US20230243578A1

US20230243578A1 - Device for organizing refrigeration appliance contents

Info

Publication number: US20230243578A1
Application number: US18/042,114
Authority: US
Inventors: Haritha Naga; Karun Naga
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-08-19
Filing date: 2021-08-19
Publication date: 2023-08-03
Also published as: WO2022039778A2; WO2022039778A3

Abstract

Devices for organizing refrigeration appliances are disclosed herein. In some examples the device may comprise an elongated divider having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The elongated divider may be configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of a refrigeration appliance to divide the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the divider. The device may comprise a fixation element configured to releasably adhere the divider to a surface of the internal compartment and/or an information portion configured to display information to a user descriptive of the contents within the defined spaces.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/706,480, filed Aug. 19, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/706,761, filed Sep. 9, 2020, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technology relates to organizers for contents of refrigeration appliances.

BACKGROUND

Refrigeration appliances generally include shelves, racks, and drawers that receive food items and assist with storing and arranging of such food items within the chilled chamber of the refrigerator appliance. While these receptacles provide a general framework for supporting the contents of the appliance, the refrigeration chamber remains fairly open with few delineated compartments. Moreover, the shelves and drawers are typically wide and deep, making it difficult to view the food articles toward the back of the chamber. As a result, perishable items may be forgotten and expire, or a user may needlessly buy the same item multiple times. These difficulties can lead to consumer frustration and increased time when preparing food or making a grocery list.
Segregation of food can be of particular importance with members of a household who have interests in different foods or where sharing foods can be problematic. For example, where one member of a household has a food allergy, it may be of great importance to clearly compartmentalize certain areas (e.g., “peanut free zone”). In households comprised of multiple roommates who may separately shop for their respective foods, clear demarcation can preempt inadvertent taking of another's food.
Several options exist for organizing refrigerator contents, one of which comprises removable bins for placement on a shelf or in a drawer of the chamber. However, such bins have a fixed width and depth and thus can only be used with refrigerators of a certain size, or otherwise result in an inefficient use of space in refrigerators with incompatible sizing. To create multiple compartments tailored to the different food groupings, the consumer is required to buy different bin sizes, which is both expensive and difficult to use and manage (i.e., optimizing fit can be a game of Tetris). Moreover, as the contents of the refrigerator change over time and the spacing and containment needs evolve, the contents of a particular bin may need to be re-organized or transferred to another space. This requires the user to remove and/or rearrange the items in the storage bin, and locating a particular item can be tedious.
Accordingly, an improved device for managing the contents of a refrigeration appliance is needed.

SUMMARY

The present technology is directed to devices for organizing the contents of refrigeration appliances by creating adjustable compartments within the substantially or partially open internal structure of the appliance. The devices of the present technology may comprise an organizer including an elongate member and one or more fixation elements coupled to the elongate member. The fixation elements may be configured to secure the elongated member to a surface within an internal chamber or compartment of the appliance, thereby dividing the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces. According to some embodiments, the elongated member has at least one adjustable dimension so that the user may customize the size and shape of the defined space(s) and use the device with a variety of types and sizes of appliances. In several embodiments, the device includes an information display to enable proper identification of the defined space and/or the items of food contained within the defined space. The organizer may optionally include an odor-absorbing element, as detailed herein. The devices of the present technology provide several advantages over the existing art, including easy division and re-division of internal storage to save time, space and food from waste, management of food expiration and re-ordering, segregation of items belonging to different parties, mitigation of exposure to allergens, and others.
The subject technology is illustrated, for example, according to various aspects described below, including with reference to FIGS. 1-17B. Various examples of aspects of the subject technology are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology.
1. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:

- an elongated divider having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, wherein the elongated divider is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance; and
- a fixation element at an exterior portion of the divider, wherein the fixation element is configured to releasably adhere the divider to a surface of the internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance,
- wherein, when the device is positioned within the internal compartment, the divider divides the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the divider.

2. The device of Clause 1, wherein, when the device is positioned within the internal compartment, the longitudinal axis of the divider extends along a depth of the refrigeration appliance such that the first end portion is proximate a front portion of the refrigeration appliance and the second end portion is proximate a rear portion of the refrigeration appliance.
3. The device of Clause 1 or Clause 2, wherein the fixation element is configured to releasably adhere to a substantially smooth surface of the internal compartment.
4. The device of any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the fixation element is configured to releasably adhere to a substantially flat surface of the internal compartment.
5. The device of any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the fixation element is disposed at a rear portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the fixation element releasably adheres to a rear wall of the refrigeration appliance.
6. The device of any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the fixation element is disposed at a bottom portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the fixation element releasably adheres to a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of the refrigeration appliance.
7. The device of any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the fixation element comprises a first fixation element and a second fixation element, and wherein:

- the first fixation element is disposed at a rear portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the first fixation element releasably adheres to a rear wall of the refrigeration appliance, and
- the second fixation element is disposed at a bottom portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the second fixation element releasably adheres to a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of the refrigeration appliance.

8. The device of Clause 7, wherein the first fixation element comprises a plurality of first fixation elements spaced apart along a height of the rear portion of the divider.
9. The device of Clause 7 or Clause 8, wherein the second fixation element comprises a plurality of second fixation elements spaced apart along a length of the bottom portion of the divider.
10. The device of any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the fixation element comprises a plurality of fixation elements spaced apart along an exterior region of the divider.
11. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the internal compartment is an open shelf within the refrigeration appliance.
12. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the internal compartment is a drawer within the refrigeration appliance.
13. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the refrigeration appliance is a refrigerator.
14. The device of any one of Clauses 1 to 13, wherein the refrigeration appliance is a freezer.
15. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the fixation element comprises at least one of a suction-generating member, an adhesive, a glue, a putty, or VELCRO®.
16. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the fixation element is configured to be re-adhered to the surface of the internal compartment after release from the surface of the internal compartment.
17. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the divider has an adjustable height, an adjustable length, or both.
18. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, further comprising any of the information portions disclosed herein.
19. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, further comprising an odor absorbing element.
20. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:

- an elongated divider having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, wherein the elongated divider is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance; and
- an information portion carried by the divider and configured to carry information that is visible to a user when the user is standing at a front portion of the refrigeration appliance, and wherein the information displayed on the information portion is customizable by the user,
- wherein, when the device is positioned within the internal compartment, the divider divides the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the divider.

