extending upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider wherein a first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- 16. The tote of item 15 wherein the first divider includes a first channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider wherein the first slot of the second divider includes a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- 17. The tote of
item 16 wherein the first edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection. - 18. The tote of item 17 wherein the first projection and the second projection have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider.
- 19. The tote of item 15 wherein the first channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib, and the second channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- 20. The tote of item 15 wherein the container, first divider and second divider are formed from plastic.
- 21. A container with divider panels that lock to prevent flexing or bulging. The container includes end to end divider panels and side to side panels that include aligned slots where the panels intersect. The panels include grooves or channels for holding the edges of the slots of the intersecting panel to hold the upper or lower portion of the intersecting panel in place.
- Many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood within the scope of the appended claims the invention may be protected otherwise than as specifically described.
Claims (14)
- A tote with dividers having locking features comprising:a container having a first side wall, an opposing second side wall, a first end wall, an opposing second end wall and a bottom extending between the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls;a first divider extending between the first end wall and the second end wall of the container, the first divider having a first slot extending from a top edge of the first divider downward part way toward a bottom edge of the first divider, a first channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from a bottom of the first slot on a first side of the first divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending downward from the bottom of the first slot on a second side of the first divider; and,a second divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the second divider having a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the second divider upward part way toward a top edge of the second divider, wherein the first slot of the second divider includes a first edge configured to engage the first channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the second channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the second divider.
- The tote of claim 1 wherein the second divider includes a first channel aligned with the first slot of the second divider and extending upward from a top of the first slot on a first side of the second divider and a second channel aligned with the first slot and extending upward from the top of the first slot on a second side of the second divider wherein a first edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the first channel on the second divider and a second edge of the first slot of the first divider is configured to engage the second channel on the second divider.
- The tote of claim 2 wherein the first edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a first projection and the second edge of the first slot of the first divider includes a second projection.
- The tote of claim 3 wherein the first projection and the second projection have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape with the rest of the first divider.
- The tote of claim 2 wherein the first channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib, and the second channel on the first divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the first divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the first divider.
- The tote of claim 5 wherein the first channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the first side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib, and the second channel on the second divider is formed from a first rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and a second rib extending outward from the second side of the second divider and spaced from the first rib on the second side of the second divider.
- The tote of claim 2 wherein the first divider having a second slot spaced from the first slot and extending from the top edge of the first divider downward part way toward the bottom edge of the first divider, a third channel aligned with the second slot and extending downward from a bottom of the second slot on the first side of the first divider and a fourth channel aligned with the second slot and extending downward from the bottom of the second slot on the second side of the divider.
- The tote of claim 7 further comprising a third divider extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, the third divider having a first slot extending from a bottom edge of the third divider upward part way toward a top edge of the third divider, wherein the first slot of the third divider includes a first edge configured to engage the third channel of the first divider and a second edge configured to engage the fourth channel on the first divider to prevent flexing of the lower portions of the third divider.
- The tote of any preceding claim, wherein the first divider includes a first locking tab on a first end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the first end wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the first divider for locking the first divider to the second end wall.
- The tote of claim 9 wherein the second divider includes a first locking tab on a first end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the first side wall and a second locking tab on a second end of the second divider for locking the second divider to the second side wall.
- The tote of claim 2 wherein the first slot in the first divider extends halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the first divider.
- The tote of claim 11 wherein the first slot of the second divider extends halfway between the top edge and the bottom edge of the second divider.
- The tote of any preceding claim, wherein the container and the first divider and the second divider are formed from plastic.
