GB2422286A

GB2422286A - Airtight apparatus with vacuum pump for the storage of foodstuffs

Info

Publication number: GB2422286A
Application number: GB0427064A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Timothy Adam Kieck
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2004-12-10
Filing date: 2004-12-10
Publication date: 2006-07-26
Also published as: GB0427064D0

Abstract

An airtight apparatus for the storage of foodstuffs and baked goods comprises a vacuum pump. The apparatus may comprise an enclosure 3 which maybe transparent. The vacuum pump may be automatic and regulated by a timer, sensor or circuit. The apparatus may incorporate an LED display 4. The apparatus may comprise sections 16 which are designed to slide in and out which function as separators for the foodstuffs. The vacuum pump may be manual. The apparatus may be equipped with a manual or automatic latching system which may aid in keeping the apparatus closed and can help to open it. The apparatus is designed to keep foodstuffs fresh. The apparatus may be made out of plastic, acrylic, metal, glass, cardboard or wood.

Description

Vacuum apparatus for foodstuffs This apparatus can be used by any

person(s) who would like to keep baked goods and foodstuffs organized and/or fresh, such as: restaurants, hotels, and households. This apparatus is designed for the use in the kitchen, or similar environment.

Currently, there are a few methods used to keep foods fresh, such as: vacuum packers, and vacuum canisters. These methods only work with certain types of foods, and using these methods can squish and ruin the texture of baked goods. These methods also use plastic bags and/or separate vacuum units, which can be expensive and time consuming.

They also don't provide a spacious storage area that would be necessary to store larger types and quantities of baked goods such as: entire loaves of bread, a collection of bagels or English muffins, a dozen donuts, or a dozen hamburger or hotdog buns. They also don't provide enough convenience as an all in one vacuum sealing system for foodstuffs in general.

These methods use vacuum enclosures for the purpose of storing fruit, vegetables, or cold cuts and implementing the enclosure inside a refrigerator or freezer, and also for the use of food transportation. These systems are not specifically designed for the storage of baked goods and other types of non-refrigerated foodstufTh. It does not suit their needs in order to keep the goods in their most organized and freshest state. Baked goods are not intended to be stored in a refrigerator or freezer. Baked goods are sold on shelves at supermarkets and bakeries in a room-temperature environment, and should be stored the same after purchased. This is also the case for shelved goods such as: cereal, crackers, and cookies, and even things like left-over French fries, whereas re-storing them in a cold environment will ruin the ability to reheat them.

Also, these systems do not provide an economical way to store different types of foodstuffs in the same unit. The storage of different types of food together can cause cross contamination of different types of mold or bacteria, and this can lead to sanitation issues. The storage of different types of food together can also affect their flavor and aroma qualities. The only way to avoid this issue would be to use packaging or separate bags for different foods types which would defeat the purpose of having a fully exposed storage area. This would also not pose a solution to the damage that baked goods would receive inside bags or packages, when the vacuum pressure started to increase. This would mush or crush the baked goods. Also, storing baked goods in a refrigerator or freezer can degrade the original texture, taste, and aroma qualities. Some types of foodstuffs aren't meant to be refrigerated at all. For example, you wouldn't put cookies inside the refrigerator for later consumption.

The apparatus in this application is designed to provide the user with a fast and convenient way to store baked goods and foodstuffs, without the use of plastic vacuum bags, refrigeration, freezing, or a separate vacuum unit. It provides a spacious enclosure that would be necessary to store an adequate amount of baked goods and foodstuffs, and provides a designated storage place for baked goods and foodstuffs in general, which can aid in food organization and convenience.

The object of the invention is to eliminate all existing food biases, and to provide the user with a simple, convenient, and proprietary apparatus to suit the needs of the baked goods and fbodstuffs, to retain there freshness, and to aid in food organization.

Using this apparatus will provide a universal storage area for all types of baked goods and foodstuffs such as: bread, bagels, buns, muffins, donuts, pastries, cereal, chips, cookies, and even leftovers, and it will allow these goods to be freshly stored in an efficient and economical fashion. This will aid in food organization and freshness of the goods.

It also implements the use of technology to increase its ease of use such as buttons, an LED display, and fully automated functions. It also provides the user with additional components and features to compliment the goods use, organization, and preparation.

