Storage Container Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/720,825, which was filed on Nov. 15, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of storage containers. More specifically, the present invention relates to a plastic storage container device designed for space efficiency and organization, featuring durable, lightweight bodies, color-coded lids for easy pairing, and nesting capabilities facilitated by interlocking fasteners. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Storage containers are widely used in households to organize and store a variety of items, ranging from food and seasonal decorations to tools and general household supplies. Despite their utility, managing a collection of storage containers often presents significant challenges. These challenges are particularly evident when dealing with containers of different sizes and shapes, which can lead to clutter and wasted storage space. Users frequently struggle to locate matching lids, a problem compounded by the disorganized nature of many storage areas, such as kitchens, basements, and garages. Containers and lids may end up scattered, mismatched, or misplaced, requiring users to spend unnecessary time searching for compatible components. Additionally, traditional storage solutions often fail to address the need for compact storage, resulting in inefficient use of available space. These inefficiencies not only cause frustration but also reduce the practical value of storage containers in maintaining household organization. As modern households increasingly prioritize convenience and organization, there is a clear need for an improved storage container system that addresses these limitations effectively.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for storage container device that provides a system of color-coded lids and containers to simplify matching. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for storage container device that includes an interlocking mechanism to enable compact and efficient nesting of lids and containers. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for storage container device that ensures optimal organization across various household environments such as kitchens, garages, and basements.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a storage container device. The device is comprised of a storage container, designed for organization and versatility through features such as color-coded components, nesting capabilities, and enhanced usability. The device comprises a durable, lightweight body and matching lids made of resilient materials like HDPE or polypropylene, ensuring resistance to wear and deformation. Available in various shapes and sizes, the containers nest within one another to optimize storage, aided by interlocking fasteners on the lids that secure multiple units compactly. Each size is identified through a distinct color-coding system for easy lid-body pairing, enhancing usability. Additional features include vents for airflow, with options for adjustability and filtering, and molded handles for convenient transport. The invention further includes a method for selecting, nesting, and storing the devices, ensuring practicality in household or commercial applications.

In this manner, the storage container device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides a color-coded lids and containers that allow users to easily pair matching components. The inclusion of an interlocking mechanism enables the nesting of containers and lids, conserving storage space and minimizing clutter. Additionally, the translucent design of the containers provides visibility of stored items, further enhancing usability and convenience. By addressing these needs, the storage container device ensures an organized and efficient solution for managing household storage, making it suitable for diverse applications.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a storage container device. The invention is a storage device designed to enhance organization and maximize space efficiency. It is comprised of a plastic container incorporating features such as nesting capabilities, color-coding, interlocking mechanisms, and additional user-friendly enhancements to ensure optimal functionality.

The device includes a body serving as the primary structure, fabricated from transparent, durable, and lightweight plastic materials, such as HDPE, polypropylene, or similar polymers. These materials are chosen for their resistance to cracking, warping, and wear, ensuring that the container and its components maintain structural integrity during regular use and under typical storage conditions. The body is available in various geometric shapes and sizes, such as rectangular, square, or circular configurations, designed to allow smaller containers to nest seamlessly within larger ones. This nesting functionality conserves storage space, minimizes clutter, and facilitates ease of transport.

To further aid in organization, each size of the container includes a uniquely color-coded lid, with colors optionally extending to the corresponding container body. This system ensures that lids and containers of the same size are easily identifiable and paired correctly, improving usability. The lids feature interlocking fasteners on their top and bottom surfaces, enabling secure nesting of one container within another. Fasteners may include snap-fit mechanisms, twist-lock designs, magnetic connections, or other systems that provide secure engagement and stability during storage. These fasteners also allow for the stacking of lids when not in use.

The lids may further incorporate vents to accommodate specific storage applications requiring airflow or moisture control. Vent designs may include slotted, circular, or perforated openings, adjustable vents for customizable airflow, or filtered vents that block contaminants. Additional configurations may include pressure-release vents, decorative patterns with functional airflow, or moisture-control vents that regulate humidity using integrated desiccants. These features enhance the versatility of the device, making it suitable for a variety of storage needs.