21. The device of Clause 20, wherein the information portion is detachable from the divider.
22. The device of Clause 20 or Clause 21, wherein the information portion is disposed at a front-facing surface of the divider.
23. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 22, wherein the information portion is configured to extend laterally away from the longitudinal axis of the divider, towards the defined spaces.
24. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 23, wherein the information portion is configured to extend upwardly from the divider.
25. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 24, wherein the information portion is configured to be positioned partially or completely above a top region of the divider.
26. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 25, wherein the information portion comprises a plurality of protrusions
27. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 26, wherein the information portion is configured to rotate towards the divider and way from the divider.
28. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 27, wherein the information portion is integral with the divider.
29. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 28, wherein the information portion is a component that is separate from the divider and configured to be fixedly or releasably coupled to the divider.
30. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 29, wherein the information portion comprises a rewritable surface.
31. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 30, wherein the information portion comprises a surface configured to receive nonpermanent markings.
32. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 31, wherein the information portion comprises an erasable surface.
33. The device of any one of Clauses 20 to 32, further comprising an antenna configured to be coupled to and extend away from the divider, wherein the information portion is configured to be fixedly or releasably coupled to the antenna.
34. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein, when the device is positioned within the internal compartment, the longitudinal axis of the divider extends along a depth of the refrigeration appliance such that the first end portion is proximate a front portion of the refrigeration appliance and the second end portion is proximate a rear portion of the refrigeration appliance.
35. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the internal compartment is an open shelf within the refrigeration appliance.
36. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the internal compartment is a drawer within the refrigeration appliance.
37. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the refrigeration appliance is a refrigerator.
38. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the refrigeration appliance is a freezer.
39. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the divider has an adjustable height, an adjustable length, or both.
40. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, further comprising any of the fixation elements disclosed herein.
41. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, further comprising an odor absorbing element.
42. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:

- a first end portion, a second end portion, and an axis extending therebetween;
- a dimension measured along the axis between the first and second end portions;
- a wall extending along the axis and comprising a base portion and an extension portion, wherein the extension portion is movable relative to the base portion along the axis of the device; and
- wherein the device is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance to divide the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the wall.

43. The device of Clause 42, wherein the refrigeration appliance is a refrigerator.
44. The device of Clause 42 or Clause 43, wherein the refrigeration appliance is a freezer.
45. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 44, wherein the dimension is a length, and wherein, when the device is secured to the surface within the internal compartment, the axis of the device is substantially aligned with a depth dimension of the refrigeration appliance.
46. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 45, wherein the dimension is a height, and wherein, when the device is secured to the surface within the internal compartment, the axis of the device is substantially aligned with a height dimension of the refrigeration appliance.
47. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 46, wherein the dimension is a width, and wherein, when the device is secured to the surface within the internal compartment, the axis of the device is substantially aligned with a width dimension of the refrigeration appliance.
48. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 47, wherein the extension portion is a first extension portion and wherein the wall comprises a second extension portion configured to extend from the base portion at an angle relative to the first extension portion.
49. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 48, wherein the extension portion is slidably supported within the housing portion.
50. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 49, further comprising an odor absorbing element.
51. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 50, further comprising a fixation element configured to detachably secure the device to a surface of an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance.
52. The device of Clause 51, wherein the fixation element comprises at least one of a suction-generating element, an adhesive, a glue, or VELCRO®.
53. The device of Clause 51 or Clause 52, wherein the fixation element is disposed on a bottom side of the device.
54. The device of any one of Clauses 51 to 53, wherein the fixation element is a first fixation element and the device comprises a second fixation element, and wherein the first fixation element is disposed at a bottom side, a left side, a right side, the first end portion, or the second end portion of the device, and the second fixation element is disposed at another of the bottom side, the left side, the right side, the first end portion, or the second end portion of the device.
55. The device of any one of Clauses 51 to 54, wherein the fixation element is configured for reuse after release from the surface.
56. The device of any one of Clauses 42 to 55, further comprising an information portion.
57. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:

- a first end portion, a second end portion, and an axis extending therebetween;
- a wall extending along the axis comprising a base portion
- an extension portion arising from the base portion, wherein the extension portion is movable relative to the base portion along an extension axis, the extension axis being different from the axis of the base portion; and
- wherein the device is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance to divide the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the wall.

58. A refrigeration appliance comprising the device of any one of the preceding Clauses.
59. An odor absorbing element configured for insertion into any of the devices of Clauses 1 to 58.
60. The odor absorbing element of Clause 59, wherein the odor absorbing element is configured to be received by a recessed portion of the device.
61. A system for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the system comprising:

- at least one divider device having:
  - a first end portion, a second end portion, and an axis extending therebetween;
  - a wall extending along the axis comprising a base portion;
  - an extension portion arising from the base portion, wherein the extension portion is movable relative to the base portion along an extension axis, the extension axis being different from the axis of the base portion; and
  - wherein the device is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance to divide the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the wall; and
- a plurality of information displays configured for releasable adherence to the divider device or refrigeration appliance.

62. The device of any one of the preceding Clauses, wherein the elongated divider has a vertical axis and a midpoint and a center of gravity along the vertical axis and wherein the divider is configured such that, when positioned on the surface of the internal compartment, the center of gravity is closer to the surface than the midpoint.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed on illustrating clearly the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, positioned within an internal compartment of a refrigeration appliance.

FIG. 2A is an isometric side view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown in an adjustable configuration.

FIG. 2B is an isometric side view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown in a locked configuration.

FIG. 3 is an isometric side view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 4A is an isometric side view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown in an extended configuration.

FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the organizer shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the organizer shown in FIG. 4A taken along line 4C-4C.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are side views of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology with an extension portion in a low-profile and extended configuration, respectively.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are side views of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology with an extension portion in a low-profile and extended configuration, respectively.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are side views of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology with an extension portion in a low-profile and extended configuration, respectively.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 9 is an end view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 10 is an end view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 12 is an end view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 14 is an end view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 15 is an end view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 16A is an isometric view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown coupled to a shelf.

