US20180057207A1

US20180057207A1 - Modular food storage system

Info

Publication number: US20180057207A1
Application number: US15/684,390
Authority: US
Inventors: Ira Maroofian; Dean Brown
Original assignee: Pinnpack Packaging LLC
Current assignee: Pinnpack Packaging LLC
Priority date: 2016-08-24
Filing date: 2017-08-23
Publication date: 2018-03-01

Abstract

Various modular food storage systems and methods are disclosed. The system can include one or more compartments configured to be connected together, such as by a food processor (e.g., a company that processes, handles, and/or packages food). Food items can be placed in individual compartments separately and the compartments can be put into storage, such as in a refrigerator. In response to a request (e.g., an order from a grocery store or otherwise) for a certain mix of the food items, the prefilled individual compartments can be mixed and matched and assembled together for shipping. The assembled compartments form a system that can be provided to a consumer, seller (e.g., grocery store), or otherwise.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119 of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/379,172, filed Aug. 24, 2016, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Field

This disclosure relates to food storage systems, more particularly, to modular food storage systems.

Certain Related Art

Food is packaged, stored, and distributed to consumers in various ways. Some foods are held in a container, such as in a plastic clamshell package.

SUMMARY OF CERTAIN FEATURES

The systems, methods, and devices described herein each have several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this invention as expressed by the claims which follow, some features are described briefly below.
Various systems and methods disclosed herein address certain challenges related to the versatility and/or modularity of food storage systems. In various embodiments, a modular food storage system is disclosed that includes one or more compartments configured to be connected together, such as by a food processor (e.g., a company that processes, handles, and/or packages food). For example, the food processor can place food items in individual compartments separately and place the compartments in storage, such as in a refrigerator. In response to a request (e.g., an order from a grocery store or otherwise) for a certain mix of the food items, the food processor can mix and match the prefilled individual compartments. The food processor can assemble (e.g., connect) the compartments together for shipping, or can ship the compartments unassembled, which can be subsequently assembled by a seller (e.g., a grocery store) or other user. In various embodiments, the compartments are connected in such a way that the compartments do not separate from each other during shipment and/or when selected by a user, such as a consumer. The system can be used with many types of food items, such as cut fruit, various bakery items and flavors (e.g., cupcake varieties), hummus, salsa, salads, or otherwise.
In various embodiments, a method of assembling and shipping a modular food storage system is disclosed. The method can include adding food into (e.g., substantially filling) one or more compartments. One type of food type can correspond to each compartment. In some implementations, one or more of the compartments can include multiple types of food. The method can include storing the one or more compartments, such as in a staging area. The method can include receiving a food order (e.g., from a consumer). In some embodiments, the method includes, in response to receiving said food order, selecting and/or connecting two or more of the one or more compartments stored in the staging area together to form the system. The method can include transporting the system to the consumer such that the compartments remain connected during transport. In some embodiments, the food order can include a third food type and a third compartment that contains the third food type can be selected based on the food order. The third compartment can be connected with the first and second compartments together to form the system. The system can be delivered to a user such that the first, second, and third compartments remain connected. In some variants, the first, second, and/or third compartments can be displayed to the user before connecting the first, second, and/or third compartments together to form the system.
In some embodiments, a modular food storage system includes a first compartment comprising a first flange and a second compartment comprising a second flange. The first compartment can be configured to receive a first food item and the second compartment can be configured to receive a second food item. The first flange of the first compartment can be configured to connect with the second flange of the second compartment to securely connect the first and second compartments together. In certain variants, the first flange comprises a first portion at a first height and a second portion offset from the first portion at a second height to enable the first and second flanges to overlap. In some embodiments, first flange is at a first height and a lip of the first compartment is at a second height, the second height being offset from the first height and the lip configured to couple with a lid. In some variants, a portion of the first flange is configured to overlap with a portion of the second flange.
In certain embodiments, a modular food system includes a carrier (e.g., a frame) with and a plurality of openings. One or more of the openings can include a shoulder extending around a perimeter of each opening. First and second compartments can be configured to respectively receive first and second food items. The first and second compartments can be configured to be received within corresponding openings of the plurality of openings. The first and second compartments can include a lip configured to rest on the shoulder of the corresponding opening. First and second lids can correspond to the first and second compartments. The first and second lids can be configured to seal closed the first and second compartments at the first and second lips. In some embodiments, the frame comprises a handle. In some implementations, a first portion of the handle portion is connected with a body of the frame at a first end and a second portion of the handle can be connected with the body of the frame at a second end. The first portion can be configured to rotate about a first set of hinges on the first end and the second portion can be configured to rotate about a second set of hinges on the second end. In some variants, the first and/or second portions of the handle are frangibly connected to the body. The first and second handle portions can be configured to removably couple together, such as with a lock feature to secure together the first and second handle portions.
Details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this application are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Any of the features, components, or details of any of the arrangements or embodiments disclosed in this application are combinable and modifiable to form myriad new arrangements and embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Other features, aspects, and advantages will also become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the following drawings, which are provided by way of example, and not limitation. Like reference numerals indicate identical or functionally similar elements.

FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a modular food storage system.

FIG. 1B is a top view of the modular food storage system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a side view of the modular food storage system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is another front perspective view of the modular food storage system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1E illustrates a top view of another embodiment of a modular food storage system.

FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a modular food storage system and carrier.

FIG. 2B is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a carrier for a modular food storage system.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a process for assembling a modular food storage system.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a process for assembling a modular food storage system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

Various systems, methods, and components can be used in different embodiments of the invention. Some embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying figures; however, the figures are provided for convenience of illustration only, and should not be interpreted to limit the invention to the particular combinations of features shown. Any feature, structure, material, step, or component of any embodiment described and/or illustrated in this specification can be used by itself, or with or instead of any other feature, structure, material, step, or component of any other embodiment described and/or illustrated in this specification. Nothing in this specification is essential or indispensable.

