US20080245829A1 - Backpack meal container systems and methods - Google Patents
Backpack meal container systems and methods Download PDFInfo
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- US20080245829A1 US20080245829A1 US11/697,002 US69700207A US2008245829A1 US 20080245829 A1 US20080245829 A1 US 20080245829A1 US 69700207 A US69700207 A US 69700207A US 2008245829 A1 US2008245829 A1 US 2008245829A1
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- Prior art keywords
- container
- backpack
- panel
- item
- interior space
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
- A45C11/20—Lunch or picnic boxes or the like
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C7/00—Collapsible or extensible purses, luggage, bags or the like
- A45C7/0018—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C7/0054—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage comprising a plurality of hinged panels to be unfolded in one plane for access purposes
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F2003/001—Accessories
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F3/04—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders
Abstract
Description
- Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods for transporting items, primarily food, and in particular to containers for carrying such items in a backpack.
- Backpacks and other soft-sided carriers are increasingly being used as a convenient and effective apparatus for transporting personal items. In fact, backpacks are becoming the accessory of choice among many adults and children, replacing brief cases and handbags. An individual will often find it necessary or desirable to carry a meal with them to work, school, or another location. Yet standard lunch boxes or lunch pails often do not easily fit into a backpack. Similarly, although brown paper bags can be placed into a backpack, the typical bagged lunch is susceptible to being smashed by other items such as books which are contained in the backpack. Moreover, the shapes of many commonly available pre-packaged meal systems are not amenable for efficient placement within a backpack, and instead lead to a waste of valuable carrying space.
- What is needed are improved systems and methods for transporting food items in a backpack. Relatedly, such meal container systems should be sturdy and provide for an efficient use of space within a backpack. Embodiments of the present invention useful solutions to at least some of these needs.
- Advantageously, embodiments of the present invention provide improved approaches for transporting meals and other items, in carriers such as backpacks or other accessories. Systems and methods include containers that are suitably shaped to effectively maximize space management within a backpack. For example, meal containers can be shaped for placement within a backpack void that would otherwise be unoccupied when books and other items are carried in the backpack. What is more, meal containers or cartons are sturdier than a typical bagged lunch that may get smashed when carried in a backpack.
- In a first embodiment, embodiments of the present invention provide a container for transporting an item within an interior space of a backpack. The container can include, for example, a lower portion having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in the interior space of the backpack, and an upper portion having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. The upper portion can include an openable flap defined at least in part by a perforation. The lower portion can include an openable flap. In some cases, a side portion includes an openable flap. The container may provide a crush resistant structure. In some cases, the upper portion, the lower portion, or both the upper portion and lower portion, include a cellulosic fiber material. In some cases, the upper portion, the lower portion, or both the upper portion and lower portion, include a fiberboard material. In some cases, the upper portion, the lower portion, or both the upper portion and lower portion, include a plastic material. In some cases, the upper portion, the lower portion, or both the upper portion and the lower portion, include a blister card material. The container may also include a food item disposed therein. In some cases, the container may be sealed, with the food item disposed within the container.
- In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method of transporting an item within an interior space of a backpack. The method may include placing a container containing the item within the interior space of the backpack, such that the container rests upon an object contained in the interior space of the backpack. The method may also include transporting the backpack so as to transport the item. The container can include bottom panel having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of the object contained in the interior space of the backpack, and an upper profile having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. The method may also include placing the item within the container prior to transporting the backpack. In some cases, the method includes placing the container within a shell prior to transporting the backpack. The item may include a food item.
- In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for preparing an item for transport within an interior space of a backpack. The method may include placing the item within a container, and placing the container within the interior space of the backpack, such that the container rests upon an object contained in the interior space of the backpack. The container can include a bottom panel having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of the object contained in the interior space of the backpack, and an upper profile having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. The item may include a food item.
- In a still further aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for making a container for transporting an item in a backpack. The method may include providing a container blank, and folding the container blank to form a container body. The container body may include a bottom panel having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in an interior space of the backpack, and an upper profile having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. In some cases, the method can also include placing the item within the container body. The item may include a food item. In some cases, the method may also include placing the item within the container body and then sealing the container body.
