WO2017024287A1

WO2017024287A1 - Multipurpose crate with legs

Info

Publication number: WO2017024287A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/045919
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Quinn; Michael Carlson; Allen Keith Holland
Original assignee: Clevermade, Llc
Priority date: 2015-08-06
Filing date: 2016-08-05
Publication date: 2017-02-09

Abstract

A multi-purpose crate having a plurality of walls that form a cavity is contemplated. The crate system comprises a base that is coupled to at least two of the plurality of walls. A leg can be coupled to the base and a release member. A user can move the release member upward to couple the release member to the base and retain the leg in a substantially horizontal position. To release the leg, the user can pull the release member to uncouple the release member with the base and allow the leg to rotate into a substantially vertical position.

Description

MULTIPURPOSE CRATE WITH LEGS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.

62/329,063, filed on April 28, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/202,100, filed on August 6, 2015, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/202,057, filed on August 6, 2015. All extrinsic materials identified herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Field of the Invention

[0002] The field of the invention is collapsible storage containers. Background

[0003] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0004] These and all other extrinsic materials discussed herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0005] Containers (e.g. , crates) have been used for many years to store and/or transport items. When the containers are not in use, it can be problematic to find storage space to store them. However, to reduce the required storage space, some have contemplated collapsible containers. For example, McDade (U.S. Patent No. 7,556,165) and Sanders (U.S. Patent No. 3,796,342) contemplate collapsible containers. While a collapsible container reduces the storage space required for containers, it should be appreciated that other areas of containers can also be improved to further enhance the convenience to a user. [0006] Some have contemplated a container with foldable legs. For example, Tontarelli (European Patent Application 1160169) discloses a collapsible box having foldable legs. Tontarelli discloses that an actuation lever is used to move each of the pairs of legs. A handle on the actuation lever is pulled upward to fold the legs and thereby cause teeth on the actuation lever to slide against internal side borders of a first notch until a second notch is reached, which retains teeth in a fixed position. To unfold the legs, the handle is pushed towards the inside, which disengages the teeth of actuation lever from the second notch, and a spring pushes the actuation lever downward to unfold the legs. Other actuation mechanisms are disclosed by Tontarelli. While foldable legs can improve the convenience of using containers to users, the actuation mechanisms in Tontarelli appear relatively complicated (e.g. , use of internal side borders to guide teeth to second notch).

[0007] In some circumstances, it is desirable to cover the items that are placed in a container. Most typically, a lid can be placed on the crate to cover the items. For example, Turvey (Canadian Patent 2634994), Loftus (UK Patent Application 2349868), Brown (UK Patent Application 2375525), Ben-Or (U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0375558), and Reed (WIPO Publication No. 2009/053687) all discuss crate or box systems having a lid. Although these references disclose crates or boxes that can be covered by a lid, there are various aspects that can be improved.

[0008] Thus, there is still a need in the art for an improved container that is simple and convenient for users. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems, and methods in which a collapsible container in some embodiments may comprise foldable legs that conveniently fold and unfold in a relatively simple manner. It is contemplated that a multi-purpose crate comprises a plurality of walls that collectively form a cavity. A base can be disposed below the plurality of walls whereby the base is coupled to at least two of the plurality of walls. A leg can be coupled to the base and a release member. A spring can be coupled to the base and the release member to thereby bias the leg in an unfolded position.

[0010] The release member is configured to removably couple to the base, wherein the release member comprises a handle and a projection that extends above the handle. The projection is configured to insert through an aperture on the base to removably couple the release member with the base and thereby (i) secure the leg in a substantially horizontal position when the projection is coupled to the base such that the spring remains compressed, and (ii) allow the leg to rotate into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base. Thus, the legs can be conveniently folded or unfolded as desired by a user. [0011] The release member can comprise a flexible portion that is bent from a first position (e.g. , at-rest position, tensioned position, etc.) when the projection is decoupled with the base. For example, the flexible portion can be configured to flex when the handle is pulled to thereby release the projection from the aperture. The flexible portion can comprise a "U"- or "S"-shape that is configured to elongate when the handle is pulled. It is also contemplated that the handle comprises an inverse "U"-shape that is sized and dimensioned to receive a finger from a user. Thus, pulling the handle decouples the projection from the base.

[0012] In typical embodiments, the plurality of walls comprises a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall. A top frame can be coupled to the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall, and the base can be coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall can comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, where the top and bottom portion of each sidewall form the sidewall. Thus, the first end wall and the second end wall are configured to rotate into the cavity via the top frame, and the top portion and bottom portion are configured to rotate into the cavity, when the plurality of walls are collapsed to reduce the required amount of storage area for storing the crate.

[0013] In some instances, it may be desirable to access the contents within the cavity when another container or other item(s) are on top of the container. To that end, one of the plurality of walls can include a door to allow access to the cavity via the sidewall. Thus, it is contemplated that at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall can comprise a rotatable door configured to open and close to allow and restrict access to the cavity, respectively.