Certain Food Storage Systems (FIGS. 1A-1E)

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate a modular food storage system 100. FIGS. 1A-1D show, for example, the modular food storage system 100 in an assembled state. As will be described in more detail below, FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of the modular food storage system 100, FIG. 1B is a top view of the modular food storage system 100 of FIG. 1A, FIG. 1C is a side view of the modular food storage system 100 of FIG. 1A, and FIG. 1D is another front perspective view of the modular food storage system 100 of FIG. 1A.
As shown in FIG. 1A, the system 100 can include one or more compartments 102. The compartments 102 can be sized and shaped to hold various amounts and/or types of food. Each of the one or more compartments 102 can be, for example, sized and shaped to store, package, and/or distribute food, alone or in combination with at least one other compartment 102. The compartments 102 can be configured to keep food items stored therein separate from food items stored in other compartments 102. In some embodiments, the system 100 can include 2 to 20 compartments 102. In some embodiments, the system 100 can include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, or more compartments 102. For example, FIG. 1A illustrates a system 100 comprising 5 of the compartments 102. However, any suitable number of compartments 102 is contemplated, such as more or less than 20 of the compartments 102.
In various embodiments, the system 100 is modular. In some embodiments, each compartment 102 is a module that can be connected (also referred to as “linked”) to one or more other compartments 102 to form the system 100. The modular nature can allow the system 100 to be assembled in many ways and/or combinations. For example, the system 100 can be assembled depending on, for example, the contents of the compartment 102, a grocery store's needs, a customer's preferences, a nutritionist's recommendations, and/or the like. In certain implementations, the modularity of the system 100 can advantageously allow for different types of foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, fats, meats, carbohydrates, various processed foods, and/or various dietary supplements) to be packaged, stored, and/or distributed in one or more systems 100, as will be described in more detail below. Moreover, the system 100 can enable the compartments 102 to be connected to create a larger tray. Various embodiments can enable a user (e.g., a consumer) to select the compartments 102 that contain desired foods and assemble them together into the larger tray. For example, a parent creating a school lunch for a child can choose compartments 102 that contain foods that the parent wants the child to eat and the parent can connect those compartments together to form an easily portable lunch unit for the child to take to school. Furthermore, the system 100 can enable a food processors or another food seller to mix and match compartments 102 containing various foods in order to create a tray of certain food combinations. For example, a tray with dried nuts and fruit (e.g., a compartment of almonds, a compartment of cashews, a compartment of raisins, and a compartment of dried apricots), a tray with various flavors of berries (e.g., a compartment of blueberries, a compartment of raspberries, and a compartment of strawberries), or a tray of snacks (e.g., a compartment of a hard cheese, a compartment of a soft cheese, and a compartment of crackers) can be assembled.
In some embodiments, the system 100 comprises an interior compartment 102′ (e.g., a radially interior compartment) and one or more peripheral compartments 102″. In some embodiments, the peripheral compartments 102″ are linkable to the interior compartment 102′ and/or to each other. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-1D, each of the peripheral compartments 102″ is circumferentially linked to at least one (e.g., two) adjacent peripheral compartments 102″ and/or radially linked to the interior compartment 102′. As also illustrated, the interior compartment 102′ can be connected to some or all of the peripheral compartments 102″. For example, as shown, the interior compartment 102′ can be directly connected to each of the four peripheral compartments 102″. In some implementations, the interior compartment 102′ is linked to less than all of the peripheral compartments 102″. Certain embodiments include only peripheral compartments 102″ and/or do not include the interior compartment 102′.
Various assembled arrangements of the system 100 are contemplated. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D, certain embodiments have a generally round (e.g., circular when viewed from above) overall shape when viewed from above. In some variants, the system 100 has a generally linear arrangement (e.g., two or more compartments connected together such that the system 100 forms a substantially straight line of compartments when assembled). Some implementations comprise a grid arrangement (e.g., one or more columns and rows of compartments connected together such that the system 100 forms a grid of compartments when assembled). Some implementations have a generally star-shaped arrangement (e.g., one or more compartments extend radially outward from a center of the system 100, such as the central compartment 102′). Certain embodiments of the system 100 are generally annular in shape. Certain implementations embody other regular or irregular shapes and sizes.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1A, each compartment 102 can include a housing 104 having a cavity 106. The cavity 106 can have any suitable volume and be any suitable shape as described above with reference to each of the one or more compartments 102. In the non-limiting example shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, the interior compartment 102′ is generally cylindrically-shaped and the peripheral compartments 102″ have a generally curved trapezoidal shape. Other compartment shapes and sizes are also contemplated, such as angular and/or curved. As shown in FIG. 1B, in some embodiments, the compartments 102″ have an arched shape when viewed from above and/or the compartment 102′ has a circular shape when viewed from above. In some embodiments, one or more of the compartments 102 can be geometrically-shaped (e.g., generally circular compartments, generally oval compartments, generally triangular compartments, generally square compartments, generally rectangular compartments, generally pentagonal compartments, generally hexagonal compartments, etc.), although any shape suitable for containing a food item is contemplated.
As described above, the system 100 can include one or more linkable compartments 102 configured to be assembled together. In some embodiments, some or each of the compartments 102 can include one or more features that allow such assembly (e.g., direct or indirect connection of the other compartments 102). For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, some or each of the one or more compartments 102 can include a flange 108 to which one or more corresponding connectors 110 can interface to connect two or more compartments together. In some embodiments, the flange 108 can be positioned near the top of each compartment 102, although any suitable position is contemplated. The flange 108 can extend around a portion of each of the compartments 102, such as around a perimeter of the compartments 102 or any portion thereof. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the flange 108 can extend around three sides of each of the peripheral compartments 102″ but not the outer fourth side. In some embodiments, a flange 108 can extend around the interior compartment 102′ or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the flange 108 of each compartment 102 can include two or more flanges 108. In various embodiments, the flange 108 comprises one or more of the connectors 110. As illustrated in FIG. 1B in some embodiments, the connectors 110 are positioned in an intermediate region (e.g., middle) of a length of a side of the flanges 108. In some variants, one or more of the connectors 110 are positioned at a corner of the flanges 108 (such as is schematically indicated by the connectors in dashed lines in FIG. 1B).
In some embodiments, the flange 108 of a compartment 102 can engage with the flange 108 of one or more other compartments 102. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of one or more flanges 108 can be configured to overlap, such as in the radial direction. In FIG. 1A, an overlap 112 of two adjacent flanges 108 is illustrated. In some embodiments, a portion of one or more of the flanges 108 can include a step 114. The step 114 can be configured to aid in overlapping two adjacent flanges 108. In some embodiments, a portion of one or more of the flanges 108 can be positioned at different relative heights around adjacent compartments 102 to enable two adjacent flanges 108 to overlap.
