US20210016956A1 - Container for food items - Google Patents
Container for food items Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210016956A1 US20210016956A1 US16/913,456 US202016913456A US2021016956A1 US 20210016956 A1 US20210016956 A1 US 20210016956A1 US 202016913456 A US202016913456 A US 202016913456A US 2021016956 A1 US2021016956 A1 US 2021016956A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- container
- chamber
- thermal medium
- approximately
- body portion
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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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
- B65D81/38—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 with thermal insulation
- B65D81/3837—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 with thermal insulation rigid container in the form of a bottle, jar or like container
-
- 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
- B65D81/38—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 with thermal insulation
- B65D81/3837—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 with thermal insulation rigid container in the form of a bottle, jar or like container
- B65D81/3841—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 with thermal insulation rigid container in the form of a bottle, jar or like container formed with double walls, i.e. hollow
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B5/00—Packaging individual articles in containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, jars
- B65B5/04—Packaging single articles
-
- 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
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
-
- 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
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
- B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
- B65D43/163—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container and the lid being made separately
- B65D43/169—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container and the lid being made separately the lid, the hinge and the element connecting them to the container being made of one piece
Definitions
- the present disclosure is directed to a container for food items. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a container that accommodates a thermal medium to hinder (inhibit) temperature variation (e.g., warming and cooling) of food items stored therein and that is configured (e.g., shape and sized) in correspondence with a particular food item, such as, for example, a cheese stick.
- a thermal medium to hinder (inhibit) temperature variation e.g., warming and cooling
- a particular food item such as, for example, a cheese stick.
- ice packs and the like are often utilized to keep food items cool (or cold) within a chest, cooler, backpack, lunchbox, or other such portable article. Due to the generally rectangular (or otherwise polygonal) shape of most ice packs, however, certain (non-liquid) food items may move around (e.g., roll, slide, etc.) within the portable article out of contact and/or proximity with the ice pack, which can result in undesirable temperature variation (e.g., warming) of the food item.
- the present disclosure describes a container that is specifically configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to receive a particular food item (or items) and that includes a chamber for a thermal medium, which resists temperature variation of the food item stored within the container.
- a container for a non-liquid food item that includes a body and a cap that is configured for removable connection to the body to allow for opening and closure of the container.
- the body includes an exterior wall and is configured in correspondence with the non-liquid food item such that the configuration of the body substantially approximates that of the non-liquid food item.
- the body defines a storage compartment that is configured to store the non-liquid food item as well as a chamber that is enclosed within the exterior wall.
- the chamber is configured to accommodate a thermal medium to hinder (inhibit) temperature variation of the non-liquid food item.
- the body may include an upper end and a lower end that is opposite to the upper end. In some embodiments, the body may define an overall length that extends between the upper end and the lower end.
- the chamber may span the overall length of the body.
- the overall length of the body may lie substantially within the range of approximately 4′′ to approximately 7′′.
- the body may define an overall transverse dimension that extends in generally orthogonal relation to the overall length and that lies substantially within the range of approximately 1′′ to approximately 3′′.
- the cap may define a cavity that is configured to receive the upper end of the body.
- the upper end of the body may define a shoulder that is configured to support the cap such that an outer surface of the cap is generally flush with an outer surface of the body when the container is closed.
- the cap may be captive to the body.
- the container may further include a tether that extends between the cap and the body.
- the cap may include a tactile member that is configured for manual engagement by a user to facilitate opening and closure of the container.
- the exterior wall of the body may define an aperture that is configured to facilitate filling of the chamber with the thermal medium.
- the container may further include a plug that is configured for removable insertion into the aperture to inhibit escape of the thermal medium from the chamber.
- a container for a food item in another aspect of the present disclosure, includes a first body portion and a second body portion that is releasably connectable to the first body portion.
- the first body portion includes a first exterior wall and defines a first chamber that is configured to accommodate a thermal medium, wherein the first chamber is enclosed within the first exterior wall.
- the second body portion includes a second exterior wall and defines a second chamber that is configured to accommodate a thermal medium, wherein the second chamber is enclosed within the second exterior wall.
- the container may further include a coupling mechanism that is configured to facilitate removable connection of the first body portion and the second body portion.
- the container may define an overall length that lies substantially within the range of approximately 4′′ to approximately 7′′.
- the container may define an overall transverse dimension that extends in generally orthogonal relation to the overall length and that lies substantially within the range of approximately 1′′ to approximately 3′′.
- the first exterior wall of the first body portion may define a first aperture that is configured to facilitate filling of the first chamber with the thermal medium and the second exterior wall of the second body portion may define a second aperture that is configured to facilitate filling of the second chamber with the thermal medium.
