US20150239627A1

US20150239627A1 - Reusable Covers For Containers

Info

Publication number: US20150239627A1
Application number: US14/640,850
Authority: US
Inventors: Michelle Ivankovic; Adrienne McNicholas
Original assignee: FOOD HUGGERS Inc
Current assignee: FOOD HUGGERS Inc
Priority date: 2013-07-30
Filing date: 2015-03-06
Publication date: 2015-08-27
Also published as: WO2015143187A1

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to reusable covers. Such reusable covers may be flexible so that they can create a seal with a container, such as bowls and other dishes, to preserve foods or extend the time that a stored item may be suitable and desirable for consumption. Each cover may include a base and a flexible wall, and may be applied on containers of varying diameters and shapes.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of McNicholas et al., U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/955,884, filed Mar. 20, 2014, which is incorporated by reference herein, in its entirety. This application is also a Continuation-In-Part Application of Ivankovic, et al., U.S. application Ser. No. 13/954,475, filed Jul. 30, 2013 and titled “Reusable Food Covers,” which published as U.S. Patent Publication Number 2014/0238887 on Aug. 28, 2014, and is incorporated by reference herein, in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present embodiments relate generally to covers for different types of containers. Covers can be used for covering items within the containers. Covers can be used with containers to provide storage for various items, such as food and other perishables.

SUMMARY

This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed embodiments. The proper scope of this patent may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.
In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a reusable cover for containers, comprising a base, and a flexible wall extending from the base, where the flexible wall includes a rim portion and where the rim portion forms an opening for the cover. The rim portion has an initial state where the opening is a first size and the rim portion has a first deformed state where the opening is a second size, where the first size is smaller than the second size. Furthermore, the reusable cover is configured to contact a sidewall of a first container, and when the reusable cover engages the first container, the rim portion transitions from the initial state to the first deformed state, and a first seal is formed between the first container and the reusable cover.
In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a reusable cover for sealing containers, comprising a base and a flexible wall extending from the base, where the flexible wall includes a rim portion and where the rim portion forms an opening for the cover. The rim portion has an initial state where the rim portion is substantially radial in shape, and the rim portion has a first deformed state where the rim portion deflects axially upward toward the base. The reusable cover is configured to form an annular sealing ring with a first container in the first deformed state.
In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method of using a reusable cover with a first container, the method comprising: engaging the reusable cover with the first container, such that a rim portion of a flexible wall contacts a sidewall of the first container; moving the first container into the opening of the reusable cover such that the rim portion of the flexible wall deforms toward the base and the opening increases in size; and thereby sealing the first container with the reusable cover.
Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a cover with a first container;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the lower side of a cover;

FIG. 3 is an isometric exploded view of an embodiment of a cover;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a portion of a cover;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a portion of a cover;

FIG. 6 is a side view of an embodiment of a cover, a second container, and a third container;

FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a cover and a fourth container;

FIG. 8 is a side view of an embodiment of a cover and a fourth container, in which the cover is contacting a third container;

FIG. 9 is a side view of an embodiment of a cover and a fourth container, in which the cover is sealing the container;

FIG. 10 is a side view of an embodiment of a cover and a fifth container;

FIG. 11 is a side view of an embodiment of a cover and a fifth container, in which the cover is sealing a container;

FIG. 12 is an embodiment of a cover and a series of containers;

FIG. 13 is an embodiment of a cover and a container, in which the container includes a first lip;

FIG. 14 is an embodiment of a cover and a container, in which the container includes a second lip;

FIG. 15 is an embodiment of a cover and a container, in which the container includes a third lip;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a stacked set of covers and containers;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a cover;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of cover on a container, in which the cover includes a release tab mechanism;

FIG. 19 is an embodiment of a series of covers of varying sizes;

FIG. 20 is an embodiment of a cover and a container;

FIG. 21 is an embodiment of a cover and a container, in which the cover is contacting the container;

FIG. 22 is an embodiment of a cover and a container, in which the cover is sealing the container;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a stacked set of covers and containers;

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of a container with an embodiment of a portion of a cover;

FIG. 25 is a top down view of an embodiment of a portion of a cover;

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of a container with an embodiment of a portion of a cover;

FIG. 27 is a top down view of an embodiment of a portion of a cover;

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of an embodiment of two stacked containers; and