FIG. 16B is a side view of the organizer shown in FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17A is a side view of an organizer configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 17B is a front view of the organizer shown in FIG. 17A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows two organizers 200 of the present technology positioned within an internal compartment of a refrigeration appliance 100. Refrigeration appliance 100 includes a housing 101 that defines a refrigerator chamber 102 (or “chamber 102”) and a freezer chamber 104 (or “chamber 104”) for receipt of food items for storage. While the present technology is explained herein as used with a refrigeration appliance 100, it will be appreciated that the organizers of the present technology may be used with other food storage chambers, such as a pantry or other non-temperature controlled space. Moreover, the organizers of the present technology can also be used to organize any space, whether a food storage space or otherwise.
In FIG. 1 , the doors to chamber 102 are not shown to illustrate the internal components of the chamber 102, and the door to chamber 104 is shown in the closed configuration. While the refrigerator chamber 102 is positioned at or adjacent the top of the housing 101 and the freezer chamber 104 is positioned at or adjacent the bottom of housing 101 (generally referred to as a “bottom freezer refrigerator” or “bottom mount refrigerator”), the organizers 200 of the present technology may be used with other types and styles of refrigeration appliances. For example, the organizers 200 of the present technology may be used with a top freezer (or “top mount”) refrigerator, a side-by-side refrigerator, a French door refrigerator, a mini refrigerator, and others. Consequently, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting in any aspect to any particular refrigerator chamber configuration.
The refrigeration appliance 100 includes several storage components mounted to the housing 101 and configured to receive and store food items (e.g., beverages and/or solid food items). In particular, the storage components may include shelves 106 and drawers 110. It should be appreciated that the illustrated storage components are used only for the purpose of explanation and that other storage components may be used and may have different sizes, shapes, and configurations.
As shown in FIG. 1 , the organizers 200 of the present technology are configured to be securely yet removably positioned within the refrigerator chamber 102 and/or freezer chamber 104 (individually or collectively referred to as “chamber 105”), thereby dividing the respective chamber into multiple defined spaces 108. The defined space 108 may be between two or more organizers 200, between the organizer 200 and an inner side or back wall of the housing 101, and/or between the organizer(s) 200 and/or a storage component.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are isometric views of an organizer 200 configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown in a first configuration and a second configuration, respectively. As shown, the organizer 200 has a first configuration (FIG. 2A) in which a user can adjust a position of the organizer 200 relative to a supporting surface, and a second configuration (FIG. 2B) in which the organizer 200 is secured to the supporting surface. The organizer 200 may comprise a front portion 200 a, a rear portion 200 b, and a length extending therebetween along a first axis L of the organizer 200. The organizer 200 may also comprise a top portion 216, a bottom portion 218, and a height extending therebetween along a second axis H of the organizer 200. The organizer 200 may further include a first side 220, a second side (not visible in FIGS. 2A and 2B), and a width extending therebetween along a third axis W of the organizer 200. The organizer 200 is configured to be positioned within the chamber 105 such that the bottom portion 218 is on or adjacent a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface within the chamber 105 (such as a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of a storage component or a horizontal, upwardly-facing inner surface of the chamber 105), the front portion 200 a is closest to the door of the chamber 105, and the rear portion 200 b is adjacent and/or in contact with a vertical surface within the chamber 105 (such as a vertical surface of a storage component or a vertical inner surface 103 or back wall of the chamber 105).
In some embodiments, for example as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the organizer 200 comprises an elongate member 203, one or more fixation elements 214 coupled to the elongate member 203, and one or more information portions 209 carried by the elongate member 203. The organizer 200 can further include first and second end region assemblies 201 a, 201 b disposed at the first and second end portions of the elongate member 203. In some embodiments, the organizer 200 includes only a single end region assembly positioned at one of the first or the second end portions of the elongate member 203. The fixation element 214 is configured to releasably adhere the elongate member 203 to a surface within the chamber 105, such as a shelf, a drawer, or a wall of the chamber 105. The information portion 209 is configured to display information to the user descriptive of the contents of the space(s) 108 defined by one or more of the organizers 200. The information portion(s) 209 allow the user to quickly and easily identify one or more shared properties of the contents disposed within the space 108 without having to remove and/or reposition the organizer 200 and/or the contents. Additional details of each of these components are provided below.
The elongate member 203 may be formed of a plastic material and have a length and height configured to fit within a refrigerator or freezer chamber 102 or 104. For example, the elongate member 203 may have a length that spans all or a portion of the length of the chamber 105 (or smaller compartment or storage component within the chamber 105). The length may be from about 17 inches to about 40 inches, about 17 inches to about 33 inches, about 25 to about 40 inches, about 30 to about 38 inches, or about 32 to about 34 inches. Likewise, the elongate member 203 may have a height that spans all or a portion of the height of the chamber 105 (or smaller compartment or storage component within the chamber 105). A height of the organizer 200 at its tallest point can be about 12 inches or less, about 11 inches or less, about 10 inches or less, about 9 inches or less, about 8 inches or less, about 7 inches or less, about 6 inches or less, about 5 inches or less, about 4 inches or less, about 3 inches of less, about 2 inches or less, or about 1 inch or less. According to several embodiments, a height of the organizer 200 at one or both of the end region assemblies is greater than a height of the organizer 200 along the elongate member 203. A width of the organizer 200 at its widest point, not including the fixation element 214, can be about 1 inch or less, about 0.75 inches or less, about 0.50 inches or less, or about 0.25 inches or less. The elongate member 203 may have a constant or varying width along its length, and/or a constant or varying width along its height. In some cases it may be beneficial to reduce the width of the elongate member 203 as much as possible without compromising the stability of the organizer 200. Having a reduced width minimizes the organizer's footprint in the chamber 105 so that the user can realize the benefits of the organizer 200 without losing meaningful storage capacity.
In some embodiments, for example as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the elongate member 203 has a generally constant width along its height. In some embodiments, the elongate member 203 has a flared portion (not shown) at its bottom region that helps stabilize the organizer 200 about the second axis H. In such embodiments, the flared portion extends laterally away from the bottom portion of the elongate member 203 on either side of the organizer 200. The flared portion may cover either side of the fixation element(s) 214, thereby protecting the fixation element(s) 214 from loose contents in the chamber (such as crumbs and liquids) that could compromise the secure connection between the fixation element(s) 214 and the surface. In any case, the fixation element(s) 214 can have a width that is (a) greater than that of the elongate member 203, (b) substantially the same as that of the elongate member 203, or (c) less than the width of the elongate member 203. Likewise, the fixation element(s) 214 can have a width that is (a) greater than that of the end region assembly, (b) substantially the same as that of the end region assembly, or (c) less than the width of the end region assembly.
In some embodiments, it may be beneficial for the organizer to have features that promote stability and resist movement and/or tipping of the organizer 400 when in use within the refrigeration appliance. For example, the fixation elements described herein may secure the organizer to the surface of the refrigeration appliance, thereby avoiding movement. Additionally, or alternatively, as already described, a wider or flared bottom region of the elongate member may promote stability about the organizer's vertical axis. Similarly, the organizer 400 can comprise a bottom region that is heavier that a top region of the organizer, thereby lowering the organizer's center of gravity and reducing the risk of tipping. This lower center of gravity can be achieved by increasing the amount of material in the bottom region of the organizer relative to the top region (e.g., a wide base) and/or using material in the bottom region that has a greater density than the material comprising the top region.