As mentioned above, the flange 108 can include one or more engagement features, such as connectors 110. The connectors 110 can be configured to interface with a mating connector 110 of an overlapping flange 108 to facilitate connecting the compartments 102 associated with the overlapping flanges 108. In some embodiments, the connectors 110 comprise a protrusion, such as in an axial (e.g., upward or downward) direction in FIG. 1A. In some embodiments, the connectors 110 comprise snap locks, such a pin and recess with an interference fit. In some embodiments, the connectors 110 comprise engageable male and female buttons, such as circular buttons. The protrusion can be hollow. The hollow protrusion can be closed on at least one end and/or does not comprise a through hole. In certain implementations, the hollow protrusion of one of the overlapping flanges 108 is configured to receive the protrusion of the other of the overlapping flanges 108, such as with a friction fit. In some embodiments, one of the overlapping flanges 108 can include a hole, and the other of the overlapping flanges 108 can include a mating protrusion configured to pass through the hole. In some embodiments, one or more connectors 110 can pass through two overlapping holes via a snap-fit, friction fit, or any other type of connection. In some implementations, adjacent compartments 102 are configured to connect with mechanical and/or magnetic connections. For example, one or more of the flanges 108 and/or connectors 110 can be magnetic. Certain embodiments do not include the flanges 108 and/or connectors 110. In some embodiments, the flange 108 includes one or more connectors 110, such as two, three, four, or more.
The connections between mating compartments 102 can be releasable or permanent. In some embodiments, the connectors 110 can be configured to allow for one or more of the compartments 102 to be detached from the system 100. For example, the mating connectors 110 can be configured to detach from each other, such as by a user applying a force to overcome a friction fit between the mating connectors 110. In certain implementations, the connectors 110 are configured to break to enable removal of one or more of the compartments 102. For example, the flanges 108 can include a frangible portion, which can enable the respective compartment 102 to be separated from some or all of the remainder of the system 100.
In certain implementations, the system 100 can include one or more lids, which can be configured to retain and/or seal items within the compartments 102. In some embodiments, a single lid covers (e.g., extends across) multiple compartments 102. In certain variants, some of the compartments 102 have an individual lid. For example, each of the compartments 102 can have an individual lid. The individual lid can connect with its associated compartment 102 with a friction fit, latch, or another attachment mechanism. In some implementations, the lid is configured to completely separate from its associated compartment 102. For example, the lid and the associated compartment 102 can be two discrete components. In certain variants, the lid is configured to remain connected with the associated compartment 102, such as with a living hinge. The lid, or other parts of the compartment 102, can be marked, such as with a label or printed symbols, numbers, or words. The marking can identify aspects of the contents of the compartment 102, such as the type of food, use-by or sell-by date, etc.
In some embodiments, one or more of the compartments 102 can include a lip 120. The lip 120 can extend partly or all the way around a perimeter (e.g., an upper perimeter) of the compartment 102. The lip 120 can be configured to substantially follow the overall shape of the compartment 102. For example, the circular compartment 102′ illustrated in FIG. 1A can include a circular lip 120. As another example, the lip 120 can follow the overall shape of the outer periphery of the arched compartment 102″. In some variants, as shown in FIG. 1A, the lip 120 of outer compartment 102″ can together form a lip that extends partly or completely around the system 100. The lip 120 of the container 102 can be configured to engage with and/or receive the lid, which can aid in retaining and/or sealing items within the compartments 102.
As illustrated in FIG. 1C, the lip 120 can be offset in height above the flange 108. For example, the lip 120 can be positioned vertically higher than the flange 108. This can facilitate connection of the flanges 108 of adjacent compartments. In some embodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 1E, the lip 120 can be at substantially the same height as the flange 108.
In some embodiments, the compartments 102 are configured to nest. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, the one or more compartments 102 can be tapered such that the cross-sectional area of each of the compartments 102 decreases between its opening and its base. The cross-sectional area can decrease in any suitable way between the opening to the base, such as, for example, a continuous or step-wise decrease in the cross-sectional area, among others. In some embodiments, the taper between the opening and base of each compartment 102 can facilitate the nesting of multiple compartments 102 and/or multiple systems 100 together during transport, storage, and/or distribution (e.g., on a grocery store shelve, in a grocery store freezer, etc.). In certain embodiments, the taper inhibits or prevents connected compartments 102 from detaching from one another. In various embodiments, the compartments 102 are nested without having lids attached.
In some embodiments, a portion of a bottom of each of the one or more compartments 102 can be configured to fit into a portion of one or more other compartments 102. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the one or more compartments 102 can include a bottom flange 116 configured to engage with (e.g., rest on) an inner flange 118 in each of the cavities 106 of the compartments 102. The inner flange 118 can extend around an upper inner periphery of the compartment 102. In some embodiments, the compartments 102 are configured to nest without the flanges 116, 118. As shown in FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, the bottom of the compartment 102 includes a hollow projection 113. In certain implementations, the compartment 102 nests such that the hollow projection 113 of an upper compartment receives the hollow projection 113 of a lower compartment.
In some embodiments, the compartments 102 are configured to stack and/or connect vertically. For example, the bottom of one compartment 102 can be configured to engage with the lid of another compartment 102. Vertical stacking can reduce the footprint of the system 100, which can aid in storage and/or transport. In some embodiments, the compartments 102 are configured to connect laterally and vertically. For example, a given compartment 102 can connect with a compartment 102 above and/or below, as well as with one or more laterally adjacent compartments 102. In some embodiments, the system 100 is configured to be assembled into a shape (e.g., cuboid, a rectangular parallelepiped, or otherwise) with a plurality of layers of compartments 102. The containers 102 can be assembled into layers. The layers can be connected. For example, the bottom of an upper compartment 102 can be coupled with the lid of a lower compartment 102 (e.g., by gluing, heat-sealing, interference fit, or otherwise).
The system 100 can be of various sizes, such as being appropriately sized to contain a certain food item (e.g., cut fruit, crudités, bakery items, or otherwise). As shown in the non-limiting example of FIG. 1B, the system 100 can have a generally circular overall shape with an outside diameter of less than or equal to approximately 12.97 centimeters. Other suitable sizes (e.g., diameters) and shapes (as described below) are also contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, the diameter of the system 100 can be at least about: 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, values between the aforementioned values, or other values. In some embodiments, the diameter of the system 100 can depend on the number of compartments 102 that are linked together. In certain systems with a generally non-circular overall shape, the width and/or length of the system 100 can range from approximately 5 cm to approximately 50 cm. The height of the system 100 and/or the various compartments 102 can be, in some embodiments, less than or equal to approximately 2.66 cm. Other suitable heights are also contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, the height of the system 100 can range from approximately 1 cm to approximately 20 cm, among others. The system 100 (e.g., the compartments 102) can be made of various materials, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), or polypropylene (PP). In some embodiments, the system 100 can be manufactured by thermoforming.