- In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a prepackaged container for transporting an item within an interior space of a backpack. The prepackaged container may include, for example, a lower portion having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in the interior space of the backpack, an upper portion having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack, and an item contained within an interior space of the container. In some cases, the item includes a food item. In related instances, the container is sealed or sealable.
- In a further aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a container for transporting an item within an interior space of a backpack. The container may include a quadrilateral bottom panel having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in the interior space of the backpack, a quadrilateral top panel opposing the lower panel, a quadrilateral first end panel, a quadrilateral second end panel opposing the first end panel, a trapezoidal first side panel having an upper base that joins the top panel and a lower base that joins the bottom panel, and a trapezoidal second side panel opposing the first side panel, the trapezoidal second side panel having an upper base that joints the top panel and a lower base that joins the bottom panel. The top, end, and side panels can provide a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a container blank for forming a container body. The container blank may include, for example, a trapezoidal first side panel, a quadrilateral top panel coupled with the first side panel, a quadrilateral first end panel coupled with the top panel, a quadrilateral second end panel coupled with the top panel, a trapezoidal second side panel coupled with the top panel, and a quadrilateral bottom panel coupled with the second side panel.
- For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the ensuing detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
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FIG. 1A illustrates a meal container and a backpack according to embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 1B illustrates a meal container according to embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 2A and B show a meal container kit according to embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 3A and B illustrate a meal container according to embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 depicts a meal container according to embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 5A to 5E illustrate a meal container and method of construction according to embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 depicts a meal container and shell according to embodiments of the present invention. - Systems and methods disclosed herein provide meal containers or kits that are shaped to fit within interior voids or spaces of a backpack. Meal container embodiments are constructed so as to avoid crushing or other damaging forces that may be present within the backpack interior space. Such containers provide for the efficient and effective transport of food and other items within a soft-sided carrier, and are easily opened for convenient access to the contents contained therein. Containers can be shaped so that they fit on top of books and other items being held in a backpack. In some cases, container openings may include perforated flap or tab openings, or zipper re-closures. Relatedly, a container may include an opening that removably seals or couples with a lid, a panel, or a portion of a panel to access items within the container. The containers or kits may be designed for a standard adult backpack, a standard child backpack, or any other desired backpack or carrier configuration.
- Turning now to the drawings,
FIG. 1A illustrates ameal container 100 for transporting food, or other items within abackpack 200. As shown here,container 100 is disposed within aninterior space 210 ofbackpack 200.Container 100 includes alower portion 110 having a flat or substantiallyflat surface 112 configured to fit above or against anobject 300 contained withininterior space 210. Object 300 can be a book, binder, pencil box, or any other item that may commonly be carried in a backpack. Often, object 300 will present a flat or substantially flat surface against which surface 112 ofcontainer 100 is disposed.Container 100 also includes anupper portion 120 having acontour 122 configured to fit against anupper portion 220 ofbackpack 200.Container 100 therefore can occupy atarget space 230 ofbackpack 200, for example a dead spot or void, that exists between backpackupper portion 220 andobject 300.Upper portion 220 may present a variety of contour shapes, including inverted domes, hemispheres, and the like. In some embodiments,upper portion 220 presents a concave shape wherein the open portion of the concavity faces downward. Similarly,upper