[0014] The release member can comprise a second projection that extends above the handle. The second projection is sized and dimensioned to rest on a bottom surface of the base when the projection is coupled to the base to thereby prevent upward movement of the release member. It should be appreciated that the second projection stops a user from moving the release member upward to uncouple the projection from the base. Thus, the process of unfolding a leg is simplified because the user is limited to a pulling motion to uncouple the projection from the base. [0015] To assist in unfolding a leg, a spring is coupled to the base and the release member. The spring is configured to apply a force onto the release member to thereby rotate the leg into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base. As used herein, a substantially vertical position means vertical or a position that is within 20 degrees of a vertical line, and a substantially horizontal position means horizontal or a position that is within 20 degrees of a horizontal line. [0016] It may be desirable to a user to cover the cavity of the multi-purpose crate. In such instances, a lid can be coupled to the multi-purpose crate. In such instances, it is

contemplated that the container may or may not include the foldable legs described above. For example, a set of couplers can be disposed on at least one of (i) an interior surface of the plurality of walls and (ii) an exterior surface of the base, and preferably both. A second set of couplers can be disposed on the lid, wherein the set of couplers is configured to mate with the second set of couplers to attach the lid onto the crate.

[0017] In another aspect, a multi-purpose crate is contemplated. The crate comprises a top frame coupled to a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall that collectively form a cavity. The first end wall and second end wall are typically coupled to the top frame, and preferably rotatably coupled. A base can be coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0018] A leg may optionally be coupled to a lower surface of the base and a release member. In such embodiments, the release member is configured to removably couple to the base. A projection extends from a top surface of the release member, and the projection is configured to pass through an aperture on the base and removably couple with the base, such that the leg is secured in a substantially horizontal position when the projection is coupled to the base and the leg is allowed to rotate into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base.

[0019] The release member typically comprises a flexible portion that is configured to flex when the release member is pulled to thereby release the projection from the aperture. The flexible portion can comprise a "U" or "S"-shape that is configured to elongate when the release member is pulled. The release member can comprises an inverse "U"-shape that is sized and dimensioned to receive a finger from a user. Thus, the release member can be pulled to unfold the legs from the crate. [0020] In another aspect, a multi-purpose crate system is contemplated. The system comprises a crate and a lid. The crate comprises a plurality of walls that define a cavity, and a base disposed below the plurality of walls that is coupled to at least two of the walls. A first set of couplers are disposed on an interior surface of at least two of the walls, and a second set of couplers are disposed on an exterior surface of the base. A third set of couplers are disposed on a lid, wherein the third set of couplers are configured to mate with each of the first and second sets of couplers to attach the lid onto a top or a bottom of the crate, respectively. Advantageously, the lid can thereby be secured to a bottom of the base when not used to cover the top, while still allowing the crate to be stacked on to another crate of the same embodiment.

[0021] The first set of couplers can be disposed on the first sidewall and the second sidewall. For example, the first set of couplers can be disposed on an interior surface of the first sidewall so that the lid is disposed within the cavity when the first set of couplers mates with the third set of couplers. In such instance, a top surface of the lid, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall form a recess when the lid is attached to the crate, and the recess is configured to receive a base from a second crate to thereby stack the second crate onto the crate.

[0022] It is contemplated that the multi-purpose crates described herein can be collapsed when not in use to reduce the amount of storage space required. The first sidewall and the second sidewall comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, preferably via a hinge. Together, the top and bottom portions collectively form one of the sidewalls. To collapse the crate, the first end wall and the second end wall can be rotated into the cavity via the top frame, and the top portion and bottom portion can be rotated into the cavity via the hinge(s) on each sidewall.

[0023] The base can comprise one or more projections that extend from a lower surface of the base, and the second set of couplers can be disposed on the one or more projections such that the lid is configured to attach to the one or more projections. When the lid attaches to the top of the crate on an interior surface of the sidewalls, a recess can be formed by a top surface of the lid, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall that can receive one or more projections of a second crate within the recess to help maintain a position of the second crate with respect to the crate when the second crate is stacked on top of the crate. [0024] The first set of couplers can each comprise a projection, and the third set of couplers can each comprises a groove that is sized and dimensioned to receive one of the projections. It is also contemplated that the first set of couplers can each comprise a groove and the third set of couplers can comprise a projection. [0025] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a multi-purpose crate.

[0027] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 1.

[0028] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 1.

[0029] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 1 showing a leg that is unfolded. [0030] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 4 showing the leg partially folded.

[0031] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 4 showing the leg folded.

[0032] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 1 showing a collapsed crate.

[0033] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 1 showing a collapsed crate and partially folded legs.