As can be seen in FIG. 1D, and as mentioned above, the flanges 108 of the compartments 102 can overlap. Various configurations and engagements of the overlapping flanges 108 are contemplated. For example, as shown, a first compartment 102A can have a first flange 108A1 and a second flange 108A2, and the first flange 108A1 can be positioned above (e.g., over) a second flange 108B2 of an adjacent second compartment 102B. The second flange 108A2 of the first compartment 102A can be positioned under (e.g., beneath) a first flange 108C1 of an adjacent third compartment 102C. In some variants, the first and second flanges 108A1, 108A2 of the first compartment 102A are positioned above (e.g., over) the mating flanges 108B2, 108C1 of the adjacent second and third compartments 102B, 102C. In certain alternatives, the first and second flanges 108A1, 108A2 of the first compartment 102A are positioned under (e.g., beneath) the mating flanges 108B2, 108C1 of the adjacent compartments 102B, 102C. In some variants, first and second mating flanges 108D1, 108D2 of a fourth compartment 102D are positioned over or under (e.g., one over and one under) first and second mating flanges 108B1, 108C2 of the second and fourth compartments 108B, 108C, respectively. Other arrangements of flanges and other connecting mechanisms are within the scope of the present invention.
As described above, the mating flanges 108 can include engagement features, such as connectors 110. In some embodiments, the first flange 108A1 of the first compartment 102A comprises a first type of engagement feature (e.g., a protrusion) and the mating second flange 108B2 of the adjacent second compartment 102B comprises a second type of engagement feature (e.g., a recess, hole, or otherwise) that mates with the first engagement feature. In some embodiments, the second flange 108A2 of the first compartment 102A comprises the second type of engagement feature and the mating first flange 108C1 of the adjacent third compartment 102C comprises the first type of engagement feature.
FIG. 1E illustrates another example of the modular food storage system 100. As shown, the system 100 can include a plurality of compartments 102. The compartments 102 can be arranged and/or connected in columns and/or rows. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1E, the system 100 includes two rows and three columns of compartments 102, though various numbers of rows and columns are contemplated. In some embodiments, the system 100 is configured to enable a user to select the number of rows and columns and/or the number of the compartments 102 in each row and/or column. The illustrated compartments 102 are generally square in peripheral shape, but any shape suitable for containing a food item is contemplated (e.g., generally circular, generally elliptical, generally triangular, generally rectangular, generally pentagonal, generally hexagonal, generally diamond shaped, etc.).
As previously mentioned, the compartment 102 can have a flange 108. The flange 108 can be positioned near the top of the compartment 102, although any suitable position is contemplated. The flange 108 can extend around a portion of the compartment 102, such as around a perimeter of the compartments 102 or any portion thereof. For example, the flange 108 can extend around two, three, four, or more sides of the compartment 102. As shown in FIG. 1E, in some embodiments, certain compartments 102 have the flange 108 on three sides and certain compartments 102 have the flange 108 on two sides (e.g., two adjacent sides). As described above, the flange 108 can be configured to connect with a connector 110 of an adjacent compartment 102. This can secure the connected compartments 102 together. As shown, the sides without the flange 108 can have an overhang lip 109. The overhang lip 109 can have a lateral width that is less than the lateral width of the flange 108.
In some embodiments, at least one of the compartments 102 is a hub compartment and some of the compartments 102 are spoke compartments. The hub compartment can connect with certain of the spoke compartments. This can maintain the system 100 in an assembled state, such as in the row and column arrangement. As shown, in some embodiments, the hub compartments can have the flange 108 on at least three sides and/or the spoke compartments can have the flange 108 on one or two sides.
In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a plurality of hub compartments. For example, with regard to the example shown in FIG. 1E, each of the compartments in the second (middle) column can be a hub compartment and/or each of the compartments in the first and third (outer) columns can be a spoke component. In some embodiments, the hub compartments can be configured to connect with each other. Connecting hub compartments together can enable a user to select the size and/or shape of the system 100, such as by selecting the number of compartments in each row and/or column. For example, in FIG. 1E, if the spoke compartment that is adjacent to the right side of the hub compartment was replaced with a hub compartment, an additional column of at least one compartment could be added to the system 100. In some variants, the system 100 is configured so that no compartment 102 is a hub and no compartment 102 is a spoke and/or that each compartment 102 can be a hub and/or a spoke. For example, in certain implementations, the compartments 102 can be the substantially identical and/or can have with connectors 110 on all sides. This can enable any compartment 102 to connect to any side of another compartment 102. In some embodiments, the opposite sides of the compartments 102 have connectors 110, which can enable the compartments 102 to be assembled into a linear tray. For example, a first compartment can be connected to a second compartment, which can be connected to a third compartment, which can be connected to a fourth compartment, and the first, second, third, and fourth compartments can be arranged in a line. In some embodiments, the connected compartments 102 are arranged to form shapes, such a circle, triangle, rectangle, hexagon, octagon, star, or otherwise.
Certain implementations are configured to enable layers of the compartments to be connected together. For example, with regard to the example shown in FIG. 1E, some embodiments are configured such that a second layer of compartments 102 can be connected to (e.g., on top or below) the layer of compartments 102 that are illustrated. For example, a bottom portion of the compartments 102 of an upper layer could be configured to connect with a top portion of the compartments 102 of a lower layer (e.g., by gluing, heat-sealing, interference fit, or otherwise). In some variants, the flanges 108 and/or connectors 110 of the compartments 102 of adjacent layers interface to connect the layers together. In certain implementations, the system 100 comprises intra-layer connections between compartments 102 (e.g., in rows and/or columns) as well as inter-layer connections between compartments 102. For example, similar to the description above, the bottom upper inner lip, and lid of the compartments 102 can include a connection feature (such as the hollow projection 113) that engages with a mating feature of a compartment in an adjacent layer.
As described above, in some embodiments, each of the one or more compartments 102 can hold food items (or food-like products), including solids and/or liquids. In some embodiments, the compartments 102 can be individually stored (e.g., not as part of an assembled system 100), such as in a refrigerator. The compartments 102 can be assembled to form the system 100. For example, compartments with appropriate food items can be selected and assembled into the system 100 according to criteria, such as a customer's request for a certain combination of food items, an order, etc. The modular nature of the compartments 102 allows the compartments 102 to be, based on the criteria, mixed and matched and assembled into the system 100 for storage, distribution (e.g., shipment), and/or consumption. This can provide greater flexibility and/or can aid in being able to quickly provide customized combinations of food items. In some implementations, the modular design can increase versatility in meeting customer demand and/or can reduce the number of items needed to be stocked (e.g., on store shelves) since the system 100 enables the combination of items in the system 100 to be dynamically changed.