FIG. 29 is a sequence of schematic side views of an embodiment of a cover.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For clarity, the detailed descriptions herein describe certain exemplary embodiments, but the disclosure in this application may be applied to any cover comprising certain of the features described herein and recited in the claims. In particular, although the following detailed description describes certain exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that other embodiments may take the form of other covers for a variety of containers, including bowls.
For convenience and clarity, various features of embodiments of a reusable cover may be described herein by using directional adjectives such as inner, and outer. For example, “inner” may be used to describe the portions of a cover that face a container, and “outer” may be used to describe the portions of a cover that face away from the container. The use of these directional adjectives and the depiction of covers or components associated with covers in the drawings should not be understood as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way.
Throughout this disclosure various reusable container covers are illustrated. Referring to FIG. 1 an isometric view of an embodiment of a first cover 100 with a container 150 is depicted. First cover 100 may be representative of other reusable covers disclosed herein. First cover 100 may be any size and/or shape. FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of first cover 100, in which a lower side of first cover 100 can be seen.
It should be understood that while the embodiments described herein depict a cover for use with different containers, the same covers may also be utilized with plates (e.g., a relatively flat surface, or a receptacle with a shallow depth) or a variety of other serving, glass, kitchen, table, or dining ware. Thus, the covers could be applied on a plate. In some cases, a plate with food or other items disposed on the plate can be sealed. In addition, the covers could be used directly with or on food items. In one embodiment, a cover could be installed on a piece of fruit, vegetable, or other perishable item. In some cases, the covers could be installed on a substantially planar or flat surface of the food item, such as the exposed portion associated with a cut melon, a cut citrus fruit, a cut peach, a cut apple, etc., or any other cut fruit or vegetable or food item. In other cases, the covers could be installed along a generally round or curved surface of perishable items. Thus, the structural features of the covers may allow the covers to be used with many different types of surfaces and items.
Thus, in different embodiments, the design of the covers may provide various structural features, characteristic, and properties to the covers. In some embodiments, a few of which are described below, the food covers may include a wide variety of designs. For example, as also shown more clearly in the exploded view of FIG. 3, first cover 100 may include a base 110 and a flexible wall 120. Referring to FIGS. 1-3, flexible wall 120 may extend downwardly from and surround base 110 in some embodiments. In one embodiment, flexible wall 120 may define a chamber 102 and an opening 104. In some embodiments, flexible wall 120 and base 110 can be over molded with generous purchase for surface contact adhesion. In other embodiments, a weld, an adhesive, or another bonding agent may be also be used to join the components together. In cases where a welding process is used, the weld could be an ultrasonic weld or any other type of weld.
While base 110 and flexible wall 120 may be generally circular in shape in some embodiments, they may include a variety of other geometries, some of which will be discussed below. For example, base 110 and/or flexible wall 120 may also have a cross-sectional shape that is round, square, triangular, or irregular. In some embodiments, base 110 and/or flexible wall 120 may have a variety of geometric shapes that may be chosen to impart specific aesthetic or functional properties to first cover 100.
In FIGS. 1 and 2, first cover 100 is shown in an undeformed or initial state, where first cover 100 has not been installed on or applied to a container. Flexible wall 120 and base 110 have an inner surface 132 and an outer surface 130. Inner surface 132 corresponds to the inner region of first cover 100. When first cover 100 is applied onto first container 150, inner surface 132 is the surface that faces towards first container 150. In contrast, outer surface 130 faces away from first container 150, when the cover is applied onto first container 150.
As shown in the exploded illustration of FIG. 3, base 110 can include a central portion 112 and a peripheral portion 114 in different embodiments. Central portion 112 may comprise a substantially flat inner surface 132 and/or a generally flat outer surface 130 in some embodiments. However, in other embodiments, central portion 112 may include any surface texture, including bumps, ridges, grooves, patterns, edges, undulations, and other non-flat features.
In some embodiments, central portion 112 of base 110 may be joined to peripheral portion 114 of base 110. In different embodiments, central portion 112 and peripheral portion 114 may be a single piece or may comprise two distinct pieces. For example, peripheral portion 114 and central portion 112 may be a single, continuous piece, comprising the same material(s). In one embodiment, peripheral portion 114 and central portion 112 may be made of unitary construction, forming a single component, such that peripheral portion 114 and central portion 112 are terms of reference for two regions of base 110. In other embodiments, peripheral portion 114 and central portion 112 may comprise two distinct pieces of base 110. In FIG. 3, peripheral portion 114 is joined along an outer periphery of central portion 112, such that base 110 comprises a single piece.
Furthermore, peripheral portion 114 can have an inner edge 117 that is associated with a perimeter 113 of central portion 112, and an outer edge 118 that is disposed proximate to flexible wall 120. Outer edge 118 may also be associated with the outer periphery of base 110. In one embodiment, peripheral portion 114 may be a portion of base 110 that provides an area of joining, attaching, or otherwise adhering to flexible wall 120. As will be discussed further with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5, inner edge 117 may curve toward a central region 125 of central portion 112, while outer edge 118 may curve away from central region 125, forming a ridge 119 near the perimeter of base 110.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, outer edge 118 of peripheral portion 114 of base 110 may be joined to flexible wall 120. In one embodiment, flexible wall 120 may be comprised of a ring portion 126 and a rim portion 127. In one embodiment, flexible wall 120 may extend away from peripheral portion 114. As will be discussed further with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5, ring portion 126 may be attached to peripheral portion 114 in various ways.
In one embodiment, flexible wall 120 may include curving or bent regions. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, in one embodiment, ring portion 126 and rim portion 127 may be joined to form a substantially perpendicular (approximately 90 degrees) angle. In other embodiments, ring portion 126 and rim portion 127 may be joined to form angles greater than 90 degrees or less than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, rim portion 127 may comprise a radial shape, and include an annular flange 300 that extends radially inward. Annular flange 300 of rim portion 127 may form or help define opening 104. In some embodiments, opening 104 may provide access to chamber 102 created by the contours of inner surface 132 of first cover 100. It should be understood that ring portion 126 and rim portion 127 may be a single, continuous material in one embodiment.
In addition, in some embodiments, rim portion 127 of flexible wall 120 may include one or more apertures 124 that may provide an improved sealing mechanism between first cover 100 and a container. A groove 129 may also be formed along the outer perimeter of first cover 100 for joining first cover 100 with base 110, as will be discussed further below. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 1-3, flexible wall 120 may include a release tab 122. Release tab 122 will be discussed further with respect to FIGS. 17-18.
While base 110 and/or central portion 112 may be generally round or disc-shaped in some embodiments, in other embodiments, central portion 112 may include any geometry, including square, triangular, elliptical, oblong, or another regular or irregular shape. Furthermore, though base 110 may be round in one embodiment, base 110 may also include regions of discontinuity, such that portions of the disc are absent, as shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, a gap 116 can be included in base 110. Gap 116 may comprise different sizes or shapes, including a generally triangular, oval, square, or another irregular or regular shape. It should be understood that gap 116 and the overall shape of base 110 may be designed to accommodate or provide improved contact with other portions or components of first cover 100. For example, the shape and/or size of tab 122 of flexible wall 120 may correspond to gap 116 in some embodiments. In other embodiments, tab 122 and gap 116 may differ.
It will be understood that the labels used herein such as central portion 112, peripheral portion 114, ring portion 126, rim portion 127, tab 122, gap 116, and central portion 112 are only intended for purposes of description and are not intended to demarcate precise regions of first cover 100. Likewise, outer surface 130 and inner surface 132 are intended to represent generally two sides of first cover 100, rather than precisely demarcating first cover 100 into two sides.
During use with various containers, reusable container covers may provide a seal between a container and the cover. In one embodiment, a reusable cover may form an annular sealing ring between a container and the reusable cover. Referring to FIG. 4, a cross-sectional view of first cover 100 is depicted in the longitudinal direction, as indicated in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of first cover 100 in an initial, or undeformed configuration. The embodiment of FIG. 5 illustrates the cross-sectional view of first cover 100 from FIG. 4 in its installed, or deformed, configuration.
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, base 110 may be formed from any generally two-dimensional material that is formed into a three-dimensional geometry (e.g., a flat central portion and a curved periphery). The term “two-dimensional material” as used through this detailed description and in the claims refers to any generally flat material exhibiting a length and width that are substantially greater than a thickness of the material. Although two-dimensional materials may have smooth or generally untextured surfaces, some two-dimensional materials will exhibit textures or other surface characteristics, such as dimpling, protrusions, ribs, or various patterns, for example. Despite the presence of surface characteristics, two-dimensional materials remain generally flat and exhibit a length and a width that are substantially greater than a thickness. However, it should be noted that although portions of base 110 are formed from a generally two-dimensional material, base 110 may be configured with some thickness. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 5, base 110 can be associated with a first thickness 560. In some cases, first thickness 560 can have a value in the range between 0.001 millimeters and 1 centimeter, to 2 centimeters. In other cases, first thickness 560 can have any other value. Additionally, it will be understood that the thickness of base 110 can be selected according to the desired size of the cover, and that the height and width of base 110 may have values that are substantially larger than the value of first thickness 560. Furthermore, the thickness of base 110 can vary along various portions of base 110. For example, in one embodiment, one or more regions of central portion 112 may be thicker than peripheral portion 114, while in another embodiment, one or more regions of peripheral portion 114 may be thicker than central portion 112.