[0034] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of the multi-purpose crate of Fig. 1 showing a collapsed crate and folded legs. [0035] Figure 10 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a plurality of crates having a rotatable door. [0036] Figure 11 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a crate and a lid.

[0037] Figure 12 is a side perspective view of the crate of Fig. 1 1.

[0038] Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of the crate of Fig. 11.

[0039] Figure 14 is a top perspective view of the lid of Fig. 11. [0040] Figure 15 is a bottom perspective view of the lid of Fig. 11.

[0041] Figure 16 is a close-up view of a portion of the crate and lid of Fig. 1 1 showing a set of couplers on the crate and lid.

[0042] Figure 17 is a top perspective view of the crate and lid of Fig. 1 1 showing the lid attached to a top of the crate. [0043] Figure 18 is a close-up view of a portion of the crate and lid of Fig. 1 1 showing a set of couplers on the crate and the lid.

[0044] Figure 19 is a side perspective view of the crate and lid of Fig. 1 1 showing the lid attached to a bottom of the crate.

Detailed Description

[0045] The following discussion provides example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subj ect matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0046] Also, as used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously.

[0047] The inventors have discovered that a collapsible container providing foldable legs and/or a lid can be produced in a conceptually simple and effective manner. Thus, such containers can advantageously be (i) stored away when the container is collapsed and the legs are folded in, (ii) used as a recreational mini table when the container is collapsed and the legs are unfolded and/or (iii) used as a laundry basket or other storage container when the container is extended upwards and the legs are folded in or extended outwards. [0048] Figures 1-3 show various views of a multi-purpose crate 100 comprising a plurality of walls 101 that collectively form a cavity 103. Crate 100 comprises a base 105 disposed below plurality of walls 101 and coupled to at least two of plurality of walls 101. A leg 107 is coupled to base 105 and a release member 109 that is configured to removably couple to base 105 to fold and unfold leg 107. Release member 109 comprises a handle and a projection 111 that extends above the handle. Projection 111 is configured to insert through an aperture 113 on base 105 and removably couple with base 105 to thereby (i) secure leg 107 in a substantially horizontal position when projection 111 is coupled to base 105 and (ii) allow leg 107 to rotate into a substantially vertical position when projection 111 is uncoupled from base 105. [0049] Plurality of walls 101 can comprise a sidewall 115 and an end wall 117. For example, plurality of walls 101 can comprise a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall as shown in Fig. 1. A top frame 119 can be coupled to at least one of sidewall 115 and end wall 117. It is contemplated that top frame 119 can be coupled to the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall. Base 105 can be coupled to at least one of sidewall 115 and end wall 117. In contemplated embodiments, base 105 can be coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0050] Sidewall 115 can comprise a top portion 121 rotatably coupled to a bottom portion 123. It should be appreciated that the plurality of walls 101 can be collapsed to reduce the storage space needed to store crate 100. A user can push a lower portion of end wall 117 to rotate end wall 117 into cavity 103 via a rotatable coupling with top frame 119.

Subsequently, top portion 121 and bottom portion 123 can be rotated inward to collapse sidewall 115 into cavity 103. Thus, it is contemplated that sidewall 115 can be folded into cavity 103 and end wall 117 can be rotated to lie on top of folded sidewall 115.

[0051] In other contemplated embodiments, end wall 117 can be coupled to base 105 and comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, such that end wall 117 can be folded into cavity 103 to collapse plurality of walls 101. In such embodiment, sidewall 115 can be coupled only to top frame 1 19 so that sidewall 1 15 can be rotated into cavity 103 to lie on top of folded end wall 1 17.

[0052] Base 105 typically extends around a perimeter of crate 100 and comprises a slot 125 that is sized and dimensioned to receive release member 109 when coupled to base 105. A spring 127 can be coupled to base 105 and release member 109. Spring 127 is configured to apply a force onto release member 109 to thereby rotate leg 107 into a substantially vertical position when projection 11 1 is uncoupled from aperture 113. As shown in Fig. 3, release member 109 can comprise a recess that is sized and dimensioned to receive spring 127. It is contemplated that other devices can be used to provide a downward force onto release member 109. For example, a weight can be used to apply a force onto release member to thereby rotate leg 107.

[0053] As shown in Figs. 1 -3, leg 107 is unfolded and plurality of walls 101 is extended in a first configuration of crate 100. However, as discussed above, it is contemplated that leg 107 can be folded and/or plurality of walls 101 can be collapsed to provide a second configuration of crate 100.