As an example of how the system 100 can be used, a user (e.g., a bakery, grocery store, food seller, food producer, etc.) can introduce one or more components 102 with various food items and flavors (e.g., cupcake varieties), and/or any other food product, such as hummus, salsa, salads, processed foods, etc. In some embodiments, the user can substantially deposit food into (e.g., fill) and seal each of the one or more compartments 102. The user can separately store and/or display the compartments, such as at a store (e.g., a market or a grocery store). A user (e.g., a consumer) can individually select a particular combination of food items by selecting the compartments 102 containing those food items and adding (e.g., attaching) the compartments into the system 100.
As another example, the system 100 can be configured for use with a food bar, such as a salad bar. For example, a user can dispense (e.g., fill) different food items from the salad bar into different compartments 102. For example, a user can place lettuce in a first compartment, croutons in a second compartment, and salad dressing in a third compartment. The compartments 102 can be attached together to form the system 100 and/or the compartments 102 can be put into a bag or carrier. The user can later combine the food items together for consumption in one of the compartments or in another vessel. Maintaining the different food items in different compartments can help preserve freshness of the food items. For example, maintaining dry food items (e.g., croutons) separately from wet food items (e.g., salad dressing) can reduce the chance of the dry food items becoming mushy or otherwise less fresh.
In certain implementations, a food processor or other manufacturer will prepack foods into the compartments of the system 100. The prepacked compartments can be sealed, such as a lid (e.g., a plastic film). The prepacked compartments can be provided (e.g., shipped) to a seller or user, such as a grocery store or a consumer. The seller or user can pick and choose the compartments with their desired food types (ingredients). For example, if a seller or user wants to assemble make a pizza, the user or seller selects the compartments prepacked with those desired ingredients for the pizza. As another example, if a seller or user wants to create a fruit salad, the seller or user can pick and choose from prepacked compartments of different types, or different combinations, of fruit. In various embodiments, the selected compartments can be assembled together into a prepacked kit, such as a prepacked pizza making kit or a prepacked fruit salad making kit. In various embodiments, the food processor can provide, the seller can receive, and/or the user can pick and choose from the prepacked kits.
A new type of food bar provides yet another example of how the system 100 can be used. This new type of food bar provides advantages over a traditional salad bar. In a traditional salad bar, the various food items are typically presented in bulk, such as a bowl with several portions of lettuce, a bowl with several portions of tomatoes, a bowl with several portions of carrots, a bowl with several portions of salad dressing, etc. Moreover, in a traditional salad bar, each of the food items is typically displayed in the open, such as each of the bowls being under a sneeze-guard but otherwise open to the ambient environment. Such bulk and open presentation of food items can lead to spills and can provide a pathway for contaminants and/or pathogens to be spread from person to person. For example, rather than using tongs or other implements to dispense a serving of a food item from a bowl, a person may use their hands which can contaminate the entire bowl of the food item. Further, the bulk presentation of food items can make it difficult to know what is the appropriate portion size for a given food item. Moreover, a traditional salad bar configuration can be inconvenient and/or labor intensive to operate, since spills need to be frequently cleaned up and the remaining amount of food in each of the bowls needs to be monitored for restocking.
The system 100 can reduce and/or eliminate one or more of the above-described concerns, or other concerns. For example, in some implementations of the new food bar mentioned above, each compartment 102 contains a serving of a distinct type of food item, such as a compartment for a serving of lettuce, a compartment for a serving of tomatoes, a compartment for a serving of carrots, and a compartment for a serving of salad dressing. This separation of individual servings of the various foods reduces or eliminates the above-described problems associated with open and bulk presentation of food items. Moreover, the separation of the food items into the compartments 102 can allow the amounts of the food items to be controlled based on a proper portion size. Further, maintaining the food items in the compartment 102, which can be closed with a lid, can reduce the likelihood of spills. Also, restocking is quick and easy since the food items are already packaged in the compartments 102.
In some implementations of the new food bar, the compartments 102 with distinct types of food items can be displayed, such as in a refrigerated case. A user (e.g., a consumer) can select certain compartments 102 according to needs or desires. For example, if the user was going to make a Caprese salad, the user would select a compartment with tomatoes, a compartment with fresh mozzarella cheese, a compartment with basil, and a compartment with olive oil. If a user were going to make a different type of salad or other food, the user would select the appropriate ingredients for that salad or food. The selected compartments 102 can be assembled into the system 100, such as being snapped or otherwise connected together or put into a carrier and/or a bag. The user can then combine the various food items when ready to eat. In some embodiments, at least one of the compartments 102 is configured to hold the combined food items. For example, one of the compartments 102 can be larger than the other compartments 102 and/or can be sized to contain the food items from each of the compartments 102.
In various implementations, the system 100 can facilitate customization. For example, as described above, the system 100 can enable a user to choose a particular combination of salad bar foods. As another example, the system 100 can allow for customization in a frozen meal setting. In some such embodiments, a plurality of the compartments 102 can be provided with each containing a type of frozen food (such as some compartments 102 containing meat, some containing fish, some containing potatoes, some containing rice, some containing peas, some containing broccoli, etc.). The compartments 102 can be kept in a freezer, such as in a store or in the user's home. To prepare a meal, the user can select the compartments 102 with the particular combination of frozen food items that the user desires and then purchase and/or warm only those compartments 102. Thus, the user is not limited to a predetermined combination of foods, as is the case with certain traditional frozen meals. Rather, the user can customize the combination of food items. In certain embodiments, the selected compartments 102 are configured to connect together, such as with the connectors 110 described above or otherwise. In some variants, the compartments 102 are configured to connect regardless of the particular combination of compartments selected. In various implementations, the compartments 102 can be selected and used without connecting the compartments 102 together.
In some embodiments, the system 100 is configured for use with non-food items. For example, the compartments 102 can hold fasteners for use in assembling an article, such as an article of furniture. Some types of furniture are shipped unassembled and a user must assemble various pieces together. The pieces are typically secured with fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, nuts, etc.). The fasteners are commonly provided mixed together in a plastic bag. This requires the user to identify the different types of fasteners and to manually segregate them from each other, which can be time consuming and difficult. Such concerns can be avoided by providing the fasteners in the system 100, with each type of fastener in a separate one of the compartments 102. Thus, the user does not need to manually separate the different types of fasteners, thereby making the assembly process easier and more efficient. The compartments 102 can be marked, such as with a label, thereby allowing the user to readily identify the different types of fasteners.

