Memorial Storage Apparatus and Method of Use

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/730,502 which was filed on Dec. 11, 2024 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to memorial storage devices for gravesites, headstones, and/or memorial locations. More specifically, the present invention relates to a weatherproof memorial container configured to securely preserve and display sentimental items while protecting them from environmental damage and unauthorized access. The invention comprises a housing formed of a hard, waterproof, UV-resistant, and impact-resistant material, the housing defines an internal cavity dimensioned to receive items such as letters, photographs, trinkets, and flowers. A hinged lid is operatively coupled to the housing and movable between open and closed positions, with an integrated locking mechanism that can include a digital, RFID-enabled, or biometric lock to restrict unauthorized access. A slot disposed in a front panel of the housing permits insertion of flat articles without requiring opening of the lid. One or more LEDs arranged on the housing are powered by a solar panel and rechargeable power source, with a light sensor automatically (i.e., autonomously) activating illumination under low-light conditions. 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

By way of background, individuals often decorate gravestones, headstones, and memorial sites with personal items that commemorate and honor their deceased loved ones. The items can include letters, photographs, flowers, trinkets, stuffed animals, and other memorabilia of sentimental significance. The offerings not only serve as tributes to the deceased but also provide comfort to surviving family members and friends. The act of decorating a gravesite or memorial can play an important role in the grieving process, offering individuals a tangible means of expressing remembrance and emotional connection.

However, items placed outdoors at gravesites or headstones are subject to multiple risks. Weather conditions such as rain, snow, and wind may cause irreparable damage to delicate items like paper letters or photographs. Flowers and trinkets may deteriorate quickly under prolonged exposure to sunlight and environmental elements. Additionally, animals or acts of theft and vandalism may result in the loss or destruction of these memorial objects. Consequently, individuals desire a device or system that can protect, preserve, and secure sentimental items while enabling family members and visitors to continue the practice of decorating gravesites and memorial sites.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a memorial container that protects sentimental items placed at gravesites, headstones, and/or memorial sites from damage, deterioration, and theft. There is a need for a gravesite memorial system for securely holding items such as letters, photographs, flowers, and trinkets. Further, there is a need in the art for a gravesite accessory that incorporates solar-powered illumination so that memorial items remain visible during nighttime hours. Additionally, there is a need for a memorial container that integrates security features, such as digital or biometric locks, to prevent unauthorized access while still enabling family members to conveniently add or retrieve items. Finally, there exists a need for a multifunctional and durable memorial container that enhances both the preservation and display of keepsakes, thereby offering families peace of mind and a dignified way to honor loved ones.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment, comprises a weatherproof memorial container featuring a hard, UV-resistant, and impact-resistant housing that defines an internal storage cavity. The housing may be cuboidal, cylindrical, or of another geometric form, and includes a hinged lid that pivots open to provide access to the internal cavity. A slot is disposed in the front panel of the housing to enable insertion of flat items, such as letters or photographs, without requiring opening of the lid. A locking mechanism, which can include a keyed, combination, digital, RFID-enabled, or biometric lock, is operatively coupled to the hinged lid to secure the cavity and prevent unauthorized access. One or more illumination sources, preferably LEDs, are arranged on the housing and are powered by a solar panel and rechargeable power source, the illumination sources being automatically (i.e., autonomously) activated by a light sensor in low-light conditions.

In one embodiment, the container is mounted to a headstone by one or more brackets secured with bolts, screws, or adhesive mounts. In another embodiment, the container includes a hollow sleeve at the base which is dimensioned to receive the top end of a pole, wherein the container may be pole-mounted and secured using set screws, bolts, or locking pins. In yet another embodiment, the container is cylindrical and includes circular end caps that are removably attached, hinged, or rotatably secured to opposite ends of the housing.

In this manner, the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention addresses longstanding shortcomings of conventional gravesite decorations by providing a secure, weather-resistant, and multifunctional solution. The invention enables families to preserve and protect personal items of sentimental value without concern for weather damage, theft, or environmental deterioration. The container device integrates solar-powered illumination, digital locking mechanisms, and QR code functionality. The apparatus provides durability, functionality, and aesthetic value while offering families a way to commemorate loved ones at gravesites, headstones, and/or memorial locations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary in order 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 weatherproof memorial container. The memorial container comprises a housing which defines an internal cavity for storing memorial items. The container further includes a plurality of illumination sources disposed on or adjacent to the housing, the illumination sources are configured to illuminate the internal cavity and memorial items stored therein during periods of reduced ambient light. A solar panel containing a plurality of photovoltaic cells is disposed on the housing, and the solar panel is configured to generate electrical energy. A rechargeable power source is in electrical communication with the solar panel and the illumination sources, the rechargeable power source is configured to store the generated electrical energy and provide stored electrical energy to the illumination sources. The container further includes a light sensor configured to detect ambient light and automatically (i.e., autonomously) enables transmission of electrical power from the rechargeable power source to the illumination sources when the ambient light falls below a predetermined threshold.