- the first body portion may further include a first plug that is configured for removable insertion into the first aperture to inhibit escape of the thermal medium from the first chamber and the second body portion may further include a second plug that is configured for removable insertion into the second aperture to inhibit escape of the thermal medium from the second chamber.
- a method of hindering temperature variation of a food item includes inserting the food item into a container and closing the container.
- the container includes a body with an exterior wall that defines an enclosed chamber spanning an overall length of the body and which is configured to accommodate a thermal medium.
- the body is configured such that the overall length lies substantially within the range of approximately 4′′ to approximately 7′′ and such that an overall transverse dimension of the body extending in generally orthogonal relation to the overall length lies substantially within the range of approximately 1′′ to approximately 3′′.
- closing the container may include using a coupling mechanism to connect a first body portion defining a first enclosed chamber accommodating the thermal medium to a second body portion defining a second enclosed chamber accommodating the thermal medium.
- closing the container may include securing a captive cap of the container to the body.
- FIG. 1 is a front, perspective view of one embodiment of a container (shown open) for (non-liquid) food items according to one embodiment of the disclosure.
- FIG. 2 is a front, perspective view of the container seen in FIG. 1 illustrating the insertion of a food item.
- FIG. 3 is a front, perspective view of the container seen in FIG. 1 (shown closed).
- FIG. 4 is a rear, perspective view of the container seen in FIG. 1 (shown closed).
- FIG. 5 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container seen in FIG. 1 (shown closed).
- FIG. 6 is a front, plan view of an alternate embodiment of the container seen in FIG. 1 (shown closed).
- FIG. 7 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container as shown in FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 8 is a side, plan view of the container seen in FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 9 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container as shown in FIG. 8 .
- FIGS. 1-5 illustrate one embodiment of a container according to the principles of the present disclosure, which is identified by the reference character 10 .
- the container 10 is specifically configured (e.g., shaped and sized) in correspondence with one or more particular non-liquid food items F ( FIG. 2 ) such that the configuration of the container 10 substantially approximates that of the non-liquid food item F and the container 10 is adapted to resist temperature variation (e.g., warming and/or cooling) of the food item(s) F when stored within the container 10 .
- the container 10 includes a body 12 and a cap 14 that is configured for removable connection to the body 12 such that the container 10 can be opened and closed to allow for insertion and removal of the food item(s) F.
- the container 10 may include any suitable material or combination of materials and may be constructed using any suitable method of manufacture.
- the container 10 may include (e.g., may be formed partially or entirely from) one or more metallic or non-metallic materials, such as, for example, plastic(s), polymer(s), stainless steel, aluminum, etc., and that the container 10 may be formed via injection molding, 3-D printing, extrusion, etc.
- the body 12 includes an upper end 16 ( FIG. 2 ) and an opposite lower end 18 .
- the body 12 defines an overall length L that extends between the respective upper and lower ends 16 , 18 along a longitudinal axis Y and an overall transverse dimension (e.g., a diameter) D that extends along an axis X that is generally orthogonal in relation to the overall length L and the longitudinal axis Y.
- the container 10 is specifically configured to receive a cheese stick C.
- the body 12 includes an elongated, generally tubular configuration with an arcuate (e.g., ovate) transverse (e.g., horizontal) cross-section and is configured such that the overall length L lies substantially within the range of approximately 4′′ to approximately 7′′ (e.g., approximately 6′′) and such that the overall transverse dimension D lies substantially within the range of approximately 1′′ to approximately 3′′ (e.g., approximately 1.5′′).
- the container 10 may be configured in correspondence with a variety of food items F in alternate embodiments of the disclosure and, as such, that the particular configuration (e.g., shape and size) of the container 10 may be varied in accordance with those food items F.
- the container 10 may be configured in correspondence with a hotdog, with a piece of fruit (e.g., a banana), with an ice pop or a popsicle, etc.
- a piece of fruit e.g., a banana
- the body 12 may be configured such that the overall length L and/or the overall transverse dimension D lies outside the aforementioned ranges would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure.
- the container can have some flexibility to accommodate non-linear food items.
- the body 12 includes an exterior wall 20 and defines a storage compartment 22 and a chamber 24 ( FIG. 5 ).
- the storage compartment 22 is defined by an inner surface 26 of the exterior wall 20 and is configured to receive the food item(s) F upon insertion through a mouth 28 ( FIG. 1 ) of the container 10 .
- the chamber 24 is enclosed (embedded) within the exterior wall 20 of the body 12 and accommodates (receives) a thermal medium 30 ( FIG. 5 ) so as to insulate the container 10 relative to the ambient and thereby hinder (inhibit) temperature variation of the food item(s) F stored within the container 10 .
- the thermal medium 30 accommodated within the chamber 24 may include any suitable material, matter, or substance, such as, for example, a thermal gel 32 ( FIG. 5 ) (e.g., a sodium polyacrylate gel), water, etc., and may be cooled (and/or heated) prior to use of the container 10 in any suitable manner.