portion 220 may present a hollow curved or vaulted shape. The shape may be oval, oblong, elliptical, rectangular, trapezoidal, and the like. Thecontour 122 of the containerupper portion 120 may present a shape that fits against or within a backpackupper portion 220 contour shape. It is appreciated that backpackupper portion 220 may have a shape or contour that is a complementary or substantially complementary with any of the container upper portion shapes or contours described herein.FIG. 1B illustrates a close-up view ofmeal container 100, which includeslower portion 110 andupper portion 120.Container 100 presents a half-moon shape or a shallow half cylinder shape.Lower portion 110 includes a flap or opening 114 whereby container can be opened or closed during use.Container 100 includes atop panel 130, abottom panel 140, and two opposingside panels Top panel 130 andbottom panel 140 are each rectangular in shape. Opposingside panels interior space 210 of thebackpack 200. These items can be placed within thecontainer 100, and the container can be placed within theinterior space 210, such that the container rests upon an object contained within theinterior space 210. Theobject 300 can be, for example, a book or a stack of books. The method may also include transporting or carrying thebackpack 200, so as to transport the items within thecontainer 100 to a desired location. In some instances,container 100 may be pre-packaged so as to enclose or contain food, or other items. Thus, embodiments may provide a pre-packaged container or kit for transporting food, or other items within an interior space of a backpack. Thecontainer 100 may include a lower portion having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in the interior space of the backpack, and an upper portion having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. -
FIGS. 2A and 2B depict aprepackaged meal kit 400 according to embodiments of the present invention.Prepackaged meal kit 400 includes acontainer 405 andfood contents 490. Theprepackaged meal kit 400 shown inFIG. 2A is in the upright position, and includes alower portion 410 and anupper portion 420.Container 405 is configured to fit within an interior space of a backpack, such as an empty space or void that is created between an upper portion of the backpack and the top of an object when the object is placed within the backpack interior space.Lower portion 410 ofcontainer 405 includes a flat or substantiallyflat surface 412 configured to fit above or against an object contained within the backpack interior space. The object or objects, which may include a stack of one or more books, can present a flat or substantially flat surface against which surface 412 ofcontainer 405 is disposed. Containerupper portion 420 has acontour 422 configured to fit against an upper portion of a backpack.Container 405 therefore can occupy a target space of backpack, for example a dead spot or void, that exists between a backpack upper portion and one or more objects contained in the backpack. As shown here,contour 422 presents a substantially convex or arched shape that fits within an inverted concave or vaulted shape provided by the upper portion of a backpack or other soft-shell carrier.Lower portion 410 includes one ormore side tabs 414 and one ormore end tabs 415 whereby abottom panel 440 of the container can be opened or closed during use.Container 405 includes atop panel 430,bottom panel 440, two opposingside panels opposing end panels 460 a, 460 b.Top panel 430,bottom panel 440, and endpanels 460 a, 460 b are rectangular in shape.Side panels seams seams -
FIG. 2B illustratescontainer 405 in an inverted position. Here, bottom panel orflap 440 is opened to provide easy access to one ormore food items 490 contained therein.Food items 490 can include any of a variety of snacks, beverages, entrees, and the like. In some embodiments,food items 490 can include a drink box, a fruit cup, a sandwich, a can of tuna, a package of cheese and crackers, a granola bar, a bag of potato chips, or the like.Container 400 can be constructed of a sturdy crush-resistant material, such as cellulosic fiber or plastic. In some embodiments,container 405 may include a clear or transparent portion that allows the contents of the container to be viewed from the outside.Container 405 may be any desired color or combination of colors. In some embodiments,container 405 is presented as an empty container that can be filled by a consumer or other end user. In some embodiments,container 400 is part of a pre-packaged meal kit that includesfood items 490 disposed within a sealed or otherwise closedcontainer 405. In use,container 405 can be transported within a dead spot of a backpack while oriented in the upward position shown inFIG. 2A . When the end user or other person wishes to remove the contents ofcontainer 405, it can be taken out of the backpack, and inverted and opened as depicted inFIG. 2B . In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method of preparing afood item 490 for transport within an interior space of a backpack. The method may include placing thefood item 490 within acontainer 405, and placing thecontainer 405 within an interior space of the backpack, such that thecontainer 405 rests upon an object contained within an interior space of the backpack. -