In another embodiment, the weatherproof memorial container comprises a housing formed of a hard, waterproof, UV-resistant, and impact-resistant material. The housing defines an internal storage cavity that is configured to receive and retain sentimental items including, but not limited to, letters, photographs, trinkets, stuffed animals, and flowers. An access assembly in the form of a hinged lid is operatively coupled to a top end of the housing, and the hinged lid is movable between a closed position sealing the cavity and an open position enabling access to the cavity. A locking mechanism is associated with the hinged lid to restrict unauthorized access to the cavity. The container further includes a slot disposed in a front panel of the housing, and the slot is dimensioned to receive flat articles including letters and photographs without requiring opening of the hinged lid.

In one embodiment, the container further includes one or more mounting structures coupled to the housing, the mounting structures being configured to secure the housing to a support selected from the group consisting of a headstone, a pole, or a pedestal. The weatherproof memorial container additionally includes a decorative accessory receptacle affixed to the housing, with the decorative accessory receptacle being configured to receive flowers or other decorative items.

In yet another embodiment, the housing is cylindrical in shape and includes circular end caps disposed at opposite ends of the cylindrical housing. The end caps may be removably attached, hinged, or rotatably secured to the cylindrical housing to provide access to the internal cavity. The cylindrical housing is configured to receive memorial items such as letters, photographs, and trinkets through a slot disposed in the wall of the housing.

In still another embodiment, the container includes a machine scannable or readable code affixed to an exterior surface of the housing. The machine scannable or readable code may be in the form of a QR code or other digital identifier that can be scanned by a mobile device. When scanned, the code provides access to a digital memorial platform containing photographs, videos, or written tributes associated with a deceased individual.

In one embodiment, the container includes a locking mechanism in the form of a digital or electronic lock. The lock may be selected from the group consisting of a keypad lock, an RFID-enabled lock, or a biometric lock. The lock is waterproof and UV-resistant, and it may be configured to automatically (i.e., autonomously) lock the hinged lid after a predetermined period of inactivity.

Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains upon reading and understanding of the following detailed specification.

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 front elevational view of weatherproof memorial container of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention in an installed configuration mounted to a headstone in accordance with the disclosed structure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention in an open configuration in accordance with the disclosed structure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention used in a pole-mounted configuration in accordance with the disclosed structure;

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative cylindrical embodiment of the memorial container of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for operating a memorial container according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

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 in order 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 in order 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 memorial container that protects sentimental items placed at gravesites and memorial sites from damage, deterioration, and theft. There is a need for a gravesite memorial system for securely holding items such as letters, photographs, flowers, and trinkets. Further, there is a need in the art for a gravesite accessory that incorporates solar-powered illumination so that memorial items remain visible during nighttime hours. Additionally, there is a need for a memorial container that integrates security features, such as digital or biometric locks, to prevent unauthorized access while still enabling family members to conveniently add or retrieve items. Finally, there exists a need for a multifunctional and durable memorial container that enhances both the preservation and display of keepsakes, thereby offering families peace of mind and a dignified way to honor loved ones.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a method of preserving and displaying memorial items at a gravesite comprises the step of installing a weatherproof memorial container at a gravesite or memorial location by mounting the container to a support structure. The method further comprises activating a power source by orienting a solar panel on the container to receive sunlight, wherein the solar panel charges an internal rechargeable power source configured to operate illumination sources of the container. The method further comprises receiving memorial items into an internal cavity of the container by unlocking and opening a hinged lid or by inserting flat articles through a slot formed in a panel of the container. The method further comprises illuminating the container in low light conditions by supplying stored electrical power from the rechargeable power source to one or more illumination sources disposed within or adjacent to the container.

Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front elevational view of weatherproof memorial container of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure. The weatherproof memorial container 100 of the present invention is designed as a weatherproof, mailbox-like container for gravesites and memorials. The weatherproof memorial container 100 is configured to hold and protect sentimental items such as photographs, letters, trinkets, stuffed animals, and flowers. More specifically, the weatherproof memorial container 100 includes a housing 102 made of a hard, waterproof, and impact-resistant material. The housing 102 is UV-resistant, impact-resistant, and capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The housing 102 can be transparent, translucent, or opaque to meet requirements of different users. The housing 102 can be of any geometric shape and is illustrated as cuboidal in the present embodiment.

The housing 102 defines an internal storage cavity 104 configured to receive and retain items including, but not limited to, letters, photographs, trinkets, flowers, and memorabilia. The housing 102 provides a secure storage space for the sentimental items. An access assembly in the form of a hinged lid 106 is operatively coupled to the top end 108 of the housing 102. The hinged lid 106 is adapted to be movable between a closed position (as shown in FIG. 1) sealing the cavity and an open position (as shown in FIG. 3) enabling access to the internal storage cavity 104. The lid 106 can include at least one locking hinge 109 or other similar mechanism to restrict unauthorized access of the internal storage cavity 104. At least one slot 110 is disposed in the front panel 112 of the housing 102. The slot 110 is dimensioned to receive flat articles including letters and photographs without requiring opening of the hinged lid 106.

The weatherproof memorial container 100 includes a plurality of illumination sources 114, preferably LEDs. The LEDs are arranged on the exterior surface 116 of the housing 102 to illuminate at least a portion of the housing 102 and the stored items in the internal storage cavity 104 during periods of reduced ambient light. The LEDs 114 are electrically coupled to a power source 118 which provides electrical power to the LEDs 114 for illumination. In the preferred embodiment, the weatherproof memorial container 100 includes a solar panel 120 (containing a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells 122) coupled to the power source 118. The solar panel 120 absorbs sunlight falling thereon and converts it into electrical energy for storage in the power source 118. The power source 118 provides stored energy to LED lights 114 at night, thereby creating an illumination to make the weatherproof memorial container 100 visible.

A light sensor 124 is included in the weatherproof memorial container 100 for detecting ambient light and automatically (i.e., autonomously) enabling transmission of electrical power from the power source 118 to the LEDs 114 when the ambient light falls below a predetermined threshold. The LEDs 114 are configured to illuminate until the power supplied from the power source 118 is exhausted. It should be noted that the light sensor 124 automatically (i.e., autonomously) disconnects the power supply from the power source 118 when the ambient light is above a predetermined threshold.

The weatherproof memorial container 100 includes one or more mounting structures or fasteners 126 for mounting the container 100 in an orientation to a headstone as illustrated in FIG. 2. In the present embodiment, the mounting structures or fasteners 126 can be metal or heavy-duty plastic brackets configured to be attached directly to the face or side of a headstone. The mounting structures or fasteners 126 can be secured with bolts, screws, or adhesive mounts depending on the stone type and cemetery rules. The weatherproof memorial container 100 includes one or more decorative items such as a flower stand 128 which functions as a receptacle for receiving stemmed flowers or similar decorative items.

For securing the stored items in the housing 102, the container 100 includes a digital or electronic lock 130 which can be a battery-powered or solar-powered keypad lock or RFID-enabled lock. The lock 130 is waterproof, UV-resistant and can be integrated with the solar panel 120 to recharge the internal battery (not shown) thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the lock 130 may automatically (i.e., autonomously) lock the lid 106 after a predetermined period (such as 1 minute) of inactivity. A numeric code can be used using the keypad 132 or an RFID card or biometric can also be used on the biometric scanner 134 disposed in the lock 130.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention in an installed configuration mounted to a headstone in accordance with the disclosed structure. As illustrated, the housing 102 is affixed to the front surface 204 of the headstone 202 by one or more mounting structures or fasteners 126, enabling secure and elevated placement of the container 100 at a gravesite. The interior cavity 104 of the housing 102 contains exemplary memorial items 206 such as a figurine and photograph. The slot 110 formed in the lower portion of the front panel 112 is configured to receive flat articles such as letters or photographs without requiring opening of the housing 102. The flower holder 128 is affixed to a side surface of the housing 102 and stores stemmed flowers 208 or similar decorative items. The weatherproof memorial container 100 function as a multifunctional and durable gravesite accessory that combines storage with emotional significance to provide families with a secure way to preserve mementos of their loved ones.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention in an open configuration in accordance with the disclosed structure. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the lid 106 supports the solar panel 120 disposed on the upper surface thereof to capture solar energy. The hinges 109 connecting the lid 106 to the upper rear edge 302 of the housing 102 enable the lid 106 to pivot upward (in the direction indicated by arrow A) from the upper front edge 304 of the housing 102 like a mailbox door. It should be noted that the hinge axis 306 runs laterally, enabling smooth upward rotation of the lid 106. In some embodiments, a small external handle, knob, or recessed grip may be integrated into the front or underside of the lid 106 for a user to easily lift the lid when it is unlocked. The digital lock 130 (FIG. 1) prevents unauthorized access to the items stored in the internal storage cavity 104.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the weatherproof memorial container of the present invention used in a pole-mounted configuration in accordance with the disclosed structure. In the present embodiment, the memorial container 400 is supported above ground level by a vertical pole 402 which can extend downward from the base 406 of the housing 404 of the container 400. The base 406 can include a hollow sleeve 408 dimensioned to receive the top end 410 of the pole 402. The housing 404 can slide down onto the top end 410 of the pole 402, and fastened using one or more from set screws, bolts, or locking pins.