Base 110 may be joined to flexible wall 120 in various ways. In some embodiments, the structural features of base 110 and flexible wall 120 may provide a means for joining or helping to attach base 110 to flexible wall 120 to form first cover 100. For example, in FIGS. 4 and 5, ring portion 126 of flexible wall 120 includes a first wall 430 and a second wall 440. In some embodiments, first wall 430 and/or second wall 440 may extend upward from rim portion 127. First wall 430 may be extend in a direction substantially parallel to second wall 440, and form the space or groove 129 (depicted in FIG. 3) between first wall 430 and second wall 440. The groove may be filled at least in part by an enclosed portion 460 of peripheral portion 114 in one embodiment. Thus, in some embodiments, enclosed portion 460 may be an area or segment of base 110 that is inserted, covered, or otherwise joined to flexible wall 120 to form first cover 100. In other embodiments, a weld, an adhesive, or another bonding agent may be also be used to join the components together. In cases where a welding process is used, the weld could be an ultrasonic weld or any other type of weld.
Furthermore, in one embodiment, ring portion 126 and a radially inner limit 441 of rim portion 127 may be joined to form a substantially perpendicular (approximately 90 degrees) angle, wherein rim portion 127 extends radially inward. Annular flange 300 of rim portion 127 may include a means of forming or creating an annular sealing ring between first cover 100 and a container in some embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, rim portion 127 includes annular flange 300 that can also define the shape of opening 104. Annular flange 300 of rim portion 127 may also include a first side 470 that faces towards base 110 in the initial state and a second side 472 opposite of the first side 470.
In FIGS. 4 and 5, annular flange 300 is depicted in cross section as comprising a first flange portion 410 and a second flange portion 420. First flange portion 410 and/or second flange portion 420 may extend from the outer periphery of first cover 100 towards a central axis 439 of first cover 100, which is depicted in FIG. 4. Although first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 are individually labeled herein, it should be understood that they are two portions of annular flange 300. In other words, in one embodiment, rim portion 127 comprises continuous annular flange 300, and first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 simply identify two areas along annular flange 300. Thus, first flange portion 410 and/or second flange portion 420 should not be understood to refer to two distinct parts or components.
The width of annular flange 300 of rim portion 127 may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, first flange portion 410 may have a first width 452, and second flange portion 420 may have a second width 454, such that the width of annular flange 300 is wider in some regions and narrower in other regions. In other embodiments, the width of rim portion 127 may differ from what is shown in FIGS. 1-5.
As noted above, in one embodiment, rim portion 127 may help define a diameter of opening 104. Thus, opening 104 may have a first diameter 450, which as shown in FIG. 4, can extend from a first tip 462 of first flange portion 410 to a second tip 464 of second flange portion 420. First tip 462 and second tip 464 may correspond to the radially inner limit 441 of rim portion 126 in some embodiments.
It should be understood that the diameter of opening 104 may expand as rim portion 127 is pushed away from its default configuration. Therefore, first diameter 450 may change significantly as first cover 100 is attached or joined to a container or other component, since this attachment results in a deformation of the default configuration. For example, in use, containers (such as a bowl) may have a diameter greater than first diameter 450. As depicted in FIG. 5, upon installation of first cover 100 on a first container 500, it can be seen that a first container diameter 550 is greater than first diameter 450 of opening 104 (in FIG. 4). It should be understood that while first cover 100 is shown in cross-section for illustrative purposes, the container is depicted in a schematic side view. When first container 500 enters chamber 102, first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 of rim portion 127 move inwardly (i.e., into chamber 102). The bending of rim portion 127 (including first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420) may permit the engagement of a container with a diameter greater than first diameter 450. In other words, upon installation of first cover 100 upon first container 500, opening 104 may increase in diameter to a second diameter 552 that may be substantially similar to first container diameter 550 in some embodiments.
In order to accommodate first container 500, rim portion 127 may bend upward, and first side 470 of annular flange 300 may contact first container 500. As used herein, “upward” refers generally to a direction oriented along central axis 439, since central axis 439 may generally be associated with the vertical direction when container 500 with cover 100 is placed on a horizontal surface in normal use. In other words, as shown in the cross-sections of FIGS. 4-5, rim portion 127 may transition from being substantially perpendicular to central axis 439 in the initial state (FIG. 4) to being more parallel to central axis 439 in the deformed state (FIG. 5), as second side 472 of rim portion 127 contacts and/or slides against sidewall 520 of first container 500.
Thus, annular flange 300 may engage with sidewall 520 of first container 500 to provide a seal between first cover 100 and first container 500. In one embodiment, rim portion 127 may deform from its radial shape in the initial state of FIG. 4 such that annular flange 300 extends radially inward, and deflect axially upward toward base 110 to help form an annular sealing ring around first container 500.
For example, as shown in FIG. 4, first flange portion 410 of rim portion 127 forms a first angle 495 with ring portion 126. In some embodiments, first angle 495 may be approximately 90 degrees. However, as first container 500 contacts rim portion 126, first flange portion 410 of rim portion 127 bends upward, forming a second angle 510 in FIG. 5. In other words, whereas first flange portion 127 was substantially perpendicular with respect to ring portion 126 during the initial state of FIG. 4, in FIG. 5 first flange portion 410 has curved or deformed to form second angle 510 with ring portion 126 that is less than 90 degrees. Similarly, second flange portion 420 (or other portions) of rim portion 127 may bend or deform upward, transitioning from a substantially linear geometry along the horizontal plane, to a curved configuration. For example, in FIG. 4, second flange portion 420 forms a third angle 497 with ring portion 126, while in FIG. 5, second flange portion 420 forms a fourth angle 512 with ring portion 126. It can be seen that third angle 497 is greater than fourth angle 512. In some embodiments, fourth angle 512 may be significantly smaller than third angle 497.
Thus, as indicated in the examples above, annular flange 300 may transition from a substantially flat or linear geometry to a curved geometry in different embodiments. As shown in FIG. 4, annular flange 300 may be substantially perpendicular with respect to central axis 439 in the initial state. However, upon contact with a container, annular flange 300 may bend such that at least a portion of annular flange 300 extends into the direction defined by central axis 439.
It should be understood that second angle 510 and fourth angle 512 may be similar in some embodiments or may differ significantly during application of first cover 100 on first container 500. Thus, depending on the container type, the curvature of along various regions of rim portion 127 may differ from one another upon installation on the container. Due to the flexible nature of the rim portion 127, there may be a compressive force created between first container 500 and first cover 100 in some embodiments, as will be discussed further below with respect to FIG. 6.
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in some embodiments, as annular flange 300 deforms axially, opening 104 moves upward in an axial direction along central axis 439. In other words, opening 104 is disposed nearer to base 110 in the axial direction in the deformed state of FIG. 5 than in the initial state of FIG. 4. The change in axial distance of opening 104 relative to base 110 will be discussed further with respect to FIGS. 24-27 below.
The sealing or compression process may reduce or restrict air flow into chamber 102 and first container 500 in some embodiments. It should be understood that while the sealing mechanism may reduce air flow, it may not entirely eliminate air flow in some embodiments. Once a user partially consumes food, such as fruits, vegetables, leftovers from various meals, or other food items, the user may wish to limit the amount of air or moisture the food is exposed to. However, user may have containers of varying sizes and dimensions. As described earlier, in order to provide a reusable cover that may be installed on multiple bowl sizes and types, first cover 100 includes flexible wall 120. Due to the structural features of flexible wall 120, including rim portion 127, first cover 100 may be applied on a range of container diameters. In other embodiments, first tip 462 and/or second tip 464 of rim portion 127 may remain in contact with a sidewall 520 of first container 500. In other embodiments, as discussed below, the edge of rim portion 127 associated with first tip 462 and second tip 464 may curve or deform upward to various extents, and there may be greater or lesser contact between flexible wall 120 and a container.
Furthermore, first cover 100 may include provisions for improving grip of the cover, as well as stability, particularly in stacking of containers utilizing the reusable covers disclosed herein (as will be discussed with reference to FIG. 16). In FIGS. 4 and 5, inner edge 117 and outer edge 118 of peripheral portion 114 are depicted. Inner edge 117 rises up from central portion 112 and meets outer edge 118, which curves downward along the sides of first cover 100 to join rim portion 127 of flexible wall 120. Thus, in some embodiments, a ridge 466 may be disposed along the outer border of base 110. Ridge 466 may exist along the entire border of base 110, or along a portion of base 110. Ridge 466 can be an undulation or bump or other formation that provides additional grip to first cover 100 for easier handling. In addition, ridge 466 may allow for greater stability during stacking of containers (see FIG. 16).
Furthermore, in embodiments where base 110 is substantially transparent, because peripheral portion 114 extends outward and along at least a portion of the sides of first cover 100, any contents of a container sealed with first cover 100 can be visible not just from directly above, but may also be visible from other perspectives. In other words, the design of base 110 facilitates a greater visibility along the outer periphery, which may facilitate the identification of a container's interior contents. This can be particularly useful when containers are stacked or stored in compartmentalized areas (such as shelves in cabinets, or in refrigerators), and a user would otherwise need to remove the container to discern its contents. With this arrangement, a user may be able to identify the contents within a container without first removing the container from a refrigerator due to the transparency of peripheral portion 114.
FIG. 6 provides an illustration of an embodiment of the mechanism of first cover 100 as it is installed on a container. First cover 100 is shown above a second container 650 and a third container 600. Opening 104 of first cover 100 has a maximum diameter 604, which corresponds to a configuration where rim portion 127 is approximately parallel with ring portion 126. Second container 650 has a second diameter 620 and third container 600 has a third diameter 610.
In one embodiment, first cover 100 may be configured to apply a minimum amount of cylinder stress or hoop stress to a container when installed, facilitating the formation of an annular sealing ring between first cover 100 and the container. The force exerted circumferentially along the sidewall of the containers may vary in different embodiments, for example with different sized containers. The hoop stress may allow first cover 100 to grasp or grip the sidewall of the containers in some embodiments.