- a thermal gel 32 FIG. 5
- the container 10 and, thus, the thermal medium 30 may be cooled prior to use (e.g., via placement in a refrigerator, a freezer, etc.).
- the container 10 may be used with food item(s) F that are intended to be kept in a warmer environment, such as, for example, a hotdog.
- a warmer environment such as, for example, a hotdog.
- the container 10 and, thus, the thermal medium 30 may be heated prior to use (e.g., via a microwave, etc.).
- the chamber 24 extends from the upper end 16 of the body 12 to the lower end 18 such that the chamber 24 spans (extends along) the entire overall length L ( FIG. 2 ) of the body 12 to increase (maximize, optimize) the thermal effect of the container 10 .
- the temperature of the food item(s) F may be substantially maintained for an interval of time that lies substantially within the range of approximately 3 hours to approximately 5 hours (e.g., 4 hours).
- the chamber 24 may span less than the entire overall length L of the body 12 so as to allow for variation in the thermal effect of the container 10 .
- the thermal effect of the container 10 may be varied by altering a transverse dimension Dc ( FIG. 5 ) (e.g., thickness) of the chamber 24 to thereby increase or decrease the volume of the thermal medium 30 accommodated therein. More specifically, increasing or decreasing the transverse dimension Dc of the chamber 24 likewise increases or decreases the volume of the thermal medium 30 accommodated therein and, thus, the magnitude and/or duration of the thermal effect provided by the container 10 .
- the body 12 is configured such that the transverse dimension Dc of the chamber 24 lies substantially within the range of approximately 0.1′′ to approximately 0.5′′ (e.g., approximately 0.25′′).
- the body 12 may be configured such that the transverse dimension Dc lies outside that range would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., depending upon the particular food items(s) F intended for use with the container 10 , the interval of time over which it is desired to (substantially) maintain the temperature of the food item(s) F, etc.).
- the chamber 24 may be pre-filled (impregnated) with the thermal medium 30 (e.g., during manufacture of the container 10 ), thereby obviating the need for any action by a user.
- the container 10 may include a removable plug 34 to allow for filling (and/or drainage) of the chamber 24 by the user through an aperture 36 formed in the exterior wall 20 of the body 12 .
- the user may remove the plug 34 from the aperture 36 , fill the chamber 24 with water (or any other suitable thermal medium 30 ), and replace the plug 34 to inhibit escape of the thermal medium 30 from the chamber 24 . The user can then cool or heat the container 10 and the thermal medium 30 in the manner discussed above.
- the cap 14 is removably connectable to the upper end 16 of the body 12 . More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper end 16 of the body 12 includes a recess 38 ( FIG. 1 ) defining a collar 40 and shoulder 42 that is configured to support the cap 14 , and the cap 14 defines a cavity 44 (or other such interior region) that is configured to receive the upper end 16 of the body 12 such that an outer surface 46 of the cap 14 is generally flush with an outer surface 48 of the exterior wall 20 when the cap 14 is connected to the body 12 (e.g., when the container 10 is closed).
- a recess 38 FIG. 1
- the cap 14 defines a cavity 44 (or other such interior region) that is configured to receive the upper end 16 of the body 12 such that an outer surface 46 of the cap 14 is generally flush with an outer surface 48 of the exterior wall 20 when the cap 14 is connected to the body 12 (e.g., when the container 10 is closed).
- the cap 14 and the body 12 may be configured such that the upper end 16 of the body is received within the cavity 44 of the cap 14 in an interference fit. Additionally, or alternatively, it is envisioned that the cap 14 and/or the body 12 may include one or more engagement members.
- the cap 14 and the body 12 may include one or more corresponding projections (e.g., detents) and/or recesses, frictional members (e.g., rubberized strips), or the like.
- the cap 14 may be captive to (non-separable from) the body 12 .
- the container 10 includes a tether 50 ( FIGS. 1, 2, 4 ) that extends between the cap 14 and the body 12 of the container 10 .
- the tether 50 may be configured as a discrete member.
- the container 10 is either cooled or heated, thereby activating (charging) the thermal medium 30 ( FIG. 5 ) accommodated within the chamber 24 .
- the food item(s) F FIG. 2
- the cap 14 can be secured to the upper end 16 of the body 12 to close the container 10 .
- the cap 14 may include a tactile member 52 (e.g., a tab 54 ) ( FIGS. 1-3 ) that is configured for manual engagement by the user.
- FIGS. 6-9 an alternate embodiment of the container 10 will be discussed, which is identified by the reference character 100 .
- the container 100 is substantially similar to the container 10 discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-5 and, accordingly, will only be described with respect to any differences therefrom in the interest of brevity.