In some embodiments, the width, length, and/or height of the organizer 200 is adjustable to accommodate different chamber and/or internal compartment sizes and configurations. The adjustable dimensions of the organizer 200 also allow the user to adapt the organizer to a variety of positions and uses over time. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the organizer 200 and/or elongate member 203 may comprise a base portion 202 and an extension portion 212 that is moveable along the first axis L relative to the base portion 202 to adjust the length of the organizer 200. In FIGS. 2A and 2B, the extension portion 212 is shown in an extended position. In some embodiments, the extension portion 212 is slidably received within an interior region of the base portion 202, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In certain embodiments, the extension portion 212 is disposed at an outer surface of the base portion 202 and configured to slide along the outer surface when as the organizer 200 is lengthened and shortened. In these and other embodiments, the extension portion 212 comprises a plurality of extension sections in a telescoping arrangement, or in all accordion-like arrangement. For example, the elongate member may comprise a base portion, a first extension portion slidably received within all interior region of the base portion and a second extension portion slidably received within an interior region of the first extension portion In any case, the organizer 200 may include a securing member (not shown) coupled to one or both of the base portion 202 and the extension portion 212 to secure the extension portion 212 in a desired position relative to the base portion 202.
The organizer 200 may additionally or alternatively include an extension portion (not shown) that is moveable along the second axis H relative to the base portion 202 to adjust the height of the organizer 200. In several of such embodiments, the extension portion is slidably received within an interior region of the base portion 202. In certain embodiments, the extension portion is disposed at an outer surface of the base portion 202 and configured to slide along the outer surface as the height of the organizer 200 is increased and decreased. In these and other embodiments, the extension portion comprises a plurality of extension sections in a telescoping arrangement, or in an accordion-like arrangement. For example, FIGS. 5A and 5B show an organizer 500 including a base portion 502 and an extension portion 512 coupled to the base portion 502 and configured to lengthen in a direction away from the base portion 502 along an extension axis E substantially parallel to the second axis H (see FIGS. 2A and 2B). In any of the foregoing embodiments, the organizer 200 may include a securing member coupled to one or both of the base portion 202 and the extension portion to secure the extension portion in a desired position relative to the base portion 202.
According to several embodiments, the organizer 200 can include an extension portion (not shown) configured to rotate or pivot about a point along the base portion 202 such that the extension portion axis is different from the axis of the base portion 202 when the extension portion is in an extended configuration. For example, the axis of the extension portion may be positioned at an angle relative to the axis of the base portion 202 that is between 1 and 180 degrees, 10 and 150 degrees, 30 and 100 degrees, 30 and 90 degrees, less than 90 degrees, greater than 90 degrees, less than 45 degrees, greater than 45 degrees, or between 45 and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the organizer 200 includes an extension portion that pivots or rotates upwardly away from a top portion of the base portion 202 to increase an overall height of the organizer 200. For example, FIGS. 6A and 6B show an organizer 600 including a base portion 602 and an extension portion 612 coupled to the base portion 602 and configured to rotate away from a top portion of the base portion 602 to increase an overall height of the organizer 600. In these and other embodiments, the organizer 200 may include an extension portion that pivots or rotates laterally away from the base portion 202. For example, FIGS. 7A and 7B show an organizer 700 including a base portion 702 and an extension portion 712 coupled to the base portion 702 and configured to rotate laterally away from the base portion 702 to increase an overall width of the organizer 700.
In any of the foregoing embodiments including rotating extension portions, the pivot or rotation point may be at any location along the length or first axis L of the base portion, such as the front portion of the base portion, a rear portion, or any location therebetween. The organizer 200 may include an extension portion at one or both sides. Moreover, in any of the foregoing embodiments, the organizer 200 may include a securing member coupled to one or both of the base portion and the extension portion to secure the extension portion in a desired position relative to the base portion.
In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the extension portion may have a length that is substantially the same as the length of the base portion, or the extension portion may have a length that is greater or less than a length of the base portion.
According to several aspects of the technology, the elongate member 203 and/or organizer 200 has a fixed length, width, and/or height. For example, in some embodiments the elongate member 203 comprises a single piece. In several of such embodiments, the present technology may include a system of organizers, each having a different length, width, and/or height, thereby allowing the user to mix and match different-sized organizers as desired.
The organizer 200 may optionally be configured to absorb odors within the chamber 105. As shown in FIG. 2A, for example, the organizer 200 may include a receptacle 228 (shown schematically) configured to receive and hold replaceable odor absorbers. The odor absorber and/or receptacle 228 may comprise a one or more odor absorbing substances or compounds, such as baking soda, bamboo, silicone, etc. In some embodiments, the organizer 200 can be preloaded with an odor absorbing substance. The odor absorbers of the present technology may be provided separately or with the organizers 200 of the present technology.
As previously mentioned, the organizer 200 may include a fixation element 214 configured to detachably secure the elongate member 203 to a surface within the chamber 105. The fixation element 114 may comprise a single fixation element, or may comprise a plurality of fixation elements. The fixation element 214 may comprise one or more suction elements (such as a suction cup), an adhesive, a putty, a glue, VELCRO®, and other suitable fixation means that are releasable and refastenable to allow for adjustment and reuse. The fixation element 214 may be coupled to any portion of the elongate member 203 and/or organizer 200, such as the top portion 216, the bottom portion 218, one 220 or both side portions, the front portion 200 a, and/or the rear portion 200 b. In several embodiments, the fixation element 214 comprises a plurality of fixation elements 214 coupled to and spaced apart along a bottom surface of the elongate member 203 (not shown). Additionally or alternatively, the organizer 200 may include one or more fixation elements 214 at a rear surface of the organizer 200 and configured to secure the rear side 200 b of the organizer 200 to a rear wall of the chamber 105. Having fixation elements 214 at different sides of the organizer 200 provides additional stability and anchoring to the organizer 200 to prevent movement as food items are moved in and out of the defined space(s) 108.
In some embodiments, for example as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the organizer 200 includes at least one fixation element 214 positioned at the front end region assembly 230 a. Additionally or alternatively, the organizer 200 can include a fixation element positioned at the rear end region assembly 230 b (not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). The fixation element 214 can have a cross-sectional dimension of about 2 inches or less, about 1.5 inches or less, about 1 inch or less, about 0.75 inches or less, about 0.50 inches or less, or about 0.25 inches or less.