This apparatus is also designed to be portable so that it can be moved freely to any desired location to suit a vast amount of user needs such as: taking the unit to work, or connecting it during hotel breakfast hour, or even taking it to a picnic or cookout. It can also be built into a kitchen or similar environment.

Examples of the invention will now be described by referring to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 shows the front view of the apparatus and its components, Figure 2 shows an opened view of the apparatus with some additional components and a built in toaster, Figure 3 shows the inside of the apparatus and its components, Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the vacuum pump and its components, Figure 5 shows an additional design of the apparatus and its components, Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the LED display and the buttons, Figure 7 shows the side view of the additional design and its components, Figure 8 shows the front view of another additional design and its components, Figure 9 shows an exploded view of a type of rubber seal, Figure 10 shows a second exploded view of a type of rubber seal, Figure 11 shows a third exploded view of a type of rubberseal, Figure 12 shows the front view of the apparatus with the latching system, Figure 13 shows an exploded view of the latching system, - Figure 14 shows an exploded view of the manual vacuum pump system, Figure 15 shows the front view of the apparatus with the manual vacuum pump button and clasps, Figure 16 shows the front view of the apparatus with the manual vacuum pump lever and valve, Figure 17 shows the back view of the apparatus and its hinges, Figure 18 shows a view of the basket or dish.

In reference to figure 1; The apparatus is composed of a contoured enclosure (3) with a conforming lid (I) or door (12). This lid (1) or door (12) used in conjunction with a rubber gasket (8) will form an air- tight seal. This enclosure (3) is used to house the goods for storage. A vacuum pump (17) is used to expel air within the enclosure (3) to form a vacuum or partial vacuum seal. This will keep the goods fresh and retard the formation of molds and other contaminants.

In reference to figure 6; The apparatus will include buttons (5), levers, or switches and an LED display (4) that will allow the user to visualize and initiate functions of the unit, such as: activating or deactivating the vacuum pump (17), setting, displaying, or adjusting the date, time, alarm, timer, temperature, or pressure, and can also be used to activate lights to enable the LED display (4) to be more visible.

In reference to figure 3; The apparatus can use a vacuum pump to expel the air from within the enclosure (3). This pump (17) can either be automatic or manual.

In reference to figure 3; The vacuum pump (17) is kept separate from the enclosure (3) and connected to the enclosure (3) by the use of tubing (10) . This will make sure the vacuum pump (17) will not interfere with the storage space of the enclosure (3), and so the vacuum pump (17) will not be exposed to the goods.

In reference to figure 4; When the vacuum pump (17) is activated, it causes suction to occur. This Suction draws air from the enclosure (3) using tubing (10). This air may need to be cleaned using an air filter (11). This will make sure that the air taken from the enclosure (3) won't damage the vacuum pump (17) in case there are crumbs or particles present.

The vacuum pump (17) automation can be controlled in two ways. One, by user automation, whereas the user can press a button (5), thus turning the power on to the vacuum pump (17), or two, by allowing an electrical circuit to gain precedence over its control. This automation can be displayed on the LED display (4) to inform the user the function is in automation.

The vacuum pump (17) automation will need to be controlled by a timer, pressure sensor, or and/or vacuum switch. These components will detect when the appropriate amount of pressure has been achieved within the enclosure (3). When using a timer, this can be done by calculating the strength and speed of the vacuum pump (17), and how much air is inside the enclosure (3), or by computing the electrical signals given off by a pressure sensor or vacuum switch.

In reference to figure 15 and 16; The invention can also include a manual vacuum pump to help expel air from within the enclosure (3). This pump can be activated by hand, using a button (22) or lever (24). The button (22) or lever (24) can be pressed up and down or pulled back and forth to create suction which will expel the air from within the enclosure (3). Pressing the button (22) or pulling the lever (24) repeatedly will make the vacuum stronger. This will allow the user to adjust the pressure to their own personal preference.

In reference to figure 14; The mechanism (25) that creates the suction can use two cylinders. One cylinder (29) will be slightly smaller in diameter and in length, and it will be inside of the larger cylinder (30). There will be a rubber ring (31) around the bottom rim of the smaller cylinder (29) that will put pressure against the outer cylinder (30). The larger cylinder (30) will be connected to the enclosure (3) which will be separated by a unidirectional valve (27). The suction will be created when the inner cylinder (29) is pulled back and forth, because the rubber ring (31) will form an air-tight seal within the outer cylinder (30), which will pull air through the unidirectional valve (27), thus creating a vacuum within the enclosure (3).