[0054] Figures 4-6 are enlarged views of a portion of crate 100 showing release member 109 in more detail. As described above, release member can comprise a handle 129 and a proj ection 11 1 that can insert through aperture 1 13 of base 105. In Fig. 4, leg 107 is unfolded and is extended in a substantially vertical position. [0055] Release member 109 comprises a flexible portion 131 adjacent to handle 129, and wherein flexible portion 131 can be bent to thereby decoupled projection 11 1 from base 105. Thus, flexible portion 131 can be configured to flex when handle 129 is pulled to thereby release proj ection 1 11 from aperture 113. As shown in Figs. 4-6, flexible portion 131 can comprises a "U"-shape that is configured to elongate when handle 129 is pulled to uncouple release member 109 from base 105. However, other shapes are contemplated for flexible portion 131 , including, but not limited to, a flat shape, a round shape, a curved shape, and so forth. Handle 129 can comprise an inverse "U"-shape that is sized and dimensioned to receive a finger from a user. Similarly, it is contemplated that handle 129 can be any number of other suitable shapes that can be sized and dimensioned to receive a finger from a user.

[0056] Release member 109 can comprise a second projection 133 that extends above handle 129. Second projection 133 is typically sized and dimensioned to rest on a bottom surface 135 of base 105 when projection 1 11 is coupled to aperture 1 13 to thereby prevent upward movement of release member 109 as shown in Fig. 6. It is contemplated that second projection 133 is rigid to retain its shape and prevent further upward movement when projection 11 1 is coupled to base 105. However, it is contemplated that second projection 133 can also be flexible, but also rigid enough to prevent upward movement when projection 11 1 is coupled to base 105.

[0057] Release member 109 can also comprises an "L "-shaped slot 137. A pin 139 is typically disposed through "L" shaped slot 137 and leg 107 to couple release member 109 with leg 107. It should be appreciated that "L" shaped slot 137 assists in the rotation of leg 107 between folded and unfolded configurations. As shown in Figs. 4-6, pin 139 travels along "L" shaped slot 137 to rotate leg 107 between folded and unfolded configurations. As discussed above, spring 127 provides a force onto release member 109 to transition between folded and unfolded configurations of leg 107.

[0058] Release member can comprise a top surface 141 and a bottom surface 143. Typically, projection 11 1 and second projection 133 extend from top surface 141 of release member 109. Projection can comprise a tooth 145 that extends inward and that is sized and dimensioned to be inserted through aperture 113. It should be appreciated that a notch or rib is not required to guide projection 11 1 to couple base 105. A user can merely push handle 129 in an upward direction to raise release member 109 and couple projection 1 11 with base 105 and fold leg 107, or pull handle 129 in an outward direction to flex and elongate flexible portion 131 and release projection 11 1 from base 105 to thereby unfold leg 107.

[0059] Figures 7-9 show the transition of leg 107 from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration from a top perspective. Crate 100 has the plurality of walls collapsed whereby end wall 1 17 rests above sidewalls. It should be appreciated that end wall 117 can comprise a recess portion 147 that can be used as a rest for a cup. It is contemplated that other recessed portions (e.g. , recess portion for tools, pencils/pens, plates, etc.) are contemplated on end wall 117 to add utility to crate 100 when the plurality of walls are collapsed. Crate 100 in the configuration of Fig. 7 can be used as a tabletop.

[0060] As described above, release member 109 can be moved in an upward direction to insert projection 11 1 into aperture 1 13 and couple release member 109 with base 105. Fig. 8 shows release member 109 partially moved in an upward direction to partially fold leg 107. Once proj ection 1 1 1 is passed through aperture 113 to couple release member 109 with base 105, leg 107 is completely folded in a substantially horizontal position as shown in Fig. 8. It is contemplated that leg 107 can rest within an internal area defined by base 105 so that leg 107 is hidden when folded. It should be appreciated that other crates can be stacked above or below crate 100 to thereby provide stackability.

[0061] It should be appreciated that crate 100 can be made of a plastic, wood or metal and be configured to hold at least 60 liters and 70 pounds. Additionally or alternatively, crate 100 can have a folded height between 1/2 and 5 inches, or 1 and 3 inches, and an extended / unfolded size of approximately 20.8 inches x 13.6 inches x 14.3 inches. Additionally or alternatively, crate 100 could have patterned openings and/or be included in stackable systems (e.g. , the folded legs of one system could fit within an opening of a container of a second system). Thus, it should be appreciated that any suitable size, shape and dimensions are contemplated. It should also be appreciated that crate 100 could be made from any suitable materials, including for example, a fabric, hemp, bamboo, linen, cotton, reed or other basket weaving materials, metal, wood, or rubber.

[0062] Figure 10 shows a multiple crate system 1000 comprising a crate 1002. Crate 1002 has a plurality of walls that define a cavity. The plurality of walls comprises a sidewall 1015 and an end wall 1017. Crate 1002 can comprise a leg and a release member as described above to fold and unfold the leg. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that the plurality of walls can be collapsed to reduce storage space as described above. Crate 1002 further comprises a rotatable door 1049 configured to open and close to allow and restrict access to the cavity, respectively. It is contemplated that rotatable door 1049 can be disposed on at least one of he plurality of walls, including but not limited to, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall. [0063] In some instances, a user should be able to see what is inside the crate without needing to first open it. Thus, rotatable door 1049 can be substantially transparent.