Certain Carriers (FIGS. 2A and 2B)

In some embodiments, each of the one or more compartments 102 can be configured to be placed in a carrier in addition to, or in lieu of, being connected to one another with one or more connectors 110. For example, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a front perspective view of illustrative carriers 200, according to some embodiments. Unless otherwise noted, reference numerals in FIGS. 2A and 2B refer to components that are the same as or generally similar to the components in the preceding figures.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the carrier 200 can include a frame 201, one or more openings 202, and a handle 204. In some embodiments, each of the one or more openings 202 can be configured to receive (e.g., hold, contain, or otherwise) a portion of one or more compartments 102. For example, the carrier 200 can include a plurality of openings configured to receive a corresponding number of the compartments. The carrier 200 shown in FIG. 2A includes 6 openings arranged in two rows of three to receive up to 6 compartments. Any suitable number and/or arrangement of openings 202 is contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, the carrier 200 can include 2 openings to 20 openings, or more. In some embodiments, the one or more openings 202 can be arranged, sized, and/or shaped to receive, whether assembled or disassembled, one or more of the compartments 102 illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D. In FIG. 2A, the carrier 200 is illustrated as holding 5 compartments 102. In some embodiments, the carrier 200 can include a shoulder, flange, and/or groove 203 around the perimeter of each of the openings 202 against which the compartments 102 can rest or lock into when inserted into the carrier 200.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the handle 204 can include a left handle portion 204 a and a right handle portion 204 b. The left and right handle portions 204 a, 204 b can be made integral with the carrier 200. Some embodiments include a frangible portion 204 c from which the handle portions 204 a, 204 b can be partially or completely separated from the carrier 200. In some implementations, the left and right handle portions 204 a, 204 b can be configured to rotate about left and right hinges 205 a, 205 b, respectively. In some embodiments, the left and right handle portions 204 a, 204 b can be removably connected with a lock feature 206. The lock feature 206 can include left and right protrusions that are configured to interlock together, such as, for example, with a snap-fit, a friction fit, or via any other connection mechanism, including mechanical and/or magnetic.
FIG. 2B illustrates another embodiment of a carrier 200, according to some embodiments. Unless otherwise noted, reference numerals in FIG. 2B refer to components that are the same as or generally similar to the components in the preceding figures. As shown in FIG. 2B, the carrier 200 can include a frame 201, one or more openings 202, and a handle 204. In FIG. 2B, the handle 204 includes, for example, two hand openings 207 for the user to insert fingers for grasping the handle 204.