FIGS. 3A and 3B depict ameal container 500 according to embodiments of the present invention.Meal container 500 includes acontainer body 505 and adetachable panel 590. Themeal container 500 shown inFIG. 3A is in the upright position, and includes alower portion 510 and anupper portion 520.Container 500 is configured to fit within an interior space of a backpack, such as an empty space or void that is created between an upper portion of the backpack and the top of an object when the object is placed within the backpack interior space.Lower portion 510 ofcontainer 500 includes a flat or substantiallyflat surface 512 configured to fit above or against an object contained within the backpack interior space. Here,flat surface 512 is defined at least in part bydetachable panel 590. The object or objects, which may include a stack of one or more books, can present a flat or substantially flat surface against which surface 512 ofcontainer 500 is disposed. Containerupper portion 520 has acontour 522 configured to fit against an upper portion of a backpack.Container 500 therefore can occupy a target space of backpack, for example a dead spot or void, that exists between a backpack upper portion and one or more objects contained in the backpack. As shown here,contour 522 presents a substantially convex or arched shape that fits within an inverted concave or vaulted shape provided by the upper portion of a backpack or other soft-shell carrier.Lower portion 510 includesdetachable panel 590 which may encompass an easily opened flush lid or the like.Detachable panel 590 can be removed or attached during use.Container body 505 includes atop panel 530, a bottom opening orrim 515 adapted to receive or sealably couple with detachablebottom panel 590, two opposingside panels opposing end panels Top panel 530, detachable bottom panel, and endpanels Side panels seams seams -
FIG. 3B illustratescontainer 500 in an inverted position. Here, detachable bottom panel is removed to provide easy access to one or more items, such as food items, contained therein.Container 500 can be constructed of a sturdy crush-resistant material, such as cellulosic fiber or plastic. In some embodiments,container 500 may include a clear or transparent portion that allows the contents of the container to be viewed from the outside.Container 500 may be any desired color or combination of colors. In some embodiments,container 500 is presented as an empty container that can be filled by a consumer or other end user. In some embodiments,container 500 is part of a pre-packaged meal kit that includes food items disposed within a sealed or otherwise closed or packagedcontainer 500. In use,container 500 can be transported within a dead spot of a backpack while oriented in the upward position shown inFIG. 3A . When the end user or other person wishes to remove the contents ofcontainer 500, the container can be taken out of the backpack, and inverted and opened as depicted inFIG. 3B . -
FIG. 4 depicts ameal container 600 according to embodiments of the present invention.Meal container 600 includes acontainer body 605 and adetachable panel 690. Themeal container 600 is in an upright position as it would be carried in a backpack.Container 600 includes alower portion 610 and anupper portion 620.Container 600 is configured to fit within an interior space of a backpack, such as an empty space or void that is created between an upper portion of the backpack and the top of an object when the object is placed within the backpack interior space.Lower portion 610 ofcontainer 600 includes a flat or substantiallyflat surface 612 configured to fit above or against an object contained within the backpack interior space. The object or objects, which may include a stack of one or more books, can present a flat or substantially flat surface against which surface 612 ofcontainer 600 is disposed. Containerupper portion 620 has acontour 622 configured to fit against an upper portion of a backpack.Container 600 therefore can occupy a target space of backpack, for example a dead spot or void, that exists between a backpack upper portion and one or more objects contained in the backpack. As shown here,contour 622 presents a substantially convex or arched shape that fits within an inverted concave or vaulted shape provided by the upper portion of a backpack or other soft-shell carrier.Container body 605 includes a top panel 630, two opposingside panels 650 a, 650 b, and twoopposing end panels Container body 605 also includes a side opening orrim 615 adapted