- the container 100 includes a body 102 having a lower (first) body portion (base) 104 l and an upper (second) body portion (cap) 104 u that is releasably connectable to the lower body portion 104 l .
- the lower body portion 104 l includes a (first) exterior wall 106 l and defines a (first) chamber 108 l ( FIGS. 7, 9 ) that is enclosed (embedded) within the exterior wall 106 l and which accommodates (receives) the aforedescribed thermal medium 30 ( FIG. 5 ).
- the upper body portion 104 u includes a (second) exterior wall 106 u and defines a (second) chamber 108 u ( FIGS. 7, 9 ) that is enclosed (embedded) within the exterior wall 106 u and which also accommodates (receives) the thermal medium 30 .
- the chambers 108 l , 108 u may be pre-filled (impregnated) with the thermal medium 30 (e.g., during manufacture of the container 100 ) or that the body portions 104 l , 104 u may include removable plugs 110 l , 110 u ( FIG. 6 ) to allow for filling (and/or drainage) of the chambers 108 l , 108 u by the user through apertures 112 l , 112 u formed in the exterior walls 106 l , 106 u , respectively.
- the user may remove the plugs 110 , 110 u from the apertures 112 l , 112 u , fill the chambers 108 l , 108 u with water (or any other suitable thermal medium 30 ), and replace the plugs 110 l , 110 u to inhibit escape of the thermal medium 30 from the chambers 108 l , 108 u , respectively.
- the lower body portion 104 l and the upper body portion 104 u are configured as discrete components of the body 102 .
- respective inner surfaces 114 l , 114 u ( FIG. 7 ) of the exterior walls 106 l , 106 u collectively define a storage compartment 116 that is configured to receive the food item(s) F ( FIG. 2 ) such that the food item(s) F are housed (stored) within the container 100 between the body portions 104 l , 104 u.
- the container 100 includes a coupling mechanism 118 , which may include any structure(s) or component(s) suitable for that intended purpose. It is envisioned that the coupling mechanism 118 may be either integrated into the body portions 104 l , 104 u or that the coupling mechanism 118 may be provided as a separate, discrete component of the container 100 .
- Suitable examples of the coupling mechanism 118 include, but are not limited to, one or more threaded surfaces provided on the body potion 104 l and/or the body portion 104 u , corresponding surfaces on the body portions 104 l , 104 u that are configured for engagement in an interference fit, a latch, a clamp, one or more detents and corresponding recesses, etc.
- the container 100 may further include a sealing member 120 (e.g., an O-ring 122 , a gasket, or the like) ( FIG. 7 ). It is also envisioned that the container 100 may include an eyelet 124 (or the like) ( FIG. 6 ) to facilitate the connection of a lead 126 (e.g., a string, strap, or the like) to the container 100 .
- a sealing member 120 e.g., an O-ring 122 , a gasket, or the like
- eyelet 124 or the like
- the container 100 is either cooled or heated, thereby activating (charging) the thermal medium 30 ( FIG. 5 ) accommodated within the chambers 108 l , 108 u ( FIGS. 7, 9 ).
- the food item(s) F can then be positioned within the body portion 104 l (or the body portion 104 u ) and the body portions 104 l , 104 can be secured (connected) together via the coupling mechanism 118 to close the container 100 such that the food item(s) F are housed within the storage compartment 116 .
- the body portions 104 l , 104 u may one or more tactile members 128 (e.g., projections, rubberized strips, tabs, etc.) ( FIG. 6 ) that facilitate manual engagement and manipulation (e.g., gripping) of the body portions 104 l , 104 u by the user.
- tactile members 128 e.g., projections, rubberized strips, tabs, etc.
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Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/854,354, filed on Jul. 15, 2019 the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present disclosure is directed to a container for food items. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a container that accommodates a thermal medium to hinder (inhibit) temperature variation (e.g., warming and cooling) of food items stored therein and that is configured (e.g., shape and sized) in correspondence with a particular food item, such as, for example, a cheese stick.
- Absent refrigeration, ice packs and the like are often utilized to keep food items cool (or cold) within a chest, cooler, backpack, lunchbox, or other such portable article. Due to the generally rectangular (or otherwise polygonal) shape of most ice packs, however, certain (non-liquid) food items may move around (e.g., roll, slide, etc.) within the portable article out of contact and/or proximity with the ice pack, which can result in undesirable temperature variation (e.g., warming) of the food item.
- To address this issue, the present disclosure describes a container that is specifically configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to receive a particular food item (or items) and that includes a chamber for a thermal medium, which resists temperature variation of the food item stored within the container.