Alternatively, the same effect can be achieved by forming rotatable door 1049 in a way that enables a person to see inside crate 1002. For example, rotatable door 1049 could be made from bars, a lattice structure, or another structure (or some combination of those structural features) that allow a person to see inside. Additionally, or alternatively, crate 1002 includes slots and/or handles in one or more sides to allow a person to lift the crate. This advantageously allows a user to access content stored in the crate even where additional items are stacked on top of the crate and a lid cannot readily be removed.

[0064] It can be desirable to add a lid onto a crate to cover items disposed within the crate. Figure 11 shows a multi-purpose crate system 1100 comprising a crate 1102 having a plurality of walls 1101 that define a cavity 1103, and a base 1105 disposed below plurality of walls 1101 that is coupled to at least two of plurality of walls 1101. A first set of couplers 1151 are disposed on an interior surface of at least two of plurality of walls 1101 and a second set of couplers are disposed on an exterior surface of base 1105. A third set of couplers 1153 are disposed on a lid 1155, wherein third set of couplers 1153 is configured to mate with each of first set of couplers 1151 and the second sets of couplers to attach the lid onto a top or a bottom of crate 1102, respectively.

[0065] Plurality of walls 1101 can comprise sidewall 1115 and end wall 1117. For example, plurality of walls 1101 can comprises a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall. A top frame 1119 can be coupled to the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall. Plurality of walls 1101 can be collapsed as described above whereby the first sidewall and the second sidewall comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, and the first end wall and the second end wall are rotated into the cavity via the top frame and the top portion and bottom portion are rotated into cavity 1103. [0066] Crate 1102 can comprise one or more sets of couplers 1151 on sidewall 1115, preferably disposed on an upper portion of sidewall 1115. Typically, at least one set of couplers 1151 is disposed on an inside surface of a first and a second sidewall. However, it is contemplated that a set of couplers 1151 can be disposed on an inside surface of at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall. For example, a set of couplers 1151 can be disposed on an inside surface of the first and second end walls. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1151 can be disposed on sidewall 1115 and end wall 1117 or on all the sidewalls and end walls.

[0067] Lid 1155 can also comprise a set of couplers 1153, which can be disposed on a rim 1156 of lid 1155. It is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1153 can be disposed on opposite ends of rim 1156 (e.g. , left and right side of rim 1156 or back and rear ends of rim 1156) of lid 1155. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that at least set of couplers 1153 can be disposed on adjacent sides of rim 1156 (e.g. , left and front side, left and rear side, right and front side, right and rear side) or on all sides of rim 1156. Preferably, at least one set of couplers 1153 on rim 1156 and at least one set of couplers 1151 on the inside surface of crate 1102 vertically align when lid 1155 is placed onto crate 1102 and thereby attach lid 1155 onto crate 1102.

[0068] It is contemplated that a first set of couplers 1151 on crate 1102 can be a projection and a third set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155 can be a groove as shown in Fig. 11. However, in other embodiments, it is contemplated that a third set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155 can be a projection and a first set of couplers 1153 on crate 1102 can be a groove. Other suitable coupling arrangements are contemplated for the lid and the crate including, but not limited to, projections on crate 1102 with corresponding apertures on lid 1155, projections on lid 1155 with corresponding apertures on crate 1102, and a hook and loop fastener arrangement between crate 1102 and lid 1155. [0069] Figure 12 shows a side perspective view of crate 1102. Crate 1102 can comprise a base 1105 having a lip 1157. The lip 1157 can further comprise a second set of couplers 1159 that are configured to mate with a third set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155. As shown in Fig. 12, lip 1157 can have four couplers 1159 disposed on one side. However, it is contemplated that lip 1157 can comprise more or less couplers. It is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1159 can be disposed on opposite ends of lip 1157 (e.g., left and right side of lip 1157 or back and rear ends of lip 1157) of lip 1157. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1159 can be disposed on adjacent sides of lip 1157 (e.g., left and front side, left and rear side, right and front side, right and rear side) or on all sides of lip 1157. Preferably, at least one set of couplers 1153 disposed on lid 1155 and at least one set of couplers 1159 on base 1105 of crate 1102 vertically align when lid 1155 is placed onto lip 1157 to attach lid 1155 onto a bottom of crate 1102.

[0070] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1159 on lip 1157 and at least one set of couplers 1151 on the inside surface of crate 1102 are disposed on the same side (e.g., right, left, front, rear) of crate 1102. For example, it is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1151 are disposed on an inside surface of a first sidewall, and at least one set of couplers are disposed on an area of lip 1157 that is below the first sidewall. In another example, it is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1151 are disposed on an inside surface of a first end wall, and at least one set of couplers 1159 are disposed on an area of lip 1157 that is below the first end wall.