In some embodiments, in order to provide the hoop stress necessary to form a seal, there may be a minimum contact region between first cover 100 and a container. For example, as second container 650 approaches opening 104 of first cover 100, there may be a minimum area of rim portion 127 that must make contact with the container in order to form a seal. In FIG. 6, minimum contact region 690 is disposed near radially inner limit 441 along rim portion 127. In other words, there may be a minimum area of rim portion 127 associated with the circumferential periphery of rim portion 127 that is required to contact the container in order to provide the tension needed for formation of a substantially airtight seal.
Thus, in order to form a seal, there may be a minimum container diameter (as illustrated by second container diameter 620) associated with the exterior surface (e.g., a sidewall) of the container disposed along the mouth of the container. For example, to make contact with minimum contact region 690 of rim portion 127, second container diameter 620 is slightly larger relative to first diameter 450 of opening 104. It should be understood that the minimum contact region extends all around rim portion 127. Second container diameter 620 is an illustration of the minimum container diameter needed to form a seal, as it is large enough for a sidewall 658 of second container 650 to contact with the necessary minimum contact region of rim portion 127.
In other embodiments, first cover 100 may include a maximum container diameter with which it can form a seal. However, it should be understood that while the minimum container diameter corresponds to the region of the container that is adjacent to a mouth 656 of second container 650, the maximum container diameter may correspond to the largest region of the container that enters or is engaged with first cover 100. For example, in FIG. 6, third container diameter 610 of third container 600 provides an illustration of the maximum container diameter that may be used with first cover 100. Third container 600 includes an outer lip 606 that extends beyond a mouth 662. Due to outer lip 606, a rim 608 of third container 600 extends farther outward relative to containers that do not include a lip. In some embodiments, while rim portion 127 of first cover 100 forms a seal with a sidewall 660 of third container 600 further downward from outer lip 606, the maximum size permitted for use with first cover 100 may be restricted by the diameter of third container 600 including outer lip 606, as represented by third container diameter 610. In one embodiment, the maximum container diameter may be substantially similar to maximum diameter 604 of first cover 100.
The maximum container diameter may be associated with a maximum contact region 664, which extends outward from second tip 464 toward ring portion 126. As third container 600 approaches and enters opening 104 of first cover 100, third container 600 makes contact with a radially outer limit 668 of maximum contact region 664. In other words, there may be a maximum area of rim portion 127 of first cover 100 which may contact a container, beyond which first cover 100 may not form an adequate seal. In some embodiments, radially outer limit 668 of maximum contact region 664 is the area of maximum contact region 664 that is disposed closest to ring portion 126. It should be understood that the maximum contact region extends all around rim portion 127. In other embodiments, maximum contact region 664 may vary along different regions of rim portion 127. In one embodiment, containers with diameters that are larger than third container diameter 610 may not properly contact the container and hinder the formation of a substantially airtight seal. Thus, in some embodiments, only containers with diameters that make contact with rim portion 127 in the range between minimum contact region 690 and maximum contact region 664 may be utilized with first cover 100. It should also be understood that first cover 100 may be installed on a variety and range of bowl sizes, as will be described further with respect to FIGS. 7-12.
It should be understood that in different embodiments, the portions of annular flange 300 that contact and form a seal with the containers may be disposed along different areas of a container. For example, second container 650 may include a seal with first cover 100 that is spaced further downward from the mouth of second container 650 than another seal that is formed between third container 600 and first cover 100.
With reference to FIGS. 7-9, to use first cover 100 on a fourth container 700, a user may press first cover 100 in a downward direction 602 (e.g., towards container 700 when container 700 is placed on a surface) to contact a rim 706 of fourth container 700. Fourth container 700 has an opening with a second container diameter 710 that provides access to an inner section (not shown) of fourth container 700. In FIG. 7, first cover 100 is shown above fourth container 700 prior to contact between the two components. Opening 104 has first diameter 450, and first cover has maximum diameter 604. As shown, second container diameter 710 is larger than first container diameter 550 (see FIG. 5). However, in other embodiments, second container diameter 710 may be smaller than first container diameter 550.
In FIG. 8, first cover 100 is in an intermediate state where opening 104 may be enlarged greater than first diameter 450. In other words, as fourth container 700 begins to enter chamber 102, and first cover 100 begins to make contact with fourth container 700, in some embodiments, rim portion 127 may touch rim 706 and curve, bend, flex, or otherwise deform upward.
In FIG. 8, a second diameter 850 is associated with the distance between first tip 462 and second tip 464 of rim portion 127. Second diameter 850 is greater than first diameter 450. In FIG. 8, it can be seen that first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 of rim portion 127 may slide or move along a portion of a sidewall 820 of fourth container 700. In other words, various areas of rim portion 127 can deform to accommodate the entry of fourth container 700, and one side of rim portion 127 (for example, second side 472 shown in FIG. 4) may press against sidewall 820 of fourth container 700.
As a user proceeds to install first cover 100 on fourth container 700, as shown in FIG. 9, an exposed surface associated with a rim 902 of fourth container 700 contacts rim portion 127 and forms a first seal 904 with first cover 100 in some embodiments. Thus, in some embodiments, once fourth container 700 has been fully engaged with first cover 100, first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 of rim portion 127 may be bent in order to substantially press or compress an outer portion of fourth container 700. Referring to FIGS. 7-9, some or all of rim portion 127 may bend or deform to varying degrees as a container engages with the chamber of first cover 100.
First seal 904 can provide a substantially airtight seal or otherwise limit air circulation to the inner portion (not shown) of fourth container 700 and act as a barrier to help extend the period of freshness of any food within by limiting exposure to air, loss of moisture or loss of the natural preservation properties of the food. To facilitate the formation of first seal 904, first cover 100 may be in a stretched, flexed, or deformed state, where the diameter of opening 104 expands to a third diameter 900. It should also be understood that chamber 102 of first cover 100 may be in fluid communication with an inner chamber (not shown) of fourth container 700 when first cover 100 and fourth container 700 are joined together.
Thus, in different embodiments, the resilient nature of the material forming first cover 100, as well as the adjustments possible to opening 104 from the undeformed state to the deformed state allows first cover 100 to exert a compressive force on a portion of a container, and may secure first cover 100 with the container. In one embodiment, first cover 100 may remain thereon until it is removed from the container.
As noted above, first cover 100 has minimum diameter of opening 104 of first diameter 450 (see FIG. 4). In different embodiments, opening 104 allows first cover 100 to accommodate containers having a range of differing sizes, from first diameter 450 to sizes larger than first diameter 450. In addition to a range of sizes, first cover 100 may also be used on containers with uneven, curves or otherwise irregular rims in some embodiments. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10-11, first cover 100 may be used on a fifth container 1000 with an ornamental rim 1002.
Similar to the process described above with regard to FIGS. 4-9, with regard to fifth container 1000, a user may press first cover 100 in a downward direction 602 (e.g., a direction towards fifth container 1000) to contact ornamental rim 1002. In FIG. 10, fifth container 1000 has an opening with a fifth container diameter 1010 that provides access to an inner area (not shown) of fifth container 1000. As depicted herein, fifth container diameter 1010 is smaller than second container diameter 710 (shown in FIGS. 7-9). However, in other embodiments, fifth container diameter 1010 may be larger than second container diameter 710. Furthermore, fifth container 1000 includes ornamental rim 1002 that forms an undulating edge along the opening of fifth container 1000. Thus, in some embodiments, first cover 100 may be used with containers that have decorative, hand-made, or non-uniform edges along the rim.
In FIG. 10, first cover 100 is shown above fifth container 1000 prior to contact between the two components. Opening 104 has first diameter 450, and first cover has a maximum diameter 604. In FIG. 11, first cover 100 has been installed on fifth container 1000. Opening 104 may be enlarged greater than first diameter 450 as first cover 100 is installed. In other words, as fifth container 1000 begins to enter opening 104, and first cover 100 begins to make contact with fifth container 1000, first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 of rim portion 127 of first cover 100 may contact ornamental rim 1002 and curve, bend, flex, or otherwise deform upward in some embodiments.
In FIG. 11, it can be seen that first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 comprising portions of rim portion 127 may slide or move along a portion of a sidewall 1120 of fifth container 1000. In other words, rim portion 127 can deform to accommodate the engagement of fifth container 1000 with first cover 100. As a user installs first cover 100 on fifth container 1000, as shown in FIG. 11, sidewall 1120 associated with ornamental rim 1002 of fifth container 1000 forms a second seal 1104 in some embodiments. Thus, in some embodiments, once fifth container 1000 has been fully engaged with first cover 100, first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 may be bent to substantially press or compress an outer portion of fifth container 1000. Referring to FIGS. 9-11, some or all of rim portion 127 may bend or deform to varying degrees as a container engages with the chamber of first cover 100.
As noted above with respect to first seal 904, second seal 1104 can form a substantially airtight seal, and limit air circulation to the inner portion (not shown) of fifth container 1000 and act as a barrier to help extend the period of freshness of any food within by limiting exposure to air, loss of moisture or loss of the natural preservation properties of the food. Once the user releases first cover 100, first cover 100 may be in a stretched, flexed, or deformed state where the diameter of opening 104 has expanded to a fourth diameter 1100. It should also be understood that chamber 102 of first cover 100 may be in fluid communication with an inner chamber (shown in FIG. 12) of fifth container 1000.