A method of using the device involves selecting an appropriately sized container based on storage needs, nesting smaller containers into larger ones by aligning and securing the interlocking fasteners on the lids, and stacking unused lids on the nested arrangement for compact storage. This process ensures efficient organization, optimal use of available space, and a streamlined storage solution for users.

Accordingly, the storage container device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a color-coded lids and containers that allow users to easily pair matching components. The inclusion of an interlocking mechanism enables the nesting of containers and lids, conserving storage space and minimizing clutter. Additionally, the translucent design of the containers provides visibility of stored items, further enhancing usability and convenience. By addressing these needs, the storage container device ensures an organized and efficient solution for managing household storage, making it suitable for diverse applications. In this manner, the storage container device overcomes the limitations of existing storage containers known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters

refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of multiple devices of one potential embodiment of a storage container device of the present invention nested within and to each other in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective exploded view of multiple sizes of lids of one potential embodiment of a storage container device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of multiple devices of one potential embodiment of a storage container device of the present invention nested within and to each other in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a storage container device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a storage container device that provides a system of color-coded lids and containers to simplify matching. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for storage container device that includes an interlocking mechanism to enable compact and efficient nesting of lids and containers. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for storage container device that ensures optimal organization across various household environments such as kitchens, garages, and basements.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a storage container device. The invention is a storage device designed to improve organization and optimize space utilization. It comprises a plastic container featuring nesting capabilities, color-coding, interlocking mechanisms, and other user-friendly enhancements for effective functionality.

The device includes a body as its primary structure, made from transparent, durable, and lightweight plastic materials such as HDPE, polypropylene, or similar polymers. These materials are selected for their ability to resist cracking, warping, and wear, ensuring the container and its components maintain durability during regular use under standard storage conditions. The body is offered in various geometric shapes and sizes, including rectangular, square, and circular configurations, which allow smaller containers to nest easily within larger ones. This nesting design conserves storage space, reduces clutter, and enhances portability.

To support organization, each container size is paired with a uniquely color-coded lid, with the color optionally extending to the body of the container. This system simplifies identifying and matching lids to containers of the same size, enhancing usability. The lids include interlocking fasteners on their top and bottom surfaces, enabling secure nesting of one container within another. These fasteners may involve snap-fit mechanisms, twist-lock designs, magnetic connections, or other systems that provide stable engagement during storage. Additionally, the interlocking fasteners facilitate stacking unused lids for efficient storage.

The lids may also include vents designed for specific storage needs such as airflow or moisture control. Vent configurations may include slotted, circular, or perforated openings, adjustable vents for customizable airflow, or filtered vents to block contaminants. Other options include pressure-release vents, decorative vents with functional openings, and moisture-control vents that incorporate desiccants. These features enhance the adaptability of the device, making it suitable for various storage requirements.

The method of using the device involves selecting a container size appropriate for the intended storage, nesting smaller containers into larger ones by aligning and engaging the interlocking fasteners on the lids, and stacking unused lids atop the nested containers for compact storage. This ensures efficient organization, maximizes space use, and provides a streamlined solution for users.

Thus, the storage container device of this invention offers several advantages. The color-coded lids and containers enable easy pairing of matching components. The interlocking mechanism allows containers and lids to nest efficiently, saving storage space and reducing clutter. The translucent design of the containers enhances the visibility of the contents, further improving convenience. By addressing these needs, the device provides an organized and effective household storage solution, suitable for various applications, and overcomes the limitations of prior art storage containers.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of multiple devices of one potential embodiment of a storage container device 100 of the present invention nested within and to each other in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of a plastic storage container designed to optimize organization and maximize space efficiency. The device 100 achieves these objectives through the incorporation of color coding, nesting capabilities, and additional user-friendly features.

The device 100 is comprised of a body 110, which serves as the primary structure of the container. The body 110 is preferably made of transparent, durable, and lightweight plastic materials suitable for household use. Suitable materials include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), or other plastics that resist cracking, warping, and general wear over time. These material properties ensure that both the body 110 and the lids 120 maintain their structural integrity during regular use and under typical storage conditions.