In reference to figure 14; Towards the top of the outer cylinder (30), there will be a ring of tiny holes (26) for air to be released. When the rubber ring (31) is pulled up past these holes (26), air can escape. After the air is released, there will be another automated valve (28) that will open to eliminate the pressure within the manual pump system (25) when the rubber ring (31) is pressed back down past the holes (26). This valve (28) can be rigged with the button (22) or lever (24) itself. For example, when the button (22) or lever (24) is pressed or pulled, the valve (28) will be open, and when the button (22) or lever (24) is released or pushed, the valve (28) will be closed. The inner cylinder (29) will be rigged to move back and forth by the use of the button (22) or lever (24) as well.

This suction mechanism (25) can be housed inside the lid (1), or mounted underneath. It can also be housed inside the walls of the enclosure (3) as well as being mounted inside the enclosure (3). It should be housed or mounted in an efficient place as to not interfere with the goods being kept inside the enclosure (3) as well as making it a convenience to operate. The mechanism (25) can be made to be stationary within the enclosure (3) or its walls, or to be removable as part of the entire lid (1) section.

in reference to figure 1; The suction mechanism (25) doesn't have to be built into the apparatus at all. In this case, the enclosure (3) or lid (1) can simply have a built-in unidirectional valve (35) so that the mechanism (25) or other external vacuum source can be connected to pump the air out of the enclosure (3).

In reference to figure 1; This apparatus will get its power from a standard 120 volt power cord (2). This electricity will be used to power the components of the apparatus.

An electrical circuit will be used in the apparatus. This will control a variety of different functions and calculate a variety of different factors. The electrical circuit will be used as the control center for the entire apparatus. This circuit will be made up of a variety of different electrical components such as: timers, pressure sensors, mold or environment sensors, actuators, switches, buttons (5), levers, and an LED Display (4). These components will be regulated by the use of circuit board(s) and by using basic electrical circuit board components such as: relays, diodes, resistors, capacitors, potentiometers, and ICs (integrated circuits), to name a few. All of these electrical components used together will control the apparatus functions such as: turning the vacuum pump (17) on and off, releasing the pressure within the enclosure (3), displaying the date and time, displaying the automation of functions, allowing user automation over the apparatus functions, as well as controlling the functions without the need for user automation. For example, when the user would like to open the enclosure (3) to gain access to the baked goods, they would press a button (5), which would activate the vacuum release valve (15), thus releasing the vacuum pressure within the enclosure (3). For example, when the user closes the lid (1), this will trigger the vacuum pump (17) to turn on, thus resealing the enclosure (3) with vacuum pressure. For example, when a user would like to adjust the time or date, they would press the apparatus's buttons (5), thus changing the time or date reading on the LED display (4).

Gaining access to the enclosure (3) can be done using several methods. The lid (1) will need to be opened by the user to access the baked goods or foodstuffs housed within the enclosure (3). In reference to figure 17; the lid (1) can either be detachable or it can be connected to the rest of the apparatus using hinges (21). In either case, the apparatus can use a handle (6) to enable the user to apply leverage to the lid (1), thus making it easier to open the enclosure (3).

In reference to figure 5; The user can gain access to the enclosure (3) using a sliding door (12). This can be made with contoured plastic, or with a plastic section that has foldable characteristics. This sliding door (12) can also benefit from the use of a handle (6).

In reference to figure 9; In order for the enclosure (3) to contain the vacuum pressure, the seal must be air-tight. This can be done using a rubber seal (8). When the lid (1) or sliding door (12) is in a closed position, the rubber seal (8) will form an air-tight gasket for the enclosure (3). This rubber seal (8) can be attached to either the lid (1) or to the rim of the enclosure (3). When vacuum pressure is applied to this rubber seal (8), it will contain the pressure and keep the enclosure (3) vacuum sealed, thus providing an air-free environment for the baked goods and foodstuffs to be kept. This rubber gasket (8) will be FDA approved to be in contact with foodstuffs, and be safe for cleaning as well. The seal is designed to be simple and practical. The lid (1) or door (12) of the apparatus will be opened and closed frequently, thus making the need to keep the seal simple and easy to open.