Thus, the resilient nature of the material forming first cover 100, as well as the adjustments possible to opening 104 from the undeformed state to the deformed state allows first cover 100 to seal containers of varying sizes and rim types. As shown in FIGS. 7-11, first cover 100 may be used to cover fourth container 700 with second container diameter 710, as well as fifth container 1000 with fifth container diameter 1010. In some embodiments, second container diameter 710 may be larger than fifth container diameter 1010. In other embodiments, second container diameter 710 may be smaller than fifth container diameter 1010. Furthermore, first cover 100 may be utilized with fifth container 1000, where fifth container 1000 may include an ornamental rim 1002 or irregular design.
In different embodiments, a single reusable container cover may be used on a variety of bowl or container types, sizes, geometries, and materials. In FIG. 12, a second cover 1200 is shown adjacent to a series of containers 1280. Containers 1280 include a first container 1210, a second container 1220, a third container 1230, a fourth container 1240, a fifth container 1250, and a sixth container 1260. Each container may include a rim that borders the container's opening.
In different embodiments, each rim may be associated with varying diameters, such that a wide range of container shapes and sizes may be used. For example, in FIG. 12, first container 1210 has a first rim 1212 with a first diameter 1214, second container 1220 has a rim 1222 with a second diameter 1224, third container 1230 has a rim 1232 with a third diameter 1234, fourth container 1240 has a rim 1242 with a fourth diameter 1244, fifth container 1250 has a rim 1252 with a fifth diameter 1254, and sixth container 1260 has a rim 1262 with a sixth diameter 1264. In some embodiments, the diameters of containers 1280 may range from very small rims to large rim sizes, forming a variety of aperture sizes. Thus, one feature of the embodiments described herein is a single cover's application to multiple containers and container diameters.
For example, second cover 1200 may be applied to several container diameters. In some embodiments, first diameter 1214 may be less than second diameter 1224, second diameter 1224 may be less than third diameter 1234, third diameter 1234 may be less than fourth diameter 1244, fourth diameter 1244 may be less than fifth diameter 1254, and fifth diameter 1254 may be less than sixth diameter 1264. In one embodiment, the diameter of individual containers 1280 that may be used with reusable covers may range from less than 20 mm to greater than 500 mm. It should be understood that greater than six covers and sizes or types may be used with a single reusable cover in different embodiments.
Thus, in the application and installation of second cover 1200, there may be multiple containers 1280 that are covered by second cover 1200. In one example, first diameter 1214 may be approximately 120 mm, second diameter 1224 may be approximately 125 mm, third diameter 1234 may be approximately 126 mm, fourth diameter 1244 may be approximately 130 mm, fifth diameter 1254 may be approximately 135 mm, and sixth diameter 1264 may be approximately 140 mm. It should be understood that the values listed herein are provided as examples, and a wide range of other diameter sizes may be utilized with the reusable covers described herein, including sizes of less than 120 mm, and greater than 140 mm. In other embodiments, for example, a relatively “larger” second cover 1200 may be used for containers 1280 ranging from 140 mm to 165 mm. In another embodiment, a relatively “smaller” second cover 1200 may be used for containers 1280 ranging from 100 mm to 125 mm. In other embodiments, there can be reusable covers of various sizes (e.g., extra-small, small, medium, large, extra-large, specialized, etc.) that can each be utilized on containers of multiple sizes. In one exemplary embodiment, reusable covers may include a range of sizes to permit easy use for a wide range of container diameters and types. Because the covers described herein may be in a variety of sizes and depths, they can be used with a variety of containers.
In addition, in some embodiments, the covers described herein may be nested within one another. An example of nesting that may be used herein is disclosed in Ivankovic, et al., U.S. Patent Publication Number 2014/023,887, filed Jul. 30, 2013 and titled “Reusable Food Covers,” which application is herein incorporated by reference. Embodiments of the present disclosure can make use of any of the components, mechanisms, structure, and methods disclosed in the Reusable Food Covers application.
Furthermore, the covers of the present embodiments can be configured for a range of container types, including containers with significantly varied lip sizes and geometries. One example was given with respect to FIG. 6. A further example is depicted with respect to third container 1230, which includes a mouth or container opening comprising a generally square shape. Thus, while second cover 1200 includes a substantially round geometry, as a result of the high degree of stretchability, resilience, and elasticity of the flexible wall, second cover 1200 may accommodate containers with non-circular geometries as well.
The covers may also be applied to containers with a variety of lip types. For purposes of this description, a lip of a container may refer to any portion of the container that extends beyond the rim surrounding the opening or mouth of the container. The lip may vary in size, thickness, length, and/or geometry. FIGS. 13-15 provide additional examples of the versatility of the reusable cover. In FIG. 13, third cover 1300 has been installed on a first container 1302. Third cover 1300 has formed a seal with a first sidewall surface 1308, so that a mouth 1304 of first container 1302 is covered or otherwise enclosed within the chamber formed by third cover 1300 and first container 1302. However, first container 1302 further includes a first lip 1306 that extends beyond mouth 1304, in a generally horizontal direction, forming a substantially flat ledge or overhang that enlarges the overall diameter of first container 1302 farther beyond mouth 1304 of first container 1302. Third cover 1300 fits over first container 1302 by first fitting over first lip 1306, and capturing the entire edge associated with first lip 1306 between first flange portion 410 and second flange portion 420 of rim portion 127. Once first lip 1306 passes through or slides along rim portion 127, a seal may be formed by contact between rim portion 127 and first sidewall surface 1308 of first container 1302.
Similarly, in FIG. 14, third cover 1300 has been installed on a second container 1402. Third cover 1300 has formed a seal with a second sidewall surface 1408 so that a mouth 1404 of second container 1402 is covered, otherwise enclosed within the chamber formed by third cover 1300 and second container 1402. In addition, second container 1402 includes a second lip 1406 that extends outward from mouth 1404 in a horizontal direction, forming a substantially curled or rounded ledge that enlarges the overall diameter of second container 1402 beyond second mouth 1404 of second container 1402. Third cover 1300 fits over second container 1402 by first fitting over second lip 1406, and capturing the entire edge associated with second lip 1406 around second container 1402. After sliding past second lip 1406, a seal may be formed through the contact between rim portion 127 and second sidewall surface 1408 of second container 1402.
In another embodiment, third cover 1300 may be used with containers of a different lip type. For example, in FIG. 15, third cover 1300 is installed on a third container 1502. Third cover 1300 has formed a seal with a third sidewall surface 1508 so that a mouth 1504 of third container 1502 is covered or otherwise enclosed within the chamber formed by third cover 1300 and third container 1502. In addition, third container 1502 includes a third lip 1506 that extends outward in a horizontal direction, forming a curved ledge that enlarges the overall diameter of third container 1502 beyond mouth 1504 of third container 1502. Third cover 1300 fits over third container 1502 by sliding or passing over third lip 1506, and enclosing the entire edge associated with third lip 1506 within third container 1502. Once rim portion 127 slides past third lip 1506, a seal may be formed through the contact between rim portion 127 and third sidewall surface 1508 of third container 1502.
The embodiments of reusable covers described herein may also include provisions for stacking containers utilizing the reusable covers. For example, the lids provided on containers in the form of the reusable covers can have a rigid portion (for example, base 110) that allows other containers to be placed upon them in some embodiments. In FIG. 16, stacked containers 1600 are depicted. Stacked containers 1600 include a fourth container 1642, a fifth container 1652, and a sixth container 1662. Furthermore, a fourth cover 1640 has been installed on fourth container 1642, a fifth cover 1650 has been installed on fifth container 1652, and a sixth cover 1660 has been installed on sixth container 1662.
As described earlier with respect to FIG. 3, each base 110 may include substantially flat central portion 112. As a result of the material(s) and structural features of base 110, base 110 may provide a firm, stable surface for the placement of other objects, including additional containers. As shown in FIG. 16, fourth container 1642 has a first bottom surface 1620. First bottom surface 1620 has been placed such that it is in contact with a first base 1622 of fifth cover 1650 installed on fifth container 1652. In other words, first base 1622 can provide a resilient surface for supporting fourth container 1642 in some embodiments, and/or the weight of fourth container 1642 and its contents, as well as the weight of fourth cover 1640. In addition, in one embodiment, first base 1622 can act as a supportive, generally rigid surface for fourth container 1642. This can allow a user to easily store different items and/or various containers that may be covered by the reusable covers, and then readily stack the containers atop each other for convenient storage. In some embodiments, this can allow for a more efficient use of space. For example, refrigerators, pantries, cabinets, or other areas may have a limited capacity. Stacking as depicted herein may allow a user to take greater advantage of the storage space available.
Similarly, fifth container 1652 may include a second bottom surface 1624, which may be in contact with a second base 1626 of sixth cover 1660 installed on sixth container 1662. As discussed with respect to fifth cover 1650, sixth cover 1660 may also provide a resilient surface for supporting second bottom surface 1624 of fifth container 1652 in some embodiments. It should be understood that fourth cover 1640 may also be used to provide a stacking surface for containers in other embodiments.
While the upper surface of each reusable cover associated with central portion 112 is generally flat, in some embodiments, the reusable covers may include a ridge, as discussed with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5. Fourth cover 1640, fifth cover 1650, and sixth cover 1660 are shown to each include ridges. As an example, sixth cover 1660 is seen to include 466. Ridge 466 may promote stability during stacking by providing a barrier against slippage or other movement of the stacked containers. In other words, the raised border of ridge 466 along one or more of the reusable covers can provide a kind of guardrail in some embodiments, helping to improve or maintain the balance, alignment, and/or placement of stacked containers 1600.
It can also be noted that in the embodiment of FIG. 16, the overall size of fourth container 1642 is less than the overall size of fifth container 1652, and the overall size of fifth container 1652 is less than the overall size of sixth container 1662. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the sizes of containers may differ such that the relationship between stacked containers 1600 varies. In other words, in some embodiments, fourth container 1642 may be substantially similar in size to fifth container 1652 and/or sixth container 1662. Thus, stacked containers 1600 need not be stacked such that the largest container is at the bottom and the smallest container is on top. In other embodiments, a smaller container may be disposed at the bottom, and a relatively larger container may be stacked atop the smaller container.
Furthermore, referring to FIG. 16, fourth cover 1640, fifth cover 1650, and sixth cover 1660 may be formed of a material of a single color in one embodiment, or each size cover may be formed of a different color material so that the sizes are color coded in another embodiment. This may allow users to quickly identify the different sizes of each cover.