Certain Methods (FIGS. 3 and 4)

FIGS. 3 and 4 are example processes 300, 400 for forming and/or using a system with one or more compartments 102 configured to contain food and/or food products. In all embodiments in this specification, one or more of the steps of the processes depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4 can be performed alone, in one or more groups, or in a different order than is illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 and/or than is described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the steps can be modified and/or reordered to assemble one or more components 102 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, among any other modular food storage system. Chronological terms such as “before” or “after” or “begin” or “start” or “end,” or any similar terms, are provided only as examples and are not required in all embodiments. None of these steps is essential or indispensable.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the process 300 begins at the start block 302. In block 304, the process 300 includes adding (e.g., substantially filling) food into one or more compartments 102. Block 304 can include adding the food into the compartments manually or automatically and with or without machinery or other equipment. In some embodiments, the one or more compartments 102 can be sealed. The compartments can be individually sealed with a lid (e.g., a sheet of plastic film sealed to one or more of the compartments). The lid can be a separate component that is placed on the compartment. The lid can extend across one or more of the compartments. In block 306, the process 300 includes storing the one or more compartments 102 in, for example, a staging area. The process 300 can include refrigerating the compartment. The process 300 can include storing the compartments 102 as individual units (e.g., not connected together as a system 100). At block 308, the process 300 can include receiving a food order, such as from a consumer, a market, a grocery store, etc. In some embodiments, the process 300 includes identifying the compartments 102 containing the food according to the order. The process 300 can include selecting a combination of the compartments according to the order. As shown in block 310, the process 300 can include connecting two or more of the compartments 102 together based on the order received. In some embodiments, the process 300 includes connecting the two or more compartments 102 to a carrier 200. As shown in block 312, the process 300 can include transporting (e.g., shipping) the assembled system (e.g., system 100). For example, this can include distributing the system 100 to, for example, a consumer, a market, or a grocery store. For example, the system 100 can be provided or delivered to a user or seller. In some embodiments, the one or more compartments 102 can be inserted into a carrier (e.g., carrier 200) prior to transporting the assembled system. After block 312, the process can end. In some embodiments, the blocks are in a different order, such as block 312 preceding block 304. In certain implementations, block 308 precedes block 304 and/or precipitates the start block 302 of the process 300.
FIG. 4 shows another process 400 for forming and/or using a system with one or more compartments 102 configured to contain food and/or food products. As shown, the process 400 begins at the start block 402. The process 400 continues in block 404 with adding (e.g., substantially filling) food into one or more compartments 102 with food. In some embodiments, the one or more compartments 102 can be sealed with a lid around the lip 120. In block 406, the one or more compartments 102 can be stored (e.g., in a staging area, or refrigerated storage area). At block 408, the process 400 ends with transporting (e.g., providing or shipping) the one or more compartments 102 to, for example, a consumer, a market, or a grocery store.

Certain Terminology

Terms of orientation used herein, such as “top,” “bottom,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” and “end” are used in the context of the illustrated embodiment. However, the present disclosure should not be limited to the illustrated orientation. Indeed, other orientations are possible and are within the scope of this disclosure. Terms relating to circular shapes as used herein, such as diameter or radius, should be understood not to require perfect circular structures, but rather should be applied to any suitable structure with a cross-sectional region that can be measured from side-to-side. Terms relating to shapes generally, such as “circular” or “cylindrical” or “semi-circular” or “semi-cylindrical” or any related or similar terms, are not required to conform strictly to the mathematical definitions of circles or cylinders or other structures, but can encompass structures that are reasonably close approximations.
Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale where appropriate, but such scale should not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed invention. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.
The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, as the context may permit, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of the stated amount. The term “generally” as used herein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes or tends toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic. As an example, in certain embodiments, as the context may permit, the term “generally parallel” can refer to something that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 20 degrees.