As previously mentioned, in some embodiments the fixation element 214 comprises a suction cup, and the front end region assembly 230 a (or whichever end region assembly 230 is associated with the fixation element 214) comprises a means for removing air from the suction cup to strengthen an attractive force between the suction cup and the adjacent surface. For example, any of the organizers disclosed herein can include a means for pulling or pushing at least some air out of a space between the suction cup body and the supporting surface. According to several examples, the front end region assembly 230 a can include a base 232 and an arm 234 coupled to the base 232 via a connector 238. The base 232 can define an interior region 236 into which the connector 238 extends. The arm 234 can be movable (e.g., rotatable, translatable, etc.) relative to the base 232 to remove air from the suction cup. For example, FIG. 2A shows the organizer 200 in a first configuration in which the arm 234 is in a first position relative to the base 232. In the first configuration, the suction cup is able to adhere to the supporting surface, but at a strength that still allows a user to easily detach the suction cup and reposition the organizer 200. FIG. 2B shows the organizer 200 in a second configuration in which the arm 234 is in a second position relative to the base 232. In the second position, the arm 234 can be closer to the base 232 and/or substantially flush with an edge of the base 232, thereby presenting a relatively smooth surface to the user. Movement of the arm 234 to the second position removes air from the suction cup such that, when the organizer 200 is in the second configuration, the suction cup and/or organizer 200 is more strongly adhered to the supporting surface and will not be displaced by ordinary bumps to the organizer 200. To detach the suction cup from the supporting surface, the arm 234 can be moved back to the first position.
The organizers disclosed herein can have other means or supporting structures for removing air from the suction cup. For example, one, some, or all of the fixation elements may comprise a button that, when pressed, evacuates (pushes) air from the fixation member. In some embodiments, multiple fixation elements are fluidly coupled, and activation of a single actuator evacuates air from the fixation elements simultaneously.
It can be advantageous for the fixation elements of the present technology to have a narrow footprint while providing sufficient vertical stability. To achieve such a balance, the fixation element(s) can have one or more features configured to optimize contact force with the supporting surface. For example, the material, porosity, and surface roughness of the fixation element(s) can be selected to achieve a high contact force with a representative supporting surface to substantially inhibit motion of the fixation element (and organizer) relative to the supporting surface. The fixation element may also be configured to withstand local climate conditions inherent to any refrigeration appliance. For example, the fixation element may comprise a material that maintains its ability to strongly adhere to a supporting surface despite cold and/or humid conditions.
The organizer 200 may also include an information portion 209 that displays information descriptive of the contents to a user standing at the door of the chamber 105. Such information may include identification of the contents of the defined space(s) 108, such as type of food item(s), ownership, date, or day the food items are intended for consumption, expiration date, etc. The information portion may be an editable surface that can be customized by the user. The information may be displayed in the form of markings, such as symbols, stickers, colors and/or other aesthetically distinctive features. In some embodiments, for example as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the information portion 209 comprises a rewritable surface, an erasable surface, and/or a surface configured to receive non-permanent markings. Suitable surfaces include, for example, a dry erase surface, a chalk board surface, and others. As such, the information portion of the present technology allows for specific notation from the user that can be revised as many times as desired as the contents of the compartment change. In some embodiments the organizer 200 does not include an information portion.
The information portion 209 may comprise one or more separate pieces that are fixedly or detachably coupled to the elongate member 203 (as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B), and/or the information portion 209 may be integral with the elongate member 203. The information portion 209 may be disposed and/or carried by any portion of the organizer 200 so long as the information portion 209 is visible to the user or can be made visible to the user without releasing the fixation elements 214 and/or repositioning the elongate member 203. In some embodiments the information portion 209 can be coupled to the front end region assembly 230 a via a rotatable joint 240 and coupler 242. The information portion 209 can have a first side (showing in FIGS. 2A and 2B) and a second side (not visible), each of which can be configured to receive non-permanent markings from the user. In some embodiments, the information portion 209 is configured to rotate 180 to 360 degrees or more about joint 240 so that the user can easily switch between displaying the information contained on the first side and the information contained on the second side. In particular embodiments, the information portion 209 can be configured to be detachably coupled to the coupler 242, for example so the user may move the information portion 209 to a flat surface that is more conducive to writing on the information portion 209. Additional examples of suitable information portions 209 for use with the organizer 200 are detailed herein, including with respect to FIGS. 4A-4C, 11, 12, 13 and 14 .
In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the information portion can have a height of about 1 inches to about 5 inches, about 2 inches to about 4 inches, no more than 4 inches, no more than 3.5 inches, no more than 3 inches, no more than 2.5 inches, or no more than 2 inches. Moreover, any of the information portions disclose herein can have a width of about 1 inches to about 5 inches, about 2 inches to about 4 inches, no more than 4 inches, no more than 3.5 inches, no more than 3 inches, no more than 2.5 inches, or no more than 2 inches. According to several embodiments, the information portion has a height greater than its width. In some embodiments, the information portion has a width greater than its height.
FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an organizer 300 configured in accordance with the present technology, shown in an extended configuration. The organizer 300 can be generally similar to organizer 200 except as detailed below. Like numerals refer to similar components. The organizer 300 shown in FIG. 3 does not include an actuatable securing mechanism, such as the arm and suction cup of organizer 200. The organizer 300 can further include first and second information portions 309 a, 309 b on either side of the organizer 300 and coupled to first and second extenders 340 a, 340 b, respectively. The extenders 340 a, 340 b can be moveable relative to the organizer housing. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , each of the extenders 340 a, 340 b can be received through an opening (not visible) at a top portion of the organizer housing such that at least a portion of each of the extenders 340 a, 340 b extends into an interior portion of the organizer housing. Each of the extenders 340 a, 340 b can be slidable through the openings to lengthen and shorten the exposed portion of the corresponding extender 340 a, 340 b. Each of the extenders 340 a, 340 b can include a coupling portion 342 a, 342 b configured to detachably couple to an information portion. The individual coupling portions 342 a, 342 b can comprise a recess configured to receive an attachment portion of a corresponding information portion in multiple orientations, for example as depicted by the vertically-oriented first information portion 309 a and the horizontally-oriented second information portion 309 b. In some embodiments the organizer 300 can include more or fewer than two information portions (e.g., one information portion, three information portions, four information portions, etc.).
FIGS. 4A and 4B are isometric and bottom views of an organizer 400 of the present technology in an extended state, and FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the organizer 400 taken along line 4C-4C in FIG. 4A. Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C together, the organizer 400 may comprise a front portion 400 a, a rear portion 400 b, and a length extending therebetween along a first axis L of the organizer 400. The organizer 400 may also comprise a top portion 416, a bottom portion 418, and a height extending therebetween along a second axis H of the organizer 400. The organizer may further include a first side 420, a second side 422, and a width extending therebetween along a third axis W of the organizer 400. The organizer 400 is configured to be positioned within the chamber 105 such that the bottom portion 418 is on or adjacent a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface within the chamber 105 (such as a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of a storage component or a horizontal, upwardly-facing inner surface of the chamber 105), the front portion 400 a is closest to the door of the chamber 105, and the rear portion 400 b is adjacent and/or in contact with a vertical surface within the chamber 105 (such as a vertical surface of a storage component or a vertical inner surface 103 of the chamber 105).