to receive or sealably couple withdetachable side panel 690. In some embodiments,detachable panel 690 includes an easily opened flush lid or the like.Detachable panel 690 can be removed or attached during use. Top panel 630,bottom panel 640, and endpanels Side panels 650 a, 650 b are substantially trapezoidal or arched in shape, whereby panel top edges orseams seams 652 a, 652 b.Detachable side panel 690 can be removed to provide easy access to one or more food items contained therein.Container 600 can be constructed of a sturdy crush-resistant material, such as cellulosic fiber or plastic. In some embodiments,container 600 may include a clear or transparent portion that allows the contents of the container to be viewed from the outside.Container 600 may be any desired color or combination of colors. In some embodiments,container 600 is presented as an empty container that can be filled by a consumer or other end user. In some embodiments,container 600 is part of a pre-packaged meal kit that includes food items disposed within a sealed or otherwise closed or packagedcontainer 600. In use,container 600 can be transported within a dead spot of a backpack while oriented in the upward position shown inFIG. 4 . When the end user or other person wishes to remove the contents ofcontainer 600, the container can be taken out of the backpack and opened. In some embodiments,container 600 may remain in the backpack when the container is opened. - In some cases, a container can be constructed from or include a folded fiberboard or similar material. As depicted in
FIGS. 5A to 5E , a flat piece or die-cut blank that can be folded to create a container for holding food or other items according to embodiments of the present invention.FIG. 5A illustrates the interior side or face of a container blank 700 that includes a series of panels or portions, including atop panel 705, abottom panel 710, afirst side panel 715, asecond side panel 720, afirst end panel 725, and asecond end panel 730.Blank 700 can also include one or more accordion flaps. The exterior side or face of blank 700 is on the side opposite to the interior side. As shown here, blank 700 includes accordion flaps 717, 734 disposed betweenfirst side panel 715 andsecond end panel 730, accordingflaps first side panel 715 andfirst end panel 725, accordion flaps 731, 724 disposed betweenfirst end panel 725 andbottom panel 710, and accordingflaps bottom panel 710 andsecond end panel 730.Blank 700 can also include one or more tabs. As shown here, blank 700 includes a firstend panel tab 727, a secondend panel tab 732, and abottom panel tab 740. Panels, according flaps, tabs, and the like may include, form, or otherwise present various combinations of folds, seams, edges, score lines, or perforations. For example,top panel 705 may includeedges first side panel 715 may includeedges top panel 705 is disposed adjacent tofirst side panel 715, such thatedge 705 a joins withedge 715 c, thereby forming aseam 705 a/715 c which may be folded. -
Top panel 705 is also disposed adjacent tosecond side panel 720, such thatedge 705 c joins withedge 720 a, thereby forming aseam 705 c/720 a which may be folded. Further,top panel 705 is disposed adjacent tofirst end panel 725, such thatedge 705 b joins withedge 725 d, thereby forming aseam 705 b/725 d which may be folded.Top panel 705 is disposed adjacent tosecond end panel 730, such thatedge 705 d joins withedge 730 b, thereby forming aseam 705 d/730 b which may be folded.First side panel 715 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 719, such thatedge 715 b joins withedge 719 a, thereby forming aseam 715 b/719 a which may be folded.First side panel 715 is also disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 717, such thatedge 715 d joins withedge 717 a, thereby forming aseam 715 d/717 a which may be folded.First side panel 715 also includesedge 715 a, which may includeindents 715 a′ and 715 a″.Second side panel 720 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 724, such thatedge 720 b joins withedge 724 c, thereby forming aseam 720 b/724 c which may be folded.Second side panel 720 is also disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 722, such thatedge 720 d joins withedge 722 b, thereby forming aseam 720 d/722 b which may be folded.Bottom panel 710 is disposed adjacent tosecond side panel 720, such thatedge 710 a joins withedge 720 c, thereby forming aseam 710 a/720 c which may be folded.Bottom panel 710 is also disposed adjacent totab 740, such thatedge 710 c joins withedge 740 a, thereby forming aseam 710 c/740 a which may be folded.Tab 740 also includesedges Bottom panel 710 also includesedges -