In reference to figure 9; Either the underside of the lid (1), or the perimeter of the enclosure (3) will contain a protruding lip or rim (9). This lip or rim (9) will be used to receive the lid (1) so that seal forms a snug air-tight fit each time it is closed. The notch or opening of the rubber seal (8) will be slightly smaller than the lip or rim (9), so that when the lip or rim (9) is inserted into the rubber seal (8), the rubber seal (8) will squeeze and grip the lip or rim (9). The pressure or tightness created between the lip or rim (9) and the rubber seal (8) will aid in this grip, which will provide an air-tight seal for the enclosure (3).

In reference to figure I 0; The lip or rim (9) is a flat section that puts pressure on the rubber seal (8) when the lid (I) is closed. This lip or rim (9) can have a slightly larger perimeter than the inside perimeter of the enclosure (3), thus causing significant pressure between the lip or rim (9) and the rubber seal (8). This method can be compared to how a beverage cooler would close.

In reference to figure 11; Added security could be added to the lid (1) by having a notch cut into the lid (1), that would receive a bulge of rubber seal (8). The rubber seal (8) would be squished into the notch by the pressure of the lid (1) being closed. The lid (1) would be held securely closed because the rubber seal (8) won't slip out of place unless a significant amount of force is applied to open the lid (1).

In reference to figure 11; A rubber seal (8) is formed around the perimeter of the lid (1).

When the lid (1) is closed, it will slide into the top of the enclosure (3). The inner rim of the enclosure (3) will be angled so that the lid (1) can be received with ease. When downward pressure is applied to the lid (I), it will create pressure between the rubber seal (8) and the inside of the enclosure (3), thus creating an air-tight seal capable of containing vacuum pressure.

An air-tight seal can also be achieved without a rubber seal (8). The pressure between the lid (1) and the enclosure's (3) walls could be strong enough to contain vacuum pressure.

This method can be compared to how a beverage cooler would close.

In reference to figure 3; When the vacuum seal needs to be released, the apparatus can use a vacuum release valve or release valve system (15). This can be controlled by a button (5) or similar mechanism that the user can activate at will. Upon activation, a valve (15) will open to allow air to flow into the enclosure (3) and thus, releasing the pressure and enabling the lid (1) or door (12) to be opened safely and easily. The vacuum release valve (15) may or may not make use of the electrical circuit. This valve (15) may also use an air filter (11) to make sure the air is cleaned prior to entering the enclosure (3). This release valve or release valve system (15) can be separate from the rest of the other mechanisms, or it can be part of the latching system's (20) automation. For example, when the user presses or pulls the latching handle (7) to open the lid (I), the release valve (IS) will open.

In reference to figure 12; since the rubber seal (8) grips the lip or notch (9) of the enclosure (3), using a latching mechanism or system (20) to aid in the release of the lid (1) or door (12) can help the user to open the enclosure (3) easily and safely, even after the vacuum pressure has been released. When pressed or pulled this mechanism (20) can pop the lid (I) or door (12) open. This mechanism (20) can also help hold the lid (1) or door (12) closed, and add pressure between the rubber seal (8) and the lip or notch (9) of the enclosure (3).

In reference to figure 13; The latching system (20) can simply be a hook (19) that is held shut by a pin (18). Either the hook (19) or pin (18) can be moved by pressing or pulling a lever or handle (7), which will cause the latch to open, thus lifting the lid (1) open. The lever or handle (7) can use a spring(s) to add leverage or resistance to the system. While the lid (I) is being closed, the hook (19) or pin (18) can simply slide into locked position without being depressed.

A lid (1) opening mechanism can be a part of the latching system (20). With the aid of some springs, the mechanism can pop open the lid (1) when the latching handle (7) is pressed or pulled.

The latching mechanism can also activate the vacuum release valve (15), which will allow air into the enclosure (3).

The entire system (20) can be completely automated by the pressing or pulling the latching handle (7). When the latching handle (7) is pressed or pulled, it can release the pressure within the enclosure (3) via the release valve (15), while releasing the hook (19) from the pin (18) causing the spring to lift the lid (1) open for the user.