In some embodiments, for example as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the organizer 400 comprises an elongate member 403, one or more fixation elements 414 coupled to the elongate member 403, and one or more information portions 409 carried by the elongate member 403. The fixation element 414 is configured to releasably adhere the elongate member 403 to a surface within the chamber 405, such as a shelf, a drawer, or a wall of the chamber 405. The information portion 409 is configured to display information to the user descriptive of the contents of the space(s) 108 defined by one or more of the organizers 400. The information portion(s) 409 allow the user to quickly and easily identify one or more shared properties of the contents disposed within the space 108 without having to remove and/or reposition the organizer 400 and/or the contents. Additional details of each of these components are provided below.
The elongate member 403 may be formed of a plastic material and have a length and height configured to fit within a refrigerator or freezer chamber 102 or 104. For example, the elongate member 403 may have a length that spans all or a portion of the length of the chamber 105 (or smaller compartment or storage component within the chamber 105). The length may be about 25 to 40 inches, about 30 to 38 inches, or about 32 to 34 inches. Likewise, the elongate member 403 may have a height that spans all or a portion of the height of the chamber 105 (or smaller compartment or storage component within the chamber 105). The elongate member 403 may have a constant or varying width along its length, and/or a constant or varying width along its height. In some cases it may be beneficial to reduce the width of the elongate member 403 as much as possible without compromising the stability of the organizer 400. Having a reduced width minimizes the organizer's footprint in the chamber 105 so that the user can realize the benefits of the organizer 400 without losing meaningful storage capacity.
In some embodiments, for example as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the elongate member 403 has a flared portion 410 that helps stabilize the organizer 400 about the second axis H. In such embodiments, the flared portion 410 extends laterally away from the bottom portion of the elongate member 403 on either side of the organizer 400. The flared portion 410 may cover either side of the fixation element(s) 414 (see FIG. 4C), thereby protecting the fixation element(s) 414 from loose contents in the chamber (such as crumbs and liquids) that could compromise the secure connection between the fixation element(s) 414 and the surface. In other embodiments, the elongate member 403 does not include a flared portion and has a generally constant width along its height, as depicted in FIG. 8 . In any case, the fixation element(s) 414 can have a width that is (a) greater than that of the elongate member 403 (see, for example, FIG. 8 ), (b) substantially the same as that of the elongate member 403 (see, for example, FIG. 9 ) or (c) less than the width of the elongate member 403.
In some embodiments, the width, length, and/or height of the organizer 400 is adjustable to accommodate different chamber and/or internal compartment sizes and configurations. The adjustable dimensions of the organizer 400 also allow the user to adapt the organizer to a variety of positions and uses over time. As shown in FIG. 4A, the organizer 400 may comprise a base portion 402 and an extension portion 412 that is moveable along the first axis L relative to the base portion 402 to adjust the length of the organizer 400. In some embodiments, the extension portion 412 is slidably received within an interior region of the base portion 402, as shown in FIG. 4A. In certain embodiments, the extension portion 412 is disposed at an outer surface of the base portion 402 and configured to slide along the outer surface when as the organizer 400 is lengthened and shortened. In these and other embodiments, the extension portion 412 comprises a plurality of extension sections in a telescoping arrangement, or in an accordion-like arrangement. In any case, the organizer 400 may include a securing member 426 coupled to one or both of the base portion 402 and the extension portion 412 to secure the extension portion 412 in a desired position relative to the base portion 402.
The organizer 400 may additionally or alternatively include an extension portion 412 that is moveable along the second axis H relative to the base portion 402 to adjust the height of the organizer 400. In several of such embodiments, the extension portion is slidably received within an interior region of the base portion 402. In certain embodiments, the extension portion is disposed at an outer surface of the base portion 402 and configured to slide along the outer surface as the height of the organizer 400 is increased and decreased. In these and other embodiments, the extension portion comprises a plurality of extension sections in a telescoping arrangement, or in an accordion-like arrangement (as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B). In any case, the organizer 400 may include a securing member coupled to one or both of the base portion 402 and the extension portion to secure the extension portion in a desired position relative to the base portion 402.
According to several embodiments, the extension portion 412 may rotate or pivot about a point along the base portion such that the extension portion 412 axis is different from the axis of the base portion 402 when the extension portion 412 is in an extended configuration. For example, the axis of the extension portion 412 may be positioned at an angle relative to the axis of the base portion 402 that is between 1 and 180 degrees, 10 and 150 degrees, 30 and 100 degrees, 30 and 90 degrees, less than 90 degrees, greater than 90 degrees, less than 45 degrees, greater than 45 degrees, or between 45 and 90 degrees. The organizer 400 may include an extension portion 412 that pivots or rotates upwardly away from a top portion of the base portion 402, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. In such embodiments, the pivot or rotation point may be at any location along the length of the base portion 402, such as the front portion of the base portion 402 (as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B), a rear portion, or any location therebetween. In these and other embodiments, the organizer 400 may include an extension portion 412 that pivots or rotates laterally away from a top portion of the base portion 402, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In such embodiments, the pivot or rotation point may be at any location along the length of the base portion 402, such as the front portion of the base portion 402 (as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B), a rear portion, or any location therebetween. The organizer 400 may include an extension portion 412 at one or both sides.
In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the extension portion 412 may have a length that is substantially the same as the length of the base portion 402, or the extension portion 412 may have a length that is greater or less than a length of the base portion 402.
According to several aspects of the technology, the elongate member 403 and/or organizer 400 has a fixed length, width, and/or height. In several of such embodiments, the present technology may include a system of organizers, each having a different length, width, and/or height, thereby allowing the user to mix and match different-sized organizers as desired.
The organizer 400 may optionally be configured to absorb odors within the chamber 105. As shown in FIG. 4A, for example, the organizer 400 may include a receptacle 428 configured to receive and hold replaceable odor absorbers. The odor absorber and/or receptacle 428 may comprise a one or more odor absorbing substances or compounds, such as baking soda, bamboo, silicone, etc. In some embodiments, the organizer 400 can be preloaded with an odor absorbing substance. The odor absorbers of the present technology may be provided separately or with the organizers 400 of the present technology.
As previously mentioned, the organizer 400 may include a fixation element 414 configured to detachably secure the elongate member 403 to a surface within the chamber 105. The fixation element 414 may comprise a single fixation element, or may comprise a plurality of fixation elements. The fixation element 414 may comprise one or more suction elements (such as a suction cup), an adhesive, a putty, a glue, VELCRO®, and other suitable fixation means that are releasable and refastenable to allow for adjustment and reuse. The fixation element 414 may be coupled to any portion of the elongate member 403, such as the top portion 416, the bottom portion 418, one or both side portions 420, 422, the front portion 400 a, and/or the rear portion 400 b. In several embodiments, the fixation element 414 comprises a plurality of fixation elements 414 coupled to and spaced apart along a bottom surface of the elongate member 403, for example as shown in FIG. 4B. Additionally or alternatively, the organizer 400 may include one or more fixation elements 414 at a rear surface of the organizer 400, as shown in FIG. 10 , and configured to secure the rear side 400 b of the organizer 400 to a rear wall of the chamber 105. Having fixation elements 414 at different sides of the organizer 400 provides additional stability and anchoring to the organizer 400 to prevent movement as food items are moved in and out of the defined space(s) 108.