In various embodiments, the body 110 may be provided in multiple sizes and shapes, such as rectangular, square, circular, or other geometric configurations. Regardless of these variations, the design of each body 110 ensures that a first device 100 can nest easily within a second device 100 of the next larger size, as seen in FIG. 3. This nesting functionality is essential to the device 100, as it facilitates efficient storage, reduces clutter, and improves transportability.

To further aid organization, each size of device 100 may be comprised of a uniquely color-coded lid 120. Each size is assigned a distinct color, which may also be applied to the corresponding body 110. This color-coding system ensures that a lid 120 of a particular color pairs exclusively with a body 110 of the same color. This design feature simplifies the process of identifying and matching lids 120 to their respective bodies 110, improving the overall usability of the device 100. The lid 120 and/or body 110 may be any color.

The device 100 is configured to nest efficiently within other devices 100 to conserve storage space when not in use, as seen in FIG. 3. This nesting functionality is facilitated by interlocking fasteners 132 and 142 integrated into the lids 120, as seen in FIG. 2. Specifically, each lid 120 is comprised of a top surface 130 that includes at least one fastener 132 and a bottom surface 140 that includes at least one reciprocating fastener 142. The fasteners 132 and 142 may be of various types suited to the design and application of the device 100. These may include snap-fit fasteners that utilize protrusions and recesses to interlock securely when pressed together; twist-lock fasteners that employ a bayonet-style mechanism requiring rotation to secure engagement; and magnetic fasteners incorporating embedded magnets for a seamless and silent connection. Additional fastener types may include latch mechanisms, hook-and-loop fasteners, friction-fit fasteners, and external elastic bands or clips secured in designated grooves. Each fastener type ensures that the top surface 130 of a lid 120 on a first device 100 can engage securely with the bottom surface 140 of a lid 120 on a second device 100, providing a stable and compact storage arrangement, as seen in FIG. 2. In a different embodiment, the bottom surface 140 fastener 142 is also present on a bottom surface of the body 110 to allow the lid 120 of a first device 100 to attach to a body 110 of a second device 100 when both devices 100 are filled with food.

In addition to the fasteners, the lid 120 may include at least one vent 150 to support specific applications requiring airflow. The vents 150 may take various forms, including slotted vents with elongated openings or circular or perforated vents offering consistent airflow. Adjustable vents with sliding or rotating mechanisms allow users to modify airflow levels, while filtered vents may incorporate fine meshes or replaceable filters to block dust, pests, or contaminants. Other vent designs may include pressure-release one-way vents, decorative vents combining aesthetic patterns with functional openings, and moisture-control vents that integrate desiccant pouches or compartments to regulate humidity. These vent configurations enhance the versatility of the device 100, making it suitable for a wide range of storage needs.

In addition to its core features, the device 100 may include a variety of enhancements to improve usability and functionality. For example, molded handles 112 may be incorporated on the sides of the body 110 to facilitate carrying.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 4. First, a device 100 is provided, comprised of a body 110 having at least one lid 120 comprised of interlocking fasteners 132, 142 configured for nesting [Step 202]. Then, the user may identify and select a specific size of the device 100, where a first device 100 is chosen to store items based on the size and volume of the body 110 [Step 204]. Next, the selected device 100 may be nested within a second larger device 100 by aligning and engaging the interlocking fasteners 132 on the lid 120 of the first device 100 with the reciprocating fasteners 142 on the bottom surface 140 of the lid 120 of the second device 100 and wherein the lid 120 of the second larger device 100 is attached to the body 110 of the second larger device 100 [Step 206]. Finally, for storage, the lids 120 of any unused devices 100 may be stacked together by interlocking the fasteners 132, 142 and placed atop the lid 120 of the body 110 of the second larger device 100, creating a compact and organized arrangement [Step 208].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “storage container device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the storage container device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the storage container device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the storage container device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the storage container device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the storage container device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the storage container device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.