[0071] Thus, many configurations for couplers on lid 1 155 and crate 1102 are

advantageously provided. It should be appreciated that the coupler arrangements on lid 1 155 and crate 1 102 conveniently allow lid 1155 to be coupled and disposed within cavity 1 103 of the crate, which allows a second crate to be stacked on top of crate 1 102 with a reduced risk of falling. Furthermore, lid 1155 can be coupled to a bottom of crate 1102 to securely store lid 1 155 when not in use. Thus, depending on the desired use of crate 1102, lid 1155 can be coupled to an inside surface of crate 1 102 to cover items disposed in the cavity, or can be coupled to a bottom of crate 1 102 to allow more space for items to be stored within the cavity or to store lid 1 155 when not in use.

[0072] Figure 13 shows a bottom perspective view of crate 1102. As discussed above, crate 1102 can comprise lip 1157 that is disposed on a bottom of crate 1 102. It is contemplated that the area enclosed by lip 1 157 can have a textured design. For example, Fig. 13 shows a plurality of ridges/ribs disposed on the area enclosed by lip 1157. It is contemplated that lid 1155 can comprise a plurality of recesses that are configured to receive the plurality of ridges disposed on the bottom of crate 1102 to enhance the coupling between lid 1 155 and crate 1102. [0073] Figure 14 shows a top perspective view of lid 1155. Lid 1 155 can comprises at least one set of couplers 1153 that are configured to mate with at least one set of couplers on crate 1102. As shown in Fig. 14, it is contemplated that rim 1 156 extend downwardly from a top surface of lid 1155. Rim 1156 can comprise at least one set of couplers 1 153 configured to couple with at least one set of couplers on crate 1102. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that lid 1 155 can comprise an aperture 1 161 that a user can use to lift lid 1 155. Figure 15 shows a bottom perspective view of lid 1155. The bottom surface of the lid can be enclosed by rim 1156 and have a textured surface. As shown in Fig. 15, the textured surface can comprise a plurality of ridges. It is contemplated that a bottom surface of crate 1 102 can comprise a plurality of recesses configured to receive the plurality of ridges of lid 1 155 to enhance the coupling between lid 1155 and crate 1 102. [0074] Figure 16 shows a close up view of a first set of couplers 1151 disposed on an interior surface of crate 1102 and a third set of couplers 1153 disposed on lid 1155. The first set of couplers 1151 on crate 1102 can be projections and the third set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155 can be grooves as shown in Fig. 16. However, in other embodiments, it is contemplated that a third set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155 can be projections and a first set of couplers 1151 on crate 1102 can be grooves. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that at least one set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155 can be an aperture that is sized and dimensioned to receive a set of couplers of crate 1102 (e.g. , a projection). In other embodiments, a set of couplers 1151 on crate 1102 and a set of couplers 1153 on lid 1155 can comprise a hook and loop fastener.

[0075] Figure 17 shows a top perspective view of lid 1155 attached to a top of crate 1102. Lid 1155 is disposed inside cavity 1103 of crate 1102. It should be appreciated that a top surface of lid 1155, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall form a recess 1163 when lid 1155 is attached to crate 1102. Recess 1163 is configured to receive a base from a second crate to thereby stack the second crate onto crate 1102.

[0076] Figure 18 shows a close up view of a second set of couplers 1159 on base 1105 and a third set of couplers 1151 on lid 1155. The second set of couplers 1159 on base 1105 can be projections and the third set of couplers 1151 on lid 1155 can be grooves. However, in other embodiments, it is contemplated that the third set of couplers 1151 on lid 1155 can be projections and the third set of couplers 1159 on base 1105 can be grooves. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that the third set of couplers 1151 on lid 1155 can be apertures that is sized and dimensioned to receive a third set of couplers 1159 of base 1105 (e.g. , a projection). In other embodiments, the second set of couplers 1159 on base 1105 and the third set of couplers 1151 on lid 1155 comprise hook and loop fasteners.

[0077] Figure 19 shows a perspective view of crate 1102 having lid 1155 attached to a bottom of crate 1102. As discussed above, lid 1155 can be coupled to the bottom of crate 1102 when it is not being used. In embodiments where crate 1102 comprises a leg, it is contemplated that lid 1155 can be used to cover the legs when they are folded. [0078] It is contemplated that crate 1102 can further comprise a leg coupled to base 1105 and a release member as discussed above. The release member can comprise a projection that is configured to removably couple with base 105 to thereby (i) secure the leg in a substantially horizontal position when the projection is coupled to base 1105 and (ii) allow the leg to rotate into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from base 1 105. The release member can comprise a second projection that is sized and dimensioned to rest on a bottom surface of base 1 105 when the projection is coupled to base 1 105 to thereby prevent upward movement of the release member.