First end panel 725 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 729, such thatedge 725 a joins withedge 729 c, thereby forming aseam 725 a/729 c which may be folded.First end panel 725 is also disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 731, such thatedge 725 c joins withedge 731 a, thus forming aseam 725 c/731 a.First end panel 725 is disposed adjacent totab 727, such thatedge 725 b joins withedge 727 d, thereby forming aseam 725 b/727 d which may be folded.Tab 727 also includesedges Second end panel 730 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 734, such thatedge 730 a joins withedge 734 b, thereby forming aseam 730 a/734 b which may be folded.Second end panel 730 is also disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 736, such thatedge 730 c joins withedge 736 a, thus forming aseam 730 c/736 a.Second end panel 730 is disposed adjacent totab 732, such thatedge 730 d joins withedge 732 b, thereby forming aseam 730 d/732 b which may be folded.Tab 732 also includesedges -
Accordion flap 719 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 729, such thatedge 719 c joins withedge 729 a, thereby forming aseam 719 c/729 a which may be folded.Accordion flap 719 includesedge 719 b, andaccordion flap 729 includesedge 729 b.Accordion flap 731 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 724, such thatedge 731 c joins withedge 724 a, thereby forming aseam 731 c/724 a which may be folded.Accordion flap 731 includesedge 731 b, andaccordion flap 724 includesedge 724 b.Accordion flap 717 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 734, such thatedge 717 b joins withedge 734 a, thereby forming aseam 717 b/734 a which may be folded.Accordion flap 717 includesedge 717 c, andaccordion flap 734 includesedge 734 c.Accordion flap 736 is disposed adjacent toaccordion flap 722, such thatedge 736 b joins withedge 722 a, thereby forming aseam 736 b/722 a which may be folded.Accordion flap 736 includesedge 736 c, andaccordion flap 722 includesedge 722 c. - Perforations or score
lines top panel 705 tofirst side panel 715, traversingseam 705 a/715 c. As shown here,perforations first side panel 715 intosections top panel 705 intosections Perforation 750 a spans fromseam 705 c/720 a to indent 715 a′.Perforation 750 b spans fromseam 705 c/720 a to indent 715 a″. Accordion flaps 719, 729, 731, 724, 722, 736, 717, and 734 are triangular in shape. - As shown in
FIG. 5B , edge 715 a offirst side panel 715 and edge 740 c ofbottom panel tab 740 can be drawn together as indicated by arrow A, so as to create or induce folds at one or more ofseams 705 a/715 c, 730 a/734 b, 725 a/729 c, 705 c/720 a, 710 a/720 c, 730 c/736 a, 725 c/731 a, and 710 c/740 a.Tab 732 may include or be coupled with an adhesive member orsubstance 732 a, such as a strip of double sided tape, glue, and the like.Tabs bottom panel tab 740 may include such anadhesive member 740 i.FIG. 5C illustrates another step in a sequence of the container construction method. An interior face of firstside panel tab 715 a is fixed or attached with an exterior face ofbottom panel tab 740. At the containerfirst end 750, accordion flaps 719 and 729, as well as accordion flaps 731 and 724 (not shown in this Figure), can be collapsed by the inward folding ofseam 719 c/729 a as indicated by arrow A and the inward folding ofseam 731 c/724 a (not shown in this Figure). Edge 727 b oftab 727 and edge 710 b (not shown) ofbottom panel 710 can be drawn together so as to create or induce a fold atseam 725 b/727 d,seam 705 b/725 d, or both, as indicated by arrow B. This may also be accompanied by the collapse of accordion flaps 729, 719, 731, and 724, and the folding ofseams 715 b/719 a, 725 a/729 c, 719 c/729 a, and 725 c/731 a, as well asseams 720 b/724 c and 731 c/724 a (not shown in this Figure). Similarly, at containersecond end 760,edge 732 d oftab 732 and edge 710 d ofbottom panel 710 can be drawn together so as to create or induce a fold atseam 730 d/732 b,seam 705 d/730 b, or both. This may also be accompanied by the collapse of accordion flaps 734, 717, 736, and 722 (not shown in this Figure), and the folding ofseams 715 d/717 a, 717 b/734 a, 730 a/734 b, 730 c/736 a, 736 a/722 a (not shown in this Figure), and 720 d/722 b. An adhesive material or substance may be used to adhere or seal exterior faces oftabs -
FIG. 5D illustrates a folded container blank 700 according to embodiments of the present invention.Container blank 700 is folded to form acontainer body 755. In some embodiments, the container body may be sealed and may contain food contents therein.Container body 755 includes alower portion 760 and anupper portion 770.Container 755 is configured to fit within an interior space of a backpack, such as an empty space or void that is created between an upper portion of the backpack and the top of an object when the object is placed within the backpack interior space.Lower portion 760 ofcontainer body 755 includes a flat or substantiallyflat surface 762, formed at least in part bybottom panel 710, configured to fit above or against an object contained within the backpack interior space. The object or objects, which may include a stack