The organizer 400 may also include an information portion that displays information descriptive of the contents to a user standing at the door of the chamber 105. Such information may include identification of the contents of the defined space(s) 108, such as type of food item(s), ownership, date or day the food items are intended for consumption, expiration date, etc. The information portion may be an editable surface that can be customized by the user. The information may be displayed in the form of markings, such as symbols, stickers, colors and/or other aesthetically distinctive features. In some embodiments, the information portion comprises a rewritable surface, an erasable surface, and/or a surface configured to receive non-permanent markings. Suitable surfaces include, for example, a dry erase surface, a chalk board surface, and others. As such, the information portion of the present technology allows for specific notation from the user that can be revised as many times as desired as the contents of the compartment change. In some embodiments the organizer 400 does not include an information portion.
The information portion may be integral with the elongate member 403, or may be one or more separate pieces that are fixedly or detachably coupled to the elongate member 403. The information portion may be disposed and/or carried by any portion of the organizer 400 so long as the information portion is visible to the user or can be made visible to the user without releasing the fixation elements and/or repositioning the elongate member 403. In some embodiments the organizer 400 may include an information portion 409 on a front-facing surface of the organizer 400, as shown in FIG. 4A. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , in some embodiments the organizer 400 may include one or more flaps 1100 integral with or configured to be detachably coupled to the elongate member 403. The flap(s) 1100 may include one or more information portions, and may be movable between a low-profile position closer to the broad side of the elongate member 403 (FIG. 11 ) and an extended position rotated away from the broad side of the elongate member 403 (FIG. 12 ). In the extended portion, an information-containing face of the flap 1100 faces or is otherwise visible to the user. The flap(s) 1100 may be detachable from the elongate member 403, for example so the user may move the flap(s) 1100 to a flat surface more conducive to writing on the flap 1100. For those embodiments including multiple flaps 1100, the flaps 1100 may be spaced apart along a length of the elongate member 403 (as shown in FIG. 11 ), along a height of the elongate member 403, and/or along a width of the elongate member 403.
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , in some embodiments the organizer 400 may include one or more antennas 1300 fixedly or detachably coupled to the elongate member 403. In some embodiments, the antenna 1300 is configured to rotate, pivot, and/or slide relative to the elongate member 403. The antenna 1300 may include one or more flaps 1100, each of which may have a fixed orientation relative to the antenna 1300, or may be configured to rotate around up to 360 degrees of the antenna. The antenna 1300 itself may be movable between a low-profile position (FIG. 13 ) and an extended position (FIG. 14 ) in which the antenna is visible to the user. In some embodiments the antenna 1300 rotates away from a side of the elongate member 403 (such as the top portion in FIGS. 13 and 14 ) and in some embodiments the antenna 1300 is slidably disposed within an interior region of the elongate member 403. The flap(s) 1100 may be detachable from the antenna 1100 so the user may move the flap(s) 1100 to a flat surface more conducive to writing on the flap(s) 1100. For those embodiments including multiple antennas 1300, the antennas 1300 may be spaced apart along a length of the elongate member 403, along a height of the elongate member 403, and/or along a width of the elongate member 403.
FIG. 16A is an isometric view of an organizer 400 configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown coupled to a shelf 106 FIG. 16B is a side view of the organizer 400 shown in FIG. 16A. As shown, in some embodiments the organizer 400 may comprise a divider portion 1602 and a fixation portion 1604 extending from the divider portion 1602. The fixation portion 1604 may extend along all or a portion of the length of the divider portion 1602 and be spaced apart from the divider portion 1602 by a gap 1606. The fixation portion 1604 may be coupled to the divider portion 1602 (detachably or permanently) or may be integral with the divider portion 1602. The connection between the fixation element 1604 and the divider portion 1602 (such as region 1408 or another portion/component) may be adjustable so that the distance between the divider portion 1602 and the fixation portion 1604 can be increased or decreased as necessary to accommodate shelves having different shapes and sizes.
The organizer 400 may be configured to be positioned within a chamber such that the bottom portion of the divider portion 1602 is on or adjacent a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface within the chamber (such as a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of a storage component or a horizontal, upwardly-facing inner surface of the chamber), the front portion is closest to the door of the chamber, and the rear portion is adjacent and/or in contact with a vertical surface within the chamber (such as a vertical surface of a storage component or a vertical inner surface of the chamber). In such an orientation, the fixation portion 1604 is configured to extend along a downwardly-facing surface of the shelf 106 (opposite the upwardly-facing surface adjacent the bottom portion of the divider portion 1602). The organizer 400 may include a region 1608 between the divider portion 1602 and the fixation portion 1604 that is configured to extend over a front surface of the shelf 106.
In some embodiments, the organizer 400 may be configured to hang from a shelf such that the top portion of the divider portion 1602 is adjacent and/or in contact with a horizontal, downwardly-facing surface within the chamber (such as a horizontal, downwardly-facing surface of a storage component or a horizontal, downwardly-facing inner surface of the chamber), the front portion is closest to the door of the chamber, and the rear portion is adjacent and/or in contact with a vertical surface within the chamber (such as a vertical surface of a storage component or a vertical inner surface of the chamber). In such an orientation, the fixation portion 1604 is configured to extend along an upwardly-facing surface of the shelf 106 (opposite the downwardly-facing surface adjacent the top portion of the divider portion 1602). In such embodiments, the organizer 400 may include a region 1608 between the divider portion 1602 and the fixation portion 1604 that is configured to extend over a front surface of the shelf 106.
The organizer 400 shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B may optionally include any of the information portions described herein. It will be appreciated that a single fixation portion 1604 may be coupled to multiple divider portions 1602, and vice versa.
According to several embodiments of the present technology, the organizer 400 is a bin or a plurality of bins, each configured to be securely yet removably positioned within the refrigerator chamber 102 and/or freezer chamber 104, thereby dividing the respective chamber into multiple defined spaces 108 and also creating a new self-contained compartment. The bin may be configured to be positioned within the chamber 105 such that a bottom portion is on or adjacent a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface within the chamber 105 (such as a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of a storage component or a horizontal, upwardly-facing inner surface of the chamber 105), a front portion is closest to the door of the chamber 105, and a rear portion is adjacent and/or in contact with a vertical surface within the chamber 105 (such as a vertical surface of a storage component or a vertical inner surface 103 of the chamber 105).
In several embodiments where the organizer 400 is a bin, the organizer 400 may comprise one or more fixation elements 414 (such as any of the fixation elements 414 and fixation element arrangements described herein) coupled to the bin and one or more information portions 409 (such as any of the information portions 409 and information portion arrangements described herein) carried by the bin.
FIGS. 17A and 17B are side and front views, respectively, of an organizer 1700 configured in accordance with several embodiments of the present technology, shown coupled to the front end of a shelf 106 of a refrigeration appliance. FIG. 17B is a front view of the organizer 1700. As shown, the organizer 1700 can be configured to hang from a front end of a shelf 106 in an orientation that is substantially perpendicular to the shelf 106. In several of such embodiments, the organizer 1700 does not provide any dividing functionality, and instead provides a customizable information display. The length, width, and height of the organizer 1700 can be adjustable. The organizer 1700 may comprise one or more fixation elements 1702 configured to detachably couple to the shelf 106. The fixation elements 1702 can be configured to adapt to a range of shelf sizes and configurations. The organizer 1700 can be configured to extend downwardly from the front end of the shelf 106 (as shown), or may extend upwardly, or both.