It should be understood that a reusable cover of the embodiments described herein can be easily removed when needed and can be readily replaced again on the same container or a new container. In some embodiments, the resilience and elasticity of flexible wall 120 can provide a means of easy removal of the cover from a container. The ease of use of the covers enables users to store food or such items in a fresh state multiple times without experiencing the quick and significant loss of freshness, which would happen if left unsealed and exposed to open air. In addition, items stored in a container with the reusable covers are secured and may remain within the container in the event of sudden movement, mishandling, or even if the container were to be dropped.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, a cover may include additional provisions for releasing the cover from a container. For example, in FIGS. 17 and 18, a release tab 1750 along the perimeter of seventh cover 1700 is shown. As illustrated, release tab 1750 is generally oval, and disposed along flexible wall 120 of seventh cover 1700, such that release tab 1750 is folded over and extends such that it is adjacent to central portion 112 of base 110. In one embodiment, flexible wall 120 can be molded to include release tab 1750. Thus, release tab 1750 may comprise substantially similar material to flexible wall 120. In some embodiments, release tab 1750 may comprise a greater thickness than the remainder of flexible wall 120.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 17 and 18, release tab 1750 includes an upper end 1754 extending upward from flexible wall 120, and a lower end 1752 extending downward from flexible wall 120. Upper end 1754 may be joined to a portion of base 110 and fold or bend to partially extend along the top surface of seventh cover 1700 in some embodiments.
In other embodiments, release tab 1750 may be any other shape, including round, elliptical, square, hexagonal, and other regular or irregular shapes. Thus, it should be understood that the geometry, proportions, size, location of release tab 1750 may vary. For example, release tab 1750 may be larger than depicted in some embodiments. In another embodiment, release tab 1750 may be round. In one embodiment, release tab 1750 may be disposed within at least a portion of base 110 and/or within the center of base 110. Thus, in some embodiments, release tab 1750 may be completely surrounded by central portion 112.
As shown in the cross section of FIG. 18, in some embodiments, release tab 1750 may be pulled off the bottom edge of a seventh container 1820. In other words, release tab 1750 may be used as a lever to help remove seventh cover 1700. In one embodiment, release tab 1750 may be readily depressed by grasping lower end 1752 of release tab 1750 with (for example) the forefinger of a hand and pressing a button portion along upper end 1754 of release tab 1750 with the a thumb 1800 (or other vector) and generally applying a pulling force 1810. In other embodiments, a prying action along release tab 1750 can help pull seventh cover 1700 off seventh container 1820. In one embodiment, as release tab 1750 is depressed, seventh cover 1700 has sufficient rigidity to pivot as a unit and disengage with a rim 1830 of seventh container 1820. In another embodiment, at least a portion of seventh cover 1700 may be lifted by depression of release tab 1750. For example, depression of upper end 1754 may weaken the seal that exists between seventh container 1820 and seventh cover 1700. In one embodiment, the remainder of seventh cover 1700 may be more readily disengaged from the rim of seventh container 1820 once an initial portion has been separated from the depression of release tab 1750.
In another embodiment, not shown, a button portion may be disposed within upper end 1754 of release tab 1750, and upper end 1754 can be used to press and/or push seventh container 1820 away while pulling on release tab 1750. In other embodiments, upper end 1754 may be used to push air out of seventh container 1820 in order to help release seventh cover 1700.
Referring to FIGS. 19-23, another series of embodiments of a reusable cover are depicted. In FIG. 19, covers 1900 are illustrated, including an eighth cover 1950, a ninth cover 1960, and a tenth cover 1970. Covers 1900 each include a base and a flexible wall. For example, eighth cover 1950 includes a base 1910 and a flexible wall 1920. Base 1910 may be generally circular in shape in some embodiments. Flexible wall 1920 may extend outwardly from base 1910 to define a chamber 1902 and an opening 1904. Flexible wall 1920 also includes includes an annular flange 1930 in some embodiments. Flexible wall 1920 may therefore also be substantially rounded in some embodiments. In FIG. 19, eighth cover 1950, ninth cover 1960, and tenth cover 1970 are shown in an undeformed or initial state (i.e., where covers 1900 have not been installed on a container). Covers 1900 may vary in size, and in some embodiments, may be nested within one another. An example of such nesting that may be used herein is disclosed in the Reusable Food Covers application. Embodiments of the present disclosure can make use of any of the components, mechanisms, structure, and methods disclosed in the Reusable Food Covers application.
For purposes of clarity, the following discussion focuses on base 1910 and flexible wall 1920 of eighth cover 1950, but it may be appreciated that each of the covers in covers 1900 may include a base and a flexible wall having similar characteristics.
In contrast to the embodiments discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-18, covers 1900 may include a relatively flat base 1910 that joins flexible wall 1920 along the top (in the horizontal plane) surface. In some embodiments, base 1910 is substantially round or circular. This can be seen best in FIGS. 20-22, where a cross-section of an eleventh cover 2000 is depicted as it is installed on an schematic illustration of an eighth container 2050. In FIG. 20, base 1910 is shown as it is joined to flexible wall 1920 near a periphery 2061 bordering the circumference of base 1910.
Base 1910 may be joined to an upper ring portion 2025 of flexible wall 1920 in various ways. In some embodiments, the structural features of base 1910 and flexible wall 1920 may provide a means for joining or helping to attach base 1910 to flexible wall 1920 to form eleventh cover 2000. For example, in FIGS. 20-22, upper ring portion 2025 may include an opening, slot, or other mechanism for attaching or joining to base 1910. In one embodiment, a similar structural mechanism as described with respect to covers in FIGS. 4 and 5 (including, for example, first wall 430 and second wall 440) may be included in upper ring portion 2025. In some embodiments, flexible wall 1920 and base 1910 can be over molded with generous purchase for surface contact adhesion. In other embodiments, a weld, an adhesive, or another bonding agent may be also be used to join the components together. In cases where a welding process is used, the weld could be an ultrasonic weld or any other type of weld.
As discussed earlier with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-18, during use with various containers, covers 1900 of FIG. 19 may provide a seal between a container and a cover. FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of eleventh cover 2000 in an initial, or undeformed configuration, FIG. 21 illustrates eleventh cover 2000 as it is being applied to eighth container 2050, and FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of eleventh cover 2000 in its installed configuration.
In different embodiments, flexible wall 1920 may include a lower ring portion 2026 that extends in a generally vertical direction, which may help define the height of chamber 1902. Lower ring portion 2026 may be joined to a rim portion 2027, which extends toward the center of eleventh cover 2000 in a generally horizontal direction. Lower ring portion 2026 may be curved in some embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 20-22, lower ring portion 2026 includes a curved region that extends between upper ring portion 2025 and rim portion 2027, providing a geometry that may better accommodate a container and/or improve the fit with a container. In some embodiments, lower ring portion 2026 may be approximately perpendicular to rim portion 2027 in the initial state.
In FIGS. 20-22, rim portion 2027 includes annular flange 1930. In the cross sectional view of FIGS. 20-22, annular flange 1930 includes two portions, identified herein as first flange portion 2010 and a second flange portion 2020. Although first flange portion 2010 and second flange portion 2020 are individually labeled in FIGS. 20-22, it should be understood that they comprise two portions of rim portion 2027. In other words, in one embodiment, rim portion 2027 comprises continuous annular flange 1930, and first flange portion 2010 and second flange portion 2020 simply identify two areas along the continuous annular flange 1930. Thus, first flange portion 2010 and/or second flange portion 2020 should not be understood to refer to two distinct parts or components.
As discussed with reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-18, rim portion 2027 may have varying widths in different embodiments. In one embodiment, the width of rim portion 2027 may help define a diameter of opening 1904. Thus, opening 1904 may have a first opening diameter 2060. It should be understood that the diameter of opening 1904 may expand as first flange portion 2010 and/or second flange portion 2020 taper, bend and/or curl upward. In other words, first opening diameter 2060 may change significantly as eleventh cover 2000 is attached or joined to a container or other component. For example, in use, containers (such as a bowl) may have a diameter greater than first diameter 2060. As depicted in FIGS. 20-21, as eleventh cover 2000 is installed on eighth container 2050, it can be seen that a container diameter 2090 is greater than first opening diameter 2060. As a result, when eighth container 2050 enters chamber 1902, first flange portion 2010 and second flange portion 2020 move or bend upwardly to compress a sidewall 2030, applying rim portion 2027 around eighth container 2050. Thus, the yielding flexibility of rim portion 2027 permits the engagement of a container with a diameter greater than first opening diameter 2060. In other words, as shown in FIG. 22, upon installation of eleventh cover 2000 upon eighth container 2050, the distance between first flange portion 2010 and second flange portion 2020 may increase to a second opening diameter 2260 that is substantially similar to container diameter 2090 (shown in FIG. 20). It should be understood that the mechanism of installing and/or forming a seal with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 19-22 may be substantially similar to the mechanisms described in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-18 in some embodiments. Thus, in different embodiments, covers 1900 (as shown in FIG. 19) may each allow accommodation and sealing of containers having a range of differing sizes.
The covers described herein may additionally include provisions for improving grip of the cover, as well as stability, particularly during stacking of containers that utilize the reusable covers disclosed herein. In FIG. 23, a twelfth cover 2310 installed on a ninth container 2315, and a thirteenth cover 2320 installed on a tenth container 2325 are illustrated. Ninth container 2315 is stacked on base 1910 of thirteenth cover 2320. Along periphery 2061 of base 1910, where base 1910 is joined to flexible wall 1920, an uneven surface has formed, due to the change in height between base 1910 and upper ring portion 2025. Thus, in some embodiments, a step 2366 may be disposed along the border of base 1910 of thirteenth cover 2320. Step 2366 may exist along the entire border of base 1910 of thirteenth cover 2320, or along a portion of base 1910. Step 2366 can be an undulation or bump or other formation that provides additional grip to each cover for easier handling. In addition, similar to ridge 466 of the embodiments in FIGS. 1-18, step 2366 may allow for greater stability during stacking of containers.