of one or more books, can present a flat or substantially flat surface against which surface 762 ofcontainer body 755 is disposed. Containerupper portion 770 has acontour 772 configured to fit against an upper portion of a backpack.Container body 755 therefore can occupy a target space of backpack, for example a dead spot or void, that exists between a backpack upper portion and one or more objects contained in the backpack. As shown here,contour 772 presents a substantially convex or arched shape that fits within an inverted concave or vaulted shape provided by the upper portion of a backpack or other soft-shell carrier.Lower portion 760 includes one ormore side tabs 740 and one ormore end tabs Container body 755 includes atop panel 705,bottom panel 710, two opposingside panels opposing end panels Top panel 705,bottom panel 710, and endpanels Side panels seam 705 a/715 c is shorter in length than panel bottom edge orseam 710 c/740 a. For example,seam 705 a/715 c can have a length S within a range from about 3 inches to about 9 inches. In someembodiments seam 705 a/715 c has a length S of about 6 inches.Seam 710 c/740 a can have a length L within a range from about 4 inches to about 17 inches. In some embodiments,seam 710 c/740 a has a length L of about 9 inches. Relatedly,container 700 can have a depth D of any desired length. In some embodiments,seam 730 d/732 b can have a length D within a range from of about 1 to about 8 inches.Seam 730 d/732 b may also have a length D within a range from of about 3 to about 3.5 inches. Bottom orlower panel 710 can be defined by a quadrilateral shape, and has a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in the interior space of a backpack, such as a stack of books. A top orupper panel 705 may be defined by a quadrilateral shape, and may present an opposing sidewall to the lower panel. First and second opposing end panels may be defined by quadrilateral shapes as well. First and second opposing side panels may be defined by trapezoidal shapes, whereby each side panel includes an upper base or edge that joins an upper or top panel, and each side panel includes a lower base or edge that joins a lower or bottom panel. The side, end, and top panels may provide a contour that is configured to fit against an upper portion of an interior space of a backpack. - As depicted in
FIG. 5E ,container body 755 can be opened by tearing or separating the body alongperforations section 715 ii can be separated fromsections 715 iii and 715 i, andsection 705 ii can be separated fromsections 705 iii and 705 i.Section 705 ii,section 715 ii, or both, may present an openable flap whereby the container body may be opened and closed. As shown here, arrow A indicates the opening of a flap defined bysections 715 ii and 705 ii. The flap may be defined at least in part by one or more perforations. It is appreciated that container blank 700 may be configured so as to provide an openable flap or panel on any desired face or portion of the container, such as the top face or portion, the bottom face or portion, an end face or portion, or a side face or portion. Adhesive 742 a can be used to releasably adheretab 740 withfirst side panel 715. Often, container blank 700 will be constructed of or include a crush-resistant material such as a fiberboard or a plastic so as to provide a crushresistant container body 755 or structure. In some embodiments,container body 755 presents a pre-packaged food container that includes one or more food items within an interior space of the container. Thus, in accordance with the techniques describe above with reference toFIGS. 5A to 5E , embodiments of the present invention provide a method for making a container that can be used for transporting a food item in a backpack. - Any of the container described herein or can be constructed of a sturdy crush-resistant material, such as cellulosic fiber or plastic. In some embodiments, containers may include a clear or transparent portion that allows the contents of the container to be viewed from the outside. Containers may be any desired color or combination of colors. Containers may include perforated flap or tab openings, or zipper re-closures. A container may include an opening that removably seals or couples with a lid, a panel, or a portion of a lid or panel. The lids or other re-closures may be placed on the top of the container, on the side of the container, on the bottom of the container, or any desired combination thereof. In some embodiments, a container may be formed of or include a blister card packaging or material. A blister card material may include plastic and fiber components. A container may include one or more peg holes or other apertures for hanging on a peg or support of a store shelf display. In some embodiments, a container may be constructed of reinforced mesh materials, or other materials or combinations of materials with a zipper or other closures.