In reference to figure 15; Another version of a latching system can simply use clasps (34) or one large clasp (34) to secure the lid (1). The lid (1) may or may not use hinges (21) depending on the clasps (34) being on the sides of the enclosure (3), or one large clasp (34) in the front.

The lid (I) or door (12) of the apparatus can be made of clear plastic. The lid (1) or enclosure (3) could also contain a clear window to allow visibility into the enclosure (3) or be completely transparent itself. This will enable a user to view the enclosure's (3) contents before unsealing it.

In reference to figure 8; The apparatus can have a lid (I) and an enclosure (3) act as one object. This will enable a user to lift up the entire enclosure (3) to gain access to the baked goods or foodstuffs. This lid (I) or enclosure (3) can be made of clear plastic as well. The rubber seal (8) would be underneath the enclosure (3), thus allowing gravity to aid in the enclosure's (3) seal. The apparatus's components would be housed inside the base (14).

In reference to figure 2; The apparatus can use a slide-out plastic separator (16). This is a simple piece of plastic that can help aid in food organization. This separator (16) will slide into a notch that is formed on the inside walls of the enclosure (3). This separator (16) will be shorter than the height of the enclosure (3). This will ensure that plenty of air circulation can occur within the entire enclosure (3), and that when the vacuum pump (17) is turned on, the separator (16) doesn't deter the components from getting an accurate pressure reading or that the separator (16) doesn't block any air paths into the air filter (11) or tubing (10). The separator (16) can also come in different sizes to enable the user to personalize the enclosure (3) to suit their needs.

In reference to figure 2; This apparatus will also include a slide-out hard plastic tray or slice (13). This hard plastic (13) can function as a cutting board or plate, so a user can slide this plastic section (13) out and provide a place to prepare the goods and to perform actions such as: making sandwiches, cutting bagels, or buttering bread to name a few.

This hard plastic (13) will ensure that counter-top or table surfaces will not get damaged by knives. It will also ensure that the crumbs or mess left from the preparation is not spilled onto the counter-top or table surfaces.

En reference to figure 18; The apparatus will also include an ergonomically designed rack, basket, or dish (32) for the inside of the enclosure (3). This basket (32) can serve several purposes. It can keep the baked goods and foodstuffs from coming in contact with the bottom of the enclosure (3). This will make sure that the goods do not come in contact with any crumbs that have fallen from the enclosure's (3) previous contents. It also can be used to suit the many types and shapes of the goods. For example, a basket (32) designed to hold a loaf of bread, or a basket (32) designed to hold a stack of English muffins or bagels, or a dish of cookies or even cereal.

In reference to figure 2; The apparatus will also include a removable tray (23) that fits inside the enclosure (3), or one that acts as the entire enclosure (3) itself. This tray (23) can be used for catching crumbs from the goods. When a user would like to empty the tray (23), they can simply slide it out of the enclosure (3), and dispose of the crumbs.

This tray (23) will aid in food sanitation and cleanliness.

In reference to figure 2; This apparatus can also benefit from the combination of other household appliances such as a toaster (33) or toaster oven. The apparatus can have built in toasters (33), heating elements, magnetrons (to create microwaves), or other heating means or methods which can provide the user with a one-stop station to prepare and heat their baked goods.

The apparatus and its components will be made mostly of plastic which can be formed by the use of plastic injection molding or similar plastic forming methods. This will provide a smooth and safe area for the baked goods and foodstuffs to be stored, and to make an effective design enabling the apparatus to fit into most environments. The rubber seal (8) will need to be formed to suit the contours of the lip or notch (9). The electrical circuit will he made using basic circuit components, circuit board(s), and electrical wiring.