- The tote of claim 8 wherein the first divider having a third slot spaced from the first slot and second slot and extending from the top edge of the first divider downward part way toward the bottom edge of the first divider, a fifth channel aligned with the third slot and extending downward from a bottom of the third slot on the first side of the first divider and a sixth channel aligned with the third slot and extending downward from the bottom of the third slot on the second side of the first divider.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US202163265452P | 2021-12-15 | 2021-12-15 | |
US202163265598P | 2021-12-17 | 2021-12-17 | |
US18/063,838 US12054313B2 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2022-12-09 | Tote with side wall drain holes |
US18/063,784 US20230182959A1 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2022-12-09 | Tote with locking divider features |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4197933A1 true EP4197933A1 (en) | 2023-06-21 |
Family
ID=86337519
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22213791.1A Pending EP4197932A3 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2022-12-15 | Tote with side wall drain holes |
EP22213950.3A Pending EP4197933A1 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2022-12-15 | Tote with locking divider features |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22213791.1A Pending EP4197932A3 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2022-12-15 | Tote with side wall drain holes |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (2) | EP4197932A3 (en) |
CA (2) | CA3183952A1 (en) |
MX (2) | MX2022015889A (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US12054313B2 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2024-08-06 | Orbis Corporation | Tote with side wall drain holes |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US3656650A (en) * | 1970-06-11 | 1972-04-18 | Container Dev Corp | Compartmentalized container |
DE202006015062U1 (en) * | 2006-09-29 | 2007-01-11 | Fritz Schäfer GmbH | Crate is divided by partitions with narrower sections at their ends which fit through slots in crate walls and are held in position by split pins which fit through transverse bores in them |
EP1982926A1 (en) * | 2007-04-16 | 2008-10-22 | Fritz Schäfer GmbH | Storage and transport containers |
WO2015107438A1 (en) * | 2014-01-17 | 2015-07-23 | Georg Utz Holding Ag | Container for transporting goods and device for dividing such a container |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE1840375U (en) * | 1961-08-10 | 1961-10-26 | Karl Henninger | STACKABLE BOTTLE CASE INTENDED FOR ROLLER SLIDES. |
NL6512204A (en) * | 1965-09-20 | 1967-03-21 | ||
US4499997A (en) * | 1983-02-24 | 1985-02-19 | Menasha Corporation | Tote box |
US4588087A (en) * | 1984-01-03 | 1986-05-13 | Menasha Corporation | Fruit container |
MX353529B (en) * | 2013-10-09 | 2018-01-18 | Rehrig Pacific Co | Bakery tray. |
US20180362212A1 (en) * | 2017-06-16 | 2018-12-20 | Orbis Corporation | Container with Dividers |
CA3016522A1 (en) * | 2017-09-05 | 2019-03-05 | Rehrig Pacific Company | Collapsible container |
CH714972A1 (en) * | 2018-05-08 | 2019-11-15 | Utz Georg Holding Ag | Stackable container. |
-
2022
- 2022-12-12 CA CA3183952A patent/CA3183952A1/en active Pending
- 2022-12-12 CA CA3183949A patent/CA3183949A1/en active Pending
- 2022-12-13 MX MX2022015889A patent/MX2022015889A/en unknown
- 2022-12-13 MX MX2022015898A patent/MX2022015898A/en unknown
- 2022-12-15 EP EP22213791.1A patent/EP4197932A3/en active Pending
- 2022-12-15 EP EP22213950.3A patent/EP4197933A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3656650A (en) * | 1970-06-11 | 1972-04-18 | Container Dev Corp | Compartmentalized container |
DE202006015062U1 (en) * | 2006-09-29 | 2007-01-11 | Fritz Schäfer GmbH | Crate is divided by partitions with narrower sections at their ends which fit through slots in crate walls and are held in position by split pins which fit through transverse bores in them |
EP1982926A1 (en) * | 2007-04-16 | 2008-10-22 | Fritz Schäfer GmbH | Storage and transport containers |
WO2015107438A1 (en) * | 2014-01-17 | 2015-07-23 | Georg Utz Holding Ag | Container for transporting goods and device for dividing such a container |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP4197932A3 (en) | 2023-08-23 |
CA3183952A1 (en) | 2023-06-15 |
MX2022015898A (en) | 2023-06-16 |
CA3183949A1 (en) | 2023-06-15 |
MX2022015889A (en) | 2023-06-16 |
EP4197932A2 (en) | 2023-06-21 |
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