[0079] Additionally, or alternatively, the release member comprises a flexible curve that is configured to flex when the release member is pulled to thereby release the projection from base 1105 and allow the leg to unfold. A spring can be coupled with base 1105 and the release member whereby the spring can apply a force onto the release member to thereby rotate the leg into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base.

[0080] It is contemplated that the lid can be transparent to allow a user to view what is in the cavity without the need to remove the lid. In another aspect, it is contemplate that the lid and crate have no couplers. In such embodiment, the rim of the lid can be sized and dimensioned to provide a press-fit with an inside surface of the crate to thereby couple the lid and the crate. Similarly, the rim of the lid can be sized and dimensioned to provide a press-fit with the lip disposed on the bottom of the crate to thereby couple the lid and the crate.

[0081] In another aspect, it is contemplated that the base comprises one or more projections that extend from a lower surface of the base. In such embodiment, a second set of couplers can be disposed on the one or more projections such that the lid is configured to attach to the one or more proj ections. It should be appreciated that a top surface of the lid, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall can define a recess when the lid is attached to the top of the crate. It is contemplated that the recess can receive one or more projections of a second crate to help maintain a position of the second crate with respect to the crate when the second crate is stacked on top of the crate.

[0082] In yet another aspect, it is contemplated that a collapsible storage system can include a crate having at least four sides and a bottom. The sides of the crate can be removably coupled to one another to form the crate, such that, upon disassembly, the components of the crate can lie flat. In some embodiments, the crate disassembles to lie flat without fully disconnecting the different pieces of the crate. For example, each of the sides can hingedly fold inward to rest on the bottom portion of the crate. In other embodiments, the various components of the crate (e.g., the sides, the top, the bottom) are all discrete components that can be fully disconnected from one another.

[0083] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0084] Moreover, and unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0085] It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that many more

modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the disclosure. Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to the elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps can be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A multi-purpose crate, comprising:

a plurality of walls that collectively form a cavity;

a base disposed below the plurality of walls and coupled to at least two of the plurality of walls, wherein the base comprises an aperture;

a leg coupled to the base;

a release member coupled to the leg and configured to removably couple to the base, wherein the release member comprises a handle and a projection that extends above the handle;

wherein the projection is configured to insert through the aperture and removably couple with the base to thereby (i) secure the leg in a substantially horizontal position when the proj ection is coupled to the base and (ii) allow the leg to rotate into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base; and

wherein the release member comprises a flexible portion adjacent to the handle, and wherein the flexible portion is bent when the projection is decoupled with the base.

2. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of walls comprises a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall, and further comprising a top frame coupled to the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall, and wherein the base is coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

3. The multi-purpose crate of claim 2, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, and wherein the first end wall and the second end wall are configured to rotate into the cavity via the top frame and the top portion and bottom portion are configured to rotate into the cavity.

4. The multi-purpose crate of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall comprises a rotatable door configured to open and close to allow and restrict access to the cavity, respectively.

5. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1 , wherein pulling the handle decouples the projection from the base.

6. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a slot that is sized and dimensioned to receive the release member.

7. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, wherein the release member comprises a second projection that extends above the handle, and wherein the second projection is sized and dimensioned to rest on a bottom surface of the base when the projection is coupled to the base to thereby prevent upward movement of the release member.

8. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, wherein the release member comprises an "L"-shaped slot, and further comprising a pin that extends through the "L"-shaped slot to couple the release member with the leg.

9. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, wherein the flexible portion is configured to flex when the handle is pulled to thereby release the projection from the aperture.

10. The multi-purpose crate of claim 9, wherein the flexible portion comprises a "U"-shape that is configured to elongate when the handle is pulled.

11. The multi-purpose crate of claim 10, wherein the handle comprises an inverse "U"-shape that is sized and dimensioned to receive a finger from a user.

12. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, further comprising a spring coupled to the base and the release member, wherein the spring is configured to apply a force onto the release member to thereby rotate the leg into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the aperture.

13. The multi-purpose crate of claim 12, wherein the release member comprises a recess that is sized and dimensioned to receive the spring.

14. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, further comprising a coupler disposed on at least one of (i) an interior surface of the plurality of walls and (ii) an exterior surface of the base, and further comprising a lid having a second coupler, wherein the coupler is configured to mate with the second coupler to attach the lid onto the crate.

15. The multi-purpose crate of claim 1, wherein the projection comprises a tooth that extends inward, wherein the tooth is sized and dimensioned to be inserted in the aperture.

16. A multi-purpose crate, comprising: a top frame coupled to a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall that collectively form a cavity, wherein the first end wall and second end wall are coupled to the top frame;

a base coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the base

comprises an aperture on a side of the base;

a leg coupled to a lower surface of the base;

a release member coupled to the leg and configured to removably couple to the base, wherein the release member comprises a top surface and a bottom surface; and a projection that extends from the top surface of the release member and that is

configured to pass through the aperture and removably couple with the base, such that the leg is secured in a substantially horizontal position when the projection is coupled to the base and the leg is allowed to rotate into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base.

17. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, and wherein the first end wall and the second end wall are configured to rotate into the cavity via the top frame and the top portion and bottom portion are configured to rotate into the cavity.

18. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall comprises a rotatable panel configured to open and close to allow and restrict access to the cavity, respectively.

19. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, wherein the release member comprises a second projection that extends above the top surface, and wherein the second projection is sized and dimensioned to rest on the lower surface of the base when the projection is coupled to the aperture to thereby prevent upward movement of the release member.

20. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, wherein the release member comprises an "L"- shaped slot, and further comprising a pin that extends through the "L"-shaped slot to couple the release member with the leg.

21. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, wherein the release member comprises a flexible portion that is configured to flex when the release member is pulled to thereby release the projection from the aperture.

22. The multi-purpose crate of claim 21, wherein the flexible portion comprise a "U"-shape that is configured to elongate when the release member is pulled.

23. The multi-purpose crate of claim 22, wherein the release member comprises an inverse "U"-shape that is sized and dimensioned to receive a finger from a user.

24. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, further comprising a spring coupled to the base and the release member, wherein the spring is configured to apply a force onto the release member to thereby rotate the leg into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the aperture.

25. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, further comprising a first set of couplers on at least one of (i) an interior surface of at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall and (ii) an exterior surface of the base, and further comprising a lid having a second set of couplers, wherein the first set of couplers is configured to mate with the second set of couplers to attach the lid onto the crate.

26. The multi-purpose crate of claim 16, wherein the projection comprises a tooth that extends inward, wherein the tooth is sized and dimensioned to be inserted in the aperture.

27. A multi-purpose crate system, comprising:

a crate comprising a plurality of walls that define a cavity, and a base disposed below the plurality of walls, and coupled to at least two of the walls; a first set of couplers disposed on an interior surface of at least two of the walls; a second set of couplers disposed on an exterior surface of the base;

a third set of couplers disposed on a lid, wherein the third set of couplers is configured to mate with each of the first and second sets of couplers to attach the lid onto a top or a bottom of the crate, respectively.

28. The crate system of claim 27, wherein the plurality of walls comprises a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first end wall, and a second end wall, and further comprising a top frame coupled to the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall.

29. The crate system of claim 28, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall comprise a top portion rotatably coupled to a bottom portion, and wherein the first end wall and the second end wall are configured to rotate into the cavity via the top frame and the top portion and bottom portion are configured to rotate into the cavity.

30. The crate system of claim 28, wherein at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall comprises a rotatable panel configured to open and close to allow and restrict access to the cavity, respectively.

31. The crate system of claim 28, wherein the first set of couplers are disposed on the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

32. The crate system of claim 28, wherein the base comprises one or more projections that extend from a lower surface of the base, and wherein the second set of couplers are disposed on the one or more projections such that the lid is configured to attach to the one or more projections.

33. The crate system of claim 32, wherein a top surface of the lid, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall define a recess when the lid is attached to the top of the crate, and wherein the recess is configured to receive one or more projections of a second crate within the recess to help maintain a position of the second crate with respect to the crate when the second crate is stacked on top of the crate.

34. The crate system of claim 28, wherein the first set of couplers is disposed on an interior surface of the first sidewall so that the lid is disposed within the cavity when the first set of couplers mates with the third set of couplers.

35. The crate system of claim 34, wherein a top surface of the lid, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first end wall, and the second end wall form a recess when the lid is attached to the crate, and wherein the recess is configured to receive a base from a second crate to thereby stack the second crate onto the crate.

36. The crate system of claim 27, wherein the first set of couplers each comprise a projection, and wherein the third set of couplers each comprises a groove that is sized and dimensioned to receive one of the projections.

37. The crate system of claim 27, further comprising a leg coupled to the base and a release member, wherein the release member comprises a projection and the base comprises an aperture on a side of the base, and wherein the projection is configured to removably couple with the base to thereby (i) secure the leg in a substantially horizontal position when the projection is coupled to the base and (ii) allow the leg to rotate into a substantially vertical position when the projection is uncoupled from the base.

38. The crate system of claim 37, wherein the release member comprises a second projection, and wherein the second projection is sized and dimensioned to rest on a bottom surface of the base when the projection is coupled to the base to thereby prevent upward movement of the release member.

39. The crate system of claim 37, wherein the release member comprises a flexible curve that is configured to flex when the release member is pulled to thereby release the projection from the base.

40. The crate system of claim 37, further comprising a spring coupled to the base and the release member, wherein the spring is configured to apply a force onto the release member to thereby rotate the leg into a substantially vertical position when the proj ection is uncoupled from the base.