- The present disclosure addresses the deficiencies and disadvantages of known containers and, in one aspect, provides a container for a non-liquid food item that includes a body and a cap that is configured for removable connection to the body to allow for opening and closure of the container. The body includes an exterior wall and is configured in correspondence with the non-liquid food item such that the configuration of the body substantially approximates that of the non-liquid food item. The body defines a storage compartment that is configured to store the non-liquid food item as well as a chamber that is enclosed within the exterior wall. The chamber is configured to accommodate a thermal medium to hinder (inhibit) temperature variation of the non-liquid food item.
- In some embodiments, the body may include an upper end and a lower end that is opposite to the upper end. In some embodiments, the body may define an overall length that extends between the upper end and the lower end.
- In some embodiments, the chamber may span the overall length of the body.
- In some embodiments, the overall length of the body may lie substantially within the range of approximately 4″ to approximately 7″.
- In some embodiments, the body may define an overall transverse dimension that extends in generally orthogonal relation to the overall length and that lies substantially within the range of approximately 1″ to approximately 3″.
- In some embodiments, the cap may define a cavity that is configured to receive the upper end of the body.
- In some embodiments, the upper end of the body may define a shoulder that is configured to support the cap such that an outer surface of the cap is generally flush with an outer surface of the body when the container is closed.
- In some embodiments, the cap may be captive to the body. For example, in some embodiments, the container may further include a tether that extends between the cap and the body.
- In some embodiments, the cap may include a tactile member that is configured for manual engagement by a user to facilitate opening and closure of the container.
- In some embodiments, the exterior wall of the body may define an aperture that is configured to facilitate filling of the chamber with the thermal medium.
- In some embodiments, the container may further include a plug that is configured for removable insertion into the aperture to inhibit escape of the thermal medium from the chamber.
- In another aspect of the present disclosure, a container for a food item is disclosed that includes a first body portion and a second body portion that is releasably connectable to the first body portion. The first body portion includes a first exterior wall and defines a first chamber that is configured to accommodate a thermal medium, wherein the first chamber is enclosed within the first exterior wall. The second body portion includes a second exterior wall and defines a second chamber that is configured to accommodate a thermal medium, wherein the second chamber is enclosed within the second exterior wall. Upon closure of the container, the first body portion and the second body portion collectively define a storage compartment for the food item.
- In some embodiments, the container may further include a coupling mechanism that is configured to facilitate removable connection of the first body portion and the second body portion.
- In some embodiments, the container may define an overall length that lies substantially within the range of approximately 4″ to approximately 7″.
- In some embodiments, the container may define an overall transverse dimension that extends in generally orthogonal relation to the overall length and that lies substantially within the range of approximately 1″ to approximately 3″.
- In some embodiments, the first exterior wall of the first body portion may define a first aperture that is configured to facilitate filling of the first chamber with the thermal medium and the second exterior wall of the second body portion may define a second aperture that is configured to facilitate filling of the second chamber with the thermal medium.
- In some embodiments, the first body portion may further include a first plug that is configured for removable insertion into the first aperture to inhibit escape of the thermal medium from the first chamber and the second body portion may further include a second plug that is configured for removable insertion into the second aperture to inhibit escape of the thermal medium from the second chamber.
- In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of hindering temperature variation of a food item is provided. The method includes inserting the food item into a container and closing the container. The container includes a body with an exterior wall that defines an enclosed chamber spanning an overall length of the body and which is configured to accommodate a thermal medium. The body is configured such that the overall length lies substantially within the range of approximately 4″ to approximately 7″ and such that an overall transverse dimension of the body extending in generally orthogonal relation to the overall length lies substantially within the range of approximately 1″ to approximately 3″.
- In some embodiments, closing the container may include using a coupling mechanism to connect a first body portion defining a first enclosed chamber accommodating the thermal medium to a second body portion defining a second enclosed chamber accommodating the thermal medium.
- In some embodiments, closing the container may include securing a captive cap of the container to the body.
- So that those having ordinary skill in the art to which the subject disclosure appertains will more readily understand how to practice the methodologies described herein, various embodiments thereof will be described in detail hereinbelow with reference to the drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a front, perspective view of one embodiment of a container (shown open) for (non-liquid) food items according to one embodiment of the disclosure. -
FIG. 2 is a front, perspective view of the container seen inFIG. 1 illustrating the insertion of a food item. -
FIG. 3 is a front, perspective view of the container seen inFIG. 1 (shown closed). -
FIG. 4 is a rear, perspective view of the container seen inFIG. 1 (shown closed). -
FIG. 5 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container seen inFIG. 1 (shown closed). -
FIG. 6 is a front, plan view of an alternate embodiment of the container seen inFIG. 1 (shown closed). -
FIG. 7 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container as shown inFIG. 6 . -
FIG. 8 is a side, plan view of the container seen inFIG. 6 . -
FIG. 9 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container as shown inFIG. 8 . - Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar structures, element, and features, various embodiments of the presently disclosed container will be discussed.