Claims

Claims I. An airtight apparatus for the universal storage of baked goods

and foodstuffs with a built in vacuum pump which can be comprised of: (a) a contoured plastic enclosure with air ports, which is used to store baked goods and foodstuffs, which can be transparent; (b) an automatic vacuum pump and/or system with air ports used to expel air from within the enclosure, which can built into the apparatus or connected separately, and regulated by a timer, sensor, or circuit; (c) tubing to connect the vacuum ports to the enclosure; (d) air filters to clean the air before it enters the vacuum pump; (e) a lid, door, or sliding door which can be transparent or contain a transparent window to allow visibility within the enclosure, or a transparent lid which can function as the enclosure itself, either of which can be equip with a handle and/or a latching handle, and shaped to form an air-tight seal with the enclosure; (0 hinges which will connect the lid to the enclosure; (g) a rubber gasket used to form an air-tight seal between the lid or door and the enclosure; (h) an air actuator and/or vacuum release valve to release the vacuum pressure within the enclosure, which can use air filtration and can be activated manually or by a circuit; (i) an LED display to indicate the date, time, and the use of various apparatus functions; (j) buttons to initiate apparatus functions; (k) circuit(s) and/or circuit board(s), which can be connected to various parts of the apparatus which will control various functions; (I) electrical sensors, switches, integrated circuits, and circuit components to control the apparatus's functions; (m) a standard 120 volt power cord to give the apparatus electrical power.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, which can also be comprised of (a) plastic sections which are designed to slide in and out of the enclosure to function as separators fur the baked goods and foodstuffs, which can come in different shapes and sizes; (b) a plastic tray, plate, or cutting board which is able to slide in and out of the apparatus to provide the user with a place to prepare the baked goods and foodstuffs; (c) plastic racks or dishes designed specifically for different types of baked goods and foodstuffs, which are able to slide in and out of the apparatus to aid in food organization and sanitation; (d) a plastic tray which is able to slide in and out of the enclosure or which can be the entire inside of the enclosure, that will function as a crumb catcher to aid in sanitation; (e) a heating element, magnetron or microwave generator, toaster, or by other conventional means and methods which are able to warm, toast, or heat the baked goods and foodstuffs.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, which can be equipped with a manual vacuum pump system, which can built into the apparatus or connected separately comprised of: (a) a vacuum activator such as a button or lever, which will be exercised to create suction to a user's preference; (b) two cylinders, one of which will be slightly smaller in diameter and in length, which will have a rubber ring or gasket connected to the end, which will be inserted into the larger cylinder, the second cylinder of which will have a ring of holes around a section for air release, both of which will form a suction creating mechanism by the back and forth movement of the inner cylinder and rubber ring or gasket which can be exercised by the vacuum activator; (c) a unidirectional valve connected to the end of the larger cylinder to provide a way for air intake; (d) an automated air valve connected to the side of the larger cylinder to provide a port for air flow, so that the pump can continue to be exercised without resistance.

(e) an unidirectional air valve built into the enclosure to allow an external vacuum source to be connected to the apparatus;
4. The apparatus of claim 1, which can be equip with a manual andlor automatic latching system, which can aid in keeping the apparatus closed and can also help open it, which can add or apply leverage, pressure, and a popping effect between the lid and the enclosure, which can aid in containing a vacuum, comprised of: (a) a hook to hold the system shut, which can be moved by an activator.

(b) a pin to hold the hook in place to keep the system shut, which can be moved by an activator.

(c) an activator with resistance such as a button or lever, which can be pressed, pushed, or pulled to activate the movement of the hook or pin, to cause the system to open or close, which can also pop the apparatus open.

(d) clasps to hold the lid shut with pressure.
5. The apparatus of claim I, wherein the apparatus is designed respectively for baked goods and/or foodstuffs.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is used to provide an efficient universal storage place for all types of baked goods and/or foodstuffs such as: bread, bagels, buns, muffins, donuts, pastries, cereal, chips, cookies, and even leftovers but not limited to any specific type of baked goods or foodstuffs.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is specifically designed to keep baked goods and/or foodstuffs fresh and to retard the formation of mold and other contaminants, without the use of refrigeration, vacuum bags, or a freezer.
8. The apparatus of claim I, wherein the apparatus is not dependant on another apparatus or appliance.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is shaped to fit efficiently onto a counter-top or table, and is portable, and can also be built into kitchens or similar environments.
10. The apparatus of claim I, wherein the apparatus can come in different shapes and styles.
11. The apparatus of claim I, wherein the apparatus doesn't use a vacuum pump or electricity at all.
12. The apparatus of claim I, wherein the apparatus is designed to suit the highest level of baked good and/or foodstuffs preparation, storage, convenience, and organization, and to provide a universal storage area for all types of baked goods and/or foodstuffs.
13. The apparatus of claim I, wherein the apparatus is made out of plastic, acrylic, metal, glass, cardboard, or wood.