Container

Abstract

The container covers stack together in two different ways. First, the covers can be stacked into an “aligned” stack. The aligned stack provides structural rigidity for bulk handling during manufacturing. Second, the covers can be stacked into a “locked” stack. The locked stack provides even more structural rigidity than does the aligned stack and is useful when storing unused covers. The container cover includes a first closure portion, an engagement portion, and an alignment portion. The base includes a second closure portion. The first closure portion of the cover is sealingly engageable with the second closure portion of the base to define a sealed storage area. The alignment portion of the cover is engageable with the alignment portion of a second cover to form an aligned cover stack. The engagement portion of the cover is engageable with the engagement portion of a second cover to form a locked cover stack.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11 / 559,527, filed Nov. 14, 2006, which is a continuation in part of International Application No, PCT / US 06 / 06263, filed Feb. 22, 2006, which claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 655,830, filed Feb. 23, 2005.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to containers, and, more particularly, to containers whose covers align together when stacked in a first position and which can be locked together in a second position. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Rigid, thermoplastic food containers are generally known. Users often accumulate a large number of these containers in different sizes and shapes. When not in use, the containers are often stored haphazardly into drawers. In this case, the unused containers take up a great deal of room, and finding a matching base and cover in a disarranged drawer may be difficult. To avoid this, some users stack the containers in cabinets....

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The solution allows for space-efficient, structurally rigid stacking and storage of containers, preventing spills and ensuring stability during bulk handling and manufacturing, while also being economically produced and suitable for various uses including refrigerators and dishwashers.

Problems solved by technology

When not in use, the containers are often stored haphazardly into drawers.

In this case, the unused containers take up a great deal of room, and finding a matching base and cover in a disarranged drawer may be difficult.

While the bases of the containers usually nest and therefore take up less room than in a disorganized drawer, it may still be difficult to match a base with a cover.

In addition, the covers may not stack and the covers may tend to topple down.

These stacks may be precarious, and their fall may cause food to spill from the containers.

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