-
FIGS. 1-5 illustrate one embodiment of a container according to the principles of the present disclosure, which is identified by thereference character 10. As described in further detail below, thecontainer 10 is specifically configured (e.g., shaped and sized) in correspondence with one or more particular non-liquid food items F (FIG. 2 ) such that the configuration of thecontainer 10 substantially approximates that of the non-liquid food item F and thecontainer 10 is adapted to resist temperature variation (e.g., warming and/or cooling) of the food item(s) F when stored within thecontainer 10. Thecontainer 10 includes abody 12 and acap 14 that is configured for removable connection to thebody 12 such that thecontainer 10 can be opened and closed to allow for insertion and removal of the food item(s) F. Thecontainer 10 may include any suitable material or combination of materials and may be constructed using any suitable method of manufacture. For example, it is envisioned thecontainer 10 may include (e.g., may be formed partially or entirely from) one or more metallic or non-metallic materials, such as, for example, plastic(s), polymer(s), stainless steel, aluminum, etc., and that thecontainer 10 may be formed via injection molding, 3-D printing, extrusion, etc. - The
body 12 includes an upper end 16 (FIG. 2 ) and an oppositelower end 18. Thebody 12 defines an overall length L that extends between the respective upper andlower ends container 10 illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 , thecontainer 10 is specifically configured to receive a cheese stick C. As such, thebody 12 includes an elongated, generally tubular configuration with an arcuate (e.g., ovate) transverse (e.g., horizontal) cross-section and is configured such that the overall length L lies substantially within the range of approximately 4″ to approximately 7″ (e.g., approximately 6″) and such that the overall transverse dimension D lies substantially within the range of approximately 1″ to approximately 3″ (e.g., approximately 1.5″). It should be appreciated, however, that thecontainer 10 may be configured in correspondence with a variety of food items F in alternate embodiments of the disclosure and, as such, that the particular configuration (e.g., shape and size) of thecontainer 10 may be varied in accordance with those food items F. For example, it is envisioned that thecontainer 10 may be configured in correspondence with a hotdog, with a piece of fruit (e.g., a banana), with an ice pop or a popsicle, etc. As such, embodiments in which thebody 12 may be configured such that the overall length L and/or the overall transverse dimension D lies outside the aforementioned ranges would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the container can have some flexibility to accommodate non-linear food items. - The
body 12 includes anexterior wall 20 and defines astorage compartment 22 and a chamber 24 (FIG. 5 ). Thestorage compartment 22 is defined by aninner surface 26 of theexterior wall 20 and is configured to receive the food item(s) F upon insertion through a mouth 28 (FIG. 1 ) of thecontainer 10. Thechamber 24 is enclosed (embedded) within theexterior wall 20 of thebody 12 and accommodates (receives) a thermal medium 30 (FIG. 5 ) so as to insulate thecontainer 10 relative to the ambient and thereby hinder (inhibit) temperature variation of the food item(s) F stored within thecontainer 10. - The
thermal medium 30 accommodated within thechamber 24 may include any suitable material, matter, or substance, such as, for example, a thermal gel 32 (FIG. 5 ) (e.g., a sodium polyacrylate gel), water, etc., and may be cooled (and/or heated) prior to use of thecontainer 10 in any suitable manner. For example, when used with food item(s) F that are intended to be kept in a cooler environment, such as the cheese stick C seen inFIG. 2 , for example, thecontainer 10 and, thus, thethermal medium 30, may be cooled prior to use (e.g., via placement in a refrigerator, a freezer, etc.). It is also envisioned, however, that thecontainer 10 may be used with food item(s) F that are intended to be kept in a warmer environment, such as, for example, a hotdog. In such instances of use, thecontainer 10 and, thus, thethermal medium 30, may be heated prior to use (e.g., via a microwave, etc.). - In the embodiment of the
container 10 seen inFIGS. 1-5 , thechamber 24 extends from theupper end 16 of thebody 12 to thelower end 18 such that thechamber 24 spans (extends along) the entire overall length L (FIG. 2 ) of thebody 12 to increase (maximize, optimize) the thermal effect of thecontainer 10. For example, it is envisioned that the temperature of the food item(s) F may be substantially maintained for an interval of time that lies substantially within the range of approximately 3 hours to approximately 5 hours (e.g., 4 hours). In certain embodiments, however, it is envisioned that thechamber 24 may span less than the entire overall length L of thebody 12 so as to allow for variation in the thermal effect of thecontainer 10. It is also envisioned that the thermal effect of thecontainer 10 may be varied by altering a transverse dimension Dc (FIG. 5 ) (e.g., thickness) of thechamber 24 to thereby increase or decrease the volume of thethermal medium 30 accommodated therein. More specifically, increasing or decreasing the transverse dimension Dc of thechamber 24 likewise increases or decreases the volume of thethermal medium 30 accommodated therein and, thus, the magnitude and/or duration of the thermal effect provided by thecontainer 10. In particular embodiment of thecontainer 10 seen inFIGS. 1-5 , thebody 12 is configured such that the transverse dimension Dc of thechamber 24 lies substantially within the range of approximately 0.1″ to approximately 0.5″ (e.g., approximately 0.25″). It should be appreciated, however, that embodiments in which thebody 12 may be configured such that the transverse dimension Dc lies outside that range would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., depending upon the particular food items(s) F intended for use with thecontainer 10, the interval of time over which it is desired to (substantially) maintain the temperature of the food item(s) F, etc.). - It is envisioned that the