For example, the lids provided on containers in the form of the reusable covers can have a rigid portion (for example, base 1910) that allows other containers to be placed upon them in some embodiments. In FIG. 23, two stacked containers 2300 are depicted. As a result of the material(s) and/or structural features of base 1910, base 1910 may provide a firm, stable surface for the placement of other objects, including additional containers. In addition, step 2366 can decrease the likelihood of ninth container 2315 slipping off the surface of base 1910 of thirteenth cover 2320. This can allow a user to more readily stack the containers atop each other for convenient storage. In some embodiments, stacking can allow for a more efficient use of space. For example, refrigerators, pantries, cabinets, or other areas may have a limited capacity. Stacking as depicted herein may allow a user to take greater advantage of the storage space available.
It should be understood that the cover of FIGS. 19-23 can also be easily removed by pulling the container away from the cover. Thus, the cover may be removed from a container and replaced multiple times.
The materials comprising the reusable covers described herein may vary in different embodiments. The base may be transparent, semi-transparent or opaque. In a preferred embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 1-23, the base may be substantially transparent. In one embodiment, the base (for example, base 110 of FIGS. 1-18, or base 1910 of FIGS. 19-23) or components comprising the base can be associated with a transparent material. In some embodiments, the material comprising the base is transparent, resilient, and washable. Examples of different materials that could be used for one or more portions of the base include, but are not limited to: glass, plastics, polymer sheets, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the base may be made from a suitable polymeric material, preferably a polymer that can meet a certain transparency and low haze level (to allow for proper viewing of the contents beneath the food cover) and rigidity, such as polyolefins and polycarbonates. Some examples of suitable plastic materials include a polyvinylchloride, cellulose acetate, nylon, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, acrylonitrile copolymers, coextruded plastics, etc. These materials may be coated with saran or other coating if desired. Copolymers of these various plastics may be used in order to obtain desired properties. In embodiments where polymer sheets are used, the polymer sheets may be extruded, rolled, or otherwise formed from a polymer material to exhibit a generally flat aspect. Two-dimensional materials may also encompass laminated or otherwise layered materials that include two or more layers of textiles, polymer sheets, or combinations of textiles and polymer sheets In addition to textiles and polymer sheets, other two-dimensional materials may be utilized for the transparent portions.
In addition, flexible wall (such as flexible wall 120 of FIGS. 1-18 or flexible wall 1920 of FIGS. 19-23) may be integrally formed of a single, unitary material using process such as, for example, molding. The flexible wall or portions thereof may be formed of a flexible material. In some cases, a material that includes silicone or a high grade food safe silicone may be used. In some cases, a material may include rubber. In some cases, the flexible portions may be formed of a material that can include thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). In some cases, the flexible wall can be made of a material that includes thermoplastic rubbers. In some cases a combination of two or more of the materials disclosed above. It should be understood that the base may comprise a material that includes a greater rigidity than that of the flexible wall in some embodiments.
It should also be noted that in some embodiments, the materials comprising the covers described herein may be dishwasher-safe, microwaveable, food-safe, and/or resistant to bacteria or other food-borne germs. Thus, the reusable cover can be used for the storage of foods and materials at room temperature, in a refrigerator or in a freezer. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the reusable covers may include materials that provide additional insulation to a container. In one embodiment, the covers may be water resistant or water proof, such that a container utilizing a reusable container is also spill-proof or spill-resistant with the use of liquids. As noted above, the reusable cover can be fabricated at least in part of a transparent material to permit observation of the food product within the container without removal of the reusable cover. In addition, in some embodiments, covers may be turned inside-out for easier cleaning or use.
As discussed earlier with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5, in some embodiments, annular flange 300 may deform in an axially, allowing opening 104 to move upward in an axial direction along central axis 439. For example, as seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, opening 104 is disposed nearer to base 110 along the direction of central axis 439 when in the deformed state of FIG. 5 than when in the initial state of FIG. 4. Furthermore, the diameter 104 may also vary when in the deformed state. These features are discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 24-27.
In FIG. 24, a cut-away view of a portion of first cover 100 is shown as it is deformed and applied on an eleventh container 2410, and in FIG. 25, a top-down view of the same portion of first cover 100 in the initial state is shown. Eleventh container 2410 has a second diameter 2400. In one embodiment, as first cover 100 is installed on eleventh container 2410 and annular flange 300 makes contact with a sidewall 2420 of eleventh container 2410, annular flange 300 may deform upward. In other words, radially outer limit 668 associated with the radially outermost edge of annular flange 300 can move upward along the direction of central axis 439. Thus, in some embodiments, opening 104 (shown in FIG. 25) defined by radially outer limit 668 may move or translate axially upward along central axis 439 as it slides or otherwise moves along sidewall 2420 of eleventh container 2410.
As shown in FIG. 24, minimum contact region 690 of first cover 100 makes contact with eleventh container 2410 and can form a seal. Minimum contact region 690 of annular flange 300 can also be seen in FIG. 25, where a top-down view of the portion of first cover 100 is provided. During the process of inserting first cover 100 on eleventh container 2410, radially outer limit 668 of annular flange 300 moves from its initial (undeformed) axial position over a first axial distance 2450 (shown in FIG. 24) along the direction of central axis 439. First axial distance 2450 may be measured from a horizontal axis 2440, where horizontal axis 2440 corresponds to the axial position of radially outer limit 668 in the initial state. Thus, opening 104 (shown in FIG. 25) of annular flange 300 can be understood to move axially upward when first cover 100 is installed on a container.
In FIG. 26, a cut-away view of a portion of first cover 100 is shown as it is deformed and applied on a twelfth container 2610, and in FIG. 27, a top-down view of the same portion of first cover 100 in the initial state is shown. Twelfth container 2610 has a third diameter 2600. Referring to FIGS. 24 and 26, it can be seen that twelfth container 2610 has a larger diameter than eleventh container 2410, such that second diameter 2400 is less than third diameter 2600. In one embodiment, as first cover 100 is installed on twelfth container 2610 and annular flange 300 makes contact with a sidewall 2620 of twelfth container 2610, annular flange 300 may deform further upward. In other words, radially outer limit 668 associated with the radially outermost edge of annular flange 300 can move further upward along the direction of central axis 439 relative to the embodiment of FIG. 24. In other words, in some embodiments, as radially outer limit 668 slides or otherwise moves along sidewall 2620 of twelfth container 2610, opening 104 (shown in FIG. 27) of annular flange 300 may move or translate axially upward along central axis 439 a greater distance than that shown in FIG. 24.
In FIG. 26, maximum contact region 664 of first cover 100 makes contact with twelfth container 2610 and can form a seal. Maximum contact region 664 of annular flange 300 can also be seen in FIG. 25, where a top-down view of the portion of first cover 100 is provided. During the process of inserting or installing first cover 100 on twelfth container 2610, radially outer limit 668 of annular flange 300 moves from its initial (undeformed) axial position over a second axial distance 2650 along the direction of central axis 439. Second axial distance 2650 may be measured from horizontal axis 2440, where horizontal axis 2440 corresponds to the initial axial position of radially outer limit 668. Second axial distance 2650 is greater than first axial distance 2450 (see FIG. 24). It should be understood that as first cover 100 is installed on a larger container diameter, opening 104 may also move further axially upward. Thus, while radially outer limit 668 of annular flange 300 has translated along first axial distance 2450 of eleventh container 2410 in FIG. 24, it translates a greater second axial distance 2650 in order to accommodate the larger twelfth container 2610 in FIG. 26. The examples of FIGS. 24-27 depict two containers that can form a seal with first cover 100 through application of either minimum contact region 690 or maximum contact region 668. However, as illustrated in FIG. 28, it should be understood that first cover 100 may also accommodate a number of container diameters. For example, first cover 100 may be installed on containers in a range 2800, extending between the size of eleventh container 2410 and the size of twelfth container 2610.
In addition, as described above with reference to FIGS. 4-5, it can be seen that the diameter associated with opening 104 of annular flange 300 may increase when first cover 100 is installed on different containers. For example, in some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, upon installation of first cover 100 on eleventh container 2410, opening 104 may increase in diameter from first diameter 450 to a larger diameter that may be substantially similar to second diameter 2400 of eleventh container 2410. A similar relationship may be observed with respect to FIGS. 26 and 27. After first cover 100 has been installed on twelfth container 2610, opening 104 may increase in diameter from first diameter 450 to a larger diameter that may be substantially similar to third diameter 2600 in some embodiments. Thus, it can be seen that opening 104 may grow in size from first diameter 450 to second diameter 2400, and then further expand to third diameter 2600. The expansion of opening 104 may depend on the dimensions of the container.
Furthermore, it should be understood that the covers described herein may be substantially elastic and flexible. As used in the description, elastic refers to the ability of a material to substantially resume its normal (initial) shape spontaneously after deformation, contraction, dilation, or distortion. Thus, in different embodiments, first cover 100 may substantially return to its initial state once it is removed (uninstalled) from a container. For example, in FIG. 29, a sequence of views of first cover 100 are depicted. In a bottommost embodiment 2920, first cover 100 is mounted or installed on a container 2950, such that a rim portion 2960 is deformed along a region 2930 of annular flange 300. In a central embodiment 2970 of FIG. 29, first cover 100 has been separated from container 2950, and annular flange 300 is partially deformed, and in the process of springing or moving back toward the horizontal plane. Finally, as shown in an uppermost embodiment 2980, first cover 100 has resumed a state substantially similar to the initial state, as described above. Thus, first cover 100 may be installed and uninstalled repeatedly on one or more containers, and retain its ability to form a seal.
While various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the embodiments. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other embodiment unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and/or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A reusable cover for containers, comprising:

a base;

a flexible wall extending from the base, the flexible wall including a rim portion and wherein the rim portion forms an opening for the cover;

the rim portion having an initial state where the opening is a first size and the rim portion having a first deformed state where the opening is a second size, wherein the first size is smaller than the second size;

wherein the reusable cover is configured to contact a sidewall of a first container; and

wherein when the reusable cover engages the first container, the rim portion transitions from the initial state to the first deformed state, and a first seal is formed between the first container and the reusable cover.

2. The reusable cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible wall further includes a ring portion, wherein the rim portion comprises an annular flange, wherein the rim portion includes a radially inner limit and a radially outer limit, wherein the radially outer limit is joined to the ring portion, wherein the rim portion further includes a maximum contact region, and wherein the maximum contact region includes the region between the radially outer limit and the radially inner limit.

3. The reusable cover of claim 2, wherein the rim portion includes a minimum contact region, and wherein the first cover is configured to engage and properly seal a container with at least a minimum container diameter that contacts at least the minimum contact region.

4. The reusable cover of claim 2, wherein the first cover is configured to engage and properly seal a container with at most a maximum container diameter that contacts at least the radially inner limit of the rim portion.

5. The reusable container of claim 4, wherein the first cover is configured to engage and properly seal any container between the minimum container diameter and the maximum container diameter.

6. The reusable cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible wall is formed of a first material, wherein the base is formed of a second material that is different from the first material, and wherein the flexible wall and the base are joined together using a process selected from a group consisting of: over molding, adhesive-bonding, and ultrasonic welding.

7. The reusable cover of claim 1, further comprising:

wherein the rim portion has a second deformed state where the opening is a third size, wherein the first size is smaller from third size, and wherein the second size differs from the third size;

wherein the reusable cover is configured to contact a sidewall of a second container; and

wherein when the reusable cover engages with the second container, the rim portion transitions from the initial state to the second deformed state, and a second seal is formed between the second container and the reusable cover.

8. A reusable cover for sealing containers, comprising:

a base;

the rim portion having an initial state wherein the rim portion is substantially radial in shape, and the rim portion having a first deformed state wherein the rim portion deflects axially upward toward the base; and

wherein the reusable cover is configured to form an annular sealing ring with a first container in the first deformed state.

9. The reusable cover of claim 8, further comprising:

wherein the opening is disposed at a first axial distance from the base in the initial state, and wherein the opening is disposed at a second axial distance from the base in the first deformed state; and

wherein the first axial distance is greater than the second axial distance.

10. The reusable cover of claim 8, wherein a material comprising the base is more rigid than a material comprising the flexible wall.

11. The reusable cover of claim 8, wherein the base is substantially transparent.

12. The reusable cover of claim 8, wherein the base is configured to receive the bottom side of a second container.

13. The reusable cover of claim 11, wherein the base includes a central portion and a peripheral portion, wherein the central portion is substantially flat, wherein the peripheral portion extends along at least a portion of a side of the reusable cover, and wherein the peripheral portion is joined to at least a portion of the flexible wall.

14. The reusable cover of claim 13, wherein the base further includes a ridge, wherein the ridge is disposed between the central portion and the peripheral portion.

15. The reusable cover of claim 8, wherein the flexible wall further includes a release tab, wherein the release tab can be used to release the reusable cover from the first container.

16. The reusable cover of claim 8, further comprising:

the rim portion having a second deformed state wherein the rim portion deflects axially upward toward the base;

wherein the reusable cover is configured to form an annular sealing ring with a second container in the second deformed state; and

wherein the size of the first container is less than the size of the second container.

17. The reusable cover of claim 9, further comprising:

wherein the reusable cover is configured to form an annular sealing ring with a second container in the second deformed state;

wherein the opening is disposed at a third axial distance from the base in the second deformed state; and

wherein the second axial distance is greater than the third axial distance.

18. A method of using a reusable cover with a first container, the method comprising:

engaging the reusable cover with the first container, such that a rim portion of a flexible wall contacts a sidewall of the first container;

moving the first container into the opening of the reusable cover such that the rim portion of the flexible wall deforms toward the base and the opening increases in size; and

thereby sealing the first container with the reusable cover.

19. The method of using the reusable cover of claim 18, further comprising at least partially releasing the reusable cover from the container by contacting a release tab within the reusable cover.

20. The method of using the reusable cover of claim 18, further comprising:

removing the first container from the reusable cover;

engaging a reusable cover with the first container, such that the rim portion of the flexible wall contacts a sidewall of the second container, wherein the diameter of the second container is greater than the diameter of the first container;

moving the second container further into the opening of the reusable cover such that the rim portion of the flexible wall deforms upward and the opening increases in size; and

thereby sealing the second container with the reusable cover.