Conclusion

Although many of the embodiments are described above with respect to devices for organizing refrigerated chambers, the technology is applicable to other applications and/or other approaches, such as an internal chamber of any appliance or other device. Moreover, other embodiments in addition to those described herein are within the scope of the technology. Additionally, several other embodiments of the technology can have different configurations, components, or procedures than those described herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art, therefore, will accordingly understand that the technology can have other embodiments with additional elements, or the technology can have other embodiments without several of the features shown and described above with reference to FIGS. 1-17B.
The descriptions of embodiments of the technology are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise form disclosed above. Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also include the plural or singular term, respectively. Although specific embodiments of, and examples for, the technology are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technology, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while steps are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform steps in a different order. The various embodiments described herein may also be combined to provide further embodiments.
As used herein, the terms “generally,” “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.
Moreover, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive from the other items in reference to a list of two or more items, then the use of “or” in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in the list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list. Additionally, the term “comprising” is used throughout to mean including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same feature and/or additional types of other features are not precluded. It will also be appreciated that specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the technology. Further, while advantages associated with certain embodiments of the technology have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompass other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.

Claims

I/we claim:

1. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:

an elongated divider having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, wherein the elongated divider is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance; and

a fixation element at an exterior portion of the divider, wherein the fixation element is configured to releasably adhere the divider to a surface of the internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance,

wherein, when the device is positioned within the internal compartment, the divider divides the internal compartment into at least two defined spaces on either side of the divider.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein, when the device is positioned within the internal compartment, the longitudinal axis of the divider extends along a depth of the refrigeration appliance such that the first end portion is proximate a front portion of the refrigeration appliance and the second end portion is proximate a rear portion of the refrigeration appliance.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixation element comprises a suction cup.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the fixation element is disposed at a front portion of the divider.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the device includes a means for selectively strengthening and weakening an attractive force between the fixation element and the surface of the refrigeration appliance.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixation element is configured to be re-adhered to the surface of the internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance after release from the surface.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixation element is disposed at a rear portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the fixation element releasably adheres to a rear wall of the refrigeration appliance.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixation element is disposed at a bottom portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the fixation element releasably adheres to a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of the refrigeration appliance.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixation element comprises a first fixation element and a second fixation element, and wherein:

the first fixation element is disposed at a rear portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the first fixation element releasably adheres to a rear wall of the refrigeration appliance, and

the second fixation element is disposed at a bottom portion of the divider such that, when the divider is positioned within the internal compartment, the second fixation element releasably adheres to a horizontal, upwardly-facing surface of the refrigeration appliance.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the first fixation element comprises a plurality of first fixation elements spaced apart along a height of the rear portion of the divider.

11. The device of claim 9, wherein the second fixation element comprises a plurality of second fixation elements spaced apart along a length of the bottom portion of the divider.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the divider has an adjustable height, an adjustable length, or both.

13. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:

an information portion carried by the divider and configured to carry information that is visible to a user when the user is standing at a front portion of the refrigeration appliance, and wherein the information displayed on the information portion is customizable by the user,

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the information portion is detachable from the divider.

15. The device of claim 13, wherein the information portion is disposed at a front portion of the divider.

16. The device of claim 13, wherein the information portion is configured to extend laterally away from the longitudinal axis of the divider, towards the defined spaces.

17. The device of claim 13, wherein the information portion is configured to rotate towards the divider and way from the divider.

18. The device of claim 13, wherein the information portion comprises a rewritable surface.

19. The device of claim 13, wherein the information portion is configured to rotate towards a front and/or back portion of the divider.

20. A device for organizing the contents of a refrigeration appliance, the device comprising:.

an elongated divider having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, wherein the elongated divider is configured to be positioned within an internal compartment of the refrigeration appliance, and wherein the divider has an adjustable height, an adjustable length, or both;

an information portion carried by the divider and configured to carry information that is visible to a user when the user is standing at a front portion of the refrigeration appliance, and wherein the information displayed on the information portion is customizable by the user; and