chamber 24 may be pre-filled (impregnated) with the thermal medium 30 (e.g., during manufacture of the container 10), thereby obviating the need for any action by a user. Alternatively, however, it is envisioned that thecontainer 10 may include aremovable plug 34 to allow for filling (and/or drainage) of thechamber 24 by the user through anaperture 36 formed in theexterior wall 20 of thebody 12. For example, in such embodiments, it is envisioned that the user may remove theplug 34 from theaperture 36, fill thechamber 24 with water (or any other suitable thermal medium 30), and replace theplug 34 to inhibit escape of the thermal medium 30 from thechamber 24. The user can then cool or heat thecontainer 10 and thethermal medium 30 in the manner discussed above. - The
cap 14 is removably connectable to theupper end 16 of thebody 12. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, theupper end 16 of thebody 12 includes a recess 38 (FIG. 1 ) defining acollar 40 andshoulder 42 that is configured to support thecap 14, and thecap 14 defines a cavity 44 (or other such interior region) that is configured to receive theupper end 16 of thebody 12 such that anouter surface 46 of thecap 14 is generally flush with anouter surface 48 of theexterior wall 20 when thecap 14 is connected to the body 12 (e.g., when thecontainer 10 is closed). - To maintain the closure of the
container 10 and connection of thecap 14 to theupper end 16 of thebody 12, it is envisioned that thecap 14 and thebody 12 may be configured such that theupper end 16 of the body is received within thecavity 44 of thecap 14 in an interference fit. Additionally, or alternatively, it is envisioned that thecap 14 and/or thebody 12 may include one or more engagement members. For example, thecap 14 and thebody 12 may include one or more corresponding projections (e.g., detents) and/or recesses, frictional members (e.g., rubberized strips), or the like. - To guard against loss or misplacement of the
cap 14, in certain embodiments, such as that illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 , thecap 14 may be captive to (non-separable from) thebody 12. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, thecontainer 10 includes a tether 50 (FIGS. 1, 2, 4 ) that extends between thecap 14 and thebody 12 of thecontainer 10. Although shown as being integrally formed with thebody 12 and thecap 14, it should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, thetether 50 may be configured as a discrete member. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 1-5 , use of thecontainer 10 will be discussed. Initially, prior to use, thecontainer 10 is either cooled or heated, thereby activating (charging) the thermal medium 30 (FIG. 5 ) accommodated within thechamber 24. The food item(s) F (FIG. 2 ) can then be positioned within thestorage compartment 22, and thecap 14 can be secured to theupper end 16 of thebody 12 to close thecontainer 10. To assist the user during opening and closure of the container 10 (e.g., connection and disconnection of the cap 14), it is envisioned that thecap 14 may include a tactile member 52 (e.g., a tab 54) (FIGS. 1-3 ) that is configured for manual engagement by the user. - Referring now to
FIGS. 6-9 , an alternate embodiment of thecontainer 10 will be discussed, which is identified by thereference character 100. Thecontainer 100 is substantially similar to thecontainer 10 discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-5 and, accordingly, will only be described with respect to any differences therefrom in the interest of brevity. - The
container 100 includes abody 102 having a lower (first) body portion (base) 104 l and an upper (second) body portion (cap) 104 u that is releasably connectable to the lower body portion 104 l. The lower body portion 104 l includes a (first) exterior wall 106 l and defines a (first) chamber 108 l (FIGS. 7, 9 ) that is enclosed (embedded) within the exterior wall 106 l and which accommodates (receives) the aforedescribed thermal medium 30 (FIG. 5 ). Theupper body portion 104 u includes a (second)exterior wall 106 u and defines a (second)chamber 108 u (FIGS. 7, 9 ) that is enclosed (embedded) within theexterior wall 106 u and which also accommodates (receives) thethermal medium 30. - As discussed above in connection with the
container 10, it is envisioned that thechambers 108 l, 108 u may be pre-filled (impregnated) with the thermal medium 30 (e.g., during manufacture of the container 100) or that thebody portions 104 l, 104 u may includeremovable plugs 110 l, 110 u (FIG. 6 ) to allow for filling (and/or drainage) of thechambers 108 l, 108 u by the user throughapertures 112 l, 112 u formed in theexterior walls 106 l, 106 u, respectively. For example, in such embodiments, it is envisioned that the user may remove theplugs 110, 110 u from theapertures 112 l, 112 u, fill thechambers 108 l, 108 u with water (or any other suitable thermal medium 30), and replace theplugs 110 l, 110 u to inhibit escape of the thermal medium 30 from thechambers 108 l, 108 u, respectively. - The lower body portion 104 l and the