Summary

Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, the scope of this disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Any system, method, and device described in this application can include any combination of the preceding features described in this and other paragraphs, among other features and combinations described herein, including features and combinations described in subsequent paragraphs. While several variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for, one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Claims

The following is claimed:

1. A modular food storage system comprising:

a first triangular compartment comprising a first flange, the first compartment configured to receive a first food item;

a second triangular compartment comprising a second flange, the second compartment configured to receive a second food item;

a third triangular compartment comprising a third flange, the third compartment configured to receive a third food item; and

a fourth triangular compartment comprising a fourth flange, the fourth compartment configured to receive a fourth food item;

wherein the first flange of the first compartment is configured to connect with the second flange of the second compartment to securely connect the first and second compartments together;

wherein the second flange of the second compartment is configured to connect with the third flange of the third compartment to securely connect the second and third compartments together;

wherein the third flange of the third compartment is configured to connect with the fourth flange of the fourth compartment to securely connect the third and fourth compartments together;

wherein the fourth flange of the fourth compartment is configured to connect with the first flange of the first compartment to securely connect the fourth and first compartments together.

2. The modular food storage system of claim 1, wherein the first flange is at a first height and a lip of the first compartment is at a second height, the second height being offset from the first height and the lip configured to couple with a lid.

3. The modular food storage system of claim 1, wherein a portion of the first flange is configured to overlap with a portion of the second flange.

4. The modular food storage system of claim 3, further comprising one or more connectors configured to connect the portion of the first flange with the portion of the second flange.

5. The modular food storage system of claim 4, wherein the first and second flanges each comprise a hollow protrusion and the hollow protrusion of one of the first and second flanges is configured to frictionally fit within the hollow protrusion of the other of the first and second flanges.

6. A modular food storage system comprising:

a first compartment comprising a first flange extending around at least two sides of the first compartment, the first compartment configured to receive a first food item;

a first lid configured to seal the first food item within the first compartment, the first lid coupled with a first lip of the first compartment;

a second compartment comprising a second flange, the second compartment configured to receive a second food item, the second flange extending around at least two sides of the second compartment;

a second lid configured to seal the second food item within the second compartment, the second lid coupled with a second lip of the second compartment;

a first connector on a first end of the first flange; and

a second connector on a first end of the second flange;

wherein the first ends of the first and second flanges overlap and the first connector and the second connector are coupled together to securely connect the first and second compartments together.

7. The modular food storage system of claim 6, wherein the first flange extends around a third side of the first compartment, the third side overhanging less than a lateral width of the first flange on the at least two sides.

8. The modular food storage system of claim 6, wherein the first and second connectors are hollow protrusions.

9. The modular food storage system of claim 7, wherein the first flange is located at a first height and the first lip portion is offset from the first flange at a second height.

10. The modular food storage system of claim 7, wherein the first compartment is generally triangular in peripheral shape and the second compartment is generally triangular in peripheral shape.

11. The modular food storage system of claim 10, further comprising:

a third compartment comprising a third flange extending around at least two sides of the third compartment, the third compartment configured to receive a third food item;

a third lid configured to seal the third food item within the third compartment, the third lid coupled with a third lip;

a third connector on a second end of the first flange; and

a fourth connector on a first end of the third flange;

wherein the first and second ends of the third and first flanges, respectively, overlap and the third connector and the fourth connector are coupled together by friction-fit to securely connect the first and third compartments together.

12. The modular food storage system of claim 11, further comprising:

a fourth compartment comprising a fourth flange extending around at least two sides of the fourth compartment, the fourth compartment configured to receive a fourth food item;

a fourth lid configured to seal the fourth food item within the fourth compartment, the fourth lid coupled with a fourth lip;

a fifth connector on a second end of the third flange;

a sixth connector on a first end of the fourth flange;

a seventh connector on a second end of the fourth flange; and

an eighth connector on a second end of the second flange;

wherein the second and first ends of the third and fourth flanges, respectively, overlap, and the second ends of the second and fourth flanges overlap and the fifth connector and the sixth connector are coupled together by friction-fit to securely connect the third and fourth compartments together and the seventh connector and the eighth connector are coupled together by friction-fit to securely connect the second and fourth compartments together.

13. A modular storage system comprising:

a first compartment comprising a first flange, the first compartment configured to receive a first type of item; and

a second compartment comprising a second flange, the second compartment configured to receive a second type of item;

wherein the first flange of the first compartment is configured to connect with the second flange of the second compartment to securely connect the first and second compartments together.

14. The modular food storage system of claim 13, wherein the first flange comprises a first portion at a first height and a second portion offset from the first portion at a second height to enable the first and second flanges to overlap.

15. The modular food storage system of claim 13, wherein the first flange is at a first height and a lip of the first compartment is at a second height, the second height being offset from the first height and the lip configured to couple with a lid.

16. The modular food storage system of claim 13, wherein a portion of the first flange is configured to overlap with a portion of the second flange.

17. The modular food storage system of claim 16, further comprising one or more connectors configured to connect the portion of the first flange with the portion of the second flange.

18. The modular food storage system of claim 17, wherein the first and second flanges each comprise a hollow protrusion and the hollow protrusion of one of the first and second flanges is configured to frictionally fit within the hollow protrusion of the other of the first and second flanges.

19. The modular food storage system of claim 17, wherein one of the first and second flanges includes a hole, and the other of the first and second flanges includes a mating protrusion configured to pass through the hole to couple the first and second flanges.

20. The modular food storage system of claim 13, wherein the first and second compartments each comprise a bottom flange and an inner flange to facilitate stacking two or more compartments together.

21. The modular food storage system of claim 13, further comprising a third compartment that is configured to connect with the modular food storage system.

22. The modular food storage system of claim 21, wherein the first and second compartments are peripheral compartments that positioned are on an outer periphery of the system, and the third compartment is an interior compartment that is position in an interior portion of the system.