In some embodiments, the base 406 of the housing 404 can include mounting flange plate which can be connected to a corresponding mounting flange disposed on the top end of the pole 402.

For handling and transportation of the container 400, a plurality of handles or rings 412 to enable users and installers to grip and carry the container safely such as when placing the container 400 onto the pole or headstone. In some embodiments, the rings 412 may double as lugs for securing brackets or fasteners, helping lock the unit to a mounting surface.

Like the memorial container 100 of FIG. 1, the memorial container 400 of the present invention includes a solar panel 414 for solar charging, a plurality of LED lights 416 for illumination and a decorative accessory stand/flower stand 418 for enhancing the functionality of the container 400.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative cylindrical embodiment of the memorial container of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure. In the present embodiment, the container 500 is generally tubular in shape and has a transparent cylindrical housing 502 enclosed at opposite ends 504, 506 by circular end caps 508, 510 respectively.

The cylindrical housing 502 defines an interior cavity 514 dimensioned to receive memorial items such as letters, photographs, and trinkets through a slot 516 disposed in the housing 502. The end caps 508, 510 may be removably attached, hinged, or rotatably secured to the cylindrical housing 502, thereby enabling access to the internal cavity 514.

The container 500 may incorporate a locking mechanism on one or both of the end caps 508, 510 to restrict unauthorized access (as described in FIG. 1). A solar panel 512 may be mounted along the length of the housing or integrated into one of the end caps 508, 510. The solar panel 512 is in electrical communication with internal illumination elements 518 configured to light the interior of the cylindrical housing 502 during periods of low ambient light.

A machine scannable or readable code 520 such as a QR code may be engraved, printed, or affixed on an exterior surface 522 of the housing 502. The QR code is configured to provide digital access to a memorial platform when scanned using a smartphone or other similar device. The QR code can provide access to a dedicated online memorial page containing the deceased's obituary, biography, photographs, videos, or audio recordings and a cloud-based archive where family members can upload digital versions of letters, messages, or keepsakes.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for operating a memorial container according to one embodiment of the invention. Initially, the memorial container is installed at a gravesite or memorial location (Step 602). The container may be secured by headstone mounting, pole mounting, pedestal placement, or other suitable installation methods.

Then, the method includes activating a power source for the container (Step 604). In one embodiment, the step includes orienting the solar panel on the container to receive sunlight, wherein the solar panel charges an internal rechargeable power source configured to operate illumination sources of the container.

Thereafter, the method includes receiving memorial items into an interior cavity of the container (Step 606). The items may be placed into the container by unlocking and opening a hinged lid or, alternatively, by inserting flat articles such as letters or photographs through a dedicated slot in the housing.

The method includes illuminating the container in low light conditions (Step 608). One or more LED light elements disposed within or adjacent to the container are powered by the rechargeable power source, providing illumination of the memorial items during nighttime or other low-light environments.

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 “weatherproof memorial container”, “multifunctional memorial storage apparatus”, “gravesite memorial system”, “memorial container”, and “container” are interchangeable and refer to the gravesite memorial storage apparatus 100, 400, 500 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the gravesite memorial storage apparatus 100, 400, 500 of the present invention can be of any suitable configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the gravesite memorial storage apparatus 100, 400, 500 shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other configurations of the gravesite memorial storage apparatus 100, 400, 500 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the gravesite memorial storage apparatus 100, 400, 500 are important design parameters for user convenience, the gravesite memorial storage apparatus 100, 400, 500 may be of any size 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 of 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.