upper body portion 104 u are configured as discrete components of thebody 102. Upon connection of thebody portions 104 l, 104 u, respectiveinner surfaces 114 l, 114 u (FIG. 7 ) of theexterior walls 106 l, 106 u collectively define astorage compartment 116 that is configured to receive the food item(s) F (FIG. 2 ) such that the food item(s) F are housed (stored) within thecontainer 100 between thebody portions 104 l, 104 u. - To facilitate releasable connection of the
body portions 104 l, 104 u, thecontainer 100 includes acoupling mechanism 118, which may include any structure(s) or component(s) suitable for that intended purpose. It is envisioned that thecoupling mechanism 118 may be either integrated into thebody portions 104 l, 104 u or that thecoupling mechanism 118 may be provided as a separate, discrete component of thecontainer 100. Suitable examples of thecoupling mechanism 118 include, but are not limited to, one or more threaded surfaces provided on the body potion 104 l and/or thebody portion 104 u, corresponding surfaces on thebody portions 104 l, 104 u that are configured for engagement in an interference fit, a latch, a clamp, one or more detents and corresponding recesses, etc. - To enhance the engagement between (connection of) the body portions 104 l, 104, in certain embodiments, such as that seen in
FIGS. 6-9 , for example, thecontainer 100 may further include a sealing member 120 (e.g., an O-ring 122, a gasket, or the like) (FIG. 7 ). It is also envisioned that thecontainer 100 may include an eyelet 124 (or the like) (FIG. 6 ) to facilitate the connection of a lead 126 (e.g., a string, strap, or the like) to thecontainer 100. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 6-9 , use of thecontainer 100 will be discussed. Initially, prior to use, thecontainer 100 is either cooled or heated, thereby activating (charging) the thermal medium 30 (FIG. 5 ) accommodated within thechambers 108 l, 108 u (FIGS. 7, 9 ). The food item(s) F can then be positioned within the body portion 104 l (or thebody portion 104 u) and the body portions 104 l, 104 can be secured (connected) together via thecoupling mechanism 118 to close thecontainer 100 such that the food item(s) F are housed within thestorage compartment 116. To assist the user during opening and closure of the container 100 (e.g., connection and disconnection of thebody portions 104 l, 104 u), it is envisioned that thebody portions 104 l, 104 u may one or more tactile members 128 (e.g., projections, rubberized strips, tabs, etc.) (FIG. 6 ) that facilitate manual engagement and manipulation (e.g., gripping) of thebody portions 104 l, 104 u by the user. - Although the apparatus and methods of the subject invention have been described with respect to preferred embodiments, which constitute non-limiting examples, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
- Additionally, persons skilled in the art will understand that the elements and features shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with those of another embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and will appreciate further features and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter based on the description provided.
- Throughout the present disclosure, terms such as “approximately,” “generally,” “substantially,” and the like should be understood to allow for variations in any numerical range or concept with which they are associated. For example, it is intended that the use of terms such as “approximately” and “generally” should be understood to encompass variations on the order of 25%, or to allow for manufacturing tolerances and/or deviations in design.
- Although terms such as “first.” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various operations, elements, components, regions, and/or sections, these operations, elements, components, regions, and/or sections should not be limited by the use of these terms in that these terms are used to distinguish one operation, element, component, region, or section from another. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, a first operation, element, component, region, or section could be termed a second operation, element, component, region, or section without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
- Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and represents embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” and “A and/or B and/or C” should each be interpreted to include only A, only B, only C, or any combination of A, B, and C.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/913,456 US20210016956A1 (en) | 2019-07-15 | 2020-06-26 | Container for food items |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201962854354P | 2019-07-15 | 2019-07-15 | |
US16/913,456 US20210016956A1 (en) | 2019-07-15 | 2020-06-26 | Container for food items |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20210016956A1 true US20210016956A1 (en) | 2021-01-21 |
Family
ID=74343500
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/913,456 Abandoned US20210016956A1 (en) | 2019-07-15 | 2020-06-26 | Container for food items |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20210016956A1 (en) |
-
2020
- 2020-06-26 US US16/913,456 patent/US20210016956A1/en not_active Abandoned
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