- In some embodiments, a container is presented as an empty container that can be filled by a consumer or other end user with food, beverages, or other items. In some embodiments, a container is part of a pre-packaged kit that includes one or more items disposed within a sealed or otherwise closed container. Relatedly, a container can be part of a pre-packaged meal kit that includes one or more food or beverage items disposed within a sealed or otherwise closed container. In some embodiments, a container may include or incorporate secondary stabilizing packaging that supports or holds items within the container. For example, secondary stabilizing packaging may hold or stabilize pre-packed food in place within the container while the container is transported or shipped. In some cases, stabilizing packaging can include plastic or cardboard material. Secondary stabilizing packaging can include barriers, tabs, flaps, loops, holders, and the like. Such stabilizing features can secure items, such as food or beverage items, within the container and prevent or inhibit unwanted movement of the items within the container during shipping or transport. In some pre-packaged format embodiments, items within a container may include, but are not limited to, a pouch of tuna, cheese, crackers, a bag of chips, beverages, cereal, a fruit cup, toy prizes, a granola bar, or the like. Containers may be shaped so that they fit on top of books or other items being held in a backpack. In some embodiments, a backpack container may have a width within a range from about 6 inches to about 12 inches, a depth at the lower section of the container within a range from about 2 inches to about 6 inches, and a height at the highest point of the upper portion contour shape within a range from about 2 inches to about 6 inches. In some cases, the dimensions can be based on or determined by the available space in a backpack design after being filled with books and other personal items.
- As depicted in
FIG. 6 , embodiments of the present invention include acontainer system 800 having an outer insulated orprotective shell 810 for holding acontainer 820.Shell 810 shell may be constructed of a fabric mesh or other material. The shell can provide a re-usable receptacle for carrying or storing containers and kits as described herein. In some cases, a shell may be sold or otherwise distributed as a promotional item. A shell may have branding or marketing insignia displayed thereon or attached thereto. As shown here,shell 800 includescoupling elements 830, such as fasteners, hood and loop closures such as Velcro®, and the like, for maintaining the shell in a closed configuration. Typically, such a shell will be slightly larger than the container, and have a similar shape or configuration. Accordingly, the shell can have a lower portion having a substantially flat surface configured to fit on top of an object contained in the interior space of the backpack; and an upper portion having a contour configured to fit against an upper portion of the backpack. For example, a shell can be shaped so that it fits on top of books or other items being held in a backpack. A shell may be designed for a standard adult backpack, a standard child backpack, or any other desired backpack or carrier configuration. In some cases, a shell may contain a prepackaged container, a container that is packed by the end user, or an empty container. - Embodiments of the invention have now been described in detail. However, it will be appreciated that the invention may be carried out in ways other than those illustrated in the aforesaid discussion, and that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the scope of this invention is not intended to be limited by those specific examples, but rather is to be accorded the scope represented in the following claims.
Claims (25)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/697,002 US20080245829A1 (en) | 2007-04-05 | 2007-04-05 | Backpack meal container systems and methods |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/697,002 US20080245829A1 (en) | 2007-04-05 | 2007-04-05 | Backpack meal container systems and methods |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20080245829A1 true US20080245829A1 (en) | 2008-10-09 |
Family
ID=39826078
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/697,002 Abandoned US20080245829A1 (en) | 2007-04-05 | 2007-04-05 | Backpack meal container systems and methods |
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US (1) | US20080245829A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD979932S1 (en) * | 2022-12-01 | 2023-03-07 | Dongguan Deego Trading Co., Ltd | Backpack |
USD984120S1 (en) * | 2022-11-25 | 2023-04-25 | Shaochong Li | Book bag |
US11787227B2 (en) * | 2019-04-03 | 2023-10-17 | Cary Wang | Compact tool combining vacuum/blower, pencil sharpener, rubbery eraser, and storage space |
USD1002185S1 (en) * | 2022-12-06 | 2023-10-24 | Siyi Wang | Combined detachable tool backpack and base |
USD1006436S1 (en) * | 2022-11-30 | 2023-12-05 | Yanfeng Liu | Backpack |
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